Preserving History and Democracy

Welcome to the latest installment of Preserving History and Democracy! In this episode, we’re excited to welcome back local historian David Thomas as we explore the rich past of the village of Doña Ana.

David begins by sharing the fascinating origin of the village's name and what life was like for its earliest ...

Welcome to another episode of Preserving History and Democracy!

In this episode, Bern and Cynthia are joined by Judge Judith Ann Baca from the Office of the Probate, along with Assistant County Manager Johnathan Macias.

Judge Baca begins by sharing a bit about hersel...

Welcome to the latest episode of Preserving History and Democracy! In this episode, your hosts Cynthia and Bern are joined by special guest Dr. Gregorio Gonzales, Ph.D., to explore the Indigenous history of Doña Ana County and New Mexico.

Dr. Gonzales begins by highlighting New Mexico's state song, offering a glimpse into the state's rich historical tapestry. He then takes us on a journey through the Mesilla Valley, sharing insight...

Welcome to the latest episode of Preserving History and Democracy! 

In this fascinating installment, we’re joined by Dale Owens, a historian and former rancher, who shares his extensive knowledge of some of the county’s oldest ranches.

The episode begins with a personal introduction as Mr. Owens reflec...

Welcome to the latest episode of Preserving History and Democracy! In this special conversation, County Clerk Amanda López Askin is joined by New Mexico Secretary of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver for an insightful discussion on the vital role women play in both history and politics.

They begin by exploring the un...

Welcome to the latest episode of Preserving History and Democracy! In this episode, we shine a spotlight on a local business: Southwest Skydive! Join host Bern and she talks to Cameron and Jaziel, owners of the newly established Doña Ana business, as they share the journey behind starting Southwest Skydive. They dive into how the idea for the business came to life and the steps they took to bring...

Welcome to the latest episode of Preserving History and Democracy! In this episode, we sit down with Rosemary Leyva—historian and devoted parishioner of St. Genevieve Catholic Church—who has spent years uncovering and preserving the rich history of the parish. Rosemary shares her personal journey and how her fascination with the church’s past began.

Together, we ...

Welcome to the latest episode of Preserving History and Democracy! This time, Cynthia and Bern sit down with special guest Nicholas Moreno from the Bureau of Elections Warehouse. Nick kicks things off by introducing himself and his role at the Doña Ana County Clerk's Office. He then gives us an inside look at his daily responsibilities at the warehouse and the vital work his team does to keep el...

Welcome to the latest episode of Preserving History and Democracy! In this episode, Cynthia and Bern are joined by Tammy Goodman from the Clerk's Office to discuss business licenses and the crucial role the Clerk's Office plays in ensuring businesses in the county operate legally and safely.

Tammy begins by walking us through th...

Welcome to the latest episode of Preserving History and Democracy! In this episode, Caroline and Cynthia recap the Clerk's Office annual event and share how it all came together. They start by celebrating a new record—surpassing last year’s number of couples married at the Rotunda. Then, they dive into plans for making next year’s event even more memorable. Finally, they reflect on the joy of witnessing so many couples on one of th...

Welcome to the latest episode of Preserving History and Democracy! Today, we’re joined by Christopher Valencia from the Community Development department as he shares insights into their work and collaboration with the Clerk's Office.

Christopher begins by explaining the vital role Community Development plays in the County and walks us through his daily responsibilities. He then highlights recent initiatives aimed at reducing litter...

Welcome to the latest season of Preserving History and Democracy! In this episode, we explore Romance at the Rotunda, the Clerk's Office’s annual Valentine’s Day event!

First, we sit down with Lenora Hawkins from the Clerk's Office to discuss what the event entails and how couples can participate if they’re looking to tie the knot on this special day. Then, Caroline and Cynthia are joined by Luis and Belinda, a couple who took part...

Welcome to the latest episode of Preserving History and Democracy! In this episode, Cynthia and Bern recap all the highlights from Season 3: Follow along as they talk about some of their favorite moments from the season and what they learned from their guests! 

Season 3 Episodes: 

EP1: Primary Election Recap- https://traffic.libsyn.com/48ba5409-23a1-4f7f-8e48-a5f01228e736/Edited_Audio_S3_E1.mp3

EP2: The 2024 Interns- https://traf...

Welcome to the latest episode of "Preserving History and Democracy"! In this episode, hosts Bern and Cynthia are joined by special guest Peter Kopp, Associate Professor and Director of Graduate Studies at the University of Colorado Denver. Together, they explore the fascinating legacy of New Mexico legend Fabian Garcia. Mr. Kopp begins by sharing his role at the University of Colorado and his extensive background as a historian and...

Welcome to the newest episode of "Preserving History and Democracy"! In this installment, we pick up where we left off in episode 12. Author and activist Denise Chávez continues to share her insights on the significance of historical Mesquite Street. First, Denise discusses her choice to identify as a Chicana rather than a Latina, clarifying the distinction between the two. Next, Bern presents photographs of Denise from her time in...

Welcome to the newest episode of Preserving History and Democracy! In this edition, Caroline and Cynthia provide final updates for the 2024 General Election as the big day approaches. They begin by discussing the last day for early voting and the various locations where you can cast your ballot ahead of time. Following that, they cover same-day registration and the necessary requirements to complete the process. They also share wha...

Welcome to the newest episode of Preserving History and Democracy! In this installment, we visit the Casa Camino Real Bookstore, where we are joined by author, artist, and activist Denise Chavez. Denise begins by sharing her story and the significance of her bookstore within the community. She then discusses her article in the Edible magazine, focusing on Mesquite Street and providing a historical overview of the families that shap...

Welcome to the latest episode of Preserving History and Democracy! In this installment, Caroline and Cynthia share important information about early voting in Doña Ana County. Beginning Saturday, October 19th, eight new locations will open to the public for early voting. Following that, Caroline highlights some key upcoming dates related to the election. The discussion then shifts to the secure containers available across Doña Ana ...

Welcome to the newest episode of Preserving History and Democracy! In this installment, Cynthia and Bern embark on a field trip to the Branigan Library at the NMSU campus, where they chat with Teddie Moreno and Jennifer Olguin about their unique collections. First, Teddie and Jennifer share the history of the library and its diverse collections with Cynthia and Bern. Next, they explore the Nelson funeral records and the captivating...