The Jackson County Public Library will host the 3rd 'Let’s Get Japaneseee' program on Tuesday, February 4th at 6 p.m. in the Community Room. Join us as we celebrate Setsubun, a Japanese festival that marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring in the old Japanese calendar. The festival is accompanied by a number of rituals and traditions to drive away the previous year's bad fortunes and evil spirits for the year to come, including the tradition of bean throwing. Attendees will make Oni masks, paper boxes, and throw beans to celebrate this tradition. Folks will also learn how to make and enjoy Ehomaki (a long sushi roll). *Registration Required* Please call the Jackson County Public Library at 828-586-2016 or sign up online. The Jackson County Public Library is a member of the Fontana Regional Library.
Looking for something fun to do? Drop by the library for activity centers all ages can enjoy. Books, art, building, games, and more! Come try something new or participate in an all-time favorite!
Over the course of the year, participants will read The Forest Unseen, find and make visits to your own special forest plot – this could be a favorite spot in a nearby park or wild area, your own backyard, or even your garden or deck - journal your findings in any way that inspires you: drawings, photos, written notes, poetry, etc. Together, we’ll share our observations with fellow club members and enjoy natural history tidbits and nature connection exercises you can try at home. We’ll also contribute valuable scientific observations to the National Phenology Network.
Our plan is to read the book along with the seasons rather than all at once. It's fine for people to come even if they haven't had a chance to get the book and do the reading yet.
To sign up please contact Amy Duggins at aduggins@bmtrust.org. Amy is Community Science Coordinator with Balsam Mountain Trust, and has spent time as a naturalist, field biologist, park ranger, and nature connection mentor.
