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The 2024 Interns
August 08, 2024
Disclaimer: All opinions expressed by podcast participants are their own and do not reflect the opinion of the Doña Ana County Clerk's Office or Doña Ana County.
Welcome to the latest episode of "Preserving History and Democracy!" In this episode, Caroline and Cynthia talk to two interns from our office who participated in the Doña Ana County Internship program over the summer. First, the ladies discuss the interns' experiences at the Clerk's office and what they have learned during their time here. Next, they ask the interns about the topics facing the nation. They also inquire where they get their news from and whether their peers influence their opinions. Lastly, they delve into the interns' hopes for their own future and the future of the country.
Hosted by: Caroline Zamora and Cynthia Mendoza
Special Guests: Paris Lopez and Israel Patch
Produced by: Cynthia Mendoza and Jacob Slaughter
Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
Watch here: https://youtu.be/Kh6Nvi5xQvE
2024 Primary Election Recap
August 01, 2024
Welcome to the newest season of "Preserving History and Democracy"! In this episode, Chief Deputy Clerk Caroline Zamora and Communications Coordinator Cynthia Mendoza review the 2024 Primary Election. First, they delve into voter turnout and explore why participation in Primary Elections tends to be lower than in General Elections. The duo commends the diligent efforts of election officials and staff in ensuring the smooth running of the primary election. Caroline and Cynthia then elaborate on the post-election procedures, such as canvassing, certification, and the post-election system check. Finally, they touch upon the dates for the upcoming 2024 General Election.
Hosted by: Caroline Zamora, Cytnhia Mendoza
Produced by: Cynthia Mendoza, Jacob Slaughter
Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
Music: Jimmys Jive: The North
Watch here: https://youtu.be/mTJwdBxgERQ?si=2mebAulkAf68Bd1Q
The Roads of Doña Ana Ft. Troy Ainsworth
June 7, 2024
Welcome to the latest episode of Preserving History and Democracy! In this episode, Chief Deputy Clerk, Caroline Zamora and producer Bernardine Caporale are joined by special guest Troy Ainsworth. First, Troy introduces himself and talks about his extensive work in historic preservation. First Caroline, Bern and Troy talk about Spanish influence on the roads here in Doña Ana, and how they became what we know today. Then, they talk about how the climate and environment shaped some roads in the area. The hosts then discuss the economic impact of the roads. Lastly, Caroline, Bern and Troy go through some historic documents found in the vault and discuss what they mean to our County.
Hosted by: Caroline Zamora, Bernardine Caporale
Special Guest: Troy Ainsworth
Produced by: Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Mendoza, Jacob Salughter
Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
Music: Aves-Better
Primary Election Updates Pt. 3
May 31, 2024
Welcome to the newest installment of Preserving History and Democracy! In this episode, Caroline, Cynthia, and Emily provide final updates leading up to the 2024 Primary Election. The trio starts by addressing the closing days of Early voting in New Mexico and locations for casting your vote before Election Day. Then, they delve into same-day registration and the essential documents required for those interested in it. Next, they discuss the options for dropping off an absentee ballot. Lastly, they highlight the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Bureau of Elections warehouse.
Hosted by: Caroline Zamora, Cynthia Mendoza, Emily Burr
Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
Music: Passionate Choices- Mansij
Sheriff Jose Lucero and Toribio Huerta Ft. Dennis Daily
May 24, 2024
Welcome to the latest installment of Preserving History and Democracy! In this episode, Cynthia, Angelica and Bernardine welcome special guest, Dennis Daily from the Archives and Special Collections Library of New Mexico State University. In this episode, we delve into a true crime story that took place in Las Cruces in 1900, Sheriff Jose Lucero who found the suspect and the subsequent trial and death of Toribio Huerta who committed the crime.
Hosted by: Cynthia Mendoza, Bernardine Caporale and Angelica Valenzuela
Special Guest: Dennis Daily
Produced by: Cynthia Mendoza, Bernardine Caporale and Jacob Slaughter
Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
Music: Birthday Suite- Morphlexis
Early Voting Updates
May 15, 2024
Welcome to the newest installment of "Preserving History and Democracy"! Join Caroline, Cynthia, Emily, and Janice in this episode as they discuss the updates on Early Voting for the 2024 Primary Election. First, they discuss expanded early voting beginning on May 18th and the various locations that will be available. The ladies then clarify common misconceptions about voting and shed some light on absentee voting and the different methods to request an absentee ballot. They once again discuss same-day registration and the necessary steps for the procedure. As they go through other important dates in the election, the ladies talk about overseas voting for military personnel and how the process works. Lastly, the ladies highlight the amazing election workers that make elections possible.
Hosted by: Caroline Zamora, Cynthia Mendoza, Janice Giron and Emily Burr
Produced by: Cynthia Mendoza, Jacob Slaughter
Music: Magiksolo- Air
Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
2024 Primary Election Updates Pt. 2
May 10, 2024
Join us for another exciting episode of Preserving History and Democracy! In this episode, we recap the beginning of Early Voting at the Doña Ana County Government Center. Voter Registration lead, Emily Burr and Elections Supervisor Janice Giron join us to talk about early voting and same-day registration. First, the ladies elaborate on early voting and go over all the expanded early voting locations that will open starting May 18th. Then, Emily explains the process of same-day registration. Lastly, Caroline Emily and Janice talk about their appreciation for election workers that make democracy possible.
Hosted by: Caroline Zamora
Special Guests: Emily Burr, Janice Giron
Produced by: Cynthia Mendoza, Jacob Slaughter
Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
Music: Ikoliks-Daydream
Dripping Springs
May 03, 2024
Welcome to the latest episode of Preserving History and Democracy! In this episode, Chief Deputy Clerk, Caroline Zamora and Communications Coordinator Cynthia Mendoza are joined by Producer Bernardine Caporale to discuss one of the best hiking spots in Doña Ana County, Dripping Springs. The group delves into the rich history of Dripping Springs, from its origins as a popular resort in the late 1800s to the popular hiking destination it is today. Caroline, Cynthia, and Bernardine share fascinating stories about the wildlife, plant life, and geological formations that make Dripping Springs such a unique and beloved destination.
Hosted by: Caroline Zamora, Cynthia Mendoza and Bernardine Carporale
Produced by: Cynthia Mendoza, Bernardine Caporale, Jacob Slaughter
Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
Music: MooveKa-Busy Day Ahead
Primary Election Updates
April 26, 2024
Welcome to the latest episode of Preserving History and Democracy! In this episode, Chief Deputy Clerk, Caroline Zamora and Communications Coordinator, Cynthia Mendoza, give updates on the 2024 Primary Election in Doña Ana County. First, the ladies talk about some important dates coming up in the next few weeks. Then, Cynthia goes over early voting locations that will be open starting May 18th. Then, Janice Giron joins us to talk about Same-Day Registration. Lastly, Caroline and Cynthia talk about where you can find more information and about the importance of making a voting plan.
Hosted By: Caroline Zamora, Cynthia Mendoza
Special Guest: Janice Giron
Produced By: Cynthia Mendoza, Jacob Slaughter
Edited By: Jacob Slaughter
Music: Jimit by Summer
The Bracero Program
April 19, 2024
Welcome to the newest episode of "Preserving History and Democracy!" This segment features special guests Patsy Garcia, our NMSU intern, and Benjamin Segovia, the son of Pabla and Ruben, who took part in the Bracero Program at Stahmann Farms. We kick off by discussing the pecan industry in New Mexico and its journey to Doña Ana County. Next, we introduce Benjamin Segovia, who grew up on the farm with his ten siblings. Benjamin shares anecdotes about farm life and its impact on his life today. Lastly, we contemplate the program's significance and it's lasting impact on the families involved.
Hosted by: Amanda López Askin, Caroline Zamora, Cynthia Mendoza
Special Guests: Patsy Garcia, Benjamin Segovia
Produced by: Patsy Garcia, Cynthia Mendoza, Bernardine Caporale
Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
Music: Sunscape-Oliver Michael
Hiram Hadley
April 12, 2024
Welcome to the newest episode of Preserving History and Democracy! In this episode, Cynthia and Bernardine talk about one of the founding fathers of New Mexico State University, Hiram Hadley. First, the ladies talk about who Mr. Hadley was and how his passion for education led to the creation of Las Cruces college. Then, the ladies talk about the tragic story behind the school's first graduate. Lastly, the ladies talk about the evolution of the school and how New Mexico State University became what it is today.
Hosted by: Cynthia Mendoza, Bernardine Caporale
Produced by: Cynthia Mendoza, Bernardine Caporale, Jacob Slaughter
Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
Music: Rex Banner-Goals
New Mexico Ranks #1
April 05, 2024
Welcome to the latest installment of Preserving History and Democracy! In this episode, County Clerk Amanda López Askin and Chief Deputy Clerk Caroline Zamora, discuss the latest results from the MIT Election and Data Science Lab, where New Mexico recently ranked number one! First, the ladies delve into the statistics that made New Mexico rank first and discuss the details behind the data. Then, they reflect on how far New Mexico has come in 10 years. Lastly, they reflect on what else can be done to make voting accesible for all eligible New Mexicans.
Hosted by: Amanda López Askin, Caroline Zamora
Produced by: Cynthia Mendoza, Jacob Slaughter
Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
Music by: Donner & Tie - Bahia Vibes
The Office of the Probate
March 28,2024
Welcome to the latest episode of Preserving History and Democracy! In this installment, we explore the realm of probate and the duties linked to the Probate Office. Our special guests are Norma Roberts from the Probate Office and Johnathan Macias, the assistant County Manager of Dona Ana County. Norma explains the intricacies of probate, and Johnathan recounts a personal story that emphasizes the importance of probate in his life. As the episode unfolds, viewers are encouraged to consider their circumstances and take proactive steps towards securing their legacies and ensuring a smooth transition for their loved ones in the future.
Resources: https://newmexicolegalaid.org/
https://www.communityfoundationofsouthernnewmexico.org/
Disclaimer: This episode is based on personal experiences and does not offer any legal advice
Hosted By: Cynthia Mendoza and Bernardine Caporale
Special Guests: Norma Roberts and Johnathan Macias
Produced By: Cynthia Mendoza, Bernardine Caporale and Jacob Slaughter
Edited By: Jacob Slaughter
Music: A Beautiful Day- Ramol
Maria Gutierrez Spencer
March 22, 2024
Welcome to the newest installment of "Preserving History and Democracy!" This episode pays tribute to Women's History Month by highlighting an educational icon, Maria Gutierrez Spencer. We begin by exploring Maria's childhood as a non-English speaker and how she overcame language obstacles to pursue education. Next, we delve into Maria's influence as an educator for children facing similar challenges. Lastly, we discuss Maria's enduring impact on education at both the state and national levels.
Hosted by: Caroline Zamora, Cynthia Mendoza and Bernardine Carporale
Produced by: Cynthia Mendoza, Bernardine Caporale, Jacob Slaughter
Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
Music: Sunny Days- Raz Burg
Filing Day 2024
March 15, 2024
Welcome to the latest "Preserving History and Democracy"! Join County Clerk Dr. Amanda López Askin, Chief Deputy Clerk Caroline Zamora, and Communications Coordinator Cynthia Mendoza in this episode as they review Filing Day 2024. The team reflects on the changes between last year's filing day and this year's and share insights on what to anticipate on the ballot for the 2024 Primary Election on June 4th.
Watch here: https://youtu.be/qWyAKLfvW4g
Hosted By: Amanda López Askin, Caroline Zamora, Cynthia Mendoza
Produced By: Cynthia Mendoza, Jacob Slaughter
Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
Music: 'Just Between Us' by Marshall Usinger
Red or Green? Ft. Travis Day
March 8,2024
Welcome to the latest installment of "Preserving History and Democracy!" In this episode, we delve into a New Mexico favorite... Chile! Joining Caroline, Cynthia, and Bern, Executive Director of the New Mexico Chile Association, Travis Day, discusses all things Chile. Travis sheds light on the economic and social significance of Chile in Hatch and throughout Doña Ana, along with the impact of the recent drought on the crops. Additionally, Travis highlights how the new wave of Chile farmers are adjusting to labor shortages and shares insights on how the New Mexico Chile Association addresses frauds that market Chile from other states as the New Mexico staple.
Hosted by: Caroline Zamora, Cynthia Mendoza and Bernardine Caporale
Special Guest: Travis Day
Produced by: Cynthia Mendoza, Bernardine Caporale, and Jacob Slaughter
Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
Music Credit: Stadiums by Wonderland
Bonus Episode: Double Eagle Update
March 1, 2024
Welcome to the most recent installment of "Preserving History and Democracy!" Join Caroline, Cynthia, and Bern in this episode for an exclusive update on the ghost story segment from October 2023. Bern shares exciting news about newly found documents in the vault that could reveal the secrets behind the ghost tales from Double Eagle. Plus, the ladies reveal some plans for more ghost story episodes for this season!
Clara Belle Williams Ft. Christian Valle
February 23, 2024
Join us for the newest Episode of "Preserving History and Democracy"! Our special guest, Christian Valle from KRWG public media, joins us in this episode to discuss Clara Belle Williams, the first African American Woman to enroll at New Mexico State University in 1928. As we commemorate Black History Month, we delve into the challenges and discrimination Mrs. Williams encountered, and how she overcame them to become one of the most iconic figures in New Mexico.
Hosted by: Caroline Zamora, Cynthia Mendoza and Bernardine Caporale
Special Guest: Christian Valle
Produced by: Cynthia Mendoza, Bernardine Caporale, and Jacob Slaughter
Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
Music By: Verve-Assaf Ayalon
Ovida 'Cricket' Coogler
February 16, 2024
"Preserving History and Democracy" presents an exhilarating new episode! Join Chief Deputy County Clerk, Caroline Zamora, Communications Coordinator, Cynthia Mendoza, and Producer Bernardine Caporale as they delve into the mysterious 1949 murder of young Las Cruces waitress, Ovida 'Cricket' Coogler. First, the ladies delve into Coogler's background and her upbringing challenges. Then, they discuss Coogler's sudden disappearance and the insufficient efforts made by local law enforcement to locate her. Next, they discuss some of the theories surrounding her disappearance and how the illegal activities surrounding the area at the time might have played a part in the coverup. Finally, the ladies share their final thoughts on who they believe was responsible for the murder of Ms. Coogler and the consequences that followed. This episode will have you on the edge of your seat!
Hosted By: Caroline Zamora, Cynthia Mendoza and Bernardine Caporale
Produced by: Cynthia Mendoza, Bernardine Caporale and Jacob Slaughter
Edited by: Jacob Slaughter
Music: " Aftershocks" by Ardie Son
Romance at the Rotunda
February 9, 2024
Welcome to season two of Preserving History and Democracy! This episode is all about Romance at the Rotunda, an annual event hosted by the Doña Ana County Clerk's Office in collaboration with the Probate of the County Clerk's Office on Valentine's Day. The event will allow couples to obtain their marriage license and to tie the knot at the Doña Ana County Government Center on the most romantic day of the year. Special guest, Kyanne Sherman talks to Caroline, Amanda and Cynthia about the importance of the event and how to get the process started.
Season Finale
November 3, 2023
Welcome to the season finale of Preserving History and Democracy! In this episode, Doña Ana County Clerk Dr. Amanda López Askin, Chief Deputy Clerk, Caroline Zamora, and Communications Coordinator, Cynthia Mendoza wrap up the first season of Preserving History and Democracy. First, they talk about their favorite episodes from the inaugural season, and how the podcast was made possible. Lastly, the ladies give the final update about the 2023 Regular Local Election before Election Day. You don't want to miss this episode!
The Armijo House
October 27, 2023
Welcome back to the latest episode of Preserving History and Democracy! This episode is dedicated to one of the most historic homes in Las Cruces, New Mexico, the Armijo House! In this episode, Cynthia, Caroline, Angelica, and Bernardine sit down with special guest Cyndi Armijo from the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce, to talk about the historic home. First, the ladies talk to Cyndi about her special connection to Nestor Armijo, one of the first owners of the home. Then, we go over the timeline of the home and discuss the restoration project that made it possible for the Chamber of Commerce to move in. Lastly, it wouldn't be October without some spooky tales! Cyndi tells us about some creepy happenings at the Armijo house and how you can tour the house.
Election Security Ft. Tina Barton and Justin Smith
October 23, 2023
Welcome to the latest episode of Preserving History and Democracy! In this episode, County Clerk Dr. Amanda López Askin, Chief Deputy Clerk Caroline Zamora, and Communications Coordinator Cynthia Mendoza speak to Tina Barton and Justin Smith from the Committee for Safe and Secure Elections. Justin Smith is a former Sheriff of Larimer County, Colorado, with 35 years of law enforcement experience. Tina Barton is a senior Elections Expert with the Elections Group and has over 32 years of government experience serving at the federal, county, and local levels. First, the ladies play a voicemail that Barton received during her time serving as the City Clerk of Rochester Hills in Michigan, WARNING the voicemail is explicit and contains violent and disturbing language unsuitable for children. Then, the ladies talk to Barton and Smith about ways to keep election workers safe, including the five steps to a safer election. Finally, Barton and Smith discuss the importance of a strong relationship with local law enforcement.
Spooky Tales of Doña Ana County
October 13, 2023
Welcome to the creepiest episode of Preserving History and Democracy! This episode is all about some spooky folklore tales from Doña Ana. First, Cynthia, Caroline, and special guests Bernardine, Jacob and Angelica talk about some ghost tales in one of Mesilla's most beloved restaurants, the Double Eagle. Then, they discuss one of the oldest folklore tales in New Mexican culture, the story of la llorona! Finally, the hosts explore ghost tales from the old Doña Ana County Courthouse building and interview Angelica Valenzuela, who used to work at the building. The hosts also explore creepy encounters from the current Doña Ana County Government Center.
Election Updates Pt. 2
October 6, 2023
The 2023 Regular Local Election is almost here! In this episode, Doña Ana County Clerk Amanda López Askin, Chief Deputy Clerk Caroline Zamora, and Communications Coordinator Cynthia Mendoza talk about some important dates to keep in mind as a Doña Ana County voter. The ladies talk about early voting at the Doña Ana County Government Center as well as registration deadlines. Amanda, Caroline and Cynthia also talk about the importance of having a plan to vote in this election. Check out Dacelections.com to make your plan today!
Archives Bazaar 2023
Sept 29,2023
In the latest episode of Preserving History and Democracy, Communications Coordinator, Cynthia Mendoza and editor Jacob Slaughter re-cap the 2023 Archives Bazaar! The annual event held by the Border Regional Archives Group brings several organizations together to showcase their collections of archives. Then, you'll hear some of the organizations talk about what they brought to the bazaar as well as what the archives mean to them.
Election Officials
Sep 22, 2023
This Episode of Preserving History and Democracy is all about election officials! Communications Coordinator Cynthia Mendoza, talks to Election Official Lead Karen Hernandez about what election officials do and why they are so important. Cynthia and Karen also recap National Voter Registration Day and inform listeners of the requirements to become an election official and where they can find more information on applying to become one!
National Voter Registration Day ft. Emily Burr
Sep 15, 2023
Meet our Voter Registration Lead, Emily Burr! In this episode, Cynthia and Caroline talk to Emily about her role at the Doña Ana County Clerk's office. The ladies also talk about National Voter Registration Day on September 19th and how the Clerk's office will be celebrating the big day. Next, the ladies discuss some highlights from the several voter registration drives at local High Schools that were held earlier this year. Lastly, the ladies talk about Same Day Registration and how to become a Voter Registration Agent!
Blackdom, NM: The Afro-Frontier
Sep 8, 2023
In this episode, Doña Ana County Clerk Dr. Amanda López Askin, Chief Deputy County Clerk Caroline Zamora, and County Clerk's Office Researcher Bernadine Caporale talk to Timothy E. Nelson, P.h.D., Author of Blackdom, New Mexico: The Significance of the Afro-Frontier, 1900 - 1930. They discuss the importance of the Afro-Frontier, a term coined by Dr. Nelson, along with why Frank Boyer and Daniel Keyes chose Chaves County for the Blackdom Townsite, why some Blackdom families ultimately settled in Doña Ana County, and why sovereignty was the goal of the community.
Please send any questions or feedback to dacclerk@donaanacounty.org
To learn more about the Afro-Frontier and Dr. Timothy E. Nelson's work, visit https://afrofrontier.com
Filing Day Pt. 2
Sep 01, 2023
In this episode, Cynthia and Amanda re-cap Filing Day 2023! We'll also hear from some candidates who filed to be on the ballot for the 2023 Regular Local Election! You'll also hear Amanda and Cynthia discuss some more important dates coming up.
Keeping Track
Aug 25, 2023
In this episode, Cynthia, Caroline and Bernardine keep track of how Las Cruces grew! The ladies talk about how the invention of the railroad made its way to our area and how it impacted the city as we know it today.
10 Year Anniversary
Aug 18, 2023
On August 21st, 2013, the Doña Ana County Clerk's office began issuing Marriage Licenses to same-sex couples, thanks to former County Clerk, Lynn Ellins. In this episode of Preserving History and Democracy, our Recording and Filing Supervisor, Angelica Valenzuela, reflects on a day that changed history.
Filing Day 2023
Aug 11, 2023
What is Filing Day? In this episode, Amanda and Cynthia talk about the importance of filing day and how it works. The ladies also provide some resources for questions on filing to be a candidate for the 2023 Regular Local Election.
Election Updates
Aug 4, 2023
In this episode, Cynthia and Caroline talk to Doreen Calzada, Election Staff Coordinator for the Bureau of Elections. Doreen updates us on some important upcoming dates, including filing day, and provides the official list of all Voting Convenience Centers for the 2023 Regular Local Elections.
The Faithists of Shalam Colony
Jul 28, 2023
In this episode, Cynthia, Caroline, and special guest, Bernardine, talk about some of the settlers less talked about here in Doña Ana County! This includes the Faithists of Shalam Colony. Who were the Faithists and what did we find in our vault to back up these stories? Plus, we talk about the Boers, a group from South Africa seeking refuge in Foreign Land, which included Doña Ana!
Meet Janice Giron
Jul 18, 2023
In the latest episode of Preserving History and Democracy, Caroline and Cynthia talk to to Bureau of Elections Supervisor, Janice Giron. Janice tells us what goes into running elections and what she wants the community to know about her team.
The Interns Part 1
Jul 10, 2023
In this episode, Caroline and Cynthia talk to the Interns of the Doña Ana County Clerk's Office. We talk to the interns about growing up in the age of social media, misinforamtion, why their generation is less likely to vote and what they know about elections. Plus, we'll hear about their persepective on curent events! Join us next week for part 2 on what the interns learned during their internship.
All opinions expressed by podcast participants are their own and do not reflect the opinion of the Doña Ana County Clerk's Office or Doña Ana County.
The History Behind the Name
Jun 30, 2023
In this Episode Amanda, Caroline and Cynthia discuss why Doña Ana was named Doña Ana. They discuss the two most popular theories behind the name and why these names are still significant today.
Meet Angelica Valenzuela
Jun 23, 2023
In this Episode, Caroline and Cynthia introduce Recording and Filing Supervisor, Angelica Valenzuela. They talk about her role at the Doña Ana County Clerk's Office and some of her favorite moments in her career so far!
Introducing The Preserving History and Democracy Podcast
Jun 14, 2023
Welcome to the first episode of the Preserving History and Democracy Podcast by the Doña Ana County Clerk's Office! In this episode, County Clerk Amanda López Askin, Deputy Chief, Caroline Zamora and Communications Coordinator, Cynthia Mendoza introduce themselves and the podcast. We also talk about the role that the Clerk's office plays in the Doña Ana County Community and what the office has been up to lately!
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