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
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Season 5 Recap
Dec 1100:44:35Tap to summarizeWelcome to the season finale of Preserving History and Democracy! In this special episode, Cynthia and Bernardine look back at one of the podcast's most dynamic seasons yet—packed with history, community voices, and critical conversations about democracy. The season opens with Episode 1, Countdown to the Vote, where Cynthia and Caroline break down key election dates and updates, emphasizing transparency and communication—a theme that echoes throughout the series. Episode 2 brings in County Clerk Amanda López Askin, Election Supervisor Janice Giron, and special guest Donald Palmer of the Election Assistance Commission. Together they explore the impact of the Help America Vote Act and the evolution of voter systems across the country. With Episode 3, filing day comes alive as excited local candidates take their first steps toward public service. Personal stories—including Cynthia spotting her former High School French teacher filing for office—capture the heart of civic engagement. History takes center stage in Episode 4, Holding History in Our Hands, when newly opened archival boxes reveal gems like Pat Garrett's coroner's report. Angelica Valenzuela and Julie from the Bureau of Elections share the incredible discoveries and the thrill of preservation. In Episode 5, historian Troy Ainsworth returns to discuss the devastating Las Cruces floods—an event brought to life with rare photos and deep contextual knowledge. Agricultural heritage becomes personal in Episode 6, featuring Dr. Blanca Araujo and her heartfelt memories of growing up on Stahmann Farms. Community, generosity, and a unique way of life shine through her stories. Episode 7 offers another election update, guiding the public through essential information in a packed election season. Listeners fall in love in Episode 8, A Love Story Spotlight, as the Santanas recount their charming engagement tale and walk listeners through the marriage license process. Archives take the spotlight again in Episode 9, which covers the Border Regional Archives Group's annual Archives Bazaar. Emotional moments—like a visitor finding her parents' marriage license—show how deeply records connect us to our past. Episode 10 continues election guidance with a focus on expanded early voting, preparing the community for a smooth election cycle. In Episode 11, Tina Barton joins Janice and Caroline to discuss de-escalating conflict at the polls. Drawing from her own experiences, Tina offers powerful tools for keeping voters and workers safe during tense political times. Episode 12 delves into one of the season's most fascinating topics—Shalem Colony—with guest Christopher Schurtz. Visions, utopian dreams, mysterious histories, and a devoted following make this a standout episode. Another election update arrives with Episode 13, rounding up the latest developments and community reminders. The season takes a profound historical turn in Episode 14, The Converso Legacy. Researcher Sean Schifano unpacks the hidden histories of Jews forced to convert during the Spanish and Portuguese inquisitions—revealing legacies that still impact families today. In Episode 15, guests Corrina Miramontes and Martha Rodriguez bring the Mesquite Historic District to life through their work with Las Esperanzas. Their passion for revitalizing the oldest townsite in Las Cruces is nothing short of inspiring. Borderlands history deepens in Episode 16, as Joel González discusses repatriate colonies, shifting borders, and how rapid political change impacted families on both sides of the Rio Grande. Finally, Episode 17 closes the season with a complete recap of the November 4th regular local election, highlighting turnout, post-election processes, and the importance of transparency. Season 5 was filled with incredible guests, powerful stories, and deep dives into the history and democracy of Doña Ana County. Cynthia and Bernardine close with heartfelt thanks to listeners, the Clerk's Office team, and the community—already looking forward to an even bigger Season 6. Watch here: https://youtu.be/4irxq9V9NYQ Hosted by: Bernardine Caporale and Cynthia Mendoza Produced by: Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Mendoza, Jacob Slaughter Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
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2025 Regular Local Election Wrap Up
Dec 400:36:06Tap to summarizeWelcome to the latest episode of Preserving History and Democracy! In this episode, Doña Ana County Clerk Amanda López Askin, Chief Deputy Clerk Caroline Zamora, and Elections Supervisor Janice take listeners behind the scenes of the 2025 Regular Local Election. From certification to canvass to brand-new pilot programs, the team explains exactly what happens after voters cast their ballots and why New Mexico continues to rank among the most trusted election systems in the country. The conversation begins with a deep dive into what "certification" actually means and why the post-election process is so rigorous. The team describes in everyday language how ballots are reconciled, checked, counted, verified, and checked again—down to the smallest detail, even hunting down a single missing permit slip. With clear explanations and plenty of humor, they make the complex world of election administration surprisingly accessible. Listeners also get an inside look at innovations that shaped this year's election, including the county's participation in a new electronic hand-tally pilot designed to reduce human error, improvements in processing overseas UOCAVA ballots, and the unique challenge of being the first county in New Mexico to handle both ranked-choice voting and a write-in candidate in the same race. The team doesn't shy away from the long hours, the stress, or the layers of accountability that make all of it possible. Alongside the technical talk, this episode highlights the community spirit that fuels local democracy. The trio shares the joy of the Tiny Ballot Bash, where 64 future voters cast pretend ballots for their favorite candy, superhero, and holiday. They also celebrate the annual "I Voted" sticker contest and the county's commitment to keeping voters informed with real-time election-night updates and unprecedented transparency. Training and safety take center stage as well. The team reflects on the ongoing education required for election officials, their partnerships with law enforcement, and the powerful de-escalation training delivered by nationally known election expert Tina Barton, (Episode 11) whose personal story of facing threats underscores the importance of protecting those who protect democracy. Ultimately, this episode is a blend of honesty, humor, and heartfelt appreciation for the hundreds of community members who make elections possible. Whether you're an election enthusiast or simply curious about what ensures your vote is counted accurately, this conversation offers a rare and reassuring look into the inner workings of one of the country's most robust election systems. Tune in to discover why Doña Ana County continues to set the gold standard—and why every New Mexican should feel confident and proud of how their elections are run. Watch here: https://youtu.be/zjVvwnd9g2k Hosted by: Amanda López Askin, Caroline Zamora, Janice Giron Produced by: Cynthia Mendoza, Jacob Slaughter Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
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Repatriate Colonies ft. Joel Gonzalez Parra
Nov 2600:52:52Tap to summarizeWelcome to the latest episode of Preserving History and Democracy! In this episode, we take listeners on a captivating journey into one of the borderland's most overlooked historical chapters. Our guest, Joel Gonzalez Parra—historian, researcher, and recent NMSU graduate joining us from Washington, D.C.—shares the compelling story of the repatriate colonies that emerged in the aftermath of the Mexican–American War. Joel unpacks how, when the border shifted in 1848, many New Mexicans found themselves suddenly living under a new flag and facing decisions that would reshape entire communities. Some chose to remain in the now-American territory, while others uprooted their lives and crossed south into Mexico to establish new settlements. What followed is a rich and complex narrative of identity, politics, culture, and survival. The episode explores the formation of towns such as Mesilla, Doña Ana, Guadalupe, and San Ignacio; the surprising cartographic mistake that misplaced El Paso by forty miles and altered the border forever; and the delicate balance of fear, opportunity, and loyalty that influenced families on both sides. Joel guides us through the everyday struggles of settlers navigating unfamiliar governments, land-grant disputes that lasted generations, and the powerful role of priests and community leaders who shaped these cross-border movements. As the conversation unfolds, we learn how families maintained ties and influence across the dividing line, how political violence sparked new migrations, and how these early decisions still echo in modern land records, deeds, and local histories found right here in Doña Ana County. It's a story full of movement and resilience, revealing how the borderlands became the culturally rich, interconnected region they are today. Join us we rediscover the history beneath our feet, guided by a Gonzalez Parra, who brings clarity, passion, and fresh perspective to a truly remarkable era. Watch here: https://youtu.be/MC8an7pKeEs Hosted by: Angelica Valenzuela, Bernardine Caporale Special Guest: Joel Gonzalez Parra Produced by: Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Mendoza, Jacob Slaughter Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
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Las Esperanzas Ft. Corrina Miramontes and Martha Rodriguez
Nov 2000:37:50Tap to summarizeIn this deeply enriching episode of Preserving History and Democracy, host Cynthia Mendoza and producer Bernardine Caporale sit down with two remarkable women at the forefront of cultural and historic preservation in Doña Ana County: Corrina Miramontes and Martha Rodriguez from Las Esperanzas Together, they take us on a captivating journey through the Mesquite Historic District—the original townsite of Las Cruces, platted in 1849 and still home to one of the most intact collections of historic adobe structures in the Southwest. Discover the powerful origin story of Las Esperanzas, a grassroots organization founded by local advocate Consuelo Lerma and a group of neighborhood women determined to protect their community's culture, architecture, and future. Learn how the group helped launch programs for local children, fought against destructive urban renewal efforts, and continues to champion safety, walkability, and revitalization projects today. Corrina and Martha bring to life the neighborhood's rich tapestry of people and places—from the Camino Real to St. Genevieve's Church, from legendary figures like Pat Garrett, Clara Belle Williams, and Governor Jerry Apodaca to the cultural influence of the Piro-Manso-Tiwa peoples who have called the area home long before the 19th-century townsite ever existed. Listeners will hear about: Historic homes and plaques that preserve the stories of early families The Hardin de Esperanza, a vibrant community monument designed with student-made tiles Upcoming murals and public art that will depict the history of Las Cruces Ongoing preservation efforts, including corridor redesign, new lighting projects, and a self-guided walking tour Oral history initiatives capturing the memories of long-term residents and newcomers alike A growing community market, youth arts programming, and partnerships with local organizations Above all, this episode is a celebration of community voice, culture, and the belief that preserving history is essential to preserving democracy. Corrina and Martha share the importance of getting involved—because protecting our city's past starts with people who care enough to act. Whether you're a longtime Las Crucen, a history lover, or someone who believes in grassroots change, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Las Esperanzas contact info: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LasEsperanzasInc Website Email: LasEsperanzas1999@gmail.com Hosted by: Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Mendoza Special Guests: Corinna Miramontes, Martha Rodriguez Produced by: Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Mendoza Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
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