Episodes

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Experience the magic of the holiday season like never before on this week's Hanford Insider. Discover how the vibrant Hanford Christmas Parade, orchestrated by the Hanford Chamber of Commerce, filled the streets with unparalleled community spirit. We'll guide you through the Downtown Mural Program, a creative endeavor uniting local artists to bring new life to our city walls. Cara Fleming joins us to illuminate the heartwarming mission of Oper...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Uncover how Hanford's Winter Wonderland isn't just a seasonal delight but a powerful catalyst for economic growth and community connection. Join us as we explore the transformative role this event plays in the region, drawing over 107,000 visitors and capturing attention far beyond our city limits. With insights from the remarkable Parks and Community Services Director Brad Albert and City Manager Mario Cifuentez, we'll share how innovative to...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Ever wondered how local policies shape the vibrancy of our town? Get the insider scoop on the latest Hanford City Council meeting agenda, where we discuss everything from Measure H accountability to street closure policies designed to smooth our favorite community events. We also spotlight the high-flying achievements of our local school marching bands as they shine in recent competitions. Plus, find out how your simple gesture could warm a se...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Army veterans Don Knight and Gerry McKee take us on an unforgettable journey back to their days in Vietnam, sharing powerful stories of camaraderie and unexpected humor in the midst of chaos. We honor Veterans Day by highlighting these unique experiences and insights about transitioning back to civilian life. This episode promises to deepen your appreciation for the sacrifices made by veterans and the enduring bonds they form. As we celebrate ...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Margaret Cardiel, a remarkable former Army and Navy service member, graces our podcast with her inspiring journey from military service to becoming a vibrant part of the Hanford community. Margaret, now the VFW commander, opens up about the significance of Veterans Day and the profound contributions of Nisei veterans in Hanford. She has played a pivotal role in organizing poignant luncheons to honor these veterans and has contributed to the en...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Have you ever wondered how a library can transform into a vibrant community hub and a 21st-century marvel? Join us as we chat with Vikki Cervantes, the new Director of the Kings County Library in Hanford, who shares her inspiring journey into librarianship and reveals the exciting plans for the library's modernization project. We also bring you the latest happenings around Hanford, including volunteer opportunities with the Kings County Commis...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Join me, Rob Bentley, as we navigate through the latest buzz in Hanford, including the bittersweet news of a canceled haunted house and heartwarming events that unite our community. Together, let's celebrate the vibrant happenings around us—such as the highly anticipated Pumpkin Bash at Civic Park. As we extend our condolences to Mayor Travis Payden, let's also turn our focus to the future with thrilling events like a unique paint night at the...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! What if the future of Hanford depended on a single decision you make? Join us for a compelling episode of Hanford Insider as we bring you the latest updates on community events, sports, and the crucial local elections. Rob Bentley kicks things off with a dynamic rundown of the week's happenings, from a skate park workshop to the thrilling Hanford Halloween Boxing Rumble. Eric Bentley follows with a spirited recap of Hanford High's triumphant w...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! What if you could ensure your voice is heard in the most secure and convenient way possible? Join us on Hanford Insider as we unpack everything you need to know about the upcoming November 5th election with special insights from Lupe Villa, Kings County's Registrar of Voters. Get ready to learn about the numerous voting options available, including the 11 strategically placed drop boxes and the innovative Voter's Choice Act, which allows you t...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Curious about what's happening in Hanford this week? We've got you covered! From the Hanford City Council meeting to the jubilant National Night Out, this episode of Hanford Insider is packed with essential community news. Celebrate Monroe Elementary School’s prestigious recognition as a National Blue Ribbon School and get the scoop on the bittersweet closing of the iconic Workingman's Store after an impressive 87 years. Don't forget to mark y...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Join us for a whirlwind tour of Hanford's community happenings, where Rob Bentley breaks down the latest City Council decisions and highlights an array of upcoming events you'll want to mark on your calendar. Whether you're looking forward to the nostalgic charm of Throwback Thursday at the Thursday Night Marketplace, the cultural celebrations of the China Alley Moon Festival, or the vibrant activities at the 45th Annual Renaissance Fair, we'v...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Ever wondered about the fascinating cultural mosaic of Hanford? Promise yourself an enlightening journey as we discuss the crucial topics that shape our community. From the Hanford City Council's upcoming decisions on downtown improvements and new ordinances affecting the homeless to a series of local events like the lively Thursday Night Marketplace and the inspiring Kings County Behavioral Health Walk of Hope, this episode has something for ...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! What do a magical evening with Magic Max and a sneak peek into the future of Heroes Park have in common? They're both part of this week's jam-packed episode of Hanford Insider! Join me, Rob Bentley, as I welcome you to an exciting overview of all the latest happenings in Hanford. From community meetings on Measure H to the lively Thursday night marketplace, dance lessons, theater performances, and museum exhibits, our vibrant community has a l...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Could a 1% sales tax transform Hanford's future? Join us this week as we unpack Measure H, a proposed initiative aimed at generating $19.2 million annually to bolster our local police, fire, and street services. Kicking things off, we update you on exciting community events like Food Truck Appreciation Night, the Kings Players' "Outward Bound Evening," and the Kings County Special Olympics Chili Cook-Off and Cornhole Tournament. We also share ...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Curious about how Hanford's latest city council decisions are shaping the community? Join us as we cover key updates, including why the Downtown Traffic and Pedestrian Improvement Project is on hold and what you need to know about the upcoming November 5th elections. We'll also give you the scoop on Measure H and highlight some must-attend educational events. Plus, our community calendar is brimming with activities like the Thursday Night Mark...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Ever wondered how recent city council decisions might shape your daily life? Join us this week on the Hanford Insider as we unpack the latest updates from the Hanford City Council, including the surprising halt on the Downtown Traffic and Pedestrian Improvement Project. We'll also guide you through the plethora of upcoming events like the vibrant Thursday Night Marketplace, The Kings Players latest production, and the Carnegie Museum of Kings ...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! What if your local pool season never had to end? This week on Hanford Insider, we’re bringing you the latest about our city’s extended swim season, as well as updates on major road closures and exciting happenings in the community. We’re diving into the City Council’s agenda with highlights like the new police officers’ badge-pinning ceremony and funding for upcoming projects. Plus, you won't want to miss out on the after-school art programs, ...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Celebrate Hanford's rich history with us as we sit down with local historian Michael Semas for an engaging chat in honor of the town's 133rd anniversary of incorporation. Discover how Hanford evolved from a pass-through area for the Tachi Yokut tribe to a bustling town shaped by the Southern Pacific Rail Line. Michael shares riveting stories about the town's wild early days, the significant role of the railroad, and the Mussel Slough Tragedy, ...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Get the scoop on developments from the latest Hanford City Council meeting in this week's episode of the Hanford Insider Podcast. We also spotlight the new Citizens Police Academy and the touching addition of a plaque honoring retired K-9 officers at the Hanford Police Department. Plus, stay tuned for details on a variety of engaging community events, from a free screening of Disney’s Encanto to the thrilling Battle of the Dojos and the Hanfor...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Get ready to uncover the latest buzz in Hanford with your host, Rob Bentley, as we launch an exciting second season of the Hanford Insider! Curious about how aerial units are transforming local law enforcement? Tune in to hear exclusive insights from Sergeant Jerry Hunter and Senior Deputy Eric Johnson of the Kings County Sheriff's Department Air Support Unit. They’ll share incredible stories of search and rescue missions and the strategic adv...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Curious about the latest happenings in Hanford? Get ready to celebrate National Carousel Day at the Thursday Night Marketplace and learn about the achievements of local professionals. We'll also cheer for the Hanford Police Activities League boxers who recently triumphed at the Southern California State Amateur Boxing Championships. This episode also covers the challenges and triumphs of our historic China Alley restoration project and offers...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Discover the exciting initiatives transforming Hanford's business landscape! We promise insights into the city's strategic endeavors to attract top-tier retail chains and dining establishments, straight from Brian Johnson, Hanford's Community Relations Manager. From the powerful findings of recent retail surveys highlighting community favorites like Olive Garden and Chick-fil-A to Hanford’s ambitious plans to present these results at the ICSC ...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Curious about what it takes to rise through the ranks of a police department and become its first female chief? Join us for a captivating conversation with Hanford's newly appointed Chief of Police, Stephanie Huddleston. Inspired by a college criminology class and a life-changing ride-along experience, Stephanie transitioned from aspiring school teacher to a dedicated law enforcement officer. She takes us through her diverse roles within the H...

Send me a text and give me feedback on this episode! Ever wondered how a single photograph can capture the soul of a community? Join us as we honor Gary Feinstein's extraordinary photography and explore his impact on Hanford. We also talk with Fire Chief Daniel Perkins about the dangers of illegal fireworks and highlight some fantastic events on the horizon, including the Hanford Toy Anime Comic Con and the Carnegie Museum of Kings County's exhibit. Discover how these community happenings are sh...