Welcome to a bonus episode of Preserving History and Democracy!

In this special installment, we’re joined by Sam Toles, founder of CiviSocial. Sam kicks things off by sharing his background in media and how it inspired him to create CiviSocial—a platform designed to help government agencies better connect with their communities.

He explains how CiviSocial empowers public offices to engage constituents through authentic storytelling, fostering trust and transparency. Sam also discusses how the Clerk’s Office can use social media to combat misinformation and build stronger relationships with the public.

We also dive into his experiences in Doña Ana County, and what intrigued him about the area’s unique demographics. Finally, Sam shares insights on how communication strategies should differ when reaching younger vs. older audiences.

Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on digital engagement, public trust, and the future of civic communication!

Hosted by: Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Mendoza 

Special Guest : Sam Toles 

Produced by: Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Mendoza, Jacob Slaughter

Edited by: Jacob Slaughter

Welcome to the season finale of Preserving History and Democracy! In this special episode, we’re taking a look back at some of our favorite moments from Season 4. Join us as we reflect on what we’ve learned, revisit powerful highlights, and give you a sneak peek at what’s coming next season!

Season 4 Episodes: 

Ep. 1-Romance at the Rotunda 2025

Ep. 2- Community Development Ft. Christopher Valencia

Ep.3- Romance at the Rotunda 2025 Recap

Ep. 4- Business Licenses Ft. Tammy Goodman

Ep. 5-Bureau of Elections Warehouse Ft. Nicholas Moreno

Ep. 6-St. Genevieve Ft. Rosemary Leyva

Ep. 7-Business Spotlight: Southwest Skydive

Ep. 8-Amanda López Askin & Maggie Toulouse Oliver on Women in History and Politics

Ep. 9-Ranches of Doña Ana ft. Dale Owen

Ep. 10-Indigenous History of Doña Ana County Ft. Dr. Gregorio Gonzales

Ep. 11-Office of the Probate Pt. 2 Ft. Judge Judith Baca and Johnathan Macias

Ep. 12-The Village of Doña Ana Ft. David Thomas

Ep. 13-The Mystery of Mary Waters

Ep. 14-Bellamah Homes Ft. Jerry Wallace

Ep. 15-Doña Ana Village Historic Preservation Committee Ft. Triano Jasso

Ep. 16-The Lohmans Ft. Teddie Moreno

Ep. 17-Business Spotlight: Moy Surveying

Ep. 18-Ranches to Rockets Ft. Jim Eckles (Part 1)

Ep. 19-Ranches to Rockets Ft. Jim Eckles (Part 2)

Watch Here: https://youtu.be/csvnn4hvdtE

Hosted By: Caroline Zamora, Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Mendoza 

Produced By: Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Mendoza and Jacob Slaughter

Edited By: Jacob Slaughter

Welcome to the latest episode of Preserving History and Democracy!

We’re excited to welcome back author and historian Jim Eckles for Part 2 of our Ranches to Rockets series. In this episode, Eckles continues to unravel the fascinating—and often overlooked—story of how southern New Mexico became ground zero for America’s early rocket testing.

He begins by explaining the skepticism and resistance to the concept of rockets in the early 1940s. From there, we explore how Germany quickly embraced rocketry as a weapon of war, and how the United States soon followed suit—identifying Alamogordo as a prime location for testing.

Eckles details the growing tensions as local ranchers were asked to vacate their lands, triggering protests and pushback. He also shares how the nearby city of Las Cruces initially met the project with hesitation, but gradually warmed to the idea once the economic benefits became clear.

We also meet key figures in the story, including Colonel Turner and his role in the project’s development. Eckles walks us through the dramatic highs and lows of the V-2 rocket launches, and discusses the ongoing legacy of the sounding rocket program still active at White Sands Missile Range today.

He sheds light on the fate of displaced ranchers, the government’s eventual decision to buy out the land after failed land-sharing attempts, and the contentious congressional hearings that followed when ranchers felt shortchanged by the deal. Eckles even brings historical documents to share with the hosts—offering a tangible link to this complex chapter of local history.

Finally, the episode wraps up with a thoughtful conversation about how this story remains largely unknown within Doña Ana County, and how it continues to shape the region’s identity.

Watch here: https://youtu.be/QtB0xxgOew8?si=JnARD5nxoa51sxur

Special Guest: Jim Eckles

Hosted by: Bernardine Caporale, Caroline Zamora

Produced by: Bernardine Caporale, Jacob Slaughter

Edited by: Jacob Slaughter

Welcome to the latest episode of Preserving History and Democracy! This week, we're joined by author and historian Jim Eckles for a fascinating look into the history of ranching in Doña Ana County.

Eckles begins by sharing his background and what drew him to study the region's ranching heritage. He then explores how ranching was even possible in such a desert environment, detailing the creative ways ranchers overcame harsh conditions, scarce water, and isolation.

 You'll hear about the practical challenges ranchers faced—from leasing land to the government to survive financially, to the devastating impact of droughts on cattle. Eckles also recounts the inventive solutions families used to secure running water and keep food fresh in the intense New Mexico heat.

Education was another major hurdle, and Eckles shares how ranching families made it a priority for their children despite remote locations.

 As the episode progresses, we discuss how World War II dramatically shifted the landscape: from land leases to the U.S. government in 1942 to the creation of military training centers after Pearl Harbor—and the missteps in how the transition was handled.

Finally, we look at how technology transformed the ranching lifestyle, setting the stage for Part 2, coming next week.

Don't miss this deep dive into the past—rich with personal stories, historical insight, and the enduring spirit of the American Southwest.

Watch Here: https://youtu.be/AajzJI-OtzU

Hosted by: Bernardine Caporale, Caroline Zamora

Special Guest: Jim Eckles

Produced by: Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Mendoza, Jacob Slaughter

Edited by: Jacob slaughter

Welcome to another episode of Preserving History and Democracy! In this episode, we shine a spotlight on an essential local business in Doña Ana County: Moy Surveying. Our guest, Anton Magallanez, joins us to share his personal journey, the story behind Moy Surveying, and the vital role land surveyors play in our communities.

Anton walks us through what a typical day in the life of a surveyor looks like and explains why the surveying process is so critical. He breaks down the different types of surveys, demystifies legal descriptions, and clarifies the distinction between a plat of survey and a standard plat.

We also dive into how Moy Surveying collaborates with various county departments—including Community Development and the Clerk's Office—to ensure subdivisions are accurately documented and properly developed. For homeowners wondering how to locate a copy of their property survey, Anton offers practical advice on where to look, especially if it wasn't recorded with the deed.

To wrap up, Anton reflects on the broader significance of surveying and why this work is foundational to land ownership, planning, and preserving community history.

**Disclaimer: The information provided in this episode is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. For guidance specific to your situation, please consult a qualified attorney.

Watch here: https://youtu.be/G-TX0472PIc

Hosted by: Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Mendoza 

Special guest: Anton Magallanez, Moy Surveying 

Produced by: Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Mendoza, Jacob Slaughter

Edited by: Jacob Slaughter

Welcome to another compelling episode of Preserving History and Democracy!

In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome back Teddie Moreno from the Branson Special Collections and Archives Library at New Mexico State University. Teddie begins by sharing a bit about herself and how her lifelong fascination with history naturally led to her career in archival work. Next, she delves in the the history of Martin Lohman and how he made his way to Las Cruces. 

Teddie then explains how Lohman became connected to Jacob Schaublin, a figure many of you will remember from Season 2. From there, she takes us through the story of Aminda and Martin—how they met, fell in love, and eventually started a family. We learn about the growth of the Lohman family, including the birth of their child and the early health challenges young Herbert faced, as well as the extraordinary efforts Aminda made to care for him.

The episode also touches on the heartbreak experienced by the Lohman family after the birth of their daughter, and how Martin’s own health struggles led him to seek healing in the local hot springs—a place that became central to his wellbeing.

Teddie then recounts Martin’s final days and reflects on the enduring legacy he left behind. She also shares exciting new updates about Jacob Schaublin’s family history and legacy.

Finally, Teddie closes with a heartfelt explanation of why preserving and sharing the histories of families like the Schaublins and the Lohmans is so important.

Watch Here: https://youtu.be/Ihp9ZV4aMWQ

Hosted by: Bernardine Caporale, Caroline Zamora, Cynthia Mendoza 

Special Guest: Teddie Moreno 

Produced By: Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Mendoza, Jacob Slaughter 

Edited By: Jacob Slaughter

Welcome to another episode of Preserving History and Democracy!

In this episode, we’re joined by a very special guest—Triano Jasso, secretary of the Doña Ana Village Historic Preservation Committee. Triano shares how his lifelong passion for history led him to get involved in preserving the rich heritage of Doña Ana.

We begin with an introduction to Triano and his role on the committee, followed by an inside look at the committee’s work and their efforts to keep local history alive. Triano then shares his take on how the village of Doña Ana got its name.

He also walks us through the committee’s mission statement and highlights the many community partners they’ve worked with. From there, we dive into the preservation of the village church—an important historical project—and explore the story behind the De La O Center, including Triano’s personal family connection to the site.

To wrap things up, Triano offers valuable resources and ways you can support the committee’s future projects.

Don’t miss this insightful conversation about the power of community, memory, and honoring the past to shape our future! 

Fundraiser link: Fundraiser by Dona Ana Village Historic Preservation Committee : Help Protect Doña Ana's Historic Cemetery

Watch here: https://youtu.be/jP0QjGtWryE

Hosted by: Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Mendoza

Special guest: Triano Jasso 

Produced by: Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Mendoza, Jacob Slaughter 

Edited by: Jacob Slaughter 

Welcome to another captivating episode of Preserving History and Democracy!

In this episode, we’re joined by historian Dr. Jerry Wallace as we explore the legacy of developer Dale Bellamah and the pivotal role his homes played in shaping the identity of Las Cruces.

Dr. Wallace begins by sharing what first sparked his interest in Bellamah, including a personal connection to the developer. He then traces the origins of Bellamah Homes and explains how Bellamah was ahead of his time—particularly in his innovative marketing strategies.

We’ll also unpack the concept of "translocality" and what it meant for residents living in Bellamah homes. Dr. Wallace walks us through the design of a typical Bellamah house and offers insight into how the idea of homeownership evolved during the Cold War, transforming New Mexico’s infrastructure.

He then explores the three major Bellamah developments in Las Cruces, highlighting how each differs in style and purpose. You’ll also learn about the unique influence Bellamah’s wife had on the design and function of these homes.

Finally, Dr. Wallace reflects on Dale Bellamah’s passing and the lasting legacy he left behind.

Watch here: https://youtu.be/SuBkjZyIEu0

Hosted by: Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Mendoza 

Special Guest: Jerry Wallace Ph. D. 

Produced by: Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Mendoza, Jacob Slaughter

Edited by: Jacob Slaughter

Welcome to the latest episode of PReserving History and Democracy! In this episode, we’re joined by Salvatore Patricolo, a local historian and member of the Doña Ana County Historical Society. Sal kicks things off by sharing his personal journey and what led him to Doña Ana County.

He then introduces us to the story of Mary Waters, discussing how a 'ghost story' evolved into a fascinating research project. Sal goes on to uncover who Mary Waters was, providing important context behind her life and legacy.

Next, Sal paints a vivid picture of the city during the time of Mary’s death, highlighting the significance of the landscape in understanding her story. He walks us through the fateful night of Mary’s passing, explaining the records and research he uncovered in his investigation.

Sal also delves into the aftermath of Mary’s death, revealing where she was laid to rest. He shares why uncovering the truth behind the ghost story of the old county jail became so important to him.

Later, Sal and the hosts discuss the significance of researching some of the county’s oldest graves. Sal then reflects on Mary’s lasting legacy, noting how her children thrived despite the tragedy that marked their mother's life.

Lastly, Sal gives us a peek into some research projects he has coming up. 

Watch here: https://youtu.be/fXjdQU_oxBE

Hosted by: Caroline Zamora, Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Mendoza

Special guest: Salvatore Patricolo 

Produced by: Jacob Slaughter, Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Mendoza 

Edited by: Jacob Slaughter

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 settlers. He then takes us on a journey through the history of Doña Ana's historic church, explaining how it was named and the story behind its iconic bell—a treasured gift from a neighboring village.

Next, Mr. Thomas dives into the legacy of one of the oldest courthouses in the area, uncovering its role in shaping local governance. He also discusses how the village's layout developed over time and highlights the critical importance of the community ditch, which was vital to the village’s survival.

To wrap up, Cynthia and Bern reflect on their visit to Doña Ana and the significance of preserving the stories that live on in some of the oldest corners of the county.

Watch here: https://youtu.be/aLUBDnN_MpQ?si=NyA1r6DcCGQGbeZI

Hosted by: Cynthia Mendoza, Bernardine Caporale 

Special Guest: David Thomas 

Produced by: Bernardine Caporale, Cynthia Mendoza, Jacob Slaughter 

Edited by: Jacob Slaughter