Looks improving
I am humbled by Dr Joe & staff and most importantly my results. I do not have words to express my gratitude for making me feel better about myself! Highly recommended by 2 close friends. Dr Joe and staff are AWESOME! patient
Day one, I felt like I knew you all my whole life! So kind and caring! Treated like family! Don’t change a thing! I was referred by my medical doctor.
— patient
Amazing... he was the sweetest most caring person.. it was my first surgery and he answered all my questions and concerns and he called everyday to check up on me till my recheck. I definitely recommend him. patient
They all made my appointments feel like a coffee date with a friend.
Dr Joe was great too! I loved the personalized care I received that made me feel at home. I cannot wait to return for future procedures! patient
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“Celebrating Self Care”
From the executive editor
Dear glo readers,
The first time I heard the term “self care,” I was in middle school. At the time, I assumed it meant bubble baths, manicures, and the occasional massage a little indulgence here and there. And while there’s certainly nothing wrong with some pampering, my understanding of self care has shifted dramatically over the years.
Now, in the middle of raising young kids, juggling work, family, and all of life’s many demands, I’ve come to see self care as the small, everyday things that help me feel like me. It’s working in my garden with my hands in the dirt. It’s curling up with a good book. It’s a much-needed nap in a quiet house. It’s time spent with people who fill my cup and remind me of who I am beyond the busyness. And sometimes, it’s as simple as that first sip of coffee in the morning (and a bite of homemade sourdough) to start my day.
This month, we’re celebrating self care in all its forms. In this issue, you’ll find tips for elevating your wellness practice this summer, navigating the unique challenges of caring for both little ones and aging parents, and finding ways to finally get the rest you deserve.
Wherever you are in your journey, I hope this issue feels like a little moment of self care in itself a reminder that taking care of yourself isn’t selfish. It’s what allows us to show up fully for everyone and everything we love.
Wishing you plenty of small, soul-filling moments this summer.
athe Cover
Title of piece: Water Song
What inspired this piece?
I’ve always been enchanted by the idea of siren powerful, independent, mystical creatures with a beautiful edge of danger. That fascination began in 1992, when toddler-me watched The Little Mermaid for the first time. Like many little girls, I dreamed of being a mermaid, and as a photographer, I wanted to give others a chance to feel like one too: wild, beautiful, mysterious.
What is your preferred medium?
Photography is my heart. While some may not always see it as art, there’s so much creative and emotional depth involved. During a session, the art is in connection reading people, helping them open up, knowing when to lead and when to let go. It’s lighting, composition, storytelling, instinct, and occasionally, wrangling a determined toddler (which many parents will understand!).
cover artist: Lauren Ballenger
Hometown: Muncie, IN
Current town: Fort Wayne, IN
Where do you draw inspiration from in general for your work?
I love showing people what others see in them. We get so used to our own reflection that we become blind to our beauty. We know who we are or who we want to be but we often don’t see it in ourselves. And over time, we start to believe others don’t see it either.
So when I photograph a young woman, a newly engaged couple, or a family of five who walk in a little unsure of themselves, my mission is to show them just how incredible they really are. The difference between someone who’s “photogenic” and someone who’s not has nothing to do with looks it’s all about confidence. It’s about letting yourself laugh, play, be silly, be vulnerable. That’s when your light really shines through.
When did you start creating art?
I’ve been creating art since I was 13 painting, drawing, designing. At 14, I stumbled upon a Photoshop tutorial book and fell in love with digital design. I used it to add a little magic to our family photos.
My dad had the first digital camera in our family. I used to sneak it, take photos, and carefully return it like a spy on a mission. He knew what I was doing, but he let me have that freedom and it meant everything. When I started L. Ballenger Photography in 2019, I didn’t even own a camera. So, I did what I did as a kid: I borrowed one. Our church had a media camera, and while volunteering, I used it to launch my dream. Only this time, everyone was in on it.
What advice do you have for other artists?
If you love it don’t quit. Keep experimenting. Keep creating. Even if it means doing a random model call, tossing a mermaid tail on a friend and climbing into the muck of a cold river if it lights your soul up, it’s worth it. You don’t pay for your life with money; you pay for it with time. Spend that time doing what you love. I’m beyond grateful that I get to do exactly that.. a
Artwork must be photographed at a high-resolution (300+ dpi) for reproduction.
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.
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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 $49 for 12 issues; $82 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 © 2025
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 9” wide x 11.75” high. Submitted cover art should be sized as 9.5” wide x 12” 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 executive editor + publications manager
Amber Bouthot | ambouthot@the-papers.com editor-in-chief
Deb Patterson | dpatterson@the-papers.com sales and marketing director
Kristin DeVittorio | kdevittorio@the-papers.com account executives
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Jerry Long | jlong@the-papers.com
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Mary Lester
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Eva Toscos
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Stacie Ball, Bethany Beebe, Mary Jane Bogle, Jillian Christensen, Beth Anne Brink-Cox, Gabby Hunnicutt, Carrie Klotz, Jennie Renner
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Summer and Fall Shoe Trends
By Gabby Hunnicutt
Warmer weather is FINALLY here, and it’s time to start thinking about refreshing your footwear with our top trends for summer and fall. These seasons provide an opportunity to get a little less practical and a little more expressive when it comes to our personal style.
I know it’s not just about sandals for these seasons, but can we talk about sandals for a moment? Flip flops are a summer staple and never go out of style, but they aren’t suited for all occasions. For sandals, a lot of this year’s trends lend themselves to “dressing up,” like ballet flats that lace around the ankle or shoes that have extra details like buckles or fringe. If you’re looking to keep it comfy, fret not. Slipper sandals, flats, and slides are all still trending and widely available, perfect for relaxing on a beach, running errands, and anything in between.
Looking for a closed toe option? Clogs are back in fashion! They are comfortable and stylish, and translate well from day to evening looks. If boho isn’t the vibe you’re after, how about a vintage style sneaker for a sportier look? Many athletic footwear brands like Adidas and Nike are offering extra thin streetready shoes in all hues, bright and bold for summer. If you are still rocking your wide leg jeans on cooler days, tennis shoes with a thicker sole are a great addition to your ensemble.
During the warmer months, most of us are looking for shoes that are breathable. Instead of a sandal, consider opting for something like a mesh or woven flat or a jelly shoe. Although they reached the height of their popularity in the 80s, these
on the rise. If you prefer a bit more coverage, a peep toe heel might be a better fit.
2025 is the year of the snake, according to Chinese tradition, and it’s also the hottest pattern with designers. Whether it’s a pair of mules or a fitted boot, expect to see snakeskin everywhere this year. A pro tip at pulling off this trend is to let the print do the talking. Keep colors neutral and stick with fabrics like denim and jersey.
If you love fall fashion and you’re already thinking about boots, slouchy silhouettes and square toes are the most anticipated trends. Square toes aren’t just for boots, though. Look for sandals with this design as a great option to transition between seasons. This fall, you can also expect to see Mary Janes and Oxfords in deep, moody tones like brown and forest green.
There’s never a bad time to experiment when it comes to fashion, but the beauty of summer is that we don’t have to keep out snow and choose things that will help us safely navigate icy conditions. Shoes don’t have to be an afterthought. If you have a fun pair, let that guide the rest of your outfit!
Special thanks to Sue at Susan’s Fashions for providing some photos. a
Susan’s Fashions
Susan’s Fashions
Whole Body MRI
By Jillian Christensen, RN
Having your medical provider order diagnostic imaging can be a confusing, scary, and costly experience. That’s why in October 2024, Terry Bussen and other investors opened Choice Imaging in Fort Wayne and Auburn. The Fort Wayne office, located on Dupont Road, serves the greater Fort Wayne area by providing the latest technology in diagnostic imaging services, including MRIs, CTs, X-Rays and ultrasounds.
There are various benefits to selecting Choice Imaging for your medical scans. They are in-network with and accept almost all insurance providers. Choice Imaging will perform pre-authorization with the patient’s insurance when necessary. Because they are independently owned, patients can save hundreds and sometimes thousands of dollars in comparison to hospital-owned facilities. Included in the fee is the cost of the image interpretation, meaning patients don’t pay a separate radiology reading bill. Cash payment is available when needed, and Choice Imaging boasts the lowest cash rates in the area for medical imaging. Most worker compensation plans are also accepted.
Utilizing brand-new imaging devices and technology, Choice Imaging provides patients with an open MRI experience that is quick and efficient, is more accommodating to all body types, and is designed to help alleviate claustrophobia symptoms — all while providing detailed imaging. Their CT scan machines emit the lowest amounts of harmful radiation of any machine available on the market, making multiple scans safer if necessary.
According to Bussen, “Choice Imaging is currently the only facility in the country performing a new FDA-approved Prostate MRI that color codes the area to determine cancer with a 93.6% accuracy.”
They are also the only imaging center in the region to offer Whole Body MRIs, a scan that is growing in popularity among providers and individuals. Beyond basic screens, Choice Imaging additionally offers patients specialty exams of CT Cardiac Calcium Scoring and CT Low Dose Lung Screening.
Offering walk-in X-Ray services and convenient appointment times including evenings and Saturdays getting your scan completed is effortless. For patients who need fast turnaround, a cancellation list is available with appointments often scheduled within 1-3 days. Stat or emergency appointments are also possible. Imaging interpretation is completed by board-certified sub-specialty radiologists through All American Radiology, with a turnaround time of 1-2 days typically.
Area providers appreciate Choice Imaging for its ease of ordering scans, reading reports and superior imaging. Physicians can create an online account and conveniently access images and reports. Ordering doctor’s offices can quickly and easily schedule patients online through the website as well.
Patients will also find the Choice Imaging website helpful. By listing imaging contraindications and test preparations, patients are better able to prepare for their appointments. Patients can even take a virtual tour of the center before their arrival.
By bringing the most updated and advanced imaging technology to the area, Choice Imaging is elevating the standards of medical diagnostic imaging. They pride themselves “on providing firstclass service with top-notch quality.” Choice Imaging believes that healthcare shouldn’t have to wait, and they are committed to accommodating patients as much as they can. a
Resource:
Choice Imaging, Fort Wayne, www.choiceimagingfw.com
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By Jennie Renner | Photo by Eva Toscos
Kara Kelley is a Fort Wayne native and lifelong resident of the ‘07 neighborhood. During her college years, she summered on the West Coast in California, working for the waterfront team at a childrens’ camp in the Santa Cruz Mountains. She would take campers down to Monterey Bay and go snorkeling in the cold waters of Whaler’s Cove at Point Lobos State Park. “It was a lot of wetsuit wrangling,” she recalled.
After graduating from the University of Dayton in 2000, Kelley and some college girlfriends moved to Santa Cruz. There she put her marketing and public relations degree to use, commuting over the Santa Cruz Mountains into the Bay area where she worked in a boutique public relations shop in downtown San Jose.
Kelley liked living in California, but said the cost of living wasn’t sustainable. She decided to move back to Indiana but wanted to do a little traveling first. “I told my parents that I was going to quit my job; I was coming home, but I wanted to go travel to Europe first,” she said. “And they’re like, ‘well, Kara, why don’t you get a job over there?’”
So in 2005, Kelley took her camp counseling skills and moved to Croatia where she was a waterfront director at an American-style camp for kids. She taught children how to rock climb, snorkel, sail, and play baseball. There were children from Eastern Europe, Qatar, and Japan. They all came to camp to practice English and be kids.
When Kelley returned to Fort Wayne in 2006, she was working for a local advertising firm when she was approached by the Asher Agency. She began working at Asher in 2007, became president in 2016, and bought the business in 2022 with CFO Megan Bennett.
For Kelley and Bennett, buying Asher Agency was about protecting its legacy and the people who worked there. They also liked the idea of it being women-owned and having the ability to make decisions for themselves. And they wanted to return the business to local ownership from the private equity firm that bought it from owners Tim and Tom Borne years earlier.
“It’s funny – you make a plan and life just kind of laughs at you,” said Kelley. “I never envisioned being the president of an agency. I never envisioned owning an agency. Things just kind of happen.”
While Kelley loves Asher Agency and the work that she does, she also firmly believes in work-life balance. She appreciates spending time with her husband, friends and family, and enjoys live music, art and culture, and especially traveling.
Kelley’s love of travel was instilled in her as a child. When she and her two brothers were young, their parents would load them up in the car and take them on road trips. “It could be a Saturday afternoon or morning and they’d be like, ‘all right, kids, get in the car,’” said Kelley. “We’d get in the car, and they’d say, ‘all right, which direction are we driving? North, south, east, or west?’”
Kelley said she could talk about travel endlessly and enjoys sharing travel tips with others. She loves food and has favorite restaurants in Paris and Florence that she has recommended to friends who have traveled there.
“I shouldn’t probably say this out loud, but I don’t care if I have a penny to my name, if I didn’t live a rich and fulfilling life,” Kelley admitted. “I work so that I can travel and have experiences.” a
she glows
KARA KELLEY
SHANE CHRIST AND LOGAN HAFFNER
By Stacie Ball | Photo by Eva Toscos
Two Fort Wayne natives are using grapes, grains, and other local resources to combat food insecurity. How can you donate or volunteer? How does Community Harvest Food Bank operate? Shane Christ of Acres Away Winery and Logan Haffner of Community Harvest Food Bank are bringing businesses and patrons together to answer these questions over tasty glasses of wine, and they are “crushing” it!
In 1983, Fort Wayne lost its largest employer, International Harvester, along with 500,000 jobs. Later, a historic flood struck the city, making it even more challenging for many citizens to feed their families. A group of people affiliated with Associated Churches developed a small food bank to collect and deliver food to those in need. Within a year, the organization was renamed Community Harvest. Today, the organization has two buildings, serves over 4,000 people directly each week, partners with 250 organizations, and is on pace to distribute over 12 million pounds of food this year.
Recently, Haffner launched a “Grains of Hope” project, highlighting local breweries while raising awareness and fighting food insecurity. His dream is to have twelve different beverages or products, one each month of the year, as part of the series.
“I want there always to be a version of it out there, somewhere, to capture people’s interest,” he informed. Captivated by the project, Christ of Acres Away Winery was determined to make wine part of the equation with a slight tweak to the name.
Acres Away Winery, adorned by a colorful one-acre wildflower meadow and 5.5 acres of estate vineyard, was born in January 2023, but this year marks Christ’s 25th grape harvest in Indiana. “Not only do we grow and make a diverse wine offering, but we also craft our ciders, hold intimate small events, and our super friendly staff is well trained and knowledgeable,” he explained.
“Grapes of Hope is the first of a series of wines with a sole focus on addressing food insecurity in northeast Indiana,” Christ detailed of the collaboration with Haffner. He described their wine, “Vanilla Dreams,” as a gorgeous dark pink with zesty acidity and complex vanilla and hazelnut flavors.
“Acres Away Winery hosted a release party for the Vanilla Dreams Collaboration to celebrate our project and start a real conversation with people regarding food insecurity,” Christ informed, “Not only does this affect people below the poverty line, but it is also more prevalent than most people realize.”
“What has always been the point of Grains of Hope and now Grapes of Hope is the conversation,” Haffner added. “We’re bringing the issue of food insecurity to a new audience in a way that encourages honest engagement on the topic. We’re spreading awareness, bringing more partners into the fight, and building community.”
“No one fixes the world alone. I want small business to help others and make those partnerships define what it means to do business in this area,” Haffner mused. “I want the average person in the area to be aware of what we’re doing and wonder where the next Grapes of Hope launch is going to be.”
“I invite everyone to enjoy a glass of wine, wander our vineyard, or picnic by our meadow at Acres Away Winery,” Christ offered, “We are super passionate about growing grapes, making award-winning wine and ciders, and giving our guests a personalized, educational experience.”
The next step is to expand to other nonprofits, breweries, wineries, and service providers. Interested businesses can use the platform to support causes dear to their hearts.
Learn more (or partner) by contacting Shane at Acres Away Winery or Logan at the Community Harvest Food Bank. a
info@acresawaywinery.com | lhaffner@communityharvest.org
L-R Logan Haffner and Shane Christ
Elevating Your Wellness Practice: Simple Ways to Feel Your Best This Summer
By Amber Bouthot
Summer brings with it longer days, warm sunshine, and an invitation to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with ourselves. It’s the perfect season to take a fresh look at your wellness routine—not with the pressure of perfection, but with the intention of creating space for what truly makes you feel good.
Whether you’re already committed to a wellness practice or looking for simple ways to start, here are a few ways to elevate your routine this summer and nurture your well-being body, mind, and soul.
1. Redefine Movement
Wellness isn’t about punishing workouts or rigid fitness schedules it’s about joyful movement that feels good. Take your exercise outdoors for a change of scenery and a dose of vitamin D. A morning walk, bike ride, or yoga session in the park can provide both physical benefits and a mental reset. If structured classes aren’t your thing, even gardening, swimming, or playing catch with your kids count as meaningful movement.
2. Nourish with Intention
Summer’s bounty offers an abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, and local produce. Visit your local farmers market or try a new seasonal recipe that incorporates colorful, nutrient-rich foods. Hydration is also key make water more enticing with fresh herbs, cucumber slices, or a splash of citrus. Small, intentional shifts can have a big impact on how you feel each day.
3. Prioritize Rest
In a culture that glorifies busyness, rest is one of the most radical forms of self-care. Make sleep a priority by creating a calming bedtime routine: dim the lights, limit screen time, and carve out space to wind down. Even 15 minutes of reading, gentle stretching, or deep breathing before bed can signal your body it’s time to rest.
4. Protect Your Peace
Wellness isn’t just physical it’s also emotional. Pay attention to what fuels you and what drains you. This might mean setting boundaries with your time or limiting the noise of social media. Seek out time with people who uplift you, and give yourself permission to say “no” when needed.
5. Try Something New
Elevating your wellness can be as simple as embracing curiosity. Is there a hobby you’ve wanted to try? A meditation app you’ve been meaning to download? A book that’s been sitting on your nightstand? New experiences keep us engaged, inspired, and connected to our own growth.
Wellness Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All
At its core, wellness is about creating space for what helps you feel your best whatever that looks like for you. This summer, give yourself permission to release the pressure of doing it all, and instead, focus on small, meaningful choices that elevate your wellbeing.
Because taking care of yourself isn’t just a luxury it’s how you continue showing up for everyone and everything you love. a
Welcome to “Eco Notes,” your monthly guide to simple, impactful ways to embrace a more eco-friendly lifestyle. Each month, we’ll share practical tips to help you reduce waste and make thoughtful choices that benefit our community and environment.
Eco Notes is brought to you by the Allen County Department of Environmental Management whose mission is to assist the community of Allen County, Indiana, in reducing its environmental imprint, and inspire best practices for reusing, recycling, and composting.
acwastewatcher.org
Plastic Free July
Plastic Free July is a global movement that shines a spotlight on the first of the 3 R’s: Reduce (before reuse and recycle). Reducing your plastic use in daily life is one of the most effective ways to lower your environmental impact. Unlike other materials, plastic is always downcycled, meaning it’s turned into lowerquality products with limited uses.
Not all plastics are recyclable. Just because an item has a recycling symbol on the bottom doesn’t mean it can be accepted locally. Most plastic bottles, containers and jugs are recyclable in Allen County as long as they’re empty, clean and dry.
This Plastic Free July, challenge yourself to identify and cut out one single-use plastic in your routine.
Small Steps to Start Your Plastic Free July:
• Refuse plastic utensils at restaurants
• Choose refillable or bulk products
• Buy unpackaged produce
• Bring reusable bags when shopping
• Switch to bar soap and shampoo bars
• Choose natural fiber clothing to help reduce microplastics
• Host low-waste gatherings with water refill stations, compostable materials and decorate with reusable items
• Swap cling wrap for glass containers, beeswax wraps or silicone covers
This July, join the movement and see how small changes can lead to lasting impact. a
Caring from the Middle:
Best Tips for Navigating Life in the Sandwich Generation
By Mary Jane Bogle
For many modern parents, the traditional image of a family dinner table now comes with a few extra seats. One for a toddler who refuses peas, one for a temperamental teenager, and yet another for an aging parent who now needs help with daily tasks. Welcome to the world of the Sandwich Generation.
Coined to describe adults “sandwiched” between caring for aging parents while still raising their own children, this term has never felt more relevant. In fact, recent studies suggest that nearly 25% of U.S. adults are now living in this dual-care reality. The pinch is particularly acute for those in their 40s over half of whom are financially supporting both a child and a parent over 65.
Unfortunately, this Sandwich Generation is a demographic that’s growing largely in silence, mainly because the people in it are too busy managing school runs and doctor’s appointments, paying for piano lessons and prescriptions, and trying to maintain some semblance of self to reach out for help.
The Invisible Load
Living in the Sandwich Generation isn’t just a matter of time and money it’s also a uniquely emotional experience. Caring for a parent whose health is declining is deeply personal, and balancing all those new responsibilities while nurturing your child’s growth or navigating the turbulent teen years can lead to its own special kind of burnout. The stamina required to switch from attending a kindergarten play one moment to fielding a call from a parent’s assisted living facility the next can lead to anxiety and self-doubt.
Managing the Squeeze
If you’re part of the Sandwich Generation, it’s essential to acknowledge your reality and know that you’re not alone. Here are some strategies to help lighten the load:
1. Set Boundaries And Stick to Them
It’s okay to say “no.” Whether it’s scheduling specific days for caregiving tasks or carving out a “no interruptions” hour each evening, setting boundaries goes a long way toward avoiding burnout. You can’t keep up the level of care for others if you don’t guard your own time and energy.
2. Ask for (and Accept) Help
Don’t hesitate to delegate. You aren’t the only person who can navigate every doctor visit or parent-teacher conference. You might even consider exploring respite care options or adult day services for aging parents. Reaching out for help doesn’t mean you’re weak; it means you care enough to meet all the demands with solutions designed to work for everyone involved.
3. Financial Planning Is Crucial
Support comes at a cost. A certified financial planner can help you plot out a plan for budgets and future care needs. This expert might even have ideas for helping you initiate conversations about longterm planning with your parents.
4. Protect Your Mental Health
Therapy, support groups, or even just open conversations with others in the same boat can help ease the emotional burden. You’re carrying a lot, and it’s okay to seek support for yourself.
5. Embrace the “In-Between” Moments
Don’t forget to look for the beauty in this stage of life. Watching your child learn from a grandparent or discovering a burst of humor amidst the chaos can remind you why you keep doing everything you do on the daily. You’re building memories that you’ll cherish when this season ends.
Redefining Caregiving
Living in the Sandwich Generation means you’re fulfilling one of the most demanding and yet love-driven jobs out there. Yes, it requires resilience, empathy, and strength beyond measure. But it also comes with big rewards. Because the struggle is real but so is the love that keeps it all going. a
European Tour
By Beth Anne Brink-Cox
Hannah and Connor Cottingham spent two incredible weeks in Europe recently. The pair use the trip as a celebration of Connor graduating as a Doctor of Physical Therapy.
“Our joke was that the first half was for me, putting him through school, and the second was all about his accomplishments!” Hannah said.
This dream trip has been in the works since grad school. “I studied in France during college, and grew very close with my host family,” Hannah said. “I always wanted Connor to meet them. So that part of the trip was an easy decision. We didn’t use a travel agent; we are in the unique in-between where we didn’t hostel/rough it, but Europe is the easiest place to go without a plan. It is rich with history, art, views and experiences. In terms of planning, for city specifics, I asked some people who had been; the only things we booked ahead were Airbnb’s, intercontinental travel, and two experiences: paragliding, and a wine tour.”
The Cottinghams started in Strasbourg, where Hannah had studied. She highly recommends it to everyone!
“It is exactly what you want France to be cobblestones, churches and cathedrals, food and wine and views,” she enthused. “We explored a lot, hiking through a vineyard to castle ruins, wandering little towns, and we did a day trip to Heidelberg, Germany. It
felt like coming home, spending time with good people, sipping wine or tea and talking around the living room.”
Next, they headed to Zurich, Switzerland, which was far and above their favorite part of the trip.
“You can’t go anywhere in Zurich without beautiful views of the lake and Alps!” Hannah said. “A local recommended a panoramic cocktail lounge where I had the most delicious strawberry basil cocktail the waiter said it was like a salad in cocktail form. Our top experience was paragliding in Lucerne, a 40-minute train ride from Zurich. We met the instructors, and they took us up the mountain to a viewpoint, which was secluded and provided the best view we saw all trip! We would never have found it without them. Paragliding was a very calm, serene experience; we were in the air 30 minutes, able to see and appreciate everything!”
According to Hannah, Vienna, Austria, was the most historic-feeling city of the trip. They went through the Schönbrunn Palace and had what was called ‘inevitable ice cream’ in the garden. They spent a full day biking through the vineyards of the Wachau Valley
with a tour guide, and they visited two wineries, one that has been family owned since 1783!
And “Finally, we did a quick power day trip in Paris,” Hannah said. “It was amazing a must visit.”
Asked what the best part of the experience was, Hannah couldn’t have been clearer. “I had the blessing of traveling a lot in my early 20s but hadn’t traveled internationally with my husband. Getting to experience some of my favorite travels ever, with my husband, was so special. What a joy it is to do the soaring highs and lows with your best friend. It exceeded our expectations; we felt like we were living a dream every day.”
Hannah concluded, “I would recommend if you go to Europe that you experience a few countries. The architecture, food, culture everything feels unique to each country. And eat the food! To each their own as to budget, but I will always find ways to eat the local food.”
And one final thought? “Travel with your best friend.” You couldn’t ask for a better recommendation for travel or marriage than that. a
LOCAL Sh p
glo shops FORT WAYNE
Waterwise Landscaping
By Bethany Beebe
When conditions swing from heavy rains to extreme drought, managing water becomes a serious challenge for anyone trying to keep both their plants and their budget healthy. One beautiful solution is to incorporate xeriscape gardening practices.
Xeriscaping, a practice that helps control water use, all starts with a plan. By reducing the amount of turf grass, carefully choosing what is planted, grouping those plants by their water needs, and following sound garden practices, a stunning outdoor space can be a beautifully enviable friend to the environment.
Incorporating xeriscape principles often means rethinking the role of traditional turf grass. Reducing or even eliminating grass can significantly cut down on water usage and ongoing maintenance costs. For perspective, mowing a typical quarter-acre lawn can cost around $50 per visit, not including the additional expenses of watering, fertilizing, and applying lawn chemicals. Less grass also means fewer treatment chemicals making their way into the water supply, benefiting both your wallet and the environment.
For those who appreciate grass, selecting a locally appropriate turf variety is more likely to have better outcomes with less water and work. Another grass option is ornamental, native grasses. These do not require cutting but do give year-around visual presence to an outdoor space.
In place of grass, homeowners may also consider hardscape options. Mulch holds in water, keeps weeds at bay, breaks down for future benefit, and can make a space appear manicured and refined. Rocks are another natural option that need no water to maintain but serve many benefits.
No matter how you design the larger, open areas, your choice of flowers, shrubs, and trees can still create beautiful focal points while remaining water-wise. Native and locally adapted plants are naturally suited to handle regional conditions and typically require far less maintenance. For a comprehensive guide to plant options including water needs, soil preferences, sunlight requirements, bloom times, and more check out Purdue Extension’s Recommended Indiana-native Plants for Attracting Pollinators (POL-6-W).
Obviously, to make any plant grow, some water will be needed; it is a basic fact of life. Landscape additions, especially when initially installed, will almost certainly need water in addition to what nature provides. To make hoses, sprinklers, and drip lines more efficient and easier to use, you might consider placing flowers or other growing selections with greater water needs near the source of human-offered hydration.
We can improve our outdoor spaces in more ways than just thoughtful design we can improve the soil itself. Adding organic
matter and compost enriches the soil, leading to healthier plants and better moisture retention. Improved soil drains excess water more evenly while holding onto the moisture plants need, reducing the amount of additional watering required. In many ways, it acts like a built-in mulch.
With a little planning, nearly any Indiana yard or garden can become more water-wise. These simple, effective strategies save both time and money allowing you to spend less time maintaining your garden and more time enjoying it. a
Top Summer Home Inprovement
By Carrie Klotz
While the winter’s chill chases us indoors to seek warmth, summer’s sun beckons us outside. For homeowners, summer presents a great time to tackle some home improvement projects that can increase your home’s value — and your own enjoyment.
Fort Wayne resident Trent Robbins, a homeowner and expert in the field of construction, recommends focusing time and resources this season on landscaping and other exterior improvements.
“Curb appeal is huge,” he said. “You can hide a lot of sins with some frills and bows.”
To begin, Robbins suggests removing dead limbs, branches, weeds, and other debris that accumulated over the course of the colder months. The next thing to do is to remove any dead plants and replace them with new, healthier vegetation. Low-maintenance plants like hostas, peonies, and coneflowers can add splashes of color and diversity while requiring little care. Evergreens are also a great option that will last into the winter and give life and color to your landscape all year round. A hearty layer of mulch can provide improved plant health and a neat appearance.
Another way to improve curb appeal is to pressure wash sidewalks, walkways, driveways, decks, and patios. This improvement is an inexpensive but effective way to freshen up your home’s exterior. A decent pressure washer can be purchased at a local hardware store for as little as under $100. More powerful pressure washers can be rented for as little as $34 for a few hours and serve to tackle dirtier jobs.
Another quick but important update, Robbins suggests, is some simple heating and cooling maintenance in the spring and summer. For indoor units, ensure the A/C is turned off and unplugged before removing the front cover and wiping everything down, including the removable filter, with soapy water. Once all is dry, replace the filter and secure the cover
Projects
before use. For outdoor units, replace the filter if it is dirty and ensure there is nothing blocking the vent, register, or grilles. Turn the breaker off and remove the top of the unit. You can clean out any debris at the bottom of the unit by hand or with a vacuum. Then, spray the coils and the fins on the inside of the unit with an A/C cleaning solution, followed by a rinsing using a hose. Air conditioners are recommended to be deep-cleaned this way once a year.
One other home improvement project to consider this summer is to add a patio or improve your front steps or sidewalk with new concrete. A Huntington resident and life-long concrete laborer says that concrete work is best to complete during the summer as it avoids colder weather that can cause the water to freeze and impair the concrete’s ability to set properly. However, temperatures that are too high (above 90) can cause the concrete to dry out too quickly, so picking a mild and dry summer day is best. Contractors can be hired to prepare the site and set the concrete based on your project, or you can do-it-yourself with instructions found online. If done yourself, laying concrete can be a labor-intensive job, but the results add a lot of value to your home, he says.
Regardless of the project you prefer to take on during these warmer months, the favorable weather offers an advantage to completing those outdoor projects you’ve been considering, the increased daylight adds opportunity for more productivity, and there may be more cost savings due to less demand for labor and materials. The best part is that summertime offers you the benefit of enjoying your renovation before the busyness of the fall and winter seasons return. a
4 | Friday
First Fridays! On Broadway
Broadway Corridor, Downtown Fort Wayne
Would you like to submit an event to be considered for glo’s To-Do List? Our deadline is the 6th of the month prior to publication. E-mail us your event 40 words or less to: ambouthot@the-papers.com. Please type ‘To-Do List’ in the subject line. Or you may mail info to glo, P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542.
By Amber Bouthot
2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 | Wednesday
Farmer’s Market at Salomon Farm Park
817 W. Dupont Rd., Fort Wayne
Salomon Farmers’ Market is a mid-week market focused on connecting the local community to farmers, producers, bakers and artisans that are within a 75-mile radius of Salomon Farm Park.
3pm – 7pm https://www.fortwayneparks.org/facilities/ saloman-farm-park/salomon-farmers-market.html
3 | Thursday
Freedom on Main Concert
Main Street, Roanoke
Celebrate Freedom on Main with an outdoor concert by the Fort Wayne Philharmonic! Join for an evening filled with patriotic favorites and beloved American classics that honor the spirit of our nation. Priority Seating is on sale, Free seating also available. Gather with family, friends, and neighbors for this joyful community tradition. Come experience the power of live symphonic music in a charming, small-town setting.
https://fwphil.org/events/24-25-patrioticpops-at-roanoke-freedom-on-main
3, 10, 17, 24 & 31 | Thursdays
Lunch on the Square
Friemann Square, Fort Wayne
Take a break from the office or bring the family down to enjoy lunch at Freimann Square every Thursday from 11:30 a.m. –1:30 p.m., beginning Thursday, June 5, and extending to Thursday, August 7. Enjoy a variety of unique foods and experience live music during one of Fort Wayne’s favorite lunch and entertainment series. https://downtownfortwayne.com/lunch-onthe-square/
Join the Broadway Arts District FW as it celebrates FIRST FRIDAYS along the Broadway corridor and beyond! Participating businesses along Broadway will feature special First Fridays happenings within their venue. Follow the Broadway Arts District FW page to see what you can expect and who is participating!
https://www.facebook.com/ BroadwayArtsDistrictFW
5, 12, 19 & 26 | Saturdays
YLNI Farmers Market
Corner of Barr and Wayne Streets, Fort Wayne
The YLNI Farmers Market provides a fun indoor shopping experience and connects the community with local vendors. Customers can find select produce, baked goods, crafts, jewelry, honey, and so much more!
Time: 9 AM – 1 PM
www.ylni.org/ylni-farmers-market
5, 12, 19 & 26 | Saturdays
Ft. Wayne’s Farmers Market
Union Street Market, 1620 Broadway., Fort Wayne
The Ft. Wayne’s Farmers Market hosts a constantly changing variety of products, including meat, produce, farm products, baked goods, jewelry, artisan crafts, food trucks, and much more!
Time: 9 AM – 1 PM
ftwaynesfarmersmarket.com/
6 | Sunday
Decatur Coin Show & Marketplace
Decatur Riverside Center, 231 East Monroe St.
Nearly 100 indoor vendors, hot food available. Contact Carla at 260.517.8182
Time: 8am – 2pm (year-round)
https://www.decaturfleamarket.com
9, 16, 23 & 30 | Wednesdays
Summer Nights
Embassy Theatre, Fort Wayne
Summer Nights continues the cherished tradition of featuring local musicians in a beautifully designed multi-tier ballroom. Guests can enjoy access to the rooftop patio, where they can take in breathtaking views of the city’s skyline. A cash bar offers a special drink every Wednesday. Local food partners will provide a variety of tasty options for purchase. Tickets are $5 and are available at the STAR Bank box office (260.424.5665) or through www.ticketmaster.com and www.fwembassytheatre.org.
12 | Saturday
Allen County Marketplace
Pathway Community Church, 1010 Carroll Rd., Fort Wayne
The Allen Co Marketplace is a vibrant open-air market that connects local vendors, food trucks, and musicians within the Allen County community.
9am – 1 pm
https://www.facebook.com/ AllenCoMarketplace
16 | Wednesday Night Market
The Garden, 3308 N. Anthony Blvd., Fort Wayne
Artisan vendors in an open-air market, an art show opening in the gallery, live music on the patio, food trucks and community. 6-9pm on the 3rd Wednesdays of every month May through September! https://www.thegardenfortwayne.com/ events
19 | Saturday
Dare to Be Different Music Event
Dekalb County Outdoor Theater301 Center St. Auburn, IN
Family friendly, all age music event, put on by the Culture Shift Challenge. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a diverse line up of artists across multiple genres. Lets unite and celebrate the good — together! $5 suggested donation. Noon to 5pm wearetheshifters.com
24-26 | Thursday-Saturday Swiss Days
Berne, Indiana
Enjoy authentic Swiss costume, great food, craft vendors and merchandise. Residents and visitors alike enjoy the friendly competitions for all ages. From the 5K race to Big Wheel Competition for the younger ones to the Steintoss, there is something for everyone. On stage and around the festival you can hear Swiss music. Watch as couples dance the polka to live music on stage.
https://swissdaysberne.com/
