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.

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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.

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.

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.

Residents of Goshen and northern Tulare County came to meet and question their potential future Tulare County Supervisor at a forum for those seeking the Tulare County District 4 supervisorial seat.

The forum was hosted by the Tulare County League of Women Voters and took place in the Community Center of the Goshen Village I apartments. For an hour and a half candidates responded to questions from the league and the audience.

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.

Candidates Ian Bakke and Rudy Mendoza participated in the forum. Incumbent Eddie Valero, who lives in Orosi, was unable to participate due to a prior commitment.

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.

The two candidates with the most votes in the June 2 primary will advance to the general election on November 4.

Doors opened at 6:00 p.m. for an informal meet and greet and the forum began at 6:30 p.m.

Sponsors for the evening were the League of Women Voters of Tulare County, the American Association of University Women, the Tulare County League of Mexican American Women, the Valley Voice, and the Sun-Gazette.

The candidates answered questions about animal control, impacts to health coverage and services due to the Big Beautiful Bill, water quality in rural communities, AI’s impact, and bear proof trash cans in Three Rivers – among others.

Bakke told the crowd in response to a question regarding agriculture, farming, and water usage, that “We [Tulare County] are California.” Mendoza concurred, adding that the San Joaquin Valley produces 25% of the food supply in the entire country and that we are the number one dairy producing region in the country.

The two candidates differed though on how they would have handled the Tulare County Supervisors’ vote on bear proof trash cans for Three Rivers.

Mendoza said that he wants to protect the human community and protect wildlife but felt the supervisors had not done their homework on the issue. The new containers will raise Three Rivers’ residents’ garbage bill by 30%. He said he would have voted no on the mandate.

Bakke said that there should have been better communication on why the county was doing what they were doing. He said that the public and supervisors had a heated discussion during the public hearing and that the tourists were taking the blame for the bears. But he said many other counties have successfully used the bear-proof containers and he would have voted yes.

The issue of animal control in both candidates’ hometowns is a daunting issue.

Mendoza said “the answer is eluding us right now.”

Woodlake is being proactive on the issue and is actually holding a spay and neuter clinic this weekend, he said – but he would rather that money go to parks and recreation for the betterment of their residents.

Bakke said the three animal control officers that work for Tulare County do a great job but, “why not add one more?”

They also differed on the question of whether Cutler-Orosi should incorporate and become a city.

Mendoza said it was a difficult process but that the county should give Cutler-Orosi the tools to try. His hometown Woodlake is the smallest incorporated city in the county.

Bakke did not agree that the area should be incorporated, because the costs of taking on fire protection, a police force, and road repair would be prohibitive.

He said that Cutler-Orosi is the largest unincorporated community in California – but he would not encourage it to apply for city status.

For the question “How can supervisors do a better job of keeping county residents informed about county issues?” Bakke responded, “Be one with the people. Show up and talk with the people. This is Tulare County. We are all family.”

Mendoza replied, “I believe in meaningful presence. Be as accessible as you can. He added that it doesn’t matter what race you are or political party you agree with, “My job is to represent everyone.”

The post Candidates tackle the important issues facing District 4 at Tulare County Supervisor Forum appeared first on Valley Voice.

“Our goal is to help our community members access fresh, healthy, locally grown organic foods, and to put our town on the map as an event destination,” shared Ms. Julie Levine, Health and Wellness Committee Chair of the Capineros Community Center group.

A Grassroots Effort Rooted in Community

The farmers market series has been brought to life through the collective efforts of the Capineros Community Center, local volunteers, the community church, and nearby businesses, creating a uniquely local, place-based experience.

 The event will feature:

• Fresh produce, including greens, vegetables, mushrooms, citrus, and berries
• Artisan foods, coffee, and handcrafted goods (including sourdough bread, black bean burgers, and more)
• Free range eggs (duck, goose, and chicken)
• Participation from local artists and makers
• Family-friendly activities and gathering spaces
• Opportunities to connect directly with local growers and producers
• Live Music featuring The Pine Flat Boys

The community also hosts a small-scale Artisan Festival on the first Saturday of the month, and several of those local artists will participate in the farmers market, further strengthening the town’s growing local goods and creative economy. Vendor fees will be waived for the first two months to support small businesses and encourage participation, lowering barriers for farmers and artisans to participate and grow.

A Strategic Location Along a Growing Tourism Corridor

California Hot Springs is ideally situated for travelers looking to explore some of the region’s most celebrated natural attractions. Located approximately 30 minutes from the Giant Sequoias and the Trail of 100 Giants, the community offers easy access to majestic groves and scenic trails while serving as a gateway along key foothill routes into the Sequoias. Its proximity, less than an hour from Porterville and within 1.5 hours of Visalia and Bakersfield, makes it a convenient and appealing stop for both residents and visitors, supporting ongoing efforts to grow tourism and enhance the area’s appeal.

With the anticipated reopening of the local hot springs resort, currently under restoration following the 2023 flood damage, community leaders see this market as part of a broader effort to rebrand and revitalize the area as a destination, expanding offerings for both residents and visitors.

The Tulare County Economic Development Office is supporting the initiative by assisting with marketing, regional outreach, and tourism alignment through the Discover Tulare County program.

“The County’s role is to help amplify what the community is building,” said Alida Verduzco Silva, Economic Development Manager with the County of Tulare. “This is a great example of a locally driven idea that can grow into a meaningful economic and tourism asset for the region.” The County is also working in coordination with the Mighty 190 tourism initiative, a collaborative effort supported by the Tulare County Board of Supervisors, championed in District 5 by Supervisor Dennis Townsend, and advanced in partnership with the City of Porterville, to promote destinations and businesses along State Route 190, from Porterville and Springville through Camp Nelson, Pierpoint Springs, Ponderosa, and the Trail of 100 Giants, positioning California Hot Springs as a key stop along this scenic corridor. At the regional level, both the County’s Discover Tulare County program and the Mighty 190 initiative participate in the Sequoia Tourism Council, a collaborative effort to increase awareness and visitation throughout Tulare County.

About Capineros Community Center

The Capineros Community Center is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization serving California Hot Springs, bringing together residents, organizations, and local partners through events, programs, and initiatives that enhance quality of life in the region. 

The post Fresh Food, Local Flavor, and Tourism Growth: California Hot Springs Launches New Farmers Market Amid Resort Restoration 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.

The forum will be at the Tulare County Office of Education, 6200 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia. Doors open at 6 p.m. The forum will be from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The three candidates for SD 12 will be attending;

• Louis Miramontes (Republican), Aviation Mechanic
• William Brown, (Libertarian), Social Worker/Businessman
• Nathan Magsig (Republican), County Supervisor/Businessman

The two candidates with the most votes in the June 2 primary will advance to the general election on November 4. The last date to register for the June 2 primary is May 18. Ballots should be arriving in the mail the first week of May.

State Senate District 12 includes parts of Kern, Fresno and Tulare counties.

The candidates have agreed to address questions directed to them by the sponsoring organizations and accept questions from the audience that have been screened.

Sponsors are:

• League of Women Voters of Tulare County
• American Association of University Women
• Valley Voice online newspaper.
• Tulare County League of Mexican American Women
• Sun-Gazette newspaper

The event will be streamed by the Valley Voice and posted on their facebook.

The post State Senate District 12 Candidates Discuss the Issues at May 12 Forum appeared first on Valley Voice.