UF events of possible media interest listed

April 14, 2014

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The following events are scheduled in the near future at or near the University of Florida:

Learn more about autism center

UF’s Center for Autism and Related Disabilities will host a dessert social from noon to 1:30 p.m. April 16 in the University Gallery Breezeway in the Fine Arts complex, building B. This event is an opportunity for UF faculty, staff, students and others to meet CARD staff and learn about autism and the center’s services. Refreshments will be provided. The event is free and open to the public.

For more information, contact Carole Polefko at cpolefko@ufl.edu.

Extension marks 100 years

Alligators, an insect-petting zoo and lunch prepared by a former White House chef are among the highlights of the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences’ 100th Anniversary of Florida Extension celebration at the Plaza of the Americas from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 17. The celebration will include an airboat and an unmanned aircraft system, alligators, a fire tower converted to a “lab,” a Florida commodities exhibit, an arthropod petting zoo and a tractor.

For more information, contact Nick Place, 352-392-1761, nplace@ufl.edu

UF premieres opera by alumna

The UF Opera Theatre program and UF Symphony Orchestra is joining forces with composer and UF Distinguished Alumna Stella Sung for the world premiere of a new opera at 7:30 p.m. April 17 and April 19 at the Phillips Center for performing arts. The performance features professional artists and students and is an epic tale of Marco Polo that combines love and drama sung in English. More details can be found at http://www.arts.ufl.edu/news/story.aspx?ID=519.

For more information, contact Leah Craig, 352-273-1489, lcraig@arts.ufl.edu

River event benefits autism

The third annual Paddle 4 Autism event is will be held on April 26 in Mayo, Fla. Participants can paddle down the Suwannee River and enjoy music, prizes and games at the Suwannee River Rendezvous. Musical entertainment will be provided by Mean Mary and the Saltwater Cowboys. Proceeds will be donated to UF’s Center for Autism and Related Disabilities.

For more information, contact Greg Valcante, 352-846-2761, valcante@ufl.edu.