Self-Portrait by Chuck Gifford.
By Ron Staschak
I had the honor of interviewing one of the foundations of WRFR. Not only does Chuck have two great and very different shows (Rotary Hour- Tuesday 3-4pm and Happy Hour – Tuesday 4-6pm), he also organizes all the on air programing. WRFR and the Rockland community are fortunate to have Chuck.
What do you do at the radio station?
I host two shows: Rotary Time, 3-4 Tuesdays, followed immediately by Happy Hour 4-6. I also upload remotely created shows. Sometimes something at the Station needs resetting, and it might fall to me to do so.
How long have you been volunteering?
Since May 2012.
Why did you decide to volunteer/why did you want to have a show?
My friend and bandmate Claymore Wales, aka Kel Chapman, had a long-running show called Kaleidoscope on Tuesday afternoons. He invited me in for a Special Edition to celebrate my wife’s birthday. I enjoyed selecting music & puzzling together a playlist. Thus was I hooked.
Other than the show you host, what is your favorite show?
As many of your respondents have observed, that’s a tough question, say I enjoy the shows that the djs have put their time and intent and passion into. There are many such and are easily discerned upon hearing them.
Is there a question I should have asked you?
“Is there always time to do it over?”
Answer this question.
The question is a koan, any answer might be correct.
NOTE : A kōan (公案) is a story, dialogue, question, or statement which is used in Zen practice to provoke the “great doubt” and to practice or test a student’s progress in Zen
Describe each show: Rotary Time and Happy Hour.
Rotary Time is a music show with a hebdomadal theme.
Happy Hour is a show based on Melody & Poetry. Every week we present From Where I Stood: The Millay Moment® honoring Rockland’s Own Edna St Vincent Millay. In that segment we feature poetry.
What instrument(s) do you play?
I play most stringed instruments and keyboards.