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Ohlashia is a driven entrepreneur with a vision for transforming a laundromat in Fort Wayne, Indiana. She was born in Texas but grew up in Birch Run, Michigan, where she would later attend Central Michigan University, receiving a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Arts in Therapeutic Recreation. In 2015 she moved to Fort Wayne to pursue her career as a Recreational Therapist helping individuals with developmental disabilities. With a drive to find a passive income while also doing something that helped our community, she decided to look further into an industry she has always been interested in, laundromats. Ohlashia went around town, speaking with several laundromat owners about their experiences and seeking advice. After several unproductive conversations, Ohlashia came across the owner of the Spy Run laundromat, who provided her with invaluable insights and connections. Through these connections and new-found knowledge, she decided to purchase Georges Kwik Wash off Taylor Street on October 16th, 2022. Through the years, this location has gained a poor reputation, but Ohlashia is determined to turn things around with several improvements and a significant focus on customer service. Since acquiring the business, she has made several changes, including adding 22 new machines, repainting the entire space, and installing an arcade with a candy and claw machine for children to enjoy. She has also hired several employees to ensure someone is always on duty to help customers with anything they need. She has plans to continue making enhancements once revenue picks up. Customers can use their self-service laundry machines, which are always kept clean and well-maintained for their convenience. Or, for those who prefer a more hands-off approach to laundry, the laundromat also offers a wash, dry, and fold service at an affordable rate of $1 per pound. This is a service that already exists in the company, but Ohlashia is committed to ensuring that clients are more aware of this service’s availability. Aside from creating a better space for clients to enjoy, Ohlashia focuses heavily on providing the best customer service possible. During our conversation, she stated, “I have been in a lot of laundromats where the people were very unfriendly and rude, but what I want to do is have the best customer service at our laundromat. I want it to feel like we’re family when people walk in the door. I want our employees to know everyone’s name.” She told us that one of her favorite things about owning this location is being able to talk to everyone that comes inside. She loves hearing about their stories and building relationships with her clients. Taking on a company that was starting to gain a poor reputation over the years isn’t easy, especially for someone new to the business world. For Ohlashia, managing the day-to-day operations of a laundromat and leading a team of employees is an entirely new experience; but that won’t steer her away from her goals. Through hard work and dedication, she has implemented changes that have improved the quality of service and made the laundromat a more enjoyable and comforting place for customers and employees alike. She acknowledges that there will be challenges along the way, but she is determined to learn as she goes, taking on whatever comes her way. Ohlashia’s story is a reminder that anyone can achieve their dreams with hard work and perseverance. Her commitment to excellence and community building makes her a valuable asset to the Fort Wayne community. She is an inspiration to others who are looking to start their own businesses or pursue their passions. If you want to know what you can do to help Ohlashia achieve her goals of transforming this business, head over to 1126 Taylor Street to personally experience the changes she has made! Don’t forget to leave a positive review so others can see what amazing things are happening at Georges Kwik Wash. Ohlashia said it best "Come on in, kick off your shoes, and let us take care of your laundry needs. You’ll leave feeling refreshed and connected to something bigger than just doing laundry.” If you have a business story, small or big business located in Fort Wayne, Indiana contact us at: fwbusinessjournal@gmail.com or mail us at 6435 W Jefferson Blvd #157, Fort Wayne, 46804

We believe the answer to this question is yes! Niche.com ranked Fort Wayne, Indiana, the most affordable city to live in! We see this as an opportunity. Being a more affordable city means homes do not cost as much, and land is cheaper than other states around the area. We have noticed that over the years, Fort Wayne has started growing more as a city by building neighborhoods creating more homes, condos, apartments, and businesses building offices! In 2022 Allen County got over $580 million in new private investments, which will help our city’s economic development. -$84 million in new annual payroll -1,300+ new jobs - more than 20 business expansions and relocations You can learn more at the City of Fort Wayne’s website or Greater Fort Wayne Inc! More companies are starting, people are working, and new jobs must be filled. The people working will need some help around the house maintaining or creating something for their personal life. Since more people are getting work-from-home jobs, it is a benefit for the service industry as well! People staying home for work means the house is used more and waring faster than when no one was home all day. Homeowners or renters will need to upkeep or repair their place more frequently with how much we stay home now. We believe it will be a significant market now and in the future. The service industry is not only a great business to start, but it also allows you to help people within our Fort Wayne community! These job roles include Lawn Mowing, Landscaping, Snow Removal, Interior design, Dog Walking, Home repairs, etc. The list can go on forever. Some service businesses are simple to start and don’t require a lot of cash which could be an opportunity for you if you are interested in starting your own business! With more homes built, schools expanding, and people coming to the city because of affordability, we know there is a bright future in our town, especially in the service industry. email us fwbusinessjournal@gmail.com Any business-related questions or have a story you would like us to share? Let us know how we can help thank you! Sources: City of Fort Wayne https://www.cityoffortwayne.org/latest-news/5302-allen-county-continues-strong-growth-in-2022.html

One of the most prominent roads in Fort Wayne is Illinois Road, which is well-known for its numerous businesses and attractions. However, Bass Road, which runs from County Line to Spring Street, can potentially become the next Illinois Road. This article will explore the history of Bass Road, what makes Illinois Road popular, and the steps that need to be taken for Bass Road to become a more frequently traveled road like Illinois. Bass Road has a rich history that dates back to the 1900s. It is named after John H. Bass, one of Fort Wayne’s first and greatest industrialists. His contributions to the community helped establish Fort Wayne's early economic growth. His mansion, “Brookside,” located on the west side of town, was the finest residence in the region. Today, the estate serves as a campus administration building for the University of Saint Francis. Bass Road serves as a cut-off line between Southwest and Northwest Allen County. Illinois Road is a busy street known for its range of shops, restaurants, and businesses lining its length. It stretches from Fort Wayne's western suburbs to downtown Fort Wayne, and it has become a popular destination for both residents and visitors alike. Illinois Road is also home to many large retailers, such as Target, Meijer, Aldi, and Kroger, making it a central shopping hub in Fort Wayne. Given its popularity and vibrant economy, many businesses seek to locate on Illinois Road to capitalize on the significant traffic and customer base. There are many new buildings and establishments along Bass Road. Some new additions to the area include Granite Ridge, a new neighborhood, Aboite Christian School, and Wellington Reserve. Additionally, API has an ongoing construction site along Bass Road. There are also commercial properties for sale, such as the Century 21 and BND Commercial properties, which provides opportunities for new businesses and investors to establish themselves in the area. These new developments are a promising sign for the future of Bass Road, as they indicate growing interest and investment in the area. However, despite the recent developments, Bass Road still has a long way to go before it can match the popularity of Illinois Road. Illinois Road is known for its abundance of shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment options. The Jefferson Pointe Shopping Center, located on Illinois Road, is a prime example of what draws people to the area. To make Bass Road more attractive to visitors and locals alike, several steps need to be taken. One crucial step is to continue investing in the area's development, both in terms of commercial and residential properties. This will attract more businesses and residents to the area and create more demand for services and amenities. Another important step is to improve the infrastructure along the road, including sidewalks, streetlights, and public transportation options. Furthermore, investing in the beautification of the road, such as planting trees and flowers, will make it more visually appealing and attract more attention. In conclusion, Bass Road has the potential to become a trendy destination for businesses and residents in Fort Wayne. With its rich history, recent developments, and growing interest from investors, the road is poised for future growth. However, it will take continued investment in commercial and residential properties, as well as infrastructure and developmental efforts, to make Bass Road as vibrant and attractive as Illinois Road. By taking these steps, Bass Road can become a bustling hub of activity in Fort Wayne and continue contributing to the city's economic growth and success. Email us if you have any questions or stories! fwbusinessjournal@gmail.com

Fort Wayne is home to numerous pizzerias, but one stands out among the rest – Johnny Ox Pizzeria. Located in the Union Street Market in downtown Fort Wayne, this establishment has been gaining popularity and is widely regarded as the best slice in town. Johnny Bojinoff, the owner of Johnny Ox Pizzeria, attended Le Cordon Bleu culinary school and has a background in West Coast restaurants serving old-world and modern pizza. His expertise is evident in the restaurant's menu, which features a range of pizza options made with house-made, fresh ingredients. The restaurant also offers vegan and vegetarian options, with a focus on using locally sourced, organic, non-GMO ingredients whenever possible. Johnny Ox Pizzeria is open seven days a week, from 11 am to 9 pm. Customers can enjoy pizza by the slice from 11 am to 2 pm, with cheese slices priced at $4 and pepperoni slices at $4.25. The restaurant also sells whole pies priced between $22 and $26. Customers can try the Classic Cheese-Plain Pie with an organic marinara base, parmigiano, and WM mozzarella, or go for something more adventurous like the I Learned it in Oregon pizza. This pizza has a white garlic parmesan sauce, house-made Italian-spiced fennel sausage from local pork, black olive, roasted red peppers, and baked-lemon-truffled ricotta. For vegan customers, there's the Green OX pizza with Nevaeh's basil sauce, WM mozzarella, fresh spinach, Janie's herb-roasted shrooms, garlic, and baked-lemon-truffled ricotta. Or, try the Vegan Pepperoni pizza with organic marinara, seitan-based mildly spicy pepperoni, and Selfish Cow-vegan mozzarella. Located in the Union Street Market, Johnny Ox Pizzeria is situated in a vibrant collection of local startup businesses that serve a variety of food, drink, and other goods. The Union Street Market offers more than just a meal - it creates a lively atmosphere of amusement and delight. The mission-driven, thoughtfully curated, and actively managed facility features independent local businesses that offer fresh, specialty, and prepared foods and beverages. The market has a particular focus on products grown and produced in Northeast Indiana, making it an excellent place to support local businesses and enjoy the community. With so many pizza places in Fort Wayne, it's natural to ask whether Johnny Ox Pizzeria is truly the best. According to Yelp reviewer Joespeh M, the answer is a resounding, "Yes". He shared that Johnny Ox's Pizzeria is "unlike anything Fort Wayne has ever experienced". With its focus on fresh, organic ingredients and unique pizza offerings, it's no surprise that Johnny Ox Pizzeria has quickly become a local favorite. In conclusion, if you're a pizza lover in Fort Wayne, Johnny Ox Pizzeria should be on your list of must-visit spots. Their exceptional pizzas made with high-quality, organic ingredients have made them a top contender for the title of the best slice in town. And if you're looking to support local businesses while enjoying a vibrant and exciting environment, the Union Street Market is the perfect place to be. Have a business story? fwbusinessjournal@gmail.com References Johnny OX Pizzeria. (n.d.). Yelp. Retrieved March 24, 2023, from https://www.yelp.com/biz/johnny-ox-pizzeria-fort-wayne Union Street Market. (n.d.). Eat and shop. Retrieved March 24, 2023, from https://www.unionstreetmarket.org/eat-and- shop/#list-of-merchants Bojinoff, J. (n.d.). LinkedIn. Retrieved March 24, 2023, from https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnny-bojinoff- 5229a457?original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Fduckduckgo.com%2F

Homestead High School is in the midst of an exciting renovation and addition project, truly living up to Southwest Allen County School’s slogan of "Preparing Today's Learners for Tomorrow’s Opportunities." The project began in 2020 and is estimated to be completed by 2024 at a cost of $169 million. New additions involve a “1,000-seat auditorium, black-box theater, 3,000-seat competition gymnasium, dynamic media center, as well as the art, music, physical education, support, and core learning spaces necessary to empower twenty-first century students.” (MKM Design) Homestead High School's renovation and addition project is more than just construction work. It is a vision for the future of education. The project will expand the facility to accommodate 3,000 additional students and to fulfill programming needs, providing students with state-of-the-art facilities and a modern educational experience. The project is not only a significant investment in the future of Homestead High School, but the very students that occupy it as well. The Homestead High School Additions and Renovations Project involves multiple stakeholders and constituents, including staff, students, and the Southwest Allen County community. The renovations involve several companies that are working together to ensure the success of the project. MKM Design, CSO Architecture and Design, Performance Services, and Hagerman Group are all essential contributors to the project. MKM Design, and CSO Architecture and Design took the responsibility of designing the building and new additions. Performance Services is responsibe for the design and installation of the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection portion of the project. Hagerman Group is responsible for the construction and overall project management of the renovation and addition project. The design team has collaborated to maximize the amount of new space to be constructed while leveraging portions of the existing facility to reach the desired program requirements. As of now, several parts of the renovation and expansion project have been completed, including the Grand Entrance, where students enter and depart from buses, the modernized weight and strength room, the new media recording studio, parking spaces, and many other facilities are being worked on everyday. However, these renovations have not been without challenges. In an interview with Homestead's principal, Susan Summers, it was revealed that a major setback was caused by the delay in receiving an electrical box that was crucial to the progression of the renovation process. This part, which should have taken a week to arrive, took several months. Additionally, the construction industry has been facing on and off labor shortages, which has slowed down progress at times. Despite these setbacks, the renovation project is still on track to be completed in 2024. Once completed, the changes are expected to have a significant impact on the school's academic programs and extracurricular activities. The new facilities will provide students with greater opportunities to explore and develop their talents in the performing arts, physical education, and overall academic performance. The Homestead High School Additions and Renovations Project is a forward-looking initiative that reflects a significant commitment to the future of education. The renovated and expanded facilities will offer Homestead's students more opportunities to explore and develop their talents, interests, and passions. They will also create a more modern and engaging learning environment that is better suited to the needs of twenty-first century students. As the project moves closer to its 2024 completion date, the excitement and anticipation continue to build, signaling a bright future for Homestead High School and the students it serves. References https://www.performanceservices.com/project/southwest-allen-county-homestead-high-school/ https://homestead.sacs.k12.in.us/about_us/construction/renderings___plans https://www.csoinc.net/projects/homestead-high-school/ https://www.mkmdesign.com/homestead-high-school Email us if you have a business story or business you would like to promote. fwbusinessjournal@gmail.com

When it comes to success, there is no one size fits all approach. What sets an entrepreneur apart is the willingness and motivation to make their vision a reality. Being an entrepreneur can involve a great deal of risk, which can grant a lifetime of rewards. The entrepreneurial lifestyle is a journey of willpower, perseverance, and adaptability. If you desire a life of pride, satisfaction, and financial success, this article provides an inspiring and thought-provoking insight into why the entrepreneurial lifestyle is worth the effort! What Makes an Entrepreneur? From Steve Jobs to your local handyman, entrepreneurs make up 16% of the adult workforce in the United States (Bradshaw, 2023). Whether it's the next big-tech company, a revolutionary invention, or simply a craft, they are passionate about. Entrepreneurship is present in all individuals who have the courage to take control of their destinies. Entrepreneurs are ambitious and determined, motivated by their desire to succeed. They are constantly evolving, innovating, and challenging the realms of possibility. A keen eye for opportunity is a vital characteristic of a successful entrepreneur as they must be able to swiftly adapt and capitalize on oncoming prospects. There are no guidelines for growing a lucrative company fueled by their own drive for success, and entrepreneurs accept the risk that comes with starting from scratch. The Risk of Being an Entrepreneur Entrepreneurs can take on a great deal of responsibility and risk when starting their businesses. The question remains, is it worth it? An important fact to keep in mind is entrepreneurs come in all shapes and sizes; from a one-man accounting firm selling baked goods out of their kitchen to a large-scale tech startup, all businesses carry their own amount of risk. The most considerable and noticeable risk of being an entrepreneur is a financial one. Starting a business may require a loan, finding investors, or a significant personal investment. If the company is not profitable, entrepreneurs may not only have their own money on the line but investors as well. Other risk factors include the opportunity cost of starting a business. Much like starting a fire, a business requires lots of attention and tending to in its early stages of development. This can be time-consuming and take time away from one’s personal life, family, or other occupations. Despite the possibility of failure, entrepreneurs are willing to take the plunge, knowing that the potential rewards far outweigh the risk. The Rewards of Being an Entrepreneur Determining your salary, having a flexible schedule, and only working with those you choose is a dream for most, but a reality for entrepreneurs! Despite the risk, living the rewarding lifestyle of an entrepreneur is second to none. Being your own boss, working when and where you want, and taking pride in your work are just a few benefits of running your own business. The personal relationships you make because of your business are invaluable as well. Having a network of business connections provides you with other opinions, opportunities, and inspirations for the business you conduct. Furthermore, you can customize your business to fit your own vision, creating something that is truly yours. Entrepreneurship is a journey that requires hard work, dedication, and resilience, but the rewards of being an entrepreneur are immeasurable. While it is no easy feat, the greatest prize is seeing your hard work, dedication, and time pay off to form a strong, resilient, and profitable business. Resources for Entrepreneurs What sets entrepreneurs apart from others is the willingness to act on their ideas. It is easier said than done to start a business, so here are some resources to help. The U.S. Small Business Administration(SBA): The SBA provides entrepreneurs with insightful information on how to qualify for government contracts, discover business certifications, acquire funding, and many other helpful tools to get their businesses up and running. SCORE: SCORE provides mentorship and workshop programs for small business owners. Their programs include step-by-step guides that walk you through the process of starting a business. United States Census Bureau: The Census Bureau provides businesses and individuals with demographic information like the economy, housing, population, and much more valuable data. Local Chambers of Commerce: Organizations that promote business growth and development in specific regions or industries by providing networking opportunities, education, and advocacy. Chambers of commerce often offer events, training, and marketing opportunities to their members. Small Business Development Centers(SBDCs): A network of centers funded by the SBA that offer free or low-cost training, counseling, and resources to small businesses. SBDCs can aid with business planning, marketing, financial analysis, and more. National Federation of Independent Business(NFIB): An advocacy organization that represents the interests of small businesses at the state and federal levels, providing resources and support to help them succeed. The NFIB offers legislative advocacy, research and analysis, and member benefits such as insurance and savings programs. Canva: A graphic design tool that enables small businesses to create professional-looking designs for their marketing materials, including logos, social media posts, and advertisements. Canva offers a variety of templates, graphics, and fonts that users can customize to create their designs. QuickBooks: A financial management software that enables small businesses to track income and expenses, create invoices, and manage payroll and taxes. QuickBooks can also generate financial reports and assist with tax preparation. In conclusion, entrepreneurship is not just a career choice; it is a lifestyle that requires determination, hard work, and resilience. While risks are involved in starting a business, the potential rewards are worth the effort. Entrepreneurs have the opportunity to create something uniquely their own, and to experience the personal and financial freedom that comes with being their own boss. With the help of resources such as the SBA, SCORE, local Chambers of Commerce, SBDCs, the NFIB, and tools like Canva and QuickBooks, aspiring entrepreneurs can find the support they need to turn their ideas into successful businesses. The entrepreneurial journey may not be easy, but for those who are willing to take the leap, the rewards are priceless. References Bradshaw, R. (2023, January 13). 20 Entrepreneur Statistics You Need To Know (2023). Apollo Technical LLC.https://www.apollotechnical.com/entrepreneur-statistics/ Small Business Resources. (2023, January 23). U.S. Department of The Treasury. https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/small-business-programs/small-and-disadvantaged-business-utilization/small-business-resources

Fort Wayne has a new addition to its fast food options with the recent opening of California Burger. The chain, which already has two locations in Indianapolis, offers a diverse menu that includes, but is not limited to burgers, hot dogs, chicken, and sides like okra, fries, onion rings, and fried mushrooms. Additionally, the dessert menu boasts delicious soda shakes, ice cream cones, and a variety of candy-infused treats, including twisters and banana splits. The chain has a 4.0/5 rating on Yelp, but how will it fare in Fort Wayne's competitive fast-food market? Competition in the fast food industry is fierce, with well-established chains dominating the market. However, new players like California Burger can make an impact by offering unique menu items, affordable prices, and fast service. The burger chain's diverse menu is a promising sign, as it caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. In a crowded fast-food market standing out is essential to success, and offering unique menu items is one way to achieve that. By catering to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences, California Burger can attract a broader customer base and differentiate itself from competitors. Additionally, the company's commitment to using fresh ingredients and high-quality meats can attract health-conscious customers. To succeed in Fort Wayne's fast food environment, California Burger needs to maintain consistency in its food quality and service. Customers expect fast, efficient, and friendly service, as well as delicious food. With the rising popularity of food delivery services, the chain should also consider offering online ordering and delivery options to reach a wider customer base. Online ordering and delivery options can also provide convenience and accessibility, which are becoming increasingly important factors for consumers. It is worth noting that California Burger makes all of its burgers to order, ensuring that each burger is fresh and customized to the customer's specifications. This commitment to freshness and customization sets the chain apart from some of its competitors. However, it is important to mention that California Burgers prices are slightly higher compared to other fast food chains. This may be a factor for some customers, but others may be willing to pay a little extra for the higher-quality ingredients and customizable options. Ultimately, the success of California Burger in Fort Wayne's fast food market will depend on how well it balances its unique menu and higher prices with the demands and preferences of its customers. All things considered, California Burger has the potential to become a very popular fast-food chain in Fort Wayne, offering a unique menu and high-quality ingredients. However, the competition is fierce, and the company needs to maintain consistency in its food quality and service to succeed. With its recent opening, it remains to be seen how well the chain will perform in Fort Wayne's fast food market. Nonetheless, it is an exciting addition to the city's dining options. Want to explore California Burger's menu and learn more about their offerings? Head to https://www.californiaburgerinc.com/menu for more information or visit their new location at 5909 Covington Road Fort Wayne IN, 46804 Have a business story or want to get more involved in entrepreneurship? Email: fwbusinessjournal@gmail.com

As the Old Fort opens this weekend to reenact the Revolutionary War Garrison, let’s look back at its history. The Fort was built in 1815 under the direction of Major John Whistler. It was the third and final military fort to be made here in Fort Wayne. The idea behind this structure was for it to be easily defended by troops of only 50-75 men in case there was ever a Native American attack. After the risk of being attacked was no longer an issue, the structure was used as a church and a local social gathering place. The structure only stood for three years before being torn down, and the wood was reused to build homes. The Old Fort we have today is actually a copy of the original and was built less than a quarter of a mile away from the original site using Major Whistlers original drawings. The location officially opened in July 1976. According to the Old Fort website, their goal is “to educate the community about the Old Fort and its significance to the old Northwest Territory, the State of Indiana, and the United States during the 17th and 18th centuries.” Today they are hosting a Revolutionary War Garrison. Volunteers will be re-enacting life in the fort during the winter months. Today they will be hosting a Civil War Garrison. Both events are from 10 am to 5 pm. So if you are looking for an outdoor adventure this weekend, get out and “Support The Fort!”

While we get the story together for our first business, we would like to get started on our business articles! When starting this journal, we wanted Fort Wayne in the name to make it about our beautiful city, plus it’s also a business page. We picked Journal because we hope to make it authentic and more personal to you so you can relate! We also started this business because we own a local business in Fort Wayne, Hoosier Quality Cleaning. We are growing, handling employees, and managing the business! We plan to share our experience and other business owners' experiences because we are all together! After being in business, we looked around at all the new people we met and saw we had a business community already. With the people we know working very hard to make Fort Wayne what it is today, we would love to give you a peek and get you started in your entrepreneurial journey We hope we can share and inspire you with business owners and their stories, the entrepreneurial lifestyle, and business information you won’t want to miss! Stay tuned to see what local business we do 1st!

For our first post we want to take the time to say thank you for your interest in our business journal. We look forward to providing you with quality content about the local community and sharing the stories of those that have helped shape Fort Wayne into what it is today. Our business Journal is for those that love all things business. Whether you are a business owner, a startup, or just someone who loves to hear about what's happening in our community, there will be something for everyone within our Newsfeed. Our Newsfeed will be focused on three main subjects: the first being locally owned businesses. We will tell their stories about how they got started, where they are headed, and the challenges they've faced along the way. Our second topic will be about Fort Wayne's history and the people who built our city into what it is today. Lastly, we will provide business tips and advice that we've learned along the way throughout our own business experiences for the people who are starting or thinking about starting their own companies. If you would be interested in any of this, please complete a sign-up form on our home page to stay connected! Each month we will send out a newsletter outlining our topics for the month. We are all in this together! If you have a business that you would like to share, let us know because we would love to hear your story and share it for everyone to enjoy! We strive to inspire the next person to start their entrepreneurial journey. We will be adding to our website frequently to ensure we create the best experience for you! If you believe something should be changed or added to our website, we are always open to your feedback! Thank you, Fort Wayne Business Journal