History
Curry Café: Earth Day – Progress, Challenges, and the Road Ahead
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In this episode of Curry Café, hosts Ray Gary and Rich McNamer lead a thought-provoking discussion on environmental issues with marine biologist Bill Gorham and KCIW volunteer Michael Gorse. The panel reflects on the historical significance of Earth Day and its role in raising environmental awareness, while lamenting the decline in public engagement. They highlight successes like cleaner waterways and ozone layer recovery but critique the persistent influence of money in politics and the lack of long-term commitment to climate solutions. The discussion touches on the dangers of unchecked economic growth, the challenges of transitioning to cleaner energy sources like hydrogen, and the consequences of climate change on housing and insurance markets. The episode concludes with a call to action for individuals to participate in sustainability efforts, such as Earth Day activities, and to hold corporations accountable for environmental harm.
We encourage anyone with differing views to participate in future Curry Café discussions. If you would like to join the panel, email contact@kciw.org or call 541-661-4098.
Hosts: Ray Gary, Rick McNamer, Producers: Ray Gary, Rick McNamer
Intro and end music by Kat Liddell. Used with permission.
The opinions expressed here are those of the individual participants. Curry Coast Community Radio takes no position on issues discussed in this program.
If you enjoy this program and want to hear more like it, consider supporting Curry Coast Community Radio. Here’s How.
Curry Café: From Hollywood to Brookings – Celebrating Elmo Williams’ Life and Work
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In this episode of Curry Café, hosts Ray Gary and Rick McNamer discuss the legacy of Oscar-winning filmmaker Elmo Williams with guests Sue Wright from the Wild Rivers Film Festival and Lon Goddard, a close collaborator of Williams. The conversation highlights Williams’ profound impact on the Brookings community, including his decision to retire here and his construction of the Azalea Park Capella in memory of his wife Lorraine. The Capella, now a cherished multipurpose venue, reflects Williams’ dedication to leaving a lasting legacy. The episode also explores Williams’ cinematic achievements, including his innovative editing in High Noon and the production of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. Lon shares personal anecdotes about their collaborations, including interviews, theater productions, and film screenings that engaged the local community.
NOTE: Lon Goddard performed two songs during the live broadcast. These songs were removed from the podcast version of the show due to copyright restrictions pertaining to online music content.
We encourage anyone with differing views to participate in future Curry Café discussions. If you would like to join the panel, email contact@kciw.org or call 541-661-4098.
Hosts: Ray Gary, Rick McNamer, Producers: Ray Gary, Rick McNamer
The opinions expressed here are those of the individual participants. Curry Coast Community Radio takes no position on issues discussed in this program.
If you enjoy this program and want to hear more like it, consider supporting Curry Coast Community Radio. Here’s How.
Intro and end music by Kat Liddell.
Doc & Jacques: Coastal History and Local Music with Kim Divine, John Zimmerman, and Ray Martell
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This episode of the Doc & Jacques radio variety show features three guests: Kim Divine, John Zimmerman, and Ray Martell. Kim Divine discusses the upcoming disbandment and equipment sale of Stage Lights Musical Arts Community, an organization she co-founded 16 years ago to bring music education to the community. John Zimmerman, president of the St. George Reef Lighthouse Preservation Society, shares the history and significance of the lighthouse, the challenges of its construction, and the society’s ongoing efforts to preserve and provide public access. Ray Martell, founder of Redwood Records recording studio in Crescent City and a bass player for the band Black GTO, talks about his background in music and microbiology, the inspiration behind his recording studio, his experience working with various artists, and his passion for helping musicians create quality recordings.
Hosts: GiGi “Doc” Reed MD, Jacques Kepner; Producers: GiGi “Doc” Reed MD, Jacques Kepner
Beginning and end music from freepd.com, in the public domain.
The opinions expressed here are those of the individual participants. Curry Coast Community Radio takes no position on issues discussed in this program.
If you enjoy this program and want to hear more like it, consider supporting Curry Coast Community Radio. Here’s How.
Curry Café: Women’s History Month – Struggles, Challenges, and Achievements
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In this episode of Curry Café, hosted by Ray Gary and Rick McNamer, panelists Shirley Hyatt and Billie Hopkins Furuichi engage in a thought-provoking discussion centered on Women’s History Month and the broader historical and societal struggles for gender equality. The conversation explores topics such as the historical context of women’s rights, pay disparities, affirmative action, and the evolving roles of women in society. The panel highlights figures like Mary Wollstonecraft, Bessie Coleman, and Annie Edison Taylor to showcase women’s groundbreaking contributions throughout history. They also discuss historical injustices, such as restrictions on women’s financial independence until 1974 and the barriers women faced entering male-dominated fields. The episode critiques the sanitization of history in textbooks, the portrayal of race and gender in classic media, and systemic inequities, while calling for active community dialogue to promote diverse and accurate narratives.
We encourage anyone with differing views to participate in future Curry Café discussions. If you would like to join the panel, email contact@kciw.org or call 541-661-4098.
Host: Ray Gary, Producers: Ray Gary, Rick McNamer
The opinions expressed here are those of the individual participants. Curry Coast Community Radio takes no position on issues discussed in this program.
If you enjoy this program and want to hear more like it, consider supporting Curry Coast Community Radio. Here’s How.
Intro and end music by Kat Liddell.
Our Community: What It Is
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In this episode of Our Community, host Candice Michel, joined by Ray Gary, Rick McNamer, and Michael Gorse, explores critical political and social issues, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement and historical awareness. The discussion covers a range of current events and historical context, including economic inequality, threats to democracy, the “signalgate” controversy, and historical parallels to present-day issues like the Bonus Army and the rise of authoritarianism. The participants express concern over the direction of the country and emphasize the importance of informed discussion and fact-checking. The conversation underscores the role of informed, active citizens in addressing systemic challenges and preserving democracy.
Host: Candice Michel; Guest:Ray Gary, Rick McNamer, Michael Gorse; Producer: Candice Michel
The opinions expressed here are those of the individual participants. Curry Coast Community Radio takes no position on issues discussed in this program.
If you enjoy this program and want to hear more like it, consider supporting Curry Coast Community Radio. Here’s How.
Intro and end music: The Best Is Yet to Come, licensed from audioblocks.com.
Our Community: Something’s Happening Here
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In this episode of Our Community, host Candice Michel engages with guests Ray Gary, Rick McNamer, and Michael Gorse in a thought-provoking discussion on the political and social challenges facing the United States. The conversation delves into topics such as the erosion of democracy, the influence of media, historical injustices, economic struggles, and the divisive nature of the current political climate. The guests emphasize the importance of preserving historical narratives, promoting community storytelling, and addressing systemic inequalities, including the backlash against diversity and inclusion efforts. They critique the role of large media corporations, the Supreme Court, and social media in shaping public perception and fostering division. The episode concludes with a call for community-driven solutions, self-sufficiency, and ongoing dialogue to tackle these pressing issues.
Host: Candice Michel; Guest:Ray Gary, Rick McNamer, Michael Gorse; Producer: Candice Michel
The opinions expressed here are those of the individual participants. Curry Coast Community Radio takes no position on issues discussed in this program.
If you enjoy this program and want to hear more like it, consider supporting Curry Coast Community Radio. Here’s How.
Intro and end music: The Best Is Yet to Come, licensed from audioblocks.com.
Curry Café: Northwest American Indian Coalition – Indigenous Issues in Curry County with Katrina Thompson Upton
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In this episode of Curry Café, host Ray Gary and Rick McNamer welcome Katrina Thompson Upton, founder of the Northwest American Indian Coalition, and tribal youth Lily, to discuss the history, challenges, and cultural contributions of Indigenous communities in Curry County, Oregon. The conversation sheds light on the historical displacement of local tribes like the Tututini and Chetco peoples, the ongoing lack of federal recognition, and the resulting barriers to governance and resource management. Topics include the importance of cultural gatherings, the impact of policies like the Homestead Act, environmental concerns such as whale entanglements and offshore wind power, and the trauma of Indigenous boarding schools. The episode highlights efforts to address systemic issues, such as the epidemic of missing and murdered Indigenous people, and introduces initiatives like the “Healing of the Trail” program for Native youth, as well as advocacy groups promoting cultural and environmental sustainability. The conversation underscores the need for education, community engagement, and the integration of traditional ecological knowledge for a more inclusive and equitable future.
We encourage anyone with differing views to participate in future Curry Café discussions. If you’re interested in joining the panel, email contact@kciw.org or call 541-661-4098.
Host: Ray Gary, Producers: Ray Gary, Rick McNamer
The opinions expressed here are those of the individual participants. Curry Coast Community Radio takes no position on issues discussed in this program.
If you enjoy this program and want to hear more like it, consider supporting Curry Coast Community Radio. Here’s How.
Intro and end music by Kat Liddell.
Curry Café: Martin Luther King Jr. and the Civil Rights Movement
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In this episode of Curry Café, host Ray Gary and Rick McNamer welcomes retired minister and civil rights activist Robert O’Sullivan to discuss the life, philosophy, and enduring impact of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The discussion delves into King’s early experiences with segregation, his education at Morehouse College and Crozer Theological Seminary, and the influential ideas of Thoreau and Gandhi that shaped his commitment to nonviolent resistance. Key civil rights milestones, such as the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the formation of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), and the iconic “I Have a Dream” speech, are highlighted alongside the movement’s internal challenges and evolving strategies. The discussion also reflects on Robert’s personal activism, including attending a King speech and facing FBI scrutiny, and examines King’s later focus on economic justice and opposition to the Vietnam War. Concluding with a call to honor King’s legacy, the conversation emphasizes the ongoing relevance of nonviolence and equality in addressing modern social and political divides.
We encourage anyone with differing views to participate in future Curry Café discussions. If you’re interested in joining the panel, email contact@kciw.org or call 541-661-4098.
Host: Ray Gary, Producers: Ray Gary, Rick McNamer
The opinions expressed here are those of the individual participants. Curry Coast Community Radio takes no position on issues discussed in this program.
If you enjoy this program and want to hear more like it, consider supporting Curry Coast Community Radio. Here’s How.
Intro and end music by Kat Liddell.
Curry Café: Jimmy Carter, the Outsider President
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In this episode of Curry Café, host Ray Garry and guest Robert O’Sullivan discuss the life, presidency, and legacy of Jimmy Carter. Starting with Carter’s unique upbringing in racially segregated Plains, Georgia, they explore his rise from a political outsider to the 39th U.S. president. The discussion highlights Carter’s integrity, his focus on human rights, environmentalism, and Native American rights, as well as his post-presidency achievements, like his work with the Carter Center and Habitat for Humanity. O’Sullivan and Garry reflect on Carter’s challenges, including his struggles with Washington insiders, his lack of national political experience, and his often underrated presidency. Personal anecdotes, like Garry’s experience creating a handcrafted gift for Carter, add a personal touch to the conversation. The episode portrays Carter as a humble, principled leader whose forward-thinking policies were often ahead of their time.
We encourage anyone with differing views to participate in future Curry Café discussions. If you’re interested in joining the panel, email contact@kciw.org or call 541-661-4098.
Host: Ray Gary, Producers: Ray Gary, Rick McNamer
The opinions expressed here are those of the individual participants. Curry Coast Community Radio takes no position on issues discussed in this program.
If you enjoy this program and want to hear more like it, consider supporting Curry Coast Community Radio. Here’s How.
Intro and end music by Kat Liddell.
Curry Café: World Heritage Sites
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This week’s Curry Café panel explores the significance of World Heritage Sites — landmarks recognized by UNESCO for their cultural, historical, or natural importance to humanity. The panel is hosted by Ray Gary, who also produces his own music shows What’s Going On and Moon Dog on KCIW. Joining Ray are Rick McNamer, a KCIW board member and volunteer; Troy Lea, a Crescent City artist and performer preparing to launch his own show on KCIW; and Robin Ronay, a Brookings realtor with deep ties to the local arts community.
We encourage anyone with differing views to participate in future Curry Café discussions. If you’re interested in joining the panel, email contact@kciw.org or call 541-661-4098.
Host: Ray Gary, Producers: Ray Gary, Rick McNamer
The opinions expressed here are those of the individual participants. Curry Coast Community Radio takes no position on issues discussed in this program.
If you enjoy this program and want to hear more like it, consider supporting Curry Coast Community Radio. Here’s How.
Intro and end music by Kat Liddell.

