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YPR News Desk
Jackie Yamanaka, News Director
E-mail Jackie Yamanaka
to submit a Press Release or otherwise contact the YPR News Department
YPR News Audio Archive
YPR maintains an archive of News Director Jackie Yamanaka's recent stories.
They are available for on-demand streaming using the Windows
Media format.
 Veteran's Day at Montana Fair
aired August 19
Saturday is Veteran's Day at Montana Fair. All veterans and active duty
military men and women will receive free gate admission. And as Jackie
Yamanaka reports, there will be other activities and resources available
for veterans.
Billings Chamber Bike Loan Program
aired August 18, 2010
There are now two locations where people can borrow a bike in Billings
for free. As Jackie Yamanaka reports, the Billings Chamber of Commerce
is also hoping to leave a lasting impression on visitors.
YPR is part of a multi-station public radio reporting project looking
at the issue of transportation. Funding for the Transportation
Nation project comes from the Rockefeller Foundation.
 |
Billings Chamber of Commerce President and CEO John
Brewer at the Visitors Center with one of the bicycles available
for loan.
(photo by Jackie Yamanaka) |
Sex Offender Registry Compliance
aired August 17, 2010
The U.S. Marshal Service in Montana announced the successful completion
of an effort to ensure sex offenders were in compliance with mandatory
registration requirements. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
AED Access
aired August 16, 2010
The American Heart Association estimates over 300,000 people die each
year because their heart suddenly stops. But 70% of the victims of sudden
cardiac arrest can be revived if there's early access to quality CPR
and a defibrillator. Jackie Yamanaka.
Parking/Traffic Congestion Along Madison River
aired August 12, 2010
Heavy recreational use is causing parking and traffic congestion on a
narrow, busy highway near a popular fishing access site on the Madison
River. Jackie Yamanaka reports. YPR is part of a multi-station public
radio reporting project looking at the issue of transportation. Funding
for the Transportation
Nation project comes from the Rockefeller Foundation.
 |
 |
photos courtesy of David Adams
of the Bureau of Land Management |
Billings Chamber of Commerce Trails
aired August 11, 2010
The Billings Chamber of Commerce launched campaign to promote the city's
trail system. As Jackie Yamanaka reports, the "Make the Connection" event
was held near the construction site of a new underpass on Montana's busiest
highway. YPR is part of a multi-station public radio reporting project
looking at the issue of transportation. Funding for the Transportation
Nation project comes from the Rockefeller Foundation.
 |
Billings Chamber President and
CEO John Brewer (far right) with members of the volunteer citizen
bike patrol that provides safety on the trails and in the city
parks. At left, Billings Police Chief Richard
St. John and Alternate
Transportation Modes Coordinator Darlene Tussing. All were at the
launch of the "Billings Trails: Make
the Connection" campaign. (photo by Jackie
Yamanaka) |
Montana Fair Set-Up
aired August 10, 2010
A June tornado tore the roof off of Rimrock Auto Arena, but the show
will go on. Montana Fair begins Friday. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
Adult Learners
aired August 9, 2010
A forum is planned Thursday in Kalispell to discuss strategies to prepare
adults for today's workplace. This includes ongoing workforce training
or re-training for displaced workers. Montana is one of six states selected
by the National Governor's Association to hold such an event. Jackie
Yamanaka reports.
Sen. Tester (D-MT) on Oil
aired August 5, 2010
Senator Jon Tester praised a decision by TransCanada Corporation on how
it would operate a proposed pipeline that would run through Montana.
Tester's comments came during his regular conference call with reporters.
Jackie Yamanaka reports.
Yellowstone National Park Transportation
aired August 4, 2010
Yellowstone National Park officials announced July
set a new record for visitation at more than 957,000 people. That's the
largest number to ever visit the park in any month and comes on the heels
of a new visitation record for June. It's also the first time in Yellowstone
history that visitation for the first seven months of the year topped
the two-million mark. So with visitation at the world's first national
park at an all-time high, Jackie Yamanaka reports on how Yellowstone's
roads and prime attractions are handling all of these visitors. YPR
is part of a multi-station public radio reporting project looking at the issue
of transportation. Funding for the Transportation
Nation project comes from the Rockefeller Foundation.
Click on the pictures below for larger images.
photos
by Jackie Yamanaka |
 |
 |
| Traffic
on Dunraven Pass due to a "critter" jam. |
Visitors lined up at Yellowstone's North Entrance
at Gardiner. Because of the long lines, sometimes all the way to
the Roosevelt Arch, a NPS ranger redirects visitors who've already
paid through to
the employee's entrance. |
Justice Scalia Speaks in Bozeman
aired July 29, 2010
U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia spoke on the topic of judges
as the moral arbiters of society during a public lecture last night in
Bozeman. As Jackie Yamanaka reports, Scalia says it's a flawed belief.
Rural Transportation: Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY)
aired July 19, 2010
Wyoming Senator John Barrasso is urging the Chair
of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee to take action on
his rural transportation bill. As Jackie Yamanaka reports, Barrasso is
concerned urban projects will be funded at the expense of rural America. YPR
is part of a multi-station public radio reporting project looking at
the issue of transportation. Funding for the Transportation
Nation project comes from the Rockefeller Foundation.
Spare Change for Real Change
aired July 13, 2010
 PICTURED: Julia
Guarino, AmeriCorps Vista Volunteer
(left) and Lisa Harmon, Executive Director, Downtown
Billings Association, with one of the donated parking meters [photo by Jackie
Yamanaka]
A dozen old, mechanical parking meters from downtown Billings
have a new life. They are no collecting coins for a campaign to help
the homeless population. It's called "Spare Change for Real Change." As
Jackie Yamanaka reports for the on-going series Making Ends
Meet, the project issued
its first set of grants to three organizations that serve the homeless
population.
LINK: http://www.4realchange.org/
LINK: http://www.downtownbillings.com/cleansafepages/panhandling.html
MetraPark Update
aired July 1, 2010
Yellowstone County officials are moving forward with plans to rebuild
the tornado-damaged. Officials said during a press conference that they're
seeking public comment for the reconstruction project. Jackie Yamanaka
reports.
LINK: http://www.metrapark.com/site/suggestion
Celtic Woman, originally scheduled for Aug 22, 2010 at Rimrock Auto
Arena, has been relocated to the Brick Breeden Fieldhouse in Bozeman
for a 7:30 pm performance on the same date. For those who have already
purchased tickets for this performance, special seating has been reserved
and a password created. Call 406-256-2400 for that password. To purchase
tickets in Bozeman, Billings ticketholders may order on-line with that
passcode at ticketswest.com/promos/mt or by phone 800-808-5940.
Antiques Roadshow in Billings
aired June 22, 2010
Even though a tornado destroyed the venue where a popular public television
program was going to tape its episodes in Billings, the show is on. Crews
have been cleaning up the debris from Sunday's tornado at MetraPark in
Billings in preparation fot this week's events, including the Antiques
Roadshow. Originally, the program was to stage at Rimrock Auto Arena.
But because the roof was torn off that building, the venue has changed
to the neighboring Expo Center. MetraPark officials say they will be
ready for the thousands of people who will descend on the site for Saturday's
taping of the appraisal event. As Jackie Yamanaka reports, this is the
show's first visit to Montana. Antiques Roadshow has almost 10 million
viewers each week.
Tornado Damage
aired June 21, 2010
Governor Brian Schweitzer joined Congressman Denny Rehberg, Yellowstone
County, and City of Billings officials on a tour of storm damaged areas
of Billings. This includes MetraPark and the destroyed Rimrock Auto Arena.
Schweitzer today signed an emergency declaration allowing the Montana
Army National Guard to help secure the area and to begin the process
of seeking federal assistance. As Jackie Yamanaka reports, MetraPark
officials were busy cleaning up the area, getting it ready for two events
this week.
NHLD Rosebud Battlefield
aired June 14, 2010
A plaque designating the Rosebud Battlefield site as a National Historic
Landmark is scheduled to be unveiled Thursday at the southeastern Montana
battlefield. As Jackie Yamanaka reports, the event comes on the anniversary
of the Rosebud Battle, a prelude to the Battle of the Little Bighorn.
DOCUMENT (in .pdf format): Montana sites on the National Historic Landmark
Designation list
Yellowstone County Safety Levy
aired June 1, 2010
Voters in Yellowstone County are being asked to decide on a public safety
mill levy on the primary election ballot. The money raised by the levy
will be used to provide some stable funding for the Community Crisis
Center and the HUB, two mental health service providers. As Jackie Yamanaka
reports, Yellowstone County's effortsd to keep the mentally ill out of
jail or the hospital emergency department was the focus of a national
county commissioner meeting.
USDA Rural Development ARRA Spending
aired May 27
To date, the USDA's Rural Development agency has handed out over $155
million in federal recovery dollars in Montana. Congress passed the American
Recovery and Reinvestment Act in 2009 in the hopes of spurring economic
activity by provide dollars to ailing state and local communities to
maintain services and shore up infrastructure around the country. Jackie
Yamanaka reports.
DOCUMENT (in .pdf format): Recovery Act Investment in Montana
Women Prison Graduates
aired May 24, 2010
May is the month for graduations--including for some of the inmates at
the Montana Women's Prison. As Jackie Yamanaka reports, about a dozen
women received certificates for eduation and job training.
ADDITIONAL AUDIO: Gov. Brian Schweitzer's Address to Graduates
MSUB Chancellor Search Starts
aired May 19, 2010
The president of Montana STate University was in Billings to meet with
the committee named to find a new chancellor for MSU Billings. Chancellor
Ron Sexton announced in February he will retire this summer. A search
advisory committee was named just over a week ago. That committee met
for the first time today. Jackie Yamanaka reports on the committee's
charge.
Billings Transportation Plan Delay
aired May 18, 2010
The committee charged with approving the updated
Billings Urban Transportation Plan voted this afternoon (yesterday) to
delay acting on the proposal. The planning proposal covers motorized
and non-motorized modes of transportation. Jackie Yamanaka reports. YPR
is part of a multi-station public radio reporting project looking at
the issue of transportation. Funding for the Transportation
Nation project comes from the Rockefeller Foundation.
LINKS: Billings
Policy Coordinating Committee, Billings
Urban Transportation Plan Update
Share the Road Dedication
aired May 18, 2010
The first Share the Road signs are now up in the
Billings area. The signs are along the highway known locally as the Molt
road. As Jackie Yamanaka reports, this unveiling was more than new signs
being erected on a road--it was also a memorial to honor a late Billings
cyclist who enjoyed that route. YPR is
part of a multi-station public radio reporting project looking at the
issue of transportation. Funding for the Transportation
Nation project comes from the Rockefeller Foundation.
 |
| Dr. Chuck Aragon (left) presents
a memorial sign to Shirley Ellis, widow of the late Dr. Jean Ellis (photo
by Jackie Yamanaka) |
Bike Cop
aired May 17, 2010
The League of American Bicyclists is promoting bike-to-work week which
is taking place this week across the country. The organization is trying
to entice people to ride to work on a bicycle by offering special incentives
all week. This includes free refreshments, special discounts at some
businesses, and more for bike commuters. Jackie Yamanaka has this profile
of one Billings man who commutes to work on a bicycle and then gets on
a different bike for work. YPR is part of a multi-station public
radio reporting project looking at the issue of transportation. Funding
for the Transportation
Nation project comes from the Rockefeller Foundation.
ADDITIONAL AUDIO: Officer Shane Winden discusses being a bike cop
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| Billings Police Officer
Shane Winden. Winden was selected in 2010 as one "Officers of the Year," an
annual award from the Downtown Exchange Club of Billings (photo by
Jackie Yamanaka) |
Downtown Billings Alliance Loan-A-Bike Program
aired May 13, 2010
The Downtown Billings Alliance will roll out its
new Loan-A-Bike program as part of the activities for next week’s
national Bike-to-Work week. Under the program, people can borrow a bike,
helmet, and lock for free during regular business hours. Jackie Yamanaka
reports. YPR is part of a multi-station public radio reporting project
looking at the issue of transportation. Funding for the Transportation
Nation project comes from the Rockefeller Foundation.
LINK: http://www.downtownbillings.com/bikes/index.html
DOCUMENT (in .pdf format): Bike to Work Week Flyer
 |
A bicycle available for loan through the Loan-A-Bike program (photo
by Jackie Yamanaka) |
 |
Business Improvement District Supervisor Joe Stout with two of
the bikes available for loan
(photo by Jackie Yamanaka) |
Livingston School Bond Measure
aired May 3, 2010
Voters in the Livingston High School District will begin receiving ballots
in the mail this week to decide on a bond issue for the high school.
As Jackie Yamanaka reports, the money from the bond will be used to renovate
and modernize Park High School.
USDA Tribal Tele-Medicine Grant
aired April 29, 2010
Montana and Wyoming tribes will soon be able to use telemedicine technology
on their reservations. The U.S. Department of Agriculture formally presented
the Montana-Wyoming Tribal Leaders COuncil a grant to install this technology
at tribal health departments. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
DOCUMENT (in.pdf format): USDA Press Release on Telemedicine Grant
MT Board of Regents: Governor's Budget Cuts
aired April 29, 2010
The Montana Board of Regents voted for additonal cuts to the Montana
University System. The regents met via a telephone conference call. The
action comes after Governor Brian Schweitzer earlier this month ordered
state agencies for about a five percent budget reduction because of lagging
tax collections. As Jackie Yamanaka reports, while the regents have constitutional
control over their budget, they agreed to voluntarily cut the budgets
for the state's universities and colleges.
Montana & Wyoming
Roads: National Report
aired April 28, 2010
Roads and bridges in Montana and Wyoming are in better
shape than other states and nationally. That’s according to a new
report released today, titled Road Work Ahead: Holding Government
Accountable for Fixing America’s Crumbling Roads and Bridges.
It comes from the U-S Public Interest Research Groups Education Fund.
Jackie Yamanaka reports. YPR is part of a multi-station public radio
reporting project looking at the issue of transportation. Funding for
the Transportation
Nation project comes from the Rockefeller Foundation.
LINK: U.S. Public Interest Research Groups (U.S. PIRG) website
DOCUMENT (in .pdf format): Road
Work Ahead: Holding Government Accountable for Fixing America’s
Crumbling Roads and Bridges
MSUB College of Business Accreditation
aired April 23, 2010
The College of Business at MSU Billings has joined an elite group, says
Chancellor Ron Sexton. It is now one of fewer than 5% of the world's
business schools to have earned accreditation from the Association to
Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Sexton made the announcement
at a press conference yesterday. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
Billings Clinic Cancer Grant
aired April 22, 2010
Billings Clinic was awarded a grant of just over two million dollars
to support programs to benefit cancer patients. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
Sen. Tester: Food Safety and Rx Safety
aired April 21, 2010
Senator Jon Tester said debate on the Food Safety Bill has been delayed.
The Senate was expected to take up the bill this week. The legislation
is aimed at preventing food-borne illnesses by cracking down on food
processing plants as well as requiring better inspection, record-keeping,
and testing. Tester has two amendments. And as Jackie Yamanaka reports,
there's also an expected amendment that deals with the importation
of prescription drugs.
MT/ND Rx Proposal
aired April 20, 2010
The states of Montana and North Dakota are teaming up. The effort is
to import lower-cost prescription drugs from Canada for their residents.
As Jackie Yamanaka reports, the states are asking the federal government
for permission to start a pilot program to test the benefits of a safe
drug importation program.
Complete Streets Workshop
aired April 15, 2010
A group of Billings citizens met this week to discuss how to make Montana's
largest community healthier through the design of its streets. As Jackie
Yamanaka reports, there's a movement to make sure streets can accommodate
motorized vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians of all ages and abilities.
Advocates say it can lead to safer, healthier, and more livable communities. YPR
is part of a multi-station public radio reporting project looking at
the issue of transportation. Funding for the Transportation
Nation project
comes from the Rockefeller Foundation.
U.S. Marshal MacKay Announces Retirement
aired April 14, 2010
U.S. Marshal for Montana Dwight MacKay announced he's retiring. MacKay
was nominated by then-President George W. Bush in 2002 and about a month
later was sworn into office. As Jackie Yamanaka reports, MacKay made
his retirement announcement surrounded by family, friends, and colleagues.
Organ Donation Awareness
aired April 12, 2010
April is National Donate Life Month. During the month, a campaign is
launched to recognize and thank those who've donated organs as well as
educate others about this issue. The President and CEO of a Seattle-based
procurement organization that serves Montana was in the state last week
to talk about organ and tissue donation. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
Schweitzer Releases Grants
aired April 5, 2010
Governor Brian Schweitzer (D-MT) released his hold on $3.5 million in
local stimulus grant money. He made the announcement at a press conference
at the Capitol. As Jackie Yamanaka reports, Schweitzer says the reason
for the action is Montana's improved revenue picture . . . but he also
announced he's cutting $40 million from the current state budget.
DOCUMENTS (in.pdf format): Local
Gov Grants HB 645, Historic
Preservation Grant Awardees, Governor's
Budget Reductions
Rolf
Groseth Named Interim MSUB Chancellor
aired March 31, 2010
Montana State University President Waded Cruzado named an interim chancellor
for MSU Billings. Chancellor Ron Sexton earlier this year announced his
retirement at the end of August. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
MSUB Health Care Forum
aired March 30, 2010
U.S. Senator Jon Tester says there's confusion and misinformation about
the new health care overhaul law. The Democrat says that's why he held
a forum in Billings at MSU Billings. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
Cobell Litigation
aired March 29, 2010
A half-dozen informational meetings will be held this week on some reservations
in Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho to discuss the settlement proposal on
Indian Trust Claims. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
Fort Peck Reservation Gang Activity
aired March 25, 2010
A community activist from Wolf Point says he's fed
up with the gang activity on the Fort Peck Reservation. That's why he
arranged for a citizen crime watch group founded in New York to come
to the northeast Montana reservation. As Jackie Yamanaka reports, it
would be the Guardian Angels' first Montana chapter—and the first
chapter on an American Indian Reservation.
Sen. Tester on Health Care Overhaul
aired March 24, 2010
U.S. Senator Jon Tester calls Republican plans to offer amendments to
a health care reconciliation bill a stalling tactic. President Barack
Obama yesterday signed into law a massive health care overhaul bill.
But work on the bill remains. The Senate is to take action on a companion
measure that contains demands from House Democrats that were needed to
pass the legislation Sunday. The Senate now needs to agree. Jackie Yamanaka
reports.
MSU President Cruzado: MSUB Chancellor Search
aired March 23, 2010
Montana State Univervity President Waded Cruzado was in Billings to launch
the search process for a new chancellor at MSU Billings. Chancellor Ron
Sexton announced a month ago he intends to retire at the end of August.
Jackie Yamanaka reports.
Governor Brian Schweitzer: Budget Restoration
aired March 23, 2010
Governor Brian Schweitzer restored more than $605,000 to the budget for
disability services. As Jackie Yamanaka reports, Schweitzer cited the
recent decision to sell the Otter Creek Coal leases as the main reason
for the action.
Arts In Crisis: Michael Kaiser
aired March 22, 2010
The president of the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is scheduled
to be in Billings next week to talk about maintaining artistic creativity
and integrity in challenging economic times. Michael Kaiser's visit is
part of his national Arts in Crisis: A Kennedy Center Initiative Tour
of all 50 states. His community conversation at the Alberta Bair Theatre
is his only stop in Montana. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
LINK: Pre-register at http://artsincrisismontana.eventbrite.com/
Interoperability for MT Emergency Responders
aired March 18, 2010
For two decades, Montana officials have talked about having a connected
and compatible statewide public safety radio system in Montana. Following
the September 11th, 2001, attacks, the National Governor's Association
made this a top priority. Montana is making progress toward this goal.
Members of a committee working on the project met in Billings to discuss
the on-going effort. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
DOCUMENT (in .pdf format): Radio Project Coverage Map
Billings School District 2 Levy Launch
aired March 16, 2010
A group of parents and business leaders officially launched a campaign
in support of mill levies for Billings Public Schools. The levies will
be put before voters this spring. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
Without a Car
aired March 15, 2010
There are Montanans who don't worry about the price
of a gallon of gas or the latest vehicle recall. They don't drive. Some
of them can't while others choose not to. Kay Erickson introduces us
to two Montanans who are without a car for very different reasons. YPR
is part of a multi-station public radio reporting project looking at
the issue of transportation. Funding for the "Transportation Nation" project
comes from the Rockefeller Foundation.
Gov. Schweitzer (D-MT): Canada Prescription Waiver
aired March 11, 2010
MT Governor Brian Schweitzer asked the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human
Services for a Medicaid waiver to allow Montana to import prescription
drugs from Canada to use in the state's public health programs. This
includes Medicaid, those in the state corrections system, Healthy Montnana
Kids (also known as the Children's Health Insurance Program), and the
prescription drug benefit for state employees. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
Families USA: Uninsured Deaths
aired March 5, 2010
A national study estimates the failure by Congress to overhaul health
care will lead to the premature deaths of over 1,000
Montanans between the ages of 25 and 64 years of age in the next decade.
In Wtoming, the figure is estimated at about 300. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
LINK: Families USA Report Online
DOCUMENTS (in .pdf format): Families
USA Press Release Montana, Families
USA Press Release Wyoming
MSUB Chancellor Sexton Announces Retirement
aired February 26, 2010
MSU Billings Chancellor Ron Sexton formally announced he will retire
August 31. As Jackie Yamanaka reports, this is the latest retirement
announcement from a top higher education official in the past year.
Sen. Tester (D): MT Contractors & Legislation
aired February 25, 2010
Senator Jon Tester says he wants to ensure Montana
contractors are treated fairly when they bid for federal work contracts.
He told Montana radio reporters during his monthly telephone conference
call that his legislation is not to give Montana businesses any favors—rather,
it's to level the playing field. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
Distracted Driving, Part 3 of 3: Kyle Hayter, MHP Ride Along
aired February 24, 2010
Another profession where a vehicle serves as an office is law enforcement.
Jackie Yamanaka joins a Montana Highway Patrol officer as he patrols
the roads in and around Billings and filed this audio postcard.
YPR is part of a multi-station public radio reporting project looking
at the issue of transportation. Funding for the "Transportation
Nation" project comes from the Rockefeller Foundation.
Distracted Driving, Part 2 of 3: Roy Salyers Semi Ride-Along
aired February 23, 2010
There are a number of professions where a vehicle
doubles as the office. One is long-haul trucking. Jackie Yamanaka joined
one semi-driver and filed this audio postcard. YPR is part
of a multi-station public radio reporting project looking at the issue
of transportation. Funding for the "Transportation Nation" project
comes from the Rockefeller Foundation.
Distracted Driving, Part 1 of 3
aired February 22, 2010
The federal Transportation Department is taking on the issue of distracted
driving. The agency recently announced a new rule that prohibits commercial
drivers from texting while driving. As Jackie Yamanaka reports, while
this regulation is targeted, the issue is broader. YPR is part of a multi-station
public radio reporting project looking at the issue of transportation.
Funding for the "Transportation Nation" project comes from the Rockefeller
Foundation.
Doctors Making House Calls
aired February 9, 2010
Doctors who make house calls. It's an old-fashioned notion that soon
could make a comeback for some low-income and elderly Montanans. The
Board of Medical Examiners is now recruiting retired doctors with an
active medical license to make house calls for Medicare-and Medicaid-eligible
patients. As Jackie Yamanaka reports in another in our occasional series
Making Ends Meet, the Montana Health Corps is aimed at providing primary
care to patients at a low cost.
High-Crash Corridors
aired February 8, 2010
Montana is a top-ten state when it comes to fatalities on rural roads,
according to the National Center for Excellence in Rural Safety at
the University of Minnesota. That's largely because the majority of
roads in Montana are rural. Making the state's rural roads safer is
the job of the state's Transportation Department. Kay Erickson reports
that officials look at the accident numbers and then figure out why
they're happening and what can be done to reduce them.
LINK: Montana's High-Crash Corridors
MT Violent Offender Task Force
aired February 4, 2010
U.S. Marshal Dwight McKay says the Montana Violent Offender Task FOrce
arrested a record number of people last year. In fact, it was nearly
double the figure of the task force's first year in 2005. As Jackie Yamanaka
reports, fugitives are apprehended on warrants across Montana, in other
states, and in some cases, other countries.
Economic Outlook Seminar
aired February 2, 2010
The Montana and national economies have turned the
corner and are slowly moving toward a weak recovery—that was the
message devilvered from the annual Economic Outlook Seminar. The traveling
seminar is put on each year by the Bureau of Business and Economic Research
at the University of Montana. The latest stop on the tour was Montana
State University Billings. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
MT Board of Regents Formalize Cuts
aired January 28, 2010
The Montana Board of Regents formally approved a plan to cut the university
system budget. Earlier this month, Governor Brian Schweitzer directed
his executive agency directors to submit to his office how they would
cut their budgets by 5% if the action becomes necessary. The Montana
Constitution protects education, but the Regents announced they would
voluntarily comply. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
MSU President Waded Cruzado
aired January 27, 2010
Waded
Cruzado (WMA)
 Waded
Cruzado (MP3)
 photo
by Brad Edwards
On January 4, 2010, Waded Cruzado became the 12th President
of Montana State University.
Dr. Cruzado recently came to Billings to tour the campus of Montana
State University Billings. Her visit included some time at Yellowstone Public
Radio, where she sat with YPR News Director Jackie Yamanaka for
a wide-ranging interview covering her professional experience, her approach to
higher ed administration, and the very clear challenges facing the Montana University
System.
UM President George Dennison to Retire
aired January 25, 2010
University of Montana President George Dennison announced he'll retire
in August 2010. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
link: http://www.umt.edu/president
Child Hunger Summit
aired January 25, 2010
Hungry in Montana 2008
Report (.pdf file, requires Adobe
Reader)
The recession continues to deepen in Montana. That's led to a growing number
of hungry children and their families. As Jackie Yamanaka reports in the
latest in our occasional series Making Ends Meet, a summit was convened
in Billings to tackle this issue.
MSU President Dr. Waded Cruzado's First Campus Address
aired January 15, 2010
Unedited Audio of Dr. Cruzado's Address
The new President of Montana State University delivered her first campus-wide
address today.
As Jackie Yamanaka reports from Bozeman, Dr. Waded Cruzado called for
collaboration to help the MSU system weather the budget challenges
ahead.
Board of Regents: Budget Challenges
aired January 14, 2010
The chairman of the Montana Board of Regents says higher education will
cooperate with the governor's call to reduce budgets. That's despite
language in the state's constitution that says it doesn't have to cooperate
with that request. The regents held their January meeting at the College
of Technology in Helena. As Jackie Yamanaka reports, the campuses were
given no clear guidance as to how to carry out the request.
Green Job Training
aired January 12, 2010
Ten Montana labor organizations will receive a $5 million federal stimulus
grant. The money is to re-train the state's workforce for the emerging
wind, solar, and other renewable and energy efficiency industries. Jackie
Yamanaka reports.
Fort Robinson Run
aired January 7, 2010
About 100 youth from the Northern Cheyenne Reservation
will depart for a 400-mile run. The route stretches from Nebraska and
back to their southeastern Montana Reservation. The run commemorates
an event that took place on January 9th, 1879. That’s when ancestors
of the Northern Cheyenne decided to escape from captivity at Fort Robinson
and try to return to Montana rather than be forced to Oklahoma. Most
died, shot by the military. But a few survived and were later taken to
what is now the Northern Cheyenne Reservation. Jackie Yamanaka has more
about this memorial run.
Link: Fort Robinson Outbreak Spiritual Run
Gov. Schweitzer (D) on Enery Independence
aired January 6, 2010
MT Governor Brian Schweitzer (D) was one of the keynote speakers invitied
to talk about energy policy at a business summit in Arizona. The Montana
Democrat also chairs the Western Governors' Association. As Jackie Yamanaka
reports, Schweitzer predicted coal-fired power plants will continue despite
the calls from some to abandon them immediately and instead rely on renewable
energy resources.
Self Help Law Center
aired January 5, 2010
Yellowstone County Commissioners approved plans to renovate parts of
the county courthouse to accommodate a new District Judge and keep the
Self Help Law Center in the building. Initially, the commissioners said
the Self Help Law Center would have to leave the courthouse. Advocates,
however, urged commissioners to try to accomodate a needed service that
helps to reduce court backlog. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
Rep. Denny Rehberg (R) Listening Sessions
aired December 28, 2009
Congressman Denny Rehberg (R) has scheduled five listening sessions next
week in southwest Montana to gather public comments on Senator Jon Tester's
(D) forest bill. Last summer, Tester announced he's sponsoring legislation
intended to create jobs, restore forest health, establish areas for motorized
recreation, and designate some lands as wilderness. A Senate committee
hearing was held on the bill just over a week ago. As Jackie Yamanaka
reports, Rehberg wants to hear from Montanans most affected by the bill.
Robotic Surgery at Billings Clinic
aired December 23, 2009
A donation from a retired Apollo 8 astronaut and his wife will allow
the Billings Clinic to offer a high-tech surgery that uses robotic technology.
The announcement came during a press conference in Billings. Jackie Yamakana
reports.
Otter Creek Vote
aired December 21, 2009
The Montana State Land Board voted in favor of leasing vast coal tracts
in Eastern Montana, despite overwhelming public opposition at the Board's
public meeting at the Capitol. As Jackie Yamanaka reports, the vote was
not unanimous.
December Meeting of the Regents Workgroup
aired December 18, 2009
A MT Board of Regents workgroup charged with reforming and re-inventing
the Montana University System held its second meeting via video conference.
Jackie Yamanaka attended the MetNet session at MSU Billings' downtown
campus.
Conrad Anker: The Wildest Dream
aired December 7, 2009
Bozeman will host a special preview screening of a film about the man
who set out to be the first to summit Mt. Everest. George Mallory disappeared
in 1924. Seventy-five years later, alpinist Conrad Anker of Bozeman found
Mallory's body. Since that expedition, Anker wanted to tell a more complete
story about the man who aspired to stand on the world's highest peak.
Jackie Yamanaka reports.
Sen. Tester (D-MT): Jobs Roundtable
aired November 27, 2009
Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) says Congress has a lot on its plate right
now, but the number one issue is jobs and economic recovery. During the
Thanksgiving break, Tester invited business and community leaders to
Montana State University Billings for roundtable discussion on the topic.
Jackie Yamanaka reports.
MT Awarded Lumina Grant
aired November 24, 2009
The Lumina Foundation for Education awarded Montana's higher education
system a grant for nearly $2 million to continue its mission to improve
two-year education. Montana is one of seven states from across the nation
awarded a grant. The other six states are Arizona, Indiana, Maryland,
Ohio, Tennessee, and Texas. The mission of all of these grants is to
find innovative ways to increase the number of college graduates at a
lower cost to students and taxpayers. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
MT Board of Regents
aired November 23, 2009
The MT Board of Regents heard preliminary plans for how the Montana University
System will cope with a nearly 18 million-dollar reduction in the coming
biennium. Among the suggestions: employee furloughs and layoffs, increasing
faculty workloads and larger class sizes, program cuts, and tuition hikes.
As Jackie Yamanaka reports, the Schweitzer Administration urged higher
education officials to use creative fixes rather than rely on traditional
fixes.
Incoming President Cruzado / Board of Regents
aired November 20, 2009
The incoming president of Montana State University attended her first
meeting of the Montana Board of Regents. At the same time, it was the
last official meeting for MSU President Geoff Gamble. Gamble is retiring
at the end of the year. Jackie Yamanaka has more from the Regents' meeting
this week at Montana State University.
Sen. Tester (D) on Health Care
aired November 18, 2009
Senator Jon Tester says he's ready to begin debate on a health care overhaul
bill. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid of Nevada is working to garner
the 60 votes Democrats need to open debate on this measure, perhaps as
early as this week. As Jackie Yamanaka reports, Tester said during a
telephone press conference that he hasn't yet pledged his vote to Reid
to start debate, but he wants the bill to come to the floor.
MSU Billings Poll: Day Two
aired November 17, 2009
A majority of Montanans disapprove of President Barack Obama's overall
performance in office, according to the latest MSU Billings poll. Just
over 400 Montanans were queried on national and state issues about a
week ago. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
LINK: Access the poll results at http://www.msubillings.edu/urelations/
MSU Billings Poll: Day One
aired November 16, 2009
Senator Max Baucus' job approval rating among Montanans has fallen 20 points.
That's according to the latest MSU Billings poll. The statewide survey
of over 400 Montanans was conducted just over a week ago. Jackie Yamanaka
reports.
LINK: Access the poll results at http://www.msubillings.edu/urelations/
Sen. Max Baucus (D) in Billings on Health Care
aired November 16, 2009
One of the lead architects of the overhaul of the nation's health care
system predicts Congress will pass legislation either by the end of this
year or soon after. About a week ago, the US House passed its bill. All
eyes are now on the Senate. Sen. Max Baucus (D) sat down with Jackie
Yamanaka to talk about what he expects the final overhaul bill will contain.
Chip Berlet / Right-Wing Movements
aired November 12, 2009
The Montana Human Rights Network says Montana is
not immune from the surge in right wing activism geared toward mobilizing
fear and resentment. That’s
why the group has invited a nationally-recognized expert to speak in
Helena on these social and political movements. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
LINK: Adobe .pdf file of the flyer for the event
Distracted Driving
aired November 5, 2009
Distracted driving is not new, says an instructor
in the state's Risk Management division. Rather, we're inundated with
more distractions—from
cell phones to other electronic gadgets, to digital billboards, to more
traffic on our roads. Jackie Yamanaka has more from a course held in Billings
on preventing distracted driving.
LINK: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Study
Tentative University System Contract
aired October 28, 2009
The union representing classified employees on the state's college campuses
has reached a tentative agreement with the Montana University System
over a new, two-year contract. The collective bargaining agreement expired
July first of this year. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
H1N1 Webinar Meeting
aired October 27, 2009
State, local, and tribal public health officials held a summit via the
internet to get an update on the spread of H1N1 in Montana, as well as
to talk about planning and response activities. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
MT Board of Regents Work Group
aired October 23, 2009
A working group formed to re-invent Montana's university system sat down
for its first face-to-face meeting. The panel discussed its mission,
the results of a recent survey, and what direction it might take. Jackie
Yamanaka reports from Helena.
Meth Drug Study
aired October 20, 2009
The Billings Clinic Research Center is investigating new options that
might help women who are fighting their addiction to methamphetamine.
As Jackie Yamanaka reports, the research center has designed a study
to test the effective ness of two anti-depressant drugs in preventing
a meth relapse in women.
For more information on how to qualify for this study,
please call the Billings Clinic Research Center at (406) 259-2413 or
(406) 247-6461 or visit http://www.billingsclinic.com/body.cfm?id=27
Sen. Baucus Health Care Teleconference
aired October 19, 2009
Senator Max Baucus (D-MT) says when it comes to a health care overhaul,
the so-called public option is still on the table. The Chairman of
the Senate Finance Committee held a telephone press conference with
reporters from across the country today. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
Billings VA Clinic Dedication
aired October 16, 2009
Officials dedicated the new building for the Billings Veterans Affairs
outpatient clinic. As Jackie Yamanaka reports, this dedication comes
less than two years after a visit by a former VA Secretary.
Climate Change Studies Program Launch
aired October 15, 2009
The University of Montana last night launched its new Climate Change
Studies Program. Inclement weather, though, prevented two keynote speakers
from landing in Missoula to talk about the connection between climate
change and national security. Still, Jackie Yamanaka was able to talk
to the former Vice Chief of Naval Operations about the topic.
Statewide Coat Drive
aired October 14, 2009
First Lady Nancy Schweitzer kicked off a statewide campaign to collect
unused coats that will be donated to local cahritable organizations.
The coat drive was launched at the new First Interstate Bank Operations
Center in Billings. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
For more information, visit http://ready.mt.gov/
Seasonal Flu Vaccine
aired October 12, 2009
Public health officials say a shipping delay has created a temporary
shortage of the seasonal flu vaccine in Montana. But as Jackie Yamanaka
reports, officials say there's no cause for concern since the seasonal
flu season traditionally doesn't start until mid-December.
Healthy MT Kids Launch
aired September 29, 2009
The voter-approved expansion of health insurance for Montana children
goes into effect Thursday, October 1. State health department officials
were at Riverstone Health in Billings today as part of a publicity campaign
to encourage parents to apply for the Healthy Montana Kids program. Jackie
Yamanaka reports.
MT Board of Regents: Regents Approve Budget
aired September 25, 2009
With no discussion, the Board of Regents unanimously approved the budgets
for the state's system of higher education. The regents wrapped up work
at the September meeting on Friday at MSU Billings. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
MT Board of Regents: Reinvent & Reform Higher Education
aired September 25, 2009
The main task of the September meeting of the Board
of Regents is to set the budgets for the Montana university system. But
as Jackie Yamanaka reports, the regents are also discussing a broader
theme—reinvention
and reform.
MT Board of Regents: Campus Budgets
aired September 24, 2009
The Montana Board of Regents is setting budgets for the state's colleges and
universities during its meeting in Billings this week. Each campus gave its budget
presentations Wednesday. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
2009 Northwest Area Foundation Poll
aired September 17, 2009
part of the Making Ends Meet series
Montanans report thay've been hit hard by the recession. That's the finding
of a poll released by the Minnesota-based Northwest Area Foundation.
The poll found more Montanans are struggling financially than a year
ago. Since 2005, the foundation has been tracking how residents are faring
economically in its 8-state region that includes Montana. As part of
our continuing series Making Ends Meet, Jackie Yamanaka reports on some
of the poll's findings.
Jewish High Holidays / Bozeman Rabbi
aired September 15, 2009
The Jewish community in Bozeman will celebrate the High Holidays for
the first time with their resident Rabbi. Until this year, Whitefish
was the only Montana community with a resident Rabbi. Jackie Yamanaka
reports.
Congregation Beth Shalom: http://www.bethshalombozeman.org/
UPDATE: Bozeman also has a Hassidic Rabbi. His name is Rabbi Chaim Bruk.
For information: http://www.jewishmontana.com/
Gov. Schweitzer: European Trip
aired September 14, 2009
Governeor Brian Schweitzer (D) has returned to Montana from his trade
trip to Europe to discuss renewable energy. He announced as a result
that a Spanish company signed a contract to expand its current project
in Montana. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
Ford Executive in Billings
aired September 14, 2009
An executive with Ford Motor Company was in Billings to talk with students
and faculty at the MSU Billings College of Business. As Jackie Yamanaka
reports, Peter Sherry talked about how Ford has been able to weather
the storms that have battered the automobile industry.
Property Reappraisal Notices
aired September 9, 2009
The final batch of property assessment notices were mailed out to residents
of Park, Madison, and Lincoln counties. These notices are NOT tax bills--rather,
they tell owners the new "market value" of their property. The information
is used to calculate property values. Jackie Yamanaka spoke with MT Revenue
Department Director Dan Bucks about how property owners should interpret
these numbers.
Property tax calculators: http://mt.gov/revenue/forindividuals/property/reappraisal/calculating.asp (note you will need Adobe reader 9.1.3 to use the tax calculators)
Department of Revenue: http://mt.gov/revenue/
Property tax reappraisal FAQ: http://mt.gov/revenue/2009_property%20_valuations_revised.asp
Sen. Baucus (D), Healthcare, and Small Business
aired September 8, 2009
When Congress returns to work following its August recess, attention
focuses on the Senate Finance Committee and its health care overhaul
efforts. Chairman Max Baucus said during the break that he'd heard a
lot of fear voiced over efforts to overhaul the nation's healthcare system.
Jackie Yamanaka reports.
Right to Die & the Montana Supreme Court
aired September 2, 2009
The Montana Supreme Court heard oral arguments in the state's appeal
of a lower court ruling that Montanans have a constitutionality protected
right to a physician-assisted suicide. As Jackie Yamanaka reports, one
of the arguments the justices are weighing stems from whether this decision
belongs before the courts OR is a public policy decision that belongs
before the Montana Legislature.
Sen. Baucus (D) / AARP Meeting
aired September 1, 2009
Senator Max Baucus reassured senior citizens that he wants to strengthen
Medicare in any overhaul of the nation's health care system. His comments
came during a telephone town hall meeting organized by AARP Montana.
Jackie Yamanaka reports.
Lone Peak High School
aired August 31, 2009
A ribbon-cutting is scheduled for Montana's newest high school. Students
from Big Sky used to attend Bozeman High School located nearly sixty
miles away. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
MSUB Chancellor Address
aired August 26, 2009
Higher education officials in Montana are laying the groundwork for an
overhaul of the state's colleges and universities. Among the reasons cited
are decreased funding from government sources, a desire by some officials
to hold the line on tuition and fees, and the changing face of students.
Jackie Yamanaka reports.
UPDATE: Contaminated Cooke City Water
August 24, 2009
story aired June 24, 2009
BOIL ORDER RESCINDED
read .pdf: http://www.ypradio.org/documents/ccwater.pdf
The Montana Department of Environmental Quality had identified several
possible sources of contamination affecting the public water system in
Cooke City.
Sen. Jon Tester (D-MT) / Billings Hospitals
aired August 20, 2009
U.S. Senator Jon Tester met with hospital representatives in Billings
today to talk about health care. Th U.S. Senate is currently on its August
recess and members are getting an earful on the issue. That's because
the Senate could begin debate on the bill in September. And just last
week, President Barack Obama shined attention on the issue by holding
a town hall meeting in Belgrade. Jackie Yamanaka reports.
Businesses Planning for the Flu
aired August 19, 2009
U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke is urging businesses to begin planning
now for the upcoming flu season. Jackie Yamanaka participated in Locke's
telephone conference call with reporters and filed this report.
Pres. Obama Town Hall Meeting
aired August 14, 2009
Archived Audio
President
Obama Town Hall (WMA)
President
Obama Town Hall (MP3)
 On
Friday, August 14, President Barack Obama delivered an address and conducted
a town hall meeting from a hangar at the Gallatin Valley Airport in Belgrade,
Montana. The spirited discussion included a range of views and questions from
a viariety of standpoints on the issue of healthcare reform. KTVQ-TV provided
YPR with audio for the live broadcast.
Rep. Denny Rehberg (R) Call-In
aired Thursday, August 6, 7pm
Rep.
Denny Rehberg (WMA)
Rep.
Denny Rehberg (MP3)
 Representative Denny
Rehberg (R) joined YPR News Director Jackie Yamanaka and
the YPR listening audience to discuss the issues currently facing Congress
and the state of Montana. This hour-long program featured questions and
comments from callers.
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