District 1: Supervisor Larry Micari

After becoming the chair of the Tulare County Regional Transit Agency (TCRTA), our board realized our transport vehicles had a recognition problem: no one understood what TCRTA meant. When one of our buses or vans drove down the street, it was hard to know who it belonged to or where to go to learn how to get a ride.

After lots of research, we decided to keep it simple. We are now RIDE Tulare County. The routes and on demand services are getting an upgrade and you’ll see the new name and branding on buses, stops, route signs, and more across the county. To improve fixed route and on-demand services, tell us what you want to see in this quick survey.

The website and social media got an update too. Visit ridetc.org to plan a trip, track your bus, or download the app for an on-demand ride. Follow the RIDE Tulare County Facebook page or Instagram for the latest updates.

So, the next time you need a RIDE, remember that Tulare County has you covered from Reedley to Richgrove, Tulare to Springville, and lots of stops in between.

District 2: Supervisor Pete Vander Poel

On July 1, 2025, the Board of Supervisors appointed themselves as the Board of Trustees for the Tulare Public Cemetery District (TPCD). This decision was not made lightly and was made with the understanding that the change was temporary. After nine months of diligent work by the County Administrative Office, our Parks department, the Auditors office, and many more, we are now ready to return TPCD to an independent board. A new District Manager has been hired and an ad hoc committee has recommended new Trustees to be appointed.

This recent experience was not the first challenge for TPCD, or for other cemetery districts within Tulare County. To ensure continuity of work and appropriate care of cemeteries within our county, Tulare County is sponsoring a bill in Sacramento. Authored by Senator Shannon Grove, Senate Bill (SB) 1115 allows for the board of trustees of a public cemetery district in the County of Tulare to adopt a resolution to remove a trustee as a result of substantial neglect of duty, gross misconduct in office, or causing the board to be unable to discharge its duties. The legislation would also authorize the Board of Supervisors to remove a Trustee following a public hearing.

I strongly believe that the business of cemetery districts is best carried out by those who have the authority and passion to do so. SB 1115 updates a 90-year-old process to give our Boards of Trustees a tool to correct their course when it is needed to serve their district.

District 3: Supervisor Amy Shuklian

Founded in 1901 by Armenian immigrants, Yettem has the distinction of being home to the only Armenian-named post office in United States. The founders arrived looking for opportunity and a place like their homeland. It soon became a sanctuary for Armenians after the Armenian Genocide.

I was proud to be part of the unveiling of a monument placed at St. Mary Armenian Apostolic Church in Yettem to honor the Armenian founders of the community. The event was held the day after Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day and was a celebration of our history and resilience.

The monument was placed by the Dr. Samuel Gregg George Chapter of E Clampus Vitus and honors the Armenian pioneers who transformed this land into a place of hope, culture, and enduring community.

District 4: Supervisor Eddie Valero

Over the past month, I’ve had the opportunity to participate in several meaningful events across District 4 and Tulare County that reflect the strength, culture, and compassion of our communities.

One special moment was joining the unveiling of the Armenian monument marker at St. Mary’s Church in Yettem, recognizing the enduring legacy and contributions of the Armenian community in our Valley. Alongside Chair Amy Shuklian, we were honored to present a certificate of recognition commemorating the occasion.

Community service and youth support also remained front and center throughout the month. In Woodlake, local Kiwanis Clubs, Key Clubs, and Builders Clubs gathered for the Miracle Mile of Quarters at Woodlake Community Park, raising funds for Valley Children’s Healthcare and the families they serve. In Elderwood, I attended the Crown Valley Ranch open house, where mentors and leaders are creating spaces of hope, healing, and opportunity for youth in our region.

I also joined families and community partners at Día de los Niños in Visalia, celebrating children through activities, resources, and opportunities that remind us of the importance of investing in the next generation.

To close out the month, I participated in the Cinco de Mayo pageant, recognizing the outgoing Queen and welcoming this year’s court and new Queen. It was a wonderful evening celebrating culture, tradition, and community pride.

From honoring history and supporting youth to celebrating culture and service, these moments continue to reflect the heart of our communities and the shared commitment we have to building a stronger future together.

District 5: Supervisor Dennis Townsend

I recently had the privilege of talking with students within the Porterville Unified School District which were awarded the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). In 2020, the State Board of Education (SBE) adopted criteria and guidance to award these seals to public school students who demonstrate excellence in civics education and participation, and an understanding of the United States Constitution, the California Constitution, and the democratic system of government.

California joined a growing number of states that recognize student civic engagement with seals to affix to transcripts and diplomas. I listened to their presentations on various aspects of civic engagement and came away impressed with their level of understanding and ability to express their ideas and implement their projects. Congratulations to PUSD and all the students who earned this formal recognition!