Preserving History and Democracy

A Visit to the Secretary of State's Office ft Mandy Vigil

Take 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

Transcribe →

Taylor Mesilla Historic Site Ft. Emily Wilson

Mar 2700:56:24Tap to summarize

In 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

Transcribe →

Filing Day Recap

Mar 1900:20:08Tap to summarize

In 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

Transcribe →

100 Episodes

Mar 1300:27:07Tap to summarize

In this special milestone episode, the Doña Ana County Clerk's Office celebrates 100 episodes of Preserving History and Democracy—a journey dedicated to telling the stories that shape our community. From historic documents stored deep in the county archives to heartfelt memories shared by guests and historians, this episode reflects on how preserving records also means preserving the people, families, and moments that built Doña Ana County. Clerk Amanda López Askin, Angelica Valenzuela and Cynthia Diaz look back on the powerful conversations that have connected residents to their past—from surprising historical discoveries to deeply personal stories that remind us why history matters. They also reflect on the importance of transparency in elections and the responsibility of safeguarding both democracy and community memory. Join us for a heartfelt look at the journey behind the microphone, the people who made it possible, and the stories that will continue to shape the future of our borderlands. Here's to the first 100 episodes—and many more to come. Hosted by: Amanda López Askin, Angelica Valenzuela and Cynthia Diaz Produced by: Cynthia Diaz, Jacob Slaughter Edited by: Jacob Slaughter

Transcribe →

The Las Cruces Railroad Museum ft. Kyle McGrogan

Mar 600:44:39Tap to summarize

Join us for a special episode of Preserving History & Democracy as we record from the historic Las Cruces Railroad Museum in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Communications Coordinator Cynthia Mendoza and producer Bernardine Caporale sit down with museum curator and educator Kyle McGregor to explore the powerful role railroads played in shaping the Mesilla Valley. In this episode, we discuss how the arrival of the railroad in 1881 helped transform Las Cruces from a small village into a growing community, while nearby Mesilla missed the opportunity to host the rail line. Kyle shares fascinating stories about early train travel, the people who worked on the railroads, and how the railroad influenced local architecture, business, and culture. You'll also hear about the historic depot building that now houses the museum, the evolution of train technology, and even the time Theodore Roosevelt stopped in Las Cruces during a visit in 1911. Whether you're a local history enthusiast or simply curious about how railroads connected communities across the country, this episode offers a fascinating look at how one rail line helped shape the future of Las Cruces. Watch here. Hosted by: Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Diaz Special Guest: Kyle McGrogan Produced by: Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Diaz, Jacob Salughter Edited by: Jacob Slaughter

Transcribe →

The Fred Harvey Houses ft. Dr. Richard Melzer

Feb 2600:25:04Tap to summarize

All aboard for a journey through history with Preserving History and Democracy! In this episode, Cynthia Diaz and Bernardine Caporale chat with historian Dr. Richard Meltzer about the legendary Fred Harvey Houses and the adventurous Harvey Girls. Learn how Harvey transformed train travel with efficient dining, luxurious hotels, and cultural tourism that celebrated Native American crafts. Hear stories of famous guests, from Albert Einstein to Clark Gable, and explore the small but fascinating Harvey House in Rone, New Mexico, complete with tales of theft, ghostly encounters, and historic lunchbooks. From the expansion of Harvey Houses across nine states to the innovations that preserved Southwestern architecture and hospitality, this episode highlights an enduring legacy of adventure, culture, and entrepreneurial brilliance. Watch here: https://youtu.be/4g62deZY2do Hosted by: Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Diaz Special Guest: Dr. Richard Meltzer Produced by: Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Diaz, Jacob Slaughter Edited by: Jacob Slaughter

Transcribe →

County Leadership ft. Manuel Sanchez & Christopher Schaljo-Hernandez

Feb 1900:35:04Tap to summarize

In this episode of Preserving History and Democracy, Cynthia Diaz and Janice Giron sit down with Doña Ana County Commissioners Christopher Schaljo-Hernandez and Manuel Sanchez for an engaging conversation about leadership, growth, and the future of Doña Ana County. From their personal journeys into public service to the real, behind-the-scenes work of county government, the commissioners break down what they actually do — from serving on multiple boards and advocating in Santa Fe to approving election results and supporting voter access initiatives like a future mobile voting unit. They also share their vision for the next 5–10 years, including historic GO Bond investments, expanding quality-of-life projects across the county, strengthening infrastructure, creating local job opportunities, and launching the county's first-ever Youth Commission to empower the next generation. It's a candid, thoughtful discussion about accessibility, civic engagement, economic growth, and why local government matters more than you might think. Watch here. Hosted by: Cynthia Diaz, Janice Giron Special Guests: Christopher Schaljo-Hernandez, Manuel Sanchez Produced by: Cynthia Diaz, Janice Giron, Jacob Slaughter Edited by: Jacob Slaughter

Transcribe →

The Nakayama Archives ft. Peggy Swoveland & Jennifer Olguin

Feb 1200:43:10Tap to summarize

*]:pointer-events-auto [content-visibility:auto] supports-[content-visibility:auto]:[contain-intrinsic-size:auto_100lvh] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "c6c85543-8a84-4114-8261-6c187985f23d" data-testid= "conversation-turn-2" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> Welcome to the latest episode of Preserving History and Democracy! In this episode, Cynthia and Bern sit down with Jennifer Olguin and Peggy Swoveland for a deep dive into the remarkable history of the Nakayama farms. Swoveland, a descendant of the Nakayama family, shares how she uncovered important historical documents and tells the story behind this pioneering farming family. It's a powerful reminder of the resilience and determination the Nakayama family showed as they immigrated from Japan and built a lasting legacy in the Mesilla Valley. Hosted by: Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Mendoza Special guests: Peggy Swoveland, Jennifer Olguin Produced by: Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Mendoza, Jacob Slaughter Edited by: Jacob Slaughter

Transcribe →

Romance at the Rotunda 2026

Feb 500:15:09Tap to summarize

In this special episode of Preserving History and Democracy, hosts Cynthia Diaz and Bernardine Caporale are joined by Lenora Hawkins from the Clerk's Office to talk all things Romance at the Rotunda—the most love-filled day of the year at the Government Center! From how to get your marriage license to what to bring on the big day, the team breaks down everything couples need to know to tie the knot with ease. Learn why this one-stop wedding experience is so popular, how ceremonies are scheduled, who the officiants are, and what makes this event extra special—from beautiful decorations and professional photos to local vendors and sweet treats. Whether you're planning a simple ceremony, dreaming of a future celebration, or just love hearing how government meets romance, this episode has it all! Friday the 13th has never sounded so lucky. Tune in and find out how love, history, and democracy come together under one rotunda. Listen now and fall in love with Romance at the Rotunda! Watch here. Hosted by: Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Mendoza Special Guest: Lenora Hawkins Produced by: Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Mendoza, Jacob Slaughter Edited by: Jacob Salughter

Transcribe →

Business Spotlight: Nopalitos Restaurant

Jan 2800:52:03Tap to summarize

Welcome to the latest episode of Preserving History and Democracy! In this episode, we take the podcast on the road for a truly special episode—recorded inside one of the oldest and most beloved restaurants in Las Cruces. Join us as we sit down with Victor Gallegos of Nopalito's to explore more than 60 years of family history, community resilience, and the culture that shaped Mesquite Street and the city itself. From the legendary green chile recipe that put Nopalito's on the map to the incredible story of how the restaurant began inside a former Spanish Baptist church, this conversation is packed with unforgettable moments. Victor shares stories passed down through generations—about growing up in the neighborhood, surviving hard times, supporting local families, preserving historic buildings, and fighting to keep culture alive. We talk bingo nights and soap operas, fiestas and car shows, Chiva Town legends, and how community support carried this business through decades of change, including the pandemic. This episode is a love letter to mom-and-pop businesses, local history, and the people who never stopped believing in Las Cruces. If you love food, history, culture, and stories rooted in community, this is an episode you won't want to miss! Watch here. Hosted by: Caroline Zamora, Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Diaz Special Guest: Victor Gallegos Produced by: Caroline Zamora, Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Diaz, Jacob Slaughter Edited by: Jacob Slaughter

Transcribe →

All episodes

A Visit to the Secretary of State's Office ft Mandy Vigil