Listeners of Prairie Public’s radio service will soon notice an increased local presence on weekday afternoons. Prairie Public reporter Danielle Webster has been tapped to host newscasts every half-hour from 3-6 p.m., providing regional news to audiences during the afternoon drive time.
“At a precarious time of local newspapers closing across the state, we know we can’t entirely fill that void, but we can make sure that we play our role in providing news and information,” said Ann Alquist, director of radio. “We’re closing as many information gaps as possible at a time when people are hungry for local connection.”
This change will allow Todd McDonald, Prairie Public’s current afternoon drive time host, to produce longer feature stories of local and regional interest.
“Our region’s communities deserve to have their voices amplified on Prairie Public, and this change in our reporters’ schedules will allow us to do so,” Alquist said.
Webster joined Prairie Public in 2006. While she’s reported on everything from historic flooding in the Red River valley to the COVID-19 pandemic, Webster’s coverage has also included community reactions to a high school closure in Edmore, North Dakota, and the story of her great-grandmother’s “legendary” butterscotch pie.
“Over the years, it has been my privilege to gather and deliver news and information to my home state. I’ve especially enjoyed connecting with people along the way,” Webster said. “I’m honored to be a local companion while our listeners catch up on news at the end of every workday.”
Todd McDonald has been the local host of All Things Considered since 2001. As a reporter he’s covered local government, business and economics, and feature stories about our region’s newsmakers and colorful characters.
“I love the opportunity to hear from everyday people to understand the impact of issues on everyday life,” McDonald said. “Don’t be surprised if you see me in your town or city’s coffee shop getting to know the community.”
Webster starts as the afternoon host on Monday, March 31.
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About Prairie Public
Prairie Public, a nonprofit public media organization and member station of PBS and NPR, provides content and services utilizing television, radio, and digital platforms. Prairie Public is headquartered in Fargo, North Dakota, and serves the state of North Dakota, northwestern Minnesota, and southern Manitoba. For more information, visit prairiepublic.org.