Podcast
Preserving History and Democracy
Hosted by Cynthia Mendoza · EN
A podcast dedicated to teaching and informing our listeners regarding elections and the fascinating history of Doña Ana County, New Mexico.
21episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
The Trinity Site Story - Part 1 ft. Jim Eckles
2w ago00:36:32Tap to summarizeIn this first part of our special two-part series, we sit down with Jim Eckles. Eckles is an author and retired public affairs specialist at White Sands Missile Range. We sit for an in-depth presentation and discussion on the history of Trinity Site. From the origins of the Manhattan Project to the scientists and military leaders who made the first atomic test possible, Jim walks us through the events leading up to July 16, 1945, the moment the world changed forever. He also explores the real meaning behind the name "Trinity," the development of the bomb designs, and what witnesses and photographers captured in the moments immediately following the explosion. Part 2 will focus on the aftermath of the Trinity Test, what scientists learned, and how the atomic age reshaped the world. Hosted by: Cynthia Diaz, Jacob Slaughter Special Guest: Jim Eckles Produced by: Doña Ana County Clerk's Office Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
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Ballots & Beyond: 2026 Primary Election Updates
3w ago00:18:31Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Chief Deputy County Clerk Caroline Zamora and Communications Coordinator Cynthia Diaz break down everything voters need to know about the upcoming 2026 Primary Election in Doña Ana County. They dive into New Mexico's new semi-open primary system, explaining what it means for Democrats, Republicans, qualified minor party voters and how decline to state voters can participate without changing their registration. They also walk listeners through key voting options like early voting, absentee voting, and Election Day convenience centers, plus important deadlines leading up to June 2. To help ease first-time voter nerves, they give a step-by-step look at what to expect inside a voting location. The conversation wraps with fun community highlights, including the popular "Tiny Ballot Bash" kids voting program and the county's employee-designed election sticker contest. Tune in for a practical, informative, and engaging guide to making your voice heard this election season. Watch here. Hosted by: Caroline Zamora, Cynthia Diaz Produced by: Doña Ana County Clerk's Office Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
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Behind the Ballot with Robis Elections ft. David Davoust
4w ago00:31:21Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Preserving History and Democracy, the Doña Ana County Clerk's Office welcomes David Davoust, founder and CEO of Robis Elections, for a behind-the-scenes conversation on election technology, security, and innovation in New Mexico elections. From cybersecurity and AI safeguards to new hand tally systems and semi-open primary changes, the discussion highlights how counties, vendors, and election officials work together to keep elections secure, accurate, and accessible for voters across New Mexico. Watch here. Hosted by: Caroline Zamora, Janice Giron Special Guest: David Davoust Produced by: Doña Ana County Clerk's Office Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
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Doña Ana County in the Texas Tech Archives ft. Kylie Kincaid
Apr 3000:26:19Tap to summarize*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-(--header-height)" dir="auto" data-turn-id="e7a0f5a3-13b4-4fa1-8478-5e91266b2e6b" data-testid="conversation-turn-3" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn="user"> *]:pointer-events-auto [content-visibility:auto] supports-[content-visibility:auto]:[contain-intrinsic-size:auto_100lvh] R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:d06d55a5-92af-48a3-83b3-3d7070b08cb0-1" data-testid= "conversation-turn-4" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn= "assistant"> Step inside the vaults of the Southwest in this episode of Preserving History and Democracy. Cynthia Diaz and Bernardine Caporale are joined by archivist Kylie Kincaid from Texas Tech's Southwest Collection to explore how history is preserved, from rare books and music archives to ranching records and oral histories. Discover surprising connections to Doña Ana County, including 1800s mining documents, mysterious desert craters, and the stories hidden in everyday records. It's a fascinating look at how archives keep the past alive and why it still matters today. Watch on Youtube. Hosted by: Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Diaz Special guest: Kylie Kincaid Produced by: The Doña Ana County Clerk's Office Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
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Doña Ana Soil and Water Conservation District ft. Jennifer Kleitz
Apr 2300:37:29Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Preserving History and Democracy, Cynthia Diaz and Bernardine Caporale are joined by Jennifer Kleitz, District Manager for the Doña Ana Soil and Water Conservation District, for an in-depth conversation on conservation, community partnerships, and the future of natural resources in southern New Mexico. From the legacy of the Dust Bowl to today's challenges with drought and climate change, Jennifer breaks down how soil and water conservation districts play a vital role in protecting our land, supporting local producers, and strengthening communities. Learn how innovative programs like NeighborWoods are transforming neighborhoods, from planting trees to cool streets, reduce erosion, improve mental well-being, and even help lower crime. Whether it's replanting trees after vandalism, helping farmers access critical grants, or bringing communities together through volunteer events, this conversation highlights the real, local impact of conservation work in Doña Ana County. Watch here. Hosted by: Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Diaz Special Guest: Jennifer Kleitz Produced by: Doña ana County Clerk's office Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
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On the Road: Inside the New Mexico State Archives Ft. Elena Pérez-Lizano and Jonathan Pringle
Apr 1600:38:34Tap to summarizeThis week, the Preserving History and Democracy team hits the road for a special behind-the-scenes episode at the New Mexico State Archives. Join state archivists Elena Pérez-Lozano and Jonathan Pringle as they reveal how history is preserved from centuries-old documents and rare voter rolls to mysterious crime scene sketches and records dating back to the 1500s. Explore the hidden stories within the archives, follow the journey of public records, and discover why preserving these materials is vital to protecting our shared history and our democracy. Hosted by: Caroline Zamora, Angelica Valenzuela Special Guests: Elena Pérez-Lizano, Jonathan Pringle Produced by: The Doña Ana County Clerk's Office Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
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The Hermit - The Journey of Giovanni Maria de Agostini Ft. David Thomas
Apr 900:41:41Tap to summarizeIn the latest episode of Preserving History and Democracy, we sit down with local historian and author David Thomas to explore the fascinating life of Giovanni Maria de Agostini, the mysterious hermit who traveled across South America before arriving in the Mesilla Valley. Drawing from his book Giovanni Maria de Agostini, Wonder of the Century: The Astonishing World Traveler Who Was A Hermit, David shares insights into Giovanni's global journey, his time in Doña Ana County, and his stay at the historic La Cueva. We also dive deeper into the myths and legends that surround Giovanni, separating fact from folklore, and exploring why his story continues to captivate the region today. From tales of solitude and spirituality to his unexpected impact on local history, this conversation brings new life to one of the most intriguing figures to ever pass through southern New Mexico. Watch here. Hosted by: Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Diaz Special Guest: David Thomas Produced by: The Doña Ana County Clerk's Office Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
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A Visit to the Secretary of State's Office ft Mandy Vigil
Apr 200:35:55Tap to summarizeTake a behind-the-scenes look at election administration in this special "on tour" episode of the Preserving History and Democracy podcast, recorded live at the New Mexico Secretary of State's Office in Santa Fe. Host Caroline Zamora is joined by Election Director Mandy Vigil and Bureau of Elections Supervisor Janice Giron for an engaging conversation about public service, the evolution of elections, and what it takes to support voters across all 33 counties. The conversation dives into how elections have transformed over the years—highlighting New Mexico's top national ranking, increased accessibility for voters, and the growing importance of security, outreach, and modernization. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how the Secretary of State's team manages complex systems, collaborates across counties, and works to ensure every voter feels confident and informed. With a focus on innovation, transparency, and community, this episode underscores the passion behind election work and the ongoing efforts to strengthen trust and participation in the democratic process. Hosted by: Caroline Zamora- Chief Deputy Clerk, Janice Giron- Elections Supervisor Special Guest: Mandy Vigil- Election Director Produced by: Doña Ana County Clerks Office Edited by: Jacob Slaughter, Election Specialist
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Taylor Mesilla Historic Site Ft. Emily Wilson
Mar 2700:56:24Tap to summarizeIn our latest episode of Preserving History and Democracy, we sit down with Emily Wilson of the Taylor-Mesilla Historic Site to uncover the lives of J. Paul Taylor and Mary Daniels, and how their home became a living time capsule of Southern New Mexico history. From rich cultural artifacts to stories of community, art, and legacy—this episode brings the past to life in a powerful way. Hosted by: Caroline Zamora, Angelica Valenzuela and Cynthia Diaz Produced by: Cynthia Diaz, Jacob Slaughter Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
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Filing Day Recap
Mar 1900:20:08Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Preserving History and Democracy, we recap Filing Day in Doña Ana County—an exciting kickoff to the election season filled with enthusiastic candidates, community spirit, and behind-the-scenes moments. Hear directly from local candidates about why they're running and what drives their commitment to public service. We also break down important upcoming election dates, explain New Mexico's new semi-open primary system, and share how voters can stay informed and engaged. Plus, we highlight a recent visit from NMSU students and celebrate a major milestone—our 100th episode! Hosted by: Caroline Zamora, Cynthia Diaz Produced by: Caroline Zamora, Cynthia Diaz, Jacob Slaughter Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
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