FORT WAYNE lifestyle
A Thankful Issue
Hello, Fort Wayne!
My name is Jess, and I’m excited to introduce myself to the readers of Fort Wayne Lifestyle. I graduated this past May with a degree in International Studies and recently completed an internship with Church World Service, an experience that deepened my passion for community-building and global connection right here at home. Raised in Colorado, I know what it’s like to have loyal, dedicated fans who support local businesses and community efforts. I hope to bring that same spirit to Indiana by uplifting the amazing entrepreneurs and neighborhoods that make Fort Wayne so special.
FORT WAYNE lifestyle
November 2025
PUBLISHER
Billy Moore | publisher@fortwaynelifestyle.com
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Carol Fakih | carol@fortwaynelifestyle.com
VP OF OPERATIONS
Matt Coffel | matt@fortwaynelifestyle.com
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Duane McCoy | nightvigil468@gmail.com
PHOTOGRAPHER
Giovanny Durand | Giovannydurand22@gmail.com
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Jessica Shultz | iwritepoetrysometimes@yahoo.com
CONCIERGE OF HOSPITALITY AND HAPPINESS
Linda Robberts
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Breanna Spillers | bree@fortwaynelifestyle.com
Writing has always been my favorite way to connect with others, and I believe in the power of stories to bring people together. Through this magazine, I want to celebrate the individuals and spaces that make this city feel like home.
Whether you’re new to town or a lifelong resident, I hope my words will help you discover something fresh about Fort Wayne and maybe even inspire you to build something of your own.
Thanks for reading. I can’t wait to connect with you!
Warmly,
Jess Schultz, Editorial Director
SCAN ME!
At Fort Wayne Lifestyle, we are committed to consistently delivering high-quality, engaging content that highlights the vibrant community of Fort Wayne. From parks and local attractions to entertainment venues and family-friendly events, we celebrate everything that makes the Summit City a great place to live, work, and explore.
Whether it’s a TinCaps baseball game, a local movie night, or a day at the zoo, our mission is to connect residents and visitors alike with the best experiences Fort Wayne has to offer—because Fort Wayne Lifestyle is all about you.
(Including Greater Allen, DeKalb, Huntington, and Wells counties)
AROUND TOWN
Exploring the Hidden Gems of Our Town
1. James from Compass Financial Advisors participated in a Charity Wiffle Ball tournament at the WBA, where 22 teams participated, and they raised over $50k for youth sports in the area.
2. Insurance By Hand is enjoying Country Heritage Winery after a week of saving customers money!
3. Tammy enjoyed some delicious Authentic Greek cuisine at The Kouzina in Huntertown.
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4. Elizabeth stopped by Copper Spoon to treat herself to their new classic caviar service.
5. The Fort Wayne Lifestyle team had its weekly meeting to ensure we continue to bring the best of Fort Wayne to our readers.
6. Christopher went to Barrel Proof Liquors to get his hands on one of their most anticipated single barrels of 2025.
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Want to be in the upcoming issue? Contact us today! publisher@fortwaynelifestyle.com www.fortwaynelifestyle.com
Business Updates
Ribbon Cutting: The Joint Chiropractic
BIG NEWS! Wayne Home & Design Co. - Leo Location Coming Soon!
They are so excited to officially announce The Home Collection by Wayne Home & Design Co. — their second location, right in the heart of Leo! This new space will be a more intimate, carefully curated collection of home décor and seasonal decor that they’ve poured their hearts into. None of this would be possible without the incredible love and support you’ve all shown them since opening Wayne Home & Design last year. They are deeply grateful for every visit, every kind word, and every purchase that has helped them reach this point. Mark your calendars for their Grand Opening on November 1st from 10 AM – 3 PM. They can’t wait to welcome you, share this new journey, and celebrate together.
15026 St Rd 1, Leo, IN 46765
Ribbon Cutting: The Maids of Fort Wayne
When it comes to keeping your home clean, healthy, and welcoming, The Maids serving Fort Wayne are here to help. Our trained and insured cleaning teams specialize in creating healthier living spaces, whether you need recurring weekly cleans, monthly maintenance, or a one-time deep clean before a special occasion. Families across Fort Wayne and nearby communities trust The Maids® to keep their homes spotless. Their team delivers consistent, reliable home cleaning services designed to fit your lifestyle.
Join them for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to commemorate The Maids of Fort Wayne on Tuesday, November 11, 2025 (11:00 AM - 12:00 PM EST).
Welcome to The Joint Chiropractic - Fort Wayne Southwest! As your Fort Wayne chiropractor dedicated to family chiropractic and spine health, they invite you to join the millions of Americans who have not only found relief from lower back pain, sciatica pain, and migraines, but also a pathway to wellness with chiropractic’s natural, drug-free approach to healthcare.
Join them for a ribbon-cutting to commemorate The Joint Chiropractic on Tuesday, November 18, 2025 (9:30 AM - 10:30 AM EST).
Want to be in the upcoming issue? Contact us today! Publisher@fortwaynelifestyle.com www.fortwaynelifestyle.com
FOOD for THOUGHT
Pepper Jack Mashed Potatoes
Give this classic side dish a little spicy kick!
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 sticks salted butter, plus more for the baking dish
• 5 lb. pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks
• 6 garlic cloves, crushed and peeled
• 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, plus more to taste
• 4 oz. cream cheese, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup half-and-half
• 1/2 tsp. chili powder, plus more for sprinkling
• 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper, plus more to taste
• 8 oz. pepper jack cheese, shredded (about 2 cups)
• Thinly sliced scallions, for garnish
Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375° and butter a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Put the potatoes and garlic in a large pot and cover with water by about 1 inch; season with salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender enough to be pierced with a fork, about 20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and garlic well. Return to the pot off the heat and add the butter, cream cheese, half-andhalf, chili powder, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, cayenne, and half of the pepper jack. Mash with a potato masher until smooth. Season with more salt and cayenne to taste.
3. Spread the potatoes in the baking dish. Top with the remaining pepper jack and sprinkle with chili powder. Bake until the cheese is melted and the potatoes are lightly browned around the edges, 25 to 30 minutes. Sprinkle with scallions before serving.
From Turkey to Tinsel
Turkey’s gone, carts are parked, and now it’s the best part—tree time.
Some folks pile into the car, blast carols, and head to a tree farm to hunt “the one.” You shake the snow, argue about tall vs. fluffy, then shout “Timber!” and tie it to the roof like Christmas Vacation. Others pop open a trusty box, fluff the branches, and smile because this old friend shows up perfect every year. Both are right. Both smell like Christmas is coming.
Keep it simple:
• Clear a little space and put on the playlist you grew up with.
• Test the lights (yes, before they’re on the tree).
• If it’s real: trim the trunk, water first, tighten the stand.
• If it’s artificial: fluff in layers and spin as you go.
Then the magic: Ornaments. The lopsided paper star from second grade. The tiny mitten your grandma knit. The souvenir from that one snowy trip. Hang the memories where you’ll see them. Put the sturdy ones low for kid hands and curious pets; fragile favorites up high where they can twinkle safely. Add a ribbon or a popcorn garland, if you’re feeling fancy. Drop a basket on the coffee table for hooks that try to escape. Turn off the overheads, light a candle, and do the final countdown together.
Three… two… one… click.
The room glows. You feel it—same as when you were little, lying under the branches, counting lights and making wishes you never told. Thanksgiving and Black Friday were fun, sure. But this? This is when the season starts.
HOOSIER GOAT
Hoosier GOAT?
Hoos ur goat?
Hoos your GoAt?
Why do you need a goat? Sounds baaaaaaaaaad.
OK… who’s ur goat?
Who is your goat?
Did you know birria tacos are made with goat?
Okay, enough nonsense. Goats are great, but those aren’t the GOATs we’re talking about.
Do you even know what a GOAT is?
T H E GOAT!
G.O.A.T. = Greatest Of All Time
noun
Unrivaled, legendary, iconic, unmatched, untouchable, top-tier, peerless
Is Your Dentist the Best in Fort Wayne? Nominate Them — and Win!
Everyone has that one amazing dentist — the one who goes above and beyond to make you feel comfortable, keeps your smile shining, and truly cares. If that sounds like your dentist, now’s your chance to give them the recognition they deserve!
Think your dentist is the best? Fort Wayne Lifestyle wants your help finding the city’s top smile-maker!
Nominate your dentist and tell us why they deserve to be named the best. We’re looking for heartfelt stories, exceptional care, and the people behind the smiles. The winning dentist will receive an editorial feature in an upcoming issue of Fort Wayne Lifestyle — shining a spotlight on their practice and passion.
But here’s the best part — if your dentist is chosen, you win too!
The reader who nominates the winning dentist will receive $100 in gift vouchers to Country Heritage Winery & Vineyard — perfect for a relaxing day out, a gift, or a celebration.
So don’t wait — share your story, celebrate your dentist, and help us recognize the very best in Fort Wayne.
Submissions are open now through November 30th.
Submit your nomination on social media, email or text: Facebook: Fort Wayne Lifestyle
Instagram: fortwayne_lifestyle
email: publisher@fortwaynelifestyle.com text: 260.205.4996
Follow and share for a chance to win up to $500 in gift vouchers to Country Heritage Winery and Vineyard.
It’s lonely at the top.
LOCAL EVENTS
November 8 - November 23, 2025
Disney’s Frozen Arts United Center | Recurring weekly on Sunday, Friday, Saturday
Full of magic, humor, and a stunning musical score, Frozen is a powerful tale of sisterhood, acceptance, and finding the real meaning of true love. Set in the beautiful mountainous kingdom of Arendelle, Frozen tells the story of royal sisters Elsa and Anna, who are torn apart by Elsa’s icy powers. When Elsa sets Arendelle into eternal winter, Anna seeks to save her sister and sets off on an epic journey to find Elsa and bring her home – with the help of hardworking ice harvester Kristoff, his loyal reindeer Sven, and a happy-go-lucky snowman named Olaf. www.fwcivic.org/frozen
November 8, 2025
Holiday Open Houses - Discover Roanoke Roanoke | 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Join us for a day of Holiday Open Houses and shopping specials at our local businesses as we welcome the season! The shops will be decorated for Christmas and filled with holiday home decor, unique gifts, festive touches to prepare for your upcoming gatherings, and more! Explore unique gifts, home decor, jewelry, art, antiques, furniture, clothing, wines, baked goods, gift certificates, and so much more. While you’re in town, make sure to visit our local eateries for delicious food and drinks. Hours may vary by business.
November 8, 2025
Veteran’s Day Parade & Ceremony Allen County War Memorial Coliseum | 11:00 AM
The annual Veterans Day Parade on Parnell Avenue, sponsored by the Allen County Council of Veterans Organizations, parade opening ceremony will begin at 11:00 a.m. The parade will travel north on Parnell Avenue to the Memorial Coliseum for placement of wreaths, playing of taps, and remembering fallen brothers and sisters-inarms. Guests attending the Veterans Day ceremony will be directed to enter the Parnell Avenue employee parking lot entrance (#4) on the west side of the complex. The ceremony will be held immediately following the parade in Memorial Hall.
November 9, 2025
Veterans Tribute Concert Promenade Park | 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM
The American Legion Band of Fort Wayne and The New Horizons Band are joining together for a FREE special Veterans Tribute Concert! Seating is available on a firstcome, first-served basis.
November 11, 2025
Veterans Day at The Fairfield
The Fairfield, 1510 Fairfield Ave. | 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Join us at The Fairfield for a full day of community, competition, and giving back in support of VETSports Inc. and FW22. You have the choice of participating in the Golf tournament, participating in the Ruck Run, or just dining and cheering on local participants.
National Anthem & Ceremony – At 12:00 pm, enjoy a live performance, flag display, and community salute to our heroes. This will take place on the entrance staircase off of Hendricks St.
November 13, 2025 - January 3, 2026
Parkview Field Holiday Lights
Parkview Field | Recurring daily
Parkview Field Holiday Lights – A Walk-Thru Event – presented by Rohrman Automotive, Paul Davis, and Lear Corporation, will be at the ballpark for 44 nights from November 13 - January 3!
Holiday Lights is a walk-through experience of the ballpark featuring more than 1.5 million lights and displays, plus a train ride, choreographed to holiday music!
November 14 & 15, 2025
Fort Wayne Village Marketplace
PSM Fieldhouse | 14th 5PM - 9PM, 15th 10 AM-4PM
Join us for two days of holiday shopping featuring over 100 vendors. Enjoy the unique shopping experience as shoppers discover small business merchants showcasing everything from top designers, boutiques, gifts, fashion, and home décor to jewelry, art, craftsmen, and gourmet foods. Shopping local has never been so fun, festive, and convenient. With our hand-selected variety of vendors, shoppers will truly find gifts for everyone on their holiday shopping list!
November 14, 2025
Home Alone - In Concert
Auer Performance Hall at Purdue University | 7:30 PM
A true holiday favorite, this beloved comedy classic features renowned composer John Williams’ charming and delightful score performed live to picture by the Fort Wayne Philharmonic. Macaulay Culkin stars as Kevin McCallister, an 8-year-old boy who’s accidentally left behind when his family leaves for Christmas vacation, and who must defend his home against two bungling thieves. Hilarious and heart-warming, Home Alone is holiday fun for the entire family!
November 17- December 31, 2025
Blue Jacket’s Fantasy of Lights Franke Park | Recurring daily
Fantasy of Lights is one of northeast Indiana’s favorite winter holiday events. This 3-mile drive-thru holiday light display is held at Franke Park in Fort Wayne, Ind., and transforms it into a spectacular winter wonderland from Nov 17 - Dec. 31. There’s something new each and every year, including 30 new displays for the 2024 season. See how many you can spot!
November 19, 2025
A Motown Christmas Embassy Theatre | 7:00 PM
A Motown Christmas features a world-class vocal group, assembled from past and present members of Motown’s most legendary groups...Ali Woodson’s Temptations, The Miracles, and The Contours. A Motown Christmas is a powerful, family-oriented show combining Motown’s greatest hits with everyone’s favorite holiday classics. This show features famous Motown trademarks, dazzling choreography, and nine unforgettable harmonies all performed in that memorable, soulful Motown style. This is an evening not to be missed. Bring the family, dance, sing, and enjoy this show.
Holiday Travel, Minus the Meltdown
Airports fill up. Highways clog. Plans shift. You can’t control the weather or Aunt Linda, but you can stack the deck for a smoother trip.
Book the earliest thing. Morning flights are less delay-prone, and disruptions haven’t had time to snowball. If you’re driving, leave at dawn or after dinner to dodge peak traffic.
Pack to pivot. One carry-on you can actually lift, plus a personal item that zips. In the top pocket: meds, phone charger, snacks, empty water bottle, a pen, and a flat pack of wipes. Wear your heaviest shoes/coat; that’s space you don’t argue with later.
Travel documents live together. Screenshot passes, save confirmations offline, and star emails with addresses and codes. For road trips, download maps in case the reception dies. Build a 10% buffer. Assume lines, storms, or a sick kid will eat up time. Add one extra hour to airport plans and 10–20% to drive-time estimates. Breathe easier.
Plan the boredom. Queue podcasts, playlists, and two shows. For kids: new crayons, small snacks, and a surprise book. For adults: neck pillow, eye mask, and one thing that feels like a treat. Eat like you mean it. Eat real food before boarding or getting on the on-ramp; protein and fiber stop the hunger. Hydrate early and often.
Gifts: ship or keep flat. Mail ahead or go with gift cards and experiences. If you must carry, skip wrapped boxes; TSA will unwrap your perfect corners. Mind your return. Lay out a “reentry kit” at home before you leave: clean sheets, a frozen meal, and tomorrow’s outfit. Future-you will thank present-you.
Travel rarely goes perfectly. Aim for adaptable. You’ll arrive tired, sure, but intact, fed, and ready to hug your people. That’s the whole point.
DAYLIGHT SAVING - Reset -
How to Adapt Your Routine as Days Get Shorter
As clocks roll back and darkness arrives earlier each day, many of us find our routines — and moods — thrown off balance. The end of Daylight Saving Time can feel like gaining an extra hour, but the shift can also disrupt sleep, energy levels, and productivity. Rather than let the shorter days take the lead, here’s how you can reset your routine and reclaim your rhythm.
SOAK UP MORNING LIGHT
Exposure to natural light in the early part of the day helps regulate your circadian rhythm, improving sleep and boosting mood. Opening your blinds first thing in the morning, stepping outside with your coffee, or taking a short walk before starting work — even cloudy daylight is powerful. Sunlight for a minimum of 5-30 minutes as soon and you wake up (5-10 minutes for clear skies, 15-30 minutes for overcast skies) has been wellsupported by clinical research.
Light therapy lamps can be a great supplement during long winters or limited sunlight.
KEEP A CONSISTENT SLEEP SCHEDULE
Even though it gets dark earlier, resist the urge to head to bed too soon — or stay up much later. Sticking to a regular bedtimes and wake time — even on weekends, avoiding screens an hour before bed, and winding down with calming rituals like reading , journaling, or herbal tea can help you stay on track.
A gradual shift (15-30 minutes over a few days) is easier on your body than an abrupt change.
ADJUST YOUR WORKOUT ROUTINE
Colder mornings and early darkness can derail exercise plans, especially if you rely on outdoor activity. Try to shift workouts to lunch breaks or early evenings indoors, and home-friendly options like yoga, bodyweight circuits, or online classes. Walking after meals supports digestion and mood.
Exercise combats Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and helps manage energy dips.
SUPPORT YOUR MENTAL HEALTH
It’s common to feel a little “off ” as the days grow shorter. Lower light can affect serotonin levels and lead to increased feelings of fatigue, sadness, or anxiety. You can build emotional resilience by starting a gratitude journal, staying socially connected (even if it’s virtually), and consider supplements like vitamin D (consult your doctor).
Surrounding yourself with cozy, comforting elements like soft lighting, candles, music, and warmth can be a mood booster.
REFRAME THE SEASON
Instead of dreading the dark, embrace what the season offers: rest, reflection, and slower rhythms. You can make the most of it by creating a “cold weather bucket list”, plan indoor hobbies or self-care rituals to look forward to, and use the extra indoor time to reset goals or finish lingering projects.
Resetting your routine after Daylight Saving Time isn’t just about managing the clock — it’s about shifting your mindset. By leaning into the seasonal change rather than fighting it, you can transform dark days into a time of balance, warmth, and intentional living.
First-Time Host, Low-Stress Plan
You said yes, and now the calendar won’t stop staring. Here’s a simple way to steer Thanksgiving without white-knuckling it.
One week out: name your menu and your limits. Pick a center (turkey, ham, or veggie roast) and three sides you actually like. That’s it. Anything else becomes a guest assignment: “Bring a pie,” “Grab rolls,” “Your famous mac?” People like being pointed.
Make a map of the kitchen.
Clear a shelf in the fridge. Set out a “landing zone” on the counter for incoming dishes. Label serving bowls with sticky notes (“potatoes,” “beans,” “stuffing”) so you don’t have to dig while the food gets cold.
Write the day-of timeline.
Start it from mealtime. Turkey is at 12:30, which means the oven is free at 3:00; sides are warm from 3:00–3:30; dinner is at 4:00. Tape the timeline to a cabinet. When someone asks how to help, point at it.
Outsource smart.
Ice, drinks, extra chairs, and trash bags are perfect volunteer tasks. A friend who “doesn’t cook”? Put them on music, candles, and a coat drop.
Set the table tonight, not tomorrow.
Plates, napkins, silver, and water glasses. A low centerpiece (so people can see each other) and a Sharpie for cup names. Done. If kids are coming, add paper placemats and crayons.
Game-plan the bottlenecks.
Only one oven? Stovetop stuffing, slow-cooker mashed potatoes, or a sheet pan that can share space. Short on burners? Use an electric kettle for gravy stock and a cooler as a hot box (line with towels; tuck in covered pans).
Make the first 30 minutes feel easy.
Set a self-serve snack board (cheese, crackers, grapes) and a small drink station: water, cider, wine/beer, and a mocktail. Turn on a playlist before the doorbell rings.
Give yourself a script.
When chaos spikes, say: “Food goes here, coats there, help yourself to drinks.” Breathe. It’s not a performance; it’s a table. If the turkey’s late, pour more gravy on the conversation. You’ve got this.
