What's Up! 2-16-16

FW community band concert

On Tuesday, March 1, at 7:30 p.m. the Fort Wayne Area Community Band will present a concert at he Rhinehart Music Center on the campus of IPFW.

Admission is $8 for adults, $7 for seniors and free to those 12 and younger. Parking is free in the garage across from the music center.

Appleseed Quilters Gathering March 19

The Appleseed Quilters will host the Annual Gathering of Quilter on Saturday, March 19 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Wayne High School in Fort Wayne.

Pre-Registration is $20 and includes lunch and a number of special items. It is $15 at the door and does not include lunch or the special items. For more information contact Vivian Lemmon 260-692-6227.

What's Up! 2-15-16

Flower Punch Cards available

Members of Psi Otes, Bluffton Chapter are selling Flower Punch Cards. The deadline to purchase a card is Monday, Feb. 29.

Cost for a card is $30. The person with the card will receive flowers every month for a year. 

Cards can be purchased as Posy Pot at 129 W. Townley Street in Bluffton.

For more information call 824-3330.

What's Up! Monday, Jan. 25, 2016

Join Arbor Day foundation & get 10 free trees

Anyone joining the Arbor Day Foundation during February will receive 10 free Eastern redbud trees to plant when the weather turns warm. 

The free trees are part of the nonprofit Foundation’s Trees for America campaign.

To become a member of the Foundation send a $10 contribution to Ten Free Eastern Redbud Trees, Arbor Day Foundation, 100 Arbor Ave., Nebraska City, NE, 68410 by Feb. 29 or visit arborday.org/media/offer.

The trees will arrive between March 1 and May 31, with planting instructions. The 6 to 12-inch trees are guaranteed to grow, or they will be replaced free of charge.

Foundation members also receive a subscription to the Foundation’s colorful bimonthly publication. Arbor Day and The Tree Book, which contains information about planting and care.

Civic theatre seeking build crew volunteers

Fort Wayne’s Civic Theatre is looking for volunteers for their “build crew” for constructing sets for theater productions.

Times for volunteering are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to noon, 1 to 5 p.m. or 6 to 10 p.m. Volunteers earn two free tickets to a production, must 15 years of age or older with no experience is necessary. 

If interested E-mail to Derek Blanco at dblanco@fwcivic.org including name and phone number.

Free events at FW’s Sweetwater Sound

Sweetwater Sound, 5501 U.S. Hwy. 30 W, Fort Wayne will be offering the following free events during the next few months.

On Wednesday, Jan. 27, Vicky Hamilton will be joined by Automagik and 222 for a book reading and live concert from 7 to 9 p.m.

On the lst Thursday of every month a Jazz Jam will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Drum Circle will be held the fist Tuesday of each month from 7 to 8 p.m.

For more information about any of the programs check out Sweetwaer.com/events or call 260-432-8176.

Judson Choir to sing at Baptist Church Jan. 28

Among the singers when the Judson University Choir appears in a free concert on Thursday, Jan. 28 at Bluffton’s First Baptist Church, will be Julie Cantrell, a sophomore from Bluffton.

The 40 member choir from Elgin, Ill. is on a midwinter tour to sites in Indiana and Illinois from Jan. 28-31. Dr. Warren Anderson is the director.

Cantrell’s father is Rev. Les Cantrell, the minister at Bluffton Baptist Church at 202 W. Cherry Street.

What's Up! Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2016

Open Gym underway

Open Gym Supervised activities in the Bluffton City Gym for school aged kids kindergrarten through 12th grade. All participants MUST fill out a parental permission slip (either the first day they attend or print one off and send it in with them from the city’s website at www.blufftonindiana.net under the Parks Dept Gym page). 

Days and hours CAN VARY, but will usually be seven days a week from 3:30- 7 p.m. Calendars will be available in the gym for students to take home or check the city’s website calendar. Free.

Pickleball Jan. 21 at St. Mark’s

Pickle Ball will be held Jan. 7 and Jan. 21 at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church on Thiele Road. Starting time is 1 p.m. The group plays for two hours. Cost is $2 per person. Equipment is furnished.

For more information call Carol Franke at 260-597-7397. 

What's Up! Monday, Jan. 18, 2016

Swiss Heritage annual meeting Jan. 19

The public is welcome to attend the Swiss Heritage Village and Museum annual meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 19 at the Swiss Village Social Corner at 7 p.m.

Guest speaker will be Carl Yoder. He will detail the historical beginnings of the Baumgartner Church. The meeting will be followed with light refreshments.

 For more information call 260-589-8007.

Pizza Supper Jan. 22 at AC

The Adams Central Classroom Teachers Association will sponsor its annual Pizza Supper on Friday, Jan. 22 in the Adams Central cafeteria during the high school boys basketball game against Bluffton from 5 to 7 p.m. Pizza will be from Monroe Dining-Drive Thru. 

Available for purchase will be pizza, pop, salad, and desserts.

All proceeds from the event will be awarded as a scholarship for an Adams Central senior pursuing a degree in education.   

Free Chili Supper Jan. 23 at  SW

There will be a Free Chili Supper in the Southern Wells High School cafetorium on Saturday, Jan. 23 from 4:30-7 p.m. before the Southern Wells and Jay County basketball games. 

The meal is sponsored by Sponsored by members of Southern Wells Community Church.

Appleseed Quilters annual Gathering March 19

The Appleseed Quilters will host the Annual Gathering of Quilter on Saturday, March 19 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Wayne High School in Fort Wayne.

Pre-Registration is $20 and includes lunch and a number of special items. It is $15 at the door and does not include lunch or the special items.  For more information contact Vivian Lemmon 260-692-6227.

Craft Bazaar Oct. 22 in Fort Wayne

Craft  vendors wanted for the fourth  Annual Allen County Fairgrounds Craft Bazaar.   It will be held on Saturday Oct. 22  at the Allen County 4-H Fairgrounds from 9 a.m.-2 p.m.  The Cost for an 8 foot booth space, with table is $30 if application is received before March 31.,  After March 31 cost will be $ 35 for an 8 foot booth space. For more information or to request an application  please contact Chad at (260) 704-0765.

What's Up! Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2016

Bummie’s Night at the Legion  Jan. 16

The annual “Bummie’s Night” fundraiser will be held Saturday, Jan. 16 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the American Legion Post 111 in Bluffton. Proceeds will go to Friends Who Care Foundation (formerly the Steve Kelly Cancer Relief Foundation. Carry-out will be available, however no phone-in orders will be accepted. 

There will be seating in the Legion’s backroom for families with minor children. The event is open to the public.

Amish Youth Choir to perform Jan. 17

Amish Youth Choir will be performing at Ossian Nazarene Church on Sunday, Jan. 17, at 3 p.m.  The public is welcome to attend the event. 

For more information call 622-7449.

Homemade Card Class Jan. 28

Angie Honegger will teach those in attendance at the Homemade Card Class on Jan. 28 from 6-8 p.m. how to create their own beautiful cards.

 Cost is $7 for 3-4 cards. Cards will be simple, elegant, and punch art along with easy techniques thrown in to the mix. 

As always various sentiments will be available each class if you need a different occasion! Call to preregister at 824-6069. The focus will be on thank you and Valentine Cards. 

Love Run in Ossian Feb. 13

Get your heart pumping at the Ossian Rolls... Love Run Saturday, Feb. 13. Registration for the 1.25 mile fun walk/run will be held at the Melching Park Concession Stand at 9 a.m. The run/walk begins at 10 a.m. at the Archbold-Wilson Park trail. Prizes awarded for best dressed couple, oldest combined age, and youngest married.

Entry fee is $10. Register by Feb. 1 and receive a T-shirt. Forms are available at the Ossian Town Hall or Ossian Nazarene Church. Return forms to the church at 302 N. Metts St., Ossian.

Direct questions to Bob Miller at 260-849-2268 or ossianrolls@yahoo.com. All net proceeds benefit Archbold-Wilson Park renovation projects. Run/walk sponsored by Barkley Builders, Inc.

What's Up! Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2016

Knitting lessons begin Jan. 11

Chicks With Sticks Knitting Lessons, sponsored by the Bluffton Parks Department, is now accepting registration for January knitting lessons. 

Classes are for beginners or advanced students and will be three Mondays: Jan 11, 18 and 25 from 3-5 p.m. in the City Hall building. Cost is $20 due the first day. 

Those attending must bring a size 7 or 8 pair of needles to the class. Instructions and yarn will be provided. Call to register at 824-6069. 

Short hikes for short legs at Fort Wayne’s Eagle Marsh Jan. 20

On Wednesday, Jan. 20, from 9 to 10 a.m. the Eagle Marsh in Fort Wayne will host “Short Hikes for Short Legs.” 

There is free admission for those 3 to 5 years of age, accompanied by a responsible adult. Participants will view snowflakes under a microscope, conduct experiments in the barn and  hike through the snow (if there is some).

The hike is sponsored by the Little River Wetlands Project. Eagle Marsh is located at 5801 Engle Rd. in Fort Wayne. More information at 260-478-2515 or at info@lrwp.org.www.Irwp.org

Mercer County Garage Sale Jan. 28-Feb. 2

A six day garage sale will be sponsored by the Mercer County Council on Aging from Jan. 26-Feb. 2 at the Senior Citizen Center in Celina.

Garage sale hours will be Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.; Friday, Monday and Tuesday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The center is located at 217 Riley Street, Celina, Ohio 45822. For more informationcall 419-586-1644.

Daddy Daughter and Mother Son Dance tickets on sale

Super Heroes and VillainDaddy Daughter and Mother Son dance tickets are now on sale! 

The Bluffton Parks Department wants you to come dressed as your favorite alter ego at this year’s dances. If you don’t have a costume, that’s fine too, feel free to wear your red white and blue! 

Tickets are on sale in the Clerk Treasurer’s office at City Hall starting in January. Cost is $5 per person and will include a fun night of dancing, refreshments, door prizes for the kids and a photo area. Don’t forget to bring your camera!! 

The dances will be held at the 4-H building on Sunday Feb. 21. 

The Mother Son Dance will be from 2-4 p.m. and the Daddy Daughter Dance will be from 6-8 p.m.

Doors will open 15 minutes before each.

What's Up! Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2016

Pickleball Jan. 7 and 21 at St. Mark’s

Pickle Ball will be held Jan. 7 and Jan. 21 at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church on Thiele Road. Starting time is 1 p.m. The group plays for two hours. Cost is $2 per person. Equipment is furnished. For more information call Carol Franke at 260-597-7397.

Cancer Gospel Benefit Concert Jan. 9

The Wells County fourth annual Gospel Benefit Concert will be held from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 9 at the Wells Community 4-H Building in Bluffton. Admission is free.

There will be nine local groups, a live auction, a silent auction and a raffle.

Doors will open at 5 p.m. Concesssions will be sold by Fat John’s BBQ and will include hot dogs, chili, hot nachos and hot ham and cheese. Auction donations are needed. To participate call Steve Gerber at 824-5189, Todd Reimschisel at 824-2300 or Bruce and Kate Stinson at 824-4460. All proceeds will go to help Wells County residents battleing cancer. 

Norwell Food Bank open Jan. 9

The Northern Wells Food Bank will begin Saturday hours once per month, beginning with hours Saturday, Jan. 9 from 9 to 11 a.m. The food bank,  located behind the former Brew Ha building on West LaFever Street in Ossian, will be open for families in need and will also be accepting donations of food and money.

Friends of the Shelter to meet Jan. 11

Friends of the Shelter will meet Monday, Jan. 11 at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall at 128 E. Market Street in Bluffton. The organization provides support for the Bluffton/Wells County Animal Shelter.  Items on the agenda will be Shelter operations, updates on Spay-Neuter clinics and Christmas donations. The meeting is open to the public. Call  273. 1742.

What's Up! Monday, Jan. 4, 2016

Art Journaling Side by Side Jan. 5 & 12

Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana will sponsor Art Journaling Side by Side Jan. 5 and 12 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at 6316 Mutual Drive in Fort Wayne.

Those attending the event will learn art techniques such as Zentangle, doodling and coloring; how to give visual symbols and pictures to words and thoughts; create with no rules and to put thoughts and feelings on paper.

Those participating should bring an unlined art journal, gel pens and a favorite magazine, poem, quote or inspirational verse.

For more information call 260-484-9560 or 1-866-484-9560.

Northern Wells Food Band open Jan. 9

The Northern Wells Food Bank will begin Saturday hours once per month, beginning with hours Saturday, Jan. 9 from 9 to 11 a.m. 

The food bank,  located behind the former Brew Ha building on West LaFever Street in Ossian, will be open for families in need and will also be accepting donations of food and money.

Theater Thursday Jan. 21

Theater Thursday will be held at 10 a.m., Jan. 21 at the Wells County Public Library. The movie is entitle “The Age of Adaline.” It is Rated PG-13. 

The Bluffton Parks and Recreation Department, Wells County Public Library and Bluffton Regional Senior Circle have partnered together to offer this free monthly movie for adults. 

There will be free snacks, a 10 minute health info and prizes will be part of the program. 

This is a year round event that is the third Thursday of every month.

What's Up! Wednesday, Dec. 30, 2015

Toddler Time at City Gym

The Bluffton Parks Department’s Toddler Time in the city gym will continue through March 31, 2016.

The Bluffton City Gym will be open every Tuesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to noon for people to bring their tots to burn off some energy.

This is a free drop in program that will give young children a chance to play with others their age in a large open space. Balls will be made available in the storage closet at the East end of the gym when the children arrive. 

Please note that this is not a staff facilitated event and parents are responsible for their children. 

The first Tuesday of each month the Parks Department will offer a special tour or activity. 

Sign in on the wooden door each visit and turn off the gym lights if you are the last to leave. For more information call 824-6069. 

Theater bus trip a set for May 2016

Wells Community Theater members are offering a unique Christmas gift for someone on your list—a bus rip to Indy to see a national touring company present “Phantom of the Opera” on Thursday, May 5, 2016.

The $125 price includes bus transportation from Bluffton, a ticket in one of the first three rows  at the theatre and a stop at Circle Center Mall.

More information about the opportunity at http://www.wellscocreativearts.com/wlls-community-theatre-bus-trip. Reservation deadline is Dec. 31. More information at the  CAC office at (260) 824-5222. 

Parks Department wants your summer movie vote

The Bluffton Parks and Recreation want your opinion. 

They are taking a survey on facebook (like us at Bluffton Parks) for family friendly movies for the next “Free Movies in July” series. They want to know what five movies you would recommend. 

Please feel free to mention any that are not listed. Your help is greatly appreciated by calling 824-6069. 

Movies suggestions so far are: Minions, Inside Out, Pixels, Tomorrowland, Shaun the Sheep Movie, Cinderella, Pan, Paul Blart Mall Cop 2, The Good Dinosaur, The Spongebob Movie Sponge Out of Water, Norm of the North, Zootopia, BatKid Begins, Home.

What's Up! Tuesday, Dec. 29, 2015

Open Gym underway

Open Gym Supervised activities in the Bluffton City Gym for school aged kids kindergrarten through 12th grade. 

All participants MUST fill out a parental permission slip (either the first day they attend or print one off and send it in with them from the city’s website at www.blufftonindiana.net under the Parks Dept Gym page). 

Days and hours CAN VARY, but will usually be seven days a week from 3:30- 7 p.m. Calendars will be available in the gym for students to take home or check the city’s website calendar. Free.

Free Weekday Walking at city gym

FREE Weekday Walking is available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m. in the City Gym. 

Participants can enter the glass door on the West side of the building and sign in on the wooden door each day you attend. 

If you are the last to leave the gym please turn off the light in the south west corner of the gym. Questions call 824- 6069. 1 Mile = 20 laps.

Daddy Daughter and Mother Son Dance tickets on sale

Super Heroes and VillainDaddy Daughter and Mother Son dance tickets are now on sale! 

The Bluffton Parks Department wants you to come dressed as your favorite alter ego at this year’s dances. If you don’t have a costume, that’s fine too, feel free to wear your red white and blue! 

Tickets are on sale in the Clerk Treasurer’s office at City Hall starting in January. Cost is $5 per person and will include a fun night of dancing, refreshments, door prizes for the kids and a photo area. Don’t forget to bring your camera!! 

The dances will be held at the 4-H building on Sunday Feb. 21. The Mother Son Dance will be from 2-4 p.m. and the Daddy Daughter Dance will be from 6-8 p.m.

Doors will open 15 minutes before each.

Stuff and Fluff registration has begun

Ladies bring that special child in your life for a memorable evening they will never forget. Watch their eyes light up as the two of you make an adorable stuffed animal to take home. 

The event will be held Feb. 8, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on the second floor of City Hall. 

Those attending should wear play clothes since participants will also be making valentine crafts. 

Cost is $20 per child and is open to both boys and girls. Call 824- 6069 to register and pick out an animal. Last day to order is Jan. 22. 

Animal choices can be found at the following link: http://www.blufftonindiana.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/stuff-fluff-flier-choices-2016.pdf

School of Ballet offers  free ‘try us’ class on Jan. 6

On Wednesday, Jan. 6, at 5 p.m. the Creative Arts Council’s School of Ballet will offer a free “try us” class for children ages 5 to 14.

Regardless of previous experience those attending the free session will learn more about the classes offered and parents will be able to ask questions about them. It is the halfway point in the ballet teaching year and this special “open enrollment” session offers students a chance to attend a free class before committing to further instruction.

Since 1976, the School of Ballet has offered classical ballet training right here in Wells County. For nearly 40 years area children have been taught poise, confidence and resolve by sharing the wonderful gift of dance.

Class size will be limited and for more information or to reserve a spot call (260) 824-5222.

Pickleball Jan. 7 & 21 at St. Mark’s

Pickle Ball will be held Jan. 7 and Jan. 21 at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church on Thiele Road. Starting time is 1 p.m. The group plays for two hours. Cost is $2 per person. Equipment is furnished.

For more information call Carol Franke at 260-597-7397.

Crochet classes begin Jan. 12

Hooked on Crochet classes will be taught by Kathy Gehrett at the City Hall building from 3-4 p.m. on Tuesdays January 12, 19 and 26. Cost for three, one hour group lessons, is $12 due the first day. 

Yarn and instructions will be provided. Those attending need to bring their own size H hook. 

Call the park office to pre-register at 824- 6069. 

Class size is limited and open to beginners and advanced students. Beginners will learn single crochet, double crochet and a shell stitch to make a hot pad. Advanced students will learn a variety of stitches to make afghan samples.

Action Plan for Healthy Living Jan. 21

Action Plan for Healthy Living will be held Jan. 21 from 6–7 p.m. on the second floor of City Hall.

Everyday choices influence people’s  quality of life. From healthy food choices, becoming more physically active, to working to improve a bad habit or behavior, there are many strategies to try. 

This program is designed to help participants decide on an area of life they want to change and give them the tools to make a change. 

This FREE class is presented by Molly Hoag from the Purdue Extension of Wells County and sponsored by Bluffton Parks. Call 824-6069 to pre-register.

Homemade Card Class Jan. 28

Angie Honegger will teach those in attendance at the Homemade Card Class on Jan. 28 from 6-8 p.m. how to create their own beautiful cards.

 Cost is $7 for 3-4 cards. Cards will be simple, elegant, and punch art along with easy techniques thrown in to the mix! 

As always various sentiments will be available each class if you need a different occasion! Call to preregister at 824-6069. The focus will be on Thank you and Valentine Cards.

What's Up! Monday, Dec. 21, 2015

Cancer Gospel Benefit Concert Jan. 9

The Wells County fourth annual Gospel Benefit Concert will be held from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 9 at the Wells Community 4-H Building in Bluffton. Admission is free.

There will be nine local groups, a live auction, a silent auction and a raffle.

Doors will open at 5 p.m. Concesssions will be sold by Fat John’s BBQ and will include hot dogs, chili, hot nachos and hot ham and cheese.

Auction donations are needed. To participate call Steve Gerber at 824-5189, Todd Reimschisel at 824-2300 or Bruce and Kate Stinson at 824-4460.

All proceeds will go to help Wells County residents battleing cancer.

The concert is sponsored by Friends Who Care Cancer Relief Foundation, formerly The Steve Kelly Cancer Relief Foundation.

What's Up! Thursday, Dec. 17, 2015

Toddler Time at the gym

The Bluffton Parks Department’s Toddler Time in the city gym will continue through March 31, 2016.

The Bluffton City Gym will be open every Tuesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to noon for people to bring their tots to burn off some energy. This is a free drop in program that will give young children a chance to play with others their age in a large open space. Balls will be made available in the storage closet at the East end of the gym when the children arrive.  Please note that this is not a staff facilitated event and parents are responsible for their children. 

The first Tuesday of each month the Parks Department will offer a special tour or activity. Sign in on the wooden door each visit and turn off the gym lights if you are the last to leave. For more information call 824-6069.

Santa’s Mailbox deadline Dec. 18

Letters can still be dropped off at Santa’s Mailbox on the front steps of the City Hall building through Dec. 18.  Parks employees will deliver your child’s letter to Santa. Each child will receive a personalized letter back with a small gift enclosed.  Make sure that the child’s name and address are clearly marked on the outside of the envelope.  Call 824-6069. 

What's Up! Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2015

Markle Church of Christ Christmas Concert Dec. 19

Markle Church of Christ will host the Glory Way Quartet at 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19.

The Southern Gospel group will present a seasonal concert. The group is based in Mansfield, Ohio. It was founded in 2002 and has recently signed with the booking agency, Capitol Artists. They are traveling nation-wide averaging over 200 concerts per year and have recorded eight projects to date.  

This is a free event but a love offering will be received to help cover their expense and express our appreciation.

Knitting lessons begin Jan. 11

Chicks With Sticks Knitting Lessons, sponsored by the Bluffton Parks Department, is now accepting registration for January knitting lessons. 

Classes are for beginners or advanced students and will be three Mondays: Jan 11, 18 and 25 from 3-5 p.m. in the City Hall building. Cost is $20 due the first day. 

Those attending must bring a size 7 or 8 pair of needles to the class. Instructions and yarn will be provided. Call to register at 824-6069.

What's Up! Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2015

Paws & Claus Wednesday, Dec. 16

The Bluffton Parks Department invites you and your pet to the annual Paws and Claus (pet photos with Santa) event on Wednesday Dec. 16 between 5:30 and 7 p.m. in the Bluffton City Gym. Bring a camera or purchase photos. The 5x7 is $5 and will be ready for pick up the next night during the Winter Wonderland event from 5-6:30 p.m. in the city gym. Pets will receive free treats and must be clean and kept on a leash. Questions call 824-6069. This is a free event. (Photo provided)

Winter Wonderland Dec. 17

The Bluffton Parks and Recreation will sponsor the annual Winter Wonderland from 5 to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 17 at the city gym.

Bring the kids to see Santa, play games and jump in a bouncy house. This is a free event!

Bring a camera to capture the moment with Santa. Each child will receive a surprise! Enter the glass door on the West side of the building. For more information call 824-6069. 

Sneak preview of Downton Abby at Embassy Dec. 27

All of the Downton Abby fans will be able to get a sneak preview of the first episode of the final series for the British series on Sunday, Dec. 27, at the Embassy Theatre in Fort Wayne.

Doors will open at 2 p.m. with seating on a first come first served basis to begin at 2:30 p.m. PBS39 is offering the sneak preview for the series that will begin on TV on Sunday, Jan. 3, at 9 p.m.

What's Up! Monday, Dec. 14, 2015

City Gym Memberships now available

Bluffton City Gym Membership are now available for 2016. Becoming a member of the city gym gives you access to the fitness room, locker rooms, saunas, racquetball court and the gym. 

Membership cost for the remainder of the year is now prorated to $13 a month for a single Wells County resident ($15 non-Wells county residents)or $14 for a family ($17 non-wells county resident).  Applications are available in the Clerk Treasurer’s or call 824-6069. 

Holiday in Brass Dec. 21

The annual Holiday in Brass concert will be held Monday, Dec. 21 at 7 p.m. at Aldersgate United Methodist Church at 2417 Getz Road in Fort Wayne. Admission is free.

 One of the highlights will feature a performance of Alfred Reed’s “Russian Christmas Music.” The band is under the direction of T.J. Faur and Tony Alessandrini. For more information call 260-710-2908 or email: dsjones5533@comcast.net.

What's Up! Thursday, Dec. 10, 2015

Planetarium show at FW’s USF

“Star of Bethlehem 2015,” a planetarium show at the University of Saint Francis in Fort Wayne at the Shouweiler Planetarium, will be held on several evenings through Dec. 20.

The 90 minute shows will begin at 7:30 p.m. on the dates of Dec. 11, 12, 18, 19 and at 3 p.m. on Dec. 12 & 19. At 5 p.m. the dates will be Dec. 13 & 20. The show follows the path of the Wise Men in 3 B.C., then views Fort Wayne’s winter sky.

Admission is $4 for adults and $3 for those 18 and younger. A maximum of $14 per family. Parking is available on Leesburg Rd. in Fort Wayne.

Conservatory offers class

Dennis Bowman, a designer with Gassafy Wholesale Florist, will be on hand to lead classes in creating a holiday centerpiece at the Botanical Conservatory in Fort Wayne.

The first session will be  held on Thursday, Dec. 10 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. and the second will be on Saturday, Dec. 12 from 9 to 10:30 p.m.

Cost is $34 per person and includes a stroll through the gardens. Participants, who must be 16 or older,  will need to bring gloves, pruners and any personal accents they may wish to use for decoration. 

For more information call 260-427-6000 or go online to www.fortwayneparks.org 

‘Chair’ show next exhibit at FWMA

“The Art of Seating: 200 Years of American Design” will be the featured exhibit at the Fort Wayne Museum of Art from Dec. 12 through Jan. 24.

Forty-three chairs have been selected for the exhibit by the staff of the Museum of Contemporary Art in Jacksonville, Florida and the International Arts & Artists of Washington, D.C., organizers of the exhibit. Curator was Ben Thompson of Jacksonville.

On Thursday, Jan. 7, at 2:15 p.m. a guided tour of the exhibit will be given by FWMA CEO and Chief Curator Charles Shepard. The tour is free with gallery admission of $5 for students and $7 for adults.

What's Up! Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2015

Fantasy of Lights, at Franke Park now through Dec. 31

Fort Wayne’s Franke Park will host the 20th annual Fantasy of Lights through Dec. 31.

Hours Sunday through Thursday are 6 to 9 p.m. and from 6 to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturdays. Admission is $5 per car, $10 for vans with 15 passengers and $25 per bus. Blue Jacket Inc. are the sponsors this year. 

Carriage rides are available on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings. More information and reservations at 260-691-3780.

Christmas at Five Points Dec. 13

The Friends of Five Points School will host the 13th annual Christmas at Five Points from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 13.

The whole family can come and view the restored 139 year-old schoolhouse at 5250W., 1100S-90 in Montpelier.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available for visits. Refreshments will be served and all children will receive a goodie bag. Those attending are reminded to bring their cameras.

For more information call 765-728-5269 or email: dnb41@hotmail.com.

Holiday concert by FW area community band Dec. 15

On Tuesday, Dec. 15, at 7:30 p.m. the Fort Wayne Area Community Band will present a concert at the Auer Performance Hall on the campus of IPFW, 2101 Coliseum Blvd. E.

Admission is $8 for adults, $7 for seniors and $4 for students. More information at 260-481-6555 or at www.ipfw.edu/tickets.

Paws & Claus Dec. 16

Bluffton Parks Department invites you and your pet to the annual Paws and Claus on Wednesday, Dec. 16 from 5:30-7 p.m. in the Bluffton City Gym. 

Bring a camera or purchase photos. The 5x7 is $5 and will be ready for pick up the next night during the Winter Wonderland event from 5-6:30 p.m. in the city gym. 

Pets will receive free treats. They must be clean and kept on a leash. For more infomation about this free event call 824-6069.

Christmas Tea at Montpelier Library Dec. 16

The Montpelier Friends of the Library will sponsor the annual Christmas Tea at the library on Dec. 16 from 2-4 p.m. The public is welcome to attend the event. 

Cookie & Candy Exchange Dec. 17

Who loves to bake? The Parks Department will hold a Cookie and Candy Exchange on Thursday, Dec 17 at 6 p.m. at City Hall. 

This is a great way to try a variety of homemade treats and take home all of the recipes. To participate email name, phone and recipe to: parks@ci.bluffton.in.us by Dec 10.

Expect to make about three dozen. They will be divided evenly with all the participants. For more information call 824-6069.

Winter Wonderland Dec. 17

The Bluffton Parks and Recreation will sponsor the annual Winter Wonderland from 5 to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 17 at the city gym.

Bring the kids to see Santa, play games and jump in a bouncy house. This is a free event!

Bring a camera to capture the moment with Santa. Each child will receive a surprise! Enter the glass door on the West side of the building. For more information call 824-6069.

Candlelight 

‘Messiah’ by FW Philharmonic Dec. 18

The First Wayne Street United Methodist Church will be the site of the Candlelight Messiah concert to be presented by the Fort Wayne Philharmonic on Friday, Dec. 18, at 7:30 p.m.

Andrew Constantine will conduct the orchestra and guest director Benjamin Rivrs will direct the Fort Wayne Philharmonic Chorus.

Admission is $30 for adults and to arrange for tickets call 260-481-0777.

Train Show and Swap meet Dec. 19

The National Model Railroad Association will sponsor a Train Town Show and Swap Meet Saturday, Dec. 19 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Merchants Building on the Allen County Fairgrounds.

Admission is $5 for adults and free for children age 12 and younger.

There will be over 150 tables of model railroad and more. Food and beverages will be available. Parking is free. 

The address is State Rout 309 East, Lima Ohio.

For more information call 567-259-3340 or email: railcarman@frontier.com.

Dash & Jingle Bell Jog Dec. 19 

The start time will be 9 a.m. for the December Dash and Jingle Bell Jog.

Race day check in and registration opens at  7:30 a.m. in the city gym.  Entry includes an event running beanie hat to keep your head warm this winter!  One size fits all.  5K Early Registration is $15; Race day registration is $20; The One Mile Jingle Bell Jog is $10.

For more information call 824-6069.

What's Up! Monday, Dec. 7, 2015

Saturday at Arts Place Blackford County Dec. 12

Arts Place Blackford County Arts Center will be host a free event Saturday, Dec. 12. Children in kindergarten through sixth grade can participate in a “Make-It and Take-It” activity. 

Children and families may attend the activity any time between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Arts Place Blackford County Arts Center will be accepting free-will donations to cover the cost of supplies. 

The center is located at 107 West Washington Street, Hartford City, Indiana. For more information contact Leslie Newton at 765-348-1677, Kelley Carpenter at Kelleycarpenter21@gmail.com, or visit www.artsland.org. Regular Blackford County Arts Center hours of operation are Monday 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Tuesday 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and 3 p.m.-7 p.m., Wednesday 3 p.m.-7 p.m., Thursday 10  a.m.-2 p.m. 

Dance collective holiday program Dec. 12

“Scones & Crackers”: Holiday in London will be presented by the Fort Wayne Dance Collective on Saturday, Dec. 12, at 7 p.m. at South Side High School, 3601 South Calhoun St. in Fort Wayne.

Tickets are $15 for adult and $13 for students. Tickets in advance at 260-424-6574 or at www.fwdc.org.

Christmas at the Limberlost cabin Dec. 12

On Saturday, Dec. 12, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.. the Limberlost Cabin in Geneva will celebrate an open house.

Enjoy Limber Jim’s Swamp Show in the cabin and make a holiday craft in the Carriage House. There also will be an outdoor treasure hunt and complimentary refreshments will be served..

To participate in activities there will be a $2 admission fee. All items in the gift shop will be discounted at 20% or more. More information at 260-368-7428.

‘Messiah’ concert in Huntington Dec. 13

On Sunday, Dec. 13, at 7:30 p.m. the “Messiah” will be presented at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 903 North Jefferson St. in Huntington.

The Huntington University Choir and Orchestra will combine with a community chorus to present the free concert. A free will donation will be accepted.

What's Up! Thursday, Dec. 3, 2015

Theater bus trip a set for May 2016

Wells Community Theater members are offering a unique Christmas gift for someone on your list—a bus rip to Indy to see a national touring company present “Phantom of the Opera” on Thursday, May 5, 2016.

The $125 price includes bus transportation from Bluffton, a ticket in one of the first three rows  at the theatre and a stop at Circle Center Mall.

More information about the opportunity at http://www.wellscocreativearts.com/wlls-community-theatre-bus-trip. Reservation deadline is Dec. 31. More information at the  CAC office at (260) 824-5222.

Horse & Carriage Rides at Ossian Hometown Christmas

Hope Missionary Church will sponsor horse and carriage rides during the Ossian Hometown Christmas Thursday, Dec. 3 between 6 and 7:30 p.m. The rides will start south of Dr. Mulvey’s office at 111 S. Jefferson Street (State Road 1).

‘Messiah’ at First Mennonite Dec. 5 & 6

Over 150 singers  will present the “Messiah” at the First Mennonite Church in Berne on the weekend of Dec. 5-6. On Saturday, Dec. 5, at 7 p.m. a two hour Oratorio with orchestra will be presented. On Sunday, Dec. 6, at 3 p.m. a shorter rendition (one hour/15 minutes) will be sung accompanied by organ, harpsichord, cello, trumpet and timpani.

Soloists for both performances will include: Gwen Detwiler, soprano, and Karen Lykes, alto, both from the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music; Brian Pfaltzgraft, tenor, Wartburg College, Iowa; and Craig Priebe, bass, Ball State University.