WEAU anchors deliver trusted local news coverage across Eau Claire and the surrounding Western Wisconsin region. Viewers rely on these journalists to explain community issues, spotlight regional events, and provide clear, on-air guidance during breaking situations.
This overview outlines how WEAU anchors build their on-air presence, the expectations tied to their roles, and the ways they connect with viewers through evolving platforms and community commitments.
WEAU Anchor Lineup & Shifts
Understanding who appears on which broadcast helps viewers follow long-term reporting and recognize the team they see each night.
| Anchor Name | Primary Show | Role | Typical On-Air Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jackie Bensen | WEAU 13 News at 5 & 6 | Main Anchor | Weekdays |
| Elle Potter | WEAU 13 News at 5 & 6 | Co-Anchor | Weekdays |
| Maggie McIntyre | WEAU 13 News at 10 | Lead Anchor | Weeknights | Logan Johnson | WEAU 13 News at 10 | Co-Anchor | Weeknights |
| Mike Jurek | WEAU 13 News at 5 & 6 | Senior Correspondent & Fill Anchor | Rotating |
| Heather Sherba | WEAU 13 News at 10 | Weekend Anchor | Weekends |
Daily Newsroom Workflow for WEAU Anchors
The morning routine for WEAU anchors begins with story assignment, script reviews, and coordination with producers to reflect the latest developments in Western Wisconsin.
Before each newscast, anchors participate in run-of-show meetings, confirm live shots, and rehearse transitions so the broadcast flows naturally for viewers across the Chippewa Valley.
Throughout the day, many anchors remain accessible for live updates, breaking news, and digital segments that extend the reach of their reporting beyond traditional evening time slots.
On-Air Presence and Journalistic Standards
WEAU anchors are expected to communicate with clarity, pronounce local place names accurately, and present information in a manner that respects diverse community perspectives while adhering to strict editorial standards.
Each anchor works from a teleprompter script that balances conversational tone with precise information, using measured pacing and appropriate eye contact to maintain trust with the audience.
Professional appearance, microphone technique, and camera awareness are regularly refined through coaching sessions and feedback from news directors and technical directors.
Community Engagement and Regional Focus
Strong WEAU anchors connect with viewers by attending local events, explaining how regional policies affect daily life, and highlighting stories that might otherwise go underreported.
Partnerships with schools, nonprofits, and businesses help anchors contextualize economic trends, public safety updates, and weather impacts specific to Eau Claire and neighboring counties.
By maintaining a visible presence at community forums and school functions, anchors deepen audience understanding of the issues that shape Western Wisconsin over time.
Career Development for WEAU Anchors
Continuous improvement in on-air skills, news judgment, and digital storytelling helps WEAU anchors remain effective communicators as viewer habits evolve.
- Take advanced journalism workshops focused on live presentation and concise on-air writing.
- Participate in peer coaching sessions and critique panels to refine delivery and pacing.
- Stay current with local policy debates and regional industry trends to enrich contextual reporting.
- Develop multimedia skills, including basic video editing and social content coordination.
- Build strong source relationships to maintain reliable information channels for future coverage.
FAQ
Reader questions
How do WEAU anchors prepare for each newscast?
They review scripts, verify facts, coordinate with producers, rehearse live reads, and stay updated on any breaking news that could alter the planned rundown.
What technology do WEAU anchors use during a broadcast?
They rely on teleprompters, handheld microphones, cueing systems from the control room, and occasionally live shots from the field or remote locations.
How do WEAU anchors maintain consistency across different shifts?
Shared script notes, standardized naming conventions for recurring stories, and coordinated planning with the news director help ensure a unified voice across weekday and weekend broadcasts.
Can viewers request appearances or interviews with WEAU anchors?
Many stations facilitate community interview requests through designated email lines or digital forms, with bookings scheduled based on story relevance and anchor availability.