Glo - March 2021

it’s Free! fort wayne’s

March 2021

www.glo-mag.com

bold • bright • beautiful

inspiring today’ s woman

Peek inside to read:

HOMELIVING Indoor & Outdoor

Holding Back

the Years!

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3

“Focus on Spring”

glo

ISSUE

March 2021 | Vol. 11 No. 12

From the executive editor

GLAM + STYLE Fashion: Spring 2021 Fashion Preview.................................................. 6

COMMUNITY FOCUS She glows’ : Betsy Yankowiak ................................................................... 8 He glows’ : Bruce Kingsbury.................................................................... 10 glo Girl’ : Kayti Austin................................................................................ 12

FEATURES Feature Focus: HERstory: Celebrating Women’s History Month ........................ 14 Moving Towards a Zero Waste Lifestyle ...................................... 15 Emergency Preparedness ................................................................... 16 Finance: Pre-approval for Home Buying Process ........................... 17 We Love Your Style: Heather Schoegler............................................ 18

SHOPPING glo Gal’s Shopping Guide ................................................................... 19

ALL ABOUT YOU glo-roscopes............................................................................................... 22

YOU ARE never fully

Dressed WITHOUT A 4

Smile

| MARCH GLO 2021 |

Greetings glo and HOME readers, This issue is another double issue, with HOME tucked inside the pages of glo. We’ve received a lot of positive feedback from readers and advertisers alike about combining these publications. For April, we will be back to two separate magazines, but we appreciate the support you’ve shown us while COVID was negatively impacting our small local businesses.

Speaking of COVID, we are coming up on a year since we all hunkered down to slow the spread. I have a very vivid memory from early March last year. My husband called while out running errands and asked me if I thought he should stock up on masks and disinfectant spray. It was in that moment that I realized life was going to change—but I had no idea just how much it would.

In previous March issues, I’ve written about how this is my favorite month because both of our daughters have birthdays. Last year, I had to cancel the joint party I had planned with family and friends to celebrate their 4th and 1st birthdays. We did manage to throw together a last-minute drive by party for my older daughter, which she thought was pretty awesome.

This year, I am not planning a party. We will celebrate, just the 4 of us, by staying in like we have for 12 months. My youngest daughter has spent more than half of her life and BOTH birthdays in COVID isolation.

This year has taught me it’s better to just go with the flow, live in the moment, and take comfort in a roof over our heads and a home full of love. For a control freak and extrovert like me, it has not been without its challenges. And working full-time from home with two little ones has certainly tested me. But we’ve stayed healthy, and my girls are happy. There’s not much else I can ask for.

I hope you are all hanging in there.

Thanks for hanging in with us.

We truly appreciate your support.

Xo,

Amber Bouthot ambouthot@the-papers.com

cover artist: Petra Haire Hometown: Bamberg, Germany | Current city: Decatur, IN We just bought a farm and moved from Fort Wayne to Decatur. All of my paints and accessories are still packed and will not see the light of day for a few months.

a the Title of piece:

Cover

Umbrella Dance

I can’t wait to get back to painting, only this time it will be in the barn!

When did you first get started making art?

January 2020

What is your typical medium?

Acrylic/Canvas

What advice would you give young women artists?

Where did you draw inspiration for this piece?

If it makes you happy, don’t stop loving it.

I saw an image while browsing the internet. I fell in love with the colors and theme and just had to throw some paint onto canvas.

Where can we find your work?

Want to put your art on our front cover? Give it a glo!

To submit your entry, send art as an e-mail attachment to ambouthot@the-papers.com or send a production-ready image on a CD via mail to: glo Magazine, Attention: Amber Bouthot, PO Box 188, Milford, IN 46542.

The Nitty Gritty:

glo front covers are open to female artists. Submissions from all original 2D media (digital art photographs are OK) are welcome.

E

PO Box 188 • 206 South Main St., Milford, IN 46542 800.733.4111 / Fax 800.886.3796 Editorial & Advertising Ext. 2491 • www.glo-mag.com

glo is a news magazine with emphasis on inspiring women of all ages. glo does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial content, nor does glo or its staff assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial content appear in any publication. glo assumes no liability for any claims regarding services or products or claims made by advertisers. No reproduction of glo is allowed without express written permission. Mailed subscriptions are available, prepaid with order at $44 for 12 issues; $75 for 24 issues. Mail your request, along with your check to glo, P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542. Your cancelled check will serve as your receipt. Copyright © 2021

Facebook and YouTube: Loco Artist a

Artwork must be photographed at a high-resolution (300+ dpi) for reproduction.

Cover art selections are made at the discretion of glo staff. For cover placement, the artist will receive credit and added exposure via introductory copy and published photograph in a question and answer section.

Cover art is cropped approximately to 10” wide x 13” high. Submitted cover art should be sized as 10.5” wide x 13.25” tall and, when possible, please allow 4.5” at top of artwork for glo masthead placement. The art chosen will confer rights to the cover image only as it relates to the publication and glo. The artist shall retain all other rights.

publisher Ron Baumgartner | rbaumgartner@the-papers.com

director of circulation Jerry Long | jlong@the-papers.com

executive editor + publications manager Amber Bouthot | ambouthot@the-papers.com

graphic designers Maymie Ankrom, Mary Lester

editor-in-chief Deb Patterson | dpatterson@the-papers.com

marketing assistants Darlene Eichelberger, Trina Hoy

director of marketing Steve Meadows | smeadows@the-papers.com

photographer: Mollie Shutt

account executives Melinda Musselman | mmusselman@the-papers.com Lynn Blanchard | Lblanchard@the-papers.com Rebecca Boone | rboone@the-papers.com

contributing writers Stacie Ball, Mary Jane Bogle, Lauren Caggiano, Jaclyn Youhana Garver, Haiden Hibbert, Julie Young

business manager Carrie Goralczyk | cgoralczyk@the-papers.com

Connect with Us On Social Media

Facebook facebook.com/glofortwayne

Twitter twitter.com/glofortwayne

Instagram instagram.com/glofortwayne | MARCH GLO 2021 |

5

GLAM + STYLE | Fashion

Spr ng 2021 FASHION PREVIEW

By Lauren Caggiano

As doldrums of winter come to a close in a few weeks, many of us are looking ahead to what the rest of the year has in store. Fashion trends are no exception.

Pandemic or not, style is a must, after all!

t Bluebird Boutique

So what’s the 4-11 on spring 2021 fashion? In general, local boutique owners are excited to swap out heavy threads and color palettes for lighter and breezier options. Here’s what they have to say about the looks that will dominate the scene this spring.

“They can be worn with a belt to dress it up,” she said.

Rhinestones are a great way to add color and style to this outfit.

With respect to belts, keep an eye on one look in particular.

Spring 2021 is the perfect time to show off those curves, as the hourglass shape is en vogue.

Cinch the waist with a chic belt to define your figure and capture attention.

Kim Gangstad, owner of Bluebird Boutique in Wabash, said this season will be defined by feminine styles, at least in part. This may come as a relief to those tired of wearing athleisure or ultra-casual styles after months of working from home.

“The trends we are looking at now are soft and flowing,” Kim said. “Think palazzo pants and wide-leg cuts, which are so flattering and create a softer elevated look.”

On that note, don’t be afraid to stand out from the crowd with bold colors. For your spring 2021 color palette, think cheerful and optimistic. The same goes for silver and sequins, which are taking center stage.

These choices look great paired with an asymmetrical-sleeved blouse. If you want to lean into an even bolder look, she recommends adding jumpsuits to your wardrobe. t

6

| MARCH GLO 2021 |

Bluebird Boutique

Susan’s Fashions “Serving fine fashions to Fort Wayne for 25 years!”

At the same time, you don’t have to go all-glam if that’s not your style. Sue Johnson of Susan’s Fashions said casual attire is still having a moment.

(260) 459-2828 susansfashions.com

6340 W. Jefferson Blvd.

Fort Wayne | Covington Plaza

“Spring 2021 brings lots of casual clothes that can be worn around the house, as well as out to dinner and shopping,” she said. “We will be seeing lots of tie-dye knits in the form of jogger outfits, as well as some new looks in camouflage.”

Regarding the former, you can thank the DIY movement rekindled by influencers during the lockdown last year for this statement look. Fashionistas experimented with such projects and showcased their creations on social media.

As a result, many designers took note and created their own hippy-inspired looks. That means spring 2021 is the perfect occasion to unleash your inner bohemian.

Not into patterns and color? Not to worry. According to Sue, the basics are here to stay, at least for this season.

Love where you work Love where you work

“As always, jeans are a favorite, paired with new graphic tee shirts,” she said. “New looks in sneakers go with everything!

These are the fashion sneakers — not the chunky athletic ones.”

everspeak wanted work somewhere where you knew you were Do any ofHave theseyou trends toto you? making a difference?

We can Remember, you can’t phone in confi-offer that experience to you. We are hiring a variety positions our company and we would love to meet you. dence. The bestofoutfit is thewithin one that makes you feel like yourself. a Administration | Service Attendant | Pre-Planning Advisor

Resources:

Call Jess Coleman at 920-784-6685 Bluebird Boutique, bluebirdboutiquewa.wixsite.com/website

Have you ever wanted to work somewhere where you knew you were making a difference? We can offer that experience to you. We are hiring a variety of positions within our company and we would love to meet you.

Administration | Service Attendant | Pre-Planning Advisor Call Jess Coleman at 920-784-6685

Susan’s Fashions

t

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7

COMMUNITY FOCUS | SHE

glows

she

glows’ BETSY YANKOWIAK

By Stacie Ball

Betsy Yankowiak has always been a nature advocate, and now, as Director of Preserves and Programs at Little River Wetlands Project (LRWP), she is dedicated to building partnerships to preserve our community for generations to come.

Betsy has armed herself with the knowledge and tools to make her dreams a reality. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Geology from IndianaPurdue Fort Wayne and recently attained her Graduate Certificate in Fire Ecology, Technology, and Management from the University of Idaho. She is trained in American Red Cross Wilderness First Aid and CPR and is a Wildland Firefighter II, making it possible to use fire as a land management strategy at nature preserves.

Betsy oversees wetland restoration efforts, land management strategies, wetland education programs and volunteer engagement. She also works with landowners who are restoring habitats on their own properties.

She feels the biggest accomplishment of her team is their robust wetland education program. “In normal years, we serve over 10,000 people with free programs where they can learn about how wetlands clean water, store floodwater and provide habitat for wildlife,” she explained.

Betsy attributed many other successes to collaboration with others. One of her proudest moments was the completion of the federal project to build a continental divide, an earthen barrier built to separate the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River Watersheds to stop the spread of Asian carp and another 200 aquatic nuisance species.

“There have been dozens of partners from the White House Committee of Environmental Quality to our local agencies and neighboring utilities,” Betsy said.

Project on the horizon include a Wetland Education Pavilion and an accessible trail system at the Eagle Marsh Nature Preserve. Plans are also in the works to produce a compilation of stories from LRWP members, landowners and volunteers to archive the many accomplishments they have made by working together.

8

“I truly believe that LRWP’s success is our ability to build meaningful partnerships with so many people, non-profits, businesses and schools,” Betsy said. “I feel blessed to be a part of my hometown’s conservation efforts!” a | MARCH GLO 2021 |

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9

COMMUNITY COMMUNITY FOCUS FOCUS || HE HE glo glows ws

he BRUCE KINGSBURY

glows’

By Haiden Hibbert | Photo by Mollie Shutt

When people asked Bruce Kingsbury why he studied snakes when he was younger, his answer was that he thought they were cool. But when, in his late 20s, he was asked the same question, he said, “It has become clear that nature should be protected and that to do so, we needed to know how.

Since then, I have focused on learning what is needed to protect wildlife and their habitats.”

From his days exploring nature surrounding his childhood home in California to his pursuit of Bachelors, Masters, and PhD degrees in Biology, nature and wildlife conservation have been his passion. Today, Bruce is the Director of the Environmental Resources Center at Purdue Fort Wayne.

“I believe in the intrinsic value of nature — that not everything has to have direct benefit to humanity to be worthy of protection,” Bruce says. “We have impacted virtually the entire surface of the Earth, as well as its air and water. We are obligated to find a place for the other animals and plants and have habitats that are fully ecologically functional for their occupants.”

In his role, he strives to connect the community with Purdue Fort Wayne, builds collaborations between faculty and students with community partners, and serves as a spokesperson and resource on environmental topics.

He also engages in research with other faculty and the students on a wide variety of projects.

A large part of what Bruce does is interact with other organizations in the community to achieve mutual goals.

Locally, he works with the City of Fort Wayne and entities like ACRES Land Trust and Little River Wetlands Project.

Further afield, he works with state agencies like the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, federal agencies like the US Fish and Wildlife Service, and nongovernmental organizations like The Nature Conservancy.

“Providing education [on wildlife conversation] is part of the mission of the Environmental Resources Center,” says Kingsbury. “I invite readers to become involved with us, following us on social media, subscribing to our newsletter, and attending our presentations. Perhaps, in the future, folks can even volunteer to help us with our efforts.” a 10

| MARCH GLO 2021 |

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11

COMMUNITY FOCUS |

glo Girl

glo GIRL

KAYTI AUSTIN

by Jaclyn Youhana Garver | Photo by Mollie Shutt

When Kayti Austin was younger, she regularly visited the Center for Whitley County Youth. She was homeschooled, and she struggled to make friends and fit in, which resulted in depression and anxiety.

At the Center, she found help through mentors, so now she wants to be able to help others. She volunteers there however she’s needed. Recently, she worked with a group of high school girls.

“Right now, we’re talking about bullying,” Kayti says.

“We have deeper conversations about bullying; what that looks like in their lives; how they should react to it; and how they can help others who’ve been through it.”

Kayti graduated from Ivy Tech Community College’s Fort Wayne Campus in December with a degree in psychology. Not only does she enjoy volunteering, but she also wants to make a career out of helping people. This semester, she will start classes at Purdue University Fort Wayne, and she’s debating between two majors: psychology, with the goal of becoming a counselor; and interpersonal and organizational communications, which would prepare her for a job in non-profit work.

“I really want to work with youth,” she says. “I like being able to walk along with (kids) through middle school and high school because (those) times are difficult and confusing.”

It’s clear that helping others is what drives Kayti, even though she has had difficulties with aspects of learning and socializing. She struggles with eye contact and social queues, needing extra help and one-on-one tutoring.

Since she was 8 or 9 years old, Kayti said her family has wondered if she has autism. As a child, she tested negative for Asperger syndrome, and she recently underwent testing again. She is still waiting for the results, but she’s confident they will show that she has a form of autism spectrum disorder.

Though the hallmarks of autism include a struggle to communicate, Kayti is drawn to helping others, and she struggled when her Ivy Tech classes were moved online due to the pandemic. Her graduation ceremony is scheduled for May, and she’s hopeful she’ll be able to celebrate her accomplishment in-person. a 12

| MARCH GLO 2021 |

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HOMELIVING

what’s trending | interior design

Indoor & Outdoor

PO Box 188 • 206 South Main St., Milford, IN 46542 800.733.4111/Fax 800.886.3796 Editorial and Advertising, Ext. 2491 homeindooroutdoorliving.com Publisher Ron Baumgartner rbaumgartner@the-papers.com

Director of Marketing Steve Meadows smeadows@the-papers.com

EDITOR-in-chief Deb Patterson dpatterson@the-papers.com

Graphic Designer Mary Lester mlester@the-papers.com

publication Manager and Executive EDITOR Amber Bouthot ambouthot@the-papers.com

marketing assistants Darlene Eichelberger darlene@the-papers.com Trina Hoy thoy@the-papers.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Rebecca Boone rboone@the-papers.com Business Manager Carrie Goralczyk cgoralczyk@the-papers.com

director of circulation Jerry Long jlong@the-papers.com

Contributing Writers

Ray Balogh, Mary Jane Bogle, Lauren Caggiano, Jaclyn Youhana Garver, Deborah C. Gerbers, Cathy Shouse, Julie Young Home Living Indoor + Outdoor is a news magazine with emphasis on home decor, design and remodeling.

Home Living does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial content, nor does Home Living or its staff assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial content appear in any publication.

Home Living reserves the right to determine the suitability of all materials submitted for publication and to edit all submitted materials for clarity and space.

Home Living has not independently tested any services or products advertised herein and has verified no claims made by its advertisers regarding those services or products. Home Living makes no warranties or representations and assumes no liability for any claims regarding those services or products or claims made by advertisers regarding such products or services. Readers are advised to consult with the advertiser and/ or other home repair and renovation professionals regarding any such claims and regarding the suitability of an advertiser’s products.

No reproduction of Home Living Indoor + Outdoor is allowed without express written permission.

Mailed subscriptions are available, prepaid with order at $44.00 for one year; and $75.00 for two years. Mail the order form, along with your check to Home Living Indoor + Outdoor, P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542. Your cancelled check will serve as your receipt.

Copyright © Home Living Indoor + Outdoor All rights reserved, 2021

a division of

Milford, Indiana

the-papers.com

Cover photo shutterstock.com

contents

what’s trending ~~

March 2021

Vol. 12 No. 11

at HOME (cont.) ~

reader DIY...............14

interior design.......... 4 black kitchens

master bathroom remodel

features ~

community ~

main feature............ 6

event calendar......16

waterproofing basements

support small..............18

how to...................... 8

vertical gardening

at HOME ~

Hopscotch House

company spotlight... 20 Van’s Home Center

garden/landscape....10

essentials ~

perennial rainbow

I am HOME............. 22

household pets.......12

Richard Beck

pet-friendly lawn care

4 Home Living | March 2021

By Amber Bouthot

White and stainless-steel kitchens have been the “it” look for years as the farmhouse movement took over homes across the nation. Their reign is coming to an end. All-black kitchens are becoming increasingly popular. From shiny black cabinets and black marble countertops to black floors and even black appliances, we are starting to see black being used in a much bigger way. Design manufacturers have taken note and you can now find sleek black ranges, refrigerators and more as fixtures at Kitchen & Bath industry shows. The result? A kitchen with a greater depth and sophistication — and the black backdrop makes accessorizing super fun, as everything pops.

Are you ready for an all-black look? Here are some of our faves.

Black Kitchens

March 2021 | Home Living 5

features | main feature

Shutterstock.com

Waterproofing Basements

By Cathy Shouse

As homeowners have begun using every square inch of living space, basements are enjoying new life. Whether yours is the catch-all for storage and laundry duties, or an extension of your home, one concern is on everyone’s mind: water leaks.

Gary Furniss, the sales manager in charge of the waterproofing division at Momper Insulation, had some tips to share. Momper works with many local residential and commercial builders. Typically, the waterproofing is done in the construction phase, which is the best way to lock out the water on buildings that include underground square footage. Momper also does crawl spaces.

Two terms to know are damp proofing and water proofing. Damp proofing is ineffective as a total fix. Momper does waterproofing using warm rubber applied onto the concrete so that when the concrete cracks, water can’t get inside. The rubber Momper uses is water based, similar to that used on the soles of athletic shoes.

Insulation is placed around the rubber. It’s important to work with professionals who are experienced with waterproofing because the temperature to pour the rubber, and the placement needs to be correct. For a lake home, sometimes there are additional layers.

“There’s two kinds of concrete. One that cracks now and one that cracks later,” Furniss said. He chuckled about what he knows about concrete, but that truth is why he takes his job seriously. He came to Momper in 1999 and carefully investigated the best waterproofing methods.

His point being that, ideally, waterproofing should be in place at the earliest possible time so that it will protect your basement whenever the cracks happen.

“You can’t do this to existing basements,” Furniss said. “We’ve done some, but it’s costly because we have to dig the basement out all around it, clean the walls really good, and then apply the waterproofing. But you can’t have a warranty on old concrete.”

Some properties are more prone to conditions that can cause basements to leak. If you want to try temporary fixes for your particular

6 Home Living | March 2021

issue, be sure to work with a contractor that you have checked out well.

Emily Fitzgerald is a Certified Professional Organizer and Productivity Consultant who owns OLS Organizing, LLC. “I have a client with a newer built home, and the basement has flooded three times! It was a parade of homes house, so very nice,” she said. “One time the sump pump failed. One time the landscaping company left a spigot to the underground watering system running.

“My best advice is to take inventory and make sure that any mementos or valuables being stored in the basement are in plastic totes, or on shelving well off of the ground, in case some water disaster occurs,” Fitzgerald continued. “I have seen mold grow on cardboard and paper harming the valuables to the point they had to be thrown out.”

Some properties present unique challenges. To try fixes for your particular issue, be sure to work with a contractor that you have vetted, and come up with a plan to remove water quickly if it comes.

Jeanne Baker Dick of Baker Dick Design said, “We don’t call them basements anymore. Today we treat it as another level of our home.

It’s an upgrade in thought.”

Let’s agree to eliminate the idea of a dark underground place and aim toward the light of a lower level home expansion.

Resources:

Baker Dick Design, Facebook: bakerdickdesign Momper Insulation, momper.com OLS Organizing, OLSinfo.com

Visit our

to see the latest in design trends

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features | how to

V GaRDENING Gardening E R T I C A L

By Deborah C Gerbers

Shutterstock.com

One of the most popular trends in gardening right now is growing your plants up — not out! Vertical gardening is not a new concept (think trellises of flowers or vines on fencing), yet it is all the rage for green-thumbed plant enthusiasts who want to save space and try something different.

Vertical structures like trellises allow you to grow vines, flowers and even vegetables upright without taking up too much space, making them ideal solutions for apartment living or small spaces. Houseplants and flowering vines can add a unique design element to a blank wall when grown vertically. According to Better Homes & Gardens, these “living walls” can add oxygen and humidity to the indoors, which is especially important when the dry furnace heat is still cranked up until spring temps arrive (bhg.com).

Vertical planting, or green walls, can be as simple as climbing plants up a wall or as involved as incorporating modular growing systems for the greenery. In addition to watering and fertilizing, vertical plant walls may require other maintenance like replacing growing mediums (think soil, sand or rocks), dusting and possibly irrigation systems if needed. Succulents like cactus and aloe are easy to care for and do very well indoors.

When planning a vertical growing structure, there are various options to choose from. You can place plants on the floor and simply let them grow up along a wall with plant supports or sticks. Another option would be by using a trellis either leaned against the wall or mounted with hooks or nails for extra sturdiness. Low-priced trellises can be found at your local hardware store. If you’re a DIY-er, you can repurpose spare boards or old fencing.

Staggered shelves are another way to build a green wall of plants. Choose shelves or old pieces of wood and mount them on your wall at varying heights for more visual interest. Select a variety of plants in different sizes, textures and

8 Home Living | March 2021

colors — and be sure to leave enough room for them to grow vertically without bumping into the next shelf above.

Want to grow kitchen herbs and veggies? Attach sturdy wire or lengths of chain to wooden planter boxes with eye hooks and assemble them like a ladder to fit your wall space. Beans will naturally wind their stems around anything nearby, and herbs like basil, rosemary and dill don’t take up much space as they grow in bunches.

Another popular trend is growing tomatoes vertically — upside down! You can find these growing kits at garden stores or online with included seeds and a hanging nylon basket structure — the “pot” hangs from the ceiling (with a simple eye hook screwed in) and the tomato starts will grow out the opening at the pot’s bottom. This is an effective way for the tomatoes to have more room to grow without being smushed by its own clustered stems. Another perk? No pesky garden visitors will be nibbling on your produce if it’s being grown inside your kitchen.

Once spring is officially here, you may want to take your vertical planting outdoors. You can use an existing fence, trellis or other structures for your plants to hang onto.

Flowering plants can be beautiful when grown vertically, but make sure you know how to attach certain types to the structure (climbing roses, for example) or whether the plant can wind itself around the trellis or fence naturally (i.e., clematis or morning glories). Also, keep in mind surrounding trees and bushes and how their shade may affect your flowering vines.

Vertical gardening is a great way to try something new and add some more freshness and bright greenery to these last bleak weeks of winter.

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March 2021 | Home Living 9

at HOME | garden/landscape

Perennial Rainbow

Add color to your garden all season long

By Julie Young

Homeowners looking to add some pop to their properties this year will be thrilled to know that a well-planned perennial garden will give you glorious color from early spring until late fall.

Due to the reliable nature of these plants, perennials not only offer steadfast form to a landscape, but are also a great investment for those gardeners looking to get the biggest bang for their buck. And according to Dave Geller of Arbor Farms Nursery, it’s easy to plot out a perennial garden that will give you season-long interest for years to come.

“Early season varieties to consider include Creeping Phlox, Salvia and Catmint, while mid-season choices might include Shasta Daisies, Daylilies and perennial Geraniums,” he said. “For late season, consider Coneflower, Black Eyed Susan, Coral Bells and Sedum.”

Before selecting your plants, it is important to measure your space and draw up a plan that will account for all trees, fences and hardscapes that exist on your property. Homeowners will want a garden that not only matches their home’s architectural style but is proportional to the structure and will offer you the most versatility, as well. After all, you don’t want to make a mistake that will come back to haunt you long-term.

It’s also important to think about the future. As your plants mature, they will get bigger. Make sure you take into consideration the plant’s maturity size so that you will have the space that you need. Geller

Choosing your blooms

“Some of the easiest to grow include Catmint, Salvia, Daylilies and Sedum, while dedicated gardeners may want to try Columbine, Astilbe, Delphinium, Poppy and Foxglove,” he said. “Some of our more popular sellers include Russian Sage, Hosta, Ferns, Lenten Rose and Ligularia.”

Geller says when getting started, it’s important for homeowners to be aware that the frost-free date for our area is May 15th. If you plan to plant perennials with tender new growth, it’s best to wait until after that date. Also, perennials prefer a lighter soil that has good drainage, unlike the heavy clay soil that is commonly found in the Fort Wayne area.

“Our recommendation is to amend your planting bed with good topsoil before planting new perennials (and) if budget allows, some customers prefer to construct a raised bed for their perennial gardens,” he says.

Shutterstock.com

10 Home Living | March 2021

Shutterstock.com

Why perennials?

says you are then ready to determine which flowers are best suited for the sunny and shady areas of your Zone 5 yard, which will give you continuous color and match a homeowner’s gardening experience.

Now ScheduliNg

Plan Ahead!

Schedule your landscape consultation today!

12515 coldwater Rd. | Fort wayne, iN 46845 260-637-5816 | arborfarmsnursery.com 12515 Coldwater Rd. | Fort Wayne, IN 46845 260-637-5816 | arborfarmsnursery.com

Color your world If you are ready to plant a rainbow of color on your property, we have curated a few perennial varieties to consider. While many of these plants come in a number of colors, homeowners can cover the ROYGBIV spectrum with these suggestions: Reddish pink:

Blue and lavender:

Creeping Phlox

Coneflower Light yellow to green:

Orange to golden yellow:

Black-eyed Susan Hosta Red, orange and yellow:

Daylilies

Deep purple:

Lenten Rose

Resource: Arbor Farms Nursery, arborfarmsnursery.com

Financial Guidance From Someone Who Gets You Getting your finances in order isn’t always easy. That’s why I’m here. Together, we can assess your financial picture and personalize your strategy to: • Protect your future.

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March 2021 | Home Living 11

at HOME | household pets

Pet-Friendly Lawn Care

By Mary Jane Bogle

Who doesn’t love a beautifully manicured lawn, showcasing its fresh green grass and weed-free splendor? And with warm weather on the way, now is the time to renew those lawn treatments that will bring that beauty back to your yard.

Pet owners, however, might want to hit “pause” on those automatically renewing treatments, and for a good reason. That golf-course green actually comes with a hidden price tag: the health and wellness of your furry friends.

Sadly, many of the chemicals we use to treat our yards and landscape beds can be toxic to pets, with side effects ranging from diarrhea and skin irritation to more serious conditions, such as seizures, organ damage and cancer. In other words, the side effects of traditional lawn care can be deadly.

Consider the number of chemical treatments it takes to keep that fresh green appearance. A typical lawncare program includes five annual treatments for “weed and feed” applications, plus four quarterly insecticide applications to keep bugs and spiders at bay. Some homeowners or neighborhood associations also spray for mosquitos throughout the summer and early fall.

All those treatments can add up. In fact, dogs or cats living an average lifespan might be exposed to chemicals 160 times — or more. And that doesn’t include any extra treatments you might apply to flowers and vegetables in landscape beds. Add in snail and slug bait, and you could be producing a toxic cocktail for your pets every time they roll in the grass or lick their paws.

The good news is that you don’t have to give up a green yard or live with ugly brown spots and weeds just to keep your pets healthy. Here are five commonsense tips that can keep your yard green and your pets happy.

1. Don’t “scalp” your lawn.

Setting your mower to a higher setting can protect grass roots from the heat of summer, keeping crabgrass and weeds at bay.

2. Aerate your yard at least once a year.

Core aeration relieves soil compaction, allowing nutrients, air and water to reach grass roots, which in turn leads to a healthier, chemical-free lawn.

3. Overseed your lawn.

A densely seeded lawn is the best prevention for weeds, which will have a harder time getting established in the dense root system your grass provides. Be sure to look for seed varieties that grow well in your climate and choose seeds that are disease resistant and require the least amount of water.

4. Change your sprinkler habits.

Watering less frequently and for longer periods of time will help your lawn grow a strong, well-developed root system.

5. Apply organic material.

If your yard still needs help, consider 100% organic options. You can add up to a half inch of compost to your lawn each year. Consider spraying natural ingredients such as seaweed, bone meal, and feather meal for an extra fertilizing boost. Just be sure to check the ingredients list for any product you use, let the yard dry for up to three days before your pets play in the grass again, and don’t assume that a label advertising the product as “all natural” is safe.

On the off chance you think your dog or cat could have been exposed to harmful chemicals, keep this animal poison control number handy: (888) 426-4435. Then get ready to enjoy that “green” backyard with your pets this year!

Shutterstock.com

12 Home Living | March 2021

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(260) 490-8656 March 2021 | Home Living 13

at HOME | reader diy

l e d o m e R m o o Master Bathr

By Amber Bouthot

Every month, we highlight Reader DIY Projects. Want to see your project featured in our magazine?.

It can be something as simple as a craft project or as large as a home addition. If you did it yourself, it can be featured. Email Amber at ambouthot@the-papers.com.

This month’s Reader DIY project comes from Brandon and Angela Fisher who recently gutted and remodeled their master bathroom.

What was your inspiration for the project?

Our inspiration was the need for a modern oasis that we could enjoy. We moved into our house 7 years ago, and this was the only room in the whole house that we had not touched. Our house was built in the early 2000’s so it needed a revamp. I get inspired by the modern and sleek touches of decor that can be seen in many HGTV shows.

How long did it take from start to finish?

Start to finish was roughly 2-3 months. The slowdown during the early COVID months, gave us extra time to complete the project.

Was it easier or harder than you anticipated?

We both knew it was going to be a huge undertaking, as Brandon did all of the labor himself, but it was harder than we anticipated. One difficult part was not having a bathroom available to use. We have 3 sons and had to share their small bathroom for a few months. That was rough! The hardest part of the whole process was the walk-in shower. There were so many steps that had to be completed. We took out the garden tub and turned it into the walk-in shower. Then our old shower was ripped out and turned into a linen closet.

What was the total cost of the project?

The total cost was estimated at about $5,500.

14 Home Living | March 2021

What did you like best about the undertaking?

The best part was picking out the new items. We had a few “date nights” at Lowe’s and Home Depot. Even though we butted heads trying to agree to these items, we loved seeing our visions come to life. It was very difficult to picture a finished project when you are knee deep in dust and a gutted-out bathroom. Every part that was finished just made us more excited and made the hard work worth all of the blood, sweat and tears.

What was the most challenging aspect?

The most challenging part together was agreeing on what both of us wanted. I always joke that we are a great team: Brandon does the work and I do the shopping. I tended to steer towards more expensive and more tedious tile, so Brandon had to put a stop to that. Typically, you could find us bickering in the aisles of the home improvement store (just like on HGTV)! Brandon would say the most challenging part was the actual labor and especially the shower and tile work.

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March 2021 | Home Living 15

community | events Fort Wayne Museum of Art

By Ray Balogh

Botanical Conservatory •M onday, March 1, Sweetheart Orchid Bower display (through March 14), regular admission • Monday, March 1, “The Tiki Bowl” play garden (through April 4), regular admission • Thursday, March 4, $1 Night Insight: About Succulents, 6 p.m.-7 p.m., $1 • Thursday-Sunday, March 4-7, “Great Train Connection” interactive displays, during public hours, regular admission • Thursday, March 11, Houseplant Benefits workshop, 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m., $9.

Registration deadline March 4.

• Friday-Sunday, March 12-14, “Spring Forward at the Conservatory,” during public hours, regular admission • Tuesday, March 16, Garden Preschool: “Signs of Spring,” 10 a.m.-11 a.m., $12 • Thursday-Saturday, March 25-27, Tiki sessions: “Bark Papermaking,” 11 a.m.1 p.m., regular admission • Saturday, March 27, Patio Tomatoes workshop, 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m., $12.

Registration deadline March 20.

Adults $5, children (3-17) $3, children (2 and under) free. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday; noon-4 p.m.

Sunday; closed Monday. 1100 S. Calhoun St., Fort Wayne. 260.427.6440, botanicalconservatory.org.

Embassy Theatre •S aturday, March 6, “Down the Line 15,” local talent celebrates soul music, 7 p.m., $20 • Saturday-Sunday, March 27-28, “The Color Purple” by Indiana Performing Arts Theatre, 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 4 p.m. Sunday, $45 125 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne. 800.745.3000, fwembassytheatre.org.

Exhibitions: • Planes, Trains & Automobiles: Classic Toys and Americana (ongoing) • Glass Sculpture from the Collection (ongoing) • American Impressionism: Treasures from the Daywood Collection (through March 14) • Static Energy: Sculpture by Dale Enochs (through March 14) • 2021 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards (through April 10) • A Century of Making Meaning: 100 Years of Collecting (through March 13, 2022) • Lost Man Blues: Jon Schueler — Art and War (March 27 through June 13) Traveling exhibitions (through Dec. 31, 2021): • AFROS: A Celebration of Natural Hair by Michael July • Graphicanos: Contemporary Latino Prints from the Serie Project • Donald Martiny: Freeing the Gesture • Geoffrey Hiller: Daybreak in Myanmar Events: • Saturday, March 13, Second Saturday Family Tour, 10:30 a.m., regular admission. Pre-registration required.

• Tuesday, March 23, Art on Call, 2 p.m.

• Thursday, March 25, Art + Writing Club for middle and high school students, 5 p.m.

Adults $8, students (pre-K through college) $6, seniors (65 and older) $6, families $20, free admission for veterans and veterans’ families, free general admission 5 p.m.-8 p.m. every Thursday. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday (closed Mondays), 311 E. Main St., Fort Wayne. 260.422.6467, fwmoa.org.

Honeywell Center •W ednesday, March 17, St. Patrick’s Day Dinner, 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m., Eagles Theatre Ballroom. $14.95/ person, dine in or carry out. Gourmet desserts available for additional charge. Call 260.274.1422 for reservations.

• Friday, March 26, Prime Rib Dinner, 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m., Eagles Theatre Ballroom. $19.95. Dine in; carry-out orders available for curbside pickup. Call 260.274.1422 for reservations.

Ford Theater, 275 E. Market St., Wabash. 260.563.1102, honeywellcenter.org.

Shipshewana Blue Gate Theatre •F riday, March 5, Asleep at the Wheel, 8 p.m., Performing Arts Center, call 888.447.4725 for tickets • Friday-Saturday, March 19-20, Doug Church: The True Voice of Elvis, 7 p.m.

Friday and Saturday, Music Hall, $24.95 All shows add $18 for dinner theater. Performing Arts Center address is 760 S. Van Buren St., Shipshewana. Music Hall address is 195 N. Van Buren, Shipshewana. 888.447.4725, thebluegate.com.

Memorial Coliseum

2, 9, 16, 23, 30 FORT WAYNE: “Little River Ramblers”

• Saturday-Sunday, March 6-7, Gun & Knife Show, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, $7/adults, $6/seniors (60+), free for children 12 and under • Sunday, March 7, Winter Bridal Spectacular, noon-4 p.m., free admission Parking $6 main lot, $10 preferred lot. Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, 4000 Parnell Ave., Fort Wayne. 260.482.9502, memorialcoliseum.com.

5 WABASH: First Friday: “Lucky and Lit”

Hike and explore the interesting plants and wildlife of Eagle Marsh. Bring binoculars for a close-up view. Sponsored by Little River Wetlands Project.

Free admission. 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Tuesday, Arrowhead Prairie on Aboite Road.

260.478.2515, info@lrwp.org, lrwp.org.

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and anniversary of the world’s first electrically lit city with live entertainment, food, kid’s activities, shopping, evening specials and more. Free admission. 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Friday, downtown. 260.563.0975, wabashmarketplace.org.

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16 Home Living | March 2021

Serving NE Indiana & Branch County, Michigan

5 WARSAW: First Friday Canceled until Friday, May 7. For more information, call 574.267.6311 or visit warsawcdc.org/first-friday.

7 DECATUR: Flea Market Nearly 100 indoor vendors, hot food available. Sponsored by the Adams County Coin Club. 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday (year-round), Riverside Center, 231 E. Monroe St. (Highway 224 East), Decatur. Contact Carla at 260.517.8182, facebook.com/decaturindianafleamarket.

21 FORT WAYNE: Forest Hike: “International Day of Forests” Trek through the forest on a spring signs exploration hike. Rubber boots recommended. Free admission. RSVP at least 24 hours in advance. 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Sunday, Eagle Marsh barn, 6801 Engle Road. Parking at Little River Wetlands Project office, 5000 Smith Road. RSVP at least 24 hours in advance.

260.478.2515, info@lrwp.org, lrwp.org.

11 FORT WAYNE: Breakfast on the Marsh: “What Does Climate Change Mean for Indiana?”

Geared toward 50 years and older, but all are welcome. Virtual presentation via Zoom (through April). Free admission. 8:30 a.m.-10 a.m., Thursday. Register at least 24 hours in advance at 260.387.0399, a.munger@lrwp.org, lrwp.org.

12-13 PIERCETON: Spring Open House Premiere of new rug and purse company and new line of furniture, drawing for adult Easter basket with $100 of goodies and sales. Free admission. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Beyond the Barn, 105 N. First St. 574.253.3362.

13, 18, 20 FORT WAYNE: Training Programs (via Zoom) • Saturday, March 13, Nest Box Monitoring, 10 a.m.-noon • Thursday, March 18, iNaturalist/City Nature Challenge, 6 p.m.-8 p.m.

• Saturday, March 20, iNaturalist/City Nature Challenge, 10 a.m.-noon RSVP at least 24 hours in advance at 260.918.7119 or m.russell@lrwp.org.

260.478.2515, info@lrwp.org, lrwp.org.

Vegetables annuals Perennials

Hanging baskets bedding Plants & so mucH more

17 FORT WAYNE: “Short Hikes for Short Legs: Shades of Green” Investigate shades of green and signs of spring. Boots recommended. Free admission, open to children 3-5 accompanied by responsible adult. 9 a.m.-10 a.m. Wednesday, Eagle Marsh barn, 6801 Engle Road. RSVP at least 24 hours in advance to 260.387.0399 or a.munger@lrwp.org. 260.478.2515, info@lrwp.org, lrwp.org.

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March 2021 | Home Living 17

community | support

small

Hopscotch House

By Jaclyn Youhana Garver

Four years after Taber Ollinger opened Fancy & Staple, a bright and cheerful gift shop on Broadway in downtown Fort Wayne, she decided she wanted to make its fifth year extra special.

“Part of the fun of being a business owner and entrepreneur is the constant revolution and growth you and your business experience,” she says. “It dawned on me that opening a second shop could and should be that growth.”

Enter Hopscotch House, a toy store to fill the toy-store hole in Fort Wayne. The opening of the space itself has been delayed due to the pandemic, but Ollinger started with online sales in December. She shares what customers will find in her shop, why it was important for Hopscotch House to be inclusive, and how her daughter inspired that decision.

Let’s start with the obvious:

What was it like to open a store in the middle of a global pandemic?

Every single part of the process was more difficult and way more time-consuming. For example, it took nine months to open Fancy, from start to finish. It has taken 17 months and counting for Hopscotch. And the funny thing is, I knew everything I needed and how to get it. I was at the mercy of COVID and everyone trying to figure out different ways to do everything.

Hopscotch owner Taber Ollinger and her daughter enjoying the fruits of their labor inside Hopscotch House.

Why a toy store?

It was pretty obvious to me that something children-related would be the smartest and most fun (new business to open). There is zero, nada, toy stores in Fort Wayne. I love kids. I love toys. I’m basically a 40-year-old child.

Was it tough to find a space?

It was very hard. It needed to have character; it needed to be a certain price point; and it needed to be located either in the 02, 05, 07 or 08 zip codes. The hardest part was that nothing was on the market, so I was forced to look at properties that weren’t even for sale. It was pretty much me hunting for a vacant building, tracking down the owner, writing a letter of intent to purchase and crossing my fingers. Most of the time there was no response, or the response was an obscene dollar amount. But there was this one time where it actually worked out, and 1301 Broadway it is!

Hopscotch House calls itself an inclusive toyshop. Why is that descriptor important to you?

My daughter Eleanor is 4 years old and doesn’t even notice the difference between folks. She is my inspiration. I believe in treating everyone the same and embracing what makes each one of us different. I also believe those values are engrained in us as children and stick with us for life. It just made sense to also instill that message into the toyshop.

When customers walk into Hopscotch House, what can they expect?

A magical wonderland of fun — just what you would want if you were a child. Color and cuteness everywhere. The shop will be packed with toys, heirloom pieces, fun decor, a reading room, interactive testers, soft friends, cute clothes and accessories, and all the junk a kid can afford.

Resource: Hopscotch House, hopscotchhousefw.com

18 Home Living | March 2021

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Please consider donating to The Long Term Care Ombudsman’s

11th Annual Pajama Drive February 10 – March 31

Our neighbors living in area nursing homes can’t go out and shop for new pajamas.

And many can’t afford them.

They need your help!

Drop off any size, style or gender pajamas* to the Ombudsman office.

Or call 260-469-3161 for a drop-off site near you. *PJ’s must be new, with original tags attached.

Monetary donations are always accepted.

Visit us at www.doingthegood-ombudsman.org

3215 Stellhorn Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46815 260-469-3161 March 2021 | Home Living 19

community | company spotlight

Van’s Home Center

Your one-stop shop for the home

By Julie Young

When Van and Mary Lou Dick opened Van’s TV and Appliance Service in 1973, it was a modest, 1,500 square-foot space that specialized in the repair and maintenance of home electronics and appliances. Over the years, they expanded into retail sales and gradually grew their product line, and nearly 50 years later, Van’s Home Center in Auburn is a 75,000 square foot destination for all things home related.

“We are still a family owned and operated business, but we are truly a one-stop shop for your home,” said Brittany Brouer, marketing director for Van’s Home Center. “We are truly committed to providing an exceptional customer experience from purchase to delivery and installation, to necessary service that may occur several years down the road.”

No matter if customers are looking for appliances, electronics, furniture, mattress or more, Van’s Home Center carries every major brand available in the market today. They have hundreds of products on display in their showroom and thousands more products via their manufacturers’ online catalogs. At Van’s Home Center, you won’t find random, off brand furniture and appliances that you won’t find in the big box stores. Even better, Van’s prices are just as competitive if not better!

“We have a fit for every budget, so if you’re remodeling or starting new construction, that makes it super easy,” Brouer said. “If you need new furniture, mattresses or appliances … we have it all right here.

Need new flooring or carpet? We’ve got it. We also have our own in-house service, installation and delivery teams, and we do not shop our customer out to third parties or leave them with 800 numbers to file warranty claims on their own, unlike the big box stores.”

Over 2017 and 2018, Van’s Home Center expanded their facility to add approximately 20,000 square feet of space, which includes a

20 Home Living | March 2021

remodeled Flooring & Tile Showroom, an expanded Furniture and Mattress showcase, and an enlarged Appliance/Scratch N’ Dent Appliance store. This year, Van’s will continue their long tradition of expansion thanks in part to the recent purchase of a detached warehouse that will allow the company to turn their current attached warehouse into additional showroom space.

“Van’s is also proud to enjoy a stellar reputation with our area’s home builders and are trusted by more than 20 of the region’s premier firms to serve their client’s flooring, furniture and appliance needs,” Brouer said.

She also said that throughout March, Van’s will hold their “We Pay Your Sales Tax” event during which customers can enjoy special pricing on their purchases, as well as special no interest financing on their furniture, flooring and mattresses. As an added bonus, Van’s will also pick up the sales tax for this limited time.

“We think everyone deserves a break after the craziness of 2020, and we’re happy to make purchasing new home furnishings a little easier for our customers,” Brouer said. “It is truly a big extended family here at Van’s and that’s how we treat our customers – like family.”

Van’s Home Center vanshomecenter.com

Any room, Every home.

Beautiful spaces at affordable prices start here. Shop our large selection of quality products to find the perfect style for your home, at the perfect price today.

Shop during our We Pay Your Sales Tax Event to get the sale price, plus we’ll pay your sales tax on furniture, flooring & mattresses!* Ends 3/20/21.

Happening Now! *Exclusions apply. See store for details.

Furniture | Appliances | Flooring Mattresses | Cabinets | Countertops

Van’s Home Center

Family owned & operated for 47 years.

106 Peckhart Ct. Auburn, IN 46706 260.927.8267 www.VansHomeCenter.com

March 2021 | Home Living 21

essentials

m a I HOME Richard Beck

By Lauren Caggiano

For Richard Beck, life post-retirement is full, and he wouldn’t have it any other way. Formerly a banker, the Allen County Commissioner is bullish on the Allen County community and what it has to offer.

That sentiment is exactly why he decided to run for public office.

After 45 years in the private sector, the importance and value of community was front and center. So when he neared retirement age, he did some soul searching about what his second act might look like.

Public service seemed like a natural next step for a few key reasons.

“It occurred to me that maybe I had even more to give back and that outlet was to run for county commissioner,” he said. “So I ran successfully and I’m starting my third year. What I like about it is the ability to give back to the community because I think if you can, you should, because not everybody is in a position to give back.”

Giving back makes our area stronger and more vibrant. In fact, according to Beck, we wouldn’t be where we are today if it weren’t for some people thinking big and taking chances.

“I think it’s a great place to raise your family, especially for the size of the community,” he said. “For years, I think we’ve been our own worst enemy, because we didn’t really appreciate a lot of the assets we have. But we’ve changed our attitude in the last 10 years or so, and it has made a big difference. Promenade Park is just one example of what can happen when we believe in ourselves.”

Speaking of parks and recreation, Beck is an avid horseback rider. He and his wife enjoy getting away for horse camping as their

22 Home Living | March 2021

schedule allows. They enjoy it so much that he’s made it his goal to establish horse trails around the county to share their passion and improve quality of life.

The arts also enter the equation when it comes to Beck’s leisure time. For instance, he enjoys the Fort Wayne Museum of Art and has taken interest in seeing the fine arts scene blossom in recent years.

“There’s a lot of things going on,” he said. “If you can’t find something to do here, you’re not looking hard.”

So what’s next for this servant leader? As they say, the best is yet to come, and Beck and his fellow colleagues are committed to continuing that upward trajectory. You could say economic development has a specific definition in his book.

“It’s not our job to create jobs,” he said. “Our job is to create an environment that is conducive for employers to want to come here and bring the jobs to the community. So economic development is a huge piece of what we do. And we’re actively involved in that on a daily basis, through land banking and partnerships with others in the community as we try to attract businesses and jobs to Allen County.”

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FEATURE | Feature Focus

HERstory CELEBRATING WOMEN’S

HISTORY MONTH

By Julie Young

This year, we have an even bigger reason to celebrate! The inauguration of Kamala Harris as the nation’s first female Vice-President has not only shattered the highest and hardest “glass ceiling” but she has fulfilled the promise made by Shirley Chisholm, Geraldine Ferraro, Sarah Palin and Hilary Clinton that one day, a woman would hold one of the highest offices in the land.

“The face of America is changing and Kamala Harris is a perfect example of that,” said Nancy McCammon-Hansen, convener for the Fort Wayne Area League of Women Voters (LWV). “At this time in 2021, more women now understand that their voices need to be heard and their needs considered by those in power.”

The League of Women Voters began in 1920 with the ratification of the 19th Amendment, which gave women the right to vote. State and national leaders recognized that women were an important voting contingency and the League served to help educate women about the issues and how they affected them. Many of the local LWV chapters disbanded in the 1970s as more and more women returned to the workforce, but in 2009, a movement began in Fort Wayne to revitalize the LWV and today, they have 50 paid members and over 1,000 followers on Facebook.

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“In the past several years, the LWV has been opened to men as we all seek a better, more responsive government that responds to the need of all people, not just a select few,” McCammon-Hansen said.

McCammon-Hansen said that the LWV are planning to celebrate Women’s History Month with an in-person gathering whenever the Coronavirus pandemic allows for public gatherings again. Prior to COVID, they scheduled an event with the Karpeles Museum so that teen girls could interact with women who have run for office, but they also typically sponsor a table at Taste of the Arts and like to partner with organizations where they can distribute information on voting rights and register people to vote.

“Since 2021 is not an election year and the virus does not appear to be letting up, we’re taking it each month as it comes,” she said. “When the downtown library can be opened for a wide audience, we’d like to produce a radio play about women’s history and voting that we had planned for 2020.”

In the meantime, there are a number of ways folks can learn more about the historic contributions made by Fort Wayne women. McCammonHansen and long-time History Center board

Get to know some famous Fort Wayne Women Minette Baum (1879-1956): Prominent social worker and one of the founders of the Jewish Federation.

Jessa Maria Bond (1844-1914): Philanthropist Margaret Ann Keegan (1903-1966): Founder of the Christmas Bureau and creator of the Fine Arts Festival.

Helena Wolff (1836-1925): Union Army nurse received by President Lincoln and General Grant.

Serlena Samuels Ridley (1850-1918): Deaconess and trustee of Turner Chapel A.M.E. Church and member of the Fisk Jubilee Singers.

member Peggy Seigel have penned a number of articles on those women who have made significant contributions locally and beyond.

“Unfortunately, most women didn’t receive the recognition that they deserved back in the day and some stories are likely lost, but if you Google Historic Fort Wayne Women, you can stay busy reading (and celebrating) their stories for a long time,” she said. a

photos: shutterstock.com

Although its roots go back to 1978, ever since 1995, each US President has proclaimed March to be Women’s History Month. Over the course of the next 31 days, we commemorate and honor those women who helped build the nation, fought for equality and broke through barriers for us all.

Want to know how you can move toward low-waste living?

Here are five great tips to get you started:

By Mary Jane Bogle

Take a trash can inventory. What are you currently throwing away, recycling included? Yogurt

In our grab-and-go culture, low-waste living might seem like an impossible dream. Not so, according to Jodi Leamon, sustainability coordinator for the Allen County Department of Environmental Management. Defined simply as “keeping matter out of landfills,” a zero-waste lifestyle is something we can all work toward. And no, you don’t have to move off-grid to a homestead in Montana to make an impact.

“Most of us are never going to get to zero-waste,” said Leamon, “but you can always reduce a little bit more of the waste you produce. Remember that at some point, everything comes from a natural resource. The more you preserve for the future, the better. Putting those products in a hole in the ground or dumping them in the ocean just doesn’t make sense.”

containers, squeezable applesauce pouches and disposable coffee cups all add up. Why not make yogurt or applesauce at home? And remember to bring your own cup to your favorite coffee shop for a fill-up. Pick one product to eliminate from your personal waste stream and go from there.

Cut back on your purchases. Buying products only when you really need them will go a long way toward achieving that low-waste goal. (Think clothes, gadgets and household items. Do you really need that new pair of jeans? Can you take those boots to a repair shop instead of buying a new pair?) Joining the “minimalist” trend, even in small steps, can make a bigger impact than you think.

Make smart buying choices. Consider second-hand options whenever possible. Companies such as thredUP.com and Poshmark can help you stay in style without adding to the number of products making their way to a landfill. While shopping, consider timeless, quality pieces that won’t go out of style or wear out quickly. And don’t forget yard sales, where you can find all kinds of treasures, from jewelry and crockpots to tools and furniture, all at bargain prices.

Recycle as a last resort. Keep in mind that products like plastic and paper are not infinitely recyclable, so recycling should be a last step, not the first. In addition, according to Leamon, “we produce and use so much stuff, so relying on recycling alone is not sustainable.” And remember that a lot of the wrong types of items in the recycle bin could trigger the whole batch to be thrown in the landfill. For a complete list of what to recycle where, check out acwastewatcher.org.

Advocate for change. “One of the biggest challenges to zero-waste living is packaging,” said Leamon. We are all ordering so much from home, which results in more packaging entering our homes. “Producers need to bear much more of that responsibility,” she said. “If there’s a brand you love, find the ‘contact us’ button on their website. Let them know that you like their products, but you want them to be more responsible in their packaging.” Ask them to work with end-life recyclers to come up with packaging that works for everyone.

For even more tips, check out “A Material Girl Goes Green” podcast, where Jodi shares her best eco-friendly tips with “material girl” Lesley. And wherever you choose to start, from making more meals at home to advocating with corporate America, every step you take toward low-waste living makes a difference. It’s time to take that challenge. How low can you go? a

graphics: shutterstock.com

| MARCH GLO 2021 |

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FEATURE | Feature Focus

EmergencyPREPAREDNESS

by Mary Jane Bogle

If 2020 has taught us anything, it’s that we need to be prepared for anything and everything. What we also learned from 2020, however, is that rushing to the store to buy all the toilet paper isn’t necessarily an effective emergency preparedness strategy.

Instead, according to Mike Eckroth, Director of Emergency Preparedness at Parkview Health, a few simple plans that are easy to implement might be the better way to go. According to Eckroth, those plans need to include emergency preparedness kits (for both home and car) and a good communication plan.

For each, implementation is key. For example, it’s not enough to buy all you need for the emergency kit if no one can find it when emergencies strike. That’s why Eckroth recommends placing all items in a plastic tote in an accessible closet or mudroom, preferably near the back door. Each family member should also pack a small suitcase with enough clothing, personal hygiene items and medication to last for a few days, storing them in the same location.

It’s also important to check on supplies once a month, changing out food items and prescriptions or medications that might expire.

Recharging batteries for cell phones or other devices is a good idea as well. Buying extra supplies each time you go to the store and exchanging them with items in your emergency kit is an easy way to make sure you have what you need 16

| MARCH GLO 2021 |

when you need it. (Think bottled water, canned goods or granola bars and personal hygiene items.)

Of course, the family might not all be in one place when disaster strikes. That’s where a good communication plan is not just helpful but essential. “In an emergency,” said Eckroth, “communication is the first thing to fail, so make sure everyone is on the same page. Set a rally point and practice getting there safely.”

Preparing children for different scenarios and encouraging them to take responsibility can actually help them feel safe. For example,

Eckroth’s kids all know to grab shoes, a helmet, tablet and blanket and meet in a downstairs restroom in case of severe weather. In case of a natural gas leak, they head to a rally point outside the home instead.

“Be sure to communicate who is safe in the neighborhood in an emergency,” said Eckroth.

“And consider enlisting extended family. How do you all fit into each other’s plans? Don’t make assumptions but talk through that process before an emergency strikes.” With just a few simple plans in place that you can implement easily and effectively, your family can weather the storm, whatever 2021 might bring. a

Emergency Kit Essentials Every emergency kit should include the following: • Food, water and personal hygiene items for each family member (and pet!) for 3-7 days • Prescription and over-the-counter medications • Blankets • Flashlights • Weather radio • First aid kit • Manual can opener (for canned goods) • A list of important phone numbers • Battery-powered chargers for each device • Important legal documents • Cash

Pre-approval for Home Buying Process $

By Jaclyn Youhana Garver

With the itch to spring clean comes the itch for home improvements: Maybe it’s finally time to update that old oven, or maybe the bathroom is in desperate need for new tile. Maybe you’ve been putting off new windows or updating the flooring in the family room.

“When homeowners start thinking through ideas like that, they start to think: ‘Maybe it’s time for a change instead of doing all these things to the house,’” says Lisa Keirns, a mortgage banker at STAR Financial Bank.

And that’s when the bank starts to see an uptick in customers looking for preapproval, which confirm a homebuyer’s credit before signing a housing contract.

To provide a future homebuyer preapproval, Keirns reviews a variety of customer paperwork and information, including pay stubs, tax documents, income, current monthly payments, employment history and assets available for a mortgage down payment. She helps customers determine an ideal down payment based on their comfort level and what they can afford. She discusses customers’ goals and helps them shop within their means.

“You don’t want to go through making an offer on a home only to realize that you can’t really afford it,” Keirns says.

Undergoing this process, which also covers property taxes and homeowners insurance, shows sellers that a customer is a serious buyer, which is especially helpful in the current housing market.

“Toward the beginning of the pandemic, the local housing marketing came to a bit of a halt, but things have picked back up,” Keirns says. Currently in

the area, there are lots of buyers but not so many houses—a trend that mirrors national numbers.

FEATURE | Finance

VED APPRO

Across the country, home sales and prices have “hit decades-plus highs,” according to Realtor.com.

“We expect housing’s winning streak to continue in 2021, as seasonal trends normalize and some of the frenzied momentum fades thanks to fresh affordability challenges,” the website reports.

According to Realtor.com’s 2021 housing forecast, the strong demand for homes will lead to a 7% increase in home sales compared to 2020.

“As vaccines for the coronavirus become broadly available to the public, and economic growth reflects the resumption of more normal patterns of consumer spending, home sales gain even more in the second half of the year,” according to the forecast.

“With fewer available houses in the market, undergoing preapproval can help a homebuyer stand out in a crowded market,” Keirns says. It can also give a buyer flexibility within negotiations because sellers may be more willing to compromise if they know a buyer is preapproved and prepared to move forward with a housing purchase.

“Preapproval lasts for four months,” Keirns says, “though reapplying is simple, since she would already have much of the information required, such as tax documents and employment history.

“It really gives buyers peace of mind, knowing they’re going into the process understanding what they’re getting into,” she says. a

Resource: STAR Financial Bank, starfinancial.com

Whether you’re buying your first home, building or refinancing, STAR Bank offers a variety of home lending solutions.

Call Lisa Keirns, your local home lending expert, today.

Lisa Keirns

Mortgage Banker NMLS #454473

Visit starfinancial.com/mortgage to apply ©2020 STAR Financial Group

260-428-7089

lisa.keirns@starfinancial.com | MARCH GLO 2021 |

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FEATURE | We Love Your Style

We Love YourStyle HEATHER SCHOEGLER

Tell us a little about each of the areas you chose to highlight.

Why did you choose them? What makes them your faves?

Hearth Room – When we built our home seven years ago, we wanted the hearth room and kitchen to be the heart of the home, and that is exactly what it has been for us. Most of our time is spent in this room. I love an older home (like the ones found in the ’05 and ’07 neighborhoods in Fort Wayne) but my husband does not, so I tried to build an old home. One goal I had for the design was a fireplace that looked old and as if the home was built around it. I love the mix of the river rocks in the fireplace, mercury glass accessories and natural elements.

Heather Schoegler with her pets, Carolina Jane (left) and Bauer (right)

By Amber Bouthot

Welcome to our new feature for 2021. Each month, we highlight someone whose style we admire. This month, it’s Heather Schoegler. Heather is a busy wife and mother (2 kids, 2 dogs and 1 turtle). She’s also a proud leader at Parkview Health, and after work, she stays busy with kids’ activities and several volunteer and board roles.

How would you describe your style?

My style tends to be neutral and gravitates towards items that are comfortable, collected and treasured. Typically, I don’t pay attention to trends but rather items I love. For larger investment pieces like couches, I choose neutrals and accessorize with color and items that may be trendier or could change with tastes.

Kitchen – One of my favorites in our house is our mother-ofpearl kitchen backsplash. The idea of beach glass inspired the palette for our kitchen and hearth room, and I loved the idea of bringing in this texture and color. I don’t think it’s a typical material for a kitchen backsplash, but it feels like a special accessory to the space and is one of my favorite things in our home.

Sitting Room – I wanted a room surrounded by windows where I could sit, read and relax. From the Schumacher Chiang Mai Dragon pillows that inspired the colors in the room to the framed photo of my grandfather and his guitar, this room is full of items collected and treasured. Because this room is small and open to other first floor spaces, I chose to keep the walls white and bright and pull the navy from here into the adjacent dining room and foyer. This room and its windows are favorites all year long.

Gallery Wall - While the rest of my style is pretty neutral, I love to surround myself with various styles of art. As a proponent for all things local, I love being able to support local artists by purchasing their work. The gallery wall in my office has become an eclectic space with vintage postcards and paint-by-numbers; pieces from local artists Matt Plett, Katherine Rohrbacher, Sarah Clevenger and Nicole Croy; and prints by other favorite artists like Crystal Wagner and Jamie Beck. I love a gallery wall because you can always add and change as you collect and discover new artists.

When you think of your home, what’s the feeling you hope your family and visitors have?

We have a saying in our house: “nothing is too precious except the people.” Our home is meant to feel like a welcome place for family and friends. I want them to be comfortable and make themselves at home here. We love how our home can easily embrace our son’s hockey team; our large, extended family at Thanksgiving; or my daughter’s friends for a pool party and bonfire. We love to share our home with others.

What’s your favorite color?

I can never pick a favorite - orange and Tiffany blue. a Do you know someone with a unique sense of style? Nominate them for this feature. Email Amber at ambouthot@the-papers.com.

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| MARCH GLO 2021 |

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21

glo-roscopes

By Julie Young

Pisces (February 19 - March 20)

Virgo (August 23 - September 22)

As someone ruled by Neptune, you are blessed with an incredible amount of patience, which will come in handy this year as your luck rolls in like waves.

You will be fairly Zen about your good fortune and won’t let success go to your head. Lucky number: 6

You have a natural flair for helping others without taking any credit for your contribution. Your ability to maintain your modesty is noble but it’s time to step into the limelight and accept your accolades. You deserve all of the good things coming your way. Lucky Number: 16

Aries (March 21 - April 19)

Libra (September 23 - October 22)

You are energetic, brave and curious, and you are beginning to take those first small steps toward a big change in your life. Of course, the road won’t always be a smooth one; the higher your prospects, the greater the odds that you will succeed in your endeavor. A little luck doesn’t hurt either. Lucky Number: 18

With your incessant charm, idealism and beauty, it seems that good fortune follows you wherever you go. This month, your social skills will be the key you need to doors that have previously been closed. Where will those doors lead?

Enter them and find out. Lucky Number: 20

Taurus (April 20 - May 20)

Mysterious, intuitive, rational and independent, you don’t rely on chance to get you where you want to go in life. However, sometimes a windfall cannot be engineered. Sometimes it requires a leap of faith. Are you willing to trust that you won’t fall? Lucky Number: 89

If you are looking for love, the fates may be on your side. If you use your senses this month, you will encounter someone just as romantic, decisive, logical, patient and benevolent as you are. Don’t let this lucky star slip away.

They may never return. Lucky Number: 5

Gemini (May 21 - June 20) As a dynamic, multi-faceted person with a wide variety of interests, you have decided to focus on your spiritual side in 2021. This will prove to be a fruitful endeavor and will result in a new opportunity, if not a pot of gold. Lucky Number: 1

Cancer (June 21 - July 22) You have a sixth sense that has served you well in a number of unfortunate situations. Rely on it this month and you will turn your luck around. You have great imaginative power that will make this new transition smoother. Don’t fall for shallow promises. Lucky Number: 21

Leo (July 23 - August 22) When it comes to the most regal of the signs, there are three traits that define your very soul: charity, loyalty and enthusiasm. With those qualities, you will always have the support you need in life. Look for opportunities, rely on yourself and don’t count on luck. There is no such thing as coincidence. Lucky Number: 13

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Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)

Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21) While you are brave and optimistic, you are susceptible to deception because you tend to believe the best in others. Don’t get fooled again this month. Your luck won’t change unless you change it. Remember, the only person you can truly rely on is yourself. Lucky Number: 23

Capricorn (December 22 - January 19) You have always approached your goals with the long game in mind. Slow and steady wins the race, so why would you change a system that works for you?

Because sometimes you have to break out of your shell so that you don’t get stuck in a rut. Take a chance. Your luck just might hold out. Lucky Number: 66

Aquarius (January 20 - February 18) Although you are known for being tolerant, calm and friendly, you can be quite the rebel when you need to be. Never is this more apparent than in a competition when you believe a real woman makes her own luck. Look for the magical moments in your life and good fortune will follow.

Lucky Number: 17. a

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ALL ABOUT YOU | Glo-roscopes

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