As with many event causalities that occurred due to the COVID-19, the annual Walk in Waynedale was no exception and has been postponed until 2021.
But the group of volunteers who typically plan that event brainstormed and quickly created a pandemic . . .
In June, for the third consecutive month, Waynedale United Methodist Church Food Bank handed out free meals to the community via a drive thru. Last November, they served Thanksgiving dinner, and continued on with a once a month free meal served in . . .
When doing research for a previous article I ran across some footage of a “Teleskater”. Women in dresses wore roller skates and glided back and forth in front of a huge switchboard somehow connecting random lines to switchboard operators who finished . . .
When I think of staunch longtime Waynedale supporters, GMI Insurance quickly jumps to mind. They are an organization who pulls out all the stops at community events with their support. Located on Bluffton Road, they are a local Independent Insurance . . .
April is National Volunteer Month and I’d like to take this opportunity to highlight two of our own long term Waynedale residents. Rosemary Ankenbruck and Rita Mahoney have been Hospitality Hosts at the Fort Wayne International Airport for many years. . . .
Members of Waynedale United Methodist Church learned about an important program providing real hope for our military heroes. The Military BibleStick reaches service men and women, deployed in some of the most dangerous areas of the world, with God’s . . .
I was always fascinated by the stories my 93-year-old Grandmother would share about her youth. I remember her telling us about the hobos that would visit her home near the railroad. Hobos were migrant workers or homeless vagrants who hopped trains . . .
Fall is here and do you find yourself yearning for a tender Apple Dumpling nestled in a pool of gooey sauce? Mmmmm, yes! Available only one time a year and made by dedicated United Methodist Women, this story of fresh handmade Apple Dumplings dates . . .
Saturday, August 10 was a beautiful, sunny morning for more than 50 area residents to congregate for a local Prayer Walk. Organized by Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, the Walk was designed to circle our Waynedale community schools and neighborhoods . . .
To the Waynedale Community,
THANK YOU for making our inaugural Walk In Waynedale a success! During a wrap meeting Monday with our dedicated committee members, we estimated that well over 1,200 people attended this new event.
Due to outgrowing Waynedale . . .
In 2011, with a $5,000 loan from his parents in his pocket, 19-year-old Bo Gonzalez was about to realize his dream of owning a food truck specializing in inventive hot dogs. Fast forward eight years and Bo’s initial vision has evolved into much more, . . .
Mount Calvary Lutheran Church began in the 1920’s as a Sunday School Mission in what was once considered a “remote” area of Waynedale. Founded and led by Pastor Herman H. Backs, it started as a small sparse wooden building on the muddy streets . . .
Incorporated on January 24th, 1962 and comprised of 385 homes, Lake Shores Community Association, is one of the larger neighborhoods in Waynedale. Airport Expressway divides the lots into an East side with 179 homes and the West side made up of 206 homes. The houses were all built between 1962 and 2017.
The monthly Lake Shores community newsletter shares current news of the neighborhood. This summer, the” Yard of the Month” contest was judged in June, July, August and September. Proud winners, one from each side, earned well-deserved bragging rights and sported a congratulatory sign in their yard until the next winner was announced.
For the past six years, a Christmas Decorating Contest has been offered. East and West Sides both boast three winners. First place is $100; second place is $50 and third is $25. And the best part, in keeping with the Christmas spirit, the money that is awarded goes to each winner’s charity of choice. That is a deal that even Scrooge could appreciate.
President Walt Halley and Treasurer Tony Landon are heavily involved in the smooth running of the Association. Both officers of the board have been residents of Lake Shores for a long time.
Walt and his wife Vicki have raised three children in the 25 years they’ve lived there. Walt has been on the board for 10 years, serving six years as President of the Association. He states “Our goal is to have Lake Shores Community appreciate the feeling of the old days, when neighbors knew each other and watched out for one another. “Very humble about his volunteer efforts which include the St. Mary’s Soup Kitchen, the Franciscan Center and the election polls, Walt spends his little free time hunting and fishing.
Originally a Buckeye, Tony and his wife Patty have resided in Lake Shores for 24 years and have two children. A graduate of Wayne High School and retired from Verizon, Tony maintains the financial documents for the Association and also has the challenging job of upholding the member listing. This is his second stint on the board, serving as Vice President before taking over the treasury in 2015.
The board is comprised of 11 positions including officers. There are additional committee opportunities including publication of the newsletter, a Welcome committee, Signage, and Advertising for their many events. As with many neighborhoods, Lake Shores Community Association always encourages folks to serve a term on the board or volunteer on a committee. Tony elaborates “If you aren’t involved, the strength of YOUR community is left to chance. Get on board: serve, contribute, share ideas, expand your knowledge, network; help create a better, more desirable community.”
Two general meetings are held each year, typically at Avalon Missionary Church West Campus. They feature a guest speaker, refreshments and a drawing for gift cards from Waynedale businesses. Board meetings are held quarterly at the Waynedale library. Both Walt and Tony try to attend SWAP (Southwest Area Partnership) monthly meetings. Additionally, a quarterly meeting among all Fort Wayne neighborhood presidents is also held at Citizens Square.
An Association garage sale is arranged each spring and fall. Tony orchestrates coordinating the dates and Lake Shores hosts it in conjunction with Winterset, Avalon and Lakewood Park neighborhoods, making it quite a large prospect for finding treasures.
As an association, Lake Shores provides opportunities for neighbors to mingle. Outings to the TinCaps, Komets and Christmas at the Castle are just a few examples of past meet and greet occasions. The Great American Clean Up each year offers residents a chance to give back to the community by picking up debris along Airport Expressway. Lake Shores likes to support the Waynedale community when possible. In May, they give each of their residents whose dues have been paid, a $10 gift certificate to use at Broadview Florist.
Another generous opportunity the Association treasury offers is to help offset costs to residents who wish to participate in Fort Wayne City sponsored programs such as the Tree Program and Sidewalk Program, with the caveat that the homeowner’s dues payments are current. The board is also very diligent in applying for improvements to Lake Shores through the City’s Infrastructure Improvement Program.
People often wonder about Stone Lake which some homes in Lake Shores are fortunate to call their back yard. It is privately owned by Stone Lake Development, Inc. so no access to the public is allowed.
With perhaps the most longevity in the association, residents Gary and Betty Markley have spent 41 years in Lake Shores. Gary says “This has always been a clean, quiet community. We enjoy great neighbors and the association is well managed.”
Formerly the home of Putt Putt Miniature Golf course, Rich’s Auto Center on Sandpoint Road was built in 2002. Cindy enjoyed all the rigors of a ground up project from working with the realtor, bankers, attorneys, the city and the contractors to pull it all together, moving in over Thanksgiving weekend.
The primary focus of Rich’s Auto Center is repairing and maintaining personal vehicles. Oil changes, brakes, electrical systems, tune ups, heating and air, engines, transmissions and diagnostics, Rich’s does it all.
Rich Elzey gives kudos to his mentor Greg McConiga, a National ASE Technician of the Year in 1986 whom Rich worked with at 20th Century Automotive following school. Rich said he was fortunate, working with “top equipment, top training and that everyone there was Master Certified, including the office staff.” That is quite a formidable goal to repeat at your own business.
But Rich is up to the task. He graduated at the top of his class from ITT Automotive Division. He admits he has seen a lot of changes in the industry. Vehicles manufactured in the early 2000’s may have had three or four computers controlling the cars systems. Nowadays, vehicles can have 20+ computers keeping all systems go. That is why Rich’s Auto Center state-of-the-art diagnostics program and their Automotive Service Excellence Certified (ASE) technicians are so important. They don’t just throw parts on your car and hope it fixes the problem. Their goal is to fix it right the first time.
Rich’s Auto Center is the only Fort Wayne certified ASE Blue Seal shop. They are also a member of the Automotive Service Association, the Better Business Bureau, the Chamber of Commerce and are a NAPA Auto Care Center and AC Delco Total Service Support Shop. Additionally, they are part of the NAPA Business Development Group.
Rich and Cindy, along with their staff, believe that living the golden rule is what keeps their customers coming back. Treating others, the way you want to be treated. Cindy shares “Our customers are like an extended family. It is wonderful that many of our current customers came in as youth with their parents, and now they are adults with repair needs of their own.”
Rich graduated from Northrop, class of ’75 and Cindy from New Haven High School in 1970. Their first home was on Elzey Street, their current home is in Lake Shores. They are a blended family; Rich with one son Derek and Cindy has two children, a son Ben and a daughter Casee. They are proud grandparents of two students, Reilly at IU Bloomington and Boyce at Carroll High School.
Both enjoy nature and boating. Rich is an avid golfer, member of a summer league. When the season changes, he picks up his bowling ball and rejoins a weekly league. Cindy loves anything outdoor related including fishing and paddle boating. You will also often find her and Charlie, their seven-year-old Rhodesian Ridgeback dog, socializing at Pawster Park. She laughs “That is how we have met most of our neighbors.”
The Elzey’s are truly community minded. They call Mount Calvary their church home. Both are involved with Big Brothers/ Big Sisters. Cindy is a lunch buddy at Waynedale Elementary School. The business is a member of the Waynedale Business Chamber and supports Waynedale events such as the Easter Egg Hunt, Trunk or Treat, the annual Waynedale Community Picnic and EMBARK. Rich’s Auto Center was the recent host of a first time Waynedale Business Chamber event, the 5 O’Clock Mingle.
Working with children is a passion both Rich and Cindy share. They frequently teach youth auto classes at the shop on behalf of Big Brothers/Big Sisters and the Boy Scouts. They support Pink Leaf, holding auto classes for children coming out of foster care. The classes they sponsor range from a few hours up to two days as they educate students of all ages about car ownership and routine maintenance including checking fluids and changing a flat tire.
A great example of integrity is when Rich accidentally took out a telephone pole near the shop one snowy day. He ponied up and paid the $7,000 that it cost to repair it rather than letting taxpayers cover it.
Rich and Cindy feel extremely blessed. They always have plenty of work plus technicians that are dependable and long-term employees. And a successful business. Both are firm believers of “if you are giving back, it will circle back to you.” May that circle remain unbroken.
The origins of St. Therese, also known as Church of the Little Flower, can be traced back to 1937 when Bishop John F. Noll purchased a wooded plot of ground in the Liberty Gardens addition of Waynedale at Liberty Drive and Lower Huntington Road. At that time, Waynedale was an unincorporated community of about 3,000 people located six miles southwest of Fort Wayne.
Now St. Therese it is a bustling church with over 450 parish families and more than 200 students ranging from Pre K to 8th grade. Father Lawrence Teteh, CSsp, PhD leads the church and states “The mission as the Eucharistic Community of Saint Therese Catholic Church is to learn and share the gospel and serve all God’s children.” Masses are held six days a week. There are ample opportunities for their parishioners to provide outreach in the Waynedale Community and to become involved in groups within the parish.
The St. Therese Food Bank is open on Thursdays from 10 a.m. until noon. Serving an average of 135 families per month who live in the 46809, 46819, 46798, 46777, or 46783 zip codes, it is operated by St. Vincent de Paul Society of St. Therese. Manager of the day to day operations Sue Rockstroh joined the effort in 1996. “Back then,” Sue states “They had premade boxes of food for their clients. Now the Food Bank has evolved into a Choice Pantry where patrons can choose what they need. This also includes a government commodities program.” A group of 15 dedicated volunteers staff the St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry at St. Therese.
The church participates in the Waynedale Picnic but is probably best known for hosting an Annual Fall Festival which for the past 71 years, has traditionally been held the Saturday after Labor Day. The fundraiser for the church and school features baked goods and fresh produce, carnival games and inflatables, raffles, silent auction items and a variety of delicious foods.
A full music program invites parishioners to participate in areas such as Canting, Chimes, Choirs, Instrumentals and the One Voice School Children’s Choir. Catholic men may join the Knights of Columbus #9460 group. Other groups include United for Life and a monthly senior lunch bunch.
St. Therese is also currently working with the City of Fort Wayne regarding the placement of a sidewalk that will connect the gap from the church to Arby’s. This is one of the first facets of the Waynedale Corridor Project.
Truly notable for St. Therese is their rich history. Our appreciation goes to Vince LaBarbera, church historian, who briefly summarizes decades of intriguing church history below.
On Nov. 13, 1946, the bishop appointed a discharged but highly decorated Army chaplain, Fr. Herman A. Schoudel, as pastor with instructions to begin founding a parish. When he learned that a post chapel building at Baer Field’s Army Air Base was to be declared government surplus, Fr. Schoudel submitted an application for its purchase. A basement was excavated on the parish site and a 40- x 103-foot concrete foundation was poured. The chapel was moved to its new home on Jan. 17, 1948. The first Mass was celebrated on March 7, 1948, and the new church was officially dedicated on Oct. 3, 1948.
Tragedy struck some 16 months later when a fire of “undetermined origin” gutted the interior of the church on Feb. 24, 1950.
Fr. Albert Q. Senn, O.F.M. (Order of Friars Minor), was named the first Franciscan pastor in 1956. The Fort Wayne City Council annexed 527 square miles into the city, to include Waynedale, on June 25, 1957. A groundbreaking ceremony was held June 22, 1958, for a new school planned for the fall of 1958.
Fire again struck the St. Therese community when a blaze broke out in the church on Dec. 6, 1970. Parishioners made the decision to redesign the school building into a church/school combination. The new worship space was dedicated on Oct. 17, 1971, with Bishop Leo A. Pursley presiding. The cherished “chapel” was raised in the summer of 1979 and a new community facility was completed that same summer. The new Parish Hall was dedicated on Aug. 19, 1979, with Bishop William E. McManus presiding.
Due to declining membership, The Franciscan Province of St. John the Baptist in Cincinnati decided to withdraw from ministry at about 15 of their parishes, including St. Therese. After a farewell gathering on June 26, 1994, the Franciscan Friars left the parish leaving behind the Franciscan influence of nearly 38 years. That summer, Bishop John M. D’Arcy appointed a diocesan priest, Fr. Michael J. Rosswurm, as the new pastor, effective Jan. 4, 1995.
A Five-Year Plan for a new church and renovation of the worship space in the school for classroom use initiated in the spring of 1996. The new $3.6-million worship facility was dedicated on April 10, 2003. It was the first church actually built by the parish in its then 56-year history. Bishop D’Arcy presided at the dedication along with Fr. Joseph A. Rulli, pastor.
My daughter and I were able to do something many people only dream about; we spent two weeks in France. The memories we made were priceless but there was one experience during our trip that we didn’t plan on.
On day four of our visit, we were on a 15-mile bike ride. About five miles in, I crashed. My friends bandaged my skinned knee and elbow, then attempted to get me off the trail. I immediately knew I had broken ribs. When the ambulance arrived, my friends translated as the paramedics did not speak English. They recommended that I go to the nearest ER to rule out internal injuries. As a Registered Nurse for 30 years, I knew what to expect as a patient in the United States, but I had no idea what to expect in France.
The paramedics did an amazing job attending to me. We communicated mostly through Google Translate but it was still challenging to describe my pain and health history. I couldn’t help but worry that there may be an increased risk for error due to the communication barrier.
We arrived at a small hospital in Tours and they wheeled me into the emergency room. I explained that I was American, an ER nurse and spoke little French. The ER doctor completed my assessment as best he could, again while using Google Translate and laughed a time or two as we tried to communicate. As word got around that I was an American nurse, other staff stopped by, interested in the differences between their small hospital and an American hospital.
In an American hospital, if there is a language barrier, we find a translator to help us. This was not an option for me. Additionally, the hospital did not have air conditioning and the windows were open but there were no screens. Privacy was nil, as there were no dividers between patients in the ER.
Probably the biggest difference was regarding pain management. With four broken ribs and an injured shoulder, all they would give me was non-opioid medication such as Tylenol. On the contrary, many times in America we will first offer a narcotic for immediate pain relief/comfort. I was actually impressed by this practice because opioid addiction and abuse is such a problem in our American society.
During the night, I was in severe pain and I asked them for something stronger. With hesitation, they gave me morphine. This made such a difference for me and I was able to sleep without pain. During discharge the next day, they gave me three prescriptions; Tylenol, Ultram and Morphine. I found it confusing that they hesitated in giving me Morphine while in the hospital under supervised conditions, but wrote me a prescription for it to take home.
As a patient in a foreign country, I was very scared. As a nurse, it put a lot into perspective as to how our non-English speaking patients must feel. Communication is so important, especially when it comes to providing appropriate medical care. Even with the huge language barrier, the majority of the staff in Tours France was wonderful to me. Although this experience was not on my vacation agenda, it was certainly a learning experience.
19 local businesses lined up on Bluffton Road between Lower Huntington and Old Trail Road and participated in a Passport program. They sported fun activities such as Name That Tool, Drinks & Ink, Wash or Mop, Cornhole, Jenga and Fish for a Prize. Other organizations hosted a Spinning Wheel, Bean Bag Toss, Face Painting, hand making Bike Streamers and Hole in One. There were freebies galore including popcorn, Sno-Cones, bottled water, Frisbees, snacks and shopping bags. As attendees visited each company, they received a punch on their Passport. The Passports were then turned in and entered to win prizes. (Check out ‘EmbarkWaynedale’ on Facebook to see the list of winners and some great photos!)
Steve Leffers joined in the fun and wrote to say “My girlfriend, Mary Parrot, and I had a great time walking along the new trail and sidewalks and seeing businesses that sometimes you don’t realize are there when you drive by because you aren’t paying attention. We met lots of new people and saw many old friends along the way. The DJ was great and the weather turned out to be quite nice after a rainy start. Thanks to the EMBARK committee for a job well done.”
In addition to the Passport program, children were encouraged to complete a scavenger hunt along the route. Those were exchanged for a fun patriotic slap bracelet. The form also boasted a coupon for a free kid’s cone from The Stand.
Bravas Food Truck and Shigs in Pit both reported steady sales that included drive by diners. DJ Diamond Dave improvised and set up equipment under an elaborate array of tents and had people dancing in the Hair Affair parking lot.
Although the Chalk Walk at Star Bank got a late start due to the rain, there were still 24 budding artists that completed drawings for several prizes once the weather cleared.
All in all, bad hair day or not, everyone who attended EMBARK gave high marks to the event. Many inquired whether we would see a repeat next year. You will just have to stay tuned to the Waynedale News to find out!
Megan picked up responsibility for the picnic four years ago when long time organizer, Beulah Matzak, decided to pass the reins. Meg explains she wanted “to preserve and continue this time-honored Waynedale tradition rather than see it cease to exist.” Now in its 16th year, the picnic draws up to 2,000 people and is still free to those who attend. Megan is blessed to have an intern to help with the mailings and phone calls but the event is still a huge amount of effort.
Luckily it falls in the summer when Megan is typically off work. As a Special Education Teacher at Towles Montessori School (FWCS) she works with children in grades 1 through 6 in areas of reading, math, and social development. She truly loves being a teacher and it is evident as she was awarded the Father Tom O’Connor Light of Christ Award in 2016 during her tenure at her alma mater Bishop Luers.
Megan was born and raised in Fort Wayne, growing up on the south side of town near Foster Park. She attended Saint John the Baptist School on Fairfield, followed by Bishop Luers High School. Her undergraduate work was done at Saint Mary’s College in Notre Dame, Indiana. Megan returned to Fort Wayne, after a year abroad teaching in Ghana, West Africa, to continue her education, receiving a Master’s Degree in Special Education from the University of Saint Francis. She has owned a home in Indian Village for the past four years.
When speaking about her personal life, Megan proudly talks about her brother Michael. He is an air search and rescue swimmer for the United States Navy. She recently had the opportunity to spend time with him over Christmas and New Year’s in Japan where he is stationed. She is also quick to bring up two cats that she dearly loves; Piper and 2E, both of which she rescued.
But the subject that really causes Megan to start buzzing is anything relating to bees. She is a co-founder of Southwest Honey Company which began “as a humble idea for a conservation minded project that would improve the well-being of pollinators and conservation in the Waynedale area.” It officially had its start in 2016, although they have been keeping bees for over four years.
This idea was born through the creative and community conscious minds of Alex Cornwell and Megan. The company’s home base is at the Southwest Conservation Club where they maintain bee hives next to the restored and natural prairie full of Indiana native wildflowers, right here in Waynedale. They have since spread to many surrounding areas, keeping bees on sustainable properties that provide the best homes for these important pollinators.
An important part of their work is education. Megan states “we are extremely dedicated to educating our community on the importance of pollinators and how people can help.” She is out in the community almost daily through the summer months speaking to children at the library and summer camps, as well as adult and senior groups.
Megan feels honored that their “Explore the Honey Bee” educational programs have been featured in not only local and regional media, but also in national periodicals such as “American Beekeeping Journal,” “Bee Culture,” and “Voice of America.”
In addition to bees, picnics, and teaching, Meg serves on the Board of Directors for the Fort Wayne Children’s Choir, heading up their Development Committee and Events Committee. She was also a worthy nominee for “20 Millennials Making a Difference 2015.”
Please save the date for Saturday, August 25. Come see Megan at the Waynedale picnic at the Waynedale Park. Visit the vendor booths, play some bingo and enjoy the kid’s games. And while you are there, look for her bright smile and be sure to tell her how much you appreciate her passion for children, for animals, for our environment and for all things Waynedale!
The study investigated perceptions about aging and survival rates over a 22-year period among 660 men and women in Ohio, age 50 to 94. “Self-perceptions of aging had a greater impact on survival,” the researchers say, “than did gender, socioeconomic status, loneliness and functional health.” In fact, positive attitudes had a greater effect than lowered blood pressure, exercise, weight loss, or non-smoking status. The study expressed two simple yet profound messages. The first is that negative self-perceptions can diminish life expectancy; the second one is that positive self-perceptions can prolong life expectancy.
Research being done on aging and attitude suggests that positive thinking does correlate with less illness and longer lives. And, if you’re already older, having a positive outlook appears to be especially important.
Recovery from a disability, injury or illness in the study was equated with being able to perform four routine activities: bathing, dressing, moving from a chair and walking. Doing well in these things is associated with longer life expectancy and lower use of healthcare facilities.
In general, studies show that people who maintain a positive attitude tend to make healthier lifestyle choices. According to a Mayo Clinic study, people with a positive attitude get more physical activity and follow a healthier diet.
Here are some components that make up attitude:
– A strong sense of humor. Laugh. Laugh often. Laugh a lot.
– An ability to smile. Allow your face to demonstrate that you are a happy person.
Approach persons positively. Let them know you enjoy their presence.
– Stay focused on the person you are with. Don’t allow yourself to be distracted.
– Point out the strong points of other people. They will feel better about themselves, and you will be the reason.
– Avoid being negative about health, weather, state of affairs, etc. Doing so will ruin the goal of the day: Keep a good attitude.
Rachel Fox, Activity Director for Kingston Residence knows all too well how a positive outlook can impact the health and wellness of seniors. With over seven years of experience engaging seniors in meaningful pursuits, she has witnessed the strong impact that attitude has on their well-being. “Our residents who participate in activities, socialize with friends and wake up with a purpose tend to have longer independence and overall well-being. I recall a 95 year old named Lucy who played piano even though she suffered from COPD and required oxygen, she still brought joy to our residents through her music. She was an inspiration to us all.”
Living happily as a senior depends largely on your attitude. Aging does not need to be a time of unhappiness. It can be time of repurposing and readjusting one’s focus on gratitude and what can still be done.
Article sponsored by Kingston Residence.
What do Bessie, MiniMoo, Murphy and Jax all have in common? All have four legs and spread smiles and joy on a regular basis at the Fort Wayne International Airport. These Therapy Dogs are greeters to passengers of all ages through the FWA Hospitality PAWS (Pets Assisting Well-Being and Success) program.
Waynedale United Methodist Church (WUMC) has a vital congregation that supports this community in many ways. Its unique vision is to “Joyfully Connect People to Christ and Community.” The congregation does this through worship services, small groups, an over 55 group plus numerous opportunities to serve in mission.
One of the ways the congregation has been a pillar in the Waynedale community is by supporting of a variety of groups that meet in the building. WUMC hosts two different Alcoholic Anonymous groups, an Exercise class, Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Venture Scouts, a Weight Loss group, a Tutoring group to help local elementary students, District Scout Leadership meetings and other groups. The church parking lot is also the staging area for the annual Waynedale Memorial Day Parade.
We staff a Food Bank serving the needs of the hungry that is open on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays between the hours of 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., typically assisting between 400 – 500 people each month.
Sharing God’s Blessings is a mission group that champions local charities such as Mustard Seed and East Wayne Street Center. They uplift teachers and students of Waynedale Elementary through the Rising Stars program and also provide comfort to the community with free meals. Missions Chair Margy Schimmel states, “We receive fantastic support from our giving members that allow us to support many important missions.”
That support extends beyond our neck of the woods. Annually, a group visits Henderson Settlement in the small town of Frakes, Kentucky where they complete a variety of home projects for people in need there. They travel laden with Christmas gifts, donated by our congregation to share with the children of Henderson Settlement. We also donate to UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief) and Medina school in Africa.
Our preschool is a ministry that has been a tradition in Waynedale for more than 50 years. Many parents currently bringing children remember their own days in the preschool. Each child receives a personal Bible from the church and Pastor Ted sings and prays with them regularly. Children of the community are also invited to join us in an annual Easter Egg hunt and Trunk or Treat where among the candy and games is a popular feature “How can we pray for you.” At Christmas, our congregation supports the Angel Tree Ministry, providing gifts to children whose parent is incarcerated.
Music is the universal language and we are blessed to hear beautiful and inspirational songs from the Chancel Choir, The Church Street Bells and our Praise Band.
Pastor Ted Jansen shares, “As our world changes, we strive to understand how we need to change our methods and ministries. This is a challenge for all ministries. We seek to love people where they are and to let them know that Christ, God’s Son, loves them.”
Waynedale United Methodist Church is a congregation with strong connections to the community. We are all encouraged to grow in faith, in love and in service.
For the majority of people, hearing loss happens slowly over an extended period of time, sometimes 20 to 30 years. This loss is usually due to exposure to noise that is repetitive in nature and many times associated with the workplace.
A second cause of hearing loss is classified as “sudden hearing loss” due to a medical occurrence such as exposure to a one-time loud noise like a loud concert or even an explosion. A number of people have a family history of hearing loss, which can also be a contributing factor. Other considerations can be diabetes, high blood pressure and additional medical conditions that require the taking of oto-toxic medications.
According to recent studies, untreated loss can contribute to Audio Deprivation. This condition leads to communication problems, loss of localization of sound (i.e. hearing the siren of an approaching ambulance), loss of cognitive decision making, social withdrawal and an overall poorer quality of life. Hearing loss has also been proven to affect one’s ability to advance in the workplace. These studies state that early stages of dementia are often associated with hearing deficit.
It is suggested that anyone 55 years of age or older have a baseline hearing test performed to establish their hearing levels. This would be done in conjunction with an otoscopic exam of your ear to see if there is a wax build up or any other medical conditions. This could result in a medical referral to an ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat Doctor).
Make sure you are taking active steps to protect your hearing. We live in a very noisy world! Wear hearing protection such as foam inserts or earmuffs when hunting, at the shooting range, mowing grass, using a chain saw or leaf blower and when using power tools in your home workshop. All of these activities contribute to hearing loss over time when protection is not used. And by all means, watch how loud you play your music on your stereo or through your ear buds. With today’s technology, a large number of the younger generation play music at dangerously high levels.
Take time this month to protect the hearing that you have. With today’s advanced digital hearing aids, most hearing loss can be helped dramatically, so you can enjoy the sounds of life.
Article sponsored by Kingston Residence
Allergy symptoms tends to increase as pollen counts soar, but by knowing triggers to allergy symptoms and how to avoid allergens, sufferers can stay active and control their symptoms.
Allergens, whether from pollen or another source, tax the body’s immune system causing symptoms of stuffy nose, itchy watery eyes and sneezing. The most common allergen in the spring is tree pollen. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, the most common types of trees that trigger allergies are maple, sycamore, elm, oak, Western red cedar, birch, ash, cypress, walnut, hickory and poplar.
Mold is an allergen that is present year-round and releases spores, but causes trouble especially in the spring because of damp rainy weather. In the summer, grass pollen allergies are more common. In the fall, ragweed allergies tend to be the most troublesome.
Prevention of allergen exposure is much easier than dealing with the symptoms. There are many ways this can be accomplished in order to enjoy the spring season better.
1) Keep doors and windows closed.
2) Use allergen filters in your air conditioning system.
3) Use a vacuum with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter that can trap 99.97% of microscopic air particles.
4) Do not line-dry clothes outside.
5) Bathe and wash clothing after exposure to potential allergens.
6) Take shoes off when entering your home.
7) Avoid lawn care or exercising outdoors on days when pollen counts are high. Counts are highest in the mornings and on windy days.
8) Use glasses and sunglasses to help keep pollen out of your eyes.
9) Use a filter mask when gardening or doing lawn care.
In addition, smoking can make allergy symptoms worse. If you smoke, here is another reason to stop. Limit your exposure to others who smoke as well.
There are multiple over the counter remedies for allergies. These include oral medications such as Benadryl, Claritin, Allegra and Xyzal. Nasal sprays include Nasocort, Flonase and Zicam. These medications work by blocking your body’s response to the allergens. They may interact with other medications you are taking so always contact a physician before taking and read package inserts for warnings and side effects. For more severe cases of allergies, allergy shots might be recommended.
It is important to note that allergy symptoms do not disappear right away when taking medications. It may take a week or two for routine use of medication to build up in your body before symptoms abate.
The Fort Wayne Accuweather site has pollen counts for trees, grass and ragweed listed daily. Checking pollen counts is a good way to keep track of your risk of exposure. The address is www.accuweather.com/en/us/fort-wayne-in/46825/allergies-weather/328790.
Article written by Carol White, Nurse Practitioner. Article sponsored by Kingston Residence.
Herbert Acker has been a mainstay of the Waynedale Community and the Lakewood Park Community Addition since his family built their home in the mid 50s. He returned to the neighborhood in 1964 following his time in the service and medical school. Herb’s current home in the addition is part of what is fondly referred to as “The Acker Compound” since he is blessed to have his daughters Erin and Kristen and son Grant, along with their families, in homes that are all next to each other around the corner.
Outwardly a quiet and affable man, Dr. Acker has a warm smile and wit about him. He is best known as a practicing family physician specializing in Geriatrics. At 83 years old and with 54 years of medicine under his belt, Dr. Acker has no immediate plans to retire and his patients are very glad to hear that.
Although seemingly a shy man, Herb has a heart the size of Texas. He is generous with his time especially as it relates to his patients; his bedside manner lets them know they have his full attention. He physically and financially supports charities and local fundraising events that benefit Waynedale. People find it amusing that at the past 10 Kingston Taste of Waynedale nights, a physician donated “booze baskets.” Let us clear that up. His daughter Erin explains that every year he has donated money in support of the event with instructions to buy something that will be popular for people to bid on. Hence the liquor gift baskets.
Herb Acker attended Northside High School and Purdue University School of Pharmacy. After graduating from Purdue, he returned to Fort Wayne and worked as a pharmacist at Lutheran Hospital, then located on Fairfield Avenue. There he met a student nurse, Dorothy Kaye Colando, and they began a 50 year plus relationship.
In 1958, Herb was drafted into the U.S. Navy and served his country for two years on a heavy cruiser, the U.S.S. Des Moines. Although there was an active war going on, he fortunately never got close to battle.
Upon his return, he graduated from IU Medical School and opened practice with Dr. Roser prior to joining Dr. Bowers and Dr. Michaels and starting BMA, better known as Brooklyn Medical Association. This separate corporation within Physician’s Plaza grew from these three founding doctors to as many as 34 physicians.
For years, Dr. Acker also worked part time as an ER doctor at Lutheran. He became certified as a Family Physician and has renewed his boards six times over his career. In 2004, Herb went on to become certified in geriatrics and renewed that certification in May of 2014 to continue to stay on top of his profession. As his clientele aged, he knew it was important to stay up on their issues. This was his license to work with “people his own age”.
Although Herb was extremely busy with his medical profession, he has always made time for family and fun. Herb has traveled many places with his wife, four children and 11 grandchildren. Some of the favorite places he has visited include the North and South Poles, Russia and Siesta Key.
Life advice from Dr. Herbert Acker is to “Work hard and love what you do in life. Pick the right friends and marry the right person. The love of family is most important. You wouldn’t be anywhere without them!”
The 2018 Taste of Waynedale was again a success. With close to 500 people in attendance and proceeds after expenses of $6,500 benefitting the Waynedale Corridor, many said it was a fitting conclusion to the long running event. A few vendors were unfortunately unable to attend at the last minute, but no one went away hungry. Or if they did, as the saying goes, it was their own fault!
Nine Mile Restaurant was voted “Most Popular Vendor” followed by Hill’s Market and the “new kid on the block,” ‘07 Pub. This year folks also voted for two additional categories. “Favorite Entrée” was awarded to Casa Ristorante for their delicious pasta selections. Second and third entrée runners up were popular wings from ‘07 Pub and the Green Chile Mac ‘n Cheese from Shigs In Pit. “Preferred Dessert” kudos went to Hall’s for their amazing cake, followed by Culver’s for their frozen custard, and coming in third was the “Amish Crack” donut from Rise ‘n Roll Bakery.
Kingston’s TOW, as we’ve so fondly nicknamed it, has raised $80,000 over the past 10 years. Proceeds of the event have gone to many worthwhile causes including Community Harvest Food Bank, Fort Wayne Trails, Waynedale.com, Waynedale Trails and Sidewalks Initiative, Honor Flight Northeast Indiana and the Waynedale Corridor Project.
An event like this doesn’t come together without the stars aligning in multiple ways. First, for TOW to be successful we need great food! We’ve had many wonderful restaurants participate over the years. Let’s recognize the restaurants and food vendors that participated all 10 years of the event. They include China Palace, Hall’s Original Drive-In, Nine Mile Restaurant, The Stand and Waynedale Bakery.
Secondly, through the course of the event, over $30,000 has been raised solely on bids placed on silent auction gifts. From oil changes to window washing, golf foursomes to spirit baskets, restaurant gift cards to estate packages, we could always count on our local businesses to donate generously. Those businesses who have contributed items all 10 years include 1st Source Bank, Dr. Herbert Acker, Advanced Window Cleaning, Blake Aesthetics Family Dentistry, Bobick’s Golf, Broadview Florist, Brookwood Golf Club, Eco Pro Quick Lube Auto, Elzey-Patterson-Rodak Funeral Home, Hair Affair, Hair Barn Classics, Loggins Fireplace and Patio, Chuck’s Marathon, McNamera Florist, Midwest America Federal Credit Union, Rich’s Auto Center, Elder Law Office of James Springer, Stitch ‘n Frame, TLC/Miracle Ear, Waynedale Animal Clinic and Waynedale Grooming Salon.
Third, we have had amazing support from the community who attended the event, many of them all 10 years as well. Our Kingston residents also appreciated the event first held at Kingston Residence and for the three years following as they got to enjoy a “Preview” of the event with their families a half hour before the doors opened to the public. Later, as we logistically outgrew Kingston and transitioned to the larger space offered by Mount Calvary Family Life Center, our residents still had the very best with valet service door-to-door and reserved tables from which to sample all the goodies.
Fourth, we cannot forget the following companies who helped support the event. Mount Calvary Lutheran Church and church liaison, Harold Seeman, Nancy Woosley with JW Signs/GraphX for the signage each year, Karen Freiburger and Karen McClain from Hair Affair for volunteering at the event plus selling tickets at their salon and Alex Cornwell and Cindy Cornwell from The Waynedale News who have been there to help spread the word for us.
Lastly, we appreciate all the support of our too numerous to mention volunteers and the hard-working staff of Kingston Residence who worked tirelessly to make the event a success every year.
No doubt you will see a new or different version of Kingston’s Taste of Waynedale in the future as we’ve had some interest. I am certain you will support it just as generously as you have for the past 10 years to help keep the positive momentum in Waynedale alive and well. Kingston Residence appreciates the opportunity to serve our community.