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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 NYS Quitline goes fare beyond a phone number. There's also a website, text service, medication, counseling, and other resources.
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Those are rare compared to West Nile and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). But all have been detected in mosquito pools tested this month.
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A Community Forestry Educator points to one example of a tree at risk of damage near Collamer road in DeWitt.
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Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie stopped by the JMA Wireless Dome to make the announcement, flanked by SU coaches and other officials.
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Maxwell School Professor Grant Reeher says the move can energize the Democratic voter base while giving Republicans new reasons to opposed presumptive nominee Kamala Harris.
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The $50 million HUD grant pushes redevelopment plans for public housing over the finish line.
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Jason Jaegers owns Big Jay's Pizza, which also has a location in Marcy.
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The Syracuse Housing Authority was the lead applicant for the unprecedented $50 million federal grant.
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Sen. Joe Griffo has been touring Rome and Canastota, two of the hardest-hit areas by Tuesday's severe storm.
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The previous executive director was fired after a state comptroller report revealed financial mismanagement.