Episodes

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Stepping through the doors of Gonsalves-Fasso Nursery feels like entering a living time capsule of Hanford's history. Paul Rhodes, the third-generation owner of this 80-year-old floral institution, welcomes us into his world with stories that span decades and connect countless families across our community. When Mary Fasso opened this shop with her brother Pete and sister-in-law Virginia Gonsalves in April 1945, she couldn't have imagined t...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Discover the heartbeat of Hanford in this packed episode featuring a candid conversation with local entrepreneur Kayla Houk, who shares the remarkable journey of Off the Vine Restaurant from pandemic-born charcuterie delivery service to downtown dining destination. When COVID-19 shut down the culinary world, chef Kayla returned to Hanford and launched a charcuterie box delivery service that quickly grew from 3-10 boxes weekly to 30 boxes d...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! The heartbeat of community education takes center stage in this week's Hanford Insider as we celebrate Educator Appreciation Month. Against the backdrop of bustling local news, our microphones capture the voices of gratitude reverberating through Hanford's educational landscape. School superintendents from across Kings County share powerful messages of appreciation for the educators who shape our future. Paul VanLoon of Pioneer Union praises ...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! A quarter-century of community building takes center stage as Thursday Night Marketplace prepares to launch its milestone 25th season in downtown Hanford. Join host Rob Bentley as he sits down with Jim Castleman of Main Street Hanford for an inside look at how this beloved weekly tradition has evolved from a small street market to the largest recurring event in the community. "What would we be doing in Hanford if we didn't have the marketplac...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! "They deserve some recognition." These simple yet profound words from Navy veteran John Kuykendall capture the essence of Hanford's upcoming Echoes of Courage celebration honoring Vietnam veterans 50 years after the war's end. The weight of unspoken history fills our latest episode as we sit down with two local heroes who served during one of America's most controversial conflicts. Marine Corps Second Lieutenant Bill Zumwalt shares his experi...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! When a child enters foster care, their world transforms overnight. They face new homes, new rules, and a complex system of courts and social workers that can feel overwhelming. Who stands beside them during this tumultuous journey? In Kings County, it's often a CASA volunteer. This week, we sat down with Maritza Lemus to explore the remarkable work of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Kings County. These dedicated community voluntee...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Captain Scott Mellon of the Hanford Fire Department joins us to share a remarkable story of service beyond the call of duty. Since 2014, Scott has been running the Fresno Urban Run while wearing complete firefighter turnout gear – helmet, coat, pants, boots and all – navigating stadium stairs, parking garages, and even finishing with an oxygen tank strapped to his back. What began as a personal challenge has transformed into a powerful fundrai...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Breaking news leads our latest podcast as we reveal the Hanford Chamber of Commerce is shutting down operations, leaving many wondering about the future of our cherished Christmas Parade. This longstanding tradition needs community support to continue as the Chamber, which has organized it for years, faces volunteer and funding challenges. More positive headlines include the Zonneveld family's completed purchase of Superior Dairy, promising n...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! The extraordinary impact of youth service programs in our community takes center stage as Sergeant Andrew Mazza shares the remarkable success of the Kings County Sheriff's Explorer program. With 11 years of law enforcement experience and a personal journey that began as an Explorer himself, Mazza offers unique insights into how this program transforms young lives while simultaneously strengthening our community. Currently at its highest enrol...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Life in small towns moves at its own special rhythm, and the latest Hanford Insider podcast captures that beat perfectly with updates that matter to our community. After months of questions from frustrated residents, we finally have answers about those troublesome traffic signals at 10th and Lacey - mark your calendars for early June installation! The podcast also previews Tuesday's City Council meeting where they'll tackle everything from bac...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Brad Albert joins us to unveil the exciting plans for the Hanford Civic Auditorium's 100-year anniversary celebration happening June 7th. This historic landmark, dedicated in 1925, has been the backdrop for countless community memories – from dances and performances to political speeches and polio vaccinations. The multi-day celebration, themed "100 Years of Memories," will feature 100 year old plus classic cars, historic photographs, artifact...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Join us for a delicious journey through the valley's evolving food scene, where new restaurants and food trucks are reshaping the culinary landscape. We dive into the heart of our community and explore the stories behind the flavors that make Hanford unique. In this episode, we chat with food enthusiast Jordan Burrow, who shares exciting news about the latest food trends and dining establishments to hit the area. Our conversation delves into ...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Unlock the heartbeat of Hanford's community as we bring you the latest updates from our vibrant town. We'll explore the solemn yet celebratory Echoes of Courage parade, marking half a century since the Vietnam War's conclusion. From the pivotal decisions at the Hanford City Council meetings to the festive plans for the Civic Auditorium's Century of Memories, there's much to catch up on. Don't miss the community calendar highlights, including t...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Ready to uncover the vibrant threads tying our community together? Tune in to learn how Kyria Martinez from the Kings County Administrative Office unveils the exciting prospects of the 2025 Kings County Youth and Government Day. Discover how this enlightening event aims to empower young minds by offering a firsthand glimpse into local governance. Celebrate the accomplishments of Emily Carpenter and Bailey Quintero, our newly crowned Miss Kings...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! What does it take to sustain a vital community service for nearly four decades? Discover the answer as we highlight Father Luke Martinez, Associate Priest, who shares the remarkable story of the Episcopal Church of the Savior Soup Kitchen in Hanford. For 38 years, this essential resource has been feeding those in need, thanks to the unwavering support of volunteers and donors. Father Luke provides fascinating insights into the daily operations...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Discover the heartbeat of Hanford as we dive into the magical world of the Dream it, Be it conference with our special guest, Marlene Tapia. She shares her inspiring story of joining the Soroptimist Club and the incredible community work they champion. Get the latest buzz from Hanford, including the exciting new developments from the City Council and Planning Commission meetings, such as transportation plans, a new hotel, and a taproom. Revel ...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! What truly happens when officers and residents unite to foster a positive community spirit? Join us for a compelling episode where we sit down with Darrin Ellis and Linda Mello, ardent supporters of Kings County Positive Law Enforcement. They share their insights on the unique advantages of law enforcement in smaller communities like Hanford, as well as the inspiration behind their Facebook group dedicated to uplifting the image of officers am...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Get ready to explore the heart of the San Joaquin Valley's weather operations with Felix Castro from the National Weather Service in Hanford. Felix shares the secrets behind the iconic Doppler radar and the critical mission of the weather service in guarding life and property while boosting the national economy. We also keep you in the loop with Hanford City Council's latest agenda, where hot topics like council member honorariums and the anne...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Rob returns with updates on the traffic signal at 10th & Lacey as well as downtown stop signs and the new flashing stop sign at 13th & Lacey after a fatal accident last month. The city announces a hefty grant destined to sprinkle a bit of magic along the China Alley corridor from the Amtrak station to 10th Ave. And, a shoutout to our local firefighters who are rolling up their sleeves to assist Los Angeles — a perfect moment to rally support f...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Encore Episode from July 28, 2024 Unlock the secrets of aerial law enforcement with Sergeant Jerry Hunter and Senior Deputy Eric Johnson from the Kings County Sheriff's Office Air Support Unit. Established in 2014, this unit is not just about flying high; it's about enhancing public safety through the innovative use of both airplanes and helicopters. Tune in to learn how these seasoned officers balance their dynamic schedules to meet the dema...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Encore Episode from January 14, 2024 Uncover the exciting transformation set to redefine public transit in Hanford with the new transit center project. Join me and our special guest, Heather Corder, the accountant auditor for the Kings County Public Transit Agency, as we explore how this initiative is not just a plan but a promise of enhanced accessibility and safety for the community. From the humble beginnings of KART in 1980 to its evoluti...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Encore episode from February 25, 2024 Curious about how a school district transforms in the face of modern educational challenges? Join us for an enlightening discussion with Hanford Elementary School District Superintendent Joy Gabler. You'll discover the district's remarkable achievements and forward-thinking initiatives that are setting new standards for student success. Learn about the exciting modernization projects funded by the Measure...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Join us for our final episode of 2024 as Hanford's City Manager, Mario Cifuentez, Vice Mayor Travis Paden, Community Relations Manager Brian Johnson, and HJUHSD Superintendent Victor Rosa reflect on an eventful year and we celebrate the successful initiatives that have shaped our city, from the vibrant Winter Wonderland to the strategic sale of the Kings County Courthouse to Barrel House Brewing. We also dive into the critical community issues...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Unlock the heart of Hanford's community spirit as we promise an episode filled with compelling stories, impactful local news, and festive events. Featuring Missy Chavez, we shine a spotlight on the Wreaths Across America event that brings our community together to honor veterans at Grangeville Cemetery. This episode also delves into significant news, including the closure of the Del Monte plant and the latest changes in the Hanford City Counci...