Glo - October 2022

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“Celebrate Family”

ISSUE

Fashion: Focus on Roanoke

COMMUNITY FOCUS

She glo

He

Colleen Phillips

Tony GiaQuinta

Girl : Taryn Martin

FEATURES

Feature Focus: Adoption Stories

Feature Focus: DNA Discoveries

On Her NIghtstand: Megan Ryan

Motherhood: Lives Redeemed at

We Love Your Style: Annie

Rethinking

From the executive editor

It’s officially fall, glo readers! Welcome to the season of bonfires, apple picking, pumpkin carving, hayrides, and more!

Each year I go on and on about how much I love this season, especially this month’s holiday, Halloween. I will spare you the gushy sentiments this year, but the reason I love fall and all its activities so much, is they are all things I enjoy with my family. This issue we are celebrating family, and it is full of content centered on that theme. From Adoption Stories and Family Reunification to DNA testing discoveries and turning your house into a home, our features are sure to tug on your heartstrings.

And while I didn’t list ALL the things I love about October, I’d love to hear what YOU are most looking forward to this month. You can email me at ambouthot@the-papers.com and I will share them in our next issue. As always, our To Do List on page 40 highlights some fun events and activities throughout the region to help you make the most of autumn.

We are also seeking input from our readers for our November issue. What are YOU thankful for? If you’d like to be included in the fea ture story, email me a short blurb, along with where you are from, and a photo.

We hope you enjoy this busy season and have a chance to pause and appreciate your family—whether the one you were born into or the one you choose.

Amber Bouthot

ambouthot@the-papers.com

athe Cover

Title of piece: Her Riddle

What inspired this piece?

I was trying to display my restlessness in the decisions I was trying to make. The world was “shut down”/social distancing, but I had a business and family to take care of. While the colors are beautiful alone, the meshing and intermingling of the irregular shapes creates a haze of gray if you look closely. That gray is where I was surrounded by chaos. I was new to painting at that time and being able to express this plethora of emotions was an outlet for me.

Where do you find inspiration for your art in general?

Most of my art comes from my emotions. Of course, I also draw inspiration from the beauty of nature. I am a very spiritual person, and I like to try to “paint feel ings” or create what I think may be on just the other side of this reality.

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

cover artist: Kelly Ulman

Hometown: Decatur, IN

Your preferred medium:

I prefer to work with acrylics and different types of texture paste. I create a sculptural base with my paste before I apply any color. For most of my works, I don’t even use a paint brush...usually a recycled rag, palette knife and/or my fingers!

When did you start creating art?

For the last 25 years, I have been creating what I like to call mini masterpieces in the mouths of my dental patients! I am a general dentist, and I blush when I tell you that it was out of frugality that I began creating “real” art for display. My office had undergone a ren ovation and we had empty wall space. I wanted to have a modern feel and did not want to buy mass produced art, so I tried making some pieces myself. Lo and behold, they were not too bad! After I finished my office, I did not want to stop, as I realized that paint ing took me to another place. It allowed me to relax my mind and express emotions that I could not express any other way.

What advice do you have for other artists starting out?

It is ok to not be liked and understood by all, and to not compare your work to the work of others. “Good art” is in the eye of the beholder. Just keep doing your art for yourself, and do not be afraid to put yourself out there.

Where can we find your work?

Some of my work has been on display at The Hive Gallery and Decatur Dental Services, both in Decatur, Indiana, as well as Gallery K in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

I can also be found on: Instagram: @abstractbyksu

Facebook Abstract by KSU Website: kellyulman.com

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

executive editor + publications manager

Amber Bouthot | ambouthot@the-papers.com editor-in-chief

Deb Patterson | dpatterson@the-papers.com director of marketing

Steve Meadows | smeadows@the-papers.com account executives

Melinda Musselman | mmusselman@the-papers.com

Rebecca Boone | rboone@the-papers.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 responsi bility 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 $45 for 12 issues; $77 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 © 2022

Lynn Blanchard | Lblanchard@the-papers.com business manager

Annette Weaver | aweaver@the-papers.com

Connect with us on social media Facebook facebook.com/glofortwayne

director of circulation

Jerry Long | jlong@the-papers.com graphic designers

Maymie Ankrom, Mary Lester

marketing assistants

Darlene Eichelberger, Taelynne Ousley photographers

Leaha Meinika, Rachael Smith

contributing writers

Stacie Ball, Ray Balogh, Bethany Beebe, Mary Jane Bogle, Lauren Caggiano, Lindsey Coleman, Deborah C. Gerbers, Jennie Renner, Cathy Shouse, Wendy Stein, Julie Young

Twitter twitter.com/glofortwayne Instagram instagram.com/glofortwayne

Focus on

Roanoke

By Stacie Ball | Photos provided

Nestled between Fort Wayne and Huntington is a shopper’s delight: Downtown Roanoke. This eclectic cluster on Main Street is one of a kind, packing many small businesses into just a few blocks. Alyssa Alaimo of Discover Roanoke said, “In addition to boutique shopping, you can also enjoy art galleries, creative studios, day spas and salons, yoga, exceptional dining and drinks, and so much more!”

Boutiques

You will not be disappointed with the variety of delight ful colors and styles presented by the boutiques. Ritual by michelle marie will take your breath away with its upscale European clothing, shoes, and accessories. Flyin’ Needle Embroidery & Peekaboo Lane is a must-see for adorable baby clothing and gifts. All the clothing shops are unique and worth a visit.

“We have something for everyone,” Gayle Huth explained, including her Peony & Rose Boutique. Huth and her co-owner, Stacey Wojtanik, do a lot of research on the trending styles for various body types before choosing the clothing or jewelry they sell. The retired teacher is proud to offer quality products at reasonable prices in sizes extra small through 3XL. She is committed to stocking the boutique with apparel to make people feel good about themselves.

Huth and Wojtanik are excited to share their new expansion for girls. “Lilies and Lilacs opened mid-July,” Huth said of her tweenage dream boutique down the hall. It displays cute dresses and outfits for girls sized 2T-14. From boho chic to glitzy and unique, there are outfits for under $50 to delight both mother and daughter. Both boutiques are proud to dress females from age 2 to 102 plus!

Refreshments

Whether you’re craving a mid-shopping snack, drink, or meal, Downtown Roanoke has got you covered! Grab a casual lunch at Moose and Mollie’s Café & Gelato, a pizza at The Patio, or experience fine dining at the awardwinning Joseph Decuis. One of the newest places to wet your whistle is Ra Juice. They offer many combinations of fresh fruit and vegetable juice for different purposes, such as heart health, weight loss, detox, and more. All beverages are gluten, dairy, nut, and powder-free. They even offer a juice cleanse.

DIY

Many Roanoke shops offer classes to help you dress up your space with the latest trends. Saving Grace Vintage offers painting classes for furniture,

Board and Brush will lead you step-by-step to create signs and decorations, and Lynnlee’s Flower & Design offers instruction in gorgeous glass art and other crafts. This season, they are teaching how to make an elegant succu lent pumpkin centerpiece and a festive fall wreath.

Events

If you’ve been looking for an excuse to visit Roanoke, the perfect opportunity is A Renaissance in Roanoke, on Saturday, October 8th. Alaimo described, “It’s the 15th Annual Juried Art Show and Handcrafted Marketplace in beautiful downtown Roanoke. Join us for a Plein Air painting competition, live enter tainment, children’s activities, a food court, and charming shops and restau rants. There’s something for everyone!”

For the Home

The Barn

Revive Decor and Consignment

Saving Grace Vintage Antiques from Bruce Chaney

Paper Moon

The Creamery

Clothing

Ella Chic Boutique

Grit & Gallop

Flyin’Needle Embroidery & Peekaboo Lane

Paper Moon

Peony & Rose Boutique

Ritual by michelle marie

Saving Grace Vintage Bu·tík

Magnolia + Moss Mercantile

Food and drink

A Spoonful of Sugar

Jebi’s Ice Cream Shoppe

Joseph Decuis

Joseph Decuis Emporium

Moose and Mollie’s Café & Gelato

Proper Pastry

Roanoke Village Inn

Rolling Pin Bakehouse

The Copper Still

The Parker Grace Tea Room

The Patio Pizza and BBQ

Two-EE’s Winery

Art Galleries & Studios

Board and Brush Creative Studio

Coydog Studios

Crestwoods Frame Shop and Gallery

French-Deal Fine Art

Katharos Art & Gift

Tree of Life Art Gallery

For more information on small businesses and events, visit discoverroanoke.org. a

month of October

Peony & Rose Boutique

Peony & Rose Boutique Ritual by michelle marie

Peekaboo Lane

What you need to know about

BREAST CANCER

By Julie Young

Although breast cancer remains one of the two most common types of cancer in the world, and the fifth-leading cause of cancerrelated deaths annually, there is plenty of reason to hope. Ongoing research has yielded several developments in both the detection and treatment of breast cancer that will improve the lives of women (and men!) for years to come. In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month, we checked in with local experts to find out what readers need to know about self-exams, screening, early detection, and treatment.

Denise Glasser, BS, CSC, client advocate and AASECT certified sexuality counselor with Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana, says October is a great time to think about breast health because early detection is so important when it comes to breast cancer.

“People need to do a monthly self-exam and get a yearly mammogram, but people don’t always know how to do a self-check,” she said. “That’s why it is important to talk to your doctor, ask them to show you how to do it, and then do it while they watch you to make sure you are doing it right.”

It’s also important to visually inspect your breasts for any changes, dimples, puckers, bulges, rashes, sore spots, or bloody nipple discharge, and report any unusual findings to your physi cian so that he or she can guide your next steps.

Dr. Thomas Lorenc, with Women’s Specialty Care (part of the Axia Women’s Health Network), says many women come into his office with breast pain and assume that it is cancer. However, breast cancer is rarely painful in its early stages.

“We are currently recommending that women practice breast self-awareness and should notify their healthcare provider if they notice any significant change in their breasts,” he said. “Asymptomatic average risk women may be offered screening at their annual exam with intervals of every one-to-three years for women ages 25 to 35, and annually for women 40 years or older.”

Lorenc says early detection of breast cancer is hugely important, and the medical community has seen breast cancer mortality rates decrease substantially over the past 50 years thanks to that improved surveillance. At the present time, the five-year survival rate is 90 percent compared to 1975 when the five-year survival rate was only 75 percent. A mammogram will detect breast

AN UPDATE FROM LOCAL EXPERTS

cancer two years before it can be felt, and this head start can make a world of difference when it comes to fighting the disease and making a full recovery.

“Women can be proactive with their breast health by seeing their provider on a regular basis for clinical breast examination, getting the recommended screening mammograms, and encouraging others to do the same,” he said.

Glasser agrees and says that women need to get comfortable having frank conversations with their doctor and to use their appointment time to overshare their concerns.

“Most importantly, I want people to know that if they do need help or if a friend or loved one is diagnosed with cancer, they should reach out to Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana. We are here to help,” she said. a

Resources:

Axia Women’s Health, Fort Wayne, 260.432.4400, axiawh.com

Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana, Fort Wayne, 260.484.9572, cancer-services.org

s he gl o ws

By Stacie Ball | Photo by Leaha Meinika

Colleen Phillips was born and raised in Fort Wayne. She’s a high school music teacher and Arts Director with Believe in a Dream, and through both roles, she empowers young musicians by passing on her passion for performing arts.

“My motivation has always been for students to have a wonderful time playing their instrument,” she explained. “I am so blessed to have amazing educators influencing my entire path, and I strive to make them proud and continue their legacies.”

At the tender age of three, Phillips knew she had a passion for strings. After watching her school-aged sister play the violin, she insisted on learning too. Her mom scheduled violin lessons pri vately and through the Suzuki program. By middle school, she joined All City Orchestra, All City Choir, and Fort Wayne Children’s Choir. In high school, she made Charisma, Northrop’s show choir, and took the marching band by storm.

“Having the trifecta of choir, band, AND orchestra my sophomore year taught me that music could not be a hobby and had to be my life,” Phillips explained. She wanted to be a band and orches tra teacher who guaranteed string players knew they could rock out. After graduating from Ball State University with a degree in music education, she landed her dream job teaching at Northrop High School.

In 2010, Phillips realized the only thriving string programs in and around the Fort Wayne area were the Suzuki program for young children and the professional symphony with the Fort Wayne Philharmonic. Jamal Robinson, the founder of a nonprofit orga nization called Believe in a Dream (BIAD), asked her how to make the best impact in the arts. She immediately voiced the need for Strings at the student level.

Hoping to raise money and awareness for string programs and create a strong community of string players, they presented the first BIAD “Exploration of Music through Orchestra” concert in May 2011. The event brought together 80 string players from Snider and Northrop high school’s full orchestras. By 2019, the event grew to over 500 string players performing together.

In 2020, musical performances were cancelled to reduce the spread of Covid. Knowing strings were relatively safe because students could rehearse masked and spaced out, Phillips created a program called String Jams.

“I wanted to start an alternative string ensemble for students to work on rock, hip-hop, and jazz-styled string music, and this was the perfect opportunity! I am so excited about the programs and experiences that we’ve been able to create for students,” Phillips beamed. “I watch these students become more confident and leaders among the jam.”

Phillips lives in Fort Wayne with her husband and their first-grade daughter, Evelyn. When not teaching, you might find her reading, shooting photos, or enjoying local events with lifelong friends. Watch her performing in a bluegrass band called Jen and the Foggy Creek or jamming in the praise band at Headwaters Church. If you’re lucky, you could even catch a glimpse of her bowing in the Manchester Symphony Orchestra. a

DR. TONY GIAQUINTA

By Jennie Renner | Photo by Rachael Smith

Dr. Tony GiaQuinta, or “Dr. G.” as his patients call him, is a pedia trician with Parkview Physicians Group. He has been practicing medicine in Fort Wayne for about five years and is a member of the board of the Indiana Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, where he previously served as president and enjoyed being a voice for children at the state level.

The GiaQuinta name has been ubiquitous in northeast Indiana since the late 1970s. His father, Mark, was on the Fort Wayne City Council for 16 years; his grandfather, Ben, was a state rep resentative for over 20 years; and his uncle, Phil, has been the State Representative of the 80th House District since 2006.

Although he didn’t follow the political career path of others in his family, GiaQuinta said he was influenced by watching them serve in government.

“All (my emphasis on) community really comes from their love of the city and their commitment to making this city in north east Indiana a better place for everyone,” he said.

GiaQuinta met his wife, Sarah, who is from Berne, while they were both studying at the Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis. They went on to do their residencies at Vanderbilt, and after living in Nashville, Tennessee, for a few years, decided to come back home to northeast Indiana. He and Sarah live with their two children, Henry, who’s nine, and Margaret, who’s seven, near Foster Park in Fort Wayne.

Living down the street from where he grew up, GiaQuinta enjoys watching his children play on the same baseball field that he played on as a child. And he has been coaching his chil dren’s Little League teams for the past two years.

GiaQuinta said his experience as a dad has helped make him a better pediatrician. He is inspired by the challenges that so many parents face — especially single parents. He said he has a lot of single moms coming into his practice and can feel their fatigue.

“A lot of my day is spent talking to these moms, just letting them have ten minutes to reflect on what an amazing parent they are,” said GiaQuinta. “Some of my favorite questions are, ‘What is your child’s superpower?’ or ‘What is it that you’re lov ing most as a parent?’ I really want to try to flip that script, so that they walk away feeling like they are the awesome parent that they are.”

GiaQuinta believes wholeheartedly that raising healthy, welldeveloped children is important to the future of our community. “We know from all of the data and studies and statistics that the one variable that determines if a child is going to be successful, is a loving and supportive adult in their lives,” he said. This is something that GiaQuinta often reflects on as children and their caregivers come into his practice. He emphasizes the role that the parents play and does his best to lift them up.

“Sometimes I tell parents: At the end of the day, if you can look back and say ‘my child has been fed and my child has been loved,’ then you get an A-plus, goldstar. Go to bed feeling good and do it again tomorrow,” he said. a

• Shop over 100 upscale local stores, artisans, specialty boutiques, and food vendors.

• Unique gifts, décor, apparel, toys, and more seasonal treasures.

• Where friends gather to shop local.

“It’s satisfying to give back to the community that gave me so much. And I just really embrace that every day.”

By Bethany Beebe | Photo provided

Fort Wayne native Taryn Martin is continuing her track record of helping others while trying some firsts of her own. With the goal of eventually studying veterinary medicine, the Bishop Dwenger graduate and current first year student at the University of Findlay, aims to continue serving the community with at least one program she was involved with during her noteworthy high school career.

While serving as her class vice president, Taryn learned about a grow ing leadership development program, Pave the Path. Founder and current program director Jeff Roberts said he wanted young adults to have the chance to truly find themselves and offer a venue to share that inner-found good. “This,” he said, “...helps them find avenues in life to pursue a passion. When you don’t know who you are, it is dif ficult to lead.”

In the past five years, Roberts said more than 650 students have enjoyed the year-long program, with 54% returning for a second year to act as student mentors.

An annual summit gives participants the chance to network with other students in the area, all learning the keys to branding and selling their ideas. The mentoring program extends through the year with smallgroup meetings and contact from notable area leaders. Some of those ideas for helping others are granted financing. In Taryn’s case, a $500 Young Visionaries Fellowship award recognized her pet project Girls Who Code.

Coding is writing in the language understood by computers to per form operations. Martin hopes middle school girls will learn the skill and take it with them as they look into the future. “This is a program,” she said, “where middle school girls can be introduced to computer science and programming before they reach high school. This will help the number of graduating females in computer science rise in college.”

Pave the Path’s summer 2021 Youth Leadership Conference was the medium to grow her idea. Continuing work with the organization, she became a student mentor in December 2021 and returned for this past summer’s Youth Leadership Summit as a student mentor. She also had the opportunity to speak at the Believe in a Dream Donor Recognition Event where she spoke about Young Visionaries and Pave the Path.

Believe in a Dream is the parent organization for Pave the Path, find ing donors, sponsors, and writing grants. To date, 13 area high schools have been represented and four New York City high schools came to the annual conference. Plans include scaling Pave the Path for any community nationwide, and in 2023 or 2024, taking the program to New York City.

Martin said that after her education is complete, she aims to impact the lives of others for the good. “I saw for myself how much this pro gram changed my life, and I would love to impact other teenager’s lives the way Jeff impacted mine,” she said. a

Budget-Boosting Meal Ideas

Born in my heart

Local families share their adoption stories

By Julie Young | Photos provided

After years of unsuccessful attempts to have a family, as well as a devastating miscarriage, Lauren and Andrew Lamping were convinced they would never be parents. Then they consid ered adoption. They talked to couples who had adopted, as well as the adoptees themselves, sought counsel from their priest, and met with several agencies before finally selecting one in August 2021.

Then the real work began.

“The process is tedious,” Andrew said, describ ing the research, e-mails, phone calls, and paperwork involved, not to mention building their online profile, hiring an attorney, and being scrutinized for suitability across multiple states. However, it was all worth it when in February 2022, they received the phone call they had been waiting for.

“We have a birth mother who is interested in learning more about you and Andrew,” the agency representative said.

After meeting the birth mother by phone, the Lampings were officially chosen to be the adoptive parents of a baby girl they named Kennedy Josephine. Lauren and Andrew were present at the hospital when she was born and were able to bond immediately after she was delivered. They describe their arrangement as a semi-private adoption, and Lauren says they will always be grateful to the woman who helped them become “Mom” and “Dad.” They would certainly consider adoption again.

“She blessed us with a child that I could not (and) I look forward to the day we will meet again. She’s such a great person, and we genu inely have so much love for her in our hearts,” Lauren said.

Unexplained infertility plagued Jessica Glassburn, who longed to add a child to her family, which included her husband Chad and 12-year-old stepson, Noah. After doing some artificial/assisted fertility procedures, they were

Andrew and Lauren Lamping with their daughter, Kennedy Josephine

in the process of deciding what their next steps would be when they got the opportunity to adopt an infant.

“A friend contacted me and said she knew a woman going into labor, and she heard about me and my husband and wanted to give us the baby,” Jessica recalled. “We hurried to Lutheran Hospital because she wanted me to be there for the birth.”

Jessica met her son’s birth mother, stayed with her as she labored and delivered, and was the first person to hold Breck after he was born. She and Chad gave him his first bottle and stayed in the hospital until Breck was discharged 48 hours later. Technically, the adoption is open, and while she does send regular updates to Breck’s birth mom, contact has been spotty over the years. However, Breck does know that he was adopt ed, and Jessica shares whatever information she has about the family with her son so that he knows who he is and where he came from.

Today, Jessica is pregnant with an adopted embryo from a couple whose own family is complete but who had more embryos than they could use. Once again, they have chosen to have an open arrangement with the fam ily who they talk to once a week and who often send pictures of their boys saying “hi” to their soon-to-be-born “baby sister.”

“I think if adults are committed to openness, it can only lead to a better life for the child with more folks to love them,” she said.

Andrew said for those considering adoption, be super honest with every one around you and be willing to ask the tough questions — even if they seem politically incorrect.

“Make sure you work with an agency who is there to support you as well as the birth mom,” he said. “The whole process is a lot, and it can be over whelming. We knew we wanted a family; we just never knew our journey would take us in this direction.” a

Wabash Cannonball Chili for Charity

351 West Market Street, Wabash

The Chili Cook off is the largest cook off on this side of the Mississippi River and is held at the beautiful Paradise Springs

Historical Park every year Nothing is more fall than sampling 100s of chilis around campfires Hop on down to the park on October 15th from 12 PM to 4 PM and vote for your favorites

JoJo’s Olfactory & Co.

260 330 8883

36 West Canal Street, Wabash

JoJo’s is a local candle and fragrance bar Start the custom candle process by choosing a cute fall themed container, select your favorite fall scent(s) from a wall of premium scents that are added to high quality soy wax with cotton wicks In addition to candles, fragrances can be added to lotions, car diffusers, and reed diffusers for your home.

David Doud’s Country Line Orchard

765 833 6122

7877 West 400 North, Wabash

David Doud’s Orchard is a family owned and operated orchard that features over 30 varieties of apples in the fall Just think of all the yummy fall recipes to be made with the apples They also have asian pears, apple cider and apple butter

The Pumpkin Post

260 578 8132

4582 West State Road 114, North Manchester

The Pumpkin Post is more than just a u pick pumpkin patch, they are your fall headquarters for all things fall decorating

While you shop you can munch on some Amish fried pies, apple dumplings, caramel apples and wash them down with apple cider slushies

Photo by Kate McCord

Photo by Kate McCord

Chad and Jessica Glassburn, with their son Breck.

Local familiesshare their DNA discoveries

By Lauren Caggiano | Photos provided

Family can be biological or chosen. Either way, sometimes there can be surprises that call into question what you’ve known to be true for a long time. That’s the case for five northeast Indiana residents whose discoveries changed their relationships and their lives.

It was another day on the job for Kristen Guthrie, Visit Fort Wayne’s Director of Marketing, when she came across some information that chal lenged long-held assumptions.

“My family research started because of the Genealogy Center here in Fort Wayne,” she said.

“It’s the nation’s second-largest public genealogy center. And we promote and market it here at Visit Fort Wayne as a reason people should come to Fort Wayne every day. There are people there at the genealogy center from all around the world who are researching their family histories. And so, I wanted to go through that experience so that I could better promote it.”

Guthrie did just that and at the same time her father’s DNA results came back and they didn’t match what Guthrie had found in her research at the Genealogy Center. The man who raised her father, Larry Kubovchick, was not his biological father. Guthrie returned to the library with this new information, and the librarians were able to put some puzzle pieces together.

“My dad has twin sisters, and we found out all this information in a matter of minutes,” she said. “We were able to find a phone number for a cousin of my dad’s, and so I called the cousin and talked to her on the phone. And she said, ‘I will call the twin sisters, and I’ll let you know if they’re interested in talking to your dad.’”

Turns out they were receptive to the idea, and Kubovchick was able to connect with these rela tives for the first time. In the process, he began to look at his childhood through a different lens.

“Looking back, I could see where there were a lot of signs (that he wasn’t my father),” he said. “But

as a kid, you don’t question. The man who raised me was kind to me. He provided for me, but he was not affectionate. He didn’t get involved in my life. And I just thought that’s the way he is. But maybe he was that way because I wasn’t really his son.”

In hindsight, Kubovchick said it’s less about a scandal and more about the norms of the time. His stepdad married his mother when she was pregnant with him.

“So when I was born, they just put his name on the birth certificate,” he said. “So I was never adopted — it’s just that my paternity was mis represented.”

In hindsight, Kubovchick said that his parents and anyone who knew the truth are no longer alive. So, to some extent, the findings are less painful than they could be.

“I still feel grateful for the life I had,” he said.

Lea Smith also owes a surprising discovery to a DNA test. Growing up, she thought she was told she was a first-generation German American but wanted to validate the anecdotes with scientific evi dence. A coworker suggested she take a DNA test, and upon getting the results she came across DNA matches. That’s when life changed dramatically. It was a woman with a unique name, not of European descent.

“I knew my father had served in Vietnam,” she said. “And my brain started spinning. I remember him telling me that he had two children there — and a lady called his wife.”

This reality contrasted with what she was told: that these women had died in a bombing. Still, Smith was open to the idea of exploring this potential genetic match.

“We started messaging each other, and she knew my dad’s name and that he was from Indiana,” she said. “She knew about my older siblings from his first wife and where they were born, or where he was based at the time. Plus, we had a DNA match. So we started talking a little bit more, and come to find out the village was bombed. But what my father didn’t know was that they didn’t die at that time.”

One sister emigrated to the United States in 1991 and the other still lives in Vietnam. Their father is deceased, which adds another layer of emotion to the story. Speaking of feelings, Smith said she was upset at first that she didn’t know about her halfsisters when her father was alive, but she came to terms with the fact that he didn’t have this infor mation either. However, their shared familial ties brought the once separated sisters together.

Lea Smith and Siblings

Lea Smith family

“Her husband and her daughter came to Fort Wayne, probably within six to nine months of us connecting, because it was really important to her to see his gravesite,” Smith said about the American sister. “We spent time together,and that’s when I found out that they had moved or left. And (our father) wasn’t lying. So I actually felt blessed to have more siblings.”

Connie Hansen found herself in a similar situation. She found out she has two more sisters in California from her father. In retrospect, Hansen said the news wasn’t a huge shock, given her father’s tendencies. But overall, the discovery has been a pleasant experience. Hansen connect ed with one of the sisters, Carla, and the other has kept her distance from the family.

“I’m happy to have another sister,” she said. “There were five of us growing up. So now we know there are seven, and possibly more. Who knows?”

Hansen said she and Carla are making up for lost time, on the phone, via text, and over Zoom. However, she also acknowledges that such findings can be hard for some people to process. With that in mind, she offers the following advice: “You must go into this with an open mind, and you certainly cannot fault a sibling. I mean, who asked to be born? So, I would just say that if you do have a problem with (the truth), then get some professional help.”

Like Hansen, Kathy’s life changed when she made a painful discovery through 23andMe. The man she knew as her biological father was not related. It turns out that her real father had no idea she existed, and he too felt betrayed by Kathy’s mother. She learned all of this when she reconnected with him in October 2020. Kathy described the call as awk ward, but it was something she needed to do for her mental health.

“He was very kind,” she said. “My now stepmom was also on that call, and I got to talk to her a little bit. Everybody was very welcoming and very open. We talked about a lot of stuff and how he wished that he would have known because he had no idea.”

Years later, the discovery still weighs heavily on her and affects her fam ily dynamics. Yet, it’s also helped her come to an important conclusion.

“I have learned to pick and choose my family; the ones that are sup portive and loving and caring,” she said. “And those are the people that I hold onto, and the negative people that want to tear you down and step on you are the ones that I removed from my life. So it’s been one of the hardest, but best things that’s ever happened to me.” a

Maureen Scanlon Nuzzi, Larry Kubovchick, Paula Scanlon Cichowicz

By Wendy Stein

On Her Nightstand

What are you currently reading?

“Braiding Sweetgrass” by Robin Wall Kimmerer (she was supposed to come to Fort Wayne this summer through an ACRES sponsored event, but it was, sadly, cancelled). Kimmerer is a member of the Potawatomi Nation, as well as a scientist and decorated professor.

I am blown away with the beauty with which she has written this book. It is touching, scientific, gentle, strong, and soul giving. This is a book that follows the outline/timeline of sweetgrass: Planting Sweetgrass, Tending Sweetgrass, Picking Sweetgrass, Braiding Sweetgrass, Burning Sweetgrass. Kimmerer weaves a gorgeous account of raising her children, while sowing deep respect for mother earth and Indigenous people’s traditions, as well as imbed ding scientific information regarding the plants she writes about.

This has been a slow and intentional read for me. It often provides me with a deep reflection, a smile about a plant she discusses that I’ve grown, or a few tears for simple things in nature which we take for granted. Every time I put it down, I leave with my emotions invig orated and a strong desire to put my hands in dirt and check on my plants. There have been many pages that I have read and re-read due to their immensity or sheer beauty.

Let’s play a lightning round!

What’s a classic you started but never finished?

Megan Ryan has earned her master’s degree in education from the University of Saint Francis and orchestrates the summer pol linator education programs for children, adults, and seniors for Southwest Honey Co. During the school year, she is the Special Education Teacher at Indiana Gateway Digital Academy. She has been recognized for her efforts in the community and volunteer ing abroad.

“Catcher in the Rye” (finished it, but did not enjoy it)

What was your favorite book as a child?

“Whisper from the Woods” and “Where the Wild Things Are”

What’s a book you like to give as a gift?

“The Tale of Despereaux” or “The Mysteries of Harris Burdick”

Who is your favorite author?

Roald Dahl

What’s your favorite genre?

Young Adult

What fictional land would you like to visit?

Outlander a

Families Reunited

Lives Redeemed at Redemption House

By Lindsey Coleman | Photos provided

Redemption House is a faith-based, court-ordered residency program that offers an opportunity for true change for women: the chance to be in a place where past mistakes do not have to be part of their future, and where mothers and grandmothers can be drawn closer to their children.

This program serves 32 women at a time between its two houses, and it is continuing to expand its graduate housing, where alumni can exit back into the “real world” with gentle support until they’re ready for the next step in their journey.

The leader of this charge is Redemption House’s executive director Tomi Cardin. Once she determined God was calling her to work with this popula tion, Cardin worked hard to become a prison chaplain. She solidified her reputation in the community and was asked to take over a similar organiza tion, Wings of Hope, in 2012. However, after assessing the program as it

stood, she realized it needed an overhau l— and thus, Redemption House was born.

“I had never run a transition house before, so I had to figure out what I was doing. It was a decision every day to do what God called me to do. It’s chal lenging, but also invigorating. We’re given the opportunity to focus on the core of every woman here,” Cardin said.

“Being a part of the lives of women who come through our program is as honor,” she said. “We get to see them graduate after watching them come in at an ugly, heartbreaking spot, and graduate sometimes even glowing. We’re so grateful they get to be celebrated in an environment where God can work in their lives. We’re not responsible for the true change that takes place in these lives, but we’re honored to play a part.”

Since 2012, over 200 women have graduated from this six-month program, with over 90 percent being mothers. For many residents, a large piece of their goal is to be the mother they desire to be. Throughout the program, they learn skills to help them not only be better mothers, but also to ensure

they maintain their recovery, so they can be present in the lives of their chil dren and grandchildren.

Cardin’s daughter, Markia Cardin, grew up serving alongside her mother at Redemption House, and is now on staff and going to college as the next step in her journey to hopefully help facilitate the program in the future.

“Redemption House is the most amazing thing that could ever have hap pened for me and my mom,” she said. “To see [my mom] do what God intend ed really taught me to do what you’re passionate about. I’m a helper at heart, and as long as I’m doing that and God’s in the mix, I’m content.”

Once the mission of the program impacts you, it’s hard to resist partnering with the organization to help women redeem their lives. Echo Smith is a graduate of the program who currently lives in one of the graduate houses and now serves on staff as the Donation Coordinator.

Smith came into the program as an addict, with two teenage children and a desire to change.

“As soon as I got arrested, I was kind of relieved,” she said. “I got sick of run ning and living so rough. The cop who picked me up told me, ‘You don’t have to live like this.’ Her saying that really started the most beautiful process. I received what she was saying so well. After a short time at Park Center, I applied to come to the halfway house here. I knew I needed the strictest program and Redemption House was that.”

Smith learned a lot about herself during her time in the program, and even more about being a mother — she learned that being a mother sometimes means putting yourself first, and establishing boundaries between yourself and those that may trigger you - even your children — so that you can be the best version of yourself in the future.

“Moms always want to nurture, but sometimes, there may be more longev ity to your relationship if you establish boundaries. We can plant seeds, but the only one whose journey we can control is our own,” Smith said. “Tomi and Markia are great. I don’t think I could be clean or a decent mother and grandma without them reminding me of what it was all for. Amongst all

the crazy stuff, there have been truly beautiful things. I’ve gotten to meet so many people open to receiving any kind of love, and I’m so happy I get to be a part of that [at Redemption House.]”

Redemption House is hosting its Butterfly Gala, an event celebrating trans formation and sharing stories from and by women whose lives have been redeemed because of this organization on April 13, 2022, at the Grand Wayne Center — all are welcome to attend.

Donations of any sort, including clothing, furniture and household items can be donated to Redemption House at any time by emailing Smith at echo@redemptionhousefw.org. a

We Love Your Style ANNIE HENRY

FEATURE

By Amber Bouthot

Each month, we highlight someone whose style we admire.

If you know someone we should consider featuring, email ambouthot@the-papers.com.

This month, it’s Annie Henry. At heart, she’s a writer with a love for design. She went to school to be a writer, then ended up in the PR industry in Chicago. That led to a career in real estate, where she got to see all kinds of amazing Chicago condos and homes. She would mentally take notes of everything she saw that she loved. Her now husband, Pete, then decided to move to New Orleans for school, and she moved there too for a year or so. That’s when her love of old and imperfect really took off. There is nowhere quite like New Orleans when it comes to per sonality, art, and design.

Today, she’s an owner of Idlehour Boutique in down town Fort Wayne. It has been open since 2015, so they’ll celebrate their 7th anniversary this year. She can hardly believe it. They’re always evolving and changing, and you can expect more of that in the future. She and her hus band just celebrated their 18th wedding anniversary. They have two kids: son Finn, age 12; and daughter Arden, age 10. They also have a 3-year-old black lab mix, Jones, that they rescued during the pandemic and their newest addi tion, a 6-month-old French Bulldog named Bodhi.

How would you describe your style?

I’d describe my style as “I know it when I see it.” It’s really a bunch of inspira tions from places I’ve loved or traveled to, and things that I find to be interest ing or meaningful. I like color, I like bold, but sometimes I like calm too. I find beauty in entropy, or decay, or things that are old.

I always have some element of that in my house, which at times we jokingly refer to as Grey Gardens. I’m not interested in buying a matching set of anything from a big box store. I’ve lived in my house for 10 years, and I still consider it a work in progress.

Tell us a little about each of the areas you chose to highlight. Why did you choose them? What makes them your faves?

I chose our living room because it has quite a few of our eclectic items: on the mantle are two glass windows that were salvaged from an old warehouse that was being torn down in Chicago. Next to that is my hus band’s surfboard; not your typical living room decor but I love that it’s unique. He surfed in

Australia during a year abroad and then in Chicago in a wetsuit in the winter when storms would come through. I also love all the casement windows that are on 3 sides of the room — it’s so bright and airy.

Our dining room — I love this space because it has some of my plant collec tion in a sunny south-facing window. I’m always rotating and updating it. When we bought the house, we got into a spat with the former owners about the din ing room chandelier; we wanted it, they took it. So, we bought a huge turquoise sphere that’s reminiscent of a disco ball that was more “us.” I painted the ceiling an inky blue black for drama when we moved in. It makes the room feel dark in the evening, so we added what my kids call the “circus lights” overhead. Who says string lights must be outside?

My patio —I love, love, love the outdoor spaces at our house! We have an old wooden pergola (see — decay) that’s covered in moss and vines, and I just love it and will keep it until it literally rots away. We added some curtains to it and a small seating area with a solar light fixture underneath. The patio lounges are where I love to read and relax when it’s warm out. We also have a flagstone patio with a short, ancient brick wall surrounding it — again, the wall is crumbling in spots, but I love it for its character.

Powder room — Here’s where I let my love of color play out! Pink wallpaper and a thrifted mirror that I painted emerald green.

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

Fun! I hope we can always have great par ties, lively conversation, eclectic playlists, and lots of wine.

What’s your favorite color?

I can’t choose one! I’d have to go with emerald green, lilac, and a pinky blush. a

Rethinking your legacy

By Lauren Caggiano

Leaving a legacy is about more than money. Edward Jones Financial Advisor Carrie Lamb helps clients on matters like estate planning after they have talked to an attorney, and there’s more to it than most people realize. For instance, according to a study conducted by Edward Jones, there are four pillars of retirement

“One of those pillars is the financial aspect, includ ing an estate and legacy,” she said. “And most retirees assume that means leaving money to their children. However, when you ask the chil dren (what they want), many say ‘I’d rather have memories.’”

In this way, Lamb encourages clients to think outside of the box and consider the other pillars beyond financial, which include purpose, family, and health. Lamb said some clients want to leave funds for future generations’ educational pursuits and that can be impactful. And education doesn’t have to mean just college. It can be a parochial primary or secondary school education. It could be teaching grandkids a hobby like how to fish or refinish furniture. According to Lamb, another client may prefer to take the family on a vacation every year, and that’s how they’re creating memo ries instead of leaving money behind.

Ultimately, one’s legacy is personal and how they allocate funds and for what purpose is up to the discretion of the client. Still, Lamb wants them to know they have someone in their corner when making such decisions.

Edward Jones financial advisors help people plan for life’s big moments. By taking time to under

stand clients’ unique needs, they’re able to pres ent personalized investment solutions that are designed to help meet life goals.

“We talk about all of your goals and not all goals have financial aspects to them,” she said. “But if they do, I’m going to help you meet them. And I feel like that’s part of me doing my fiduciary responsibility — finding out what’s important to you and why.”

And sometimes helping clients achieve goals calls for referring them to other professionals in the community. For instance, if you need to set up an estate, you’ll need an attorney to get the job done. However, she doesn’t simply refer them and remove herself from the situation. Instead, Lamb will work with attorneys to ensure the accounts are set up correctly according to a will or trust. In her words, “I look at people’s wills to make sure that I have accounts and beneficiaries set up cor rectly.”

Another facet of estate planning is thinking about your funeral arrangements to take the pressure off your beneficiaries when it comes to planning the details. The more of your funeral that you plan, the easier it will be for your family to execute on your instructions and wishes. Instead of calling

funeral homes and comparing caskets, they’ll be able to focus their time on supporting each other. “I don’t do preplanning of funerals, but I encour age clients to reach out to the funeral home they want and get that done. Pick out the pictures and music you want played. Leave notes to your loved one of special memories. My mom had part of her funeral planned and paid for when she died in 2008. Not having to pick out a casket or figure out how to pay for it during the grief was such a blessing,” Lamb says.

Last, another important consideration is that an estate is not usually permanent. Depending on what your attorney sets up, you most likely will be able to alter it as your life changes. For example, right now you might not have children or grand children but if and when circumstances change, you can update the documents, so they’re taken care of. a

Resource:

Carrie Lamb, Edward Jones, Fort Wayne, 260.471.0013, edwardjones.com

When the time comes, a funeral director will walk you through the dozens of decisions that need to be made in a short timeframe, a Certified Funeral Celebrant helps you by designing and conducting a meaningful and memorable tribute.

A Celebrant is a trained professional who works directly with your family to create a personalized tribute that reflects the life and legacy of your loved one. A Celebrant understands the many ways to communicate the value of your loved one’s life, and offers ideas that reflect the wishes and beliefs of the deceased.

A Celebrant is capable of conducting non religious, semi religious and religious tributes.

The Celebrant will work with you to select special readings, like poems or scriptures, that were important to your loved one.

If you would like to hear more about how to become a Certified Funeral Celebrant, give us a call and ask for Jessica Coleman.

Call D.O. McComb & Sons to get more information about our Certified Funeral Celebrant at 260 426 9494.

glo shops FORT WAYNE

UpgradingYourWindows

to the World

By Jennie Renner

When it comes to options for replacement windows, there’s not a lack of business es to choose from in Fort Wayne. If you are in the market for new windows, what do you need to know before you embark on this home improvement project?

First, make sure the company you choose has a good reputation and will likely be in business for years to come. After all, what good is a warranty on a product if the company is not able to make good on the warranty when you need it?

“Check the Better Business Bureau, check with your friends, check with your family,” advised Kevin Hunter, owner of Windows, Doors & More. “It’s a big purchase and it’s something you don’t want to get wrong. You want to replace windows once, not twice.”

Of course, you’ll also want to be sure that the company you select can do a quality installation. Home construction has changed a lot in recent years and that means that window installations are more complicated than they once were.

“You have to tear the whole window out, all the way back to the stud and opening and then redo the trim and siding,” said Hunter. “It requires a much more skilled labor-set than what it once did.”

Next, you need to make sure the company you choose offers the styles and colors you want for your windows. There are lots of color options to choose from, with black windows being extremely popular right now. And just like doors, you can choose one color for the inside and a different color for the outside of your windows.

Other options for windows include having the muttons sealed within the glass so that you never have to clean around them. “You can also have

blinds that are hermetically sealed inside the glass,” said Hunter. “But expect this upgrade to double the cost of the windows.”

Once you have selected the company, be sure that you buy ENERGY STAR® certified windows. This is the government-backed symbol for energy effi ciency and indicates that the windows are designed to withstand the shift in temperatures that we experience in northeast Indiana.

“You want to buy windows with the lowest U value that you can get your hands on,” said Hunter. “The lower the U rating, the better; It is the opposite of the R value.”

At Windows, Doors & More, they recommend double-pane windows for most customers because there’s a significant difference in the quality of the glass today than what there was even ten years ago. Low-e coatings are applied to the glass as it is made.

“We can achieve with the layers of silver coating what used to be pos sible only with triple-pane glass,” said Hunter. “It gets you an R-value that exceeds triple-pane windows and it also doesn’t darken the glass.”

As far as the best time of year to upgrade your windows, Hunter said they can install them year-around. But as with other home improvements right now, you may have to get in line.

“The only thing I would caution about is being patient,” said Hunter. “A lot of people are replacing windows.” a

Resource: Windows, Doors & More, Fort Wayne, 260.399.6037, wdmfactorystore.com

What to Consider when Redoing a Roof

• Color: Your new roof will last a long time, so you should select a color that will not only coordinate with your home’s existing exterior, but provide some flexibility when considering different exterior colors. Eliminate the guesswork of what different roof colors will look like with Windows, Doors & More’s ability to alter a digital photo of your home.

• Gutters: Homeowners can choose to upgrade their gutters when getting either new roofing or siding. Ask your Windows, Doors & More roofing and siding expert for information about available options.

• Roof Measurements: Windows, Doors & More can obtain precise measurements of your roof’s surface area through its use of a satellite service. Many of today’s homes have complex roofs with 40+ facets or individual surfaces. Utilizing a satellite service simplifies the process by ensuring precise measurements are taken, which helps to ensure the correct amount of shingles will be ordered for your roofing project.

How to turn your into a

house

Home

By Cathy Shouse | Photos provided by Hart & Schmitt Designs

To make a house a home, add the personal touches that are unique to you. Princy Hart of Hart & Schmitt Designs shared her best tips and tricks. Hart and her partner Lin Schmitt earned interior design degrees, have over 30 years of combined experience, and started out in California before coming to the Midwest.

INTERIOR DECORATING 101

~ Display your personal keepsakes (i.e., personal artwork, photos, heirlooms, memorabilia, décor, and other items of sentimental value). They show your personality and soul.

~ Begin with your walls. Create a welcoming atmosphere by hanging some personalized photos of you and your loved ones. Gallery walls are a collec tion of artwork, photographs, or other treasures arranged creatively on a feature wall. Put photos in multicolored frames for a more dynamic look.

~ Then add a pop of your favorite color around your home. You could paint a feature wall, or add decorative accessories in every room of your home. For example, if the color palette of your living room area is quite neutral, then you can add pieces of furniture upholstered in your favorite color. You can also add your favorite colors through decorative items like pillows and throws.

~ Display your travel keepsakes. If you are into traveling, decorate with some of the mementos from places you have visited. Display them on side tables, sofa tables, coffee tables, or even mount them on your walls.

~ Share your personal artistry and talent by customizing spaces with items you created. Your home will become a true reflection of your personality.

~ Incorporate some different patterns to add distinction and vibrancy. Add cushions in different sizes and colors to your living room sofa to create a harmonious looking space. Add an area rug to complement the other pat terns in your room.

~ For some further inspiration, visit Pinterest. Every idea is represented by a “Pin”, which is an image that is searched and saved by Pinterest users. It is a free site and won’t cost you anything to sign up!

PERSONALIZING:

~ Turn your favorite photos into puzzles of various sizes and hang them on a gallery wall.

~ Mount collections on your walls (i.e., plates, baskets, coasters, musical instruments, sports memorabilia, etc.).

~ Add lights: twinkle lights, chili pepper lights, reading lamps, and more. Lights are not just for Christmas decorating but can be used year-round!

~ Plop some greenery near a window; an easy way to add a pop of color. If you are not confident in taking care of real plants, use faux plants or suc culents. Using greenery is a trend that will never go out of style.

Personalizing your space will take some time and dedication. However, it’s the best way to create that unique ambience and welcoming feeling when you walk into your home. Show off your personality to your guests. a

Resource:

Hart & Schmitt Designs, Fort Wayne, 260.267.6083, hartdes.com

Princy Hart, Hart & Schmitt Designs

Owner Jonelle Fedock is no stranger to the beauty industry as a Business Partner with SalonCentric, a wholesale salon supply compa ny, where she’s had the opportunity to form relationships with salon owners and professionals across the area.

“Shirley [former owner of the salon], came to me in February, saying she was ready to sell the salon and asked me to put some feelers out to my network in the industry. Since COVID, I had been feeling the desire to do something that allowed me to form deeper connec tions with people alongside my job with SalonCentric. When I heard this salon was available, I truly felt God’s presence in presenting this opportunity, so we decided to buy it,” Fedock said.

Fedock believes this is a chance to fulfill God’s purpose for her life— one where she can pour into both the guests and service providers. One of her main goals is to flip the narrative around the beauty industry and its most common misconceptions: beauty profession als can’t make much money and aren’t “professionals.”

For an independent stylist, for example, she says the take home pay is only 44 percent of the cost of service, on aver age. Out of any service price, a service provider may have to cover booth rent, product, water, insurance, student loan payments, licensing, tools, and more. However, Fedock believes that by properly pour ing into the marketing funnel and teaching her employees how to advocate for them selves and their work, she can help create opportunities for increased business to the point of completely full schedules for all the salon’s service providers.

“You would never walk in and ask for a lower price at the den tist or at the mechanic. Why do you ask your beauty profession

Southwest

Hair & Day Spa

Under New Ownership

By Lindsey Coleman | Photos provided

Southwest Hair & Day Spa, a salon on the southwest side of Fort Wayne, is under new ownership — and its new owner is all about intentional relationship and impact, hoping to change the narrative around the industry.

al to undervalue their service? My goal [with the salon] is to come alongside my service providers to encourage them to believe in themselves, learn how to market themselves and their work, and from there develop a career,” Fedock said.

The long-term goal for the salon? Expand business to the point the building is bursting at the seams—so much so that they have to build on to the building and expand to a point where service providers want to work at Southwest Hair & Day Spa because of the mentorship its employees receive.

“I would love to invest in all of these beauty profession als who come through my doors to help them reach a point that they outgrow me, outgrow this salon, and fall in love with all that a career in this industry can be,” Fedock said.

Southwest Hair & Day offers hair, nail, massage, and esthetics services, and sells a wide variety of beauty products. a

Southwest Hair & Day Spa, Fort Wayne, 260.459.2739, south westhairspa.com

Jonelle Fedock

D.O. McComb has provided compassionate care since 1925

By Julie Young | Photos provided

In 1925, former Allen County School Superintendent D.O. McComb saw a need for a funeral home in the Fort Wayne community, and rather than wait for someone else to step up, he decided to do something about it. The original mortuary was located on East Lewis Street, and by the end of his first year in business, McComb served 20 families.

By 1928, the Lakeside facility opened, and 12 years later, his sons Walter and David joined the firm. The second generation expanded the D.O. McComb & Sons business and even provided emergency ambulance ser vices to the community. Since the late 1950s, six additional mortuaries have been added to serve the greater Fort Wayne area, and in 2016, D.O. McComb & Sons joined the Dignity Memorial ® network.

“At D.O. McComb & Sons, our mission is to protect families,” said Heather Eracleous, community relations manager for the D.O. McComb & Sons Indiana North Market. “One of the hardest conversations we have is the one about death and making our final arrangements. It is one of the many reasons that we visit with families to help them discover that planning before a time of need is about protecting the ones you love. As Dignity Memorial providers in Fort Wayne, we customize services every day, incor porating all the cherished details about a loved one. It’s all about telling their life story.”

D.O. McComb & Sons provides families with a full range of choices from simple services to elegant ceremonies that require intricate planning and unique elements. Their experienced professionals are committed to work ing with their clients to create a truly customized service that reflects the unique life of their loved one.

Each location offers signature dedications for families that choose cre mation, providing loved ones with a personal, meaningful display and private space where family and friends can visit, reflect, and pause before taking ashes home in a custom care package. Since joining the Dignity Memorial® network, D.O. McComb & Sons can give families both trusted local service, as well as a comprehensive range of benefits from the larg est group of funeral, burial cremation, and cemetery service providers in North America.

“When you choose a Dignity Memorial® provider, you not only receive the compassionate care you expect from a locally operated establishment, but also the value you deserve from the largest network of funeral homes and cemeteries—including an array of services and benefits that is unmatched by any other funeral provider,” Eracleous said.

But at its heart, D.O. McComb & Sons remains a local firm and its invest ment in the Fort Wayne community includes sponsorship of numerous charities and events throughout the year, and an annual holiday celebra tion that brings people together and allows them to remember those that they have lost.

“Whether planning a celebration of life in advance or at the time of need, we’re dedicated to providing compassionate care and attention to detail at an affordable price. D.O. McComb & Sons can create a service that meets your needs and your budget,” Eracleous said. a

DO McComb & Sons, Fort Wayne, 260.426.9494, dignitymemorial.com/funeral-homes/do-mccomb

Lakeside

Pine Valley

Maplewood

Covington Knolls

Foster Park

Work With a Kitchen Designer

Things You Need to Know

By Mary Jane Bogle

Is a kitchen makeover in your near future? If so, you might want to add “hire a kitchen designer” to your to-do list.

Not only do kitchen designers help with style choices and advise you on kitchen functionality; they can also save you from costly mistakes. And with kitchen renos running in the tens of thousands of dollars, hiring a pro can potentially save you money in the long run.

Choosing the right designer, one who will work with your lifestyle and budget, is just as important as selecting the cabinets, countertops, and appliances. Here are 10 questions to help you find the right one.

1. What services do you provide? Options range from design only to complete project management. If you’re working with a complicated project or managing a renovation in an older home, consider finding someone who will oversee the entire process.

2. What are your certifications? The “gold standard” for kitchen designers is certification with the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA). These designers complete a rigorous certification process, offer years of experience and will be up-to-date on the latest trends.

3. How do you charge? You can expect to pay a certified kitchen designer up to 8% of the total project cost. Some charge a flat fee, while others offer an hourly rate. As you budget, keep in mind that most kitchen renovations can equal up to 15% of your home’s total value.

4. Can I see a portfolio of your work? While you might be tempted to choose a designer whose style matches your own, don’t rule out someone whose work represents several different styles. These designers likely work with a range of budgets and products and offer good listening skills.

5. Can you provide references? Be sure to ask past clients if the designer respected their input, came in on time … and on budget...and was worth the cost.

6. What are the steps in your process? You’ll want to nail down how many designs are included in the cost and whether you’ll be able to see the plans virtually with a “3D” walkthrough.

7. What is the timeframe? Keep in mind that some elements, such as supply chain issues and any changes you request, are out of the designer’s control.

8. How do you handle unexpected expenses? If you’re tearing down walls or moving plumbing or electrical, be prepared to pay for extra contingencies.

9. How do you select your contractors? Some designers have long-standing relationships with specific contractors, which can streamline the process.

10. What is your communication process? Will you be meeting face-toface? Text? Email? Good communication throughout the process is key to the overall success.

One last tip. When talking with your designer, keep your goals front and center. Are you hoping to improve workflow? Add value to your home? Take advantage of the latest tech? Improve aesthetics? Your primary purpose will drive design decisions, so nail down your goals ahead of time, and then get ready for a new space that fulfills your hopes and needs. a

I am John Stein

HOME

By Deborah C. Gerbers | Photo Provided

Although technically a Texas native born in Dallas, where his father had a sales territory in the 1940s, John Stein has Fort Wayne roots through his mother, and to this day, he calls the city home.

Growing up in Fort Wayne back then, Stein recalls when trolleys ran through town until 1947.

“We lived at the corner of Packard and South Wayne, which was on the #4 line,” he said. “The trolley made a run through downtown to Foster Park via Broadway and then reversed itself to return to Packard. My mother swore she never let her 4-year-old son ride alone, but I know better. This is when I got my first good upclose look at the city.”

Today, Stein is proudly the third generation in a four-generation family business. “My grandfather Julius started it in 1939 when, fresh from emigrating from Germany, he couldn’t find a job,” he explained. “He began selling what are today called promotional products. He died suddenly in 1948, and my dad took over the business. I joined him after college in the mid-sixties, and my youngest daughter, Wendy, joined me in the business in 1996. She’s the boss now!”

Stein and his family lived on Oakdale Drive during his school years. “It was a lovely neighborhood then and now,” he said. “But a couple of classmates lived in Wildwood Park, and it seemed ‘a bit nicer’ to me. I thought then that if I ended up living in Fort Wayne as an adult, I wanted a house there. The yards were larger, and the houses set back farther from the streets. No matter how you entered the neighborhood, you came up a hill. Add to that the location: it’s a neighborhood not in the center of the city but near west and convenient to downtown. If you like old houses, big trees and old lawns, quiet streets, and a neighborhood that has maintained its personality since it began a century ago, it’s hard to beat Wildwood Park.”

In the 70s, Stein found a great potential home for his family, and during a twoyear period, they worked with an architect to build a two-story traditional wood frame house that didn’t look out of place on the block.

“Turns out it was the perfect home for a family with two adults, two kids, and one Irish Setter,” he said. “

Now, Stein lives in a different Wildwood Park house just two blocks away from that home.

“Preparing to grow old, I moved into a mid-century ranch built in 1952 on a block with other mid-century ranches and a few traditional two-story houses,” he explained. “It was designed by an artist who wanted lots of glass so she could see the beauty of the neighborhood no matter which way she looked.

For example, my master bedroom has an all-glass wall overlooking a courtyard hidden behind a 6-foot security fence. I can see out, but no one can see in. The other wonderful thing is that there are plenty of walls to hang artwork that I have collected for years, especially in the bedroom. Some of my art tends to be fun and quirky, which is also the way that I would describe the house.”

Stein describes Fort Wayne during his childhood with a bustling downtown, four beautiful movie theaters, the Pistons, the Daisies, city parks with summer activi ties, high school basketball, bowling, outdoor movies and more.

“But much of that disappeared or was replaced in the 60’s and 70’s,” he said. “Retail fled, leaving downtown to become the financial and government center, but there was nothing to do after 5pm. Neither the public nor the private sector knew what to do or even seemed inspired to try.”

“As time passed, the Grand Wayne Center and Allen County Public Library made big statements,” said Stein, though nothing came to bring the people on to downtown streets.

“Headwaters Park and associated activities were good. So was the downtown Tin Caps stadium, Parkview Field. And then we started to see momentum. New hotels finally replacing the ones we had when I was a kid. And then BOOM! The few old buildings still standing were remodeled and upgraded to house restau rants, bars, and housing. We didn’t have enough old buildings to fill the need so more had to be built. Businesses built corporate headquarters. Restaurants wanted to be downtown. We have more projects underway than ever. I have a big smile on my face when I see the construction cranes in operation as I drive along Main Street.”

Another bonus according to Stein: “We stopped simply talking about the rivers and started developing. Phase 1 opened to such success that phases 2 and 3 were announced simultaneously. Electric Works is going to open this year. I’m so excited to see my city, asleep for so many years, now running full speed. Those two projects will flank the downtown with its alleys suitable and safe for foot traf fic and full of public art, with restaurants now finally offering outdoor seating. The Landing has finally been brought to its full potential and full of people. I remem ber Columbia Street like that in the 40’s and 50’s. It is just spectacular to see the people respond to today’s efforts to attract and engage and encourage them into our central city. There is so much to do and still more to come. Are we alive and vital again? It would seem so!” a

to-do

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: rbalogh@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 Ray Balogh

1 | Saturday |

Festive Fall Flower Arranging Workshop

Create your own fall flower arrangement in carved pumpkins. $25. 9 a.m.-noon, Merry Lea Sustainable Farm, 4415 W. 200S, Albion. 260.799.5869, goshen. edu/merrylea, merrylea@goshen.edu.

1-31 | Monday-Saturday |

Spooktacular Estate Event

Specially priced estate jewelry, silent auction, chance to win $500 shopping spree. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Eichhorn Jewelry Inc., 130 N. 2nd St., Decatur. 260.724.2621, eichhornjewelry.com.

2 | Sunday |

Decatur Coin Show and Marketplace

Nearly 100 indoor vendors, hot food available. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. (year-round), Riverside Center, 231 E. Monroe St. (Highway 224 East), Decatur. Contact Carla at 260.517.8182, decaturcoin show.com, facebook.com/decaturindianaflea market.

4, 11, 18, 25 | Tuesday |

“Little River Ramblers”

Hike and explore the interesting plants and wildlife of Eagle Marsh. Dress for weather, boots recommended. Bring binoculars for a close-up view. Free admission. 9 a.m.-11 a.m., meet at Eagle Marsh, 6801 Engle Road, Fort Wayne. 260.478.2515, info@lrwp.org, lrwp.org.

7 | Friday |

First Friday: “Fall Festival & Chili for Charity”

Festive block party, hosted by downtown merchants, with food, nonprofit and business vendors, live entertainment. Free admission. 5 p.m.-8 p.m., downtown Warsaw. 574.267.6311, warsawcdc.org/first-friday.

8-9 | Saturday-Sunday |

WACF FallTastic Trail Walk

Walk more than 3 miles of seasonally deco rated groomed trails with family and pets. Free refreshments and dog treats will be available. Free admission. Noon-4 p.m. each day, Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation grounds, 11586 N. SR 13, Syracuse. 574.457.4549, wacf.com.

13 | Thursday |

Settler Series Hand-Arts Class: Settler Log House Living

Learn about the lifestyle and interests of Swinney House residents. $20/adult, must be 14 and older to attend. Doors open at 9 a.m. for refreshments, program display and social time; program runs from 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m., 1424 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne. 260.637.8622, settlersinc.org.

15 | Saturday |

Fright Night Lantern Tours

Experience the Old Fort after dark and hear tales of ghost encounters. $5/adult, free for 9 and under. Ticket sales begin at 5:30 p.m. on first-come, first-served basis. 6 p.m.-10 p.m., The Old Fort, 1201 Spy Run Ave., Fort Wayne. 260.437.2836, oldfortwayne.org.

25 | Tuesday |

Community Band Concert

90-member ensemble of the Fort Wayne Area Community Band will perform a variety of works, including music from “Ben Hur,” Wagner’s “Trombones,” “Four Dances” from “West Side Story” and a patriotic American Revolutionary War piece titled “Chester.” $9/adult, $8/senior, free for 18 and under. Downbeat 7:30 p.m., John & Ruth Rhinehart Music Center Purdue Fort Wayne Campus, 2101 E. Coliseum Blvd. Contact Rod King at 260.493.3318. fwacb.org/concert-info

Botanical Conservatory

• Now through Nov. 13, “Paris: City of Light & Love” garden exhibit, public hours, regular admission

• Tuesday, Oct. 4 through Sunday, Oct. 30, Pumpkin Path Display, public hours, regular admission

• Tuesday, Oct. 4, 11, 18, 25; Nov. 1, 8, 15, T’ai Chi Tuesdays, 10 a.m.-11 a.m. (continuing students), 11 a.m.-noon (beginners), $63 for seven sessions, register by Sept. 27

• Thursday, Oct. 6, “Happy ‘Green’ Halloween” specially crafted activity, 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m., $1 admission

• Thursday, Oct. 6, Succulent Pumpkins living decor, 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m., $19, for ages 15 and older, register by Sept. 30

• Friday, Oct. 7, Botanical Brew, drinks, food, entertainment, 4 p.m.-10 p.m., $10

• Saturday, Oct. 15, “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” outdoor movie, 9:15 p.m., $10

• Sunday, Oct. 16, Pumpkin Macramé, noon-3 p.m., $28, register by Oct. 10

• Saturday, Oct. 29, Garden Trick-or-Treat, noon-3 p.m., regular admission

Adults $7, children (3-17) $5, 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

• Sunday, Oct. 2, Barenaked Ladies, 7:30 p.m., $45/$55/$65/$95

• Saturday, Oct. 8, Matinee 1 Firebird philharmonic concert, 2 p.m., $30 general admission

• Saturday, Oct. 8, Masterworks 1 Firebird philharmonic concert, 7:30 p.m., $23 to $81

• Wednesday-Thursday, Oct. 12-13, “The Book of Mormon” (Touring), 7:30 both days, call for pricing, offer passcode required to purchase tickets

• Friday, Oct. 14, “The Phantom of the Opera” film accompanied by organist Dennis James, 7 p.m., $15/adults, $10/students and members

• Saturday, Oct. 15, Fun & Frightful Double Feature: “Hocus Pocus” and “Beetlejuice,” 6 p.m., $15/adults, $10/students and members

• Friday, Oct. 21, “Life With the Afterlife: A Supernatural Evening With Amy Bruni,” 7:30 p.m., $25/$35/$45/$65/$85

• Saturday, Oct. 22, “Theresa Caputo Live! The Experience,” 7:30 p.m., $44.75/$54.75/$74.75/$94.75

• Saturday, Oct. 29, Masterworks 2 Carmina Burana philharmonic concert, 7:30 p.m., $23 to $81

NOTE: Ticket prices are subject to fluctuation based on demand. 125 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne. 800.745.3000, fwembassytheatre.org.

Memorial Coliseum

• Thursday-Sunday, Sept. 29-Oct. 2, Lucky Duck Children’s Consignment Sale, 1 p.m.-9 p.m. Thursday, 4 p.m.-9 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday,

• Friday-Saturday, Sept. 30-Oct. 1, Fort Wayne Rubber Stamp & Scrapbook Getaway, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, $6 passes good for both days. Tickets available at luckyduckfortwayne.com.

• Friday, Oct. 7, Jason Aldean “Rock N’ Roll Cowboy Tour 2022” with Chase Rice and John Morgan, 7:30 p.m., $49.75 to $149.75

• Saturday-Sunday, Oct. 8-9 Brickworld Fort Wayne LEGO extravaganza, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, $12 advance, $14 day of show, free for children 3 and under

• Sunday, Oct. 9, Fall Bridal Spectacular, noon-4 p.m.

• Thursday, Oct. 13, Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias “Back On Tour,” 8 p.m., $44.50/$54.50/$69.50

• Saturday, Oct. 15, Sesame Street Live! Make Your Magic, 10 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 5 p.m., $22 to $67

• Saturday-Sunday, Oct.15-16, Gun & Knife Show, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.3 p.m. Sunday, $7/adults, $6/seniors 60+, free for kids 12 and under

• Sunday, Oct. 23, MercyMe Fall 2022 inhale (exhale) Tour, 7 p.m., $28.75 to $155

• Saturday-Sunday, Oct. 29-30, Rock Your World Halloween Psychic & Holistic Expo, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. both days, $10 general admission

Parking $8 main lot, $12 preferred lot. Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, 4000 Parnell Ave., Fort Wayne. 260.482.9502, memorialcoliseum.com.

Stroede Center for the Arts

• Saturday, Oct. 8, Cinema at the Stroede: “The Exorcist,” 7 p.m., Stroede Center, free admission, concessions available

• Sunday, Oct. 16, Matthew Wachtman, organist, 2 p.m., St. John United Church of Christ, 950 Webster St., Defiance, $18

• Friday, Oct. 21, Luke McMaster, 7:30 p.m., Stroede Center, $18 online/$20 in advance through Stroede Center/$25 at the door

• Friday, Oct. 28, Mister G, 7 p.m., Stroede Center, free admission, donations appreciated Stroede Center, 319 Wayne Ave., Defiance. Triangle Park, 655 Clinton St., Defiance. 419.784.3401, defiancearts.org.

Fort Wayne Museum of Art

Exhibitions:

• Broad Spectrum, Clear Vision: The Collection of Carl and Stephanie Beling (through Oct. 16)

• Heating Up: New Glass Acquisitions (through Oct. 16)

• Peer and Patron: Selections from the Private Collection of Dorothy Gillespie (through Nov. 13)

• Dia de los Muertos/Day of the Dead (through Nov. 13)

• Susan Janow: If I Were a Queen (through Dec. 4)

• The National: Best Contemporary Photography 2022 (through Jan. 8, 2023)

• Garden Party: Outdoor Sculptures by Dorothy Gillespie (through June 4, 2023)

• Planes, Trains & Automobiles: Classic Toys and Americana (ongoing)

• FWMoA Permanent Glass Displays (ongoing)

• Kaiyodo: Mini Artworks for the Modern Age (ongoing)

Events:

• Thursday, Oct. 6, Curator’s Tour: “Garden Party: Outdoor Sculptures by Dorothy Gillespie,” 12:15 p.m., free with regular admission, open to first 16 registrants with RSVP

• Friday, Oct. 7, Fall Party, 5:30 p.m., cash bar, appetizers, live music, $15 for members/$20 for non-members, RSVP to Amanda Mitchell, 260.422.6467

• Saturday, Oct. 8, Second Saturday Family Tour, 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m., free with regular admission, pre-registration required, limited to 20 participants

• Thursday, Oct. 13, Second Thursday, Marco Bautista Weaving Demonstration, 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

• Saturday, Oct. 1, Daniel O’Donnell, 7:30 p.m., HC, $39/$49/$59/$69/$99

• Sunday, Oct. 2, MasterChef Junior Live!, 6 p.m., HC, $25/$35/$65

• Tuesday, Oct. 4, “Happenings in Wabash County,” 7 p.m., HH, free admission, reservations required

• Wednesday, Oct. 5, Disney Tour Live on Tour, 6:30 p.m., HC, $29/$39/$85

• Friday, Oct. 7, Celebrate the Music of Neil Diamond, 7:30 p.m., HC, $25/$35/$55

• Tuesday, Oct. 11, Todd Oliver & Irving the Talking Dog, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., ET, $20

• Wednesday, Oct. 12, REO Speedwagon, 7:30 p.m., HC, $49/$69/$150/$250

• Saturday, Oct. 15, Joe Satriani, 7:30 p.m., HC, $19/$35/$49/$100

• Wednesday, Oct. 19, seafood dinner, 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m., ET, $33.95 adults/$16.96 ages 5-12/free ages 4 and under, reservations required

• Tuesday, Oct. 25, Restoration of the Eel River, 7 p.m., HH, free admission, reservations required

• Wednesday, Oct. 26, The Singing Hoosiers, 7:30 p.m., HC, $15/$25/$35

• Thursday, Oct. 27, prime rib dinner, 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m., ET, $26.95 adults/$13.95 ages 5-12/free 4 and under

• Monday, Oct. 31, Halloween at the House, during town’s trick-or-treat hours, HH, free admission

• Monday, Oct. 31, Trick or Treat, during town’s trick-or-treat hours, Ford, free admission

Honeywell Center/Ford Theater (HC), 275 W. Market St., Wabash. Eagles Theatre/Ballroom (ET), 106 W. Market St., Wabash. Honeywell House (HH), 720 N. Wabash St., Wabash. 13-24 Drive-In (Drive-In), 890 IN 13. Dr. Ford Home (Ford), 177 W. Hill St., Wabash. 260.563.1102, honeywellarts.org.

Shipshewana Blue Gate Theatre

• Saturday, Oct. 1, Air Supply, 8 p.m., PAC, $39.95 to $119.95

• Tuesday-Thursday, Oct. 4-6, Daniel O’Donnell, 1 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, PAC, $29.95 to $89.95

• Friday, Oct. 7, The Duttons, 8 p.m., PAC, $19.95 to $59.95

• Saturday, Oct. 8, The Texas Tenors, 8 p.m., PAC, $19.95 to $69.95

• Tuesday-Wednesday, Oct. 11-12, Booth Brothers, 7:30 p.m. each night, PAC, $14.95 to $39.95

• Thursday-Saturday, Oct. 13-15, NQC Jubilee, PAC:

• Thursday, Mark Lowry, Guy Penrod & Jason Crabb, 6 p.m., $29.95 to $99.95

• Friday, Hoppers, Triumphant, Bradys & Tribute Quartet, 6 p.m., $14.95 to $54.95

• Greater Vision, Mark Trammell Quartet, Guardians, Primitive Quartet, 2 p.m., $14.95 to $54.95

• Saturday, Oct. 22, Richard Marx: The Songwriter Tour, 7 p.m., PAC, $29.95 to $104.50

• Sunday, Oct. 23, Peppa Pig’s Adventure, 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., PAC, $29.95 to $59.95

• Friday, Oct. 28, Asleep at the Wheel featuring The Shootouts, 8 p.m., PAC, $19.95 to $59.95

• Saturday, Oct. 29, Stayin’ Alive BeeGees Tribute, 7 p.m., PAC, $19.95 to $39.95

All shows add $18 for dinner theater. Performing Arts Center (PAC), 760 S. Van Buren St., Shipshewana. Music Hall (MH), 195 N. Van Buren, Shipshewana. 888.447.4725, thebluegate.com. a

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