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Early in-person voting to open October 20 at Tulare County Registrar of Voters office

Valley Voice Contributor — Fri, 16 Oct 2026 07:30:56 +0000

The Tulare County Registrar of Voters announces that early in-person voting for the November 3, 2026 General Election will begin on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at the Registrar of Voters Office, located at 5300 W. Tulare Avenue, Suite 105, Visalia, California.

Voters can visit the office to cast a ballot in person, pick up a replacement ballot, or drop off a completed vote-by-mail ballot, ahead of Election Day.

Weekend Voting Opportunity

The office will also be open for in-person voting on Saturday, October 31, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., giving voters who cannot make it during the work week another chance to vote.

Early Voting Details

Early voting begins: Tuesday, October 20, 2026
Location: Tulare County Registrar of Voters Office, 5300 West Tulare Ave, Suite 105, Visalia, CA
Regular office hours: Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Saturday voting: October 31, 2026, 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

“We encourage voters to take advantage of early voting to avoid lines on Election Day, “Our staff is ready to help every eligible voter in Tulare County make their voice heard.”

Voters with questions about registration status, ballot tracking, or voting options can contact the Registrar of Voters Office at (559) 839-2100 or visit www.tularecounty.ca.gov/elections

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Seville Community Tired of Being Pushed to the Side — Demands Equitable Access to Tulare County Resources to Build a Community Park

Angelica Rodriguez — Mon, 21 Sep 2026 21:43:41 +0000

Seville Residents Continue Urging the County to Apply for a State Park Grant that Could Make a Community Park a Reality, After Being Told to Wait for Another Cycle

A group of students from Seville will attend the Tulare Board of Supervisor’s meeting Tuesday to urge the County to reconsider its decision to not apply for a Statewide Park Program Grant and to partner with Seville residents to pursue this opportunity. The Statewide Park Program is a rare opportunity for residents of communities, like Seville, that lack any public community park to obtain recreational facilities that all communities deserve and need in order for their children to be healthy and thrive. In order to meet the grant’s December 17th deadline, the Seville community has come together to ask the County to act now to support their community.

Seville is a proud and resilient unincorporated community in Tulare County. It currently lacks a safe and accessible park for families, youth, and seniors. The nearest public park is 8 miles away, making access to outdoor recreation, healthy living, and community gathering difficult for many families. Last year, a community survey conducted by neighborhood advocacy group, Golden Resources of Seville, showed that 92% of respondents feel that their community needs a park, and 95% of respondents attested they would use a park in Seville on daily or weekly. The need for a park has been deeply felt by the community for many years, and the lack of commitment to apply this cycle has only heightened the community’s sense of urgency to apply.

The Statewide Park Development and Community Revitalization Program (“SPP”), which opened for applications this month and will close in December, is a competitive grant program that creates new parks and recreational opportunities in critically underserved communities across California. This grant presents a rare opportunity for the Seville community to have a chance to gain the community park residents have been waiting for, but it requires the County, as the entity with the greatest likelihood to succeed, to be on board and apply for Seville.

Despite sustained advocacy from Seville residents and support from the Stone Corral Elementary School Board, the County has not agreed to help Seville by submitting this grant application. Nonetheless, Seville residents are ready, willing, and determined to find a way to collaborate with the County to help make their community’s dream a reality.

When: Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.

Where: Tulare County Board of Supervisors Chambers, 2800 W. Burrel Avenue, Visalia, CA 93291

Who: Golden Resources of Seville (“GRS”), a community group dedicated to empowering residents and advocating for a healthy, safe, and thriving environment, and approximately 30 sixth through eighth grade Seville students.

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Tulare County Fair Parade Grand Marshal is Susan Leal – Fair Opens Wednesday!!

Payton Ryan — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 21:43:47 +0000

The Tulare County Fair Board has selected longtime educator, mentor and community member Susan Leal to serve as the 2026 Tulare County Fair Parade Grand Marshal, announced Tulare County Fair CEO Dena Rizzardo.

“Susan represents what the Tulare County Fair Parade is all about community, tradition and generations of families coming together,” said Rizzardo. “For decades, she has dedicated herself to the young people of our community as an educator, mentor and instructor. Her longtime involvement in Tulare’s parades makes this recognition especially meaningful.”

Born in Porterville to Manuel and Hazel Leal, Susan grew up alongside her brother, Steve Leal, before eventually making Tulare her home.

Susan attended Tulare Western High School, where she was a majorette with the school band, and later continued as a majorette at College of the Sequoias. Her love of baton twirling and working with young people led her to open Susan’s Super Stars, where for more than 20 years she taught and encouraged generations of young performers.

Susan later began working at Kohn School and became the school librarian, further developing what would become one of the greatest passions of her life helping children learn and succeed. During those years, she also served as the auxiliary and color guard instructor at Tulare Union High School for approximately 10 to 15 years.

While balancing those responsibilities, Susan continued her education at National University, earned her teaching credentials and began a new chapter as a classroom teacher at Sundale School. She started as a fourth-grade teacher and, during more than 20 years at Sundale, taught nearly every grade level. Her impact extended beyond the classroom, including playing an important role in establishing Sundale’s Legacy House, a special place where students could learn, participate in activities and simply enjoy being kids.

Although Susan eventually retired from both her baton studio and teaching career, retirement has not separated her from the children and school community she spent so much of her life serving. She continues to help at Sundale whenever she can.

Susan also has a long history with Tulare’s local parades, particularly the Tulare County Fair Parade. For years, parade organizers would arrange the lineup so Susan could travel the route first as part of the band, then return to the beginning and make the trip again with Susan’s Super Stars.

“Anyone who grew up in Tulare during those years probably remembers Susan or Susan’s Super Stars coming down the parade route,” Rizzardo said. “After all those years of making sure her students had their opportunity to shine in the parade, it’s Susan’s turn to be celebrated.”

Today, Susan enjoys spending time with her partner, Chris Shannon, her daughters, Danielle and Ashley, and her much-loved pets, Dollie, Lacey and Kitty. She also enjoys trips to the beach house, flowers, Fresno State games, traveling and spending time with family and friends.

Throughout her life, Susan has served her community as an educator, mentor, instructor and friend. Her decades of service and countless hours spent encouraging young people have touched generations of Tulare-area families.

The community she has spent a lifetime supporting will have the opportunity to celebrate Susan Leal as Grand Marshal of the Tulare County Fair Parade September 16, 2026.

Fair Hours & Admission

Wednesday, Sep 16: 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm (Veteran’s Day – Service members free with ID; Open ceremony at 12:00 pm, Downtown Parade at 10:00 am)

Thursday, Sep 17: 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm (Kids Day – Kids 12 & under free)

Friday, Sep 18: 4:00 pm – 12:00 am

Saturday, Sep 19: 2:00 pm – 12:00 am (Dairy Replacement/Beef Sale at 11:00 am; Fury in the Farmland demolition derby)

Sunday, Sep 20: 2:00 pm – 10:00 pm (Junior Livestock Auction at 10:00

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Assessor/Clerk-Recorder to Host Grand Opening of New Offices

Valley Voice Contributor — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 20:59:19 +0000

After more than 70 years at the Visalia Courthouse, the Tulare County Assessor/Clerk-Recorder’s Office is preparing to begin a new chapter with its relocation to Government Plaza, across from Mooney Grove Park in Visalia.

The County will celebrate the relocation with a grand opening on Wednesday, Sept. 2, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The event will include a ribbon-cutting followed by a walking tour of the newly remodeled offices.

“This move represents a significant investment in the people we serve,” Assessor/Clerk-Recorder Tara Freitas said. “The new offices will provide a more welcoming and convenient experience for the public, with improved access to services, additional service counters, self-service options, and better parking. These improvements will help reduce wait times and make it easier for the public to take care of their County business.”

The 21,000-square-foot office space became available in 2024 after the Registrar of Voters and Print and Mail Services moved out of Government Plaza. The vacant space, which consisted largely of unfinished areas without office improvements, provided an opportunity for the County to create a modern facility specifically designed to meet the needs of the Assessor/Clerk-Recorder’s Office.

The department’s new location, adjacent to the County’s Resource Management Agency, provides added convenience. After completing their business at the RMA Permit Center, visitors can walk across the lobby to the Assessor/Clerk-Recorder’s Office to get answers to assessment questions or file fictitious business name statements.

Freitas said the new offices are also an investment in the department’s workforce. Modern workspaces, conference rooms and a dedicated classroom will provide staff with better opportunities for training and professional collaboration, which support more efficient and effective public service.

Starting August 31, the Assessor’s Office will have a new mailing address of 5953 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia, CA 93277, and the Clerk-Recorder’s Office will have a new mailing address of 5951 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia, CA 93277. All office phone numbers, fax numbers, and email addresses will remain unchanged.

The mission of the Office of the County of Tulare Assessor/Clerk-Recorder is to prepare a fair and accurate property tax roll in accordance with the laws of the state of California in a timely manner, as well as safeguard important public documents. Essential to that mission is a commitment to providing excellent service, practicing fiscal responsibility, and operating efficiently with the best interests and wellbeing of the public in mind. Learn more at https://tularecounty.ca.gov/assessor/.

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CHOICES Program accepting applicants for new Tulare County Youth Council

Tulare County Office of Education — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 03:38:18 +0000

The TCOE CHOICES Prevention Programs, in a strategic partnership with the California Friday Night Live Partnership and the City of Tulare, has launched a comprehensive youth cannabis prevention initiative funded by a $4.5 million Prop 64 Public Health & Safety Grant. A primary focus of this project is the creation of the Tulare County Youth Council (TCYC), a youth-led, adult-supported program. TCYC is designed to reduce illicit and underage cannabis use and promote healthy decision-making across the county, with a highlighted focus on the city of Tulare. By utilizing research-based prevention programs and the proven Friday Night Live (FNL) model, the council will empower student leaders to lead advocacy initiatives, deliver peer-to-peer educational programs, and shift community attitudes regarding the risks and legal consequences of illicit and underage cannabis use.

CHOICES is now actively recruiting dedicated student leaders to represent the diverse voices of Tulare County. This unique opportunity is open to youth who are eager to implement the FNL Standards of Practice, which include building meaningful youth-adult partnerships, engaging in community advocacy, and developing leadership skills in a safe, inclusive environment. Council members will gain hands-on experience by conducting community research, analyzing local data through a countywide survey, and planning a major countywide youth conference to showcase their prevention work. By joining this effort, students will serve as vital peer mentors and role models, working directly with local agencies and elected officials to create lasting positive change for their communities.

High school and college-age youth are encouraged to apply for the Tulare County Youth Council at https://bit.ly/TCYC2026.

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Donna’s Calendar of Events!!!

Donna Orozco — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 18:51:08 +0000

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

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Donna’s Calendar of Events for July!! Happy Fourth!

Valley Voice Contributor — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 02:05:24 +0000

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

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

Ongoing events

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Donna’s Calendar of Events!!

Donna Orozco — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 20:57:08 +0000

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

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

Ongoing events

“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

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Gold Runner to Run Special Trains to Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park for 2026 Juneteenth Celebration, Saturday June 13

Valley Voice Contributor — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 02:49:20 +0000

Travelers from Northern California, the Bay Area, or the Central Valley are invited to experience a scenic day trip aboard the Gold Runner, arriving directly at the gates of the Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park for its 2026 Juneteenth Celebration, Saturday, June 13. The event will begin at 11:00 AM and conclude at 4:00 PM. Gold Runner has scheduled a special stop at the park for multiple trains, bookable at exclusive half-price “Allensworth fares.”

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 Advances To General Election To Take On David Valadao

Valley Voice Contributor — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 19:14:49 +0000

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.

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