Executive
Senior Editor Lindsey Lukas
Managing
Assistant Editor Steven Bonifazi
Graphics Director Samantha Behling
Graphic Designer Ashley Smith
Contributing
Imperfect America
Since it’s an election year, and since we recently celebrated Independence Day, I’ve found myself musing on the status of America. It’s interesting to me how widely opinions can vary. I find myself feeling defensive against almost everyone.
I hate it here, people say, even though America has some of the broadest free speech laws in the world. I could start a newspaper tomorrow and print whatever I wanted to write. (It would not be successful, but I could still try!)
I hate it here, people say, even though there’s impressive mountains, lakes, beaches, rivers and open plains. From large cities to rural areas, there’s beauty to be found all around.
I hate it here, people say, and I think about the millions of people throughout history who have died trying to enter this country.
But as we know, that isn’t the full picture, either.
Our history has some awkward moments, to say the least. Our founding fathers literally thought it was okay to own people as property.
Maternal mortality rates are terrible when compared to other developed nations. I’ve also choked from reading the numbers on my hospital bills after giving birth to my children. Don’t even get me started on my son’s NICU bills.
There are plenty of issues that keep me up at night, especially as a mother. Gun violence, daycare costs, climate change... Take your pick. There’s more.
Imperfect is an understatement. And yet: we love imperfect people deeply. Our children, our friends, and hopefully ourselves, too. Oftentimes, we’re more critical about ourselves than anyone else. But we also, fundamentally, tend to think of ourselves as good. That we’re flawed, but we deserve to be loved.
So no, I don’t hate it here. Our country is complex, for sure. But here, I can vote. I can write this column. I can do so, so much. That’s why I’ll cling to my hope and positivity, roll up my sleeves, and get to work. ❚
Lindsey Lukas Senior Editor
Rehabilitation in a Home-Like Atmosphere
By Peggy Werner
Moving away from home doesn’t mean you can’t feel at home. If you no longer can live alone or need short-term rehabilitation after an illness or surgery, there’s a place that believes in giving the best care, while providing the comforts of home.
Adams Heritage Nursing Care & Rehabilitation Center in Monroeville, Ind., is a top-rated, award-winning facility that creates a homelike atmosphere to improve the quality of life for residents, says Susan Sefton, director of community outreach and marketing.
“Adams Heritage is sometimes referred to as a hidden gem. Located in a rural setting, it is the perfect location for quiet rest, recuperation and rehabilitation. Our quality of care is second to none and our mission is to provide extraordinary living where everyone is family. We believe it is our calling to deliver excellent care and provide our residents and their families with peace of mind.
A family atmosphere is apparent as soon as people walk through the doors.
“We strive every day to provide outstanding service, from our dining experience to the cleanliness of the facility,” Sefton adds. “Every detail is important to us.”
It’s all about freedom of choice.
Residents get up and go to bed on their own schedule and enjoy restaurant-style dining when they want to eat. Other amenities include life enrichment activities in small groups, a beauty and barber shop, a bird aviary, outdoor walking paths, beautiful gardens, a community room for family gatherings, housekeeping and laundry, and a state-of-the-art security system.
Staff help residents with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing and more, if needed. Transportation is available for medical appointments when needed.
“People notice the little things like historic photos and inspiring messages throughout the rooms,” Sefton says. “They see staff sharing laughs and stories with residents. Every day is built around each resident’s interests, abilities and ideas.”
With a consistent five-star rating, the facility has 58 beds in a caring, friendly environment for both long-term and short-term care and rehabilitation. A physician is on call 24 hours a day and a nurse practitioner is always on site.
A team of physical, occupational and speech therapists, all employed by the facility, draw up individualized care plans to help each short-term resident achieve independence and have a better quality of life.
Outpatient physical, occupational and speech therapy is available for those who require more therapy after their stay. Caregivers can also get the support and help they need through the respite care program. Whether going on vacation or needing a break, caregivers can request respite care for a loved one for a few days or a few weeks.
Adams Heritage was originally known as The Village at Heritage. After two decades of research, planning and construction, the high-quality senior care location opened in 2000 for residents of Monroeville, Fort Wayne and surrounding areas. Three years later, the outpatient rehab center opened, and Heritage Hall opened to accommodate family gatherings and special events. The name changed to Adams Heritage in 2012, still owned and operated by Adams Memorial Hospital, a member of Adams Health. Adams Heritage offers Medicare, Medicaid and Managed Care Certified rooms.
For more information, schedule an in-person tour, call (260) 623-6440, or visit adamsheritage.org to watch a virtual tour.
Residents get up and go to bed on their own schedule at Adams Heritage.
Adams Heritage Nursing Care & Rehabilitation Center, in Monroeville, is a top-rated, award-winning facility that creates a homelike atmosphere to improve the quality of life for residents.
A Good Leader
The Bible is full of information about qualities God values in all people and requires from leaders. Among them are humility, honesty, self-control, fairness, empathy, a willingness to learn and a sincere desire for peace. Qualities that disqualify a good leader include the love of money, a quarrelsome nature and arrogance.
I Timothy 3:2-7 (NIV)
Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of full respect. (If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God’s church?)
He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same judgment as the devil. He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil’s trap.
Proverbs 16 (NIV)
Here we learn that God detests arrogance and values those who ask Him for direction: All a person’s ways seem pure to them, but motives are weighed by the Lord. Commit to the Lord, whatever you do, and he will establish your plans. (16:2-3)
The Lord detests all the proud of heart. Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished. Through love and faithfulness sin is atoned for; through the fear of the Lord evil is avoided. (16:5-6)
When the Lord takes pleasure in anyone’s way, he causes their enemies to make peace with them. Better a little with righteousness than much gain with injustice. (16:7-8)
How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver! … Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. Better to be lowly in spirit along with the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud. Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord. (16:16-20)
A perverse person stirs up conflict, a gossip separates close friends. A violent person entices their neighbor and leads them down a path that is not good. Whoever winks with their eye is plotting perversity; whoever purses their lips is bent on evil.
Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness.
Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city. (16:28-32) ❚ -Janine Pumilia
A New Retail Store for High-Quality Meat
By Peggy Werner
Alocal business that serves local people is getting ready for a big expansion.
“Our customers demanded it,” says Elam Lengacher, owner of E & L Farms and Processing, 15610 Grabill Road, Grabill, Ind. “They can’t get enough bacon, steaks, and they want more special cuts.”
By mid-summer he expects to open a retail store on the property where they currently have a meat-processing plant.
The additional building, more than 11,000 square feet, will devote about onethird of the space to a retail store, specializing in Tri-State Cheese and the processing, smoking, cutting and packaging of meats, including beef and pork. People can buy fresh or frozen packaged meats and get custom cuts, he says.
The company also processes sheep, goat, buffalo, elk, bear and deer, but these will not be for sale in the retail store.
“People will be able to buy fresh ground beef in any quantity and order the thickness of steaks while they wait,” Lengacher says.
E & L Farms and Processing opened 12 years ago, yet Lengacher had been processing deer for hunters since 2003.
“Once the word got around, the demand for services only grew,” he says. “Customers wanted fresh beef and pork, without added water and other chemicals. It’s pure meat and it not only tastes better – it’s better for you.”
Custom slaughter operations are typically thought to process deer meat for hunters, but they can also offer services for people who want any animal processed for their own personal use, whether they hunted the animal or bought it from a farmer. The meat is cut, packaged and labeled “not for sale” and returned to the owner of the animal.
Custom slaughterhouses do not have a state or federal inspector on duty, however, the facilities are regularly inspected by the state for overall sanitation.
People have traveled up to almost four hours for the business’s deer-processing services and have traveled from Tennessee, Florida and Chicago to buy custom butchered meats, Lengacher says.
By 2011, he added a 5,000-square-foot building on his property and started slaughtering and processing beef and pork for people who wanted to buy a whole animal or certain portions. He now raises his own animals as well as processes animals from area farmers.
“All the meat we process and sell comes from our own farm or from a nearby farmer, and they’re raised with no added hormones,” he says.
Lengacher and his wife, Laura, have eight children, five of whom work full time for them. Of seven grandchildren, a few have helped around the farm and are showing an interest in the family business.
Born and raised on a farm in Grabill, Lengacher never expected to make a career out of meat processing. He saw the need, though, when he started hunting deer, and his wife, who worked at a meat processing plant, would bring home seasonings to use while cooking the meat.
Working in construction, he often ate deer for lunch. After sharing samples of the meat with other workers, they encouraged him to start a business.
The first year, he processed 150 deer. During the most recent deer season, in 2023-24, he processed 2,640 deer.
The Amish family feels blessed for their upbringing and how it helps their business today.
“When people hear the word Amish, they automatically think quality, homemade, no additives and not mass produced. We are blessed to have had the upbringing we had because without modern conveniences, you learn how to do things,” Lengacher says. ▮
New Fabrics Can Refresh Aging Furniture
By Peggy Werner
Furniture can have many lives by updating the fabric with new colors and patterns. Last summer, Burcraft Fabrics, 7967 N. Clinton St., Fort Wayne, doubled its showroom space with a new 5,000-square-foot building that houses leather, pillow forms, and indoor and outdoor fabric at a fraction of the manufacturer’s cost. The business also has a referral system of local upholsterers for customers who are looking to have upholstery work done.
With more than 2,000 fabrics in stock to choose from, Burcraft sells in stock Sunbrella outdoor fabrics for $12 a yard and regular upholstery fabric for $10 a yard or under. The exact same fabric ordered from a catalog normally sells for $50-$60 a yard, says Ken Worman, owner.
“We have built good relationships
with furniture manufacturers and wholesalers to offer fabrics at a discounted price,” he says. “After selling online and wholesale for more than 25 years, we decided to open a retail store in 2019. With so many of the fabric stores closing over the past few years, there was nowhere to buy fabric locally.”
The typical customer has a family heirloom piece of furniture to re-cover or wants a new look for an outdated piece of good furniture. It’s often less expensive to reupholster than buying something new, and the customer has a lot more options for colors, patterns and fabrics when reupholstering as compared to readymade, Worman says.
Melissa Willingham, store manager, says more and more people are choosing solid colors for sofas and decorating with patterned accent pillows. Another trend is
covering chairs with a solid back and a print on the front, she says. In general, it takes about 5-7 yards of fabric to re-cover a chair. Sofas take about 12-14 yards.
“Our fabrics can be used for anything and everything,” she says. “The stain and water-resistant outdoor fabrics are also being used for indoor furniture because of its durability and wide selection of patterns available.” ❚
Summertime Fun in Northern Indiana
By Lindsey Lukas, senior editor
Every summer, northern Indiana comes to life with abundant outdoor recreational opportunities and plenty of family-friendly festivals and events. The following counties in northern Indiana are just some of our favorite places to experience summertime fun. They offer some of the best recreation the state has to offer.
Steuben County
Tucked in the corner of northeast Indiana awaits Steuben County, an area with vibrant downtowns, more than 100 lakes, and miles upon miles of hiking and biking trails at the beautiful Pokagon State Park.
Some can’t-miss attractions in Steuben County include the corn maze at Ridenour Acres; bison at Wild Winds Buffalo Preserve; and wine tasting at Satek Winery. Shopping and dining in downtown Angola, Fremont and Hamilton are a must, with boutiques, coffee shops and a great variety of restaurants.
“While in Steuben County, don’t miss taking a vintage train ride on the Indiana Rail Experience,” adds Janet Hartsuff, Steuben County Tourism Bureau communications manager. “There’s a variety of themed rides available throughout the year and more will be added in 2025.”
A trip to Steuben County wouldn’t be complete without experiencing Pokagon State Park, Hartsuff adds.
“With nine hiking trails – plus the eight-mile Hell’s Point Challenge – guided horseback rides, an interpretive nature center and two beaches, this is a perfect spot for a family vacation.”
Steuben County has many festivals and events coming up. A couple include the Lake James Antique and Classic Boat Show on July 27 and the Indiana Seaplane Pilots Association Splash-In at Pokagon State Park on Sept. 22.
Visit the tourism bureau’s website, lakes101.org, to see a full calendar of events.
LaGrange County
LaGrange County, and the town of Shipshewana, in particular, offer small-town hospitality and a slower pace of life combined with the modern amenities and entertainment options of a larger destination.
“The Amish and the Mennonites of this area enjoy welcoming visitors to tour their shops or purchase the goods they create, but the rest of the area offers countless other fun and interesting ways to relax and enjoy your time here. Shipshewana is really a one-of-a-kind destination,” says Miranda Beverly, Shipshewana/ LaGrange County Convention & Visitors Bureau communications and public relations manager.
On Aug. 3, the popular Shipshewana Antique Market takes place rain or shine with hundreds of treasures to find. The annual Northeastern Indiana Steam & Gas Show takes place Aug. 8-10, with people flocking to see old-time farming equipment and tractors while watching demonstrations of antique hay-bailers and steam plows. And, beginning Aug. 8, the Blue Gate Theater puts on a new musical, “When Calls the Heart.”
“In addition to all of the wonderful events, tours, and shows that go on all year round, summer means that visitors can also experience the largest flea market in the Midwest, open Tuesdays and Wednesdays through the end of September, plus a few extra weekend and holiday hours. Good weather also means it’s a great time to do things like Dairy Farm Tours, where you can milk cows, or bottle feed calves,” Beverly adds.
In LaGrange County, summer also means park and water activities, including kayaking local rivers.
“T&L Country Canoes and Trading Place Outfitters in Mongo are wonderful places to start an outdoor adventure,” Beverly says. “We also have a ton of RV parks and campgrounds for anyone visiting who likes to camp the wide-open spaces.”
Even though Shipshewana has a population of only 850 people, the small town welcomes more than 2 million visitors a year, Beverly adds.
“It’s a perfect destination because there is literally something for everyone to do, see, or experience. Shopping, amazing food, beautiful countryside, fascinating farm and home tours, ar-
(LaGrange County
tisan products, animal experiences, and big-name entertainment all make it impossible to be bored here.”
Find out more at visitshipshewana.org/amish-communities/.
Huntington County
Huntington County is ideally located just southwest of Fort Wayne and a short drive from Indianapolis.
“We have a vibrant arts scene, fantastic shopping and dining options, and an abundance of outdoor activities, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and adventure,” says Bobby Kemp, executive director at the Huntington County Visitor and Convention Bureau.
Visitors can browse the downtown shops in Roanoke and Huntington, take in a performance in downtown Warren, and enjoy amazing antique shopping in Markle.
“Huntington County has culinary options for every taste and budget,” Kemp adds. “We’re home to Nick’s Kitchen, the birthplace of the Indiana-favorite Hand-Breaded Pork Tenderloin Sandwich, which has been featured in regional and national publications as well as the Travel Channel’s ‘Food Paradise.’ Visitors come from all over the country to grab a tenderloin and a slice of sugar cream pie.”
The Roanoke Farmer’s Market takes place every Friday from 5-8 p.m. through Aug. 30, with live performances enhancing the experience.
Outdoor concerts are abundant in Huntington County. The Markle Summer Sounds concert series takes place the second Friday of each month at the Markle Fish and Game Club Park; the Music in the City concert series takes place the second Saturday of each month in downtown Huntington; and Warren’s Final Friday’s outdoor concert series hosts a variety of musical performers on the final Friday of the month at Warren’s downtown Riverside Park.
For nature enthusiasts, Huntington County is known for its variety of outdoor activities.
“From boating and fishing at Roush or Salamonie Lake to the scenic trails of our many parks and preserves, you will find outdoor adventure around every turn,” Kemp says.
visitors can zipline through the treetops at Zip Timber Lake, northeast Indiana’s only zipline adventure course. Those looking for slower, less-strenuous summer activities may enjoy touring local museums or sipping wine at Rustic River Outfitters, Dash 90 Wine or Two-EE’s Winery.
“Whether you are a solo traveler, a group of friends, a family on vacation, or a couple looking for an affordable getaway, Huntington County is the destination for all you want to do this summer,” Kemp says.
Go to visithuntington.org for a complete list of attractions and sample itineraries.
DeKalb County
Every year, thousands of visitors travel to DeKalb County, and the city of Auburn, in particular, to experience festivals, wineries, shopping, museums and more.
“People enjoy the quaintness of the town and the wonderful business mix of downtown Auburn,” says Mike Littlejohn, president of the Downtown Auburn Business Association. “Our business district is thriving – we have a great mix of different kinds of stores, and great restaurants such as the Auburn City Steakhouse. There’s also the Auburn Brewing Company making craft brews, which makes for a unique experience when someone visits here.”
“Be sure to not miss out on Salamonie Lake DNR where visitors can enjoy camping (both primitive and modern), boating, fishing, mountain biking, swimming, hiking, picnicking and the newly expanded disc golf course at Salamonie Lake in Lost Bridge West. Salamonie is also an excellent place for bird watching.”
For more of an adrenaline-packed experience,
This summer, an art exhibit “Sip & Smile” features 20 wooden outdoor patio bars throughout Auburn that area artists have utilized to create unique works of art. All outdoor patio bars are available for purchase at the “Sip & Smile” dinner auction in September.
“Another big draw is the summer cruise-in car show, where there’s typically 180-200 cars downtown the third Thursday of the month from 6:30-8:30 p.m.,” Littlejohn adds. “In addition to the cruise-in, we have a big event in August where these cars come back and are featured through Labor Day Weekend.”
There’s also a farmer’s market that takes place on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 7 a.m.-1 p.m.
“It’s amazing how many people come to that – we’ve been doing it since 1981,” Littlejohn says. “These are all unique experiences that make for a great trip. So not only do you have the great restaurants and eateries, but you have the shops in the downtown district and activities that add to the whole experience.”
For more information about DeKalb County, go to visitdekalb.org. ▮
(Visit
Dekalb photo)
Travel to Turkeyville for Summer Fun
By Lindsey Lukas, senior editor
Family fun is commonplace at Cornwell’s Turkeyville – a welcoming Midwest destination complete with a dinner theater, restaurant, ice cream parlor, gift shop and RV Resort. Located in Marshall, Mich., Turkeyville offers visitors a chance to create core memories.
“Turkeyville is a special place because there are so many fun things to do,” says Patti Cornwell, director of marketing. “Family is what truly makes Turkeyville special. Built by family and still run by family, we take pride in everything we do.”
Camp Turkeyville RV Resort sprawls across 14 beautiful acres and offers a fishing pond, fully stocked general store, volleyball and basketball courts, and more.
“There are two heated swimming pools and more than 200 full hook-up sites with water, sewer and electric,” Cornwell says. “Plus, all of Turkeyville is right there. Staying at Camp Turkeyville is a one-of-a-kind experience with all the things you can do.”
That includes enjoying a professional performance at Cornwell’s Dinner Theatre, which hosts 40,000 guests throughout the year, Cornwell adds. Actors come from across the United States to showcase Broadway-level talent for musicals, comedy shows, hilarious murder mysteries and more.
This summer, “Escanaba In Da Moonlight” runs through Aug. 3, and “The Lion, The Witch, & The Wardrobe” runs through July 31. Later this year, “Million Dollar Quartet” runs from Aug. 29 to Oct. 19 and “The Winter Wonderettes” runs from Nov. 7 to Dec. 21. A delicious home-cooked meal only enhances the experience.
“When you arrive at Cornwell’s Dinner Theatre, you will be seated in your reserved seats. The friendly staff will serve you soup and salad at your table, and then you will enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal followed with dessert served at your table,” Cornwell says. “We still use all of Grandma’s original recipes and have added more family recipes to our menu. If you work here or are a customer visiting for the first time, you will feel right at home at Turkeyville.”
For matinees, doors open for seating at 11:30 a.m., the buffet opens at noon, and the show begins at 2 p.m. For evening shows, doors open for seating at 5:30 p.m., the buffet opens at 6 p.m., and the show begins at 8 p.m.
Groups of 12 or more can call the box office at (269) 7814293 for special group pricing.
Turkeyville’s restaurant features innovative menu items along with traditional favorites. As expected, turkey is a star fixture on the menu. There’s also a wide array of pies for dessert.
The ice cream parlor features an old-fashioned soda fountain with house-made ice cream that’s always fresh.
“We are committed to homemade and happy,” Cornwell says.
The Country Junction Gift Shop is a 23,000-square-foot paradise for shoppers, featuring a bakery and deli, gifts, souvenirs, holiday decor, and much more.
Throughout the year, Turkeyville also hosts special events such as flea markets, craft shows and plow days.
“Turkeyville is such a wonderful place to be,” Cornwell says. “Working here is fun because most of the people who work here are hardworking and love to laugh and have fun.”
This summer, Turkeyville’s restaurant, ice cream parlor and gift shop are open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day. ❚
To learn more, visit turkeyville.com.
Cornwell’s Turkeyville, in Marshall, Mich., offers visitors a dinner theater, restaurant, ice cream parlor, gift shop and RV Resort.
Turkeyville is a family-friendly destination with many special events happening throughout the year, including flea markets, craft shows and more.
Navigating the Path for First-Time Homebuyers
Acquiring your first home is a significant achievement. Understanding your mortgage options is crucial for making well-informed decisions that will lead to a successful experience and set you up for future financial success. ProFed’s trusted mortgage team provides the knowledge and insights necessary to navigate the economic landscape of first-time homebuyer mortgages. While the information may seem daunting, we have broken it down to help you get started.
Assessing Your Financial Health
Review your income, expenses, credit score, and overall financial situation. This self-assessment provides perspective on your borrowing capacity and establishes a budget for your first home. Evaluating what mortgage payment is affordable within your budget, not the maximum loan amount you can be approved for, is vital for future financial stability.
Selecting the Right Lender
The loan officer is one of the most important relationships to help navigate the path for first-time homebuyers. They walk you through rates, payments, products, and down payment assistance programs.
The Significance of Credit Scores
A pivotal factor in mortgage approval is your credit score. A higher credit score often means lower interest rates and more favorable loan terms. The loan officer will obtain a copy of your credit report and assist in addressing any discrepancies or issues that might adversely impact your score. Aim for a credit score of at least 620 for conventional mortgages, although specific loan programs may require higher credit scores.
Pre-Approval
During preapproval, the lender assesses your financial documents, which include income statements, tax returns, and credit history. Once the lender has verified your financial situation and reviewed the available mortgage products you qualify for, they can issue a preapproval letter. Realtors will require a preapproval letter before they are comfortable making offers to purchase on your behalf. With preapproval in hand, confidently initiate your home search with the assistance of a real estate agent.
Accessing Down Payment Assistance Programs
Many first-time homebuyers encounter challenges when saving for the standard 3% down payment. Fortunately, various down payment assistance programs offer grants, low-interest loans, or other aid forms to make homeownership more achievable. ProFed participates yearly and partners with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis to offer their HOP grant program and Fannie Mae’s HomeReady program.
Interest Rates & Terms
Interest rates and terms can significantly affect your monthly mortgage payment. Fixed-rate mortgages maintain a stable interest rate throughout the loan term, ensuring predictability for budgeting. On the other hand, adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) have lower initial interest rates. However, ARM loans fluctuate after the fixed duration expires, resulting in potential changes to monthly principal and interest payments over time. In both scenarios, the property taxes and insurance fluctuate yearly, and even on a fixed-rate mortgage, you may see your PITI (Principal, Interest, Taxes & Insurance) payment increase.
Navigating Closing Costs
Homebuyers should be aware of the closing costs and fees associated with the mortgage process. These include loan origination fees, appraisal fees, title insurance, and other miscellaneous expenses. The loan officer will factor these costs into the available assets you have budgeted for closing and verify that sufficient funds are available. A borrower’s closing costs can be negotiated by the realtor with the seller, and they can cover a certain percentage based on your down payment amount and what mortgage product you qualify for.
Under Contract
Upon acceptance of your offer, the lender orders an appraisal to determine the property’s value and schedules a home inspection to identify potential issues. The results of these assessments may influence negotiations with the seller and provide insights into the home’s condition. The lender must provide you with a copy of the appraisal a minimum of three days before closing.
Closing your Mortgage
After completing the appraisal and inspection and submitting all required documents, your mortgage application progresses to the final stages. The lender conducts a last review before issuing the loan approval. Be prompt in providing any missing or required documentation conditioned by underwriters before the loan closing. Your loan officer will deliver a final closing disclosure three days before the loan closing and review the figures with you in detail. That way, you can close with confidence.
Post-Closing
Congratulations! You have just completed one of the most important financial transactions in your lifetime. After closing, homeownership comes with ongoing responsibilities. Stay informed about your mortgage terms, make timely payments, and if any issues arise, you can work with our local in-house ProFed servicing team. Regularly review your financial situation and consider refinancing if it aligns with your long-term goals.
Let ProFed help you explore diverse mortgage options and collaborate with our knowledgeable mortgage staff so that you can make informed and educated decisions that set the stage for a successful homeownership experience. You can also attend one of our home-buying seminars this spring!
There’s So Many Reasons to Visit Decatur
By Lindsey Lukas, senior editor
Indiana is full of fun cities to explore for a day trip or weekend getaway.
A great example is just 30 minutes south of Fort Wayne, where the welcoming city of Decatur awaits.
“Decatur has approximately 10,000 in population, a great school district, and many church denominations,” describes Craig Coshow, the executive director of the Decatur Chamber of Commerce.
“You can come for a concert and stroll along the downtown area looking at the sculptures, visit the coffee shop for one of their many flavored coffees, stop at one of the downtown restaurants to eat, take in a movie, or stop in at Old 27 Ice Cream Shop for some ice cream.”
Hidden gems are scattered throughout Decatur’s downtown shops. For example, Pyxie Lane Boutique is an adorable women’s and children’s clothing
store offering fun, fashionable options at 121 S. Second St.
Summer is a particularly ideal time to experience Decatur, as many family-friendly events are coming up.
From now until the end of August, there’s live music every Thursday night during Decatur’s Summer Concert Series. Germanfest entertains crowds from 5 to 10 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 17 with polka dancing, traditional German food, a biergarten and more on the Madison Street Plaza downtown. There’s also a sculpture tour featuring work by multiple artists to admire downtown.
“We have walking trails, many outdoor activities, pickleball, nice parks, a dog park, River Greenway Trail, outdoor festivals – something for all ages to enjoy,” Coshow says.
For more information on Decatur, visit decaturchamber.org. ❚
Just 30 minutes south of Fort Wayne, the welcoming city of Decatur awaits with a cute downtown area to explore and many fun events to enjoy this summer.
Enjoy Fort Wayne with a Beverage in Hand
By Peggy Werner
With the continued growth and expansion of Fort Wayne’s downtown, people can now enjoy all there is to see and do with a glass of beer or wine in hand.
The Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) means alcoholic beverages can be served to those 21 and older in a specially marked drinking cup that can be carried around a 12-block area of downtown while enjoying live music, special events, shopping and more.
DORA is a first for Fort Wayne and Allen County.
“A lot of eyes are on us, being the first, so we are being cautious, working with local businesses and law enforcement,” says Preston Wallace, director of marketing for Downtown Fort Wayne.
The DORA 16-oz. plastic cups are specifically designed for use in the downtown area and can only be purchased by vendors who sell alcoholic beverages to patrons 21 years and older.
Shortly after DORA debuted, a second DORA opened up on the Electric Works Campus. The idea for DORA was first introduced to City Council in December and a city ordinance put it into effect May 5. It is not a new concept and is operating in other Indiana cities and across state lines. The ordinance states alcohol can be sold, served and dispensed from 7 a.m.-3 a.m. seven days a week.
area from Promenade Park to Parkview Stadium between Calhoun and Harrison streets, a very “walkable” area with lots of public art, activities and businesses to explore.
DORA benefits communities because it draws people downtown, eliminates the red tape needed for beer tents and gardens, supports local businesses and vendors, and adds to the “vibrancy” of everything going on in downtown Fort Wayne, Wallace says.
The downtown DORA boundaries extend for a 12-block
So far, the program has been a “massive success,” Wallace says.
“As someone who was born and raised in Fort Wayne, I can speak to the growth that has taken place in our community. At one time, people worked and went home because there was nothing to do. Now, people can shop, dine, listen to live music, enjoy activities and be entertained. We have something for all residents and visitors. It’s incredible to watch. I’ve seen unprecedented development taking place here.”
A lot of research and study went into making sure DORA is a safe venture. Other DORA communities, local businesses and law enforcement were consulted in the process, Wallace says.
All laws governing the sale and consumption of alcohol are still in place, including that people need to be at least 21 years old to drink, they can’t be intoxicated or a nuisance to the public, and cannot break laws or harass other people.
“We already have a strong police presence in downtown and we looked into adding more units, but we decided it wasn’t necessary. As always, we will address issues as they arise.
“We expect people to behave because what has been given to them can also be taken away by the City Council.”▮
(Rachel Von Stroup photos)
The Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) allows people ages 21 and older to enjoy alcoholic beverages in a 12-block area of downtown Fort Wayne.
Locals and visitors alike can enjoy shopping, dining and live music within the DORA boundaries that extend from Promenade Park to Parkview Stadium.
Beauty and Fun Await in Coldwater Country
By Lindsey Lukas, senior editor
With a whole host of outdoor experiences waiting to be had, Michigan’s Coldwater Country is an ideal destination for a memorable getaway.
“Michigan’s Coldwater Country offers so many vacation experiences for families and friends to enjoy,” says Debra Prater, executive director of Coldwater Country Conference & Visitors Bureau. “With freshwater lakes, beautiful parks, fun things to see and do, plus local events, visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty and hospitality of our communities.”
Summer is an ideal season to visit Coldwater Country. With more than 100 lakes, including two chains of lakes where you can paddle or boat from one lake to the next, it’s a great place to get out on the water.
There’s an overall scenic beauty taken in while hiking, biking, or playing a round of golf on one of nearly two dozen golf courses. Family-friendly activities are abundant from mini-golf and go-karts at Adventure Zone to an afternoon at the Aqua Pit – home to an inflatable obstacle course on the water – to a ride on the historic Little River Railroad, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
Additionally, visitors can take in a performance at Tibbits Opera House, which is known and loved for its historic setting and quality theater performances including this summer’s schedule of “Forever Plaid,” “Sweeney Todd” and “Rent,” among others. Visitors can also opt to stay up late for a double-feature at the family-owned and operated Capri Drive-In, one of less than a dozen drive ins left in Michigan.
“Whether you’re getting out on the lakes, exploring the quaint downtowns, or enjoying one of our local festivals, Coldwater Country provides the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement for an unforgettable getaway,” Prater adds. “Coldwater Country is home to so many remarkable things to see and do, and we cannot wait to share these experiences with visitors.”
Aqua Pit, home to an inflatable obstacle course, is just one of many fun attractions in Michigan’s Coldwater Country.
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A Farmhouse Brewery That Keeps It Crafty
By Peggy Werner
In a world where people are becoming more conscious about the sources of their food, one local business grows its own ingredients or buys locally to produce a variety of craft beers and foods.
E Brewing Company is a destination craft micro-brewery located on Esterline Farms, a four-acre all-natural family farm at 8324 W. State Road, South Whitley.
It’s a new concept in Indiana.
“It’s the first farmhouse brewery in the state,” says Jennifer Esterline, CEO and co-owner of E Brewing with her husband, Jason. “We are giving our customers more than just having a beer at a bar. People enjoy knowing who is making the beer and how we are making it, and learning what we’ve done to make the experience special for them.”
An Indiana native, Jason joined a home brew club in Kosciusko County that was active in community service. There, he met talented brewer Justin Ebey, who is now a partner in the local brewery. From California, Jennifer says farmhouse breweries on working farms have been growing in popularity in the past decade, mainly in western states. There are some in the Midwest, but not in Indiana.
She moved to Indiana five years ago when she married Jason, who had bought the farm in 2017. She saw great potential in the land and building, and so they refurbished the barn, created gardens and areas for animals, developed picnic areas, and opened an Airbnb.
Since E Brewing opened in July of 2023, it has been a place for enjoyment and learning.
“We wanted to do something no one has done before,” Jennifer says. “We want to celebrate and strengthen our community, support small agriculture, and interest residents and visitors in what we do.”
People who live more than 100 miles away have come to E Brewing for the special experience that brings many of them back again and again, she adds. Residents in Warsaw, Fort Wayne, Columbia City and other communities 10 to 25 miles away frequent the brewery.
“People get the feeling they are far away from home, without having to travel a long distance. We are in a great location,” Jennifer says.
When E Brewing first opened, they were making eight to 10 craft beers with seating for about 70 people. Within four months, the business tripled in size and seating expanded to indoors and outdoors.
There’s constantly new beers, and oftentimes custom creations. The company distributes to tap houses, restaurants and wherever alcohol is served. Future plans include expanding educational offerings, opening up new distribution sites, and making other improvements to show people how family farms used to operate.
By producing small batches of craft beer, E Brewing controls the ingredients, the creativity, and the standard of quality. They look for local ingredients such as honey, maple syrup and roasted coffees from Whitley County. For the barrel-aged beers, they use Artisan Distillery Edwin Coe, Three Rivers Distillery and Indiana Whiskey.
“You never get the same beer twice,” Jennifer says. “Even if you order the same beer all the time, there is something different about it each time.”
E Brewing is also known for its high-quality seltzers, using locally grown fruits and other ingredients. Esterline Farms and local growers work together to share in each other’s harvests and promote each other in the community. People who visit the farm can learn about the process of making beer, buy local artisan products and food, take tours, buy popcorn grown on the farm, and purchase items from a local produce farm stand.
E Brewing is open from 4 to 10 p.m. on Fridays, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturdays and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sundays. The eatery offers a limited menu of selections that pair well with the current offerings of craft beers. Homemade breads, salads, gluten-free items and desserts are on the menu.
“I have a passion for treating the earth and all its inhabitants well – and for people to know why that is important,” Jennifer says. ❚
Located on Esterline Farms, in South Whitley, E Brewing Company produces small batches of craft beer made from local ingredients. There’s also homemade breads, salads, gluten-free items and desserts.
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.
Downtown Live!
Thru Aug. 9, Fridays 6-8 p.m. except July 5. Experience live music from talented local performers and dine or shop at the many surrounding local businesses. Street parking is free after 5 p.m. 100 Block West Main Street, Fort Wayne, downtownfortwayne.com.
Shipshewana Flea Market
Thru Sept. 25, Tuesdays & Wednesdays 8 a.m.4 p.m. This outdoor flea market that’s the size of 30 football fields has more than 700 booths, a farmers market, a plant and garden section and numerous food options. Shipshewana Flea Market Grounds, 345 S. Van Buren St. Shipshewana, visitshipshewana.org.
Fort Wayne Ballet Summer Camps
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.
Lee Brice Live in Concert
Aug. 8, 7:30 p.m. With more than 3.7 billion ondemand streams, and more than 4 billion spins on Pandora, Brice continues to enjoy massive success at country radio, digital streaming services, and on the road. Foellinger Theatre, 3411 Sherman Blvd., Fort Wayne, foellingertheatre.org.
Bloom Fest: Local Arts & Nature
Aug. 10, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Enjoy local original artists, various artisans, indoor/outdoor plant starts, children’s activities, food trucks, live
Entertainment & Events
music and more. Riverside Gardens Park, 14701 Schwartz Road, Grabill, bloomfest.org.
Gladys Knight
Aug. 17, 7:30 p.m. The great ones endure the test of time, and Gladys Knight has long been one of the greatest. This seven-time GrammyAward winner has enjoyed No. 1 hits in pop, gospel, R&B and adult contemporary. Foellinger Theatre, 3411 Sherman Blvd., Fort Wayne, foellingertheatre.org. ▮
The iconic Gladys Knight performs at Foellinger Theatre on Aug. 17.
