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.
24episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Season 6 Recap
2w ago00:52:32Tap to summarizeSeason 6 has been packed with unforgettable stories, local legends, and fascinating history. Join Cynthia Diaz and Jacob Slaughter as they look back on 19 episodes featuring community leaders, historians, authors, election experts, and preservationists who helped bring Doña Ana County's rich past and vibrant present to life. From the history of Nopalito's Restaurant and the Taylor-Mesilla Historic Site to the Trinity Site, the New Mexico State Archives, election innovations, and the people preserving our community's stories, this special season recap highlights the moments that made Season 6 one of the podcast's most memorable yet. Watch here. Hosted by: Cynthia Diaz, Jacob Slaughter Produced by: The Doña Ana County Clerk's Office Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
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The Trinity Site Story - Part 2 ft. Jim Eckles
3w ago00:39:21Tap to summarizeWhat did it feel like to witness the world's first atomic explosion? In this episode of Preserving History and Democracy, historian and Trinity Site expert Jim Eckles takes listeners inside the dramatic story of the Trinity Test, from eyewitness accounts of the blinding blast to the lasting legacy of radioactive trinitite, Ground Zero, and the myths that continue to surround the site today. Join us as we explore fascinating firsthand stories, little-known artifacts like Jumbo, the realities of radiation at Trinity Site, and the ongoing conversations surrounding downwinders and historical preservation. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply curious about one of the most significant events of the 20th century, this episode offers a captivating look at the place where the atomic age began. Watch here. Hosted by: Cynthia Diaz, Jacob Slaughter Special guest: Jim Eckles Produced by: The Doña Ana County Clerk's Office Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
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Countdown to Election Day: Final Voting Reminders for the 2026 Primary
4w ago00:11:53Tap to summarizeIn this final pre-primary election update, Chief Deputy County Clerk Caroline Zamora and Communications Coordinator Cynthia Diaz break down everything voters need to know before Election Day 2026. From early voting deadlines and absentee ballot drop-offs to same day registration, write-in candidates, electioneering rules, and what to expect on election night, this episode is your quick guide to voting with confidence in Doña Ana County. Plus, hear the latest voter turnout numbers and important reminders before polls close. Watch here. Hosted by: Caroline Zamora, Cynthia Diaz Produced by: Doña Ana County Clerk's Office Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
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The Trinity Site Story - Part 1 ft. Jim Eckles
May 2100:36:32Tap 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
May 1400:18:31Tap 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
May 700:31:21Tap 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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