Scott Willis
Host, Reporter, ProducerI’ve always been enamored with the intimacy of radio. It forces you to listen…and listen only. I grew up listening to mostly top 40 radio in Detroit, and eventually discovered the area’s all-news station. I loved knowing what was going on, and the intensity with which they told stories. I often wondered what it would be like to be the first to know what was happening, and then tell others. Maybe that’s why I pursued a career in news.
I would go on to serve as an intern at that all-news station, and it was amazing and maybe a little overwhelming to see what it took to put out a constant stream of news. But something was missing. It wasn’t until after I graduated from college that I actually discovered Detroit’s public radio station at my alma mater. What a difference! You had time to write and tell engaging, meaningful stories. That’s when I knew public radio was for me.
I would hone my skills on and off for almost three years at WDET, producing daily stories for newscasts. I was also given the privilege of producing long-form features on topics that interested me, and that people knew very little about. Now THAT was cool. What budding reporter could ask for more?
I landed here in Syracuse in June 2001. Today, I’ve come full circle, and now teach the craft to dozens of student reporters every year. We work hard to choose informative stories, find the most engaging sound, and edit copy for clarity and accuracy.
Outside of work, I spend time with my wife and little boy. We like to take walks, travel, and read. When I can, I’ll hop on my bike for a quick ride.
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the honor and privilege of bringing the day’s news and in-depth feature reporting to WAER’s dedicated and generous listeners. Thanks for listening
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The state has set aside $10 million to cover the cost of the stipends, which range from $500 to $1,200, depending on the course.
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He highlighted progress and some new initiatives at his state of the county address Thursday evening.
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He delivered his state of the county address Thursday night at East-Syracuse Minoa High School.
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15th district legislator Maurice Brown is holding a town hall meeting on Monday, March 18th at the Westcott Community Center.
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Syracuse Common Councilors unanimously approved the new name which is intended to symbolize the location's association with the Syracuse Pride Festival.
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Syracuse is among the first and largest recipients of the federal grant under the U.S. DOT's Neighborhood Access and Equity Program.
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They're calling for an additional $250 million to the budget to cover a 3.2 percent cost of living adjustment and a $4,000 dollar wage retention and enhancement for direct support professionals.
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NYSDOT, Airport, and elected officials celebrated the official start of the $28 million project Thursday.
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A fire in a second floor apartment Tuesday prompted an evacuation of what was thought to be two remaining residents. It turns out there were 10 to 12 more still living there.
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SPD officials say the problem is not exclusive to Syracuse or even New York State.