WVIA Recognized with Multiple Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters (PAB) Awards for Local Storytelling and Impact WVIA, the PBS and NPR affiliate serving over 22 counties in Northeastern and Central Pennsylvania, has been recognized by the Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters (PAB) with multiple awards across several categories. These honors highlight the station’s commitment to producing high-quality, locally relevant stories that inform, educate, and engage the community. Key Highlights: WVIA received recognition in five categories, including Outstanding Television Use of Digital Media, Outstanding Television Public Affairs Program, Outstanding Documentary Program, Outstanding Use of Radio Digital Media, and a Judges Merit Award. The station was honored for producing high quality news, information, and education content, which reflect its ongoing dedication to serving the public by telling impactful local stories that resonate with the community. Two of the awards recognize the quality and importance of coverage from WVIA News, including a deeply reported story about the dangerous consequences of distracted driving statewide initiative to crack down on it, and a Veteran’s Day special about a 99-year WWII veteran who readies his local orchestra for their next performance in Scranton. Key Quotes: “We are grateful to the Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters for this recognition,” said Ben Payavis II, Chief Content Officer at WVIA. “As a public media organization, our goal is to provide thoughtful, local programming that reflects the diverse needs of our community. These awards affirm the hard work and passion of our entire team, as well as the importance of the trust we’ve built with local organizations, artists, storytellers, and the audience we serve.” “Public media belongs to the people, and these awards belong to our community,” said Carla McCabe, President & CEO of WVIA. “We are honored to continue sharing meaningful stories that inform, inspire and shine a spotlight on our region.” WVIA was Awarded in the Following Categories: Outstanding Television Use of Digital Media:“The Forgotten Dynasty: Scranton Eagles Football Digital Campaign” Contributors: Chris Zellers, Jim Jennings, Kara Washington, Caitlin Mackiewicz, Holly Biondo, Ron Andruscavage, Ben Payavis II Outstanding Television Public Affairs Program/Program Series:“Keystone Edition Reports: Distracted Driving”Contributors: Julie Sidoni, Faith Golay, Lisa Guthrie Deabill, Ben Payavis II, Roger DuPuis, Haley O’Brien, Ron Andruscavage Outstanding Documentary ProgramWHAM Re-Bop-Boom-Bam: The Swing Jazz of Eddie Durham”Contributors: Kris Hendrickson, Ben Payavis II, George Graham, Ron Anduscavage, Loren Schoenberg, Andy Sordoni Outstanding Radio Use of Digital Media:“WWII veteran Gene Passarella”Contributor: Sarah Hofius Hall JUDGES’ MERIT“VIA Short Takes #403”Contributors: Kris Hendrickson, John Alaimo, Ben Payavis II These awards are a testament to the WVIA’s commitment to producing content that goes beyond entertainment by delivering balanced, fact-based local news and informative programs, as well as captivating arts, historical, and educational content for our region. Winners will be recognized at the Annual Excellence in Broadcasting Awards Luncheon taking place at the Harrisburg Hilton on Friday, April 11, 2025. The full list of winners will be announced on the Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters website.
Everhart Museum Winter Events Knox Mine Disaster Presentation Friday, January 17 | 5:30–7:30 p.m Join us Friday, January 17 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. as we observe Anthracite Heritage Month with a special reception for the exhibition Northeastern Pennsylvania Coalfields: Preservation, Praise, Promise, on view through January 26, and a presentation on the Knox Mine Disaster by documentary filmmaker David Brocca. During the evening, Brocca creator of the 2016 film Knox Mine Disaster, which chronicles the catastrophic mine flood in Jenkins Township, PA in 1959, will discuss the tragedy and its lasting legacy while presenting a variety of artifacts from the event. Guests will also have the chance to view Northeastern Pennsylvania Coalfields, which showcases the coal heritage of the region through art; coal mining tools and wares; and geological specimens. Learn about the region’s coal history while enjoying a fine selection of beers and seltzers from Susquehanna Brewing Co. (the first drink is included with the price of admission), and listening to tunes by Lex Romane, who will be playing an assortment of collected songs and original material that anthologize the history and tough life of the coal miner. To register, visit https://everhart-museum.org/knox-mine-disaster/. Underground Miners @ the Everhart Saturday, February 1 | 12:00–3:30 p.m. The Everhart is teaming up with the Underground Miners to host a special presentation to help close out Anthracite Mining Heritage Month and the exhibition Northeastern Pennsylvania Coalfields: Preservation, Praise, Promise. Chris Murley and Banks Ries of the Underground Miners will hold a video screening and discussion about the closure of one of the last operating deep anthracite mines in NEPA: “The 7-Foot Slope” in New Philadelphia. This will also be one of your last opportunities to view the Everhart Museum’s featured installation Northeastern Pennsylvania Coalfields. After the presentation, from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m., there will be tours of the Brooks Coal Mine Tour directly behind the Everhart Museum. Admission is free for both the presentation and the tour, but seating is limited, so please register in advance at https://everhart-museum.org/underground-miners/. Galentine’s in the Gallery Thursday, February 6 | Doors at 6:30 p.m. | Show from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The Everhart Museum and Funny Wine Girl present Galentine’s in the Gallery, an evening of wine, chocolate, and stand-up comedy on Thursday,February 6. Celebrate the spirit of Valentine’s Day with your gal pals by enjoying the hilarious comedy of Funny Wine Girl Jeannine Luby, Micki Orlowsky, and Emily Epstein White. With your ticket you will receive a custom Funny Wine Girl chocolate bar by Electric City Sweets as well as your first drink. Additional wine and beer as well as Belgium chocolate bars by Electric City Sweets in a variety of flavors will be available for purchase. Register today at https://everhart-museum.org/galentines-in-the-gallery/. This is a 21+ event. Advance Tickets: Everhart Members $30 Non-Members $35 At the door day of the show: $40 Valentine’s Week Kickoff Yoga with Mindy Hill Saturday, February 8 | 10:00–11:00 a.m. Kick off Valentine’s Week with some self-love in a healthy and positive space as Mindy Hill presents a yoga session in the galleries of the Everhart. Featuring fluid movement, vinyasa, and twists, flow is a practice that increases circulation of blood and prana (life-force energy), and helps to clear a foggy mind. Register today at https://everhart-museum.org/valentines-yoga/. The $10 registration fee includes Museum entry after class. WVIA Wednesdays at the Everhart: News Listening Tour Wednesday, February 12 | 2:00–3:30 p.m. Join us for the fourth installment of WVIA Wednesdays at the Everhart as we present the first “News Listening Tour.” During this event, members of the WVIA News Team will meet and discuss the area’s most important stories with community members. Stay tuned for registration to open at https://www.wvia.org/events. WVIA Wednesdays at the Everhart is a free monthly screening series programmed in partnership with WVIA Public Media especially for senior citizens. One Wednesday afternoon per month, a PBS documentary tied into the Everhart’s mission of natural history, science, art, and humanities will be screened in the Museum’s galleries.
WVIA Launches “Community Connection” to Spotlight Local Nonprofits WVIA is excited to announce the recent launch of Community Connection, a new interview series dedicated to celebrating the incredible work of nonprofit organizations across Northeastern and Central Pennsylvania. Hosted by the esteemed Lisa Mazzarella, this dynamic series premiered on November 15 and will air each Friday on WVIA Radio during NPR’s Morning Edition at 8:45AM and All Things Considered at 4:44PM. As a cornerstone of community engagement, nonprofits play a vital role in enhancing the quality of life in our region. With over 60,000 nonprofit organizations across Pennsylvania and more than 3,000 in the greater Scranton/Wilkes-Barre area alone, Community Connection seeks to highlight the impactful missions and tireless efforts of these organizations. Each week, listeners will hear first-hand accounts from nonprofit leaders, discover inspiring success stories, and meet the dedicated volunteers who make it all happen. “It is hoped the series will increase community awareness of our region’s nonprofits, and perhaps bolster an interest in volunteerism,” stated WVIA’s Lisa Mazzarella. Mazzarella continued, “Community Connection is a forum for our regional nonprofit organizations to talk about specific programs they provide, the varied missions of their organizations, and the positive impact they make in our communities. WVIA serves a 22 county radius, so the goal is to feature programs and services from organizations all around our listening area.” The premiere episode of Community Connection featured The Greenhouse Project, a nonprofit organization located in Scranton that operates a 3,000 square foot greenhouse and offers a variety of classes and educational resources focused on wholesome food and healthy living. In addition to the on-air interviews, an extended community profile will be available on WVIA’s website, featuring in-depth information about each highlighted organization, including contact details and resources. This initiative not only informs listeners but also empowers them to engage with and support the nonprofits that enrich our communities. For more information on upcoming segments and to listen to the premiere episode visit www.wvia.org/community.
Cooper’s Seafood House Hosts Celebration for Scranton Eagles Come Celebrate the “Forgotten Dynasty” on Scranton Eagles Football Day at Cooper’s Seafood House in Scranton! Join us on Friday, October 18th, from 5pm to 8pm as we honor the Scranton Eagles Football dynasty and celebrate the official proclamation of Scranton Eagles Football Day by the City of Scranton. Meet former Scranton Eagles and Lackawanna County Eagles players and attend the unveiling of the official championship trophy and a new permanent display commemorating the storied history of the 11-time Empire Football League and 5-time national champions. Enjoy a pint (or two!) of “Ale of Champions” – a limited-edition firkin brewed exclusively for WVIA’s upcoming full-length documentary, The Forgotten Dynasty: Scranton Eagles Football! 100% of the proceeds of the Ale of Champions and 25% of all Cooper’s delicious craft beers will benefit WVIA. There will be raffles & giveaways, and even a photo booth! To learn more about the upcoming documentary, The Forgotten Dynasty: Scranton Eagles Football, visit the official website. LINK TO REGISTER FOR EVENT: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/scranton-eagles-football-day-at-coopers-seafood-house-tickets-1016686305107?aff=oddtdtcreator
WVIA Conversations for the Common Good: Trust in Our Elections Fair and secure elections are the bedrock of our democracy. However, many members of our community have little information about what happens after they cast their ballots. As we head into the general election in November, WVIA, and Keep Our Republic invite you to attend this informative, nonpartisan event dedicated to fostering a deeper understanding of the 2024 election process and equipping our community to combat misinformation surrounding election integrity. At this event, experts from across the state and from our community will talk about what’s new for Pennsylvania’s elections in 2024, how votes are counted, certified, and audited, and answer questions on topics like mail-in ballots, the role of the courts and media in elections, how technology impacts election security, and what federal, state, and local governments are doing to combat election interference. This event will provide valuable insights to help you stay informed for the upcoming November 5th election. We hope to see you there. Doors open at 6:30pm. Panelists Borys Krawczeniuk – Reporter, WVIA News The Honorable Thomas I. Vanaskie (Ret.) Mike McDonald – Director, Office of Policy, PA Dept. of State John Christy – Commissioner, Monroe County
Aging Together in PA Town Hall: Elder Justice & Dignity Pennsylvania is home to more than 3.4 million older adults, the fifth highest total in the country, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Aging. Currently one in four Pennsylvanians is age 60 and older. By 2030, this number will rise to one in three. In response to that, WVIA and WITF are assembling a panel of experts to discuss Pennsylvania’s 10-year plan to meet the needs of the Commonwealth’s older adults and the circumstances that led to its inception. We’ll explore the challenges faced by older citizens and their caregivers, what services are currently available in our area, and how we can work together to ensure the safety, dignity and joys of aging in PA. Our panelists include: Jason Kavulich, Secretary, PA Department of Aging Patricia D’Antonio, Executive Director, National Center to Reframe Aging Velma Carter-Dryer, Advocate for Older Pennsylvanians Kristen Lees Haggerty, PhD, Project Director, National Collaboratory to Address Elder Mistreatment
WVIA Presents The Forgotten Dynasty: Scranton Eagles Football WVIA produced The Forgotten Dynasty: Scranton Eagles Football an original documentary film. The film premieres Thursday, November 14th at 9PM on WVIA-TV The story of Scranton Eagles Football is one of perseverance and triumph. Despite encountering setbacks and obstacles, the team’s founders, John Rogan and Charles “Chick” Rader, were determined to establish a successful franchise. And they did exactly that. The Lackawanna County Eagles made a remarkable debut in 1971, winning the Empire Football League Championship. Although the team shut down after the 1974 season due to a disagreement over player compensation, John Rogan never gave up on his dream of reviving the franchise. His persistence paid off in 1982, when the newly reinstated Scranton Eagles won their first EFL title. They went on to win five national championships, the first coming in 1984. The Scranton Eagles’ success during the late 1980s and early 90s is a testament to their hard work and dedication under then-owner Frank Santo. With a 40-game winning streak, they became one of the country’s most celebrated semi-professional football franchises. From 1982 to 1999, the organization won a record-setting 11 Empire Football League titles.
WVIA Conversations for the Common Good: Trust in Our Elections WVIA Free Event September 19th, at 6:30 PM at the Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Fair and secure elections are the bedrock of our democracy. However, many members of our community have little information about what happens after they cast their ballots. As we head into the general election in November, WVIA, and Keep Our Republic invite you to attend this informative, nonpartisan event dedicated to fostering a deeper understanding of the 2024 election process and equipping our community to combat misinformation surrounding election integrity. At this event, experts from across the state and from our community will talk about what’s new for Pennsylvania’s elections in 2024, how votes are counted, certified, and audited, and answer questions on topics like mail-in ballots, the role of the courts and media in elections, how technology impacts election security, and what federal, state, and local governments are doing to combat election interference. This event will provide valuable insights to help you stay informed for the upcoming November 5th election. We hope to see you there. REGISTER HERE
WVIA Presents Kansas City Jazz WVIA released the ticket price includes the concert as well as a desserts and wine after-party. The concert will last approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes with a brief intermission. We encourage you to bring a picnic dinner and after the concert ends, enjoy a dessert and wine after-party with the musicians and the community. A romping, stomping seven-piece band will be here on July 21st to celebrate the legacy of the great American genius Eddie Durham. He was the man behind one of the most quintessential hits of the 20th century, Glenn Miller’s In The Mood, and the resident genius in the original Count Basie band. Loren Schoenberg will serve as the music director for the dynamic seven-piece band showcasing Eddie Durham’s sound. For decades, Eddie Durham’s story was largely overlooked until 2024 when WVIA released the original documentary film Wham-Re-Bop-Boom-Bam: The Swing Jazz of Eddie Durham. This documentary is currently airing on over 250 public television stations throughout the United States, bringing well-deserved recognition to Eddie Durham for his significant contributions to the world of jazz. Loren Schoenberg is a senior scholar of the National Jazz Museum in Harlem, on the faculty at The Juilliard School and has taught at Manhattan School of Music and the New School. Schoenberg has lectured at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the White House, the New York Philharmonic, Stanford University, and the Aspen Institute. Schoenberg, a tenor saxophonist/pianist, has played and recorded with Benny Carter, Benny Goodman, Jimmy Heath, Eddie Durham, Marian McPartland, Clark Terry, John Lewis, Christian McBride, and Buck Clayton, and he was musical director for Bobby Short from 1997 to 2005. He also received two Grammy awards for best album notes in 1994 and 2004. Schoenberg has been published widely (including in The New York Times), and his book, The NPR Guide to Jazz, was released in 2003. In 2001, he led the effort to establish the National Jazz Museum in Harlem and served for more than a decade as its executive director, creating many of its signal programs and enlisting Christian McBride, Jonathan Batiste, Ken Burns, and Wynton Marsalis to help further the museum’s mission.
WVIA Partners with NEPA Film Festival and Hosts Guest Speaker WVIA in partnership with the Waverly Community House proudly presents the Northeast Pennsylvania Film Festival. April 12-14, 2024. Friday night guest speaker is award winning producer Doug Claybourne, producer of The Mask of Zorro and Executive Producer on The Fast and the Furious. All films presented at the Waverly Community House 115 N. Abington Road, Waverly, PA 18411 Get your tickets to the festival here. Friday Night Opening Reception An evening with acclaimed director DOUG CLAYBOURNE. Featuring a screening of Doug’s latest film: “The Rainbow Prince”. Waverly Community House Auditorium Friday April 12th, 2024 Cocktail Reception 6 PM-7PM Program 7PM- 8:30PM Doug Claybourne Screening of Rainbow Prince (35 min) Q&A to Follow, moderated by Julie Sidoni, WVIA Cocktails courtesy of Maiolatesi Wine Cellars Light Fare by Caravia and Epicurean For more information and to purchase tickets, please click HERE or visit nepafilmfestival.com