Canadian history audiophiles can rejoice now that CJSW, an independent radio station in Calgary, has launched its anticipated “Today in Canadian History” series. Each day, CJSW takes a look back and profiles significant events in Canada’s past. By combining broadcast radio with podcasting, CJSW hopes to reach a national audience and spread a little knowledge about Canadian history.
Producer Joe Burima answered a few questions about this ambitious public history project:
Sean Kheraj: What is “Today in Canadian History” and how can listeners find it?
Joe Burima: We air an episode of Today in Canadian History every weekday morning. There are several convenient ways to listen:
- Every weekday morning at 7:30 am (MST) on CJSW 90.9 FM in Calgary and www.cjsw.com.
- On our website at http://blogs.cjsw.com/todayincanadianhistory/
- On our Facebook page
- As a podcast
SK: What are the origins of this show?
JB: My co-executive producer (Marc Affeld) and I are both incredibly passionate about Canadian history – we have been for years. By last summer, the idea for an ongoing series that focused on Canadian history had been festering in my mind for several months. I mentioned the idea to Marc, who was then a new volunteer at the station, and he immediately jumped at the idea. This series is possible because of our fantastic partnership.
SK: How long will the series run?
JB: The series will run for one year. However, we have purposefully produced the series so that additional content can be added to every episode. The sky is the limit!
SK: What has been the most interesting day in Canadian history that you’ve covered so far?
JB: Tough question. With so many passionate contributors involved, it’s difficult to isolate one day. I personally really enjoyed creating our July 8th episode. I had an opportunity to speak with Globe and Mail contributor and author Roy MacGregor The episode focuses on the disappearance of the now-famous Canadian painter Tom Thomson back in 1917. The story fascinates me – a uniquely Canadian tale about a handsome, passionate man who disappears while canoeing (how quintessentially Canadian!) in Algonquin Park back in 1917.
[audio:http://blogs.cjsw.com/todayincanadianhistory/audio/2010-07-08.mp3]
SK: How can listeners contribute?
JB: Our series would not be possible without the assistance of passionate contributors from across Canada. Though our progress has been fantastic, there are still plenty of dates and subjects to cover. We welcome any and all assistance. Though we appreciate specific recommendations, contributors do not necessarily have to have a specific date or event in mind. Feel free to send us an email at todayincanadianhistory@cjsw.com.
For more information, please visit the “Today in Canadian History” website at:
