Radio icon retires after 50 years of airwaves legacy

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A Legacy in the Airwaves

JENKINS TOWNSHIP, LUZERNE COUNTY — A local radio legend is finally stepping away from the microphone after more than five decades of broadcasting. George Graham, a well-known figure at WVIA, hosted his final live show, marking the end of an era for the station and its listeners.

Avery Nape, a reporter with 28/22 News, was on hand to witness the moment when the turntables spun one last time. For 53 years at WVIA, 51 of them on-air, Graham has been a staple of the station. His departure comes after a long and impactful career that has left a lasting impression on the community.

Graham shared his thoughts on the transition, saying, “I knew this was coming, and I thought about what I was going to do, and I figured the last two shows I would play the favorites stuff that I’ve really enjoyed over the years.”

From Engineer to On-Air Host

Graham's journey began right after college in 1972. As a Duke University graduate, he started as an engineer, helping to launch WVIA FM. Two years later, he made his first on-air appearance with his show, "Mixed Bag," which featured a diverse mix of music inspired by his experiences in radio during his studies.

“Getting away with doing what I've been doing is wonderful,” Graham explained. “In a commercial radio situation, you’ve gotta play the hits.” However, for Graham, this model has worked well for over five decades, allowing him to maintain a unique voice in the world of radio.

A Platform for Local Talent

One of Graham’s most notable contributions is his "Homegrown Music" series, which has provided a platform for emerging local artists since 1976. His iconic nighttime show, "All That Jazz," has offered evening listeners a blend of strings, brass, and beats, always aiming to never repeat the same set.

While the music initially drew him into radio, it’s the connection with his audience that has made it difficult for him to say goodbye. “Interacting with people and sharing music with people in real time is something about which I’m really going to miss,” said Graham.

The Decision to Retire

Graham admits he still has a strong passion for his work, and the decision to leave radio was not an easy one. However, funding cuts to public broadcasting earlier this year led him to agree to retire.

Despite the challenges, Graham's legacy in local radio and his love for music have had a far-reaching impact. “My gratitude for being able to do this for as long as I have, and hopefully going out on a reasonably high note, is something that gives me pride,” he expressed.

Continuing the Passion

Although he is retiring from on-air broadcasting, Graham plans to continue archiving performances from the station’s "Homegrown" series. He also hopes to keep sharing music through podcasting or another online medium.

Graham’s final "Mixed Bag" show will air pre-recorded Saturday night between 7 and 9 p.m., offering a final tribute to his long and storied career.

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