Keeping Kurrent

As one grows older we find ourselves faced with quite a variety of changes in our physical status. Given that situation how might a younger version of our self plan to have the best future outcome? On this episode of Keeping you'll meet Wayne Sabin, educator, sportsman, promoter of good health who has effectively lived to the age of 90 despite serious health threats. He is a visionary for all young people who want to live long and prosperous lives.

Listen to an interview of Rhony Bhopla, a British indo-American poet and artist, recent graduate of the MFA in Fine Arts in writing from Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon. She became a teaching assistant in the Kwame Dawes Mapmakers Institute at the University. She will share one of her poems that was published during her first year. She produced art that was available through the Crocker Art Museum. You will find yourself deeply affected by he reading of one of her published poems.

Storytelling is alive and well in Portland Oregon. There are many opportunities to listen to skilled storytellers at various local venues and especially at Artichoke Music or even on line. You need to know more about the Portland Storyteller's Guild from Ken Iverson, Guild President, and Barbara Fankhauser, Past President. You'll learn a lot about the 37 year history of the organization, how you could participate in various events, how you could become a participating member, and even hear a wonderful story. You can find out more about the Guild at their website: https://www.portlandstorytellers.org/.

Houseless youth have found a way to contribute to the community throught their involvement in "Outside the Frame." Nili Yosha, Executive Director talks about herself and the amazing success of this non-profit film production company in Portland, Oregon. You will learn the inside story about this organization and learn how you can watch the amazing variety of videos on their website. Take a look at their website at https://outsidetheframe.org/films.

"It takes a village" to make the world a safer, more productive place to live and flourish. This interview with Patrick McNamara provides valuable insight into the many efforts being made to maintain the valuable international relationships that help solve the many issues we face.

Martha Randolph grew up in a household that was parented by two nationally known actors, John Randolph and Sarah Cunningham. Her life experiences prepared her for employment in live theater and opera. Her parents survived the McCarthy period and, with the help of theater people. These experiences prepared her for a chance to become a Stage Manager. You'll learn how she broke a number of employment barriers.

This is an opportunity for those who travel to Hawaii to gain some inside knowledge about Hawaiian politics. You will meet Martha Randolph, a community and political activist who is engaged in making a positive contribution to her community. Find out about her personal background and learn a bit about the Hawaiian political structure and activities. This will add to your understanding of this beautiful place.

Medical Care continues to change. Our experiences with the Covid epidemic have shown us that medical care needs to be available close to or in the home or community. Enable Dental, inc., is a relatively new dental service provider that takes their care to individuals who are unable to travel to a dental office. This company is showing us the future of dental care.

Jeff Gere is a funny, engaging, story teller that spent 30 years as a Drama Specialist for the City & County of Honolulu. He told stories to over 20,000 students. He has traveled across mainland USA and internationally to such such countries as Turkey, Canada, Hong Kong, Samoa, Guam and Saipan. You will enjoy joining him in experiencing his wonderful stories.

Many Americans volunteer for something. Maybe it's as simple as mowing a lawn or watering some flowers. However, there are others that take volunteering to a new level. Nurses can do this by volunteering overseas or during some period of turmoil. One organization, "One Nurse at a Time," helps nurses and other licensed medical volunteer overseas or in the United States by providing scholarships, training, and mentors. On this episode of Keeping Kurrent you'll meet Sue Averill, one of a small group of nurses that formed "One Nurse at a Time." You'll enjoy meeting her and finding out if you'd like to volunteer or even support those that do. Check out their website: https://onenurseatatime.org/

Have you ever wondered what it is like to be a film maker? You get your chance to learn about that role when you listen to Sue Arbuthnot and Richard Wilhelm, Producers and directors of over 30 films. You'll find out about their most recent production, Refuge series, that is still being edited. You can learn more about their films at their website: https://www.refugefilm.net/hare-in-the-gate

Meet Rick True, owner of True Wind Sculptures. He produces large metal sculptures that you will find in cities located in Clackamas County, Oregon. He describes how his life lead him to a professional life as an artist. He describes how an artist sells his work and is a valuable model for up-and-coming artists who want to be able to support themselves making art.

Joni Kimoto-Reeves, a survivor of the WWII Japanese Internment camps describes her families experience after being forcibly removed from Portland, Oregon to the Minidoka Japanese internment camp in a rural part of Idaho. She describes how her family managed to effectively deal with the harsh conditions of the camp and how they eventually were able to leave the camp and migrate east where work was available. Finally, she describes the long passage of time it took before her family could deal with the deep loss and rejection caused by the authorities and a public that had been encouraged to hate the Japanese because of the false claims against them.

The armed forces staff said that eliminating the symptoms of PTSD was not a desirable treatment. This attitude has been proven wrong headed There are coaches and counselors who have successful practices in treating PTSD and grief. Kelly Wilson, an Oregon resident is one such coach. Find out more about this treatment by listening to her interview. You can learn more about her practice and treatment methods by looking at https://www.wilsonwrites.com/

Up to 70,000 persons usually come together at the Burning Man. They bring their campers, tents, artistic vehicles, lights, drones, costumes and lots of food to share with others. You'll learn what it's like for one person to attend the 2021 Burning Man. Tyler George made the decision to join a number of friends to find out what it would be like. Tyler is a colorful, friendly person who can get very enthusiastic. Perhaps you'll decide to go to the 2022 Burning Man.

There are many great job opportunities available to individuals seeking new work. Pam Brown introduces you to Adam "Thorn" Smith, Oregon based tour guide. Individuals might find such a job to be rewarding, flexible, and sufficient to meet personal financial needs. You'll find out what it means to learn this trade and, if you're interested, learn how to get in touch with Adam Smith.

There are a variety of ways to examine life at home and abroad during World War Two. Adele Longmore, a Portland, Oregon resident shares her personal story about this time.

Dr. Michael Connolly, a volunteer at the Palm Springs California Art Museum talks about the significance of this art museum. He also describes the role a museum art docent in helping visitors understand the the museum's art.

Hear Desiree Eden Ocampo, Executive Director of Rehab's Sisters talk about the way they create community through radical hospitality with the marginalized by poverty homelessness, sex work, violence and substance abuse. They are located in Portland Oregon and serve some 400 individuals meals every Friday as well as provide helpful conversation, games, hygienic products, and support. You can find out how to support them on their website: https://rahabs-sisters.org/

Pam Brown, co-host of the Keeping Kurrent Show, interviews Karie Shirtz, a dental hygienist located in the greater Portland, Oregon area. She learns what motivated Karie to become a dental hygienist and what it took to become one. Pam Brown is interested in helping individuals think about availability of the great employment opportunities.

The visually impaired have many technical tools to assist them in reading and utilizing computers. This interview will introduce you to the Blind Beacon Project that has been developed by Dr. Vinod Namboordiri, a professor at Wichita State University. Dr. Namboodiri has designed a navigational aide that can be utilized on a smart phone that gives verbal direction to the user who wants to find a specific room in a building. You can find out more about the project at: https://research.envisionus.com/getattachment/Team/Vinod-Namboodiri,-PhD/percom2016-camready.pdf?lang=en-US.

The 2021 census reports that more than 80% of the US population now lives in cities. This should include unincorporated urban and rural communities. Community leaders as well as state and local political figures have been asking if Counties are able to manage the urban unincorporated communities, many which are larger than the incorporated cities. A group of residents living in the Oak Grove and Jennings Lodge unincorporated communities decided to find out what other sorts or political structure s might provide better more equitable support for their residents. They found money from Metro, a regional form of government unique to Oregon, to fund the "Oak Lodge Governance Project." They have been promoting their project to the local community using their own funds. So, some residents in a retirement community, Willamette View, is helping them promote their study. This interview is part of that effort. In this interview you'll meet Mitra Anoshiravani and Eleanore Hunter, organizing members of the project. They'll explain the purpose of the project, provide some historical context, and describe the project's current status. You may not live in this community, however, you should learn how a similar look at your community might help you see if your tax dollars are best spent. Take a look at the Oak Lodge Governance Project website: http://oaklodgegovernanceproject.org/

There are so many international emergencies. War, civil strife, floods, excessive hear, hurricanes and tornadoes. When these happen normal activities cease and support from many international agencies is essential to provide a reasonably stable life. The Inter-agency Network for Education in Emergencies is one of the many agencies that help support education. They cooperate with some 4000 organizations that provide education by providing resources and helping coordinate the services. They also provide training and utilize studies that help these education oriented agencies. You can find out more about them at https://inee.org/.

Is the US Border Patrol focused on coping with those seeking asylum or for those trying to reconnect with their children? You will learn about the work of the Center for Migration Studies of New York and listen to Edgardo Zuniga, a contract worker for the International Rescue Committee talk about how that organization is helping individuals fleeing Guatemala, Columbia and El Salvador who are seeking asylum or attempting to reconnect with their children living in the US. Find out more about the IRC at https://www.rescue.org/

Refugee settlement in the United States is a task that has been taken on by a number of Non-profit organizations. Many large cities have such a resettlement program. While traveling in the Dallas-Fort Worth area in late 2015 I met Paula Rose, a volunteer who assists refugees as they establish a residence, get work and go to school. She volunteers with Dallas Fort Worth International. I talked with her about this demanding role. I am very impressed with the long hours she spends helping these people. I learned a lot about the practical steps she takes and was amazed at her stamina. A number of important immigration issues still face the US. Governor Greg Abbott, no friend of immigration cancelled his state's cooperation with the US Refugee Resettlement programs in December 2016. He set limits on the number of refugees that could enter his state. More information about the US Refugee Resettlement programs will be available soon. Find out about the International Rescue Committee.

Circular fashion isn't just a new catch phrase, it's an phrase that describes the future of the clothing and shoe wear industry. This is an interview of Julie Derrick, owner of "JD's Shoe Repair" and also know as "The Cobblers." You won't believe what her shop is able to achieve in re rebuilding shoes, wallets, bags, and purses. It is time that the American public learn the wonderful benefits of making clothing and shoes last. Here's the proof if it. Take a look at their great website: http://www.jdshoerepair.com/

Homeless families and homeless women find a haven in Portland, Oregon when they connect with Rose Haven. Rose Haven has been operating for more than 20 years in Portland and provides a variety of services as well as a safe place for women to work on making their life better. Liz Starke, Development Director of Rose Haven, describes their many successes in spite of the Covid-19 pandemic, the severe weather and wild fires in Oregon. What is amazing is her positive outlook.

Meet Pat DeLair, the CEO of Global Mission Readiness as he describes why so many American firefighters are committed to helping international fire districts train their firefighters. These firefighters are helping stabilize communities and demonstrate that Americans care about the sanctity of life.

Ned Rosch describes how, as a Jew, he accepts the basic values and teachings of Judaism, however, he has rejected the unquestioning Jewish adoption of Zionism. Zionism has come to mean the Israeli's adoption of the idea, "You cannot criticize the Israeli government and its repression of the Palestinian residents living in Gaza, East Jerusalem, and the West Bank." He talks about how some Jews are speaking against these Israeli policies and programs.

Fran Lloyd Wright designed many beautiful houses and also designed some for a more popular market. One of these styles was the Gordon House. You'll find one of these popular styles in Silverton, Oregon located on the grounds of the Oregon Gardens. Individuals can visit Oregon Gardens but must make reservations to visit the Gordon House. Individuals can arrange to stay overnight at the house along with three additional persons. Find out more about these visits/stay overs at http://www.gordonhouse.org/visits.

Meet Nate Hon, Clackamas County Fire District firefighter. Find out how he became a firefighter and how he progressed through the ranks. He also describes how the Fire District firefighters carry out its work in the large Clackamas County territory, Oregon.

The COVID-19 pandemic has taught us that we are in need of more trained nurses. The Oregon Health and Sciences University (OHSU) stepped up to the plate when they developed a 15 month accelerated nursing program that was an alternative to the 3 year program. It is time that more nursing programs offer such training as more individuals are in need of health services. It is designed for candidates with health care experience and training.

Meet Sophie, the owner and operator of the Rohst Coffee Company. You'll find out how Sophie's French upbringing has influenced what here shop looks like and even learn to speak French. Covid-19 has affected her business in a very dramatic way, however, Sophie has established a regular schedule, but, has some limited hours, 8 am - 1 pm. Help keep Millwaukie, Oregon businesses remain open. See the Rohst Coffee Company website at http://www.rohstcoffee.com/home.

What is happening to businesses that are trying to maintain their bottom line during this terrible Covid-19 Pandemic? How is it affecting the owner's ambitions? Listen to the story of Anne Nottingham and Kathy Tippets, owners of Two Sisters Play Cafe as they tell their story about how their business is attempting to survive this pandemic. This interview is designed to help encourage community residents to support these businesses during this difficult period. Check out the cafe's website at http://www.twosistersplaycafe.com.

Listen to a presentation by Carolyn Driedger, Outreach Coordinator, USGS, Cascade Volcano Observatory as she talks about her personal experience on the day before, during and after the eruption of Mt. St. Helens on May 18, 1980. She will also describe the role of USGS in protecting residents who live near any volcanic centers followed by a description of USGS's international role. Her presentation is personal, witty, engaging and very enlightening. I want to thank the leadership of the Willamette View Public Affairs Committee for allowing me to organize this event and for Carolyn Driedger for encouraging this public information to reach more people. You can find out more about this presentation on http://www.keepingkurrent.com.

During the next 15 years thirty-three percent individual households will be headed by persons 65 years of age and older. Individuals approaching this time in their lives need to carefully plan for affordable and adequate housing, where they can experience a quality of life that affords the opportunity to live independently. In this segment of Keeping Kurrent you'll meet Val and Eleanore Harris, who have chosen to live in one of the communities known as "The Villages." How does their experience help you make your choices on this matter? See more about their experience on the Keeping Kurrent website, www.keepingkurrent.com.

Listen to the Collin Karg's story about how he successfully built an Art Glass Gallery in Kechi, Kansas. He explains how he started a business in his garage and gradually expanded it to many buildings and eventually into his current gallery in Kechi, Kansas. He identifys the key decisions he made that allowed him to develop his business.

Collin Karg achieved success by creating successful manufacturing plants, the sale of a variety of products and services and then finally became a successful glass artist. His interview demonstrates the set of traits that are necessary for achieving his dreams. His gallery is located in Kechi, Kansas.

Americans need to examine our immigrant history so we can understand what has happened since the 2016 Presidential Election. Ronald "Smokey" Steves, actor, producer and activist decided that he needed to talk about "Nativism," the policy of protecting the interests of native-born or established inhabitants against those of immigrants, in the context of 2016. He produced America, Immigrant Nation, which aired in September 2016. He was also interviewed by CTV, a Canadian 23-hour television network. He describes the motivation behind his production of his video. This program was originally aired on Keeping Kurrent in 2017.

Wayne Potter, host of Keeping Kurrent interviews Bob Jackson, biology teacher, city council member and one-time mayor of Kechi, Kansas, who is also a wood carver. Bob lives in a small town, Kechi Kansas. The town has about 2000 residents. Bob served as a city council member for a number of years and was elected as the Mayor. Currently, Bob is retired, and spends some of his time carving song birds. He is helping preserve our memory of the North American bird population which has diminished by 29% over the last 50 years. This amounts to 2.9 million individual birds

Ray LaPietra grew up in a household filled with physical abuse, poverty, neglect and much adversity. Despite the meaness of these forces he strove to overcome them. He became highly successful. He is now a professional motivaltional public speaker, trained mediator and dispute resolution specialist having worked with the Judicial Office of the Kansas Suipreme Court and a business sucess coach and consultant, philanthropist and published author. What can you learn from his experience?

Women had a decisive role to play in the formation of the Industrial Workers of the world (IWW or Wobblies). Writers have often focused on key male figures ;however, Heather Mayer chose to focus on women, single women, families, and husband and wife Wobbly teams. They didn’t just focus on the suffrage movement but … “supported women in their fight for birth control, sexual emancipation and better labor conditions, all gthe while facing persecution at the local, state, and federal levels.”

Listen to Jackson Calhoun, high school student in Clackamas County Oregon. He speaks about his involvement in the Global Climate Strike held on September 20, 2019 in Portland, Oregon. He also speaks about his current involvement in the Sunrise Movement. Young people are making it clear that society must move from a carbon based, fossil fuel driven economy to a sustainable model that will create a better future for everyone that has jobs that help accomplish a sustainable economy.

Why is there a Buddhist monk living in Indiana? Bernard della Santina explains how he met and continues with his friendship with this Buddhist Tibetan monk, the 8th Arjia Rinpoche in California, the reincarnation of the Abbot of the Kumbum monastery. Then, you’ll hear Arjia Rinpoche describe his personal story about his early life and surviving Chinese rule over Tibet. Learn about his current passions and commitments in Mongolia including his personal story, “Surviving the Dragon.”.

: Interview of Reverend John Shuck, minister at Southminister Presbyterian Church in Beaverton, Oregon. He describes the basic views of his Progresive Christian Church and outlines the various ways that diverse religious views are incorporated into the church's worship and activities. Recently, Shuck joined a tour group in 2018 that joined the Iraq Arbaeen Pilgrimage. He gave preliminary details of this pilgrimage and provided preliminary details of the documentary video of his trip that will be shown in April 2019 in Beaverton and in Seattle.

Author Kristina McMorris describes what motivated her to write the novel, "Sold on a Monday;" how her past experiences and current research were used to write this compelling story about a woman who felt compelled to sell her two children. The plot has many twists amn turns including interesting and compelling characters.

Meet Rith Tilllman, a resident of Portland who originally grew up in Chicago. Wayne Potter, Host of Keeping Kurrent, asks Ruth about her involvement in a local AARP group lead her to attend classes at Oregon Health and Sciences University about the brain, her taking a number of art classes through AARP and the Geezer Gallery. Ruth created a collage that told about her mother, her mother's favorite potato salad recipe.

This is a recording of a question and answer session with a member of the Mahmood Mosque in Haifa. You will get a unique insight into this particular type of Muslim. There is reason for Israeli's government leaders to like this particular group of Muslims. These Muslims support the Palestinian effort but they work peacefully to achieve that end.

A presentation by a member of the Ahmadiyya Muslim group. This group cooperates with many religious groups to create peace and religious understanding. They were established in the 19th century in India. Their world headquarters are located in Haifa. They are permitted to practice in the City of Haifa, however, although there are Ahmadiyya members throughout Israel they are not permitted to establish mosques around the country. This presentation focuses on the mosque worship pradtices.

White Hats On SC by Wayne Potter

This recording was made at the beginning of a 2017 tour of Israel. The tour was titled, “The Land of Israel: Past, Present and Future.” The tour was operated by an Israeli tour company for Road Scholar, an American company that operates international tours. The speak was Dr. Gabi Barkay, an Israeli archeologist, an external lecturer at an Israeli university who has frequently appeared on the History Channel show the Naked Archeologist. He established the “Temple Mount Antiquities Salvage Operation,” that recovered significant ancient artifacts from 400 truckloads of earth removed from the Temple Mount from 1996 to 2001. He has participated in many other important discoveries. In this lecture, he explains why Jerusalem is such an important Israeli city. You’ll find Barkay views quite enlightening. His humor is delightful.