Miller Minutes
Summer’s end is a sore spot for students, teachers and outdoor lovers alike. Most people sense it as August wraps up, but have you not heard the last day of summer is Sept. 22?
Looking in and around modern media, “the endless summer” is a popular concept for movies and Beach Boys compilation albums. “Endless summer,” these pieces tell us, could be a state of mind, a conglomeration of experiences.
As summer nears its end, remember to savor every second of sunshine and fresh air you get in Western Pennsylvania. County residents know we have long winter months ahead.
You can add to your “endless summer” experience this weekend if you’re a proponent of food, drink, theater or comedy by reading the following event roundup.
The Butler County country-style events continue this week with the North Washington Rodeo continuing through Saturday at 2225 Oneida Valley Road, Petrolia. Gates open at 6 p.m. with tickets costing $18 per adult and $9 for children ages 4 to 12.
The second to last Mingle on Main in Saxonburg starts at 5:30 p.m. Thursday. Experience vendors, food and all things local with your friends and neighbors.
The Butler Art Center is hosting a Stand Up for Hope Comedy Night at 6 p.m. Thursday. Head to 344 S. Main St. for a laugh courtesy of David Kaye and others from Slapsticks Productions. The event is free and open to the public. The show features content appropriate for mature audiences.
The gallery at the Butler Art Center will feature the photography exhibit “Picture This” on Thursday as well. An artist reception lasts from 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday and is free and open to the public.
The Red Barn Theater cast of “Always a Bridesmaid” takes the stage again Thursday at 1279 Route 288 in Fombell. For a complete list of showtimes and tickets, visit www.redbarnplayers.com.
Butler County Symphony Association’s free summer concert series will feature Vincent and Claudette Sanzotti on clarinet and piano at noon Friday via Facebook or in person in the symphony building, 259 S. Main St.
The Kayak Games at Moraine State Park’s South Shore on Pleasant Valley Road will feature an obstacle course and water polo from 1 to 3 p.m. Friday. Kayaking experience is recommended, and registration is available by calling 724-368-8811.
Foodie Friday and Moon Markets will take to Main Street in Butler at 5:30 p.m. Friday. Mingle and browse the local shops and artisans with a tasty treat to boot!
The free End of Summer Soiree event is a movie night hosted by Butler County Parks and Recreation. From 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday in Alameda Park, 184 Alameda Park Road, food trucks and attractions will be available.
The Butler County Milers are having an Adventure Run at the 528 Bridge Boat Launch in Moraine State Park. Anyone is welcome to join at 9 a.m. Saturday for a jog along the North Country Trail.
Don’t feel like running that early on a Saturday? You can benefit the Jean B. Purvis Community Health Center by riding your motorcycle in the 15th Annual Saeler-Solkovy Memorial Ride. Registration starts at 9 a.m. with kickstands up at 11 a.m. Meet at 2399 Oneida Valley Road, Petrolia.
Classic Automotive of Mars, Adams Area Fire District and Kairos Coffee Roasters have teamed up for Cars & Coffee, a cruise from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday. Visit Classic Automotive Mechanical & Collision Repair, 758 Route 228, Mars, for the benefit of the fire department.
Wine Time at the Penn’s Colony event grounds lasts from 1 to 6 p.m. Saturday. The live music, food, crafts, and of course, wine, at 365 Saxonburg Blvd. make this event a community staple.
From 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Adams Township Community Park at 698 Valencia Road will have a Sip & Stroll. Sample food, drink and entertainment in the park (if you’re age 21 or older, that is). Tickets can be purchased at www.eventbrite.com.
The Pittsburgh Big Doo Wop Big Band Benefit Concert kicks of at 6 p.m. Saturday in Pullman Park, 100 Pullman Park Place. The $20 admission benefits Butler Youth Baseball. For more information, visit butlerbluesox.org/tickets.
Learn about the slithering snakes of Pennsylvania at Pavilion Seven, McDanel’s Launch Area on the North Shore in Moraine State Park from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday. A park naturalist will give a presentation on the venomous serpents and their role in the environment.
The Prospect Fire Chiefs’ 5K run will benefit the Prospect Boys/Girls Football Club. The run starts at 9 a.m. Sunday at 7190 Country Club Road, with the kids division beginning at 10 a.m.
A family festival of burgers, cotton candy, games, a magician and more will all be available from noon to 2 p.m. Sunday at Orchard Hill Family Church, 120 Walker Ave., Butler. Come celebrate the end of summer for students and enjoy the neighborhood camaraderie!
Concordia at Cabot, 134 Marwood Road, will host The 56 East Band at 6 p.m. Sunday. Dinner and an informational seminar will also be offered on the Concordia Campus at that time.
The next Sing Hosanna! performance is the musical “Cinderella.” Auditions are being conducted from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Sunday and Monday at the rehearsal site at at 310 W. Airport Road. You need only attend one of those dates, and audition materials are provided.
