Kit Sebastian-Evans, May 27, 2003

Greetings, music lovers and supporters. My name is Kit, and I’m writing this contribution to Vibrancy in support of my friends over at the Zia.

Just recently, the Reporter wrote an update on our little town’s nightlife scene. This included an article referring to the happenings over at the Zia Diner lately. Now, before I continue, I’d like to take a moment to remind everyone that this is a restaurant, not a nightclub. However, it seems as if a lot of folks may have been under the wrong impression about this whole deal, thus having high expectations that might not have been met, and as a result they are disappointed. I’m not quite sure what to say to those of you who fit into this category.

I will say this, though: we live an a town that squashes the voice of its youth — not to state the obvious or anything! I feel that we’re lucky to get our hands on anything we can, recently. And a lot of people do not seem to notice or appreciate this. I’m nineteen years old, and I can assure you that the youth in this town are starving! I’ve lived in Santa Fe for eight or nine years, and I have always tried to help and support my local scene as much as I can, although there’s only so much I can do, considering I’m not 21. That’s right, I love art, I love music, and I love having a good time. But I, along with so many others, am being deprived of this privilege because I can’t supply our local clubs and venues with alcohol profits. Sometimes I wonder, is it even about the music anymore? Was it ever about the music to begin with? Maybe not; maybe it’s about getting your audience good and wasted for a nice long drive home.

Since our “peeps” at the Reporter are obviously comparing our friendly little establishment, the Zia, to places such as the Paramount and Swig, I’d like to run my little reminder by you one more time: this is a restaurant, not a nightclub. I know good people who take time out of their day to make this happen for those of us who still do this for the love. It’s a mellow spot where you can go to meet people, throw a late-night munch, and enjoy some good music. It also allows local and out-of-town performers to come and display their talents when places like the Paramount won’t give them a chance. I say it’s time to stop hating and start supporting! Let’s make use of what we have before it’s gone.

The Zia will be holding a series of events over the summertime, including sound sessions and live performances, 11 pm to 2 am. Come check it out.