Live Theater

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

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

900 or www.visaliaicehouse.com

Art shows

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tulare City Historical Museum features a “Patriotic Exhibit” with a military collection, armaments and model planes, displays of Rankin Field and Admiral Elmo Zumwal Jr., a native Tularean. Runs June 11-Aug. 1. Open Thursdays-Saturdays 10-4. 444 W. Tulare in Tulare. 559 686-2074 or www.tularehistoricalmuseum.org

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

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

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

Ongoing events

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

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

Events by date

Friday, June 19

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

Friday, June 26

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

Saturday, June 27

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

Friday, July 3

• 3^rd Annual Independent Day Spectacular fireworks at 6 p.m. at the Riverway Sports Park, 3611 N. Dinuba Blvd, Visalia. Kids’ zone, food vendors, beer garden, live music. Facebook: Independence Day Spectacular
• Downtown Visalia First Friday Art Walk from 5-8 p.m. Pick up a map at the Arts Consortium, 340 E. Oak, Arts Visalia, 214 E. Oak, or the Brandon-Mitchell Gallery, 117 S. Locust, and visit venues with art, music and snacks. artsconsortium.org

Saturday, July 4

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

July 4 & 5

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infants under 2 years of age ride for free

Children 2-12 years old ride half-price every day

Seniors (62+ years of age) receive 15% off

Veterans & active military members receive 15% off

Disabled riders save 15% off

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

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

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

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

About the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority (SJJPA)

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

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

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

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

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

Highlights of the 2026 Summer Lineup Include:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. George Washington

2. Alexander Hamilton

3. Benjamin Franklin

4. John Jay

(Answer below)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Walk-Out Surprised, Disappointed Board Chair

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Supervisors’ Action Was Not a Protest

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

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

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

Shuklian denied this accusation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tulare, Visalia Support LGBTQ+ Community Officially

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The post Two Tulare County supes walk out as LGBTQ+ support organizations honored appeared first on Valley Voice.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FREE MOVIE SERIES SCHEDULE

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

Thursday, July 16, 2026
Reagan

Thursday, July 23, 2026
Air Force One

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

All movies are completely FREE to the public.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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