“Silent Spring,” by Rachel Carson, hit bookshelves on Sept. 27, 1962, and its impact made Carson one of the most influential people of the 20th century. Her book is regarded by many as having launched the environmental movement. On the 50th anniversary of its publication, come hear historian and biographer Linda Lear, a widely-recognized expert on Rachel Carson, present the keynote lecture of NC State’s “Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring at 50″ observances. The event is from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Sept. 27 at the Nelson Hall Auditorium. Read more.