The Fina Mendoza Mysteries

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.

On Tuesday night, February 24th, members of Congress from the House and Senate will hear a speech from President Trump 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. 

It's the fifth anniversary of an attack on the US Capitol by angry voters. As facts become fiction, we are using fiction to share the facts of that January 6th day by viewing events of the day through the eyes 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. The book contains curriculum so you can use it in the classroom or with your kids.

Buy the book here:

Bookshop.org

Barnes & Noble

Amazon

IPG 

Bulk Sales: Brad Fish - bfish@ipgbook.com

Author Kitty Felde is available for class visits. Contact here via info@chesapeakepress.org.

It's the fifth anniversary of an attack on the US Capitol by angry voters. As facts become fiction, we are using fiction to share the facts of that January 6th day by viewing events of the day through the eyes 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. The book contains curriculum so you can use it in the classroom or with your kids.

Buy the book here:

Bookshop.org

Barnes & Noble

Amazon

IPG 

Bulk Sales: Brad Fish - bfish@ipgbook.com

Author Kitty Felde is available for class visits. Contact here via info@chesapeakepress.org.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Get your AUTOGRAPHED copy of State of the Union HERE

And look for the Spanish version: Estado de la Unión.

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.

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.

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. the book is also available in Spanish as Estado de la Unión. You can get an autographed copy of either book 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.

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. 

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.

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.

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 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.

And now you can get the Spanish version of State of the Union called Estado de la Union, translated by Jorge Flores Gonzales. Forward Clarion just gave it a five star review, calling the book a "delightful mystery novel with a message of unity and cooperation."

And available now from Chesapeake Press, wherever great books are sold.

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.

And now you can get the Spanish version of State of the Union called Estado de la Union, translated by Jorge Flores Gonzales. Forward Clarion just gave it a five star review, calling the book a "delightful mystery novel with a message of unity and cooperation."

And available now from Chesapeake Press, wherever great books are sold.

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.

And now you can get the Spanish version of State of the Union called Estado de la Union, translated by Jorge Flores Gonzales. Forward Clarion just gave it a five star review, calling Fina an "intelligent and precocious heroine who uses her critical thinking skills and keen observational senses to suss out information on the Chickcharney and the other mysteries in her daily life." Get your copy now!

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.

And now you can get the Spanish version of State of the Union, called Estado de la Union, translated by Jorge Flores Gonzales. Forward just gave it a five star review, calling the book a "delightful mystery novel with a message of unity and cooperation." 

And available now from Chesapeake Press, wherever great books are sold.

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.

And now you can get the Spanish version of State of the Union, called Estado de la Union, translated by Jorge Flores Gonzales. Forward just gave it a five star review, calling the book a "delightful mystery novel with a message of unity and cooperation." 

And available now from Chesapeake Press, wherever great books are sold.

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.

And now you can get the Spanish version of State of the Union called Estado de la Union, translated by Jorge Flores Gonzales. Forward just gave it a five star review, calling Fina an "intelligent and precocious heroine who uses her critical thinking skills and keen observational senses to suss out information on the Chickcharney and the other mysteries in her daily life." Get your copy now!

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.

And now you can get the Spanish version of State of the Union called Estado de la Union, translated by Jorge Flores Gonzales. Forward Clarion just gave it a five star review, calling Fina an "intelligent and precocious heroine who uses her critical thinking skills and keen observational senses to suss out information on the Chickcharney and the other mysteries in her daily life." Get your copy now!

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.

And now you can get the Spanish version of State of the Union called Estado de la Union, translated by Jorge Flores Gonzales. Forward just gave it a five star review, calling Fina an "intelligent and precocious heroine who uses her critical thinking skills and keen observational senses to suss out information on the Chickcharney and the other mysteries in her daily life." Get your copy now!

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 find out more about 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

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

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 learn more about the book series 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 

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.