







“The apple tree does not need the fruit that it produces. Yet, it gives the entirety of its life over to producing it for those who do. And I often wonder what would happen if we were more like a tree.” — Craig



D. Lounsbrough




“The apple tree does not need the fruit that it produces. Yet, it gives the entirety of its life over to producing it for those who do. And I often wonder what would happen if we were more like a tree.” — Craig
D. Lounsbrough
It’s September! A time for transition, and embracing it is a wonderful way to make the most of the opportunities it brings. Here are some ideas to help you make the most of the coming month:
• Celebrate the changing seasons: September marks the transition from summer to autumn. Embrace the beauty of this change by spending time outdoors, enjoying the crisp air and the changing colors of leaves.
• Engage in self-care: As routines shift, take time to engage in self-care activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. This could include meditation, yoga, journaling, or simply spending quality time with yourself doing things you love.
• Cultivate gratitude: Consider starting a gratitude journal or practice. Reflect on the positive aspects of your life and the things you’re thankful for. This can help you maintain a positive outlook as the year progresses. My oldest daughter and I tell each other two things we are grateful for each day and it helps put things into perspective for us.
• Declutter and organize: Use September as an opportunity to declutter your living space and organize your belongings. Creating a clean and organized environment can have a positive impact on your overall well-being.
• Read and learn: Set aside time for reading and learning. Whether it’s fiction, non-fiction, or educational materials, diving into new information can be a fulfilling way to embrace September.
• Connect with others: Reach out to friends and family you might not have connected with over the summer. Organize gatherings to strengthen your relationships.
As always, this issue was designed just for you. “Let’s Embrace Fall” together! Be sure to check out our Fall Fashion Preview so you know what looks to rock this season. If you are planning a wedding, don’t miss our Fall Weddings feature, highlighting some new trends for ceremonies and receptions. If you have a story idea for an upcoming issue, share it with me! I love to hear from our readers.
Title of piece: My Only Sunshine
Hometown: Defiance, Ohio
Current town: Wren, Ohio
What inspired this piece?
I painted the sunflowers with a little bit of Van Gogh-like heavy paint application. I wanted to focus more on the stems and leaves, like you’re inside the sunflower field. I wanted it dark and a little moody. When I was young, my mother would always sing “You Are My Sunshine” to me, and this really captured those childhood memories. Where do you draw inspiration for your artwork in general?
I draw a lot from nature. I often start painting a landscape and then simplify the shapes to create an abstract representation of it.
What is your preferred medium?
Acrylic
What advice do you have for other artists just starting out? Keep putting in the effort because it WILL pay off!
Where can we find your work?
Fort Wayne Artist Guild Gallery, Gallery K on Broadway in Fort Wayne, and online: www.blackshedart.com or www.rebeccahutchinsart.com a
Want
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Cooler weather is just around the corner and with that comes fall fashion–sweaters, boots, and all things cozy come to mind. It can be easy to revert to the same classic, comfortable wears as the season approaches, but if you’re looking to freshen up your wardrobe with some new trends, we have a few key tips from Susan’s Fashions. Sue Johnson, owner and buyer recently spent a week at the popular retail experience Las Vegas Market and came back with a behind-the-scenes scoop on what we can expect to see in stores this upcoming fall season.
A staple of any fall-centric closet, the sweater is a cozy and beloved favorite, so it’s no surprise that combining the softness of a sweater with the length and durability of a coat is the new trend. When it comes to sweater coats, Johnson said we will see “mostly heavy cardigan styles in a multitude of fabrics and colors. Many are patterned with a form of designer logos and geometric patterns. They are being styled with everything: pants, leggings, and skirts. They are great for early fall to take the place of a lightweight coat.”
While most of us are probably familiar with pleather (and probably own a jacket or two), there’s a new fabric hitting the markets known as liquid leather. A uniquely soft and breathable fabric made from stretch rayon, liquid leather is much more durable and sustainable than traditional leathers while still carrying the same elements of style.
“We saw liquid leather as accents on sweaters and other clothing, as well as shiny liquid leather pants and skirts teamed with bulky sweaters and other unexpected tops,” Johnson noted.
You’ll be seeing these fabrics mostly in black, as well as shiny versus matte. These fabrics allow you to easily dress up an outfit while still being comfortable.
While we saw a return to basics and minimalism in clothing over the last few years, it seems there will be an increase in the use of designer logos as we enter fall this year.
“These are being seen not only on handbags, but on jewelry, all types of clothing–from ponchos to sweaters, as well as shoes and tops. This is a big trend right now!” Johnson said.
When asked about what colors we would see this fall, Johnson mentioned that caramel and browns will be strong contenders this season.
“Everything from silks to sportswear in heavier fabrics can be seen,” she said.
Of course, black and white is always a staple and we’ll be sure to see plenty of those colors as well.
“Lots of new patterns that can be mixed up with your solid pieces are always a good addition to your wardrobe,” Johnson said. “A lot of these pieces can be worn year-round. And bright colors are showing up too. Especially with the Barbie movie, pinks of all shades are really coming on strong! We will see head-to-toe dressing in pinks as well as using pink as an accent with black and white. Coats in pink will make a real statement!” a
Resource:
Susan’s Fashions, Fort Wayne, 260.459.2828, susansfashions.com
Each September, we pause and remember our magazine’s namesake, Gloria Baumgartner, who passed away in 2008 after a long fight against ovarian cancer. She was a dear friend, loving wife, and beloved mother. She was also the business manager and treasurer at The Papers (glo’s parent company), where husband Ron is the president and publisher.
For Gloria to be taken from the world far too soon is representative of the deadly nature of ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer is often referred to as the “silent killer” because its symptoms can be subtle and easily mistaken for other conditions. However, recognizing the early signs and symptoms is crucial for early detection and better treatment outcomes.
The common signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer include:
• Abdominal or pelvic pain: Persistent pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvis that doesn’t go away may be a symptom of ovarian cancer.
• Bloating: Feeling bloated, swollen, or experiencing an increase in abdominal size can be a warning sign, especially if it is persistent and not related to dietary changes.
• Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly: Many women with ovarian cancer experience a loss of appetite, difficulty eating, or feeling full very quickly after eating only a small amount of food.
• Changes in bowel habits: Ongoing changes in bowel movements, such as constipation or diarrhea, may occur in some cases of ovarian cancer.
• Urinary symptoms: Increased frequency of urination, urgency, or discomfort during urination can be signs of ovarian cancer.
• Unexplained weight loss: Sudden and unexplained weight loss without any changes in diet or exercise could be indicative of ovarian cancer.
• Fatigue: Persistent, unexplained fatigue or low energy levels can be a symptom of various medical conditions, including ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer is more common in women over the age of 50, especially those with a family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer. If you have a family history of these cancers or are concerned about your risk, discuss it with your doctor, who may recommend genetic testing or other screening options. Early detection and treatment are critical in improving outcomes for ovarian cancer. Several risk factors may increase the likelihood of developing ovarian cancer. It’s important to note that having one or more risk factors doesn’t guarantee that a person will develop ovarian cancer, and some women with ovarian cancer may have no known risk factors. However, being aware of these factors can help in understanding your risk and taking appropriate preventive measures or seeking early detection.
The common risk factors for ovarian cancer include:
• Age: Ovarian cancer is more common in women over the age of 50, with the highest incidence in women in their 60s and 70s.
• Family history: Having a first-degree relative (mother, sister, or daughter) with ovarian cancer increases the risk. Additionally, a family history of breast, ovarian, or colorectal cancer can raise the risk due to certain inherited gene mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2.
• Inherited gene mutations: Mutations in certain genes, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, significantly increase the risk of ovarian cancer and breast cancer. Other gene mutations like Lynch syndrome (HNPCC) and others can also be associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer.
• Personal history of cancer: Women who have had breast, uterine, or colorectal cancer may have a slightly higher risk of ovarian cancer.
• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): Long-term use of estrogen-only hormone replacement therapy (HRT) without progestin may increase the risk of ovarian cancer.
• Reproductive history: Women who have never been pregnant or had their first pregnancy after the age of 35 may have a slightly higher risk of ovarian cancer.
• Endometriosis: Women with endometriosis, a condition where the tissue lining the uterus grows outside the uterus, may have an increased risk of certain types of ovarian cancer.
• Obesity: Being overweight or obese may be associated with an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer.
• Age at menopause: Women who experience menopause at a later age may have a slightly higher risk of ovarian cancer.
• Use of fertility treatments: Some studies suggest that certain fertility treatments may be associated with a slightly increased risk of ovarian cancer.
Reducing the risk of ovarian cancer involves a combination of lifestyle modifications, awareness, and sometimes medical interventions. While some risk factors, such as family history and genetic mutations, cannot be changed, there are several steps you can take to lower your overall risk.
• Oral contraceptives (birth control pills): Long-term use of oral contraceptives can lower the risk of ovarian cancer. Women who have used birth control pills for several years have a reduced risk compared to those who have not used them.
• Childbearing and breastfeeding: Women who have had one or more full-term pregnancies and have breastfed their babies may have a lower risk of ovarian cancer.
• Tubal ligation or hysterectomy: Surgical procedures like tubal ligation (tying the fallopian tubes) or hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may reduce the risk of ovarian cancer, especially in women with a high risk of the disease.
• Healthy diet: Adopt a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit the intake of processed and high-fat foods, and maintain a healthy weight.
• Regular exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to maintain a healthy weight and promote overall well-being. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
• Avoid smoking: If you smoke, seek help to quit smoking. Smoking is associated with an increased risk of various cancers, including ovarian cancer.
• Genetic testing and counseling: If you have a family history of ovarian or breast cancer, consider genetic counseling and testing for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations and other relevant genes. This can help you understand your risk and make informed decisions about preventive measures.
• Birth control patches or intrauterine devices (IUDs): Some studies suggest that using birth control patches or intrauterine devices (IUDs) may also reduce the risk of ovarian cancer.
• Regular check-ups: Attend regular gynecological check-ups and discuss any concerns or symptoms with your healthcare provider. Early detection and timely medical intervention can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes.
• Be aware of symptoms: Familiarize yourself with the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer. If you experience persistent or unusual symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.
While these strategies can help reduce the risk of ovarian cancer, it’s important to remember that there is no foolproof way to prevent the disease entirely. If you are concerned about your risk or have a family history of ovarian cancer, talk to your doctor to discuss appropriate screening and risk-reduction strategies tailored to your individual circumstances. a
Indeed, she does glow. Dr. Sarah GiaQuinta, senior VP of Community Health and Equity at Parkview, manages so many things so well you can’t help but wonder how she does it.
She hasn’t always lived here. She grew up in Decatur, and her parents were from Berne. After she finished college and then medical school, she went to Nashville for her residency at Vanderbilt. But she considers Fort Wayne home, because it’s so close to where she grew up. She moved back here in 2017.
And it wouldn’t be exaggerating to use the term power couple when describing her marriage. “I met my husband, Tony, in medical school. I was interested in medicine from a very young age, especially pediatrics. Pediatrics is my husband’s specialty, too. We started dating in the fourth year of medical school.”
Dr. GiaQuinta said she realized clinical medicine wasn’t for her. “I’ve had a sort of crooked road,” she said. “It wasn’t my plan, but I started thinking, how can we promote health outside the hospital walls?”
She continued, “In public health, we know that no one can make large-scale change on their own it really needs to be a community effort. I work hard to cultivate relationships and form partnerships across the area, and I think those people would agree that we all need each other to make a difference. I absolutely love living in Fort Wayne and feel so privileged to get to do this work every day.”
When she considers her legacy, first she considers how her children will view her work and contribution. She hopes she is remembered as being generous and kind, and that she is thought of as a strong advocate for underserved and vulnerable populations.
Outside those hospital walls is a very lively home life, too. “We have an eight-year-old daughter, Margaret, and a ten-year-old son, Henry.” And we can’t forget Leon, the 5-month-old yellow Lab!
She likes to be physically active, too. “I love to run! I did a half-marathon in April. Now I’m trying to train for my first marathon, but the heat and air quality these past months have made it difficult,” she said.
Dr. GiaQuinta has heard plenty of times that “I don’t know how she does it,” but she had some good thoughts on that. “I think it’s important when we think about women doing so much. There are weeks where I’m a really good mom, and weeks where I’m really good at my job. I don’t think you can be all of that at the same time! I want women to know that it’s okay to ask for help. And everything is accessible here for those weeks when there’s more time for family to do things together. Balance. I really couldn’t do any of this without balance.”
She thought for a minute, and added, “I believe that my unique background and experience allow me to bring a different perspective to the healthcare system. As a clinician and public health advocate, I work well within both the medical and community settings. I also feel like one of my strengths is looking at data and making it relatable to different groups. I love to use data to tell a story, and engage others in a common vision for our community.” a
1. Ostoscopic Examinations
A video inspection of your ear canal and eardrum will determine if wax is causing sound to be muffled.
2. Speech Understanding Assessment
Find out how well you understand conversational speech.
3. Familiar Voice Test
Bring a loved one to your appointment: we’ll check your hearing and understanding of his or her voice.
4. Baseline Audiogram
Find out which sounds you’re hearing and which sounds you’re not.
It’s easy to talk about inclusivity, though it’s harder to make it happen; however, Gavin Thomas Drew is catalyzing just that in the Fort Wayne arts scene: true inclusivity for performers, crews, and audiences alike.
Drew has been involved in the arts since he was 5 years old. He has been in too many shows to count and has been involved in theatre in seemingly every capacity. During his junior year at Oklahoma City University, where he had been accepted into a prestigious vocal performance program, he woke up one morning and couldn’t hear the water running as he turned on the shower. He’d known he was losing his hearing at age 16, but to go fully Deaf was a shock.
“I lost all of my hearing overnight essentially, which is devastating for someone who performs,” Drew said. “I chose not to complete the [college] program, took some time off, and got into a great audiologist in Oklahoma City, where I found out I was a candidate for cochlear implantation.”
Drew has a cochlear implant on one side.
“I don’t hear any pitch,” he said. “Music doesn’t sound the same. I had to relearn how to hear, essentially. I went around my house and turned on the water and was like, ‘Okay, that’s what water sounds like.”
Having built an entire career in the arts, he wasn’t sure what to do. He reached out to his friend and mentor Mindy Cox, who had helped start Summit City Music Theatre (SCMT) in Fort Wayne. She became instrumental in helping connect Drew to opportunities. He wasn’t sure he could perform anymore, but he told her he wanted to try whatever she was doing next.
Drew landed the lead role in that production and worked with his vocal coach from Oklahoma City University and Mindy on learning how to sing with his new way of hearing.
“Basically, I memorize pitch and how pitch feels versus singing by listening. It’s singing by sensation,” he said.
That’s still how Drew performs, and his passion for inclusivity has only grown.
“This set me on this journey,” Drew said. “I started thinking through it all: What does an inclusive rehearsal room look like? How do we accommodate not only someone who is hard of hearing, but someone who is blind or neurodivergent or autistic?”
He immediately got to work, even going back to Oklahoma City and asking hard questions of the city’s arts scene: “What can we do as artists and creatives to better accommodate and represent those communities? Because there’s no shortage of talent, no matter what your ability. How many actors can’t do shows because no one’s accommodating them to give them space on a stage or in a rehearsal room?”
After some time away, Gavin came back to Fort Wayne to be near his beautiful now-wife Emily, to help lead SCMT, and (jokingly) to be closer to his favorite bar in town, Henry’s.
SCMT offers opportunities for all, and operates like a regional professional theatre, with shortened rehearsal processes, actor stipends, and live musicians.
“Individuals who feel like they can take a chance with us come out to audition for our shows because they know we’re willing to accommodate them,” Drew said.
“So often we talk about ‘the industry’ like it’s this thing that’s outside of us ’I will break into the industry,’” Gavin said. “But really, we are the industry. The change comes from us. It comes from talking about the thing that makes us uncomfortable.” a
Colleen Britten, 19, was born and raised in Columbia City, Indiana. She has been in Girl Scouts since she was old enough to join and was recently recognized by the Girl Scouts of Northern Indiana-Michiana for achieving her Gold Award. This award, which is the highest achievement available to Girl Scouts, recognizes those who demonstrate extraordinary leadership through projects that have sustainable impact in their communities and beyond.
For her Gold Award project, Britten created a week-long camp to introduce middle school students to the art of show choir. She chose this as her project because from eighth grade on, Britten lived and breathed show choir. As she entered high school, she discovered that show choir was no longer being offered in middle school. She was concerned that other students wouldn’t get involved in the vocal arts and would miss out on the experiences that she loved so much.
Britten started the project, which she called Be the Next Voice, her freshman year of high school and originally planned to have her first camp completed by the summer of her sophomore year. Then the COVID-19 pandemic shut down in-person gatherings, and the camp couldn’t happen until after her senior year.
Creating Be the Next Voice was a great learning experience for Britten. When she finally set a date for the camp in July of 2022, she found out too late that it was the same week as the Whitley County 4-H Fair. A few days before camp was scheduled to start, she only had two kids signed up to participate.
“I had to learn to go with the flow and overcome all of the obstacles that were thrown at me,” she said. “With everything that happened, there were a lot of emails going back and forth about what should I do? Should I change my event? It was crazy.”
But the advice from those counseling Britten was for her to move ahead. So she did and ended up having eight campers that first year. The Be the Next Voice summer camp continued this year in the hands of a current show choir student and is being overseen by the choir’s director.
Now a sophomore in college at Trine University, Britten is getting her bachelor’s in elementary and special education with plans to get a master’s degree in Montessori education. She is also participating in the Miss America competition and is basing her platform around her Gold Award project.
“My platform is called ‘Go for the Gold’ and I share my story of how I got my Gold Award and encourage more people to go for theirs,” she said.
Britten said that less than 6% of girls receive the award and she wants to grow that number. She also wants people to recognize the prestige of the Gold Award without having to use the Boy Scouts Eagle Scout award as a reference point in conversations.
Britten’s advice to other young people contemplating doing something they are passionate about is to take the risk.
“There were multiple times that I didn’t take the risk, and it showed. And there were other times that I just kind of thought to myself, ‘what’s the worst that can happen?’” said Britten. “Definitely just take the risk.” a
Autumn is the perfect season in which to hold your wedding. Not only does Mother Nature provide a glorious color palate to serve as a backdrop for your big day, but the transitional nature of the season gives you unlimited options in terms of dress style, floral selections, and seasonal menus. If you are ready to “fall” in love with an autumn wedding, we’ve got the hottest trends to make your day unforgettable!
• Forget the big production. The pandemic changed how couples approach the way they say, “I do.” Rather than investing in a huge production for 300, they are opting for a more curated affair for family and close friends. This type of intimate gathering allows the couple to infuse a lot of personal touches that are more likely to be noticed and gives the bridal party the opportunity to mingle with their guests in a more meaningful way.
• Are you experienced? The interactive wedding experience is a must have for today’s couples, so why not make it a seasonal event? Create a selfie station for your guests using fall foliage, as well culinary stations that allow guests to create their own sandwich or salad, taste seasonal wines, or build their own dessert.
• Beyond the DJ. Live wedding entertainment is moving beyond the DJ, and while music is still an important facet of the big day, couples are branching out to hire magicians, jugglers, living sculptures, and more to give their guests a fun and festive day.
• Come together. Rather than the bridal party sitting by themselves on a dais, couples that opt for a formal meal are embracing the communal table to give their wedding feast a family feel. These tables are often festooned with seasonal florals and edibles in a wide array of colors. Consider a farm-to-table menu that highlights the fall harvest.
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• Multi-day events. Who says a wedding is limited to one day? Many couples are now looking for venues in which they can hosts their guests for a few days before or after the wedding itself. Large estates with multiple buildings are great for this type of mini holiday, which can serve as a family or friends’ reunion of sorts. You can organize special activities/events for everyone to take part in, giving guests the chance to get to know one another. When considering a multi-day event, make sure your guests know as soon as possible in order to arrange their calendars, make travel plans, etc.
• Less is more. If there is one season that is perfectly situated for a natural and organic wedding, then it is autumn. By incorporating the natural beauty that the season provides into your wardrobe, accessories, photos, and more, you can create an organic (and sustainable) event that will cost less but give you so much more! a
Many of us have considered publishing a book. Whether a story about our family, an instruction manual about our hobby, or even a novel, we often put our desire on hold. Three women who made their book dreams come true may be just the inspiration you need.
Jeannie Schlatter of Fort Wayne published her first book in May. It’s a children’s picture book about taking photos.
“I have wanted to write a book for a long time. Two summers ago, I had the idea for ‘A Picture Book’, because of my love of taking pictures,” Schlatter said. “I literally wrote it in my journal while on vacation. After returning home, I typed it out and let my daughter and granddaughters read it. They and my husband were very supportive and encouraged me to pursue publishing it. One of my sons is an
uploads a book, there are questions to answer about what the book is about, what words readers might use to find it, and more.
“My advice for someone who is not ‘tech savvy’ would be to not let that stop you,” Cabe said. “Find people whose work you admire and ask them for contacts and networking help. If you have a book written or an idea — bring it to fruition and allow a team to help you make it a reality.”
Schlatter also spoke with Joanna Gosser, an author and editor who
Christie Bowen Sprunger has lived in Fort Wayne for 11 years. Wife to Nathan and mother to June (5) and Milo (2), she wishes she had more time to read! She enjoys spending time with her family, running, cycling, trying new food, and diving into a good book. She is a sales trainer, communication consultant and coach, and teaches public speaking at Purdue University, Fort Wayne.
What are you currently reading?
I typically try to keep a balance of one self-help/life book and one fiction, but right now I’m reading “The Empowered Highly Sensitive Person” by Amanda Cassil, PhD., and “I Will Teach You to be Rich” by Ramit Sethi. I enjoy learning more about myself, how other people view and approach the world, and how to better myself. In the case of the first book, I am forever discovering that I am what’s known as an “HSP,” or Highly Sensitive Person, so this book is tapping into that need I have to learn more about how I’m wired and to continue to grow into the best version of myself. The book by Ramit Sethi is helping me understand how to better budget and grow our family’s income, which is something I’m interested in learning more about.
What’s your favorite genre?
I tend to love psychological thrillers when I select fiction because I like to lose myself in a good page-turner. I loved Colleen Hoover for this reason. I started with “Verity” and never looked back. She is probably my current favorite author. I am also a fan of young adult fiction, as I was an avid reader as a child and teen, and vividly remember being engrossed in it as I took a college course on it. The three books that have stuck with me in this genre are:
• “Number the Stars” by Lois Lowry
• “Where the Red Fern Grows” by Wilson Rawls
• “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee I remember being so emotionally engrossed and touched by the characters and the storyline in all these books.
What was your favorite book as a child?
I fondly remember “Goodnight Moon” and “The Velveteen Rabbit.” These are now classics I enjoy reading to my own children. a
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Join us for a fantastic, red-carpet runway spectacular as groomers transform their canine models into works of art and rock the runway in the area’s only creative grooming competition all in support of Fort Wayne’s most comprehensive non-profit animal welfare organization - Humane Fort Wayne!
If ever there was a polarizing parenting topic, co-sleeping is it! Some parents swear by it; others are dead set against it. But who is right? Is there a one-size-fits-all solution to deciding where children sleep? And what do the experts say?
As with any controversial topic, it’s always helpful to clarify the terms before discussing any details. Two terms typically fall under the general category of co-sleeping:
• Bed Sharing – When a baby or child sleeps in the same bed with the parents.
• Room Sharing – When a baby sleeps in the same room as the parents, usually in a bassinette or crib.
Parents in favor of sharing a bed with a baby or small child cite the benefits of increased sleep and stronger parent-child bonds. Nursing parents can find it much easier to feed the baby and get back to sleep if they bed share. And let’s face it, for those parents whose children are colicky or have trouble sleeping through the night, a tiny bit of desperation plays a key role in the decision to share a bed with the baby.
Proponents of bed sharing also point to the widespread practice. Parents across many cultures through many ages have shared a sleeping space with their babies and consider it a perfectly natural arrangement. If you are one of these parents, you’re not alone. More than half of parents report that they have slept with a baby in their bed at some point.
But that’s where popular opinion differs from best practices as defined by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Most, if not all, pediatricians strongly advise against ever sharing a bed with a baby. That’s because studies show that bed sharing increases the risk of SIDS and accidental suffocation. According to these experts, the risks just don’t outweigh the benefits.
Unlike bed sharing, room sharing reduces the risk of SIDS, since parents can typically hear and respond to any issues with the baby such as choking quickly. It’s also a great option for nursing mothers, who can feed the baby in the middle of the night and return the baby to a bassinette right beside the parents’ bed.
Proponents of room sharing also cite many of the same benefits as those who support bed sharing. Parents can still enjoy the skin-to-skin contact that soothes the baby and increases parent-child bonding, but they can do so without worrying that the baby might get trapped under pillows, sheets, or blankets or caught between the mattress and the headboard.
So is bed sharing a completely dangerous practice for all families? Not necessarily. If parents can remove hazards such as pillows, top sheets, and heavy blankets, and if the baby is at least three months old and can roll from front to back, some people think bed sharing might be worth the risk.
Obviously, as children get older, the risk of suffocation and SIDS decreases, but the quality of sleep for both child and parent might diminish, as well. After all, young children often kick, roll, and generally thrash about in the bed, keeping parents awake.
In addition, bed sharing with toddlers and young children tends to set a precedent that can be hard to break, and it can delay children’s ability to self-soothe. Of course, all these “rules” can get thrown out the window if a child is sick or frightened and jumps into the parents’ bed in the middle of the night!
Wherever you fall in the co-sleeping debate, it’s always a good idea to be honest with your doctor, who might be able to help you problem solve any sleep issues that could be plaguing your family. a
Title of Piece: The Light
What inspired this piece:
A friend prompted me, “What do you want from ‘creativity?’”
This was my answer.
What is your preferred style of writing?
I write short fiction and poetry. I aspire to be a novelist someday, though.
How long have you been writing?
I started writing poetry when I was ten and short fiction in high school. I’m eight years into my writing career in marketing.
I want to turn the light on
I want to carefully peel back every layer of paint
And uncover the mold in the wall And disrupt their colonization
I want to shove my hand through the soft, infected board And exhume the secrets sentenced to its purgatory
I want to cradle every memory ever remembered in my palm And smear it across my face for everyone to see
Only then, once I’m fruitfully fruitless, I want to turn the light off
I want to play in the shadows
And eternalize nuance
I want to worship contrarianism
And flood the cellar with doubt
I want to drown in my own doing
And plant seeds from rock bottom
Name: Jasmine Bejar
Hometown: East Chicago, Indiana
Current town: Fort Wayne, Indiana
What advice do you have for other writers just starting out?
As writers, we’re interpreters of events, experiences, stories, cultures, people, nature the world around us. That’s a big responsibility, and it can be tempting to emulate creative and creators we hold in high regard. But in art, interpretation is not absolute. Make sure to infuse your unique perspective and style in everything you write (and even break some rules along the way).
Where can we find your work?
Find my work at JasmineBejar.com, and hopefully someday on a shelf in a bookstore. a
I want to whisper into every crack and crevice And grow dandelions against all odds
It’s not enough until I set everything you and I have ever known ablaze and disappear into the rubble of what was once our home
You see, tomorrow, they’ll create a clearing
They’ll set a new foundation And praise it for its ignorance
They’ll put up new drywall and maybe wallpaper this time And shun our curiosity behind the very things it created
As if you and I haven’t spent our entire lives
Trying to unbury ourselves from the entrapment
But if we’re lucky, Maybe someone just like us, Will turn the light on again
Each month, we highlight someone whose style we admire. This month, it’s Nancy Gouloff-Grabner. She has been a stylist with cabi, a fashion house out of Los Angeles, for 19 years. She loves color and texture and pattern mixing. She and her husband of 30 years, Roger, have two very spoiled Mini Australian Shepherds, Ruby and Max. Their three adult kids have places of their own, but when they lived at home, Nancy loved that their home was the hangout. It was the scene of countless sleepovers and birthday parties downstairs and dinner parties where they moved the living room furniture out and made a dining room for 20+ high schoolers. “It just had its own heartbeat,” she said. “I kinda miss those years.”
She has had a love affair with her home for nearly 26 years. How would you describe your style?
Perhaps eclectic would be the best word. I think my style is ever evolving. Although somewhere in my core there is a foundation of classic; I just love a great vintage garage sale find, a curbside treasure, a piece of local art, a reminder of a great vacation, or a way to bring the vibe of that vacation with me and incorporate it into my home. It’s about wanting to create the feeling you have when you are at your best. Tell us a little about each of the areas you chose to highlight. Why did you choose them? What makes them your faves?
It’s hard to pick favorites spots because we seriously live in every inch of this house and yard. It seems most of my favorite spots are places of gathering. When it’s not summertime, our living room is the place I spend most of my time with friends. I hope it feels like a warm welcome when you come in the house. The saturated colors juxtaposed with my curated furniture finds make this a favorite.
My front porch is my place of sanctuary. My neighbors find me there with my morning newspaper and a cup of coffee by 6 or 6:30 each morning. Once the day gets rolling, I love entertaining, so whether it’s family for a dinner celebration or clients coming over for a glass of wine and to see what’s new in my latest collection, I love having multiple places to sit and enjoy the company of others. I feel like my house size doubles when we can enjoy one of the four outdoor seating areas: front porch, pergola on the side, back deck with the sounds from our water features or the upstairs sundeck. Summer dinners are always outside. On hot sunny evenings, we sit under the shade of the pergola, and if the evening is cooler, we have dinner on the front porch.
The kitchen … we survived a construction nightmare many years ago. I lived without a kitchen for 5 ½ years so this kitchen is a seriously cherished spot. When the kids were little and “the moms” would gather for coffee after we got the kids dropped off at school, we always sat at the bar in my kitchen. One dear friend would always call it “Tivloli.” So much laughter, probably some tears, so many stories, neighborhood baking days if these walls could talk!
The stairway is always a fave, although it’s not a gathering space. We carried the tile home from Mexico in our backpacks. A local iron artist Vince Morken did the railing. I’d scored the iron balusters from a fire/ salvage, and it took several years before I found Vince to put it all together. The house has a split personality between a Mexican vacation and a Mediterranean vibe.
When you think of your home, what’s the feeling you hope your family and visitors have?
I hope it feels like you want to exhale and relax here. Put your feet up and forget the stresses of the day. It’s not at all a big house, nothing fancy, but it’s the right size for us. Because I work in fashion, I hope it feels like a comfortable shoe, but like a super cool pair you found while shopping abroad in an outrageous color with a funky heel the pair you want to wear every day because you never tire of them.
What’s your favorite color?
I love color … any color … But orange is just so happy! More is more, less is a bore. a
Financial well-being is a crucial aspect of our lives, yet many consumers struggle with uncertainty, hesitancy, and misinformation. At the same time, embracing both saving and investing and understanding the differences between the two is essential.
Saving involves setting aside a portion of your income for future use. It’s the practice of putting money into accounts that are easily accessible, such as savings accounts, money market accounts, or certificates of deposit (CDs). Saving is primarily about building a safety net and accumulating funds for emergencies, large purchases, or short-term goals. There’s a financial planning practice that encourages individuals to save the minimum, which is (10%) of their gross income.
Investing, on the other hand, is the act of using your money to purchase assets with the aim of generating a return on your investment over time. Unlike saving, which typically offers lowrisk, low-return opportunities, investing carries more risk but can potentially provide higher returns.
When it comes to both pursuits, it’s critical to know how to separate fact from fiction so you can make the best decision for short-term and long-term financial health.
“I think the biggest (myths) that I would say is that investing is saving,” STAR Financial Investment Officer Medina Habibic said. “I think it’s important to go back to your financial advisor (for specific advice) based on your goals and where you are in life. You need to be cautious with your risks when you’re investing.”
Regardless of one’s situation, Habibic firmly believes in owning your finances. A budget isn’t enough to help you get and stay on track.
“Having a cash flow statement that goes over your cash inflows and your cash outflows is really beneficial,” she said. “When you’re looking at how much money is going in and how much money is going out, you can see where there’s potential to save or invest those funds. Your financial advisor can advise you on where it makes sense to invest this cash.”
It’s easy to find an Excel template online that allows you to plug in your figures. From here, Habibic recommends that you hold monthly household meetings to check in on budgeting.
Timing is another important factor. Habibic said it’s important to not invest just for the sake of investing or you might jeopardize your future.
“Some people may invest all or most of their savings, which can be a really difficult situation if you have a life event that may come up and you need that cash,” she said. “Due to the market, it may create a loss for you. That’s why you need to have adequate savings built up before you start investing.”
Striking the right balance between these two strategies, considering your unique financial circumstances and aspirations, is key to securing your financial future. You don’t have to go it alone either. Seeking guidance from financial experts can help you navigate the intricate world of money management and make informed decisions that align with your values and goals. a
When it comes to home values, everyone thinks of curb appeal. From perfecting the edging to adding a couple extra bright flowers, homeowners work on the exterior in hopes of drawing potential buyers. Once inside, the real feel of a house unfolds, and with relatively minimal investment, can increase your bottom line.
The color of the walls can have a dramatic effect on the sale price of a home and is a relatively inexpensive investment. One study found that buyers were willing to pay 1.6% more for a home with a light blue bathroom(1). In the bedroom, a deep, moody blue was found to increase a home’s selling price $5,000 on a $290,000 property(1). When it comes to colors for common areas like family rooms and kitchens, focusing on neutral shades profited sellers(1). Color also proved to have the opposite effect, reducing home prices, in some cases. Red kitchens sold about $1,500 under average, and bright yellow kitchens were least likely to sell(1)
Both free to the wallet and freeing to the mind is the elimination of clutter. The old magazines, field trip notes, and coupons not only detract from the beautiful bones of your home, but they also get in your way! Also good for you and for potential home sales is a deep cleaning(2). A clean home is a welcoming home.
Make all those improvements look their best with some fresh lighting. Research shows that cooler as opposed to warmer lighting appears more modern(2). If you have a bit more to budget, new light fixtures can also be a noticed improvement.
Simple replacements can make all the difference. No matter your price point for upgrades, a new toilet seat and freshened grout improve the space. In the bedroom, a simple white comforter or duvet and crisp white sheets can increase simplicity and indoor curb appeal.
Since 2009, the number of people working from home has increased 159%(3). Relatedly, a 2021 study suggested that 60% of top real estate agents cite a home office as a client-desired feature(3). A bedroom or large closet can be easily converted to meet this function for prospective buyers. a
(1) These Paint Colors Could Increase Your Home’s Value by Up to $5,000 (bhg.com) https://www.bhg.com/decorating/color/ paint/paint-colors-increase-home-value/
(2) 13 Easy Things You Can Do to Increase the Value of Your Home (businessinsider.com) https://www.businessinsider.com/ how-to-increase-home-value-price-diy-tips-advice-2019-5
(3) What Upgrades Increase Home Value? 25 High-ROI Improvements (homelight.com) https://www.homelight. com/blog/what-upgrades-increase-home-value/#:~:text=What%20Upgrades%20Increase%20Home%20 Value%3F%2025%20High-ROI%20Improvements,or%20 re-do%20your%20exterior%20paint%20...%20More%20items
You will enjoy greater protection from the cold of winter in an energy-efficient manner with a new steel entry door(3) Once installed, these doors are low-maintenance additions. With a few small updates like these, your home will become more valuable for the future, more enjoyable for you in the present, and draw a higher value in the future at sale time. Shutterstock.com
You can’t see it, taste it, or feel it, but clean air is a critical component of good health. However, with an increased number of air action days this summer, it may seem like clean air is a thing of the past. Thankfully, it’s not, and if you want to improve the indoor air quality of your home, we have the top tips to help you.
According to Harvard Health, a clean home is a healthy home or at least healthier than the alternative. While it is impossible to eliminate every pollutant, a solid cleaning routine can go a long way toward mitigating their impact. By vacuuming at least twice a week with an appliance outfitted with a HEPA filter or opting for solid surface flooring, you can cut down on a number of allergens, including dust and pet dander.
It is also important to launder bedding, drapes, and other household fabrics regularly in water that is at least 130 degrees in order to kill the microbial organisms that threaten your overall health. Remember, just because you can’t see it, doesn’t mean it’s not there. Invest in dust mite-proof covers for your pillows, mattresses, and box springs.
If you have a forced air HVAC unit, then it is important to change its filters regularly. Not only does this keep the system working efficiently, but fresh electrostatic filters work to ensure that dust and other airborne irritants get trapped rather than circulate throughout your living space, as well. Be sure to also change your vacuum cleaner bag regularly and have your ductwork and chimney cleaned to remove other air quality inhibitors and dust. An indoor air purifier is a must have for those living with allergies because they can capture some of the irritants that can trigger a reaction. While you won’t be able to eliminate them entirely (especially if you are allergic to your family pet), a purifier will help you cut down on those irritants, which can make the situation a little more bearable.
Also consider the purchase of a dehumidifier for your basement to prevent the growth of mold. Use bathroom fans and stove hoods to help ventilate areas that are havens for humidity, grease, and grime. Let the fresh air in
It may seem counterintuitive considering the summer we have endured, but it is still important to open your windows and doors and let Mother Nature do her thing. Check the air quality of your area on your weather app, and if it is appropriate, open the home and allow naturally fresh air to circulate through your home. By turning on your bathroom and kitchen fans, you can help the process along and also remove less-than-pleasant fumes at the same time. a
The American Lung Association offers some tips to identify those elements of the home that may contribute to poor indoor air quality:
a Smoking
a Mold/mildew
a Humidity above 50 percent
a Leaks or standing water
a Fuel burning appliances
a Household chemicals, paints, and solvents
a Odor masking chemicals
Pesticides
Radon and carbon monoxide.
What was your inspiration for the project?
Every month, we highlight do-it-yourself projects from our readers. Do you want to see your project featured in our magazine?
Email ambouthot@the-papers.com.
Sophia wanted to update her bedroom as she had grown out of the little girl stage and wanted a more neutral, older look. We found the bedding first, and then she fell in love with this wallpaper for an accent wall. We designed everything else around those two pieces.
How long did it take from start to finish?
AfterAbout a month. It took a bit in the beginning to decide on the paint color for the walls, so we ended up getting several samples and then chose Sophia’s favorite, which was Milk Toast by Valspar. We painted and did the wallpaper over a long weekend, and then spent a couple weeks picking out and deciding on all the décor.
Was it easier or harder than you anticipated?
Harder. Picking the perfect wall color was a challenge as we wanted a neutral color, but not too light to match the woodwork, but not too dark either. The samples helped, but until you paint it all, it’s hard to tell what it will look like when it is done. The wallpaper was no easy task either.
What was the total cost of the project
Around $750.
What did you like best about the undertaking?
Sophia was excited about getting a whole new room as it had been 8 years since we originally painted and decorated her room. I really enjoyed the mother daughter time we spent painting, wallpapering, and shopping for the décor. Seeing the finished product made all the time and work completely worth it.
BeforeWhat was the most challenging aspect?
The wallpaper. We chose peel and stick. It was hard to line it up perfectly with the previous strip on the wall, and you couldn’t just slide it around to match it up. It took a lot of tries lining it up, so it was nice you could just lift it back up and make it straighter to stick back on the wall. It wasn’t messy at all, so that was good too. It was a 2-person job. Sophia helped hold and line up the bottom of the strip as we applied it to the wall. Overall, it turned out way better than we expected and exactly how we wanted.
Where did you source the materials?
This month’s Reader DIY comes from Julie Stutzman and her daughter 11-year-old daughter Sophia. Julie has lived in Fort Wayne her whole life and she loves being a mom. She taught for 8 years before staying home with her kids. She has returned to the classroom as a substitute teacher at their school. She loves spending time with family, reading, teaching, and volunteering at church and on the PTO at school.
Sophia is very artistic. She loves to craft, sew, and sing. You will find her creating at her desk most of the time or playing with our new puppy, Banks.
It was time to give Sophia’s bedroom a makeover — from little girl’s room to a room that will help her usher in her pre-teen years, this room makeover has us swooning.
The bedding and some décor was from Target. We purchased the paint and wallpaper from Lowes. Good old Amazon was great for curtains, laundry hamper, trash can, Big Joe fluffy bean bag chair, and more. Most of the wall decorations were found at Hobby Lobby. a
To Jan Evrard, the concept of home is associated with giving back and leaving her corner of the earth a little better than she found it. She is a wife, mother, grandmother, volunteer, and member of a spiritual community.
In other words, if you want something done, she’s the woman to call. A go-getter and doer by nature, Evrard has earned a reputation for overcoming obstacles. In her personal life, she’s been in toxic relationships, a single mother, and an alcoholic in recovery. Those struggles have only colored her approach to her volunteer work.
“I’ve always been the type of person who says, ‘don’t criticize unless you want to make it better,” she said.
Though she prefers to be behind the scenes in her advocacy, her passion for effecting change led her to become the secretarytreasurer of the Oxford Community Association. This organization on the southeast side has worked diligently through the years for increased lighting on the streets and alleys, increased safety and cleanliness in the neighborhood, and support for businesses that better the community.
Evrard, who attended North Side High School, has also found fulfillment in her affiliation with Plymouth Church’s Peace & Justice Committee. A progressive and open-minded person, she appreciates the congregation’s inclusivity and dedication to advancing social causes. On a related note, she became involved with the Sierra Club’s Beyond Coal movement. In hindsight, though important, it was challenging and often thankless work to change the hearts and minds of legislators. It was the same uphill battle trying to oppose the Allen County jail project, she added.
Her work as a yoga instructor, however, has sometimes instant gratification. Right now, she teaches several classes a week at facilities for people facing addiction. This pursuit is a story in and of itself.
“I got certified (to teach yoga) in 2012,” she said. “I didn’t know too many people (in the yoga community then). But soon, I was teaching at several places. And then it just kind of evolved. Most recently, I took a yoga for recovery certification class.”
Evrard said she enjoys being in this environment because it’s generally positive. The students are hungry for change and appreciate her as a mentor.
“It will be 20 (years) in October,” she said about her recovery journey. “I LIKE to tell people that I’m an alcoholic. I like to say, you know, ‘it comes in all forms.’ I like to say, ‘hey, you don’t have to (continue) doing any of that stuff.”
Her husband, Monty, has been a key player in staying sober. In her limited free time, the two enjoy travel, spending time with their grandchildren, and enjoying life’s simple pleasures.
“I have many house plants and a lot of outdoor foliage, although I don’t actually grow a garden,” she said. “We do a lot of outdoor cooking, as well, in the summer months. We are also big fans of Pacers basketball and watch at home and go to Indy when we can. I relax with coffee and reading in the morning.” a
While the Bowen Health Clinic started in 1961 as a nonprofit Community Mental Health Center (CMHC) in northern Indiana, they are now the largest CMHC in the state. It serves Hoosiers from Indianapolis north, offering mental health care and addiction recovery services primarily to those who have public health insurance or self-pay for services.
They started transitioning to integrated care in 2020 with their first primary healthcare clinic in Warsaw. They now have Bowen Health Clinics in Allen, Huntington, Kosciusko, Wabash, and Marshall counties.
And now the 62-year-old organization has added family practice to their scope of services with a new moniker to signify the expansion.
“When we started down the path of getting a designation called a Federally Qualified Health Center Look-Alike, that’s where the Bowen Health Clinic name came in,” said Shannon Hannon, MBA, CMPE, Chief Operating Officer for the Bowen Health Clinic.
According to the federal Health Resources & Services Administration’s website, “Health Center Program look-alikes are HRSAdesignated health centers that provide comprehensive, culturally competent, high-quality primary health care services while meeting all Health Center Program requirements, but they do not receive federal award funding.”
While the Bowen Health Clinic hopes to obtain full Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) designation when the opportunity presents itself, there are no set open application periods, so they must wait. In the meantime, they operate just like a FQHC by providing primary care services regardless of a patient’s ability to pay.
“And the reason we chose (the name Bowen Health Clinic) was because we wanted the community to be able to identify that that meant that there was something different about that location, an expansion of services, which for us was that primary care addition,” she explained.
In the remaining counties where they have physical locations, DeKalb, LaGrange, Noble, Steuben, and Whitley, they are still Bowen Health Clinic. However, by the end of 2023, as Bowen continues to expand its primary care, DeKalb and Whitley counties will become health clinics and the remaining counties will follow by the end of June 2024.
Why has the Bowen Health Clinic expanded their services to include primary care? Hannon said the reason is twofold.
“We know that the patients we serve on the community mental health side, those with serious mental illness, die about 20 years younger (than those without serious mental illness) for a multitude of reasons - access to care is one of them,” she said.
Hannon said for those with serious mental illness, caring for their physical health is often overlooked. “If we co-locate these services, we have a really good shot at being able to engage those patients that we already have the privilege of serving on the mental health side, taking care of their primary care, as well.”
The second reason for the Bowen Health Clinic’s expansion into primary care is to make
it easier for people to access their mental health services.
“If you look at the country, across the board about 70% of mental health medications come from primary care providers, not psychiatrists,” said Hannon. “So, this gives us another access point for the community for some who may not feel as comfortable coming to a community mental health center.”
In addition to the 10 counties where Bowen has locations, they also provide services in another 19 counties, including Adams, Blackford, Cass, Delaware, Elkhart, Grant, Hamilton, Hancock, Howard, Jay, Johnson, LaPorte, Madison, Marion, Pulaski, Starke, St. Joseph, Tipton, and Wells.
Besides mental and physical health care, the Bowen Health Clinic offers additional services such as: medication-assisted treatment including methadone for opioid use, a 20bed psychiatric hospital providing crisis intervention, stabilization, and detoxification; community-based life skills coaching; diagnostic testing and specialized programs for autism-spectrum disorder; and transitional living services. They also have an Opioid Treatment Program located in Fort Wayne called Bowen Recovery Center. a Resource:
Bowen Health Clinic, bowencenter.org
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.
1 | Friday | Downtown Live!
Experience live music all summer with the return of the third annual summer concert series, Downtown Live, presented by Downtown Fort Wayne. 6 p.m.- 8 p.m. The TriCore Porch off Calhoun Alleyway. For more information and a complete list of scheduled performances, please go to https://downtownfortwayne.com.
1-10 | Daily | Jurassic Empire at Glenbrook Mall
A drive thru event. Jurassic Empire is one of the world’s largest dinosaur touring events. Each dinosaur is painstakingly recreated from scientific specifications. They are true-life in size and in overall appearance. They even move and ROAR! Car tickets start at $45. https://www.jurassicempire.com/
3 | Sunday | Decatur Coin Show and Marketplace
Nearly 100 indoor vendors, hot food available. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. (yearround), Riverside Center, 231 E. Monroe St. (Highway 224 East), Decatur. Contact Carla at 260.517.8182, decaturfleamarket.com.
5 | Tuesday | REO Speedwagon
Foellinger Outdoor Theatre, 7:30 p.m. $39 and up. https://www.fortwayneparks.org/facilities/foellinger-theatre.html
5, 12, 19, 26 | Tuesdays | Trek the Trails
Find fitness, fun, and new friends on the trails! Join the City of Fort Wayne, Fort Wayne Trails, and Trek Fort Wayne every Tuesday for weekly Trek the Trails bike rides! For more information, call the City of Fort Wayne Greenways & Trails Office at 260-427-6228 or Fort Wayne Trails, Inc. at 260-969-0079.
6 | Wednesday | Salomon Farmers’ Market
Salomon Farmers’ Market is a mid-week market focused on connecting the local community to farmers, producers, bakers and artisans that are within a 75-mile radius of Salomon Farm Park. 4 p.m.-7 p.m., Salomon Farm Park, 817 W. Dupont Rd.
6, 13, 20, 27 | Wednesdays | Fort Wayne’s Farmers Market
Fort Wayne’s Farmers Market will take over Dynamo Alley At Electric Works every Wednesday from 3pm to 7pm. For more information about the market and its vendors, visit the Fort Wayne Farmers Market’s website. ftwaynesfarmersmarket.com
7 | Thursday |
Trashy Thursday
Volunteer to pick up trash along Smith and Engle roads. 10 a.m. to noon first Thursday of each month. Wear close-toed shoes and long pants. Safety vests, gloves, trash bags, trash grabbers and snacks provided. Cancelled if raining. https://www.lrwp.org/events
7-9 | Thursday-Saturday |
Grabill Country Fair
Grabill is a quaint town of about 1,000 people, just north of Fort Wayne, Indiana nestled in the heart of a large Amish community. The town’s country-style fair highlights the area’s Amish heritage. https://www.grabillcountryfair.org
9 | Saturday |
Healthier Moms & Babies’ 7th Annual Diaper Dash
Dash alongside friends, family, and colleagues as you enjoy a laid-back, untimed race, perfect for all running levels. The event supports programs, resources, and education that help families lead their best lives. Parkview YMCA pavilion and race along the Pufferbelly Trail. 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Price: Adults $35 and Children $15. https://runsignup.com/ Race/IN/FortWayne/DiaperDash5KFamilyRunWalk
9 | Saturday |
Brewed IN The Fort Wayne Craft Beer Fest 2023
This festival is dedicated to promoting and celebrating locally crafted products from Indiana beers and ciders, to Fort Wayne food and entertainment. 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., Tickets $40. https://www.brewedinthefort.com/
9 & 10 | Saturday & Sunday |
West Central Home & Garden Tour & ArtsFest
Home tour hours are 11:00 a.m to 5:00 p.m. Visit the historic West Central Neighborhood for its 41st annual two-day Home and Garden Tour & ArtsFest. The ArtsFest is FREE. Tickets are $20 for home tours. https://westcentralneighborhood.org/
10 | Sunday |
Be a Tourist in Your Own Hometown
Use the Be A Tourist passport to gain FREE admission to the participating attractions below. One passport is good for admission for your whole family! 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. https://www.visitfortwayne.com/events/be-a-tourist/
11 | Monday |
An Evening with Cake
Foellinger Outdoor Theatre, 8 p.m., $49 and up. https://www.fortwayneparks.org/facilities/foellinger-theatre.html
16 & 28 | Saturday & Thursday |
Dinner in the Flower Field at Salomon Farm Park, 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Treat yourself to a beautiful experience in the flower fields at Salomon Farm Park. Dine amongst the blooms while enjoying a farm focused dinner. In partnership with Mad Anthony, you will enjoy a 4-course meal, adult beverage, soft music, flowers and interesting conversation. After dinner, pick a bouquet of flowers to take home. Ages 21+. Reservation deadlines: September 6 and September 18. No refunds for cancellations. https://www.fortwayneparks.org/facilities/saloman-farmpark/upcoming-programs-events.html
16 | Saturday |
Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back with Fort Wayne Philharmonic, Foellinger Outdoor Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $23.50 and up. https://www.fortwayneparks.org/facilities/foellinger-theatre.html
23 | Saturday |
2023 World Rivers Day
Clean Drains Fort Wayne: Be River SmART, Promenade Park, 1 p.m, to 4 p.m. Music, Entertainment, Food Trucks and Dumpster Drummers performances. Free admission. https://forfw.org/world-rivers-day/
23 | Saturday |
Lions, Tigers, and Beers at Black Pine Animal Sanctuary
This 21 and older event features beer tasting, dinner, music, a silent auction and, of course, tour animal residents! Proceeds from the evening are used to help defray the cost of animal care food, shelter, veterinary care, and enrichment. 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tickets $60, or $75 VIP. https://www.bpsanctuary.org/event/lions-tigers-beers-2/
29 | Friday
Addison Agen with opener Max Lockwood Baker Street Centre, 7:30 p.m. General admission $20, Gold Circle $40. https://www.bakerstreetcentre.com/
30 | Saturday
Fort 4 Fitness Fall Festival Parkview Field, 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Every year, thousands of athletes train for and participate in the Fall Festival. The Saturday event features four race distances (4 Mile, 10K, Half Marathon, and Triple Crown) to suit people of all ages and abilities. Participants are enthusiastically encouraged along the way by neighborhood cheer groups and live music performers, and they’re awarded a finisher medal at the Finish Line at Parkview Field. Whether you’re a beginner, a casual runner or seasoned competitor, this is the race for you! https://fort4fitness.org/fall-festival
• Saturday, July 1, through Nov. 12, “An Herban Garden” exhibit, open during regular hours.
• Saturday, September 2, Fall Plant Swap. Swap quality established plants with fellow plant enthusiasts and bring home the same amount of plants, if not more! Perennials, bulbs and houseplants are preferable this fall. Registered participants are given priority. Reserve your spot by calling (260) 427-6000. Registration deadline: September 1. Min. 10. Max. 45.
• Saturday, September 16, Fall Bonsai Show. Stroll through a miniature forest of familiar trees as the focus of conversation. Cultivate your interest when choosing from a selection of bonsai specimen and pots that are available for cash-only purchase. Show entry included with general 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.
• Saturday, September 2, Music Lovers Lounge. Dance the night away with your fellow music lovers in the Embassy’s multi-tier ballroom with rooftop access (weather permitting). Show time is 9:30 p.m. Each table comes with 4 seats & 4 meal tickets (Ziffles). The total cost of a Table is $200 ($50 per entry).
• Saturday, September 9, James Sanders & Conjunto. Conjunto is James Sanders’ long-running project to unite his classical training and theory with the freedom of jazz improvisation, all grounded in the lively rhythms of the Caribbean: rumba, son, danzón, bolero and more. Show time 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $5.
• Thursday, September 21, Michael Glabicki & Dirk Miller. A multi-faceted musician, producer and songwriter, Glabicki’s duo tour dates feature many Rusted Roots hits, stories and songs yet to be released. Show time 7:30 p.m., Tickets are $25.
• Friday, September 29, Kevin James: The Irregardless Tour. Show time 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $36, $46, $56, and $76.
• Saturday, September 30, Encanto: The Sing-Along Film Concert! Includes all the music of the Academy Award®-winning film. Fans are encouraged to dress up as Mirabel, Luisa, Isabela, or any of their favorite characters from the film and to use their voices to transform each venue into one big celebration of the Madrigal family. Show time 2 p.m. Tickets range from $40-$140.
NOTE: Ticket prices are subject to fluctuation based on demand.
125 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne. 800.745.3000, fwembassytheatre.org.
• Saturday, September 9, Jim Gaffigan “Barely Alive” Fall Tour, 7 p.m., $99.75, $79.95, $59.75, $39.75, children under 2 are free
• Friday, Septembet 15, Gracias Choir & Orchestra Christmas Cantata, 7 p.m, Free admission.
• Saturday & Sunday, September 16-17, Johnny Appleseed Festival, 10 a.m., Free admission
Parking $8 main lot, $12 preferred lot. Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, 4000 Parnell Ave., Fort Wayne. 260.482.9502, memorialcoliseum.com.
Fort Wayne Museum of Art
Exhibitions:
• Transformed Spaces: Art Beyond the Frame (July 1 through Sept. 10)
• An American Renaissance in Fort Wayne: Muralists from the Allen County Courthouse (July 15 through Sept. 10)
• Poetry in Painting: Scenes from Fort Wayne’s Sister City Taizhou, China (July 22-Sept. 17)
• Planes, Trains & Automobiles: Classic Toys and Americana (ongoing)
• The Glass Wing of FWMoA (ongoing)
• Kaiyodo: Mini Artworks for the Modern Age (ongoing)
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.
• Saturday, September 16, 98.9 The Bear Presents, Atreyu and Memphis May Fire We Want Your Misery Tour with Catch Your Breath and Another Day Dawns, doors at 5 p.m., show at 6 p.m., $29.50 and up.
• Sunday, September 17, 96.3 WXKE Presents Bruce Hornsby & The Noisemakers- Spirt Trailer: 25th Anniversary Tour. Doors at 6 p.m., show at 7 p.m. $39.50 and up.
• Friday, September 22, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy. Doors at 7 p.m., show at 8 p.m. $39.50 and up.
• Saturday, September 30, Brian Culbertson- The Trilogy Tour. Doors at 7 p.m., show at 8 p.m. $39.50 and up.
The Clyde Theatre, 1808 Bluffton Road, Fort Wayne. 260.747.0989, clydetheatre.com.
This Way, a program of Downtown Fort Wayne, will host the 2023 Art This Way Art Crawl: Alley Bash, on Friday, September 22, from 6:00-10:00 p.m.
Art This Way will refresh the annual Art Crawl fundraising event with various changes. The 2023 Art This Way Art Crawl: Alley Bash event and programming will be held outdoors in Downtown Fort Wayne’s art-filled alleyways. This year’s event footprint will include the Bill Blass Runway, The TriCore Porch Off Calhoun, and the patio space behind JK O’Donnell’s, all of which are part of the Double Plus alleyway network in Downtown Fort Wayne. This vibrant, urban event will feature artists in motion, live music, the sale of alcoholic beverages, a silent disco, and a family-friendly scavenger hunt with huge prize giveaways. Dash-In and JK O’Donnell’s will be the two featured beverage providers for the event. No indoor stops or food will be included as part of the event ticket this year, and because of these adjustments, ticket costs have been reduced. Tickets are just $10.00 per person.
The following artists have confirmed participation in the 2023 Art This Way Art Crawl: Alley Bash, with more to come: Julie Wall, MDZF, John Kelty, Drece L. Guy, Maeve Hernandez Asano, Seth Green, Sol Eye Glass, Dani Kiefe, Theoplis Smith III (aka Presh Laundry), Jeff Pilkinton Chalk Art, Joseph Pelka, and Angelina Possemato.
For more information about Art This Way and the Art This Way Art Crawl: Alley Bash, please go to ArtThisWayFW.com. For those interested in volunteering at this year’s event, please complete the SignUpGenius form.
The 2023 Art This Way Art Crawl: Alley Bash is presented by Downtown Fort Wayne and TriCore. a
BANI is excited to announce there are four homes on the tour this year. Of the four homes entered this year, two are new homes and two are whole house remodels. There are two homes on Crooked Lake, one on Lake James, and one on Hamilton Lake. All have architectural and design aspects unique to each home. Whether it’s ideas for small spaces, unique areas to entertain your guests, porches with lake views, or custom walk-in showers and gourmet kitchens, all the homes on the tour have great features and unique innovative design.
Bob Buescher Homes has one home this year. “Back Nine” is a new home located on Crooked Lake. It’s a guest cottage/storage haven and play cave project that beautifully compliments the lake home and completes the ultimate lake atmosphere. Things to see here are the custom kitchen, enormous RV/boat storage bay, golf simulator and 19th hole bar.
Star Homes by Delagrange and Richhart has one home this year in Hamilton. Their entry this year, “The Biloxi,” is a villa project they have done a fantastic job designing. It features efficient use of space, modern colors, open floor plan with great views and common spaces for entertaining fun.
Mark your calendar to attend the 2023 Builders Association of Northeast Indiana (BANI) Builders Parade. This year’s event is September 8 through September 10, from noon to 5 p.m. each day. Preview the free Passbooks distributed throughout northeast Indiana, southern Michigan, and western Ohio. Tickets are available at each home for $10. Kids 18 and under are free.
Four Seasons provides us with “Nautical Nest,” a charming lake house with an open concept and unobstructed lake views. The gourmet kitchen, cathedral ceiling, window wall, and screen porch allows the homeowners to enjoy what life at the Lake is all about. This entry should give you ton of space efficiency ideas as you walk through. This home has seen a lot of transformation, so don’t miss your chance to see it.
Finally, Homes by JICI offers “Fraze Point,” a whole house renovation. They turned this tight 4-bedroom home into 3 luxury, modern bedroom suites, providing the utmost comfort for guests. This spectacular home features custom finishes everywhere including a glass railing on the loft, custom woodwork on the fireplace wall, tiled showers, and large walk-in closets.
Beyond the aesthetic value, tourgoers will have another incentive to visit all the stops. If you visit every home, you can submit your stamped ticket for a drawing to win $500. Passbooks will be distributed at hundreds of locations throughout northeast Indiana and will also be available at each featured home. a
www.buildneindiana.com
The 11th Annual Warm & Cozy Fundraiser is September 20th, 2023! Join the Fort Wayne Sexual Assault Treatment Center staff and volunteers and help them celebrate 27 years of service in Northeast Indiana. This year’s event location is moving to The Paddock, 7211 IN-14, Columbia City, Indiana.
Wednesday, September 20
6:00 - 9:00pm
Guests will enjoy plenty of food, drink, silent auction, LIVE Auction, and of course, music by the Legendary Trainhoppers.
Dress Code is “Warm & Cozy” casual
www.warm-cozy.org
About the Sexual Assault Treatment Center:
SATC’s mission is to be the most respected and trusted resource for superior medical forensic care, education and research in bringing justice to those impacted by sexual assault. Supporting this cause is so meaningful for us because every 98 seconds someone is sexually assault in this country and it is often not reported nor discussed. This event raises muchneeded funds for the SATC’s mission to provide assistance to sexual assault victims at every stage. SATC provides services to men, women, and children in 17 Northeast Indiana counties. The center works in conjunction with 56 law enforcement agencies and 22 hospitals, including child services and the morgue. All the services are provided at no cost to the victims.
Fort Wayne Sexual Assault Treatment Center, Fort Wayne, 260.423.2222, fwsatc.org