When the Clovis Senior Activity Center management decided to turn their floating dance floor into a pickleball court, creating a safety hazard for his students, Jim Ray felt he had no choice other than to retire from his position and his passion for teaching dance. 

Jim was responsible for the installation of the only floating dance floor in town at the center over 30 years ago. The center had placed blue painters’ tape on the floor to create a court. This created a tripping hazard for the seniors as their shoes would stick and catch on the rolled-up edges. It was also a visual distraction, which can cause missteps and falling. They told him if he removed it, he would have to replace it after each class. He was laughed at when he questioned this resolution.

When the dance community found out about his departure there was an overwhelming swell of support. Realizing he wasn't alone, and his decision was based on a personal attack, he regretted his resignation and was encouraged to get his job back. 

Jim rescinded his retirement through CalPERS within 5 days, and was told his employee status was returned to active.  He went to HR for the City of Clovis and asked for his job back, he was denied.

At the same time, the center was working on a permanent pickleball court on the dancefloor. Eventually the floor was repaired and restored making it once again safe to dance. 

Jim Ray is a Vietnam veteran who has been an integral part of the community of the City of Clovis and the dance community for 40 years. When Jim walks down the streets of Old Town Clovis, everyone stops to greet him. He is well loved and respected by the community and the thousands of students he has taught over the years. The dance community has been devastated by his sudden departure and the circumstances that lead to it.

Jim's dance classes and Friday night dances have become a Clovis Way of Life, keeping traditional Country Western dance alive in a city that prides itself in community & heritage. There is no person in this city, state and possibly the entire country who teaches traditional Country Western couples dance, couples circle dance, and line dance, Jim does all 3 of these with patience and kindness that is unmatched. He has been a blessing to everyone who has been lucky enough to learn from him.

His absence has had a negative impact on the entire community, most notably the senior community.

The purpose of this petition is a formal request to reinstate Jim Ray as an employee of the City of Clovis or hire him as an independent contractor under the umbrella of the Clovis Recreation Center.  To give him back his classes, including Friday night dance, utilizing the dance floor at the Community Center, the floating dance floor that only exists because of Jim Ray and his students, who held a fundraiser to have it installed 30 years ago.

Hundreds of dancers and supporters have shown up to City Council meetings in support of Jim Ray. The City of Clovis has not resolved this issue. We need your help.

Please sign this petition to keep traditional Country Western dance alive through the teachings of Jim Ray at the Clovis Community Center utilizing the floating dance floor he orchestrated for his dancers over 30 years ago.