The Fina Mendoza Mysteries

It's the fourth anniversary of an attack on the US Capitol by angry voters. Some are trying to downplay the event. This is a story told from the point of view of the 10-year-old daughter of a member of Congress who was on the House Floor that day. It's designed to help adults talk to children about January 6th. It's based on the Fina Mendoza Mysteries novella "Losing is Democratic" by Kitty Felde, available as an ebook or paperback. You can purchase an autographed copy here.

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.     

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  

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  

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.

Are you a fantasy lover? Writer Claribel Ortega talks about why she loves to write fantasy - especially witches. Kitty Felde is host. And give a listen to our Dia de los Muertos episode of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast. Here's a link to the free curriculum guide.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.  

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. And as a special thank you to listeners of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast, Chesapeake Press is offering a 20% discount on the paperback. Just go to IPGBook.com and enter the promo code Fina2023 at checkout. Here's the link.

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. And as a special thank you to listeners of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast, Chesapeake Press is offering a 20% discount on the paperback. Just go to IPGBook.com and enter the promo code Fina2023 at checkout. Here's the link.

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. And as a special thank you to listeners of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast, Chesapeake Press is offering a 20% discount on the paperback. Just go to IPGBook.com and enter the promo code Fina2023 at checkout. Here's the link.

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  

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.  

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. 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. 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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.  

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.

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. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.  

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.  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.

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. 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 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.

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

Fina's grandmother takes her to a meeting where an immigration reform protest is being organized. Her grandmother may have taken a step too far in her activism. 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. Autographed copies available through the website Chesapeakepress.org. That's also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. It's also where you can find a free download of the 56-page Teacher's Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter which includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. It's also a sneaky way to introduce civics education to elementary school students.

Fina is on the hunt for Chickcharney in the basement of the U.S. Capitol, but the hunt leads to some serious consequences. 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 pick up a copy at your local bookstore or ask your local public library to order a copy to add to their collection. And if you want an autographed copy of State of the Union, check out the website Chesapeakepress.org. That's also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. It's also where you can find 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. 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.  

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. 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. 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 pick up a copy at your local bookstore or ask your local public library to order a copy to add to their collection. And if you want an autographed copy of State of the Union, check out the website Chesapeakepress.org. That's also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. It's also where you can find a free download of the 56-page Teacher's Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter which includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. It's also a sneaky way to introduce civics education to elementary school students.

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.

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. 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. 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 pick up a copy at your local bookstore or ask your local public library to order a copy to add to their collection. And if you want an autographed copy of State of the Union, check out the website Chesapeakepress.org. That's also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. It's also where you can find a free download of the 56-page Teacher's Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter which includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. It's also a sneaky way to introduce civics education to elementary school students.

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. 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. 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 pick up a copy at your local bookstore or ask your local public library to order a copy to add to their collection. And if you want an autographed copy of State of the Union, check out the website Chesapeakepress.org. That's also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. Get your free download of the 56-page Teacher's Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter which includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. It's also a sneaky way to introduce civics education to elementary school students.  

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. 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. 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 pick up a copy at your local bookstore or ask your local public library to order a copy to add to their collection. And if you want an autographed copy of State of the Union, check out the website Chesapeakepress.org. That's also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of the Fina Mendoza Mysteries and also where you can find 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 highlights the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. The podcast and the book are designed to introduce civics education to elementary school students.

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. 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. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. If you want an autographed copy of State of the Union, check out the website Chesapeakepress.org. That's also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of the Fina Mendoza Mysteries and also where you can find 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 highlights the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. This week, it's the history of the rebuttal speech. The podcast and the book are designed to introduce civics education to elementary school students.

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.  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. 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 pick up a copy at your local bookstore or ask your local public library to order a copy to add to their collection. Download the free 56-page Teacher's Guide to The Fina Mendoza Mysteries here. And if you want an autographed copy of State of the Union, check out the website. That's also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of the Fina Mendoza Mysteries and also sign up for our "Facts Behind the Fiction" newsletter that highlights the real stories behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. This week, it's the story of eagles in the U.S. Capitol.

That 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. 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. 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 pick up a copy at your local bookstore or ask your local public library to order a copy to add to their collection. And if you want an autographed copy of State of the Union, check out the website Chesapeakepress.org. That's also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of the Fina Mendoza Mysteries and also where you can find 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 highlights the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. This week, it's the history of the rebuttal speech. The podcast and the book are designed to introduce civics education to elementary school students.  

Fina decides to take the case of the mysterious Chickcharney... maybe it has a secret message for her! Amy Solano as Fina Mendoza, Tamika Katon-Donegal as Monica, Steven Cuevas as Papa, Monica Vigil as Gabby. And Steve DeVorkin is 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. Download the free, 56-page Teacher's Guide at finamendozamysteries.com.

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. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are written and produced by Kitty Felde. 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 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 pick up a copy at your local bookstore or ask your public library to add it to their collection. Autographed copies and a free 65 page Teacher's Guide to the series available at chesapeakepress.org. It's a great way to introduce civics to kids. More info about cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries at www.chesapeakepress.org.

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. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are written and produced by Kitty Felde. Cast: Fina - Amy Solano Papa - Steven Cuevas Monica - Tamika Katon-Donegal Claudia - Linda Graves John the Staffer - Steve Gamber  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 pick up a copy at your local bookstore or ask your public library to add it to their collection. Autographed copies and a free 65 page Teacher's Guide to the series available at chesapeakepress.org. It's a great way to introduce civics to kids. More info about cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries at www.chesapeakepress.org.

Season 2 begins Tuesday, May 3rd. But we have one more sneak preview for you. 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.

Hey! Somebody stole our plot!  Last week, 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 Two of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries launches May 3rd.

There are more animals on Capitol Hill than you might think. Last week, a fox bit more than half a dozen people outside the U.S. Capitol - including a U.S. Congressman.  On this week's sneak preview of Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries, we learn about the Bald Eagle's relationship to Capitol Hill. There's a free 56-page Teacher's Guide to The Fina Mendoza Mysteries that you can download by signing up for our newsletter at www.finamendozamysteries.com. It's also available for purchase at Amazon. Season 2 begins on May 3rd.