![a](https://fresnoalliance.com/wp-content/uploads/CVPPAC-1_web-620x413.jpg)
The Nov. 5 general election is hurtling toward us. Fresno progressives gathered two days after President Joe Biden’s disastrous debate performance, which was the topic of several conversations. The Central Valley Progressive PAC (CVPPAC) held a wine-and-cheese fundraiser, giving attendees an opportunity to socialize, listen to some great music and hear the following:
- Carole Goldsmith, chancellor of the State Center Community College District, gave the featured presentation about her work to increase access to higher education for working-class students.
- Cristina Gutierrez, with Californians for Pesticide Reform, shared the critical lobbying being done to create a buffer zone for pesticides near schools and communities close to Valley farmland.
- Yesdasi Córdoba, an organizer for the United Farm Workers, reported on her participation in organizing a union victory in a sweet potato operation in the Merced area.
Music by Steve Ono wafted through the air as attendees shared thoughts about the upcoming election, caught up with old friends and enjoyed a glass of wine.
The CVPPAC focuses on local elections and sometimes statewide races/propositions. Its endorsement meeting will be held on Sept. 14, and all members are encouraged to attend. Become a member or learn more at www.cvppac.org.
Photos by Howard K. Watkins
![Event hosts Heather and Art Evans.](https://fresnoalliance.com/wp-content/uploads/CVPPAC-2_web.jpg)
![Simone Cranston-Rhodes, president of the CVPPAC.](https://fresnoalliance.com/wp-content/uploads/CVPPAC-3_web.jpg)
![Pam Whalen.](https://fresnoalliance.com/wp-content/uploads/CVPPAC-4_web.jpg)
![Steve Ono played music at the CVPPAC wine-and-cheese fundraiser.](https://fresnoalliance.com/wp-content/uploads/CVPPAC-5_web.jpg)
![Howard K. Watkins, Patience Milrod and Paul Pierce.](https://fresnoalliance.com/wp-content/uploads/CVPPAC-6_web.jpg)