Episode - Voices of Montana: Recent Episodes
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Guest Host Bill Whitsitt talks to Scott Walter (president of Capital Research Center).
The post Dark Money and Campaign Financing first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Millions of dollars in out-of-state funding is behind a controversial constitutional abortion amendment, CI-128, that Montana voters will find on their November ballots Some groups in opposition are concerned the consequences of loose or undefined language in the amendment could legalize medical procedures of which Montanans are unaware.
The Catholic Bishops of Montana have made a rare clarion call for the public to oppose to CI-128. Click on the podcast as Matt Brower of the Montana Catholic Conference, and Dan Bartleson, of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Helena join the program to express those concerns.
The post Big Sky Bishops Warn of Misleading Abortion Initiative first appeared on Voices of Montana.
The Montana legislature and Governor Gianforte approved new state funding in 2023 for better mental health awareness and outcomes. The Behavioral Health Systems for Future Generations bill (HB 872) is a $300 million commitment that created a commission to explore the problems and recommend actions. Just hours before the report was presented to the Governor, State Representative Mike Yakawich, a member of that commission, joined the program to discuss the issues our families and communities are facing, and some of the recommendations the commissioners presented to address the problems.
The post Behavioral Health Report Guides New Funding for Mental Wellness first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Members of Montana’s building industry have joined together to give area students the opportunity to explore a career in the trades by hosting Build Montana “Pop Up Events,” where students get instructions and hands-on demonstrations with the tools that help build Montana. Click on the podcast to hear from students, industry reps, and instructors about their experiences and the potential to help fill the many good-paying jobs available in the building industry in the Treasure State.
The post Building Montana Live first appeared on Voices of Montana.
September is Hunger Action Month, and in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, many Montanans find themselves struggling with food insecurity.
Gayle Carlson, President and CEO of the Montana Food Bank Network, which distributes food and other resources to 340 partners across the state, joins us to talk about the depth of hunger in Montana, how hunger affects children and communities, and the on-going efforts to “Stand Up Against Hunger.”
The post Taking Action Against Hunger in Montana first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen paid a studio visit to discuss helping young victims of abuse and crime through the funding extension of a Montana child advocacy program.
The post Settlement Funds Youth Crime Victim Center, w/ AG Austin Knudsen first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Montana took steps in 2023 toward expanding public education access in the state with the approval of public Community Choice and Charter Schools. What is the status of the new programs? One is seating students and one is in court.
Trish Schreiber is an education specialist at Montana’s Frontier Institute, a non-profit advocacy organization. She joins us to talk about the status of the Community Choice Schools court case, which will have a formal hearing in early November, and to update us on the progress of Montana charter schools, with 17 new public charter schools having been opened this fall. Frontier Institute colleague Cheryl Tusken also comes alongside to discuss as new on-line education resource aptly called Ed Navigate MT that helps parents and students know more about their education choices
The post Education Freedom: Marching On in Montana first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Engaging the entire community in improving mental heath is one of the goals behind a new program putting mental health on the stage and on the move. State of Mind is an innovative program led by the University of Montana Co-lab for Civic Imagination utilizing theater and public dialogue to bring communities together in the battle for better mental health — and it’s coming to a Montana community near you.
The post Mental Health Awareness on the Stage and on the Move first appeared on Voices of Montana.
It’s time to talk heifers, or sewing, or rabbits, or leadership ….. Click on the podcast to hear how Montana youth involved in 4-H are making impacts in their community as 4-H makes important impacts in their lives. 4-H’ers on the program for September are Amareese Violett from Rosebud County, Elyse Bengtson from Glacier County, and joining us in studio are Bonnie Radke from Gallatin County, and Gallatin County Extension Agent Molly Yurdana.
The post September 4-H Spotlight first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Montana’s Governor Greg Gianforte joins the program for an update on a visit with southeast Montana producers impacted by the Remington fire this August. The governor also gave an overview of the fire season, now winding down, discussed visits to Alberton, Superior, Plains, Troy, and Libby, and talked about a state trust land oil lease that brings in a record $2.85 million in revenue.
The post Rem. Fire & Season, Record State Oil Lease, w/ Gov. Gianforte first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Heather McDowell, Vice President of Legal and External Affairs for Sibanye Stillwater joined the program to discuss the layoffs, markets, and the future for the Sibanye Stillwater Mine south of Big Timber. It is the United States only platinum and palladium mine. The company gave notice last week that it will lay off around 700 employees in the next 60 days at the facility.
The post Palladium Prices Prompt Sibanye Stillwater Layoffs first appeared on Voices of Montana.
In our continuing series on the Property Tax Task Force Report, Voices of Montana welcomed Montana Revenue Director Brendan Beatty to talk about the process and the outcome from revenue’s perspective. Click on the podcast to learn more about Montana’s tax structure and the homestead exemption Governor Gianforte has said he supports.
The post Revenue Director Beatty Discusses Property Tax Report first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Roads and bridges. That’s what makes up a great deal of the transportation system we see, but as they say, that’s just the tip of the — snowplow. Will autonomous driving vehicles be coming to a highway near you? What innovations are being employed in transportation design? What goes into making our roads and highways safe to travel? Click on the podcast as Montana’s Transportation Director Chris Dorrington joins us in-studio for a discussion on all things transportation.
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The post Transportation Anyone? first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Bill Thomas is the co-founder and CEO of the 9/11 Honor and Serve Foundation, based in Bigfork. Click on the podcast to hear the story of how a group of Montanans came together a decade ago for a special memorial and ceremony to honor all the 9/11 victims, not forgetting those lost on the 9/11, 2012 attack on the U.S. Embassy in Benghazi. Their special 10th Anniversary remembrance ceremony is taking place Wednesday, Sept. 11, at 5 pm at Wrangler Springs Ranch, 6850 Montana Hwy. 35 in Bigfork. Free admission and parking.
The post Montana Remembrance: Benghazi, 9/11 first appeared on Voices of Montana.
With Montana Association of Counties President and Fergus County Commissioner Ross Butcher
The post MACo’s Take on Property Tax Recommendations first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Fall marks the dawning of new academic school years – along with new opportunities, dreams, and challenges. Education is important to Americans and vitally important to our prosperity. Education is also community — often the very center of our communities.
Today we explore the value of education, specifically higher education, with one of Montana’s most respected and recognized education leaders– University of Montana President Seth Bodnar.
The post UM on Track, with University of Montana President Seth Bodnar first appeared on Voices of Montana.
MT US Senate candidate Tim Sheehy along with Arkansas Senator Tom Cotton join Vaughn Zenko in studio, on the campaign trail.
The post The Race for the MT US Senate with Tim Sheehy and Tom Cotton first appeared on Voices of Montana.
with Superintendent of Public Instruction Elsie Arntzen
Guest Host Vaughn Zenko
The post Back to School first appeared on Voices of Montana.
The first half of the show has the Montana League of Cities and Towns, and in the second half the Montana Nonprofit Association.
With Guest Host Vaughn Zenko
The post It’s all about Nonprofits! first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Big Sky football and Texas v Montana in Billings
The post 2024 Football Season Kicks Off first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Author Jill Riley speaks about her book, Post Traumatic Faith and the struggles of dealing with Mental Illness.
The post Post Traumatic Faith first appeared on Voices of Montana.
with Guest Host Kyle Riley
The post Opportunities to Fly in Big Sky Country first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Broadcasting Live from the MT Petroleum Assoc. Annual Meeting
The post Broadcasting Live from the MT Petroleum Assoc. Annual Meeting first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Fall is around the corner – it’s fair to say that many Montanans will have their minds on the hunting season.
Dustin Temple, Director of Montana’s Fish, Wildlife, & Parks, joins us for all things FWP. Game Management Bureau Chief Brian Wakeling provides big game updates, and FWP Hunting Access Program Manager Jason Kool checks in with news on block management and public access from east to west across Montana.
Good luck takes good preparation!
The post FWP Update – with Director Dustin Temple first appeared on Voices of Montana.
John Driscoll is the Democrat nominee for the U.S. House of Representatives from Montana’s eastern district, which has been a Republican stronghold since 1977. He faces Republican Nominee Troy Downing in November for the seat. Driscoll’s career has taken him in many directions, including service in the National Guard, as well as the Montana Legislature and Public Service Commission. Click on the podcast for a conversation with the candidate about the issues facing the state and the country.
The post John Driscoll – Democratic Candidate for U.S. House District 2 first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Commerce Director Paul Green pays a visit in-studio! There was a lot to cover, from attracting new businesses to Montana, encouraging entrepreneurship, main street business support, the shifting economy … and some Texas versus Montana 6-man football. Join us as we dig into what the Montana Commerce Department is doing to stir up the Treasure State economy.
The post Director Green, Commerce Department Stirring Up the Economy first appeared on Voices of Montana.
For this edition of the 4-H spotlight we talk with 10-year-old Rose Rost, from Willard, Montana, in Fallon County. Rose is a true 4-H go-getter who has had her hand in a large number of projects at a young age. We hear from 15-year-old archery leader Dylan Clark on his motivation for the projects he choses and the inspiration he provides as a mentor to the younger 4-H members. And from Livingston, 17-year-old Morgan Sites, a long-time 4-H’er from Park County, talks about the responsibility of leadership as a newly elected 4-H state officer, and, he just took his first steer to the Park County Fair.
The post 4-H Spotlight Shines Bright in August first appeared on Voices of Montana.
On National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day, the Montana Meth Project launched into the fight against that addictive and dangerous drug with a new education program for middle school and high school students. Executive Director Amy Rue joins us to discuss the new program and their continuing battle against illicit drugs.
The post Montana Meth Project Launches Into Fentanyl Fight first appeared on Voices of Montana.
A recent Montana Supreme Court ruling overturned a law requiring written consent from parents before minors could receive an abortion. The ruling seemingly placed the state in front of parental rights when it comes to medical decisions regarding their minor children.
We look into that consent law and the court’s decision with Derek Oestreicher from the Montana Family Foundation.
The post Parental Consent Abortion Law Struck Down by State Supreme Court first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Many Montanans have been hit with dramatic increases in property taxes due to a number of reasons — rising property values are chief among them, but local government spending, regulations, and the limitations placed on our resource economy all play a role.
The governor’s Property Tax Task Force has been studying the problem and potential solutions and last week released their findings and recommendations. Today, two key members of that task force, State Representative Llew Jones, and State Senator Greg Hertz, will join us to dive into the Property Tax Task Force recommendations and rationale.
The post Property Tax Task Force Recommendations & Rationale first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Montana has been on a steady march toward becoming a regional tech leader long before the federal government designated the state as 1 of 12 new regional Tech Hubs in July.
The designation of the Headwaters Tech Hub comes with federal funding, which will open new doors for the tech community in the state.
The photonics industry, in particular, has been leading the way, and two key members of the community, Jason Yager, of the Montana Photonics & Quantum Alliance, and Garrett Smith, of Reveal Technologies, join Voices of Montana to discuss the new technologies, the impact they could have on our lives and the economic future of Montana.
The post Photonics – Another Treasure from the State first appeared on Voices of Montana.
How does Montana help displaced mill workers? The head of Montana’s Department of Labor and Industry, Sarah Swanson, joined us in-studio to talk about Montana’s labor market and how the agency is helping train displaced workers and working with industry leaders to help prepare a valuable workforce.
The post Managing Montana’s Labor Market first appeared on Voices of Montana.
The VA MISSION Act expanded veteran’s access to medical providers and healthcare in their local communities. But the six-year-old program has revealed some deficiencies that hinder it’s effectiveness.
Chris Enget is a combat veteran and a Purple Heart recipient who knows first hand how delayed mental and physical care can impact a veteran’s health. Enget is the Strategic Director for Concerned Veterans For America (CVA) in Montana, which has been advocating for solutions and better accountability within the VA. Chris Enget joins Voices of Montana to discuss the problems and offer solutions to better care for our veterans.
The post Dialing-in Veterans Care Under the MISSION Act first appeared on Voices of Montana.
The Flathead Warming Center has been a busy place since it opened in 2018. Busy serving, and busy expanding. The center is a low barrier shelter for the population’s homeless, which has grown in proportion with the pandemic and Montana’s dramatic rise in home prices. The warming center found itself defending it’s services before the Kalispell City Council, which is considering amending or revoking the center’s conditional use permit in response to some neighbors complaints.
Are those complaints justified? What steps has the center taken to address concerns? Is the city prepared to replace those services? Click on the podcast to hear Flathead Warming Center co-founder and executive director Tonya Horn update us on how the community is coping with homelessness.
The post How Do Communities Cope with Homelessness? first appeared on Voices of Montana.
James Daniels has taken on a challenge. The double amputee, who lost his legs in a tractor trailer accident nearly two decades ago, will hike solo, (except for his chocolate lab Remy), 21 miles through the Castle Mountains. Daniels says he’s doing it to inspire others to never give up on life. He’s one to talk. At one point after the accident, Daniels said it was so hard that he almost gave up on life. But he overcame those dark challenges, and is now looking for something to conquer in the light. Click on the podcast to hear the story in his own words.
The post Amputee Plans Solo Backcountry Trek first appeared on Voices of Montana.
How big a role will nuclear energy have in our future? What are our current sources for generation? Are they reliable, affordable, and stable into the future? Those are some of the questions we and energy experts from across the region will explore as we’re live today at the Energy Open in Colstrip.
We hear from Emily Nichols, from GAIN, a national nuclear energy consortium. Brian Bird of NorthWestern Energy discusses our current and short-term generation needs, and Brant Johnson of Grid United goes into detail on their recently approved and funded transmission project which will go east from Colstrip and provide the first High Voltage transmission line link between the western and eastern energy grids.
The post Is Our Energy Reliable, Affordable into the Future? first appeared on Voices of Montana.
The US and global markets were stirred this week (08/05/24) with sharp declines, but a soft recovery was relatively swift as the U.S. economy continues to show it’s resiliency. In Montana, housing is still a major issue holding back the state’s economy, but there are jobs to be had.
One of Montana’s leading economists, Dr. Patrick Barkey, Director of the Bureau of Business and Economic Research, joins the program to discuss a wide range of local and national issues affecting our economy.
The post Economic Outlook, with Dr. Pat Barkey first appeared on Voices of Montana.
One of the frequent refrains from this election is a strong call for more common sense in government. The drug impact of open borders and the community impacts of runaway illegal immigration are a couple examples cited where Biden Administration policies have hurt the country. Energy pricing and foreign dependency are another.
That’s the backdrop for the conversation with GOP Senate candidate Tim Sheehy, who will be welcoming former President Donald Trump back to Montana for a rally this Friday in Bozeman. President Trump has endorsed the former Navy Seal and Bozeman businessman in his race against Senator Jon Tester.
The post Trump Rallies in MT, with GOP Senate Candidate Tim Sheehy first appeared on Voices of Montana.
President Biden has proposed term limits and other sweeping changes to the U.S. Supreme Court. Meanwhile, in Montana, a former Associate Justice of the state’s highest court, Justice Jim Nelson, has come under criticism for inappropriate comments he made in the wake of the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.
We take in some reaction from those two stories from Cory Swanson, who has served as the Broadwater County Attorney for the past 10 years, and as past Deputy Attorney General for the Montana Dept. of Justice. Swanson is currently a candidate in the race for Montana Chief Justice.
The post Sweeping Court Changes & Nelson’s Dodgy Discourse first appeared on Voices of Montana.
When a geyser in Biscuit Basin in Yellowstone National Park exploded – everyone had questions. The national park sits on one of the world’s largest active volcanos, and it does not go unmonitored. How dramatic was the event? Did it result in any significant changes to the hydrothermal system at the Park?
Click on the podcast as we look under the hood at YNP with a visit with Dr. Jamie Farrell, the Chief Seismologist for the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory.
The post Biscuit Basin Blowup – Yellowstone National Park first appeared on Voices of Montana.
What’s the latest on repairing the St Mary Conveyance? After years of patch work, the near 120-year old canal system, vital to tens of thousands of residents along the Hi-Line, is getting serious attention, and funding, after a catastrophic siphon failure in June shut it completely down. How long before the water is running again? What will it take to repair it? Will there be water for irrigation, recreation, and municipalities?
Find out more as we are joined by Jennifer Patrick, Project Manager for the Milk River Joint Board of Control.
The post St. Mary Repair Work Underway first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Click on the podcast for a great conversation with Stacy Zinn, the former DEA agent and former congressional candidate who attended the 2024 Republican National Convention in the wake of the assassination attempt on former President Trump.
She’ll have reactions on what transpired then, but also, Zinn reflects back on her experiences and take aways from running her first statewide congressional campaign. As a newcomer, she fared well, placing third among the nine candidates in the eastern district GOP primary.
The post Stacy Zinn Reflects on Campaign, RNC Convention, Trump Nomination first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Live from the Cattle Producers’ Forum, Voices of Montana teamed up with Colter Brown and the Northern Ag Network to give you a look inside the challenges and opportunities Montana’s cattle men and women face. Leaders from the Montana Stockgrowers Association and the United States Cattlemen’s Association came together at the same table for the first time to get working on their common goals. Click on the podcast for more.
The post Challenges and Opportunities in the Cattle Industry first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Montana producers and public officials returned recently from a trade mission to Colombia to explore new markets for our state’s ag products, especially pulse crops — Montana leads the nation in pulse production.
Did the group broker any new deals?
Click on the podcast to find out, as Weston Merrill, trade specialist, and Zach Coccoli, Deputy Director of the Montana Department of Agriculture discuss the mission and what it takes to grow a successful trade relationship. We also get a look at the trade mission from the producer’s perspective, as Liz Edmundson, Executive Director of the Montana Pulse Crop Committee, and board member and Galata producer Brian Aklestad join us with their perspectives. Brett McRae, from the Northern Ag Network, accompanied the crew to South America, and moderates the discussion.
Northern Ag Network Video: Promoting Montana Pulse Crops in Colombia
The post Getting a Stronger Pulse on Montana/Colombia Trade first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Montana’s mule deer population has struggled in recent years, with the state responding by altering hunting tags and other measures. What are the reasons for the decline, and what measures are needed to turn those numbers around?
Click on the podcast, as Chris Fortune has some ideas on that. Chris is the Montana Regional Director for the Mule Deer Foundation, a 36-year-old national organization that has 17 active chapters in Big Sky Country. Chris talks about a loss of habitat, predation, hunting pressures, and other factors that challenge the mule deer populations, and collaborative efforts that are needed for a rebound.
The post Mule Deer Foundation Working Hard in Big Sky Country first appeared on Voices of Montana.
With Grace Parret, Philipsburg, Molly Arnold from Billings, and Katelyn Suta, from Cut Bank!
The post July 4-H Spotlight first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Leadership, scholarships, networking, and fun. The annual Miss Montana Volunteer Pageants pack all of that into a few short days for the pageant contestants. Click on the podcast to hear Alissa Bohle, from the Board of Directors, and a former Miss Montana Volunteer pageant winner, discuss what takes place as the ladies, from four different age groups, prepare for the issues and the performances.
Joining us on the show are three Miss Montana Volunteer contestants: Brianna Olstad – Billings, Bryn Snideman, Glendive, and Madelynn Hust – Laurel.
The post 2024 Miss Montana Volunteer(s) first appeared on Voices of Montana.
The 51st Annual Montana History Conference is coming to Great Falls Sept. 26-28. The agenda is packed and impactful. Click on the podcast as Montana Historical Society Historian Christine Brown goes through some of the keynote address, events, tours, and other highlights of the 3-day event. MHS Director Molly Kruckenberg fills us in on the progress of the Montana Heritage Center, a $100 million facility under construction that is scheduled to be the new home for Montana’s treasures in the summer 2025, and also hear about the history of central Montana, with Kristi Scott, Executive Director of The History Museum, Great Falls.
The post 51st Montana History Conference Taps Our Central Montana Roots first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Taking good care of our pets and animals could become more of a challenge as the number of veterinarians is projected to lag far behind the growing demand for services.
Between 1980 and 2010, there was only one new Veterinarian school to open across the country — and today, there are still only about 35 DVM, (Doctor of Veterinarian Medicine) schools – none within 400 miles of central Montana.
Today we talk about reversing that trend with Dr. Robert Murtaugh, Founding Dean of Rocky Vista University, College of Veterinary Medicine, which was recently approved to be established at RVU’s Montana Campus, in Billings.
Dr. Murtaugh joined us in-studio to lead a discussion with practicing veterinarians and members of the ag community about the project and its potential impact.
The post On the Need for a New Vet Clinic first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Two constitutional initiatives, CI-126 and CI-127, would change Montana’s Primary Elections from a semi-open primary where the winning vote-getter from the qualifying major parties moves on to the general election, to one where the top four vote getters, regardless of party affiliation, would qualify for the general election. CI-126 would allow for that, while the companion piece, CI-127, would require that a winning candidate in the general election receive more than 50% of the vote
That’s a substantial change in the way Montana elects its representatives. The initiatives are backed by Montanans for Election Reform, and former legislators Rob Cook and Frank Garner join the program to discuss the details and the merits of their proposal.
The post Supporters Discuss Merits of Montana Primary Election Reform first appeared on Voices of Montana.
It’s become one of the west’s best — the Red Ants Pants Festival in White Sulphur Springs. It’s coming in late July, but folks are happily making plans now.
Founder of the festival, and the Red Ants Pants clothing company that got it all started, Sarah Calhoun joins us to talk about the music and unique connection the festival has to so many Montanans through the Red Ants Pants Foundation. We also hear from one of the headliners Jeffrey Foucault, on what the Red Ants Pants Festival means to artists, and play the title release of his upcoming album, Universal Fire.
The post Getting Ready for Red Ants Pants first appeared on Voices of Montana.
It’s been over 7 months since the brutal Hamas attack on Israel. The ensuing response by the Israeli government has been both decisive and destructive, but where are we at now?
University of Montana Professor Mehrdad Kia is one of our region’s leading voices on Middle Eastern and Asian policies. Professor Kia is our special guest as we take a fresh look at the current status of Israel and Hamas.
The post Israel-Hamas: Where Are We Now, with UM Professor Mehrdad Kia first appeared on Voices of Montana.
A federal judge in Kansas this week granted Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen’s request to block the administration’s unconstitutional student loan forgiveness orders. AG Knudsen will join us to discuss this developing story, as well as an earlier court win preserving Title IX protections of young women and girls in sports and other activities.
The post Update on Title IX, Student Loans, w/ AG Austin Knudsen first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Click on the podcast as FWP Director Dustin Temple leads a discussion on what biologists have found in completing the annual spring survey for mule deer. Populations are struggling in some areas, though progress is also noted. FWP has reduced some licenses and taken other actions in response.
Click here for a closer look at the numbers and more information on restrictions
The post FWP Spring Survey Shows Areas of Concern for Mule Deer first appeared on Voices of Montana.
It’s Shakespeare in the studio today, as we celebrate a Montana summer tradition now in its 52nd season.
Montana Shakespeare in the Parks has endured all the elements that a Montana summer can muster, and it’s still going strong, much to the joy of tens of thousands of Montanans over the years.
Join us as Hamlet and Horatio will be in-studio today. Hamlet is played by Riley O’Toole, who has spent the last 11 seasons touring in Montana, and is the company’s new Associate Artistic Director, and Horatio is played by Mikey Gray, returning for her fourth season under the Big Sky’s big lights.
The post Shakespeare in the Studios first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Governor Greg Gianforte stopped in with news updates on St Mary‘s, the fire season, property taxes, and an update from his recent Economic Summit, where Berkshire-Hathaway announced a major energy investment they are making along the Hi-Line.
The post Governor Gianforte Stops By with News Updates first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Illegal immigration and the country’s open border policies are among the biggest issues this election season. Today, we get the inside view of why the open border is such a big issue – with a visit by former Border Patrol Chief Chris Clem.
Clem spent 27 years, under five US Presidents, as a border patrol agent. He is making appearances across Montana to relay his experiences, discuss the drawbacks and dangers of the catch and release policies, and talk about the necessary steps to help America secure its borders again.
Chief Clem AFP Montana Appearances – All events begin at 6:30pm
Monday, June 24th, DoubleTree-Edgewater, Missoula
Tuesday, June 25th, Hilton Garden Inn, Kalispell
Wednesday, June 26th, Great Falls Convention Center
Thursday, June 27th, AC Hotel, Bozeman
Friday, June 28th, The Northern Hotel, Billings
The post Former Border Chief Shares Need to Shore Up Security first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Montana researchers have spent the better part of the last two years digging into where, how, and why Montana businesses, new and established, are accessing capital. Their findings are critical data for public officials who are working to improve the state’s economy and promote business and industry opportunities in Montana.
What does the study tell us about those economic opportunities in our state? Lead researchers Dr. Jennifer Isern and Karl Unterschuetz join us to look at the roadblocks and open doors to “Access to Finance in Montana.”
The post Access to Finance in Montana: A Study first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Another failure of the St Mary’s Diversion project has local project and irrigation managers coming together quickly for solutions. A canal siphon blowout, northeast of Babb, caused local flooding, erosion, and property damage, but repairing and replacing a large section of the century-old conveyance project will be an enormous expense, and time is of the essence. will take time and money. Public safety becomes a part of the concern as the the canal closes, potentially leaving some Hi-Line communities without public water.
Click on the podcast as Marko Manoukian, Co-Chair of the St Mary Rehabilitation Working Group, provides the early update ahead of a public meeting in Malta on Thursday June 20, 6pm, at the Great Northern Hotel.
The post St. Mary Siphon Failure – What Happened, What’s Next first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Joe Cantwell, Age 14, Butte, Silver Bow County, Western Region NomineeJoe Cantwell is always challenging himself through 4-H. He works hard at each of the projects he enrolls in, showing up to meetings, taking on new roles within projects and his club, as well as helping others learn. He is involved in many projects including Archery, Shotgun, Swine, Photography, and the Teen Leadership project. Joe is consistently the first to show up and the last to leave, showing true leadership and mentorship for others.
He has become a role model to younger members within the past two years. You can find Joe at archery meetings early to help members become more confident through encouragement and coaching. He also organized the Adult Round Robin at the 2023 Butte-Silver Bow County Fair to help raise funds for kids to go to the 2024 4-H camp.
Landon Molitor, Age 17 , Havre, Hill County, Central Region Nominee
Landon Molitor is an active member in the Hill County community through organizations such as 4-H and FFA.
Molitor is the essence of perseverance as his own hardships have resulted in him having to step into a larger role alongside his brother. He is passionate about supporting others in the face of adversity and rising above the fray.
He has shown that with a good work ethic and passion, you can persevere through adversity while supporting others. Landon is a true model of learning by doing as well as leadership.
Cayla Hanson, Age 17, Sidney, Richland County, Eastern Region NomineeCayla Hanson is enrolled in the poultry project, lamb, goat, rabbit, horse, and photography in Richland County.
Hanson is passionate about learning and teaching. She embodies “hands for larger service” by always lending a helping hand with zero complaints. Her involvement in her community has brought joy to many.
The post June 4H Spotlight first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Nearly 4,000 Montana youth have earned a new lease on life through the Montana Youth Challenge Academy, a program 25 years strong that’s graduating it’s 50th class on June 15.
Every part of what makes MYCA tick can be found in this podcast, which features two members of the 50th graduating class, several former cadets now giving back as staffers, long-time educators and counselors, some who have been with MYCA for the entire 25 years, including Director Trent Gibson.
Click on to hear why a Montana youth would take on the challenge, what they encountered, the impact it has on their lives, and for the teachers, counselors and educators, hear about the unique challenges and rewards of their service to our kids’ future.
The post MYCA Celebrates 50th Graduating Class first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Where do entrepreneurs go to find capitol to energize their business plans? Former Google Vice President, Philip Brittan, might have an answer for that. Brittan, who grew up on a ranch in Montana, gave the keynote address at the 2nd Annual Investing in Montana Summit, hosted by the state of Montana through the office of State Auditor, and Commissioner of Securities and Insurance, Troy Downing.
Click on the podcast to hear local and global financial experts discuss the who, what, where, and when of investment capitol for your business, including researchers Dr. Jennifer Isern (Catalyze Global Impact, LLC) and Karl Unterschuetz (Accelerate MT) who unpack some of their findings from a recently completed investment survey and study in Montana.
The post Entrepreneurs, Experts Gathered for CSI Investing Summit first appeared on Voices of Montana.
The Montana Broadcasters Association, and the Greater Montana Foundation kicked off the general campaign season with the first ever debate between Senate candidates Democrat Jon Tester and Republican Tim Sheehy. The candidates were professional and knowledgeable about the multiple, on-point questions from the panel of broadcast journalists.
The post Tester, Sheehy Spar Lightly at First Senatorial Debate first appeared on Voices of Montana.
The Montana Historical Society has tabbed three more Montana legacy homesteads to the Centennial Farm and Ranch register: Birkeland Farms and the Woodmansey Ranch in Chouteau County, and Inbody Farms in Teton County.
Siblings Kristen and Scott Inbody join the program to share some family history and talk about their Centennial Farm, northeast of Choteau. Scott has been operating the Inbody Farms since 2006 after taking over from his father, Roy, who is the grandchild of original settlers Ray and Hannah Inbody.
From the Montana Historical Society:
Northeast of Choteau, in Teton County, the Inbody family just celebrated 100 years of farming the same land, despite terrible loss, drought, low prices, and a century of change. Roy and Hannah Inbody began farming leased land near the current farm acreage, which he purchased in March 1924. Roy added land to his holdings and by 1934 had amassed 1,200 acres.
Tragically, Roy and Hannah were killed in a car accident while on vacation in California in 1934. Their children, ages 12 to 18, were determined to stay together on the farm, although neighbors suggested otherwise.
Brothers Glen and Clark Inbody farmed together after World War II and grew the farm to 2,200 acres. The brothers created Inbody Farms Inc. in 1979 after Glen’s son, Roy, came home to join the farming operation. Roy continued growing grains and adding more land to the farm. His son, Scott, graduated from Montana State University with an agriculture business degree and returned to the farm in 2006, taking over the full operation of Inbody Farms with occasional help from Roy.
“Wise money management and controlled growth have been factors in the farm staying in the family for 100 years,” said Roy Inbody. It also helped that his wife Diane’s teaching career provided health insurance. One of the central philosophies of the family has been making things better for the next generation, even if that means a life off the farm. The legacy is not meant to be a shackle but an opportunity to create a life close to the land with flexibility and community.
The post Inbody Farms, Others Added to Centennial Farm & Ranch Program first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Don Kaltschmidt, Chair of the Montana Republican Party, drops in with a quick conversation to highlight some interesting numbers from the Primary election, and to set the stage for a critical and closely-watched U.S. Senate race.
The post GOP Chair Don K Sizes Up Sheehy/Tester Race, Primaries first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Judicial authority over tribal felony prosecutions on the Flathead Reservation is in flux as the state of Montana and Lake County haggle over who foots the bill. The Montana Supreme Court, the Governor’s office, and Lake County officials are all involved in sorting through the conflict, while the CSKT tribe awaits.
Area lawmaker, Rep. Joe Read, who carried legislation addressing many of the issues, joins Voices of Montana to explain the controversy and the path for resolution.
The post Enforcement Authority in Question on Flathead Reservation first appeared on Voices of Montana.
The most watched, and crowded race in the primary election was the Eastern District House race, where 9 Republicans and 4 Democrats were vying for the seat. State Auditor Troy Downing, winner of the GOP primary, joins the program to talk about the victory and his election experiences as he prepares to face Democrat John Driscoll in November for that U.S. House seat.
Also, Senate Majority Leader Steve Fitzpatrick (R-Great Falls), and Rep. Jonathan Karlen, (D-Missoula) give their takes on the primary outcome of some key state legislative races.
The post Post Primary Election Connection first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Landowners and agriculture producers are up in arms over a state policy that allowed the DNRC to claim water rights from landowners who utilize their private water on public land they are leasing from the state.
The Montana Land Board has taken some steps to intervene, but the case remains unsettled – which is an uncomfortable place for water law.
Pardon the obvious pun, but click on the podcast for a deep end dive into the issue with former 4-term state legislator Alan Redfield, a Paradise Valley producer whose legislation in 2019 was aimed at rectifying the issue.
The post State Claiming Water Rights on Private Wells first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Are you satisfied with your current form of local government? That’s the question on the ballot for Montana’s 56 counties and 125+ cities in the form of a vote for or against a Local Government Review. It’s a unique opportunity provided by our state constitution for the governed to examine the effectiveness of their government — and make changes.
What’s involved in a local government review? For that we talk with Dan Clark, Director of the MSU Extension Local Government Center. Click on the podcast to learn more about the review process, current forms of local government, and hear how some of Montana’s communities have utilized the review to make improvements to the way they govern.
The post Want to Make a Change to Your Local Government? first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Journalist and Non-Stop Local Political Analyst Mike Dennison joins us for an election take on some of the major races in Montana, some of the legislative races that might be going under the radar, and the significance of two open seats on the Montana Supreme Court.
The post Mike Dennison on MT Elections first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Election Connection Coverage from the Northern News Network: Brad Johnson, U.S. Senate GOP Primary Candidate
Brad Johnson is not just another politician; he’s a conservative and proven Montana leader through and through. His time in public service kicked off in 1982 when he served as a campaign coordinator for the Montana Republican nominee for US Senate. Brad has spent many years in public service putting Montanans first. His conservative values and strong faith guided him while he was serving as Montana’s conservative Secretary of State and was also the lone Republican to hold statewide office. Brad’s real Montana Values will continue to guide him as Montana’s next United States Senator. Brad’s experiences and long tenure in Montana provide him with an in-depth understanding of the issues that matter most to Montanans.
FROM: https://www.bradformontana.com/
The post Brad Johnson – U.S. Senate Candidate first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Election Connection Coverage from the Northern News Network: Monica Tranel is a democratic candidate running for Congress in the Western District U.S. House race.
Monica Tranel was raised with her nine brothers and sisters on a ranch in eastern Montana, and she always had a job to do: feeding pigs, stacking hay, fixing fences.
The strong work ethic Monica learned on the ranch led her to become a world-class rower, competing in two Olympics and winning a World Championship Gold for the United States Women’s Rowing Team – the first U.S. Women’s eight to win gold at 2000 meters.
Monica worked her way through college and law school. Her career has been in Montana, working for local business owners, working families, and Montana ranchers.
From: https://www.monicatranel.com/
The post Western District House Race – Democrat Monica Tranel first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Summer boating and hiking is just around the corner, and with that, the battle against invasive species gets renewed. Why is it so important we keep that in mind this summer? Liz Lodman, Administrator for the Montana Invasive Species Council, joins us, along with experts in both aquatic and plant invasive species, to talk about the potential damage of those outsiders, and what the public and our agencies are doing to combat them.
The post The Summer Battle Against Weeds & Invasive Species Renews first appeared on Voices of Montana.
… if you know what we mean. Click on the podcast to hear founder and Executive Director DeeDe Baker talk about the origins of Montana’s non-profit Dog Tag Buddies, how valuable canine therapy can be for some veterans, and how multiple groups, government and grassroots, are collaborating to better help veterans live full and healthy lives after their service to our country.
Also, Tina Beach and Lori Balcer from the Tenacious Dames women’s motorcycle club joins us to talk about their 4th Annual Ride for Tomorrow bike ride and rally, which benefits groups like Dog Tag Buddies and others that join the fight against veteran suicide.
The post Veterans Services Going to the Dogs … first appeared on Voices of Montana.
With Memorial Day at hand, we look at efforts by the state and veterans advocates to improve long-term care and services for veterans and their care-givers.
With combat veterans Mike McManus, Program Director for the Veterans Navigation Network, and Retired Lt. Col Mike Waters alongside, we dive into those services in more detail, such as veterans home health programs, occupational therapy, care-giving assistance, and mental health.
Take the Long Term Care Veterans Survey Here.
The post Long-term Care Needs Come Into Focus for Montana Veterans first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Election Connection Coverage from the Northern News Network: James Brown is a candidate for the Republican nomination to serve as Montana’s State Auditor and Commissioner of Securities and Insurance.
Follow the constitution.
Serve as your government watchdog.
Commit to protecting consumers.
PROTECT THE MONTANA WAY OF LIFE
“As a fourth-generation Montanan and a private practice attorney for the last 18 years, I’ve proudly fought to protect Montana’s farmers, ranchers, and small businesses. You can count on me to reduce red tape for Montana businesses, enforce the law, protect consumers, and safeguard Montana seniors from financial abuse.
As your state auditor, I will vigilantly serve as your government watchdog, prosecute bad actors, and defend our Montana way of life.”
–James Brown, Candidate for Montana State Auditor
FROM: https://www.jamesbrownformontana.com/
The post James Brown, Candidate for State Auditor first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Election Connection Coverage from the Northern News Network: Ming Cabrera is a candidate for the Democratic Primary nomination to serve Montana’s Eastern District in the U.S. House.
As a proud lifelong Montanan, I understand what matters to our state because my values are Montana values. We all know what happens when out-of-state, out-of-touch politicians speak for us; it’s time that Montana’s voice in Congress belongs to a real Montanan, who understands our way of life and knows what matters most to us.
As a candidate for the US House of Representatives, I am dedicated to fiercely championing the interests of Montanans in Washington, DC – from the preservation of our cherished public lands and the fortification of our agricultural sector, to defending public education and improving access to affordable healthcare.
It’s going to take someone with a strong backbone and a proven ability to reach across the aisle to serve as a voice for Montana. I’m ready to be that voice, and I ask for your support in making it happen.
FROM: https://mingforcongress.com/
The post Ming Cabrera, Dem. Primary Candidate, Eastern District, US House first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Election Connection Coverage from the Northern News Network: Kevin Hamm is a candidate for the Democratic Primary nomination to serve Montana’s Eastern District in the U.S. House.
Hello, Montana.
My name is Kevin Hamm, and I am deeply proud of this State we call home. So proud, in fact, that I am running to represent Montana in Congress. I ask for your vote.
I am too blunt to be a politician. Like most Montanans, I did not build my name or bank account on inherited wealth. I got my hands dirty, built a small business, worked in our communities, and earned what little money I have. So, while I may not have deep pockets to buy billboards and lobbyists, I do have a lifetime of real-world work experience advocating for Montanans in every way I can …
FROM: https://kevinhamm.com/
The post Kevin Hamm, Dem. Primary Candidate, Eastern District, U.S. House first appeared on Voices of Montana.
The Montana Special Olympics Summer Games took place in Billings, with some 1400 athletes competing over three days, and as many volunteers and mentors also at the games. Join us as we broadcast live from the finish line and talk with the athletes, coaches, volunteers, and directors who all come together to help our special needs brothers and sisters shine.
The post A Day at Montana’s Special Olympics first appeared on Voices of Montana.
One of unforeseen consequences of the Biden administration’s open border policy is that states don’t have appropriate laws on the books to help manage a large influx of aliens in the country illegally. What has been done around the country and what can Montana do?
Click on the podcast as Montana Speaker of the House, Matt Regier, and Majority Leader Sue Vinton discuss some practical solutions they would be considering if the Montana Legislature approves the call for a special session for June 24. The agenda would also include work on a bill to redistribute marijuana taxes that found previous broad support among lawmakers, but was left undone after the governor’s veto and an untimely close to the Senate session.
The post Feds’ Open Border – What Can Montana Do? first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Election Connection Coverage from the Northern News Network: Susie Hedalen, GOP candidate for Superintendent of Public Instruction:
Bio taken from Susie’s website: https://www.susieforschools.com/
Susie Hedalen is the Superintendent of Townsend School District and the Vice-Chair of the Montana Board of Public Education. She previously served as Deputy Superintendent for Montana Office of Public Instruction and has extensive experience working in the K-20 school systems throughout the state.
Susie’s work in the education field spans decades; she has worked as an educator and administrator in class C to AA schools across Montana and has collaborated with various Tribal Nations.
Susie understands school funding streams and is experienced in managing federal programs at the school and state levels. She is passionate about working with school administrators, educators, and students. Susie enjoys supporting children of all ages and understands the urgency for mental health awareness and prevention in Montana.
Susie graduated from Montana State University, Bozeman, with a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education, a Master’s in Educational Leadership, and a Certificate in Native American Studies. She currently resides with her husband, Derrick, in Townsend.
The post Susie Hedalen – Candidate for OPI first appeared on Voices of Montana.
John Driscoll is running in the Democratic Primary for the Eastern District U.S. House seat. This bio is taken from the Ballotpedia profile, as Driscoll does not have a campaign website. He does, however, have a blogspot that has some recent entries: https://johnbdriscoll.blogspot.com/
Driscoll was born in Los Angeles, California. He served in the United States Army from September 1966 through May 2002. Driscoll earned a bachelor’s degree from Gonzaga University in May 1968. Driscoll also attended Columbia University School of International Affairs and Institute of Latin American Studies (graduated June 1970), Harvard University Kennedy School of Government (graduated June 1980), University of Montana Graduate School of Business (graduated 1985), and the U.S. Army War College (graduated June 1996). His professional experience includes working as a wildland firefighter, including smoke jumping, as a public utility regulator, and as a writer. Driscoll has been a member of Investigative Reporters and Editors.
The post Eastern District Democrat John Driscoll Running for Congress first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Industry leaders in Montana are doing the homework on the potential for small module nuclear reactors (SMR) to become a part of Montana’s energy future. The focus is on the utilizing Colstrip’s generation and transmission infrastructure, as the Biden Administration takes aim at closing the coal-generation facility with new regulations.
Jim Atchinson, Executive Director of the Southeast Montana Economic Development Corporation and former State Senator and miner Duane Ankney recently returned from a regional conference on nuclear energy and share their thoughts on the potential for nuclear power to replace the baseload generation currently provided by Colstrip. Rare earth mineral discovery and recovery are also on the plate.
The post Nuclear Options to Bridge the Green Energy Gap first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Youth leaders from the Flathead, Lambert, and Great Falls will join us on the May 4-H Spotlight show.
18-year-old Colton Kuka, from Kalispell is a natural born teacher.
Brynn Spinner from Lambert is a 17-year-old helping to feed her community.
And 18-year-old twins Emilia and Elizabeth Doyon will be happy to teach you how to tear up the 4-H Dance Floor.
The post 4H Member Spotlight of the Month – May first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Montana’s forestry and wood products industry has lost mills and market share over the past two decades battling what some stakeholders would call frivolous lawsuits and judicial activism. With that, timber industry leaders have been forming partnerships with multiple groups to help preserve the sawmills, which, along with good-paying jobs and economic benefit, provide critical management infrastructure for better forest health and wildlife habitat.
Two of the state’s top forestry leaders join us today, Bruce Vincent of Environomics, and Chris Anderson of Sun Mountain Lumber, to discuss the collaborative work being done the forest to meet the challenges of sustainable forest management and economic viability.
The post Forest Partnerships Improve Health, Habitat, Community first appeared on Voices of Montana.
To hear Superintendent of Public Instruction Elsie Arntzen say it, the former teacher and state legislator has spent the last 8 years fighting for our kids in a public school system where cultural and behavioral battles too often play out.
Click on the podcast as the former teacher and candidate for the Eastern District Congressional Republican Primary talks about her accomplishments in the Office of Public Instruction, and how she’ll take that fighting spirit to Congress to close the border to illegal immigration, make America energy independent again, and fix a damaged education system.
The post Educator, Fighter, Elsie Arntzen Makes Congressional Bid first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Former state republican legislator Ric Holden is making a run for Congress in the crowded Eastern District House race. The Dawson County rancher has set his sights on the House Agriculture Committee should he get the nod from the voters in June and November. Click on the podcast to hear Holden discuss Montana’s need for better agriculture representation, the border, illegal immigration, national security, our failing energy policy, and more.
The post Candidate Ric Holden Says Montana Needs a Rancher in the House first appeared on Voices of Montana.
New EPA regulations targeted at Montana’s Colstrip power plant have placed energy producers, distributors, and consumers on notice for the potential of higher energy costs and a limited energy supply. Brian Bird, President and CEO of NorthWestern Energy, joins the program to discuss the details and likely impacts of this Administration policy.
Then, State Senator Daniel Zolnikov, a member of the Montana Senate Energy and Telecommunications Committee, joins us in-studio to discuss a ruling from a Missoula District Court judge that mine operators say could shutter the doors to the Signal Peak coal mine.
The post NWE Sends Strong Message About New EPA Regs Targeting Colstrip first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Montana students are getting a hands-on head start in the complicated and vital field of medicine through HOSA, a nationwide student organization that helps develop youth leaders and prepares them for healthcare careers. Nearly 225-thousand health and science students are a part of HOSA, including around 400 members from Montana. Click on the podcast as Montana State Director Katie Maier and State Vice President Mackenzie Swan, a senior at CMR High School in Great Falls, joins us to talk more about the challenges and rewards of a career in medicine, and how .
The post HOSA Preps Montana Students for Medical Careers first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Among those in Montana’s high-profile race for the U.S. Senate is Navy veteran Michael Hummert. Hummert is challenging Democratic Senator Jon Tester from within the party in seeking the democratic primary nomination. Click on the podcast to hear his positions on the issues that America is struggling with and why he says it’s time to … “send Jon Tester back to his 3rd generation farm.”
The post Mike Hummert: Democratic Senate Candidate Challenges Tester first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Montana’s June 4th primary election is bearing down on the people and the candidates. Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen joins us to talk about Montana’s election security, and how you can help take part in the vote – one of America’s most important civic duties.
Then, Mike Batista, from AARP Montana, joins us to discuss a handful of 2024 election issues that will affect families, retirees, and those on fixed incomes.
The post Primary Election Notes and 2024 Issues first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Homelessness has seen a dramatic increase over the last decade, and especially since pandemic restrictions have been lifting slowly. Last year saw a 12% increase in homelessness in Montana, more so for unaccompanied youth: homelessness increased by over 20% for that group.
That means more and more Montanans are seeking help. Answering that call are numerous organizations that have lately been working better collaboratively to improve the range and continuity of services for the homeless.
Click on the podcast to hear first-had experiences in the effort by Montana’s non-profits to care for the homeless, mentally ill, and others, with Matt Lundgren from the Montana Rescue Mission in Billings, Brayton Erickson, from the Butte Rescue Mission, and Catherine Koenen from the Gianforte Family Foundation.
The post The Call to Help for Montana’s Homeless first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Cherie Taylor of Logan Health, Cut Bank and Chester, and Rep. Ed Buttrey join us in studio to discuss the value of Medicaid to Montana’s rural hospitals and clinics. The state’s portion of the funding for Medicaid expansion will need to be re-authorized by the 2025 legislature or the program will be virtually eliminated.
The post Medicaid Helps Make Ends Meet for Montana Rural Clinics first appeared on Voices of Montana.
What’s up with the price of gold? The precious metal is at all-time highs. How does this affect the markets? Scott Boulanger and Matt Speck of Grizzly Gold and Silver joins us in-studio to talk about what’s going on behind the scenes that is pushing gold to record highs. Then, a look at how the financial markets are responding to the high price of precious metals with Certified financial Planner Mike Vondra.
The post Record Gold Prices and Market Impact first appeared on Voices of Montana.
The rodeo Hall of Fame came calling for Montana’s own Jonnie Jonckowski. Though she grew up with plans to race around a track, she would wind up in an industry where an 8-second race on the back of a tornado would be all the time she needed to win gold. It was anything but easy. But the hard work paid off and Jonnie’s story is now being told to a wider audience in an upcoming documentary simply called “Jonnie.”
Click on the podcast as 1991 Cowgirl Hall of Fame Inductee and the 2-time National Women’s Bull Riding Champion Jonnie Jonckowski joins us in-studio to retrace her trail through the early years of women’s professional rodeo. Featuring story-tellers and Jonnie co-producers Scott Sterling (Montana PBS), and Sabrina Lee, (independent).
The post Telling Jonnie’s Tale first appeared on Voices of Montana.
State Senator Ken Bogner joins us in-studio to discuss his GOP campaign for Congress for the Eastern District. He is among 8 Republicans and 4 Democrats seeking their party’s primary nomination June 4. Click on the podcast to find out more about Senate Pro Temp Ken Bogner and his bid for Congress.
The post Montana Senate Leader Ken Bogner Makes Bid for Congress first appeared on Voices of Montana.
The state of CA has gone off the rails with a new mandate that all freight trains in the state be zero-emission trains by 2035. Given that currently ALL the freight engines in the country are diesel, the CA mandate poses an all-but-insurmountable challenge to carriers that operate there, like BNSF. Lena Kent, General Director of Public Affairs for BNSF Railway joins us to talk about how the industry is fighting back against an EV mandate that is sure to wreak havoc to the supply chains of the west.
Also on the agenda is a discussion with Will Hupman of the American Petroleum Institute, which is among the industry leaders pushing back on new tailpipe emission standards from the Biden Administration that API says are aimed at banning gas vehicles altogether.
The post EV Mandates Off-the-Rails first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Kyle Austin is a pharmacist, farmer, and business owner. He’s also pretty handy behind the wheel. You may see Kyle’s campaign rig parked along a roadway, or gettin’ on down it to another campaign event. Dr Austin joins us in studio to discuss the key issues in his bid for the GOP primary and the race for Congress for the Eastern District.
The post Pharmacist, Farmer, Business Owner Kyle Austin Truckin’ the Trail first appeared on Voices of Montana.
A 2023 CDC Youth Risk Behavior Study revealed the struggles our students face in public schools. 25% of the more than 4,500 Montana students who took the survey said they had “seriously considered” suicide in the past 12 months, with 15% attempting it.
With that as background, two Montana public education professionals, Dr. Tim Tharp, Superintendent of Richland County Schools, and Tobin Navasio, Superintendent of Hardin Public Schools, join the program to explore the root causes of youth depression and how the schools are addressing mental health in our school system.
The post Educators Address Warning Signs in Youth Risk Behavior Survey first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Troy Downing grew up in a home of strong values and humble means. From there, he has accomplished much: teaching at a University, developing a tech company that caught the eye of Yahoo, and building a handful of small businesses, among them a distillery in Montana that lent a big hand during the pandemic. Click on the podcast to hear current State Auditor, Troy Downing recount those experiences and how he believes they have readied him to serve in Congress.
The post Troy Downing – Experiences Count in Campaign for Congress first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Housing and labor issues have Pyramid Mountain Lumber in Seeley Lake facing closure. As the owners explore their options, Walter Schweitzer, President of the Montana Farmer’s Union, is putting the idea of a cooperative on the table. It’s something the grassroots MFU knows about, as many Montana ag producers are members of community cooperatives. Click on the podcast as Northern News Network’s Cody Ross and MFU President Walter Schweitzer discuss the merits.
The post MFU Floats Forming Co-op to Keep Pyramid Mountain Lumber Open first appeared on Voices of Montana.
U.S. Senator Steve Daines was recently reminded of a previous time America had faced difficult domestic and global challenges. The remembrance is part of the motivation that keeps him working with optimism in Congress. Daines heads the National Republican Senatorial Committee and joins Voices of Montana for an issues and answers discussion.
The post Senator Daines Recounts History in Assessing America’s Future first appeared on Voices of Montana.
What makes a university military friendly? Montana State University has just been recognized as one of the nation’s top military-friendly institutions, and Todd Bucher, Director of Veteran Services for MSU, talks about about what that takes, and what that means to the university and to Montana veterans.
The post MSU Recognized as a Top Military-Friendly University first appeared on Voices of Montana.
A 10-year-old from Kalispell likes his 4-H projects because it reduces his screen time. Teenagers from Wibaux and Hingham have learned the value of mental health through 4-H, and have become advocates within their 4-H clubs and communities.
Click on the podcast for those Montana stories and more on the Spring edition of the 4-H Spotlight.
The post Spring 4-H Spotlight first appeared on Voices of Montana.
An important cog in Montana’s economy and energy future is Par Montana, a subsidiary of Par Pacific Holdings, which took over ownership of the ExxonMobile refinery in Billings, June 1, 2023. The facility was recently recognized for a national safety award, and Health, Safety, Security and Environment Manager George Graham joined Government and Public Affairs Director Dan Carter in studio to talk more about energy safety and security, the ownership transition, and Par Montana’s people and operations.
The post PAR MONTANA – Safety, Security, Operations first appeared on Voices of Montana.
A new U.S. Department of Labor policy may alter the way Montana’s independent contractors do business. Boiling it down – it’s a policy that redefines an independent contractor and is pressuring contractors to become employees of the company they do business with. But it’s being challenged. Among the challengers is a group called Fight for Freelancers; their co-founder, Debra Abrams Kaplan, and non-profit Pacific Legal Foundation attorney Wilson Freeman joined the program to explore the issue and the impact.
The podcast also features a separate PLF court case involving potentially discriminatory language in the appointment to a seat on the Montana Board of Medical Examiners.
The post Business and Contract Labor Pressured Under New Labor Laws first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Click on the podcast for a fun-filled and informative hour broadcasting live from the 94th Annual Montana FFA Convention, where nearly 2,000 FFA members and mentors are gathered to compete, campaign, learn, laugh, and make new friends.
We talk with several young FFA members and youth leaders about their experiences and what they see ahead for their futures. We also find out more about today’s new agriculture technology and how educators are utilizing the new tools in the classrooms.
The post The FFA Experience first appeared on Voices of Montana.
State Senator Tom McGillvray and State Representative Bill Mercer provide a deeper look at how SB 442 would fund a long list of government programs and services through special funding accounts. The two legislators also discuss recent Montana Supreme Court rulings that Republican leadership has said are judicial over-reach and threatens the constitutional authority of the legislative branch.
The post Court Cases, Marijuana Taxes, and Special Revenue Spending first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Click on the podcast as Deer Lodge native Joel Krautter joins Tom Schultz in studio to talk about the issues the country and Montana faces as he campaigns to be Montana’s Eastern District U.S. Representative.
The post Joel Krautter – Candidate for Congress first appeared on Voices of Montana.
In a ruling Monday (04/01), the Montana Supreme Court cleared the way for signature gathering on a constitutional ballot initiative legalizing abortion in Montana, by declaring it a “right.” The proposed initiative, by the group Montanans Securing Reproductive Rights, could also prevent Montana from prohibiting gender altering surgeries on minors. Derek Oestreicher of the Montana Family Foundation discusses Monday’s Supreme Court ruling, and takes us through some of the ballot language that he warns is remarkably vague and could have dramatic implications.
The post Abortion “Rights” Ballot Proposal Concerns Pro-Family Group first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Voices of Montana went 406’n to Rudyard where more than three dozen local producers joined the Montana Grain Growers Association for a listening session to discuss the markets, the Farm Bill, inflation, insurance, and the full list of issues that our farmers tackle for the land and occupation they love.
The post Grain Growers Gather on the Hi-Line first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Pyramid Mountain Lumber has been a staple in Western Montana’s economy for 75 years. It’s weathered numerous storms in that time, but has recently announced its closure amidst the challenges with today’s inflation and housing-deprived labor market. Company President Todd Johnson, whose family is one of the original owners, and Controller Wendy Dalrymple, join host Tom Schultz to discuss the decision and conditions leading to closure, and what’s the future plan for the mill and its employees.
The post Pyramid Mountain Lumber Powering Down first appeared on Voices of Montana.
A number of forest restoration projects are slated for funding through the Montana Department of Natural Resources & Conservation. Recent legislation paved the way for it. DNRC Director Amanda Kaster joined the program to talk about how these projects and other directives help meet land management goals set by the department and Governor Gianforte.
The post DNRC Goals for Land Management first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Click on the podcast to hear Voice of the Montana State Bobcats, Keaton Gillogly, give a rundown of the season, the team’s remarkable run through the Big Sky tourney, and the moments now leading up to this national spotlight game against the Tigers of Grambling State in the NCAA Basketball Championships, from Dayton, Ohio.
The post Cats in Dayton for First Four Matchup with Grambling State first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Members of REAL Montana Class V are nearing the end of the two-year leadership training program. An international excursion is one of the sessions and Vietnam was the 2024 destination. Click on the podcast to hear Class V members Weston Merrill, Christopher Anderson, and Program Manager Tara Becken recap their travels, and discuss the value of the REAL Montana program.
The post REAL Montana Class V Takeaways from Travels to Vietnam first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Questions raised about potential voter fraud from 2020 remain unanswered, but the focus rightly turns to doing what most Americans say they want – a fair and accurate 2024 election season. One of the national organizations leading the cause is True the Vote. Click on the podcast to hear founder Catherine Englebrecht discuss what steps citizens can take to ensure the integrity of their elections. State Senator Mike Cuffe also joins us to discuss the actions Montana lawmakers have taken over the past two sessions to address election security.
The post True the Vote Continues Work on 2024 Election Security first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Did you know there could possibly have been no Charlie Russell without a cowboy named Pete Vann? Click on the podcast as Mike Gurnett, a long-time board member of the Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame, tells that campfire story and talks about the new art gallery interactive display “Tales From the Saddle: Come Ride Along,” which includes a pretty awesome virtual reality game involving Montana’s most famous artist. The art gallery and Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame is located inside the C.M. Russell Museum in Great Falls.
The post Charlie Russell and the Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Sailors from the USS Montana are once again roaming the state. Commanding Officer John Quimby, and Machinist Mate Nuclear Nathaniel Fisher joined Voices of Montana affiliate Mike Hammer in KOFI’s studio in Kalispell to talk about their connection to Montana and the latest adventures of one of the Navy’s newest Virginia Class submarines.
The post Treasure State Shore Leave for USS Montana Sailors first appeared on Voices of Montana.
It’s the 40th Anniversary of the Made in Montana program, and by all accounts, it’s been a grand success. We’re on the road in Helena, to the Lewis and Clark County Fairgrounds for the annual Made in Montana Trade Show.
Click on the podcast as we talk with some of our Montana friends and neighbors who have taken the leap and launched into businesses here in the Treasure State, including the 2024 Made in Montana Retailer of the Year.
The post LIVE From the Trade Show – 40th Anniversary of Made in Montana! first appeared on Voices of Montana.
What are the challenges for women today in business? LIVE from Bozeman, we dropped in to cover the inaugural “Blazing Trails: Women in Business Summit,” from the Montana Chamber of Commerce. It was a gathering of leadership, skill, finance, and management development, and a great networking opportunity for Montana’s strong community of women civic and business leaders.
The post Broadcasting Live! Blazing Trails: Women in Business Summit first appeared on Voices of Montana.
The President has cancelled oil and gas leases in Alaska. What was the reason behind these cancellations? Ryan Ullman, who grew up in Montana, is the Vice President of the Independent Petroleum Association of America and will join us to […]
The post Energy and Dinosaurs! first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Montana Governor Greg Gianforte will be in-studio to talk about how teacher licensing reforms are helping schools meet some of its hiring needs. We’ll also talk about the rising property values and ask if the state will levy it’s full […]
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More than $400 million has been earmarked for the Rocky Boys/North Central Montana Regional Water Authority. It’s one of 4 Montana regional water projects in the state that help bring clean water to tens of thousands of Montanans. Click on […]
The post How the Water Works-Rocky Boys/North Central Reg Water System first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Montana’s wood products industry has battled to remain a vital part of the state’s and U.S. economy. It faces many challenges still.
Click on the podcast to hear local and national forestry experts discuss the issues and solutions to better forest management.
The post Tackling Forest Issues in a Divided Government first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Kendall Cotton, President and CEO of the Frontier Institute joins Voices of Montana to unpack a recent court ruling that both halted and moved the ball forward on Montana’s new Community Choice School program.
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Montana US Senator Steve Daines talks with Voices of Montana callers and discusses his concerns with the country’s direction.
The post Senator Steve Daines – Concerns on Gov’t Spending first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Montana’s Commissioner of Securities and Insurance Troy Downing is hosting fraud prevention workshops across the state. He joins Voices of Montana to discuss the sophisticated and deep deceptions that fraudsters use, especially against our seniors.
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From helping community members battling cancer, to projects that inspire leadership and benefit our youth, join us for this month’s 4-H Member Spotlight shinning on Darden Anderson (Malta), Addisyn Bengston (Cut Bank) and Cadence Brown (Three Forks), and their mentors and community volunteers, who, together, make an important and lasting impact in our communities.
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Click on the podcast to hear state and national energy experts discuss our country’s energy transformation, as Voices of Montana broadcast live from the Montana Petroleum Association’s annual Convention.
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Montana property values have risen dramatically. Local city and county governments are automatically required to lower their mill levies – their taxing authority – to reflect a limit on the rising cost of government. Will the state be required to […]
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Eastern District Congressman Matt Rosendale stopped by the studio for a discussion on energy and spending ahead of a statewide energy tour.
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With Ginny Sullivan and Eve Byron of the Montana Historical Society
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With Larry Crowder, Executive Director of the Montana Rural Education Association.
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Montana Fish, Wildlife, & Parks is seeking public comment on a fisheries management plan. Eileen Ryce, FWP’s Fisheries Division Administrator will join us to unpack the plan and give us an update on the state’s fishery systems. Then, Nicole Pugliano, […]
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Get to know Montana’s Madyson Rigg, Miss Montana USA, who is getting ready to represent you and our state at the national Miss USA competition in September.
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As schools get going all across Big Sky Country – we’ll spend a little time talking sports in the Big Sky Conference with Leon Costello, Athletic Director at Montana State.
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The For the Farmer’s Montana Harvest Tour takes us to Moore and Lewistown to thank all those who continue to keep Montana’s ag industry at the top of its game. We’ll talk about the popular Longest Table event going on […]
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The Montana Public Service Commission is taking public input on a new 20-year plan from NorthWestern Energy to meet the state’s energy needs. The PSC also recently approved a rate increase for customers of MDU. James Brown chairs the Public […]
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Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen will be in studio today – just in time to comment on a controversial court ruling forcing Montana state agencies to consider global climate change impacts in permitting. AG Knudsen will also talk about the […]
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Click on the podcast to hear Montana’s education leader, Superintendent of Public Instruction Elsie Arntzen, discuss the success and challenges facing Montana’s public schools.
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From bears, to water, to the history behind it all, click on the podcast to catch the latest edition of the Montana Harvest Tour, live from Fairfield.
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Thanking all those in the agriculture industry for keeping us fed and refreshed. Live from Conrad and the Golden Triangle, click on the podcast to stay connected with your fellow Montanans on the Montana Harvest Tour.
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Governor Greg Gianforte will come alongside to update us on the fires in Montana and the drought status of the state, and then Jim Atchison, of the Southeast Montana Development Corporation, will discuss how Montana’s changing energy landscape still offers […]
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Is there a Culture War being played out in the halls of our Capitol? Montana’s 68th Legislature dealt with a number of social issues, approving new laws against sex traffickers, strengthening parental rights, encouraging school choice programs, and limiting experimental […]
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Did you know that 4-Her’s are 4x more likely to contribute to their community? Find out how our nominees for the August 4-H Member Spotlight are contributing to their communities as we hear from Morganne Van Dyke of Prairie County, […]
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On today’s episode, we explore how Eagle Mount of Billings is transforming lives by providing adaptive recreational activities for the disabled community. From cycling to climbing and summer camps, tune in to hear about their inspiring efforts to promote inclusivity […]
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Live from Dillon, Montana.
The post For the Montana Farmers Harvest Tour first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Montana’s Electricity Supply, Adequate for How Long? A Midyear Assessment of the Outlook for the U.S. and Montana Economies. Presented by the Bureau of Business and Economic Research.
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One of the biggest events of the summer is the annul three-day Governor’s Cup Golf Tournament. 350 golfers are converging over three courses in Kalispell and Whitefish. The event brings the state’s business community together to network and plan for […]
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Learn how Flathead Valley Community College is evolving to meet the needs of one of the fastest growing cities in the state.
The post Learn how Flathead Valley Community College is evolving to meet the needs of one of the fastest growing cities in the state first appeared on Voices of Montana.
What’s a Mill – One More Time & Citizen Grand Juries May be on the Ballot
The post What’s a Mill – One More Time & Citizen Grand Juries May be on the Ballot first appeared on Voices of Montana.
You may be seeing new signs and displays around the state warning about the dangers of meth. They are part of the Paint the State campaign by the Montana Meth Project. If one or more have left an impression on […]
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More than a dozen court cases reached the U.S. Supreme Court as part of its recently concluded term. Those cases and rulings ranged in their potential impact on the country, but from government authority, to affirmative action, to freedom of […]
The post The Highs and Lows of the Supreme Court Session first appeared on Voices of Montana.
His impact on the rodeo industry is not hard to measure. Entertainer and award-winning barrel man Flint Rasmussen has been a very visible part of a rodeo rejuvenation over his 30-year career. Earlier this year, the Choteau native and proud […]
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They were numerous, many bipartisan, but a handful controversial. Among the 1300 measures approved by the 68th Montana Legislature were a number of bills strengthening parental rights and protections for minors. Click on the podcast to hear family advocates, and […]
The post In Defense of Parents and Children at the 68th first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Nicole Bennett, a 12-year old from Red Lodge, is taking on a heavy task. She is organizing a constitutional ballot initiative for the 2024 election. In Montana, the state Supreme Court sets the rules and has the governing authority over […]
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The state’s new Drought Management Plan – three years in the making, aims to replace a previous version three decades old. The draft plan is out for public comment, and we’ll take a look at its key components, get a […]
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Can America fully transition to EV use by 2050? Some energy officials in Montana are questioning the math. Click on the podcast to hear Brandon Whittman, CEO and General Manager of Yellowstone Valley Electric Cooperative discuss an article he penned […]
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Montanan’s are seeing increases in their property values by an average of 45% over the past two years. Does this mean your property taxes are about to double? Click on the podcast to learn more about your property taxes and […]
Known as Wander Woman, Shay Reiser shares the story of how she went from serving one meal to providing food, clothes, and more to more than 2,200 people.
Here from Representative Paul Green and Lobbyist Jessie Luther from the TaylorLuther Group on how House Bill 819 seeks to provide solutions to workforce housing and what you might need to know to take advantage.
The July 4-H Member Spotlight shines on the leadership and dedication of Lewistown’s Cody England, Missoula’s Gus Turner, and 10-year old Kaidence Osborne from Shepherd. Click on the podcast to hear these special young Montanans discuss their experiences learning and […]
There’s an all-out war on weeds. In 1960, the state created the Montana Weed Control Association (MWCA) to coordinate the effort, and in 1985 the Montana Noxious Weed Trust Fund to provide more resources for the fight. 98-percent of Montana’s […]
Merriweather’s mom, grizzlies, buffalo, and Sacajewa are all on the docket in a fast-paced Voices of Montana, day 2 live on the “trail” with the Lewis and Clark Trail Heritage Foundation.
200 plus years and the fascination is with us still. The Lewis and Clark Expedition is a continuous corps of discovery for many Americans, and the Lewis and Clark Trial Heritage Foundation, based in Great Falls, is home base. Click […]
Tim Sheehy joins us on the show and tells us a bit about his background and why he’s running for US Senate.
Montana’s first responders in Stillwater County went into action early on June 24 with a train derailment and bridge collapse east of Reed Point. David Stamey is the Emergency Services Specialist with Stillwater County and discusses the early response, the […]
From swashbuckling fun to theater that is moving and emotional, Montana Shakespeare in the Parks has been providing unique, and free, summertime experiences, for all ages, for 51 seasons. Click on the podcast to hear MSIP Executive Director Kevin Asselin […]
The infamous Dempsey/Gibbons World Heavyweight boxing title bout is now a topic of conversation. Flashback 100 years, and it was entirely something else. Dean Hellinger drops in to talk about the fight’s history in Montana. Then Colstrip Mayor John Williams […]
For more than 20 years, the Wall that Heals, a 3/4 replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington DC, has been helping veterans and educating others about the history and impact of the Vietnam war. The memorial has come […]
With recent major decisions by the U.S. Supreme Court, and a closely-watched climate trial in Montana, the courts will have had a lot to say about the direction of our country. Join us for an in-depth discussion on the impact […]
Time for some virtual “406in’” First we’ll hop on the Burger Trail, with Brenda Maas of Visit Southeast Montana to find those one-of-a-kind, Made-in-Montana burgers that you’re always hungry for. Then it’s 406in’ to the other side of the state […]
The Federal Reserve has decided to hold interest rates steady, after 10 consecutive rate increases. Indications are 2 more rate hikes are likely this year. In the past 16 months, the central bank has increased rates by 5 percentage points […]
What could the Western states accomplish with $100 million over the next 10 years to make agriculture more sustainable? And hear how one woman’s new business is helping children live their best lives. Guest Host Gabe Ericson talks with Dr. […]
The HER Campaign started in Billings, Montana to provide a safe, stable place for victims of trafficking to find freedom. A great need is driving their mission, as they expand their services. Hear what steps they take to provide long-term […]
These are the best places to fish in Montana right now Whether you are new to fishing or are invested in the pastime, Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks actively manages fish populations across the state. Chrissy Webb discusses recent fish […]
Here are two unique options to consider Holistic health is one of the top science-backed trends to follow in 2023. We introduce you to two pioneers of holistic health in the state of Montana. Find out how salt and […]
REVENANT run & cycle race gives competitors a chance to go as far as they can go Have you ever heard of a race with no finish line? The REVENANT race is coming to Billings on August 12 and supports […]
Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke joins Tom and guest host Gabe Erickson on Voices of Montana.
Schools are often the center of activities in our communities. The job of organizing and staffing many of those school activities across the state falls on the Montana High School Association. MHSA Executive Director Brian Michelotti joins sportswriter Joe Kusek […]
Laynie Sattoriva from Hingham, Toby Mack from Hardin, and Emily Hall from Kalispell are in the 4-H Spotlight for June.
The trio, along with their parents and mentors, will join us to talk about growing up in Montana, and the initiative and dedication that made them successful in their 4-H endeavors, and leaders in their communities.
Tom DeWeese is a leading property rights activist, author, and founder and president of the American Policy Center. His latest book, Sustainable: The WAR on Free Enterprise, Private Property and Individuals looks at ways the government is systematically usurping property […]
A landmark Supreme Court decision has reigned-in an unconstitutional use of authority by the Environmental Protection Agency over regulation of bodies of water. The decision is heralded by major industries, agriculture, property rights groups, and many others. Mark Stermitz, of Crowley Fleck Law in Missoula, and Nicole Rolf, Senior Government Director for the Montana Farm Bureau Federation, help us take a deep dive into the ruling and the ramifications.
A unanimous U.S. Supreme Court has overturned the Biden Administration’s EPA rule that gave the federal agency unprecedented, and unconstitutional authority over waterways in the United States.
The Pacific Legal Foundation successfully argued the case before the Supreme Court, and Charles Yates, an attorney for PLF will join us to go over the landmark decision in detail.
He was one of the busiest, and most effective legislators at the 68th Montana legislative session.
State Senator Greg Hertz of Polson carried around 60 bills, 33 of which were passed into law. From housing to tax rebates, healthcare to government transparency, Senator Greg Hertz had a hand in dozens of major reforms.
We retrace a busy legislative session. Was the outcome what you had in mind?
As a place for doing business, Montana has much to offer. But lately, the state faces new challenges in economic development, such as labor shortages, high interest rates, and even higher inflation. How will Montana answer those challenges?
Today we broadcast live from the place where those items are upfront on the agenda – the annual MEDA (Montana Economic Developers Association) Conference. .
The Biden administration is pushing a new policy to allow for conservation groups to lockup public land leases for non-use. The plan challenges the established law under the Taylor Grazing Act. Multiple-use land advocates, agriculture interests, and local government officials are mounting a pushback against the Biden proposal.
Vicki Olson, Chair of the Montana Public Lands Council, leads off the conversation and Prairie County Commissioner Todd Devlin, who chairs the National Association of Counties Public Lands Steering Committee, calls-in as he prepares to testify against the new Biden policy at a May 25th hearing in Washington D.C.
It’s Grillin’ Time ….
So, we’re going to have some fun with a little cookin’ — stir in a little history, add a good helping of an honest day’s work, and then top it off with a generous portion of giving back.
How does that all come together – click on for a little trip to Dutton Montana, in the Shadow of the Rockies, to the DeBruycker Ranch, to learn more about the renowned Charolais beef, and a virtual cooking event to help support rural mental health in Montana.
Denny discusses the impact of that loss on the family, but focuses on the remembrance of his son and all those who have sacrificed to serve.
Click on to learn more about how you can support the Trooper David DeLaittre Memorial Park west of Three Forks.
There’s much to evaluate in looking back at the outcomes of the 68th Montana Legislative session. AARP Montana’s Mike Batista joins us to look at the work on the ground, and what’s still left on the table from the age-friendly perspective.
Educators have a special place in a person’s life. As children, young adults, and often as parents, we interact throughout our lifetime with teachers and educators. Those interactions shape the future. As part of Teacher Appreciation Week, it was an honor to discuss education with Catherine Matthews, a pre-school special education teacher at Hyalite Elementary School in Bozeman, and Montana’s 2023 Teacher of the Year.
Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen, a former state legislator, went to work early, and his team stayed busy throughout the 68th Montana legislature convincing lawmakers the state needed to up it’s game on public safety. The result is several measures that will better equip our law enforcement officers, increase their numbers, and back them up when they get the bad folk behind bars.
A.G. Knudsen will be our guest for the hour. We’ll take a hard look at what was accomplished on behalf of public safety in the legislative session.
We’ll explore Montana’s place in the world when it comes to national and international trade. Brigitta Miranda-Freer is Executive Director of the Montana World Trade Center at the University of Montana. The MWTC is hosting a large trade event – World Trade and Investment Day – in Missoula May 18.
We’ll be joined by Australian Consul General Nick Nichles and Laura Fleming with SRS Crisafulli, Montana’s Exporter of the Year.
We hear from Malta State Senator Mike Lang who carried SB 442 to redistribute marijuana tax dollars to better meet local needs. The bill had strong support in the Capitol except in the Governor’s office. We’ll also find out if money for the much-needed repairs of the St Mary’s Conveyance made it through the session.
Jason Gleason will help us honor our frontline nurses as it’s National Nurses Week. Jason is a Montana Nurse Practitioner with 20 years of service in the military, founder of the Rocky Mountain Stroke Conference, and currently provides care at the VA in Great Falls.
From tax rebates to Huckleberries and everything in between – the 68th Montana legislature has concluded a very busy biennial session. Senate President Jason Ellsworth had a front row seat, and a gavel, and will join us to talk about what he hopes are the positive impacts he and his colleagues will have left behind.
Montana Governor Greg Gianforte will be alongside to discuss the impact of the 68th legislative session.
Willing, reliable, leads by example, service and leadership… all words synonymous with Montana 4-Her’s! Join us on this podcast where Tom is joined by Northern Ag Network’s Colter Brown to talk with youth nominated for this month’s Montana 4-H Member Spotlight, sponsored by Stockman Bank. John Hawley – MSU Extension’s Communication Director kicks off the conversation with an overview of Montana’s 4-H program and what the Member Spotlight is all about. Then, we travel north to Cut Bank to speak with Western Region Nominee, Brad Hjartarson and Extension Agent Kari Lewis, then jump across the state to the northeast to speak with Eastern Region Nominee, Ayla Yoder and her 4-H Club Leader and mom, Amy Yoder of Raymond and finally we head back west across the Hi-Line to have the Central Region Nominee, Delaney Clark of Shelby close out the conversation.
John Hines, NorthWestern Energy VP of Supply, discusses the newly released and updated Integrated Resource Plan that lays out a vision for energy needs and resources over the next 20 years. It shows some concerns for energy affordability and reliability. Hines addresses that, as well as discusses the benefits of a natural gas plant under construction in Laurel, with construction temporarily halted due to a judge’s climate change ruling.
Two school choice bills that would expand public education opportunities through Community Choice and Public Charter schools have been approved by the Montana legislature and likely to be signed Governor Gianforte in the near future.
Henry Kriegel, Legislative Director for Americans For Prosperity – Montana, was a strong supporter of the effort, and joins us to talk about how expanding school choice opportunities will impact our students and our education system.
House Minority Leader Kim Abbott leads the Minority Party Hour with a discussion on the activities that resulted in the expulsion of a member of her caucus in Missoula Representative Zooey Zephyr.
We also discuss the shaping of House Bill 2, the state’s main budget bill, and the activity surrounding House Bill 5, which typically funds building projects, but has come under criticism as being laden with unvetted projects.
Montana has been blessed with an abundance of reliable, affordable energy. It’s one element that has boosted an otherwise historically unimpressive Montana economy. But with growing energy demands in the midst of government renewable energy mandates, business and industry is raising questions on the future of Montana’s resources.
Join Montana Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Todd O-Hair as he discusses the organization’s pushback on a recent court ruling that halted construction at NorthWestern Energy’s natural gas plant in Laurel, but will affect far more than just that single permit.
Montana’s tourism and recreation industry has faced obstacles the past few years, namely a worldwide pandemic and a 500-year flood event in southeast Montana.
But the industry has used the experience to dial-in the pitch and make ready for another season.
Click on the podcast to find out what new ideas and events are on the docket as we broadcast live from the 2023 Governor’s Conference on Tourism.
What kind of career opportunities do young Montanans seek? Would you be surprised to hear many of them are exploring the idea of creating their own businesses? That’s where the Montana Chamber Foundation, and a few hundred Montanans come into play.
With the generous support of Montana businesses, and the thoughtful mentorship of business owners and teachers, the Prospects and Jr. Prospects program enables young students from 6th – 12th grade to explore ideas and learn to create and operate their own businesses. This past year saw 139 total projects submitted for the competition.
With Empowered Workforce Specialist James Easton, and Prospects high school winners Tyler Power and Tyler Bruursema from Billings, and Owen Day of Lewistown.
Montana Broadcasters Association CEO Dewey Bruce on the national and local pushback against a move by car manufacturers to eliminate AM radio in new electric cars.
This week is the majority party hour we’ll hear from Speaker of the House Matt Regier on what’s left to get done in the final 12 days of the session.
We hear from FreedomWorks President Adam Brandon as we dig deeper into the debt ceiling discussions and the plans on the table to avoid defaulting from our loans as a country.
Governor Gianforte held a bill signing at the capital Tuesday, on National Lineman Appreciation Day, to enact a law requiring motorists to pull over and give utility workers room as they operate along the roadways. We’ll be joined by a couple of line workers from various Montana electric cooperatives to learn more about the job they do and the ways the public can help keep them safe.
There was a great deal of talk about addressing the high cost of housing and property taxes ahead of the 68th Montana legislative session — with two weeks left in the session, what’s been done?
Kelly Lynch heads up the Montana League of Cities in Towns. She’ll be joined by Darryl James, Executive Director of the Montana Infrastructure Coalition as we take a look at the work of this legislature from their perspectives.
Legislation providing more security for mobile home owners is advancing. Missoula Representative Johnathon Karlen leads out the Minority Party Hour with that discussion. Bozeman Representative Alice Buckley also joins us to talk about the efforts and importance of increasing Montana’s childcare resources.
University of Montana President Seth Bodnar will join us in-studio. The West Point graduate, Rhodes and Truman Scholar, and former GE (General Electric) Executive is in his 5th year as head of Montana’s best university. He’s out on the recruiting trail looking for a 3rd consecutive increase in the freshman class size. We’ll talk about how that is going and how education can play a proper role in tackling some of the many challenges facing our state.
Montana FWP, as the agency is in the first steps of crafting a new wolf management plan for Montana.
Tensions with China, grizzly bears, forest management, and energy are on the plate – as we check in with Montana Congressman Matt Rosendale.
Montana Speaker of the House Matt Regier will sum up the fast-pace of the last two weeks, and look ahead to the next few as the legislative session bears down on the final 20 days.
We’ll also discuss school-based mental health funding with long-time lawmaker and mental health advocate Representative Bob Keenan, of Bigfork
Is the U.S. dollar losing its trade influence around the world? Recent headlines pose the question as China and Brazil enter trade agreements absent U.S. currency exchanges. Click on the podcast to learn more as Ivan Drobnjak, Managing Director with Bannockburn Global Forex helps us wade into the waters of international trade and currency exchange to explore the answer.
After 2-plus decades of study and band-aid repairs, the St Mary’s Conveyance system will finally get some serious federal funding to replace the dam system near Babb.
We’ll talk with Steve Darlinton of the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and learn more about replacing the St Mary’s Diversion Dam in its entirety and improving fish passage. It’s the first part of a $100 million investment to replace or repair the crumbling infrastructure in the century-old canal system that provides critical water to tens of thousands of Montanans along the Hi-line.
Time spent with you physician on the decline? Maybe Direct Primary Care is an option for you. DPC’s are a new model for delivering primary healthcare where patients pay a low monthly membership fee to cover most common office visits and some medical procedures.
How does it work? Joining us for answers to that is Dr. Robert Wagenaar, a Montana physician who launched Pearl Med DPC almost 6-months ago. Click on the podcast to better understand this new model in healthcare delivery.
We’ll pick up our weekly installment from the 68th Montana legislature – this week it’s the “Minority Party Hour”, or as House Minority Leader Kim Abbott likes to call it – the Dem Power Hour.
Rep. Abbott will highlight some democratic proposals making their way through the legislature, and then be joined by Speaker of the House Matt Regier to discuss a housing proposal they are both co-sponsoring.
We continue our Vietnam Veterans salute in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the war’s end, with former US Army Staff Sergeant John Quintrell, author of My 365 Days with the Wolfhounds in Vietnam, a gritty, honest, and revealing account of his combat experiences in 1968-1969, a time some call one of the bloodiest years of the war.
The social media platform TikTok has come under fire for it’s influences on children, and accusations of illegal data collection and spying by China. The federal government, and many states, are proposing bans and other restrictions on the application. Hi-tech and business leaders are voicing concern that an outright ban on TikTok may be a step too far.
We’ll hear the business side of the debate from a nationwide company based right here in Montana – Kampgrounds of America, KOA, with spokesperson Saskia Boogman. We’ll learn more about the national and local movements and explore the broader questions of consumer business data privacy and security in the marketplace .
The Vietnam War ended 50 years ago – but the experiences of that conflict still impact us today. Join us as we connect with Vietnam veterans Ray Read and Bill Smith ahead of their annual Montana Welcome Home event on March 29 at the state capitol in Helena.
We’ll also talk with Diane Carlson Evens, an Army Nurse Corp Captain, who will tell the story of what the nurses experienced both on the battlefield and at home. Captain Evens led a 10-year effort for recognition of those sacrifices, which led to the creation of the Vietnam Women’s Memorial.
Economist Dr. Robert Sonora, from the Bureau of Business and Economic Research, will come alongside to add to our perspective on the strife in the banking world with the collapse and bailout of SVB and other institutions.
Senate Majority Leader Steve Fitzpatrick will head up the Majority Party Hour this week on Voices of Montana. We’ll get an update as the legislature moves on with a $13 billion budget, and we’ll talk more specifically about tort reform and other judicial proposals on the table.
Governor Greg Gianforte will be on hand to talk about the state’s $13 billion main budget bill, making its way now from the House to the Senate. We’ll also put agriculture, ESG investing, and maybe bison and bear on the agenda.
We’ll also take a look at helpful housing proposals moving through the legislature, with AARP’s Mike Batista.
Tip of our hat to all those involved in agriculture! It’s National Ag Day, and we’ll check-in with Montana Farm Bureau Federation Executive Vice President Scott Kulbeck to see how Montana’s ag producers are doing across the state.
What is going on in the banking world? Did the Silicon Valley Bank failure crack open a floodgate? How has the response from governments and the financial world helped, or hindered the unease? Montana financial consultant Mike Vondra will join us to dig into the details of the current financial disturbance.
The state’s worker’s compensation insurance fund – The Montana State Fund – has had a rocky past, going back to 1990 when the state took costly steps to prevent insolvency. Fast forward to 2023, where Montana’s worker’s comp rates are now more than 50-percent lower than in 2006, and were just reduced again for the 17th consecutive year.
What’s behind the turn-around? Montana State Fund President and CEO Holly O’Dell will be our guest to highlight the reasons, one of which is the reduction of workplace accidents in Montana.
Montana State University radio announcer Keaton Gillogly who is in Greensboro, North Carolina, for the Bobcats NCAA tournament matchup with Kansas State.
Representative Derek Harvey will take the lead in this week’s Minority Party Hour – the Butte native will talk about labor issues before the legislature, and, how could we resist – we’ll about his hometown’s beloved and world-famous favorite Holiday – St Patty’s Day.
The state legislature has tackled some issues – tax rebates and reductions, paying off the state’s debts, investing in road repairs, education, housing … but the state budget is still a work in progress. Montana Speaker of the House, Matt Regier will join us today to discuss the work ahead in the remaining 40 days of the 68th Montana Legislature.
American Crystal Sugar’s upcoming closure of the Sidney Sugar processing plant will be a blow to the ag economy, but plans are already underway by local producers, businesses, and public officials to move past the closure and see what doors may open next. We’ll talk with:
Jeff Bieber, local producer and President of the Montana-Dakota Beet Growers Association
Rick Norby, Mayor of Sidney
Kali Godfrey, Executive Director, Sidney Area Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture
What’s it take to be an entrepreneur? From small steps to big dreams – we’ll talk with your Montana neighbors and friends who are putting their Made in Montana ideas out to market – live today from the Made in Montana Trade Show.
We’ll be joined by Montana Commerce Director Scott Ostermann and Todd O’Hair of the Montana Chamber of Commerce as we talk with entrepreneurs from Miles City, Browning, Circle and Missoula, and we’ll announce live on the air the 2023 Made in Montana Retailer of the Year.
Montana Western District Representative Ryan Zinke took to the House floor Wednesday to speak out against a proposal to withdraw US Troops from Syria. The former Navy Seal Commander will be our guest Thursday to talk about America’s defenses.
We’ll also talk with state Representative Bill Mercer about a plan he’s been advocating for over a number of years making ground this legislative session – and that’s a bill to increase transparency and accountability over the budget requests from Montana’s agencies and departments.
The Federal Reserve has indicated they are likely to continue to raise interest rates to fight inflation. What kind of impact will that have on Montana’s economy?
We take a broader look at a number of factors affecting Montana’s economy — inflation, in-migration, taxes, housing and the job market – with Dr. Robert “Tino” Sonora, Associate Director of the Bureau of Business and Economic Research.
Montana’s business-friendly economic environment sometimes comes as a surprise to industry experts, such as Jim Vinoski. The Forbes contributor and business analyst looked into what brought an innovative Hyundai’s research and development program to Montana, and found out it can be a kind of treasure state for manufacturers.
Click on the podcast to hear Vinosky talk about Montana’s manufacturing potential and other industry issues, including the concerns by manufacturing advocates about a costly and inadequate energy supply future for America.
Tom talks Energy and what’s going on in the legislature with Montana Electric Cooperative’ Association.
What do you think of Montana’s ban on Tik Tok? What has led to the reported 11-hundred percent increase in Fentanyl Seizures in Montana? What’s the status of Montana’s lawsuit against the Biden Administration over the President’s WOTUS (Waters of the US) rules.
Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen joins us for info and answers today on Voices of Montana, with Tom Schulz.
We’ll talk with Montana Governor Greg Gianforte, who is stumping for a measure to build a $100 million disaster resiliency program out of surplus funds. After earlier widespread support, the funding measure has been tabled by the House Appropriations Committee. We’ll find out why, and talk more about the Governor’s agenda for the 68th legislative session.
Numerous bills addressing Montana’s nursing home challenges are being debated at the legislature. How will those measures help stem the tide of nursing home closures in the state? Mike Batista from AARP Montana will join us for a closer look. We’ll also be joined by Dr. Robert Sonora, Associate Director of the Bureau of Business and Economic Research to discuss the economics of age-friendly healthcare.
March 1 officially begins a new year for Montana’s hunting and fishing recreationists. Are there new changes for the 2023 fishing and hunting season? What are the dates and deadlines for license applications. Find out more as Chrissy Webb and Rob Seykora join us from Montana FWP.
Questions about Medicare and Medicare Advantage? Learn more about the programs and the effort by Montana’s US Senators and others in the Capitol to curtail the Biden Administrations targeted reductions, as we chat with Kristine Grow of the Coalition of Medicare Choices.
Are resource and recreation two co-habitable industries?
Northwestern Energy is partnering with the Missouri-Madison River Fund announcing nine public recreation improvement projects by grant and matching funds by the River Fund Trust and NorthWestern Energy.
Guest is Kim McMahon with Pinnacle Research and Consulting working in partnership with NorthWestern Energy.
It is a combination of bad luck, and bad forest policy – but family-owned RY Timber in Livingston will close down after their recent fires, putting 70 people onto the unemployment line. The company’s Townsend mill was shuttered in 2020 due to a lack of timber supply.
Closing the mill was a tough decision for the family, and it’ll cause waves in the timber industry. Former R.Y. Timber Resource Manager Ed Regan joined us to discuss the history of the company and look at the challenges in Montana’s logging and timber industry over the last three decades.
Then, Montana Wood Products Association Executive Director Julia Altemus will follow up with what impact the mills’ closing will have on Montana’s timber industry, and how timber communities respond and recover.
The Montana Republican Party Executive Board approved and published a resolution rebuking former Montana Governor Marc Racicot after his decision to formally endorse and support Democrat candidates over Republicans in recent elections. MT GOP Vice Chair, Representative Lola Sheldon-Galloway, who shares a personal connection with the former governor, discusses the party’s actions.
From Cowboy Poets, to African cowboys singers looking to make it big in Texas, the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival can take you around the world and back in 140 films, or less. Now in it’s 20th year. Click on the podcast to learn more about the festival and hear BSDFF Executive Director Rachel Gregg talk about the growth and recognition of this once little-known local art affair.
Can government work better for us? Yes, there’s a lot of ways government can work better, one of them is through the reduction of so-called red tape. After two years of researching and questioning the stakeholders, Montana’s Lt. Governor Kristen Juras has readied Governor Greg Gianforte’s Red Tape Relief for legislative action, with more than 170 individual proposals to help make government more efficient and reduce over burdensome regulations. Lt. Governor Kristen Juras is our special guest as we go in deep on Red Tape Relief.
Is the upcoming closure of the Sidney Sugars processing plant a sign of an era coming to an end for the sugar industry in the region?
Prairie County Commissioner Dennis Teske, a former sugar beet grower and board member of American Crystal Sugar, talks about the challenges for the sugar beet industry with the announcement of the April closure of Sidney Sugars, the American Crystal Sugar farmer-owned processing facility that had been operating under various owners in eastern Montana for roughly 100 years.
According to the Montana Hospital Association, fifty individuals seek urgent psychiatric care in Montana emergency rooms every day. Unfortunately, very few hospitals, regardless of size, can provide the appropriate level of care. As a result, Montanans in crisis are either “boarded” in the emergency room for unreasonably long periods of time (hours to days) or transported to psychiatric facilities hundreds of miles away from home.
Dr. Ray Wright Emergency Department Director for Livingston HealthCare shares his experience along with Dr. Eric Arzubi with Frontier Psychiatry. Frontier Psychiatry is developing a Telehealth Crisis Initiative, a project of Frontier Psychiatry is creating a statewide telehealth crisis response network covering all hospital emergency rooms in Montana. The Telehealth Crisis Initiative will provide access to full psychiatric telehealth assessments within 2 hours of the request, 365 days a year from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Additionally, the clinical team staffing the network will ensure that individuals have access to follow-up care via telehealth within 7 days of discharge back to the community.
Frontier Psychiatry also offers free counseling for the Agricultural community. Please visit www.beyondtheweather.com to get an appointment.
If you or someone you know is in mental health crisis, please call “9-8-8” for immediate help.
Thanks to the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation for supporting increased access to mental health services and stigma reduction in Montana.
With Guest Host Courtney Kibblewhite
What does it mean to be “rural”? We examine rural narratives and storytelling with www.reframingrural.org podcast host Megan Torgerson.
Torgerson is in her third year of hosting podcasts examining rural people and issues. On a recent podcast, Torgerson incorporated her own family farm succession planning into the episode as well as her neighbor Tanner Jorgensen. Jorgensen is a 4th generation grain farmer.
With Guest Host Courtney Kibblewhite
Pete Tolton, director of the feature-length documentary Return, joins us to discuss this Montana-made feature that follows a special forces veteran’s journey back to Vietnam for the first time since the war. The film, which has been nominated for the Big Sky Spirit Award, debuts February 19 at the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival in Missoula.
Find out more at www.returnfilm.org.
With Guest Host Kyle Riley
Todd O’Hair and Charles Robison from the Montana Chamber of Commerce and State Senator Steve Fitzpatrick (R-Great Falls, Senate District 10) join us to discuss four bills focused on tort reform.
- SB165 – Insurance Claims Cooperation
- will enhance cooperation, reduce litigation, and eliminate the incentive to “set up” an insurance company for bad faith cause of action.
- SB216 – Product Liability Reform
- implements common sense reforms to current product liability law, protecting manufacturers and Montana businesses.
- SB236 (Formerly LC0931) – Set Standards for Time-Limited Demands
- implements requirements for time-limited demand letters to promote fair and reasonable settlements of claims.
- SB269 – Establish consumer protections and disclosures in litigation financing
With Guest Host Kyle Riley
It’s the Minority Party Hour today on Voices of Montana, with Representative Kim Abbott, Senator Ryan Lynch and Representative Mary Caferro.
Guest Hosted by Russ Fagg.
Mark Smolen & Cliff Walter join us to talk about the Trans-Montana Charity Snowmobile Ride, a five-day trek from Lincoln to West Yellowstone, in support of the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
Visit www.trans-Montana.org for more information.
With Guest Host Kyle Riley
We’ll find out about these special jerseys, the N7 Fund, and all things Griz with University of Montana Athletic Director Kent Haslam.
With Guest Host Kyle Riley
Water policy consultant Drew Lesofski (leh zoff ski) will join guest host Kyle Riley to discuss the Water Rights Protection Act of 2023 – recently introduced by a group of Western Senators to protect against government overreach on private property rights when it comes to water.
We’ll find out as we do a little virtual 406in’ with Pat Doyle, from the State Parks Division of Montana’s FWP.
Today’s guest host is Kyle Riley.
The state of Montana, along with the Montana Meth Project, have just launched a new outreach campaign called “Paint the State.” We’ll find out more about it and how it’ll help in Montana’s battle against illicit drugs, as Amy Rue, Executive Director of the Montana Meth Project will be our special guest. We’ll also look back at the history of the Montana Meth Project, which is still one of the most provocative and unique anti-drug campaigns in the country.
Are you ready for your 2022 taxes? Paul Harper, Montana’s Tax Payer Advocate, joined the program to discuss some of the new items to be aware of on the 2022 forms. We also talk about where the IRS will utilize new agents and the significant boost ($60 billion) in federal funding through the Biden Administration’s Infrastructure bill passed last year.
This week’s Majority Party Hour features Montana House Speaker Pro Tem. Rep. Rhonda Knudsen from Culbertson to discuss the major issues passing through the House of Representatives this session. We’ll also be joined by Senate President Pro Tem. Ken Bogner of Miles City, to go over a bill he’s carrying that prohibits ownership of critical Montana infrastructure, including agricultural land, by foreign adversaries of the United States.
We cover a little hoops history on this edition of Voices of Montana, with Tom Schultz. Linda Weyler Jacobson, a former Lady Griz MVP, and Kodak All-American, joins us to talk about a new documentary short film “Native Ball, Legacy of a Trailblazer” about the Blackfeet Nation’s Malia Kipp. Linda also shared that former Lady Griz Skyla Sisco, a teammate, still a proud Malta M-Ette, and a University of Montana Hall of Famer, is battling cancer.
Listen to the podcast for more on that and ways you can help.
Warrior Transition Outdoors is a new non-profit being birthed out of Montana. It’s still in its infancy, but gaining traction on a national level.
We’ll speak with Sgt. Gavin Erickson, and his brother Gabe Erickson about their organization’s aim for a more complete military to civilian life transition for veterans who struggle with getting back to their day-to-day lives.
What is the economic impact of Montana’s wave of in-state migration? How long will our economy face recession pressures?
Join BBER Director Pat Barkey, and economist Bryce Ward, keynote speaker at the 48th annual Economic Outlook Seminar Series, for an in-depth look at Montana’s economy, amid the changing landscape of in-migration.
Taxes were the main focus of this week’s Minority Party Hour, featuring House Minority Lead Kim Abbott, and Representative Jonathan Karlen. Democrat proposals for property tax relief include a portion of budget surplus funding dedicated to renters, who often see their rates increase as a result of higher property taxes on property owners.
In 2019, a tribal energy company purchased most of the assets of bankrupt Cloud Peak Energy, transferring ownership of Spring Creek mine in southeastern Montana. Navajo Transitional Energy Company executives Matt Babcock and Matthew Adams join us to discuss the significance of that transaction to Montana, and the challenges and opportunities for coal-based energy in a global economy and an energy-transitioning world.
We also hear from Montana House Majority Leader Sue Vinton in support of House Bill 245, a measure she’s sponsoring to increase trades education assistance and business training programs.
NorthWestern Energy has announced an agreement with Avista for the no-purchase price acquisition of Avista’s share of Colstrip Units 3 and 4. It will put 222 megawatts of power production in NorthWestern’s portfolio by 2026.
NorthWestern Energy’s Brian Bird, President and CEO, and John Hines, VP of Supply, say it’s a critical step in keeping Montana’s energy reliable, sustainable, and affordable. The two energy leaders join us today to go over the details.
Acclaimed author and Martin Luther King, Jr. researcher Dr. Lerone Martin will join University of Montana Professor Tobin Shearer to discuss the upcoming UM President’s Lecture Series presentation of “Becoming King: How a Wavering Teenager Became a Global Icon.”
Senate President Jason Ellsworth will join the program to highlight the first two weeks of the 68th legislature session. Financial relief for Montana families, housing solutions, and reducing the state debt are also items on the table.
Senate Majority Whip Steve Hinebauch (SD18, Wibaux) discusses his bill to increase compensation for participants of Montana’s Block Management program which provides incentives for landowners to allow public hunting on their private property. Then, Governor Greg Gianforte stopped in-studio to discuss measures the state has taken, and has planned, to combat rising crime, as well as promote his budget proposal to refund a portion of the state’s budget surplus through property tax rebates.
What is a cooperative? Is your family, community, church, hobby group a cooperative?
Learn more about what a cooperative is and how they benefit Montanans as Voices of Montana broadcast live from the annual meeting of the Montana Council of Cooperatives.
Chaos, or a Path to Reforms
Montana Congressman Matt Rosendale, who was one of about 20 House members advocating for more of return to Regular Order and a change in leadership, discusses the activity and outcome of the vote process that eventually made Rep. Kevin McCarthy the new Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Mike McManus, Program Coordinator for the Veterans Navigation Network, hoped on the show to discuss a program to help veterans understand their benefits and reintegrate back into civilian life.
Voices heads back up to the Capitol for a show Friday from the Rotunda – where the Montana Electric Cooperatives’ Association is hosting Co-Op Days at the Capitol.
We’ll hear from co-op members and energy leaders who made their way to Helena looking to build relationships and educate Montana’s lawmakers on the challenges and opportunities of the more than two-dozen electric cooperatives serving 400,000 Montanans across the state.
The U.S. House has struggled to elect it’s next Speaker, and Montana’s Matt Rosendale is one of about 20 GOP House members that has taken a hard line against California Republican Kevin McCarthy’s bid.
What does this mean for Montana, and the nation? Yellowstone Strategies Managing Partner Drew Lesofski brings us the latest, and also updates us on eastern and central Montana water projects Drew’s firm has helped enable.
In January of every year, the Montana Chamber hosts Business Days at the Capitol.
This two-day event coincides with the start of the legislative session (odd-numbered years) and candidate filing (even-numbered years) and focuses on legislative and public policy issues relevant to business.
Tom broadcasts live from the Capitol as the 2023 Legislature is underway.
Are there problems with Montana’s first-year recreational marijuana program? Can the state do better?
That’s one of the issues studied by members of the Economic Affairs Interim Committee. State Senator Ken Bogner, from Miles City, chaired that interim committee and joins us today to discuss that and the growing privacy concerns over facial recognition technology.
We’ll also get an update on how the communities affected by historic Yellowstone River flooding in 2022 are looking ahead to the new year. Carbon County Commissioner Bill Bullock will join us for that.
What were the biggest financial stories of 2022?
Michael Vondra, a Certified Financial Planner, joins the program to re-cap the markets, look at what can be learned from 2022, and discuss ways to prepare for what could be a prolonged economic decline in 2023.
The Crazy Mountains, north of Big Timber, have been front and center in a handful of public land conflicts in recent years. Currently, the US Forest Service is considering a land swap of approximately 5-thousand acres to consolidate access to federal lands in a large swath of private and public parcels on the eastside of the range.
Kerry White, a long-time Montana public lands advocate with Citizens for Balanced Use, will join us to talk more about that land swap, and how a collaborative effort helped preserve important snowmobile trails around Big Sky.
And, with more than 41-hundred draft bill proposals already in the legislative hopper, we’ll talk with the new executive director of that so-called hopper – Jerry Howe, whose staff plays a critical role in helping Montana’s citizen legislature craft the bills to do its job.
When temperatures in Montana get cold, they can get deathly cold. At windchills of 40 below, frostbite can take hold in 5 minutes.
With dangerous cold conditions across the state, we’ll talk with emergency shelter providers from Kalispell to Bozeman to hear about the ways they are preparing, and reaching out to the homeless in their communities to try and save lives.
Also, Dec. 21 is the Winter Solstice, and we’ll learn more about the “Longest Night” ceremonies around the state recognizing those who died as a result of a lack of shelter.
There’s more financial fallout in the crypto world as the $42 billion FTX Exchange collapse has regulators and investors on edge about the future of crypto-currency. Montana Commissioner of Securities and Insurance, Troy Downing joins us to discuss how national regulators missed the warning signs on FTX, as well as steps consumers can take to protect themselves against fraud in Montana, and programs to help recover fraud losses.
Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen is putting pressure on Google, Apple, and Big Tech over age-appropriate labeling for children’s apps, like TikTok. He’ll join us by phone, and also discuss how law enforcement agencies are seeking increased public safety resources to address rising crime in the state.
Then, Doug Chabot with the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center will join us for a look at what to do, and what NOT to do, as you’re out enjoying the snow and the backcountry this winter.
Time for a little winter fun? We’ll check-in with Whitefish Mountain Ski Resort to talk about the soon-to-be grand opening of a new six-person chair lift known as the Snow Ghost Express.
We’ll also hear from the Montana Snowmobile Association as Cliff Walter, from the Great Falls Snowmobile Club, will join us to talk about events, trails, and what’s new in the popular, but under-appreciated winter sport of snowmobiling.
The 2023 Montana legislative session will be unique in a number of ways. For one, there’s a large budget surplus, and two, there’s a super-majority of GOP members guiding the 90-day session. Given those two scenarios, is there anything in our past that could possibly tell us what to expect?
We’ll ask author and public figure Jon Bennion, whose book “Big Sky Politics” is critically acclaimed for it’s comprehensive and well-researched look at Montana’s political history.
Join us as we take a look at the recent Montana election, and the upcoming session with an eye on the past.
Education, information, fellowship, and an opportunity for the beef industry & MSGA members to set policy that will shape the landscape of cattle ranching in Montana.
LIVE from the 138th Annual MSGA Convention & Trade Show.
Energy Transition of the Human Kind at NWE
Bob Rowe is marking the final days as the 14-year leader of NorthWestern Energy. The respected CEO retires at the end of the year, and colleague Brian Bird, who has been transitioning into that position for several months, takes over the helm.
Join us today as we’ll look at energy’s past, present, and future through the eyes of two of the industry’s most involved stakeholders: Bob Rowe and Brian Bird.
Do We Really Know What is “Open” for Enrollment?
With insurance, we know it as Open Enrollment, but do we really know what is “open” for enrollment? There are likely more insurance options then we are aware of. Lots more. But what’s good and what’s not?
Today we’ll be joined by Richard Miltenberger, of Mountain Health Coop, and Olivia Riutta, from the Montana Primary Care Association, as we’ll openly explore the role insurance and community services can play in helping to meet your quality healthcare needs.
In the 2021 Montana High School Youth Risk Behavior Survey, roughly half of all students reported feeling seriously depressed at some point in the last year, and one in five reported seriously considering suicide and making a suicide plan. About 1 in 10 students had attempted suicide in in the past year.
Rural Behavioral Health Institute’s (RBHI) mission is to reduce youth suicide in Montana through our Screening-Linked-To-Care program (SLTC). This free program consists of universal screening at the 6 – 12 grade level for suicidal thoughts and behaviors, depression and anxiety. Students who are identified at high risk for suicide are seen the same day by a mental health clinician. Students who have moderate risk for suicide, or who have high depression or anxiety, are seen within 3 days.
Janet Lindow, PhD helped found RBHI alongside Julie Anderson. Heather Zaluski, MD also joins the show to talk about her experience
For schools interested in screening, please contact Kayleigh Brown at kbrown@rbhi.org.
www.rbhi.org
You gotta like the fact that a group of Montanans can work together for a common cause for 139 years, and counting … Join us for the annual (yep, 139th) Montana Wool Growers Association convention as we broadcast in front […]
Have you heard of FTX? It is – or was – a crypto currency exchange. It was a haphazardly created, recklessly run, money-laundering operation that burned through more than $40 billion investor dollars in its historic downfall. Troy Downing, Montana’s […]
Today is “Giving Tuesday.” So, let’s tip our hats to the neighbors among us who work, volunteer, or otherwise support the thousands of non-profit organizations across the state. We’ll feature a handful of them and hear about their challenges and […]
FWP hunting AND fishing experts will join us as we venture to Cabela’s to take aim at the big game on this last week of Montana’s general rifle season. We’ll get an update on the game harvest, Chronic Wasting Disease, […]
What would you suppose a motivational speaker would tell a group of Montanan grain growers? Join us today and find out, as author and speaker John O’Leary will be our guest. O’Leary is keynoting at the Montana Grain Growers Annual […]
Is today’s politics vastly different than, say, 87 years ago? Maybe not so much, as we’ll learn today in Historian Larry Reed’s telling of the time Democratic Montana Senator Burton Wheeler fought off a charge from his colleagues to vastly […]
Let’s admit it – it’s on our minds, it’s just about all we can think about at this point. (Okay, maybe it’s just me.) Yea, we’re talking Griz/Cat – Cat/Griz – the Brawl. Today, we’ll learn more about the players […]
New this morning — the U.S. House of Representatives will be under GOP control for the next session. What priorities will the Republican-led House choose to tackle and how? Montana’s newly re-elected Congressman Matt Rosendale will join us to discuss […]
Open Voices today, as we explore election results, discuss Social Security, pay tribute to our veterans, and preview an expected announcement of a Trump 2024 presidential run.
Six days past the election and they are still counting votes in a handful of states. However, in Montana, the consensus is that the 2022 midterm election process was on time and on target. Today we hear from Montana Secretary […]
Active duty members of the U.S.S. Billings will be among a number of special guests in honor of Veterans Day. Joined by Scott Fredricks, from Northern News Network affiliate KYYA, Voices of Montana will broadcast live from the Billings west-end […]
Today we tell the not so flattering story of Project SHAD — a 1960’s U.S. military chemical and biological testing program – through the eyes of a Montana soldier, John Olsen, who served aboard a Project SHAD vessel. The truth […]
Did the red wave turn into a pink splash? What do the 2022 midterm election results indicate about the politics of our state and country? Today we “slice it and dice it” with Montanan and political consultant Drew Lesofski, and […]
Election Day – USA. Will is be a red wave as many pundits have anticipated? How big a role will voter turnout play? The inflation-ravaged economy is clearly the top issue, but what else brings voters to the polls this […]
It’s been said that 22 American veterans die by suicide each day, but new information suggests that number may be twice as high as originally thought. Chris Enget, Grassroots Engagement Director with Concerned Veterans for America appeared on Voices of […]
Getting ready for the weekend hunt? Cabela’s Manager Nicole Pugliano joins us in-studio to tell us the truth about where she hunts for all the big game — oh wait, Tom already tried that angle and she told him nothing […]
One of the most closely watched congressional races across the country is in Montana’s newly formed House District 1 – the western district. The democratic nominee for the seat is Monica Tranel, a former Olympic rower, and she joins us […]
An extensive needs assessment study on Montana communities is helping MSU Extension direct their efforts. The study points to numerous challenges for health and wellness in the state, such as limited access, financial burdens, and sometimes poor overall health. In […]
Tom Schultz broadcasts LIVE from Diversified Plastics in Missoula and talks Montana Manufacturing.
LIVE from the MT League of Cities and Towns Annual Convention. The Montana League of Cities and Towns (League) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit association of all 127 incorporated cities and towns of Montana. Since 1931, the League has provided technical support, research, […]
Tom Schultz interviews students from Skills USA, LIVE from the Billings Hotel and Convention Center. SkillsUSA is a partnership of students, teachers and industry working together to ensure America has a skilled workforce. We help each student excel. A nonprofit […]
Triangle Telephone Cooperative (TTC) is a company owned by its members. The cooperative was incorporated on March 24, 1953 in Havre, Montana by rural residents of Central Montana. In 1994, TTC purchased 13 exchanges from US West (now CenturyLink) and […]
Have you heard the term ‘Beneficial Electrification’ buzzing around Montana? Voices of Montana travels to Missoula to attend Electrify the Big Sky to learn more about what Beneficial Electrification is, the positives of shifting from fossil fuels, impacts on rates […]
Famed property rights Attorney Karen Budd-Falen is representing the Montana Stockgrowers Association and North and South Philips County Grazing Districts on an appeal of the Bureau of Land Management’s decision to allow a change in use for the American Prairie. […]
“Code Girls United” is a Montana program that provides young ladies hands-on experiences and a real-life exploration of a career in computer technology, where only 24-percent of the jobs are filled by women. The program is free to girls in […]
An MSU Extension Program in Montana is asking rural communities to ask themselves how best to promote and “reimagine rural” America. It’s a program that is bolstering community pride and community planning. Guests featured on this show include Tara Mastel […]
Mountain Shadow Association (MSA) is a community-based, Native-American non-profit focused on repairing and restoring relationships between children and their parents, citizens and their community, families and their culture, individuals and their environment. Megkian Doyle is the Executive Director of Mountain […]
James Olson spoke at the Montana Banker’s Association in Billings and shared his thoughts on the future of Putin’s War on Ukraine. The interview dives into what it was like being undercover and raising a family in Cold War Russia […]
At least three major tech projects developing in Montana were debuted at the Montana On the Rise economic summit last week. Click to hear Governor Greg Gianforte discuss how those projects landed here and their impact on the state’s economy […]
Photonics, the film industry and software companies are coming to Montana. All of this and much, much more was on full-display at Senator Steve Daines’ 2022 Montana On The Rise Economic Summit in Bozeman. Click to hear Tom chat with […]
Our veterans and military families are getting targeted for scams and at a rate of 80%. One of the unfortunate reasons for this is that it’s not hard to identify a veteran and, therefore, easy to target. Click the podcast […]
A collaborative agreement between Logan Health, Glacier County, and the Blackfeet Reservation is keeping some emergency services operating along the Hi-line. The agreement is a rarity and has stirred up renewed interest in the creation of healthcare consortiums to help […]
Sleepy Hollow Oil & Gas owns and operates the natural gas system that serves roughly 150 customers in the Winifred, Hilger and Lewistown areas through NorthWestern Energy’s system. But the Ohio-based company is going through bankruptcy and there’s uncertainty about […]
In Washington D. C., Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm said it’s critical for the nation to find a solution for storing spent nuclear fuel, as the need for more carbon-friendly, baseload production grows. Montana’s state legislature is studying the potential for […]
Where’s the beef? Montana, that’s where! The month of May has been declared Beef Month and Montana Governor Greg Gianforte stops by to talk about the Treasure State’s growing meat production along with CI-121, forest management, drought and how exactly […]
With an interest rate hike and stock markets slipping – it’s time to get a check on the economy. Michael Vondra, a certified financial advisor, will help us evaluate, as will Dr. Robert “Tino” Sonora, the Associate Director of the […]
A leak of a Supreme Court Opinion with potentially historic results, continued funding to Ukraine, the Feds taking on disinformation and a deadly bird flu sweeping the country. Click to hear U.S. Congressman Matt Rosendale share his opinions on the […]
The deportation policy known as Title 42 is set to expire this month and there’s a partisan divide across the country over how to replace it without increasing the number of illegal immigrants from the southern border. Hear from Montana […]
Is America media illiterate? A Montana film producer and an Oscar-nominated director have teamed up for a timely documentary showing how biased media and sensationalism is undermining trust. “TRUST ME” explores the need for better “media literacy,” in an information […]
The Russsian-Ukranian war rages on and one of Montana’s Representatives saw the fallout from the conflict in person. Montana Senator Steve Daines recently became one of the first American leaders to visit Ukraine since the Russian invasion and calls into […]
The Montana State Hospital in Warm Springs has been rolling over rough waters of late, with difficulties maintaining staff, a COVID-19 outbreak that claimed the lives of four patients, and, most recently, a loss of Medicare funding. Listen to the […]
Recreational Marijuana is now a thing in Montana – but it ain’t necessarily a done thing. There are opponents of legalized marijuana who are using provisions within the new law to encourage counties to opt-out of retail sales. Click to […]
There was a population of over 40 million Ukrainians not too long ago. 5-6 million have now fled the country, with many landing in neighboring Poland, as a result of the ongoing war with Russia, and a group of Montanans […]
You almost don’t want to call it a win-win, since it may sound too good to be true. But a new pipeline that just opened in Southeast Montana will simultaneously extract untapped oil in the Cedar Creek Anticline by using […]
Montana has received billions of federal dollars in recent years. The question now is how exactly it’s being spent? The USDA Rural Development program in Montana is taking major steps in updating communities’ broadband, mental health and meat packing development […]
How are Montana’s tourism and recreation industries recovering from the past two tumultuous years? The industry was among the hardest hit by the pandemic, but there are some silver linings and we look at how it’s recovering and adapting live […]
It’s been said that whiskey’s for drinking and water’s for fighting, and we’ve seen plenty of fighting across Montana in recent decades. Montana’s rural water systems recently received over $100 million of new bureau of reclamation funding while the conflict […]
How can you help your rural community overcome mental health challenges? First, ask people how they are doing and get “Beyond The Weather.” Second, listen in as we talk to Amber Martinsen-Blake, Founder and Executive Director for Catalyst for Change. […]
Academy Award nominated Actor Mark Wahlberg recently stopped by Helena for an exclusive screening of his new film Father Stu, which details the life of real-life Montanan Stuart Long from a street brawler to a Helena priest. Ahead of his […]
Construction is beginning on NorthWestern Energy’s first new power plant in Montana since the “Dave Gates” plant went on-line near Anaconda in 2011, which could be very good news for Montanans who are worried about rolling blackouts when there isn’t […]
Water access is critical across Montana, but the funding for these projects adds up quick and has unfortunately been overlooked in the past. That’s changed recently, however, with $85 million heading to St. Mary’s Diversion Dam, $37 million for the […]
Have you ever wondered about suspect healthcare charges or phone calls? In 2020, national health care expenditures reached 4.1 trillion and, since scammers always go where the money is, that makes the healthcare industry one of the bigger targets for […]
Coming to theaters next month – “Father Stu” is a movie based on the life of Helena’s Stuart Long. Academy award nominated Mark Wahlberg produced the film and stars as the Helena-raised former amateur boxer who wound up as an […]
Do you have loved ones in Europe currently facing the fallout of the Russian-Ukrainian Conflict? How can you aid those fleeing the war? A group of Montanans, led by an Montana State University student from Poland, have organized a relief […]