
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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Onondaga County is facing another court order and fines tied to a raw sewage leak in Solvay, marking the second such settlement in seven months.
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A $5 million state grant will help Onondaga County create a food processing facility at the CNY Regional Market, allowing small farms to prepare and store local produce for school lunches.
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New York health officials warn that federal funding cuts could undermine the state’s tobacco quitline, which has helped millions quit smoking over the past 25 years.
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Owens served as Deputy Mayor under Walsh for his entire tenure.
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The Syracuse Common Council will see at least two new faces next year after Tuesday’s primary results.
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Election results overwhelmingly favor Syracuse Deputy Mayor Sharon Owens in primary race for city's mayor
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The once heavily polluted southwest shore is now thriving with native species.
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Fewer Canadian visitors are crossing the border into New York, and local businesses are feeling the impact. New data shows a 25% drop in border crossings this May compared to last year.
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The plot is behind the pump house on the section of the west shore between the boat launch and railroad bridge.
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Kuhn died over the weekend after a battle with cancer. She was 76.