Smart Living Fort Wayne - February 3, 2022

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Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • 95¢ • Febuary 2022 • No. I

Summer Fun Begins with the Boat Show!

All About Fixing Your Fireplace RV & Camping Show this Weekend!

Make Better Use of Outdoor Spaces Does Your Room Need a Makeover?

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

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VAN’S HOME CENTER

New Year. New Style.

Welcome Home To Style And Comfort.

With our large selection of quality home furnishings from today’s top brands, you’re sure to find the perfect style, at the perfect price, for any room in your home.

Use Our New Design Center To Customize Your Furniture To Fit Your Style

FURNITURE | APPLIANCES | FLOORING MATTRESSES | CABINETS | COUNTERTOPS 20 Minutes From Fort Wayne! Just Off I-69 & State Road 8 In Auburn! www.VansHomeCenter.com 106 Peckhart Ct. Auburn, IN | 260.927.8267

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ......................Cover & p. 16 Boat Show Returns to Fort Wayne Feb. 10-13 Legal Tips ..............................................................11 Child Custody Laws in Indiana Your Outdoor Living ..........................................13 Need a Pergola?

Inspiration & Worship .......................................14 A Love Story Your Home ......................................................19, 27 All About Fireplaces, Bring Your Room Up to Date Your Outing .......................................................... 21 RV & Camping Show Feb. 3-6 Your Health & Fitness .......................................23 Treating Peripheral Neuropathy Your Kitchen ....................................................... 25 Why Now is the Time to Plan Your Remodeling 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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Passion, Please

D

uring my 30-something years in journalism, I’ve learned a little bit about a lot of subjects, from robots, roofing and raptors to butterflies, budgets and the Battle of the Bulge. (The one waged in WW II, not the one waged by WW at a buffet, though I’ve written about weight loss, too.)

The phrase “Jack of all trades, master of none” comes to mind. We writers are curious beings who tend to find everything interesting.

Some of my favorite interviews have been with military veterans, scientists, artsy folks and small business owners. It’s immediately evident when sources have a fire in the belly for their subjects. When they say they have a “passion” for their job or hobby or cause, I believe them.

It’s the enthusiasm for one’s subject that often separates an employee of a generic chain store from an employee of a locally owned business. Small business owners, who often wear every hat in the organization, from CEO to Chief Wastebasket Emptier, almost always love talking about their inventory or menu or the services they offer. They tend to empower their employees to feel a sense of ownership, too. It’s what makes “buy local” a far more joyful experience than “buy big-box.” Getting to know the brave souls who risk everything to bring you their wares is fun. And their success is a win-win for our community as a whole.

So, Valentine’s Day is coming up .... and you know what I’m about to say.

We at Smart Living Fort Wayne kindly urge you to choose the floral, jewelry, candy and gift shops that are owned by your neighbors and friends in Fort Wayne. And, it’s just as easy, and usually more satisfying, to dine at a locally owned restaurant, too.

Let’s love up our city this year by shopping local. It really does make a difference. We’ve seen some tough times lately, but our passion for each other will see us through. Have a fun week! ❚ Janine Pumilia SL Editor

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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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Legal Tips

Understanding Parental Custody in Indiana

D

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. ❚ 11 February 2022 • I 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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any people are spending more time at home these days. Even in winter, unseasonably warm temperatures at times allow them to take advantage of the outdoors on many sunny 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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Inspiration & Worship

A Love Story S

tudents of the Bible know that God lavished David with a remarkable compliment when he described him as “a man after my own heart.” (I Sam. 13:14 & Acts 13:22).

They also know it wasn’t because David’s behavior was always pristine. Far from it.

God loved David because David trusted God completely. Rather than hiding after sinning, David clung to God’s embrace and begged forgiveness. He had faith in God’s mercy. He didn’t allow his own sin to break his bond with the God he so much loved.

David loved spending time with God. He didn’t praise God out of duty; his childlike wonder at God’s goodness overflowed from his soul. David wanted to please his Creator. He found words inadequate, but tried to use them, along with music, dance and art, to express his love for God. Cause me to hear thy lovingkindness in the morning; for in thee do I trust: cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto thee. – Psalm 143:8 (KJV) In this one verse alone, David put God first in his day, declared his trust in God, asked God to reveal His will and expressed his willingness to lift up his soul to God. Other translations of the same verse: Let me experience Your faithful love in the morning, for I trust in You. Reveal to me the way I should go because I long for You. (Holman Christian Standard Bible) Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you.

Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life. (New International Version.)

What does it mean to ‘lift up our souls’ to God? Is it an emotion of the heart? A decision of the mind? An untethering of the weights which prevent us from leaping into His arms like a trusting child? All of these things? The answer is profoundly important.

About 1,000 years after David lived, a man asked Jesus Christ to name the greatest commandment of God. He said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and first commandment.” (Matthew 22:37 & 38) God not only gives us our every breath but also redemption through Jesus Christ.

That’s more than David ever had. How do we express our love in return? ❚ – Janine Pumilia 14

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Right in Our Region

Local Boat Show Returns Feb. 10-13

The Fort Wayne region has about 400 fresh-water lakes in which to play, most of them spring-fed and made by glaciers.

By Peggy Werner

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ooking ahead to all the summer fun you can have starts with More than 60 exhibitors, including about 40 marine dealst the 41 annual Fort Wayne Boat Show and Sale. ers from Indiana and Michigan, will show their latest products, “This is the best place to come and look forward to sumanswer questions and give special incentives for the purchase of mer,” says Tracy Sweeney, executive show director. “People can boats and watercraft, accessories, piers and more. start planning and talking about their plans while looking around Daily giveaways will include free parking with a coupon on to see what’s new. This boat show is important because boating Thursday; floating speakers on Friday; and Yeti Rambler insuas an industry is good at bringing families together so they can lated cups on Saturday. The first 500 attendees on Sunday will make great memories on our many lakes in Northeast Indiana.” receive boat show sunglasses.

The show will run Thursday through Sunday, Feb. 10-13, The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will conduct at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, 4000 Parnell Ave. a Water and Boating Safety class from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on SaturHours are 3 to 8 p.m. Thursday and Friday; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. day, Feb. 12. Register for the class at the show’s DNR booth or Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. go online at fortwayneboatshow.com.

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Right in Our Region Three Rivers Credit Union will be available to answer questions and provide on-the-spot financing for a boat purchase made at the show. Vendors will provide snacks such as fudge, roasted almonds and caramel corn.

Each year, the show attracts about 10,000 people from around the Midwest, and it’s grown every year, Sweeney says.

“Boating is a popular sport because people love to be outdoors,” she says.

“During the pandemic, being outdoors is the safest place to be.”

A boat owner herself, Sweeney says people enjoy boating for various reasons. Some like to fish and have short, relaxing getaways; others like to exercise and do sporting activities on the wa- The Fort Wayne boat show is especially popular among serious boaters because it’s owned and operated ter like wakeboarding, surfboarding and by boat dealers with deep knowledge of their products and our region’s lakes and waterways. skiing; still others just like to bring people together, move around the lake and enjoy its natural beauty. promoters and geared mostly to entertainment.

“There’s enjoyment to be had by people of all ages and from “We’re businesspeople and we’re looking out for what the all walks of life,” she says. “Some of the best memories are made boating public needs and wants,” says Anderson. “We’re serious on the lake. For a lot of families, a lake cottage or cabin reunites about boating, are very attuned to what this market is looking family members who’ve scattered in all directions due to work or for, and, most importantly, we’re not an entertainment venue, like other obligations.” some shows. Any kind of boat anyone would want for the lakes Sweeney anticipates this year’s show will be more popular and rivers of Northeast Indiana can be found at our show.” than ever after a two-year hiatus caused by the pandemic.

He estimates there are about 400 lakes in the area, most of People who want to trade in a boat are encouraged to bring which are spring-fed, fresh-water, glacier-made lakes. pictures and information about it to help dealers determine its “Wawasee Lake is one of the lowest-latitude glacial lakes in value. the world. By comparison, there are only 11 glacial lakes in Ohio Doug Anderson is co-owner of Wawasee Boat Company, and four in Illinois,” he says.

6521 E. Cornelius Road, Syracuse, Ind., along with his wife, Anderson has observed more demand for pontoon boats, Carolyn, and their son, Russell. His business is one of the larg- wave runners, wakeboarding and wake surfing boats, in recent est marinas in the state, with two big showrooms and 23 storage years, and less demand for water skiing boats. buildings on 45 acres.

The quality of the show speaks for itself, since most of the Anderson has participated in the Fort Wayne Boat Show and dealers have been with the show since its beginning.

Sale since its beginning. He says the dealer-owned and -operated “The stability of dealers here amazes me,” says Anderson. show makes the event more attractive to serious boaters, who “There’s an inherent demand for boats, boat maintenance and don’t have to put up with the fanfare of a show that’s put on by storage, and boat products for our lakes, and it’s quite apparent local businesses are doing a good job of taking care of people.”

Admission is $10. Children under 12 are admitted free. For money-saving coupons, visit forwayneboatshow. com. To learn more, contact Sweeney at sales@fortwayneboatshow.com or call her at (260) 482-7819. ❚ About 60 dealers will exhibit at the boat show. A water and boating safety class will be taught on Saturday.

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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. ❚ 19 February 2022 • I Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Fort Wayne

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 • III • Charlotte Philadelphia • Atlanta • Detroit • Minneapolis

Your Outings

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

By Peggy Werner

W

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. 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 RV owners enjoy the safety this form of travel provides during a pandemic as well as the economic benefit of preparing food in the RV instead of dining out for every meal. questions,” he says.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or want to you want, when you want, at your own pace and plan your own get a new RV because your needs have changed, the show will schedule,” he says. be the place to see new models, floor plans and features, he says.

He was introduced to camping by his wife, Janine, whose The show is returning after a year-long hiatus because of parents were lifelong campers. The couple’s two children, Jada, COVID-19 restrictions, and the pandemic has only increased RV 22, and Addison, 14, have grown up camping with their parents sales. in a variety of places.

“RV-ing is the original form of social distancing,” Rose ob“Both my kids love camping and hiking because they’ve serves. “Many American vacationers have changed the way they grown up with it. I believe they have a greater appreciation for travel and vacation because owning an RV gives them a safe the natural world because they’ve had so many opportunities to space with great flexibility. And instead of flying over places, explore it,” he says. you can stop and see the sights.”

Chris and Janine both work full-time, so they do many According to the RV Industry Association, 25 million Amerweekend getaways, sometimes very spontaneously, and take lonicans use RVs each year to camp, hike, boat, fish or just to relax ger trips once or twice a year, mostly in the Midwest. When they in nature. They generate $114 billion for the national economy, retire, they’ll travel to parts of the country they haven’t yet seen with $32.4 billion of that money generated in Indiana alone. and stay for weeks at a time, says Chris.

More than 600,000 RVs were sold to dealers in 2021 and They’re not alone. that number is expected to increase this year. Previously, 2017 RV ownership has steadily increased in the past few dewas a record year, with 504,000 units sold. cades, with ownership skyrocketing 62 percent in the past 20 “Elkhart County in Indiana is the RV capital of the world,” years among people of all ages, races and socio-economic backsays Rose. “More than 80 percent of all RVs are built in Indigrounds. ana. The state has about 50 dealerships that employ more than “People used to look at RV-ing as a pastime for older people 126,000 people.” and retirees, but that’s been changing in recent years,” says Rose.

Chris Sallows of Angola, Ind., has been an RV owner for “A few years ago, the average RV owner was 49 years old. That more than 10 years and upgraded a few years ago to a 2016 Keynumber has dropped to 45, and we expect it to keep dropping. stone Bullet 272.

What’s driving RV sales right now is younger buyers with famiHe says RVing is like a “home away from home” and is an lies. easier and more economical way to travel, without all the hassles “People are looking for a safe and convenient way to get of catching planes, booking hotel rooms and renting cars. away from it all, while spending time with the family in nature.” ❚ “You have all your own stuff with you and you can do what Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Fort Wayne

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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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Smart Living Fort Wayne

January 2022 • III

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Your Kitchen

Start Now for Spring Kitchen/Bath Updates

By Janine Pumilia

W

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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Smart Living Fort Wayne

February 2022 • I

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Your Home & Garden

How to Bring Your Room Up to Date

By Janine Pumilia

(Taylor King Photo)

I

f your living space looks a bit tired, consider giving it a makeover. That may not be as difficult or expensive as you think and can be a real mood lifter.

“It’s easy and affordable to achieve a nice update by swapping out some accessories and smaller furniture pieces,” says Christy Howe, a designer at Fairfield Galleries in Fort Wayne.

“The best way to get started is to come in and take a few laps around the showroom. Find out which looks draw you in. If you’re not sure how to integrate fresh ideas with your existing furniture, ask one of our designers to help.”

Snap some images of your existing room and bring them to the store, Howe suggests. Or, if you’re planning a major revamp, set up an in-home appointment with a designer.

“We’re very customer service oriented and happy to help people put together a new look. Sometimes people just lack the confidence to go forward because design is not what they do every day. We can help. We don’t impose our personal tastes on you – we help you to figure out what you like.”

Take advantage of the deep product knowledge and personal design expertise store professionals offer, Howe urges. That’s something you can’t get online.

“Along with advice about patterns and colors – the fun stuff – we can also answer questions about how a piece of furniture is made, which fabrics are most durable, and how to combine furniture pieces and accessories in ways that are attractive but also functional.”

A living room or great room is often the first candidate for an update because it’s heavily used. Fairfield Galleries carries a huge selection of sofas and sectionals that anchor these rooms, plus accessories that complement them.

“You’ll mostly find neutral and tonal sofas and sectionals in our showroom because most people think it makes sense to stick to neutrals for the big pieces and occasionally freshen up the look with smaller pieces and accessories,” Howe says.

“We’re seeing a lot of vivid colors in artwork right now – deep ocean blues and sea greens, splashes of tangerine and hot pink. There’s also a softer version of this same color palette in more muted tones like soft pinks and sage greens.”

Area rugs, artwork, spot tables made of wood or mixed metals, décor pieces, ottomans and “poufs” – soft stools used for child seating, footrests or a surface to set something on – offer opportunities to add color and personality to a room with neutral furnishings.

“Just replacing your lamps can really freshen up a room,” says Howe. “We have so many nice choices for lamps that use different materials and colors.”

But there’s more to a room than color.

“Along with color, give some thought to textures,” says Howe. “Layering in some items with velvet or knotty fabrics or perhaps a jute or sisal rug can make for a nice change.”

Larger neutral pieces can be freshened up with splashes of color, pattern and texture, as shown in this room by Taylor King, one of many furniture brands sold at Fairfield Galleries in Fort Wayne.

In Fort Wayne, Howe sees many customers moving away from strictly traditional styles to a more transitional look with a subtler color scheme.

“It depends on the customer, but most people today don’t want blatantly matchy-matchy furniture,” says Howe. “You want to add ribbons of compatible colors, but in a less overtly intentional way.”

Mixed metal accents are popular.

“Gold accents are back, but in a champagne gold tone that mixes well with bronze or silver. Items like large clocks and mirrors are still trending, but in updated versions.

“Everything is oversized and large scale in accessories, from large florals or abstract patterns on pillows to large pieces of artwork on walls.”

One of the most functional and versatile furniture pieces today is the low-slung console table used in any room as a TV or lamp stand, as a dining room or kitchen storage sideboard, as an entryway table or as an anchor to focal-point wall art. They come in many styles, often with concealed storage or open shelving.

“Not everyone wants to hang their TV on the wall because that tends to lock you into one furniture floor plan,” says Howe.

“A console table is more versatile.”

When it comes to other rooms of the house, there are easy ways to upgrade a space by replacing your old headboard with a new upholstered one or swapping in new chairs for your older but beloved dining table.

“People still like to have large dining tables for gathering the family together,” Howe says. “Dining and bedroom furniture are the pieces we tend to hold onto longest and there are ways to update those rooms without replacing all the furniture.”

Freshening up your home is easier than you think – and can be a lot of fun, too.

“At the end of the day, we just want people to walk into their homes and feel good about what surrounds them.”

Learn more by stopping in at Fairfield Galleries, 5010 US 33 North, Fort Wayne, or call (260) 489-5526. ❚

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Your Fun

Entertainment & Events

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 exactly as they were originally recorded. Embassy Theater, 125 W. Jefferson. 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 much success over the past decade. The Clyde Theatre, 1808 Bluffton Road, (260) 747-0989, clydetheatre. com Open Mic Night at Sweetwater Feb. 21, 6:30 p.m., free. Just show up and play! It’s that simple, whether you’ve never performed or you’re a seasoned professional.

It’s all about having a great time making music in a relaxed, coffeehouse-style setting.

5501 U.S. Hwy 30 W, Fort Wayne, sweetwater.com.

Travis Tritt: Solo Acoustic Tour Feb. 23, 7:30 p.m. An Evening with Travis Tritt is an up-close and personal event punctuated

by Tritt sharing personal stories and anecdotes about his life and musical influences.

This Grand Old Oprey member will perform some of his biggest hits, including “Anymore,” “T-R-O-U-B-L-E,” “Its A Great Day to Be Alive,” and “Best of Intentions,” along with songs off his new album, “Set In Stone.” Embassy Theater, 125 W. Jefferson. Learn more at fwembassytheatre.org.

All ages can enjoy some winter fun when ice skating at Headwaters Park in Fort Wayne, now thru Feb. 27.

Ashley McBryde at the Clyde Feb. 26, 8 p.m. “This Town Talks” Tour with special guest Ashland Craft. McBryde’s witty, confessional, detail-driven songwriting addresses a wide spectrum of blue-collar Southern women’s experiences. The music is stadium-ready rock ’n’ roll with a bluegrass wink. The Clyde Theatre, 1808 Bluffton Road, (260) 747-0989, clydetheatre.com

Under the Big Top Through April 17, daily. Attempt great feats of derring-do including acrobatics and tightrope walking at Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory, 1100 S. Calhoun St., Fort Wayne, (260) 427-6440, botanicalconservatory.org.

‘A Sense of Place: Abstract Art in N. Indiana’ Through March 13, daily. This exhibition highlights the beauty and meaning of abstract art that relies on expressive qualities of color and non-representational marks. Fort Wayne Museum of Art, 311 E. Main St., fwmoa.org.

Ice Skating at Headwaters Park Through Feb. 27, 3-8 p.m. Tues.-Thurs.; noon to 9 p.m. Fri. & Sat.; noon to 8 p.m. on Sunday. Closed Mondays except Feb. 14 & 21.

Indoor concessions available. Learn more at fortwayneparks.org. ❚ Nashville Thursdays 7-10 p.m. Free live music in the Club Room at Clyde Theater, 1808 Bluffton Road, Fort Wayne. Clydetheatre.com.

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February 2022 • I

To Advertise Call 260-212-8968

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January 2022 • III

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Smart Living Fort Wayne

January 2022 • III

To Advertise Call 260-212-8968

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January 2022 • III

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Smart Living Fort Wayne

January 2022 • III

To Advertise Call 260-212-8968