Pre/Post Election
The Dodgers won the World Series. We’ve turned our clocks back an hour. Taylor Swift boosted the state’s economy by bringing The Eras Tour to Indy.
I write this column on Nov. 4 — the Monday before Election Day. By the time you read this, you’ll know the results (I hope). So, who won?
No matter the answer, some people will be elated, others crushed. Most will be relieved it’s over.
Regardless of the outcome, I really hope our leaders can work together to combat major problems. As citizens, it would be smart living on our part to hold our leaders to high standards, and pause and remember that it’s good to be an American, no matter who is president. Deep breaths.
On a more fun note, the holiday season is here! Peppermint drinks are back; ornaments are for sale; Mariah Carey said “It’s Time” and launched a new collection of snow globes. The joyful parts of the season couldn’t come at a better time.
I’d like to take a moment to encourage all of you readers to shop from local businesses this holiday season. Target is great, the ‘zon is convenient, but those corporations don’t need your financial support in the same way that your neighborhood shops do. (Not to mention, your locally owned bookstore, coffee shop, toy store and clothing boutique have cuter, morethoughtful items anyways).
Shopping local boosts our local economy and keeps our neighbors employed. In return, you receive attentive customer service and fun, one-of-a-kind items.
Plus, a town with thriving local shops is a more-exciting town to live in.
Above all else, I want to sincerely wish you all a joyful holiday season. Times are tense, and I’m sure some of your holiday gatherings will be a bit awkward this year. Hopefully, we can all push through it by finding joy where we can.
Happy holidays!
Lindsey Lukas Senior Editor
Discover the Joy of Collecting Sports Cards
By Peggy Werner
Ben Smith remembers being a sports card collector as a kid and how he and his friends would trade with each other to get a set of players and teams they wanted to own. Today, he is the founder and owner of Midwest Box Breaks (MBB), an online marketplace that has taken the hobby to a whole new level.
“What once was just a fun hobby for collectors, has evolved into a major mainstream industry making it easier to connect with collectors all over the world and find valuable and one-of-a-kind cards,” he says.
A sports card “group break” is an event where the host, or breaker, provides sealed boxes or cases of sports card products and sells off the teams to collectors in search of what they need. When all teams or “spots” are sold, the breaker hosts a livestream event and opens all the packs on camera. Prices are based on what players, prospects, autographs and rare cards are available, with the manufacturer’s published checklist as a reference.
“For us, it’s more than just a transaction between members. Our members get to know one another, we support one another, and friendships develop,” he says.
There are many other break types, depending on collectors’ needs and interests. To join a MBB event, go to Midwestboxbreaks.net to find one that fits within your goals and budget, Smith says. The website also offers single cards, auctions, boxes and packs from MBB, as well as access to more than 700 verified community members.
Smith founded his company in 2018 and is one of hundreds of breakers all over the country, many in business for more than 10 years. However, what he is most proud of is his focus on the hobby community and wanting to help people who are new or coming back to sports card collecting.
When Smith came back to collecting before he started the company, he was amazed at the new products and how technology, especially social media, was able to connect collectors in search of high-end and expensive cards.
Smith attributes the magnified opportunities and interest as something positive resulting from the pandemic.
“During the lockdown, people were forced to forgo life as they knew it and find alternative ways to distract and entertain themselves. Sports card collecting really ramped up during Covid and got a lot of people’s attention who were sitting at home surfing the internet.”
He is proud of what he has been able to do as the founder of Midwest Box Breaks, for collectors, himself and others.
MBB is a trusted and respected member of the sports card community and has been featured in hobby publications, podcasts and television shows, and has partnered with some of the best companies in the industry. Their membership of 6,500 people includes thousands of hobbyists, professional athletes and members of the sports media. MBB donates thousands of dollars each year to local charities and works with the local minor league teams, the Fort Wayne Tincaps and Fort Wayne Comets.
At local sports events, MBB has donated thousands of cards to young collectors every month to support and educate new card collectors and those returning to the hobby.
For more information, visit midwestboxbreaks.com. ❚
Midwest Box Breaks virtually connects sports card collectors from all over the world.
Midwest Box Breaks can help people who are new or coming back to sports card collecting.
Quality Care at Neighborhood Health
By Lindsey Lukas, senior editor
At Neighborhood Health, patients can expect to receive compassionate, respectful care from experienced providers in a wide variety of medical services. With three Fort Wayne locations at 1717 S. Calhoun St., 3360 E. Paulding Road, and 750 Broadway St., Neighborhood Health provides quality health services to everyone, regardless of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex or socioeconomic condition.
“Neighborhood Health stands out for our patient-centered approach, accessibility and dedication to serving diverse communities,” says Carlos Clopton, communications and brand coordinator. “We prioritize quality care and strive to make healthcare both accessible and affordable for everyone. We also welcome Medicare.”
All locations are conveniently situated on the bus line, Clopton adds. Hours of operation are generally Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some locations offering extended hours. The most up-to-date information is at mynhfw.org.
Patients can access a wide range of services at Neighborhood Health, including primary care, behavioral health care, dental care, optometry, preventive services such as vaccinations and screenings, women’s health services, chronic disease management, and local headquarters for WIC (women, infants and children). Neighborhood Health also recently added pharmacy services.
“Our team of pharmacists collaborates with healthcare providers to identify the best care options for our patients. This convenient service is located at our Calhoun site,” Clopton says.
In addition, Neighborhood Health offers specialized senior services that prioritize the health and independence of older
adults. These services include chronic disease management, wellness check-ups, mental health support and preventive screenings, all designed to support healthy aging. Staff expertise in geriatric care, medication management and mobility assistance ensures seniors receive comprehensive, thoughtful care, Clopton adds.
“For those with mobility concerns, wheelchair availability is also offered, making visits more accessible and comfortable for all patients,” he says.
Additional services include same-day appointments, after hours care, chronic care management, nutrition education, a pharmacy discount program, transportation assistance, language interpretation and health insurance enrollment assistance.
“We take pride in our comprehensive approach to care, especially our behavioral health services and optometry,” Clopton adds. “Our commitment to addressing social determinants of health enables us to support our patients holistically.”
Neighborhood Health’s core values include compassion, integrity, inclusivity, collaboration and excellence and prioritizes a strong community focus.
“What distinguishes us is our integrated care model that combines medical, dental, behavioral health, optometry, chiropractic services and pharmacy,” Clopton says. “We build longterm relationships with our patients and actively engage with the community. By considering social determinants of health and external factors influencing health conditions, we are better equipped to understand and meet our patients’ needs.”
Neighborhood Health is currently accepting new patients and schedules appointments as quickly as possible. To get started, call (260) 458-2641 or visit mynhfw.org/providers. ▮
Neighborhood Health offers patients compassionate, respectful care at three locations in Fort Wayne. From preventative care to specialized senior services, to many more medical services in between, Neighborhood Health prides itself on providing quality, affordable care to everyone.
A Promise of Peace
In the book of Isaiah, written more than 700 years before the birth of Jesus Christ, Isaiah prophesied the coming of the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). In Galatians 5:22, we see “peace” listed among the fruit of the spirit that Christians reap when they follow the ways of God. The word is translated into English from the Greek “eirene,” (“pax” in Latin), which appears more than 90 times in the New Testament. (The name “Irene” comes from eirene.)
Throughout the Gospels, Jesus cautions that this world will never be a place of peace. “Don’t suppose that I’ve come to bring peace on the earth,” he says in Matthew 10:34. In fact, the very act of following him will stir turmoil, not peace, he warns. (Luke 12:51)
So if this earth isn’t a peaceful place, why is peace promised to us? Because God’s peace is internal, not external.
Jesus knew what the Old Testament proclaimed about peace: “You [God] will keep in perfect peace all who trust in You, all whose thoughts are fixed on You,” (Isaiah 26:3 NLT).
Jesus promised that God would send the gift of holy spirit, a “comforter,” to live inside each believer. That promise was fulfilled on the Day of Pentacost. This supernatural kind of peace only comes from God. “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus,” Paul wrote in Philippians 4:7.
Shortly before the darkest moment of history – Jesus’ betrayal and execution – he told his disciples: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I don’t give to you as the world gives. Don’t let your hearts be troubled and don’t be afraid.” (John 14:1).
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33).
God has already delivered peace to us through Jesus Christ, whether or not we “feel” it. Studying how the word "peace" is used in scripture is a great starting point for helping us to internalize this precious gift. ❚
– Janine Pumilia
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.”
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 behindthe-scenes activities of the nonprofit.
Rides this holiday season take place Dec. 7, 8, 14 and 15 at 1 p.m. and 4 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. 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.”
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.
“When it is closing in on the time for departure, the engineer blows the whistle four times, indicating that it is time to board the train for the return trip to Coldwater,” Kaiser says. “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.
Dazzling Entertainment at Nearby Theatres
By Lindsey Lukas, senior editor
With the holiday season upon us, iconic theaters in our region are ready to showcase family-friendly entertainment that delights audience members of all ages. It’s a smart idea to purchase tickets early, as many productions sell out quickly – especially the good seats!
We’ve found some of the most highly anticipated performances taking the stage this holiday season.
Embassy Theatre
Fort Wayne’s Embassy Theatre never fails to provide exciting, family-friendly entertainment during the holiday season. The former movie palace and vaudeville house is now known for showcasing Broadway productions, concerts, cinema, educational programming and more. November and December are particularly busy months.
The Fort Wayne Civic Theatre presents Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas!” on Nov.
22 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 23 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Based on the beloved, timeless film, this heartwarming adaptation is an uplifting, wholesome musical that is known for delighting audiences of all ages.
The Blue Gate Theatre, in Shipshewana, Ind., is a state-of-the-art performance space that’s showcasing more than 100 performances between now and the end of the year. Visitors can also find restaurants, accommodations and more within the property of The Blue Gate.
The Embassy Theatre hosts eclectic performances throughout the year.
(Visit Fort Wayne photo)
The “Festival of Trees” returns Nov. 27 from 6-9 p.m.; Nov. 28 from 3-7 p.m.; Nov. 29-Dec. 2 from 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; and Dec. 3-4 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Founded in 1984, the Festival of Trees is the Embassy Theatre Foundation’s largest annual fundraising event where lobbies of the Embassy Theatre and former Indiana Hotel transform into a wonderland of decorated trees at various sizes, shapes and a broad array of themes. Admission includes visits with Santa and festive entertainment including the Grande Page pipe organ, youth choirs, dance performances and more.
Another holiday tradition returns as Project Ballet presents “Nutcracker at the Embassy,” a production for children, by children and about children – featuring a cast of more than 150 local children. Performances are Dec. 7 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. and Dec. 8 at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Many more eclectic events are already slated for this year and next year. Visit fwembassytheatre.org for more information and tickets.
The Blue Gate Theatre
Venturing out of Fort Wayne and into the ever-charming Shipshewana, Ind., visitors can find the Blue Gate Theatre – a state-ofthe-art performance space that hosts hundreds of events throughout the year.
“We have more than 100 performances between now and the end of the year,” says Andrew Rohrer, Blue Gate Hospitality’s vice president of marketing. “There’s everything from the musical ‘When Calls the Heart,’ based on the books by Janette Oakes, to concerts by Mannheim Steamroller, David Phelps, Celtic Angels and Steven Curtis Chapman, and, of course, a wonderful Christmas musical revue show ‘Songs of the Season’ to get you into the festive mood.”
“When Calls the Heart” has performances almost daily until Jan. 4. Mannheim Steamroller takes the stage Dec. 20 at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m., while David Phelps performs Dec. 10 at 7 p.m. Celtic Angels performs Nov. 30 at 4 p.m., while Steven Curtis Chapman performs Dec. 7 at 7 p.m. “Songs of the Season” charms audiences from Nov. 7 to Dec. 21.
“Shipshewana prides itself on being a place where people can spend quality time with their loved ones,” Rohrer says. “Blue Gate’s entertainment is centered around shows that the whole family can enjoy while being some of the best entertainment you can find.”
Rohrer recommends that visitors take their time while visiting Shipshewana during the holiday season. Plan to enjoy the lights, photo ops, and many surprises scattered throughout the
Blue Gate and the town as a whole.
“Shipshewana is a different pace of life than what most people are used to,” Rohrer says. “We don’t rush – a lot of us drive buggies – we focus on faith and family, and the hospitality we offer is from the heart. When guests visit us in our little corner of the world, we hope they leave with a smile, a memory, and maybe a slice of pie to remember us by.”
More information on Blue Gate Theatre performances is at thebluegate.com.
The Round Barn Theatre
Continuing our trek through Amish Country, The Barns at Nappanee, in Nappanee, Ind., is home to The Round Barn Theatre (RBT) – a professional regional theatre company that features six theatrical productions a year. RBT is known for its world-class entertainment that presents timeless truths, classic stories and uplifting themes.
“We do our best to provide family-friendly, uplifting entertainment that provides a great night out for people of all ages,” says Jarrod Humbarger, executive director. “Theater can make you think, laugh, cry and just forget about the outside world for a couple of hours. We want our guests to not only enjoy the show, but the incredible architecture of the Round Barn.”
From Nov. 21-Dec. 31, the Broadway hit “Anastasia: The Musical” dazzles audiences at the Round Barn Theatre. From Tony Award-winners Terrence McNally, Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens, this show transports audience members from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past.
More information is at thebarnsatnappanee.com.
“Not only is it a fun night out, but it can be something that families talk about for months and years to come,” Humbarger says. “Being part of a vibrant community is very important to us.” ❚
The Round Barn Theatre, in Nappanee, Ind., is known for showcasing family-friendly, uplifting entertainment.
Support for Your Breast Cancer Journey
By Lindsey Lukas, senior editor
October was breast cancer awareness month, but there’s never a bad time to think of all the women and men battling this disease.
Oftentimes, breast cancer treatment may require surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and/or hormone blockers – all of which have potential side effects that interfere with quality of life. That’s why it’s important to Dr. Courtney Sproat to offer breast cancer rehabilitation services at Auburn Massage and Wellness Centre, 115 W. Fifth St., Auburn.
“It’s important to me because one in eight women have breast cancer and until recently, physical therapy has not been a recommended treatment option for most of the women and men diagnosed with breast cancer,” she says. “Ideally, I want to see patients at the point of their diagnosis, but physical therapy can help at any point throughout their journey and can continue helping even years after treatment.”
Originally from Garrett, Ind., and a resident of Auburn for the past 10 years, Sproat worked as an imaging specialist for six years prior to returning to school to become a doctor of physical therapy.
After graduating from Trine University, she started working in cancer rehab and found her calling.
“I am passionate about my job and an advocate for all cancer rehab,” she says.
She also became a certified lymphedema therapist in July 2022 because a potential side effect from lymph node removal and radiation therapy is the risk of developing lymphedema.
“I wanted to help my patients the most that I could instead of them having to also find a lymphedema therapist,” she explains. “Once I realized how much I enjoyed cancer rehab, I wanted to further my knowledge in the cancer field. A majority of my patients were patients with breast cancer, so I started there. I became a certified breast cancer rehabilitation therapist in May 2024 to better serve this population.”
Sproat offers preop examinations, post-op examinations, post-radiation examinations, annual lymphedema prevention examinations, breast cancer sessions to treat any side effects related to treatment,
lymphatic drainage to improve lymph flow and decrease swelling from breast cancer-related lymphedema, and lymphedema education and surveillance to monitor for breast cancer-related lymphedema.
All of these services are listed on amchealinghands.com with more details.
“These services can help improve quality of life in many ways, including reducing cancer-related pain, maintaining or regaining range of motion, maintaining or regaining strength, decreasing muscle tightness, and reducing cancer-related fatigue,” Sproat says. “These side effects often interfere with people’s day-to-day activities and sometimes prevent them from working or attending family events. I want to help them be the best version of themselves throughout cancer treatment and help them become independent again and return to the activities they love afterwards.”
Although Sproat specializes in breast cancer rehab, she’s able to help people with other cancers as well.
“I’ve had the most education in breast cancer rehab but have learned lymphatic drainage to all areas of the body to help treat all cancer-related lymphedema,” she says. “Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have another type of cancer and wish to receive lymphatic drainage or wish to ask if I can help you.”
Sproat can typically see patients within the same week of calling if they desire an appointment. Sometimes, she can even see patients that same day.
The best way for patients to contact her is by emailing drcourtneysproat@gmail.com, or by calling (260) 925-4500. ❚
According to Dr. Courtney Sproat, a physical therapist at Auburn Massage and Wellness Centre, breast cancer rehabilitation can improve quality of life for patients going through cancer treatment.
Courtney Sproat, PT, DPT, CLT
Family-Friendly Entertainment at Turkeyville
By Lindsey Lukas, senior editor
With the holiday season upon us, now is the perfect time to visit Cornwell’s Turkeyville in Marshall, Mich. Complete with a restaurant serving Thanksgiving-themed options and a professional dinner theatre, Turkeyville is a family-friendly destination that prompts visitors to create warm memories in a simple-life atmosphere.
At the professional dinner theatre, “Winter Wonderettes” takes center stage almost daily from Nov. 7 through Dec. 21. 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.
“Winter Wonderettes” depicts an all-girl singing group, The Wonderettes, entertaining at the annual Harper’s Hardware Holiday Party. When Santa
turns up missing, the girls use their talent and creative ingenuity to save the holiday party. The show features ’60s versions of holiday classics such as “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town,” “Jingle Bell Rock,” “Run, Rudolph, Run” and “Winter Wonderland.”
Cornwell’s Dinner Theatre is an intimate 150-seat venue that provides “rock star seating” to everyone in the theatre, says Dexter Brigham, producing artistic director.
“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 adds.
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.
Visitors to Turkeyville can also enjoy a “Christmas Cookies & Wine” event on Dec. 13 from 5:30-7 p.m. The event features a night of decorating handmade sugar cookies with royal icing while enjoying a glass of wine or adult beverage of choice. The cost is $25 per person, and guests leave with 12 finished cookies. ❚
Cornwell’s Dinner Theatre hosts professional entertainment along with a famous turkey feast.
A Contractor You Can Depend On
By Peggy Werner
Since opening a new business three years ago, Aaron Lengacher has added credentials, services and staff and developed more plans for growth at A-1 Remodeling and More of Auburn, Ind. A member of the Amish community, Lengacher merged his talent, skills and faith to set out on his own. This year, he became a licensed and insured contractor, adding siding, flooring and roofing to services he offers. He also builds decks, room additions and garages, and installs windows, doors and more.
“What’s important to me is that I am serving people,” he says. “My focus has always been on helping people. A jack of all trades, I took advantage of an opportunity to go into business for myself. I have the experience and skills and love what I do.”
Since he was 15 years old, he worked alongside his uncle, who was a carpenter and home builder. He also worked for building and remodeling companies before launching off on his own.
An additional garage or deck are among his biggest requests in the warmer weather, but with temperatures cooling down, he is receiving more requests for roofs, sunrooms and more inside remodeling jobs.
He charges by the job, saying his prices are “fair and reasonable,” and he will work within any budget. He has a large and impressive inventory of pictures, showing work he has done for people in the area.
Going into business for himself was a lifelong dream.
Being Amish, he doesn’t depend on a website and doesn’t have an email address. Most of his referrals are by word of mouth, some advertising, and having faith.
“We depend on God to lead us through each day,” he says. “I always thank God for a new day and ask Him to lead me. He has never failed me.”
Lengacher adheres to the core Amish values, aiming for the goal of leading a simple life of faith. The Amish believe their religious faith and the way they choose to live are interdependent. Their core beliefs have to do with faith, family, community and simplicity.
One notable trait of the Amish is that they choose to live simply. They believe it is a sign of humility and they take seriously the Biblical commands to separate themselves from worldly things. By living simply and restricting access to unnecessary items like television, electronics and other devices, they keep the world from intruding into their lives, keeping their focus on family and faith.
Married and the father of three children, Lengacher hopes to have a father-and-son business one day.
His future plans also include completing larger projects, such as building homes and farm buildings.
“I just look forward to keep on growing,” he says.
To see samples of his work, get references, or schedule an appointment for a free consultation and estimate, call (260) 433-5254. ❚
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.
Why Businesses Bank with Credit Unions
In the ever-changing world of business, each decision you make has the power to influence both your company and the communities you serve. Whether you’re launching, expanding or managing a business, having trustworthy advisors by your side is key to making the best decisions. Your choice of where you bank can have a big impact on your business.
What sets credit unions apart from banks is that they are member-owned, not-for-profit cooperatives that exist to serve their members. Being a not-forprofit organization that focuses on taking care of members rather than making a profit means credit unions can provide lower account balance requirements, fewer fees, higher savings rates, customized lending solutions and a genuine commitment to shared success.
“The whole credit union movement is about people helping people. We actually care about their success, helping them meet their goals, and enrich their lives by making a big difference,” says Cara Teeple, vice president of business services at ProFed Credit Union.
A true business banking partner takes the time to understand your unique challenges and opportunities, provide personalized advice to help manage cash flow, navigate financial decisions, and achieve your goals in today’s competitive market. Many credit unions stay innovative by providing advanced digital banking features such as remote deposit, ACH payroll and collections, extensive ATM networks, and merchant services, allowing businesses to manage transactions anywhere, at any time.
Banking with a credit union goes beyond simple transactions; it’s about building meaningful relationships. It means connecting with other members, engaging with local communities and working toward a shared vision for a brighter future. Credit unions prioritize community focus, help businesses connect and support regional economic development. By banking with a credit union, companies not only gain financial benefits but also contribute to their community’s growth and prosperity.
Teeple recalls helping people get off to a good start by opening a first savings account, applying for a credit card, financing a car, buying a first home and setting up a small business. One customer, in particular, recalls she didn’t have a clue how to do these things, and now she’s a successful business owner.
Choosing to work with a credit union allows businesses to gain access to competitive financial products and join a community-focused movement built on collaboration and social responsibility. It embraces the idea that every member, regardless of their size, deserves a say in their financial future. Credit unions not only provide expert financial advice but also offer educational resources for business owners and their employees.
“We see a definite need because there is a large gap in financial education. 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,” Teeple says.
ProFed Credit Union offers free in-person workshops and online education at profedcu.org on topics such as business planning, personal budgeting, credit repair, and purchasing a car or house.
“When people get control of their finances, the feeling of freedom is immeasurable,” Teeple says. “As you think about your business financial strategy, consider a credit union. Business success goes beyond financial gains; it’s about the impact we make, the communities we support, and the legacies we leave behind. Together, we can foster a more inclusive, equitable and prosperous world for everyone.”
Teeple has been with ProFed Credit Union for 29 years. Founded in 1933, ProFed maintains 13 branches across northeastern Indiana. For more information or to open 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.
Fort Wayne Komets
Join the Jungle and cheer on the Fort Wayne Komets as they make another run for a championship. Games are at Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, 4000 Parnell Ave., Fort Wayne. Visit komets.com to see the complete 2023-2024 schedule.
‘White Christmas’
Nov. 22-23, Fri. 7:30 p.m., Sat. 2 & 7:30 p.m. Based on the beloved, timeless film, this heartwarming musical adaptation features a dazzling score including well known standards such as “Blue Skies”, “I Love A Piano”, “How Deep Is the Ocean” and the perennial favorite, “White Christmas”. Embassy Theatre, 125 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne, fwcivic.org.
Jurassic Quest
Nov. 22-24, Fri. noon-6 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. The largest and most realistic traveling dinosaur experience in North America
gives guests of all ages the chance to observe life-size dinosaurs, enjoy rides, bounce houses, games, fossil digs and more. Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, 4000 Parnell Ave., Fort Wayne, jurassicquest.com.
HolidayFest Featuring the “Night of Lights”
Nov. 27, 5:45 p.m.-8 p.m. Come together to kick off the holiday season with the iconic lighting of Santa and His Reindeer, the Merry Christmas Wreath, and many more. Downtown Fort Wayne, downtownfortwayne.com/holidayfest/.
Festival of Gingerbread
Nov. 29-Dec. 22, see website for times. Since 1986, the Festival of Gingerbread has become one of Fort Wayne’s most cherished holiday traditions. Each year, gingerbread creations by local artists are set up in the historic Shields Room in celebration of the holidays. Gingerbread artists range from Pre-K students to professionals. The History Center, 302 E. Berry St., Fort Wayne, fwhistorycenter.org.
Bohemian Holiday Market
Nov. 30, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Shop more than 75 vendors on Small Business Saturday selling clothing, kid items, pet items, home decor, baked
Entertainment & Events
goods and more. The first 100 people in the door receive a reuseable tote bag with coupons in it. Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, 4000 Parnell Ave., Fort Wayne, (260) 446-5172.
The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience
Nov. 30, doors 7 p.m., show 8 p.m. Over the nearly 30 years and more than 4,500 shows since ZOSO came together as a group in the mid-90s, the seemingly tireless quartet continues to earn its reputation as being, in the words of The L.A. Times, “head and shoulders above all other Led Zeppelin tributes.” Clyde Theater, 1808 Bluffton Road, Fort Wayne, clydetheatre.com. ❚
HolidayFest featuring the “Night of Lights” returns to downtown Fort Wayne Nov. 27.
