TO OUR READERS

In our cover story, Assistant Arts Editor Kathaleen Roberts previews “Making Africa: A Continent of Contemporary Design,” which opens Saturday at the Albuquerque Museum.

A comprehensive overview of African design, the exhibition showcases a new generation of artists, technicians and creative thinkers that contradicts many Americans’ concepts of the continent. The works include video, websites, fashion, furniture, photography and more.

Roberts also previews “An Evening of Ella,” commemorating the 100th anniversary of Ella Fitzgerald’s birth in December. The concert Saturday is a benefit for the New Mexico Jazz Workshop.

We also have a review of “Doublewide, Texas,” now playing at the Adobe Theater.

This year marks two significant anniversaries for New Mexico’s Jewish community. Features writer Rosalie Rayburn covers the 70-year history of the Jewish Federation of New Mexico, which came into being in 1948, the same year as the State of Israel.

And Features writer Ollie Reed Jr. profiles DJ Bobby Box for NM Focus. Box, known primarily for playing the oldies, has had a lengthy career, which continues at his new station, KDSK in Rio Rancho.

David Steinberg reviews “Another Way Forward — Grassroots Solutions in New Mexico,” Dede Feldman’s new book about ordinary people — she calls them “social entrepreneurs” — making a difference. The former New Mexico state senator says she was inspired by Fred Harris’ book “New Mexico — 2050.”

In Travel, we head to Red River in northern New Mexico. While known for its skiing, the hamlet also puts on a rowdy, rollicking six-day Mardi Gras party.

Until next week, Helen Taylor Editor