What's Happening in November

In my opinion, Sir Walter Scott got it right when he wrote: “November’s sky is chill and drear…” When I start missing the colorful October leaves and bend my head to the cutting November gusts, I go to the Botanical Conservatory for lunch, or at the very least, a cup of coffee. The gloominess disappears the minute I walk into the warm, vibrant gardens. There are plenty of activities, classes and events going on this month at our downtown oasis:

November 17, 10 am – 5 pm – Sales Garden Holiday Open House. We’ll be offering fresh, local wreaths, cut trees, holiday ornaments, and, as always, great ideas for gift giving. Free hot chocolate while you shop!

November 21, 5 – 9 pm – Holiday Kick-Off Party. Santa, Mrs. Claus and two reindeer will be on hand for great photo ops and to meet the kids before or after the Downtown Lighting Ceremony. And wait until you see the “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” exhibit opening that night!

You can find much more information on all of these activities and more by visitingwww.botanicalconservatory.org.

Conservatory staff aren’t the only ones busy creating a holiday wonderland this season. The Community Center is expanding their Santa’s Workshop Light Display again this year. (The lighting ceremony will be at 6:05 pm.)But don’t wait outside in the chill, the Community Center doors will open at 4 pm. There will be family-friendly crafts, refreshments and movies. And the kids can buy gifts for friends and family for $2 or less. It’s so much fun to see what they pick out for that best friend at school, or what they think Dad really needs!

Mark your calendar for December 1st. Salomon Farm Park is holding their traditional Christmas celebration, 6 – 9 pm, with a live nativity scene, horse and wagon rides, stories from St. Nicholas and refreshments. And it’s all free!

Have fun!

What's Happening in August

Drop-in Yoga in the Garden

Botanical Conservatory, 1100 S. Calhoun Street

Wednesdays, 5:30 – 6:30 pm

The practice of yoga is a wonderful way to build strength and flexibility, reduce stress, and enhance general well-being. Now you can attend drop-in classes, as your schedule allows. Taught by certified yoga instructor and world traveler Lanah K. Hake, these classes use a variety of yoga style tailored to fit the ability level of the group. A few blankets, mats, and straps are available but bring your own supplies if you have them. This class is designed for ages 15 and up and not intended for pregnant women or people with serious health conditions. All participants will sign a waiver at each class. Drop-in fee $7 (Conservatory members $5). For more information, call the Conservatory at (260) 427-6440. Additional class information is available by following Fort Wayne Outdoor Yoga on Facebook, or by checking the instructor’s website at www.lanahlink.com.

$1 Night

Botanical Conservatory, 1100 S. Calhoun Street

Thursday, August 2, 5 – 8 pm

On the first Thursday of the month we offer $1 admissions, 5-8 pm, for adults and children. Babies and up to age 2 are still admitted free. Enjoy our evening hours and a special discount once a month. For more info, call (260) 427-6440.

Cherish the Ladies

Foellinger Theatre, Franke Park

Friday, August 3, 8 pm, $12

Described as absolutely unique in their spectacular blend of instrumental talents, beautiful female vocals, captivating arrangements and stunning step dancing, this all female Irish music ensemble has become one of the most successful and sought after Irish-American groups in Celtic music. Sponsored by PBS, NIPR, Lincoln Financial Foundation and Indiana Arts Commission.

Summer Self-Defense

Botanical Conservatory, 1100 S. Calhoun Street

Saturdays, August 4 – 25, 8:30 – 9:30 am

Learn how to recognize a dangerous situation and create an opportunity to escape. Learn how to deal with bullies in a non-violent way, and how to defend yourself against a dangerous predator while getting fit and having fun! Basche’s Martial Arts will teach a well-rounded class incorporating bully prevention and self defense techniques that men, women and children of all ages and abilities can use to protect themselves. Sign up today to reserve your spot! Ages 7-adult. Registration deadline: July 30. Min. 5. Max. 26. $44/4-week session. To register, call (260) 427-6011.

Chadd Micheals and The Brat Pack

Foellinger Theatre, Franke Park

Thursday, August 9, 8 pm, FREE

Local crooner Chadd Micheals and his brat pack cronies Todd Frymier, Lindsey Helmer and Tom Didier take to the stage with songs from Frank Sinatra to Michael Bublé. Sponsored by Lincoln Financial Foundation and Indiana Arts Commission.

Fort Wayne Children’s Choir

Foellinger Theatre, Franke Park

Friday, August 10, 7:30 pm, FREE

This performance is the culmination of Choralfest, a week-long multi-disciplinary arts day camp. Sponsored by Lincoln Financial Foundation and Indiana Arts Commission.

Spike and the Bulldogs

Foellinger Theatre, Franke Park

Saturday, August 11, 8 pm, $5

Let Spike and the Bulldogs take you back to the days of the “sock hop” and drive-in movies, when you could get six plays for a quarter on the juke-box. Spike and the Bulldogs plays 50s and 60s vintage music. Sponsored by WGL 1290 The River, Lincoln Financial Foundation and Indiana Arts Commission.

Fort Wayne Area Community Band

Foellinger Theatre, Franke Park

Tuesday, August 14, 8 pm, FREE

The evening will be a walk through memory lane as the band performs “Those Were the Days”. Approximately 80 musicians, music teachers and professionals from all walks of life make up this local community band. Sponsored by Lincoln Financial Foundation and Indiana Arts Commission.

Introduce Yourself to Tai Chi & Qigong

Botanical Conservatory, 1100 S. Calhoun Street

Tuesday, August 14, 6 – 7 pm

This is a great way to sample Tai Chi (ty-chee) and Qigong (chee-kung)! Renew your energy level while experiencing these ancient art forms of movement and grace. Tai Chi offers many benefits, from better posture to improved breathing, balance and relaxation. Qigong is a breathing exercise and movement. Three one-hour classes will be held, and in each class you will learn the basics of Tai Chi and Qigong. Sandy Gebhard has been teaching and practicing Tai Chi for over 30 years. She has been certified as an instructor by renowned Master Dr. Paul Lam. Registration deadline: August 7. Ages 18+. Min. 8. Max. 20. $10/session. For more information, call (260) 427-6440.

Memories of the King

Foellinger Theatre, Franke Park

Saturday, August 25, 8 pm, $5

Brent Cooper brings back all the excitement, looks, sounds and electricity of a live Elvis concert. Sponsored by WGL 1290 The River, Lincoln Financial Foundation and Indiana Arts Commission.

Summit City Chorus

Foellinger Theatre, Franke Park

Thursday, August 30, 8 pm, FREE

The Summit City Chorus will dazzle you with the harmonies of four-part barbershop—coming from this male chorus, ages 18-80.  Guest barbershop quartets will add to your enjoyment. Sponsored by Lincoln Financial Foundation and Indiana Arts Commission.

Botanical Roots Concert Series

Botanical Conservatory, 1100 S. Calhoun Street

Friday Nights, July 27 – August 31, Doors Open 7:30 pm; Opening Act 8:30 pm

The Botanical Roots concerts are held on the outdoor terrace on the west side of the Conservatory. Food and beverages, including beer, wine, and limited bar service, will be available for sale throughout the event.  Admission is $6 per person; children age 12 and under will be admitted free with a parent or guardian. The concerts are open to all ages. Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs to the event. 

 Friday July 27^th Kenny Neal, Blues, With the Todd Harrold Band

Friday, August 3^rd Unknown Hinson, Rockabilly (Satire, not recommended for young audiences), With the Kenny Taylor Trio

Friday, August 10^th The Aggrolites, Reggae/Ska, With Black Cat Mambo

Friday, August 17^th The Honeybees, Rockabilly, With Scratch ‘n Sniff

Friday, August 24^th Gizzae, Reggae, With Dan Dickerson

 Friday, August 31^st The Lost Bayou Ramblers, Cajun, With Old and Dirty

Botanical Roots is sponsored by The Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department, Rock 104, The Home of Rock and Roll, Whatzup, PBS39, Fort Wayne Metals Research, the Downtown Improvement District, and Mad Anthony Brewing Company.  For more information contact Mitch Sheppard 260/427-6441.

Soothing Summer Gardens Exhibit

Botanical Conservatory, 1100 S. Calhoun Street

Through September 15

What could be more restorative than a quiet stroll through a summer garden designed with restfulness in mind? Each small garden “room” will have its own character and art piece to admire, with strategic seating for those who wish to linger. A tapestry of plants comprises the vertical garden, or “green wall,” while the gentle curve of earth-plaster-on-straw-bale provides a textural backdrop for the smooth contours and rich colors of the planters and the architectural feel of specimen plants. Explore each intimate space and enjoy each new view. Bring the camera for some wonderful photo opportunities! For more information, call the Botanical Conservatory at (260) 427-6440. Sponsored by the Wilson Family Foundation.

 Have fun!

What's Happening in June

June Plant Swap

Botanical Conservatory,

1100 S. Calhoun Street

Saturday, June 2, 10 am – 11 am

Join other gardeners at the Conservatory for a free exchange of plants. Bring at least one plant to share. You can set aside extra seedlings, divisions, or full-grown plants of any type, then bring them down to swap for something new. Plants should be healthy, separated into “individual servings,” and labeled with either the common or botanical name. When you arrive you’ll receive a number indicating the order of your turn, and we all take turns picking until all the plants have found new homes. Bring a box or bag in which to carry your plants home. The plant swap is free, but phone reservations are required by June 1. Call (260) 427-6442 with questions or to reserve your spot.

$1 Night

Botanical Conservatory,

1100 S. Calhoun Street

Thursday, June 7, 5 – 8 pm

On the first Thursday of the month we offer $1 admissions, 5-8 pm, for adults and children. Babies and up to age 2 are still admitted free. Enjoy our evening hours and a special discount once a month. For more info, call (260) 427-6440.

Herman’s Hermits Starring Peter Noone

Foellinger Theatre, Franke Park

Saturday, June 9, 8 p.m., $20, $25

At the age of fifteen, Peter Noone achieved international fame as “Herman,” lead singer of the legendary 60’s pop band Herman’s Hermits. Their classic hits include “I’m Into Something Good,” “Mrs. Brown, You’ve Got a Lovely Daughter,” “There’s a Kind of Hush,” and “I’m Henry VIII, I Am.” Ultimately, Herman’s Hermits sold over sixty million recordings, 14 singles and seven albums went gold. Sponsored by Fun 101.7 WLDE and MedPartners.

Fort Wayne Area Community Band

Foellinger Theatre, Franke Park

Tuesday, June 12, 8 p.m., Free

It’s High School Band Night and the theme is “All American Concert”. Approximately 80 musicians, students, music teachers and professionals from all walks of life make up this local community band.

The Bel Airs

Foellinger Theatre, Franke Park

Friday, June 15, 8 p.m., $5

The Bel Airs, a local band formed in the 80’s, has been charming area patrons for years with their rockabilly music—a mix between rock ‘n roll and country. Sponsored by WGL 1250 The River, Lincoln Financial Foundation and Indiana Arts Commission.

Movie:  Cars 2

Foellinger Theatre, Franke Park

Wednesday, June 20, 8:30 p.m., Free

Star racecar, Lightning McQueen, and the incomparable tow truck, Mater, take their friendship to exciting new places when they head overseas to compete in the first-ever world Grand Prix to determine the world’s fastest car. PG. 106 min. Sponsored by 97.3 WMEE.

Divapalooza

Foellinger Theatre, Franke Park

Saturday, June 23, 8:00 p.m., $10

Imagine Aretha Franklin, Janis Joplin and Bette Midler all together on one stage! That, in a nutshell, is the experience of Divapalooza. It’s an unforgettable night of rhythm & blues, jazz, musical theatre, rock & roll, folk and gospel. Sponsored by NIPR and MedPartners, Lincoln Financial Foundation and Indiana Arts Commission

Air Force National Guard Band of the Great Lakes

Foellinger Theatre, Franke Park

Tuesday, June 26, 8:00 p.m., Free

The Air Force National Guard Band of the Great Lakes, based in Toledo, is returning to the Foellinger Theatre stage to delight us with their Military Band Sounds. It will be the last time this Air Force band performs because they will no longer be touring.

Movie:  Kung Fu Panda 2

Foellinger Theatre, Franke Park

Wednesday, June 27, 8:30 p.m., Free

Po is living his dream as The Dragon Warrior, protecting the Valley of Peace alongside his friends and fellow kung fu masters.  But Po’s new life of awesomeness is threatened by the emergence of a formidable villain. PG. 90 min. Sponsored by 97.3 WMEE.

BritBeat

Foellinger Theatre, Franke Park

Saturday, June 30, 8:00 p.m., $12

Take a trip back to 1964 with BritBeat’s tribute to the Beatles. With mop tops, retro costumes, vintage instruments, and harmonizing vocals, BritBeat performs all the memorable Beatle’s hits from the sixties. Sponsored by Fun 101.7 WLDE and MedPartners.

Lifetime Sports Academy

McMillen Park

June 11 – 27, Monday – Friday, 9 am – 3 pm, FREE

Free tennis, golf and swimming lessons for boys and girls ages 8 – 18

No registration required.

Come once or as often as you’d like!

Have fun!

What's Happening in May

Mother’s Day Plant Sale

Friday, May 11, 4 -7 pm

Saturday, May 12, 10 am - 5pm

Sunday, May 13, 12 - 4 pm

McMillen Ice Arena, 3901 Abbott Street

We had such a great time last year, we’re doing it again! Come down to the McMillen Ice Arena over the Mother’s Day weekend to get your garden started. The Botanical Conservatory is offering around 600 kinds of plants for purchase at a three-day plant extravaganza. You’ll find herbs, tomatoes, and other vegetable plants along with annual and perennial flowers and foliage plants, tropical plants for indoors or out, color bowls, mixed containers, and hanging baskets. New this year, we’ll have a special line-up on Saturday of speakers and displays to help answer questions for beginners and do-it-yourself gardeners. The plant sale is a fundraiser for the Botanical Conservatory to support its public programs. Come early for the best selection because it won’t last forever. Volunteers will be on hand to assist you in plant selection and loading. Plenty of free parking! Are you a Conservatory member? If so you can enjoy the preview sale on Thursday, May 5, 4 - 7 pm. Memberships will be available for purchase that evening if you want to beat the crowd and get the best selection. Please check our website www.botanicalconservatory.org for a plant list. For more information, call (260) 427-6440. Sponsored by WAJI Majic 95.1 FM.

4^th Annual Games! Dogs! Play!

Saturday, May 12, 9 am – noon

Franke Park Pavilion #2, 3411 Sherman Blvd.

Don’t let your dog miss this fun event, doggone- it! It will be the most fun you and your

canine companion have all year, paws down! It’s a dog’s day with vendors, adoptable dogs, rescue groups and the opportunity to participate in fun and goofy canine challenges. Food will be available for purchase during the event, too! Registration is required to participate in the games but the event is open to the public and free of charge. Call Renee Sinacola at 427-6005 for more information. Sponsored by My Best Friend Dog Training.

City Golf Courses

To check on course availability, call the golf course where you plan to play:

McMillen Park Golf Course: 427-6710

Shoaff Park Golf Course: 427-6745

Foster Park Golf Course: 427-6735

To download and print coupons for daily specials, visit the golf course Web sites:

http://www.mcmillengolfcourse.com/.

http://www.shoaffgolfcourse.com/

http://www.fostergolfcourse.com/

Tee times can be reserved on line at www.fortwayneparks.org.

Weekday Special

Men and women of all ages are invited to play 18 holes with a cart at Foster Golf Course for just $20 and at McMillen and Shoaff golf courses for $18 weekdays until 1 pm.

Ladies Day

Ladies, if you like to play with a friend, women play 2-for-1 before 3 pm on Mondays at Foster Golf Course and Fridays at Shoaff and McMillen golf courses.

Senior Ladies Golf League

Women 55 years of age by July 1 are invited to play 9 holes in the Senior Women’s League Thursdays at Shoaff Golf Course starting at 9 am. If your Thursdays are already full, we have many more league opportunities for you at all of our golf courses. Please call Shoaff Clubhouse at 427-6745 to sign up for the Ladies Golf League, or to find out about one of our other golf leagues.

Senior Men’s Golf League

Men 55 years of age by July 1 are invited to play 18 holes in the Senior Men’s League on Mondays at McMillen and Shoaff golf courses, or 9 holes at Foster Golf Course. Benefits of membership include reduced golf fees, gift certificates, special events and scrambles. For more information, please contact Harold Lowder at 483-5109.

Have fun!

What's Happening in March

Foellinger Theatre Tickets On Sale NOW!

Have you heard that Huey Lewis and the News is coming to the Theatre on Friday, May 18? Davy Jones will be here on June 9. And Starship, featuring Mickey Thomas will perform on July 14. That’s not all! There’s an amazing line-up of concerts on the schedule, and don’t forget free movies on Wednesday nights including Happy Feet 2, Puss in Boots, The Muppets and Hugo. Concert tickets can be purchased

on-line at www.fortwayneparks.org,

by calling 260-427-6000

or at the Parks and Recreation Department at

705 E. State Blvd.

The full schedule of summer concerts and movies is posted on our website: www.fortwayneparks.org. But check back often. We may add a few more concerts before the summer over.

Registration for Summer Youth Programs

Begins Friday, March 23: Mail, Fax, Drop Box, On-Line

Begins Wednesday, March 28: Walk-In, Phone-In

Program brochures containing registration forms and detailed information about our summer youth programs and day camps will be distributed in early March through the Parks and Recreation Department, Allen County Public Libraries and local elementary schools. You may call 427-6000 beginning March 9 to request a brochure by mail. Brochures will also be available on-line at that time. Brochures will not be mailed out prior to March 9 and registrations will not be accepted prior to March 23. Participants must be the minimum age before the program begins. Proof of age may be required.

Down on the Fisher-Price Farm Exhibit: Through April 8

Bring the little ones down to the Conserva­tory this winter for a fun time on the farm, where children can play at gathering eggs, milking the cow, churning butter, making pies, hanging the wash, and tending the garden. Reminiscent of the old Fisher-Price farm set, the old red barn and Farmall tractor are the centerpieces of the exhibit. Mom and Dad will enjoy coming in out of the cold for the smell of fresh earth and a view of growing plants. Don’t miss our special Family Farm event on Saturday, February 4. Spon­sored by WAJI Majic 95.1 FM, WLDE Fun 101.7 FM, and Orthopedic Precision Instruments in Albion, Indiana. For more info, visit www.botanicalconservatory.org or call (260) 427-6440. Admission is $5/adult, $3/child age 3-17, free for children 2 and under.

$1 Night

March 1, 5 – 8 pm

On the first Thursday of the month we offer $1 admissions, 5-8 pm, for adults and children. Babies and up to age 2 are still admitted free. Enjoy our evening hours and a special discount once a month. For more info, call (260) 427-6440.

Spring Open House

Saturday, March 17, 10 am – 5 pm
Looking for something to brighten your home or garden? Enjoy our new retail Sales Garden offering fresh spring-flowering plants. Add some fragrance with cold-tolerant pansies, sweet alyssum, or stock, or color your dining table with a pot of forced hyacinths or daffodils. Perfect for gift giving, our flowers will put a “spring” in your step. Free warm drinks while you shop! No admission is required to shop at the Conservatory, but to visit the gardens, regular admission applies: $5/adult, $3/child age 3-17.Children 2 and under are free. The spring Showcase exhibit is “Down on the Fisher-Price Farm,” a perfect opportunity for pre-schoolers and other youngsters to interact with their adults in a nostalgic setting. For more information, call (260) 427-6440.

Drop-In Yoga in the Garden

Wednesdays, 5:30 – 6:30 pm

The practice of yoga is a wonderful way to build strength and flexibility, reduce stress, and enhance general well-being. Taught by certified yoga instructor and world traveler Lanah K. Hake, these classes provide a sampling of a variety of yoga styles and are tailored to fit the ability level of the group. A few blankets and mats are available but you should bring your own supplies if you have them. Additional class information is available by following Fort Wayne Outdoor Yoga on Facebook, or by checking the instructor’s website at http://www.lanahlink.com/. Ages 15+.  $7 per class/public; $5/Conservatory member or volunteer. For more information, call (260) 427-6440 or visit the instructor’s Facebook page at Ft Wayne Outdoor Yoga. Held in the garden at the Botanical Conservatory.

Drop-In Zumba in the Garden

Wednesdays, 6:30 – 7:30 pm

When participants see a Zumba class in action, they can’t wait to give it a try. Led by licensed instructor Hillary Halsema, our Zumba classes feature exotic rhythms set to high-energy Latin and international beats. Before participants know it, they’re getting fit and their energy levels are soaring! It’s easy to do, effective and totally exhilarating, often building a deep-rooted community among returning students. Ages 15+.  Fee: $7 per class Member Fee: $5 per class. Held at Botanical Conservatory. For more information, call (260) 427-6440.

Have fun!

What's Happening in November

Gather the family and come out for these festive events:

$1 Night

November 3, 5 – 8 pm

Botanical Conservatory

On the first Thursday of the month we offer $1 admissions, 5-8 pm, for adults and children. Babies and up to age 2 are still admitted free. Enjoy our evening hours and a special discount once a month. For more info, call (260) 427-6440.

Santa’s Workshop at the Community Center

Wednesday, November 23, 4 – 7 pm, Free Admission

Community Center

233 W. Main Street

Start off your downtown celebration at the Community Center with free holiday activities for the kids. There will be crafts, refreshments and movies. Kids can shop for inexpensive holiday gifts for $1 or less at the North Pole Stop-n-Shop. Mom and Dad can shop that night, too. Community Center patrons have been crafting holiday items to sell on Candy Cane Lane. The money raised from the crafts will be donated to the Community Center’s wellness classes.

Holiday Kick-Off Party

November 23, 5 – 9 pm

Botanical Conservatory

Enjoy free hot chocolate and a cookie, meet Mrs. Claus, and get a photo with Santa. You can also meet two live reindeer that know all about the North Pole. While you are waiting, you can explore the holiday garden exhibits, including Night Before Christmas, Piñata Paradise, and the animated light show. Don’t forget to partici­pate in the Fort Wayne Downtown Lighting Cer­emony either before or after your visit to our beautiful holiday garden and displays. No reser­vations required. Sponsored by PBS 39, WAJI Majic 95.1 FM, and Media 401. For more info, visit http://www.botanicalconservatory.org/ or call (260) 427-6440. Admission is $5/adult, $3/child age 3-17, free for children 2 and under.

Christmas on the Farm

Saturday, December 3, 6 – 9 pm

Salomon Farm Park,

817 W. Dupont Road

Free Admission, free-will donations welcomed

Mark your calendar now and join us for a traditional Christmas celebration on the farm with a live nativity scene, horse and tractor drawn wagon rides, stories from St. Nicho­las and refreshments.

Have fun!

What's Happening in October

October is a month filled with frightful fun!

Fall Festival

Historic Old Fort

1201 Spy Run Ave.

October 22, 12:00-8:00 p.m.

Free Admission

Take a guided tour of the fort and watch as re-enactors bring to life the daily activities of the fort’s citizens during the 1800s. Live demon­strations will include period cooking, food pres­ervation, military procedures and more! Food and period crafts will be available for purchase. Visit www.oldfortwayne.org or call (260) 437-2836 for a complete list of activities.

Halloween Haunt

Community Center,

233 W. Main St

.

Saturday, October 22, 2:00-5:00 p.m.

Downtown Fort Wayne becomes a haven for monsters, ghosts, vampires and zombies on October 22. Bring your little spooks and goblins to the Community Center for an afternoon of frightful fun. There will be games for kids and fun for the whole family. Enjoy Halloween cornhole, pumpkin relays, pumpkin bowling and Pick the Pumpkin. We will also have face painting, a scarecrow con­test, a skeleton scavenger hunt and Scooby Doo movies. There will be seasonal crafts and refreshments. Best of all . . . it’s FREE

Pumpkin Zone

Botanical Conservatory

Saturday, October 22, 12:00-5:00 pm

Adults $5/ Children age 3 – 17 $3/ Ages 2 and under FREE

Pumpkins are one of the best things about the fall season and we’re going show you why! This squash family member was cultivated in Mexico as long ago as 7000 B.C. and is used today for decoration and food. See creative things to make and do with pumpkins, get fun pumpkin facts, and watch pumpkin carving demonstrations. The Conservatory is proud to be a part of the Downtown Improvement District’s Fright Night festivities.

Have fun!