Hanford Insider

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Big traditions don’t stay magical by accident—they’re planned, stress‑tested, and built with neighbors in mind. We open with a crisp look at City Council’s agenda, from the Kings County Farm Bureau briefing to the east‑west cross‑valley rail link that could sync with the North‑South High Speed Rail station. Then we move through a full community calendar—blood drive logistics, election day reminders, a Monte Carlo night, the Elks Hoop Shoot, a school carnival, and a comedy bill at the Fox—before han...

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The week’s headlines feel different when you hear them from the people building the future they want to live in. We sit down with podcaster and community organizer Rob Esquerdo to trace a clear line from storytelling to action: how a classroom-born show, Rob Live, grew into a platform for resilience and a catalyst for change in Stratford. From interviews that turn grief into policy to partnerships that keep food moving to families, Rob shows how steady, local work creates momentum that institutions can’t igno...

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Quick wins matter, but so do the quiet calls that shape a city’s future. Mayor Travis Paden’s Wednesday wrap-up delivers a clear, helpful tour of the October 21 Hanford City Council meeting—what moved forward, what paused, and why it affects your street, your park, and your wallet.

We start with people power: three new hires in surveying, engineering, and building maintenance, the backbone roles that keep growth safe and services reliable. Then we zoom into parks and recreation decisions—softball tournament fees adjusted...

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Big projects are finally lining up for Kings County, and the details matter. We sit down with Caltrans District 6’s Alex Aguilera to unpack the planned 198–9th Avenue interchange, how five design alternatives could reconnect north and south Hanford, and why early community input will shape the safest, smartest option. We also trace the ripple effects tied to the East Lacey Corridor and the extension of 9th Avenue to Grangeville, showing how transportation design and city growth plans meet on the ground.

From there, we h...

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The week bursts with energy—city moves that affect our day-to-day, a stacked fall calendar, a symphony season opener, and a high school football finish that had us on our feet. We also bring a crucial safety story to the front: Fire Chief Daniel Perkins joins us to unpack why residential fire deaths have climbed even as fires have declined, who’s most at risk, and the simple habits that tip the odds. From a free smoke alarm installation day to the lifesaving logic behind “close before...

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A small city can change big outcomes when information, care, and community line up. We sit down with Candy Bertaina and Kathy Mittleider from Links for Life, Kings County, to explore how a volunteer-led nonprofit funds the crucial first step in breast cancer care: diagnosis. From the origins of their work to the powerful reach of the Pink Passion Picnic, we unpack the stopgap they provide before state programs kick in, why early mammograms, ultrasounds, and biopsies matter, and how local partnerships with providers turn donations...

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Fall festivities take center stage in Hanford as our community gears up for a season packed with beloved traditions and exciting changes.

The 46th annual Renaissance of Kings Fair returns to Civic Park on October 4-5, bringing with it a rich tapestry of period entertainment, food, and activities. Parks Director Brad Albert reveals this may be the longest-running Renaissance Fair in California, featuring expanded entertainment this year including the crowd-favorite "George the Giant," traditional royal court processions, and combat demonstrations—all accessible with a mo...

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Kings Partnership serves as a vital lifeline for Kings County residents, offering an impressive array of free services designed to strengthen families and build community resilience. Program coordinator Jennifer Quinones brings enthusiasm and expertise to her role, detailing how this preventative nonprofit organizes its work into focused "buckets" addressing mental health, trauma-informed care, and substance abuse prevention.

The organization's child abuse prevention efforts stand out as particularly impactful. Working alongside Kings County Human Services, Kings Partnership delivers workshops promoting parent-child bonding while raising awareness...

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Mayor Travis Paden takes us behind the scenes of Hanford's latest City Council meeting, revealing crucial decisions that will shape our community's future. The Council has approved $325,000 for much-needed repairs to the Hanford Plunge, including a new slide and slide pool, with an additional $100,000 set aside for future maintenance—extending this beloved facility's life by approximately ten years.

A moment of civic pride illuminated the meeting as eight local gymnasts from Lee's United Gymnastics were honored for bringing home national championship titles. The Council re...

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Step into the unexpected cultural richness of Hanford with our exploration of the community's vibrant arts scene. While Kings County might not immediately come to mind as an arts destination, this episode reveals the surprising breadth of creative opportunities awaiting residents of all ages and interests.

From the Kings Art Center's exhibits and classes to the multiple dance studios, theater companies, and museums scattered throughout the county, we uncover the wealth of visual and performing arts resources right in our backyard. Music lovers will...

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The Kings County Homelessness Collaborative represents a remarkable coalition of 18 organizations working together to tackle one of our community's most persistent challenges. In this eye-opening conversation, Hanford City Councilman Mark Kairis and KCAO Executive Director Jeff Garner reveal how their coordinated efforts have already reduced the county's homeless population from 417 to 302 individuals.

Mark explains the practical challenges of implementing Hanford's no-camping ordinance while balancing compassion with community needs. The dedicated Housing Assistance Response Team (HART) works daily to connect homeless individuals with resources while...

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A historic downtown law firm is making waves in Hanford with their commitment to community, clients, and careers. The Griswold LaSalle Law Firm, celebrating 80 years of service, has transformed the iconic Hanford Furniture Building into a thriving legal practice while maintaining its historic charm. With plans to expand to the third floor due to significant growth, this firm continues to evolve while honoring its roots.

What sets Griswold LaSalle apart is their dedication to nurturing future legal talent. Their Community Foundation, established in 2022, brings...

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Tragedy often reveals the true character of a community. When Christy Camara lost her son Wyland under horrific circumstances in March 2020, Hanford didn't just offer condolences—it embraced her mission to prevent similar tragedies and honor her son's memory.

The heart of this episode revolves around Christy's raw, powerful story. Born and raised on a Hanford dairy farm, this former yoga instructor and business owner shares the unimaginable moment she learned her son had been fatally shot by his father. Rather than surrendering to gr...

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Step inside the remarkable transformation happening across Hanford Joint Union High School District campuses in this revealing conversation with district leaders Renee Creech, Lance Dowd, and Ben Stidman. Against the backdrop of steady enrollment growth while other districts struggle, HJUHSD has strategically invested millions in creating educational spaces where students genuinely want to be.

From the gleaming new tennis courts at Hanford High to the completely renovated Bowl stadium serving all schools, every improvement reflects a deeper purpose – fostering student engagement, safety, and pride. Th...

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The fast-growing phenomenon of pickleball has taken Hanford by storm, creating a vibrant community that welcomes players of all ages and skill levels. Our deep dive into this increasingly popular sport reveals why it's captured the hearts of so many—from the exceptional accessibility that allows 13-year-olds to compete with 70-year-olds to the unique social environment that fosters lasting friendships and networking opportunities.

We speak with passionate local players Kurt Nielsen, Ryan Garcia, Cory Allyn, and Alex Heredia about what makes pickleball special. They sh...

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Mayor Travis Paden takes listeners behind the scenes of Hanford's marathon six-hour City Council meeting in this special edition of the Hanford Insider Podcast. What started at 4 PM and stretched until 10 PM covered critical decisions that will shape the city's future for years to come.

The Council chambers were packed as three of Hanford's finest received recognition – with Officer Matthew Novielli's swearing-in and the promotions of Sergeants Rolando Jaime and Chad Medeiros highlighting the community's commitment to public safety. This commitment extended to substantial ra...

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Dive into a fascinating conversation with Doug Verboon, Kings County Board of Supervisor for District 3, as he unpacks the inner workings of county government and shares his vision for Kings County's future.

As a fifth-generation resident with deep roots in the Central Valley, Verboon brings 32 years of public service experience to the table. His family's journey from operating a hotel in pre-Corcoran Angiola to farming the same land his ancestors worked provides a compelling framework for his commitment to community stewardship.

The...

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Have you ever wondered about the deep bonds formed between police officers and their canine partners? This week's episode delves into a touching community initiative to honor fallen K9 officers, specifically Officer Krash who served the Hanford Police Department.

Dionicia Parks and Jim Carpenter join us to share their passionate mission to create lasting memorials for these four-legged heroes. Krash's story – from his dedicated service alongside Officer Cano to surviving fentanyl exposure and becoming a beloved family member during retirement – highlights the unique role thes...

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Making local government more accessible takes many forms, and today we're bridging a crucial information gap for our community. Mayor Travis Paden's City Council meeting wrap-ups have been a Facebook staple for engaged citizens, but what about those who prefer to stay off social media? We've solved that problem by bringing the Mayor's updates directly to your podcast feed.

This debut edition delivers a comprehensive rundown of Hanford's latest civic decisions. Mayor Paden's walks us through discussions on supporting businesses affected by graffiti vandalism...

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When Nancy Howze stepped into her role as Hanford City Council member six months ago, she brought something beyond political ambition—a genuine desire to model community service for her three children. Now, as Hanford's newly appointed Vice Mayor, she's creating waves of positive change while navigating the complex machinery of local government.

In this milestone 100th episode of The Hanford Insider, Nancy opens up about her journey from concerned citizen to city leader with refreshing candor. She reveals her mission to foster greater co...

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The dangerous reality of Fourth of July celebrations takes center stage as Hanford's top public safety officials sound the alarm on illegal fireworks. Fire Chief Daniel Perkins reveals shocking statistics: 92 firework-related emergency calls last Independence Day weekend, four severe burn victims (three being children), and one home suffering $50,000 in damage from a single errant firework. Meanwhile, Police Chief Stephanie Huddleston shares how her department handled a staggering 465 calls for service during the same three-day period.

Beyond the immediate danger of fires, our conversation unveils...

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The Hanford Insider peels back the curtain on local governance while celebrating one of our community's most cherished spaces in this engaging episode. A significant shake-up is coming to City Hall as Mayor Lou Martinez steps down while continuing to represent Area D, necessitating new leadership as the council tackles important financial decisions. With nearly a million dollars in Measure H funds potentially allocated for new vehicles and street repairs, plus a proposed $25,000 patriotic drone show for July 3rd, citizens have plenty to consider regarding municipal...

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What does world-class healthcare look like when it's right in your backyard? Tim Haydock, Operations Executive at Adventist Health Central California, joins us to reveal how specialized medical care has quietly transformed in Kings County.

Did you know that of the four hospitals with "A" safety ratings in our entire region, three belong to Adventist Health? Or that surgeons in Hanford are performing specialized procedures only available at a handful of other facilities across California? From robotics-assisted surgeries with faster recovery times to the...

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Hanford's crown jewel is turning 100, and we're pulling out all the stops to celebrate! Join us for an in-depth look at the Century of Memories celebration marking the centennial of the Hanford Civic Auditorium—a building that has shaped our community's cultural identity for a century.

Brad Albert and Randy Shaw take us behind the scenes of this milestone event, sharing fascinating details about the meticulously planned celebration on June 7th. From the Breakfast Lions pancake breakfast starting at 7 AM to the official ceremony at...

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Leadership changes take center stage in Hanford as City Manager Mario Cifuentez announces his upcoming departure after nearly five years at the helm. Taking a position in Cottonwood, Arizona, Cifuentez leaves thoughtful advice for his successor: understand the challenges of inevitable growth, listen to the entire community, and remember that Hanford's median age of 32 represents residents who may not regularly attend council meetings. The City Council wasted no time scheduling a special meeting for May 29th to discuss interim leadership and the permanent replacement process. 

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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 the legacy she was creating. Paul, who took over the business after an injury on the family farm, shares how...

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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 daily. This success propelled her to open Off the Vine's first location during the pandemic, despite all the challenges...

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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 teachers for "shaping the next generation of thinkers and leaders," while Kings County Superintendent Todd Barlow poignantly notes that "teachers somehow make...

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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 marketplace on Thursday night?" This question, overheard at Castleman's morning...

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"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 experiences patrolling the dangerous "Rocket Belt" around Da Nang, while Navy veteran John Kuykendall recounts commanding the first...

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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 volunteers become powerful voices for children navigating the foster care system, standing beside them...

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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 fundraiser supporting young burn survivors.

The Fresno Urban Run has become synonymous with firefighter part...

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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 new beginnings for this beloved local institution. We also preview upcoming City Council meetings where they'll address police department litigation...

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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 enrollment ever with 27 participants aged 14-20, the Explorer program provides young people with comprehensive training in law enforcement procedures, from...

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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 backyard chicken regulations to zoning for 326-home subdivision proposal in south Hanford.

At the heart of...

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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, artifacts, and the opening of a century-old time capsule.

The festivities will coincide with the popular Carnegie of Kings County Car Show, creating a perfect sy...

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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 the vibrant culture surrounding local food, where community thrives, and good food...

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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 the much-anticipated History of Kings County Agriculture display at the Carnegie Museum of Kings County and t...

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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 County winners, and get the latest buzz from the Hanford City Council, featuring talks on Measure H and the...

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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 and the crucial partnerships that keep the kitchen running, while we explore the ongoing challenges of...