There’s something special about northern Indiana in the summer. Our little slice of midwestern America transforms into a place buzzing with music, festivals, laughter and lakeside lounging.
Downtown Fort Wayne, in particular, becomes a hub of activity. You can wander along the riverfront, grab a drink at The Landing, and watch kids splash through the Promenade Park fountains all in the span of an hour. You might catch live music echoing from Headwaters Park or find yourself swept into a local food truck rally where the hardest part of your day is choosing between birria tacos or a pulled pork slider.
For families, it’s hard to beat a day at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, widely ranked among the best in the country. And just down the road, Science Central keeps minds busy even when school’s out. On Saturdays, the YLNI Farmers Market draws in early risers with fresh produce, handmade goods and strong coffee — fuel for the rest of your summer adventures.
Ballpark evenings at Parkview Field are a must. Whether you’re a die-hard TinCaps fan or just there for the food, fireworks and social scene, it’s one of those experiences that feels like the essence of an American summer.
There’s also a slower pace if that’s what you’re after. Rent a kayak and paddle your way through the city’s water trails. Bike the Rivergreenway under canopies of green. Or, just sit under the shade of a tree at Lakeside Park, where the roses bloom like clockwork and the world seems to slow down.
The truth is, Fort Wayne might not always make the cover of other glossy magazines. But in summer, we have everything that really matters: community, creativity and moments that feel simple and good. There’s joy here, hiding in plain sight.
So whether you’ve lived here for decades or are new to town, make this your season to lean into everything we have to offer. Enjoy your summer! ❚
Lindsey Lukas Senior Editor
FARMHOUSE BREWERY COTTAGE AIRBNB DESTINATION FARM
Ruhl Furniture Delivers Style & Service
By Peggy Werner
RuhlFurniture, a family-owned business in New Haven, has built a reputation for delivering quality service, stylish products and great value for customers looking to enhance their homes.
“Our team of experts is dedicated to helping you find the perfect pieces for your home,” says John Pape, owner. “We believe furniture should not only be functional, but also beautiful and expressive.”
Ruhl Furniture specializes in custom orders, most of which can be delivered in as few as six weeks. The staff has decades of hands-on experience to help customers through the selection process.
Customers can find upholstered furniture, dressers, cabinets, chests, bookcases, carpet and hard surface flooring, premium mattresses, home accessories and custom blinds. Products include England and Lancer furniture, Amish-made furniture and Shaw Industries flooring – one of the largest and most-respected American-made manufacturers of flooring, John says.
His son, Logan, recently joined the business, marking the beginning of the third generation to work for Ruhl Furniture, which just introduced Flooring Deals on Wheels,™ a free inhome service that helps customers make decisions in the comfort of their own homes.
“We bring samples, measure spaces, photograph the rooms and create a custom digital visualization using the selected flooring,” John says.
By entering people’s homes, the salespeople can get a better understanding of a customer’s lifestyle, budget, room dimensions, existing décor and personal style preferences.
For those who care about trends, transitional and modern farmhouse are today’s most popular styles, John adds. Color palettes lean toward warm neutrals in gray, creamy whites, natural wood tones and earth-tone accents. Texture also comes into play with a focus on soft, durable fabrics and matte finishes.
“Just about everything for your home is available through Ruhl,” John adds.
In operation since 1956, Ruhl has a long-standing reputation for quality, value and service.
“We are committed to giving every customer personal service and lasting satisfaction,” John says. “It’s our job to help every customer have a positive experience.”
The store is open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and by appointment. Visit the showroom at 511 Broadway St., New Haven.
For a free consultation and estimate, call (260) 749-4717. ❚
In His Image
God is spirit and we are made in God’s image (Genesis 1:26). Spirit has no gender or appearance.
Our human bodies are wonderfully made, but temporary. God is far more concerned about the content of our minds and hearts than our physical appearance.
Scripture has little to say about physical appearance except when it directly relates to the narrative. For example, Esau was hairy and ruddy, a fact which helped his twin brother, Jacob, to cheat Esau from his birthright; Goliath was “a giant,” which caused David to rely upon his faith when slaying him; and Esther was a beautiful Jewess, which helped her to gain favor with an antisemitic king.
The Bible records many instances when people are influenced by physical appearance (i.e. Jacob loved beautiful Rachel more than weak-eyed Leah), but in no place does God favor or disfavor people based upon their appearance.
It’s revealing that scripture provides no physical description of Jesus Christ. Every way in which we’re told to emulate him is related to character, not looks.
How foolish and evil it must be to God that humans persecute one another on the basis of traits no person can control; the skin color, gender and looks with which we’re born.
After Christ came and made the holy spirit of God available to all who choose to believe and receive it, Paul wrote, “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Galatians 3:28 NIV).
In the Old Testament, when God sends Samuel to Jesse’s house to anoint a new king of Israel, Samuel wrongly assumes one of Jesse’s older, bigger sons is God’s choice. God tells him, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.” (I Samuel 16:7 NIV)
To be imitators of Jesus Christ, we must do likewise. ❚ –Janine Pumilia
Swiss Days Celebrates Community
By Lindsey Lukas, senior editor
Every summer, the quaint town of Berne, Ind., transforms into a vibrant hub of Swiss culture during its annual Swiss Days festival. Held during the last full weekend of July, this cherished event honors the town’s rich Swiss roots, drawing thousands of visitors eager to experience a blend of tradition, community spirit and festive fun.
Berne’s origins trace back to 1852 when Mennonite settlers from the Jura region of Switzerland established the community. Their influence remains evident in the town’s architecture, customs and annual celebrations. Swiss Days began more than 50 years ago as a modest sidewalk sale and has since blossomed into a comprehensive festival that showcases the town’s deep-seated heritage.
This year, Swiss Days happens July 24-26 and offers a diverse array of activities catering to all age groups. The festival kicks off with an opening ceremony, followed by events such as the Little Miss Swiss Days pageant and live performances featuring polka music and traditional Swiss dances.
For the athletically inclined, the First Bank of Berne Swiss Days Race presents a 5K run for participants ages 12 and up and a 1-mile race for children ages 11 and under. Cycling enthusiasts can partake in the “Tour De Swiss,” a scenic 26-mile bike ride through the picturesque countryside of southern Adams County.
Children can enjoy the “Kids Fun Zone,” which features games, bounce houses, inflatable obstacle courses and pony rides. Unique competitions add a distinctive flavor to the festivities, such as the Steintoss, a traditional Swiss contest where participants throw heavy stones, and the bratwurst eating contest.
The Swiss Heritage Village offers visitors a glimpse into 19th-century Swiss-American life with its collection of historical buildings and live demonstrations. The Quilt Show at the First Mennonite Church displays intricate quilts, reflecting the town’s rich textile traditions.
Culinary enthusiasts can savor authentic Swiss dishes, including bratwurst, apple dumplings and the regional favorite “Swiss Schuetzie Salad” at local establishments like The Palmer House Restaurant.
Beyond the events and attractions, Swiss Days serves as a homecoming for many, fostering a sense of community and continuity. Residents and visitors alike gather to celebrate shared traditions, making the festival a time of reunion and reflection.
As Berne continues to honor its Swiss heritage through Swiss Days, the festival stands as a testament to the town’s enduring commitment to preserving its cultural legacy while embracing the present.
For more information on Swiss Days and upcoming events, visit bernein.com. ❚
Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy the “Tour De Swiss” scenic bike ride during Berne’s annual Swiss Days festival.
Festivalgoers can savor delicious treats, including authentic Swiss dishes, during Swiss Days.
Blueberry Fest Brings Big Fun to Plymouth
By Lindsey Lukas, senior editor
Every Labor Day weekend, Marshall County transforms into a vibrant hub of music, crafts and blueberry-flavored everything as the beloved Blueberry Festival takes over Centennial Park in Plymouth, Ind. This year’s festival takes place Aug. 29 from noon-9 p.m., Aug. 30 & 31 from 9 a.m.-9 p.m., and Sept. 1 from 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Festival Coordinator Tracy Houin says there’s all kinds of fun at this free, family-friendly celebration.
“We’ve got three stages full of live entertainment, a beer garden, a carnival, fireworks and even a Saturday night drone show that we’re especially excited about,” she says. “But what really sets us apart are the 600 craft, commercial and food booths. You can find almost anything.”
While music lovers enjoy back-to-back performances across the stages, families appreciate the free kids’ section and classic carnival rides. From pony rides to inflatable zones, the festival has entertainment for all ages.
“We always want to make sure there’s plenty for the kids to do,” Houin adds. “The free kids’ zone is a hit every year.”
Additional highlights of the 2025 festival include the “Blueberry Stomp 5K/15K Run” on Saturday, Aug. 30; a
fireworks display on Saturday, Aug. 30 at dusk; the Hoosier Old Wheels Car Show on Sunday, Aug. 31, featuring more than 400 classic cars; and the parade on Monday, Sept. 1, which steps off at 9:30 a.m. and features marching bands, floats and local organizations. The festival also includes pageants, tractor pulls, a tennis tournament and a splash pad for cooling off.
Houin is particularly excited about the addition of a drone show on Saturday night.
“It’s something new we’re offering this year, and we think people are going to love it,” she says. “It’s a modern twist on traditional festival fun.”
Unsurprisingly, Blueberry Festival is also a food lover’s dream.
“We work hard to make sure there’s a nice variety of food options,” Houin adds. “Really, anything you can think of, we’ve got it.”
Items include fresh-baked blueberry pies, donuts, muffins and strudels; ice-cold blueberry slushies and smoothies; sweet blueberry sundaes, shortcakes and funnel cakes; plus savory fare like pulled pork sandwiches, giant turkey legs, loaded nachos, corn dogs and grilled corn on the cob.
Blueberry Festival, in Plymouth, takes place Aug. 29-Sept. 1 and features live entertainment, a carnival, fireworks and a new Saturday night drone show.
In addition, local church and nonprofit food booths offer secret family recipes and homemade flavors.
With so many vendors on site, Houin says it’s impossible to choose just one favorite.
“We’re proud of the diversity and quality of our vendors,” she says. “You’ll find handmade goods, unique gifts and plenty of blueberry-themed treats, of course.”
Admission to the Blueberry Festival is free, and parking is readily available, with Plymouth High School serving as the primary parking site. Parking costs $10 per car or $20 per car for a weekend pass, with free round-trip tram service to and from the Blueberry Festival for each person in the vehicle. Proceeds from parking provide thousands of dollars for Plymouth High School organizations, Houin says, adding that all the trams are handicap accessible.
Visitors are encouraged to arrive early and explore all the festivities the weekend has to offer.
More than just a good time, the festival has a meaningful impact on the community.
“We provide several nonprofit organizations with
opportunities to raise funds, often enough to support their operations for the entire year,” Houin says. “It’s one of the ways we’re able to give back while also bringing thousands of visitors to our amazing community.”
Volunteers have been the backbone of the event since the beginning, when the Plymouth Jaycees organized a Labor Day Celebration in 1966 to observe Indiana’s sesquicentennial. The celebration was such a success that a group of citizens formed a board of directors to organize an annual festival, Houin says.
At the time, Marshall County provided one third of Indiana’s blueberry crop, so, the board named the celebration “The Marshall County Blueberry Festival.” Now, 59 years later, the humble event has grown into one of Indiana’s largest festivals.
For Houin, coordinating the festival is a labor of love. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Blueberry Festival is a showcase of Marshall County’s charm, hospitality and spirit.
“I’m proud to be a small part of something so big,” she says. “Our board members and volunteers work incredibly hard to make this happen, and I love seeing the joy it brings to people. It’s all about community.” ❚
Entrance to Blueberry Festival is free, while parking at Plymouth High School costs $10 per car or $20 for a weekend pass. The festival began in 1966 to observe Indiana’s sesquicentennial and has grown over the years into one of the state’s largest festivals.
Sunlight to Savings: Solar Energy’s Benefits
By Peggy Werner
Going solar is a big investment in the future and it’s more affordable than ever, according to Larry Miller, co-owner of Solect Energy with his cousin, Mike Miller.
“In the past two years, there has been a 30 to 40 percent decrease in the cost of inverters, solar panels and batteries,” Larry says. “Five years ago, the investment paid for itself in 15 years – now it’s five to seven years.”
For that reason, Solect Energy, based in LaGrange, has expanded the area it serves to include Fort Wayne, South Bend, some of Michigan and other communities within a 75-mile radius of the headquarters.
The Amish family-owned business specializes in residential, commercial and agricultural solar systems. They also offer a variety of products for homes that are “off-grid,” including batteries, charge controllers, inverters, solar panels, appliances, prewired solar kits and portable solar sheds.
Inverters can transfer power from solar energy (direct current, or DC) into an alternating current (AC). Most household appliances are designed to run on AC, while DC is generated by renewable energy sources or batteries.
“The off-grid movement has really picked up steam in the past five years as people get familiar with the products,” Larry says. “And it continues to grow because the quality of products has greatly improved and the products have become much more affordable.”
A solar system for the home reduces your monthly electric bill, generates clean energy from the sun, increases the value of
your home and provides power during blackouts. Solect Energy offers a variety of options depending on each customer’s needs and budget. Some customers opt for a grid-tied solar system with no battery storage, while others go for a whole home backup, ensuring every corner of the house stays powered up.
The off-grid packages are also popular for cabins and other remote locations, Larry adds. When going totally off-grid, you don’t have an unlimited supply of power, so you want to use clean energy as efficiently as possible.
Sun Star Appliances are a great option when living off-grid because they are manufactured locally, designed for efficiency and work best with battery-based solar systems, Larry says.
Sun Star’s latest product is a 10-cubic-foot refrigerator/ freezer designed for recreational vehicles, hunting trips and camping. According to Larry, it’s essentially a smaller version of the larger model they’ve been producing for years. A grid-tied solar system saves money, reduces the impact on the environment and is maintenance free.
For those wanting total energy independence and additional protection against blackouts, a hybrid grid-tied solar system is another choice. The system includes battery backup and customized configurations, giving you the freedom to design a system that uniquely meets your style of home and needs.
Solect Energy offers custom solar packages, and there are federal and state incentives to offset the costs.
For more information or to schedule a free consultation, contact the Millers at (260) 499-3051, visit the showroom from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon.-Fri., or go to solectenergyllc.com. ❚
Solect Energy, in LaGrange, serves communities within a 75-mile radius. The Amish family-owned business specializes in residential, commercial and agricultural solar systems.
Timeless Updates to Transform Your Home
By Peggy Werner
Whether doing a total kitchen or bath remodel or making just a few updates, there are certain things to consider when getting a home ready to sell, or when making an investment for your own future and enjoyment.
“Every homeowner has a different budget and idea about what they want to accomplish and we work with them to make those ideas come to life,” says Kevin Walsh, owner of Trinity Kitchen, Bath and Lighting, 11034 Lincoln Hwy E, New Haven.
A few small changes can make a big difference.
“One thing homeowners can do is change the hardware on cabinets to a different style and finish,” Walsh says. “Other options would be changing out the countertops and adding a backsplash. All of these can make your kitchen look new.”
dark colors have been popular. Today, the trend is turning back to natural stained woods in lighter colors.
After considering budget, the next step is to look at options for achieving a new look or better use of space. Homeowners can garner ideas by browsing store displays, websites and social media. When wanting to follow trendy looks, keep in mind most trends last 12 years or less, Walsh adds.
However, some looks stand the test of time.
“Simple lines and neutral colors are always timeless,” Walsh says. “By keeping things simple, you can always add or change other decorative touches to keep up with current trends.”
Looking back over the years, Walsh has observed many trends that have come and gone when it comes to kitchen and bath remodeling. In the 1970’s, everyone had yellow and avocado-green colored appliances. In the past 20 years, cabinet finishes have changed from stained oak and maple to paint. In the past several years, shaker-style cabinets in white, grays and black or
Twenty years ago, countertops were made of laminate. Today, the most popular countertop material is quartz followed by granite.
“The durability of the countertops made from stone is a big factor, as well as the broad patterns found in quartz that look more like natural stone in unique patterns and colors,” Walsh says. “We are also seeing a greater use of tile in kitchen remodels, not only for backsplashes, but also for entire walls.”
Founded in the historic district of New Haven more than 60 years ago, Trinity Kitchen, Bath and Lighting has evolved through the years to be a “one-stop shop” for home renovation. The store offers cabinets, countertops, plumbing fixtures, flooring, tile options and lighting. There are also designers who can produce renderings of what a project will look like once finished. In addition, the business hires its own installers, and, when needed, will make structural changes to walls, windows and doors.
Walsh bought the business about 20 years ago with plans to breathe new life into it with new product lines, increased sales, improved relationships with existing customers, and new customers.
He opened a lighting center in Indianapolis about six years ago and changed the name of the New Haven store to reflect the growth that had taken place by adding cabinets, countertops and other products for home renovation.
“We offer great-quality products and can work within any budget – whether wanting to save money or make a dream come true,” Walsh says. “It doesn’t have to be a matter of deciding to do it or not do it. You can go with fewer features and still have a good result.” ❚
Trinity Kitchen, Bath and Lighting, in New Haven, is a one-stop shop for home renovation.
Today, the most popular countertop material is quartz followed by granite.
I Love Saturdays at Club Room at The Clyde Enjoy the best in pop, soul, R&B and funk every Saturday from 8-11 p.m. at the Club Room at the Clyde, 1806 Bluffton Road, Fort Wayne. Visit clydeclubroom.com/live to see the complete lineup of performers.
Space Telescopes: New Views of the Universe
Thru Sept. 7. This temporary exhibition showcases iconic Hubble images and data of planets, galaxies and regions around black holes. Science Central, 1950 N. Clinton St., Fort Wayne, sciencecentral.org.
Fort Wayne TinCaps
Thru Sept. 7. Lots of exciting baseball action along with special events and spectacles including fireworks on select nights, discounted food nights and more. Find the whole schedule at milb.com/fort-wayne. Parkview Field, 1301 Ewing St., Fort Wayne.
Fort Wayne’s Farmers’ Market
Thru Oct. 4, Saturdays 9 a.m.-1 p.m. This farmers’ market in downtown Fort Wayne brings the farm to your neighborhood and also offers the freshest vegetables, flowers and plants in season. 1620 Broadway, Fort Wayne, ftwaynesfarmersmarket.com.
Rock & Roar
Thru Oct. 24 on select Thursdays, 6:30-9:30 p.m. This summer music series features talented bands from Fort Wayne’s local music scene. Try delicious specialty menu items and enjoy an evening of live music and fun at the Fort Wayne Zoo. Ages 21+. Fort Wayne Zoo, 3411 Sherman Blvd., Fort Wayne, fwzoo.com.
Indiana’s Mac & Cheese Festival
July 19, 5-10 p.m. Attendees can expect 50+ mac and cheese samples, 150+ craft beers (ciders, seltzers and spirits), plus a variety of entertainment options including a dueling pianos show, magicians from TAG Art, Alex The Fire Breather and more. Ages 21+. Parkview Field, 1301 Ewing St., Fort Wayne, macandcheesefestin.com.
Fort Wayne Children’s Choir
July 25, 7-9 p.m. No ticket necessary; take a seat and enjoy the show. Foellinger Theatre, 3411 Sherman Blvd., Fort Wayne, cityoffortwayne. in.gov/956/Foellinger-Theatre.
Fort Wayne Pride Fest
July 25-26, Fri. 5 p.m.-midnight, Sat. noonmidnight. Fort Wayne’s biggest party and
Entertainment & Events
celebration of the LGBTQ+ community is back. The two-day event includes entertainment, a vendor market, a nonprofit resource fair, beer tent, food, Pride March, KidSpace, tournaments and more. Headwaters Park, 333 S. Clinton St., Fort Wayne, fwpride.org.
Earth, Wind & Fire
July 26, 8 p.m. Earth, Wind & Fire have charted a history that will live on forever. They’ve scored eight number one hits and have sold more than 100 million albums worldwide. They’ve released 23 albums and are one of the best-selling artists of all time. Embassy Theatre, 125 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne, fwembassytheatre.org. ❚
(Visit Fort Wayne photo)
The Embassy Theatre hosts Earth, Wind & Fire on July 26 at 8 p.m.
