[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 160 (Thursday, November 13, 1997)]
[Senate]
[Page S12660]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            HISTORIC TOWN HALL MEETING IN BILLINGS, MONTANA

 Mr. BAUCUS. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize the 
accomplishments of one city in Montana in addressing the issues of 
gangs, violence and kids.
  On September 29, 1997, a historic town hall meeting took place in 
Billings, Montana. This cooperative and coordinated effort involved the 
media, school officials, and community leaders. It also involved a 
critical component: experts in addressing gang activity from Los 
Angeles. Together this effort created an hour-long video conference 
called ``Gangs, Violence and Kids'' and aired it on every major media 
outlet in the Billings area.
  This presentation incorporated a panel and studio audience format 
which brought in a cross-section of the population, including 
teenagers, represented in the region. Concerns were raised, perceptions 
were addressed, and issues were confronted in an honest and 
straightforward manner.
  By no means an end to itself, this town hall meeting has launched a 
series of follow-up gatherings, a foundation, a mentoring connection 
and a pipeline of support for ongoing programs like the U.S. Department 
of Justice's Weed and Seed program for Billings and surrounding 
communities has been established.
  Beginning last week, a series of 30-second public service 
announcements were aired to address the issues raised in the town hall 
meeting. This campaign will contribute to the community's understanding 
of how these important issues affect all our neighborhoods. I 
especially appreciate the significant commitment by those who have 
agreed to continue in their role as advocates for change.
  I am extremely proud of what Billings has accomplished and how its 
residents strive to respond to important issues. I hope my colleagues 
will agree that this successful effort in Billings is a model that can 
be duplicated in their community.

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