Smart Living Fort Wayne - January 37, 2022

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Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • 95¢ • January 2022 • No. II

RV & Camping Show Returns Feb. 3-5

New Options for Fireplaces Treating Peripheral Neuropathy What to Know About Indiana Custody Laws Start Planning Now for a Kitchen Remodeling Project

Quality, Smart Products & Services for Your Home, Family, Health & Entertainment!

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If you’ve been dreaming of the perfect hearth for your home, Collier’s Fireplace Shoppe is here to help you turn your dream into a reality. We have 25 years experience transforming blank walls and generic builder’s grade fireplaces into showstoppers. Whether you’re looking for an elegant solution for your living room, a wood stove for a cozy family room, or an outdoor kitchen that will make your neighbors green with envy, make your first call to the experts at Collier’s.

2315 Shelby Drive, Warsaw TrustColliers.com

574.900.2909

Celebrating 25 years!

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ......................Cover & p. 16 RV & Camping Show Returns to Fort Wayne Your Home .............................................................11 Why We Still Love Fireplaces Legal Tips ..............................................................13 Child Custody Laws in Indiana Inspiration & Worship .......................................14 The Power to Change Our Thoughts Your Health ...........................................................21 Treating Peripheral Neuropathy Your Kitchen .........................................................25 Plan Now for Spring Renovations Your Outdoor Living .........................................27 The Ever-Evolving Pergola Your Family Fun .................................................28

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Managing Editor Jermaine Pigee Editor Emeritus Janine Pumilia Multimedia Editor Jim Taylor Graphics Director Samantha Behling Graphic Designer Ashley Smith Contributing Writer Peggy Werner General Sales Manager Brent Hughes Sales Manager Brad Hughes Advertising Sales Representatives Brian Hughes, Jeremy Jones, Lisa Brandt, Nita Lasky Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes Distribution Kelly Fairbairn Published by Hughes Media Corp.

222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104 (815) 316-2300, Fax: (815) 316-2301 lhughes@northwestquarterly.com Smart Living.

Copyright 2022 by Hughes Media Corp., 222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.

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Within Our Control

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ately I’ve been pondering the famous Serenity Prayer: “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.”

It’s not always clear to me what’s within my power to change at a national and global level. I just try to support groups that align with my values. But at a local level, it’s crystal clear that when I make a decision to support a locally owned business, I’m affecting positive change.

I’m part of a collective movement that’s helping my community. We don’t always have to be angry or “against” something to energize collective action. We can be “for” something, together. The “buy local” movement is living proof.

None of us can erase the trends that have killed countless local businesses here and across the U.S. in recent decades. The age of big-box and Internet shopping is here. Mergers and consolidations have reduced competition. But if we want our region to retain a strong local identity, which requires locally owned shops and restaurants, we can make up our minds to spend a bigger share of our shopping/dining dollars locally.

Our communities are what we make them.

No one is forcing us to send millions of dollars to billionaires in other states and countries. If good things are going to happen here at home, it’s because we’ll make them happen. Just being angry at trends beyond our control won’t help.

Spending more money at locally owned shops and restaurants will help. The Small Business Council estimates that “shopping local” generates $68 of economic contribution for every $100 spent, compared to $43 per $100 spent at a chain store. That difference adds up!

In many American cities, there’s no longer a choice about where to shop or dine or access common services like tax preparation. The only options are chains and franchises.

Not so in Fort Wayne. By supporting local businesses, like those who advertise on these pages, you’re among the courageous souls who choose to change the things they can.

Have a cozy week! ❚ Janine Pumilia SL Editor Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Fort Wayne

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Your Home & Garden

Fireplaces: Still Warming Homes and Hearts

By Janine Pumilia

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here’s a reason the expression “hearth and home” represents our precious family lives. Since ancient times, fireplaces were the heart of the home, keeping people warm and fed. Our affection for them didn’t end once furnace-powered heat replaced them in most American homes during the 20th century.

“We no longer build fireplaces for physical warmth,” observed novelist Edna Ferber. “We build them for the warmth of the soul; we build them to dream by, to hope by, to home by.”

And, many people just want a supplemental heat source, says Chuck Ault, co-owner of Collier’s Heating & Air Conditioning and Collier’s Fireplace Shoppe in Warsaw, Ind. He should know.

For nearly two decades, before he and co-owner Kevin Lehman purchased Collier’s, he worked for the business installing and repairing fireplaces and stoves.

“We install and service gas stoves, gas fireplaces, wood stoves and wood fireplaces,” says Ault. “We can replace old equipment. We do fireplaces in new homes. We can install gas lines. We can handle the whole job, from start to finish, from the design to framing to installation, venting, gas, electrical and masonry.”

Now celebrating its 25th year, Collier’s Fireplace Shoppe displays and sells wood, electric and gas fireplaces, both vented and unvented. It also installs electric fireplaces, wood boilers and pellet stoves and helps customers to understand the benefits of each kind of product.

“Our fireplace experts help you to determine the best fit for your home and your specific needs,” says Ault. “We have a range of cost options to fit almost any budget.”

These days, many customers want to convert a masonry wood fireplace to a gas fireplace.

“That’s a fairly simple process,” Ault explains. “There are a couple of options – you could install a gas log in the existing fireplace or you could install a gas insert, which would be much more efficient.”

A gas insert causes the fireplace to draw air from outdoors rather than drawing furnace-heated air from your home and sending it up the chimney.

“Old wood-burning fireplaces are not very efficient, so the draft can actually start to pull heat out of the house,” Ault explains. “If the fireplace is updated, we can do more efficient inserts that draw air in from outside, so it stops pulling heat out of the house. Most gas inserts are around 80 percent efficient.

These can be a supplemental heat source or a good heat source for emergency situations.”

Collier’s also helps homeowners to update their old, unattractive fireplaces by replacing the doors or adding gas logs.

“A gas insert changes the whole look of the fireplace,” says Ault. “We can do everything, from just a simple update to a complete remodel of an existing fireplace.”

If you live in a home with no fireplace but you’re thinking of

Kevin Lehman and Chuck Ault, co-owners of Collier’s Fireplace Shoppe

installing one, Ault suggests taking some pictures of where you would like the fireplace to be or what you currently have.

“Take measurements,” he says. “Pinterest pictures can help us to get an idea of what your vision and goals are. Then talk to our fireplace experts and we can help you begin the process.”

Residents of apartments and condominiums may want to consider installing an electric fireplace.

“Electric fireplaces have come a long way,” says Ault.

“They require no chimney and provide an amazing array of flame patterns to fit the mood you’re in. We’ve also installed them in restaurants and conference rooms and we carry the best brands in the industry.”

When it comes to fireplace maintenance, Ault recommends having a gas fireplace checked and serviced annually.

“We go through and clean the system, redress the logs and make everything look like new,” he says.

For wood-burning fireplaces, he recommends having the chimney cleaned and inspected annually.

During their decades of hands-on work at Collier’s, Ault and Lehman never imagined they would someday own the company, but they were identified as potential successors and moved into management positions.

“We got the opportunity to buy into the company and we didn’t think we should pass it up,” says Ault. “We have a vested interest in the company – it’s been good to our families over the years, and we look at Collier’s as an opportunity to extend our family to the team that we’ve built, to include the households we serve, and the communities where we live and work.”

Another branch of the business, Collier’s Solar, has more than 10 years of experience installing ground-mount and roofmount solar panels. The company has also been in the heating and air-conditioning business for more than 34 years, including geothermal installations, serving the greater Warsaw area.

Whether you yearn for the roar and scent of a wood-burning fireplace or want the convenience and tidiness of a gas or electric fireplace, there have never been more options to suit your individual situation.

Learn more by calling (574) 203-5882 or visit the showroom at 2315 North Shelby Dr., Warsaw, Ind. ❚ 11 January 2022 • II Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Fort Wayne

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Legal Tips

Understanding Parental Custody in Indiana

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ecisions about child custody can be stressful for everyone involved, but they can also be managed amicably. Here are some things to keep in mind, according to Robert H. Bellinger, principal attorney at Bellinger Law Office, 116 E. Berry St., Fort Wayne.

First, it’s the responsibility of the court to determine what’s in the best interest of the child.

“That may not always be what the child wants, and it may not be what the parents want, either,” says Bellinger. “Nonetheless, it’s the foremost consideration for the court, when deciding these matters.”

Indiana law makes room for two types of custody, says Bellinger. Just because a child primarily lives with one parent doesn’t mean that the other parent does not have custody of the child. One parent may have physical custody, while another or both parents have legal custody.

“Legal custody is a different concept that refers to the right of a parent to make critical decisions on the child’s behalf,” says Bellinger. “This includes the ability to make health care and education decisions for the child. When both parents have legal custody of a child, we call it joint custody. When one parent has legal custody of a child, we say that parent has sole custody.

However, that does not mean that the other parent does not have visitation rights. It simply means that important decisions are vested with only one parent.”

The reasons for denying a parent legal custody can range

anywhere from prior incidents of abuse in the household to the fact that they simply cannot get along with their former spouse.

“In cases in which a parent is opposed to the choices of the other parent, it can create serious conflict for the family,” Bellinger explains. “The court must then weigh the child’s best interests against the parents’ conduct and will render a decision based only on the child’s best interests. Oftentimes, courts will enlist the aid of social workers or psychologists to determine if one or the other parent is unfit to have decision-making power.”

Parents with legal custody have powers and responsibilities.

They also have rights to make specific decisions for the child. In most cases, the decisions will involve what school the child goes to, what medical interventions they receive, and their access to religion or cultural institutions.

“Parents who do not have legal custody of their child must accept the decisions of the parent with legal custody or petition the court to review their decisions, under the litmus test of the best interests of the child,” he says.

Bellinger says his job is to argue to the court how his client’s interests are best aligned with the child’s interests.

“When parents put the best interest of the child first and foremost, custody issues often can be managed amicably,” he says. “Other times, more aggressive tactics are needed.”

Learn more about The Bellinger Law Office by calling (260) 428-2214. ❚ 13 January 2022 • II Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Fort Wayne

Inspiration & Worship

Power to Change

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n the beginning of the year, we often have good intentions about improving our physical habits, from eating better to exercising more. But we can also make it a priority to improve our mental behavior, aligning it more closely with what Jesus Christ teaches us. To know what Christ values, we need to read the New Testament for ourselves, eyes to print. It’s not enough merely to believe what others say about him.

Make no mistake: Changing poor mental habits requires self-discipline.

Behavioral scientists say it takes about 40 days to form a new habit. But as Christian people, we have an advantage: We can draw upon the spirit of God inside us. This isn’t to say God will do the work for us; each of us has free will. But scripture tells us we can control our thinking.

“Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.” – 2 Cor. 10:5.

In Romans 12:2, Paul writes: “And be not conformed to this world: but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” It must be possible.

Many scriptures tell us that God supports us as we align our thoughts with His. Consider Isaiah 40:31. “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; they shall walk, and not faint.”

As King David observes in Psalm 139:13, our physical bodies are “fearfully and wonderfully made.” Our human brains are no less stunning. God has given us the ability to think independently and to make, or not make, the two most important decisions of all: to love Him with all our strength and to love other people as we love ourselves. (see Matthew 22:37).

It’s not easy. We live in a world that constantly divides us and pressures us to be the ugliest, most selfish and lazy versions of ourselves. But we can do it.

“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become as new.” – 2 Corinthians 5:17. ❚

Janine Pumilia 14

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Right in Our Region

Learn What’s New in RV Travel Feb. 3-6

The 61st annual Fort Wayne RV & Camping Show takes place Feb. 3-5 at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, 4000 Parnell Ave.

By Peggy Werner

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hether you want to travel with all the conveniences of home for a safe weekend getaway, explore the entire country at your own pace, attend your children’s out-of-state sports games, or travel the country while working from home, you’ll want to attend the 61st annual Fort Wayne RV & Camping Show.

The event will take place Feb. 3-5 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Feb. 6 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, 4000 Parnell Ave. 16

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Matt Rose, Director of Recreation Vehicles for the Recreation Vehicle Indiana Council, says people can view the smallest tear-shaped camper to the largest Class A diesel motorhome, and more.

“The show is a great place to explore and shop for a new RV from any of the nine dealers represented, talk to representatives from area campgrounds, learn about accessories and ask questions,” he says.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or want to get a new RV

To Advertise Call 260-212-8968

Right in Our Region because your needs have changed, the show will be the place to see new models, floor plans and features, he says.

The show is returning after a yearlong hiatus because of COVID-19 restrictions, and the pandemic has only increased RV sales.

“RV-ing is the original form of social distancing,” Rose observes.

“Many American vacationers have changed the way they travel and vacation because owning an RV gives them a safe space with great flexibility. And instead of flying over places, you can stop and see the sights.”

According to the RV Industry Association, 25 million Americans use RVs each year to camp, hike, boat, fish or just to relax in nature. They generate The RV lifestyle is more popular than ever and 80 percent of RVs sold in the U.S. are made in Indiana. $114 billion for the national economy, with $32.4 billion of that money generated in Indiana alone. of catching planes, booking hotel rooms and renting cars.

More than 600,000 RVs were sold to dealers in 2021 and that “You have all your own stuff with you and you can do what number is expected to increase this year. Previously, 2017 was a you want, when you want, at your own pace and plan your own record year, with 504,000 units sold. schedule,” he says.

“Elkhart County in Indiana is the RV capital of the world,” He was introduced to camping by his wife, Janine, whose says Rose. “More than 80 percent of all RVs are built in Indi- parents were lifelong campers. The couple’s two children, Jada, ana. The state has about 50 dealerships that employ more than 22, and Addison, 14, have grown up camping with their parents 126,000 people.” in a variety of places.

Chris Sallows of Angola, Ind., has been an RV owner for “Both my kids love camping and hiking because they’ve more than 10 years and upgraded a few years ago to a 2016 Key- grown up with it. I believe they have a greater appreciation for stone Bullet 272. the natural world because they’ve had so many opportunities to He says RVing is like a “home away from home” and is an explore it,” he says. easier and more economical way to travel, without all the hassles Chris and Janine both work full-time, so they do many weekend getaways, sometimes very spontaneously, and take longer trips once or twice a year, mostly in the Midwest.

When they retire, they’ll travel to parts of the country they haven’t yet seen and stay for weeks at a time, says Chris.

They’re not alone.

RV ownership has steadily increased in the past few decades, with ownership skyrocketing 62 percent in the past 20 years among people of all ages, races and socioeconomic backgrounds.

“People used to look at RV-ing as a pastime for older people and retirees, but that’s been changing in recent years,” says Rose. “A few years ago, the average RV owner was 49 years old. That number has dropped to 45, and we expect it to keep dropping. What’s driving RV sales right now is younger buyers with families.

“People are looking for a safe and convenient way to get away from it all, while spending time with the family RV owners enjoy the safety this form of travel provides during a pandemic as well as the in nature.” ❚ economic benefit of preparing food in the RV instead of dining out for every meal.

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Your Health

Effective Treatments for Peripheral Neuropathy

By Toni Rocha

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he Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that more than 20 million Americans suffer from peripheral neuropathy (PN), a condition that results from damage to nerve networks in the hands, feet, ankles and other parts of the body.

At Health N.O.W., 2146 State Road, Auburn, patients find relief from symptoms that range from mild to disabling, including numbness, tingling, twitching, throbbing and stabbing pain.

They also avoid further damage that a lack of feeling can cause, including wounds to the feet that don’t heal, which could eventually lead to amputation.

Dr. David M. Gafken, of Health N.O.W., in Auburn, has spent four decades using the latest advancements to diagnose “The symptoms can range and treat neuropathy before the condition becomes a graver concern for patients. from that ‘pins and needles’ feelGafken describes the course as quite effective as compared ing to severe pain,” explains Dr. David M. Gafken, DC. “Diabeto the medications usually prescribed to treat PN. tes is the No. 1 cause of PN.” “The drugs used to treat PN are high-powered and can have Patients come into the center for a thorough assessment, significant side effects,” he explains. which includes family history, existing conditions and testing to Gafken explains that the normal PN score for patients is 74. determine if they are candidates for chiropractic treatment courses.

“We had a woman whose PN score was 19 to 20 when she “Patients who fall inside certain ranges undergo testing came to the center,” Gafken says. “When her course of treatment to find where the source of the problem is,” Gafken explains. was complete, her score had improved to 60.”

“These can include a full metabolic workup, blood sugar/glucose Along with relief from the discomfort of PN, patients also reading (AIC), an evaluation of genetic components plus cigabenefit from improved sleep patterns, he says. rette and alcohol usage. Based on the results of these tests, we “After treatment, patients can walk better and more safely,” arrive at a score which reflects the severity of the PN they are Gafken says. “This is vital because patients who cannot feel experiencing. Then we determine if they are good candidates for their feet are prone to falls and other situations in which they a treatment course or if the nerve damage has progressed too far can cut or damage the affected tissue. We can save them the loss to treat effectively.” of their toes and feet because the treatment course helps them For patients who fall into the treatable score range, Gafken get more efficient blood flow back into their feet and ankles.” says laser is one of the methods he uses. Laser therapy involves With improved capabilities, patients are better able to rethe use of low-level waves that can be set at one of four depths, sume or initiate exercise programs and enjoy participating in depending on how deep into the muscle and bone tissue the damsports without fear or discomfort, Gafken says. They can also age has occurred. Laser can successfully be used to increase work at their jobs and around the house and yard, a benefit that blood flow and repair nerve damage to the ankles and feet, hands directly improves their quality of life. and fingers, and other areas of the body.

“How active they are depends on their overall health and age, “One of the main areas we address is the lower spine, using but we want them to be as active as they can be,” Gafken says. decompression therapy combined with laser treatment to reduce “We have an incredibly positive effect on our patients’ lives.” inflammation, encourage stronger blood flow and to build new Learn more about PN treatment, or make an appointment pathways to healthier nerve networks,” Gafken adds. “The dewith Health N.O.W. by calling (260) 920-8811. Learn more at compression course takes place over a six- to eight-week period, seekhealthnow.com. ❚ teamed with other appropriate soundwave electrical methods.”

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MEET

AGAIN

EXPLORE

AGAIN

FLY

AGAIN

PEOPLE ARE BEGINNING TO DO IT ALL AGAIN. So, whether you’re planning your next business trip. Or, booking that long-awaited vacation.

We’ll provide the safe, sanitary, socially-distant terminal.

So, you can fly…again.

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FWAIRPORT.COM Phoenix • Orlando • Tampa • Fort Myers • Las Vegas • Myrtle Beach • Sarasota • Dallas To• Advertise Call 260-212-8968 Smart Living Fort Wayne Chicago January 2022 • II • Charlotte Philadelphia • Atlanta • Detroit • Minneapolis

Your Kitchen

Start Now for Spring Kitchen/Bath Updates

By Janine Pumilia

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hen it comes to kitchen and bathroom updates, there are two big things to know right now: “Start early” and “think simple, clean lines,” says Dana Kneuve, designer at Trinity Kitchen, Bath & Lighting, in New Haven, Ind. “Customers have been very understanding of the supply chain issues,” she says. “If you want to do a remodel in the spring, it’s a good idea to start the process now. Expect cabinets to take at least twice as long as usual to arrive – that means eight weeks instead of four and possibly longer for other brands.”

Working with a kitchen designer to Clean lines bring a kitchen up to date, as in this remodel by Trinity Kitchen, Bath & Lighting. choose materials and plan the details now will assure you have everything in place when the remodeling people still like the look of wall tile, but it can be expensive to begins. install and isn’t functionally necessary outside the shower.”

For an updated look, “Think light and airy, with simple, clean Most bathroom cabinets stand up well to moisture but be lines for everything from cabinet door styles to backsplashes to sure to ask about the materials before you order them, Kneuve the finish of a countertop edge,” says Kneuve. “This is not only advises. the look people want today, it’s also easier to clean.”

“We offer cabinets made from engineered wood or all-plyIt may be more economical, too. Simpler cabinet door styles wood construction. The biggest difference is the way the sides cost less, as do simpler stone or quartz countertop patterns. Save of the cabinet look, especially if the cabinet is stained, but both bold colors and patterns for details that easily can be changed out will hold up well to moisture and day-to-day life in bathrooms.” later, if you want your update to stand the test of time.

Less tile is being used for bathroom floors these days, too, “In a bathroom, mirrors, lighting and hardware can all be due to the advent of luxury vinyl planks or tiles (LVT), which changed out relatively inexpensively in coming years to update imitate a hardwood or tile look without the labor-intensive instalthe look,” she says. “Sticking with more neutral styles for the lation. The LVT stands up well to moisture, is warmer than tile big-ticket items like cabinets and countertops is a good idea.” underfoot, and is easy to clean.

Painted and wood-tone cabinetry are equally popular right Some customers are trading their big jacuzzi bathtubs for now and some people like a mix of both. smaller, sleeker stand-alone bathtubs, says Kneuve.

“Maybe your cabinets are painted but the range hood and is“Picture the old clawfoot tubs without the claw feet,” she says. land are stained wood,” she says. Lighter-toned stains and finerLarger showers with more spa features, like duo showergrained wood species like maple and walnut are popular. They’re heads – one installed at a lower, adjustable level – are popular often paired with black hardware. And with painted cabinets, and practical. shades of white remain timeless favorites.”

In the kitchen, microwaves placed inside drawers or built Customers are choosing quartz over natural stone more ofinto cabinets are trending and “adding a nice range hood above ten for countertops. Many choose a marble-look quartz for baththe stove instantly makes the kitchen look higher end,” she says. room countertops.

There are more details than most people realize, in renovaFor those who crave color, painted cabinets in deep shades tion projects. Kneuve has seen plenty of do-it-yourselfers get into of blue or green are making a splash. trouble.

“These look very nice with white sinks and hardware that’s “It’s a designer’s job to think of every little thing so you a matte-gold tone,” she says. don’t have to,” she says. “Going to a store with a good reputaWhile gray is still a popular wall color, it’s warming up. tion is the best way to find a qualified designer who will get you Taupes, tans and eggshell are on the rise, Kneuve says. And through a remodeling project with ease.” there’s no functional reason bathroom walls need to be tiled.

Learn more about Trinity Kitchen, Bath & Lighting by call“As long as you use a good semi-gloss waterproof paint and ing (260) 493-2574 or stop in at the showroom, 11034 Lincoln have a good exhaust fan in place, you’re fine,” she says. “Some Highway East. ❚ Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Fort Wayne

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Outdoor Living

Pergolas Add to Enjoyment All Year Long

By Peggy Werner

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ith COVID-19 still raging, many people are spending more time at home.

Unseasonably warm temperatures are allowing them to take advantage of the outdoors on many winter days.

Pergolas add style, beauty, and definition to an outdoor space while also providing privacy, shade, and added value to a home, says Ryan Lemon, chief operating officer at W.A. Zimmer, 1700 N. Broadway, Huntington, Ind. “A lot of people are still spending more time at home and yet they don’t want to feel cooped up. Pergolas make it possible for people to work outdoors without sun glare on the computer screen, and some Now is a good time to figure out how to improve your outdoor spaces. Need ideas? Consult experts who know what people use the space just for products are available and can explain the latest innovations. relaxing or entertaining by adding an outdoor kitchen,” he says. area and extend the time you can spend outdoors all year. The A pergola is an outdoor structure consisting of columns that unique structure combines the functionality of a patio cover with support an open roof of beams and rafters. Free-standing or atthe look of a pergola. Insulated center panels help to protect a tached to your house, a pergola can cover a patio, deck or any space from rain, snow and sun and yet this pergola has the openoutdoor area and comes in a variety of styles and sizes. There are beam look of a traditional pergola. options like retractable side screens.

Pergolas account for the vast majority of sales today at W.A. A standard pergola allows for partial shade. The open beams Zimmer and the structures can be installed year-round. As long let in natural light and provide a perfect setting for stringing outas temperatures stay above freezing, homeowners can adjust loudoor lights. A pergola can support climbing vines to enhance vres, says Lemon. your home’s landscaping. An operable pergola has remote-conAll structures from W.A. Zimmer are custom built and are trolled motorized louvres to give partial or complete shade with made from high quality and durable extruded aluminum, requirthe push of a button. ing no maintenance because the material doesn’t fade, rust, warp, A dry cool pergola is the newest way to cover an outdoor mold or need painting or staining. Colors available are white, sandstone (light beige) and bronze, the latter a rich dark brown.

The family-owned company has been in business for more than 40 years and is owned by Bill and Marcia Zimmer. Their staff designs and builds maintenance-free and high-quality sunrooms, pergolas, patio covers and retractable awnings and screens. They take responsibility for the whole project, from start to finish, including getting permits to do the job. The company services only the products they build.

W.A. Zimmer plans to open second location in Elkhart, Ind., this spring. It also maintains a display at Ginger Valley Garden Center in Granger, Ind., near South Bend.

Learn more by calling (260) 356-1621 or visit the showroom A new pergola can be installed any time of year, weather permitting. Why at 1700 N. Broadway St., Huntington, Ind. ❚ wait for the spring rush?

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Your Fun

Entertainment & Events

Mizpah Shrine Circus Jan. 28-30, Fri. Jan. 28 at 7 p.m.; Sat. Jan. 29 at 10 a.m., 2:30 and 7 p.m.; and Sun. Jan. 30 at 2 p.m. at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, 4000 Parnell Ave. Enjoy riveting shows featuring exotic animals, clowns and death-defying acts in this fundraiser for Mizpah Shrine Center of Fort Wayne. Tickets range in price from $16 to $25. Call the coliseum box office (230) 483-1111 or visit MizpahShrineCircus.com.

Nouvelle Annee 1750s Jan. 29, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit Fort Saint Philippe Post des Miamis and help celebrate Nouvelle Annee, the new year. See French soldiers, settlers, voyageurs and their Miami Native Allies. Sponsored by Historic Fort Wayne and Les Garrison du Pays den Haut.

Learn more at oldfortwayne.org.

Beatles Tribute at Embassy Theatre Feb. 5, 7:30 p.m. The Fort Wayne Philharmonic Pops 3 presents “Classical Mystery Tour: A Tribute to The Beatles,” with Caleb Young, conductor. The four musicians in Classical Mystery Tour look and sound just like The Beatles and this show presents more than two dozen Beatles tunes performed exact-

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ly as they were originally recorded.

Hear “Penny Lane” with a live trumpet section, experience the beauty of “Yesterday” with an acoustic guitar and string quartet, enjoy the classical/ rock blend on “I Am the Walrus.” Learn more at fwembassytheatre.org.

Gregory Porter All Rise Tour Feb. 16, 7:30 p.m. This talented artist successfully blends the sounds of jazz, soul and gospel. This, along with his unmistakable voice, has led him to The whole family will enjoy Mizpah Shrine Circus this weekmuch success over the past decade. end at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum.

The Clyde Theatre, 1808 Bluffton Road, (260) 747-0989, clydetheatre.com tightrope walking at Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory, 1100 S. Calhoun St., ‘A Sense of Place: Abstract Art in N. Indiana’ Fort Wayne, Ind., (260) 427-6440, botanicalThrough March 13, daily. This exhibition highconservatory.org. lights the beauty and meaning of abstract art that relies on expressive qualities of color and Nashville Thursdays non-representational marks to convey mean7-10 p.m. Free live music in the Club Room ing. Fort Wayne Museum of Art, 311 E. Main at Clyde Theater, 1808 Bluffton Road, Fort St., fwmoa.org.

Wayne. Clydetheatre.com.

Under the Big Top Through April 17, daily. Imagine yourself as part of the spectacle and attempt great feats of derring-do including acrobatics and

January 2022 • II

To Advertise Call 260-212-8968

Open Acoustic Jam Each second Tuesday, 5-8 p.m. at Sweetwater, 5501 US Hwy 30 West, Fort Wayne. All skill levels welcome. sweetwater.com. ❚

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January 2022 • II

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January 2022 • II

To Advertise Call 260-212-8968

Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Fort Wayne

January 2022 • II

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January 2022 • II

To Advertise Call 260-212-8968