TO OUR READERS

Later this month, acclaimed Albuquerque author Rudolfo Anaya will celebrate his 80th birthday.

In our cover story, Features writer Ollie Reed Jr. sits down with the author for a far-reaching conversation that looks back to the early experiences that laid the groundwork for his fiction and to what the future may hold.

Features writer Elaine D. Briseño adds a story about Katie Neeley, an artist and Marine veteran who is using her new Downtown gallery to help other veterans struggling after military service.

Assistant Arts Editor Kathaleen Roberts visits Wright’s Indian Art, which is marking its 110th anniversary this year. The legacy of the gallery, where artists Maria Martinez and Pablita Velarde were frequent visitors, continues with new owners, a granddaughter of the current owner.

Arts Editor Adrian Gomez previews the Way Out West Film Fest, formerly the Southwest Gay & Lesbian Film Festival, which is marking 15 years with a wider focus and more venues.

David Steinberg reviews Rudolfo Anaya’s children’s book, “Owl in a Straw Hat/El Tecolote del Sombrero de Paja.” With illustrations by El Moisés (Moisés Salcedo), the book’s colorful characters teach an important lesson about reading.

In Travel, we offer a guide to some of the lesser known museums in the area for visitors in town for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.

Until next week,

Helen Taylor

Editor