January 9, 2025 – Clovis Veterans Memorial District (CVMD) is looking forward to another great year of continuing to honor veterans and serve the community and has re-elected two members of the Board of Directors for another 4-year term.
Clovis locals Don Watnick and Patrick Ruth took their Oath of Office on Tuesday, January 7th, marking the beginning of another influential term as directors. Their re-election is a testament to their dedication and vital contributions to the Clovis community.
“The district is doing so much for the community,” said Watnick, expressing his appreciation for the district’s ongoing efforts to honor, educate, and inspire. “We’re doing good things and the district itself is getting better and better now.”
Newly-elected Mayor of Clovis Vong Mouanoutoua was part of the ceremony, administering the oath for the event.
Watnick acknowledged the importance of the mayor’s role in the ceremony, stating, “It’s quite an honor to be sworn in by Mayor Mouanoutoua.”
Both he and Ruth were previous members of the board whose 4-year terms had recently ended, requiring them to either step down or be reelected. They both ran unopposed in the Clovis elections for their place on the board.
With CVMD gearing up for another year of exemplary service to veterans and Clovis residents, the board of directors faces significant and impactful planning to ensure continued success.
The board gathers monthly to address various needs within the district, such as financial matters, policy changes, and other items that require a “stamp of approval” to advance the mission of the organization.
One major event that will require the board of directors’ attention is the 80th anniversary of the founding of CVMD, along with the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, both occurring in 2026.
To celebrate this momentous occasion, officials within the district are planning a major gathering that will take lots of time and effort to plan.
“We are so fortunate to have a great staff, led by Lorenzo Rios and [Director of Operations] Mrs. Amy Cross, both incredibly talented and hard-working people that are doing so much for the district and also for, of course, the whole community,” Watnick remarked.
With these dedicated individuals leading the way for Clovis veterans and the community at large in 2025, there is much to be excited about. We are deeply grateful for the continued leadership of the board of directors, the management team, and all those who have played a crucial role in shaping the district’s bright future.