The initiative provides rapid, confidential, and direct financial assistance to deputies facing unforeseen crises—ensuring help is available when it is needed most, without delay or burden.

Believed to be the first initiative of its kind in Kings County, the Emergency Assistance Fund represents a new model of collaboration between civic leadership and public service—one that extends support beyond the workplace and into the lives of those who serve.

Through this partnership, those values are translated into a tangible local commitment—directly supporting the men and women who serve Kings County and the families who stand behind them.

The Emergency Assistance Fund will be administered through the Kings County Sheriff’s Foundation, ensuring transparency, accountability, and responsible stewardship of all contributions.

Alii Azizuddin said, “The men and women of the Kings County Sheriff’s Office make extraordinary sacrifices every day to protect our communities. This fund is about ensuring that when hardship strikes, they and their families have immediate access to meaningful support. Serving those who serve others is not optional—it is a shared responsibility.”

Thank you to Alii and the Kings County Sheriff’s Foundation for the continuous support of the men and women of the Kings County Sheriff’s Office.

The post Kings County Sheriff’s Foundation establishes Emergency Assistance Fund appeared first on Valley Voice.

Live Theater

The Kings Players present “The Mousetrap,” Agatha Christie’s famous thriller about people trapped in a snowstorm getting killed one after another, from Aug. 14-30. Temple Theater, 514 Visalia St., Hanford. 559 584-7241 or www.kingsplayers.org

Lindsay Community Theater presents their annual Shakespeare in the Park, “The Merry Wives of Windsor,” a farce about Falstaff caught sending love messages to two women. Runs Aug 20-29 at dusk. Plaza Park Stage, 190 N. Elmwood. 559 284-2223 or www.lindsaycommunitytheater.com

Icehouse Theatre opens the fall season with “The Father,” a tragic-comic mystery through the eyes of a man experiencing dementia, from Sept. 11-20. 410 E. Race, Visalia. 559 734-3900 or www.visaliaicehouse.com

The Barn Theater presents “The Philadelphia Story,” the play version of the well-known movie starring Katharine Hepburn, from Sept. 11-20. 42 S. Plano, Porterville. 559 310-7046 or www.portervillebarntheater.com

Encore Theatre is staging “Little Shop of Horrors,” a devilish sci-fi horror comedy about a carnivorous plant named Audrey, from Sept. 11-26. 324 South N St., Tulare. 559 686-1300 or www.encoretulare.org

Art shows

Arts Visalia exhibits “Young at Art Youth Exhibit,” showing art by summer youth classes in August. Open Wednesdays-Saturdays, 12-5:30 p.m. 214 E. Oak, 559 739-0905 or www.artsvisalia.org

Arts Consortium displays “Splendora—Born from Beneath,” acrylics and mixed media by Dalila Nehulosa exploring symbolism, folklore and mythology. 340 E. Oak, Visalia. Open Tuesdays-Fridays 10-3. www.artsconsortium.org  

Brandon-Mitchell Gallery is showing “Art of Many Colors,” an eclectic collection of paintings and collage by the King County Art League, in July and August. Open during the First Friday Art Walks in Downtown Visalia, after service at 11:30 a.m. on Sundays and by appointment. 117 S. Locust, Visalia. 559 625-2441 or www.brandonmitchellgallery.com

Tulare County Museum at Mooney Grove is showing “Central Valley around the World,” cultural dance costumes from 30 countries through the end of September. Open Thursdays-Mondays 10-4. 27000 Mooney Blvd., Visalia. www.visitvisalia.org/calendar

The Oval Gallery is featuring “Where Memories Reflect” by Derek Long-Estrada, a Central Valley painter and tattoo artist. 808 N. Court. Open Thursdays and Fridays from 5-9 p.m. and by appointment if requested through Instagram, www.instagram.com/theovalgallery

Tulare City Historical Museum has on display “Con Fervor,” a celebration of the Mexican/Latino culture from Aug. 6-Sept. 12. 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 “Moments” by local artist Miguel Pujol, acrylic paintings that show quiet moments and shared experiences. Open July 11-Sept. 27, Wednesdays-Fridays 10-4 (closed 12-12:30) and Fridays and Saturdays 12-4. 125 South B. 559 592-5900 or www.cach-exeter.org

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.

New Location for Season Wednesday Farmers’ Market, every Wednesday this summer from 8-11:30 a.m. at Shannon Ranch Quail Park, 3440 W. Flagstaff, Visalia. www.visitvisalia.org/calendar

Events by date

Aug. 22-30

• National Parks Week with a special theme each day. Special kids’ activities on Saturday, Aug. 22. Free entry on Tuesday, Aug. 25, the day National Park Service was founded in 1916. visitvisallia.com/calendar

Saturday, Aug. 29

• Market on Mooney, a monthly outdoor event from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. at Vossler Farms Pumpkin Patch featuring local talent, homemade goods, crafts and art. 26773 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia. visitvisalia.org/calendar
• Tea with the Directors of Arts Visalia from 11-12. Enjoy tea while talking about anything arts—art opportunities, marketing and exhibiting. 214 E. Oak. visitvisalia.org/calendar

Saturday, Sept. 4

• Multicultural Festival by the Tulare County League of Mexican American Women from 11-4 at the Tulare County Museum at Mooney Grove, 27000 S. Mooney, Visalia. Experience cultures from around the world with live music, dance and art. Food and craft vendors. Children 12 and under free. Google: multicultural festival tclmaw.org
• 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
• Awards reception for the Arts Visalia Annual Show from 5-7:30 p.m. during the First Friday Art Walk. 214 E. Oak. 559 739-0905 or artsvisalia.org
• Book signing, talk and show by illustrator Merry Miller-Gass of her just-published children’s books from 5-8 p.m. at the Brandon-Mitchell Gallery, 117 S. Locust, during the First Friday Art Walk. brandonmitchellgallery.com

Saturday, Sept. 5

• 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
• Country singer/songwriter Nico Moon performs at 8 p.m. at the Adventist Health Amphitheater, 455 E. Tulare in Tulare. visitvisalia.org/calendar
• Banda Carnaval, Cuarto de Milla and other bands play at 7 p.m. at the Visalia Convention Center, 303 E. Acequia. ticketon.com

Tuesday, Sept. 8

• TC Voices@210: COS 100 Year Anniversary, 7:00pm, 210 W. Center, Visalia

Friday, Sept. 11

• Beyond the Binary: Music and Talent Festival from 6-9 p.m. featuring local queer artists, resource fair and free food. Visalia Veterans Memorial Center, 609, W. Center. visitvisalia.org/calendar
• “Cars” (2006), an animated Pixar film, will be shown at dusk as part of the free Movies in the Park series hosted by the City of Visalia at Soroptimist Park, 4311 W. Buena Vista Ave. Bring a picnic, blankets and lawn chairs. Food vendors on site. visitvisalia.org.calendar

Sept. 11-13

• 13^th Annual Dark Sky Festival in various places in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks is the largest night sky festival in Central California. Star gazing, guest speakers, movies and music. 559 565-4256 or visitvisalia.org/calendar

Saturday, Sept. 12

• Annual Soktoberfest from 12 noon-10 p.m. at 1852 Visalia, 707 W. Murray, Visalia, with German beer, games and music. Wear your lederhosen and dirndl. visitvisalia.org/calendar

Sept. 16-20

• Tulare County Fair opens Wednesday at 10 a.m. with a Downtown Tulare parade. Events include amusement rides, demo derby, livestock auction, quilts for patriots, vendors at the Tulare County Fairgrounds, 620 South K, Tulare. See schedule at tcfair.org

The post Donna’s Calendar of Events!!! appeared first on Valley Voice.

Dear Attorney General Bonta and Secretary Weber,

I write to request your immediate intervention, as California’s chief law enforcement officer, to resolve an unprecedented breakdown of constitutional governance and the rule of law within the City of Avenal.

To uphold the integrity of our democratic process, restore municipal order and prevent further potentially illegal expenditure of public funds, I request that your office immediately use your authority to remove these individuals.

This matter is most urgent as it is foundational to our democracy.

In January 2025, your offices’ decisive intervention in Orosi compelled the defeated officeholders to comply with certified election results and restored lawful governance. Nothing less is warranted here.

Following the certification of the April 28, 2026 Special Recall Election, four recalled members of the Avenal City Council are refusing to vacate their offices, openly defying the will of the voters, ignoring the cease-and-desist order from the Kings County District Attorney and a ruling by the California Court of Appeal.

On April 28, 2026, approximately 80% of participating voters in Avenal voted to recall four of the five councilmembers. The city’s subsequent legal effort to invalidate the election was rejected on May 13, 2026, by the Fifth District Court of Appeal, validating the recall election and clearing the way for the Kings County Elections Office to officially certify the results.

Despite these legal actions, the four recalled council members continue to occupy the dais, hold self-sanctioned council meetings and conduct city business, including the expenditure of public funds.

This is no longer a localized political dispute; it is a profound threat to the legal fabric of our state’s election systems. It erodes public trust. The reality on the ground has escalated past local remedy. The local police authority answers to a city administration currently shielding the recalled members, leaving county election and law enforcement officials at an absolute standstill.

The ongoing, unlawful occupation of the Avenal City Council dais by Alvaro Preciado, Leticia Gamez, David Reynosa and Pablo Hernández represents a textbook case for the execution of the authority given to the Office of the Attorney General.

The people of Avenal deserve a government that respects the law and the ballot box.

I urge you to act swiftly to remove these individuals from office. Further delay will only deny the people of Avenal their right to a representative republic.

Thank you for your prompt attention to this urgent matter of public interest.

Sincerely,

ALEXANDRA M. MACEDO

Assemblywoman, 33^rd District

The post Assemblywoman Macedo Demands Immediate Enforcement of City of Avenal Recall Election Results appeared first on Valley Voice.

Events by date

Friday, July 3

• 3^rd Annual Independent Day Spectacular 6:00p.m. to 10:00p.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

Thursday, July 9

• A free showing of “Captain America: The First Avenger” (2011) at 6:30 p.m. at the Visalia Fox Theatre, 300 W. Main. Free giveaways before the movie. 559 625-1369 or foxvisalia.org
• Vocal harmony group Boys II Men perform at 8 p.m. at Tachi Palace, 17225 Jersey Ave., Lemoore. boxofficeticketsales.com

Friday, July 10

• Visalia Chamber Strings presents “Rooted in Tradition” with music by Mozart, Price and others at 7 p.m. at Visalia First Presbyterian Church, 215 N. Locust. Free open dress rehearsal at 3 p.m. instagram.com/VisaliaChamberStrings
• Rock icons John Waite with John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band at 7 p.m. the Adventist Amphitheater in Zumwalt Park, 455 E. Tulare Ave., Tulare. gotickets.com

Saturday, July 11

• Artist reception from 4:30-6:30 p.m. for local artist Miguel Pujol who is showing his acrylic paintings at CACHE (Center for Art, Culture & History Exeter). 125 South B. 559 592-5900 or cach-exeter.org

Sunday, July 12

• Goshen Night Market with free meet ‘n’ greet from 5-9 p.m. with “Toy Story’s” Woodie and Jessie singing “You Got a Friend in Me.” Plus food trucks, vendors, bounce house and train rides. Peter Mallock Park, 31081 Road 72, Visalia. instagram.com/getoutvisalia

Thursday, July 16

• A free showing of “Reagan” (2024) starring Dennis Quaid at 6:30 p.m. at the Visalia Fox Theatre, 300 W. Main. Free giveaways before the movie. 559 625-1369 or foxvisalia.org

Friday, July 17

• Disney’s “Mufasa: The Lion King” is shown free at 1 p.m. at the Visalia Fox Theatre. The story of how Mufasa rose from an orphaned cub to king of the Pride Lands. 300 W. Main. 559 625-1369 or foxvisalia.org

Live Theater

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

The Barn Theater stages “Women Playing Hamlet” with an all female cast playing numerous roles. A comedy for Shakespeare lovers and haters alike. Runs July 17-Aug. 1 at 42 S. Plano, Porterville. 559 310-7046 or www.portervillebarntheater.com

Art shows

Arts Visalia exhibits 3D art that Dean De Cocker transforms into future vehicles in July. Open Wednesdays-Saturdays, 12-5:30 p.m. 214 E. Oak, 559 739-0905 or www.artsvisalia.org

Arts Consortium displays “Splendora—Born from Beneath,” acrylics and mixed media by Dalila Nehulosa exploring symbolism, folklore and mythology. 340 E. Oak, Visalia. Open Tuesdays-Fridays 10-3. www.artsconsortium.org  

Brandon-Mitchell Gallery is showing “Art of Many Colors,” an eclectic collection of paintings and collage by the King County Art League, in July and August. Open during the First Friday Art Walks in Downtown Visalia, after service at 11:30 a.m. on Sundays and by appointment. 117 S. Locust, Visalia. 559 625-2441 or www.brandonmitchellgallery.com

The Oval Gallery is featuring woodcut prints by the COS Printworks students. 808 N. Court. Open Thursdays and Fridays from 5-9 p.m. and by appointment if requested through Instagram, www.instagram.com/theovalgallery

Tulare City Historical Museum has on display Wanda Cottengin Exhibit in July. 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 “Moments” by local artist Miguel Pujol, acrylic paintings that show quiet moments and shared experiences. Open Wednesdays-Fridays 10-4 (closed 12-12:30) and Fridays and Saturdays 12-4. 125 South B. 559 592-5900 or www.cach-exeter.org

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.

The post Donna’s Calendar of Events for July!! Happy Fourth! appeared first on Valley Voice.

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.

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.”

###

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.

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.

“I’ve spent my life caring for this community – not from afar, but right here at home. I’ve sat with patients forced to choose between paying for medication or putting food on the table, and I’ve seen what happens when politicians make decisions that rip health care away from families,” said Dr. Jasmeet Bains. “I’m running to ensure the Central Valley finally has a voice in Congress who will fight for us. I’m proud to have the DCCC’s support as we build a campaign rooted in this community – powered by health care workers, teachers, union workers, law enforcement, first responders, and community leaders – who know what it takes to win. Together, we will hold David Valadao accountable for turning his back on the Valley and deliver the leadership our families deserve.”

“Dr. Jasmeet Bains has fought on the frontlines of health crises and built a track record of delivering for the Central Valley. Meanwhile, David Valadao has sided with Washington politicians to rip health care away from his constituents and proven he won’t stand up for working families. It’s time to call in a doctor who will. Dr. Bains will be a Valley-first fighter to lower costs, expand access to health care, and strengthen public safety,” said DCCC Chair Suzan DelBene.

Dr. Bains has built the campaign necessary to win – grounded in broad, local support and real momentum. Her campaign is backed by the most expansive coalition in the race, including NUHW, SEIU California, California Federation Teachers, Bakersfield Professional Firefighters Local 246, Delano Police Officers Association, and 32 union locals who know her work firsthand. She is also endorsed by 314 Action, ASPIRE PAC, Blue Dog PAC, Defend the Vote, Elect Democratic Women, EMILY’s List, New Dem Action Fund, Welcome PAC, eleven members of the California Congressional Delegation, and dozens of community advocates and civic leaders.

Dr. Bains posted a record-breaking launch, raising more than $350,000 in her first quarter — the strongest for any challenger in the district in over two decades — and followed it with over $461,000 raised in Q1 2026, outraising her primary opponent.

She is also a proven electoral overperformer. In 2024, Dr. Bains outran the top of the ticket by 7.4 points and House Democrats by 8.6 points in her Assembly District. Recent polling shows her in a dead heat with Valadao — and pulling ahead once voters learn about her record.

That advantage is even more pronounced among Hispanic and Latino voters — a cornerstone of the Central Valley electorate — where she expands her lead into double digits after voters hear her story and record. Meanwhile, Valadao’s standing continues to deteriorate, with deeply negative approval ratings driven by his votes to gut health care and raise costs.

Valadao is more vulnerable than ever. After supporting the largest cuts to Medicaid in history and backing policies that raise costs on everything from groceries to gas, he is losing ground in a district that is trending away from him.

Dr. Bains brings the clearest contrast to this race: a Valley-first fighter who will flip this seat and deliver results, versus a career politician in David Valadao who has turned his back on the very families he represents at every turn.

The post Dr. Jasmeet Bains added to ‘Red to Blue’ program in bid to unseat Valadao appeared first on Valley Voice.

Live Theater

Ice House Theatre presents “Rumors,” a comedy by Neil Simon about the disastrous and hilarious 10^th wedding anniversary of the deputy major of New York and his wife. Runs April 24-May 9 at 410 E. Race, Visalia. 559 734-3900 or www.visaliaicehouse.com

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

Art shows

Arts Visalia exhibits “Evidence of Coveted Chaos” by Amie Rangel about balancing creating art and everyday life obligations, along with oils and study drawings and sketches by Martha Sterling. Open Wednesdays-Saturdays in May, 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 First Friday Art Walks in Downtown Visalia in May and June, after service at 11:30 a.m. on Sundays and by appointment. 117 S. Locust, Visalia. 559 625-2441 or www.brandonmitchellgallery.comCollege of the Sequoias Gallery hosts its Annual Student Exhibition April 7-May 8. Open Tuesdays-Thursdays 10-4 and Fridays by appointment. Kaweah Building, Room 214 (downstairs) at the corner of Meadow Lane and Mooney. Free 20-minute parking in the circle drive. Facebook: College of the Sequoias Art Gallery

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 art by Flores del Valle, a collaboration between Central Valley’s own Kuta One and Irma Ceja that honors our people and the roots we have here in the Valley. 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 The Spring Art Show by the Tulare Palette Club April 2-May 2.  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. 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 opens its annual Orange Blossom Festival art show from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, April 17. Open on Fridays after April 17 from 12-4 p.m. 165 N. Gale Hill Ave. www.lindsayarts.com

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

The Woodlands Spring Food Fest from 5-9 p.m. every Thursday through May 21. Free food, bar, music and vibes. The Woodlands, 4211 W. Goshen Ave., Visalia. Bring picnic blankets and pop-u p chairs. www.visitvisalia.org/calendar

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

Thursday, May 7

• Sleeping Beauty ballet by a cast on international stars at 7 p.m. at the Visalia Fox Theatre, 300 W. Main. Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score, breathtaking choreography and costumes. 559 625-1369 or foxvisalia.org
• The League of Women Voters is holding a candidates forum for Tulare County supervisors in District 4 at 6 p.m. at the Goshen Village Community Center, 30940 Road 72 Goshen. facebook.com/lwvtularecounty

Saturday, May 9

• All-female Mariachi Divas de Cindy Shea at 8 p.m. at the Visalia Fox Theatre, 300 W. Main. Multi-Grammy winners. 559 625-1369 or foxvisalia.org
• Mother’s Day Tea Party at 3 p.m. with hat parade, special music, games and prizes. For men too! Center for Spiritual Living, 117 S. Locust, Visalia. 559 625-2441 or cslvisalia.org
• 71^st Woodlake Lions Rodeo with deep pit BBQ, vendors, pre-show entertainment. Doors open at 11 a.m. Rodeo at 3 p.m. Woodlake Rodeo Grounds, 19400 Ave. 398. visitvisalia.org/calendar

Tuesday, May 12

• Arts Consortium community meeting at 5:30 p.m. Get an update on the arts scene. Arts Consortium in the Lofts at Fort Visalia, 300 E. Oak, Visalia. 559 772-0001 or artsconsortium.org

Saturday, May 16

• 3^rd Annual Books & Brews from 11-4 with music, vinyl record swaps, food, local authors and vendors. Supports the Tulare County Library. 1852 Brewery, 707 W. Murray, Visalia. visitvisalia.org/calendar
• Visalia Breakfast Lions Club hosts their annual car show from 9-3 on Main Street with 350 classic cars. 4a2lions.org/events

Monday, May 18

• “Exeter at War,” a talk about Exeter sons who have served in every major conflict since the Civil War, at 7 p.m. at CACHE (The Center for Art, Culture, and History—Exeter), 125 South B. Part of the Tales of Exeter series. Free. 592-5900 or cach-exeter.org

Wednesday, May 20

• CACHE (The Center for Art, Culture, and History—Exeter) hosts a student art show, “The Future of Exeter,” from 5-7 p.m. 125 South B. 559 592-5900 or cach-exeter.org

Saturday, May 23

• Journey USA show at 8 p.m. features a full production or Journey hits, including synchronized video playback and special effects/ Visalia Fox Theatre, 300 W. Main. 559 625-1369 or foxvisalia.org
• Go Native: A Native American Cultural Celebration from 10-3 at Kaweah Oaks Preserve, 29989 Road 182, Exeter. Learn about the Yokut tribe, including basket weaving, cradleboards, drumming. Children’s events. Free. visitvisalia.org/calendar
• “Welcome Summer! Gallery Wine & Cheese” from 2-5 p.m. at the Pierpoint Gallery, 801 Highway 190, Springville. Complimentary wine and cheese. 559 483-9110 or pierpointgallery@gmail.com

Monday, May 25

• Memorial Day free entrance to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park for U.S. Residents. visitvisalia.org/calendar

Saturday, May 30

• 5^th Annual Color Run starts at 9 a.m. at Mooney Grove, 27000 S. Mooney Blvd. Visalia. Get splattered with paint during 5 K walk,run. Games, music prizes. Benefits ProYouth after-school program. allevents/in/visalia

The post Donna’s Calendar of Events appeared first on Valley Voice.

Gilcrease’s family has farmed in Kings County since 1883. He currently farms almonds, grapes, and tomatoes and operates Pure Agronomics, a crop and water management consulting firm serving growers throughout the San Joaquin Valley. He joined the Farm Bureau Board of Directors in 2017 and has served in every leadership role, including Secretary/Treasurer, Vice President, and President, since October 2025.

“When you consider his farming background, his leadership within the Farm Bureau, and his role as Chairman of the GSA Stakeholder Committee, Garrett is arguably the most informed person in Kings County on what we believe is the most consequential challenge this county faces, now and for the foreseeable future,” said Chad Souza, Vice President of the Kings County Farm Bureau. “Water is not just an agricultural problem. It is a county-wide problem. And Garrett understands it as well as anyone.”

Gilcrease has been a central figure in Kings County’s response to the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) and the Tulare Lake Subbasin’s historic probationary status, imposed by the California State Water Resources Control Board in April 2024, the first time the state had ever placed a subbasin on probation. He is active in multiple GSAs and was appointed to represent District 1 on the reconstituted Mid-Kings River GSA’s Stakeholder Advisory Committee, where he currently serves as Chairman.

This race is open following the retirement of Supervisor Joe Neves, who has represented District 1 since 1994. Neves has endorsed Gilcrease’s candidacy.

“I’m stepping up to ensure Kings County stays strong for the next generation,” Gilcrease said.

District 1 encompasses Lemoore, Stratford, and the surrounding rural communities. The Kings County Board of Supervisors also serves as the governing board for the reconstituted Mid-Kings River GSA, making agricultural representation on the board directly consequential to local groundwater policy.

The post Kings County Farm Bureau endorses Garrett Gilcrease for Kings County Board of Supervisors appeared first on Valley Voice.