For more than 40 years, the University of Saint Francis Jesters has provided an artistic and creative outlet for people with developmental disabilities. Their performances have become a popular event every spring and have helped provide a bridge to the community as it learns more about the abilities of people rather than only seeing their challenges.

Registration for those interested in participating with the 2019-20 Jesters is open through Saturday, Sept. 28. For those who are interested, be aware that the program is available to anyone eight and older with developmental disabilities and features a wide range of artistic activities.

The program runs from Sept. 7 to March 7 and will meet from 10 a.m. to noon most Saturdays at the USF North Campus. The cost is $75 for adults and children, but there is another session for an additional $25 from 1-2 p.m. Saturdays for adults enrolled in the morning session.

Morning activities include dance/movement, theater, storytelling, puppetry, percussion, and music (instrumental and voice). Afternoon sessions include visual arts, choir, dance, and theater.

For more information, contact program director Allison Ballard at allis2b@yahoo.com.

Science Central Mixology fundraiser

Science Central has become a favorite destination for family fun and school field trips. With its hands-on science exhibits and visiting thematic exhibits, it’s become a place that makes learning more about the STEM subjects much more accessible for kids and adults alike.

Keeping all of that running and maintaining and updating the learning stations does have a cost, and Science Central has found some fun ways to fundraise.

Coming up on Nov. 8 is the Science Central Mixology event which features an evening of food, cocktails, entertainment, and of course, science. There will also be a silent auction for further opportunities to contribute to the cause. Tickets are currently on sale for $75 per person or $425 for a table of six. If you purchase your tickets before August 31, there will be a $10 discount.

For more information or to purchase tickets, contact Science Central at (260) 424-2400.

Swinney Homestead’s free tours

Fort Wayne loves its history as evident in the popularity of the History Center and the old Fort, which features reenactments and blasts from Forty Wayne’s past.

Another popular destination for history buffs is the Historic 1844 Swinney Homestead on West Jefferson Boulevard. For those who want to visit the Homestead, a free admission weekend is coming up on Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 7-8, 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. each day.

In addition to free admission to the home, visitors can also stroll through the beautiful herb garden during their tour. The main floor is handicap accessible.

For more information, visit settlersinc.org.

Public meeting about Public Art

For those following the continued growth of public art in our area, a meeting at Hop River Brewing on North Harrison Street will provide some details about what else is around the corner.

On Monday, August 19, from 5:30 until 7:30 p.m., the public is invited to come hear details of the Public Art Master Plan and ask questions of the consultants and members of the City’s Public Art Commission.

The meeting will cover not only the kinds of art — murals, sculptures, and more — but the most appropriate places to display them. The desire is to grow the presence of public art “in a way that supports collaboration, diversity, economic vitality and the highest levels of creativity.” The master plan will reflect feedback received at the meeting, so make your voice be heard.

News and Venues covers Northeast Indiana’s music and arts organizations, venues, and colleges, from large to small. Send your news items to info@whatzup.com.