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
-
Most expressed frustration over the lack of engagement from the common council, which narrowly approved the changes last week. The charter requires the mayor to hold a public hearing on any local law.
-
Tech Valley shuttle is looking to expand its low- to no-cost shuttle from the Capital region
-
Syracuse Common Councilors approved the amendments to the legislation governing the Citizen Review Board last week. The mayor will either sign or veto the changes.
-
The changes to the enabling legislation would give councilors the authority to hire or fire the CRB administrator and give the city clerk more oversight.
-
AccessCNY first began offering the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program when it was introduced as a demonstration project in 1992. The Medicaid-based program has grown dramatically since then, prompting state officials to find ways to control costs.
-
Sen. Chuck Schumer announced the award from the CHIPS and Science Act late Wednesday. He says the funding helps capture his vision for reinventing and revitalizing Upstate New York's economy.
-
Two gun safes were in the house, including in shooter Christopher Murphy's bedroom. He and a friend also used cocaine before police arrived.
-
SPD officer Michael Jensen and Sheriff's Deputy Lieutenant Michael Hoosock made good impressions at work and in the community.
-
Syracuse Police Officer Mike Jensen and Onondaga County Sheriff's Deputy Mike Hoosock died after being shot by the suspect. Jensen and fellow officers fired back, killing the suspect.
-
The suspect is also dead. Law enforcement traced a suspicious vehicle to the suspect's address on Darien Dr. in Salina.