Violet Comber-Wilen
Reporter
Violet Comber-Wilen is a general assignment reporter for Billy Penn. She has several years of experience in public radio and journalism; Violet spent her last two years working full time as a audio, digital and video reporter for Indiana Public Broadcasting, Indiana’s collaboration of NPR and PBS stations. Beyond this, she reported, hosted and produced for Tampa Bay’s NPR station, WUSF, and the North Central Florida NPR station, WUFT News.
She is passionate about inspiring and enacting change in local communities and covering issues local audiences care about. She is a proud graduate of the University of Florida. Outside of work, you can catch Violet training for her latest half or full marathon, enjoying workout studios around the city, doing yoga, traveling or exploring arts and culture.
More from the Contributor
The latest progress on the I-95 CAP project: All lanes of 95 South to close overnight next week
When it’s done, residents will enjoy new park space and easier access to the Delaware River from Old City over top of I-95.
1 month ago
Long before Ringling Bros., America’s first circus performers got their start in Philadelphia
Philly was home to the first circus performance in the country in 1793. It’s still home to circus arts, performances and schools.
1 month ago
Billy Penn’s ultimate guide to spring in Philly
Things are heating up this spring in Philly – literally. With America 250 coming up, there are more events than ever to enjoy the city.
1 month ago
Philly wants your vote on final touches for Harriet Tubman statue
The statue of the civil rights icon will debut at City Hall later this year – and Philadelphians can help choose a quote that will be inscribed on its base.
1 month ago
What is that smell around the city? It may be the local pear trees
You’re not crazy if you think some of Philly’s beautiful, blooming trees smell a bit “off.” One expert tells us Bradford Pear trees have a distinct – and unpleasant – scent.
1 month ago
Philadelphia paved the way for the nation’s sports fans with America’s first stadium
The iconic Franklin Field, where the Penn Relays, Penn football games and other sporting events are held, was the first stadium in the nation.
2 months ago
Curating connections: How Join Philly offers a ‘participation on-ramp’ to fun activities
Join Philly is a directory of Philly clubs and organizations. And next month, they’re hosting an activity fair so you can get more involved.
2 months ago
SEPTA aims to increase reliability with 20 new Canadian coach cars
The trains, purchased from a Montreal transit agency, will help supplement older SEPTA cars that may have caused issues in the past.
2 months ago
Phanatic, Gritty, Ben Franklin and Betsy Ross join ‘hype squad’ for America250
The “people-powered” Visit PA Playmakers will help welcome visitors from around the world to Pennsylvania.
2 months ago
West Philly affordable housing: How a program pairs Drexel students with older adults
One West Philly program reimagines housing strategies, matching students with seniors.
2 months ago
Here’s where you can see cherry blossoms in Philly
It’s cherry blossom season! We put together a guide to help you find the perfect spot to see the colorful, flowering trees.
2 months ago
New digital SEPTA displays will bring real-time information to riders
A pilot program will deploy 10 digital arrival displays at select bus and trolley stops across the city. The displays come ahead of a packed Philly summer.
2 months ago