Recently published is an incredibly exquisite book written by citizens of the West – Unplugged Voices; 125 Tales of Art and Life from Northern New Mexico, the Four Corners and the West. This book of “verbal narratives” was curated and edited by Sara Frances. This book is the history of “common people” who live in Western United States. We can read and study and talk about the Fremonts. About the Greeleys. About the Zebulon PIkes. But, the people represented in Unplugged Voices are the people of the history of our West. A Colorado governor. New Mexico “low riders.” Writers. Poets … to name a few.
Sara orchestrated a book launch for this volume. Held last Sunday in an incredibly enjoyable venue, almost one hundred guests came together to enjoy each others’ company. Many of the contributors had not met each other; this gathering gave them all an opportunity to do so. Other guests came to purchase a copy for themselves and to have the individual writers sign the pages for which they provided the histories. Many guests dressed in fashions of “the Olde West.” Swinging skirts. Lots of turquoise. Cowboy hats. All great fun.
Important to note is the venue that was provided by Dave Guttenberg; a contributor, as well as the owner of the venue. His business is Automotive Imports where, not only do they specialize in expert repair and care of vehicles, they offer great vehicles for sale. They have a large area for customers to enjoy time while their precious gem is receiving the services from the skilled workmen. The room holds auto games to play and a television set for entertainment. Children have a charming playhouse surrounded by a white picket fence.
Two walls of this special room are lined with vintage vehicles – including a Delorean! Remember “Back to the Future?” I saw a gorgeous red Jeep, and other vehicles that I can’t identify. Parked at one end was a beautiful, black motorcycle. Fancier than any motorcycle I ever rode.
Of course, we had snacks for our guests. Soft drinks, coffee, tea. A baker at Cakes by Karen quite “out did himself” decorating our mini-cupcakes. Two bites of ambrosia. So many flavors. And, of course, chocolates! From Dieter’s on East Evans. When I told Sara that I would be bringing chocolates, she thought perhaps that might be too much. I reminded her that – nobody doesn’t like chocolates! And, a party isn’t a party without Dieter’s Chocolates. Chips and green pea snacks rounded out the snack tables. A good time was had by all.
Work has started on the second volume of these histories. Real histories of real people of the West! I know that I’ll have to be patient until this work comes together, but patience is not one of my virtues.
Be Safe and Be Well
The Cranky Crone
Thoughtful comments are appreciated.
One reply on “Celebrating Unplugged Voices”
Much thanks to all the authors who contributed to this collection—and for coming to the book launch and signing. This labor of love of community and the West has taken more than 3,00 hours. It could not have been accomplished without Marj Becker, Linda Engel, Jane Hillson Aiello, and of course all the interesting stories collected that celebrate our Western heritage—the true history of the region.