KERMAN (April 17) - Over 100 people gathered April 7 for the retirement party of Edith Forsstrom, Kerman's city clerk for the past 26 years. Born, raised and still a resident of Biola, Forsstrom first took up the duties of city clerk in 1980.

Friends, family and co-workers gathered in the Kerman Community Center for a dinner and presentations to mark the occasion.

The evening took on some elements of a 'roast,' as acquaintances tried to outdo each other with tales of Forsstrom's thrifty nature.

Scrapbooks were presented as mementos and proclamations from the offices of US Congressman George Radanovich, State Senator Dean Flores, Assemblyman Juan Arambula and Fresno County Supervisor Phil Larson were presented.

Forsstrom said her career was "enjoyable, a very good experience."

She has been "a real friend," said Alan Jacobsen, Kerman director of public works.

Helping out with the event were the Kerman Lions Club, which handled the barbecue, Kerman Floral with table decorations and local Girl Scouts as servers.

The wagon train will give the students a taste of what t was like to be a pioneer traveling to Fresno County. Heading up the effort is Bill Coate of Madera and eight outriders.

Students from Firebaugh made the first leg of the journey, traveling to Mendota on April 6. On Friday, April 7, Mendota students boarded the wagons for the trip to Kerman, and on Saturday, April 8, Kerman students took over for the trip to Caruthers.