Welcome to Facts Behind the Fiction
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are fiction, but there are LOTS of facts about Congress, the US Capitol, and civics in general packed in every chapter and every episode. Read here for FACTS BEHIND THE FICTION that you can use in your classroom.
Quitting Congress
You've heard about the wave of retirements among members of Congress.
More than 50 members of the House of Representatives - 12% of members - have either retired, left to run for another office, died, or simply resigned from the 118th Congress. Sixteen Senators have also departed Capitol Hill.
There's even a name for it: the Casualty List.
They aren't the only ones leaving. Staffers are considering leaving, too.
Thanksgiving Recess
The Mendoza family celebrates Thanksgiving back in California, but Congressman Mendoza is working.
Battle of the DC Christmas Trees
There are two big Christmas Tree ceremonies in DC. Guess which one is the oldest?
Let Kids Vote!
Young people have been lobbying for years for the right to vote. Should 16-year-olds be able to vote? 14-year-olds? Fina Mendoza thinks 10-year-olds are mature enough to vote. What do you think?
