• Dinuba Branch: 150 S I Street, Dinuba. Contact (559) 595-7195
  • Tuesday through Friday, June 2 – July 31, from 12-1 pm
• Earlimart Branch: 780 E. Washington Avenue, Earlimart. Contact (661) 849-2525
  • Tuesday through Friday, June 16 – July 24, from 3-5 pm
• Exeter Branch: 230 E Chestnut St, Exeter. Contact (559) 592-5361
  • Tuesday through Friday, June 16 – July 24, from 3-5 pm
• Lindsay Branch: 157 N. Mirage Avenue, Lindsay. Contact (559) 562-3021
  • Tuesday through Friday, June 16 – July 24, from 10:30-11:30 am
• Pixley Branch: 927 S. Center Street, Suite B, Pixley. Contact (559) 757-1010
  • Tuesday through Friday, June 16 – July 24, from 3-5 pm 
• Strathmore Branch: 19646 Rd 230, Strathmore. Contact (559) 568-1087
  • Tuesday and Wednesday, June 16 – July 24, from 3-5 pm
• Tipton Branch: 301 East Woods Avenue, Tipton. Contact (559) 752-4236
  • Thursday and Friday, June 16 – July 24, from 3-5 pm
• Visalia Branch: 200 W. Oak Avenue, Visalia. Contact (559) 713-2703
  • Tuesday through Friday, June 16 – July 24, from 12-2 pm

According to the California State Library in summer 2025 213 branch libraries statewide served summer meals and library staff provided pop-up library and enrichment services at 367 community meal sites. More than 380,000 meals were served to youth at library meal sites and community meal sites with pop-up library and enrichment services.

Tulare County Library is an equal opportunity provider. The Summer Food Service Program is a program of the U. S. Department of Agriculture, administered in California by the California Department of Education. Lunch at the Library is a project of the California State Library, supported with funds from the State of California.

The post Free summer meals for kids and teens at Tulare County libraries appeared first on Valley Voice.

The Visalia Republican Women Federated is proud to announce a FREE three-week movie series at the historic Visalia Fox Theatre in celebration of America’s 250th birthday. Families, friends, neighbors, and movie lovers of all ages are invited to enjoy patriotic blockbuster films, exciting giveaways, and an unforgettable community experience, completely free of charge.

Each movie night will feature major prize giveaways including bikes, TVs, BBQs, summer toys, and more. Organizers hope the series becomes a joyful community gathering place where families can celebrate freedom, friendship, and the spirit of America together.

“This is our gift to the community,” said Visalia Republican Women Federated President, Sara Smith. “We wanted to create something fun, family-friendly, patriotic, and accessible to everyone. No tickets. No admission cost. Just a great night at the Fox Theatre celebrating America and our community together.”

FREE MOVIE SERIES SCHEDULE

Thursday, July 9, 2026
Captain America: The First Avenger

Thursday, July 16, 2026
Reagan

Thursday, July 23, 2026
Air Force One

Doors open at 6:00 PM each evening, with movies beginning promptly at 6:30 PM.

All movies are completely FREE to the public.

Guests are encouraged to arrive early for prize drawings, community fellowship, and the full patriotic experience inside one of Visalia’s most beloved landmarks. From families with children to longtime movie fans, this series is designed to bring the community together during a historic milestone year for the nation.

The Visalia Republican Women Federated extends sincere thanks to the community supporters who helped make this celebration possible.

For more information, please contact Visalia Republican Women President, Sara Smith at (559) 302-8674 or the Visalia Fox Theatre at (559) 625-1369.

The post Visalia Republican Women Federated announces free community movie series celebrating America’s 250th birthday appeared first on Valley Voice.

Industry analysis shows meat sales hit $112 billion in 2025, with more than 98% of American households purchasing meat for daily meals. USDA is forecasting consumption of beef, pork and chicken to rise in 2026.

“Beef remains the centerpiece of many cookouts, but record-high prices and historically tight cattle inventories continue to challenge both consumers and producers,” the Market Intel states. “Pork offers relative value and stability, supported by efficient production and strong export markets, even as producers navigate ongoing disease risks. Meanwhile, chicken stands out as the most accessible option, with steady production growth and modest prices helping it maintain its place as America’s most-consumed protein.”

USDA reports the average retail price for beef set a record in April at $9.64 per pound, up about 13% from the previous year. Beef prices remain elevated by strong demand and the smallest U.S. cattle herd in 75 years. This is a result of years of drought, reduced income following the pandemic and elevated operating costs that have led farmers to liquidate their herds.

The average price of pork increased 2.3% from April 2025 to April 2026. Pork chops are the most popular cut. The average retail price for pork chops in U.S. cities was $4.33 per pound in April 2026, up 9 cents per pound from the same time last year. Prices reflect a balanced supply of hogs and growing consumer demand.

For chicken, USDA estimates about 42.2 billion pounds of chicken will be purchased in 2026, up 46 million pounds from 2025. The overall price of chicken fell in April by 0.7% compared to April 2025. Boneless chicken breasts in U.S. cities cost an average of $4.17 per pound in April, down a penny from the same time last year. Poultry flocks continue to recover from avian influenza, which has helped to control price increases.

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall said, “Home-grown meat continues to be a staple for America’s families. Despite higher prices at the grocery store, families trust America’s farmers and ranchers to grow the food that is put on the grill and on dinner tables across the country. We urge the administration and Congress to prioritize ranchers as they rebuild herds so they can continue to meet the needs of the nation’s families.”

For shoppers looking to save money, retailers and grocery stores generally increase promotional sales and specials as holidays draw closer.

While this is a snapshot of current meat prices, the American Farm Bureau Federation conducts annual surveys of the average cost of a full Thanksgiving dinner and a 4^th of July cookout. The 4^th of July marketbasket survey will be released on June 26, 2026.

The post U.S. meat consumption increases despite rising prices appeared first on Valley Voice.

The Planning Commission makes recommendations to the City Council on matters related to land use, zoning, subdivisions, and community development. The Commission also administers the City’s Zoning Ordinance and reviews issues affecting the growth and development of Visalia. Meetings are held on the second and fourth Monday of each month at 7 p.m.

Applications for the Planning Commission vacancy will be accepted through Friday, June 19, 2026, at 5 p.m. Interviews for Planning Commission applicants are scheduled to take place the afternoon of Monday, June 29, 2026.

In addition to the Planning Commission vacancy, the City is also accepting applications for several City commissions and committees, including the Historic Preservation Committee, Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC), and Parks & Recreation Commission.

The Historic Preservation Committee administers and implements the standards and requirements of the City of Visalia’s Historic Preservation Ordinance. Meetings are held on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m.

The Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) serves as part of the Community Development Block Grant review process, reviews City Rates and Fees, and conducts the non-profit grant application and review process. The CAC also provides oversight responsibilities related to Measure T and Measure N. Meetings are held on the first Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m.

The Parks & Recreation Commission advises the City Council and City staff on matters related to parks, recreation programs, playgrounds, and recreation facilities. Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m.

Applications for the Historic Preservation Committee, Citizens Advisory Committee, and Parks & Recreation Commission will be accepted on an ongoing basis, and applications are kept on file for a period of two years.

Commissions and committees may hold additional meetings as needed to address specific matters. Members may also be required to file a Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) Statement of Economic Interests (Form 700).

Applications are available online at www.visalia.gov/committees.  Applications may be submitted to the City Clerk’s Office at 220 N. Santa Fe Street, Visalia, CA 93292, submitted online, or emailed to Reyna Rivera, Chief Deputy City Clerk, at reyna.rivera@visalia.gov.

For additional information, please contact the City of Visalia Administration Department at (559) 713-4512.

The post City of Visalia seeking applicants for Planning Commission, apply by June 19 appeared first on Valley Voice.

The award honors elected leaders who have demonstrated a commitment to advancing transportation solutions that improve quality of life, support economic growth and address the long-term mobility needs of their communities.

“From the very beginning, I saw the neglect that this region faced and knew we had to do something about it,” Senator Hurtado said. “I heard stories from families, workers, farmers and local leaders across the Central Valley about decades of underinvestment in our infrastructure. We could not continue down that path. That’s why I have made transportation and critical infrastructure a priority. Central Valley families deserve safe roads, strong communities and every opportunity to achieve the American Dream.”

Since Taking office in 2019, Senator Hurtado has championed transportation investments across Senate District 16. Specifically, her hard work has helped to secure funding for local roads, airports, freight movement and highway improvements. Her leadership has led to nearly $5 billion in state investments benefiting communities throughout her district.

Among her longstanding transportation priorities has been the effort to “Finish What We Started”, a decades-long push to complete the widening of Highway 99 and eliminate remaining bottlenecks along one of California’s most important transportation corridors.

“TCAG chose to honor Senator Hurtado as our 2026 Outstanding Elected Official because of her long-standing support for transportation projects that improve highway safety, and in particular her support for widening highway 99,” Ted Smalley, TCAG Executive Director said. “Senator Hurtado was the only state Legislator to personally appear at the California Transportation Commission asking for additional money to finish what we started.”

Senator Hurtado has worked alongside local, regional and state leaders to advocate for funding to widen critical segments of Highway 99, and to secure state budget investments for long-overdue improvements in Tulare County.

Senator Melissa Hurtado is Chair of Senate Budget Subcommittee #4 on State Administration and General Government and currently represents the 16th Senate District in the California Legislature, which includes portions of Fresno, Tulare, Kings and Kern Counties.

The post TCAG names Senator Hurtado as 2026 LocalMotion Elected Official of the Year appeared first on Valley Voice.

The Sierra View Hip & Knee Center was recognized as a Silver Winner for Orthopedic Surgery. Sierra View Medical Center continues advancing orthopedic care through minimally invasive procedures, outpatient joint replacement, and robotic-assisted surgery. Sierra View Medical Center is the only hospital in Tulare County offering the Stryker Mako SmartRobotics system for joint replacement procedures and has now completed more than 300 robotic-assisted surgeries using the technology.

The post Sierra View Medical Center recognized in Best of Central California Awards appeared first on Valley Voice.

What began in 2018 with just 97 passengers has grown into a well-loved tradition, with over 500 passengers traveling by train to the 2025 Juneteenth Festival. Travelers are encouraged to book now to secure their seats and to enjoy further savings by combining discounts, as detailed on the Gold Runner Deals webpage.

The fun for all ages event will feature food trucks, music, dancing, merchandise vendors, and tours of historic buildings.

“We are proud to continue this annual tradition of bringing Californians together to celebrate Juneteenth at Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park,” said Chris Orlando, Chief Executive Officer of the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority, which operates Gold Runner. “Each year, more people choose to be part of this trip and to experience the history and community that make the Allensworth celebration so meaningful.”

Founded in 1908 by Colonel Allen Allensworth, a former enslaved man, Allensworth was created as a town where Black families could build lives, businesses, and institutions on their own terms. Today, it is preserved as a California State Park and stands as California’s first community founded, financed, and governed by Black leaders, giving it a singular place in the state’s history. The park’s history is kept alive through its annual events, which invite visitors to gather, learn, and celebrate at the very place where this remarkable community once stood.

“Juneteenth is one of our most important national holidays, and Allensworth is one of the most meaningful places in California to observe it,” said Lori Wear, California State Parks. We’re proud to welcome visitors here every June, and grateful to Gold Runner for helping us reach Californians seeking an alternative route to the Park.”

The southbound trains (Sacramento – Allensworth) running for the event include trains 702 (11:41 a.m. arrival) and 710 (12:41 p.m. arrival).

Northbound (Bakersfield – Allensworth) trains include 713 (9:41 a.m. arrival), 715 (11:41 a.m. arrival), and 717 (2:47 p.m. arrival).

When purchasing train tickets, a discount will automatically be applied. If eligible, riders can then combine this reduced ticket with additional savings regularly available which include:

• Infants under 2 years of age ride for free
• Children 2-12 years old ride half-price every day
• Seniors (62+ years of age) receive 15% off
• Veterans & active military members receive 15% off
• Disabled riders save 15% off
• View deals

Visitors attending the Festival via Gold Runner trains will arrive at the Allensworth station (CNL), which will serve as a special stop for this event. Upon arrival, a complimentary 35-passenger shuttle provided by Tulare County Area Transit will transport riders between the train platform and the historic schoolhouse.

Throughout the year, CNL serves as a whistle stop available only to pre-booked groups. However, for special events at the Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park, including the October Rededication, Black History Month, and the Juneteenth Celebration, Gold Runner operates special trains at discounted prices in order to connect travelers with this historic and important destination.

Train tickets to Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park can be booked online at the Colonel Allensworth landing page or contact Carmen Setness, community outreach coordinator for San Joaquin Regional Rail Commission (SJRRC), at csetness@sjrrc.com.

The post Gold Runner to run special trains to Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park for 2026 Juneteenth Celebration appeared first on Valley Voice.

Tulare County Library invites all ages to join this year’s Summer Reading Challenge and the many events offered. All Library Branches  host activities, performers, and presentations, including a magician, animal presentations, storytime, and more. Begin learning more about your Summer Reading Challenge on our Library webpage at tularecountylibrary.org/src. To check out Library events, go to the online calendar at tularecountylibrary.org/calendar or visit your local Branch’s social media page by going to tularecountylibrary.org/locations.

How to participate:

The Library challenges ages 0 through 5 to read or to be read 20 books. For everyone, ages 6 and over, their challenge is to read for 20 days. Upon signing up ages 17 and under receive a free book and adults receive a small prize.

Challengers who check in midway also receive a prize. When your Reading Challenge is complete, ages 17 and under collect a final prize and adults receive a free book. All completers are entered into a grand prize drawing. Sign up in person at one of our local branches, online at tularecountylibrary.beanstack.org/reader365 or via the Beanstack app.

The 2026 Tulare County Library Summer Reading Challenge is graciously funded and supported by the Friends of Tulare County Library and local branch Friends of the Library groups in Dinuba, Exeter, Ivanhoe, Lindsay, and Three Rivers. The Friends raise funds to support various programs offered by Tulare County Library. Interested in becoming a member? Visit https://www.tularecountylibrary.org/friends-library to find out more information about the Friends.

The Tulare County Library is an equal opportunity provider. The Summer Food Service Program is a program of the U. S. Department of Agriculture, administered in California by the California Department of Education. Lunch at the Library is a project of the California State Library, supported with funds from the State of California.

Tulare County Library serves all the residents of Tulare County with locations in 17 communities, an adult literacy center, Pop Up Tulare County outreach and bookmobile, and online at www.tularecountylibrary.org. Follow the Library on Facebookfacebook.com/tularecountylibrary or local branch pages, Instagram, @tularecountylib, or X at x.com/TulareCountyLib.

The post Tulare County Library opening Summer Reading Challenge on June 9 appeared first on Valley Voice.

For 26 years, Sierra Hills has been home to seniors in Porterville. The $180,000 renovation, completed this year, refreshes both the individual living spaces and the shared common areas across the community’s 121 apartment homes and cottages. Updates include the dining rooms Bistro area, the private dining room, new chandeliers throughout the first floor and a fully upgraded multipurpose room.

The celebration invites guests to travel through a series of Colombia-inspired “ports” without leaving Porterville. Each guest receives a passport to stamp along the way, with every stop offering something different, from traditional Colombian treats and foods to cultural experiences and community resource stations. Guided tours of the renovated spaces and live music will round out the day.

The event will also benefit Central Valley Rescue Railroad, raising awareness for shelter animals through gift basket raffles held throughout the day. Guests can stop by a photo booth from a local vendor and meet tropical birds brought by a local resident.

“Our residents are the heart of this community, and these renovations are about giving them spaces that feel fresh and comfortable,” said Betty Botello Ledezma, Executive Director of Sierra Hills Senior Living. “After 26 years in Porterville, we’re proud to open our doors and celebrate this next chapter with our neighbors.”

Call 559-396-4522 to RSVP by June 14 or click here to learn more.

The post Sierra Hills Senior Living unveils newly renovated community June 16 appeared first on Valley Voice.

Live Theater

The Kings Players stage an original play, “I Shot Jennifer Lopez,” a comedy about Norah who snaps what appears to be a compromising picture of Jennifer Lopez. Could this make Norah rich? Runs May 24-June 7. Adult themes. Temple Theater, 514 Visalia St., Hanford. 559 584-7241 or www.kingsplayers.org

The Barn Theater presents “One Flew over the Cuckoo’s Nest,” about a patient who challenges the strict systems in a psychiatric hospital. Runs May 29-June 14. 42 S. Plano, Porterville. 559 310-7046 or www.portervillebarntheater.com

Encore Theatre will perform the beloved musical “Annie” about Little Orphan Annie trying to find her parents from June 11-27 at 324 South N, Tulare. 559 686-1300 or Facebook: Encore Theatre Tulare

Art shows

Arts Visalia exhibits printmaking and cartoons by Trishelle Jeffery and print and mixed media hybrids by Jolynn Reigeluth in June. Open Wednesdays-Saturdays, 12-5:30 p.m. 214 E. Oak, 559 739-0905 or www.artsvisalia.org

Arts Consortium displays cultural costumes in “Visalia around the World” in May and June, spotlighting over 23 counties’ attire, culture, dance and music. 340 E. Oak, Visalia. Open Tuesdays-Fridays 10-3. www.artsconsortium.org  

Brandon-Mitchell Gallery is showing “Reaching for Greatness,” Multicultural abstract acrylics and acrylic pours by Eva Nicholson. Open during the First Friday Art Walk in Downtown Visalia in June, after service at 11:30 a.m. on Sundays and by appointment. 117 S. Locust, Visalia. 559 625-2441 or www.brandonmitchellgallery.com

College of the Sequoias Learning Resource Center shows the Pathway to Museums Club’s “Collaborative Project” March 3-June 26. Open Mondays-Thursdays 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., Fridays 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Saturdays 10-2. LRC Gallery, Lodgepole Building. Facebook: College of the Sequoias Art Gallery

The Oval Gallery is featuring “Two Dogs in a Trench Coat,” a duo exhibition by Jalisa Sousa-Silva and Brandon Hernandez that delves into the complicated relationship of one’s identity. 808 N. Court. Open Thursdays and Fridays from 5-8 p.m. and by appointment if requested through Instagram, www.instagram.com/theovalgallery

Tulare City Historical Museum has on display “Frankie,” art by Frank Wong, June 4-July 4. Open Thursdays-Saturdays 10-4. 444 W. Tulare in Tulare. 559 686-2074 or www.tularehistoricalmuseum.org

Tulare City Historical Museum features “Timeless Treasurers: Journey through a Vintage Home” April 9-June 6. See how Tulareans lived in the early 1900s. Open Thursdays-Saturdays 10-4. 444 W. Tulare in Tulare. 559 686-2074 or www.tularehistoricalmuseum.org

CACHE (Center for Art, Culture & History Exeter) is showing “California Landscapes” by Betty Berk from April 4-June 28. 125 South B. 559 592-5900 or www.cach-exeter.org

Lindsay Museum & Gallery has on exhibit “Still Point and its Echo,” a cross-cultural exchange from Korea inspired by local artist Shane Guffogg, through June 26. Open on Fridays from 12-4 p.m. 165 N. Gale Hill Ave. www.lindsay

The Pierpoint Bar & Grill & Gallery is showing “Heaven in the Sierras” by local photographer Trish Logan. Open 10-6 daily. 801 Highway 190, Springville. 559 483-9110 or liz.pierpointgallery@gmail.com

Ongoing events

Big L Ranch Blueberry Picking from May 10-June 14. Live music. U-pick Blueberry Farm, 20899 Ave. 322, Woodlake. www.visitvisalia.org/events

Events by date

Friday, June 5

• Downtown Visalia First Friday Art Walk from 5-8 p.m. Pick up a map at the Arts Consortium, 340 E. Oak, Arts Visalia, 214 E. Oak, or the Brandon-Mitchell Gallery, 117 S. Locust, and visit venues with art, music and snacks. artsconsortium.org
• “Visalia around the World” is on display from 5-8 p.m. at the Arts Consortium, 340 E. Oak. Spotlighting over 23 counties’ dance attire. Plus traditional Mexican dancing. artsconsortium.org

Saturday, June 6

• Meet the Artist with printmaker and cartoonist Trishelle Jeffery, who will talk about her art currently on display at Arts Visalia from 2-4 p.m. 214 E. Oak. 559 739-0905 or artsvisalia.org
• 1^st Saturday in Three Rivers features open studios, food and art shows from 11-5. Pick up a map and schedule at Kaweah Arts, 41841 Sierra Dr. (Highway 198) or the Three Rivers Historical Museum, 42268 Sierra Dr. 559 799-1473 or 1stsaturdaytr.com
• Summer kickoff at the Visalia Farmers Market from 8-11:30 a.m. behind the Visalia Courthouse, 2231 W. Main. Yoga, face painting, food trucks, live music and give-aways. Facebook: Summer kickoff at the Visalia Farmers Market

Tuesday,  June 9

• TC Voices at 210 “The U.S. at 250, Why We Celebrate.” Doors open at 6:30, program starts at 7:00pm at 210 W. Center St. Visalia

Wednesday, June 10

• Country singer Ben Gallaher headlines the KJUP Free Summer Concert Series concert at Exeter Veterans Memorial Park, 324 N Kaweah. Food trucks, beer garden and face painting begins at 5:30 p.m. Music at 6:30 p.m. Bring chairs or blankets. https://business.exeterchamber.com/community-calendar

Friday, June 12

• “E.T.—the Extra-Terrestrial” will be shown free at 6 p.m. at the Visalia Fox Theatre, 300 W. Main. 559 62501369 or foxvisalia.org
• Sierra Performing Arts presents “Stingin’ and Dancing in the Bee Musical,” their year-end dance fest, at 7 p.m. at L.J. Williams Theatre, 1001 W. Main, Visalia. Tickets: spacdance.com

Saturday, June 13

• 5^th Annual Juneteenth celebration from 10-2 at Zumwalt Park, 455 E. Tulare in Tulare. Food, games, live entertainment. Commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in 1865. unitedwaytc.org/community/calendar
• Sierra Performing Arts presents the “Snow White Ballet” at 7 p.m. at L.J. Williams Theatre, 1001 W. Main, Visalia. Tickets: spacdance.com

Sunday, June 14

• Free entry into Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks on Flag Day for U.S. citizens. visitvisalia.org/calendar

Friday, June 19

• Juneteenth Celebration honoring African-American history from 5-7 p.m. at the Anthony Community Center, 345 N. Jacob, Visalia. Exhibits, kids’ activities, art, live music and drumming. Facebook events

Saturday, June 20

• Open house from 4-6 p.m. of The Depot to see the vision of Visalia Heritage to create a Visalia museum there. Tours, music, wine. 207 E. Oak, Visalia. Tickets: visaliaheritage.org

The post appeared first on Valley Voice.