Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode!Get ready to feel a swell of hometown pride as we sit down with Superintendent Victor Rosa, diving into Hanford Joint Union High School District's major facelift and the Neighbor Bowl's grand reveal, just in time for graduation season. You'll be inspired to hear how the community's vision and dedication have brought stunning renovations to life—from wellness centers to modernized classrooms and athletic fields. And with the Hanford City Council filling the vacant District B seat, clarity and progress are ringing through our local government. Plus, discover a special way to celebrate this year's graduates with personalized shout-outs through our platform, making this episode truly a tribute to the heart of our community.Join us for a conversation that's as invigorating as the fresh coat of paint on Hanford West High's baseball fields. We shine the spotlight on the unparalleled community support that's been the driving force behind the Neighbor Bowl renovations, ensuring it's a venue that sparkles with school spirit and inclusivity. The episode is packed with tales of sporting glory, where Hanford's athletes aren't just scoring touchdowns but securing futures with D1 college commitments. It's a showcase of the strides we've taken together as a proud Hanford community, heralding a bright future for our schools, our student-athletes, and all our residents.You can find the Hanford Insider at www.hanfordinsider.com and on social media at @hanfordinsiderThank you for supporting the show!

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode!Discover what it takes to navigate the post-pandemic educational landscape with Kings County Superintendent of Schools, Todd Barlow. He joins us on Hanford Insider for an insightful look into the ongoing support for student learning and the unsung heroes behind the scenes. From the transformative programs at JC Montgomery for incarcerated youth to the dedicated work for students with special needs at Shelly Baird, we're highlighting the victories and challenges in our educational community. And when it comes to celebrating those who uplift our schools, hear about the expanded Excellence in Education Awards that shine a spotlight on every hero in every school.Our latest episode doesn't stop at education; it's a tribute to the entire Kings County community. We're talking high school sports triumphs, local beautification efforts that are changing the face of our city, and the debates shaking up the Hanford City Council. A surprising twist in the saga of Kalish Morrow's council seat has everyone talking, and we're right there with the scoop. Plus, mark your calendars for June 3rd, when we air a special segment filled with your shout-outs to this year's graduating students—a moment to warm the hearts of families throughout Hanford.You can find the Hanford Insider at www.hanfordinsider.com and on social media at @hanfordinsiderThank you for supporting the show!

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode!Get ready to peel back the layers of Hanford's firefighting operations with new Fire Chief Daniel Perkins at my side. We're confronting the city's burning questions about our first responders' stretched-thin resources and what it takes to douse the flames of a department in need. From the heart of the community's pulse, we'll reveal the ins and outs of the daily heroics that safeguard our streets, and the strategy Chief Perkins has ignited to spark a turnaround. All while keeping an ear to the ground on the latest city shake-ups, including Kalish Morrow's council departure leaving the Hanford City Council with just three members after June 4th.But our conversation doesn't stop at staffing woes. Tune in for a deep-dive into how Hanford's recent ISO rating slip is fanning the flames of change, with repercussions that ripple through residents' wallets and the city's safety net. We're breaking down the clockwork precision required for emergency response, the stealthy threat of illegal fireworks, and the road map to rekindling the department's former glory. With Chief Perkins in the hot seat, expect a candid look at the challenges and triumphs of firefighting in Hanford, where every second counts.You can find the Hanford Insider at www.hanfordinsider.com and on social media at @hanfordinsiderThank you for supporting the show!

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode!Explore the heart of Hanford's vibrant community scene and fiscal future with us! This week's Hanford Insider takes you from the lively Thursday Night Marketplace to the corridors of city decision-making, with Mayor Travis Paden on and Vice Mayor Mark Kairis offering their firsthand perspectives. Relive the energy of local gatherings and learn how your city council is addressing the tough questions on funding and development. Get ready to engage with the deeper issues that shape our city. We're talking dollars and sense, dissecting whether Hanford's challenges are a matter of spending or revenue. Discover the impact a sales tax increase could have, and envision the benefits of faster emergency services and potential savings for homeowners. Your voice matters, and we're setting the stage for a community forum where your questions lead the conversation. Join us for an episode that doesn't just skim the surface but immerses you in the critical debates and exciting developments that are defining Hanford's path forward.You can find the Hanford Insider at www.hanfordinsider.com and on social media at @hanfordinsiderThank you for supporting the show!

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode!Step right up to the vibrant pulse of Hanford's community heart, the Thursday Night Marketplace, as we chat with Jim Castleman about its 24th-year celebration and the exciting expansions in store. This episode is your VIP pass to the latest local news. We raise our glasses to Laura Lutz, the Soropitmist International of Hanford Teacher of the Year, and keep you looped in on must-attend happenings, from the High-Speed Rail open house to enriching local school and church events.Savor the taste of community spirit as we spotlight the Thursday Night Marketplace's culinary scene, boasting six new food truck vendors that promise to make your Thursdays the highlight of your week. Feel the warmth of local camaraderie at downtown treasures like Zaytoona, Quesadilla Gorilla, and El Tarasco, and learn how their synergy with the marketplace is a recipe for economic zest. We'll also honor the farmers who are the backbone of our fresh produce and give a nod to the Acai Bar for hosting us. Tune in for a symphony of flavors, culture, and the dedicated efforts that go into stitching this weekly fabric of our downtown Hanford, where every penny spent is an investment in our beloved community's growth.You can find the Hanford Insider at www.hanfordinsider.com and on social media at @hanfordinsiderThank you for supporting the show!

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode!Discover the strength of unity and the significance of remembrance as Pastor Andrew Cromwell and Shanna Meier join me, Rob Bentley, in a heartening dialogue about the communal pillars that keep our society compassionate and connected. Immerse yourself in the spirit of the National Day of Prayer, and feel the communal embrace as we reflect on the poignant Homicide Quilt Unveiling and Candlelight Vigil. From the splashes of excitement with the Hanford Piranhas swim team to the cultural tapestry woven at the Kings County's Asian Experiences, we're celebrating the vibrant pulse of our local scene.Strap in for a journey through our community's calendar, where taste buds and artistic appetites are indulged at the Taste of the Valley and King's Arts Center Spring Show. Keep your fingers on the pulse of Hanford High's baseball triumphs and tribulations, and get ready to lend a helping hand during the Kid's Day for Child Abuse Awareness Month. You can find the Hanford Insider at www.hanfordinsider.com and on social media at @hanfordinsiderThank you for supporting the show!

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode!Discover the latest heartbeat of Hanford with your host, Rob Bentley, on the Hanford Insider. We're rolling out the red carpet for the city's sleek new digital front porch and taking a breather on City Council meetings, but only to spruce up our beloved auditorium. Take a virtual bow with Gary Feinstein, our local hero earning the Distinguished Citizenship Award. But hold onto your hats, because we've also got a calendar chock-full of local happenings: from the aroma of food truck fare to the flair of high school theater, and from vibrant cultural ceremonies to the high spirits of charity events—this episode is your golden ticket to the community's lively soul.This week's special guest, Kaitlin Sheets, the Children's Storybook Garden and Museum's Executive Director, leads us through a magical transformation that turns pages into play spaces. You won't want to miss the delightful details of the upcoming Farm Day event; imagine the chuckles as children meet Trisha Stone Shoemaker's entertaining chickens! And we're not just spectators in this community—no sir! We're calling all hands on deck for volunteers to nurture the growth of Hanford's heart. So, as we close the curtain with a triumphant cheer for the Hanford High baseball team, remember, this episode isn't just about catching up—it's about getting caught up in the joy of our town's big spirit.You can find the Hanford Insider at www.hanfordinsider.com and on social media at @hanfordinsiderThank you for supporting the show!

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode!Discover the heart of Hanford as we unpack the latest City Council meeting with pivotal developments for our community spaces and dive into the rich tapestry of local Asian heritage. From ADA-compliant upgrades to Bob Hill Athletic Complex to honoring the triumphs of our high school champions, this episode of Hanford Insider will not only keep you informed but also immersed in the vibrant cultural fabric of our town. We're also igniting civic spirit with a call to action through the City of Hanford Community Survey, and keeping you updated on the cultural feasts in store, like the Hanford High food drive and the must-see Asian Experiences exhibit at the Carnegie Museum of Kings County.Feel the pulse of our city's history as the curators of the Asian Experiences exhibit recount the Chinese community's enduring legacy and the Japanese contributions that have shaped our cultural landscape. Witness the meticulous restoration of temple relics, understand the diverse Asian American stories, and anticipate the mesmerizing dance of lion dancers . This episode bridges our storied past with the dynamic present and offers a peek into the collective memory of the Asian American experience in Hanford. Join us as we celebrate heritage, community, and the shared stories that continue to inspire us all.You can find the Hanford Insider at www.hanfordinsider.com and on social media at @hanfordinsiderThank you for supporting the show!

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode!As the city of Hanford springs into April, our podcast brings you a front-row seat to the local buzz that makes our community pulse. We kicked off the month with egg hunts and museum openings, and now the Hanford City Council is stealing the spotlight. They've rolled up their sleeves to address the Community Block Grant, strategize our downtown's future, and face the challenging issues of homelessness and infrastructure head-on. We also bid a bittersweet adieu to Councilwoman Diane Sharp and gear up for a plethora of engaging events beckoning your involvement—from tech classes to cultural festivities and charity runs.This episode wouldn't be complete without a chat with Hanford's beloved 'Book Lady,' Erin Vogel, whose passion for literacy is as infectious as it is inspiring. She takes us on a journey from her childhood, surrounded by the magic of books, to her mission of fostering a reading culture in our town. The Itty Bitty Bookshop, her darling enterprise, has grown from a humble booth at the Thursday Night Marketplace into a sanctuary for bibliophiles of all ages. Erin hints at what's in store for this season, where the lines between reading and pop culture blur in the most delightful way. Tune in for tales that transcend pages and transform our community.Eric gives us an update of the baseball and softball action over Spring Break including an impressive tournament title by the Sierra Pacific Golden Bears baseball team!You can find the Hanford Insider at www.hanfordinsider.com and on social media at @hanfordinsiderThank you for supporting the show!

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode!Imagine lacing up your sneakers for a cause that hits close to home. That's exactly what Stacy and Steven Brazil did when they transformed their passion for their son, Luke, into the now-annual Autism Awareness 5K Run and Walk. On this episode of Hanford Insider, join us as the Brazils share the heartwarming story behind an event that started as a small gathering in their garage and has since exploded into a community celebration. We'll explore the significance of Quail Run Park, the upcoming festivities, and how every step taken in this race echoes through the families it supports.Meanwhile, as Hanford continues to blossom, we get an insider view on the latest city developments, including the new Downtown Improvement Project and a warm welcome to our new fire chief, Mr. Daniel Perkins. Plus, Rob will guide us through a plethora of local events that showcase the vibrant spirit of our community—from cultural exhibitions to monster truck excitement. Gear up for an episode packed with stories of unity, progress, and a peek into the heart of Hanford's burgeoning civic landscape.You can find the Hanford Insider at www.hanfordinsider.com and on social media at @hanfordinsiderThank you for supporting the show!

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode!Step into the pulse of Hanford City, where Brad Albert from the City Parks and Community Services Department unravels the latest community developments and local event buzz. This week's episode pays homage to the legacy of former Mayor Marci Buford and greets a fresh batch of Hanford Police officers. The Downtown Improvement Project's fate hangs in the balance, as we dissect the ARPA-funded initiative's critical features like potential roundabouts and enhanced safety measures. Don't miss my "LIVE" YouTube debrief for an eagle-eye view of the council's decisions on Tuesday evening. We also serve up can't-miss local happenings, from cultural exhibitions to family-oriented festivities. As the Hanford Insider, it's my pleasure to guide you through a cornucopia of springtime escapades. Mark your calendars for the Anthem Blue Cross-sponsored Easter egg hunt—where fun meets tradition at Civic Park. We'll explore the Civic Auditorium's historical renovation and celebrate the oak floors that have stood the test of time. Plus, we're buzzing with anticipation for the Hanford Boys & Girls Club "Innovation Lab" grand opening, set to ignite STEM passions among our young scholars. Join the ranks of the Hanford Insider community by subscribing to our newsletter, ringing in with your voice messages, and engaging with us across the social stratosphere. Eric Bentley also stops by for an update on all of the high school baseball and softball action.You can find the Hanford Insider at www.hanfordinsider.com and on social media at @hanfordinsiderThank you for supporting the show!

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode!Unlock the secrets of Hanford's vibrant transformation with a first-hand look at our downtown revitalization efforts and community events that make our town pulse with excitement. As the City Council explores fresh traffic designs and we toast to the promotions of new police lieutenants, we also spotlight Hanford's medical facility growth in the Costco shopping center and the new Town Place Suites Hotel on Lacey Blvd. Main Street Hanford's Michelle Brown dishes out details on the Everybody's Irish in Downtown Hanford event, marrying craft beer bliss with the rhythm of live tunes.Feel the warmth of community spirit as Janet Marie from the Rocks of Love Kindness Project shares the joyous initiative that turned Hanford's Winter Wonderland into a treasure-seeking adventure, with hand-painted rocks and swag bags hiding in plain sight. Then, lace up your sneakers as we salute Amy Bush's tenure and follow the adrenaline rush of Hanford's high school sports scene with Eric Bentley.You can find the Hanford Insider at www.hanfordinsider.com and on social media at @hanfordinsiderThank you for supporting the show!

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode!Unlock the latest buzz from Hanford as we serve up a feast of community updates and engaging conversations. Your virtual seat at the Hanford City Council meeting awaits, where we preview the new Downtown Improvement Project with Brian Johnson, Hanford's Communications Manager. Get the inside scoop on how to stay in the know with agendas and online viewing, and brace yourself for a parade of events that will have you marking your calendar. Wave your community flag high as we navigate through the Hanford Civic Courier newsletter, your ultimate guide to civic engagement and the pulse of our city's lifeblood. I'll walk you through the simple steps to keep your finger on the city's pulse with an easy newsletter subscription. On the sporting front, join Eric Bentley, as we cheer on Hanford West's softball triumphs and revel in Sierra Pacific's nail-biting, extra-inning victories. Whether it's celebrating coach Brad Felder's lifetime achievements or introducing Hanford West's new head football coach, Niko Heron, we're capturing the essence of our local sports scene and inviting you to be a part of the narrative by sharing your own local team stories.You can find the Hanford Insider at www.hanfordinsider.com and on social media at @hanfordinsiderThank you for supporting the show!

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode!Discover how Hanford's heart beats with innovation and community spirit as we sit down with Joy Gabler, the Superintendent of Hanford Elementary School District. Learn about the district's dynamic expansion to accommodate a wave of new students and staff, and get the inside scoop on City Council's initiatives that are set to transform our winter nights with a new ice rink, add a lifesaving firefighter to our team, and tackle the critical issue of homelessness head-on. Plus, with the RAISE grant potentially rejuvenating downtown spaces, staying engaged has never been more exciting—or important.This edition of Hanford Insider whisks you into the world of education, where Hanford Elementary schools are at the forefront of parent-student-teacher collaboration. Marvel at the creative tools that are seamlessly connecting home with the classroom. HESD also amplifies the voices of their students as they take a pivotal role in shaping their educational journey, including the cafeteria menus! Addressing post-pandemic behavioral challenges, we unveil the district's robust support network—a testament to they're unwavering commitment to student well-being. And amidst the green wave of electric school buses and the search for passionate staff, they're not just keeping pace with change; they're driving it, ensuring every student finds their path to success. We'll have a community calendar update from Rob and Eric will be by with a complete recap of the high school sports action.You can find the Hanford Insider at www.hanfordinsider.com and on social media at @hanfordinsiderThank you for supporting the show!

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode!Discover the heartbeat of Hanford as we unpack the vibrant community events and the march towards the primary elections. Lupe Villa, Registrar of Voters, joins us to peel back the curtain on the essential, yet complex, preparations for the upcoming primary elections under the new Voter Choice Act model.Navigating the twists and turns of election season, we tackle the real costs, both financially and in terms of voter engagement, that come with democracy's dance. We scrutinize the reasons behind low voter turnout and confront the specter of election fatigue. But fear not, for we also celebrate the unwavering dedication of our elections office staff, who stand ready to ensure every ballot is cast with confidence in its security and every voice is heard. Join us for an insightful conversation that promises to leave you informed and inspired to make your mark on the ballot.Eric Bentley stops by to update us on the high school soccer and basketball playoff action as well as giving a shout out to a remarkable accomplishment at Woodrow Wilson Jr. High.Tune in now! You can find the Hanford Insider at www.hanfordinsider.com and on social media at @hanfordinsiderThank you for supporting the show!

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode!Discover what's stirring in Hanford as we unpack the dynamic changes afoot, from the local government's latest moves to the vibrant community initiatives making waves. We kick off with a peek behind the curtain of the Hanford City Council's latest meeting – new faces in blue, the debate over caffeine near preschoolers, and the financial upkeep of our city's lifelines. Plus, we celebrate our local high school bands' high notes and spotlight the FFA students cultivating success. And for those with a penchant for pop culture, get the lowdown on the Hanford Toy Anime Comic Con, ensuring your calendar's as colorful as our downtown murals.Then, we shift gears and welcome Dave Clevenger of King's Gospel Mission, who brings to light the challenges and triumphs in combating homelessness in our community. Imagine the impact of a stable home, a day's work that instills pride, and a safety net woven by a community that cares. Witness the transformation from vacant lots to vibrant homes, a testament to what can be achieved when compassion meets action. Engaging with Dave, we explore the mission's path from adversity to inspiring milestones and how every Hanford resident can be a beacon of hope in this collective journey. Join us for stories that resonate with community spirit and practical ways to be part of the change right here at home.You can find the Hanford Insider at www.hanfordinsider.com and on social media at @hanfordinsiderThank you for supporting the show!

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode!Shattering glass ceilings in Hanford, Stephanie Huddleston steps into the studio to share her groundbreaking journey as the city's first female police chief. With a story that begins in the probation department and culminates in her dream role, Chief Huddleston offers a candid look at the challenges she faced and the milestones she's celebrated in a profession that's both demanding and rewarding. Her commitment to community policing shines through as we uncover the transformative power of youth outreach programs like the Police Activities League, which has been pivotal in strengthening ties between officers and the youth of Hanford. We tackle how Chief Huddleston and her team are navigating the complexities of maintaining integrity through rigorous training and the adoption of body cameras, ensuring each officer upholds the highest ethical standards. The episode also invites listeners to play a part in fostering a safer, more connected community, touching on the various avenues for supporting law enforcement and engaging in local initiatives. This is a compelling exploration of law, leadership, and the intricate dance of policing in a close-knit community.Meanwhile, Hanford buzzes with activity, from a new coffee shop stirring up conversation.You can find the Hanford Insider at www.hanfordinsider.com and on social media at @hanfordinsiderThank you for supporting the show!

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode!Sarah Ritten from Upholdings stops by to give us an update on the Northstar Courts affordable housing project in north Hanford nearing completion.You can find the Hanford Insider at www.hanfordinsider.com and on social media at @hanfordinsiderThank you for supporting the show!

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode!We take this opportunity to update you on all of the latest Hanford City Council News including the swearing in of new Chief of Police Stephanie Huddleston, Water Rate Increases, and a Downtown Revitalization Project update.There's a lot of road construction going on right now. Rob will update us on some of the large projects taking place soon that will affect your travels to the coast or to Tulare County.This episode isn't just about the physical infrastructure of our town, but also the social fabric that binds us. We're building community through conversation. With Julie Martella's  "Navigating Widowhood" podcast serving as a beacon for many, we examine the full spectrum of grief and growth Julie's narrative provides a poignant reminder of the personal journeys that unfold in life. Her experiences open up a compassionate dialogue for those affected by widowhood, offering a space for connection and shared understanding.  Navigating the complexities of loss, Julie joins us to share her heartfelt story and the profound work she's doing to support widows in our community. You can find the Hanford Insider at www.hanfordinsider.com and on social media at @hanfordinsiderThank you for supporting the show!

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode!Welcome back, Hanford community and beyond! As your host, Rob Bentley, I'm thrilled to whisk you through the ins and outs of our vibrant city's happenings. We've got our finger on the pulse of Hanford City Council's latest actions. And for those hungry for local culture, our community calendar is a treasure trove of local author meet-and-greets, high school musicals, and volunteer ops that will get you out and mingling in no time. Then, buckle up as we zoom into the heart of our show with an exclusive update on downtown Hanford's KART Transit Center, courtesy of Heather Corder from King's County Public Transit Agency – hear firsthand how this transformative project will revolutionize downtown!Cementing the future of transit in Hanford, we earmark the progress of the KART Transit Center, poised to redefine convenience and connectivity by 2025. Listen closely as we piece together the story behind the $35 million project, a mosaic of federal, state, and local funding sources that's as impressive as the state-of-the-art facilities it's erecting. Sports enthusiasts, stick around! We're serving up a full plate of high school athletic triumphs and tribulations, from basketball courts to soccer fields, and warming up for softball season with a special invitation for alumni to dust off their gloves. Every minute of this episode is threaded with the vibrant tapestry of our community – and we can't wait for you to join the conversation and help us broadcast the spirit of Hanford far and wide.You can find the Hanford Insider at www.hanfordinsider.com and on social media at @hanfordinsiderThank you for supporting the show!