WHEREAS, Bernie Prazenica, a Temple University graduate, began his broadcasting career in Pittsburgh in 1982, later holding leadership positions in Richmond, Virginia, and Raleigh, North Carolina, before returning home to Philadelphia in 1994; and
WHEREAS, In 2007, Prazenica was named President and General Manager of 6abc, becoming the longest-serving general manager in the station’s history, and for nearly two decades, has guided the City’s most-watched local newscast, Action News; and
WHEREAS, Under his leadership, WPVI continued its dominance as Philadelphia’s top-rated local news station, a tradition spanning nearly half a century, and maintained its reputation for journalistic excellence, community service, and innovation; and
WHEREAS, Prazenica oversaw the completion of a new office and state-of-the-art studios on City Avenue in 2009, ensuring the station remained competitive in an evolving media landscape; and
WHEREAS, Throughout his career, Prazenica was described by longtime anchor Jim Gardner as “the guy who keeps the lights on” at 6abc, reflecting his steady leadership, behind the scenes dedication, and commitment to both staff and community; and
WHEREAS, Prazenica’s career has been marked not only by his professional achievements, but also by his compassion, humility, and competitive drive. These qualities made him a respected leader, mentor, and colleague; and
WHEREAS, On December 31, 2025, Prazenica will step down as President and General Manager, closing a remarkable chapter in Philadelphia broadcasting history and leaving behind a legacy that will continue to shape the station for years to come; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Hereby honors and recognizes Bernie Prazenica on the occasion of his retirement, and expresses its gratitude for his many years of leadership at WPVI/6abc and his contributions to Philadelphia’s civic and cultural leadership.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Bernie Prazenica as a small token of the gratitude and respect of this legislative body.
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