District 1: Supervisor Larry Micari

As we give thanks today, I hope you are enjoying the day with family, friends, and loved ones. For many people this long weekend is the start of the holiday decorating season. As you get out lights, garland, candles, and more, please make sure to inspect everything for damage or other safety issues before you put them up inside and out. Overloading extension cords is a fire hazard, never nail, tack, or stress wiring when hanging lights, and turn off lights at night or when you leave the house.

When you deck the halls, make sure you also prevent falls. Have good, stable placement when using a ladder and wear shoes that allow for good traction. Clear pathways of trip hazards like clutter, power cords, or furniture. And remember your physical abilities and limitations!

Children make the holidays more exciting, especially with all the extra dangers some decorations make available. Keep matches, lighters, candles, and sharp or breakable decorations out of the reach of children. Vintage decorations may be part of your favorite memories, but they also might contain lead if they include some older tinsel. Find more helpful safety tips at Stay Safe & Festive.

Enjoy a safe and happy holiday season!

District 2: Supervisor Pete Vander Poel

Broadband access is expanding in Tulare County! Comcast was awarded a Federal Funding Account grant worth $26 million to expand their broadband network to Alpaugh, Dinuba, Earlimart, Kingsburg, Pixley, Sultana, Traver, Tulare, Visalia, and Tipton. In these areas, 6,200 homes will soon have the option to connect to high-speed internet. We celebrated the groundbreaking of the project this month at Pixley Park.

The project is scheduled for completion in 2026 and high-speed internet will be available for families, businesses, schools, and more. This expansion has the potential to boost economic development, support local businesses, attract new ones, and provide valuable educational and career opportunities for residents. I’m proud Tulare County is one of the first areas to receive this grant and look forward to seeing how high-speed broadband positively affects our rural communities.

And, from my family to yours, have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

District 3: Supervisor Amy Shuklian

I serve on the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District Board, and I’m thankful for the successful year we’ve had. This month, SJVAPCD held a Clean Air Equipment Showcase at the Convention Center in Visalia. The Valley has reduced emissions by 280,738 tons over the last 30 years, and the vehicles and equipment on display are the next generation of solutions that will help us make our air cleaner. This year, SJVAPCD has made more than $290 million available in public/private grants. To find out if your home or business is eligible for a grant, visit Valley Air Grants.

Three Tulare County organizations were awarded Clean Alternatives to Fireworks Pilot Incentive Program grants this year. The Visalia Rawhide tested a post-game drone show in June, and The City of Visalia and Exeter Lions used theirs for July 4^th events. Valley wide, this created a cleaner, quieter option and received positive feedback overall from grant recipients. I’m thankful we have organizations willing to try something new!

Happy Thanksgiving and thank you to everyone who does their part to make Tulare County a great place to live, work, and play!

District 4: Supervisor Eddie Valero

As the seasons change and the holidays draw near, we’re reminded of the importance of togetherness and giving back to our community. This is a time to check in with your local organizations and follow our social media channels for updates on events and distributions happening across District 4. From holiday food drives to community celebrations, there are plenty of ways to lend a hand or share a meal with neighbors. 

The holiday season embodies a spirit of generosity and connection—ensuring no one feels forgotten or goes without. Let’s unite to make sure no one leaves hungry or empty this season. 

As we approach the end of the year, let’s also reflect on the resolutions we set back in January. Whether you’re close to achieving your goals or just getting started, there’s still time to finish strong. Embrace challenges with a smile and make these final weeks of the year count. 

Together, let’s build momentum and set the tone for an even brighter year ahead. 

Wishing you and your loved ones a season full of joy and gratitude!

District 5: Supervisor Dennis Townsend

Holding a Presidential election and observing Veteran’s Day six days apart seems like a lot, but it is truly appropriate. Our freedoms, rights, and the privilege to self-governance were won through the blood of the Founders and are maintained at the risk of suffering, injury, and death for our military heroes.

Tulare County typically takes advantage of the right to vote but on a state and national level we have low voter turnout. As we remember the price paid by our Veterans each November 11^th, let’s remember the price so many paid for the right to choose our own government by electing our own representatives at the local, State, and Federal levels. Let’s encourage others to join us in voting in every election cycle. It is our duty and privilege, and it truly makes a difference!

Learn more about registering to vote and the election process at the Tulare County Registrar of Voters office.