In 24 states, including Oklahoma, Republicans control the governorship and both houses of the legislature; in 13 states Democrats enjoy one-party control. Comparing economic growth, education, health care, quality of life and environment, and the strength of civil society, do red or blue states win out? That is the question up for vigorous debate on Intelligence Squared U.S., KGOU's Sunday Radio Matinee on Dec. 8 at 12 noon.

 

The end of the calendar year is upon us, and time is running out to make your tax-deductible contribution to KGOU in 2013. As you give generously to organizations that matter to you, your family, and your community, remember all of the news coverage, insightful conversations and smart entertainment you've heard on KGOU. You can make your donation online by credit or debit card anytime before the end of the year, or send a check. Statements to donors for tax purposes will go out in late January. Thank you for supporting KGOU!

 

Mexico's bloody drug war has claimed 80,000 lives and is spilling over into the U.S., even into Oklahoma. On World Views, host Suzette Grillot talks with Mexican American journalist Alfredo Corchado, Mexico bureau chief for the Dallas Morning News, about reporting on government corruption, murders, and drug cartels, in spite of threats against his life. You can preview his story online.

Next week, on the 10th anniversary of the capture of Saddam Hussein, Dr. Grillot talks with Eric Maddox, an Army interrogator and Oklahoma native who helped orchestrate the capture. Maddox is the author of Mission: Blacklist, which is being made into a movie. On Friday, Dec. 13 World Views will look at the Iraq War's legacy, and talk about torture and interrogation tactics. Tune in for World Views Fridays at 4 p.m., 6:30 p.m. or Saturdays at 6 a.m. on KGOU.

 

The trade agreement that melded the U.S., Mexico and Canada into a single market fundamentally reshaped life along the borders and altered the way business is conducted globally. NAFTA was signed into law by President Bill Clinton, taking effect January 1, 1994.

In a series of reports, NPR looks back at the debate that shaped the agreement and at the myriad changes -- for better and worse -- that it created, and what it means to the daily lives of Americans. The stories begin on Sunday, Dec. 8 and continue into early 2014 on all NPR newsmagazines. Stay tuned, and look for web-exclusive features at NPR.org.

 

Who needs some inspiration for that hard-to-please person on your gift list? NPR editors to the rescue, with a new Book Concierge, an app that makes searching for just the right book easier. Or how about a gift for a music lover? NPR Music boils down the best of the 2013 releases and has a survey asking about your favorite music of the year.

Now, who needs a little holiday spirit to get through the shopping, wrapping and whatnot? Listen to your favorite NPR audio from holiday seasons past, featuring the best stories and music to start a new holiday tradition.

 

No flavor expresses the holiday spirit more perfectly than mint -- it's fresh and frosty overtones scream "winter" and spark memories of Christmas stockings and candy canes. Food writer Emily Hilliard has minty recipes for your dinner table and gift-giving. Remember, NPR's Kitchen Window has more recipes every Wednesday in KGOU.org's Arts and Entertainment section.