SYRACUSE -- Next time you're at the supermarket, look for CNY Central (WSTM/WTVH/WSTQ-LP) chief meteorologist Wayne Mahar. You'll find him, most likely, near the checkouts. He's the cover story for the August/September 2011 issue of 55 Plus magazine.
The four-and-one-half page spread includes a description of Mahar's humble childhood in Maine, raised by a single mother after his father committed suicide. Mahar recounts how he got his start as a professional, paid weather observer at the age of 11, which eventually turned into a complete forecasting business with dozens of clients by the time he turned 17.
The article also explains how Mahar got into television and why he chose to come to Syracuse in 1985, rather than accept offers to work in larger markets like Cincinnati and Las Vegas. You'll also learn what inspired the Baldwinsville resident to start the Priscilla Mahar Animal Welfare Foundation, and what kinds of activities Wayne enjoys in his spare time with his wife and two daughters.
The magazine's available for free at dozens of local retailers, or you can read it online.
We realize we're a bit late on this story... your editor just spotted the magazine today. (Guess I should get to the supermarket more often!) Anytime you spot anything newsworthy -- about TV in Syracuse or Utica, or about radio in Syracuse, Utica or Ithaca -- be sure to let us know, because, try as we might, we can't catch everything on our own. Your reader tips are always greatly appreciated!