Plays are John Tolley’s thing
By LINDA LIPP Feature Writer
At a time of life when most people are content to relax and savor their retirement, John Tolley is back at the place where his theater career began.
Tolley, 77, is directing “The Timekeepers,” which opens Oct. 3, at the First Presbyterian Church Theater in downtown Fort Wayne. He also has been serving as interim director of theater ministries since last December.
Tolley’s first play at the church in 1974, “Our Town,’’ was actually the first full-length play he directed anywhere.
“I wasn’t one of those children who at the age of 5 wanted to be on stage. Theater came into my life relatively late,” he said.
Born in Crawfordsville, the only child of Wayne and Vivian Tolley, he has often said he hit the jackpot when it came to parents.
The Lighthouse —
“We don’t care what you do as long as you do it well,” they told him.
Tolley graduated high school in 1967. He headed off to what is now the University of Indianapolis, which some friends also were attending.
During the summer, he worked with a folk singing group at a United Methodist camp in North Webster. The camp also hosted a theater group from the Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis.
Back at school, he was having trouble picking a major. He and the dean added up the credits for classes he’d taken and eventually came up with a double major in English literature and art history.
After graduating, he got an offer from the head of the communications program at CTS to do a work-study program on its campus at Butler University.
“I had no plans so I said yes and that’s what took me to semi-
nary,” he said.“It wasn’t religious zeal. It was people offering me opportunities that I said yes to.”
It didn’t last. He got discouraged with what he felt was a disconnect between the church and his life and left for the University of Chicago to study art history.
Months later, a letter from a classics professor at CTS drew him back, however. He completed his master of ministries degree in religious communications and was hired by First Presbyterian.
It was an exciting time to be working there.
“It was active, it was vital, it was fun to be part of it,” he recalled. “It just fulfilled so many interests.”
Tolley stayed until 1990, when his then partner, (now husband) Richard Rison got a new job that took them to Memphis, Tenn. Moves to New Jersey and Connecticut followed, and Tolley completed his doctorate and was
Continued on page 3
Feeding the mind, body and soul
Text and Photos
By LINDA LIPP Feature Writer
When people buy second-hand clothing or other merchandise at The Lighthouse Family Thrift stores, they do more than just get good bargains.
They support a community food bank that is open five days a week, addiction counseling programs and other resources that help give those who are down a hand up.
The need is great. In August, the food bank served 289 families, giving away more than 8,360 pounds of food, said Isaiah Huber, volunteer
coordinator. It saw 57 visits in one day, smashing the previous record of 28.
The nonprofit, The Lighthouse, was founded more than a decade ago by Brandon Bower. Although his background was in retail, he felt a calling to help the homeless, the hungry and those with substance abuse issues.
He got a master’s degree in counseling and worked in secular, Christian-inspired and hybrid programs before starting the Lighthouse as a Bible-based treatment program.
Bible-based counseling approaches the problem from a different perspective than traditional 12-step programs. It uses
the Bible as the starting point.
“We believe that sin is sin,” Huber explained. “The void in a person’s life can only be filled, especially with addiction, by getting your heart right.”
The Lighthouse is not a part of any one denomination, but it does have a collection of partner churches.
“They (churches) assist with the food bank and they assist with chapel and that sort of thing, but we are not affiliated with them,’’ Huber said.
The Lighthouse is currently headquartered at a former Parkview fitness facility at 3000 E.State Blvd., which it bought during the COVID pandemic.
The building houses its intensive, 30-day residential substance abuse program, a food bank open to the community and meeting space for chapel services, group counseling sessions, meals and Bible study classes.
Another building, located a short distance away on Hobson Road, houses a six-month extension of the 30-day program for those who need it.
The Lighthouse does not bill insurance for its addiction treatment services, but charges a $200 fee to register.
“We want them to have skin in the game,” Huber said.
For those who can’t afford even that, financial help is
available, he added.
During the 30-day program, participants cannot work, are not allowed access to phones and live in a 12-bed dormitory. They spend hours each day in class.
Rules are loosened a bit for the six-month program.
There is no residential treatment program for women at this time.
The food bank was started to help family members of those in treatment, who were often the primary breadwinner. It later opened to the community to address the growing need there.
There are no requirements for individuals to use the pantry for the first time. But if they continue to use it each week, they must attend a group program or service each week.
The Lighthouse also gets contributions from churches and schools, which sponsor periodic food drives.
With food prices rising and some federal assistance programs going away, there’s a whole lot of food insecurity out there.
“It’s hard to keep food on the shelves,” Huber said.
The thrift store, voted the city’s best two years in a row in an online consumer poll, was created to bring in additional revenue.
The main store is located at 6830 Lima Road, Fort Wayne. It carries clothing, home goods and more.The second store is a boutique in Glenbrook Square and it stocks designer, brandname and new items.
The stores also provide jobs for some program participants.
For information on the Lighthouse, visit lhfw.org, call (260) 255-6413 or visit facebook.com/ LighthouseRecoveryCenter.
INTERIM DIRECTOR — Interim Director John Tolley waits to rehearse “The Timekeepers” at the First Presbyterian Theater in Fort Wayne. Photo by Linda Lipp.
Faith, comfort, and community at Golden Years
By CHAPLAIN ERICK RIDDLE Golden Years Homestead
For more than 50 years, Golden Years Homestead in Fort Wayne has been a place where older adults find not only care and security but also the peace of living in a faith-centered environment.
Established in 1971 by a group of local churches, Golden Years has stayed true to its mission: to provide comfort, security, and hope in a Christ-centered community.
Life at Golden Years goes far beyond the buildings on campus. Residents experience the blessing of worshiping together, with weekly chapel services, hymn singing, and opportunities to share faith openly with neighbors and staff. For many, these moments of worship stir treasured memories and provide deep encouragement.
The ministry of Golden Years is also one of presence and support. Chaplaincy services are available to walk alongside
Plays are
Continued from page 2
ordained. When he was offered a position at the Unitarian Universalist seminary at the University of Chicago, he jumped at the chance.
residents and families during times of transition, grief, or everyday struggles. Prayer and spiritual conversations are a natural part of life here — whether in a chapel service, a support group, or even during a walk down the hallway.
Being part of a faith-based community means residents and staff alike can speak freely about their faith, share prayer requests and encourage one another. This creates bonds that feel more like family than neighbors. Staff members are supported spiritually as well, ensuring that care is not only professional but also compassionate and Christ-centered.
Golden Years is a continuing care community, offering independent living, assisted living and skilled living. This allows residents to remain on campus, surrounded by familiar faces and faith-filled support, even as their needs change. Families often express gratitude for the hope and comfort they experience when their loved one is
Tolley taught there for about 18 years, “retiring gradually.’’ In 2017, they moved back to Fort Wayne.
During his time in Chicago, Tolley was able to return here to direct local productions now and again. Since he moved back, there have been no shortage of offers from local theater groups.
surrounded by a community that shares their values and faith.
Though much has grown and
Although the Presbyterian theater group started out years ago doing mostly classics, Gilbert and Sullivan, for example, it has also tackled many tough issues over the years.
“It’s rooted in the sense of ministry of this church.
changed since 1971, the heart of Golden Years remains the same: to walk with residents through life’s seasons, offering
The church feels it should be speaking to those issues,” Tolley said.
An example is the current play Tolley is directing. “The Timekeepers” is set in a concentration camp during the Holocaust.
not just care, but Christ-centered hope. Here, faith and community truly walk hand in hand.
“It’s one of those plays you don’t just walk away from,” he said.
For information on tickets for “The Timekeeper” and other First Presbyterian productions, visit firstpresfortwayne. org.
I m m e d i a t e O p e n i n g s
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CHAPEL SERVICE Chaplain Erick Riddle leads residents in a time of worship and reflection during a weekly chapel service at Golden Years Homestead. Photo provided by Golden Years.
Pumping out ‘ompah-pahs’ at 80
By ROD KING Feature Writer
Music is indelibly inked into the DNA of Eli Arnold. He was introduced to music at an early age on the family farm in Lake Township where his mother was a piano teacher.
“She wanted me to take up piano, but I was more interested in the brass instruments. My father, a percus-
sionist, headed up the Arnold Family Band that included his brothers and sisters. My grandfather was an accomplished violinist, who played in the Fort Wayne Orchestra in the late 1800s,” Arnold said.
He started his musical career in the sixth grade. His first instrument was the trombone. When he got into the Arcola High School Band, the director needed someone
to play the baritone horn and Arnold made the switch. Later, he was needed on tuba, which he has been playing for the past 70 years. After high school, he headed off to Indiana University where he took tuba lessons from none other than John Philip Sousa’s principal tuba player, Bill Bell, and was a member of the IU Marching 100.
He played in a number of small ensembles before joining up with a young trombonist, Jamie Foster, six years ago in a duet they fondly call “Rember When.”
“Audiences Unlimited books most of our performances in senior facilities, nursing homes and churches throughout northeast Indiana,” he said, and “we book some appearances on our own. Fort Wayne is our hub, and we play in all the towns around it.
“We really enjoy playing and feeling the joy of our audiences as they chime in
and sing along. It makes us want to keep on playing. Every generation has its own special music,” said Arnold, “and we like to play the music of the Boomers spanning the decades of the 1940s, 50s and 60s. Our library of tunes includes nearly 1,000 pieces that we’ve arranged to fit a duo for two bass instruments. I basically provide the ‘oompah-pah’ beat and Jamie plays the melody.”
Arnold has played in a number of bands over the years. He was a member of the Fort Wayne Area Community Band for many years, the Auburn Community Band, Mizpah Shrine Band and American Legion Post 47 Band. When it disbanded, The American Legion Band of Fort Wayne was formed with Arnold as its principal conductor. He also conducts the New Horizons Band.
“One of my biggest thrills is directing the American Legion Band at Fort Wayne
International Airport to welcome veterans back home from an honor flight to Washington, D.C., where they’ve spent a day visiting all the war memorials. Participants on those flights have told me that hearing a live band playing when they enter the terminal on their return home is a highlight and the frosting on a wonderful day that they’ll never forget. We’re considered the ‘house band’ where the honor flights are concerned,” he added.
For the past dozen years, the American Legion Band has presented a concert on Veterans Day. This year, they will perform at Promenade Park in downtown Fort Wayne at 2 p.m.
Now at 80, Arnold said he’s going to keep on pumping out the “ompah-pahs” until he runs out of hot air. His doctor is all in favor of that, as well because it keeps him active, energized and focused.
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EDITORIAL DEADLINES
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PRODUCTION
Delivering Homebound Meals is rewarding
By BARB UMBER Executive Director Homebound Meals
Volunteering as a driver for Homebound Meals is a deeply rewarding opportunity to directly impact your community while fitting effortlessly into your daily schedule. This role offers autonomy, flexibility, and the chance to witness the difference your efforts make through personal interactions with the meal recipients. Whether you choose to drive your own vehicle or use the Homebound Meals van, which is always available and equipped with everything you need, the experience is both enriching and convenient. One of the most appealing aspects of this program is its emphasis on teamwork. Many
volunteers team up, sharing routes and stories as they work together to deliver essential meals to home-bound individuals. This collaborative spirit fosters strong community bonds and encourages a culture of giving. It’s an ideal way for homeschoolers to learn about paying it forward, as they see firsthand how their contributions brighten someone’s day and build lasting community connections.
Operating Monday through Friday during the lunch hour, this service is perfectly suited for those with busy schedules. Even if you only have a 90-minute window during your lunch break, you can contribute meaningfully without disrupting your workday. The reliability of the schedule means you
can plan your day around making a difference, knowing your commitment directly benefits those in need.
By joining Homebound Meals as a volunteer driver, you engage in a unique blend of independence and community service. The program not only nourishes the body by delivering medically-tailored meals but also nourishes the spirit by connecting people. Each delivery reinforces the value of community, making this role a truly impactful way to contribute to the well-being of homebound individuals and to cultivate a culture of care and support. This fulfilling role not only enriches your life, but also reinforces community bonds, fostering lasting care and support.
PROVIDING THE BEAT— Eli Arnold, right, gives the beat while Jaimie Fox on trombone plays the melody for their duo called “Remember When.” Photo provided by Eli Arnold.
Steve Bultemeier is an athlete of many talents
By CINDY LARSON Feature Writer
Steve Bultemeier has tried his hand at archery, ax throwing, horseshoes, golf and even paper airplane flying, which could be marginally considered a sport.
His interest was piqued when some friends encouraged him to try the Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation’s Senior Games, which are played throughout the month of June. Some church friends got him involved. When COVID hit, they skipped a year.
“The next year it was just an amazing time,” he said. He had lost his wife, so the friendships and camaraderie helped fill a void.
The Senior Games offer a little bit for everyone, from pickleball and fishing to card
games and horseshoes.
Bultemeier did a little of both, entering 24 events. He won the men’s division of the Senior Games this year. His favorite activities are shuffleboard and cornhole.
“I compete to win but I don’t have to win to have fun,” he said. “The biggest thing about Senior Games is to have fun and meet people.”
Bultemeier, 75, grew up in New Haven, got married here and has been there ever since. He has two children and several grandchildren. He worked for the Department of Defense.
He said he’s competitive, but not as competitive as some of the other participants. He says they’re real competitive in their own little groups.
“Trash talking is huge,” he said.
But it’s all in jest.
He’s no expert at archery but he’s won the event twice. They compete at Turnstone, which supplies the equipment. Bultemeier attributes his win to skill and luck.
Several activities are at offsite locations. For instance, the parks and recreation department made arrangements with Chuck E. Cheese to use its skeeball lanes for a competition. Parents were looking at them, wondering why older adults suddenly had an interest in skeeball.
In high school, he ran cross country. While his sporting activities aren’t as strenuous now, he still believes it’s important to get out and do different things.
“The biggest thing about the Senior Games is to have fun and meet people,” he said.
Stretching the truth
By DICK WOLFSIE
My wife takes a yoga class. The session is an hour long, but she’s usually gone about two and a half hours. I understand why she is gone so long. The class is way across the street. You’re not supposed to talk during the session, so a lot of neighborhood gossip builds up during the silent period.
The ladies have their own mats, but most have resisted going into full yoga dress mode. That’s a good thing. Here’s why.
A Canadian clothing company that manufactures yoga garb once had a quality control problem that alienated its fan base. Especially the part of the base that has a big fanny. Its hottest item was a pair of stretch yoga pants that sold for $100. This is the perfect garment for men and women seeking to transcend their material attachments. And the pants look really cool with a pair of $1,200 Louis Vuitton running shoes.
The company website had a disclaimer that read: “In some cases, you may experience
extreme sheerness.” In other words, you can see through the pants. When your garment selection lists possible side effects, you may need to reconsider your wardrobe.
One consumer expert suggested that before you purchase the pants, you should try them on and bend over to see if there is a “see-through” issue. Of course, you are hardly in the best position to gather accurate information that way. You might say to your BFF, “I have a really, really big favor to ask of you.”
A company spokesperson suggested you do a yoga maneuver called a “downward dog” to test the transparency of the fabric. I had no idea what this was, so I searched for it on YouTube. My wife came down to the basement when I was watching a video demonstration and now I’m forbidden to go online unless I have spousal supervision.
One yoga enthusiast, presently employed as an engineer, said she doesn’t mind that her butt shows, but she dislikes the fabric because of the excessive static cling. This is what happens when you ask an electrical engineer a question about tight translucent pants instead of asking a structural engineer.
A sales representative addressed the problem of defective inventory already in the stores.
“The company will be pulling our pants down from the shelves.” When you utter a sentence that includes the phrase, “pulling our pants down,” you’re just asking for some tabloid journalist to take your quote out of context.
One clothing manufacturing analyst said that the company needs to deal with the problem and get some closure. Apparently, he forgot that with elastic-waist pants, closure is seldom an issue. Then he went on to say, “It is clear that they really have a good product.” He could have added, “They also have a product that is really clear.”
Another company official noted: “Investors have been plowing money into the stock, so we still have room to grow,” which is not only commentary on future potential but a nod to the biggest advantage of pants made of spandex. And finally, the chief financial officer added that analysts are taking a “wait and see attitude.”
Men parked in front of the fitness center are adopting a similar approach.
“Comfort Keepers was an invaluable asset in my toolbox regarding my mother’s home healthcare requirements.
I was able to go to work and concentrate on other aspects of my mother’s healthcare needs. It gave me a “peace of mind” feeling on a daily basis knowing that their qualified staff would handle things at mom’s house and keep me updated.
Comfort Keepers is a local outstanding healthcare organization; I would recommend them for any in-home healthcare needs”
Robert G.R. Son of client, Fort Wayne
There’s more
to losing weight than dieting
By CECIL SCAGLIONE
Mature
Life Features
More than a third of people 65 and older are obese, and the number is growing. This condition affects both their physical and mental health.
Going on a diet my help but there are much simpler ways to combat carbs.
A first step is to downsize servings of whatever you eat. Then adopt the Mediterranean diet — fresh fruit and vegetables, nuts, some fish, a little wine and some olive oil.
When snacking, instead of sitting down with the large family-size bag, pour some of
“Comfort Keepers is an outstanding healthcare organization in Fort Wayne and surrounding areas. Their professional staff worked with my son to set up a well-balanced healthcare plan that allowed me to stay at my own home and enjoy my later years. Thus, I was able to do everyday activities on my terms. They helped me with personal hygiene needs, light housework, meal preparation, and medication reminders. They treated me like family.”
K. Ellen L. Client, Fort Wayne
the contents into a cup or small bowl and put the rest of the bag back on the shelf. Instead of noshing on chips or popcorn while watching TV, sit down with some crunchy produce like carrots, celery or apples.
Mature Life Features Copyright 2025
HORSING AROUND Steve Bultemeier participates in the Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation’s Senior Games. He has done archery, axe throwing, horseshoes, and golf. Photo provided by Steve Bultemeier.
NUTSHELL
A BRASH EXPERIENCE “Saturday Night Life” was Lorne Michaels’s brash experiment as an
to the “Tonight Show” reruns.
70s Flashback —
Lorne Michaels’s brash experiment results in ‘Saturday Night Live’
“Saturday Night Live” was Canadian comic genius/producer/ director Lorne Michaels’s brash
experiment, conceived in three weeks in 1975 as a refreshing NBC-TV alternative to Johnny Carson’s “Tonight Show” reruns.
By RANDAL C. HILL
The idea behind Michaels’s clever brainchild was to channel the counterculture, modernize the traditional variety show, and lure a generation of disaffected young people back to television.
The program was also imagined as a hip offering for baby boomers looking to stay up late. There would be a different host each week, best-selling musical acts, and a cast offering high-octane comedy skits (often about politics), with SNL advertisers targeting viewers who were 18 to 34 years old.
Rather than hire costly, established performers, Lorne tapped into unknown talent from a variety of comedy ensembles unfamiliar to mainstream TV watchers. The original troupe of players included then-unknowns Gilda Radner, Dan Aykroyd, John Belushi, Jane Curtin, Garrett Morris, Laraine Newman, and Chevy Chase — collectively labeled The Not Ready for Prime Time Players.
The show debuted on Oct. 11, 1975, with the always edgy George Carlin as host and Billy Preston and Janis Ian as musical guests.
Michaels had a winner right out of the gate. During the first season, the SNL cast members rose from obscurity to national prominence as the weekend broadcast promptly became a
“must see” for its roiling stew of satirical humor and celebrity impressions.
The improvisational backgrounds of the ensemble allowed performers to experiment with different approaches to comedy. Iconic characters that sprang from the first season included Belushi’s samurai, the Coneheads and Radner’s Roseanne Roseannadanna.
Although some on the team dabbled in cocaine, drug usage was less of a problem than that caused by John Adam Belushi. Michaels had been reluctant to hire the versatile, multi-talented comic, since Lorne believed that, as good as John was, his often-outrageous behavior loomed large as a potential source of trouble for the show.
Michaels’s doubts were soon proven correct.
Belushi’s conduct caused a tsunami of problems. He especially projected hostility to SNL’s female writers; Jane Curtin later said, “John felt as though it was his duty to sabotage pieces written by women. He believed women should not be there.” Belushi was sometimes told that a female-created sketch had been written by a team man.
“Saturday Night Live” has launched numerous careers and franchises. Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi became the SNL soul/rock duo the Blues Brothers, later starring in the 1980 film “The Blues Brothers” and recording Atlantic Records discs under their popular stage name.
Beyond the original celebrities came such later alumni who have also had successful careers — Eddie Murphy, Adam Sandler, Dana Carvey and Tina Fey. SNL has also spun off a dozen movies and won nearly 100 Emmys.
Over the decades, the program has faced some tough criticism, such as the ongoing complaint that SNL has lost its relevance. Oh? Tell that to today’s viewer who still enjoys a dose of weekend laughs from a program that has shaped part of the American popular culture over the past half-century.
alternative
Photo by Rosalind O’Connor/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images.
Senior Relocation
Q. What are “Senior Relocation” services?
A. Several years ago, some friends whom had moved from their home to a local retirement community had an interesting conversation with me regarding their experiences in making their transition. One of the things that stood out in my mind was the fact that very little of the things they needed done was completed on a schedule that fit their needs. Also, coordinating all of the things that they needed to do was a bit overwhelming. And then it struck me that nearly everything that they needed accomplished were exactly what I was doing or had training in.
Having many years of experience in moving furniture in my younger years, a successful career in real estate, and a successful career in auctioneering and appraising, it didn’t take me long to see that all of my abilities were just what the doctor ordered for my friends. Hence the term “Senior Relocation” was born.
Our systems include professional and courteous moving services, real estate brokerage, real estate and antique appraisals, auctioneering services, floor planning assistance and climate controlled storage. These services are all geared to assist the mature adult market in helping make the transition to retirement living much easier.
Whether you need all of our services or just a few, you can feel free to call us for a free analysis. We can show you how to sell your home in 30 days for your price, coordinate a professional and courteous move, along with any other services you may need to help your transition be as simple and as worry free as possible. Call (260) 441-8636 for a free consultation.
Tim McCulloch, Owner
Ardmore Ave., Fort Wayne, IN 46809 210 W. Park Dr., Huntington, IN 46750
Medicare Insurance
A. Yes! Although Medicare is a federal run program and Medicaid is a state run program, there are many overlaps and both programs are governed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and Health and Human Services (HHS).
For Medicare Beneficiaries who are entitled to Medicare, have low incomes, and qualify for Medicaid, health care expenses may be shared between Medicare and Medicaid. As a matter of fact, Most Medicare Advantage carriers offer Dual Special Needs Plans (DSNP) that incorporate low out-of-pocket costs for health care services and often include extra benefits as well. If you are
and also
Elder Law
Q. What happens if I die without a Will?
A. In Indiana, if you pass away without a Last Will and Testament, your assets are divided among your heirs in accordance with Indiana Intestacy laws. The list of heirs and the percentages they each receive is based on your family situation.
Janell M. Sprinkle Attorney at Law jmsprinkle@beersmallers.com
For example, if you are married and have children with your spouse, your spouse receives 50% and your children split the remainder. This changes if you don’t have children or if your children are from a prior marriage. Unfortunately, telling someone your wishes does not change this outcome. Your assets are frozen at your death and can only be released by an order from a probate court or an affidavit, depending on the value of your estate. In either instance, access requires carrying out the terms of your Will or, if none, distributing your assets in accordance with Indiana laws.
If you would like to know the path your assets will take under Indiana Intestacy laws, or if you would like to discuss preparation of a Will, please contact an estate planning attorney.
VETERANDIRECTED CARE
Q. I’m a Veteran who needs help at home. Is there money available to provide support services?
A. The Veteran-Directed Care (VDC) Program is a VA program that empowers Veterans to direct their own long-term care services. It allows Veterans to remain in their homes and communities for as long as possible by providing them with a budget to purchase goods and services they need to support their independence. This includes the ability to hire, train and supervise their own in-home support providers.
Through an AIHS Options Counselor, the Veteran will receive facilitated assessment and care service planning, arrangements for fiscal management services, and ongoing options counseling and support for themselves, their families and their caregivers.
Key features of the VDC Program include:
• Focuses on the individual
• Provided in home
• A budget is provided for the services
To participate, Veterans must be enrolled in the VHA and meet all VA eligibility requirements. A referral must be submitted by the VA primary care physician or social worker. The VA will assess eligibility and make an appropriate referral to AIHS.
To learn more and determine if the program is a good fit for you, visit www.agingihs.org/veteran-directedcare.
Tim McCulloch, Owner
UPDATES & HAPPENINGS IN THE AREA
Editor’s note: Send listings of events, for nonprofit organizations only, to Senior Life, P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542, or email Editor Phoebe Muthart by the 20th of every month at pmuthart@the-papers.com. With the listing, include the contact person, area code and phone number.
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Fort Wayne Animal Care and Control is partnering with Epic Racing Events to host Paws and Run 5K Saturday, Oct. 4, at Buckner Park. Funds raised through this event will support FWACC’s Angel Fund, which provides lifesaving care to animals with advanced medical needs.
Courses include a 5K on paved path and fun run with blowup costumes. Pets welcome. Registration is $35 for 5K Race and $25 for fun run. Bring out your favorite blowup costume and participate in an obstacle course. For more information, call (260) 427-5508.
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Mark your calendars for a morning of fun, health and community at the Johnnie Mae Farm Fall Health Fair from 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at Johnnie Mae Farm, 2518 Winter St., Fort Wayne. This
free, family-friendly event is all about celebrating wellness while connecting with neighbors in the neighborhood.
Families can enjoy handson activities, seasonal refreshments, and explore local resources supporting healthy living. It’s a great opportunity to learn something new and network with community partners.
Local vendors and organizations are also invited to be part of the fair; there’s still time to get involved. For more details or to sign up as a vendor, contact the extension office at (260) 481-8626 or email allences@purdue.edu.
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The United Women in Faith will be hosting its annual fall rummage sale fundraiser from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 8, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 9, at the New Haven United Methodist Church, 630 Lincoln Highway East, New Haven. The $2 bag sale will be all day Thursday. All proceeds will be used to fund the mission work of the UWF, both globally and locally.
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“I knew Johnny Appleseed” will be the presented in the Log House at the Historic Swinney
Homestead, 1424 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne, from 9-11:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 9, as part of Settlers, Inc. Historic Hand Arts Programs. Linda Buskirk, in character as Sarah Archer Pettit, will take people back in time and give a first-hand account of what John Chapman was like. Sample apple recipes — some old, some new; Cost: $20. Reservations due by Oct. 2. Call (260) 432-7314 or visitsettlersinc.org.
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A free workshop for those researching their family history and genealogy will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 15, in The Genealogy Center of the Allen County Public Library in downtown Fort Wayne. The workshop is presented by the Allen County Genealogical Society and open to all who wish to attend.
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A free program is offered for those who are using genealogy software, such as Family Tree Maker, Legacy, Roots Magic and others. This program will assist attendees in learning how to use this software for researching and organizing their discoveries. The FTM Users Group will be offered at 2:15 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 15,
in The Genealogy Center of the Allen County Public Library in downtown Fort Wayne. The workshop is presented by the Allen County Genealogical Society and is open to all who wish to attend.
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Queen of Angels Annual Fall Extravaganza will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17, at 1500 W. State Blvd, Fort Wayne. Bingo, cards, socializing, raffles, and door prizes. Lunch served. Cost is only $10 per person. Open to the public.
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63rd Annual Three Rivers Gem & Mineral Society will feature the show “Freaky Fossils” Oct. 17-19, at the Allen County Fairgrounds inside the building east of Home & Family Arts builing, 2726 Carroll Road, Fort Wayne. Kids and adults alike will enjoy demonstrations, variety of vendors, kids’ games, a fluorescent room and more. Show hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $5 for those 12 years and older. Scouts in uniform are free (18 and under). Activities: Find unique jewelry, buy loose gems, get stones set, watch lapidary demonstrations, try the gem
Churubusco & Columbia City Fort Wayne Northeast
sluice, add fossils or minerals to your own collection, find materials for your own creations, bid on favorites at the silent auction table, buy grab bags, bring minerals to be identified and a chance to win door prizes.
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“Howl-O-Walkoween” will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at Promenade Park Pavilion. Learn more at fwacc.org.
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Clyde Theatre is adding thrills to the season with two, can’t-miss themed shows bringing the perfect mix of spooky fun and seasonal entertainment to Fort Wayne. Saturday, Oct. 18, Clyde Theatre welcomes 98.9 The Bear presents: “One Dark Night: Welcome to your Nightmare Tour 2025.” This special performance will immerse audiences in an evening of shadowy spectacle, combining haunting visuals and a full-throttle rock performance that feels straight out of a Halloween fever dream.
Guests looking to elevate their night can take advantage of The Premier Experience, Clyde Theatre’s signature program offering premium ameContinued on page 9
ApartmentLiving
Dining/Leisure/Entertainment
Jewish Federation hosting author Mitch Albom Oct. 21
The Jewish Federation of Fort Wayne will host New York Times bestselling author, Mitch Albom, for the annual “People of the Book” lecture at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21, at the Auer Performance Hall on the PFW Campus, 2101 E. Coliseum Blvd., Fort Wayne.
Albom is an internationally-renowned and best-selling author, journalist, screenwriter, playwright, radio and television broadcaster, and musician. He is a graduate of Brandeis University and earned two master’s de-
grees from Columbia University.
His books regularly debut at No. 1, have collectively sold more than 40 million copies in 48 languages, and have been made into Emmy Award-winning and critically-acclaimed television movies.
His book “Tuesdays with Morrie,” released in 1997, spent four years on the New York Times bestseller list and is the bestselling memoir of all time.
Subsequent books include “The Five People You Meet in Heaven,” “For One More Day,” “The
UPDATES & HAPPENINGS IN THE AREA
Continued from page 8 nities, a private balcony with sweeping views, exclusive bar access and the option of gallery reserved seating or private box suites. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at clydetheatre.com or in person at the Clyde Theatre Box Office, 1808 Bluffton Road, Fort Wayne.
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Join in Saturday, Oct. 25, for the annual fall gift and craft bazaar at the Allen County Fairgrounds, 2726 Carroll Road, Fort Wayne. Hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission and parking are free. Door prizes and concessions will be available. For more information, vist allencountyfairgroundsin.com.
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A pumpkin path display is through Oct. 26, during public hours. A local favorite, this scenic outdoor display returns to the The Foellinger–Freimann Botanical Conservatory, 1100 Calhoun St., Fort Wayne. Enjoy the spirit of the season while taking part in an autumn activity and posing for festive photo ops adorned with fall foliage and naturally-harvested decor.
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A 10th Annual Holiday Bazaar is from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, at the American Legion No. 241 Auxiliary, 7605 Bluffton Road, Fort Wayne. Tables $15, electricity $5. For
Time Keeper,” and “The First Phone Call from Heaven.”
“Have a Little Faith,” published in 2009, was named the best nonfiction book of that year by Oprah Winfrey.
Albom now spends the majority of his time in philanthropic work. He has founded numerous charities, most of them in Detroit, but also including the Have Faith Haiti Mission in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, a home and school for children.
The program is free, but everyone must have a ticket. For
reservations, call Vicki at (260) 750-8021, Jean at (260) 4384386 or the Legion at (260) 7477851. Proceeds go to veterans and families and local charities. Come and enjoy. Public welcome.
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Friday, Nov. 7, the celebration continues with “Here Come The Mummies: The Mummfest Tour, “featuring Lachy Doley and Platinum Moon. This Nashville-based funk band is made up entirely of “5,000-yearold mummies.” The group has opened for Cheap Trick, performed at major festivals, like Summerfest ,and appeared regularly on The Bob and Tom Show. With identities kept under wraps and performances that melt minds, “Here Come The Mummies” delivers a Halloween-season spectacle unlike anything else. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at clydetheatre.com or in person at the Clyde Theatre Box Office, 1808 Bluffton Road, Fort Wayne.
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…Something Blue is until Nov. 16, during public hours, at Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory, 1100 S. Calhoun St., Fort Wayne. Something old, something new, something borrowed… and Something Blue! Bask in the romance of summer and autumn at the Botanical Conservatory where dramatic plantings, a grand fountain and enchanting scenes await nearlyweds bustling for something blue. You cannot help but notice the fairytale of blue beauty in full bloom. This formal landscape is a lovely backdrop for your heartfelt memories, old or new, this year.
Sponsored by the Fort Wayne Park Foundation, English
Bonter Mitchell Foundation and Majic 95.1.
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Joni Walker: Nature Walk/A Collection of Watercolor Paintings, until Nov. 16, public hours, at Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory, 1100 S. Calhoun St., Fort Wayne. She began to draw as soon as she could hold a pencil. A lifelong resident of rural Indiana, she immersed herself in the beauty of the outdoors, spending countless hours sketching, coloring and letting her imagination roam free. Today, the birds and blossoms living and bloom in her backyard inspire her watercolor paintings.
“Painting has led me to create habitats that attract birds, butterflies, bees and other creatures,” says the Columbia City artist. “I love knowing my paintings might be the only chance someone may have to see a nuthatch or warbler up close or the detail in the petals of a flower.”
She also works as a children’s author/ illustrator and professional photographer. She was selected as an Indiana Artisan in 2023.
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Woodlands Senior Activity Center
For more information, call (260) 248-8944 or visit whitleycountycouncilonaging.org. The center is located at 710 Opportunity Drive, Columbia City.
9 a.m. Wednesday, pixie bingo. 9-10 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday, line dancing.
9 a.m. Tuesday and Friday, 12:30 p.m. Thursday, euchre.
9 a.m. Tuesday, Bible study with Cheryl.
9 a.m. Thursday, craft
free tickets, visit pfw.edu/tickets and select Jewish Federation of Fort Wayne.
There will be a limited number of copies of Albom’s new book, “Twice,” to be released Oct. 7, to give away for ticketed attendees only. To reserve a free copy, contact the Federation’s office at office@fwjf.org or call (260) 456-0400.
If they have run out, they will let you know. These free books are limited to one per household, and reserved copies will be
and chat
10-11 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday, chair exercise. Noon Tuesday, dominoes. 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, hand and foot card game.
1 p.m. Tuesday, Bible study with Bob.
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McMillen Park Community Center
For information, visit fortwayneparks.org or call (260) 427-6000. The center is located at 3901 Abbott St., Fort Wayne. Pickleball, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday to Friday.
Open gym, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
available for pickup at the program Tuesday, Oct. 21, at 5200 Old Mill Road, Fort Wayne.
There will be a book signing immediately after the event. The People of the Book lecture is sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Fort Wayne, with support from The Dr. Louis A. and Anne B. Schneider Foundation.
For further information, contact Michael Theise, executive director of the Jewish Federation of Fort Wayne, at director@ fwjf.org or (260) 456-0400.
Monday through Friday.
Adult open gym, 6-8 p.m. Monday through Thursday.
Adult yoga, 6-7 p.m. Tuesday and noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday. Volleyball, 6-8 p.m. Monday. Badminton, 6-8 p.m. Tuesday. CardioFit, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Monday and Thursday.
Essential steps, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Monday and 6-8 p.m. Wednesday.
Yoga for seniors, noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday.
Yoga for adults, 6-7 p.m. Tuesday.
Men’s basketball league, 6-9 p.m. Thursday.
Man’s ministry is greeting church visitors in parking lot
By CINDY LARSON Feature Writer
Call Curtis Rayford on his cell phone and you won’t get the standard “hello.” Instead he chooses to greet callers with “Praise the Lord.”
Rayford’s enthusiasm and devotion have landed him a volunteer position as a parking lot greeter at Boundless Church of the Nazarene in New Haven.
“I am the first person that greets you in the parking lot,” he said.
Boundless Church is new to New Haven. So new, in fact, it doesn’t have a facility yet. The congregation meets at New Haven Intermediate School at 10 a.m. on Sundays. The church is a spin-off of a Boundless Church in Decatur.
Rayford went to church at the Decatur location for several years, but that wasn’t the beginning of his faith journey.
That started in prison.
He was incarcerated from 1997 to 1999 for selling cocaine.
“In that time I came to know Christ,” he said.
When it was time to be
released, a family, who were members of Boundless Church in Decatur, took him in. He was 32 at the time. When the husband died, Rayford became closer to the wife, whom he calls “Mama.” Her name is Suzanne Smith, and Rayford wanted to continue going to church with the woman who said she “adopted” him.
When the New Haven church opened, he decided to start going there. He said Pastor Abby Schnepp of the New Haven campus is loving and tenderhearted.
“It’s a love that you can feel,” he said. “You are drawn into her love.”
That affection is reciprocated by Schnepp.
“Curtis exudes the love of Christ to everyone he meets,” she said.
Although the church has greeters inside the sanctuary, Rayford prefers greeting them in the parking lot, even in inclement weather.
“I’m totally in love with greeting people,” he said.
His greetings are not limited to a smile and handshake.
“I’m a hugger,” he said. “For the most part, they let me hug them.”
Sometimes people will stop to talk to him right out in the parking lot. On occasion, he will grab people by the hand and pray right there.
Although church begins at 10 a.m., Rayford and other members have to be there at 6:30 a.m. to set up in the school’s gymnasium. That entails laying down a temporary floor, setting up chairs and a pulpit, and hanging a curtain around the whole area. Rayford said sometimes he stays up a little too late the night before and has to take a little time to wake up.
Still, Rayford, 61, said, “I’m gonna slow down when I get to heaven.”
As a phone conversation with him comes to a close, he eschews the usual “goodbye” for — most fittingly — a prayer.
GREETER Curtis Rayford is a parking lot greeter at Boundless Church of the Nazarene in New Haven. Photo courtesy of Boundless Church.
History Center announces 2025-2026 George R.
The History Center has announced the presenters for the 2025-2026 George R. Mather Sunday Lecture Series. All lectures are held at 2 p.m. at the History Center and are free to the public.
All George R. Mather lectures are made possible through the support of the Floyd and Betty Lou Lancia Family Foundation.
The History Center will begin the George R. Mather Sunday Lecture Series Sunday, Oct. 5. “Fort Wayne’s World War II Veterans and Landmarks,” will be presented by Ronald P. May. In this lecture, May will discuss the historical significance of Fort Wayne veterans and the city of Fort Wayne during World War II, which will include the history of Baer Army Airfield.
He will speak on select service stories of Fort Wayne natives at the beginning, middle, and end of World War II. He will also review the contributions of the Allen County Veterans
War Memorial Coliseum and the Veterans National Memorial Shrine and Museum in remembering the war and those who served.
The 2025-2026 schedule of speakers is as follows:
Oct. 5: Ronald P. May — Fort Wayne’s World War II Veterans and Landmarks.
Nov. 2: Melissa Rinehart — “Runaway Hunts: Uncovering the Hidden History of Indiana’s Two Indian Boarding Schools.”
Jan. 4, 2026: Minn Myint Nan Tin — “Experiencing the West: The Journey of Burmese Immigrants and Refugees in Indiana.”
Feb. 1, 2026: Amy Borland — “A Life-Saving Guide: Black Existence and The Green Book.”
March 1, 2026: Shaun Dauksas — “The People and Stories of Westminster Seminary.”
April 12, 2026: Randolph Harter — “Robison Park: Fort Wayne’s Pleasure Resort.”
May 3, 2026: Amber Bowers
LISTEN TO LOCAL NEWSPAPERS & NATIONAL PUBLICATIONS
The Audio Reading Service is for individuals of any age with visual, physical, learning, or language challenges to reading printed materials. This is a free service of the Allen County Public Library. CONTACT US:
Mather Sunday Lecture Series
— “Promoting Dignity, Independence, and Advocacy through Home and Community-Based Programs.”
June 7, 2026: Logan York —
“America 250: A Miami Perspective.”
The History Center serves present and future generations by collecting, preserving, and
sharing historic artifacts, documents, and images describing the people, places, and events which define Fort Wayne and Allen County history.
Registration has opened for two events in October supporting funds at Fort Wayne Animal Care and Control.
In partnership with Epic Racing, the Paws and Run 5K and Fun Run will be Saturday, Oct. 4, at Buckner Park.
Proceeds will support the Angel Fund, providing medical care to animals that come into the shelter. The 5K is timed for those who are true competitors but can also be run or walked with family and social furry friends.
The fun run is a short obstacle course race, which must be run while wearing your favorite inflatable, animal-themed costume. There is something for everyone and great prizes for winners of both races.
Fort Wayne Animal Care
(260) 421-1376
and Control will be hosting the annual Howl-O-Walkoween as part of the “Fright Night” festivities downtown, at Promenade Park pavilion. It will be Saturday, Oct. 18.
Howl-O-Walkoween supports humane education programs and community outreach for the shelter. The event is family oriented and social and pet friendly. Guests can enjoy the raffles, food trucks, professional pet and family portraits and seeing everyone dressed in fun costumes.
Registration for the costume contest can be found on the FWACC website event page and is $30 for the entire family.
There are four categories for costume prizes at the event and an online contest for
Cemetery & Cremation Gardens
Lots Mausoleum Crypts Cremation Options 5365 Lake Ave., Fort Wayne, IN (260) 749-9836
those, who may not have social pets they can bring out.
More details and registration for both events can be found on the FWACC website, and on the shelter Facebook page, fwacc.org and @fwacc on Facebook under events.
Visit fwacc.org under events for more details and to register.
Seminar on medical directives, hospice, and insurance
Oct.
26
A special seminar covering medical directives, hospice, Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and long-term health care insurance will take place Sunday, Oct. 26.
The presenters on the medical directives and hospice will be from Parkview Regional Hospital.
The seminar will be at Covenant United Methodist Church, 10001 Coldwater Road, Fort Wayne. The free seminar is from 2-3:30 p.m. and is open to the public with no registration required.
Contact Curt Sylvester at Heritage1667@comcast.net with any questions.
PARKING
Paradigm Health brings compassionate hospice, palliative care to Allen County
Families in Allen County and the surrounding areas are finding comfort, guidance, and support close to home with hospice and palliative care through Paradigm Health.
Paradigm’s team of caregivers is dedicated to building connections, sharing knowledge, and ensuring every family has the support they need where they need it.
Paradigm’s mission is based on the premise that “every day matters,” aiming not merely to provide end-of-life support but to enrich each day with compassion, dignity, and purpose. True to this approach, care teams are composed of nurses, social workers, chaplains, therapists, and volunteers — all dedicated to personalized, life-centered support in homes and communities
in Fort Wayne and across Allen County.
Andrew Worswick, CEO of Paradigm Health, said, “Our mission is to raise the bar for hospice and palliative care experience, one family, one team member, one community at a time.”
Paradigm is proud to be the first provider in the nation to achieve ACHC accreditation for community-based palliative care,
reinforcing its national leadership and innovative model of compassionate service delivery.
Seniors and their families in Allen County and the surrounding areas can now access:
• Personalized hospice care focused on comfort, enrichment, and honoring the unique journey of every patient.
• Palliative care that relieves symptoms and stress, along with
curative care while walking alongside families when they need it most with support, education and guidance.
• Enrichment services include grief support, veteran-specific programs, volunteer companionship, and creative therapies.
To learn more or schedule a consultation, call the Fort Wayne office, at (260) 247-6500 or visit myparadigmhealth.com.
Medicare supplement premiums
By MICHELLE WALTERS, RSSA, PHR, CHRS, CCWS, CSIS Executive Vice President Health Insurance Shop
Medicare supplement plans are a form of health insurance designed for individuals who choose to remain covered by original Medicare.
Medicare supplement plans do just what they say. They
supplement original Medicare by making payments to health care providers and facilities after original Medicare has paid their portion. And yes, Medicare supplement plans do have a premium.
Over time, Medicare supplement premiums have a tendency to outweigh the value of the Medicare supplement plan for some. Does it really make sense to pay $550 per
month for a health insurance plan (or $6,600 per year) when it doesn’t seem like you may be using that much in health care?
My general rule is that, if annualized, Medicare supplement premiums exceed the maximum out-of-pocket on available Medicare Advantage plans, it may be time to consider making a change.
If you are interested in look-
ing to see how your Medicare Supplement cost compares to Medicare Advantage, now is a great time to do so. During the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period, you would be able to review the options and enroll in new coverage, which would begin Jan. 1. AEP runs Oct. 15 to Dec. 7 of every year, so crunch the numbers and make a change if it makes sense for you.
Assisted Living, nursing And rehAbiLitAtion guide
Adams Heritage
12011 Whittern Road, Monroeville, IN 46773 (260) 623-6440 • www.adamsheritage.org
Rehabilitation Unit, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Semi-Skilled Nursing Intermediate Care, Therapies: Speech, Occupational, Physical, Respiratory, Outpatient Therapy, Long Term Care, Temporary Care, Private/Semi-Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Hospice Care. Medicare and/or Medicaid.
Adams Woodcrest
1300 Mercer Avenue, Decatur, IN 46733 (260) 724-3311 • www.adamswoodcrest.org
Assisted Living, Rehabilitation Unit, Alzheimer’s Unit, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Semi-Skilled Nursing, Intermediate Care, Therapies: Speech, Occupational, Physical, Respiratory, Long Term Care, Temporary Care, Private/Semi-Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Hospice Care, Medicare and/or Medicaid.
Grand Marquis
300 East Washington Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN 46802 (260) 422-5511 • jmull@tgmsi.com
Assisted Living; 50+ Community; Pets Allowed; Medicaid Waiver; Private Rooms; Weekly Events; RCAP Program; Conveniently Located; 24/7 Nursing Staff; On-site Therapy; Downtown Lifestyle; Concierge Service; Smoking Area; Restaurant Style Dining
Life Care Center of Fort Wayne
1649 Spy Run Avenue, Fort Wayne, IN 46805 (260) 422-8520 • www.lcca.com
Rehabilitation Unit, Alzheimer’s Unit, Skilled-Licensed Nursing Or Intermediate Care, Therapies: Speech-Occupational-Physical, Long Term Care, Respite Care, Wound Care, Outpatient Therapy, Medical Transportation, Medicare/Medicaid, Pet Visitation Allowed
Orchard Pointe Health Campus
702 Sawyer Rd., Kendallville, IN 46755 (260) 347-3333 • www.orchardpointehc.com
Offering Memory Care, Assisted & Independent Living Apartments and Skilled Services. We’ll meet you with the appropriate level of care wherever you are — whether you’re fully independent or looking for additional assistance. Call us.
The Cedars
14409 Sunrise Court, Leo, IN 46765 (260) 627-2191 • www.thecedarsrc.com
Assisted Living, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Semi-Skilled Nursing Or Intermediate Care, Therapies: Speech-Occupational-RespiratoryPhysical, Long Term Care, Temporary Care, Private/Semi-Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Hospice Care, Medicare and/or Medicaid
6701
Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN 46816 (260) 447-1591 • www.ABetterWayofLiving.org
Assisted Living, Rehab Unit, Alzheimer’s Unit, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Intermediate Care, Therapies: Speech, Occupational, Respiratory, Physical, Long Term Care, Temporary Care, Private/Semi-Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Hospice Care, Medicare and/or Medicaid, Outpatient Therapy of Fort Wayne
‘Lyin Eyes’ resulted from an unexpected incident
The Eagles
RANDAL C. HILL
This upbeat Eagles ballad tells of a woman entangled in webs of frustration, deceit and entrapment. She lies to everyone — her elderly husband, her younger lover, herself. The affair she has undertaken is, as with many such assignations, a bandage on a painful issue and not a step taken to eliminate the basic problem.
“We saw a lot of beautiful women around Hollywood who were married to wealthy, successful men,” Eagle Glenn Frey once said. “We wondered if they were unhappy.” He later
recalled being out with some of the band members when an incident occurred that would unexpectedly benefit the country-rockers’ career: “One night, we were drinking at a bar when I spotted this stunning young woman with a much older, fat, rich guy. One of the guys commented, ‘Look at her. She can’t even hide those lyin’ eyes.’ Immediately, we all began grabbing for cocktail napkins to write down lyrics to go with that great observation.”
Creating tunes is never easy. In fact, much of the time spent is often a long and frustrating process that includes countless revisions. But when Frey and fellow Eagle Don Henley composed “Lyin’ Eyes,” Frey later admitted, “I don’t want to say it wrote itself, but once we started working it, there were no sticking points. Lyrics just kept coming out, and that’s not always the way songs get
ADAMS WOODCREST
1300 Mercer Avenue
Decatur, IN 46733
Phone: (260) 724-3311
www.adamswoodcrest.org
Independent Living, Cottages, Villas, Apartments, Residential & Assisted Living, Short Term Rehab, Healthcare & Dementia Care, Skilled & Intermediate, Long Term Nursing Care, Life Enrichment Activities, Fitness Center Membership
14409 Sunrise Court Leo, IN 46765 Phone: (260) 627-2191 www.thecedarsrc.com
Complete Retirement Amenities: Skilled & Intermediate Long Term Nursing Care, Assisted & Residential
Total Rehab Unit, Villa Of The Cedars With Condominium Homes - “Come To The Country”
LIFE CARE CENTER OF FORT WAYNE 1649 Spy Run Avenue
Fort Wayne, IN 46805
Phone: (260) 422-8520
www.lifecarecenteroffortwaynein.com
Newly remodeled facility, top-of-the-line service for rehab patients. Rapid rehab program, separate wing with 30 rehab suites — private single bed for short-term patients. Medicare, Medicaid & insurances accepted.
written.”
Within two nights, they had the music and the lyrics stitched together. Fellow Eagle Bernie Leadon later told Rolling Stone, “Glenn was a great storyteller. Just listen to the way he sings ‘Lyin’ Eyes.’”
As the second Asylum Records single from the group’s million-selling “One of These Nights” album, the infectious 45 shot to number two on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart. (Elton John’s “Island Girl” kept it from the coveted top spot.)
The Eagles’ masterpiece earned the band a Grammy a year later, and country superstars Dolly Parton, Buck Owens and Lynn Anderson all released cover versions. “Lyin’ Eyes” also appeared on the hit soundtrack of the 1980 movie “Urban Cowboy.”
“You can’t hide your lyin’ eyes
GOLDEN YEARS HOMESTEAD
3136 Goeglein Road
Fort Wayne, IN 46815
Phone: (260) 749-9655
Greencroft.org/GoldenYears
Golden Years provides a full continuum of care — assisted living, rehabilitation, long-term care and memory care with all private rooms.
CARTER HEARING CLINICS 1335 Getz Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46804 NORTHEAST: 3136 Goeglein Rd., Suite A Phone: (260) 436-6400 or (877) 436-6401 www.carterhearingclinics.com
• Creating A Higher Standard of Care
• Board certified audiologists by the American Board of Audiology serving Fort Wayne since 1967.
• Offices located in Fort Wayne, Auburn and Angola. PROVIDING
• Hearing Evaluations, Hearing Aids, Assistive Listening Devices and Auditory Training
• FREE TRIAL HEARING AID PROGRAM
COMMUNITY SERVICE
HOMEBOUND MEALS PO Box 10179
Fort Wayne, IN 46850
Phone: (260) 422-3296
www.homeboundmealsfw.org
Homebound Meals, Inc. volunteers deliver nutritious, medically tailored meals to seniors and homebound individuals in Fort Wayne and surrounding areas.
HOME CARE SERVICES
INTEGRITY HOME CARE, LLC
Fort Wayne, IN
Phone: (260) 452-9691
ajones@integrityhhc.com
“Stay Home With Integrity.” Providing assistance to those in need in the comfort of their own home.
HIGHER STANDARD OF HOME CARE
BRIGHTSTAR 333 E. Washington Blvd.
Fort Wayne, IN 46802
Phone: (260) 918-0933
www.brightstarcare.com/fort-wayne
Enthusiastic, kind personal level client care connection, 24/7 support enables clients to check on loved ones. Rigorous caregiver screen/background check ensures optimal security & family peace of mind.
SONG ALMOST WROTE ITSELF The Eagles hit “Lyin’ Eyes’ came about from an unexpected incident and almost wrote itself. Photo from YouTube.
Aging and In-Home Services of Northeast Indiana now offering veteran-directed care
Aging and In-Home Services of Northeast Indiana, Inc. has been authorized by the Administration for Community Living to join the network of national Veteran-Directed Home and Community-Based Service Providers in provision of the Veteran-Directed Care program, a partnership between the Department of Health and Human Services and Veterans Health Administration.
The program empowers veterans to direct their own long-term care services and allows them to
remain in their homes and communities for as long as possible by providing them with a budget to purchase goods and services they need to support their independence. This includes the ability to hire, train and supervise their own caregivers.
Through an AIHS Options Counselor, participating veterans will receive facilitated assessment and care service planning, arrangements for fiscal management services, and ongoing options counseling and support for themselves, their families
and their caregivers.
“AIHS is proud to participate in this important program to support veterans living in the community rather than in an institution,” said President and CEO Beth Evans, MHA. “Since 1975, our broad range of home and community-based services have grown to support community-dwelling individuals in partnership with health care organizations to provide integrated care to those most at risk.”
To participate, veterans must be enrolled in the VHA and meet
AARP opens discount doors to travel
By CECIL SCAGLIONE
Mature Life Features
An American Association of Retired Persons’, or AARP, membership is also a ticket to discounted travel.
The membership card can open doors to discounted pricing on airlines, car rentals, hotels, cruise lines and tour packages, ranging from British Airways to the Grand Canyon
Railway.
You can also shop for a senior-discount life-time pass to the more than 440 sites overseen by the National Park Service.
Mature Life Features Copyright 2025
all VA eligibility requirements.
A referral must be submitted by the VA primary care physician or social worker. The VA will assess eligibility and make an appropri-
ate referral to AIHS.
To learn more and determine if the program is a good fit for you, visit agingihs.org/veteran-directed-care.
‘Lyin Eyes’
Continued from page 12
“And your smile is a thin disguise
“I thought by now you’d realize
“There ain’t no way to hide your lyin’ eyes”
In the story, a woman slips away from her husband after telling him that she’s going out to visit a friend “who’s feeling down.”
“She drives on through the night, anticipating
“Because he makes her feel the way she used to feel
“The fleeting moments she
enjoys with her lover include a promise that will never be kept.
“She swears that soon she’ll be coming back forever
“She goes away and leaves him with a smile.”
At the story’s end, she sadly realizes that her affair will never restore the life she once enjoyed.
“She wonders how it ever got this crazy
“She thinks about a boy she knew in school
“Did she get tired or did she just get lazy?
“She’s so far gone she feels just like a fool.”
HEALTH SERVICES DIRECTORY
HOME PET CARE
HUMANE FORT WAYNE
IN-HOME SERVICES
901 Leesburg Road
Fort Wayne, IN 46808
Phone: (260) 744-0454
www.humanefortwayne.org
This FREE program helps seniors care for their pets. Services include grooming, walking, waste clean-up, wellness checks, transportation and more.
IN-HOME CARE
AT HOME HEALERS HOMECARE LLC
7230 Engle Road, Suite 205
Fort Wayne, IN 46804
Phone: (260) 702-0897
care@athomehealershc.com
www.athomehealershc.com
Personalized centered care: post surgery, Alzheimers & Dementia specialized support, Veteran & personal assistance (bathing, dressing, grooming), light housekeeping, daily/weekly meal prep, appointment transportation. No minimum hourly contract, 24/HR care, two nurse owned & operated, FREE in-home assessment!
COMFORT KEEPERS
3182 Mallard Cove Lane
Fort Wayne, IN 46804
Phone: (260) 484-5858
MollyTritch@comfortkeepers.com
Comfort Keepers provides award winning in-home care for seniors and other adults in need of assistance with daily activities.
WOODCREST
Mercer Avenue
IN 46733
Phone: (260) 724-3311
NON-MEDICAL HOME CARE
LIFTING HEARTS HOME CARE
Fort Wayne, IN 46819 (260) 705-4115
www.liftinghearts.live
Our mission is simple: to provide compassionate, personalized care that enables seniors and individuals to live independently at home. Through a patient-centered approach and tailored services, we ensure the unique needs of each client are met with dignity and respect.
Michael F. Barile, D.C., P.T. 3030 Lake Avenue
Fort Wayne, IN 46805
Phone: (260) 420-4400 www.hoosierpt.com
Medicare Assignment Accepted “Personalized Care”
Steam power still rules at Hesston Outdoor Steam Museum
Visiting Hesston Outdoor Steam Museum near LaPorte is like taking a step back in history to the time when steam power ruled. Three, smoke-belching trains of varying sizes transport people over bridges, up inclines, through a forest around the 155-acre property just like they did around the turn of the century at the end of the 1800s and early 1900s.
Steam power still rules here. Plumes of smoke rise from the stacks of a variety of locomotives and the air is full of the sounds of their whistles. A conductor punches each passenger’s ticket at the station before they board the coaches. A classic Shay engine pulling four passenger cars, moves off slowly and chugs up an incline, across a bridge before disappearing into the trees. The powerful Shay locomotives were used to haul huge logs out of the forest to the saw mills in the valley.
A smaller, former amusement park train is full of enthusiastic visitors and a third, even smaller train with the engineer perched on top of the coal car, operates on another set of tracks.
Rides for adults are $9 and children under 13 years of age is $5.
Nearby a huge steam belching crane built for the U.S. Navy in 1940 lifts logs and places them on a platform at the steam-powered sawmill, where a huge radial blade fills the air with sawdust and quickly turns the log into lumber.
S & S TRAVEL
Motorcoach Tours
1404 E. Lake Bluff Dr. Kendallville, IN 46755
NOV. 5-9:CHATTANOOGA
CHOO CHOO Tennessee: National Corvette Museum, City Tour, Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel & Glen Miller Gardens, Rock City Gardens, Missionary Ridge Train Ride, Ruby Falls, Lookout Mountain Incline, TN Valley Dinner Train, Falcon Crest Mansion
NOV. 17-21: BRANSON
CHRISTMAS: Fantastic
Caverns & 6 Great Shows: Dutton Family, Hughes Brothers, Daniel O’ Donnell, Doug Gabriel, Sight/Sound’s DAVID, Cassandra Voice of an Angel, Lamberts Café
DEC. 8-12: BLUE MTN
MIST CHRISTMAS: Blue
Mtn Mist Bed & Breakfast
Lodging, Patty Waszak Show, Smoky Mtn Church Tour, Dolly’s Stampede, Red Skelton Tribute Show, Pokin’ around the Smokies Tour, Country Tonite Show, Dollywood, Hill & Hollows
Details: www.s-stravel.com
Tour Calendar: Call 888-262-4423
GREAT ESCAPES
Built in Kalamazoo, Mich., it served as a lumber mill in nearby Michigan City before coming to Hesston in 1959. Custom sawing helps support the outdoor museum.
Text and Photos
By ROD KING
One unique machine is the generator that first brought electricity to the city of LaPorte to power the courthouse and the jail. When in operation, it lights up a big sign that reads “100 years of generating power.”
Hesston Steam Museum is actually the outgrowth of a threshing bee, hosted by the LaPorte County Threshermen, in 1957. It has been growing steadily since then and now includes a blacksmith shop, 1930s ice cream parlor/sandwich shop, gift shop and picnic area. The museum is open only on weekends starting at 11:30 a.m., with trains running at noon. It is operated solely by volunteers.
Get in the Halloween spirit by taking one of their ghost train rides in October. The rides, which take visitors through the forest in search of the “Mad Lumberjack,” will pass many scary vignettes of skeletons popping out of caskets and weird ghoulish creatures doing a lot of other strange things.
Continued on page 15
READY TO ROLL An engineer climbs into the Shay narrow gauge locomotive for a trip through the 155-acre property. Shay locomotives were formerly used to haul large logs from the
because they could handle heavy loads up and down relatively steep grades.
to the
forest
sawmills
BIG CRANE Built in 1940 for the U.S. Navy, this railroad steam crane lifts logs onto a platform at the museum’s steam-powered sawmill. The mill does custom sawing to help fund the museum.
STEAM GENERATOR— This steam generator formerly provided electric power to light the LaPorte County courthouse and jail. When running, it lights up the sign on the roof.
Steam power
Continued from page 14
The three railroads operate Saturdays and Sundays throughout the month. Trains begin running at noon and haul screaming passengers through 5 p.m.
The museum is closed in November, but open the weekends of Dec. 6-7 and Dec. 13-14 for Santa’s Candy Cane Express rides.
Hesston Steam Museum is located just minutes off I-94 and the Indiana Toll Road on the east edge of LaPorte. There’s no charge to park. Be sure to remember LaPorte is on Central Time.
For additional information and detailed directions to the museum, visit hesstonsteammuseum.com.
IN TIME
TO BOARD Passengers
three various sized railroads at Hesston Steam Museum, that will
at
The museum is open on weekends and trains start running at noon.
IIt’s easy! Simply find the ‘Autumn Decoration’ on another page in this edition. Go online to www.SeniorLifeNewspapers.com and enter your information, the edition, date and page number you found it on. This will enter you for a chance to win a gift of $25.
(Online Entries Only) Entries Must Be In By Monday, October 13, 2025. Brought To You By
206 S. Main St. Milford, Indiana 46542
The winner of the I Spy Contest for September is Kathy Kuhlmann from South Bend. The ‘Labor Day Hard Hat’ was located on page 13 in Senior Life Allen; page 9 in Senior Life Northwest; page 20 in Senior Life Elko and page 8 in Senior Life St. Joseph.
STEP BACK
Steam Power still rules
Hesston Steam Museum just east of LaPorte.
Public presentation for Foster Park entrance Oct. 7
Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation invites the public to attend a presentation to reveal the design for the new Foster Park entrance. The design progression follows open house meetings in July of 2024 and public review of two different options in January of 2025.
The presentation will begin promptly at 6:30 p.m. in the auditorium of Harrison Hill Elementary School, 355 S. Cornell Circle, Fort Wayne, Tuesday, Oct. 7. It is expected to conclude
at 7 p.m.
During the presentation, the Deputy Director of Planning and Landscape Chad Shaw will share the design for the re-imagined entrance, which follows the culmination of the Three Rivers Protection and Overflow Reduction Tunnel, and also considers new recreational amenities, landscape enhancements, pedestrian and vehicular circulation as well as the interface of the new plan with the existing beauty of Foster Park
and its surroundings.
An ASL interpreter will be on site for deaf and hard of hearing individuals.
“Reasonable accommodations” for persons with a known disabling condition will be considered in accordance with state and federal law. Any person needing a “reasonable accommodation” should notify April McCampbell at (260) 427-6024 or the TTY Phone Number, (260) 427-1200, within a reasonable time prior to the meeting.
Loss and life transitions — a Christian perspective
Life has many challenges. Life is a series of losses and transitions. These could include the loss of independence, loss of a job, loss of a home, loss of friends, or loss of a loved one. There is the ultimate concerns as people deal with their own mortality.
The series will be presented at Covenant United Methodist Church to assist persons with dealing with life’s transitions.
The next session will be Oct. 26, and will discuss life’s transitions dealing with housing. As people age, they experience various housing needs. This session will discuss housing options, including retirement homes,
assisted living, skilled care and will discuss long-term housing facilities.
The other session will be Nov. 23 and will discuss medical issues, including family physicians, specialists and rehab. Discussion will include medical directives, living wills, medical power of attorney and deciding to be an organ donor.
The other session will be Jan. 25, 2026, and will discuss legal issues including wills, trusts, power of attorney, transfer on death, insurance and banking issues.
The next session will be Feb. 22, 2026, and will discuss end-of-
life issues. The session will share the various options available, including mortuary services, pre-payments and burial options.
The last session will be March 22, 2026, and will discuss the Christian service of celebrating one’s life whether as a funeral or memorial service. This service will assist in the planning of one’s own service and the writing of one’s obituary.
These sessions will be held from 2-3:30 p.m. Sundays, in Covenant United Methodist Church, 10001 Coldwater St., Fort Wayne. The sessions are free and open to anyone who wishes to attend.
Rightsizing can be broken into three areas
By KURT NESS Realtor/Auctioneer/Broker/ Co-Owner
Ness Bros. Realtors
and Auctioneers
Rightsizing can be broken into three areas — financial, physical and emotional.
Financial, Important Paperwork
Have all important paperwork in one location that multiple people know the location of these documents. Some people opt to have the following information on a thumb drive.
Sample: Vehicle titles, insurance policies, will, power of attorney documents, health
directives, doctors’ information, medications, and any past medical information, to name just a few.
Physical, Personal Property
Start with the room you are in the least and begin with the closet of that room. Take everything out and put back only what you need and love. Start making stacks marking things with colored labels. We can help with that.
Emotional Photos, Heirlooms And Collections
Photos can be like a bottomless pit, meaning once you get started, it can take a lot of time.
One approach is to simply put all your photos into a dark, opaque plastic container. This will ensure that neither the sunlight nor water will damage them. Sometime later, have the family come over and help sort the photos into piles.
• A pile with each person’s photos.
• A pile with group photos. This is a great time to write people’s names or a brief note on the back of the photo.
• A pile of scenery photos.
Once the photos are grouped, then pick out the best ones to keep and let family members take the rest. This process can be a great time to bond with family, and it gives the grandchildren an opportunity to see into the past.
Contact our Senior Relocation team to get help and answers to your questions on rightsizing; we’re here to help you sort through every chapter of your life.
Reach out to our relocation specialists at (260) 459-3911 in Fort Wayne or (260) 356-3911 in Huntington. You can also contact us through our website, NessBros.com, or stop in one of our offices, located at 3344 Mallard Cove Lane, Fort Wayne, or 519 N. Jefferson St., Huntington.
ACCESS YOUR PERSONAL ACCOUNT Social Security has helped people access its programs and services online for 10 years through my Social Security. Set up your personal account today.
Accessing your personal My Social Security account
By MONA HARTER District Manager, South Bend Social Security Office
For over 10 years, my Social Security has helped many people access our programs and services online. We will changed the way you sign in to all our online services — including my Social Security. You will no longer be able to sign in to your personal my Social Security account using your username and password. Instead, you’ll need to use one of our credential service providers, Login.gov or ID.me.
If you already have a Login.gov or ID.me account, and can sign in to our online services, please continue using that account.
If you only have a Social Security username, our screens will guide you through the process to transition your account to Login.gov. Login. gov provides enhanced online security, helps protect you from identity theft, and allows you to create an account that can be used across other agencies. It will only take a few minutes to create a new Login.gov account.
How to transition your Social Security username account to Login.gov.
To transition your account, please go to ssa.gov/myaccount and select ‘Sign In’. On the next page, select ‘Sign in with Social Security Username’. After you successfully sign in with your Social Security
username and password you will receive a prompt to create an account with Login.gov. You will then be taken to the Login. gov website.
Once you successfully link your Social Security username with your new Login.gov account, you will see a confirmation screen. You can start using your new Login.gov account to access our online services immediately. You will no longer be able to sign in with your personal my Social Security account using your Social Security username. Login.gov has 24/7 customer support through phone and chat at login.gov/ help to help you set up an account, if needed.
If you’re not receiving benefits, you can use your personal my Social Security account to:
• Request a replacement Social Security card.
• Get estimates for future benefits.
• Get your Social Security Statement instantly.
• Get proof that you do not receive benefits.
• Check your application status.
If you’re receiving benefits, you can use your personal my Social Security account to:
• Request a replacement Social Security card.
• Get an instant benefit verification letter.
• Start or change your direct deposit. (Social Security beneficiaries only)
• Change your address. (Social Security beneficiaries only)
• Get a replacement SSA1099 or SSA-1042S instantly for tax season.
• Opt out of mailed notices for those available online.
For more information, please read our publication my Social Security: How to Create an Online Account at ssa.gov/ pubs/EN-05-10540.pdf. Please share this information with your loved ones.