When Gord Theedom’s wife of 54 years passed away, she left a gaping hole in his world. Gord, a sprightly 84, explains how he came to find CHLY, the community radio station: “I was killing time one afternoon and found myself at the bottom of the China steps in downtown Nanaimo. I saw a sign for the Radio Malaspina Society and, since I had worked at CHUB radio for a short time, I wandered in and struck up a conversation with station manager, [Dylan Perry].”

Within minutes Dylan was convinced that Gord would be an asset to the community radio station. The result of this impromptu meeting was a weekly radio show, Music from the Past, which began in 2007 and broadcasts every Monday morning from 11 a.m.-noon.

Lots had changed since Gord worked in radio in 1954, and he first had to figure out how to transfer his weekly show from tape to CD, as per station requirements. Enter Tommy Roden, 80, straight from the driving range.

The game of golf brought these two record collectors together. A friend of Gord’s eldest son was an instructor at the Nanaimo Golf Club, where Tommy was a member. When the instructor learned that Tommy’s collection exceeded 25,000 albums, he encouraged him to connect with Gord, who not only had a home studio, but over 8,000 albums.

Intrigued, Tommy introduced himself to Gord and, within days, put his technical skills to use upgrading Gord’s home studio and enabling him to meet station requirements for his weekly radio show.

After helping Gord record his weekly program onto CD, Tommy was encouraged, for about a year, by both Gord and the station manager before he finally capitulated and agreed to do his own show. What’s Next? began in May of 2010 and continues to surprise listeners each week.

In addition to his technical skills, which were developed during a lengthy career in television and radio, Tommy believes in being of service to his community. Since retiring in Nanaimo in 1992, he has served on the boards of the Nanaimo Citizen Advocacy, the United Way, Mid-Island Co-op and the Recycling Exchange. Not surprisingly, the Mid-Island Co-op and the Recycling Exchange are proud sponsors of Tommy’s weekly show.

Gord only writes down his playlist, the rest of his one-hour show is unscripted. He believes the weekly show keeps him sharp and mentally active. In addition to producing his show, Gord has been busy transferring his impressive collection of 78s onto CDs. In three weeks, he completed 867 records and compiled almost 40 CDs, each containing 23 or 24 records. Gord frequently credits his friend for the quality of his home studio, saying, “If it wasn’t for Tommy, I wouldn’t be anywhere.” 

Despite the chaotic nature of community radio, these two are unfazed by the antics of their fellow programmers. Tommy is adamant that “when you are working towards a common goal, there is no age difference.” Indeed, being able to interact with the younger generation is a thrill for both Gord and Tommy. Upon arriving at a station open house and barbecue for Vancouver Island University students, Gord was offered a hot dog but declined, stating “I’m hot enough as it is.” 

Whether young or old, the people of Radio Malaspina Society (CHLY 101.7 FM) are committed to engaging listeners with an inclusive, intelligent and innovative alternative media experience. Personal responsibility in all levels of community is encouraged. CHLY is a campus- and community-supported forum for the voices of Vancouver Island University, Nanaimo, the Islands and beyond. Were it not for CHLY’s community spirit, Gord and Tommy would not be on the air today. 

In addition to catering to an audience that appreciates both radio and fine music, these two take their volunteer commitments seriously. Often they complete their weekly shows two to three weeks in advance. In addition, they both pitch to their audience during the station’s biannual fundraising campaigns, helping to raise operating funds that keep CHLY alive.

The two also collaborate on an annual St. Patrick’s Day special, now entering its fourth year. It airs at midnight on March 16. They enjoy sharing rare music with their listeners - even if they don’t know who they are. Arriving home one day after his show, Gord was congratulated by a stranger as he got out of his car.

Considering most 80 year olds only mingle with 23 year olds when parents and grandchildren get together for family visits and special occasions, Gord and Tommy consider themselves lucky. Their volunteer commitment with the Radio Malaspina Society ensures they work alongside other programmers who are young enough to be their grandchildren. Community radio is the bridge that connects the generations.

To hear these two octogenarians, tune in to 101.7 FM every Monday morning. What’s Next? airs from 10-11 a.m. followed by Music from the Past from 11 a.m.-noon. For more information about the station, visit www.chly.ca

NOVEMBER 2011 SENIOR LIVING MAGAZINE VANCOUVER ISLAND