A Night Owl’s Day in the Sun: Celebrating a Broadcasting Legend
In the quiet corridors of WVIA’s Jenkins Township studios, George Graham is an almost spectral presence, known for his late-night work ethic. This time, however, as he entered the building, it was bustling with life and anticipation. The reason? A celebration of his remarkable 53-year tenure that has left an indelible mark on public radio.
George Graham, often the last to leave the station, was greeted by a full house of colleagues and guests, gathered to honor his contributions to WVIA. The evening included a live concert, a fitting tribute to the man who has championed local music for decades.
“We just wanted to show our appreciation, and unveil this,” WVIA President and CEO Carla McCabe said as applause filled the corridor for the man she called “a complete community treasure.”
Graham’s journey with WVIA began in 1972, and he has been a steadfast presence since. He “flipped the switch” for WVIA-FM’s inaugural broadcast on April 23, 1973. Now, as he approaches retirement, Graham plans to continue his involvement with WVIA as a volunteer.
“Some people, you know, just look forward to retiring,” Graham said. “Me? I just … you know … this organization’s in my DNA.”
Rooted in Pennsylvania
George Graham’s story is deeply entwined with the fabric of Northeast Pennsylvania. Born and raised in Carbondale, his family history is linked to the region’s railway industry. His parents’ unique meeting on a bus in Texas adds a romantic touch to his background.
Graham’s journey took him to Duke University, where he studied electrical engineering and became involved with the campus radio station, WDBS. This experience laid the groundwork for his future in broadcasting.
Returning to Pennsylvania, Graham joined WVIA at a pivotal moment, just as the station was preparing to launch its FM radio service. His timing, as he describes, was “very fortunate,” leading to a career that would span over five decades.
Passion for Music
Graham’s love for music and electronics found a perfect outlet at WVIA. He began hosting “Mixed Bag,” a show that showcased progressive rock and local talent, eventually expanding to a daily format. His commitment to promoting local music led to the creation of the “Homegrown Music” concert series, which has been a staple of the station.
Legacy of Influence
Throughout his career, Graham has been a barometer for musical quality, influencing countless artists and industry professionals. His discerning ear and dedication to promoting great music have left a lasting impact on those around him.
Jim Della Croce, a music industry publicist, emphasized Graham’s significant role in advancing artists like Bill Kelly and The Buoys. “George is a barometer… his credibility was on a high level,” Della Croce noted.
Graham’s colleagues at WVIA speak of him with admiration, highlighting his technical expertise and humble demeanor. Lisa Mazzarella, a host and producer, described him as “a powerhouse and a force,” while Ben Payavis II, WVIA’s Chief Content Officer, praised his multifaceted abilities.
Facing New Challenges
Graham’s decision to retire comes at a challenging time for public broadcasting, with federal funding cuts impacting WVIA’s operations. Despite these challenges, he remains optimistic and plans to focus on archiving and curating WVIA’s extensive audio collection.
As he looks forward to new opportunities, Graham’s legacy at WVIA and his contributions to the music community will undoubtedly resonate for years to come.
