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BY LINDA LIPP Feature Writer

Many of the changes in the $40 million renovation of Fort Wayne’s Arts United Center are designed to go largely unnoticed.
The historic building, designed by renowned modernist architect, Louis Kahn, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. That designation required that architecturally significant elements be preserved during renovation, said Rachelle Reinking, director of communications for Arts United.
At the same time, the 50-year-old facility needed modern upgrades to prepare it for future generations of
performers and patrons.
A major focus of the renovation was accessibility. The goal was to not only meet, but exceed, the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act, which did not exist when the building opened in 1973, Reinking said.
“We wanted to make sure people felt welcomed and included as they participate, in whatever way they participate,” she said.
The Arts United Center was originally envisioned as part of a 10-building downtown campus bringing together dance, theater, music and fine arts. Financial constraints ultimately reduced the project to a single building.
Continued on page 3





By LINDA LIPP Feature Writer
If it’s February in Fort Wayne, it’s time for the annual Kiwanis Club of John Chapman Foundation ChocolateFest.
The fundraiser is held every year on the last Friday before, or the Friday of, Valentine’s Day. This year, the 12th annual event is Feb. 13.
James Cherry is president of the foundation, which was formed by the John Chapman Club in 2014 as a nonprofit organization. That tax status expands the organization’s fundraising capabilities.
“Being a 501(c)(3), we’re able to get more donations at bigger levels, and hence that’s why we did that,” Cherry said.
The Chapman club itself was formed in the 1980s with the merger of three small Kiwanis clubs. Membership had dwindled over the years, and there just weren’t enough members to keep the individual clubs going, Cherry explained.
“They got to a size of volunteers that they just couldn’t survive. All Kiwanis, frankly all service clubs, are doing that. It’s unfortunate, but that’s just the way society is. There’s less focus on others
and it’s all me, me, me,” Cherry said.
Cherry, a self-described professional Boy Scout, knows a lot about service. A proud Eagle Scout originally from Lancaster, Ohio, Cherry earned his bachelor’s degree from Ohio State University. He became a district executive for the Boy Scouts, which is how he landed in nearby Huntington. Other postings in Allen County followed.
The district executive organizes units and raises funds to support them. But advancing beyond the district executive level requires moving from council to council.
When his first son was born in 1993, Cherry decided he didn’t want to do that, so he signed on as a headhunter for a Fort Wayne recruiting firm. Positions in tech sales and software sales followed.
Cherry was ambitious and did well enough in the private sector that he was able to take an early retirement.
Cherry’s involvement with Kiwanis began when he was in Huntington.
“Back in the day, companies would send professionals, particularly new people, to service clubs, just to get oriented to the community, get to know people,”
he said. “Most companies now are owned by a big corporation elsewhere and don’t care that much.”
When he moved to a district executive position in Allen County, it made sense to transfer his Kiwanis membership to Allen as well.
The John Chapman Club currently has 25 to 30 members, Cherry said. The position of president of the “action club” changes yearly, but Cherry has been president of the foundation since it was formed “because I was the one who filled out the forms in the first place,” he said.
The annual ChocolateFest raises about $30,000 to fund children’s charities, projects, and programs. Allen County is the main focus, but the club has reach throughout northeast Indiana.
Tickets are priced at $65 each, an increase of $5 from last year to cover higher costs.
The event will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. at Ceruti’s Diamond Room, 6602 Innovation Blvd. Dress is casual but elegant. There will be three all-you-caneat chocolate fountains with white, dark, and milk chocolate; chocolate desserts; a full dinner; and a make-your-own sundae bar.
This year’s event also

includes a silent auction and entertainment from Al Parr’s Creole Candy Band.
For tickets, call (260) 6378184 or email jcherryai@ hotmail.com.

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A conference on grief will be presented by Stillwater Hospice from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, March 13, at the Peggy F. Murphy Community Grief Center, 5920 Homestead Road, Fort Wayne. Check-in begins at 8:30 a.m.
The event offers four continuing education units, including one ethics hour, for social workers and health care facility administrators.
Session one, from 9:05 to 10:15 a.m., and Session two, from 10:25 to 11:30 a.m., will feature Vicki Eber, MPH, TCTSY-F, and Jeni Riley, LSW, presenting “Moving Through Loss: Embodied Practices for Compassion Fatigue and Collective Loss” and “Compassion at Life’s End: Navigating Ethics and Grief in Hospice and Palliative Care.”
The sessions will explore creative and alternative therapeutic approaches to reduce compassion fatigue and address ethical challenges in hospice and palliative care. One ethics CEU
will be included.
Lunch and tours of the grief center will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Session 3, from 12:30 to 1:35 p.m., will focus on “Grief in the Workplace,” presented by Laura Guerrero, MS-MHC, a certified grief educator. The session will address how grief affects professional life and ways to support colleagues while practicing self care.
Session 4, from 1:45-2:50 p.m., titled “The Journey of Letting Go: Understanding Loss of Autonomy,” will be presented by Lindsey Stangland, LCSW; Mattie Bandow, LSW; and Paige Keim, LBSW. The presentation will cover anticipatory grief in dementia care and strategies for coping with repeated loss. There is no cost to attend, but registration is required. RSVP by Friday, March 6 by emailing GriefCenter@stillwater-hospice. org, or calling (260) 435-3261. Attendees are asked to indicate any dietary restrictions.

PLENTY OF FUN Residents were enjoying good food and plenty of fun during a cruise-themed Assisted Living Week celebration at Golden Years
By COLEEN ARRIBASPLATA Director of Marketing Golden Years Homestead
At Golden Years Homestead, assisted living isn’t about slowing down - it’s about enjoying life with fewer worries. It’s a bit like cruise living close to home: meals are prepared, activities are planned, help is always nearby, and there are countless opportunities to connect, laugh and stay engaged.
For resident Candy Jacobs, that lifestyle made all the difference.
“I’m so glad that I chose to come to an assisted living facility,” Jacobs said. “And I’m so glad we chose Golden Years,
Continued from page 1
Kahn, based in Philadelphia, was commissioned to design the performing arts center. It was the only theater he ever designed, the only project he accepted in the Midwest and the final commission completed before his death in 1974.
Like many mid-century modern architects, Kahn emphasized the use of natural light, once saying, “The sun never knew how great it was until it hit the side of a building.”
His work was also influenced by the permanence and solidity of European castles and monuments, elements reflected in the arts center’s design.
The renovation includes a 17,500-square-foot addition and modernization of existing spaces to better serve audiences, performers, volunteers and staff.
Among the most significant improvements are new elevators for patrons who cannot or prefer not to use stairs from the historic main lobby. Inside the auditorium, ramps now lead to accessible seating areas in both the front and rear of the house, accommodating wheelchair users and companions.
A new drop-off area on the north side of the building provides easier access to the west lobby, with a short ramp leading to the main lobby. Paper tickets are no longer required, thanks to new ticket scanners, and hearing assistance devices are available in the lobby.
To support patrons on the autism spectrum, the center now offers sensory kits and designated areas for decompres-
sion. Both the Civic Theatre and Fort Wayne Ballet have added sensory-friendly performances, Reinking said.
Backstage systems also received significant upgrades, with technical operations now managed from a centralized control desk.
After eight years of planning, construction began in August 2004. Funding came from a combination of public and private grants, historic tax credits and community donations.
During construction, the Civic Theatre, Fort Wayne Ballet and Fort Wayne Philharmonic performed at other local venues.
The Arts United Center reopened in late October 2025 with the Civic Theatre’s production of “Frozen.”
“You could see on everyone’s faces their joy when they’re able to navigate the building just like anyone else,” Reinking said.
For more information, visit artsunited.org.
because it’s just been a wonderful blessing.”
Assisted living at Golden Years Homestead is designed to support independence while making daily life easier. Residents live in private apartments they can furnish and decorate to feel like home. Support is available around the clock and tailored to individual needs, including assistance with daily routines. There’s also plenty to enjoy. Residents gather for restaurant-style dining, stay active through outings, events and social activities, and focus on wellness with exercise classes, on-site therapy and visits to the on-site, full-service salon for manicures, pedicures or massage.

For Dee Scherer, it’s the people - and the purpose - that stand out.
“The CNAs, every one of them, treat us so good,” she said. “It’s a Christian organization, and to me that means so much. We are treated very well.”
Golden Years Homestead is a faith-based, nonprofit continuing care retirement community. Immediate one- and two-bedroom assisted living apartments are available, including limited Medicaid Waiver spots. To learn more or schedule a tour, call Coleen at (260) 7486416 and discover how supported living can feel like smooth sailing every day.





daily plus snacks
• 24-hour staffing and reception desk
• Range of interesting and varied programs and events
• Medicaid Waiver accepted


By CINDY LARSON Feature Writer
Catherine Martin didn’t know anything about Amani Family Services until a couple of years ago.
A Latin teacher at Canterbury School, Martin became interested in the organization when Canterbury donated proceeds from the Jonathan Hancock Lecture to Amani in February 2024. Impressed by the nonprofit’s mission and impact, she decided to volunteer. Just two years later, Martin was named Amani Volunteer of the Year.



Amani Family Services is a local nonprofit that serves more than 2,000 families and individuals annually from around the world who have made Allen County its home. Its mission is to promote the well-being of non-English-speaking families through counseling and casework. The organization supports the healing of immigrants and refugees who have experienced maltreatment and violence, while also working to prevent family violence.
That mission resonates personally with Martin. Her husband is an immigrant from Peru. She has many friends from different countries. While her husband has not had issues with Immigration and Customs Enforcement, she said he has experienced racism during the
20 years he has lived in the U.S. Martin has focused her volunteer efforts on Amani’s fundraising activities. For the past two years, she has served on the food committee for the organization’s annual “One Beat” fundraiser and has helped with outreach at two events.
One Beat, held each November, puts what Martin calls “a very cool spin on the usual fundraiser.”
“There’s a built-in entertainment element,” she said. Groups form, choose songs and perform lip-sync and dance routines. “It’s fun to watch.”
As part of the ‘One Beat’ committee, Martin solicits food donations from local restaurants. She said she has been pleasantly surprised by their generosity.
Beyond the mission itself,
Martin values the camaraderie among Amani’s volunteers.
“I just really like the other people,” she said, adding that Amani’s services are “super valuable to the community.”
Those services include legal aid, language classes, counseling and addiction support. Martin also appreciates the cultural diversity Amani helps foster, which she said makes the community “richer and more vibrant.”
“We’ve always been a nation of immigrants,” she said.
Volunteering has been deeply fulfilling, Martin said. In addition to helping immigrants and refugees establish themselves as they begin new lives, she finds that helping others benefits her as well.
To learn more about Amani Family Services, visit amanifamilyservices.org.
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For advertising deadlines call your sales representative. The existence of advertising in Senior Life is not meant as an endorsement of any product, services or individuals by anyone except the advertisers. Signed letters or columns are the opinion of the writers, and not necessarily the opinion of the publishers. To advertise contact Betty Foster at 260-494-9321 or slallen@the-papers.com.







By CINDY LARSON Feature Writer
Sandy Behling gingerly took her first steps recently into a new challenge - climbing the rock wall at the Parkview YMCA.
She didn’t get very far on her first attempt - maybe 10 feet off the ground - but it was an accomplishment nonetheless.
“I wanted to do something that would challenge me,” said Behling, 50, a regular at the YMCA. Her usual workouts include weight machines
and the elliptical trainer. But on a recent weeknight, shortly before closing time, Behling decided on a whim to stop by the rock climbing wall. YMCA employee, Preston Hinkle, was still there and agreed to let her give it a try. With gentle guidance, he helped her strap into a harness and explained the basics for her inaugural climb. Her first attempt was a bit of a disaster. She had barely gotten her feet off the floor when she lost her grip and swung away from the wall. Hinkle, who was holding her

“Comfort Keepers was an invaluable asset in my toolbox regarding my mother’s home healthcare requirements.
I was able to go to work and concentrate on other aspects of my mother’s healthcare needs.
It gave me a “peace of mind” feeling on a daily basis knowing that their qualified staff would handle things at mom’s house and keep me updated.
Comfort Keepers is a local outstanding healthcare organization; I would recommend them for any in-home healthcare needs” Robert G.R. Son of client, Fort Wayne

“Comfort Keepers is an outstanding healthcare organization in Fort Wayne and surrounding areas. Their professional staff worked with my son to set up a well-balanced healthcare plan that allowed me to stay at my own home and enjoy my later years. Thus, I was able to do everyday activities on my terms. They helped me with personal hygiene needs, light housework, meal preparation, and medication reminders. They treated me like family.” K. Ellen L. Client, Fort Wayne



safety rope, eased her back to the ground.
Undeterred, Behling decided to try again. This time, with Hinkle providing counterbalance through the pulley system, she made it about 10 feet up the wall, which rises roughly 35-feet high.
“I felt encouraged,” she said.
To become more proficient, she knows she will need to practice more often.
She said success in rock climbing is “mind over matter.” In addition to physical strength, climbers must use strategy to decide which holds to grab or step on next.
Her goal is to progress gradually.
“I think it would be cool to go way up high,” she said.
A breast cancer survivor, Behling said her motivation is simple: “I want to be strong.”
She believes rock climbing would become easier as her fitness improves. The activity requires strength in the arms, hands and fingers, legs and abdominal muscles.
Behling is not deterred by her age. Her daughter, Faith, mastered the rock wall several years ago and plans to help her mother develop her skills.
“You’re as old as you feel,” Behling said.
Fort Wayne Animal Care and Control will once again be hosting a variety of canine communication classes this year. These classes will cover topics including canine body language, living with fearful dogs, and understanding canine aggression.
Training will be led by Lindsay Pease, a CPDT-KA and CBCC-KA accredited dog trainer and consultant, and Laura
Rowe, FWACC deputy director of medical and shelter operations. The cost to attend a class is just $15 per session, with all proceeds being donated to the FWACC Angel Fund.
“The canine communication classes are passion-driven, lowcost educational opportunities designed to support individuals working with common behavior and training challenges inside
By JIM CARPENTER Guest Writer
Looking back these past few years, I think it’s very plain to see. I didn’t know then but now I do.
I am changing but I am still me.
There comes a time to face the facts, in terms of being old in age. It’s not the end but it’s getting there.
You have reached a final stage.
You can adjust and try to like it.
You can fight it or let it be.
But I think it’s best to just accept.

IEvery one goes eventually. There is a loss but still and then, I think perhaps there is a gain.
The eyes of age might bring new life.
Searching out the good in change.
Life is but a metamorphosis.
The very best is yet to come. So I will write my poems about it.
Until this day is finally done.
the home, in a career, or even in a volunteer capacity,” said Rowe. Upcoming classes are:
• Thursday, Feb. 5, Canine Body Language.
• Thursday, Feb. 12, Understanding Canine Aggression.
• Monday, Feb. 23, Dog-to-Dog Communication.
• Wednesday, March 4, Canine Body Language.
Registration and times can be found in the “What’s Barking” section of the FWACC website at on the pet behavior help page of the website, and on the shelter’s Facebook page. Space is limited; early registration is recommended. New classes will be added as they become available.
FWACC is an open-access shelter and will never turn away an animal. Anyone struggling to care for their animal can contact the shelter for assistance.
If you are interested in learning more about the shelter, including city ordinances, adoption process, how to surrender, and ways to support the shelter including how to donate or volunteer, visit fwacc.org.
It’s easy! Simply find the ‘Groundhog’ on another page in this edition. Go online to www.SeniorLifeNewspapers.com and enter your information, the edition, date and page number you found it on. This will enter you for a chance to win a gift of $25.

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(Online Entries Only) Entries Must Be In By Monday, February 9, 2026.

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The winner of the I Spy Contest for January is Daniel Fox from Niles, Mich. The ‘Winter Wear’ was located on page 13 in Senior Life Allen; page 15 in Senior Life Northwest; page 7 in Senior Life Elko and page 18 in Senior Life St. Joseph.

Q. Where can I learn more about Medicare?
A. In this “tech” world that we live it today, there are many resources available online for anyone to learn more about Medicare and the differences between Medicare insurance options. If you look online, I recommend going to the source and visit Medicare.gov.
Additionally, some agents/brokers (such as myself) can provide answers to your questions and help you understand Medicare better. My agency offers education sessions that are open to the public every 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month – through September. During these free sessions, we go through the “ABC’s” of Medicare and explain the differences between Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Medicare


Walters Executive Vice President
plans. We are unable to discuss
Once you are ready to enroll, you are always welcome to schedule at time with one of our agents to discuss your personal needs.
Have additional questions? Give us a call at (260) 484-7010
Q. I live alone and have several chronic conditions. My neighbor attends the PACE Center for all her clinical and social care. Will my Medicare Advantage policy cover the costs?
A. The Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) is an excellent choice for the living situation you describe. The typical PACE participant is 76 years old and has 6 chronic conditions. The PACE model is recognized as having the capacity to bring geriatric expertise and care coordination to the specific needs of older adults. Participants have demonstrated a low risk of being admitted to a nursing home.

The program provides both clinical and social care at the PACE Center. The average Participant visits the Center 8 times per month, including transportation, 9 prescriptions, 10 in-home personal care contacts and 4 therapy encounters.
Because it is now Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment, you may have an option to sign up for traditional Medicare. The rules are case-specific, i.e. if your Medicare Advantage provider discontinued coverage in your zip code, you may be eligible to sign up for Medicare, Medicare Supplement and a Drug Plan. Please consult an AIHS SHIP Counselor and PACE Enrollment Staff for more information about your specific situation.
Q. What’s the difference between an elder law attorney and an estate planning attorney?
A. Estate planning and elder law often overlap, which leads to confusion, but estate planning primarily focuses on events occurring at death, while elder law focuses on events occurring during life.
The goal for an estate plan is an orderly and efficient transfer of your assets, carrying out and honoring your wishes. Planning typically includes wills, revocable living trusts, powers of attorney, advance healthcare directives, and beneficiary designations. Elder law, on the other hand, goes further to encompass planning for long-term care, asset preservation, spousal protection, guardianships, and Medicaid benefits.
A comprehensive legal plan often includes estate planning as a starting point,


Oil
tire rotations, and tuneups.
Major Repairs: Engine and transmission work, brake replacements, and exhaust system services (mufflers, tailpipes, repairs, and replacements).


Other Services: Power accessory repairs (locks, windows, antennas), light repair, bulb replacements, and pre-purchase inspections.
Barry Manilow
Who is the “I” in this wellknown oldie?
“I write the songs that make the whole world sing
“I write the songs of love and special things

A Boomer Blast To The Past
By RANDAL C. HILL
“I write the songs that make the young girls cry
“I write the songs, I write the songs.”
The answer may - no, willsurprise you.
These iconic lyrics are from the recording by Manhattanite Barry Manilow, a hit single that he didn’t write. Manilow also didn’t compose the second 45 of his to rocket to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart during the 1970s.
Early in his Arista Records career, the former jingle writer for commercials had balked about recording “Brandy,”
a song by American singer/ songwriter Scott English that had been a success in Britain.
After signing with Arista, Manilow had reluctantly done English’s tune as “Mandy.” A wise choice, as it became Barry’s first number one single.
Later, Arista’s president, music veteran Clive Davis, felt strongly that “I Write the Songs” also had success written all over it if only Manilow would record the tune.
Again, Manilow hesitated. He hadn’t written the work, and he felt that the lyrics sounded “egotistical.” But the rising star wasn’t so stubborn that he didn’t listen to his business-savvy boss, and Manilow was soon on his way to releasing his second Arista disc to grab the top Billboard spot.
Well, just who did compose “I Write the Songs”?
Here we need to swing the spotlight to Southern California and the land of the Beach Boys. Born in 1942, Bruce Johnston, the adopted son of the owner of the Rexall Drug chain, had grown up in the wealthy West Los Ange-
les suburb of Bel Air. Always enamored of music, Johnston mastered keyboards and the bass guitar.
He went to UCLA and later worked with record producer Terry Melcher (Doris Day’s son) before joining the Beach Boys in 1965 as a replacement for leader Brian Wilson, the pop-music genius who had recently trashed his brain with psychedelic drugs.
In the mid-1970s, Johnston temporarily stepped away from the popular band to go solo with an album called “Going Public.” His LP fizzled commercially, but it did contain his original composition of “I Write the Songs.”
Under Johnson’s guidance, that track featured a quiet, lightly orchestrated offering that would lack the near-bombastic dynamics of Manilow’s million-selling version. Manilow’s rendition featured an introduction of a tinkling piano and the gradual build to a dynamic conclusion, with Manilow’s rich voice soaring above a studio orchestra in full-throttle mode.
Many people have opined
that Johnston’s ballad was a tribute to Brian Wilson. Not true, Johnston testifies, and he cites the opening lines:
“I’ve been alive forever
“And I wrote the very first song
“I put the words and the melodies together
“I am music, and I write the songs.”
Had this song been about Brian?
Nope. The answer, which is hidden in plain sight, is that Johnston was talking about God. Later, Johnston even referred to his classic as a hymn.
Bibliography
Book: Bronson, Fred. “The Billboard Book of Number One Hits (Third Edition).” (P. 425) New York: Billboard Publications, Inc., 1992. Internet: Breihan, Tom. “The Number Ones: Barry Manilow’s ‘I Write the Songs.’” Aug. 20, 2019. stereogum.com.

BY
“Bruce Johnston: From ‘Pet Sounds’ to Pink Floyd and Having Time to ‘Smile.’” (No author listed) Nov. 15, 2011. rockabillynblues.blogspot. com. “I Write the Songs, Bruce Johnston” en.wikipedia.org. “I Write the Songs” by Barry Manilow. (No author or date listed) songfacts.com. By PhilipRomanoPhoto - Own work, CC BY 4.0, commons. wikimedia.org/w/index. php?curid=140854561.
Scheerer McCulloch:
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Several years ago, some friends whom had Moving can be a stressful experience for a wide range of people, not just seniors. Whether you’re downsizing, relocating for work, or handling life changes such as divorce or inheritance, the process can feel overwhelming. A few years ago, I spoke with friends who had recently moved from their family home to a retirement community. They shared how the coordination, delays, and stress made the experience challenging. This inspired me to expand our services beyond seniors to help anyone facing a move.
With a background in real estate, auctions, and appraisals, I recognized how our comprehensive services could ease the burden. Today, my team offers professional moving, real estate brokerage, antique and home appraisals,


auctioneering, floor planning, climate-controlled storage, and both online and onsite auctions. We also provide complete property clean-up, selling items, and removing non-salable belongings. Our goal is to make every move seamless, stress-free, and efficient.
We serve clients across surrounding counties and beyond, ensuring everyone has access to reliable, compassionate support during their transition. Contact us today for a free consultation and experience a smoother move. Call (260) 441-8636. We’re here to help.


Tim McCulloch, Owner
Q. What is the likelihood I will get a response if placing an ad in Senior Life?
A. If your product or service is geared to adults over the age of 50, Senior Life is the newspaper for you! According to CVC, our readers average 45 years of age and older and frequently purchase products or services from the ads they see in Senior Life (74.8%). Call or send me an email today to discuss adding Senior Life into your marketing strategy.



Editor’s note: Send listings of events, for nonprofit organizations only, to Senior Life, P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542, or email Editor Phoebe Muthart by the 20th of every month at pmuthart@the-papers.com. With the listing, include the contact person, area code and phone number.
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The Embassy Theatre and Outback Presents are proud to announce that stand-up comedian and renowned storyteller Ali Siddiq is bringing his In The Shadows Tour to the historic Embassy Theatre stage at 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026. Tickets went on sale Thursday, Oct. 30. Pricing: $32, $42 and $54 (plus applicable fees). VIP opportunities available. Tickets can be purchased at fwembassytheatre.org, ticketmaster.com and the STAR Bank box office at the Embassy (260-424-5665) at 125 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne.
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“Tinware in the Early American Home” set for 9-11:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 12, at Settlers Inc., 1424 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne. Settlers’ program on the History of Tinware will include a display of antique tinware, a hands-on tin-punch
craft and refreshments. Cost is $20. Parking is by the Swinney tennis courts. Reservations by Feb. 4. Call (260) 432-7314 or visit www.settlersinc.org.
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The John Chapman Kiwanis Foundation announces the 12th Annual Kiwanis ChocolateFest, a chocolate-themed fundraising event benefiting Riley Hospital for Children and other children’s charities, programs and projects serving underserved and underprivileged youth throughout Allen County and Northeast Indiana.
The event will take place from 6-9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13, (doors open at 5:30 p.m.) at Ceruti’s Diamond Room, 6601 Innovation Blvd., Fort Wayne. Held the Friday before Valentine’s Day, ChocolateFest offers an evening designed to delight chocolate lovers while supporting a meaningful cause.
Tickets are $65 each and will include the whole experience. Companies so inclined, may purchase a corporate VIP table of eight for $750. VIP tables, located in a prime area, will have a special centerpiece with the donor’s name, recognition in the donor summary brochure and other benefits.
For more information, to



reserve your tickets, become a sponsor or donate silent auction items, contact the John Chapman Kiwanis Foundation at (260) 637-8184.
There will be no tickets available for purchase at the door. Tickets are also available at givebutter.com/c/ChocolateFest2026.
—o—
The Embassy Theatre is excited to announce Down the Line 20 featuring five local bands, each paying tribute to a different era of music. This signature Embassy show will take place at 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21. Tickets are now on sale.
Tickets for this all-ages, general admission show are $20 if purchased at the box office. If purchased online, tickets are $23.50 (plus applicable convenience fees). The week of the show, ticket prices will increase to $25 at the box office and $28.50 online (plus convenience fees). Visit fwembassytheatre. org, ticketmaster.com or the STAR Bank Box Office at the Embassy (260-424-5665), located at 125 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne.
Doors open at 6 p.m. for general admission attendees. A limited early entry option is available for $30 at the box
office or $33.50 online (plus convenience fees).
Appleseed Quilters GuildMarch monthly meeting will be from 6:30-9 p.m. Tuesday, March. 3, at the Mizpah Shrine Center, 1015 Memorial Way, Fort Wayne. The meeting will feature speaker, Teri Fritch, Patchwork Playground, fun trunk show and pop-up vendor booth featuring modern fabric and other quilting supplies. For more information, visit appleseedquiltersguild.com. —o—
The Embassy Theatre and Outback Presents have partners to bring the Killers of Tony standup show to Fort Wayne at 7 p.m. March 20. Pricing: $36.75, $46.75, $56.75 and $66.75 (plus applicable fees). Tickets are currently on sale and can be purchased at fwembassytheatre.org, ticketmaster. com and at the STAR Bank box office at the Embassy, 125 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne. —o—
Holiday Showcase Exhibit: Fern’s Fairylight Express until April 12. All aboard the Botanical Conservatory’s journey of discovery, imagination and botanical wonder. This winter, step into a one-of-a-kind exhibit where the magic of trains
transports you to a whimsical world as part of an enchanting story by local Author/Illustrator Talitha Shipman. Read along and join your new favorite characters, Fern, Bug and Sprout on an unforgettable adventure through Fairy Glen. Experience the magical transformation of the Fairylight Express as you work together to get it back on track. The Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory is located at 1100 S. Calhoun St. in Fort Wayne.
—o—
Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation adds a new show to its lineup at the Foellinger Theatre. Honeywell Arts & Entertainment presents David Lee Roth Thursday, June 11. Tickets went on sale Friday, Jan. 9, and are available online at ticketmaster.com or in person at the Parks and Recreation Department, 705 E. State Blvd., Fort Wayne.
—o—
Woodlands Senior Activity Center
For more information, call (260) 248-8944 or visit whitleycountycouncilonaging.org. The center is located at 710 Opportunity Drive, Columbia City. Pixie bingo, 9 a.m. on the Continued on page 9




























Embassy Theatre offers a diverse lineup of February shows.
Despite winter’s cold temperatures, audiences can find
a variety of entertainment options indoors at the historic Embassy Theatre this month.
The Embassy is presenting - either independently or in
partnership - several events selected through a strategic programming approach that allows the organization to invest more heavily in each produc-
The community is invited to a chocolate walk and open house from 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11, at Adams Heritage, 12011 Whittern Road, Monroeville.
Adams Heritage provides care and compassion in a home-like setting and was recently recognized by U.S. News and World
Report as a 2026 Best Nursing Home, a distinction reflecting its commitment to excellence.
Guests are welcome to tour the facility and enjoy a warm, festive evening featuring hot cocoa, a chocolate walk experience, and cookies from Sorinna’s Bakery.
The event provides an opportunity for families and community members to learn more about the wide range of services offered, including short-term rehabilitation and long-term nursing care.
For questions, call (260) 6236440.
Genealogy workshops are scheduled at Allen County Public Library this month.
The Allen County Genealogical Society of Indiana Inc. is offering two, free special-interest groups focused on genealogy and family history research. The programs are open to the public and will be held at the library in downtown Fort Wayne.
The Family History and
Genealogy Workshop meets at 1 p.m. the third Wednesday of each month in The Genealogy Center on the library’s second floor. The next session is Wednesday, Feb. 18, and will continue the topic, researching legal and public documents on site and online.
The Family Tree Maker Users Group meets at 2:15 p.m. the third Wednesday of each month, also in The Genealogy
first, third and fifth Wednesdays of each month.
Center. The next meeting is Wednesday, Feb. 18, and will focus on entering data into genealogical software. The group covers programs including Family Tree Maker, RootsMagic and Legacy.
Both programs are free; no registration is required.
For more information, visit acpl.lib.in.us/genealogy, call (260) 421-1225 or email Genealogy@ACPL.Info.
tion. Strong attendance helps generate resources to support future arts and entertainment offerings for the community.
Embassy Presented Events
Saturday, Feb. 7 - Ali Siddiq: In the Shadows Tour.
Co-presented with Outback Presents. The event is recommended for audiences 16 and older and will be a phone-free experience. Siddiq is a standup comedian and storyteller.
Saturday, Feb. 14 - “Dirty Dancing” in concert.
A live-to-film concert event scheduled for Valentine’s Day.
Saturday, Feb. 21 - “Down the Line 20.”
The Embassy’s signature production featuring local musicians performing music from five iconic eras.
The Embassy Theatre is a nonprofit organization support-
ed by the community. Those interested in sponsoring Embassy Presents programming or becoming an Embassy member are encouraged to inquire. Other Events At The Embassy Thursday, Feb. 12 - Jerry Seinfeld: Live New Show.
Saturday, Feb. 28 - The music of “The Lord of the Rings,” “The Hobbit” and “The Rings of Power” in concert.
Saturday, Feb. 28 - “The Music of Hans Zimmer and Others: A Celebration of Film Music.”
Tickets are available through the STAR Bank Box Office at (260) 424-5665 or in person at 125 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Tickets may also be purchased at fwembassytheatre.org or ticketmaster.com.
Line dancing, 9 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
Continued from page 8 other Monday. The League, 1:30 p.m. every third Tuesday. Cash Bingo, 5 p.m. Thursday starting mid-January.
Euchre, 9-11 a.m. Tuesday and Friday.
Bible study with Cheryl, 9 a.m. Tuesday.
Alzheimer/Dementia by Aging & In Home Services, 10 a.m on the first Thursday of each month.
Chair exercises, 10 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
Drumming for Joy with Lindsay, 10:15-11:15 a.m. Wednesday.
Blood pressure check, 10:45 a.m. the second Wednesday.
Health class with Darcy Hoopingarner, 11 a.m. on the first Monday.
Birthday lunch/entertainment, second Thursday of each month. Lunch is at 11:30 a.m. and entertainment is at 12:15 p.m.
Rotary, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Tuesday.
Tenderloin lunch, 11:30 a.m. the third Monday of each month. Entertainment is at 12:15 p.m. Dominoes, noon Tuesday.
Rural Respite with Aging and In Home Services, noon to 3:30 p.m. Wednesday.
Miller’s craft/games, 12:15 p.m. the last Wednesday of each month.
Afternoon euchre, 12:30 p.m. Thursday.
Hand and foot card game, 12:30 p.m. Wednesday.
Bible study with Bob, 12:30 p.m. Tuesday.
Euchre tournament, 12:30 p.m. on the third Thursday.
Painting with Evie, 12:30 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month.
Mah Jongg, 1 p.m. every
Grieving with Kim, 6:30 p.m. on the second Thursday.
McMillen Park
Community Center
For information, visit fortwayneparks.org or call (260) 427-6000. The center is located at 3901 Abbott St., Fort Wayne.
Pickleball, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday to Friday.
Open gym, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Adult open gym, 6-8 p.m. Monday through Thursday.
Adult yoga, 6-7 p.m. Tuesday and noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday. Volleyball, 6-8 p.m. Monday.
Badminton, 6-8 p.m. Tuesday. CardioFit, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Monday and Thursday.
Essential steps, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Monday and 6-8 p.m. Wednesday.
Yoga for seniors, noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday.
Yoga for adults, 6-7 p.m. Tuesday.
Men’s basketball league, 6-9 p.m. Thursday.





















By CINDY LARSON Feature Writer
When people think of church ministries, food banks and clothing closets often come to mind. But those who work closely with people in need know the challenges often extend far beyond food and clothing.
One critical need is securing identification. Many people require help locating and obtaining their birth certificates - documents that are essential for acquiring a state ID, Social Security card and, ultimately, a job.
That’s where Ruth Small comes in.
Small, 83, volunteers with Inasmuch Ministry, where she helps clients recover their birth certificates. If the problem sounds minor, consider this: In the past five years, Inasmuch has helped recover 1,100 birth certificates.
“With a birth certificate, they can then apply for a state ID and then a Social Security card,” Small explained. “And that’s essential for getting a job.”
Inasmuch is affiliated with Broadway Christian Church in downtown Fort Wayne, where Small worships. She was baptized there in 1985 and later married there as well.
Her involvement with Inasmuch began in an unlikely place - Sam’s Club. In 2006, while shopping, she ran into Alyn Biddle, then the head of Inasmuch. The two knew each other through church. Biddle told her the ministry was growing so quickly that he needed an assistant.
Small jumped at the chance to volunteer. Her primary focus became locating birth certificates.
“We just jumped in and did it,” she said.

Birth certificates can originate from anywhere in the U.S., making the process time-consuming. International birth certificates, she said, are even more challenging to obtain.
Her biggest concern, Small said, is “making sure I do the right thing.”
She volunteers from 5-7 p.m. Mondays and from 9 to 11 a.m. Fridays, typically assisting three to five clients each session.
“They are so grateful,” she said of the clients. “We get a lot of hugs.”
For Small, the most rewarding part of volunteering is sharing her faith.
“First is that I get to share Jesus Christ with them,” she said. “We all have a purpose in serving the Lord. We listen to them and pray for them.”
Small has no plans to step away from her volunteer role anytime soon. She said she’ll continue “as long as I can see well enough to fill out the form.”
In addition to a food pantry, clothing closet and assistance with birth certificates, Inasmuch provides bus passes and offers help with housing, health insurance, and limited financial assistance for housing and utilities.
For more information, call (260) 422-3498 or visit inasmuchfw.org.

Valentine’s Day is special.
The average person spends 20,000 minutes in their lifetime kissing. Again, this is simply an average. Your smooching may vary depending on whether you attend a lot of Greek weddings or have more than 15 grandchildren.
I’m not an overly competi-
Concordia Cemetery & Cremation Gardens
Burial Lots
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&
The Audio Reading Service is for individuals of any age with visual, physical, learning, or language challenges to reading printed materials. This is a free service of the Allen County Public Library.
CONTACT US: AUDIOREADER@ACPL.INFO (260) 421-1376




tive person, but I do believe in keeping up with the Joneses, who, by the way, are our newlywed neighbors down the street. The Fettermans next door have been married 40 years, so I’m thinking those folks may represent a more realistic role model for me.

I assume I’ve been rolling along at an acceptable rate up until now, but why not increase my output so my obit can read: Exceeded the standard kissing time by 2,000 minutes. Even my harshest critics would be forced to concede that when it came to lips, I was successful at putting two and two together.
By DICK WOLFSIE
When Mary Ellen came home the other night, I gave her the customary hello, but I realized that if I lingered a few seconds longer in the osculation and then multiplied that time by my predicted life span, I could increase my total production
by 20%. Osculation, by the way, is the scientific name for kissing. Don’t use that word during romantic encounters. It’ll have a negative impact on your lifetime total.
After 30 years of marriage, my wife became instantly aware that I had breached the unwritten rule for time spent on the customary: “Hi, honey, I’m home from work” kiss.
“What was that all about?” she asked.
“Is something wrong?”
“Your kiss. There was this delay. You were loitering on my cheek. You do know it’s only Thursday.”
The question, of course, is how they ever came up with 20,000 minutes. I did a little math, and it looks like if your kissing career spans 75 years, you need to kiss about 47.4 seconds a day to reach this goal. I’m a happily married guy, but there are a couple of days a
By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features
It’s time to repair your ailing air-conditioning unit. Or your fridge is on the fritz and you need your manual to help rectify the problem. Do you know where it is?
Besides being a link to the world of information and research, the internet also allows you to check with the manufacturer’s website to seek out a manual for the proper model of your particular product. Mature Life Features Copyright 2025
week that, to reach this number, I would have to count my relationship with the dog (we’re just best friends, I assure you) and my new Big Bertha driver, which gets a little extra lovin’ whenever I don’t hit a ball out of bounds.
Dentyne has a Facebook page where customers put their kissers right online, revealing truelife stories about kissing. About 12,000 individuals are seeking advice on how to inform loved ones about their halitosis. Actually, it’s only 11,258 people. The rest are beagles, cocker spaniels, St. Bernards and the like, put off by humans who insist on going nose to snoot without first freshening their breath.
The Facebook site also notes: “You kiss 20,000 minutes in your lifetime. What about the other 40 million moments?” Huh? It’s bad enough I’m now obsessed with maintaining a respectable record in the puckering department, but apparently a slew of other situations exist where your breath should be pristine. There’s something to chew on.
In order for my wife and me to someday reach the national average, I’m really going to need her full cooperation. Last night, I told Mary Ellen how beautiful she is and how great dinner was. I think I have a chance of reaching that 20,000 mark - as long as kissing up counts.

By RANDAL C. HILL
Eleanor Friede was discouraged. As a senior editor at New York’s prestigious Macmillan publishing house, she seemed to be the only person there who believed in her latest project, a small hardcover book by aviation writer Richard Bach. Its title was “Jonathan Livingston Seagull,” and it consisted of fewer than 9,000 words of text spread over 43 of its 93 pages, as well as copious (and often blurry) photos of seagulls.
Bach’s work was a simple, allegorical account of one gull’s goal. He had wanted to achieve perfection in flight, something that others in his flock had labeled impossible, or at least a silly waste of time.
Friede’s workplace peers had called Bach’s heartfelt creation “Friede’s Folly.” But Friede, undaunted, persisted until her publisher - with scant fanfare and minimal promotion - put “Jonathan Livingston Seagull” on the market in 1970.
Bach, who had been advanced a paltry $2,000, was as amazed as anyone -including Friede - about what happened next.
Fueled primarily by wordof-mouth support, “Jonathan” flew off the bookshelf (pun intended) during the early 1970s. For 38 weeks, it held the Number One spot on the New York Times best-seller list. It eventually sold over 3 million hardback copies.
Some literary critics dismissed Bach’s work as lightweight hipsterism, although many book buyers proclaimed Bach’s Christian Science-influenced handiwork either a spiritual or a self-help guide that, doggone it, made people feel good - well, maybe more than just “good” - when they read it.
The idea of piloting a plane had always intrigued Bach. By age 17, he was polishing small aircraft in exchange for flying lessons. He later became an Air Force captain and, after departing the military, penned three books and numerous articles about aviation. But times were often hard for the writer.
Sometimes, he delivered phone books or sold jewelry to

put food on the table for his rapidly growing family. Once his car was repossessed by his bank.
However, an incident in 1959 in the Belmont Shores area of Long Beach, Calif., would change his fortunesand his life. Strolling alone by a fog-shrouded canal one night, he heard a crystal-clear voice behind him utter three words: “Jonathan Livingston Seagull.” (Jonathan Livingston had been a great racing pilot in the 1930s.) When Bach turned around, nobody was there. He hurried home and dashed off a 3,000-word tale. Richard then forgot about it
By CECIL SCAGLIONE
Mature Life Features
Coffee breaks are being recognized as more than just a brief respite from work.
Caffeine can be good for you.
Moderation matters in all corners of our lives but up to three cups a day can be healthy.
Critics warn that caffeine dehydrates your system, increases hypertension and the risk of heart attack, cuts down on your ability to sleep, is linked to gout attacks, raises blood pressure, and brings on anxiety, heartburn and stomach problems.
While coffee fans admit much of this may be true, there’s a growing list of benefits for those who drink coffee.
medications so go over your list of prescriptions and supplements with your primary care physician to make sure coffee is compatible.
Among the benefits being attributed to coffee is the ability to relieve a headache, as well as protecting the liver and offering defense against strokes and cancer of the mouth and throat.
Coffee drinkers who get agitated or jittery after too
many cups of coffee have found that drinking decaf soothes the nerves, while providing the same benefits. Cutting back on the milk and sugar also limits your calorie intake. If coffee straight doesn’t suit your taste, try adding such flavor enhancers as cinnamon that not only improve the taste but adds healthy benefits of their own

for eight years. In 1967, he awoke one morning from a dream about seagulls. So strong was the impression it made on him that he hurriedly rewrote “Jonathan Livingston Seagull,” the story gushing forth in a tsunami of words. When he had honed the brief book to a misty sort of perfection, Bach rushed it off to several publishers. They all turned thumbs down on the thin manuscript before it landed on Friede’s desk. Some booksellers expressed frustration over just where to shelve the best-seller. Should it be filed under philosophy,
nature, religion or children’s books?
Friede’s sage advice? “Put it next to the cash register.”
Bibliography
Book: Bach, Richard. “Jonathan Livingston Seagull: A Story.” New York: The Macmillan Company, 1970. Internet: Richard Bach, Jonathan Livingston Seagull. (No author or date listed) en.wikipedia.org. De Chardin, Teilhard. “It’s a Bird! It’s a Dream! It’s Supergull!” Nov. 13, 1972. time.com. Walters, Jr., Raymond. “Seven Ways Not to Make a Best Seller.” July 23, 1972. The Friede quote from nytimes.com.

Where Compassion Meets Excellence
Surprisingly, it’s been discovered that an eight-ounce cup of java contains more disease-fighting antioxidants than a regular serving of oranges or blueberries.
We are proud to provide compassionate care.
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Coffee drinkers reportedly have a lower risk of such chronic conditions as diabetes and heart disease as well as less cognitive decline as they age.
Researchers have found that seniors who have as many as four cups of coffee a day cut in half their risk of heart disease compared with those who take in less caffeine.
• Outpatient Therapy (coming soon)
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Je erson Pointe’s Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy teams have over 100 years of experience combined!
Je erson Pointe’s Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy teams have over 100 years of experience combined!
Je erson Pointe’s Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy teams have over 100 years of experience combined!
Je erson Pointe’s Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy teams have over 100 years of experience combined!
Je erson Pointe’s Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy teams have over 100 years of experience combined!
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5700 Wilkie Dr, Fort Wayne, IN 46804
5700 Wilkie Dr, Fort Wayne, IN 46804
Phone: 260.432.7556
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1201 Daly Dr, New Haven, IN 46774
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Phone: 260.432.7556
5700 Wilkie Dr, Fort Wayne, IN 46804
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Majestic Care of New Haven 1201 Daly Dr, New Haven, IN 46774 Phone: 260.749.0413
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Medical experts point out caffeine interacts with many
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By DAWN SELKE Chief Experience Officer Paradigm Health
Living with a serious illness affects more than the body. It touches emotions, relationships, daily routines, and personal choices. Palliative care exists to support people through all of it.
uncertain times.
Paradigm Health’s Palliative Care Program serves individuals with advanced illnesses who want relief from symptoms while continuing treatment when appropriate. The goal is improved comfort, improved clarity and improved daily life.
Palliative care brings an added layer of support. Patients receive help managing pain, shortness of breath, nausea, fatigue, and other symptoms that interfere with living well. Families receive guidance, education, and reassurance during
Care extends beyond physical needs. Paradigm Health’s interdisciplinary team supports emotional, cultural, psycho-social, and spiritual concerns. Patients and families receive help discussing goals of care, understanding treatment choices, and planning for the future based on their personal values.
Paradigm Health’s nurse practitioners work closely with a patient’s primary doctor and specialists to keep everyone on the same page. This teamwork helps reduce unnecessary hospital visits and allows care to stay focused on what matters most to the patient.
Many families notice meaningful benefits, greater comfort, improved quality of life and fewer unwanted medical interventions. When illness progresses, the transition to hospice feels smoother and
families feel better prepared. Palliative care does not replace primary care. It works alongside existing physicians and treatments. Services bill through Medicare Part B or
commercial insurance, similar to a physician visit. Paradigm Health holds national accreditation for both hospice and palliative care programs, reflecting a com-
mitment to high standards, compassion, and trust.
To learn more about palliative care or request a consultation, call (260) 247-6500 or visit myparadigmhealth.com.
The local chapter of the League of Women Voters is hosting a free civic literacy event Monday, Feb. 9, in Purdue University’s Walb Student Union, Fort Wayne. The 6:30 p.m. event will take place in room 222-226.
Speakers for the event are Nicole Keesling, vice chair of the Allen County Republican Party, and Chad Wierzbinski, chairman of the Allen County Democratic Party.
“This is a rare opportunity
to hear from both the Republican and Democratic leaders about their plans for the 2026 mid-term elections and how voters can get involved locally,” said Betsy Kachmar, co-chair of the LWVFW.
Participants will be able to ask questions and learn more about the campaign and voting processes. Information on vote centers, new for Allen County in 2026, will also be available.
PFW students may use
this forum to complete necessary civic literacy requirements.
The LWV is a non-partisan, nonprofit dedicated to educating citizens of their rights and responsibilities as voters.
This year’s primary election is Tuesday, May 5, with early voting beginning Tuesday, April 7. Voter registration ends Monday, April 6. For more information, visit lwvfw.org or facebook.com/ lwvfw or call (260) 740-7168.
Adams Heritage

12011 Whittern Road, Monroeville, IN 46773 (260) 623-6440 • www.adamsheritage.org
Rehabilitation Unit, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Semi-Skilled Nursing Intermediate Care, Therapies: Speech, Occupational, Physical, Respiratory, Outpatient Therapy, Long Term Care, Temporary Care, Private/Semi-Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Hospice Care. Medicare and/or Medicaid.
Adams Woodcrest

1300 Mercer Avenue, Decatur, IN 46733 (260) 724-3311 • www.adamswoodcrest.org
Assisted Living, Rehabilitation Unit, Memory Care Unit, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Semi-Skilled Nursing, Intermediate Care, Therapies: Speech, Occupational, Physical, Respiratory, Long Term Care, Temporary Care, Private/Semi-Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Hospice Care, Medicare and/or Medicaid.

3136 Goeglein Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46815 (260) 749-9655 • Greencroft.org/GoldenYears
Comprehensive care with assisted living, rehabilitation, skilled nursing, memory care, respite care, and on-site/outpatient therapy; Medicare/ Medicaid accepted.
Marquis

300 East Washington Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN 46802 (260) 422-5511 • jmull@tgmsi.com
Assisted Living; 50+ Community; Pets Allowed; Medicaid Waiver; Private Rooms; Weekly Events; RCAP Program; Conveniently Located; 24/7 Nursing Staff; On-site Therapy; Downtown Lifestyle; Concierge Service; Smoking Area; Restaurant Style Dining
Care Center of Fort Wayne

1649 Spy Run Avenue, Fort Wayne, IN 46805 (260) 422-8520 • www.lcca.com
Rehabilitation Unit, Alzheimer’s Unit, Skilled-Licensed Nursing Or Intermediate Care, Therapies: Speech-Occupational-Physical, Long Term Care, Respite Care, Wound Care, Outpatient Therapy, Medical Transportation, Medicare/Medicaid, Pet Visitation Allowed

The Cedars

702 Sawyer Rd., Kendallville, IN 46755 (260) 347-3333 • www.orchardpointehc.com
Offering Memory Care, Assisted & Independent Living Apartments and Skilled Services. We’ll meet you with the appropriate level of care wherever you are — whether you’re fully independent or looking for additional assistance. Call us.
14409 Sunrise Court, Leo, IN 46765 (260) 627-2191 • www.thecedarsrc.com
Assisted Living, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Semi-Skilled Nursing Or Intermediate Care, Therapies: Speech-Occupational-RespiratoryPhysical, Long Term Care, Temporary Care, Private/Semi-Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Hospice Care, Medicare and/or Medicaid
The Village at Anthony Boulevard

6701 S. Anthony Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN 46816 (260) 447-1591 • www.ABetterWayofLiving.org
Assisted Living, Rehab Unit, Alzheimer’s Unit, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Intermediate Care, Therapies: Speech, Occupational, Respiratory, Physical, Long Term Care, Temporary Care, Private/Semi-Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Hospice Care, Medicare and/or Medicaid, Outpatient Therapy

46755-0429 (260) 347-2256 • www.ABetterWayofLiving.org Rehab Unit, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Therapies: Speech, Occupational, Respiratory, Physical, Outpatient Therapy, Long Term Care, Temporary Care, Private/Semi-Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Hospice Care, Medicare/Medicaid, 3 Years Deficiency Free Surveys

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ADAMS WOODCREST
1300 Mercer Avenue
Decatur, IN 46733
Phone: (260) 724-3311
www.adamswoodcrest.org
Independent Living, Cottages, Villas, Apartments, Residential & Assisted Living, Short Term Rehab (PT, OT, ST), Healthcare & Dementia Care, Skilled & Intermediate, Long Term Nursing Care, Life Enrichment Activities, Fitness Center Membership

THE CEDARS
14409 Sunrise Court
Leo, IN 46765
Phone: (260) 627-2191
www.thecedarsrc.com
Complete Retirement Amenities: Skilled & Intermediate Long Term Nursing Care, Assisted & Residential Apartments, Total Rehab Unit, Villa Of The Cedars With Condominium Homes - “Come To The Country”

LIFE CARE CENTER OF FORT WAYNE 1649 Spy Run Avenue
Fort Wayne, IN 46805
Phone: (260) 422-8520
www.lifecarecenteroffortwaynein.com
Newly remodeled facility, top-of-the-line service for rehab patients. Rapid rehab program, separate wing with 30 rehab suites — private single bed for short-term patients. Medicare, Medicaid & insurances accepted.

HOMEBOUND MEALS
PO Box 10179
Fort Wayne, IN 46850
Phone: (260) 422-3296
www.homeboundmealsfw.org
Homebound Meals, Inc. volunteers deliver nutritious, medically tailored meals to seniors and homebound individuals in Fort Wayne and surrounding areas.

INTEGRITY HOME CARE, LLC
Fort Wayne, IN
Phone: (260) 452-9691
ajones@integrityhhc.com
“Stay Home With Integrity.” Providing assistance to those in need in the comfort of their own home.

AT HOME HEALERS HOMECARE LLC
7230 Engle Road, Suite 205, Fort Wayne, IN 46804
Phone: (260) 702-0897
care@athomehealershc.com
www.athomehealershc.com
Personalized centered care: post surgery, Alzheimers & Dementia specialized support, Veteran & personal assistance (bathing, dressing, grooming), light housekeeping, daily/weekly meal prep, appointment transportation. No minimum hourly contract, 24/HR care, two nurse owned & operated, FREE in-home assessment!


COMFORT KEEPERS
3182 Mallard Cove Lane
Fort Wayne, IN 46804
Phone: (260) 484-5858
MollyTritch@comfortkeepers.com
Comfort Keepers provides award winning in-home care for seniors and other adults in need of assistance with daily activities.


BRIGHTSTAR

333 E. Washington Blvd.
Fort Wayne, IN 46802
Phone: (260) 918-0933
www.brightstarcare.com/fort-wayne
Enthusiastic, kind personal level client care connection, 24/7 support enables clients to check on loved ones. Rigorous caregiver screen/background check ensures optimal security & family peace of mind.

HUMANE FORT WAYNE IN-HOME SERVICES 901 Leesburg Road
Fort Wayne, IN 46808
Phone: (260) 744-0454
www.humanefw.org/get-help/pet-promises/ This FREE program helps seniors care for their pets. Services include grooming, walking, waste clean-up, wellness checks, transportation and more.
MAJESTIC CARE OF JEFFERSON POINTE
5700 Wilkie Drive
Fort Wayne, IN 46804
Phone: (260) 432-7556
www.majesticcare.com/location/Jefferson-Pointe
Short-term Rehab, Outpatient Therapy, Long-term Care, Memory Care, In-House Dialysis, Mild Behaviors Unit. Medicaid Accepted. Where Compassion Meets Excellence.


By VICTOR BLOCK Guest Columnist
While taking a recent journey through several southeastern states, I knocked on an unmarked wood door, uttered a secret password and was admitted into a throwback Prohibition-era speakeasy in Savannah, Ga.
Later, I took a horse-drawn carriage ride through Beaufort, S.C., a picturesque town that has served as backdrop for more than 100 movies and TV shows.
I was traveling aboard the American Eagle, one of American Cruise Lines ships that ply U.S. waters. The voyage went from Florida’s Amelia Island to Charleston, S.C. via the Intracoastal Waterway.
Along the way, the ship docked at some of the south’s most charming cities and towns, and the outings at each port appealed to many interests. For starters, I checked out the American Prohibition Museum in Savannah, where displays bring the “Roaring Twenties” back to life in
MAY 4:THE TULIPS OF HOLLAND MICHIGAN Veldheers Tulip Farm, Lunch, Holland Bowl Mill and Windmill Island
MAY 18-22: BRANSON in The SPRING: 5 Shows Shepherd of the Hills Drama & Cowboy Dinner, Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, Clay Cooper, The Duttons, & Doug
JUNE
JUNE 17-23:
JULY 22-23:
a colorful way.
A beer truck is parked amid a mob of sign-carrying mannequin protesters. A soundtrack broadcasts evangelist Billy Sunday railing against “king alcohol.”
A portrait of August Anheuser Busch Sr., the brewing magnate, comes alive and engages in a debate with the picture of a female member of the Temperence League hanging nearby. After viewing the exhibits, guests enter a nondescript door and are immersed in the realistic setting of a 1920s speakeasy.
Passengers who went ashore at Hilton Head Island, S. C. could visit alligators at a wildlife preserve or take a dolphin-watching cruise. In Brunswick, Ga., they could check out a 19th-century rice plantation or take a ride on a shrimping boat.
Beaufort (pronounced BYOO-fert), S. C. has a small-town atmosphere, streets lined by graceful antebellum homes and overhead canopies of Spanish moss-festooned oak trees. Hollywood’s love affair with the town began in 1914 when scenes for the film ”The Americans” were shot there. Viewing it all from a wagon pulled by a straw hat-wearing horse named Bandit added to the ambiance.
On the last day of the cruise, I took a tour of Charleston’s cobblestone streets and squares. Founded in 1670, the city’s architectural style is the unique “single house,” with a narrow, one-room-width side facing the street. That design was necessary during the Colonial era, when a wall enclosed the miniscule, 62acre town, and space was limited. A long list of other tours also was available to passengers. In Charleston, they included a visit to the magnificent Magnolia Gardens and Plantation, founded in 1676, and Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired.
During time between ports, passengers could choose from almost around-the-clock activities available on the ship. Lecturers described the next day’s shore excursions and delved into topics like the Music of the Civil War, the Civil War at Sea and Early American Religion.
Fun and games included bingo, trivia and arts and crafts. A Veterans Appreciation Ceremony honored passengers who had served in the military, and those traveling on their own could attend a solo travelers meetup.
Evening entertainment was Continued on page 15










ADDING TO THE AMBIANCE A ride in a horse-drawn carriage in Beaufort, S.C., added to the ambiance. Photo by Carrie Hanrahan, Deramstime.com.

A STROLL THROUGH THE PLANTATION Visitors strole through the Magnolia Gardens and Plantation, founded in 1676. Photo by Margaret619, Dreamstime.com.
equally varied, including live music, a talented ventriloquist and an equally gifted Gullah woman. She described and demonstrated the unique culture, customs and cuisine of that African American ethnic group which is centered in the area.
By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features
It’s bad enough to know that eight out of 10 people in the jetliner cabin has some version of flight phobia, but the added strain of airport searching and air-fare and luggage pricing and fees for a pillow and blanket has upgraded the number of unruly, impolite, rude and downright ornery passengers on your flight.
Piling on the stress of sitting in the middle seat are seatmates with cute little pets and oversize bags packed under foot.
And almost every air-travel trip recap and recollection is dominated by complaints rather than contentment.
• “The guy in front of me who puts his seat all the way back so I can’t even move my knees.”
• “When I get an aisle seat, everybody - even the flight attendant - bumps me when they go up and down the aisle.”
• “The blind on the window seat rarely works - it either won’t stay up or stay down.”
• “The cool air blower blows right down my neck.”
Sound familiar.
Yet people keep flying, despite the fact that ticket prices are climbing at jet speed and airlines are shaving flights from their schedules so their planes will be crammed full.
It’s important to remember the majority of fellow passengers aboard your plane are emotionally brittle because of their
flying phobias, which range from anxiety to claustrophobia to pure panic.
Almost 20% of the adult population cannot fly.
John Madden, legendary coach of the Oakland Raiders, never set foot in an airplane after his panic attack in 1979. He continued his sports-commentator career by traveling coast to coast in a motor home.
The fact that the U.S. National Safety Council Statistics has proved over and over that flying is much safer than traveling in traffic has not diminished the number of fearful flyers. An average of some 20,000 people die on the road in the U.S. in a six-month period. This is about the same total of all commercial air travel fatalities worldwide in 40 years.
While flying may be safe, it appears each flight has become less safe.
The internet is packed as tightly as a jet plane with videos of confrontations in airports and on airlines over who should get on first or get off first.
Noting a “disturbing increase in incidents where airline passengers have disrupted flights with threatening or violent behavior,” the Federal Aviation Administration adopted a zero-tolerance policy for those who “interfere with, physically assault, or threaten to physically assault aircraft crew or anyone else on an aircraft” and increased fines.
Mature Life Features Copyright 2025
By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features
As you motor around the country, visiting the grandkids or getting to see the sites on your to-do list or heading back for a class reunion, you can also travel back through time to trace your ancestry. When you get to your home
town, you can leaf through local records to trace your forebears back as far as they lived in that location. Having pored through your lineage on line or through family files, you can stop on the way there or the way back home in towns and cities mentioned in your chronicles. It’s a good way to see America as well as trace your ancestors.
Mature Life Features Copyright 2025
Of course, cruises are known for their abundant food options. Fresh-baked cookies were served twice a day; nibbles and beverages were available 24/7
Continued from page 14 and a snack bar offered light breakfasts and lunches on the deck. The evening feast included a pre-dinner cocktail hour with more-than-ample hors d’oeuvres and ended in the white-tablecloth dining room. The menus often reflected the culture and tastes of the region through which we were traveling: crabcakes, barbecued pork chops and shrimp and grits. American Cruise Lines’ small ships (90 to 180 passengers) are specifically designed to navigate
this country’s waterways and coastlines. They’re known for offering spacious staterooms many of which have floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that lead to an outside private balcony. You may choose from dozens of itineraries and opt to travel in a modern river boat or classic paddle wheeler. The ships frequently skip touristy ports in favor of smaller, often overlooked destinations. For more information, visit americancruiselines. com or call (800) 814-6880.
By NESS BROS.
Downsizing can offer significant financial advantages for seniors looking to simplify their lifestyle and make retirement savings last longer. From lowering monthly expenses to freeing up home equity, moving to a smaller or more manageable home can provide both financial relief and peace of mind.
Smaller homes often come with lower mortgage payments - or no mortgage at all if the current home sells for enough to cover the purchase. Monthly costs such as utilities, property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, and routine maintenance are typically reduced as well.
Selling a larger home can free up a substantial amount of cash. Proceeds can be used to cover retirement living expenses, health care costs, travel, or invested to generate additional income
Older, larger homes can be costly to maintain, with expenses for roof repairs, landscaping, and ongoing upkeep. Downsizing to a smaller or newer home often lowers the risk and cost of major repairs and reduces the physical demands of home maintenance.
Seniors who have lived in their home for at least two of the past five years may qualify to exclude up to $250,000 in capital gains from income taxes ($500,000 for married couples) when selling their home. Consulting a tax professional is recommended to understand individual eligibility.
With fewer unexpected expenses, financial planning becomes more predictable. Lower and more consistent costs can reduce stress and help retirement income stretch further.


Our Services Include
• Assisting in Organizing
• Determining what to Sell, Keep or Donate
• Pack for the Move
• Inventory Appraising
• Move Management
• Overseeing Repairs, Painting, Cleaning and Staging Home for Sale
• Selling Personal Property & Real Estate
• Assisting Executors, Attorneys, Trustees Huntington 260.356.3911 | Fort Wayne 260.459.3911 www.SeniorRelocationServices.info

Funds from a home sale can be set aside for future health care needs or used to pay for assisted living or retirement communities. In some cases, moving to a community that includes maintenance, meals, and transportation can lower overall living costs compared to maintaining a private home.
Reducing housing expenses can significantly decrease withdrawals from retirement accounts, helping savings last longer and providing greater financial security.
Some seniors choose to downsize into communities or states with lower income, property, or
estate taxes, further increasing long-term savings. Ready to explore your options? The Senior Relocation Team can help answer questions and guide you through the right-sizing process - every step of the way. Contact us in Fort Wayne at (260) 459-3911 or Huntington at (260) 356-3911. Visit NessBros. com or stop by one of our offices at 3344 Mallard Cove Lane, Fort Wayne, 519 N. Jefferson St., Huntington.
By WENDY BEER Scheerer McCulloch Auctioneers
Scheerer McCulloch Auctioneers has established itself as a leading auction company specializing in the sale of rare and collectible items. The firm’s experienced team focuses on helping clients maximize value through professional and transparent auction processes.
The company recently auctioned several notable collectibles, including a new, unopened Legoland Castle Sys-
tem: King’s Mountain Fortress; a new, unopened Lego System Wolfpack Tower; and a vintage Lego Black Seas Barracuda pirate ship, No. 6285. The pirate ship was assembled and may be incomplete, a factor that added interest for collectors. The items drew strong attention from enthusiasts, reflecting continued demand for well-maintained and hardto-find collectibles.
Scheerer McCulloch offers services beyond auction sales, including expert appraisals, targeted marketing and secure handling of items through-
out the auction process. The company works with individual collectors, estate executors and business owners, tailoring services to each client’s needs.
Scheerer McCulloch emphasizes integrity and results, aiming to connect valuable items with interested buyers. Recent auctions highlight the firm’s ability to attract competitive bidding for collectible assets. For more information about auction services or upcoming auctions, contact Scheerer McCulloch Auctioneers at (260) 441-8636.
By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features
The old saw about the rising young man who was a credit to his community because he owed money to everyone in town takes on a finer edge during these fiscally fatiguing times.
It’s not very fashionable to peek at your credit report right now. A recent survey reveals that almost half the population has no idea what their credit score is.
The biggest stumbling block in the way of understanding your credit situation is not checking your credit score. Second is not understanding what is consid-
ered bad credit.
To begin with, it’s been reported that 25% of credit reports have serious errors that can contribute to a lower credit score. So check your credit score.
Each of the three major credit-reporting bureaus - Equifax, Experian and TransUnion - is required to provide you with a free report once a year. So you can space your requests to get a free fresh report every four months.
You can do it online. Just type the name of the agency in your search engine. Review the report and correct any errors immediately.
The tipping point for good or
If you are turning 65 or retiring, call us today to set up a time to learn more about Medicare Advantage plans.
If you are turning 65 or retiring, call us today to set up a time to learn more about Medicare Advantage plans.
With one-to-one support from an agent, you can get clear, helpful answers to all your Medicare questions, big and small. You’ll learn why so many people choose Medicare Advantage, as well as which plans best meet your specific health, budget and medication needs. And you can enroll with confidence, knowing that 4 out of 5 members recommend UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage coverage.
bad credit has been wavering. A 100% score is 850, leading some folks to believe that scoring in the 400 range is pretty good. Not so. Even a score in the 600 range is not considered healthy.
The difference between a good and bad score is in the eyes of the lender.
Your payment history most likely has the biggest impact on your score. Second comes the amount you owe.
While the world of finance is not closed to those with bad credit, they pay more for interest, fees and the cost of services than borrowers with higher credit scores.
You can learn to live with bad credit. For example. if you have more than one card, keep your charges revolving so you don’t overload one card, which can damage your score.
With one-to-one support from an agent, you can get clear, helpful answers to all your Medicare questions, big and small. You’ll learn why so many people choose Medicare Advantage, as well as which plans best meet your specific health, budget and medication needs. And you can enroll with confidence, knowing that 4 out of 5 members recommend UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage coverage. Contact us today at 1-844-236-3281, TTY 711.
If you are turning 65 or retiring, call us today to set up a time to learn more about Medicare Advantage plans.
With one-to-one support from an agent, you can get clear, helpful answers to all your Medicare questions, big and small. You’ll learn why so many people choose Medicare Advantage, as well as which plans best meet your specific health, budget and medication needs. And you can enroll with confidence, knowing that 4 out of 5 members recommend UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage coverage.
Contact us today at 1-844-236-3281, TTY 711.
Contact us today at 1-844-236-3281, TTY 711.
