Wausau, Wis. ? Wisconsin Public Radio (WPR) has selected Robert Mentzer as the network’s rural communities reporter. Mentzer will be based in Wausau and will focus on the challenges, opportunities and life in Wisconsin’s rural communities and small cities.
In addition, he will cover breaking news and regional stories of statewide importance in north central Wisconsin.
“We are thrilled to have Rob on board,” said News Director Noah Ovshinsky. “His deep knowledge of the region and experience covering rural Wisconsin will provide great context for listeners across the state.”
Mentzer is a familiar voice on WPR as he has been a frequent guest on The Ideas Network’s “Central Time”, where he has shared news and analysis in the weekly Wisconsin news roundup. He has been a journalist in Wausau for nearly 12 years, first as a reporter for the Wausau Daily Herald, and most recently as Living & Storytelling Editor for USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin, overseeing features and enterprise reporting from throughout the state.
He also launched the podcast “This is Normal” as part of USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin’s “Kids in Crisis” reporting series on youth mental health.
“I am ridiculously excited to join WPR and to have to have the opportunity to seek out stories from changing communities all over the state,” Mentzer said.
Mentzer begins his work at WPR on April 22.
