Many on the island were saddened to read of the passing of Marilyn McGuire, and though I worked with her for over ten years, I learned much about her life from the obituary you printed. I did not, for instance, realize she had a masters in psychology. And she never led US in yoga exercises!

Marilyn first worked on Orcas for Sovereignty, Steven Weinberg’s company that published the infamous “Great White Book,” RAMTHA (1986), which I co-edited and designed. Marilyn was responsible for securing book distribution, marketing, getting reviews, etc. She did a great job. And, undoubtedly, the additional contacts she made through Sovereignty were valuable as she later started NAPRA, the New Age Publishing and Retailing Alliance, in 1987.

By late 1988, Marilyn’s association topped 200 members. The first official newsletter reveals that she scored coverage in “Wall Street Journal,” “USA Today,” “Los Angeles Times,” and “Publishers Weekly.” She also organized a panel discussion for the yearly convention at the American Booksellers Convention, attended by over 400. The early focus on publisher members quickly expanded to any aspect of the conscious growth movement: sidelines (such as incense and drums), music labels, bookstores, distributors, and author/speakers/musicians. All without the convenience of the internet. All growth by phone, fax, and mailings.

I was later brought on full-time and served at various times as a feature writer, designer, music reviewer, and managing editor. The one thing most would remember about their time working there, on the upper floor of the Eastsound Square building, is the constant ringing of Marilyn’s lyrical southern voice on the phone, always making things happen.

Here on this small island, she offered so many of us the opportunity to write in-depth articles featuring interviews with the best and brightest minds in the world. Then NAPRA’s presence at the ABA convention each year grew and grew.

We can only imagine the huge financial burden/impact/responsibility of running such a dynamic organization.

There will be a more formal remembrance of Marilyn’s life next spring.

Carol Wright

Orcas Island