The People's Pope

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - When Pope John Paul II made a triumphant return to his homeland he went out of his way to personally greet a group of Western New Yorkers who had been waiting for him on the streets of Torun, Poland.

Western New Yorkers have had a front row seat to history during the turbulent decades of the Pope's reign.

Special delegations were in Poland during the most trying times of Solidarity's fight for freedom.

The Buffalo chapter of the Polish American Congress was a national leader in raising money and interest in the cause.

"The People's Pope'' weaves-in the story of the life of Karol Wojtyla and why he has stirred the passions of his countrymen and people the world over who are fighting for human rights and freedom.

Senior Correspondent Rich Newberg, Chief Photograhper Mike Mombrea, and News Director Chris Musial spent a grueling six days hopscotching through Poland, finding the human links in a chain of events that will always bind the people of Poland and their Pope to the people of Western New York.
 

Producers: Rich Newberg, Mike Mombrea, Chris Musial
Executive Producer: Chris Musial
Aired: June 29, 1999
Runs: 49:10

Awards:

The Communicator Awards - Crystal Awards of Excellence - Public Affairs Program, Writing (Rich Newberg), Videography (Mike Mombrea), Editing (Mike Mombrea)

New York State Festivals Television Programming and Promotion Awards - Finalist - News Documentary / Special