Tuesday, January 1, 2013 – A New Outlook, Hello 2013 (listen)
Today we are asking you take a moment and call in with your outlook for the new year. What things are you brushing up on or simply laying to rest? Do you use this time of year to 'start-a new'? It is also National Be On Purpose Month, are you ready to be on task? What does it take to really make new paths? Open Lines.

Wednesday, January 2, 2013 – Remembering Senator Daniel Inouye (listen)
On December 17, 2012, many around the country were saddened to hear of the death of Hawai'i Senator Daniel K. Inouye. Since 1978, Inouye was a member of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee and an active participant in the issues most important to tribes. He also opened the door for all minorities to serve at the highest levels within the United States Government. As a World War II veteran he will be remembered as a hero and lead advocate for the sovereign government-to-government relationship between the U.S. Government and all Native American tribes.Will his legacy serve as a road map for future policy makers? Guests include Suzan Shown Harjo (Cheyenne & Hodulgee Muscogee) President of The Morning Star Institute.

Thursday, January 3, 2013 – The Rise of Prescription Drug Abuse (listen)
OPart four in our series on addiction addresses the rise in prescription drug abuse among Native Americans. The Centers For Disease Control reports higher rates of prescription drug abuse among Natives. What are the reasons for the rise of this type of abuse? Is it a view of prescription drugs as a “safe” drug, or easier access, or socioeconomic factors? How are Native communities tackling this with prevention programs and treatment? Guests include Dr. Harry Brown, Chief Medical Officer, Nashville Area IHS.

Friday, January 4, 2013 – Idle No More Continues: Native Activism Ignited in 2013 (listen)
The Idle No More movement is a testament to the power of using the Native voice to get the word out. What began as four women wanting to shed light on issues facing First Nations peoples has become a global phenomenon. Indigenous peoples are now taking action in solidarity with the Canadian movement. Not only are folks standing alongside First Nations, they are using it as an opportunity to also speak up and out about issues they are facing in their home communities hundreds of miles away from where the Idle No More movement was born. Is this movement a reflection of what has been brewing for generations? How does taking a stance today differ from past social Native movements? Is this the Indigenous awakening many cultures predicted centuries ago? Guests include Agnes Portalewska, Communications Manager at Cultural Survival and Gyasi Ross (Blackfoot) Attorney and Activist.

Related Link: Idle No More Community on Facebook

Monday, January 7, 2013 – Sousa on the Rez (listen)
“Sousa on the Rez,” a new short documentary directed by Cathleen O’Connell helps to break down stereotypes of Native music through portraits of what it means to be a part of a Native marching band. As the documentary makes its official debut, we open our electronic talking circle to learn more about the roots of this music scene. What paths have marching bands provided for not only the musicians who are send out the music but also for the Native communities they are connected to? How can a musical genre with European roots express Native pride? Guests include "Sousa on the Rez" Director Cathleen O'Connell and Jeremy Printup (Tuscarora Nation) Trombonist & Librarian Assistant of the Iroquois Indian Band.

Tuesday, January 8, 2013 – Current Events (listen)
The Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of the American Indian is hosting its 2013 Inaugural Ball with a star-studded line up of Native American entertainment. The Southwestern Association for Indian Arts deadline for artists to apply for the 2013 Santa Fe Indian Market is January 18th. Also, the Sundance Institute's Native American and Indigenous Program is looking for emerging Native American, Native Hawaiian and Alaska Native filmmakers for their Native Lab Fellowship. As the winter months start to blossom into longer days, we want to know what events are happening in your area. Is there a powwow you want to get to on another Rez? Call in and share an event going on near you on our Current Events. Events highlighted on today’s show include:
2013 NMAI Native Nations Inaugural Ball,
NCAI Native Graduate Health Fellowship,
Santa Fe Indian Market applications,
American Indian Institute at the University of Oklahoma 2013 Native Diabetes Prevention Conference,
My Medicine Man Can Beat Up Your Medicine Man (Drunk or Sober),
Ojibway Opportunity Convening,
Navajo Nation/Tsehootsooi Medical Center LGBTQ Symposium.

Wednesday, January 9, 2013 – Returning Home After Earning A Feather (listen)
Many young people have taken up the challenge to climb the ladder of education. For many, the question now is: How does one return to a home—where jobs are hard to come by, where some have never lived—and make it a better place? There are some who feel government reform is the natural place to use what they learned in school to help their tribe evolve. What happens when idealism comes face to face with reality? What about what academics call “brain drain,” where generations are led away from tribes to seek education and do not return home? How does this play out in our communities today? Are you embracing ideas from newly graduated young academics? Guests include Navajo activist and PhD candidate Andrew Curley and Navajo policy analyst Dana Eldridge.

Thursday, January 10, 2013 – Prevention: What is Working? (listen)
What is the best way to teach about the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse? We all know the famous “Just Say No” campaign of the 1980s. It had mixed reviews and results. Other campaigns used catch phrases like “above the influence,” “I learned it by watching you” and “this is your brain on drugs, any questions?” How effective are these campaigns? What about campaigns directed at Native Americans? How do cultural public service announcements influence the rates of use? Have programs like this worked in your community? Join us for part five of our series on addiction. Guests include: Classical guitarist and youth advocate, Gabriel Ayala (Yaqui)and Kimberly Ross-Toledo (Dine/Lakota/Dakota) Executive Director of The Coalition for Healthy and Resilient Youth.

Friday, January 11, 2013 – Moccasin Games! (listen)
In some Ojibwe communities, they’re chasing away the winter blues by playing a game that has been handed down from generation to generation. The moccasin game, traditionally played by Ojibwe men, was a way for gamblers to acquire a few days of canned goods, a hunting knife, a rifle, or even a new wife. The game has evolved over the years and the wages are not so high or as risqué. What hasn’t changed is that many restless natives still travel hundreds of miles to attend these moccasin games. For some Natives, they like participating in the games as a way to strengthen their Ojibwe language abilities and to show case their newly composed songs. Like many board games, the atmosphere is filled with lots of teasing, laughter and demonstrates good sportsmanship. What can we learn from the traditional games played by our older relatives? Guests include moccasin game players: Larry Wade (Mille Lacs & White Earth Ojibwe), Moccasin Player of 36 years and Barry Frantum (Dakota/Lakota) Tobacco Prevention Coordinator for Ain Dah Yung Center in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Monday, January 14, 2013 – What’s Ahead For The Next Congress (listen)
New members of the US Congress were recently sworn in. Native Nations are now keeping an eye out for legislation that could impact tribes for years to come. Native women are still looking to the country's lawmakers to offer them some protection under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). The Indian Health Service received a slight increase in the President's proposed 2013 budget, but it has yet to see the red pen of Congress. What other pending legislation will tribal leaders be keeping a close watch on? What would like to see from our Congressional leaders this year? Guests include: John Dossett, General Counsel for the National Congress of American Indians. Brian Quint, Government and Legislative Affairs Associate for the Navajo Nation Washington Office. Randall Simmons, Legislative Associate for the Navajo Nation Washington Office.

Tuesday, January 15, 2013 – Music Maker: Samantha Crain (listen)
In an era of digital technology, the music industry is now a sound explosion. New releases can be churned out instantly. But what happens when you use old school methods like analog to capture the sounds of today? Samantha Crain, an artist with Choctaw heritage, calls on those ways in her new album “Kid Face.” After nine days with recording great John Vanderslice, a new musical chapter in this young musician’s life was ready to meet the rest of the world. You’re invited to join us as Samantha shares her new musical journey.

Wednesday, January 16, 2013 – Is Recovery Possible? (listen)
On part six of our series on addiction, we ask a crucial question - is recovery possible for everyone? The National Institute of Drug Abuse reports that between 40 and 60 percent of people facing addiction relapse during the recovery process. What steps are needed to create a lasting recovery without relapse? Or is relapse part of the addiction recovery process? Are some people simply not able to stay sober? Join us as we hear stories from people with 10, 20 and 30 years of sobriety discuss their recovery process. Guests include: Peggy Berryhill (Muscogee) General Manager of KGUA radio, Herbert Keeto (Navajo) Vocational Manager for the Na'Nizhoozhi Center and Dr. Kevin Foley (Rappahnaaock) the Clinical Director of Na'Nizhoozhi Center.

Thursday, January 17, 2013 – The Redskins Name, Should it Stay or Go? (listen)
The debate over a name change of the National Football League’s Washington Redskins continues. The most recent chapter includes the current Washington D.C. Mayor Vincent Gray publicly stating that if the team is to return back to D.C. that discussions of a name change need to take place. Where do you stand on this issue? Does the debate over racist mascots influence other arenas of Native life? Do you agree that the name must be changed? Or, do you think the issue is not important and some people are being too sensitive? Guests include: Suzan Shown Harjo (Cheyenne/Muscogee) President of the Morning Star Institute and Bill Means (Oglala Lakota) retired Educator and Administrator.

Friday, January 18, 2013 – Navigating Cancer, Before and After (listen)
A cancer diagnosis brings people into a completely unfamiliar new world. Choices about treatment options can be daunting and it may be difficult to map out what to expect in the months ahead. One solution that holds promise is providing Patient Navigators who understand both the medical system and cultural practices that may influence how American Indian patients approach cancer treatment. Are you a cancer survivor? What lessons did you learn that might help other cancer patients? Have you used a patient navigator for yourself or a family member? Guests will include Dr. Victoria Warren-Mears, Director of the Northwest Tribal EpiCenter and Eric Vinson (Cherokee) Caregiver and Project Coordinator at the Northwest Tribal Epicenter.

The Appointment Companion:

Northwest Tribal Cancer Resource Guide:

Monday, January 21, 2013 – Winter Health (listen)
The flu is spreading early this year. Hospitals and clinics are reporting an increase in flu cases around the country. According to the Indian Health Service, Native Americans have low rates for flu vaccinations, which puts people at additional risk. Have you had the flu this year? What are you doing to try to stay healthy or treat yourself when you do get sick in the winter? We’ll talk about the flu and other winter health concerns in this edition of Native America Calling. Guests include: Sophie Two Hawk, MD (CEO of Rosebud Hospital in Rosebud, South Dakota).

Tuesday, January 22, 2013 – Climate Change and Trade Routes in the Arctic (listen)
The receding polar ice caps above the Arctic Circle have opened up new trade routes. With twice as many cargo ships sailing through the Bering Strait, the fragile ecosystem is just one oil spill away from wiping out the marine wildlife for years. Oil companies are also exploring the frigid waters with hopes of striking black gold. Are Native Communities equipped to deal with increased maritime traffic and possible disasters from offshore drilling? What can tribes do to prepare? How has your tribe dealt with drilling and oil exploration? Guests include Pat Pletnikoff (Aleut) Mayor of the City of St. George on St. George Island and the President of the St. George Fisherman's Association and Edward Itta (Inupiak Eskimo) the Mayor of the North Slope Borough and Member of the US Artic Research Commission.

Wednesday, January 23, 2013 – Sports Ethics and Lance Armstrong (listen)
Cyclist Lance Armstrong is known worldwide as a cancer survivor and Tour de France winner. His legacy is now tarnished and his wins are being wiped out after a years-long investigation revealed that he used performance-enhancing drugs. Armstrong confessed in an interview with Oprah Winfrey last week that he used banned substances during his cycling career. What do you think about the Armstrong confession? Where do you draw the line when it comes to pursuing a sport? What are we teaching our young people about ethics in sports? Join us for a conversation about sportsmanship and ethics. Guests include: Richard Jarc is the Executive Director Josephson Institute and Ben Foster, Executive Director and Co-founder of Intertribal Sports.

Thursday, January 24, 2013 – Preparing For a Plentiful Summer and Fall Harvest (listen)
According to many meteorologists, this summer will likely reach record highs and could be the driest season ever. What precautions should farmers take to deal with a very hot summer? Some native farmers and gardeners are gathering at a conference next month to discuss farming methods like soil reclamation, aquaculture, compost systems, and beekeeping. They’ll also learn about plant breeding and heirloom seeds. As the ground begins to thaw, are you planning your summer and fall garden? Are you planning to use seeds that can withstand heat and drought? Guests include: Ted Skenadore (Oneida), Agricultural Supervisor for Oneida Nation Farms, Gilbert Yazzie (Navajo), Dine Farmer, and Melissa Kruse-Peeples, Collection Manager for Native Seeds.

Break Music: Digging Roots - Plant the Seeds (Album - We Are)

Friday, January 25, 2013 – The Gun Control Debate (listen)
The gun control debate is heating up again. Last week, President Obama unveiled a set of gun control reform proposals for the US Congress and 23 executive actions on the issue. How does Native America fit into the gun control conversation? The second amendment was passed in 1791 when Native Americans were not American citizens some were at war with the U.S. government. The historical memory of Native people is long and for a group of colonized people, voluntarily giving up rights to own guns defies logic. Yet gun violence affects Native America with elevated murder and suicide rates. What do you think about the gun control? What message do you want to send to Congress and the Obama administration? Join us for a conversation about guns and gun control. Guests include: Vince Rinehart (Tlingit), activist and blogger.

Break Music: Savage Fam - Autumn (Song) - From: Legends and Lyrics Youth Workshop

Monday, January 28, 2013 – How Far Do You Have To Go? (listen)
Reservations are typically isolated and far away from the nearest grocery store or other stores. Some families look forward to spending a day away from the home to pack up the vehicle and head into town to load up on all the staples like milk, bread, eggs and spam. If you’re lucky, you may even have the time to take in a movie, shop for clothes and eat a good dinner before returning home - until the next trip into town. Does your reservation have a good grocery store? How far do you have to travel to shop for things you cannot get in your reservation stores? Do you struggle to find healthy food in your community? What’s a typical trip into town like for you and your family? Guests include: Ventura Lovato (Santo Domingo Pueblo) Program Manager for Johns Hopkins University's Center for American Indian Health, Cissimarie Juan (Tohono O'odham) Communication and Outreach Specialist for Tohono O'odham Community Action, Rex Wilhelm President and CEO of the Alaska Commercial Company.

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Break Music: Arigon Starr (artist) - The Menu Song (song) – The Red Road: Original Cast Recording (album)

Tuesday, January 29, 2013 – January Book of the Month & Rabbit Tales (listen)
This month we are bringing you a double shot of stories from two Native authors, from different parts of the country, that both contain Indian Country’s favorite character - the rabbit. You’ll hear stories that have roots in both Pueblo and Abenaki cultures. We invite you to join us as we visit with Native author and performance artist Joseph Bruchac (Western Abenaki) as he shares words from his new book, “Rabbit’s Snow Dance.” Also during this hour, we’ll hear from Emmett “Shkeme” Garcia (Santa Ana Pueblo) as he opens his book “Sister Rabbit’s Tricks.” Get ready for some hare-raising fun in our January Book of the Month Edition of Native America Calling. Is there a rabbit story that you enjoy hearing or sharing? Are there certain lessons that only rabbit can teach?

Break Music: Joy Harjo (artist) - Rabbit Is Up to Tricks (song)- Winding Through the Milky Way (album)

Wednesday, January 30, 2013 – Lifting the Ban on Women in Combat (listen)
Last week, the US government announced that branches of the military will lift the ban on women in serving in direct combat infantries. We will have a conversation about what this development means to Native nations. When it comes to women serving in this role, do you support or oppose the change? How does this change for female soldiers in the United States connect to traditional roles Native women played in times of war? Do you think female soldiers are equal to men or do you believe there are solid reasons why women shouldn’t serve in the direct combat infantry? Guests include: Mitchelene Bigman (Crow) Retired Army Veteran and President/Founder of Native American Women Warriors and Greg Jacob (Minicongou Lakota), Policy Director of Service Women’s Action Network (SWAN).

Break Music: Radmilla Cody (artist) - She's My Hero (song) - Ode to Lori Piesewa - Spirit of a Woman (album)

Thursday, January 31, 2013 – Taking Back the Rez (listen)
The oil boom in Montana has brought strangers to reservations looking for jobs and many Native women now fear for their safety. A popular teacher from the area was abducted and killed while jogging. According to Veronica Russell, Director of Empowering Wyoming, statistics say one in three women will be sexually assaulted in their lifetime, but she believes the number is closer to one out of two. Do you know what steps to take to protect yourself if you are attacked? Does your tribe offer self-defense training for its tribal members? Are you tired of being afraid for your safety and want to take back your rez? Guests include: Francine Russell, Director of Empower Wyoming, Linda Thompson Executive Director of the First Nations Women’s Alliance in North Dakota and Carmen O’Leary, Director of the Native Women’s Society of Great Plains.

Break Music: Joanne Shenandoah (artist) - She Becomes A Woman (song)- LifeGivers (album)

Friday, Febuary 1, 2013 – When Your Loved One Is Diagnosed With Schizophrenia (listen)
After the initial shock of the physician telling you that your loved one has schizophrenia what do you do? Some families will research everything they can about this mental illness and some will deny the medical prognosis and walk away. Most medical professionals say is that, with the right medications and the support of family members, a person diagnosed with schizophrenia can live a long and healthy productive life. In fact, some individuals that are schizophrenic are working and living on their own. How can you help the person that you've seen change drastically over the year combat their mental anguish? What are the symptoms of schizophrenia and what do we need to know about the misconceptions we've heard about this mental illness? Guests include: Betty Sisneros-Shrover, President of the Santa Fe, New Mexico Chapter - National Alliance On Mental Illness and Daryl Coons, Jr. (Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe/Ottawa), retired law enforment officer.

Break Music: Algin Scabby Robe (artist) - Buffalo (song) - Along The Way: Round Dance Songs (album)

Monday, February 4, 2013 – Sex Trafficking: The Native Target (listen)
The sex trade has set its target on Native people. According to advocates on the front lines, the reported number of sex trafficking cases doesn’t tell the whole story. Tracking this underground industry is difficult and there may be shame for individuals who have fallen into the dark world of sex trafficking. So how are Native peoples taking on this issue? For those that have made it their priority to put an end to it, what are the challenges? Are there certain social ills that make our Native Nations and their people more of a target? Guests include: Bridget Perrier (Ojibaway) a survivor of child sex trafficking and co-founder of Sextrade 101 and Babette Sandman (Anishnabe) a community coach at the Arrowhead Juvenile Center.

Garden of Truth: The Prostitution and Trafficking of Women in Minnesota

Break Music: Cris Dersken (artist) – War Cry Mvment 1 (song) – The Cusp (album)

Tuesday, February 5, 2013 – February Current Events (listen)
Join us for a conversation about what’s going on around Native America. This month, the National Reservation Economic Summit will make its way to Las Vegas, Nevada and will feature respected tribal leaders, state and local elected and top CEO’s. The Association of American Indian Physicians and the Association of American Medical Colleges are teaming up for a Cross Cultural Medicinal Workshop in Washington D.C. There is also a Native American Cook-off coming to the Powderhorn Par Recreational Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. What’s happening in your part of the world? Tell us about an event happening in February!

RES 2013

2013 Tribal Telecom Conference

AAIP Cross Cultural Medicine Workshop

River's As Home Exhibit

1st Annual Great Native American Cook-Off

Joint Science Education Project (JSEP)

Agua Caliente Cultural Museum 2013 Native FilmFest

Break Music: Lila Downs (artist) – Mezcalito (song) – Pecados y Milagros (album)

Wednesday, February 6, 2013 – Challenges of Finishing College (listen)
Graduating from high school and entering college are important issues in American Indian education, but what about finishing college? Native college students are less likely to graduate in four years than some other groups. Why are the rates so low? Many factors contribute to college success including high school preparation, study skills, and socioeconomic factors. What unique challenges do Native students face in college? Are programs designed to help American Indian students working? Guests include: Dr. Leigh Jeanotte (Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa), Director of American Indian Student Services, University of North Dakota, Carmen Lopez (Navajo) executive director of College Horizons Janie Schroeder, UND law student.

Break Music: Sister Says (artist) – Street Cars (song) – The Only Way (album)

Thursday, February 7, 2013 – Native, Single and a Parent (listen)
The joys of parenthood can be tested when you are raising a child on your own. Whether by choice or after a relationship has gone bad, raising a child on your own has unexpected twists and turns that can test limits of even the strongest person. What support is available to single parents in your tribal community or village? How do you help a single parent when they refuse help from the family of the child’s other parent? Join us and share your advice about dealing with the emotional, legal and financial challenges of raising a child alone. Guest Include Doug Good Feather (Hunkpapa Lakota) Case Manager Colorado Coalition for the Homeless, Isabelle Medchill (Arikawa) Licensed Clinical Social and Board Member for Denver Indian Family Resource Center and Julie Garreau (Cheyenne River Lakota) Executive Director for Cheyenne River Youth Project.

Break Music: Conrad Brown (artist) – Shawnee Song (song)

Friday, Febuary 8, 2013 – It’s Grammy Time, Where are All the Natives? (listen)
The 55th Annual Grammy Awards will take place Sunday, February 10th. Hundreds of music artists are eager to put their hands on the mini gold gramophone trophy, but where are the Natives? In 2012, the Native American category was eliminated from the Grammys. Although some Hawaiian artists made the list last year, no Native American artists from Turtle Island were nominated. This year, Radmilla Cody from the Navajo Nation will represent in the Grammy Regional Roots Music Album category for her album “Shi Keyah: Songs for the People.” As many await the opening of this category’s envelope, we ask – what is the meaning of a Grammy nomination? Is a Grammy necessary to achieve true success in the music industry? Guests include Mary Youngblood (Aleut/Seminole) Grammy-Award Winner and Radmilla Cody (Dine) Recording Artist and 2013 Grammy-Nominee.

Break Music: Eddie Vedder/Uncle Boom/Tavana (artist) – Hawaii 78 (song) – Live at Hawaii Theatre (recording info)

Monday, February 11, 2013 – Youth Depression (listen)
The sex trade has set its target on Native people. According to advocates on the front lines, the reported number of sex trafficking cases doesn’t tell the whole story. Tracking this underground industry is difficult and there may be shame for individuals who have fallen into the dark world of sex trafficking. So how are Native peoples taking on this issue? For those that have made it their priority to put an end to it, what are the challenges? Are there certain social ills that make our Native Nations and their people more of a target? Guests include: Bridget Perrier (Ojibaway) a survivor of child sex trafficking and co-founder of Sextrade 101 and Babette Sandman (Anishnabe) a community coach at the Arrowhead Juvenile Center.

Break Music: Peand-eL (artist) Qimagunnak (song) Eqqissitinnga (album)

Tuesday, February 12, 2013 – The Lost Native Music Chapters (listen)
This week, New Orleans is booming with music as Mardi Gras, or Fat Tuesday, is celebrated. As the masses pour into the city, we ask how much Native influence can be heard in the sounds that have influenced many generations. What’s the Native story behind the beats, rhythms and spirit of the music pumping out of New Orleans today? How many music genres have Native roots? Guests include Mvskoke Musician, Poet & Author Joy Harjo and John-Carlos Perea an Apache Ethnomusicologist, Educator & Musician.

Break Music: The Grayhawk Band (artist) Chestnut Moon (song) Worth The Wait (album)

Wednesday, February 13, 2013 – The Real Love Songs (listen)
Some of the sweetest love songs in Indian Country rest in the hands of singers and are brought to life with the hand drum. Many of the lyrics aim to hit people in the heart, including songs that bring people together. There are even some songs that push the envelope on expressing love or hate. Contemporary lyrics have gotten a bit racy. The kids are smiling but some of the elders are cringing. No one can resist the punch line in many of these risque songs. Are you one of them? What are your favorite hand drum lyrics? Guests include our very own Native cupid, "the man who has lived every hand drum song twice and in every area code", Comedian JR Redwater (Standing Rock Sioux Nation) and Musician Wayne Silas Jr. (Oneida and Menominee).

Break Music: Black Lodge Singers (artist) ’96 Love Song (song) Enter the Circle (album)

Thursday, February 14, 2013 – State of Indian Nations (listen)
President Barack Obama will soon outline the goals for his second term in office during his State of the Union address. Each year, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) draws attention to the priorities of Native American tribes in its State of Indian Nations address. How much progress was made during Obama’s first term in office and what lies ahead? Native America Calling will broadcast the State of Indian Nations address given by NCAI President Jefferson Keel (Chickasaw). Analysis will be provided by author Mark Trahant (Shoshone-Bannock).

Break Music: Marc Brown & the Blues Crew (artist) Girl From Yakutat (song) Long time Coming (album)

Friday, Febuary 15, 2013 – February Music Maker: Miracle Dolls (listen)
Since so much love went into their latest musical venture, the Miracle Dolls waited until Valentine's Day to release their new album “Kiss Me Auras.” The indie/alternative rock duo from the Three Affiliated Tribes from the Fort Berthold community of North Dakota share more of what they call their heart racing rhythms with songs like “I Love You Baby,” “You Are My One,” “Confetti Island,” to name a few. The twin Hidatsa sisters, Danielle and Desiree De La Rosa, give us more of their bass and guitar guided compositions as they reflect on the melodic path that dates back to when they were 13 and simply in love with the possibilities of a musical life. Now that their dream has taken flight in their adult lives, we invite you to join us as we visit with the Miracle Dolls.

Break Music: Miracle Dolls (artist) You Are My One (song) Kiss Me Auras (album)

Monday, February 18, 2013 – February Native in the Spotlight: Sonny Skyhawk (listen)
Earlier this month, Sonny Skyhawk (Rosebud Sioux Tribe) accepted an appointment as a Cultural Ambassador with the U.S. Department of State. The Native American actor and media activist founded an international organization, American Indians in Film & Television, to highlight and critique Native imagery in Hollywood. Skyhawk will now be able to increase understanding about Native America while he visits nations across South America, the Caribbean, Mexico and Canada. Skyhawk says he's humbled by the privilege to nurture the idea that we are all related. What tribal understandings would you like him to share as he connects with other nations? What elements of the Native story need more understanding or fine-tuning in the world’s eye? Join us as we visit with Sonny Skyhawk, our latest Native in the Spotlight.

Break Music: Culture Shock Camp (artist) Qimagunnak (song) Wounded Knee Journey (album)

Tuesday, February 19, 2013 – Heart Health (listen)
Heart disease is a leading cause of death for American Indians and Alaska Natives. Some national programs are reaching out to Native communities to try to help people improve their health before it's too late. What prevention programs are having a positive impact? Have you or a family member survived a stroke or heart attack? What did you learn? Have you tried to talk with your elders about heart health and found didn't want to listen or make any changes? Join us for a conversation about the challenges of trying to keep everyone's heart beating strong in Indian Country. Guests include: Rachel Crawford (Wichita and Affiliated tribes of Oklahoma), Director of Health Equity - Native American Initiative (American Heart Association)

Break Music: The Jir Project Band (artist) Little Earthlings (song) Sun Child (album)

Wednesday, February 20, 2013 – Book of the Month: “Decolonizing Museums” (listen)
Amy Lonetree’s (Ho-Chunk) new book “Decolonizing Museums: Representing Native America in National and Tribal Museums” opens a discussion about the role Native people might play in choosing how the story of our peoples is shared or displayed. Lonetree asks critical questions about how the legacy of colonization influences the way museums represent Native knowledge. The book also takes the reader into tribal museums to compare museum practices. Does it matter how museums depict tribal life? What do these representations mean for modern Native America? Join us as we jump into the pages of our February Book of the Month with author Amy Lonetree and Shannon Martin (Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe of Michigan), the Director of the Ziibiwing Center of Anishinabe Culture & Lifeways

Break Music: Indian Nick (artist) Electric Indians (song) Digital Indigenous (album)

Thursday, February 21, 2013 – Intergenerational Differences at Work (listen)
Right now, four different generations are in the work place at the same time. Whether they are the “traditional generation,” “baby boomers,” Gen X or Gen Y, similarities and differences can inspire creativity and progress or hold back an entire organization. How does Native America fit into these categories? Are the differences between generations too vast for productive communication? Traditional indigenous values include respecting elders. How does this play out in a workplace environment where those roles may be reversed? Guests include: Lee Ann Tall Bear (Sisseton/N.Arapaho), who oversees Tribal Business Development for Tall Bear Solar. and Liz Medicine Crow (Tlingit and Haida) President and CEO of First Alaskans Institute.

Break Music: JB the First Lady (artist) I’m Proud Remix (song) Get Ready Get Steady (album)

Friday, Febuary 22, 2013 – Intertribal Babies (listen)
Tribal courts are becoming the new battleground for parents who have children together but are not from the same tribe. New legal challenges can occur when parents attempt to dispute custody of children within the legal system of another tribe. Custody and collection of child support are just two examples of issues for intertribal children in tribal courtrooms across the country. Are tribal courts meeting the needs of these children or the parents in custody and child support cases? Has a tribal court denied you child support because you do not belong to the same tribe as your ex-partner? How are orders enforced when the parents belong to different tribes?

National Tribal Child Support Association

New Mexico Legal Aid

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Break Music: Ladi6 (artist) She's an Elder (song) Life Givers (album)

Monday, February 25, 2013 – Green Jobs and the Economy (listen)
It has been over five years since the U.S. Congress passed the Green Jobs Act and allocated 125 million dollars for green jobs programs. The national economy is slowly recovering and job growth is a hot topic. Are green jobs still a viable option for economic development across the nation and throughout Indian country? Should green jobs programs be put on hold until the national unemployment rate improves? Which comes first: economy or the earth? Guests include: Cristala Mussato-Allen (Caddo), Executive Director of Native Workplace and Anna Rondon (Dine) member of the Navajo Green Economy Commission.

Break Music: Culture Shock Camp (artist) Give Me the Light (song) Time Is Not Much (album)

Tuesday, February 26, 2013 – Education for Little Ones (listen)
In the State of the Union Address, President Obama, proposed "working with states to make high-quality preschool available to every child in America." What makes a preschool experience high-quality? How is the education of our Native children included in this conversation? With budget cutbacks on the horizon will early childhood education make the cut? What can parents do to ensure their children are getting the quality early childhood education they need? Guests include: Willow Abrahamson Fox (Shoshone Bannock) Early Childhood Programs Director, Shoshone Bannock Tribes and Charley Hare (Yankton Sioux) early childhood education consultant.

Break Music: Ill Franklyn (Navajo-Onieda) (artist) Go My Son (ill Franklyn Remix) (song)

Wednesday, February 27, 2013 – 40th Anniversary of the Liberation of Wounded Knee (listen)
On this date 40 years ago the world’s attention was on Pine Ridge, South Dakota as the American Indian Movement or A.I.M. heeded the call to protect Native rights and freedom. Masses of supporters stood in solidarity, both on and off Native soil, with AIM. This moment in time went down in the history books as the Wounded Knee Occupation. As the 40th anniversary is observed, we want to know what the Wounded Knee Occupation meant to you. Did it change how you see the world? What influences do you see in your own life or around the world? Guests include Seneca Veteran Journalist Laura Waterman Wittstock of Minnesota’s First Person Radio

Break Music: Blackfire (Diné) (artist) American Indian Movement Song (song) [Silence] Is A Weapon (album)

Thursday, February 28, 2013 – Keeping Up With All My Tribes (listen)
In Indian Country, the word intertribal has a lot of weight in the pow wow circle. An intertribal pow wow invites all nations into the dance arena, but what if intertribal is the best way to describe your Native heritage? What does it mean to have more than one tribe? Do you feel you have to keep up with them all? Can you learn 2, 3, 4 languages? Does your identity shift depending on the situation? What happens if religious rules for different tribes are in conflict? Has anyone ever told you to choose only one tribe to define yourself? We want to know how you navigate your intertribal identity.

Break Music: Judy Trejo (artist) Traveling Song (Walker River Paiute) (song) Circle Dance Songs of the Paiute and Shoshone (album)

Friday, March 1, 2013 – March Current Events (listen)
In March, the Southcentral Foundation of Alaska is hosting its 16th Annual Gathering and is inviting everyone for a day of activity and entertainment. The Anne Marie Fairbanks Indigenous Law Forums at Hamline University will host an International Indigenous Fourm on "Healing Solutions for Our Tribal Communities.” Also this month, Education for Parents of Indian Children with Special Needs is partnering with Parents Reaching Out to Help, Inc. for their 2013 Family Leadership Conference and Powwow. This year's National Indian Gaming Association Tradeshow and Conference will be taking place in Phoenix, Arizona. Do you have an event happening in your part of the world? This will be your opportunity to call in and tell us about it!

Break Music: Leanne Goose (Dene and Inuvialuit) (artist) Blue Moon of Kentucky (song) Got You Covered (album)

Monday, March 4, 2013 – Native Women In Politics (listen)
Hundreds of politicians were sworn into office earlier this year. With new faces on the scene, we will explore the role of Native American and Alaska Native women in the political arena. How frequently do Native women serve in public office and on what levels? Does gender dictate how their fellow politicians and the public interact with them? How might the rules change when female politicians are elected into positions in tribal government? Guests include the first Native American woman to be elected to the Kansas State Legislature Ponka-We Victors (Tohono O’odham/Ponca) and Lynda Lovejoy (Diné), a former New Mexico State Senator and the first woman to win her primary and run for Navajo Nation President in the general election.

Break Music: Spirit Nation (artist) All My Relations (song) Winter Moons (album)

Tuesday, March 5, 2013 – VAWA Authorized By Congress, What's Next? (listen)
The US House of Representatives recently passed a reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) by a vote of 286 to 138. The legislation was held up for months as lawmakers debated new provisions, including a measure to allow tribal courts to prosecute non-Natives who commit crimes against women on tribal lands. President Obama has indicated that he will sign the legislation. What does this mean for Native women? What do tribal courts need to know to comply with VAWA? Are victims of past domestic violence able to file charges against a former non-Native partner under the reauthorization of this legislation? We also welcome your reactions to the passage of the Violence Against Women Act. Guests include Ruth Hopkins (Sisseton Wahpeton) Columnist for Indian Country Today Media Network and Terri Henry (Cherokee) Co-Chair of the National Congress of Ameircan Indians Task Force on Violence Against Women.

Break Music: Wayquay (artist) Sunbow (song) Native America Calling - Music From Indian Country (album)

Wednesday, March 6, 2013 – Champions Changing Our Communities (listen)
Native communities are often seen as places full of alcoholism, domestic violence and suicide. In order to promote positive changes, many say the inspiration must come from within. The Center for Native American Youth recognizes Native Youth who have made a difference. What did these Native young people do to change the way the outside world looks at their tribe? Are elders willing to listen to Native youth when it comes to improving life on the reservation or in their villages? Do you have a story about working with young people to promote positive social change? Join us to talk about young Native leaders. Guests are The Center for Native American Youth "Champions of Change" honorees: Dahkota Brown (Wilton Miwok), Cierra Fields (Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma), Vance Home Gun (Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes), Joaquin Gallegos (Jicarilla Apache Nation & Santa Ana Pueblo) and Sarah Schilling (Little Traverse Band of Odawa Indians).

Break Music: The St. Labre Indian School Drum Group (artist) Women's Jingle Dance (song) The Drum Of St. Labre (album)

Thursday, March 7, 2013 – Wrote The Book On Broke (listen)
Some say Native America wrote the book on being broke. Chapter titles might include “how to pay a credit card bill with another credit card” or “pow wow season is coming, what can I sell?” Is it possible to live on almost nothing and still get by? Are their connections between creative budgeting and chronic poverty? How might traditional ways of living, such as following the seasons, relate to financial education? Some secrets will be revealed and we welcome your stories about how you manage your money. Guests include Marvin Ginn (Choctaw), Executive Director Native Community Finance and Shawn Spruce (Laguna) programs consultant for First Nations Development Institute. 

Break Music: Arigon Starr (artist) Agent 49 (song) Wind-Up (album)

Friday, March 8, 2013 – What Is Your Definition Of An Artist? (listen)
The development of art schools, like the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, has drawn many Natives away from their home to pursue their dreams of becoming an artist. Some believe that you can’t call yourself an artist until you are a living off your art. Does graduating art school give you the right to claim the title of artist? Or is it the number of art shows that you attend? Are you an artist if you makes something that inspires your creativity? What is your definition of a Native artist? Guests include Marvin Oliver (Qinault/Isleta) Native American Sculptor and Professor of American Indian Studies at the University of Washington-Seattle.

Break Music: Summit Dub Squad (artist) Clown Medicine (song) The Beauty Way (album)

Monday, March 11, 2013 –Addressing Violence against Aboriginal Women (listen)
Violence against Aboriginal and Native women is getting attention from lawmakers in the US and Canada this year. What are people now noticing that they didn’t see before? Who has helped bring this issue of violence against Native women to the headlines and the top of the government's agenda? How are local advocates connecting to broader international movements? Guests include: Lauren Chief Elk (Blackfoot, Assiniboine), activist and co-founder of Save Wiyabi Project and Anonymous’ Operation Thuderbird (#opthunderbird) project, and Sheila North Wilson from Bunibonibee Cree Nation, a former journalist and Communications Director for the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs in Winnipeg.

Break Music: Asani (artist) Ayikis - The Frog Song (song) Listen (album)

Tuesday, March 12, 2013 – The Real Stories of Drinking and Driving (listen)
A fun night out with friends and family can turn deadly if a person who has been drinking gets behind the wheel. According to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), one in three individuals will be involved in an alcohol-related crash in their lifetime. Drunk driving has had an impact on families in Indian Country. What are the stories behind drunk driving statistics? Do you know a person whose life was cut short because of a drunk driver? Do you have a loved one who hurt themselves or someone else while driving under the influence? Were you involved in an accident with a drunk driver? How does your tribe address drinking and driving on your reservation or in your village? Sharon Parisian (Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians) Former Highway Safety Director for Turtle Moutain, Darlene Thomas (Navajo) and David Peshlakai (Navajo) Angels vs. Drunk Drivers.

Break Music: Aotearoa (artist) Haruru Mai (song) Tihi Mauriora and He Waiata Mo Te Iwi (album)

Wednesday, March 13, 2013 – Changing Children’s Attitudes About Food (listen)
Many parents and doctors are worried about the rate of diabetes and obesity among children in Native America. These health conditions can compromise a child’s well-being and future. Is a change in attitudes toward food the answer? Do you think Native children get enough exposure to healthy foods? Could turning to traditional gardening methods be the key to helping our children learn healthy habits? What do you do get your kids to eat healthy? What have you done to give them a healthy attitude towards food? Guests include Samantha Antone (Hopi) Program Manager of the Natwani Coalition, Lindsey Westbrook, Registered Dietician at the Riverside San Bernadino County Indian Health Inc. and Missy Chase Lapine, Author "The Sneaky Chef" .

Break Music: Digging Roots (artist) Spring To Come (song) We Are (album)

Thursday, March 14, 2013 – What's Holding Back Native Students? (listen)
Native American and Alaska Native students are more likely to drop out of high school than other peer groups. Why are some Native students struggling to earn a diploma? What can be done to encourage Native students to finish high school? We will feature the voices of students in Albuquerque, New Mexico who discussed Native graduation rates on PBS affiliate KNME. We also welcome your story. Did you struggle to finish high school? What inspired you to stay in school? Did a parent or teacher make a difference when you were young? This is part one in our American Graduate series on Native America Calling.  Guests include Cindy La Marr (Pit River/Paiute) Executive Director of Capitol Area Indian Resources Inc.

Break Music: Battle River (artist) Trick Song (song) Hard Times (album)

Friday, March 15, 2013 – March Music Maker: Mailani (listen)
Award-winning Native Hawaiian vocalist Mailani takes her music seriously and has devoted a lot of time to honoring her craft. It's one reason why she called her latest album “Manawa,” which means time in her native tongue. From the Kailua Town on O‘ahu’s Windward Coast, Mailani comes from a musical family and started signing at the age of two. She taught herself 'ukulele while in high school. Mailani's new 10-track album pays homage to her culture and features lyrics that express Native Hawaiian philosophy. This is her first solo album on the Mountain Apple Company label and it articulates her belief in keeping community and tradition at the center of her passions. We invite you to join us for our March Music Maker edition where we'll learn more about Mailani and her music.

Break Music: Mailani (artist) Mokapu I Ka Maile (song) Manawa (album)

Monday, March 18, 2013 – Native Housing in Urban Areas (listen)
Home ownership was once a key part of the American Dream. Is that dream available to Native families who live in urban areas? The US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) recently announced that it suspended the Section 184 Indian Housing Loan Program due to federal budget cuts. What does this mean for families hoping to buy a home? What other options do Natives have who were preparing to buy a home off their reservation? What kinds of housing programs are still available for Native families who want to live in urban areas? Guests include: Bill Ziegler (Lower Brule Sioux) President and CEO Little Earth United Tribes and Loretta Kelly Homeownership Coach for NAYA Family Center, Portland Oregon.

Break Music: Red Earth (artist) Fly to the Sun (song) Zia Soul (album)

Tuesday, March 19, 2013 – Remember Our Mother Earth (listen)
Native American communities have a special reverence for the home many call Mother Earth. Every spring, groups around the country and the world celebrate our planet by setting aside one day to recognize its importance on Earth Day. What do you think of this day? Have you been impacted by environmental changes or recent natural disasters? Do you celebrate Earth Day? What are you doing to care for the Earth in your day-to-day life? Guests include: Aimee Cree Dunn (Metis) Instructor at Northern Michigan University's Center for Native American Studies and Franklin Russell, Director of Earth Day.

Break Music: Los Folkloristas (artist) Khoyaylla (Huayno, Perú) (song) Caminos de los Andes (album)

Wednesday, March 20, 2013 – Book of the Month: The Seeds We Planted (listen)
“The Seeds We Planted: Portraits of a Native Hawaiian Charter School” by Noelani Goodyear-Ka’opua provides a view into Indigenous urban education. The book takes us into the classrooms of Halau Ku Mana, where the task of measuring up to institutional educational standards is a reality. The book addresses critical questions about what it means to be an Indigenous charter school in the face of, as she writes, imperialism and colonialism. Join us for a conversation with our March Book of the Month author. Goodyear-Ka’opua will talk about her work in education and how children might find purpose in a world that challenges traditional belief systems.

Break Music: Mihana (artist) Chant (song) One Little Dream (album)

Thursday, March 20, 2013 – Parenting Through Graduation (listen)
Part Two of our American Graduate series on finishing high school will examine the role of the family in education. How much influence to parents have in encouraging young people to finish high school? Historical legacies of racism and boarding schools may influence parents' attitudes about school. Parents and administrators may also have different definitions of how parent involvement. What about the community? Does the old adage “it takes a village” apply to helping Native young people avoid dropping out? Guests include Tirzah Waconda, president of Native American Community Academy Parent Community Group and Trevor Greene (Muscogee) 2013 MetLife/NASSP National High School Principal of the Year

Break Music: Pura Fe (artist) Robin Dance (song) Follow Your Heart's Desire (album)

Friday, March 22, 2013 – 2013 Sacred Sites Update (listen)
There are thousands of sacred sites across the nation that are important for Native Nations and Indigenous communities. We want to hear how you connect to these sacred places. We'll open up our electronic talking circle to hear from different parts of the country. Tell us about efforts to protect and reclaim sacred sites. Are there sacred sites in your area that are under threat right now? What’s being done about it? Are you trying to protect a sacred site for your tribe? Guests include: Guests include Morning Star Gali (Ajumawi band of Pit River) Tribal Historic Preservation Officer, Pit River Tribe Rob Trepp, and attorney Brendan Ludwick who are connected to the protect Hickory Ground efforts, Klee Benally (Diné) Volunteer/ Protect The Peaks, Media Activist/ Indigenous Action Media.

Links: http://www.pitrivertribe.org/attachments/article/90/Medicine_Lake_Highlands_Resolution_13-02-12.pdf

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OaTb-uaK58c

http://www.savehickoryground.org/

https://www.facebook.com/SaveHickoryGround

Break Music: A Tribe Called Red (artist) Electric Pow Wow Drum (song) Aboriginal Music Week 2012 Festival Sampler (album)

Monday, March 25, 2013 – History Of The Hand Drum (listen)
The hand drum format has evolved over the years but it remains connected to community halls where family and friends gather to share food, songs and good times. Hand drum songs are shared in the powwow circle and people travel from near and far to listen to their favorite singers perform. Singers shape words around the unique experiences of modern Native Americans. Do you know the history of the hand drum? Does your community include some incredible hand drum singers? Guests include hand drum singer Delia Waskewitch (Northern Cree) and Steve Wood (Northern Cree) member of the Northern Cree Drum group.

Break Music: Quentin Thomas (artist) Lard's Cadillac (song) Round Dance Songs (album)

Tuesday, March 26, 2013 – Raising the Minimum Wage (listen)
President Obama has proposed an increase in the nation's minimum wage from $7.25 an hour to $9 an hour by the end of 2015. The White House says the proposal will address income inequality across the country. State lawmakers would still be able to set an even higher minimum wage for their state. Washington, Oregon and Vermont already have a higher minimum wage than the federal requirement. Should the government raise the minimum wage again? Have you lived on a minimum wage income? How would raising pay for minimum wage jobs impact Native communities? Guesta include: Laurie Weakee (Navajo/Zuni/Cochiti) Director of the Native American Voter Alliance (NAVA), Alex Chamber (Navajo) Publisher of the Navajo Post.

Break Music: Wanbdi (artist) Bones (song) Where The Fishes Go (album)

Wednesday, March 27, 2013 – Kind Hearted Woman (listen)
A new documentary, Kind Hearted Woman, profiles Robin Charboneau, a 32-year-old Oglala Sioux mother from North Dakota's Spirit Lake Reservation. Many of the challenges for Robin and her family are issues that Native communities are dealing with across the country both on and off the reservation. The film is a production of FRONTLINE and Independent Lens. Would you be willing to tell your personal story to a filmmaker? Join us for a conversation with Robin Poor Bear and filmmaker David Sutherland.

Break Music:Shakti Hayes (artist) Nitsimos (song) Touchwood Hills (album)

Thursday, March 28, 2013 – Special Education and Graduation (listen)
The Individuals with Disability Education Act defines Special Education as "specially designed instruction to meet the unique needs of a child with a disability." Are Native high school students getting their needs met? Are parents worried about stigma of "special education" and preventing testing and enrollment? Or are Native students being over-identified as needing special services? Join us for part three of our American Graduate series on high school drop-out rates in Native America. Guests include: Susan Faircloth (Coharie Tribe), Associate Professor of Education, North Carolina State University and Marilyn Johnson (Acoma) Education Program Specialist, Division of Performance and Accountability BIE.

Break Music: Midnite Express (artist) Grass Dance-Jeremy Dearly (song) Live From Minnesota (album)

Friday, March 29, 2013 – Before the Occupation of Wounded Knee (listen)
In our second look at the 40th anniversary of the Occupation of Wounded Knee, we examine the state of Native America before the occupation began. What government actions led this group of Natives to speak up and out? What provoked the Native individuals who participated in Wounded Knee or supported the occupation to shout out about injustice? What national events were taking place around the Occupation of Wounded Knee? As we reflect on this side of the story, we want you tell us what you think. Have times changed since this revolutionary time? Is it time for a new movement?

Break Music: Stoney Creek (artist) Double Up (song) PowWow Trail Blazin: Recorded Live At '07 Crow Fair (album

Monday, April 1, 2013 –Welcome to the Native Liar’s Club (listen)
Calling all veteran and novice fabricators, fibbers and just plain good storytellers. It's time to pile it on! This April Fool’s Day, we're opening up our electronic talking circle to the Native Liar’s Club. Do you have a whopper to tell? Have you heard a tall tale that you knew was too good to be true and found out your leg was being pulled? Did you get a good laugh? We want to hear it! We’re inviting you to call in and lie to us, or not. We’ll do our best to sniff out which stories are true and which are full of hot air. Maybe we’ll just add our own twist - who knows how it will go at the Native Liar’s Club. Guests include bona fide tall tale teller and Ojibway comedian Jim Ruel and his band of liars from the Another Indian Uprising comedy crew, Native Comedian Gilbert Brown (Modoc/Klamath/Paiute/Warm Springs) and Navajo Comedian Shishonia Livingston.

Break Music: Red Earth (artist) Rez Rocket (song) Zia Soul (album)

Tuesday, April 2, 2013 – April Current Events (listen)
Spring is coming and lots of new events are taking place across Native America. The Annual Federal Bar Associate Indian Law Conference will be coming to Northern New Mexico and Seattle will be the site for the annual Clear Sky Native Youth Conference. The National Tribal Forum on Air Quality is heading to Phoenix and the biggest powwow in Montana is set to take over the campus of Montana State University. Is a great event coming up this month in your area? What happens on your reservation or village every spring?

1st Annual Beard Native Nations Golf Tournament

Alaska Native Heritage Center Summit April 26 & 27

Native Americans Against Bullying Awareness Week

Break Music: Quetzal Guerrero (artist) Mundo Enganador (song) Coiza Boa (album)

Wednesday, April 3, 2013 – Gay Marriage and Tradition (listen)
The Little Traverse Bay Band of Odawa Indians in Michigan recently voted to allow same sex couples to marry on the reservation. The tribe recently joined two other tribes, Suquamish Tribe of Washington and the Coquille Tribe in Oregon, as the only three Native Nations that allow gay couples to legally wed. Does allowing gay and lesbian couples to marry hurt traditional tribal practices? Are gay and lesbian couples more accepted in Native American communities? Guests include: Brian Gilley (Cherokee, Choctaw & Creek) Associate Professor of Anthropology at Indiana University - Bloomington, Harlan Pruden (First Nations Cree) Co-Founder of the Northeast Two-Spirit Society and Chris Finley (Colville Confederated Tribes of Oregon) Visiting Instructor at the University of Oregon.

Break Music: Paula Fuga (artist) Nose Flute Dub (song) Lilikoi (album)

Thursday, April 4, 2013 – The Charter School Solution (listen)
The fourth installment in our American Graduate series will look at charter schools that focus on Indigenous thought. There are over 50 community-based charter schools in the United States emphasize Indigenous teachings. Where do charter schools fit into the tragic and triumphant history of American Indian education? The charter school movement has champions and detractors but when self-determination is crucial, are charter schools the solution? Guests include Dr. Mary Jiron Belgarde ( Isleta and Ohkay Owinge ) co-founder of the Native American Alliance for Charter Schools and Dr. Rick St. Germaine (Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe) educator and board member of STAR School.

Break Music: Halau Ku Mana Students/Kapua Chock Et Al (artist) 7th Generation (song) Mana Maoli Select - Vol. 1 (album)

Friday, April 5, 2013 – Native Poetry At its Finest (listen)
It is National Poetry Month and we want to pay tribute to Native poetry. This nationwide observance was inaugurated by the Academy of American Poets in 1996. Since then, the words are encouraged to flow every April. We want to know what Native poetry means to you. Who are the Native poets you like to listen to, read or read from? What is it about their words that touch your soul? Has a Native poet taken you into a deeper understanding of Native culture or tradition? Are you a Native poet who has something to say to the world? Share your words with us today! Guests include Native poets Barney Bush (Shawnee) No’u Revilla (Kanaka Maoli) and Layli Long Solider (Oglala Lakota).

Break Music: Phillip Meshekey (artist) Frybread & Tortillias (song) Beauty in the Chaos (album)

Monday, April 8, 2013 –Native Fashion - When You’re In, You’re In (listen)
Right now the nation is watching Taos Pueblo designer Patricia Michaels as she continues to edge her way to the top of this season’s cable TV series “Project Runway.” Michaels infuses Native imagery and designs into her creations to grab the judges’ attention. We want to open up the seams on what it means to be “in” in Native Fashion. How do Native designs of today dictate future trends on both Native and mainstream catwalks? Who are the cutting edge Native fashion designers of 2013 and what’s inspiring their creations? Guests include Native fashionista and scholar Dr. Jessica Metcalfe (Turtle Mountain Chippewa) with Beyond Buckskin Fashion Blog and Native artist Nicholas Galanin (Tlingit/Aleut).

Break Music: Kinnie Starr (artist) High Heels (song) A Different Day (album

Tuesday, April 9, 2013 – The Battle for Baby Veronica (listen)
The United States Supreme Court will hear arguments in the case Adoptive Couple v. Baby Girl next week. The case could have long term effects on future adoptions of Native children. The child, a member of the Cherokee Nation, was given up for adoption by her non-Native mother without the consent of the father. At the heart of the Supreme Court case is the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), which regulates adoptions of Native children outside of their tribe. We're taking a closer look at this case and what it means for Native America. How might the outcome of the case impact families or tribes? What's the role of tribes in the adoption process? Guests include Chrissi Nimmo (Cherokee) Assistant Attorney General for the Cherokee Nation.

Break Music: Judy Trejo (artist) Biioo pahna (Healing Song) (song) Circle Dance Songs of the Paiute and Shoshone (album)

Wednesday, April 10, 2013 – Uranium Effects Beyond The Mine (listen)
Uranium was mined on the Navajo Nation for years to support the building of the atomic bomb and other weapons between 1942 and the late 1960s. More than 1,000 mine waste sites now dot the reservation exposing community members to low-level chronic radiation. A new study is underway that will examine the health risks of living near abandoned mines. It will look at the health of mothers and babies from the Navajo Nation. Did you grow up near an abandoned uranium mine or waste site? What kind of health problems do you have from living near a mine? Would you participate in a study like this that seeks to document the long-term health impacts of uranium mining?

Break Music: Baa hozhoogoo (song) Blackfire (artist) [Silence] is a Weapon [Disc 2] (album)

Thursday, April 11, 2013 – A Diploma For Everyone (listen)
In the final installment of our American Graduate series, we look at the best solutions for addressing high dropout rates among Native high school students. What are schools doing to help Native students earn their high school diploma? What's working and what more can be done? We welcome your perspective on what would help ensure that a high school diploma is within reach for all Native students. Guests include: Wendell Waukau, Superintendent of the Menominee Indian School District, Dean Chavers (Lumbee) Director of Catching the Dream.

Break Music: Conrad Brown (artist) Shawnee Song (song)

Friday, April 12, 2013 – *Encore* Intertribal Babies (listen)
Tribal courts are becoming the new battleground for parents who have children together but are not from the same tribe. New legal challenges can occur when parents attempt to dispute custody of children within the legal system of another tribe. Custody and collection of child support are just two examples of issues for intertribal children in tribal courtrooms across the country. Are tribal courts meeting the needs of these children or the parents in custody and child support cases? Has a tribal court denied you child support because you do not belong to the same tribe as your ex-partner? How are orders enforced when the parents belong to different tribes?

Break Music:Digging Roots (artist) Spring To Come (song) We Are (album)

Monday, April 15, 2013 –The High Cost of Calling Home (listen)
Prison phone rates in many areas are very high. In Alaska a 30 minute phone call can be as high as $30. States with high populations of Native Americans also often have disproportionately elevated incarceration rates for Natives. Why does the cost of calling people matter to prisoners and their families? Can keeping in touch lower the likelihood that someone might commit another crime and return to prison? Who benefits from the phone call profits? Guests include: Steven Renderos, National Organizer with the Center for Media Justice and Binishi Albert (Yuchi and Chippewa) co-director of the Southwest Organizing Project.

Break Music: Kinnie Starr (artist) High Heels (song) A Different Day (album

Tuesday, April 16, 2013 – The Battle for Baby Veronica (listen)
The United States Supreme Court will hear arguments in the case Adoptive Couple v. Baby Girl next week. The case could have long term effects on future adoptions of Native children. The child, a member of the Cherokee Nation, was given up for adoption by her non-Native mother without the consent of the father. At the heart of the Supreme Court case is the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), which regulates adoptions of Native children outside of their tribe. We're taking a closer look at this case and what it means for Native America. How might the outcome of the case impact families or tribes? What's the role of tribes in the adoption process? Guests include Chrissi Nimmo (Cherokee) Assistant Attorney General for the Cherokee Nation.

Break Music: Judy Trejo (artist) Biioo pahna (Healing Song) (song) Circle Dance Songs of the Paiute and Shoshone (album)

Wednesday, April 17, 2013 – Auctioning the Sacred (listen)
An auction house in Paris, France put 70 objects up for sale to the highest bidder last week. Officials from the Hopi Tribe say the objects are sacred. The collection includes cultural items from the Hopi, Acoma, Jemez and Zuni Pueblos. Lawyers acting on behalf of the Hopi Tribe stepped and filed a motion in a Paris court to stop the auction but were unsuccessful. Do tribes have the power to stop the sale of items it deems sacred in foreign countries? How would you feel if your sacred cultural items were put on the auction block and sold to the highest bidder? What do you think of this auction that's in the news right now? Guests include: LeRoy N. Shingoitewa (Hopi) Hopi Tribal Chairman and D. Bambi Kraus (Tlingit) President of the National Association of Tribal Historic Preservation Officers

Break Music: Clark Tenakhongva (artist) We're Going Home (song) Hear My Song, Hear My Prayer - Songs from the Hopi Mesas (album)

Thursday, April 18, 2013 – Schimmel Show Hits The Bigtime (listen)
Sisters Shoni and Jude Schimmel from the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Reservation made headlines last week by being the first Native American women to play in the women’s college basketball national championship game. The sister’s play for the University of Louisville and made it to the championship game by defeating three higher seeded teams, but lost to eventual champion Connecticut. Do you consider these young women to be role models for all Native Americans? Did you follow their rise to the top of women’s college basketball? How are young Native women influencing basketball and other sports around the country? Guests include the girls parents: Rick Schimmel and Ceci Schimmel.

Break Music:Kool Krys (artist) Do It for Yourself (song) Perfume (album)

Friday, April 19, 2013 – Book of the Month (listen)
Chad "Corntassel" Smith, the former Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation is sharing his story in a new book, “Leadership Lessons from the Cherokee Nation: Learn from All I Observe.” He shares the leadership model he used based on Cherokee thought of learning from different perspectives. Smith headed up his tribe, located in Oklahoma, from 1999-2011. During that time, he witnessed many turning points including bringing on what some have called a progressive government. Have you heard this part of the Cherokee story? We invite you to join us for our April Book of the Month as we visit with author and tribal leader Chief Chad Smith.

Break Music:The GrayHawk Band (artist) Stomp (song) Worth The Wait (album)

Monday, April 22, 2013 –Why I Pageant (listen)
Tribal fairs and powwows across the country routinely crown outstanding Native contestants who demonstrate a positive outlook and solid understanding of their culture. Some of the crown titles include Miss Indian World and Miss Indian Nations. There’s even a growing list of Native men who have shared a bit of themselves in competitions like Mutton King. We're opening up the talking circle to hear discuss why young Native leaders participate in these culture pageants. Were you ever crowned the winner at one of these competitions? Why did you enter the race? How did you use your title? Was it a spring board to education and career opportunities? What lessons did you learn?

Break Music: Radmilla Cody with Herman Cody (artists) Honoring The Homeland (song) Shi Kéyah (album)

Tuesday, April 23, 2013 – Remembering Maria Tallchief (listen)
America's first prima ballerina, Maria Tallchief, passed away earlier this month. Ballet usually evokes classic images of tutus and tightly wound pink shoes - not beaded moccasins or headdresses. Yet, Native Americans have a place in the history and future of ballet. Maria and her sister Majorie were two of several Native ballerinas that have graced the national and international stage. Join us as we remember her life and legacy. We will also discuss the future of Natives Americans in ballet. Guests include Randy Tinker Smith (Osage/Cherokee) producer of the ballet Wahzhazhe, which tells the story of the Osage.

Break Music: Jerome Jim (artist) Raffaelo Galli Fantasie su arie di Verdi “Il Trovatore” (song) Sometimes I Dream (album)

Wednesday, April 24, 2013 – April Music Makers - Live in Studio (listen)
Native American music hits the main stage as artists from all genres migrate to Albuquerque, New Mexico for the annual gathering. Musicians will take to venues all around the city hoping to attract new fans while reconnecting with old ones. We’re bringing you some of the best sounds Native America has to offer. What bands make you stand up and shake your tail feather? If you were on the Powwow trail, what band would make you drive for hours with the hopes of catching them live on stage? Join us as we talk with our April Music Makers. Guests include: Scatter Their Own, the Tone Def Sirens and The Black Owl Society.

Break Music: Chester Knight & The Wind (artist) Love Me Strong (song) Freedom (album)

Thursday, April 25, 2013 – Spring Hand Drum Competition (listen)
It's hand drum time again on Native America Calling! We're opening up our electronic talking circle to our spring hand drum competition today. This time we’re not only focusing on the lyrics but also on singing and the overall sound of music submissions around the country. The songs are in and we’ve come to the conclusion there’s a lot of talent and rich musical history flowing through the veins of Native America. We’re going to share some of it with you live on our program as singers share their voices in front of our panel of judges. Get your ears ready for some sweet rhythms. Guests include Native hand drum singers from around Turtle Island and judges from the powwow circuit.

Break Music: Randall Paskemin (artist) Strong (song) Emotions: Cree Round Dance Songs (album)

Friday, April 26, 2013 – Gathering Roll Call (listen)
Thousands of Natives representing hundreds of tribes are hitting the road with one destination in mind - the Gathering of Nations. The event is held every spring in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This is the time of year where many greet old friends they get to see once a year. What do you talk about when you get together with the friends you meet on the powwow trail? Are you on your way to the Gathering of Nations? What nation do you represent when you step out on the arena floor? We'll do a roll call with some special guests and you can also call in to share your best memories and what you hope to see this year!

Break Music: Sihasin (artist) Hope (Featuring Werner Erb) (song) Never Surrender (album)

Monday, April 29, 2013 –***ENCORE: Keeping Up With All My Tribes *** (listen)
In Indian Country, the word intertribal has a lot of weight in the pow wow circle. An intertribal powwow invites all nations into the dance arena, but what if intertribal is the best way to describe your Native heritage? What does it mean to have more than one tribe? Do you feel you have to keep up with them all? Can you learn 2, 3, 4 languages? Does your identity shift depending on the situation? What happens if religious rules for different tribes are in conflict? Has anyone ever told you to choose only one tribe to define yourself? We want to know how you navigate your intertribal identity.

Tuesday, April 30, 2013 – NAC’s Open Mic Poetry Session (listen)
In true open mic form, we're giving center stage to the poets who know how to stretch words beyond their limits. Do you have a piece that you’ve been itching to share with a large audience like Native America? Today is the day, we’re inviting you to you share your poetry with us live on our program. On this poetic open mic edition of Native America Calling we’re asking for you to share 2 minute poems with the subject of your choice. What spaces are opened up when you start to let the words flow? Has anyone told you, “You need to share that poem with others? How does sharing your poetry add to the power of words and their meanings. Guests include: Allison Hedge Coke (Huron/Metis/Cherokee/Creek) University of Central Oklahoma Writer in Residence

Break Music: John Trudell (artist) Grafitti Man (song) AKA Grafitti Man (album)

Wednesday, May 1, 2013 – May Current Events (listen)
There's a lot happening around Native America in May. The National American Indian Housing Council’s 39th Annual Convention & Trade Show hits the Windy City this month. The Native Arts and Cultures Foundation is putting a call out for Native artists and the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribes invites everyone to come out and experience Pyramid Lake the 100th Year Anaho Island National Wildlife Centennial Celebration. Do you have an event you want to share? What is happening in your part of the world? Call in and share during our May current events show!

Break Music: Jesse Ed Davis (artist) Ululu (song) Ululu (album)

Thursday, May 2, 2013 – Saving your sight: Diabetes and Eye Health (listen)
Eye health is often overlooked when addressing the many complications that come with diabetes. Average rates of diabetes among American Indians are around 14% and in some areas of the Southwest as high as 35%. What are the symptoms of diabetic retinopathy? What should patients with diabetes know about protecting their eyesight? What treatments are available and effective? What can doctors and community health workers do to better support patients with diabetes? Guests include Dr. Mark Horton, OD, MD, Director IHS/JVN Teleophthalmology Program.

Break Music: Pura Fe (artist) All My Relations (song) Full Moon Rising (album)

Friday, May 03, 2013 – There’s Something In The Air (listen)
Asthma affects one of twelve adults and one in nine children and it kills nine people a day. Millions of people suffer from allergies caused by everyday exposures to agents such as dust mites, cat dander, and pollens. Do you have a family member who suffers from asthma or allergies? Are you prepared to handle an asthma attack? Do you have a home remedy that helps with your allergies? What do you do to help with the itchy and watery eyes and clogged sinuses every spring?

Break Music: Rattlebone (song) Robbie Robertson (artist) Contact from the Underworld of Redboy (album)

Monday, May 6, 2013 –May Music Maker: Quese IMC & Cempoalli 20 (listen)
Marcus “Quese IMC” Frejo is offering up more of his Indigenous culture and voice in a new album “Osahwuh," which translates to raven. In this eight-track musical explosion, Quese IMC teams up with a harmonic lyricist and rebel reggae vocalist Cempoalli 20. The pair uplift the stories of the people of Turtle Island and beyond through their hip-hop house reggae fusion. The duo reminds us of the way we connect as Indigenous people. Their music also centers on the importance of utilizing our heritage while calling on our own inner voice to keep culture alive. We invite you to join us as we visit with Quese IMC, our May Music Maker, about his new album.

Break Music: Quese IMC & Cempoalli 20 (artist) Across (song) Osahwuh (album)

Tuesday, May 7, 2013 – Making Art in the Open (listen)
A splash color and imagery on buildings and walls can open public areas to the community in new ways. Artists who take on the challenge of creating public art say it’s a way to give ownership to the places people call home. More and more public art pieces and murals are gracing the walls and open spaces of Indigenous communities throughout Native America. Sometimes these art pieces are a way to remind busy urban dwellers that they have a connection to Indigenous peoples. Has your community turned to public art projects to build unity or educate about culture? What were the lessons you learned? Have you come across a public art piece that transformed your thinking about the place you grew up? Guests include Kanaka Maoli Visual artist and educator Estria Miyashiro Founder of the Estria Foundation

Break Music: Audiopharmacy (artist) Self Expression (song) U Forgot About Us (album)

Wednesday, May 8, 2013 – What Happens When The Water Is Missing? (listen)
Weather forecasters are predicting that this summer will once again be hot and dry in many parts of the country. Drought conditions means less water and the threat of wildfires will return for another season. Has the drought impacted your life? Has it cost your home in a wildfire or has it impacted your job? How has the ongoing drought in parts of the US changed how you think about water? What is your tribe doing to address drought conditions? Does your tribe have a story or tradition from the past that is guiding your actions today?

Break Music: Miracle Dolls (artist) Spinning Embers (song) Kiss Me Auras (album)

Thursday, May 9, 2013 – Native American Nurses (listen)
It's National Nurses week! The field of nursing is a sometimes thankless, and often back- breaking job. Many Native Americans and Alaska Natives are performing crucial tasks as nurses around the country. Are you a nurse with a story to tell about why you chose to go into the nursing field? Did a nurse make a difference in your life, especially when you were in need of extra care and support? How do nurses contribute to wellness and patient care overall? Guests include: Marilyn Yellowman (Navajo) president of the Native American Nurses Association, Le-Lani White (Navajo), pediatric nurse practitioner, and Beverly Patchell (Cherokee/Muscogee) president of the National Alaska Native American Indian Nurses Association.

Break Music: Miracle Dolls (artist) Spinning Embers (song) Kiss Me Auras (album)

Friday, May 10, 2013 – Raised By My Grandmother (listen)
Mother's Day is coming up. Some people who go to pick out a card or special present will be doing it for the grandmother who raised them. Many grandparents are now the primary caregivers for their grandchildren, including in Native America. Did you grow up calling your grandmother mom? Are you a grandmother raising your grandchildren right now? How does being raised by grand providing more of the day to today care for young children? Did grandma raise you right?

Break Music: Joanne Shenandoah (artist) She's an Elder (song) Life Givers (album)

Monday, May 13, 2013 –Mentoring For Future Success (listen)
Most leaders can look back and name one person who was there for them when they needed guidance. Many young Native Americans and Alaska Natives are looking for that person who can also help set on the path to success. Where do Natives turn to when they are searching for a mentor? Are enough people willing to step up and mentor the next generation? Did you have a mentor who helped make you the person you are today? What are the challenges and rewards of mentoring? Guests include: Michael Logan, Youth Council Advisor for United National Indian Tribal Youth (UNITY), Prairie Rose Seminole (Arikawa) Cultural Advisor for Stanford One Care, Twyla Baker-Demaray (Mandan, Hidatsa & Arikawa) Program Director for the National Resource Center on Native American Aging at the Center for Rural Health, University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences.

Break Music: Quese IMC & Cempoalli 20 Turtle Island Reggae (song) Osahwuh (album)

Tuesday, May 14, 2013 – Natives in the Spotlight: 2012 United States Artists Native Fellows (listen)
This winter, 54 living artists from across the nation where awarded a fellowship from United States Artists for $50,000 dollars to support their artistic visions. The award is presented to artists who are not only making their artistic mark on the world in a unique and bold way but are also giving back to the community. The Indigenous artists from around Turtle Island were included in this prestigious list. We invite you to learn more about this trio of Native artists as we put celebrate these Natives in the Spotlight. Guests include author Leanne Howe (Choctaw) fine arts and performing artist Nicholas Galanin (Tlingit/Aleut) and the words of fine artist Edgar Heap of Birds (Cheyenne/Arappaho).

Break Music: Silver Jackson (artist) Stones Throw (song) It's Glimmering Now (album)

Wednesday, May 15, 2013 – Indigenous Hunting Rights (listen)
A European Union Court upheld a ban on the trade and sale of commercial seal products last week. The ban was challenged by Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK), which represents Canada's Inuit communities. The case raises new questions about Indigenous hunting and fishing rights. Other Native American tribes have gone to court to protect their right to engage in traditional hunting and fishing practices. A prominent case in recent years involved whaling rights for the Makah Tribe in Washington State. Has your tribe gone to court to keep the right to hunt and fish? Are you concerned that your rights may be taken away? What connections do you see between your community and the national headlines? Guests include: Terry Audla (Inuit) President of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami , Micah McCarty (Makah) Secretary/Treasurer of Makah Whaling Commission, and Rebecca Aldworth Executive Director for Humane Society International - Canada .

Break Music: Élisapie Isaac (artist) Inuk (song) There Will Be Stars (album)

Thursday, May 16, 2013 – Summer Bookworms (listen)
Would you rather spend your evenings reading than watching TV? Did your parents or grandparents read to you as a child? Did reading as a child influence who you are today? Who is your favorite Native author? We want to hear what's on your reading list right now. Do you have a special book that you're looking forward to reading? Are you thinking about what your little ones might read over summer vacation? Join us for a lively conversation about the joy of reading and share your favorite books. Guests include: Debbie Reese (Nambe Owingeh) an educator and author of the blog American Indians in Children's Literature; Lance Polingwouma (Hopi) an avid reader and staff member in the Heard Museum shop; Allicia Waukau (Navajo and Menominee) an organizer of the Native Women and Friends Book Club in Minneapolis.

Break Music: The Backwards Medicine Band (artist) At Least Til Summertime (song) The Backwards Medicine Band (album)

Friday, May 17, 2013 – Immigration: Where Does Native America Stand? (listen)
National debates over immigration continue to divide the US congress and some communities. Some states have created their own laws for dealing with immigration on a local level. What do changes in immigration policy mean for Native America? What's your take on the issue of immigration debate? How do border policies around Turtle Island impact Indigenous communities? What are tribes doing to make sure their voice is heard at the table when it comes to regulation and policies on immigration?

Break Music: Pura Fe (artist) Borders (song) Full Moon Rising (album)

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