Home Living April 2021

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April 2021

HOMELIVING Indoor + Outdoor

Home & Garden COMPOSTING

4-1-1

RAISED

garden beds WINDOW

maintenance & replacement

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April 2021 | Home Living 3

welcome!

HOMELIVING Indoor & Outdoor

from the editor

PO Box 188 • 206 South Main St. Milford, IN 46542 800.733.4111/Fax 800.886.3796 Editorial and Advertising, Ext. 2491 homeindooroutdoorliving.com PUBLISHER Ron Baumgartner rbaumgartner@the-papers.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Deb Patterson dpatterson@the-papers.com PUBLICATION MANAGER and EXECUTIVE EDITOR Amber Bouthot ambouthot@the-papers.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Rebecca Boone rboone@the-papers.com BUSINESS MANAGER Carrie Goralczyk cgoralczyk@the-papers.com

HOME readers!

The arrival of warm weather is an instant mood lifter, especially after a brutally isolated winter. And while I am not a big fan of April showers, I am a HUGE fan of what comes next — vibrant greens and colorful hues as trees bloom, yards wake up, and flowers poke through the thawing ground. We can throw open the windows, let in the fresh air and be reminded once again that winter always ends and warmer days are ahead.

I can’t wait to get outside to do some garden prep and get a start on some outdoor projects — and as always, we have great Amber Bouthot ideas to help you kick start your own projects within the pages of this issue.

Speaking of getting in the mood for working in the yard and tackling spring projects...

The Fort Wayne Home & Garden Show is the perfect place to get inspired. Stop by and see us at our booth. The event runs from April 15-18 at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum. More information is available on pages 10 & 11.

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING Steve Meadows smeadows@the-papers.com

Thank you for reading.

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Mary Lester mlester@the-papers.com MARKETING ASSISTANTS Darlene Eichelberger darlene@the-papers.com Trina Hoy thoy@the-papers.com DIRECTOR OF CIRCULATION Jerry Long jlong@the-papers.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Ray Balogh, Bethany Beebe, Mary Jane Bogle, Lauren Caggiano, Jaclyn Youhana Garver, Deborah C. Gerbers Cathy Shouse, Julie Young Home Living Indoor + Outdoor is a news magazine with emphasis on home decor, design and remodeling. Home Living does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial content, nor does Home Living or its staff assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial content appear in any publication.

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

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

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

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

Your cancelled check will serve as your receipt.

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

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4 Home Living | April 2021

contents trends ~

interior design....................... 6 zoom walls

features ~

main feature......................... 8

the ins and outs of window replacement

event.................................... 10

Fort Wayne Home & Garden Show

how to................................. 12

compost

well being............................ 14

April 2021

Vol. 12 No. 12

at

HOME ~ (cont.)

household pets................... 18

they are what they eat

reader diy............................21

fireplace wall renovation

community ~

event calendar.................. 22 support small...................... 24

Ground Down

company spotlight............. 26

Rose Brick

event.................................... 28

springtime fitness challenges to energize the whole family

Town & Country New Home and Specialty Retail Tour

at

essentials ~

HOME ~

garden/landscape............ 16

growing to new heights

I am HOME..........................30

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April 2021 | Home Living 5

what’s trending | interior design

Zoom Walls

By Amber Bouthot

2020 was a weird year. As many of us transitioned to work-from-home accommodations, virtual meetings became a normal part of our day. Some took it as an opportunity to revamp or upgrade spaces in their homes. Not only was it suddenly necessary to have a dedicated space where one could be productive for 40+ hours per week, but because zoom meetings became the norm, many started paying attention to what their teammates could see during such meetings, as well. Enter zoom walls — carefully curated bookshelves and visually stimulating walls, all designed to give a certain aesthetic to your workspace.

Here are some of our favorites to inspire you.

6 Home Living | April 2021

April 2021 | Home Living 7

features | main feature

Ins and Outs of Window Replacement the

By Cathy Shouse

Spring can feel like a time of new beginnings when everything looks a bit brighter. Your home’s windows may be brought into the spotlight — for better or worse. We tend to ignore windows until something draws our attention, but local experts urge us to take a closer look.

Kathy Price, operations manager of 3 Rivers Remodeling, said installing new windows for homeowners is front and center all year. But there is sometimes an uptick in purchases in the spring.

“Spring is when people start to open their windows after being closed all winter,” Price said. “When you’re spring cleaning, you want to have the windows open.”

If there’s any leaking, wear or rotting, it’s best to replace windows sooner rather than later.

The style and complexity of windows range from the simple white open-and-shut type to those with all the extras. Some have special latches, can be child proof, might have unique screen options and more. Depending on numerous factors, including the size and whether they have triple panes, window prices can run from $100 each to $2,000.

Whether to spiff up your home’s windows for your personal enjoyment or because you’re

8 Home Living | April 2021

thinking about listing your home for sale, investing in windows makes sense.

“It’s a selling point. If you have all new windows, that’s a secure feeling,” Price said.

“Just like buyers like new roofs.”

Kevin Hunter, President of Windows, Doors & More, said the company installs new windows and replaces and repairs their own locally manufactured windows, as well.

“Replacing windows needs to be based upon the efficiency of the windows, which over the last ten years has significantly improved due to the low E glass coatings,” Hunter said. “Multiple layers of silver oxide and argon gas have increased their efficiency by nearly 50%. What has significantly changed in the last couple years is all of the color options that are available, including over 20 different colors and multiple wood-looking laminates that look like true wood. Our muntins, grids and grills are between the glass for ease of cleaning.”

Once you’ve chosen what you want, it’s important to get the windows installed properly. When consumers skimp on this step, both Price and Hunter said their companies are sometimes called in to fix things.

“Windows need to be measured and installed correctly in order for them to perform at a high level,” Hunter said. “Many windows nowadays require them being completely removed back to the rough opening.

This requires a much more skilled installer and gives the maximum amount of glass as possible by completely removing the existing old window frame.”

Could some of the cost of windows be offset by lowered utility bills?

“Absolutely,” Hunter said. “New windows can have a significant impact on heating and cooling costs. Most of our homeowners see anywhere between 15 to 25% reduction in utility cost. That’s assuming the rest of the house has proper insulation in the attic and walls.”

SPRING

Hunter’s Dos and Don’ts:

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• Don’t be pressured into a tonight-only price purchase. (Reputable companies give 90-day pricing.)

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April 2021 | Home Living 9

features | event

Fort Wayne

Home & Garden Show Thursday, April 15 through Sunday, April 18

Celebrating 48 Years

Shutterstock.com

The 48th annual Fort Wayne Home & Garden Show, scheduled for Thursday, April 15 through Sunday, April 18, at Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, will be a bit different than past years due to COVID-19 health and safety protocols.

The event organizers are committed to hosting the event safely and have put in place the following protocols: limited capacity, mandatory face coverings, social distancing measures, and contact tracing.

Visit home-gardenshow.com/health-safety/ for more information.

As always, the show will feature hundreds of local businesses, all of whom have endured a very challenging year and need our support. Therefore, in lieu of having traditional celebrity guests and seminars at the show, the exhibitors will be the primary show features! Along with 4 times as many winners of the popular Show Bucks Giveaways, which work like gift certificates showgoers can spend with exhibitors.

This year’s exhibitors feature products and

10 Home Living | April 2021

services for kitchen, bath, landscaping, interior décor, bedding, windows, siding, roofing, gutters, patios, driveways and more. A full list of exhibitors is available on the event website, home-gardenshow.com, conveniently listed by business category.

“This year’s show is about getting back to the basics,” said Becky Williamson, producer of the Fort Wayne Home & Garden Show. “We want to see our showgoers getting the products and services they want or need by supporting our small and local business exhibitors! That’s why we’re quadrupling the amount of Show Bucks winners as kind of our own ‘Show Stimulus’ program to support this important local business economy.”

When: April 15 – 18 Hours: Thursday and Friday 11am–9pm Saturday 10am–9pm Sunday 11am–5pm.

Tickets: $12 at the door Thursday & Friday $15 at the door Saturday & Sunday $8 for Seniors 62+ Free for kids under 15.

More info at Home-GardenShow.com.

Parking at the Coliseum is $6. A portion of all ticket proceeds and revenue will be donated to Habitat for Humanity of Greater Fort Wayne to contribute the means necessary to build a show sponsored home for a member of the Fort Wayne community.

April 15 - 18 Memorial Coliseum

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Thu - Fri 11a-9p | Tickets $12 Saturday 10a-9p | Tickets $15 Sunday 11a-5p | Tickets $15 Children Under 15 are FREE Seniors 62+ $8 any day* *Senior discount is NOT available online.

Purchase online tickets, view health & safety protocols, search our complete list of exhibitors and more at:

Home-GardenShow.com

What to expect at this year’s show?

Health & safety protocols + social distancing guidelines + COVID vaccinations at the Coliseum will make for a different show this year. While we can’t have our traditional celebrity features, seminars & family fun area... we are able to showcase our hundreds of amazing exhibitors who are eager to help you! Plus we’ll be giving away thousands of dollars in Show Bucks!

Home Improvement

Kitchens, baths, bedrooms, windows, roofing, gutters, doors, painting, garage doors, service pros & more!

Garden Gallery + Flower Sales

Landscapes, plants, flowers, patio furniture, fire-pits, fountains, outdoor kitchens, sheds, pools, spas & more!

4x as many Show Bucks Winners

Consider this our Show Stimulation Package! Spend these certificates like cash with participating exhibitors and help stimulate the local economy!

Cash & Carry Shopping

Home decor, health & beauty supplies, fairy gardens, jewelry, tools, kitchen utensils, bags, clothing & more!

Gourmet Food & Sampling

Meats, cheeses, sauces, spices, dips, candy, nuts, wine, honey, popcorn, chocolate, cakes, olive oils & more!

Join us to celebrate and support the hundreds of small & local businesses that make up our foundation!

April 2021 | Home Living 11

features | how to

Compost

By Bethany Beebe

As we get ready to return to the garden, we may be thinking about how to maximize the fruits of our labors.

Composting, or accelerating and controlling organic material’s natural decomposition, according to Purdue Extension, is one way to make a good garden great. The finished material can be used as fertilizer, to improve soil’s water-retention, and better the structure of the soil, all while potentially reducing weeds, insects and erosion. Organisms like microbes or earthworms process organic materials — ranging from garden-found dry leaves to table-found dinner scraps--to realize a beneficial finished product. Composting creates ideal conditions that allow the complete decomposition process to happen more quickly, both reducing waste and creating a useful finished product.

Composted materials fall into one of two camps: green (high in nitrogen) and brown (high in carbon). Both are needed, but in proper ratios to one another. Green includes fresh grass clippings, food wastes (not meat or animal-attracting foods), tea or coffee grounds, hair and

manure (no animal or human waste, though, as a health measure).

Brown includes shredded paper (as long as it is not magazine-like shiny or carrying much colorful ink), sawdust, leaves, corncobs or dry grass.

Once materials to include are selected, method to process the contents is up for decision — namely hot and cold. Hot methods require daily turning of the contents and are processed by the batch, but kill pathogens and weed seeds. Cool methods need a stir every six weeks; poor at pathogen and weed seed killing, one can add new materials at any point.

The hot method requires a body of materials for compost at least three feet on each side, not getting any taller than four to six feet, with short items included in the pile (no bigger than six to eight inches long). Twenty-five to thirty parts brown to one-part green matter can be contained for daily turning in a variety of boxes, containers, or even in simple piles. With high temperatures in the compost pile, you will see the fruits of your labor in a couple of weeks.

The cool method takes quite a while longer, ready for curing as early as twelve weeks into the process, but can be supplemented with new material as the season progresses. Ten feet by ten feet of brush acts as a foundation with air flow to help the decomposition process. A layer of six inches of dry brown matter goes on top of the brush, with two inches of green next on the lawn-style lasagna stack. To increase the presence of microbes, a ¼-inch layer of soil tops the greens and finishes a layer. Keep adding layers until four-to-six feet of height is established, turning each six weeks.

With some research, work and patience, you can recycle and enjoy benefits to your home environment. Check out the below resource, used in preparing this article, and others from Purdue Extension for more information.

Source: Purdue Extension Publication HENV-103-W http://www.kcrecycling.com/uploads/2/1/7/8/21789184/purdue_ extension_home_composting.pdf Shutterstock.com

12 Home Living | April 2021

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April 2021 | Home Living 13

features | well being

Springtime Fitness Challenges to Energize the Whole Family

By Mary Jane Bogle

Spring is in the air, and what better inspiration do you need to get outside and get moving with the family than a brand-new season? Now is the perfect time to renew those New Year’s fitness goals, and including the kids in your outdoor adventures can help them adopt healthy lifestyle habits now. Need a little help getting started?

Here are five tips to challenge your body, mind and soul this spring:

Tip #1: Plan a Community Cleanup Day Pick a favorite park, trail or greenspace in your neighborhood and get busy gathering trash, planting flowers or laying mulch. Lots of city spaces could use a little sprucing up this time of year. Just contact your local parks department to see how you can help. Then gather together with friends for a community cleanup day. Don’t want to work with a crowd? Just grab some trash bags for a cleanup project on your own. (Tip: be sure to bring gloves for everyone.) I promise, no one will stop you from picking up trash. Bonus: it won’t even feel like exercising.

14 Home Living | April 2021

Tip #2: Grow a Garden Carving out a bit of yard space is a great way to help kids understand just where those fresh veggies come from, and digging, planting and watering are all great forms of exercise. Don’t have a lot of room?

A few raised beds can yield all you need for a “kitchen garden,” complete with lettuce, peas, carrots and tomatoes. Even better, let the kids have a small container garden of their own and let them choose what to plant. They’ll love taking care of their own plants — and eating the produce later.

Tip #3: Travel the Trails Most communities are developing walking trails these days, and it’s a great way to get kids — and parents — moving safely, free from the traffic. Pick a trail a week and see what you can discover. Most trails allow bikes and kids’ scooters, as well as foot traffic, which is perfect for those little legs that might have trouble keeping up. Track your progress on a trail map and mark your favorite spots to visit again and again.

Tip #4: Plan a Family Game Night — Outside

Tip #5: Bring the Playground to Your Driveway

Whether you’re tossing a frisbee, kicking the soccer ball or practicing for that upcoming tee-ball game, taking advantage of the longer daylight hours is a great way to have some fun while learning new skills. If your family isn’t into sports, no problem. Create some obstacle courses in the backyard or mark out fitness challenges on the sidewalk. (Think hopscotch, walking backwards, jumping jacks and more.)

Who remembers spending hours at recess playing with hula hoops, jumping rope or competing in four-square contests? Now is a great time to introduce these activities to your kids. You’ll burn extra calories, and they’ll love the time they spend with you.

Whatever strategy you choose, just remember to have fun. And get moving!

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at HOME | garden/landscape

Growing to New Heights

By Deborah C. Gerbers

Raised bed gardening is more than just a trendy way to plant and display flowers and vegetables — it is an effective growing method that takes up very little space, allows plants to be grown closer together, and is a good solution for areas with poor native soil. There are several variables to consider when planning a raised garden bed: SIZE + SPACE

LOCATION

First, you need to decide how big you want to build your raised bed and what you’ll be planting; flowers can look great in a decorative raised space on your porch or anywhere in the yard. Vegetables and herbs also grow especially well in raised gardens with more depth to allow for roots to grow. A raised bed does not have to be very deep to be effective — eight to 12 inches is usually adequate. If drainage is a problem, or if the plants you are growing prefer drier soil, the bed could be taller and filled with a more porous growing medium (hgtv. com). On average, vegetable beds should be 12 to 18 inches deep.

Vegetables especially need lots of sun to grow to their full potential, so try to place your raised bed in the sunniest spot in your yard.

“Another option is to build your bed on elevated wheels, which allows you to move the garden away from shady spots and into the sun,” said Dr. Hull. “An elevated, portable raised bed garden is ideal for those with physical limitations — no kneeling or squatting required in tending the garden.”

MATERIAL

IRRIGATION

Raised bed gardens are typically framed and built of wood, which is durable and easy to work with. According to Purdue Extension Advanced Master Gardener Dr. Kathleen Hull, gardeners should take care in selecting the correct wood for the garden’s edges.

“Be sure the wood you are using is treated in some way to prevent water damage and to extend the life of the structure,” she said. “But, also be careful to use wood that is nontoxic; some pieces of pretreated wood can contain harmful chemicals like arsenic. Natural cedar is a good choice.”

Drip irrigation works best in larger raised gardens configured in long, straight rows.

“Drip irrigation is a great way to water plants in raised beds because you are working with a confined space,” Dr. Hull explained.

“The soil stays at an appropriate level because there is less concentrated water, and it goes directly into roots, thereby decreasing the potential for mildew.”

SOIL + DRAINAGE When gardening, Dr. Hull said you should pay special attention to the soil or growing medium.

“It’s all about the soil,” she emphasized. “Try to use the best quality soil you can find, one with a high organic content. If the soil you are using is not great, you can also add lots of organic matter or compost to increase the nutrients.”

You’ll also want to make sure the soil isn’t packed too tightly, as the roots will need good air circulation. When using good quality soil and a good functioning raised bed, you will be able to plant vegetables remarkably close together for higher yields. Dr. Hull also suggests enhancing your garden by rotating crops to stagger and extend your harvest season and vary the produce you grow.

16 Home Living | April 2021

PEST CONTROL As with any other garden space, raised beds can also attract pesky insects, rabbits and deer who may be interested in your plants.

Cover the bed with a flexible hoop and breathable cloth to deter any unwanted garden visitors who like to eat leafy spinach, collards and mustard greens. And, because a raised bed is a very well-defined space to keep out pests, you won’t be tempted to use a lot of chemical insecticides — another plus.

Shutterstock.com

Resource: Purdue Extension, extension.purdue.edu

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April 2021 | Home Living 17

at HOME | household pets

They are what they eat A well-balanced diet is the key to your pet’s health

By Julie Young

Choosing the perfect food for your pet is not a decision that should be made lightly. The healthy eating habits you establish from the start will go a long way toward a long and happy life, so it is important to look beyond the label and make informed purchases. And remember, while an occasional table treat is permissible, it should be the exception and not the rule.

Investigate the ingredients When considering the various brands, avoid the marketing hype, the prominent display in your veterinarian’s office and touching commercials and read the ingredient list to find out what is inside.

Companies list their ingredients from the largest percentage to the smallest, and the first five are the most important.

Kate Everly at Copp Farm Supply says dogs and cats need food that contain meat, meat meal, carbohydrates, vegetables, fruit, vitamins and minerals in order to maintain their dietary health.

However a premium pet food does not have to come at a premium price.

“We carry American Natural Premium pet food, which is a high-quality pet food at an affordable price,” she said. “They have legume-free and grain-free recipes, as well as blends for pets with dietary issues.”

Copp also carries food for those animals that need extra protein and calories, such as Native Performance Energy for canine athletes. Created by Kent Feeds, which specializes in a variety of food products from beef cattle, poultry, swine, dogs, cats and rabbits, they produce foods specifically designed with specific needs in mind.

“Native is the food that the dogs in the Iditarod eat,” Everly said.

“They have different options for all life stages so that your pet can have the dense calories they need to maintain their weight and stamina.”

18 Home Living | April 2021

Think outside the box While you can feed your dog or cat a strictly “kibble” diet, you may also want to consider introducing whole foods to aid digestion and improve their stool output. Naturally, there are certain fruits and vegetables that should be avoided, but veterinarians say there is a lot to be learned from the quality of your pet’s waste products and various ways to improve it.

If your pet’s stool or flatulence is particularly odorous, then avoid foods with gluten meal (including corn.) If your pet has an upset stomach, replace the traditional rice supplement with organic green lentils. Above all, do not over feed your pets and limit their treats.

It’s also important that you pay attention to your pet when they eat. Dogs and cats should be interested in their food, and if they

seem bored by the blend you are serving, or experience a sudden weight loss, it may be time to talk to your vet about a change.

Marion Nestle, co-author of “Feed Your Pet Right: The Authoritative Guide to Feeding Your Dog and Cat” (2010 Free Press,) says if one or another brand seems to completely change the way a pet behaves or cures an allergy; it’s a sign you’ve found the right blend.

“When you find something that works for you, stay with it,” she says.

Shutterstock.com

Resource: Copp Farm Supply, coppfarmsupply.com

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• HOME’s social networks have more engagement and reach than any of our competition, and it’s all organic.

• HOME has over 300 distribution points throughout the region.

• 2000 copies are direct mailed each month.

• HOME’s return rate is just 2%. For a publication that’s free to the public and placed in newsstand locations, ours is picked up because people choose to grab it and read it.

To Advertise, Contact: Rebecca Boone at 260-503-5013 | rboone@the-papers.com View Us Online: www.homeindooroutdoorliving.com 20 Home Living | April 2021

reader diy | at HOME

n o i t a v o n e R l l a Fir ep lace W

By Amber Bouthot

After

Every month, we highlight do-it-yourself projects from our readers. Do you want to see your project featured in our magazine? It can be something as simple as a craft project or as large as a home addition. If you did it yourself, it can be featured.

Email Amber at ambouthot@the-papers.com.

This month’s Reader DIY project comes from Matt and Kate Stolz who renovated their fireplace wall and mantle.

What was your inspiration for the project?

My husband and I watch a lot of home renovation shows (HGTV, TLC, etc.), and we have always done home projects ourselves to save money. One day, I was looking through Google images for “fireplace wall designs” and I came across an image/design that I loved… we based our design off of that example.

BEFORE

How long did it take from start to finish?

We both work full time, so we have only evenings and weekends to work on home projects. From start to finish, it took us about 1 month (we even took a long weekend/vacation in that time frame).

Was it easier or harder than you anticipated?

Easier? Making the cabinet doors. I have never made cabinet doors from scratch, but I found a video on YouTube demonstrating how to make cabinet doors on a table saw. I was very happy with how well they turned out considering it was my first attempt.

Harder? The mantle. I found another YouTube video showing how to make a faux rustic wood beam mantle from 1x8 and 1x12 boards. Trying to find wood that was straight and not warped is a difficult task, and then trying to rip the boards along the long edge at a 45-degree angle so the corners all match up was difficult. But, with wood filler, I was able to hide any gaps, and I was happy with the result.

What was the total cost of the project?

Approximately $845 (includes all building materials, trim, hardware, TV mount, wiring and HDMI/power electrical boxes/faceplates, and new ceiling fan). I was able to reuse items from around the house for décor and bought the pillow covers from Amazon.

What did you like best about the undertaking?

Honestly, the result. It added so much character to the space. The room looks larger with the TV mounted on the wall and all electronics hidden under the benches. We added the metal screens to the cabinet door fronts so that we could hide the cable box, speakers, WIFI router and DVD player inside the benches. No more wires!

What was the most challenging aspect?

I wouldn’t say that anything was challenging, maybe living with disorder mid project? I was constantly sweeping, dusting, etc.

April 2021 | Home Living 21

community | events

Embassy Theatre •S aturday-Sunday, April 24-25, “The Color Purple” by Indiana Performing Arts Theatre, 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 4 p.m. Sunday, $45 125 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne. 800.745.3000, fwembassytheatre.org.

Memorial Coliseum

By Ray Balogh

Botanical Conservatory •T hursday, April 1 (through April 4), “The Tiki Bowl” play garden, regular admission • Thursday, April 1, $1 Night Insight: Colorful Koi, 6 p.m.-7 p.m., $1 • Friday-Saturday, April 2-3, Bunny Tails in the Garden, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., regular admission • Tuesday-Sunday, April 6-11, Slightly Used Bulb Sale, during public hours, no admission charge • Saturday, April 10, 1st Garden Glimpse, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., regular admission • Saturday, April 10 (through June 27), “Color in Motion” live butterfly exhibit, during public hours, regular admission • Tuesdays, April 13 to May 25, Tai Chi Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. or 5 p.m.-6 p.m., seven sessions for $69. Registration deadline Tuesday, April 6.

• Tuesday, April 20, Garden Preschool: “Spring Flowers,” 10 a.m.-11 a.m., $12 • Thursday-Saturday, April 22-24, Color Craft session, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., regular admission • Saturday, April 24, Design a Planter, 10 a.m.-11 a.m., $33 • Thursday, April 29, Soil Science Fun, 4 p.m.-5 p.m., $14. Registration deadline Monday, April 19.

• Thursday, April 29 (through May 4), Mother’s Day Online Plant Sale, order online and schedule curbside pickup time.

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

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

Sunday; closed Monday. Open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. 1100 S. Calhoun St., Fort Wayne. 260.427.6440, botanicalconservatory.org.

Blossom by Blossom Spring begins

•T hursday-Sunday, April 15-18, Fort Wayne Home & Garden Show, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, free admission • Friday-Sunday, April 30-May 2, Lucky Duck Consignment Sale, 4:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Friday, 5 p.m.-9 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, visit luckyduckfortwayne.com for ticket information Parking $6 main lot, $10 preferred lot. Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, 4000 Parnell Ave., Fort Wayne. 260.482.9502, memorialcoliseum.com.

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

• Thursday, April 22, Art + Writing Club for middle and high school students, 5 p.m.

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

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22 Home Living | April 2021

There may be benefits to leaving your account in your employer plan, if allowed.

Securities and investment advisory services are offered through Thrivent Investment Management Inc., 625 Fourth Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55415, a FINRA and SIPC member and a wholly owned subsidiary of Thrivent. Thrivent Financial representatives are registered representatives of Thrivent Investment Management Inc. They are also licensed insurance agents/producers of Thrivent. For additional important information, visit Thrivent.com/disclosures.

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Kathy Crager, Financial Associate Vision Financial Group 3711 Rupp Drive, Ste. 108, Fort Wayne, IN 46815 260-450-5466 kathy.crager@thrivent.com connect.thrivent.com/kathy-crager

Honeywell Center

17 FORT WAYNE: Volunteer Kickoff

•S aturday, April 3, Drive Through Bunny Bash, 10 a.m.-noon, Honeywell Center parking lot, gifts for first 300 kids, free admission • Saturday, April 3, Take & Bake Easter Dinner, curbside pickup 3 p.m.-5 p.m., Honeywell Center circle drive. Order by Friday, March 26, $59.95 or $69.95, add $18 for brunch casserole.

• Sunday, April 4, dine-in brunch buffet, seatings at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m., Honeywell Center, $16.95/adult, $8.95/ children 5-12 • Thursday, April 8, Buckets N Boards, 7:30 p.m., Eagles Theatre, $15 • Thursday, April 22, Duke Tumatoe and the Power Trio, 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m., Eagles Theatre, $15 • Saturday, April 24, Chris Janson, 8 p.m., 13-24 Drive In, 890 IN 13, Wabash, ticket prices per vehicle with up to six occupants, determined by row: $499/$349/$299/$179/$119 • Thursday, April 29, 85 United featuring 390 East, 7: 30 p.m. and 10 p.m., Eagles Theatre, $10 • Friday, April 30, 38 Special, 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m., Honeywell Center, $35/$49/$79/$115, with dinner add $21.19/person Honeywell Center/Ford Theater address is 275 E. Market St., Wabash. Eagles Theatre address is 106 W. Market St, Wabash; 260.563.1102, honeywellcenter.org.

Prepackaged breakfast treats, learn how to become part of upcoming events.

Free admission. 9 a.m.-10 a.m. Saturday, Eagle Marsh barn, 6801 Engle Road. Register by Friday, April 16, at 260.918.7119 or m.russell@lrwp.org.

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

Shipshewana Blue Gate Theatre

Sample more than 100 different wines from 10 wineries. Food trucks, live music from four local talents, 5K run, spring market with local craft vendors. 5K run 7 p.m. Friday, festival noon-5 p.m. Saturday, Headwaters Park, 333 S. Clinton St. $25/person, $10/designated driver, VIP options available. 260.442.5520, michianawinefestival.com.

•T hursday-Saturday, April 8-10, Illusionist Rick Thomas, 8 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday, Performing Arts Center, $29.95/adult, $48.95/adult with buffet; $14.95/child, $25.95/child with buffet • Friday-Saturday, April 16-17, David Pendleton, 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Music Hall, $24.95, $43.95 with buffet • Friday, April 23, Mutts Gone Nuts, 8 p.m., Performing Arts Center, call 888.447.4725 for ticket information • Friday, April 30, We Are Messengers, 8 p.m., Performing Arts Center, $19.95$49.95, $38.95-$68.95 with dinner Performing Arts Center address is 760 S. Van Buren St., Shipshewana. Music Hall address is 195 N. Van Buren, Shipshewana. 888.447.4725, thebluegate.com.

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

17 FORT WAYNE: Annual Spring Cleanup Help remove winter trash. Bring rakes, grabbers, trash bags, waterproof work gloves. 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, Eagle Marsh gateway parking area, 6801 Engle Road. RSVP at least 24 hours in advance at 260.918.7119 or m.russell@lrwp.org.

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

21 FORT WAYNE: “Short Hikes for Short Legs: Wetland Wonders” Learn about swimmers, wigglers and things that go hop in the water. Boots recommended. Free admission, open to children 3-5 accompanied by responsible adult. 9 a.m.-10 a.m. Wednesday, Eagle Marsh barn, 6801 Engle Road.

RSVP at least 24 hours in advance to 260.387.0399 or a.munger@lrwp.org.

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

23-24 FORT WAYNE: Michiana Wine Festival

23-25 WAKARUSA: Wakarusa Maple Syrup Festival Parade, carnival rides, live entertainment, vendors, contests, sugar camp, museum tours, pancake and sausage breakfast, BBQ meal, free popcorn.

11 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday, downtown.

574.862.4344, wakarusamaplesyrupfestival.com.

24 FORT WAYNE: Earth Day: A Dip in the Wetland Take a microscopic look at marsh critters, learn what they tell about water quality. 1:30 p.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Eagle Marsh barn, 6801 Engle Road. RSVP at least 24 hours in advance at 260.387.0399 or a.munger@lwrp.org. 260.478.2515, info@lrwp.org, lrwp.org.

2 WABASH: First Friday Live entertainment, food, kid’s activities, shopping, evening specials and more.

Free admission. 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Friday, downtown. 260.563.0975, wabashmarketplace.org.

6, 13, 20, 27 FORT WAYNE: “Little River Ramblers” Hike and explore the interesting plants and wildlife of Eagle Marsh. Bring binoculars for a close-up view. Sponsored by Little River Wetlands Project. Free admission. 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Tuesday, Eagle Marsh west entrance/Boy Scout office parking lot. 260.478.2515, info@lrwp.org, lrwp.org.

6-8 WABASH: Spring Break Bash •V irtual art projects with Candie Cooper, 10 a.m. Tuesday through Thursday, facebook.com/honeywellcenter • Pot Your Own Flower & Scavenger Hunt, 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, Charley Creek Gardens, 551 N. Miami St. 260.563.1102, charleycreekgardens.org.

8 FORT WAYNE: Breakfast on the Marsh: “Indiana’s River Treasures: Freshwater Mussels, Indiana’s Rivers and Conservation” Geared toward 50 years and older, but all are welcome. Virtual presentation via Zoom (through April). Free admission. 8:30 a.m.-10 a.m. Thursday. Register at least 24 hours in advance at 260.387.0399, a.munger@lrwp.org, lrwp.org.

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

Vegetables annuals Perennials

Hanging baskets bedding Plants & so mucH more

A Family Tradition For Over 60 Years

7300 Lincoln Hwy 930 East, Fort Wayne, IN 46803 (Almost New Haven)

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Open 8 AM 7 days a week through July

April 2021 | Home Living 23

community | support

small

Ground Down

By Lauren Caggiano

As the saying goes, one person’s trash is another’s treasure. That certainly applies to Megan Masterson’s business, Ground Down, a food scrap collection and composting service catering to households and restaurants in the greater Fort Wayne area.

24 Home Living | April 2021

Before she was a business owner, Masterson was a concerned citizen. While working at Vera Bradley, she became more interested in sustainable options in the workplace.

“I joined the sustainability committee there, and I was part of a group who encouraged our colleagues to get rid of disposable cups and instead use mugs,” she said.

Masterson saw the power of small changes at play and started to consider how she might make a difference in her own home.

“We started composting food waste and were flabbergasted at how we didn’t have any garbage really,” she said. “It was stuff we were throwing away before but turned into compost.”

Masterson’s efforts piqued her coworkers’ interests. Soon she was taking some of their food scraps to compost and that was the unofficial beginning of Ground Down at the end of 2019. She ultimately left her job to pursue Ground Down full-time and has enjoyed the journey.

According to Masterson, it’s more than a business. It’s a calling in a way.

“I have this really amazing opportunity to reduce waste,” she said.

“And I can help make really healthy food that goes back into our local ecosystem. And hopefully people will start eating more vegetables. So that’s my two-fold mission with Ground Down.”

Masterson reaches people where they are — literally. With the pandemic, she’s shifted her focus to marketing more to the residential side of the business. Customers pay to get their food waste removed on a weekly or biweekly basis and can elect to get compost back as part of their subscription. They also have the option to donate it to a local farm. Either way, she said the feedback from customers has been positive. In general, they’re surprised how easy it is to keep food scraps out of the garbage.

On that note, Masterson has a passion to educate people about how they can integrate such practices as composting into their everyday lives with little effort.

“We’re trying to reach the public and show them that composting is an option,” she said. “You can reduce your environmental impact and get healthy soil back.”

With the goal of getting this message across, she has a booth at the YLNI Farmers Market and makes a point to have a presence at other community events.

So what’s next for this eco-conscious entrepreneur? One goal is to increase her customer base and, by extension, get more people interested in reducing their environmental footprints. Sometimes that calls for showing them in relatable terms. For instance, last year she implemented a software that allows customers to see the impact of their waste reduction.

“I weigh the food waste every time at pickup, and then enter that into the software,” she said. “And people can log in and see how much carbon dioxide they save by composting.”

To learn more about Ground Down, visit grounddown.org.

We manufacture dimensional parts and wood moulding of all types including:

Cabinet frame stock Edge glued material Panel stock Wood components for RV and mobile home interiors Drawer Box Sides Architectural Mouldings Frame pieces for upholstered furniture S4S sanded lumber Woodcrafting is what R.P. Wakefield does best.

We are a company that defines the standards of excellence in hardwood moulding. Working with the beauty of maple, cherry, walnut and oak: all of the finest of the hardwoods, each of our moulding displays our time honored craftsmanship.

600 West Maple, Waterloo 260-837-8841 | 800-538-4163 Jay Orn Account Executive

Cell: 260-920-0134 jay@rpwakefield.com

www.rpwakefield.com We would like to introduce our Board Program.

We stock Poplar and Red Oak in 5 sizes: 1 x 4 = ¾” x 3 ½” 1 x 6 = ¾” x 5 ½” 1 x 8 = ¾” x 7 ¼” 1 x 10 = ¾” x 9 ¼” 1 x 12 = ¾” x 11 ¼” The boards are rip sawn to width and sanded at 100 grit to ¾” thick and run in lengths from 6’ – 16’.

Other species can be cut to order.

Call or stop in and see Keith

Auburn Hardwood Mouldings is a division of

Monday – Friday 7 AM – 3 PM | After hours and Saturday hours by appointment.

1109 Auburn Drive, Auburn, IN Cell: 260.704.5263 Office: 260.837.8841 ext 3 April 2021 | Home Living 25

community | company spotlight

Rose Brick

Todd Hoy, General Manager Rose Brick

By Julie Young

When it comes to supplying area contractors and homeowners with high-quality masonry, hardscape and fireplace products at a great price, Rose Brick of Fort Wayne is the area’s leading provider of materials for every budget.

Since 1914, Rose Brick has served the Michiana area first as a coal company (Schuyler Rose) before expanding into masonry in the 1940s. Hardscapes and fireplaces followed at both their South Bend and Chesterton locations and three years ago, the company purchased Old Fort Supply at 3000 N. Wells Street, bringing Fort Wayne professional builders, as well as the weekend DIYer, the quality products and service they demand.

What kind of products does Rose Brick carry?

“We carry brick products from all over the country in over 100 color selections and styles,” said Rose Brick General Manager Todd Hoy. “We have everything from the standard brick to the oversized variety for commercial jobs, textured materials and just about anything you could want in terms of masonry.”

They also specialize in a vast array of natural and manufactured stone products, as well as other outdoor hardscape materials, to help homeowners showcase a property

26 Home Living | April 2021

properly. In addition, they carry a number of fireplace/wood burning stoves, which they also install.

Hoy said homeowners looking to “spring” into their 2021 home improvement projects will find it’s a great time to get started!

“With everything that has happened over the past year, we find that homeowners who had to scrap their vacation plans are ready to invest that money into their homes both inside and out,” Hoy said. “Rose Brick is ready to help.”

Is Rose Brick open to the public?

Rose Brick is open to both commercial and residential contractors, as well as the public no matter how large or small the project.

They are currently putting together a hardscape showroom to highlight products and ideas at every price point and give folks the space to plan their dream design, whether they are working with a builder, architect or doing it on their own.

“By creating this showroom, we can give people options that they didn’t even know

existed,” said Hoy. “Most people perceive hardscape to be expensive and labor intensive, but it doesn’t have to be. There are items that are very affordable so we are creating this area for people to see how things work.

We’ll even have a TV set up to show ideas and give people the visual feel.”

Does Rose Brick stay on top of the latest trends?

“When it comes to brick and stone, the trends evolve every couple of years, so we do try to stay on top of them as they come and go,” Hoy said. “Although red tends to be one of the constants, the buffs and browns have given way to whites, greys and blacks, which are very modern, so we make sure we carry those. But no matter what item you are looking for, you will always receive the same respect and care we offer all of our customers. That is part of our history and that is our commitment.”

Rose Brick rosebrick.com

Quality | Tradition | Service

brick fireplaces hardscapes natural stone manufactured stone

outdoor lighting metal siding thin veneer natural stone pavers

3000 N. Wells St. | Fort Wayne, IN | 260-373-1919 | rosebrick.com

April 2021 | Home Living 27

community | events

Find YOUR Dream Home

Spring Town & Country Tour April 24-25 and May 1-2

The Spring Town & Country New Home and Specialty Retail Tour is a FREE scattered site home show being held the weekends of April 24-25 and May 1-2 from noon to 5pm each day. The Fort Wayne area has been noted as one of the most affordable places to live in the country (U.S. News & World Report) and is recognized as one of the Top 10 cities where young residents are buying homes (SmartAsset.com). There’s no better time than now to find your dream home. With various price points and floor plans, the tour is sure to please. The Town & Country Tour is comprised of 28 homes, five villas, one featured subdivision, as well as 10 in-home vendors. Locations are scattered throughout Fort Wayne, Huntertown, Leo, New Haven, Columbia City, Auburn and Waterloo.

Did we mention the event is free? Begin searching for your dream home by visiting https://hbafortwayne.com/town-and-country, pick up a guidebook in The Journal Gazette on April 18, at any of our sponsor locations, or call the Home Builders Association of Fort Wayne at (260) 420-2020.

28 Home Living | April 2021

The spring tour is presented by the Home Builders Association of Fort Wayne and sponsored by 3 Rivers Federal Credit Union, Central Supply Company, Irving Materials, Inc., Partners 1st Federal Credit Union, Rabb Water, Van’s Home Center, The Journal Gazette, 97.3 WMEE and K105.

More to See, More to Do! 2The most

#

affordable place to US News & live.

World Report

April 24 & 25 May 1 & 2

9

#

Cities where young residents are buying homes.

Noon to 5pm

FREE Admission

SmartAsset.com

28 Homes • 5 Villas 1 Featured Subdivision 10 In-Home Vendors

1 1 Most livable

#

Presented by

city in the U.S.A.

SmartAsset.com

hbafortwayne.com/tour Stats refer to the city of Fort Wayne Sponsored by

Home Builders Association of Fort Wayne

April 2021 | Home Living 29

essentials

m a I HOME

Dennis and Donna Emley

By Jaclyn Youhana Garver

Talk of paying local graduates to stick around Fort Wayne when they finish school has peppered the “How can we better Fort Wayne and fix brain drain?” conversation over the years. It’s never yet become a reality, though, and that pleases Dennis Emley.

“The problem with the concept,” he says, “is that it’s backward. My fear is, then after five years, they take all the experience they gain in Fort Wayne and leave. I think the opposite should be true: They should pay students to leave Fort Wayne and make an obligation to come back to raise their family.”

That’s exactly what Dennis and his wife, Donna, did, and it worked out pretty well for them.

The Emleys opened Emley Design Group in Fort Wayne in January 1989, after spending six years in Chicago. They decided to return to the city where their families still lived, in part, because they knew the city was lacking in small, boutique marketing agencies. They saw a hole in the business landscape, and they decided to fill it.

Dennis and his family moved to Fort Wayne from Wisconsin when he was just 1.

Donna and her family moved to Decatur from Indianapolis when she was 5. The two met at Fort Wayne National Bank, which closed in 1998, where they were tellers. It was located downtown when Main Street boasted clothing stores and Murphy’s, a department store. They remember restaurants like the Blue Mountain Café on The Landing and other 8-to-5 businesses and storefronts.

30 Home Living | April 2021

When Dennis took a job with IBM in Chicago, Donna moved there, too. She finished school at the American Academy of Art and found a job at an agency, helping establish its in-house marketing and communications office.

When she decided she wanted to open her own marketing office, she knew Fort Wayne had only large agencies and freelance marketers. It made sense to bring her boutique idea to town. When she and Dennis moved back, however, they noticed that the city had deteriorated a bit over the six years they were away, especially when International Harvester decided to halt production in town.

But in the early 1990s, it seems, things started to turn around, in part because the

city began to focus on legacy projects like its bicentennial celebration. Since then, Fort Wayne has been on a slow and steady rise thanks to its community members’ philanthropy and civic-mindedness.

“People help each other, and people pay attention to each other,” Donna says. “It is those Midwest values, but it’s not just family values in that traditional sense … By ‘family,’ I mean however you describe and identify your particular family unit.”

Having that backing, along with a Midwestern work ethic, gives a foundation of support to, for example, start a business or strike out on your own.

“We are seeing the impact of that all over our community right now,” she says.

Contact us today to plan your perfect outdoor space!

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260-436-3639 jimbrubakerdesigns.com

Landscape Design | Project Management | JBD HOME

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