Glo Magazine - October 2025

Page 21


northeast

indiana’s

“It takes courage to say yes to rest and play in a culture where exhaustion is seen as a status symbol.” — Brené Brown

“Celebrating Wellness”

glo

From the executive editor

Dear glo readers,

Wellness can feel like a moving target. We’re told to eat right, move more, meditate, unplug yet the world around us can feel anything but calm. I’ll admit there are days when, even while trying to do all the “right” things, I don’t feel particularly well. That’s why this issue isn’t about perfect wellness. It’s about creating small, realistic moments of calm, care and connection right where you are because that’s where true wellness starts.

Inside this issue, you’ll discover a collection of stories and resources designed to inspire and support you this fall. Our “Colors of Calm” fashion feature showcases soothing hues that lift your mood while keeping your style fresh for the season. We’ve rounded up regional fall events to help you get outdoors, experience community, and reconnect with nature. We’re also breaking down the “supermom” myth exploring why rest is not indulgence but a radical act of wellness for women.

October is also Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and we’ve included timely information to help you stay informed and proactive about your health. Because wellness begins at home, our “Home as a Haven” article offers simple ideas for creating healthier spaces, from indoor air quality to design choices that soothe your senses. And if your spirit is craving adventure, our Norway travel feature reminds us that changing scenery can refresh the body and mind.

No matter what’s happening in the wider world, my hope is that this issue helps you carve out your own sanctuary a little more calm, a little more joy, and a little more wellness this season.

With gratitude,

athe Cover

Title of piece: Autumn’s Glow

What inspired this piece?

I painted this piece during one of summer’s warmest days. I was indoors trying to keep cool. As I gazed out the window, my mind wandered to cooler days and the way the late afternoon sun glows through the fall foliage in the woods.

Where do you draw inspiration for your artwork in general?

A great deal of my inspiration comes from nature and the scenery around me — the woods, plants and flowers, the lake, the changing wonder of the skies above. There is beauty all around us.

What is your preferred medium?

Watercolor is my absolute favorite medium, but I also enjoy hand embroidery, multimedia collage, photography and making jewelry. I go through phases where I’ll do a project or two in the other mediums, but watercolor is an everyday practice for me.

cover artist: Jennifer Zartman Romano

Hometown: Columbia City, IN

Current town: Columbia City, IN

How long have you been creating art?

I’d describe myself as a lifelong creative. Art was a memorable and meaningful part of childhood. My mother was an artist, as are many family members. During an extended illness three years ago, I started painting with watercolor as a means of entertaining myself while I recuperated and just haven’t stopped. It has been pivotal in my life. I try to keep a palette, paper, and a brush at hand everywhere, always.

What advice do you have for other artists just starting out?

Just make art! Make it a priority. Understand the role art has in your health and frame of mind.

Where can we find your work?

I have a studio located in Brew’ha Coffee Shop in Columbia City called Indigo Studio & Art Emporium. During August and September each year, I exhibit a few pieces in the Whitley County Historical Museum’s Art @ The Museum showcase featuring contemporary and historic Whitley County artists. I also have a few pieces at Waves Salon in Columbia City and some of my work can be found at Creative Women of the World on Wayne Street in downtown Fort Wayne. My work is also available via my website at JZaRt.art and on social media. a

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

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.

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.

Ron Baumgartner | rbaumgartner@the-papers.com executive

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 executive

Melinda Musselman | mmusselman@the-papers.com business manager

Annette Weaver | aweaver@the-papers.com

director of circulation

Jerry Long | jlong@the-papers.com

graphic designer

Mary Lester, Dusti Diener

marketing assistants

Darlene Eichelberger, Reagan Nichols contributing writers

Stacie Ball, Jillian Christensen, BethAnne Brink-Cox, Deborah C. Gerbers, Jennie Renner Instagram instagram.com/glofortwayne

Colors of Calm

FALL HUES THAT BOOST YOUR MOOD

When the season shifts, so does our wardrobe—and color can be one of the most powerful tools we have to influence how we feel. This fall, instead of defaulting to the usual dark palette, try exploring hues that not only look chic but also help restore calm and balance. The best part? You don’t need to travel far—our local boutiques are full of pieces in shades designed to brighten your mood and carry you confidently into cooler days.

SOFT SAGE & OLIVE

Green is nature’s neutral, and its earthier fall cousins sage, olive, and moss bring a grounding calm. Worn in a chunky knit sweater or a tailored trench, these shades offer balance and a sense of renewal, like carrying a piece of nature with you.

DEEP BLUE & INDIGO

Blue is known for its calming qualities, but deeper shades like indigo bring sophistication too. Whether in a tailored coat or a pair of wide-leg trousers, these hues communicate steadiness and confidence while easing anxious energy.

LAVENDER GRAY

DUSTY ROSE & BLUSH

DUSTY ROSE & BLUSH

Pink isn’t reserved for spring. This fall, muted rose tones deliver warmth and compassion in the cooler months. A blush scarf or a dusty rose blouse can feel like a gentle embrace an easy way to soften sharper seasonal palettes.

WARM CARAMEL & HONEY

Golden browns and honey tones not only pair seamlessly with autumn’s classics, they also evoke comfort. Picture the glow of candlelight or the first sip of cider these hues remind us of cozy moments and help reduce stress.

This season’s unexpected star, lavender-gray, blends the tranquility of purple with the subtlety of gray. It’s a perfect option for professional settings, offering calm elegance without being overly bold.

Shopping local this fall gives you more than just beautiful pieces it keeps you connected to the community and makes your fashion choices feel more personal. By curating a wardrobe of mood-boosting hues from nearby boutiques, you’re not just getting dressed you’re investing in style that feels good inside and out. a

MOOD - BOOSTING FALL COLORS

A cheat sheet for your closet

SOFT SAGE & OLIVE Grounding, balanced, restorative DUSTY ROSE & BLUSH Gentle, compassionate, uplifting

WARM CARAMEL & HONEY Cozy, comforting, stress-reducing DEEP BLUE & INDIGO Steady, confident, calming

LAVENDER GRAY Tranquil, elegant, soothing

PRO TIP: Keep an eye out while shopping local — these shades are popping up everywhere this season, from statement sweaters to subtle accessories.

Ultrasounds and Breast Cancer

Ultrasounds use high-frequency sound waves to create an image or video in real time for medical testing and diagnosis. They are also used as a guide for certain types of procedures, such as biopsy, nerve blocks and invitro fertilization. Ultrasounds are often correlated with pregnancy however they are frequently used by providers to be able to view patients’ organs and soft tissues.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, ultrasounds are considered extremely safe as they do not use radiation and aren’t known to have any side effects; and prior to a scan there is usually no patient prep. Ultrasounds can be used to locate and diagnosis a variety of abnormalities like aneurysms, blood clots, cancer, ectopic pregnancies, enlarged organs and veins, gall stones, kidney or bladder stones and tumors.

While mammograms remain the standard scan for breast cancer, a breast ultrasound can also be beneficial. The American Cancer Society states that women who have lumps that can be felt but not seen on a mammogram or those who have denser breast tissue may benefit from a breast ultrasound.

Providers may order an ultrasound prior to other tests or scans because a breast ultrasound is noninvasive and can distinguish be -

breast ultrasound typically only takes about 30 minutes to complete, and results are read by a radiologist.

At Choice Imaging, providers can order a breast ultrasound without having a mammogram first, and patients are often able to schedule their scan sooner than a hospital or other facility. Because Choice Imaging accepts most insurance providers, patients can save sometimes hundreds of dollars. If patients don’t have insurance, the cash cost is only $250. Choice Imaging provides its patients with the latest ultrasound technology with the GE Logiq E10 R2 machine. This machine offers advanced image mapping, enhanced contrast imaging and customizable exam protocols to deliver the highest ultrasound imaging available. a

Resource:

Choice Imaging, Fort Wayne, www.choiceimagingfw.com

Every Baby Deserves A First Birthday

Preterm birth is a leading cause of infant loss—too many of our tiniest neighbors never see their first birthday. Join Fighting for Firsts, a Healthier Moms & Babies campaign this October, to support high‑risk pregnant moms in Northeast Indiana. Your donations fund home visits and essential care, helping more babies reach their first milestones.

HIGH TECH IMAGING with AI Technology

She +He glow

RUTH AND LARRY LITTLER

photo + words by Jennie

Ruth and Larry Littler were both born in southern Ohio but now call Fort Wayne home. They met through Ruth’s cousin Bob who was in basic training with Larry in the Navy.

“Bob and I grew up almost as brother and sister, so we knew each other pretty well,” said Ruth. “So that’s how he knew that (Larry) might be the one.”

After being introduced to one another, Ruth and Larry set up a date. “I didn’t have any money, so we went to a drive-in and we just talked,” Larry recalled.

“Two weeks later, we couldn’t have remembered what the movie was because we just talked,” added Ruth. “And I know, nobody believes that, but it’s true!”

Ruth said she fell for Larry right away, in part because of his sense of humor. “We talked and we talked, and he looked at me and he said, ‘Can I kiss you?’ And I was dumbfounded. Nobody had ever asked,” said Ruth. “And out of the blue, he said, ‘I’ll give you a dollar.’ And I knew that was it. I said, ‘Yeah, for a dollar.’”

After the second date, Ruth remembers telling her mom, “I’m going to spend the rest of my life with this man.” And she was right. They wed in 1969 after Larry returned from Vietnam where he served on ship as a diesel mechanic and mine sweeper. They will celebrate 56 years of marriage on November 22nd this year.

The Littlers lived in Charleston, South Carolina while Larry finished his naval career. Then in 1972, they relocated to Fort Wayne where he took a job as a diesel mechanic. He continued in that career for 15 years, then became a mailman, and retired from the post office in 2011.

Ruth and Larry both had dogs in their households growing up, but while living in South Carolina they were “adopted by” a cat, who had kittens. When the cat couldn’t produce milk to feed her kittens, they discovered she had feline leukemia, so the Littlers bottle fed her newborns. “And that’s how we got hooked (on cats),” said Ruth.

When Larry retired, a neighbor who works at Humane Fort Wayne suggested the couple volunteer at the shelter. Ruth recalled her saying, “You don’t have to work, you don’t have to do anything. Just hang out with the cats.”

So, Ruth and Larry started “hanging out with cats” at the shelter in January 2012. Ruth said, they probably did that for one day and then they noticed laundry piling up.

“I said, ‘Okay, this is silly for us to be here loving cats when there’s other things that can be done,’” said Ruth. “And so we asked somebody to show us how to do the laundry. And the rest is history.”

Now the couple volunteers three times a week doing laundry. And they do it despite it being a “smelly, messy job,” as Ruth described it.

“It’s not fun,” she said. “We do it because it has to be done,” added Larry. “The shelter won’t run without clean bedding and towels,” Ruth finished.

Earlier this year, Humane Fort Wayne named the Littlers as their volunteers of the year. The announcement of their award on social media stated that they have contributed over 5,000 hours each to the organization. Even so, Ruth said the recognition was unexpected.

“It was a huge surprise! There’s so many other volunteers who do so many other things,” she said. “Everybody here lets you know you’re appreciated, which is huge!”

And while Humane Fort Wayne benefits from their volunteer hours, the Littlers are getting something out of the experience, too.

“Everybody needs to feel that they’re useful in some way,” said Ruth. “And when you retire, and if you’ve got something that you love animals, kids, anything that you can give a hand to I think that’s extremely important for you and for the organization.”

Over the years, the couple also volunteered as “kitten wranglers” at adoption events and fostered cats and kittens until one of their fosters stole their hearts and they adopted him. And even on days when the laundry keeps them busy, Ruth and Larry still find time to check on the felines at the shelter.

Besides animals, Ruth’s and Larry’s other passion is traveling. Until recently, they had a motorhome and traveled a lot. They also volunteered at Ouabache State Park for 10 years as campground hosts and were avid hikers.

Now, the couple stays active by walking and working at Humane Fort Wayne. There’s only been a few days, in the many years they’ve been volunteering, that they haven’t come in due to illness. Otherwise, they are at the shelter faithfully three times a week. And on their days off, they enjoy reading and doing puzzles, which they say helps keep their brains healthy, in addition to the volunteer work.

“Everybody says you should give back which obviously you should — but it’s for your own soul,” said Ruth. “You need to do something that connects you with something else besides your own aches and pains and your own problems.”

The Littlers find working with younger people another benefit of volunteering at the shelter. Being in their late 70s, they said even 40- and 50-year-olds qualify as young to them.

“We’ve met some really super young people,” said Ruth. “About the time you think the world’s going to hell in a hand basket, you meet young people through an organization like this and you think, ‘Okay. We’re going to be okay.’” a

Autumn Adventures: OUR FAVORITE FALL EVENTS

As summer fades, fall makes its entrance with crisp mornings, glowing colors, and the smell of bonfires and cinnamon in the air. From bustling harvest festivals to quiet pumpkin-picking afternoons, autumn invites us to slow down and savor the season. Whether you’re craving cozy food, outdoor adventures, or creative cultural happenings, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate. Here’s our freshly updated list of favorite fall events.

Keuhnert Dairy Farm’s Fall Festival | Through

October 26

Family-owned and operated, Kuehnert Dairy Farm invites you to celebrate fall at its annual Fall Festival, open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in September and October. This year’s festival features more than 30 farm-tastic attractions for all ages—think corn maze, hayrides, pumpkins, baby calves, and plenty more seasonal fun.

The Kuehnert Milk House, the farm’s on-site processing facility and retail shop, offers hard-dipped ice cream, cheese curds, pizza, and other fresh dairy treats straight from the source! www.kuehnertdairy.com/kuehnert-fall-festival

Harvest Nights at Newfields | Through November 2

Harvest Nights transforms The Garden at Newfields into a spooky-but-notscary autumn spectacle. Guests wander through fog-filled forests along the Pumpkin Path of Peril and take in tens of thousands of “gourd-geous” pumpkins and jack-o-lanterns.

New this year, the Fungi Forest features 50 larger-than-life handmade mushrooms created by Kara Kent and artists from Expo Design. Upstairs in Mischief Manor, the new Cutwater Lounge invites guests ages 21 and older to sip and savor the experience on an elevated level. discovernewfields.org/events-exhibitions/harvest-nights

Autumn Adventure Straw Bale Art Trail | Through November 2

The Autumn Adventure Straw Bale Art Trail will be a family favorite as you travel anytime during all daylight hours to 39 locations to enjoy this surprising art painted by local artists in the scenic Amish countryside throughout LaGrange County. Vote for your favorite and post your festive pictures from this free self-guided tour. visitshipshewana.org/straw-bale-art/

Wild Zoo Halloween 2025 | October 3 – October 26

Who’s ready for a merry not scary Halloween event? Visit the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo from 10-3 p.m. each weekend in October for Wild Zoo Halloween! Take part in spooktacular activities, including spooky Keeper Chats, Halloweenthemed enrichment, delicious treats, and even appearances by some of your favorite Halloween characters! Costumes welcome! Wild Zoo Halloween is included in general Zoo admission and is free with a Zoo membership. kidszoo.org/event/wild-zoo-halloween/

Dia de los Muertos 2025 | October 4—November 16

This community-centered exhibition celebrates the Mexican tradition of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)—a vibrant time for remembering and honoring deceased loved ones and ancestors. For ancient civilizations across Latin America, death was recognized as an essential part of life. After the Spanish conquest of Mexico, these rituals merged with Catholic observances of All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days on November 1 and 2. Today’s celebrations blend both cultures and continue to evolve, adapting new traditions as the holiday’s popularity grows on both sides of the border.

At the heart of the exhibition are memorial altars, or ofrendas—places to leave offerings so the souls of the departed may find their way home and be nourished upon arrival. Sugar skulls, candles, colorful paper banners, marigolds, and monarch butterflies fill the gallery in a joyful display of remembrance. Originally created in homes to honor loved ones, altars in public spaces now also commemorate those who have died for a cause or as a result of injustice.

fwmoa.org/exhibition/diadelosmuertos_2025/

Fright Night 2024 | October 18

Come dressed in your best zombie costume and makeup to enjoy various activities throughout Downtown Fort Wayne. Fright Night is a free, familyfriendly event with fun activities for everyone to enjoy. So suit up, grab your Fright Night Survival Guide and head to Downtown Fort Wayne for a night to dismember.

downtownfortwayne.com/fright-night/

Trick or Treat Trail at LC Nature Park | October 24

Bring the whole family out for a night of Halloween fun at LC Nature Park’s free Trick or Treat Trail! Kids can put on their costumes and collect treats while strolling through the woods along a festive, family-friendly trail. With decorated stops, plenty of candy, and the beauty of autumn all around, this community event is a safe and memorable way to celebrate the season together.

lcnaturepark.org/events/trick-or-treat-trail/ a

The Basics on Breast Cancer

One in three or about 30 percent of women will develop breast cancer this year, according to the American Cancer Society. They estimate that over 316,000 new cases will be diagnosed and over 42,000 women will die from breast cancer in 2025. The American Cancer Society states that breast cancer is the second leading type of cancer to kill women. Black women, who have a five percent lower incident rate than white women, are 38 percent more likely to die from the disease, reports Breastcancer.org. Fortunately, with scientific advancements in diagnosing and treating breast cancer we don’t have to let these statistics scare us.

Leslie Edgar RN, MSN, NP-C and Director of Oncology and VAT Services at Lutheran Hospital, shares promising news about breast cancer prognosis. Leslie states “survival rates really depend on stage at diagnosis and vary significantly, but in Indiana, current 5-year survival rates for breast cancer are 91% overall.” Edgar does state that if the cancer metastasis (spreads) outside of the breast the 5-year survival rate decreases.

Edgar suggests that “self-breast exams (SBE) are an important part of any woman’s routine for self-care,” and she supports the recommendation of age 40 for an initial mammogram for those who aren’t high risk. However, she recognizes that the age a woman conducts her initial mammogram depends on individual risk factors. She states that “some women who are very high risk may want to begin at age 25-30 and have a breast MRI versus mammography depending on their physician recommendations.”

Genetic testing seems to have exploded over the last few years; yet it may not be a necessary step for many. According to Edgar, “The National Coalition of Cancer Networks (NCCN) has specific guidelines

for genetic testing.” She shares that “they recommend testing for anyone diagnosed prior to age 50 or any age if you have one or more close blood relatives who have been diagnosed with breast, ovarian, prostate or pancreatic cancer or diagnoses of breast and/or prostate cancer on the same side of the family.”

Treatment options have also expanded over the last several years. Edgar states that newer treatment options include “targeted therapies directed at specific mutations and immunotherapy that help the immune system fight the disease.” She shares that surgery, chemo and radiation are still the gold standards for treatment, but options are determined by the stage and type of breast cancer.

According to Edgar, having mastectomy as a treatment option “is typically recommended if the tumor is excessively large depending on the size of the breast, there are multiple tumors in one breast or there is an aggressive histology. A double mastectomy is recommended for those women who are at high risk based on genetic factors for developing breast cancer.” Of course, this decision, its effects, and prognosis is a discussion for the patient and their cancer treatment team.

Overall, Edgar says to be diligent with your self-exams and don’t wait if you feel something. She encourages women to not be afraid and neglect the problem, the sooner you can be diagnosed the better the outcome. Almost every day a new treatment option is available and that most women who are diagnosed with breast cancer have a good prognosis. a

Resource:

Lutheran Hospital, 260-435-7001, lutheranhospital.com

Friday

More than Mom: More than Mom:

The daily life of a busy mother can seem like the movie “Groundhog Day” — playing the same day over and over, repeatedly. We get caught up in the hustle of diapers, school drop off, extracurricular activities, dinnertime rush, bedtime routines, and more. But many of us get so busy that we neglect ourselves as women and wives, with dreams, passions, and individual identities before we had children.

While being a mother and wife is deeply fulfilling, who we are goes way beyond those titles and yet, so many women lose themselves in the very roles they love the most. Taking time for yourself as a mom is not selfish, it’s crucial to help you show up fully for your family, your partner, and most importantly, yourself.

Modern mothers are skilled at multitasking uggling work meetings with doctor’s appointments, grocery shopping with science projects, and sneaking in a decent conversation with their spouse somewhere in between. Living a balanced life means acknowledging and appreciating all the parts of yourself: the nurturer, the loving partner, and the woman.

It’s important to give ourselves permission to exist outside of motherhood and marriage, and realizing that when you’re thriving, your family thrives as well. A balanced woman is a better mother, because she is present in every moment, energized from rest and a reset

There is an incredible power in hitting the pause button. Perhaps it’s a quiet cup of coffee by yourself before the house wakes up, an evening fitness class, or a walk around the neighborhood by yourself, these small moments of time and intentional solitude can refill your emotional tank.

to Recharge Taking Time

Even just a 15-minute window each day can be transformative. Studies have shown that when women take regular time for selfcare whether that’s physical, emotional, or creative they experience reduced stress, improved relationships, and a stronger sense of self identity.

And it doesn’t have to be an elaborate spa day. Sometimes, self-care looks like saying “no” without guilt, asking for help, or simply reading a book without interruption.

Being a wife and a mom doesn’t mean your womanhood should fade into the background. It should grow stronger and more dynamic as life’s seasons change, making you more rooted in who you are. Pursue hobbies, nurture friendships, or revisit a dream you put on hold. Your children are watching you not just how you love them, but how you love yourself.

Show them that being a mother is beautiful, but it isn’t the end of your story. When your kids see you carving out time for your passions, setting boundaries, and embracing who you are as a whole woman, they learn to value themselves too.

If you’ve been waiting for someone to give you permission to take care of yourself, consider this it. You don’t need to earn your rest. You are allowed to exist fully as a woman, even while being an amazing mother and wife.

So go ahead book the class, start the journal, take the nap. A recharged mother is a radiant woman who is better equipped to take care of her family and herself. a

Norway

She’s hardly got her bags unpacked, but Heather Closson loves to talk about her recent trip to Norway, and why not?

“Actually, Norway wasn’t a destination until this opportunity was presented! However, I am a huge fan of the Norway pavilion in EPCOT. Does that count?” she laughed.

So what was the opportunity? “I was fortunate to be the ‘tag-along’ on this trip, actually! My partner, Jordan, was attending a conference in Oslo. This was our first time traveling out of the country together, and his first time to Europe, which made for an exciting adventure! We spent a total of 8 days in Norway, plus 2 days dedicated to travel. It’s an interesting process to get to Norway, as there are no direct flights there from the United States.”

Language issues? Closson said, “That turned out to be more challenging than I anticipated, as a handful of the websites I attempted to access were unable to be easily translated into English. Fortunately, there is a Visit Oslo website that helped immensely in finding activities, as well as several YouTube channels.”

They quickly discovered that Norway is one of the most expensive countries in the world. On average, a meal for two with entrees and drinks would cost between $80-$100. Tipping culture is also very different and is not expected, so the price of dining and services reflects that.

And there’s no bad time to visit Norway, “You just experience things differently! Visiting

in the winter opens more opportunities for skiing and winter activities, while summer provides good weather for hiking and waterbased activities. We traveled at the beginning of August, and the average temperature was between 50-70°F throughout the day.”

“As arts enthusiasts, we were disappointed that late July/early August are typically dark months for the performing arts,” she said. “But we were able to tour the Oslo Opera House, an absolute spectacle and simply enormous: over 1,000 rooms. It certainly lived up to the expectations! The architecture is incredibly unique, and the roof has been designed so that you are able to walk on it.”

And there were other wonderful experiences for the couple: “a floating sauna on the Oslofjord! We enjoyed this so much that we booked a second experience for the end of our trip. Most everything else we just stumbled upon! We did a lot of walking and exploring and stopped anywhere that appeared to offer a truer experience, rather than one that was too commercialized. We took time to explore the Nobel Peace Center and National Museum, a short boat trip to view the surrounding islands, visited the Kon-Tiki Museum, and wandered along Karl

Gate and Aker Brygge. It was

not have a rigid agenda to follow.”

Closson said their lodging “was attached to the bus and train terminal, which made for easy travel to and from the airport. And by and large, the food was delightful. We tried to find options that were authentic or offered traditional Norwegian dishes.”

Some of my favorites? Delicious pasta from an Italian restaurant that imports ingredients from Italy, amazing truffle fries, and many tasty sweet treats from street vendors. But she’s also not too proud to admit that she’s eaten at McDonald’s in four countries. “And Norway has sweet potato fries!” she exclaimed.

Happily, Closson’s worry about language barriers was not a problem after all. “Because it’s in Europe there were a lot of duallanguage signage. But, “The biggest surprise is how strict closing time was handled. The minute something closed it closed. It was very apparent that time was valued, and I can appreciate that it was just unexpected, as you don’t typically experience that around here.” a

Johan’s
lovely to

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

Battery and Fire Safety Charge Safely

October 5-11 is Fire Prevention Week, and this year’s theme is “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” It’s the perfect time to highlight some lesser-known fire hazards and share simple ways to stay safe while using the devices we love.

Lithium-ion batteries pack a lot of energy in a little package. They power everything from laptops, phones and smartwatches to e-bikes, power tools and cordless vacuums.

Here are a few tips to charge safely:

• Always use the charging cable that came with your device.

• Charge on a hard surface (not on a bed or couch).

• Don’t overcharge.

• Charge larger items like scooters, e-bikes and power tools outdoors.

Free Battery Recycling in Allen County

ACDEM makes it easy to recycle! Residents can bring up to five pounds of batteries each month at no cost. Just tape the ends with clear tape and drop them off at:

• Do-it Best Hardware

• Batteries Plus

• Tox Tuesday at the Household Hazardous Waste Facility, weekly from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

If fire strikes, get out fast and call 911. Lithium-ion battery fires spread quickly and are tough to put out.

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10/2/25 Allen County Rousseau Center – 1 E. Main St., Fort Wayne

10/4/25 Hog Chapter - LaGrange Legion – 100 Industrial Parkway, LaGrange 10/7/25 LaGrange County - Senior Life Expo – 455 E. Farver St., Shipshewana

10/8/25 MedPro – 5814 Reed Rd., Fort Wayne

10/9/25 Topeka Fire Department – 180 Crossfire Dr., Topeka

10/10/25 The Woman’s Clubhouse – 770 W. Hill St., Wabash

10/13/25 TwoEE’s Winery – 6808 N. U.S. 24 E. Highway, Huntington 10/17/25 Brighton – 4120 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne

10/20/25 PPG - Family Medicine – 1331 Minnich Rd., New Haven

10/21/25 Lafayette Medical Center – 2700 Lafayette St., Fort Wayne

10/22/25 Community Learning Center – 401 Diamond St., Kendallville

10/24/25 Kroger – 601 E. Dupont Rd., Fort Wayne

10/27/25 Adams Township Trustee Office – 1125 Hartzell St., Fort Wayne

10/29/25 PPG - Family Medicine – 8911 Liberty Mills Rd., Fort Wayne

10/30/25 PPG - Electric Works – 1222 Wall St., Fort Wayne

10/31/25 Grabill Family Dentistry – 13307 Witmer Rd., Grabill For an appointment, call 260.483.1847 or

Wellness Starts Where You Live Home as a Haven:

According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, most people spend up to 90% of their time indoors! That is why it is so crucial to create a healthy environment at home for ourselves and our loved ones. Local expert Dr. Christi Wallace explained, “So often ‘healthy’ is referring to the physical, and we often forget the mental component, but it’s all connected. Make sure your environment is calming, safe, and relaxing.”

Healthcare Innovation Specialist & Holistic Wellness Advocate

Melissa McCabe added, “I believe wellness happens when we align our living spaces with our authentic values and divine calling. True home wellness supports not just our bodies, but our purpose in the world.”

What To Add?

Both local experts suggest stocking your fridge and cabinets with healthy rather than processed food. “Try to shop in the outer perimeter of the grocery store or stick to farmers’ markets when in season.” Wallace informed, “Plant a garden! Know where your food is coming from, even if it’s just a small area in pots.”

“Indoor air is often 2-5x more polluted than outdoor air,” McCabe revealed. She suggested adding high-quality air purifiers with HEPA filters, plants that naturally purify air like snake plants or peace lilies, and essential oil diffusers with therapeutic-grade oils. She also recommended a water filtration system to remove chlorine, heavy metals, and other contaminants.

What To Toss?

Both professionals advised getting rid of clutter. “Clutter increases cortisol levels and can contribute to feelings of guilt rather than motivation,” McCabe informed. Wallace added, “If you haven’t used it in a year, donate it!”

McCabe encouraged letting go of toxic products and energy drains. Replace harsh chemical cleaners with vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. Trade synthetic air fresheners and candles for essential oils. Toss personal care products with parabens, sulfates, and other endocrine disruptors. Avoid excessive screens and harmful or fearbased media consumption.

Healthy Habits from Both Experts

1. Designate a separate, comforting space to begin each day with prayer or meditation and gratitude, even for 5 minutes. Open the windows for fresh air circulation and drink water BEFORE coffee to support hydration.

2. Prepare one meal from scratch using whole, unprocessed ingredients. “The cleaner we eat, the better we feel physically and mentally,” Wallace explained.

3. Creating boundaries between work and rest spaces. Take hourly breaks.

4. End the day with prayer and reflection on moments of joy and growth.

5. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. Ensure your bedroom is at a cool temperature, dark, and quiet to promote good sleep habits.

6. Set a cleaning schedule; once a week is sufficient for most tasks at home.

7. Bring in fresh flowers or rearrange natural elements.

8. Invite someone over for a meal or meaningful conversation.

9. Cultivate meaningful relationships. Establishing boundaries with technology to protect family time and connection. Creating family rituals around meals, seasons, or weekly check-ins builds emotional resilience. Give others and yourself grace.

“For the moms out there, make sure to make time to feed your soul and take care of yourself, even for just 15 minutes a day,” Wallace advised.

McCabe said, “Home wellness must be rooted in authentic values and spiritual alignment. Your home should reflect not just what looks good, but what supports your calling.” a

Resources:

Dr. Christi Wallace, viridianhealthdpc.com

Melissa McCabe RN, MHI, HN-BC, Healthcare Innovation Specialist & Holistic Wellness Advocate, melissamccabe4@gmail.com

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.

3 | Friday

First Fridays! On Broadway

Broadway Corridor, Downtown Fort Wayne

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! www.facebook.com/BroadwayArtsDistrictFW

4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25 & 26 | Fridays & Saturdays

Haunted Dugan Mansion

420 W. Monroe St., Decatur

The Adams County Historical Society presents the Haunted Dugan Mansion. Admission is $5 per person. Not suitable for children 5 and under. Times: 7 PM – 10 PM

More info: AdamsCountyMuseum.org

4, 11, 18 & 25 | 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! Throughout October, the market will feature special Fall-theme events. 10/4Pumpkin Hunt; 10/11- Pumpkin Painting; 10/25- Creature Crawl. Time: 9 AM – 1 PM www.ylni.org/ylni-farmers-market

4, 11, 18 & 25 | Saturdays

Summit City Farmers Market

Electric Works, 1620 Broadway, Fort Wayne

The Summit City 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 https://www.facebook.com/summitcityfm

5 | 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: 8 AM – 2 PM (year-round) www.decaturfleamarket.com

9 | Thursday

Settler’s Series: I knew Johnny Appleseed

1424 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne

Linda Buskirk, in character as Sarah Archer Pettit, will give us a first-hand account of what John Chapman was like. Sample apple recipes--some old, some new. Cost: $20

Time: 9 AM – 11:30 AM. Reserve your spot by October 2. Call (260) 432-7314. www.settlersinc.org.

12 | Sunday

Hot Cider Hustle- Half Marathon, 10K & 5K

Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, 4000 Parnell Ave., Fort Wayne

The Hot Cider Hustle is a fun, fall-themed race supporting the United Way of Allen County. Use code UWAC10 for 10% off registration, and a portion of your fee will support United Way of Allen County! hotciderhustle.com/fortwayne

12 – November 23 | Daily

Habitats—Lydia

Maxwell & Julie Wall

Dash-In, 814 Calhoun St., Fort Wayne

Habitats explores the playfulness, beauty, and complexities of North American ecosystems, through a diverse range of mediums including paintings, prints, paper mache, and curiosities. Opening Exhibition: Thursday, October 16th, 6PM9PM

Last Glance: Thursday, November 20th, 6PM-9PM. 10% of all sales on the opening and last glance events will be donated to the Little River Wetlands Project.

18 | Saturday

BAE Systems Fall Market Day

4250 Airport Expressway, Fort Wayne Indoor Shopping with vendors selling handmade items, unique gifts, baked goods and much more! Food & drinks available. Time: 9 AM – 2 PM. Free Admission.

18 | Saturday

Fright Night Lantern Tours

The Old Fort, 1201 Spy Run Ave., Fort Wayne Tour the Old Fort at night! You will be guided by a historic interpreter who will present the Old Fort as it was in the early 1800s. Purchase a sweet treat from the bake sale and enjoy stories by the fire while you wait. Admission is $5.00. 9 and under free when accompanied by an adult. Ticket sales begin at 5:30 p.m. No tickets are sold after 9:00 p.m. facebook.com/HistoricFortWayne

21 | Tuesday

People of the Book Lecture featuring Mitch Albom

Auer Performance Hall on the PFW Campus, 2101 E. Coliseum Blvd., Fort Wayne

The Jewish Federation of Fort Wayne will host New York Times bestselling author Mitch Albom for the annual People of the Book lecture at 7:30 PM. Mitch Albom is an internationally renowned and bestselling author, journalist, screenwriter, playwright, radio and television broadcaster, and musician. The program is free, but everyone must have a ticket. For free tickets, visit pfw.edu/tickets and select Jewish Federation of Fort Wayne. a

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