A documentary that was put together jointly by local resident Alivia Tagliaferri and members of the 9/11 Memorial Ride Coalition three years ago will be broadcast by the local Public Broadcasting System affiliate, WVIA TV in Pittston, on September 11, 12, 13, and 14.

This broadcast takes place in time for the 19th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks that are remembered by the Memorial Ride Coalition and, of course, by all Americans.

“Remember. Honor. Ride. 9/11 Memorial Ride” is a 30-minute documentary film about the founding and the organic growth of the 9-11 Memorial Ride, a 42-mile motorcycle parade in Lycoming County that draws 10,000 bikers and over 20,000 community spectators. The documentary, directed by Alivia Tagliaferri, highlights the stories of the organizers, riders, and its supporting communities.

“I like to bill the production as “Father Manno and a Cast of Thousands,” ‘Tank’ Baird, one of the members of the Ride Coalition, told Webb Weekly.

He was referring to Father John Manno, who was one of the stalwart supporters of the Memorial Ride and perhaps its spiritual heart. Manno participated in all the rides until he died in 2019.

“When I moved back home to Williamsport and learned about the 9-11 Memorial Ride, I just thought it was a tremendous tribute to all those who died that day and all those who served — and continue to serve,” said Alivia Tagliaferri, who helped produce the documentary. “Thinking about the millions of firemen, policemen, military service members, and caregivers who stand ready to answer the call to serve at a moment’s notice — they’re the inspiration for this ride and for this film.”

Tagliaferri added, “I think the Ride has become very meaningful to the 10,000 riders that participate and the more than 20,000 spectators who view the Ride along its 42-mile route. The documentary is a wonderful way to show the multiple locations and communities that the Ride takes place and how widespread the interest in it is. I think the documentary will touch a lot of people.”

The purpose of the 9/11 Memorial Coalition is to be a constant reminder to the public of the heroism and dedication of those who sacrificed their lives for us. To this end, the Coalition sponsors the area’s largest annual motorcycle parade held on the anniversary of 9/11/2001. Thousands participate in the memorial service and ride. The 42-mile escorted ride encompasses 14 different municipalities, with the routes lined with patriotic individuals, school children, veterans, and first responders.

According to Baird, the Ride Memorial Coalition is contracted by WVIA PBS for two years, which will take us into the 20th anniversary of the attack.

“As more and more events are canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, WVIA hopes this broadcast helps the participants celebrate the annual tradition safely in their homes as they anticipate the events return in 2021,” said Ben Payavis, WVIA Chief Content Officer.

WVIA will air the documentary at 7 p.m. Friday, September 11. It will rebroadcast it on Saturday, September 12, at 9 p.m., Sunday, September 13, at 11:30 a.m., and Monday, September 14th at 7:30 p.m.