Miami Public Radio Project, 2014
November 30, 2015
Newscast for the Week of November 30, 2015
In this week's edition of the Miami Public Radio Project - A Miami University alumnus supports efforts to make Ohio an attractive site for Hollywood's motion picture and TV industry. Miami University's Entrepreneurship program receives rave reviews at the national level. Oxford City Council wants a citizens commission to help improve relations between police and the community. Miami's Holiday Project for foster children and the Empty Bowls Project for the Community Choice Pantry both see giving decline this holiday season.
Miami study abroad gains national recognition
More and more students are attracted to Miami University's study abroad program - even before they enroll at the university. Reporter Britton Perelman tells us Miami's reputation has bolstered its standing nationally among study abroad programs.
Miami's winter term draws more and more students
Miami University officials weren't sure what to expect when they created a three-week Winter Term program called J-Term. Reporter Hailey Mallendick says the registrar's office has found the number of students enrolled in J-term continues to increase year by year.
November 16, 2015
Newscast for the Week of November 16, 2015
In this week's edition of the Miami Public Radio Project - Miami alumnus and former US Ambassador to Croatia, Kenneth Merten, reflects on the 20th Anniversary of the Dayton Peace Accords during a three-day conference in Oxford. Two Miami professors reflect on racial issues at Miami in light of the recent national attention focused on race relations at the University of Missouri. Miami Hamilton and Middletown hope to bring more veterans to campus after winning a special designation for their support of vets.
Photojournalist discusses horrors of Bosnian War during Miami visit
Miami honored the 20th anniversary of the Dayton Peace Accords with a three-day conference, urging people to come together to remember the signing of the peace treaty that ended the Bosnian war. Miami Public Radio reporter Alex Cooper talked with International photojournalist, Ron Haviv about his acclaimed photography from the 1990s conflict and the lessons we've learned.
Miami students stand in solidarity with Missouri
Miami University students reacted swiftly to show their support for students at the University of Missouri who face racial turmoil on their campus. Reporter Nathan Hengstebeck says the issues at Missouri prompted the start of a new student group at Miami.
November 9, 2015
Newscast for the Week of November 9, 2015
In this week's edition of the Miami Public Radio Project - Some Miami teachers find out how dependent they art on the Internet when a sliced cable disables services for an entire morning. Miami's It's on Us campaign uses a recent sexual assault to make students more aware of risks on campus. Miami admissions officials work with other universities on a program to help low income students apply for college. Hamilton's Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park prepares for its annual Holiday Lights campaign.
Dementia patients get helping hand from Miami students
Many seniors with dementia look forward to help they get from Miami University students each week. Miami Public Radio's Britton Perelman reports the Opening Minds Through Art Project (OMA) uses art to help young people connect with seniors in nursing home facilities.
Miami admissions staff joins push to simplify college applications
The college application process could be easier now, thanks to the Coalition for Access, Affordability, and Success. Miami University is participating in the project, which guides low-income students to a college career. Reporter Alex Cooper explains what this means for incoming students on college campuses nationwide.
Miami website offers help to corporations and schools
Miami University hopes a new website can help it better connect with the outside world. Reporter Sam Szorentini says Partnering with Miami is aimed at businesses as well as other schools.
November 2, 2015
Newscast for the Week of November 2, 2015
In this week's edition of the Miami Public Radio Project - You may have not seen the end of marijuana debate in Ohio, as lawmakers suggest they may push medical marijuana legislation. Miami's architecture faculty and students hope to learn a lot from an eco-friendly passive house near Hueston Woods. Foster children will benefit from a Holiday Project pushed by Miami's classified and unclassified employees.
One Miami football team enjoys success
Miami University’s varsity football team has struggled all year with one win in nine games. But reporter Hailey Mallendick tells us Miami's club football team is having the opposite kind of season.
October 26, 2015
Newscast for the Week of October 26, 2015
In this week's edition of the Miami Public Radio Project - Backers of a marijuana legalization issue on the November 3 ballot visit Miami University students seeking their support for State Issue 3. Opponents like the Middletown Chamber of Commerce claim it would be a bad business deal. Butler County voters also will be asked to back a tax levy to continue services for thousands of senior citizens. A Miami University transportation study looks at the role of bicycles in getting around the Oxford campus.
Miami speaker focuses on Gangsta Rap and Reality TV
Media scholar and journalist Eric Harvey told Miami University students there's a strong connection between reality cop shows and gangsta rap. Miami Public Radio Reporter Joe Crain spoke with Harvey about how those two entertainment options offer different reality perspectives.
October 18, 2015
Newscast for the Week of October 18, 2015
In this week's edition of the Miami Public Radio Project - Oxford starts planning for a future Amtrak stop in the city. Miami's former student center is about to undergo major renovations for new services. Faculty, staff and students are named to the search committee to find a successor to retiring President David Hodge. Two of Miami's regional campuses are honored for their service to veterans.
Oxford Lane Library customers like new space
Oxford residents seem to like what they see of the new Lane Library across from Kroger's on Locust Street. Alex Cooper reports the new library has added new services as well.
Speaker says statistics is the new journalism
The director of Sense about Science USA believes today's journalists must promote statistical literacy in their reporting. During a visit to Oxford, Miami Public Radio's Sam Szorentini reports Trevor Butterworth had some thoughts on why statistics are vital to accurate reporting.
World comes to Oxford for Global Rhythms
Musicians from all over the world brought their talents to Oxford for the annual Global Rhythms program. Miami Public Radio’s Nathan Hengstebeck reports the event was as thrilling to the performers as it was to the people watching.
Oxford Farmer's Market a popular destination
If you like fresh produce and other products, the Farmer's Market in Oxford is the place to go. Reporter Britton Perelman tells us about the people who love to sell their goods and get to know their customers.
October 12, 2015
Newscast for the Week of October 12, 2015
In this week's edition of the Miami Public Radio Project - Miami University joins a group of universities trying to make the application process more affordable and accessible. Domestic violence victims in Butler County share their stories through a project at Miami Middletown. Miami's Student Counseling tries pet therapy to help students cope with stress or depression.
Miami has new pay plan for parking garages
Miami University has been installing new gates at its two campus parking garages. Reporter Hailey Mallendick tells us it's all part of new payment plans for the garages.
Hamilton group asks what you want to do before you die
A Hamilton non-profit wants to know what you'd like to do before you die. Miami Public Radio reporter Julia Rivera says Square One Living has a public wall where you can write about yor goals or dreams.
October 5, 2015
Newscast for the Week of October 5, 2015
In this week's edition of the Miami Public Radio Project - A Miami University political science professor questions whether any serious candidate should run in a special election to replace House Speaker John Boehner. Miami prepares for flu season. Health officials also talk about concerns over several recent cases of viral meningitis on the Oxford campus. A new faculty union hopes to have a stronger voice on Miami University policies.
Haygood touts new book in Oxford visit
Miami University alumnus Wil Haygood recently visited campus to talk about his new book, “Showdown: Thurgood Marshall and the Supreme Court Nomination that Changed America.” Reporter Britton Perelman caught up with Haygood to ask about his writing process, his experience as a Miami professor, and why he chose to write about Thurgood Marshall.
Miami professor discusses impact of Boehner's resignation
Speaker of the House John Boehner has decided to step down and will leave Congress at the end of October. Miami Public Radio Reporter Joe Crain spoke with Miami professor Dr. Bryan Marshall about Boehner’s decision to step down and the effect this could have on the 8th district.
Princess Theatre comes tumbling down
It seems appropriate that the site of a former Oxford theatre might have future ties to a university film program. Reporter Nathan Hengstebeck says Miami's Film Studies Program would like to make that connection when a new building is erected on the site.
September 28, 2015
Newscast for the Week of September 28, 2015
In this week's edition of the Miami Public Radio Project - An executive search firm solicits faculty and staff comments on what qualities Miamians want in the university's next president. Outsiders currently lead the republican presidential field, but a Miami University political science professor says it's not the first time that's happened. Candidates begin to line up locally to replace House Speaker John Boehner of West Chester. Miami anthropologists use 3-D printing to help students understand the latest discovery of human-like ancestors in Africa.
Chinese Festival provides outreach to Oxford community
Many Miami University students look at Oxford as a bubble cut off from the outside world. But reporter Alex Cooper says the Confucius Institute hopes its second annual Chinese Festival bridged the cultural gaps for college and high school students and the Oxford community.
Miami Social Work program revamped
Miami University has welcomed a new leader to its Social Work program. Reporter Sam Szorentini tells us what changes Terri Nelson plans in her new role.
September 21, 2015
Newscast for the Week of September 21, 2015
In this week's edition of the Miami Public Radio Project - Some Miami students are coping with the surprise of not living in campus housing. Leaders of Miami's Armstrong Student Center prepare to expand the facility. Oxford's uptown landscape will change with demolition of the former Princess Theatre. Oxford United Way closes in on the halfway mark to its 2015 fund-raising goal.
Miami faces housing shortage
Miami University had a record-breaking number of incoming freshmen for the 2015-2016 school year, and that left staff trying to figure out what to do with several hundred more students than expected. Miami Public Radio reporter Britain Pearl-man talks with Miami staff in housing and admissions to find out how the University handled the influx of new students.
Oxford's Princess Theatre faces demolition
An icon in uptown Oxford faces the wrecking ball next week. Miami Public Radio's Nathan Hengstebeck tells us about future plans for the former Princess Theatre.
Miami student honored as Unsung Hero
A Miami senior has been recognized for her work on hunger. Reporter Katie Nixdorf has more on Hannah Surwillo as an Unsung Hero by Oxford United Way.
Miami warns students and staff of e-mail scams
If you work at Miami University, you may have been targeted in an e-mail scam, one that tries to steal valuable information from you. Reporter Hailey Mallendick says student Facebook accounts also have been targeted.
September 14, 2015
Newscast for the Week of September 14, 2015
In this week's edition of the Miami Public Radio Project - The closing of Chestnut Street and US 27 will pose problems for Miamians for another couple of weeks. Miami President David Hodge outlines his goals for the final year of his presidency. Miami's Journalism Program takes advantage of better relations between the US and Cuba to launch a summer journalism program. Miami's Bishop Woods reopens after a summer of environmental changes.
Road woes continue along US 27 in Oxford
Construction on U.S. 27 at Chestnut Street in Oxford has led to a month long closure of that major intersection. Miami Public Radio Reporter Joe Crain talks with local officials about when motorists can expect to see the construction project completed.
Miami Police adjusting to new body cameras
Miami Police are looking for ways to make the campus environment safer. Their most recent addition shoots video, not bullets. Miami Public Radio Reporter looks at how officers are adjusting to the use of body cameras.
Week of May 11, 2015
Newscast for the Week of May 11, 2015
In this week's edition of the Miami Public Radio Project - Miami's president reflects on his decade of service to the university. Some Miami faculty members want more say on important issues, so they've launched an advocacy chapter of a national faculty union. Miami prepares to welcome its largest freshman class in history. Expect traffic disruptions in uptown Oxford this summer as the city replaces bricks on High Street. A memorial garden is now planned for a Miami student killed in a murder-suicide earlier this year.
President Hodge reflects on Miami years
Miami University President David Hodge says he'll step down at the end of June next year. Miami Public Radio reporter Mekenna Sandstrom sat down with Hodge to discuss what is next for him and to reflect on the ups and downs of his career at Miami…
Miami faculty launches advocacy chapter
Some Miami University teachers have created an advocacy chapter of the American Association of University Professors. Until recently, Miami was the only public university in the state without an advocacy chapter on campus. Miami Public Radio Project reporter Emily Hanhart tells us why AAUP is coming to Miami.
Miami golf team prepares for NCAA regionals
The Miami University men’s golf team is fresh off of a conference title and now turns its attention to the NCAA Regionals. Miami Public Radio's Daniel Taylor reports it’s Miami’s first trip since 1998.
Week of May 4, 2015
Newscast for the Week of May 4, 2015
In this week's edition of the Miami Public Radio Project - Miami President David Hodge decides to seek alternatives to tearing down Patterson Place on the Western campus for a new residence hall. The university also listens to pressure from students and faculty to change plans for restoring Bishop Woods. Two Miami faculty members push to create a new Food Institute. Voters pass a tax levy to ensure funding for the Lane libraries in Hamilton, Fairfield and Oxford.
Father pushes new fire safety law 10 years after Miami fire deaths
It has been a decade since three Miami University students were killed in an off-campus housing fire in Oxford. Reporter Greta Hallberg spoke with the father of one of those fire victims, who has been speaking out on safety issues since then.
Feature 2
Miami University's student athletes engage in a different kind of competition away from the playing field. Miami Public Radio reporter Justin Maskulinski says it's all for a good cause as they find different ways to volunteer their time to help children and others.
Week of April 27, 2015
Newscast for the Week of April 27, 2015
In this week's edition of the Miami Public Radio Project - Miami University Trustees prepare to adopt recommendations to change the operations of Miami's three regional campuses. The director of Miami's Voice of America campus says more four-year degrees at the regional campuses has led to better jobs for many graduates. Pittsburgh Steeler Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger returns to Miami to dedicate a new indoor football field that bears his name. Miami's Mock Trial team achieves its 8th straight top ten finish in national competition.
Miami greats help dedicate new indoor sports facility
A 13 million dollar addition to Miami University's athletic complex is now open. Miami Public Radio reporter Daniel Taylor was there for the ribbon cutting ceremonies that unveiled the new Dauch Indoor Sports Center.
Miami University group focuses on issue of genocide
The head of Miami University's Center for American and World Cultures wants students to understand the horrors of genocide in the world today. Miami Public Radio's Justin Maskulinski reports on efforts to focus attention on the problem.
Miami graduate tells students how to get their dream job
Rachel Rudwall has travelled the globe since graduating from Miami University in 2008. Miami Public Radio's Ariel Wiley reports the film producer and writer came back to Miami for the Women’s Symposium to speak about her success… and how students can follow in her footsteps.
Secular student group seeks place at Miami
The interfaith day of service offers Oxford community members an opportunity to connect with many students and residents of faith and non-faith backgrounds. Miami Public Radio's Anna Hoffman reports members of the Secular Students of Miami came seeking a place at the table.
Week of April 20, 2015
Newscast for the Week of April 20, 2015
In this week's edition of the Miami Public Radio Project - Mercy Health agrees to help Miami University fund a new student athlete sports medicine and rehabilitation center and to provide health related courses on Miami's campuses. A republican lawmaker tells Miami students he'll continue to push bills to put an end to abortion in America. Some Miami students join forces to raise money for the fight against cancer. A Miami alumnus worries about the ethical issues of sports reporters constantly delving into the private lives of famous athletes.
Miami Hamilton students hope garden feeds needy families
Some senior nursing students at Miami University Hamilton are hoping their idea for a community garden will take root this summer and produce fruits and vegetables for needy families. Reporter Greta Morris says the project is aimed at helping children to eat healthier and learn the benefits of cultivating their own food.
Miami Steel Drum Band entertains with spring concert
The director of Miami University's steel drum band has witnessed many changes since he launched the musical group in the early 1990s. Miami Public Radio Reporter Mekenna Sandstrom talked with Chris Tanner and other performers after their spring concert at Miami's Hall Auditorium.
Week of April 13, 2015
Newscast for the Week of April 13, 2015
In this week's edition of the Miami Public Radio Project - Environmental activist Bill McKibben encourages Miami University students to join the battle to convince people of the threat of global warming. Miami deals with the aftermath of two students posting racial slurs in a residence hall - drawing unwanted attention to the school. Miami faculty, staff and students prepare for a major increase in parking fees this summer.
Miami and Brown University researchers discuss alcohol abuse
Beat-the-clock, mind probe pitchers and Skipper’s beer towers are just a few of the many of-age amenities that make up the Uptown Oxford drinking culture. But what happens when these vehicles for binge drinking turn into alcohol abuse? Miami Public Radio Project reporter, Emily Hanhart tells us how this issue is being examined at Miami and how the university measures up to other school across the country.
No time for tears - Miami Hockey prepares for next year
Miami’s ice hockey season ended early, but the RedHawks are already focused on next season. Miami Public Radio’s Justin Maskulinski talked with head coach Enrico Blasi and next year's captain to find out how the ’Hawks are moving forward after an early exit in the NCAA tournament.
Week of April 6, 2015
Newscast for the Week of April 6, 2015
In this week's edition of the Miami Public Radio Project - Miami University students' high-risk drinking behaviors are higher than the national average, and the chair of a Miami task force looks to create a different environment for students. Supporters of the Lane Public Library try to improve public awareness of an important tax issue on the May ballot. Candidates for Miami Student Government President share ideas on how to improve campus life for students.
Graeter's Ice Cream comes to Oxford
A popular Cincinnati business will soon make its debut in uptown Oxford. Reporter Daniel Taylor says that means there will be one more frozen dessert stop for students and locals alike.
Miami students remember the legacy of Cesar Chavez
Latinos and non-Latinos alike admire Mexican American icon Cesar Chavez for his work developing what is now called the United Farm Workers Union. Reporter Greta Hallberg tells us Miami University recently celebrated his legacy.
Senior writer by day…cartoonist by night
If you encountered Michael Shaw in his daytime job at Xavier University, you would have no clue about his moonlighting career. Reporter Julia Valencia tells us about Shaw's "other job" as a cartoonist for The New Yorker.
Week of March 16, 2015
Newscast for the Week of March 16, 2015
In this week's edition of the Miami Public Radio Project - A committee wraps up hearings on proposed changes to Miami University's relationship with its regional campuses, and recommendations will come next month. There's good news for people who use US 27 south entering or leaving Oxford. Construction on the highway may be done ahead of schedule. Talawanda school officials prepare to build a new Kramer Elementary School this summer. Two foreign policy experts visit Oxford to debate President Obama's international policies.
Miami archives on the move
The keys to the present, past and future of Miami University, Oxford College for Women and Western College for Women live in a building behind Withrow Court. Miami Public Radio Project’s Mekenna Sandstrom takes a peak into the past and explores the future home for the Miami University Archives.
Bishop Woods Restoration Project draws concerns
The restoration of Bishop Woods will begin while Miami University students are out of town for Spring Break. Reporter Anna Hoffman tells us the decision to alter Bishop Woods has created some controversy in the community.
Week of March 9, 2015
Newscast for the Week of March 9, 2015
In this week's edition of the Miami Public Radio Project - A Miami University task force is making its way around all four Butler County campuses to discuss proposed changes with the regional campus structure. Some Miami University geologists have done research on the controversial topic of the natural gas drilling technique known as fracking. Miami students join a campaign to get people to stop using the words "retarded" or "retard". Miami chooses a commencement speaker for its spring graduation ceremonies.
Miami student leader speaks out on sex assault panels
The issue of sexual assault has been a topic of conversation on college campuses nationwide. Recent reforms to Title Nine have led to many changes in the way universities handle cases of sexual assault, domestic violence and stalking. Reporter, Emily Hanhart tells us how Miami University has adapted to these changes.
Meet Miami University's "cyber cop"
He has received training from the US Secret Service on how to handle online crimes or scams. Reporter Kasey Meckert takes us into the world of Miami University Cyber detective Walt Schneider.
TV Fashion star Tim Gunn brings his viewpoints to Oxford
Tim Gunn is the personality behind the well known fashion phrase “make it work.” He's a consultant on the Lifetime Channel's Project Runway and gives feedback to potential designers as they compete for a collection in New York Fashion Week. Reporter Greta Hallberg has more on his recent visit to Miami University.
Miami's new indoor sports complex gets a workout
Miami University has a new Indoor Sports Complex, and it’s being used often as winter weather hangs around Oxford. The Miami Public Radio Project’s Justin Maskulinski says some spring sports teams are benefiting from the facility as well as football.
Week of March 2, 2015
Newscast for the Week of March 2, 2015
In this week's edition of the Miami Public Radio Project - The debate heats up again on how Miami University's regional campuses should be different than the main campus. When the weather warms up, Oxford hopes to begin work on the first phase of a bike path that will encircle the city. Hamilton's downtown gets a major boost with a company that plans to bring more than 600 jobs to the former Elder Beerman site. Miami Police hope to begin using new body cameras in the coming weeks.
Hamilton's drinking water chosen best in the world
Hamilton has some of the best tap water in the world. In fact, it may have the best. Miami Public Radio Reporter Daniel Taylor talked with the people behind what has been declared to be the world’s best tap water.
Miami boxing club
Boxing was once a popular competitive sport at colleges. But the NCAA terminated boxing as a varsity sport in the late 1960s. Despite all of the difficulties, boxing is still alive on college campus. Miami Public Radio Reporter C.J. Wang says a group of Miami University students train hard and travel all around the country.
Meet Miami University's police dog Figo
You might wonder why the Miami University Police Department needs to have a police dog. Miami Public Radio reporter Julia Valencia says Figo isn't on campus to catch criminals fleeing from police, but he does have two very specific functions.
Week of February 23, 2015
Newscast for the Week of February 23, 2015
In this week's edition of the Miami Public Radio Project - Miami University's information security officer says some employees may get letters about a huge cyber scam with Miami's former health insurance company, Anthem. Oxford makes a plea for an Amtrak stop. Miami President David Hodge speaks out on sexual assault and interpersonal violence. The Talawanda School Board learns how Ohio's proposed budget could impact the district.
Oxford police, Miami counselors discuss domestic violence
Questions about domestic violence have arisen in Oxford following a recent murder-suicide involving a Miami University student. Miami Public Radio's Anna Hoffman talked with Oxford Police and the Miami Women's Center about the widespread nature of relationship violence.
More Miami students dealing with anxiety and depression
Many college students today are grappling with mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Miami Public Radio's Greta Morris reports Miami's student counseling director has some thoughts on the increased number of cases he sees.
Heavy snow doesn't stop Miami's Charter Day Ball
Snow couldn't deter students and adults from attending Miami University's Charter Day Ball on Saturday, February 21. Miami Public Radio's Mekenna Sandstrom reports on the event, which takes place every three years.
Miami students hear an unconventional approach to the job market
Public relations majors at Miami University have received some unconventional advice on launching a career. Reporter Ariel Wiley says that advice comes from CEO Fred Cook, who has just authored a book on the topic.
Week of February 16, 2015
Newscast for the Week of February 16, 2015
In this week's edition of the Miami Public Radio Project - Miami University sees a record number of high school seniors apply for admission in 2015-16, and a record number of international students also seek admission. Oxford may look like a ghost town during Miami's winter term, but the 3-week semester is getting rave reviews. The dust is far from settled on construction projects on Miami's Oxford campus. Adults and students alike gear-up for Miami's Charter Day Ball, held every three years.
Miami students, faculty share historic visit to Cuba
Just weeks after President Obama unveiled plans to normalize relations with Cuba, twenty-two students and three Miami faculty members embarked on a trip to remember. Miami Public Radio's Emily Hanhart tells us this would be the second time Miami offered a study abroad program in Cuba, but it would be the first time students and faculty would get to experience the country under the rekindled relationship.
Miami football recruiting class ranks high
The Miami Redhawks football team may be coming off a 2-10 season, but hopes are high for 2015. Miami Public Radio's Justin Maskulinski reports is getting good reviews on its 26 high school recruits for next season.