CVMD’s annual Sweetheart’s Dance was lovely this year

The Clovis Veterans Memorial District’s Liberty Ballroom was decked out in pink and red for their annual Sweetheart’s Dance. (Photo by Hannah-Grace Leece, Clovis Roundup)far

February 2, 2025 – Clovis residents got their dancing shoes on Sunday, February 2, at the annual Sweetheart’s Dance, hosted by the Clovis Veterans Memorial District (CVMD).

The familiar Liberty Ballroom, a cherished venue for several Clovis gatherings, was decked out with lovely Valentine’s Day décor for every attendee who came for the special event – pink and red balloons adorned the whole room, Hershey’s Kisses were in abundance at each table, a red-and-pink lights encompassed the entire vicinity.

“It’s an afternoon where we can have fun, burn up this dance floor a little bit,” shared Lorenzo Rios, CVMD CEO / President. “You’re the best part of this community, and we can’t do this without you.”

The dance floor getting “burnt up” was alive with the sounds of the Red River Dutchmen, a local swing band that brought energetic tunes throughout the whole afternoon. When the band kicked off their set, individuals of all ages made their way to the dance floor, dancing their hearts out.

More experienced couples showed off their best moves with skilled routines, while some parents shuffled their feet to the music with their children, who joyfully jumped around the dance floor holding their mother’s or father’s hands.

Red River Dutchmen drummer Marc Unger kept on tune, hitting the beat at just the right time, while his wife Lynda Unger swayed to the tune from a distance at one of the tables. “It’s a nice opportunity for people to come together,” she stated. “I like seeing people in their uniforms and watching the couples dance.”

While the music and dance filled the air with joy and excitement, the event held deeper significance as well. Along with bringing together community for an afternoon of fun and connection, the event also showed support to local organizations, emphasizing CVMD’s dedication to veterans and helping those in need.

Representatives from various veterans and community organizations hosted tables at the venue, offering food, refreshments, and desserts for attendees, inviting them to learn more about the organization and giving them the opportunity to show their support.

Cash donations from those attending supported the Boys and Girls Clubs of Clovis, and organizers also invited community members to bring food donations to support the Central Valley Veterans food pantry.

“Since veterans are part of our mission, we like to be here and just let them know we’re here to support them,” said a Blue Star Moms organization member who greeted visitors with a smile, inviting them to enjoy hors d’oeuvres from the table.

Attendees left the Clovis Veterans Memorial District delighted after the Sweetheart’s Dance, not just from the fun, but from the heartwarming support for local charities.