Nellie Black
Issue #86 - December 19, 2021
This edition of Sky Studio is dedicated to Nellie Black
who joined former colleagues in Sky Studio, December 13, 2020.
“An incredible person to anyone who met her in her work, church and community and a dear friend to so many,” is how the obituary announcement describes Nellie, who is remembered by her radio, television and cable colleagues from 119 East Street and 672 Queen Street East.
During the 1970s she worked in traffic and billing in television with Ruby Newell, Nancy Pedinelli, Connie Garside, and Carmel DiPietro, in radio with Fran Aronson and Gail Allen, and Nellie also worked with what was then known as, Lake Superior Cablevision with Evelyn Fullerton. Her official title was Systems Supervisor/Computer Division of Huron Broadcasting, which in broadcast language meant Traffic Manager of Television.
Those involved recall the late 1970s as challenging times for broadcasting at 119 East Street - new owners, a new company, new management introducing a twin-stick operation (operating two separate television stations in the same facility --CBC and CTV), the introduction of the Columbine computerized traffic system, with many new employees coping with sub-standard technical equipment frustrating for the Engineering Department and end users.
Recollections are that it was Nellie's task along with the others, to coordinate all of these elements on a daily basis. It was akin to herding cats in a house-of-horrors! But Nellie was always there making the best of things with her cheerful disposition and smile.
Those close to the scene remember it seemed it was always Nellie who appeared in John Meadows office to inform the Program Manager "we have another problem". (see staff/position lists below)
There were problems. Managing a traffic department for one television station is a big job. Two stations were almost impossible, given the new software and computers simply were not up to the task. But Nellie and her group prevailed.
Because of the constant "computer problems", Nellie introduced a novel backup system to ensure against total disaster. Backup was done twice daily. Noon and 5:00PM. Each lunch-hour one person in the traffic department was responsible for taking the large spool of magnetic tape containing the backup and carry the heavy load in a fabric shopping bag during lunch. Another person was responsible for the same routine at 5:00PM. taking the tape home for safekeeping for the evening, all in the department rotated this procedure on a regular basis.
Long time Hyland Radio and Television/Huron Broadcasting employee, Dianna Malysh says, “Until very recently they kept the tradition of getting together for lunch on all of their birthdays. I am sure they have great memories to share. Nellie always looked great and took pride in her appearance. She dealt with a couple health problems; always remaining thankful for all her blessings. She loved life and was so proud of her children and grandchildren. She will be missed and fondly remembered by everyone who was fortunate to call her a friend.”
Nellie Black was a highly respected and beloved member of Huron Broadcasting and deserves a special place in the Sky Studio.
Special Announcements
Nellie Black Obituary - Sault Ste. Marie, ON (dignitymemorial.com)
BLACK, Nellie Ann (Stefani) - Obituary - Sault Ste. Marie - SooToday.com
