Slippery Rock University hosting 2-week art fest

SLIPPERY ROCK — The 14-day Kaleidoscope arts festival is under way at Slippery Rock University.

Events began Wednesday with live bands on the quad, a book art exhibit, campus barbecue and a free concert by the poetry rock band Coyote Run. The artistry and outdoor activities continue daily. Saturday is “Kaleidoscope on Main,” featuring more than 25 musical acts and dozens of artists in town, also with campus activities.

“Children’s Day” is April 26. Zany Umbrella Circus will perform at 3 p.m. in front of the Russell Wright Alumni House. Other highlights will include a reading by cartoonist Lynda Barry, Shakespeare’s Birthday Dinner and concerts and performances by university students. Info: www.sru.edu

Jane Birch signing book at Border’s Express

HERMITAGE — Hermitage-born author Jane Gardner Birch will sign her book from 6 to 8 p.m. May 2 at Border’s Express, Shenango Valley Mall, Hermitage.

“They Flew Proud” is about the Civilian Pilot Training Program in World War II through the program at the old Grove City Airport and Grove City College where her father, Gardner Birch, was a flight instructor. Many local people and places are included.

The book has won the National Aviation Hall of Fame 2007 Combs Gates Award. The Smithsonian Institution has set two book signings in June. Ms. Gardner also will sign her book from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 3 at Oakley Kelly Day at Grove City Airport.

Walk to raise money for autism research

NEW CASTLE — Teachers, families and professionals from Lawrence, Mercer and Butler counties are joining together to raise money to help find a cure for autism.

On May 17, this group of community partners and Midwestern Intermediate Unit IV in Grove City will host a walk-a-thon at Pearson Park on Mitchell Road in New Castle.

Registration is at 9 a.m. for the walk at 10. Proceeds will go to Autism Speaks, a nonprofit organization dedicated to funding global biomedical research to learn the cause, cure and treatment for autism.