Live Theater

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

Ice House Theatre presents for one-weekend only “A Glee-ful Cabaret” July 10-12 with lots of your favorite songs. 410 E. Race, Visalia. 559 734-30

900 or www.visaliaicehouse.com

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 a “Patriotic Exhibit” with a military collection, armaments and model planes, displays of Rankin Field and Admiral Elmo Zumwal Jr., a native Tularean. Runs June 11-Aug. 1. 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

Visit 21 Tulare and Kings Counties Museums from Memorial Day to Labor Day during the Summer Museum Passport Program and get your passport signed at each. List of participating museums at www.mctkc.org, the Tulare County Museum at Mooney Grove or the Arts Consortium, 300 E. Oak, Visalia.

“Portuguese Experience in Tulare County,” a film shown at the Tulare County Museum every Saturday and Sunday in June to celebrate Portuguese Heritage Month. Mooney Grove Park, 27000 S. Mooney Blvd, Visalia. www.instagram.com/TulareCountyMuseum

Events by date

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

Friday, June 26

• Summer Night Lights from 5:30-7 p.m. with food, games and music at the Manuel Hernandez Community Center, 247 W. Ferguson, Visalia. Free. Facebook: Summer Night Lights

Saturday, June 27

• Free showing of “Twilight” (2008), the romantic vampire fantasy film, at 6 p.m. at the Visalia Fox Theatre, 300 W. Main. Preceded by a themed market night from 5-9 p.m. Come dressed as your favorite vampire. 559 625-1369 or foxvisalia.org

Friday, July 3

• 3^rd Annual Independent Day Spectacular fireworks at 6 p.m. at the Riverway Sports Park, 3611 N. Dinuba Blvd, Visalia. Kids’ zone, food vendors, beer garden, live music. Facebook: Independence Day Spectacular
• 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

Saturday, July 4

• Independence Day concert by the Sequoia Symphony at Adventist Health Amphitheater in Zumwalt Park, 500 E. Tulare Ave., Tulare. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Concert at 7:30 p.m. Bring blankets and a picnic. Tickets start at just $2.50 in honor of America’s 250^th www.sequoiasymphonyorchestra.com
• Fireworks after the Rawhide game, 300 N. Giddings, Visalia. milb.com/Visalia
• Great American Race with 5 and 10K plus costume contest at 7 a.m. at Riverway Sports Park, 3611 N. Dinuba Blvd, Visalia. Benefits Visalia memorial District. runsignup.com/race/CA/Visalia
• Red, White & Brew Pub Crawl in Downtown Visalia plus Best Dressed Contest. Tickets: Eventbrite: Red, White & Brew Crawl

July 4 & 5

• Free entry into Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks in honor of Fourth of July for U.S. citizens. visitvisalia.org/calendar

The post Donna’s Calendar of Events!! 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

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 town of Allensworth is located in the heart of the Central Valley, about 30 miles north of Bakersfield. Boasting a rich history that is of interest to students, families, history buffs, minority community organizations, and anyone else looking to spend a fun day exploring the historic community and its restored buildings. In 1908, Allensworth was established as a town founded, financed and governed by African Americans. There were a series of challenges impeding the town’s long-term survival, but it is celebrated as a key historical icon. In 1974 California State Parks purchased the land in order to maintain it as a site for visitors to learn and explore the Colonel’s house, historic schoolhouse, Baptist church, and library.

About the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority (SJJPA)

Since July 2015, SJJPA has been responsible for the management and administration of Gold Runner, previously Amtrak San Joaquins. SJJPA is governed by Board Members representing each of the ten (10) Member Agencies along the 365-mile Gold Runner Corridor. For more information on SJJPA see www.sjjpa.com. Gold Runner is Amtrak’s 6th busiest route with 18 train stations throughout the Central Valley and Bay Area, providing a safe, comfortable and reliable way to travel throughout California. Gold Runner is currently running six daily round-trips. In addition to the train service, Gold Runner Thruway buses provide connecting service to 135 destinations in California and Nevada including Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, San Diego, Napa Valley, Las Vegas and Reno.

The post Gold Runner to Run Special Trains to Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park for 2026 Juneteenth Celebration, Saturday June 13 appeared first on Valley Voice.

“We’ve released our highly anticipated summer Live & Play Activity Guide, packed with events, classes, and programs and activities start this week,” shares Laurissa Roggenkamp, Recreation Manager. “School is out and summer fun in Visalia is just getting started.”

From interactive youth camps and swim lessons to adult sports leagues and community-wide special events like the Independence Day Spectacular on July 3, this season’s guide serves as a comprehensive roadmap to an active, engaging, and memorable summer.

“Whether you’re looking to learn a new skill, keep the kids active while school is out, or just connect with your neighbors at our community events, our team has put together an incredible schedule,” adds Roggenkamp.

Highlights of the 2026 Summer Lineup Include:

• Aquatics and Swim Lessons: Dive into the season with public swim sessions, swim lessons for all age groups, and aquatic fitness classes to stay cool.
• Youth Camps and Teen Enrichment: Keep young minds and bodies active with multi-sport camps, creative arts, and STEM-focused summer programs.
• Adult Sports and Fitness: Stay competitive and healthy with adult leagues, fitness, and dance classes.
• Community Events: Find favorites like the Juneteenth celebration, Summer Night Lights, and the highly anticipated Independence Day Spectacular on July 3 at Riverway Sports Park.

The digital version of the Summer Activity Guide is officially live and accessible on the City’s newly redesigned website at www.visalia.gov/LivePlay. Visitors can browse programs and classes and complete their registration online.

Physical copies of the Summer Live & Play guide are also available at city facilities, including the Visalia Senior Center, the Anthony Community Center, and the City of Visalia Administration Office. For more information regarding registration, programming, or accommodations, please visit www.visalia.gov or contact the Parks and Recreation Department at (559) 713-4535 or recreation@visalia.gov.

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The post Summer Fun in Visalia Starts Now appeared first on Valley Voice.

Randy Villegas is advancing to the general election in November to face Republican David Valadao. These primary results make clear that Valadao is more vulnerable than ever after receiving barely 40% of the total votes. Despite an onslaught of outside dark money groups and special interests attacking him, Randy Villegas, the son of working class immigrants who worked in his family’s auto shop, will be running in the general election to be a voice for working families in D.C.

Throughout this campaign, Villegas has refused to take corporate PAC money, instead relying on a people-powered campaign. The average donation for the Villegas For Congress campaign was $53, with 92 percent being $100 or less, and educators and nurses making up the top professions of those who donated.

“Voters in the Central Valley have spoken and they have declared that the Valley is not for sale,” Randy Villegas, candidate for Congress, said. “Despite the onslaught of outside corporate money spent against us, we have shown that working people are ready for change. We are ready for the government to work for us, not just the wealthy and well-connected. We want our hard earned tax dollars delivering affordable healthcare, not senseless wars abroad. David Valadao has sold us out for too long, voting to cut healthcare for families in the Valley, and siding with corporate interests over working people. I’m going to be focused on winning over every voter in our district and showing that I will be the true fighter for our community in D.C.”

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Randy Villegas is a Central Valley native, auto repair shop owner, and a community college professor. Growing up in a working-class immigrant family, Randy worked hard to help his parents make ends meet. Randy’s family relied on the crucial federal programs like WIC and Medicaid that are now in danger of being cut. Randy worked his way out of poverty through education and has dedicated his life to public service. As a local and school board trustee Randy has delivered for working families by standing up for the best interests of our children. As the only Latino and only Democrat on the school board, Randy has worked across the aisle to get things done. Now, Randy is running for Congress to stand up for other hard-working families who he sees falling through the cracks on David Valadao’s watch. Find out more at: www.villegasforcongress.com.

The post Randy Villegas Advances To General Election To Take On David Valadao appeared first on Valley Voice.

This month, the forum is, “U.S. at 250: Why We Celebrate, and How,”

The forum is at 7 p.m. on Tuesday June 9 at 210 W. Center Ave.

Tulare County Voices @210 is a monthly public forum in Visalia that has been a space for community discussion for more than 15 years. It is co-sponsored by the Visalia Times-Delta, the Valley Voice and First Presbyterian Church (which provides the venue and live stream).

This forum will be a combination of activities. It will include a brief quiz on American history. Then, we’ll have a panel discussion of local historians and teachers to discuss how history is being taught and learned. And finally, a review of the activities that the city of Visalia has lined up to celebrate America’s  semiquincentennial.

Our discussion on the teaching of History brings together College of the Sequoias professor and author Newell Bringhurst, and retired High School history teacher as well as the coordinator of Visalia’s annual History Day, Curtis Wilson.

For starters, this forum will get everybody in the mood with a brief quiz on American history. The questions will run along the lines of this one:

Who was the most important diplomat for the colonies during the Revolution?

1. George Washington

2. Alexander Hamilton

3. Benjamin Franklin

4. John Jay

(Answer below)

At the heart of our discussion on how American history is taught, and learned (or not) is:

• How has the teaching of American History changed from the 1950s to the present?

• How has the current political environment changed the way American History is being taught?

Does the way Americans view their history change with the political climate? Why does Americans’ view of some periods of American history, the Reconstruction Era, for instance, change with the times?

Why do Americans often learn that what they thought of their history is wrong?

Our panel members will wrestle with that question and more, including questions from the audience, as we consider what is being taught to history students, and how that has changed.

Our nation’s semiquincentennial is foremost an opportunity to celebrate 250 years of freedom, justice and equality,  so we intend to get to the celebrating part. A representative from the city of Visalia will be on hand to explain what our city plans to celebrate our 250th.

The events in Visalia will certainly be a surprise, including a convention here of a national veterans organization, the display of an iconic flag, and an Old-fashioned Fourth at Riverway Sports Park.

So join us on June 9. to learn what we are celebrating and how.

As for the quiz answer, here’s a hint: His face is on the $100 bill.

The post TC Voices – U.S. at 250 – Why we Celebrate! appeared first on Valley Voice.

Supervisors Pete Vander Poel (District 2) and Dennis Townsend (District 5) apparently left the meeting to avoid being included in the presentation of the proclamation.

The county declaration honors the groups’ work to protect and support the LGBTQ+ community in Tulare County. Both men also declined to sign the proclamation.

Walk-Out Surprised, Disappointed Board Chair

The pair’s unexpected absence came as a surprise to Board Chair Amy Shuklian, who oversaw the presentation.

“I didn’t know they were going to walk out of the meeting. I’m disappointed,” she said. “I feel bad for the organizations that were up there talking about what they do in the community.”

The organizations being honored were support and advocacy group Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) of Tulare and Kings Counties, the civic service club Visalia Pride Lions, and The Source, a community center for LGBTQ+ individuals.

The supervisors’ proclamation was intended to honor these nongovernmental groups, whose work, Shuklian said, are critical to the wellbeing of all county residents. Similar proclamations are regularly made for other groups like those honored Tuesday, she said.

“Organizations and nonprofits are what make our community, Tulare County, function,” Shuklian said. “We contract with The Source and a lot of other organizations to provide the services we’re (Tulare County) mandated to provide.”

Shuklian also said official recognition, such as the county proclamation, signal strongly that the people those groups represent are welcome here.

“It’s important they feel they’re members of the community no matter who they are,” she said. “It’s important to recognize everyone in the community, no matter who they are, if they are doing good work.”

Vander Poel ‘Doesn’t Believe’ in Activism, Protesting

According to Supervisor Vander Poel, it was the inclusion of PFLAG that prompted him to leave the room. Unfamiliar with PFLAG – a support group for the family and friends of LGBTQ+ people formed in 1973 – Vander Poel turned to the website of the local branch.

“When you look at their home page you will see a photo. In that photo, there are individuals holding signs that say, ‘Trump Treason = Lock Him Up,’ and ‘Fight Ignorance, Not Immigrants,’ and ‘Affordable Health Care for All,’” Vander Poel wrote in an email response to Caitlin Rauen, who had questioned his reasoning.

This is not the first time official support for PFLAG has upset its detractors.

In 1990, First Lady Barbara Bush wrote a letter of support to PFLAG’s president, in which she said, “We cannot tolerate discrimination against any individuals or groups in our country.” Bush’s private comment was reprinted by the Associated Press, drawing the ire of conservatives.

PFLAG’s founder, Jeanne Manford, was honored with the Presidential Citizens Medal in 2013.

PFLAG’s main approach is wielding legal power against public figures who attack the LGBTQ+ community, as well as organizing protests and other events intended to influence public policy. However, the wording the national organization used on its website was so concerning to Vander Poel he felt he could not lend his name to the local proclamation.

“On the PFLAG national website, they talk about ‘fighting’ and ‘protesting,’” Vander Poel wrote. “Activism and protesting are not strategies I believe in, and I did not want to recognize a seemingly political organization that focuses on that.”

Supervisors’ Action Was Not a Protest

Vander Poel, who represents the Tulare area, told other local media outlets his absence was not a protest. Rather it was to avoid a confrontation.

“I did not explain myself or make any comments at the meeting because I did not want to take anything away from the recognition being bestowed upon the organizations,” he wrote.

Supervisor Dennis Townsend, who represents the Porterville area, reportedly said the county proclamation was secret acknowledgement of Pride Month by Shuklian. He also said the honor was official validation of the behavior of LGBTQ+ individuals, and not simple recognition of the organizations’ beneficial work in Tulare County.

Shuklian denied this accusation.

“This was not a Pride Month proclamation. Obviously, this is Pride Month, but I wanted to recognize these organizations,” she said. “A lot of people say, ‘Well, why do we have Pride Month?’ To me, the opposite of pride is shame, and I will never be ashamed of who I am or who I love.”

During the ceremony, Brian Poth, CEO of The Source, explained why he thinks the work done there is important. It is not only critical to the clients who use the services, but serves to better the entire community.

“We believe that when people feel safe and included, they build lives that benefit their communities,” Poth said. “Every resident deserves access to success, opportunity and a sense of belonging.”

In praising the organizations’ work, Shuklian explained why her colleagues’ absence and their attitude was difficult to understand.

“You have definitely saved the lives of youth and young adults in Tulare County. I know that for a fact,” Shuklian said. “And anybody who can go against the fact that you work to save the lives of our young people is a shame.”

She was especially upset the pair left without explaining their behavior.

“If Pete had leaned over and said I’m not comfortable and don’t want to be in the photo, I might feel different,” Shuklian said.

Tulare, Visalia Support LGBTQ+ Community Officially

The Board of Supervisors wasn’t the only government body that chose to honor LGBTQ+ citizens in June. On Tuesday, the Tulare City Council proclaimed June as LGBT Pride Month in the city. The council there also recognized the work of The Source.

The Visalia City Council will present a proclamation honoring The Source during a celebration of the organization’s 10th anniversary, 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, June 10, at 109 NW 2nd Avenue in Visalia. The event is open to adults only.

Neither of those proclamations singled out PFLAG for specific recognition, unlike that presented by the county. The decades-old organization has never been seen as radical in its behavior or advocacy, which leaves Shuklian puzzled over why her colleagues singled it out. Shuklian also said the proclamation had been worded to be as inoffensive as possible.

“I really didn’t think that it was such a big deal, especially for those organizations,” she said. “I was shocked that PFLAG was the stickler.”

Kathryn Hall, PFLAG’s current president, was particularly offended by Vander Poel and Townsend’s action.

“I think it was rude to be purposefully absent when their constituents are being honored,” Hall said. “These three organizations do good work not just for the LGBTQ community.”

On a more sinister note, Hall believes behavior like that of Townsend and Vander Poel make life even more difficult for people who have been historically singled out for prejudice and bigotry, and violence.

“It’s mean spirited and a sign of the climate that has become threatening toward LGBTQ+ people,” Hall said. “And it’s just this kind of behavior that makes life difficult for LGBTQ+ people and those who love them.”

LGBTQ+ people struggle more with internal conflicts most other people aren’t forced to confront, Hall said, and official attitudes of intolerance make that problem far worse.

“The higher incidence of mental health problems and outcomes is due to the way people treat them,” she said. “It’s not that there’s anything wrong with people in the queer community.”

A more effective way of unifying the country and making our community better for everyone, Hall said, is making an effort to understand those whose views conflict with our own.

“I think a little empathy is what it takes,” she said.

The post Two Tulare County supes walk out as LGBTQ+ support organizations honored 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.

What does California have in common with Iowa, New York, Montana, South Dakota, New Mexico and New Jersey? They all held primaries today, June 2 – and California was rife with political drama, similar to New York.

There were 61 gubernatorial candidates running in California’s primary. That race has been one of the most watched races in the nation.

After polling swung from two Republicans advancing to the General Election in November, to two Democrats shutting out the Republicans, tonight’s results revealed that it will most likely be – as of publication time – Republican Steve Hilton with 26.9% of the vote and Democrat Xavier Becerra with 25.75% of the vote advancing to the November General Election.

Democrat Tom Steyer, as of 11:30pm, is in third place with 19.8%. As of publication time, final results were not available.

Locally, it was a three way race for Tulare County District 4 Supervisor between Ian Bakke, Rudy Mendoza and incumbent Eddie Valero.

Bakke is chief operating officer at Bakke Ag Services and a resident of Visalia. Mendoza is the mayor of Woodlake, a small business owner, and CEO of an agricultural company.

District 4 includes the unincorporated communities of Badger, Cutler-Orosi, Elderwood, Goshen, Ivanhoe, London, Monson-Sultana, Seville, Three Rivers, Traver, and Yettem. The cities represented in District 4 include Dinuba, Woodlake, and a small portion in the northwest corner of Visalia.

With 85.7% of the ballots counted it is likely that Valero with 45.93%, and Bakke with 38.11%, will battle it out on November 3.

Mendoza received 15.96 as of Tuesday night. If one of the candidates had garnered 50% of the vote, plus one additional vote, there would not be a runoff.

Valero expressed his gratitude about the primary results.

“I’m grateful and humbled by the support we’ve received across District 4. Tonight’s results reflect the hard work of so many volunteers, supporters, and community members who believe in the progress we’ve made together and the work still ahead. While votes are still being counted, I’m encouraged by the trust voters have placed in our campaign, and I remain committed to serving every community in District 4 with the same energy, accessibility, and dedication that have guided me over the last eight years,” he said.

“We’re extremely proud of Ian Bakke’s performance tonight. It’s noteworthy that a majority of the district voted against the incumbent, Eddie Valero, and our team is confident Ian will win this fall,” Connie Conway, Tulare County Republican Party Chairwoman, commented.

California’s congressional District 22, along with our gubernatorial race, is also being watched by the rest of the country.

Incumbent David Valadao is the last Republican Representative left in Washington who voted to impeach Trump out of the original ten in 2019.

Congressional District 22 serves parts of Kern, Kings, Tulare, and Fresno. With 74% of the votes counted Valadao is certain to advance to the General Election with 44.2% of the vote.

After a bruising battle between the two Democrats Candidates Jasmeet Bains and Randy Villegas it is too close to call as of 11:00pm, with Bains receiving 26.1% to Villegas’ 29.7%.

Over in Congressional District 20 – which includes Bakersfield, Clovis, Visalia, Tulare, Hanford, and the southern Sierra Nevada and is currently held by Republican Representative Vince Fong – two of the four candidates running were No Party Preference and received less than two percent of the vote each.

With 75% of the vote counted, Fong has 69.4% to Democrat Sandra Van Scotter’s 27.7%. Both will go on to the general election.

Congressional District 21 features the majority of Fresno, the north side of Visalia, and all of Sanger, Selma, Kingsburg, Parlier, Reedley, Orange Cove, Dinuba, Orosi, Cutler, Farmersville, Woodlake, and Exeter.

With only 21.4% of the vote counted, incumbent Jim Costa had a comfortable lead and will most likely be proceeding to the General Election. Republican Kyle Kirkland was currently in second place.

California State Senate District 16 represents Bakersfield, Visalia (northern portion), Hanford, Porterville, Tulare, Delano. As of 11:00pm 83% of the ballots had been counted and incumbent Democrat Melissa Hurtado had 36.1% to Republican Guillermo Gonzalez’ 49.5%. Manpreet Kaur, Vice Mayor of Bakersfield, was a distant third.

California State Senate 12 covers Fresno, Kern, and Tulare, covering cities Clovis, Exeter, Maricopa, Ridgecrest, Taft, and Tehachapi and parts of Visalia and Tulare. With 65% of the ballots counted Nathan Magsig has a comfortable lead with 62% of the vote. Libertarian William Brown is in second with 24.7%.

With 67.5% of the vote counted former State Senator from Bakersfield Republican Shannon Grove leads the other four candidates with 36.1% of the vote for State Board of Equalization District 1. In second place is Democrat Nelson Esparza 30.3%.

Vote-By-Mail Ballots returned by mail, in order to be counted, must be postmarked on or before Election Day and received by county elections offices by June 9, 2026.

The last day for county elections officials to certify election results is July 2, 2026.

The post Much anticipation, but few surprises, in California’s June 2 Primary appeared first on Valley Voice.

A month ago it appeared two Republicans in this heavily Democrat registered state might advance to the November General Election. Now it is more likely that two Democrats will advance, but we won’t know until tomorrow night!

California also has one of the most hotly contested Congressional seats in the country, District 22, held by Representative David Valadao.

But the primary election drama swirling around District 22 doesn’t involve Valadao.

Striking political attack ads have been exchanged between the two Democrats hoping to contest Valadao in the November General election, Assemblywoman Dr. Jasmeet Bains, from Bakersfield and Randy Villegas, Visalia Unified School District Trustee.

Bains ads claim that Villegas, in his capacity as a VUSD trustee, has covered up the abuse of minors who were sexually assaulted by school district staff over the past several decades. In fact, Villegas was one of five trustees who voted on a VUSD settlement agreement. The minors and their parents have requested to maintain their privacy, as is usual in these cases.

The Villegas campaign claims that AIPAC, American Israel Public Affairs Committee, has spent $500,000 on attack ads and that AIPAC is a controversial Republican-backed, pro-Israel super PAC that is quietly intervening in the CA-22 primary. Villegas’ campaign claims the Republican political machine is funding Bains because they believe she would be the weaker candidate against Valadao.

Many other local elections are on the ballot Tuesday night so get out and vote!

The more local the elected office the more your vote counts! Some elections have been decided by two or three votes.

Post Office or Official Drop Off Box?

The California Secretary of State Website informs voters, “Mailed ballots must be postmarked on or before Election Day and received not later than 7 days after Election Day.” But the Secretary of State also says, “To ensure your ballot is postmarked by Election Day make sure to mail it at least five days before Election Day.”

For those who have not yet voted the most secure way to make your vote counts is to put your ballot in one of the many official ballot drop boxes. Official Ballot Drop Boxes will be available 24 hours a day through 8:00 PM on Tuesday, June 2, 2026.

Below is a list of drop box locations in Tulare and Kings Counties. This list is also included with your mail-in ballot

Government Plaza            5951 S Mooney Blvd        Visalia

Visalia Branch Library      200 W Oak Ave  Visalia

Tulare Public Library        475 N M St          Tulare

Tulare Senior Citizen Center          201 N F St            Tulare

City Recycle Drop Off & CNG Fuel Station (Recycling Area)               555 N Prospect St             Porterville

Porterville City Transit Center (Service Drive)          61 W Oak Ave     Porterville

Lindsay City Hall 150 N Mirage Ave             Lindsay

Farmersville City Hall       909 W Visalia Rd               Farmersville

Exeter City hall   137 N F St            Exeter

Woodlake City Hall          350 N Valencia Blvd         Woodlake

Dinuba City Hall 405 E EL Monte Wy          Dinuba

Visalia Courthouse Rose Garden (East Parking Lot)              221 S Mooney Blvd          Visalia

Strathmore Branch Library            19646 Road 230 Strathmore

Ivanhoe Branch Library   15964 Heather Ave          Ivanhoe

Tulare Akers Professional Center 5300 W Tulare Ave           Visalia

Kings County:

Commission on Aging / Senior Center  10953 14th Ave., Armona

Avenal Branch Library  501 E. Kings St., Avenal

Corcoran Area Transit / Amtrak Station  1099 Otis Ave., Corcoran

Hanford High School  120 E. Grangeville Blvd., Hanford

Home Garden Community Services District Office  11677 2nd Pl., Hanford

Kings County Elections Office (Walk-up box) 1400 W. Lacey Blvd., Hanford

Kings County Government Center (Drive-up box) 1400 W. Lacey Blvd., Hanford

Central Union Elementary School 15783 18th Ave., Lemoore

Lemoore College – Student Union Building  555 College Ave., Lemoore

Lemoore Masonic Lodge  647 W. Bush St., Lemoore

Lemoore Parks and Rec. Department  721 W. Cinnamon Dr., Lemoore

The post Election Day is Tomorrow!! appeared first on Valley Voice.

The funding, secured through investments made under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act, will help improve water reliability, modernize aging infrastructure, strengthen drought resilience, and support long-term water management efforts throughout the Valley.

“Reliable water infrastructure is critical to the future of the San Joaquin Valley, our agricultural economy, and the communities that depend on it,” said Congressman Costa. “The Central Valley depends on a reliable water supply to support our farms, local economy, and growing communities. These investments will help strengthen water delivery systems that families, farmers, and communities across the Valley rely on every day.”

Projects receiving funding include:

• $65.8 million for the Friant-Kern Canal Capacity Correction Project
• $53 million for the O’Neill Pumping Plant Main Transformer Replacement Project
• $11 million for the O’Neill Pumping Plant Unit Upgrades Project
• $2 million for Fresno Irrigation District flow metering improvements expected to conserve approximately 840 acre-feet of water annually

The Friant-Kern Canal serves farms and communities across the eastern San Joaquin Valley and has lost significant carrying capacity due to decades of land subsidence. The O’Neill Pumping Plant projects will modernize critical Central Valley Project infrastructure connected to San Luis Reservoir and improve operational reliability throughout California’s water system.

Congressman Costa has long advocated for federal investments in water storage, conveyance, groundwater recharge, and drought resilience projects across the Central Valley.

Additional information on previously secured federal funding for Central Valley water infrastructure and San Joaquin Valley community projects:

• Costa Statement on $540 Million for Central Valley Water Projects
• Rep. Costa Secures Passage of $11.2 Million in Federal Funding for San Joaquin Valley Communities

The post Costa Announces More Than $131 Million for Central Valley Water Infrastructure Projects appeared first on Valley Voice.