3. Louise Gallegos and David Cisneros

In this episode, we hear from two dedicated public and community servants, Louise Gallegos and David Cisneros, as they reflect on the meaning and lived experience of service to both country and community. Louise Gallegos shares stories drawn from a lifetime of deep local involvement, including her role as the first female councilor and her twenty years of service on the Questa Village Council. She speaks about how her interest in politics began with her father, who always brought the family along to vote, as well as her involvement in the restoration of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church. Louise also recalls growing up in Questa, spending long hours outdoors through every season—sledding with socks pulled over her hands to keep them warm, and learning a lasting connection to place.

We also hear from David Cisneros, an unsung hero from Cerro who has devoted his life to service. David shares stories from his twenty years in the U.S. Navy, which he joined at just seventeen years old. His reflections include volunteering to serve during the Vietnam War, spending six months with the Turkish Navy, and life at sea during times of conflict. He speaks about his many posts and experiences while traveling extensively throughout Europe and Asia, as well as Australia and New Zealand. David also reflects on returning to civilian life and building a career in refrigeration and appliance repair—skills he learned in San Diego, California, and has practiced for decades while serving the communities of Cerro, Questa, and throughout Northern Taos County.

This episode was recorded in front of a live audience on December 13, 2025, at the Questa Public Library, in collaboration with Voices of the Northern Rio Grande community archive. Hosted by MC Michael Rael, these gatherings bring our community together through stories of family, history, love, and adventure. Event hosting by Questa Public Library; audio recording and event coordination by Claire Coté; videography by Wyman Edwards; editing and upload by Dan Kuehn; music by Michael Rael.

Voces de Nuestro País events and podcast are made possible through the generous support of the LOR Foundation, TCF Chevron Grants for Good, and the TCF IMPACT Grant. Thank you to everyone who attends and helps make these gatherings possible.

¡Gracias!

https://questastories.org
https://questalibrary.org/3-louise-gallegos-and-david-cisneros/

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