Smart Living Fort Wayne- May 2024

Executive

Senior Editor Lindsey Lukas

Managing

Assistant Editor Steven Bonifazi

Graphics

Graphic

Contributing

Fun Suggestions

Happy Spring, Smart Living readers! You never know what you’re going to get in the Midwest, but my fingers are crossed for nicer weather in the next few weeks ahead.

I don’t know about you, but I’m loving the return of many fun and family-friendly activities in our region. For example, the Fort Wayne TinCaps baseball team is back in action at Parkview Field. Personally, I like to go for the food and the atmosphere, but I appreciate all of the baseball fans who actually pay attention to the game (and keep me updated on the score).

The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo is also open once again. This is particularly exciting for me since my toddler is now old enough to enjoy it. I can’t wait to watch the wonder in his eyes as he hand-feeds giraffes, rides the Sky Safari and pets stingrays in the Australian Adventure exhibit. (Assuming he’s not having a total meltdown for some illogical reason… you know, toddlerhood).

If you’d like to make yourself a “bucket list” of all the fun experiences that Fort Wayne has to offer, I’d highly suggest purchasing a Fort Wayne Adventure Pass, which includes seven attractions that you can experience within 72 hours after first use. The pass includes admission to the above-mentioned Children’s Zoo, Science Central, The Botanical Conservatory, The Fort Wayne Museum of Art, The History Center, The Firefighters Museum and The Rolland Center for Lincoln Research. Not bad for only $35.95 to $42.95 (depending on if you’re a child, senior or adult). You can buy adventure passes at visitfortwayne.com.

Of course, there’s so much to enjoy downtown from the public art to the dozens of restaurants and shops. I really think Fort Wayne is a hidden gem of a destination.

I also can’t forget to mention the incredible Putt Putt Fun Center, which you’ll learn more about in our cover story. There aren’t many places where I could go with my parents, my kids and my husband and everyone has a great time. This is one of them.

Hopefully you can get out and explore this month. Cheers! ❚

Lindsey Lukas Senior Editor

Get Egg-Cited at The BBQ Store and More

By Jim Taylor, managing editor

Customers at The BBQ Store and More, 17007 Doty Road in New Haven, Ind., will find plenty of grills and accessories. One grilling item in particular tends to spark their attention.

The Big Green Egg is a versatile outdoor cooker that’s described as a complete outdoor cooking system. It is such a beloved item that The BBQ Store and More has built an annual event around it.

BGE Fest, on June 1, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., is an event where egg-sperts fire up dozens of Big Green Eggs to grill a variety of dishes, and visitors can take advantage of delicious samples and savings.

“It’s somewhat of an open house, so we’ll offer 10% storewide discounts,” says Darren Schmuker, the store’s manager. “Cookers cook up all kinds of samples, from breakfast foods in the morning to every type of meat available.”

A tradition at The BBQ Store and More since 2008, BGE Fest has become a popular event. But Darren doesn’t just sell Big Green Eggs. He’s also a passionate owner.

“I love to grill and I couldn’t live without my Big Green Egg,” he says.

First time customers to The BBQ Store and More may be surprised just how much is included in the “and more.”

“Our slogan is ‘Your backyard headquarters,” says Darren. “We do anything pertaining to your backyard.”

And he does mean anything. Firepits, swing sets and patio furniture are all a part of The BBQ Store and More’s inventory. The Schmuker family’s background in construction also makes the store a go-to for customers seeking indoor

and outdoor fireplaces, outdoor kitchens and structures like gazebos, pergolas and pavilions.

“We’ve been in construction for 30 years and we’ve sold barbecuing equipment for 25 years,” says Sam Schmuker, Darren’s father and the co-owner of The BBQ Store and More. “With having experience in different trades, it’s very helpful when it comes to relating to the customer.”

Customers looking to spruce up their backyard oasis can take advantage of the design center at The BBQ Store and More, where experts help them visualize their backyard dreams in 3D and bring them to life. With decades of building experience under their belt, the Schmukers can make a customer’s backyard project come together fairly quickly.

“From time of order until installation, it takes about five to six weeks,” says Darren.

With that said, a little information from the customer can go a long way.

“Let us know how much space you have,” Darren advises. “That way, we know what we can offer and how we can serve you better.”

When it comes to grills and other backyard appliances, The BBQ Store and More is seeing a big uptick of outdoor griddles and pizza ovens, making outdoor cooking a more diversified experience.

“Not only are you putting a grill into your outdoor kitchen, but you’re also seeing a lot more items to expand your ability to host,” Darren says. ▮

To learn more or to preorder your own Big Green Egg, visit the store, go to thebbqst.com or call (260) 632-0620.

Who Do You Really Trust?

It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man. – Psalm 118:8

Surely these words ring true to any believer who has lived in the world for any time at all. Who is trustworthy in this life? Even the people we love the most and who love us best are frail and imperfect. We are not wholly honest with ourselves, much less with others. And none of us is truly wise, despite our best intentions.

What of the institutions and organizations of this world? Has any of us failed to be disappointed by them? Governments, corporations, schools, hospitals, workplaces, churches, society in general. Each is comprised of flawed individuals, some trying their best, some serving only themselves, none perfect.

In short, we love people but we trust only God. And yet how difficult it sometimes is to trust in One we can’t see. What does it mean to trust in the Lord?

First, there is the Word of God. For all the ways people twist and turn scripture to suit their own ideas, the basic truths taught by Jesus Christ can’t be obscured. The greatest commandment is to love God fully and faithfully. The next greatest is to love others as much as we love ourselves. Those are trustworthy concepts that should keep us busy for a lifetime.

Too, God’s trustworthiness and sheer brilliance is on display all around us every day; it’s in every sunrise and moonrise, every spring that brings new life, every inch of natural beauty, every miraculous interaction of the web of life which sustains us. It’s in the miracle of life itself, and in every breath we take. People didn’t create the Earth or the life upon it. God did.

People who trust in people are always disappointed. People who love people and put their confidence in God find a peace that surpasses human understanding. ❚

-- Janine Pumilia

Custom Woodwork That Lasts a Lifetime

By Peggy Werner

In a world that uses social media to communicate, where you don’t always know what to believe, some hidden gems are just known by their good reputation.

Joe Zehr, co-owner with his brother, Jesse, of Zehr’s Custom Cabinets & Manufacturing, in Auburn, Ind., is a third-generation family business owner. They’re also local farmers. Zehr’s doesn’t have a website, a Facebook page, or an X (formerly Twitter) account.

When it comes to advertising his custom-made doors, cabinets, stairways, wood trim, shelves, mantels, wood beams and other woodwork for the interior of a home (other than furniture), Joe’s precision craftsmanship speaks for itself. His customers are more than happy to spread the word, because quality work and great customer service are his specialties.

“We are a one-stop shop and still build things the old-fashioned way with quality construction,” he says. “Everything we do is made from scratch, from measuring and designing to getting the raw lumber and making the finished product. Our end goal is always a happy customer. If we make mistakes, we fix them.”

Patty Kelley is one satisfied customer.

“Joe and his family are just great people,” she says. “He is as honest and hard-working as the day is long, and he does a great job. I can take in a picture of something unusual and he can make it.

She and her husband are the owners of another family business, Kelley’s Automotive dealerships, in Indiana. She is also the owner of Kelley Design Works. The couple recently built a lake home in Syracuse, Ind., where Zehr’s did all the cabinets, doors, beds, ceiling beams and trim work. The couple has worked with Zehr’s for more than 15 years, after asking someone for a referral to build custom cabinets. Since then, they have used Zehr’s for several homebuilding projects and have referred many family members and friends.

As a designer, Kelley has an eye for what will work where and has come up with many unique ideas that Zehr’s has always been able to construct, she says.

“When you work with them, you work with only them,” she continues. “They don’t send you off to someone else for anything. They are extremely easy to work with, flexible if you change your mind about something, which I have often done, and they are competitively priced.”

Joe works within any customer’s budget and uses a wide variety of woods, from soft and hard hickory to white oak, red oak, walnut and more. The trends he sees are plain, clean lines in cabinetry, in addition to many customers wanting painted wood, customized colors and a clean finish. He also makes matching pieces to go with existing woodwork or furniture in a home, if needed.

All of Zehr’s projects are made of solid wood and have dovetail joints, in addition to other details that go into a highquality, sturdy, durable product that stands the test of time.

“Our business has grown mainly by word of mouth. We have never run out of work, even during the pandemic and other economically slow times. Our business is about building personal relationships, referrals and repeat customers,” Joe says.

Zehr’s opened in 1990 and grew from a three-man shop in a house garage to a business that now employs 25 people, including an installation crew, across two large buildings: one 12,000-square-foot workshop and one 20,000-square-foot showroom.

“Our cabinets will last a lifetime if you take care of them,” Joe says. ▮

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (260) 740-9042 or (260) 627-0171 or email sales@zehrmfg.com.

Zehr’s Custom Cabinets & Manufacturing is known for its quality work. The business doesn’t have a website or any social media, but relies instead on customer referrals.

All of Zehr’s projects are made of solid wood and stand the test of time.

Golf, Go-Karts and Games at Fun Center

By Lindsey Lukas, senior editor

Since he was 9 years old, John Snyder has worked at Putt Putt Fun Center, 4530 Speedway Dr., Fort Wayne.

“My first job was picking up cigarette butts for a penny a piece. Everyone smoked back then, so I made some good money,” Snyder laughs.

Now, as general manager, he’s proud to offer the public a number of fun activities at an exemplary financial value.

“We have people who come from all over for our good prices,” he says. “The original golf course was built in 1970 and my father [John Snyder Sr.] bought it in 1976. We’ve been here ever since, and we’ve done a lot. All the customization, all the landscaping – we’ve done everything ourselves. We’re really proud of what’s here.”

Putt Putt Fun Center offers three 18-hole golf courses, gokarting and arcade games. Each of the three golf courses are beautifully landscaped according to their theme, Snyder says.

“There’s a volcano course that has a volcano that you get to play through, and it also shoots fire on a timer at night,” he says. “That course is themed like Atlantis, so it has pillars and all of that kind of scenery.

“Then, there’s the jungle course, which has all of these big fountains, vines, trees and shade,” he adds. “You get to play around water, and there’s buttons that kids can press for water to shoot up, and different effects like that.

“And then, of course, there’s the classic course, which is the most traditional putt putt course.”

The golf courses are open year-round, weather permitting.

The arcade is also open year-round, with the price of 80 tokens for $10. That equals out to 8 tokens for $1, or 12.5 cents a token.

“We have a room that we opened that’s a retro arcade, where you can find games like Pac Man from back in the 1980s,” Sny-

Putt Putt Fun Center offers three 18-hole golf courses, go-karting and arcade games. Summer hours start after Memorial Day.

der says. “Then, the rest of the arcade is redemption games, where people can win tickets for prizes. We have the best prizes, hands down.”

Prizes span in price from $.05 to $700 and include everything from stuffed animals to PlayStation 5s. The top prize is an X-Box, which can be redeemed for 70,000 tickets.

“All of the retro games are just 1 token to play, while redemption games vary,” Snyder says.

Go-karting is open from the beginning of April until the end of October. Most people ride in 1-seater karts, but 2-seater karts are available to accommodate kids who are too short to drive on their own.

Each ride lasts about 5 minutes, with 10 to 15 cars typically out at once.

“It’s a very cool track where you go around a figure 8 loop and up and over a bridge,” Snyder says.

Drivers must be at least 56 inches tall to drive alone, and 58 inches tall to drive a passenger. Passengers can ride for free and must be at least 3 years old and 36 inches tall.

Miniature golf and go-karting both cost $9 per person for one course/ride, $14 for two courses/rides, or $18 for three courses/ rides. Kids ages 3 and under can enter free, while kids ages 4-7 can enter for $3 for the whole day. Seniors ages 55 and older and military members receive discounts of $5 for one course/ride, $8 for two courses/rides, and $10 for three courses/rides.

A punch card system allows customers to split between golf and go-karting as they wish.

“We also have an anniversary special the first or second week in June where we sell Putt Putt golf for half price. We’ve done that deal since 1976,” Snyder says. ❚

Visit fortwayneputtputt.com or call (260) 483-7618 for more information.

Putt Putt Fun Center has an arcade open year-round with redemption games as well classics like Pac Man. There’s also a classic miniature-golf course, a volcano course, and a jungle course open year-round, weather permitting.

Enjoy Fine Dining in Downtown Auburn

By Lindsey Lukas, senior editor

It’s a tall order to become one of the finest dining establishments in the state of Indiana, but Bob and Aliya Lebamoff are up to the task. The iconic building that houses their restaurant, Auburn City Steakhouse, 203 Main St., Auburn, bursts with charm and history.

“We call it casual elegance,” Bob says. “You are sitting in a building with rich history while enjoying a wonderful dinner to celebrate your occasion.”

Originally a hardware store, the building dates to 1859 and remained in continuous operation for decades. Philanthropists Rick and Vicki James purchased the store in 2017 with dreams of converting it into full service, high-scale restaurant.

“This was the beginning of their 10-year plan to redevelop downtown Auburn, a town they both love,” Bob explains.

The James family sought top talent to run the steakhouse, which is where Bob comes in. A third-generation restaurateur, he shares the James family’s vision of redeveloping Auburn while paying homage to the city’s roots. His son, Alex, is now the fourth generation to join the business.

“As a tribute to the past, we wanted to keep as much of the building’s charm and history as we could while making it a functional restaurant,” Bob says. “The original hardwood floor, leaded-etched glass entrance, tin ceiling, brick walls and so much more were restored to its beauty. The original freight elevator, 1908 NCR cash register and many other pieces remain on display today. I tell people we opened a historical museum – we just have a kitchen in here now.”

Some highlights on the menu include the prime rib and the Greek salad.

“My grandfather, Stephan Gouloff, owned the Paramount Grill in Fort Wayne, and my dad, Tom Lebamoff, owned several restaurants in Fort Wayne over his 40-year career, with his last one called The Elegant Farmer,” Bob explains. “We offer the same original Greek salad my grandfather brought from the old county, and my father was known for his slow-roasted Prime Rib, which we feature.”

In addition to the main dining room, Auburn City Steakhouse has unique spaces for housing private events. The Executive Room is a 28-seat private dining room with beautiful art lining the walls – an “elegance unmatched in Northeast Indiana,” Bob says. The room offers a reception area, private restroom and sound-proof walls for guests to conduct private business.

The Grand Room offers a 110-seat reception area, with private restrooms and a service bar, that’s perfect for hosting weddings, nonprofit fundraisers, corporate events, live music events and more.

“We also have a smaller room for 10 guests where we host private wine dinners and tastings,” Bob says. “It is surrounded by our wine lockers that our guests rent from us.”

There’s also the Davis & James Lounge, named after the original hardware store owner Joseph Davis and his family, and, of course, Rick and Vicki James, who restored the building to its present-day grandeur. The lounge offers a full-service bar that stocks hard-to-find bourbons and never-out-of-style classic cocktails.

“We offer our full dining menu there as well,” Bob says.

The restaurant primarily attracts guests from a 45-mile radius, he adds. Regular customers come from as far as Ohio and Michigan, which only benefits downtown Auburn.

“We feel we are the catalyst to the downtown redevelopment and expansion over the past six years,” Bob says. “Since our inception, there have been several new private business developments downtown that have helped create an investment area to save this downtown. There were several empty buildings when we started, and now the downtown area is coming back to life.”

Playing a critical role in revamping downtown Auburn has been rewarding, Bob adds.

“We are on a mission to be Northeast Indiana’s finest fullservice steakhouse and we accomplish this one table at a time.”▮

To make a reservation, call (260) 333-7337 or visit auburncitysteakhouse.com.

The Grand Room at Auburn City Steakhouse offers a 110-seat reception area for hosting weddings, fundraisers, corporate events and more.

Auburn City Steakhouse’s menu and ambiance attract customers from a 45-mile radius, says owner Bob Lebamoff.

Maintaining Your Outdoor Living Spaces

It’s said that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. In the case of Outdoor Concepts, a landscaping and equipment company that now employs more than 70 people, it began with Steve Gerber mowing the local Hardees after work in 1984.

At the time, Steve worked with his father and brothers at Gerber Lawn Service. However, taking on additional jobs let him make the “unsure, scary, exciting” transition in 1987 into full-time work at his own company – Steve’s Landscape Maintenance.

Steve and his wife Gayla initially ran this new venture out of their home. However, the company moved several times as it grew, settling in 2009 at its current location on State Road 1 in Bluffton. With this final move, the business changed its name to Outdoor Concepts Inc. (OCI). They’ve also opened an additional store in Muncie, now located near Ball State University.

Regarding the growth and location changes, the Gerbers say it was “exciting – we felt blessed to be able to do this with great employees.”

Both stores offer lawn and landscape equipment sales, parts and service, giving customers a one-stop shop for their equipment needs. They also carry landscaping supplies and lawn care products that are more affordable than those at big-box stores yet are of comparable or higher quality.

In addition, the Bluffton store preserves the original spirit of Steve’s Landscaping, offering property maintenance services and landscape consultations, design and installation. It also features a 30,000-square-foot nursery.

The business’s expansion might have surprised the Gerbers back in 1984.

“We never really had a plan, just a dream of a lawn and gar-

den center with services,” Steve says. “It organically happened as new hires with different gifts and talents moved our company in ways we didn’t even dream or think of.”

Despite the changes, they still emphasize high-quality customer service.

“We have a great staff that is knowledgeable about our products and services,” Steve adds. “We train and expect our staff to acknowledge and welcome our customers quickly when entering our store. We value our employees and customers as OCI family.”

Outdoor Concepts also empowers people with the knowledge they need to care for the outdoors. One example is Steve’s free lawn and shrub bed classes, which he hosts several times a year.

“I love seeing customers being able to save time and money and being able to share our knowledge and experiences,” he says.

Influenced by their Christian faith, the Gerbers seek to use their business as a ministry, supporting local nonprofits and holding company-wide community service efforts. Moreover, employees receive paid community service days to volunteer for other organizations.

“We believe we are where we’re at because of God’s blessings in our life and on our business,” Steve says. “So naturally, we want to give back and help out those in need. We always have the philosophy of like Jesus said – ‘treat others the way you want to be treated’ and ‘love and care about others the way Jesus would.’”

While the business has grown beyond what the Gerbers imagined, it retains their passion for serving their community and customers with excellence. The next time you need equipment, supplies or just advice for maintaining your outdoor living space, consider stopping by Outdoor Concepts. They’ll be happy to see you.▮

Outdoor Concepts Inc., in Bluffton, opened at its current location in 2009. It offers a onestop shop for landscaping equipment that’s more affordable than products at big-box stores.

Outdoor Concepts has a second location in Muncie. Owners Steve and Gayla Gerber employ more than 70 people across both locations.

Decorative Concrete Adds Beauty to Homes

By Peggy Werner

As homeowners welcome warmer weather, they look to expand and enhance their outdoor living space in beautiful and inviting ways.

Stamped and carved concrete are popular ways to create interesting looks for a home’s exterior, including driveways, patios, pool decks, walkways and more, says Dan Zook, customer service representative for Crystal Creek Concrete in Woodburn, Ind.

Stamped concrete is an alternative to pavers.

“We take concrete to the next level,” Zook says. “There are only two ways we make decorative concrete, by carving or stamping. People can’t tell the difference. Sometimes, they don’t even know they are looking at concrete. It’s a beautiful difference and will set your landscaped yard apart from neighbors.”

Stamped concrete has been available to homeowners for about 15 years, but is rapidly growing in popularity, he says, because it is low maintenance, less expensive, available in a variety of patterns and colors, and adds to the resale value of a home. Most jobs can be done in a day.

Some of the more popular looks are Arizonia Flagstone, European Slate and 10-inch wood plank that looks like a barnyard floor. A non-slip additive can be mixed in with the concrete for more traction.

Crystal Creek Concrete owners have been trained by experts in carved concrete in workshops and seminars held all over the country, Zook says.

“Specializing in decorative concrete has really set us apart

from the competition. We use a different mixture of material for carved concrete, which is harder and stronger and makes a bolder statement. It’s a real head turner and looks like real stone, but is all concrete.”

Crystal Creek Concrete is an Amish family business owned by Loren and Steven Schmucker, who started 20 years ago working for a similar business with their uncles. The nephews branched off to form their own company about five years ago, with the intent to be more involved in working on decorative concrete for homeowners.

“We have become one of the area’s leaders in decorative and all other types of concrete,” Zook says.

Within a few months, they plan to move into a new building that will house office space, a shop, and an extensive outdoor showroom featuring the types of projects they can do.

They showcase their work mainly on social media, including Facebook, Instagram and YouTube, and are currently working on updating a new website.

“It’s a very exciting business,” Zook says. “We have grown every year and I was lucky enough to be with the owners from the beginning to build up the business and leave my mark on it.

“We meet with new people every day to talk about what we do,” he continues. “I love the looks on the customers’ faces when they see what we have to offer, and especially when they see a finished project. It’s very rewarding.” ▮

For more information, to schedule an appointment, or to get a free estimate, call Zook at (260) 702-2488.

Stamped and carved concrete are popular ways to create interesting looks for a home’s exterior, whether it’s a driveway, patio, pool deck, walkway or other outdoor area, says Dan Zook, customer service representative for Crystal Creek Concrete, in Woodburn.

Entertainment for All in a Unique Setting

By Lindsey Lukas, senior editor

With its theatre, restaurants, shops and more, The Barns at Nappanee, 1600 W. Market St., offers guests ample opportunities to experience fun.

“The Barns at Nappanee is an incredible location to make family memories, as we try to make everything we do family friendly,” says Jarrod Humbarger, executive director of the Barns at Nappanee and Round Barn Theatre. “Whether you come for a day to eat at Stutzman Brothers Steakhouse or Ben’s Soft Pretzels, see a musical or concert at the Round Barn Theatre, shop in our stores, take a horse-drawn buggy tour, wagon ride and house tour, or even hold your special event like a wedding, anniversary, rehearsal dinner or corporate event, it really is memories that will last a lifetime and something that will be talked about fondly for a very long time.”

This year, The Round Barn Theatre is showcasing classics like “Hello, Dolly!” and “The Music Man” as well as newer musicals such as “Clue” and “Anastasia.” There’s additionally the world premiere of Christy Stutzman’s latest original musical “Love Comes Softly,” based on the book by Janette Oke.

“That show runs from Aug. 8 to Sept. 21,” Humbarger says.

The Barns at Nappanee is also known for its artisan markets. The “Summer Artisan Market” is August 2 and 3, featuring local and regional vendors selling handcrafted items. More events are to come later in the year, including a holiday market.

“All of our events bring families and friends to the property to see just see how magical it can be,” Humbarger says. “It’s a beautiful property to come out and walk around on a nice sunny day, and the staff here will make you feel welcome. You can walk away with many items from the artisan markets and our shops, but also just stroll around and enjoy the day.”

The Barns at Nappanee also offers a true farm-to-table experience at its on-site restaurant, Stutzman Brothers Steakhouse, as the Wagyu beef is raised on the Stutzman Farm in Northern Indiana. The menu also features steaks, burgers, fish, chicken

and lighter options including salads, soups and turkey clubs.

“You also get to eat in our more-than-100-year-old restaurant barn,” Humbarger says. “It really is an incredible atmosphere that makes Stutzman Brothers Steakhouse different from other steakhouses.”

While The Barns at Nappanee is a great destination for family outings or date nights, it’s also known as a great location for events, including weddings. Whether the wedding takes place inside one of the barns or outside by the pond, the setting is gorgeous for pictures.

“The attention to detail that the event staff has is second to none,” Humbarger adds. “Stacey, who is our events manager, does an amazing job at making not only the bride feel like they have no worries for the day, but also the families. From start to finish, she is the point person to make sure your wedding goes off without any big issues. Plus, the Barns at Nappanee property is a great location that is close to Chicago, South Bend, Fort Wayne, Indianapolis and many Midwest cities, so travel to and from is not a big issue.”

Humbarger is proud to work with his fellow staff at The Barns at Nappanee. He considers the Stutzman family as friends, as well as his bosses.

“The Stutzman family are great people to work for and with,” he says. “I love the fact that they want the Barns to be a place where you can bring your family or come for a date night. I am proud to be part of one of the most unique destinations in the area.” ❚

Stutzman Brothers Steakhouse offers a true farm-to-table experience at The Barns at Nappanee.

The Round Barn Theatre showcases both classics and newer musicals.

Nashville Thursdays

Ongoing, Thurs. 7-10 p.m. Weekly country, bluegrass and other free live music in the Clyde Theater Club Room. Food and drink specials. 1808 Bluffton Road, Fort Wayne, (260) 747-0989, clydeclubroom.com.

YLNI Summer Farmers Market

Thru Sept. 28, Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Shop for fresh produce, a wide variety of organic fruits and vegetables, hand-made jewelry and crafts, local artwork and more. 1501 E. Berry St., Fort Wayne, facebook.com/YLNIFarmersMarket.

Fort Wayne TinCaps

Thru Sept. 8. Lots of exciting baseball action along with special events and spectacles including fireworks on select nights, discounted food nights and more. Find the whole schedule at milb.com/fort-wayne. Parkview Field, 1301 Ewing St., Fort Wayne.

Mother’s Day Plant Sale

May 10-12. Shop masses of locally grown herbs, vegetable starts, flowering plants, bonsai and a variety of seeds. Presented by Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory at 3901 Abbott St., Fort Wayne, botanicalconservatory.org.

Iris Flower Show

May 26, noon-3 p.m. Members of the Northeast Indiana Iris Society display a sublime array of prized blooms in various varieties. Members are also happy to offer helpful growing advice. Show entry included with general admission. Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory, 1100 S. Calhoun St., Fort Wayne, (260) 4276440, botanicalconservatory.org.

Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony

May 27. Lineup for the annual Memorial Day

Entertainment & Events

Parade starts at 10 a.m. at the corner of Nettie and Parnell Avenues. The parade begins at 11 a.m. with a ceremony to follow. 4000 Parnell Avenue, Fort Wayne, accov.weebly.com/events.html.

‘Mama Mia!’

May 28, 7:30 p.m. Set on a Greek island paradise where the sun always shines, a tale of love, friendship and identity is beautifully told through the timeless hits of ABBA. It’s the ultimate feelgood performance. Embassy Theatre, 125 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne, fwembassytheatre. org/events/mamma-mia-4/.

Arab Fest Fort Wayne

June 1-2, Sat. noon-7 p.m., Sun. noon-6 p.m. This year’s eighth annual festival features music,

camel rides, a market with vendors, characters, dancing and food. Headwaters Park Pavilions, 333 S. Clinton St., Fort Wayne, facebook.com/ ArabFestFW/.

Paint with Your Pup

June 2, 1-3 p.m. Let your dog unleash their inner artist. Pups create their own canvas paw-jects and get some spreadable treats in the process. Afterwards, visit the designated photo booth to commemorate the artistic collaboration between you and your furry friend. Promenade Park, 202 W. Superior St., Fort Wayne, riverfrontfw.org.

Fort Wayne Ballet Summer Camps

June 3-7, July 22-26. Fort Wayne Ballet offers the area’s foremost comprehensive curriculum of summer dance camps and classes in a safe, encouraging environment for aspiring dancers ages 3 to adult. Auer Center, 300 E. Main St., Fort Wayne, fortwayneballet.org.

Germanfest

June 5-9, Wed.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Fri.Sat. 11 a.m.-midnight; Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. For more than 40 years, Germanfest has helped Fort Wayne celebrate its rich German heritage. Enjoy authentic German music, games, food and drinks and make memories that will last a lifetime. Minors welcome until 9:30 p.m. Headwaters Park, 333 S. Clinton St., Fort Wayne, (260) 7440443, germanfest.org.

Allen County Marketplace

June 8, July 13, Aug. 10, Sept. 14; 9 a.m.-1 p.m. This open-air market has an array of vendors selling produce, baked goods, coffee, plants, pottery, art, boutique clothing, jewelry and so much more. 1010 Carroll Road, Fort Wayne. ❚

The Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory hosts a Mother’s Day Plant Sale on May 10-12 at 3901 Abbott St., in Fort Wayne.

Paint a masterpiece with your pup while they enjoy treats on June 2 at Promenade Park.

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