Stay Tuned: Susan Ross Wells

Susan Ross Wells is the news anchor at noon and 5:30 p.m. at WTVG-TV, Channel 13.

First Job: Switchboard operator. I had an after-school job in high school at a local answering service (long before voicemail and cell phones). I sat at a switchboard, wore a headset, and actually plugged cords into the board to answer phones. Gee, I’m not dating myself or anything.

First salary: In television news my first salary was $13,000 a year. I couldn’t even afford a car. I found an apartment near the station so I could walk to work every day.

My idol is: Kaylee Halko, an 8-year-old Monclova Township girl with the accelerated aging disease Progeria. I’ve shared Kaylee’s story with our viewers since she was a toddler. Kaylee is bursting with energy and enthusiasm for life … and pure joy. She reminds me of the importance of being happy every day.

Most embarrassing TV moment: When I first came to Toledo I botched a few pronunciations that I will never forget. I read a story that mentioned Sault Ste. Marie and Mackinac Island. I even asked our director how to say them beforehand, and he told me the proper pronunciations, but for some reason I went on the air and said “Salt” Ste. Marie and “Mackinac”, pronouncing the “c” at the end of the word.

Highlight of my career: Covering Sen. John Glenn’s return to space in 1998. I reported for a week from Kennedy Space Center leading up to launch, and covered the landing as well. I’ll never forget gaining access to the “astronaut only” part of the facility, and my one-on-one interview with Senator Glenn. Watching Discovery blast off right in front of me was nothing short of amazing.

My favorite thing to do outside of work: Home/Garden/Yard decoration and improvement projects — nothing major, just the fun stuff. My husband and I live in an old farmhouse and I love making it look nice.

I think Toledo’s best-kept secret is: Ferdos Mediterranean Restaurant. I love the food. The pita bread is amazing, and if you go, you have to try their garlic sauce.

People may be surprised to know that: I’m a garage sale junkie. Some of my girlfriends and I have a blast hunting for antiques and other treasures at garage sales, barn sales, and estate sales ... and you can’t beat the prices!

In five years I see myself: Right here at 13abc, I hope! Earlier in my career I had dreams of maybe one day making it to the network news, but I feel differently now. I am so proud to be a part of the 13abc Action News team. Community service has also become a big part of my life in Toledo. On a personal note, we are blessed with wonderful friends and family here, and it would be hard to leave.

My dream job is: I’ve got my dream job. But, in another life — how about archaeologist? Or backup singer for James Taylor.

Contact Kirk Baird at kbaird@theblade.com or 419-724-6734.