Gila/Mimbres Community Radio (GMCR.org) and KURU 89.1 FM will offer a week of special programming September 20-26, 2021, to introduce new programs with live DJs and program hosts, re-acquaint the community with regularly offered programs, and invite donations from new and current members, Station Manager Marcus Hanson announced. The non-profit community radio station features ten locally produced music programs in a variety of genres with live hosts, plus another seven syndicated music programs. Twelve locally produced programs on public affairs and culture (drama, poetry, literature) are complemented by seventeen syndicated programs covering a range of topic areas. Spanish and bilingual programs on public affairs, music, and culture are also broadcast weekly. “With local talent and national sources, there’s really something for everyone, tailored to the interests and needs of our community and Southwest New Mexico,” said Hanson. 

The station broadcasts at 10,500 watts around the clock every day of the week on KURU 89.1 FM and streams live on the Internet at GMCR.org, with many archived programs that listeners can access at their convenience.

Hanson emphasized that the membership drive will highlight programs that help the community learn about the many organizations that benefit and enrich our area, such as Community Spotlight, which presents a different group each week. A new program called “Caravan,” produced and hosted by Carolyn Smith, will air Mondays at 2:00 p.m., starting during this special week. Caravan takes listeners across the soundscape, exploring music from around the world.

The station has an information table at the Farmers Market on Pope Street each Saturday morning. With the Farmers Market, GMCR co-sponsors local musicians whose talents entertain shoppers. On Saturday, September 25, the musician of the week will be keyboardist Ray Cressler, playing Americana, Folk, and Honky Tonk Piano. 

Gila/Mimbres Community Radio is funded by donations from the community. Shoppers at the Silver City Food Coop are encouraged to round up their payments to the next whole dollar or more, while GMCR is the September beneficiary of the Coop’s program to make small change add up to big bucks for community nonprofits. To join or donate with a credit card or PayPal, visit GMCR.org on the Internet and click the “DONATE” button. Checks payable to GMCR may be mailed to 519-B North Bullard Street, Silver City, NM 88061, or dropped through the mail slot. 

GMCR and KURU are operated almost entirely by volunteers. People interested in any aspect of community radio are invited to email Marcus Hanson at manager@gmcr.org, or call 575-597-4891.