History Professor Documents 100 Years of NM Statehood with New Book

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Dr. Richard Melzer

• The cover of Dr. Melzer's new book.

LOS LUNAS, NM (01/04/2012)(readMedia)-- A book-signing and celebration is scheduled for January 24 on the UNM-Valencia Campus to honor Dr. Richard Melzer for the publication of his new book, "New Mexico: Celebrating the Land of Enchantment." Two presentations are planned that day, the first at 1:30 p.m., and the second at 6 p.m., and both will be held in the Student-Community Center.

Dr. Melzer's new book is an official project of the New Mexico Centennial. New Mexico is celebrating 100 years of statehood in 2012. A professor of history at UNM-Valencia, Dr. Melzer focuses on the last 100 years of social and political elements that have made the Land of Enchantment what it is today. Filled with images that document the past hundred years, "New Mexico" is a photographic delight accompanied by brief insightful essays that leave the reader in no doubt of a history that is both imposing and exciting in its scope.

The book-signing and guided discussion about the book is the second event scheduled in the UNM-Valencia Spring 2012 Cultural Enrichment Series. Dr. Richard Sax, dean of instruction at UNMVC, will be hosting the event, and he invites members of the community to contact him if they are interested in being a part of the discussion.

Some of the topics covered in Dr. Melzer's book include Belen City Hall, the Bosque Farms resettlement project, Miguel Trujillo of Isleta Pueblo, Eulalio Chavez, Jose Chavez, the Spanish Empire, Werner von Braun, the Korean War Memorial at Tome, Billy the Kid, the Kimo Theatre, Alvarado Harvey House, Isleta Pueblo, the Albuquerque Railroad Yard, Route 66, Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta and destruction of the Alvarado Hotel, among others.

Discussion on these topics or others covered by the book will have to be limited to a few minutes. If you are interested in being a part of the event, please contact Dr. Sax's office at 925-8600.

After the presentations, this book will be available for purchase and signing by the author. The book was published by Gibbs Smith in 2011. Refreshments will be served.

The Student-Community Center is located on the south side of the campus. As you enter the campus, turn left and follow the drive until it ends in the south parking lot.