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
WVIA to Celebrate Area Filmmakers as 2024 NEPA Film Festival Media Partner WVIA, Northeastern Pennsylvania’s PBS and NPR station, is proud to announce its return as the official media partner for the 2024 NEPA Film Festival, taking place April 12th-14th at the Waverly Community House. WVIA is committed to fostering a thriving film culture in NEPA, and its continued partnership with the festival reflects that dedication. WVIA will ignite imaginations and empower aspiring filmmakers with a series of informative workshops led by its award-winning production team and host a personal and informative Q&A session with the event’s keynote speaker. “WVIA is committed to fostering creativity and storytelling in our region,” said WVIA’s Chief Content Officer, Ben Payavis II. “The NEPA Film Festival is a fantastic platform to connect with passionate filmmakers, and our workshops provide valuable insights and practical tools to help them elevate their craft.” Engaging with the Masters: Opening Reception Q&A Hosted by WVIA’s Julie Sidoni The festival’s keynote speaker, Doug Claybourne, producer of films such as The Fast and the Furious, Peggy Sue Got Married, and Mighty Ducks 2 will engage in a Q&A session moderated by WVIA’s very own Julie Sidoni. This promises to be an insightful exchange, offering the audience a chance to delve deeper into the speaker’s experiences and gain valuable industry knowledge, and view his latest short film, The Rainbow Prince. Cultivating Tomorrow’s Filmmakers: The WVIA Student Showcase Aspiring young directors take center stage with the WVIA Student Showcase. High school and college students from across the region submitted their short films, and the winners will have their work screened on the festival’s big screen in front of a captivated audience, including fellow filmmakers and industry professionals. WVIA Educational Workshops: Unleashing Your Inner Filmmaker WVIA’s engaging workshops cater to both budding and experienced filmmakers. Attendees can learn from some of the best in the industry: “Create Films, Not Content” with Alexander Monelli: Dive into the art of crafting compelling narratives on a shoestring budget. “Storytelling Unleashed: Creating Films with the Camera in Your Pocket” presented by Tim Novotney: Discover the power of smartphone filmmaking and unleash the potential in your pocket. “How Much ‘Bio’ Goes Into a Biopic? / Licensing, Releases, & Fair Use” with Kris Hendrickson & Ben Payavis II: Explore the legalities of bringing true stories to life and navigate the world of licensing and fair use. “Promotional Best Practices: How to Show Them What You Got” with Kara Washington: Learn how to craft a captivating message and effectively promote your films to the right audience. Event Tickets Workshop admission is included with a NEPA Film Festival day pass, allowing attendees to gain practical knowledge while enjoying a weekend immersed in cinema. For more information about WVIA’s workshops at the NEPA Film Festival, visit the NEPA Film Festival website here.
WVIA Honored with Seven American Advertising Federation of NEPA Awards WVIA, Northeastern Pennsylvania’s PBS and NPR station, is thrilled to announce a resounding win at the 2024 American Advertising Federation of Northeastern Pennsylvania (AAF NEPA) Awards. Taking home an impressive seven awards, WVIA’s content and creative teams were recognized for their exceptional work in crafting impactful messages that resonate with viewers. “This recognition is a true testament to the dedication and talent of our entire production team,” said WVIA President & CEO, Carla McCabe. “At WVIA, we believe in the power of storytelling to connect, inspire, and make a difference. These awards validate our commitment to using that power to serve our community.” WVIA’s award-winning entries spanned a diverse range of categories, showcasing their versatility and ability to deliver impactful messages across platforms. From promotional campaigns to documentaries, their work left a lasting impression on the AAF NEPA judges. “We are incredibly proud of the stories we tell and the messages we share,” continued Ben Payavis II, WVIA Chief Content Officer. “These awards motivate us to keep pushing boundaries and finding new ways to connect with our audiences on a deeper level.” This significant win at the AAF NEPA Awards further solidifies WVIA’s position as a leader in creative storytelling within the region and their dedication to using their platform for positive impact. WVIA received the following seven awards: GOLD (Single Spot)- ROAR Documentary Trailer. GOLD (Single Entry and Best of Show)- The Hooded Graves of Catawissa. GOLD (Integrated Campaigns and Judge’s Choice)- Pizza! SILVER (Television Advertising)- ROAR Documentary. SILVER (Integrated Campaigns)- ROAR Documentary. The award ceremony was held on Friday, March 8th at The FM Kirby Center in Wilkes-Barre. All winners and professional entries can be viewed here.
