Soreath Hok
Host, Central Valley DailySoreath Hok is a multimedia journalist with experience in radio, television and digital production. She is a 2022 National Edward R. Murrow Award winner. At KVPR, she is currently the host of KVPR's Central Valley Daily podcast.
Soreath began her journalism career in Fresno, graduating from Fresno State with a B.A. in English and minor in Mass Communication & Journalism. Her first media job at KFSR, the campus radio station, helped to launch her career in broadcast news. She worked as a producer at two Fresno stations, KMPH FOX 26 and KSEE 24, before moving to KCRA 3 in Sacramento.
After more than a decade behind-the-scenes as a producer, Soreath explored other creative outlets outside of news in advertising, marketing and social media. A Cambodian-American, Soreath has had the opportunity to report on mental health issues affecting the Cambodian community amongst survivors of the Khmer Rouge genocide in the 1970's. At KVPR, she completed a five-part series as a part of her 2022 California Fellowship with the USC Annenberg Center for Health Journalism. She continues to explore this topic for the 2022-2023 Rosalynn Carter Fellowship for Mental Health Journalism.
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Dean Potter was a larger-than-life figure in the rock climbing world. But more than a decade after his death, a new docuseries on HBO explores the dark side of his personality that drove him to record-breaking stunts. Today, we speak with Nick Rosen, one of the filmmakers behind "The Dark Wizard."
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UC Merced is working to increase its enrollment numbers that have fallen flat since the pandemic. But certain factors like location make it harder to attract new students. We speak with EdSource reporter Michael Burke about the challenges in drawing students to the campus. Plus, the latest news headlines: The Central Unified School District unites against SEDA; and California prepares to share information about its drivers with a national database.
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A new California law requires that all corn tortillas contain folic acid. We look at how manufacturers are complying and the health benefits for expecting mothers. Plus, the latest news headlines: California could face tough budget cuts ahead; and a proposed bill goes after large housing investors.
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California’s walnut industry is feeling the pressure of the war in Iran. In today’s episode, we learn how the battle over the Strait of Hormuz is adding to the strain of tariffs when most of its products are shipped overseas. Plus, the latest news headlines: A Tulare County deputy killed while on duty will be laid to rest, and questions remain over a new ICE facility in Kern County.
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A new documentary focuses on the history of oil production in Kern County. The filmmaker explores the county’s oil towns and the people who live there. He says he wants the film to spark a conversation about the economic impact of less drilling. Plus, the latest news headlines: a San Joaquin River property undergoes a name change amid controversy, and a new ICE detention center opens in Kern County.
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The City of Fresno is charting a new path forward for Measure P arts grants. But community trust remains at stake after an embezzlement scandal threatened the last round of funding. We speak to a Fresnoland reporter about how the city proposes to address issues of transparency. Plus, the latest news headlines: Governor Gavin Newsom announces three new state parks; and the legal fight over state homelessness funds.
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Classic theater in Fresno is getting an upgrade with the second season of Chanticleer Shakespeare Company opening this week with a production of The Tempest. This season, the city’s only professional theater company is adding creative flair with a collaboration with the Fresno Philharmonic. Plus, the latest news headlines: Delano leaders vote to remove Cesar Chavez’s name from public areas; and Fresno Unified’s budget deficit grows.
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April 21: Dust Isn’t Just A Nuisance – Valley Researchers Are Linking It To Health, Climate OutcomesDust may be something that most of us only contemplate when cleaning. But researchers at UC Merced and throughout California say dust particles play a role in many parts of everyday life. KVPR reporter Rachel Livinal reports on research into the role of dust in our health, environment and climate. Plus, the latest news headlines: two people formerly involved in Bitwise Industries and the Fresno Arts Council plead guilty to wire fraud; and another Democratic candidate drops out of the governor’s race.
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The Jim Henson Company – which created Sesame Street, The Muppets, and Fraggle Rock – is bringing a new cast of characters to the Central Valley with the premiere of a PBS Kids show. “Wowsabout” was filmed in Sequoia National Park and aims to inspire families to experience and appreciate the world outside. On today’s episode, KVPR’s Soreath Hok speaks to the creators behind the show, Halle Stanford and Dorien Davies.
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Tomorrow would have been the 55th birthday of the late Mexican-American singer Selena. Now, a new book features essays and poems about the legendary pop star. Fresno State professor Larissa Mercado Lopez, who co-edited the book, reflects on the lasting impact of Selena’s legacy, what the singer means to many Mexican-Americans, and what she hopes readers will take away from the book. Plus, the latest news headlines: a transportation sales tax nears the ballot in Fresno County, and a rockslide closes part of Highway 140 into Yosemite.