The National Advertising Benevolent Society is pleased to share the inception of the Norman Vidler Memorial Fund in thanks and gratitude to an extremely generous donation by The Slaight Family Foundation in Norman (Gary Russell) Vidler’s name.
"Gary Russell spent 16 years with Standard Broadcasting. Both Allan and I can attest to his contribution to the ultimate success of the Standard radio properties in Ottawa, Calgary and Vancouver and we sincerely feel Gary deserves to be recognized and remembered. The Slaight Family Foundation is proud to have his name attached to this annual legacy grant to NABS," said Gary Slaight, President and CEO, The Slaight Family Foundation.
“NABS was an organization that was close to Norm (Gary’s) heart, in fact, he interviewed and inspired me to join NABS almost six years ago,” said Loraine Brown, West-Regional Director, NABS. “We’ve been impacted by industry angels who emerge without warning, showing us their kindness, generosity, and keen desire to help NABS succeed. Norm (Gary) was one of those angels, and because of the generosity of The Slaight Family Foundation, and his dear friend Gary Slaight, his legacy and voice will live on, supporting Broadcast industry professionals across Canada.”
Norm (Gary’s) contributions as a broadcaster spanned more than four decades with positions that had him crossing the country. Getting his start through brother Chuck McCoy with on-air work, he then embarked on a successful career in programming and management with Moffat Communications and Standard Broadcasting. Norm (Gary) was known as a champion and supporter of on-air talent and managers, always inspiring confidence in those he worked with. He also served on the Boards of many distinguished industry associations such as BBM, BCAB and NABS West. In 2024, Norm (Gary) retired from his role as General Manager of Standard Broadcasting’s CISL/Z-95 in Vancouver, and in 2024 he was inducted into the Canadian Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame.
NABS will be the beneficiary of an annual donation from The Slaight Family Foundation of $50,000 over the next five years, to provide custom programs and support to people from the Broadcast industry across Canada. For over 32 years, NABS has been providing customized care and support to Broadcast, Media, Advertising and Marketing professionals in Canada.