Celebrate vernal equinox the native American way

CHESTER — In celebration of our region’s Native American heritage, the Chester Public Library will host a visit from James David Audlin, also known as Distant Eagle. A former journalist and college lecturer, Audlin is the author of “Circle of Life: Traditional Teachings of Native American Elders” (Clear Light Publishing, 2006). He is an expert on Native American culture and Native American spirituality. “Especially in the context of environmental issues attributed to global warming, we feel it will be interesting and timely to take this special look at Native American culture,” said Gabe Wasserman, Chester’s young adult librarian and the event’s organizer. “Al Gore’s ‘An Inconvenient Truth’ won the best documentary Oscar in part because the U.S. has spurned the environmentalist values of North America’s original settlers. Culturally, philosophically, and ecologically, we have retained precious little from Native American civilizations.” Spring officially begins on Wednesday, March 21. Audlin will be at the library at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 24. He will discuss his book, answer questions, and play Native American music. “I especially look forward to talking with young people when I come to Chester,” said Audlin. “Their understanding of these matters is critical to the future of our planet.” The gathering will take place on the library’s lower floor — the Chester Golden Age Center. Advance registration is encouraged, with admission priority given to Chester town residents. For more information call 469-4252.