Live and Local with Russ Clark

I left my career with corporate NAPA in 1994 to permanently locate in Yuma Arizona. I have been fortunate to have traveled across the country and experienced life in communities from Maine to California. I saw Yuma as a great place to own my own business and as a place to raise my kids in a stable environment. I recognized Yuma's openness to new businessmen and the community’s eagerness to accept new people. I realized that with hard work I could develop a successful business and get involved in community activities. It wasn't long before my whole family was experiencing everything Yuma had to offer. Both of my kids grew up knowing who the Mayor and Sheriff were and how a community functions, a rich experience that will tie them to this area forever.

Six years ago I was asked to be a guest on AM 560. The host at the time wanted me to talk about auto parts but my passion and desire was discussioning politics and community. The host left KBLU shortly after my first visit. The radio station asked me on a Friday if I could host a three hour show five days a week starting the upcoming Monday morning as they had no one else to fill the time. Not wanting to back down from a challenge I quickly agreed. The hours on top of the requirements of my business were challenging but I felt it was an opportunity to give back to the community that has given me so much. After 3 1/2 years on the air I found it necessary to leave so that I could focus on my business. Fortunately I was able to return to the airwaves on a reduced schedule January of this year.

My time in broadcasting has opened up opportunities to understand our community beyond my expectations. I've been invited to events at our military bases, schooled by the border patrol and been exposed to our colleges and businesses. I have been given the opportunity to interview people from all walks of life including Senators, Congressmen, politicians, community activists and leaders both government and private.

After six years of work I feel I have so much more to offer and I am happy that the opportunity at AM 560 KBLU is still available. I hope to continue my work of sharing information about our country and community on a local level, interviewing leaders that affect our future and those that have a story that otherwise would not have an opportunity to share it.