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
Before Stonewall, there was Philly: How the city shaped LGBTQ+ rights
Philly was the spot of the nation’s first “annual reminder demonstration” – where LGBTQ rights advocates stood in support of the community at Independence Hall.
2 months ago
The true origins of the first American flag are often debated – but many attribute its creation to Philly seamstress Betsy Ross.
2 months ago
Pride Month is here: Philly has a lots of events planned to celebrate
There are a lot of ways you celebrate the LGBTQ+ communities around the city. Here is your guide.
2 months ago
All aboard! America’s first steamboat for passengers and freight left from Philadelphia
The country’s first steamboat carried passengers and freight thousands of miles back and forth between Philly and Burlington, New Jersey, charting new territory for travel.
2 months ago
Your Philly coffee and coffee shop guide
Philly is a city full of caffeine! From matcha to coffee shops, here is your guide to unique Philly coffee.
2 months ago
The Chinese Lantern Fest usually features a traditional cultural experience. This year, it’s combining that with semiquincentennial moments.
2 months ago
Philly celebrates its 150th anniversary as host to America’s First World Fair
The city’s Centennial Exposition in 1876 welcomed millions of visitors and showcased American industry and inventions.
2 months ago
Philly asked, and you decided: Here’s the quote that will be on the Harriet Tubman statue
The civil rights icon will be featured on a statue at City Hall later this year – and one Philly artist’s quote will be inscribed on its base.
3 months ago
America’s first hospital is right here in Philly – and it’s still operating to this day
After 275 years, Pennsylvania Hospital is still carrying out its mission to care for the sick, poor and mentally ill throughout the city.
3 months ago
While you’re celebrating the important women in your life this weekend, you can thank Philly-based Anna Jarvis, who created the holiday over 100 years ago.
3 months ago
Philly nonprofit spurs popups to give small businesses the spotlight on Market Street
Meantime is a nonprofit that temporarily places local entrepreneurs in vacant retail spaces. Their latest project places six popup businesses along Market Street.
3 months ago
Your guide to Philly’s comedy scene
Philly is funny – literally. Whether you’re looking for an improv show, comedy classes or the bigger headliners, here’s your guide to Philly’s comedy scene.
3 months ago











