Losing is Democratic 2023 How to Talk to Kids About January 6th - Part Two

2024/1/5

16:51

January 6th is the three year anniversary of the attack on the U.S. Capitol. More than a thousand people have been arrested, trials continue around the country, and the events of that day still echo during the upcoming election season.

So how do we talk to kids about January 6th? Let Fina help.

MY NAME IS FINA MENDOZA. My Papa works in the U.S. Capitol. He’s a congressman. Me? I solve mysteries. I had a new case: trying to find out who stole the class pizza. 

But everything changed on January 6th. 

While Papa was voting to certify the presidential election, a bunch of angry people broke into the Capitol. They believed that someone had stolen the election. They were really, really mad. I was really, really scared. My Papa was in that building. So were the parents of a lot of my classmates. Would the angry people hurt them? Why did this happen? Would it happen again?

We talked about it in class, about how angry John Adams was when he lost the election to Thomas Jefferson and what happened next. We learned how important losing is in baseball and class competitions and elections. And how to be a gracious winner and never a sore loser. 

Oh, and I did solve the mystery of the missing pizza.

FREE curriculum for this episode available HERE.

A paperback version of this episode is available as a novella HERE. 

“Our democracy is still very much in danger, and if elections are only considered valid if your side wins, our future is indeed dim. Kitty Felde helps us convey to children that our democracy depends on all sides of an election putting their allegiance to country above party, and her book helps open the door to a discussion about the perilous events on January 6th, how to find common ground, rebuild trust, and reach across the aisle, er, playground.”

— Congressman Adam Schiff

Losing is Democratic: How to Talk to Kids About January 6th - Part One

2023/12/29

19:14

January 6th is the three year anniversary of the attack on the U.S. Capitol. More than a thousand people have been arrested, trials continue around the country, and the events of that day still echo during the upcoming election season.

So how do we talk to kids about January 6th? Let Fina help.

MY NAME IS FINA MENDOZA. My Papa works in the U.S. Capitol. He’s a congressman. Me? I solve mysteries. I had a new case: trying to find out who stole the class pizza. 

But everything changed on January 6th. 

While Papa was voting to certify the presidential election, a bunch of angry people broke into the Capitol. They believed that someone had stolen the election. They were really, really mad. I was really, really scared. My Papa was in that building. So were the parents of a lot of my classmates. Would the angry people hurt them? Why did this happen? Would it happen again?

We talked about it in class, about how angry John Adams was when he lost the election to Thomas Jefferson and what happened next. We learned how important losing is in baseball and class competitions and elections. And how to be a gracious winner and never a sore loser. 

Oh, and I did solve the mystery of the missing pizza.

FREE curriculum for this episode available HERE.

A paperback version of this episode is available as a novella HERE. 

“Our democracy is still very much in danger, and if elections are only considered valid if your side wins, our future is indeed dim. Kitty Felde helps us convey to children that our democracy depends on all sides of an election putting their allegiance to country above party, and her book helps open the door to a discussion about the perilous events on January 6th, how to find common ground, rebuild trust, and reach across the aisle, er, playground.”

— Congressman Adam Schiff

A Fina Mendoza Mysteries Christmas

2023/11/29

10:54

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol.

It's Christmas in Washington, a time to remember family traditions and Capitol Hill traditions. Fina and her sister get a very special opportunity to light the Capitol Christmas Tree. Find out more about the cast at the website.

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the books Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza and State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeakepress.org. 

Want the Facts Behind the Fiction in The Fina Mendoza Mysteries? Sign up for our free newsletter. This month, it's the facts behind the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at the U.S. Capitol.

Coming in December: Losing is Democratic: How to Talk to Kids About January 6th in paperback.

Thanksgiving 2023

2023/11/14

13:40

We celebrate Thanksgiving with Fina and the Mendoza family as they leave Washington to visit relatives in Los Angeles.  Fina worries that the curse of the Demon Cat will follow them to California. 

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol.

Writer/Producer - Kitty Felde

Our cast includes:  

Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza 

Monica Vigil - Gabby 

Raul Garza - Papa 

Christine Avila - Abuelita

Imelda Hinojosa - Tia Catalina

Rachel Desztich - Tia Margarita 

Brian Bland - Veteran

Steve DeVorkin - Senator Something 

Associate Producer - Hannah Matzecki 

Associate Sound Designer - Hunter Felde 

Music Composed and Performed - Andrew Barkan 

Logo Designer - Imelda Hinojosa      

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the award-winning book series. The latest title Bienvenida a Washington Fina Mendoza by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press is available wherever great books are sold. It's the Spanish language version of Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza.

Get your copy now!

You can find out more at our website.

Find out  in The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast. 

Want to know the facts behind the fiction in The Fina Mendoza Mysteries? Sign up for our newsletter.

Celebrating Dia de los Muertos

2023/10/13

08:14

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol...and teaching civics along the way.

Join the Mendoza family as they celebrate not only Halloween, but also Dia de los Muertos. 

Here's a link to the FREE curriculum for this episode.

You'll find more eductional materials on our Facts Behind the Fiction blog at the website. 

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are based on the novels WELCOME TO WASHINGTON FINA MENDOZA and STATE OF THE UNION, written by Kitty Felde.

Season 1 Episode 8 - Case Closed!

2023/7/27

19:36

Fina ties up loose ends in the case of the mystery of the Demon Cat of Capitol Hill and experiences her first Christmas in Washington, DC.

Writer/Producer - Kitty Felde

Our cast includes:  

Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza 

Monica Vigil - Gabby 

Raul Garza - Papa 

Laura Stegman - Congresswoman Mitchell

Imelda Hinojosa - Tia Catalina

Steve Gamber - John the Staffer

Linda Graves - Claudia

Paul Cummings - Carl Jefferson

Wenzel Jones - Statue of Caesar Rodney

Elizabeth Logun - DC the Cat

Terry Marks Tarlow - Mistress of Ceremonies

Steve DeVorkin - Speaker of the House and Senator Something 

One more thank you to one of our carolers Melanie Newkirk. Melanie passed away shortly after we taped this scene and we wanted to dedicate this episode to her.

Associate Producer - Hannah Matzecki 

Associate Sound Designer - Hunter Felde 

Music Composed and Performed - Andrew Barkan 

Logo Designer - Imelda Hinojosa      

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the award-winning book series. You can purchase an autographed copy of Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza or the Spanish language version Bienvenida a Washington Fina Mendoza from our friends at Village Well Books & Coffee by clicking HERE.

You can find out more at the website chesapeakepress.org.

Sign up for our FREE Facts Behind the Fiction blog with real information about the facts in the story HERE.

Season 1 Episode 7 - Thanksgiving in California

2023/7/20

16:57

The Mendoza family heads to Los Angeles to celebrate Thanksgiving. Fina worries that the curse of the Demon Cat will follow them to California. 

Writer/Producer - Kitty Felde

Our cast includes:  

Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza 

Monica Vigil - Gabby 

Raul Garza - Papa 

Christine Avila - Abuelita

Imelda Hinojosa - Tia Catalina

Rachel Desztich - Tia Margarita 

Brian Bland - Veteran

Steve DeVorkin - Senator Something 

Associate Producer - Hannah Matzecki 

Associate Sound Designer - Hunter Felde 

Music Composed and Performed - Andrew Barkan 

Logo Designer - Imelda Hinojosa      

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the award-winning book series. You can purchase an autographed copy of Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza or the Spanish language version Bienvenida a Washington Fina Mendoza from our friends at Village Well Books & Coffee by clicking HERE.

You can find out more at the website chesapeakepress.org.

Sign up for our FREE Facts Behind the Fiction blog with real information about the facts in the story HERE.

Season 1 Episode 6 - "Cat"astrophe!

2023/7/13

17:56

Fina continues to investigate the history of cats in the U.S. Capitol. Papa returns to Washington for a family meal. But then catastrophe strikes. Can the Demon Cat be to blame?

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is written and produced by Kitty Felde

Our cast includes:

Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza

Monica Vigil - Gabby

Raul Garza - Papa

Mat Kaplan - House Historian

Steve Gamber - John the Staffer

Brian Bland - Capitol Tour Guide

Rosalie Fox - Veterinarian

Steve DeVorkin - Senator Something

Our tour kids are Michael Beemer, India Scaglione, and Myca Scaglione

Associate Producer - Hannah Matzecki 

Associate Sound Designer - Hunter Felde 

Music Composed and Performed - Andrew Barkan 

Logo Designer - Imelda Hinojosa      

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the award-winning book series. You can purchase an autographed copy of Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza or the Spanish language version Bienvenida a Washington Fina Mendoza from our friends at Village Well Books & Coffee by clicking HERE.

You can find out more at the website chesapeakepress.org.

Sign up for our FREE Facts Behind the Fiction blog with real information about the facts in the story HERE.

Season 1 Episode 5 - You Guys Need to Get Out of the House

2023/7/6

16:24

Fina and Gabby join Claudia at the National Zoo where Fina gathers clues. The Mendoza sisters also celebrate Dia de los Muertos - the Day of the Dead. And Fina comes up with a plan.

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is written and produced by Kitty Felde

Our cast includes:

Amy Solano as Fina Mendoza

Monica Vigil as Gabby

Linda Graves as Claudia

Christine Avila as Abuelita

And Steve DeVorkin as Senator Something

Associate Producer - Hannah Matzecki 

Associate Sound Designer - Hunter Felde 

Music Composed and Performed - Andrew Barkan 

Logo Designer - Imelda Hinojosa       

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the award-winning book series. You can purchase an autographed copy of Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza or the Spanish language version Bienvenida a Washington Fina Mendoza from our friends at Village Well Books & Coffee by clicking HERE.

You can find out more at the website chesapeakepress.org.

Season 1 Episode 4 - We Need Brownies

2023/6/29

19:45

It's the return of Fina Mendoza!

To celebrate the re-release of the book that inspired the podcast: Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza (Chesapeake Press) in English AND Spanish, listen to how it all began. Here's a hint of what's to come.

Fina and Gabby get ready for Halloween without Papa and Abuelita. Fina discovers some of the backstory of the Demon Cat of Capitol Hill. 

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is written and produced by Kitty Felde. 

Our cast includes: 

Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza 

Monica Vigil - Gabby

Christine Avila - Abuelita 

 Raul Garza – Papa 

Elizabeth Logun - Librarian

Imelda Hinojosa - Tia Catalina

Associate Producer - Hannah Matzecki 

Associate Sound Designer - Hunter Felde 

Music Composed and Performed - Andrew Barkan 

Logo Designer - Imelda Hinojosa      

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the award-winning book series. You can purchase an autographed copy of Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza or the Spanish language version Bienvenida a Washington Fina Mendoza from our friends at Village Well Books & Coffee by clicking HERE.

Sign up for the Facts Behind the Fiction newsletter and get the free teacher's guide to Fina Mendoza at the website chesapeakepress.org.

Season 1 Episode 3 - The Curse of the Demon Cat

2023/6/22

17:41

It's the return of Fina Mendoza!

To celebrate the re-release of the book that inspired the podcast: Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza (Chesapeake Press) in English AND Spanish, listen to how it all began. Here's a hint of what's to come.

Bad luck seems to haunt the Mendoza family. Fina is convinced that the mythical Demon Cat of Capitol Hill is to blame. Fina starts detecting and discovers an important clue.

Writer/Producer - Kitty Felde

Our cast includes:  

Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza 

Monica Vigil - Gabby 

Raul Garza - Papa 

Susan Valot - Ms. Greenwood

Linda Graves - Claudia 

India Scaglione - Becka   

William Beemer - Michael 

Susan Valot - Ms. Greenwood 

Steve Gamber - John the Staffer 

Steve DeVorkin - Senator Something 

Associate Producer - Hannah Matzecki 

Associate Sound Designer - Hunter Felde 

Music Composed and Performed - Andrew Barkan 

Logo Designer - Imelda Hinojosa      

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the award-winning book series. You can purchase an autographed copy of Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza or the Spanish language version Bienvenida a Washington Fina Mendoza from our friends at Village Well Books & Coffee by clicking HERE.

Sign up for the Facts Behind the Fiction newsletter and get the free teacher's guide to Fina Mendoza at the website chesapeakepress.org.

Season 1 Episode 2 - If You Want a Friend in Washington

2023/6/15

16:58

It's the return of Fina Mendoza!

To celebrate the re-release of the book that inspired the podcast: Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza (Chesapeake Press) in English AND Spanish, listen to how it all began. Here's a hint of what's to come.

Fina meets a new friend and gets a new job and a new identity: lady detective. 

Writer/Producer - Kitty Felde

Our cast includes: 

Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza 

Monica Vigil - Gabby 

Raul Garza - Papa 

Linda Graves - Claudia 

India Scaglione - Becka   

William Beemer - Michael 

Susan Valot - Ms. Greenwood 

Steve Gamber - John the Staffer 

Steve DeVorkin - Senator Something 

Associate Producer - Hannah Matzecki 

Associate Sound Designer - Hunter Felde 

Music Composed and Performed - Andrew Barkan 

Logo Designer - Imelda Hinojosa      

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the award-winning book series. You can purchase an autographed copy of Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza or the Spanish language version Bienvenida a Washington Fina Mendoza from our friends at Village Well Books & Coffee by clicking HERE.

Sign up for the Facts Behind the Fiction newsletter and get the free teacher's guide to Fina Mendoza at the website chesapeakepress.org.

Season 1 Episode 1 - Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza

2023/6/8

18:57

It's the return of Fina Mendoza!

To celebrate the re-release of the book that inspired the podcast: Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza (Chesapeake Press) in English AND Spanish, listen to how it all began. Here's a hint of what's to come.

Meet Fina Mendoza. She spends her after school hours in the U.S. Capitol where her father is a congressman. While hunting down a lost sweatshirt in the Capitol Crypt, Fina stumbles over a mysterious creature. Is it the ghost of George Washington? Or perhaps the Demon Cat of Capitol Hill? 

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is written and produced by Kitty Felde. 

Our cast includes: 

Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza 

Raul Garza – Papa 

Christine Avila - Abuelita 

Linda Graves - Claudia 

Melanie MacQueen - Capitol Policewoman 

Wenzel Jones - Statue of Caesar Rodney

Elizabeth Logun - Demon Cat 

Members of Congress - Alan Canterbury, Stephanie Zielonka, Joanie Anglin, and Tad Daley 

Associate Producer - Hannah Matzecki 

Associate Sound Designer - Hunter Felde 

Music Composed and Performed - Andrew Barkan 

Logo Designer - Imelda Hinojosa       

Special thanks this week to Matt Lazlo and his interns Ben Morse and Eva Hofman. And thanks to Village Green. 

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the award-winning book series. You can purchase an autographed copy of Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza or the Spanish language version Bienvenida a Washington Fina Mendoza from our friends at Village Well Books & Coffee by clicking HERE.

Sign up for the Facts Behind the Fiction newsletter and get the free teacher's guide to Fina Mendoza at the website chesapeakepress.org.

Trailer for Season One of Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza

2023/6/1

02:09

It's the return of Fina Mendoza!

To celebrate the re-release of the book that inspired the podcast: Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza (Chesapeake Press) in English AND Spanish, listen to how it all began. Here's a hint of what's to come.

The State of the Union Address 2023

2023/1/30

16:33

On Tuesday night, February 7th, members of Congress from the House and Senate will hear a speech from President Biden about the State of the Union. Our Founding Fathers thought the annual speech to Congress was so important, they put it in the Constitution.

But what IS the State of the Union address? And what's it like to be inside the U.S. Capitol, sitting in the House Gallery, above the lawmakers and Supreme Court Justices and the cabinet? 

In this special bonus episode of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries, we take you to the State of the Union address where a mysterious bird disrupts the speech.

Want to know more about the history of the State of the Union address? Or the rebuttal speech? Check out our Facts Behind the Fiction blog.

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol.

Kitty Felde is writer producer.

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Cast:

Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza

Christine Avila - Abuelita

Steven Cuevas - Papa

Linda Graves - Claudia

Mark Bramhall - President of the United States

Losing is Democratic: Explaining January 6th to Kids

2023/1/5

18:03

How do you explain the events of January 6th to children?

This special Fina Mendoza Mysteries episode is designed to help parents and teachers talk to young people about the attack on the U.S. Capitol two years ago and what larger lessons can be learned.

FREE curriculum for this episode can be downloaded here.

There is a NEW e-book version of Losing is Democratic available for 99 cents on Amazon.

The episode takes place on January 6th, 2021, in a zoom classroom, meeting remotely because of the pandemic. Our 10-year-old detective Fina Mendoza, the daughter of a congressman, has a new mystery to solve: who stole the 5th grade's pizza, a prize for the winner of a reading competition with the 4th grade?

Fina and her classmates have parents who work in the U.S. Capitol and they learn of the attack during class. Their teacher, Miss Greenwood, helps them understand the events in a larger context. They discuss the electoral process, George Washington's decision not to run for a third term, traditional post-game high fives in baseball, and how John Adams and Thomas Jefferson found a way to reconciliation after a particularly nasty election.

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are based on a series of novels by Kitty Felde, including Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza and State of the Union, published by Chesapeake Press and can be ordered at your local library, Amazon, or your favorite indie bookstore.

KItty Felde covered Capitol Hill for public radio for nearly a decade. She used to explain how Congress works to grownups. Now, she explains it to children.

Thanksgiving 2022

2022/11/15

13:40

We celebrate Thanksgiving with Fina and the Mendoza family as they leave Washington to visit relatives in Los Angeles.  Fina worries that the curse of the Demon Cat will follow them to California. 

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol.

Writer/Producer - Kitty Felde

Our cast includes:  

Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza 

Monica Vigil - Gabby 

Raul Garza - Papa 

Christine Avila - Abuelita

Imelda Hinojosa - Tia Catalina

Rachel Desztich - Tia Margarita 

Brian Bland - Veteran

Steve DeVorkin - Senator Something 

Associate Producer - Hannah Matzecki 

Associate Sound Designer - Hunter Felde 

Music Composed and Performed - Andrew Barkan 

Logo Designer - Imelda Hinojosa      

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the award-winning book series. The latest title State of the Union, published by Chesapeake Press is available wherever great books are sold.

You can find out more at our website finamendozamysteries.com.

Find out  in The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast. 

Want to know the facts behind the fiction in The Fina Mendoza Mysteries? Sign up for our newsletter.

Dia de los Muertos

2022/10/25

08:30

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol.

Join the Mendoza family as they celebrate not only Halloween, but also Dia de los Muertos. 

Here's a link to curriculum for the episode.

You'll find more eductional materials on our Facts Behind the Fiction blog at the website. 

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are written and produced by Kitty Felde.

Our cast includes: 

Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza

Monica Vigil - Monica

Christine Avila - Abuelita

Hannah Matzecki is our associate producer. Our music is by composer and musician Andrew Barkan. Our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa. 

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are based on the books State of the Union and Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza by Kitty Felde.

Don't forget to rate and review!

Let Kids Vote! Part Two

2022/10/18

19:34

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol.

It’s a new school year for Fina Mendoza, another year of distance learning. Her teacher assigns a Genius Project, letting students pick the topic they’d like to research and present to the class. Since it's an election year and Fina’s congressman father is back in California campaigning for re-election, Fina decides to research voting. Specifically, letting kids younger than 18 cast a ballot.

Real-life Congressman Mark Takano of Riverside, California zooms  with the class to answer questions about youth voting. 

There is also a mystery to be solved: who broke into their classroom, ransacking the backpacks and rifling the teacher’s desk. Fina consults with her detecting partner, a giant orange dog named Senator Something, and talks her sister into accompanying her on a field trip to see if her hunch about the culprit is correct.

There is FREE curriculum for this episode. And if you want to know the history of lowering the voting age, check out our Facts Behind the Fiction blog.

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are  written and produced by Kitty Felde

Our cast includes:

Amy Solano as Fina Mendoza

Monica Vigil as Gabby

 Susan Valot appears as Ms. Greenwood

India Scalione plays Becka

Eddie Pike plays Michael and

Myka Scalione plays Margaret

Laura Stegman appears as Congresswoman Mitchell

And Steve DeVorkin is Senator Something

Hannah Matzecki is our associate producer. Our music is by composer and musician Andrew Barkan. Our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa. 

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are based on the books State of the Union and Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza by Kitty Felde.

Let Kids Vote! Part One

2022/10/11

20:23

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol.

It’s a new school year for Fina Mendoza, another year of distance learning. Her teacher assigns a Genius Project, letting students pick the topic they’d like to research and present to the class. Since it's an election year and Fina’s congressman father is back in California campaigning for re-election, Fina decides to research voting. Specifically, letting kids younger than 18 cast a ballot.

Real-life Congressman Mark Takano of Riverside, California zooms  with the class to answer questions about youth voting. 

There is also a mystery to be solved: who broke into their classroom, ransacking the backpacks and rifling the teacher’s desk. Fina consults with her detecting partner, a giant orange dog named Senator Something, and talks her sister into accompanying her on a field trip to see if her hunch about the culprit is correct.

There is FREE curriculum for this episode. And if you want to know the history of lowering the voting age, check out our Facts Behind the Fiction blog.

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are  written and produced by Kitty Felde

Our cast includes:

Amy Solano as Fina Mendoza

Monica Vigil as Gabby

 Susan Valot appears as Ms. Greenwood

India Scalione plays Becka

Eddie Pike plays Michael and

Myka Scalione plays Margaret

Laura Stegman appears as Congresswoman Mitchell

And Steve DeVorkin is Senator Something

Hannah Matzecki is our associate producer. Our music is by composer and musician Andrew Barkan. Our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa. 

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are based on the books State of the Union and Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza by Kitty Felde.

Coming this week: Let Kids Vote!

2022/10/8

00:33

Just in time for the November elections, we're re-releasing our special 2-part election episode of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries. It's called "Let Kids Vote."

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol.

Free curriculum for this episode.

Meet Steve DeVorkin who plays Senator Something and Fr. Andrew

2022/10/4

10:19

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol.

Actor Steve DeVorkin channels our big orange dog Senator Something on the show. But this season, he also tackles another role: the House Chaplain Fr. Andrew.

Find out more about the cast at the website.

Find out the facts behind the fiction in The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast. 

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. That newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Meet Fina Mendoza, Actress Amy Solano

2022/9/27

11:36

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol.

Actress Amy Solano plays Fina Mendoza. And here's a secret: she's not really a 10-year-old girl.

Find out more about the cast at the website.

Find out the facts behind the fiction in The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast. 

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. That newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Meet Gabby Mendoza, played by Monica Vigil

2022/9/20

10:02

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol.

In real life, actress Monica Vigil is a brand new third grade teacher. On The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast, she plays Fina Mendoza's older sister Gabby. Monica talks about her character in Season 2 and her real-life relationship with actress Amy Solano who plays Fina. 

Find out more about the cast at the website.

Find out the facts behind the fiction in The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast. 

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. That newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Steven Cuevas on Papa the Congressman

2022/9/13

10:57

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol.

Steven Cuevas spends much of his time as a public radio journalist, interviewing politicians. In The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast, he plays a politician, Congressman Arturo Mendoza of California's 34th congressional district. Steven talks to writer/producer Kitty Felde about his character and real-life politicians LA City Attorney Mike Feuer and LA Mayor Eric Garcetti.

Want to know the Facts Behind the Fiction in The Fina Mendoza Mysteries? Check out our blog.

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Meet Abuelita: Actress Christina Avila

2022/9/6

09:48

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol.

There are two Fina in the Mendoza household: Fina, the 10-year-old detective in the U.S. Capitol, and her grandmother Abuelita. Actress Christine Avila brings Abuelita to life. Meet her in this bonuse episode.

Want to know the Facts Behind the Fiction in The Fina Mendoza Mysteries? Check out our blog.

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Season 2 Episode 18 - SEASON FINALE - The Message from Chickcharney

2022/8/30

15:42

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol.

In Episode 18, all of Washington is talking about the capture of the Burrowing Owl that pooped on the president during the State of the Union address. But not about Fina. Papa's political fundraiser with LA food trucks seems to be a huge success. And Fina gets a very special letter.

Want to know the Facts Behind the Fiction in this episode? This week, we highlight some of the more creative political fundraising events over the years.

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are written and produced by Kitty Felde.

Our cast includes:

Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza

Monica Vigil - Gabby

Christine Avila - Abuelita

Steven Cuevas - Congressman Arturo Mendoza

Tamika Katon Donegal - Monica

Waiter - Wenzel Jones

Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa.

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. Autographed copies of State of the Union are available for purchase at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. That newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Season 2 Episode 17 - Beware the Rayburn Garage

2022/8/23

14:49

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol.

In Episode 17, Fina and her loyal canine companion Senator Something track down Chickcharney in one of the U.S. Capitol's  parking garages. But will Fina learn the bird's secret message?

Want to know the Facts Behind the Fiction in this episode? This week, we explain what's up with the construction in the Rayburn Garage.

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are written and produced by Kitty Felde.

Our cast includes:

Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza

Monica Vigil - Gabby

Christine Avila - Abuelita

Steven Cuevas - Congressman Arturo Mendoza

Tamika Katon Donegal - Monica

Construction Worker - Daniel Leslie

Steve Devorkin - Senator Something

Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa.

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Season 2 Episode 16 - It's All Happening at the Zoo

2022/8/16

16:22

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol.

In Episode 16, Fina's investigation takes her to the National Zoo where she finds out more about the Burrowing Owls. But Fina's client Monica suffers a major setback.

Want to know the Facts Behind the Fiction in this episode? This week, we explain Congressional Subpeonas.

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are written and produced by Kitty Felde.

Our cast includes:

Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza

Steven Cuevas - Congressman Arturo Mendoza

Linda Graves - Claudia

Elizabeth Logun - Bird Lady

Tamika Katon Donegal - Monica

Steve Devorkin - Senator Something

Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa.

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Season 2 Episode 15 - Abuelita Come Home!

2022/8/9

13:53

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol.

Fina uses her detecting skills to help her father find her grandmother who has run away from home. Their search takes them to a church basement kitchen. 

Want to know more about the Facts Behind the Fiction? This week, our blog takes a look at a Congressional Work Week. How much does Congress really work?

Our cast includes:

Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza

Steven Cuevas - Papa

Christina Avila - Abuelita

Monica Vigil - Gabby

Imelda Hinojosa - Tia Catalina

Steve Devorkin - Father Andrew

Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa. 

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Season 2 Episode 14 - Solving the Mysteries of Fractions and Chickcharney

2022/8/2

16:24

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol.

Fina discovers some important clues about the mysterious bird that pooped on the president. Her teacher helps her solve some difficult math problems. And Fina tries to solve the mysteries of dogs.

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are written and produced by Kitty Felde.

In Episode 14, Congressman Arturo Mendoza scolds his mother for participating in an immigration protest at the U.S. Capitol - and then going on TV to talk about it. This at a time when he has been appointed to a bipartisan group negotiating immigration reform legislation. He also refers to the Minority Leader as his “boss.”

Who is the boss in Congress? Read more about leadership in Congress in our Facts Behind the Fiction blog.

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Our cast includes:

Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza

Susan Valot - Ms. Greenwood

India Scalione - Becka

Ian Muchuri - Michael

Mark Muchuri - Brian

Myka Scalione - Margaret

Leo Schodorf - Mason

Isla Schodorf - Cara

Laura Stegman - Congresswoman Mitchell

Elizabeth Logun - St. Sebastian

Steve DeVorkin - Father Andrew and Senator Something.

Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa.

Season 2 Episode 13 - Family Feud

2022/7/26

19:00

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol.

Fina's father and grandmother have an enormous fight with serious consequences. And there's nothing Fina can do about it.

In Episode 13, Congressman Arturo Mendoza scolds his mother for participating in an immigration protest at the U.S. Capitol - and then going on TV to talk about it.

Is it illegal for the relative of a member of Congress to protest in front of the U.S. Capitol?

Click HERE to read about the rules about relatives in Congress in our Facts Behind the Fiction blog.

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org.

Sign up for our Facts Behind the Fiction newsletter with civics information for every episode. 

That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of the Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Our cast includes:

Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza

Christine Avila - Abuelita

Monica Vigil - Gabby

Imelda Hinojosa - Tia Catalina

Steven Cuevas - Papa

Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa. 

Season 2 Episode 12 - Protesting 101

2022/7/19

13:04

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol.

Fina's grandmother takes her to a meeting where an immigration reform protest is being organized. Abuelita's activism results in a major dispute with her son, Congressman Arturo Mendoza after she's nearly arrested outside the U.S. Capitol.

Protests outside the U.S. Capitol are nothing new. 

Click HERE to read about the history of protests outside the U.S. Capitol in our Facts Behind the Fiction blog.

Cast:

Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza

Christine Avila - Abuelita

Monica Vigil - Gabby

Adolfo Guzman Lopez - Flip

Claudi Peschuita - Vicki

Bill Chappelle - Protest Coach

Alexandra Bank - TV Reporter

Steve DeVorkin - Fr. Andrew and Senator Something

Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa.

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Season 2 Episode 11 - Chickcharney!

2022/7/12

09:23

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol.

Fina is on the hunt for Chickcharney in the basement of the U.S. Capitol, but the hunt leads to some serious consequences.

In Episode 11 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast, Fina is  wandering around the tunnel that connects the U.S. Capitol with the House office buildings and says:

“That’s funny. I never noticed that before. One side of the Cannon tunnel has all that high school art. They’re not very good. Oh, that one is! But on the other wall, there’s nothing but giant pipes, all painted white. I guess nobody notices the ugly wall because you’re too busy looking at the paintings.”

Click HERE to read about how a high school artist can have their work displayed inside the U.S. Capitol in our Facts Behind the Fiction blog.

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are written and produced by Kitty Felde.

Our cast includes:

Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza

Tamika Katanon-Donegal - Monica

Melanie Macqueen - the policewoman

Gordon brooks and Joanie Anglin - staffers

Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, Our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa.

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Every week, our newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. This week, it’s the Congressional Art Competition and we’ll tell you how your high schooler can have their work displayed in the U.S. Capitol.

S2; EPISODE 10 - No More Church Shopping

2022/7/5

14:18

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol.

The Mendoza family finally find a church that feels like home. And Abuelita finds a new community of activists. And Gabby gets her phone back.

Meanwhile, Fina is not happy with her new detecting partner St. Sebastian. He's a bird dog and easily distracted. But Fina has a breakthrough in her investigation of the bird that pooped on the head of the President.

In Episode 10 of Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries, Abuelita insisted that the family attend mass at a new church. 

Is that church real? What's the history of the Catholic Church in Washington, D.C.? 

Read all about Catholics in Washington HERE in our Facts Behind the Fiction blog.

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Our cast includes:

Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza

Christine Avila - Abuelita

Monica Vigil - Gabby

Steven Cuevas - Papa

Linda Graves - Claudia

Steve DeVorkin - Fr. Andrew

Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa. The song “All Are Welcome” by Marty Haugen is used by permission of GIA Publications. Our church choir was led by Rosalie Huntington and Julie Pritikin. And special thanks to Katherine LaVictoire for her clarinet contribution.

BONUS EPISODE: LOSING IS DEMOCRATIC: How to Talk to Your Kids About January 6th

2022/7/1

29:21

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol.

After the attack on the Capitol on January 6th of last year, we saw the need to help parents and teachers talk to kids about what happened – without scaring them half to death, and to put the insurrection in some sort of historic context that kids could understand. We created a special episode called LOSING IS DEMOCRATIC with FREE curriculum that can be used in the classroom. We taped the episode during the pandemic when kids were learning remotely.

Now with the televised congressional hearings looking at the January 6th attack, we’ve again heard from parents looking for ways to have a conversation about January 6th with their kids. We're re-releasing the episode now.

There is also an ebook version of the episode available for 99 cents.

S2; EPISODE 9 - Bird Dogs and Instagram

2022/6/28

16:22

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol.

Fina enlists the help of an expert as she continues the search for the bird that pooped on the President: a bird dog. Meanwhile, Gabby's in the doghouse for posting selfies on Instagram.

In episode 9 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries, Fina and her family spot a familiar face at Sunday mass: the House Chaplain.

Who's the House Chaplain? How Long have we had one?

Click HERE to read more about the House Chaplain in our Facts Behind the Fiction blog.

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza

Christine Avila - Abuelita

Monica Vigil - Gabby

Steven Cuevas - Papa

Elizabeth Logun - St. Sebastian

Mindy Shaw - the zoo intern

Steve DeVorkin - Fr. Andrew and Senator Something

Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa.

S2; EPISODE 8 - Snowmozilla!

2022/6/21

16:25

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol.

All of Washington is shut down for the storm of the century. Meanwhile, Californians Fina and her sister Gabby learn the joys...and the downsides of snow.

In Episode 8 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries, Fina asks:

Is there anything in the paper about the bird that pooped on the president, Papa?

PAPA: Not a word. The news cycle has moved on.

What's a news cycle?

Click HERE to read more about the News Cycle in our Facts Behind the Fiction blog.

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza

Monica Vigil - Gabby

Steven Cuevas - Papa

Christine Avila - Abuelita

Laura Segal - Congresswoman Mitchell

Mindy Shaw - the voice on the zoo recording

Susan Valot - Ms. Greenwood

India Scalione - Becka

Ian Muchiri - Michael

Mark Muchiri - Brian, Mica Scalione - Margaret

Leo Schodorf - Mason

Isla Schodorf - Cara

Steve DeVorkin - Senator Something

Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa. And special thanks to Katherine LaVictoire for her clarinet contribution and Steven Leigh Morris for the sounds of snow.

S2; EPISODE 7 - Bird Myths

2022/6/14

14:36

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol.

Fina continues her investigation into finding the bird that pooped on the President. And she gets a new client: the dog that belongs to the House Chaplain. Meanwhile, Washington DC and the Mendoza family prepare for a blizzard.

In Episode 7, Fina’s sister Gabby suggests that she do some bird research at the website of the Audubon Society. Fina stumbles upon an article that says if a bird poops on your head, it's supposed to be good luck.

What are some common bird myths?

Click HERE to read more about bird myths in our Facts Behind the Fiction blog.

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza

Monica Vigil - Gabby

Steven Cuevas - Congressman Mendoza

Christine Avila - Abuelita

Elizabeth Logun - St. Sebastian

Alexandra Bank - Mary Louise Guffey

Tad Daley - the anchor

Bill Case - Memphis the weatherman

Steve DeVorkin - Fr. Andrew and Senator Something

Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our theme music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa. Special thanks to musician Anny Celci for sharing Little Black Dress with us and Kevin Pike for sharing his  news theme composition.

S5; EPISODE 6 - Gang of Eight

2022/6/7

14:37

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol.

Fina is still on the hunt for the bird that pooped on the President.

Fina's father was just named to a bipartisan group of lawmakers to come up with an immigration bill. Unfortunately, Senator Something wasn't invited, but he manages to disrupt the press conference announcing the group. Meanwhile, Fina's older sister Gabby is fighting with their grandmother over a dance and a dress code.

What's the latest on immigration reform in Congress?

Click HERE to read more about the House Chaplain in our Facts Behind the Fiction blog.

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza

Steven Cuevas - Congressman Mendoza

Christine Avila - Abuelita

Monica Vigil - Gabby

Ellie Song - Congresswoman Woo

Claudia Peschiutta - Vicki

Linda Graves - Claudia

Steve DeVorkin - Senator Something.

Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our theme music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa.

S2; EPISODE 5 - Eagles Everywhere

2022/5/31

19:42

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol.

All of Washington is on the hunt for the bird that pooped on the President - including Fina Mendoza. Social media is having a field day. There's even a hashtag: PoopOnPOTUS. 

In episode 5 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast, everyone assumes the bird that pooped on the President is an eagle. Fina’s 4th grade class is even assigned a homework project: find all the eagles in Washington, DC.

Where are all the eagles in Washington?

Click HERE to read more about the eagles in the U.S. Capitol in our Facts Behind the Fiction blog.

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza

Steven Cuevas - Congressman Mendoza

Monica Vigil - Gabby

Christine Avila - Abuelita

Tamika Katon-Donegal - Monica

Linda Graves - Claudia

Ken Rudin and Garrett Brown - the political pundits

Kevin Carr - Eagle Burger commercial announcer

Susan Valot Ms. Greenwood

Ian Kunithia - Michael

India Scalione - Becka

Mica Scalione - Margaret

Leo Schodorf - Mason

Isla Schodorf - Cara

Elizabeth Logun - Chickcharney

Gordon Brooks - the policeman on the walkie talkie

Steve DeVorkin - Senator Something

Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our theme music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa.

S2; EPISODE 4 - State of the Union Speeches and other Squawking

2022/5/24

16:35

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol.

A mysterious bird poops on the president's head during the State of the Union address and Fina and her grandmother are up in the House Gallery, watching when it happens. Papa gives the State of the Union rebuttal speech about immigration reform. The House Minority Leader gives a party. Kitty Felde is writer producer.

In Episode 4, after the President delivers his State of the Union speech to Congress, Papa delivers the rebuttal in Spanish.

What is the rebuttal speech?

Click HERE to read more about the evolution of the State of the Union rebuttal speech in our Facts Behind the Fiction blog.

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Cast:

Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza

Christine Avila - Abuelita

Steven Cuevas - Papa

Linda Graves - Claudia

Mark Bramhall - President of the United States

Rosalie Huntington - Minority Leader

Ian Kunithia -Michael

Wenzel Jones - Waiter

DeeDee Chapelle - Stage Manager

Music in the party scene composed and perfomed by Kevin Pike.

Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our theme music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa.

S2; EPISODE 3 - Pigeon Peas and Sewing Lessons

2022/5/17

10:53

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol.

Fina decides to take the case of the mysterious Chickcharney... maybe it has a secret message for her!

In Episode 3, Papa proposes an idea for a fundraiser for his re-election campaign. “It takes a lot of money to run for Congress,” he says. 

How much does it cost to run for Congress?

Click HERE to read more about the House Chaplain in our Facts Behind the Fiction blog.

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Our cast includes: 

Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza

Tamika Katon-Donegal - Monica

Steven Cuevas - Papa

Monica Vigil - Gabby

Steve DeVorkin - Senator Something.

Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa.

S2; EPISODE 2 - Senator Something Joins the Hunt

2022/5/10

13:53

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol.

Fina's grandmother finally arrives in Washington, but she seems more excited about seeing a statue of her hero: Ronald Reagan. Meanwhile, Fina enlists the talents of her detecting partner, a big orange dog named Senator Something.

Abuelita wants is a picture with that statue of Ronald Reagan. He was the president who signed into law IRCA, the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 - the last time Congress passed major immigration reform. “It’s because of him that I became an American citizen and your father became a congressman,” she says.

What is IRCA?

Click HERE to read more about the 1986 immigration reform bill in our Facts Behind the Fiction blog.

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are written and produced by Kitty Felde.

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Cast:

Fina - Amy Solano

Papa - Steven Cuevas

Gabby - Monica Vigil

Abuelita - Christine Avila

Driver - Paul Cummings

Becka - India Scalione

Michael - Ian Kinuthia

Congresswoman Mitchell - Laura Stegman

John the Staffer - Steve Gamber

Senator Something - Steve DeVorkin

NEW SEASON Episode 1:The Bird with the Lizard Tail

2022/5/3

14:54

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol.

It's season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and Fina has a new case: find the mysterious Chickcharney, a mythical bird from the Caribbean, for her friend Monica who works in the snack bar.

Monica describes Chickcharney as a bird from the island of Andros in the Bahamas that has a "round face, a sharp beak, long legs, and a skinny, curly tail." The tail of a lizard.

Do Chickcharney's actually exist?

Click HERE to read more about Chickcharney in our Facts Behind the Fiction blog.

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are written and produced by Kitty Felde.

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Cast:

Fina - Amy Solano

Papa - Steven Cuevas

Monica - Tamika Katon-Donegal

Claudia - Linda Graves

John the Staffer - Steve Gamber 

Season Two Preview: Snow 101 for Californians

2022/4/26

05:01

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol.

It's an introduction to snow to those who live in places where snow is a rare event. Our California heroines Fina and her older Sister Gabby try to figure out how you prepare for a blizzard.

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Season Two Preview: Bird Poop

2022/4/19

04:23

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol.

Hey! Somebody stole our plot! 

Earlier this year, social media went crazy over a bit of corn chaff that fell on President Biden's lapel. It looked like bird poop. Which is exactly what happens in Season Two of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast. And in the book State of the Union: A Fina Mendoza Mystery by Kitty Felde.

Give a listen to this sneak preview of "the morning after" scene.

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

SEASON TWO PREVIEW: Foxes and Birds and Other Animals on Capitol Hill

2022/4/12

05:33

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol.

There are more animals on Capitol Hill than you might think. Recently, a fox bit more than half a dozen people outside the U.S. Capitol - including a U.S. Congressman. 

In this week's sneak preview of Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries, we learn about the Bald Eagle's relationship to Capitol Hill.

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

SEASON TWO PREVIEW: P is for Political Pundits

2022/4/5

07:08

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol.

You can't do a political show in Washington DC without a political pundit. We have two of them on State of the Union: Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast. One of them is real: the host of Ken Rudin's Political Junkie, public radio's Ken Rudin. He's joined by actor Garrett M. Brown (Sisters) as his partner in punditry. 

Ken and Garrett were asked to riff on the events at the State of the Union address. Their conversation becomes the background of one of Season 2's episodes. But we thought it would be fun to hear the entire conversation.

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

SEASON TWO PREVIEW: The Mendoza Sisters: Gabby and Fina

2022/3/29

03:09

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol.

Sometimes Fina and her older sister Gabby are not crabbing at each other. Sometimes. Here's a short scene from Season 2 with our favorite Mendoza sisters.

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

SEASON TWO PREVIEW: Meet the Dogs of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries

2022/3/22

05:14

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol.

We respond to Olivia Lily, who comments on The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast with a complaint about the way we treat cats. We also introduce you to yet ANOTHER dog in Season 2!

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

SEASON TWO PREVIEW: Snowmageddon!

2022/3/17

02:31

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol.

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Losing is Democratic Part Two Bonus Episode

2022/1/4

16:51

How do you explain the events of January 6th to children?

This special 2-part episode is designed for teachers and parents to talk to young people about what happened and why and what larger lessons can be drawn from the attack on the U.S. Capitol.

FREE curriculum for this episode can be downloaded here.

The episode takes place on January 6th, 2021, in a classroom meeting on zoom because of the pandemic. Our 10-year-old detective Fina Mendoza, the daughter of a congressman, has a new mystery to solve: who stole the 5th grade's pizza, a prize for the winner of a reading competition with the 4th grade?

Fina and her classmates have parents who work in the U.S. Capitol and they learn of the attack on that workplace during class. Their teacher, Miss Greenwood, helps them understand the events in a larger context. They discuss the electoral process, George Washington's decision not to run for a third term, high fives in baseball, and how John Adams and Thomas Jefferson found a way to reconciliation after a particularly nasty election.

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are based on a series of novels by Kitty Felde, including Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza and State of the Union, published by Chesapeake Press and can be ordered at your local library, Amazon, or your favorite indie bookstore.

Felde covered Capitol Hill for public radio for nearly a decade. She used to explain how Congress works to grownups. Now, she explains it to children.

Losing is Democratic Part One Bonus Episode

2022/1/3

17:32

How do you explain the events of January 6th to children?

This special 2-part episode is designed for teachers and parents to talk to young people about what happened and why and what larger lessons can be drawn from the attack on the U.S. Capitol.

FREE curriculum for this episode can be downloaded here just by signing up for our Facts Behind the Fiction blog.

The episode takes place on January 6th, 2021, in a classroom meeting on zoom because of the pandemic. Our 10-year-old detective Fina Mendoza, the daughter of a congressman, has a new mystery to solve: who stole the 5th grade's pizza, a prize for the winner of a reading competition with the 4th grade?

Fina and her classmates have parents who work in the U.S. Capitol and they learn of the attack on that workplace during class. Their teacher, Miss Greenwood, helps them understand the events in a larger context. They discuss the electoral process, George Washington's decision not to run for a third term, high fives in baseball, and how John Adams and Thomas Jefferson found a way to reconciliation after a particularly nasty election.

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are based on a series of novels by Kitty Felde, including Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza and State of the Union, published by Chesapeake Press and can be ordered at your local library, Amazon, or your favorite indie bookstore.

There is also an ebook version of this episode available for 99 cents.

Felde covered Capitol Hill for public radio for nearly a decade. She used to explain how Congress works to grownups. Now, she explains it to children.

A Bonus Holiday Episode

2021/12/17

11:06

Every family celebrates the holidays in their own special way. This year, we spend time with the Mendoza family during their first December in Washington, D.C. as they remember past celebrations and experience new traditions. 

We are busy taping Season Two of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries State of the Union which premieres in early 2022. 

The podcast series is based on a series of books by Kitty Felde in The Fina Mendoza Mysteries series. Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza and State of the Union are both available from Chesapeake Press in hardback, paperback, and ebook wherever you buy your books (or borrow them from the library.)

There is curriculum and free Teacher's Guides at the website.

Happy Thanksgiving from the Mendoza Family

2021/11/22

14:08

To thank you this Thanksgiving week, we're reprising our Thanksgiving episode of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast. Thank you for listening. Season two begins in late January.

Dia de los Muertos - Day of the Dead

2021/10/16

06:00

Halloween isn't the only holiday celebrated at this time of year. In the Mexican Catholic tradition, families celebrate Dia de los Muertos - Day of the Dead - on All Saints and All Souls day with sugar skulls and picnics at the cemetery.

Join Fina and Gabby Mendoza and their grandmother as they remember their late mom.

Curriculum available at the website www.finamendoza.com.

A Preview of Season Two: State of the Union

2021/8/13

03:05

Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That’s also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher’s Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Losing is Democratic Part Two

2021/2/25

16:54

How do you explain the events of January 6th to children?

This special 2-part episode is designed for teachers and parents to talk to young people about what happened and why and what larger lessons can be drawn from the attack on the U.S. Capitol.

FREE curriculum for this episode can be downloaded here just by signing up for our Facts Behind the Fiction blog.

The episode takes place on January 6th, 2021, in a classroom meeting on zoom because of the pandemic. Our 10-year-old detective Fina Mendoza, the daughter of a congressman, has a new mystery to solve: who stole the 5th grade's pizza, a prize for the winner of a reading competition with the 4th grade?

Fina and her classmates have parents who work in the U.S. Capitol and they learn of the attack on that workplace during class. Their teacher, Miss Greenwood, helps them understand the events in a larger context. They discuss the electoral process, George Washington's decision not to run for a third term, high fives in baseball, and how John Adams and Thomas Jefferson found a way to reconciliation after a particularly nasty election.

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are based on a series of novels by Kitty Felde, including Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza and State of the Union, published by Chesapeake Press and can be ordered at your local library, Amazon, or your favorite indie bookstore.

There is also an ebook version of this episode available for 99 cents.

Felde covered Capitol Hill for public radio for nearly a decade. She used to explain how Congress works to grownups. Now, she explains it to children.

Losing is Democratic (Part One)

2021/2/18

16:50

How do you explain the events of January 6th to children?

This special 2-part episode is designed for teachers and parents to talk to young people about what happened and why and what larger lessons can be drawn from the attack on the U.S. Capitol.

FREE curriculum for this episode can be downloaded here.

The episode takes place on January 6th, 2021, in a classroom meeting on zoom because of the pandemic. Our 10-year-old detective Fina Mendoza, the daughter of a congressman, has a new mystery to solve: who stole the 5th grade's pizza, a prize for the winner of a reading competition with the 4th grade?

Fina and her classmates have parents who work in the U.S. Capitol and they learn of the attack on that workplace during class. Their teacher, Miss Greenwood, helps them understand the events in a larger context. They discuss the electoral process, George Washington's decision not to run for a third term, high fives in baseball, and how John Adams and Thomas Jefferson found a way to reconciliation after a particularly nasty election.

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are based on a series of novels by Kitty Felde, including Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza and State of the Union, published by Chesapeake Press and can be ordered at your local library, Amazon, or your favorite indie bookstore.

Felde covered Capitol Hill for public radio for nearly a decade. She used to explain how Congress works to grownups. Now, she explains it to children.

Christmas Traditions with the Mendoza Family

2020/11/27

10:43

In this year of upended traditions, we check in with the Mendoza family as they remember their own favorite Christmas past. And we celebrate a Capitol Hill tradition: the lighting of the Capitol Christmas tree.

Here's a link to the 2020 Capitol Christmas Tree celebration.

Thanksgiving with the Mendoza Family

2020/11/20

13:35

I’ll bet you didn’t get to ride in a parade or spend Thanksgiving with your congressman dad answering questions at a Veteran’s hall. That’s how Fina's spending her Thanksgiving on a return visit to California.

www.finamendozamysteries.com

Bonus Episode: Dia de los Muertos

2020/10/27

05:22

This Sunday and Monday, the first and second of November, are the Mexican holiday known as Dia de los Muertos – the Day of the Dead. It’s a celebration we include in The Fina Mendoza Mysteries as Fina and her older sister Gabby try to come to terms with moving across the country from California to Washington after the death of their mom. To honor all of our moms and other loved ones who are no longer with us on this earth, we’re sharing this short scene from the podcast.

By the way, we have a curriculum sheet for Dia de los Muertos at our website, finamendozamysteries.com. You can also get an autographed copy of the book that inspired the series: WELCOME TO WASHINGTON FINA MENDOZA. 

Let Kids Vote (part two)

2020/10/13

16:39

It’s a new school year for Fina Mendoza, another year of distance learning. Her teacher assigns a Genius Project, letting students pick the topic they’d like to research and present to the class. Since it's an election year and Fina’s congressman father is back in California campaigning for re-election, Fina decides to research voting. Specifically, letting kids younger than 18 cast a ballot.

Real-life Congressman Mark Takano of Riverside, California zooms  with the class to answer questions about youth voting. 

There is also a mystery to be solved: who broke into their classroom, ransacking the backpacks and rifling the teacher’s desk. Fina consults with her detecting partner, a giant orange dog named Senator Something, and talks her sister into accompanying her on a field trip to see if her hunch about the culprit is correct.

There is FREE curriculum for this episode.

THE FINA MENDOZA MYSTERIES is based on the award-winning book "Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza" by Kitty Felde.

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are  written and produced by Kitty Felde

Our cast includes:

Amy Solano as Fina Mendoza

Monica Vigil as Gabby

 Susan Valot appears as Ms. Greenwood

India Scalione plays Becka

Eddie Pike plays Michael and

Myka Scalione plays Margaret

Laura Stegman appears as Congresswoman Mitchell

And Steve DeVorkin is Senator Something

Hannah Matzecki is our associate producer. Our music is by composer and musician Andrew Barkan. Our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa. 

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are based on the book "Welcome to Washington, Fina Mendoza" by Kitty Felde. You can get an autographed copy of the book at our website finamendozamysteries.com.

Let Kids Vote! (part one)

2020/10/6

20:09

It’s a new school year for Fina Mendoza, another year of distance learning. Her teacher assigns a Genius Project, letting students pick the topic they’d like to research and present to the class. Since it's an election year and Fina’s congressman father is back in California campaigning for re-election, Fina decides to research voting. Specifically, letting kids younger than 18 cast a ballot.

Real-life Congressman Mark Takano of Riverside, California zooms  with the class to answer questions about youth voting. 

There is also a mystery to be solved: who broke into their classroom, ransacking the backpacks and rifling the teacher’s desk. Fina consults with her detecting partner, a giant orange dog named Senator Something, and talks her sister into accompanying her on a field trip to see if her hunch about the culprit is correct.

There is FREE curriculum for this episode.

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are  written and produced by Kitty Felde

Our cast includes:

Amy Solano as Fina Mendoza

Monica Vigil as Gabby

 Susan Valot appears as Ms. Greenwood

India Scalione plays Becka

Eddie Pike plays Michael and

Myka Scalione plays Margaret

Laura Stegman appears as Congresswoman Mitchell

And Steve DeVorkin is Senator Something

Hannah Matzecki is our associate producer. Our music is by composer and musician Andrew Barkan. Our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa. 

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are based on the book "Welcome to Washington, Fina Mendoza" by Kitty Felde. You can get an autographed copy of the book at our website finamendozamysteries.com.

Trailer for Let Kids Vote!

2020/9/29

02:07

A mysterious break-in, a congressional lobbying effort about voting, and a sneaky way to get kids excited about the upcoming election...without the nastiness of politics.

In this special bonus episode of THE FINA MENDOZA MYSTERIES, our young detective is attending classes via Zoom. She and her classmates take on a genius project, researching a recent amendment that would allow 16 and 17 year olds to vote. She and her classmates ask, "Why stop at 16? Why not let them vote?"

They put the question to real-life Congressman Mark Takano (D-California) who approves of lowering the voting age to 16.

Meanwhile, Fina has another mystery to solve: who keeps breaking into their vacant classroom and trashing it? She checks in with her detecting partner, a canine called Senator Something, and visits the scene of the crime.

There is free curriculum for this episode.

Fina's Coronavirus Diary

2020/4/24

14:14

Fina Mendoza, the 10-year-old detective who lives on Capitol Hill, is stuck at home with her older sister Gabby and her father, a U.S. Congessman. Fina's class assignment is to keep an audio diary as a primary source for future historians, recording what it was like to live through the coronavirus pandemic. Fina checks in by phone with her favorite dog Senator Something and solves the mystery of the missing TV remote control. We also learn about what Congress is doing. 

Free curriculum and a downloadable worksheet for keeping your own coronavirus diary is available at the website finamendozamysteries.com.

The podcast is based on the award-winning book "Welcome to Washington, Fina Mendoza" by Kitty Felde.

Behind the Scenes of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries Podcast

2020/3/20

20:58

Journalist Susan Valot interviews writer/producer Kitty Felde about the creative choices behind THE FINA MENDOZA MYSTERIES. 

The podcast is based on the award winning book "Welcome to Washington, Fina Mendoza" by Kitty Felde. More information at the website finamendozamysteries.com.

Meet the Cast of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries

2020/2/4

23:43

We asked the cast of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast to tell us a little more about their characters.

The podcast is based on the award-winning book "Welcome to Washington, Fina Mendoza" by Kitty Felde. More information at the website finamendozamysteries.com.

Fina Mendoza Goes to the State of the Union Address

2024/3/1

19:52

On Wednesday night, March 7th, members of Congress from the House and Senate will hear a speech from President Biden about the State of the Union. Our Founding Fathers thought the annual speech to Congress was so important, they put it in the Constitution.

But what IS the State of the Union address? And what's it like to be inside the U.S. Capitol, sitting in the House Gallery, above the lawmakers and Supreme Court Justices and the cabinet? 

In this special bonus episode of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries, we take you to the State of the Union address where a mysterious bird disrupts the speech.

Want to know more about the history of the State of the Union address? Sign up for our Facts Behind the Fiction newsletter. That newsletter explores the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.We'll even send you a link to a FREE copy of the 56-page Teacher's Guide to State of the Union.

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol.

Kitty Felde is writer producer.

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union here.

You can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries at the website ChesapeakePress.org. 

Cast:

Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza

Christine Avila - Abuelita

Steven Cuevas - Papa

Linda Graves - Claudia

Mark Bramhall - President of the United States

Ian Muchiri - Michael

DeeDee Chapell - stage manager at the rebuttal speech

Rosalie Huntington - Minority Leader

Wenzel Jones - Waiter

Music in the party is composed and performed by Kevin Pike. Andrea Felix Cervantes is our stage manager. Our theme music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa.

State of the Union is book two in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries series. The Spanish version Estado de la Union will be released by Chesapeake Press this summer. The podcast and the books are designed to introduce civics education to elementary school students.

You can get an autographed copy of any of the Fina Mendoza books by clicking the link in the shownotes or check out the Chesapeake Press website chesapeakepress.org. that’s where you can also sign up for our Facts Behind the Fiction newsletter. This week, it’s more information about the rebuttal speech. And when you sign up for the newsletter, you’ll also get a free download of the 56 page Teachers Guide to State of the Union.

I hope you’ll tune in to Wednesday’s SOtU speech and the rebuttals. You never know when a bird might just poop on somebody’s head.