Nature Writing and Its Authors is the subject of this free presentation by Karyn Riedell on Wednesday, May 21, 2008 at 2:00 pm and it will examine current nature writing and authors such as Annie Dillard, Barry Lopez, Simon Ortiz, bell hooks, Terry Tempest Williams, and Barbara Kingsolver. This presentation being held at the Highlands Center for Natural History will discuss important works by these writers as well as others, and will consider the following questions: What does this writer have to say about nature? What is his or her reason for writing about nature? Do these writers see their art as a way of bringing about environmental activism?

Karyn Riedell is an English instructor at Arizona State University, where she teaches both traditional and online classes including composition, professional writing, American literature, popular culture, and creative nonfiction. She holds a Ph.D. in 20th century American literature. In addition to teaching, she has also worked as a full-time journalist, including coverage of environmental issues. She currently lives in Pine, Arizona.

This program is made possible by the Arizona Humanities Council. For more information visit www.highlandscenter.org or  call 776-9550.

If you have kids and are looking for the most happening party in town, head on down to the Prescott Public Library (215 East Goodwin Street) this Saturday April 12th, from 10:45am until 2pm for some fun, sun, and celebration. The party is in honor of Prescott's newest mural "A Mural Beyond Words" to be placed at the South entrance of the library.

Prizes will be awarded for the 2008 Eager Squeaker Coloring Contest. Top prizes include a Calavera skateboard, ice cream and karate lessons. Featured attractions include a crowning of Prescott's most illustrious Mayor Jack Wilson and top mural donor Jeri Smith Fornara. The event will also feature a spectacular parade, the Supersilliest Band, a Hoolah Happening, and a host of Wonderland friends to tickle your funny bone. Prizes will be given for the best mouse hats. Festivities begin at 10:45AM in the children’s area on the Lower Level of Prescott Public Library. Join the Mural Mice for a day of games, prizes and oversized tea in a garden of color and fun.

Party takes place on the library lawn.

A special VIP wall blessing ceremony will follow from 3pm until 4:30pm. Ideas will fly as the visual phase of the mural gets underway. All are invited to offer feedback and and to investigate the research material that will make up the content of the mural. Come on by and make yourself a very important part of this Prescott community mural. Coffee and finger foods will be served free to the public.

The Prescott Downtown Mural Project (PDMP) is a non-profit organization under the auspices of the Prescott Area Arts and Humanities Council painting community murals of enduring value for the people of Prescott. For more information contact project director R.E. Wall 928-713-2296 and visit http://www.prescottmurals.com/.