A is for Authors

I’m taking part in the A to Z Blogging Challenge in the month of April and I thought I’d write about some of the things have inspired me or have shaped my life. So, for my A post, I’m going to talk about Authors.

My discussion of Authors is tied to another A – the Alamogordo Public Library. I was super involved in the Friends of the Alamogordo Public Library for about 5 years. I held positions as President, Communications Director and ended my stint as Programs Director. If you ask the people I worked with, I’m sure most of them would say I’m the one with all the crazy ideas. If I can dream it, I assume I can pull it off and it’s that attitude that characterized my service with this organization. Anyway, I got to work with some talented and wonderful authors. Whether we were planning book signings or literary programs, there was always a wealth of talent to be found our area.

Several of my programs included Michael McGarrity who writes detective novels and, more recently, historical fiction. That man is one of my favorite people. He’s fun, charismatic and he an incredible library supporter. As a result, he was always willing to give me a hand in my programs. My blog is titled Kissing Authors & Astronauts as tribute to some of the amazing people I got to work with (and kiss!). Here’s my first kiss photo: (and by the way folks, it helps to have a spectacularly talented photographer with you to document these moments). 

From 2010-2012, I co-organized an annual literary event called the Alamogordo Speaker Series. These programs featured literary and culturally significant people and moments in New Mexico history. I am so proud of the work I did on these programs, the authors I was able to meet and the public education opportunities created for our community.

And as I’m talking about authors, I can’t forget to mention Phil Jennings. I did marketing work for Phil nearly 10 years ago and he really provided me with my first exposure to the world of book publishing, marketing and promotion. Phil is a colorful character and his faith in my work was so appreciated. His books hold a place of honor on my bookshelf (and now on my blog!). 

 A few of the authors who I’ve had the pleasure of meeting and working with over the years include: Phillip Jennings, Michael McGarrity, Denise Chavez, Hampton Sides, Dorothy Cave, Shaughn Marlowe and Mark Sadler. As I continue my journey, I am already making connections with new authors (new to me anyway) who I know will impact my life in many ways.

Thank you authors!!!