Smart Living Fort Wayne - January 2024

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Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • 95¢ • January 2024

Mizpah Shrine Circus Still Inspires Wonder Keep It Local: Fort Wayne Downtown Gift Card Speed to the Fort Wayne Boat Show & Sale S’more Sweet Deals at Camping & RV Show Therapies for Pain-Free Knees

Quality, Smart Products & Services for Your Home, Family, Health & Entertainment!

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In This Issue Right in Our Region ......................Cover & p. 16 The Mizpah Shrine Circus Takes the Spotlight Outing ....................................................................... 9 Pull in to the Fort Wayne RV & Camping Show Your Real Estate .................................................11 Ness Bros. Real Estate Makes Your Move Your Health & Fitness........................................13 Therapies to Help Your Knees Inspiration & Worship .......................................14 Who Was Stephen?

Your Outings ..........................................19, 23, 25 Home & Garden Show; Boat Show; Downtown Fort Wayne Gift Card Your Home .............................................................21 Surge Your Savings with Energy Tax Credits Your Remodel .....................................................27 Trinity Home Center Beautifies Your Bathroom Your Family Fun .................................................28

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Senior Editor Lindsey Lukas Managing Editor Jim Taylor Assistant Editor Steven Bonifazi Graphics Director Samantha Behling Graphic Designer Ashley Smith Contributing Writers Janine Pumilia, Peggy Werner General Sales Manager Brent Hughes Sales Manager Brad Hughes Advertising Sales Representatives Brian Hughes, Jeremy Jones, Nita Lasky Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes Director of Corporate Happiness Hana Hughes Published by Hughes Media Corp.

222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104 (815) 316-2300, Fax: (815) 316-2301 www.SmartLivingFortWayne.com Smart Living.

Copyright 2024 by Hughes Media Corp., 222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.

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Maternity Leave

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appy New Year, Smart Living readers! I hope you survived the chaos of the holiday season, and maybe even experienced some relaxing and restorative moments during the past several weeks.

Full disclosure: I’m actually writing this column in December 2023 since I’m about to start a maternity leave. It’s strange to think that when these words are printed, Baby Girl Lukas will be here! (I’m 99% sure of her name, but just in case, I don’t want to say it just yet).

Right now, my husband and I are finishing up some small household projects and fully embracing “nesting mode.” I recently cleaned the microwave, the fridge, my car and a bunch of other places that needed some TLC. For whatever reason, I feel more prepared having these tasks done.

While I’m out of the office, Smart Living will rest in the capable hands of our managing editor, Jim Taylor. I’m confident he’ll continue our mission of sharing uplifting, informative content. As always, we strive to deliver you information that’s actually useful while highlighting our hard-working neighbors and their local businesses. There’s a lot of value in their tips, advice and wisdom. With their help, I hope your quality of life improves as 2024 moves forward.

I will admit that I’m a little nervous that 2024 will be a year of just trying to survive – forget about thriving. I have a 2-year-old son, so I know for a fact that the newborn phase is HARD. I feel slightly masochistic for doing it all over again. But as long as my family is healthy, I guess I’ll take whatever lack of sleep I get.

That being said … I’d really appreciate any spare thoughts and prayers over the next few months. I’ll take all the help and wellwishes I can get!

And meanwhile, I’ll be wishing you and your families a wonderful year ahead.

Cheers to all of us thriving, and not just simply surviving, through 2024. ❚ Lindsey Lukas Senior Editor Tell them you saw it in ...

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Your Outings

Enjoy the Fort Wayne RV & Camping Show

By Peggy Werner he 63rd Fort Wayne RV & Camping Show attracts about 12,000 people annually to see new models, new floor plans and new features, including home-size appliances in the latest models. The event is held from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Feb. 1-3; and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sunday, Feb. 4 at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, 4000 Parnell Ave. “The show is a great place to explore and shop for a new RV from any of Around 83% of RVs built in North America are built in Indiana, says Matt Rose of the Recreation Vehicle Indiana Council. the eight dealers represented and talk with people from area campgrounds to learn about “Young people, especially, crave adventure and want that all the places you can go, equipment and accessories,” says Instagram picture next to a majestic waterfall or other scenic Matt Rose, Director of Recreation Vehicles for the Recreation sites,” Rose says. “Many people want to bike, hike and have Vehicle Indiana Council. healthier options while vacationing.”

More and more people are viewing RVing as a safe and About 25 million Americans go RVing each year to camp, affordable way to travel, he says, adding that the interest in hike, boat, fish or just to relax in nature, generating about $120 RVing began skyrocketing during the pandemic. billion to the national economy each year. The economic im“Within the past five years, about 7 million people started pact on Indiana alone is about $38 billion, affecting manufacto enjoy camping for the first time,” says Rose. “The best year turers, suppliers, dealers and campgrounds. Elkhart is both the ever for RV sales was 2021. That year, more than 600,000 units birthplace of the RV and the RV capital of the world. About were sold nationwide.”

83% of all RVs in North America are built in Indiana, which The fastest growing segment of the population turning has about 50 dealerships. The RV industry employs more than to RVing are ages 18-34 and represent about 22% of the RV 142,000 people in the state. owners throughout the country.

Kyle Barry is the marketing director and a sales associate at Barton Lake RV in Fremont. The company has been at the show for 10 consecutive years.

“We always focus on people’s happiness,” he says. We know our business and care about their experience and want to meet their needs.”

Chris Sallows of Angola upgraded a few years ago to a 2016 Keystone Bullet 272, making his final selection at the annual show. He expects to buy the next model at the show, too.

“The show is wonderful because everything is in one place,” he says.

Sallows says RVing is like driving in your home away from home and is an easier and more economical way to travel, without all the hassles of catching planes, buses, and booking hotel rooms.

“Both of my kids love camping and hiking because they have grown up with it,” he says. I believe they have a greater appreciation for the natural world because they have had so More young people are getting into RVing, says Rose. Nearly 22% of owners many opportunities to explore it.” ❚ now fall between the ages of 18 and 34.

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Your Real Estate

Ness Bros. Helps Seniors Turn the Page

By Peggy Werner iving alone in a large family home can be isolating and expensive, and the memories surrounding you can make it hard to downsize. Sometimes you need someone who can help with decision-making and get you through the emotional paralysis holding you back.

“It can seem like an impossible task because it’s hard to separate emotion from things you’ve been given and acquired over a lifetime,” says Kurt Ness, coowner of Ness Bros.

Ness Bros. is a three-generation family-owned company. Established in 1961 and serving communities in northeastern Indiana, the company provides live and online auctions, traditional real estate sales, appraisals and senior relocation services.

“Our clients always have the final say, but we can help them put things in perspective and offer guidance,” says Ness. “If you don’t need or love something, Ness Bros., in Fort Wayne and Huntington, provides services and guidance for senior it’s best to let it go.” homeowners who are starting the next chapter of their lives.

Co-owner Steve Ness agrees.

“It can be a stressful process,” he says. “Our dedicated team To help in the process, Ness Bros. has published a 70-page oversees every aspect of the journey, including decluttering, handbook. “Road Map to Downsizing, Right Size the Right packing, organizing estate sales, and identifying the perfect new Way” outlines the steps to making a move, including information residence, all aimed at making the move as smooth as possible.” about how to create a moving plan and utilize available resources Downsizing looks different for everyone, whether needing to meet goals. assisted living, moving from a home to a condo, or from a large In addition to being a real estate broker, Ness Bros. sells two-story house to a smaller single-level residence. Regarditems and homes through online and live auctions. Sellers who less of an individual’s situation, moving can be a difficult and want to avoid negotiating repairs and price reductions will often stressful event. People who are older and need to make a move choose to sell their home through a live auction. aren’t able to rely on friends and family who have moved away “Our expertise shines when coordinating the logistics of or passed on. the move,” says Kurt. “We manage the scheduling of movers, oversee packing and unpacking, and even assist in setting up the new home. Our goal is to facilitate a seamless transition, allowing seniors to focus on the excitement of starting a new life chapter, while we handle the rest.”

Starting a new chapter late in life isn’t easy but Ness Bros. can help handle the difficult choices needed for a smooth transition.

“What sets us apart is our commitment to personalization,” says Kurt. “We take the time to truly connect with our clients, understanding their lifetime of memories and belongings, acknowledging the emotional attachment to these possessions, and prioritizing what matters most to them.”

Ness Bros. Realtors & Auctioneers is located at 3344 Mallard Cove Lane in Fort Wayne and 519 N. Jefferson St. in Huntington. For a free Ness Bros. has published a handbook to help homeowners who are selling the family home and copy of the handbook, go to seniorrelobinder.com downsizing to a smaller living space. or call (800) 356-3911. ❚ 11 Smart Living Fort Wayne January 2024 Tell them you saw it in ...

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Your Health

Regenerative Therapies for Knee Pain

Regenerative therapies, like those offered by Health N.O.W., can reduce knee pain and induce healing.

By Toni Rocha nee injuries and long-term damage need not result in surgery.

For alternative treatment methods, patients are looking to Dr. David M. Gafken, D.C., D.A.C.N.B., of Health N.O.W., 2146 State Road, Auburn, Ind., for help in relieving pain.

Patients come to him with undiagnosed knee pain, or because they have seen other medical professionals and are seeking nonsurgical alternatives to bone-on-bone and other knee issues.

“These patients have had X-rays, MRIs and/or have been receiving cortisone shots without achieving any lasting relief,” Gafken adds. “We conduct a thorough exam which may include additional orthopedic testing, X-rays and MRIs if significant time has passed since their last tests.”

Knee injuries or age-related damage rarely heal by themselves.

It’s better to seek alternative methods of treating knee issues than to tough it out alone, Gafken adds.

Once the examination is complete and the patient is approved as a candidate for treatment, Gafken decides on a course of treatment using several highly effective methods to promote pain relief and joint regeneration, such as knee decompression, use of a high-intensity laser, acoustic wave therapy and Hakomed Horizontal therapy.

Decompression on the knees is achieved by hooking the knee up to a specialized machine which gently pulls the joint open and closed using less than 20 pounds of force, Gafken explains. By gently separating the joint space between the bottom of the femur (thigh bone) and the top of the tibia (shin bone), this creates a vacuum effect inside the knee joint which brings in nutrient-rich fluid to

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the area. The method also gently mobilizes the tendons, ligaments and other soft tissue around the joint. This helps reestablish some of the natural joint space and cushioning in the knee.

“We gently work the knee for about seven to eight minutes,” Gafken adds. “The course of treatment is given multiple times per week initially.”

High-intensity laser therapy consists of using four wavelengths of laser light to stimulate the appropriate tissues in the knee joint. The laser has a healing effect, it increases the production of stem cells and ATP, and it generates venous nitric oxide to increase peripheral blood flow to the afflicted areas in and around the knee.

“This is called photobiomodulation,” Gafken adds. “It also aids in the growth of new blood vessels, called angiogenisis. All of this leads to regeneration of the knee.”

Acoustic Wave Therapy has been in use for more than 10 years, Gafken says. The procedure sends acoustic sound waves through the joint to promote stem cell growth and encourages the development of new blood vessels to increase blood flow, all of which induces quicker healing.

Post examination, the patient is given a course of treatment which employs the above methods. As a rule, the patient is treated up to three times each week during which the highly effective regenerative methods are applied.

“We have a very high success rate with this course of treatment,” Gafken says.

For more information, visit seekhealthnow.com. To schedule an appointment call Health N.O.W. at (260) 920-8811. ❚ 13 Smart Living Fort Wayne January 2024 Tell them you saw it in ...

Inspiration & Worship

‘Face of an Angel’ Who Was Stephen?

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here may be no better icon of grace under pressure than Stephen, a deacon in the early Christian church at Jerusalem. The brightness of God’s grace and power were so evident in his face that even his enemies saw it.

“All who were sitting in the Sanhedrin looked intently at Stephen, and they saw that his face was like the face of an angel.” (Acts 6:15, NIV) Stephen is remembered as the first Christian to die for his faith. His story unfolds about a year after Christ’s resurrection, in the young church at Jerusalem.

When complaints arise that some Christian widows are being cared for better than others, due to their cultural backgrounds, the apostles appoint seven deacons – servant leaders – to oversee care for those in need.

They’re selected by men and women in the church community. Among them is Stephen, a Hellenistic Jew fluent in Greek language and culture. The people placed in his care also are Hellenistic Jews by background.

In Acts 6 and 7, Stephen’s deep understanding of Old Testament scripture unfolds as he boldly explains how Jesus Christ fits into God’s plan for salvation. This angers Jewish leaders, who fear losing power as more Jews convert to Christianity. They conspire against Stephen, gather false witnesses and incite mob violence against him.

“But they could not stand up against the wisdom the Spirit gave him as he spoke.”

(Acts 6:10) In time, Stephen is stoned to death by an angry crowd. His last words echo Jesus: “While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, ‘Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.’ Then he fell on his knees and cried out, ‘Lord, do not hold this sin against them.’ When he had said this, he fell asleep.” (Acts 7:59 & 60) A young Jew named Saul guarded the coats of Stephen’s murderers. In Acts 9, Saul is confronted by the resurrected Christ and later becomes a great apostle.

Chapters 6 and 7 of Acts are fascinating reading. May each of our faces reflect the light of Christ that burns within us.

–Janine Pumilia

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Right in Our Region

The Circus Returns to Fort Wayne

By Lindsey Lukas, senior editor

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hildren and adults alike can experience the awe, wonder and thrill of the circus from Jan. 26-28 at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, 4000 Parnell Ave. The Mizpah Shrine Circus, held annually in Fort Wayne, promises familyfriendly entertainment from start to finish, says Mike Hardiek, member of the Mizpah Shrine Circus Committee. Five shows in total take place Friday at 7 p.m., Saturday at 10 a.m., 2:30 p.m., and 7 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m.

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“All too often, kids are happy to bury their faces in an electronic device.

This is an opportunity for them to become immersed in a real-life adventure that is full of wonder,” Hardiek says.

“They can interact with performers and come to believe anything is possible.

This an experience that they can share with others.”

The circus promises the traditional acts people expect to see at a circus such as clowns, trapeze artists and high-wire performers, as well as “thrill acts” such as motorcyclists who are performing exciting stunts. The show lasts approximately 2 hours with a 15-minute intermission, but Hardiek recommends arriving an hour before showtime and staying an hour after to enjoy the Free Circus Fair, taking place in the lower level of the Coliseum.

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The Free Circus Fair features face painting, a petting zoo, bounce house, pony rides and an electric car track.

“Unfortunately, there are fewer events every year that can be enjoyed as a family,” Hardiek says. “For 77 years, the Mizpah Shriners have been proud to host an experience that offers something for all ages. From kids through the grandparents, everyone will be on the edge of

Right in Our Region their seats. We are committed to changing with the times to continue to support this worthy event.”

Photos are allowed before, during and after the performance, however, flash photography during the show is prohibited.

Tickets start at $16 and can be purchased online through Ticketmaster or at the Memorial Coliseum box office.

Children under age 2 do not require a

ticket. Handicapped seating is available to those who purchase the option, and group/corporate rates are available by calling the box office. Parking is $8 per vehicle paid to the attendant in the Coliseum parking lot.

Proceeds from the circus benefit the Mizpah Shrine.

Shriners International is a fraternity based on fun, fellowship and the Masonic principles of brotherly love, relief and truth.

Members are known for their philanthropy to Shriners Children’s, one of the largest pediatric sub-specialty health care systems in the world with locations in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The Mizpah Shrine began in 1909 The Mizpah Shrine Circus promises fun for children of all ages, with animal acts, aerial artistry, circus clowns and the original Wheel of Thrills. and represents 22

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Northeast Indiana counties and nearly 1,500 Shrine-Masons.

“We strive to be crystal clear that the revenue from the circus does not go directly to the Shrine Hospitals for Children. We would never want to mislead the community that supports us,” Hardiek explains. “Instead, the proceeds are used to pay the operational costs of our facility in Fort Wayne and help us offset the cost of the work we do right here in Northeast Indiana.”

For more information about the circus, visit mizpahshrinecircus.com or call the ticket office at (260) 234-2172. ❚

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Your Outings

Diverse Offerings at Home & Garden Show

By Lindsey Lukas, senior editor

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very year, the Fort Wayne Home & Garden Show (FWHGS) entertains the masses with a diverse lineup of attractions. This year’s event, taking place Feb. 29-March 3 at the Allen County Memorial Coliseum, 4000 Parnell Ave., Fort Wayne, is no exception.

“We pride ourselves on not being your typical boring ‘home show,’” says Becky Williamson, owner. “The FWHGS is an event. We have something for everyone young and old.”

Of course, the event features vendors for home remodeling projects and home decorating. Everything from windows, roofing and furniture to plants, flowers and landscaping is covered, and most vendors run “show specials” that they don’t offer anywhere or anytime else. There’s also mini pig races, gnome scavenger hunts, a parakeet encounter, chainsaw carvings

by Myles Nasby, show buck giveaways, vendors for pretzels and chocolate, and more. Keynote speakers include “Midwest Gardening Gal” Lisa Hinzman Howard and local celebrity “The Giant Gardening Guy” Alex Babich, along with presentations from local experts on the Purdue Extension Expert Stage.

“We’re also partnering with The Wellness Barn to bring in pickleball demonstrations, kombucha, cheese and ice cream, along with other locally sourced items,” Williamson says.

Now in its 51st year, the FWHGS began with Williamson’s grandfather, Ernie Kerns. After launching the first event in 1973 in a local mall, he expanded the show until it eventually moved to the Memorial Coliseum.

This year’s event takes place Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.,

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Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets cost $12 for adults and $8 for seniors, while children ages 15 and under can enter free.

Additionally, the FWHGS is partnering with Community Harvest Food Bank this year, so attendees may bring in a nonperishable food donation for $2 off the admission cost.

“The FWHGS has become an annual tradition Fort Wayne and the surrounding communities,” Williamson adds. “The show is not only important to the hundreds of businesses in the show, but to the entire community.” ❚

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Your Home & Garden

Energy Tax Credits You Should Know About

By Peggy Werner

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ith the cost of almost everything going up, there are many ways to save on home energy costs.

“Tax credits and rebates continue to be offered to homeowners,” says Chuck Ault, co-owner with Kevin Lehman of Collier’s Heating and Air Conditioning in Warsaw. “We try to educate as many people as we can about the many incentives available to people who choose to install energy-efficient equipment.”

For example, the tax credit for geothermal heat pump installation was extended through 2034.

Geothermal equipment, which uses stored heat energy from the ground for heating and cooling, is eligible for the tax credit when it meets En- The cost of installing solar panels in your home can be offset by up to 30% with a federal tax credit. ergy Star requirements at the time of installation. The energy tax Ault says just as important as tax credits and rebates is credit can be combined with solar and wind credits as well as homeowners’ concern for good air quality. energy-efficiency upgrade credits. A 30% federal tax credit for “Since the pandemic, homeowners are more concerned residential ground source heat pump installations has been exabout air quality and the interest hasn’t let up. Homes are so tended through Dec. 31, 2032; there’s a 26% credit for systems airtight today; there is very little air exchange,” he says. “The installed in 2033 and 22% credit for installs in 2034. air quality can be more negatively impacted, too, depending the In addition, some state, local and utility incentives may be number of people living in a home, the number of pets, and the available in a particular area for even more savings. To find those, level of play and work activity stirring up dust and dirt.” look at the current Database of State Incentives for Renewables Outside air is naturally purified through rain and wind as & Efficiency (DSIRE). There are also tax credits available for well as through vegetation. wood and pellet heaters, and most people are familiar with the To improve indoor air quality, people can upgrade filtrasolar tax credits, as explained on the energy.gov website. tion systems. Air purifier systems can also kill germs and get rid of odors.

Ault says a priority on customer service is what sets Collier’s apart from its competition. A Homesaver’s Club provides maintenance and repair of water heaters, fireplaces, humidifiers and more for a small monthly fee.

“We do our best to give the customer what they need,” Ault says. “We evaluate situations, present options on whether to repair or replace equipment, and offer advice to help people make the best decisions. We want to do what’s right for the customer.”

For more information or for a free consultation and estimate, call (574) 212-2965. ❚ Installing equipment like a geothermal heat pump in your home can earn tax credits through 2034.

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Your Outings

Fort Wayne Boat Show & Sale Launches

By Jim Taylor, managing editor

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ith more than 400 lakes in northeast Indiana, it comes as no surprise that boating is a popular pastime here. For proof, look no further than the Fort Wayne Boat Show & Sale, cruising into the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, 4000 Parnell Ave., from Feb. 8-11.

“We have over 200 watercraft on display and on sale,” says Tracy Sweeney, president of Total Concepts and executive director of the boat show. “We also have everything that goes with the boat, like pull-behinds, life jackets, lifts, piers and docks.”

Doug Anderson is well acquainted with the event, which is now in its 43rd year. Anderson is the Visitors to the Fort Wayne Boat Show & Sale will get up close and personal with more than 200 watercraft. owner of Wawasee Boat Company, well. In addition to exploring the boats, families can savor deli6521 E. Cornelius Road in Syracuse, Ind., and a board member cious snacks like Copper Kettle Popcorn. They can also enjoy for the Lakeland Marine Retailers Association, organizers of the free giveaways throughout the event, taking home souvenirs like boat show. He’s excited to welcome prospective and experienced tumblers, cozies and sunglasses. boaters alike.

For anyone new to the area, the boat show is a great way to “This show is unique because the dealers are paying for the see just what lake life looks like in northeast Indiana. Anderson venue and for all of the advertising,” he says. “It’s really set up points out that, in this part of the country, boating tends to be a for the boater.” family affair.

Boat lovers can expect to see a wide variety of watercraft to “The boats are usually multipurpose boats used for cruising choose from. and family gatherings,” he says. “They’re also used for water “We have lots of pontoons, deck boats, wake boats and sports. Tubing is big out here, as is wake boarding and wake wave runners,” says Sweeney. surfing. And, of course, there are lots of fishing boats.”

While boaters check out the more than 100,000 square feet Owners looking to trade in an old boat are advised to bring of vendor space, there’s plenty of fun for the rest of the family as a photo and measurements of their boat when speaking with a dealer.

“Trade-ins are very welcome at the boat show,” says Sweeney. “Obviously, you can’t bring it with you, but bringing the information will help make sure you get the best deal.”

Sweeney also points out that financers will be available to help finance any boat purchases during the show.

Whatever your level of boating experience, the Fort Wayne Boat Show & Sale promises to be a day filled with family fun, setting the tone for future warm summer days on the lake.

“We call the boat show the real kickoff to summer,” laughs Sweeney. “It may be cold outside, but it’s 75 degrees and warm in the Coliseum.”

For tickets, head to fortwayneboatshow.com. Coupons Northeast Indiana is a boater’s paradise with more than 400 lakes to explore. for admission discounts can also be found on the website. ❚ 23 Smart Living Fort Wayne January 2024 Tell them you saw it in ...

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Your Outings

New Digital Gift Card Keeps it Local

By Jim Taylor, managing editor

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njoying the sights, sounds and amenities of Downtown Fort Wayne just got easier, thanks to the Downtown Fort Wayne Gift Card.

“We’ve seen gift cards in other markets, and we’ve been studying them to determine if they’re a fit for the Downtown community,” says Preston Wallace, director of marketing for Downtown Fort Wayne. “We’ve partnered with Yiftee to create a one-stop shop for Downtown.”

Yiftee is a digital card platform that allows users to send or receive gift cards for a variety of merchants and businesses, all in one place. For Wallace, the program makes it easier for Fort Wayne Shoppers to shop locally.

“As a business improvement district, what we do is focus on supporting our property owners and local businesses,” says Wallace. “Right now, it’s never been more critical to find creative ways to support our small-business owners.”

The new community-based digital gift card takes the guesswork out of gift giving by offering recipients a choice of participating Downtown businesses.

“If you have, say, a $50 gift card, you don’t have to spend it all in one location,” says Wallace. “You can choose from any participating business.”

Participating in the program are retail outlets as well as bars and restaurants, entertainment attractions and services, giving consumers plenty of choice in how they spend those digital dollars.

“We’re starting to see it branch out,” says Wallace. “Anyone who can accept a payment for a service or a product can be a participating location.”

The gift card officially launched on Small Business Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023. Since then, reception has been positive. To get the ball rolling, Downtown Fort Wayne invested $4,000 in gift card giveaways on Small Business Saturday. By the end of the year, the return was more than double that investment.

The power to purchase from dozens of businesses is literally at your fingertips with the Downtown Fort Wayne Gift Card

“Just shy of $9,000 was redeemed or purchased through Yiftee, which was great to see in such a short window of time,” says Wallace.

The Downtown Fort Wayne Gift Card can be used by consumers in a number of ways. Large employers, for example, can use it for employee gifts, bonuses or corporate gifting.

“When you do that, you get bulk discounts as well,” Wallace points out.

The card itself is completely digital, giving carriers one less thing to carry in their wallet. It can be accessed using a smartphone. Customers who don’t wish to use their phone can print out the email they receive to present at time of purchase.

“The idea behind it is that it’s with you everywhere you go,” says Wallace. “It’s incredibly easy to use. It’s just like operating any normal credit card.”

As the Downtown Fort Wayne Gift Card enters its first official year, Wallace looks forward to customers and businesses alike taking part in the program. It makes a great gift, even if it’s for yourself.

“It’s a great incentive to continue supporting local retailers,” says Wallace. “It’s nice to be able to purchase from your preferred retailers and restaurants knowing that money goes right back into the local economy.”

To purchase a Downtown Fort Wayne Gift Card, head to Retailers, bars, restaurants, entertainment attractions and service providers DowntownFortWayne.com. ❚ have bought into the Downtown Fort Wayne Gift Card.

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Your Remodel

Beautify and Update Your Bathroom

By Peggy Werner

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pdating and renovating bathrooms is a great way to enhance your home.

Kevin Walsh, owner of Trinity Home Center in New Haven, and Dana Knueve, an interior design consultant with the business, say there are many trends that are making the bathroom safer and more aesthetically pleasing, rather than just being functional.

According to Walsh, there are certain things to consider when remodeling a bath. Simple changes can make a big impact.

“You have to think about what you want to change, in what order, and your budget,” he says.

Renovating your home’s bathroom can be as simple as changing tiles and countertops, but a more extensive Simply changing the hardware project will transform this space into a more spa-like setting. and countertops can drastically experience in the shower or bath. Slippery shower floors can be change the look of a bathroom, while a tile shower, multiple transformed with smaller tiles, which have more grout lines for a shower heads, hand-held faucets, seating and body sprays can rougher surface. Linear drains provide a flatter surface for better create a spa-like experience. Other luxurious amenities include balance, and they keep the shower floor freer of soap and water.

LED-lighted mirrors, quiet exhaust fans with chromatic lighting A hand-held unit allows a person to sit or stand while showering. and built-in speakers, heated floors and towel bars, atmospheric Other fixtures are popular, too. lighting, and sound systems.

“We have completed remodels that turn a single shower Homeowners should focus on the ultimate goal they want head into dual shower heads with various functions such as proto achieve. viding the feeling of more water, without using more,” she says.

“People want to stay in their homes longer,” he says. “We Rain head showerheads can be mounted on an extended can help with that by putting more safety measures in place.” shower arm or from the ceiling to give the feeling of standing Eliminating the step into a shower, adding grab bars, a builtin a warm rain. in seat, and faucets that are easier to use can all add to a safer Taller vanities make for less bending. Toilet seats that are higher off the floor make it easier to get up and down, and they’re safer for those with mobility issues.

Other trends for the bathroom include decorating in neutral colors, especially warm tones of beige and brown, using natural materials, different finishes on hardware, and simple, clean lines.

Trinity has four designers on staff, two of whom work exclusively with kitchens and baths; they offer free home visits to measure and help homeowners make decisions to achieve the results they want; and they can show customers computer-generated pictures of how the finished product will look.

The business services people living within a 50-mile radius of the business’ 8,000-square-foot showroom, where there are displays of vanities, tubs, showers, faucets and lighting. They are also licensed and insured in Indiana and have installers who have regularly worked with the company for many years.

To speak with a designer at Trinity Home Center, call (260) Rain head showerheads are a popular option for remodeled bathrooms, says 493-2574. ❚ Kevin Walsh, owner of Trinity Home Center in New Haven.

27 Smart Living Fort Wayne January 2024 Tell them you saw it in ...

Your Fun Fort Wayne Komets Hockey Join the Jungle and cheer on the Fort Wayne Komets as they make another run for a championship. Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, 4000 Parnell Ave., Fort Wayne. Visit komets.com to see the complete 2023-2024 schedule.

YLNI Winter Farmers Market Through April 27, 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 Street, Fort Wayne, facebook.com/ YLNIFarmersMarket.

Savor Fort Wayne Jan. 17-28. Enjoy 12 days of menu deals across Fort Wayne. See participating restaurants at visitfortwayne.com/savor.

Mizpah Shrine Circus Jan. 26-28, Fri. 7 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m., 2:30 p.m. & 7 p.m.; Sun. 2 p.m. Enjoy aerialists, trapeze artists, elephants, clowns and daredevil acts.

The Free Circus Fair, featuring family-friendly activities, takes place an hour before and an hour after each show. Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, 4000 Parnell Ave., Fort Wayne, mizpahshrinecircus.com.

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Entertainment & Events Fort Wayne Philharmonic: A Lunar New Year Celebration Jan. 27, 11 a.m.-noon. Be transported to China through the musical story telling of artist Zhongbei Daisey Wu and the Fort Wayne Children’s Choir. Also, enjoy highlights from Chinese book “The Peasant Prince,” which explores the true story of Li Cunxin’s extraordinary journey to becoming one of the finest dancers in the world. Pre-concert activities begin at 10 a.m. Arts United Center, 300 E. Main St., Fort Wayne, fwphil.org.

Winterval 2024 Jan. 27, 9 a.m. Presented by Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation, the 13th annual event promises a full day of indoor and outdoor winter fun for all ages. Watch ice carvers create wonders from a solid block of ice, shop for unique hand-crafted items, and enjoy special events and activities at the Botanical Conservatory, the Old Fort, the Allen County Public Library and Science Central. Downtown Fort Wayne, fortwayneparks.org.

Fort Wayne RV & Camping Show Feb. 1-4, Thurs.-Sat. 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. See hundreds of new RVs, travel trailers, motor homes, fifth wheels, park

To Advertise Call 260-212-8968

The Fort Wayne RV & Camping Show takes place Feb. 1-4 at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, in Fort Wayne.

models and toy haulers all in one place. Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, 4000 Parnell Ave., Fort Wayne, rvshows.org/fort-waynewonderland-rv-camping-show.

Fort Wayne Boat Show & Sale Feb. 8-11, Thurs.-Fri. 3-8 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Now in its 43rd year, the boat show is one of the largest collections of boats and boat accessories in the region, with 52 marine dealers from all over Indiana and Michigan. Allen County Memorial Coliseum, 400 Parnell Ave., (260) 482-7819, fortwayneboatshow.com. ❚

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To Advertise Call 260-212-8968