Breast Cancer
Technically, October is breast cancer awareness month, and this is only our September issue of “Smart Living.” But I don’t want to wait until next month. I want to write about this now.
Recently, my best friend’s mom received a stage 3 diagnosis of breast cancer. She’s the most wonderful, undeserving person to have to deal with this. But of course, cancer doesn’t care.
She said something I thought was interesting… Cancer is something that happens to other people… until it happens to you.
For me, that was a reality check. It’s so easy to take our health for granted until we can’t.
According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer incidence rates have increased by 0.6% per year, and cases are rising in younger women. If you’re in your forties, PLEASE go and get a mammogram. If you’re in your thirties but have a family history of this disease, please talk to your doctor about early screening. Routine mammograms can help find breast cancer at an early stage, when treatment is more likely to be successful.
I did some quick poking around and discovered you can call (833) 546-4968 between the hours of 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. to schedule a mammogram appointment with Lutheran Health Network (LHN). It’s a phone call you don’t want to put off. Actual appointments are available both during and outside of those hours at Lutheran Hospital and other LHN locations. Visit lutheranhospital.com to learn more.
Lastly, breast cancer mortality rates are higher among Black women compared to white women — about 40% higher, according to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Part of that is due to lack of screenings for various reasons. So please, make sure you, and all the eligible people in your life, are getting screened.
No need to wait until October!
Wishing you a healthy month ahead. ❚
Lindsey Lukas Senior Editor
Celebrating 110 Years of Business Success
By Peggy Werner
In its 110th year, Stucky’s Furniture & Appliance in Fort Wayne continues to grow and change while keeping the award-winning customer service a top priority.
“We want to be a one-stop shop for customers who want home furnishings,” says owner Bill Shuee. “We take care of our customers the way we would like to be taken care of.”
Bill and Polly Shuee, and his brother and sister-in-law Brent and Lori, purchased the family-owned business three years ago. Right away, they did major remodeling to include a furniture line, new signage, a new name (formerly Stucky Bros.), energy-efficient LED lighting and more.
They expanded the on-staff team of delivery, installation and repair service professionals and have devoted about 15,000 square feet of space in a 30,000-square-foot showroom to furniture and mattresses.
Appliances account for most sales, with many mid-line brands available as well as premium lines like Sub-Zero and Wolf. For the bargain hunter, the “bargain barn” has reduced prices on appliances with dings and dents, but all are still covered under warranty and eligible for service.
Having recently returned from a buyer’s convention in Texas, Shuee learned about 70 percent of major appliance purchases are made because customers need to replace one that no longer works.
A broken-down appliance might get customers in the door, but they often end up doing more, he says.
During the pandemic, people were home more and had time for updating and remodeling. That trend continues today, but for different reasons.
With rising home prices and high interest rates, people are
still purchasing complete sets of appliances, even if only needing to replace one piece. Customers are responding well to the changes in the store that are helping them make decisions, including electronic tracking of orders, inventory, price matching and service calls.
“Customers don’t see this side of the business, but they benefit from it,” Shuee says. “The price match guarantees shoppers get the best price for an item and instantly. The upgrade has helped us be more efficient and spend more time with customers and get other tasks done.”
The store sells to homeowners, contractors and remodelers. Stucky’s has its own delivery and installation teams and a fleet of repair technicians who travel to homes to fix appliances.
“There is nothing more frustrating than when something needs attention and people don’t know where to turn. With one call, we are out there with our team of people. We try to make it as easy and comfortable for our customers as we can,” Shuee adds.
The Shuee brothers are not new to the furniture and appliance business. Since 1987, they’ve managed a Greencastle, Ind. appliance store established in 1970 by their late father, Bob Shuee. They also own a furniture store in Greencastle, Ind., a furniture and appliance store in Brazil, Ind., and an appliance store in Lafayette, Ind.
The brothers have a total of six children, five of whom are already working in the family business. “We’re hoping the next generations will continue to operate as we have for as long as possible,” Shuee says. ▮
Stucky’s Furniture & Appliance, in Fort Wayne, is currently celebrating its 110th year of operation. The store sells to homeowners, contractors and remodelers.
the Shuee family has
Your Dream Kitchen Awaits
By Peggy Werner
Kitchens are getting bigger all the time and taking on more meaning in family homes, says Patty Kelley, interior designer and longtime customer of Zehr’s Custom Cabinets & Manufacturing, a third-generation family-owned business.
“I’d say it’s the most important room in the house. Most people I know use the kitchen as the main gathering place for family and friends, whether enjoying a meal or just spending time together,” she says.
Kelley has designed and built five homes for her own family and helped many others with their plans. She works mainly with Zehr’s because they specialize in custom-made doors, cabinets, stairways, wood trim, shelves, mantels, wood beams and other woodwork in the remodeling or building of a home.
Kelley herself is one satisfied customer. She and her husband recently built a lake home in Syracuse, Ind. Zehr’s did all the cabinets, doors, beds, ceiling beams and trim work. They’ve also used Zehr’s for several homebuilding projects and have referred many family members and friends to the local business.
When planning a kitchen, Kelley recommends people first consider their budget and lifestyle.
She wants to know if anyone is a gourmet cook, if the family eats out a lot, if the home is used for entertaining or not, and if it’s a high traffic area with many people and pets traveling through at all different times of the day.
One of the basics of kitchen designing is having all major appliances grouped together. The dishwasher needs to be next to
the sink and the refrigerator near workspace, the oven and stove. From there, it’s all about personal preference.
Colors, style, and materials for cabinets, flooring, countertops and light fixtures simply boil down to what people like. Some people prefer a light and bright kitchen, while others go with dark woods and warm colors for a cozier feeling, she says.
Islands are becoming more and more common in kitchens and can range in size from a small working space to as long as 20 feet. Many homeowners are choosing to have two islands: one for food preparation and another as a place to eat meals, work, or use as a buffet when entertaining large groups. Most islands have underneath storage space for smaller appliances that can be brought out when needed.
As a designer, Kelley has an eye for what works and has come up with many unique ideas that Zehr’s has always been able to construct.
“Joe and his family are just great people,” she adds. “He is as honest and hard-working as the day is long, and he does a great job.”
Zehr’s opened in 1990 and grew from a three-man shop in a house garage to a business that employs 25 people, including its own installation crew. There are two large buildings: one 12,000-square-foot workshop and one 20,000-square-foot showroom. ▮
For more information about Zehr’s or to schedule an appointment, call (260) 740-9042 or (260) 627-0171 or email sales@zehrmfg.com.
Sweet Sleep
When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet. – Proverbs 3:24
Nearly18% of American adults use prescription sleeping pills to get their rest; millions more self-medicate. Insomnia is caused by many things, from medical conditions to plain old stress.
When anxiety is the culprit, we Christians should remember that God wants us to sleep well, no matter what’s going on in our lives. Jesus even slept soundly in a storm-tossed boat, until his panicky friends woke him up. (Read Mark 4:35-41)
Jesus never promised that following him would bring us easy lives; quite the opposite. But he did promise that choosing his ways over the world’s would bring us a kind of peace that only he could give. “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace.” (John 16:33.) Claiming that peace and resisting anxiety is up to us.
Kittens and puppies illustrate this beautifully. When well cared for, they play and romp, living life to the fullest, then drop into deep, restful naps. They lose no energy to guilt or worry. And they don’t spend time wondering if their bowls will be filled the next day.
People are far more complicated critters. But we’re also the well-caredfor objects of God’s affection. He wants us to hand our cares over to Him. He doesn’t want us to flail around in a sea of worries, relying only upon our own strength and wits for survival.
“... don’t worry about your life, what you’ll eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear,” said Jesus. “Isn’t life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they don’t sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?” (Matthew 6:24-27)
We can “reboot” our tired minds by truly accepting this invitation from Jesus: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28). ❚ Janine Pumilia
A Solution for Seniors Who Want Control
By Peggy Werner
Adams Woodcrest Assisted Living is a home away from home, providing seniors with enough options to help them feel comfortable and in control even when they need some help or no longer want the burden of living alone.
Woodcrest, 1300 Mercer Ave., Decatur, Ind., offers something for everyone while making each person feel cared for and well-attended to, says Susan Sefton, director of community outreach for Adams Health Network.
“At Woodcrest, each person sets the rhythm of their own day,” she says. “We know what is routine for one person is not the same for someone else. The ability to live your life as you have known it will continue with the support of an experienced and attentive staff.”
Residents have opportunities to mingle and make friends, retreat into the privacy of their own apartment, take a walk in the woods, work in the garden, or sit under a pergola to enjoy the view. They can enjoy the company of family and friends, learn a new hobby, and nurture their own interests, Sefton says.
“The physical design of our building and our philosophy for living combine to make Woodcrest a truly charming place to live,” she adds. “We have a setting that is perfect for every senior. Some are more social and others like to be tucked away from the hustle and bustle. The views are inviting and diverse.
The Main Street view is filled with activity, the courtyard provides a serene view of peace and quiet, and the forest offers an unparalleled view of nature.”
Woodcrest is in a country setting full of wildlife and seasonal flowers, and the wooded areas have paved paths for breathtaking views of nature.
Woodcrest is staffed by a highly skilled team committed to giving residents all the freedoms they are used to in daily living, embracing both privacy and rich social opportunities, Sefton says.
Rather than traditional planned activities, daily life is geared to the resident’s interests, whether that be sports, music, exercise, social events or quiet evenings with friends, she adds.
Some of the services offered at Woodcrest include medication reminders, three meals a day, menu choices, varied eating times, life enrichment, laundry and housekeeping services, respite care, transitional care for those rehabilitating from an injury or illness, and more.
A large dining room provides delicious homemade meals while the smaller Bistro is where residents go to play cards or games and enjoy a snack with family and friends. There is a community room for friends and family to gather, a beauty salon, transportation to events and medical appointments, a baby grand piano and more.
“Assisted living is about showing compassion in everything we do,” Sefton says. ▮
For more information or to take a virtual tour, go to adamswoodcrest.org or schedule an in-person tour by calling (260) 223-0208.
Adams Woodcrest Assisted Living, in Decatur, is a “home away from home” for seniors who wish to feel comfortable and in control of their daily living activities.
At Woodcrest, seniors have the option to socialize with others or tuck themselves away from the hustle and bustle.
Everyone’s Falling for Fort Wayne
By Lindsey Lukas, senior editor
Fort Wayne has much to offer all year round, especially when it comes to family-friendly activities. Autumn is no exception, with an abundance of events and attractions this season drawing visitors like never before.
“It’s no secret that Fort Wayne, specifically downtown Fort Wayne, is growing at never-before-seen paces,” says Preston Wallace, director of marketing at Downtown Fort Wayne. “We have become known for that big-city, small-town feel. Downtown Fort Wayne is incredibly accessible, and the walkability encourages exploration. We have a vibrant public art scene, with countless murals and installations that tell the story of our heritage and bring people together. Our small business owners are indeed the heart of our community.”
The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo is a particularly memorable destination with engaging events happening throughout the fall season for people of all ages.
“It’s no coincidence that it consistently ranks among the top zoos in the country,” Wallace says.
He also enjoys going to the Kuehnert Dairy Farm Fall Festival with his family every year. There are countless activities for everyone to experience, including a 6-acre corn maze, a hay straw mountain, hayrides and live entertainment.
But Wallace’s absolute favorite fall experience in Fort Wayne?
“Hands down, the Johnny Appleseed Festival,” he says. “I’ve attended this since I was a little kid, and there is so much nostalgia there for me—from the smells, sights and sounds—the food and beverages are always so tasteful, and the crafts and activities are unbeatable. It’s free and family-friendly, and I highly recommend checking it out if you haven’t been before.”
Another favorite event coming up is the annual fundraiser for public art, the “Art This Way Art Crawl: Alley Bash,” held on Friday, Sept. 20, in the art-filled alleyways known as the Double Plus. The event features live musical performances, artists creating work in action, food trucks and cash bars.
Last year’s event drew more than 5,000 attendees, elevating program awareness, spotlighting local artists, and raising critical funding for public art programming that improves Fort Wayne’s quality of life amenities.
“And we expect to see an even more significant number of attendees for this year’s event,” Wallace says.
Then, on Saturday, Oct. 19, Downtown Fort Wayne hosts its 16th annual “Fright Night” event. It’s free and family-friendly, with an activity for everyone who attends, Wallace says.
Downtown Fort Wayne has many family-friendly events coming up, including the “Art This Way Art Crawl: Alley Bash,” featuring live music, food trucks, cash bars, artists creating work in action and more. Last year’s event drew more than 5,000 attendees.
“The famous ‘Zombie Walk’ kicks off at 3 p.m. that afternoon, where we close a handful of roads in downtown Fort Wayne and flood the streets for a zombie parade,” he says. “Suit up, grab a Fright Night Survival Guide, and head to downtown Fort Wayne for ‘a night to dismember.’”
Most notably, downtown Fort Wayne hosts “HolidayFest” featuring the “Night of Lights” on Wednesday, Nov. 27, where the residents and visitors alike gather in downtown Fort Wayne to kick off the holiday season.
“This is one of the most iconic and nostalgic events throughout northeast Indiana, where the community watches the lighting of Santa and his reindeer, the ‘Merry Christmas’ wreath, and so many more,” Wallace says. “The ‘Night of Lights’ event begins at 5:45 p.m., as downtown businesses and organizations host a variety of activities and embrace the holiday spirit of downtown Fort Wayne throughout the holiday season. This is an event you won’t want to miss.”
While perusing downtown, Wallace recommends dining at one of many great eateries.
“I enjoy Rune, a newer restaurant focused on local and seasonal products in the Broadway Corridor leading into downtown Fort Wayne,” he says. “The space is beautiful, and the dishes are both inventive and familiar. It is undoubtedly created for the foodie looking for the ultimate dining experience.”
He also loves Dana’s, a neighborhood cocktail tavern focusing on French cuisine with a unique beverage program located in the heart of downtown Fort Wayne on The Landing.
“Dana’s pushes the envelope on quality products in a refined atmosphere paired with exceptional hospitality and service,” Wallace says. “It will be a popular spot for the fall season with sev-
eral exciting pop-up-style brunches, ticketed dinners and themed takeovers.”
Those looking for a great latte or deli-style dish should check out Penny Drip, located in the southeast quadrant of downtown Fort Wayne.
“Penny Drip is a coffee and cocktail bar in a historic building with fantastic patio vibes and views of the bustling, vibrant city landscape,” Wallace says. “Fort Wayne has so many unique dining options to experience.”
Clearly, Fort Wayne has more to offer and experience than most people know.
“As someone born and raised in Fort Wayne, the growth and sense of belonging constantly inspire me,” Wallace says.
“I have the privilege of witnessing firsthand all the amazing opportunities Fort Wayne has for people of all walks of life to enjoy. I’m so proud to call this place home, and I hope people take the time to explore what makes us unique while making lasting memories with their loved ones this fall season.” ▮
To stay connected and for more information, go to DowntownFortWayne.com.
“HolidayFest” featuring the “Night of Lights” is back Nov. 27 to kick off the holiday season.
Downtown Fort Wayne hosts “Fright Night” on Oct. 19. The free, family-friendly event has its famous “Zombie Walk” at 3 p.m., with “zombies” flooding the streets.
The Best Head Start on Holiday Shopping
By Lindsey Lukas, senior editor
For some people, it’s never too early to start planning for Christmas.
Jim Brubaker is one such Christmas aficionado. The owner of Jim Brubaker Designs, Inc. and its gift shop, JBD Home, has a soft spot when it comes to Christmas.
“I just love the happiness,” he says. “To me, it’s a good time of year to celebrate. And this year, I have a new grandbaby, so it’s going to be even better.”
Every year, JBD Home hosts a “Holiday Open House” to welcome the Christmas season. Behind the scenes, Brubaker and his staff are already planning away for this year’s event to take place Nov. 6-9 at 909 Lawrence Drive, Fort Wayne.
Shoppers are inundated in holiday décor from the moment they enter the open house. There are special discoveries in every corner, including ornaments, artificial arrangements, wreaths, flags, garlands, accessories, Christmas lighting and more.
“The atmosphere is just overwhelming,” Brubaker de-
scribes. “When you walk in the front door, you’ll feel like it’s Christmas. I mean, it just really hits you.”
Despite the event’s small show room, Brubaker and his team spend several weeks setting up for the open house. Pictures don’t even do it justice, Brubaker says.
During the event, shoppers can find a plethora of quality items for a great price, including special discounts on Christmas ornaments – something Brubaker is particularly fond of.
“I still give a special ornament to my daughter every year, and she’s 43 now,” he says. “She has pretty much every one I have ever given her. They get a special spot on the tree, and I have customers who do the same thing with their families. It’s a memory you imbed in your kids’ heads that they cherish throughout time.”
All throughout the year, JBD Home specializes in unique indoor and outdoor home décor, from furniture and lamps to fountains, planters and more. Current hours are Wed. to Fri. from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sat. from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Brubaker has worked with plants and people all of his adult life, first as a florist and later as the co-owner/president of a local landscape design company. He opened Jim Brubaker Designs with his late wife, Vicki, in 2008.
If you spot him at the holiday open house, be sure to say hello.
“I hope everybody leaves with joy in their heart,” Brubaker says. ▮
For more information, call (260) 436-3639 or visit jimbrubakerdesigns.com.
JBD Home, in Fort Wayne, hosts its annual “Holiday Open House” Nov. 6-9. Shoppers can find ornaments, artificial arrangements, wreaths, flags, garlands, accessories, Christmas lighting and more.
Jim Brubaker, owner of Brubaker Designs, Inc. and JBD Home, says shoppers can find quality items at great price points, including discounts on ornaments.
Staying Cozy in Front of the Fireplace
By Peggy Werner
Whether wood-burning, electric or gas powered, fireplaces add beauty, coziness and warmth to a home. People naturally relax and unwind as the senses are drawn to the dancing flames and the crackling sounds and smells.
In business for 36 years, Colliers, 2315 Shelby Dr., Warsaw, Ind., specializes in residential and commercial heating and air conditioning, fireplaces and solar technology throughout north-central Indiana.
Fireplaces have multiple purposes.
“There are many advantages to having one or more fireplaces in a home, and they are as individual as the customers who own them,” says Chuck Ault, owner. “Everyone wants the ambiance, functionality, or both when looking to update or add one to the home.”
Collier’s can do anything and everything with fireplaces, Ault adds, whether creating a new look for an existing fireplace or adding one to a home.
“We can do as much or as little as you want and handle all jobs, big or small.”
To help customers get started, he suggests they visit Collier’s 2,000-square-foot showroom to see the wide variety of fireplace materials including stone, brick, concrete, wood, metal, marble, limestone and more.
The fireplace mantel and hearth may be optional in some cases and can enhance the material used to surround the firebox, which can be something plain or more decorative, made from
the same material or one that is contrasting in texture and color. The hearth is made from a non-combustible material to protect the interior flooring from heat and embers from a wood-burning fireplace.
Not only is the fireplace an attention-getter on its own, but the décor around it can add to or complete a look.
Decorative mirrors, vintage art pieces, pictures, baskets, trays, candles and vases can be used alone or together and in varying heights to add elegant touches to a mantel. Neutral walls can have a look of elegance with items that surround the fireplace in natural textures and neutral colors. Or, the fireplace can be the location for a pop of color carried through in other accent pieces such as decorative pillows, cushions and throws.
Fireplaces are warm and welcoming and can be ecofriendly, Ault adds. They can add value and beauty to a home, provide warmth and romance, and help lower utility costs.
“A fireplace creates ambiance and is the focal point of any room. It can blend in with the surroundings or add a dramatic contrast to the rest of the room,” Ault says.
One homeowner, he recalls, took a blank wall and added a woodburning fireplace complete with a stone wall and floor-to-ceiling storage box for wood.
“That boring wall became an elegant focal point in the room,” Ault says. “Every fireplace draws attention and makes a statement.” ▮
For more information or to schedule a home appointment, contact Collier’s on their Facebook page or call (574) 200-0429.
Collier’s, in Warsaw, can do anything and everything when it comes to fireplaces, whether its creating a new look for an existing fireplace or adding a brand-new one to a home.
Fireplaces help create a warm, welcoming atmosphere and serve as a focal point for attention. Collier’s can handle all fireplace projects, big and small.
A Train Ride Through Beautiful Countryside
By Lindsey Lukas, senior editor
For the past 50 years, The Little River Railroad, 29 W. Park Ave., Coldwater, Mich., has provided a glimpse into history as passengers aboard a steam train enjoy leisurely rides through the countryside.
“The Little River Railroad is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the restoration and operation of historic railroad equipment and is supported by ticket sales, concession sales, memberships and donations,” explains Heather Kaiser, secretary/ treasurer. “It has been a great achievement to be able to provide steam train rides to thousands of people and see the joy on the faces of those who have never ridden behind a steam train, along with those who have ridden with us many times.”
The railroad travels through Michigan from Coldwater to Quincy and is maintained solely by volunteers, Kaiser says. These volunteers devote many hours to maintain the historical equipment, provide essential functions during trips, and handle all the behind-the-scenes activities of the nonprofit.
Many of the volunteers, including Kaiser herself, are relatives of the Little River Railroad’s founder, Terry Bloom. He created the nonprofit in 1974, and at this point, the Little River Railroad has been in operation longer than the original Little River Railroad & Lumber Company that operated in the Great Smoky Mountains from 1901 to 1939.
“My brothers and I have grown up around the railroad, and over the years, have taken on leading roles in its operation,” Kaiser says. “I would be remiss if I did not talk about our other wonderful volunteers who help keep the railroad running. They provide essential roles within the organization. In this age of lagging volunteerism, we are very grateful for our volunteers and the support of those who donate to the railroad. Without this support, we would not be in operation today.”
Rides for the rest of the year occur at the following times:
• Sept. 22: Lazy Days Trips at 12:30 p.m. & 2 p.m.
• Sept. 29: Pumpkin Train at 1 p.m.
• Oct. 6, 13, 20, 27: Pumpkin Trains at 1 p.m.
• Nov. 2: Fall Color Train at 1 p.m.
• Dec. 7, 14: Christmas Express at 1 p.m. & 4 p.m.
• Dec. 8, 15: Christmas Express at 11 a.m. & 2 p.m.
Tickets cost $22 for riders ages 12 and up and $15 for ages 3 to 11. Children ages 2 and under ride for free.
Private caboose rentals for up to 15 people cost $225, while a private caboose for up to 20 people costs $325. Entire train rentals are available for up to 300 people and cost $1,500 for a minimum of two hours, with every additional hour costing $700. Tickets are available at littleriverrailroad.com.
“Passengers are encouraged to arrive early to be able to pick up their tickets, tour the museum in the depot, and visit the souvenir store,” Kaiser says. “Passengers may board the train 30 minutes prior to the departure time. Once passengers board their assigned car, they can choose their seats in that car. The cars have windows that open to allow for a nice breeze and to be able to experience the sounds of the steam engine.”
The cars have heaters for colder weather, but Kaiser encourages passengers to dress warmly. Once the train arrives in Quincy, passengers have the option to get off the train while volunteers service the engine.
“There is a wonderful park and playground for the kids to enjoy,” Kaiser says. “When it is closing in on the time for departure, the engineer will blow the whistle four times, indicating that it is time to board the train for the return trip to Coldwater. The entire trip takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.” ▮
The Little River Railroad, in Coldwater, Mich., provides rides on an authentic steam train to passengers of all ages.
The Little River Railroad has many themed trips occurring the rest of the year, including “Pumpkin Train” rides in September and October.
Feast at Turkeyville’s ‘Million Dollar Quartet’
By Lindsey Lukas, senior editor
As autumn arrives, now is the perfect time to visit Cornwell’s Turkeyville in Marshall, Mich.
Events are happening almost every weekend, including “Halloween Adventure” every weekend in October, which includes a “haunted” barn, corn maze, hayrides, pumpkin patch and fresh apple cider and donuts.
There are also performances of “Million Dollar Quartet” at Cornwell’s Dinner Theatre happening daily through Oct. 19 on Tuesdays through Saturdays. Matinees include lunch at noon with a 2 p.m. curtain, while evening shows on Saturdays include dinner at 6 p.m. with an 8 p.m. curtain.
The show is a recreation of a true historical event that happened on December 4, 1956, when Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley came together at Sun Records for what was perhaps the greatest jam session of all time.
“It’s a glimpse behind the scenes at these towering legends of the early days of rock n’ roll, when Sam Phillips, the owner of Sun Records, was this scrappy little record producer, recording in this converted auto parts store in Memphis, and through sheer force of will, created these musical superstars and invented a
new genre of music,” says Dexter Brigham, producing artistic director.
Cornwell’s Dinner Theatre is an intimate 150-seat venue that provides “rock star seating” to everyone in the theatre, Brigham adds.
“And, when you combine the show with Turkeyville’s famous turkey feast with all the trimmin’s, it’s a perfect day or night out,” he continues. “The artists who play these characters are just incredible. They have studied everything about the artists they are portraying: the songs, the vocal inflections, the hip gyrations. It’s so much fun to see Jerry Lee Lewis’ crazy antics on the piano, to hear the iconic ‘Hello, I’m Johnny Cash,’ and to hear Elvis’ velvet crooning.”
Tickets are $65 each, which includes dinner, the show and tax. Audience members can purchase tickets by calling the box office at (269) 781-4293 or by visiting turkeyville.com.
“‘Million Dollar Quartet’ is proving to be a very popular show,” Brigham says. “We already have numerous sold-out performances. Folks who are interested in seeing the show should book their tickets soon for the best seats.” ❚
Cornwell’s Dinner Theatre, in Marshall, Mich., is showing “Million Dollar Quartet” through October 19.
Setting Yourself Up for Financial Success
By Peggy Werner
Everyone needs, wants and loves what money can do for them, but not everyone knows how to take care of their money.
Helping people reach their financial goals is the mission of ProFed Credit Union, 1710 St. Joe River Dr., in Fort Wayne.
“It’s all about education,” says Karen Potter, assistant vice president of marketing.
ProFed offers free financial education and budget counseling for kids and adults on their website, profedcu.org, and conducts workshops for schools and businesses. Topics covered include savings, investing, building credit, owning a home, retirement and small business essentials. Budgeting topics include creating a budget, budgeting for families, debt management and financial habits.
“We see a definite need because there is a large gap in financial education,” Potter says. “Many are not learning about managing finances in school or at home. That’s where we step in to fill that gap. Everyone has different skill sets and although not everyone is good at finance, everyone can learn.”
And, money is a very individual matter.
“How people handle their money is different for everyone, depending on their habits, upbringing, perception of financial success, and how they differentiate between wants and needs,” Potter says.
The keys to success include learning to live within your means and paying yourself first by setting aside money in a savings account for unexpected expenses, Potter adds.
Too many people are living paycheck to paycheck, she says. If they want to get out of that rut, they need to do some honest
self-analysis by asking where their money is going. For financial success, individuals need to have a realistic view of what goods and services cost and if they are making adjustments for upcoming expenses, inflation and other factors.
“It’s all about planning and expecting the unexpected,” Potter says. “The budget that worked two years ago doesn’t work today.”
A general rule of thumb is to have at least three months of expenses set aside in a savings account for emergencies.
“The sooner you get into the habit, the easier it becomes,” Potter says.
Another key to success includes not using more than 30 percent of the credit available to you. Lenders look at the amount of credit used, opened and closed accounts, payment history and credit scores to determine a person’s eligibility for a loan.
Credit unions are different from banks in that they are nonprofit and are more focused on helping people meet individual and small business goals rather than selling products.
“The whole credit union movement is about people helping people,” Potter says. “We actually care about their success, helping them meet their goals, and enriching their lives by making a big difference. When people get control of their finances, the feeling of freedom is immeasurable.”
Potter has been with the company for 14 years. ProFed was founded in 1933 and has 13 branches in northeastern Indiana. Their newest branch is in New Haven and a new branch is coming to Auburn to replace the existing location there. ▮
For more information or to set up an account, go to profedcu.org or call (800) 752-4613.
Nashville Thursdays
Ongoing, Thurs. 7-10 p.m. Weekly country, bluegrass and other free live music. Food and drink specials. Clyde Theater Club Room, 1808 Bluffton Road, Fort Wayne, (260) 747-0989, clydeclubroom.com.
YLNI Summer Farmers Market
eventually making their way around New York state and up through Canada, winning audiences along the way. The band has gone on to receive the honor of being inducted as members of the Grand Ole Opry and have won two Grammy Awards. Embassy Theatre, 125 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne, fwembassytheatre.org.
Your Fun Entertainment & Events
Through 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.
Kuehnert Dairy Fall Festival
Sept. 13-Oct. 27, Fri. 6-9 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Sun. noon-5 p.m. The festival showcases more than 30 farm-tastic attractions for all ages, including a corn maze, hayrides, pumpkins, baby calves and the Kuehnert Milk House, an on-farm processing facility and retail store featuring the Udder Upp Cafe with hard-dipped ice cream, cheese curds and pizza. Kuehenert Dairy Farm & Fall Festival, 6532 W. Cook Road, Fort Wayne, kuehnertdairy.com.
Old Crow Medicine Show
Sept. 14, 7:30 p.m. Old Crow Medicine Show got their start busking on street corners in 1998,
Dinner in the Flower Field
Sept. 14, 6-8:30 p.m. This unique dining experience begins with a pre-dinner walk through the Salomon Park fields to select flowers to create your own bouquet. Then, diners enjoy an adult beverage, soft music, conversation with friends and a four-course meal prepared by Mad Anthony Catering. Salomon Farm Park, 817 W. Dupont Road, Fort Wayne, visitfortwayne.com.
Fort Wayne Philharmonic
Sept. 21, 7:30 p.m. The Fort Wayne Philharmonic presents “Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark Live in Concert” featuring John Williams’ Grammy award-winning score performed live to the film. Foellinger Theatre, 3411 Sherman Blvd., Fort Wayne, foellingertheatre.org.
Johnny Appleseed Festival
Sept. 21-22, Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sun. to 5
p.m. Step back in time to 1842 and enjoy all of the sights and sounds that could have been around during Johnny’s lifetime. The event includes period demonstrations, children’s games, a farmers market, food and more. Johnny Appleseed Park, 1500 E. Coliseum Blvd., Fort Wayne, johnnyappleseedfest.com.
DeKalb County Free Fall Fair
Sept. 23-28, times on website. Hailed as “America’s Family Reunion,” this fair features live entertainment, a carnival, 4-H shows, a parade and more. DeKalb County Fairgrounds, 708 S. Union St., Auburn, dekalbcountyfair.org. ❚
Adorable baby calves are a highlight at the Kuehnert Dairy Fall Festival.
