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W Jefferson Blvd, in Covington Plaza Fort Wayne is buzzing with excitement as Moo-Over, the cherished allergy-friendly ice cream shop, prepares to make its move from Columbia City to a vibrant new location in Fort Wayne. What began as a humorous April Fool's joke hinting at a spot inside an IKEA quickly transformed into reality, as the official announcement revealed that Moo-Over's new home will in fact be within Covington Plaza off W Jefferson Boulevard, Fort Wayne.  In a heartfelt message on their website, Moo-Over expressed gratitude for the strong support they've received during their 4.5 years in Columbia City. “After 4.5 wonderful years in Columbia City, we’re thrilled to announce that Moo-Over is expanding to Fort Wayne! While this move is bittersweet, we are incredibly grateful for the love and support from our Columbia City community—it’s because of you that we’ve grown to this next stage," the post read.  Founded by Julie Hurd, Moo-Over was created to cater to individuals with food allergies and sensitivities, allowing them to indulge in delicious ice creams and other sweet treats without compromising their health. At Moo-Over, all ice cream and desserts are plant-based, crafted with clean ingredients, and free from gluten, dairy, eggs, and peanuts. Their tempting menu features an array of treats, including ice cream, brownies, cookies, shakes, tumbleweeds, custom cakes, and more. And for those looking to enjoy a delicious brunch, Moo-Over also offers a special Saturday menu filled with savory options from 10 AM to 2 PM. When asked about the decision to close their Columbia City location, the Moo-Over team shared, “Columbia City will always be part of our heart—we started here, grew here, and built so many amazing connections. But we’ve officially outgrown our current space, and Fort Wayne gives us the room and opportunity to keep growing, dreaming, and creating. This move is about taking everything we’ve built with you and bringing it to the next level.” As Moo-Over anticipates welcoming customers to their new location, they assure fans that the move will enhance their ability to serve the community with even more options. Updates regarding the official opening date and new offerings will be shared soon, so stay tuned for more exciting news! Fort Wayne is about to experience a new wave of deliciousness with Moo-Over’s arrival. We can’t wait to see what Julie and her dedicated team will achieve in their new space.

Fort Wayne, Indiana, is buzzing with excitement as Fun City Adventure Park officially opens their doors and invites families, friends, and thrill-seekers to experience a world of fun and adventure. Located at 6325 W Jefferson Blvd, Fort Wayne, Indiana. This vibrant amusement center offers a plethora of activities designed to entertain visitors of all ages, making it the perfect destination for a day of laughter and excitement. Fun City Adventure Park is not your typical amusement facility; it's a sprawling playground filled with an array of attractions that cater to all preferences. Here’s a glimpse of what awaits you: Trampolines : Bounce high and unleash your inner acrobat on the park’s spacious trampoline areas. Perfect for exhilarating jumps and flips, it’s an experience that promises to keep you moving. Ninja Warrior Courses: Put your agility and strength to the test! The ninja warrior courses are designed for those looking to challenge themselves with an exciting obstacle course. Climbing Walls: Reach new heights as you conquer the climbing walls, suitable for climbers of all skill levels. Arcade Machines: Take a break from physical activities and check out the extensive arcade area. Dodgeball : Gather your friends for an intense game of dodgeball. The park features dedicated courts where you can strategize, compete, and enjoy friendly rivalry. Foam and Ball Pits : Dive into the foam and ball pits for some playful fun. It’s a safe space for kids and adults alike to let loose and have a blast. Ropes Courses: Experience the thrill of navigating through the ropes courses, adding an element of adventure to your visit. If you’re eager to see what else Fun City Adventure Park has available General admission rates are as follows General Admission: $20 for 1 hour $24 for 1.5 hours $27 for 2 hours Toddler Pricing (42 inches and below): $17 for 1 hour $20 for 1.5 hours $22 for 2 hours Don't forget to grab your jump socks for just $3.50 to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the trampolines. Fun City Adventure Park is open Monday-Thursday: 2:30 PM - 9:00 PM, Friday: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Saturday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM, and Sunday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM With its diverse array of activities and competitive pricing, Fun City Adventure Park is set to become a beloved attraction in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Whether you're looking to jump, climb, or compete, this park offers a memorable experience for everyone. Gather your family and friends and head to Fun City Adventure Park for an unforgettable day of fun and adventure!

Meet Genevieve Gutzwiller, the passionate owner of Fuzz Friends Pet Care Services. Genevieve has had a deep love for animals her entire life. As a child, she grew up surrounded by cats and birds, always longing for a dog and eagerly volunteering to help family members with their pets whenever needed. This early connection to animals laid the foundation for her future. In 2021, Genevieve graduated with a degree as a veterinary technician. Her journey in the veterinary field began even before her graduation, where she gained valuable experience and insights. However, she also faced challenges, including low pay and the emotional toll of caring for sick or euthanized pets. It was during this time that Genevieve was made aware of the more joyful aspects of working with animals—boarding, pet sitting, dog walking, and various pet care services. Intrigued, she dove into research, studying online, listening to industry podcasts, and connecting with mentors to equip herself for a new venture.  Genevieve recalls, “I studied online, listened to podcasts for months, ordered books from pros in the pet sitting industry, and met with a mentor at the NIC to fully prepare myself for starting a real and successful business. I invested in myself and the business from the get go and continue to invest in knowledge to provide exceptional in-home pet care services. Once I was confident in the basis of my knowledge, I obtained my LLC, insurance and bonding, built a professional website, hired a friend to design my logo and branding guide, and quit my job to dive fully into my own business.”  With a commitment to investing in herself and her future, she launched Fuzz Friends Pet Care Services on February 28, 2022. Today, she offers a wide range of services to various animals, including dogs, cats, rabbits, ferrets, hamsters, and more. Her offerings include dog walking, drop-in pet sitting, pet taxi services, care for small animals, wedding day pet attendants, in-home bathing, and customizable services. Potential clients can easily book services through her user-friendly website, fuzzfriendspcs.com , or by contacting her directly at (260)402-2743 or by emailing fuzzfriendspcs@gmail.com . Once an inquiry is received Genevieve wil schedule a complimentary meet and greet to discuss the specific needs of each pet and ensure she is a good fit. After a successful meet and greet clients will receive a link to onboard into the Fuzz Friends App, where they can sign a service agreement, request services, communicate, and make payments seamlessly.  Genevieve emphasizes the significance of trust in her profession. “Being part of the pet care industry as a professional dog walker, pet sitter, and in-home pet care provider means much more than merely holding a job; it embodies my passion for animals and their well-being,” she shares. “This role is a commitment to dedicating my time and energy to ensuring that pets receive the love, care, and attention they rightfully deserve, especially when their owners are unavailable. In this profession, trust and responsibility are at the forefront. Pet owners place their pets—often regarded as integral family members—into my care, and this trust is a privilege I hold in the highest regard.”  Genevieve is dedicated to enriching the lives of both pets and their owners. For the pets, this translates into providing structured exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction—elements vital for their overall health and happiness. For the owners, her services offer peace of mind, knowing their furry friends are in reliable, capable, and loving hands while they are busy at work or on vacation. As the pet care industry evolves, Genevieve is acutely aware of the growing demand for professional pet care services. “More pet owners are seeking convenient and personalized care options for their pets,” she explains. “Professional pet care offers personalized attention tailored to each pet's unique needs. Unlike traditional boarding facilities, in-home pet care allows pets to remain in their familiar surroundings, minimizing stress and anxiety.”  Genevieve emphasizes that professional pet sitters and caregivers are bonded and insured, providing an added layer of security for pet owners. “Moreover, many professionals provide regular updates and communication, allowing owners to stay informed about their pets' well-being while they are away,” she adds. With her background in the veterinary field, Genevieve brings essential knowledge to her business, ensuring that she provides the highest quality of care. Looking ahead, Genevieve has exciting plans for Fuzz Friends Pet Care Services. She aims to strengthen relationships with other small businesses in the pet industry and will host her first public pet event this summer, connecting local pet owners with outstanding pet-focused companies. Genevieve plans to share more information about the event in the coming weeks on Fuzz Friends social pages. She also plans to attend a pet care providers expo by the end of 2026 to learn from experts nationwide. Additionally, Genevieve has begun training in grooming, with hopes of adding this service to her offerings. Lastly, Genevieve plans to continue growing her clientele. She shared, “Each day is an opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of those I care for, and that is a privilege I cherish deeply.”  As Fuzz Friends Pet Care Services continues to grow, Genevieve remains dedicated to providing top-notch care to local pet parents, ensuring that every pet she cares for receives the love and attention they deserve. With her passion, expertise, and commitment to lifelong learning, Genevieve is not just a pet care provider; she is a true advocate for the well-being of all animals.  Genevieve Gutzwiller’s journey from a passionate animal lover to a dedicated pet care professional is a testament to her unwavering commitment to the furry friends in our lives. As she continues to expand her services and strengthen her ties within the community, Fuzz Friends Pet Care Services is sure to leave a lasting impact on both pets and their owners. With Genevieve at the helm, pet care is not just a service; it’s a heartfelt mission. Learn about Fuzz Friends Pet Service : https://www.fuzzfriendspcs.com/

Contractors and DIYers in northeast Indiana now have more access to premium and unique lumber materials thanks to a new small business in Fort Wayne. Hoosier Hardwood Supply, a new craft wood shop, is now open on the cities Northside. It is holding a grand opening this weekend for contractors, DIYers, and the general public to show off its new location and its large selection of high-quality lumber products. The opening comes as the nation sees an increase in the DIY home improvement market as more homeowners look to personalize their homes. A craft wood shop is a specialty store that supplies higher-grade hardwoods for woodworking, cabinetry, furniture making, and DIY projects. Unlike big box stores, Hoosier Hardwood Supply offers premium, hand-selected wood with a focus on grain patterns and specialty cuts. Though recently opened, Hoosier Hardwood Supply products have already been featured at other local businesses, including Strong Art Gallery and Wordsmith Studio. A grand opening will be held Saturday, March 29 at 3911 Mobile Avenue, Fort Wayne (Off Fernhill Avenue). Contractors and members of the public are invited to attend from 8am until 1p. Media is also invited. Owner Kevin Jansen is no stranger to this unique business. He has worked in the hardwood industry for nearly a decade, serving contractors, hobbyists, and homeowners in purchasing hardwood materials for their projects. Jansen opened the new location after identifying a need in the community. “I recognized a gap in the market for high-quality hardwood supplies in Fort Wayne and the surrounding counties, and I wanted to provide a solution,” says Jansen. “Our goal is to ensure that customers receive the right materials at a fair price. In many cases we can offer better quality materials for a lower cost than they can found elsewhere locally,” he says. Hoosier Hardwood Supply carries raw materials in domestic and foreign hardwood species and has various of ways to purchase it. Materials are typically in stock and customers can begin working on their projects almost immediately. It also specializes in exotic lumber from outside the US, including Purpleheart, Bloodwood, Wenge, Padauk, Leopardwood, and Olivewood. Lean more at Hoosier Hardwood Supply.

Transworld Business Advisors, the world’s largest business brokerage firm, has opened a new office at 2025 S. Anthony Blvd., Suite 220, in Fort Wayne. For Fort Wayne franchise owner Adam Ross and his wife, Molly Ross, it’s the culmination of a lifetime of owning small businesses in their hometown. Adam and Molly Ross Transworld Business Advisors is a global brand offering 45 years of skill and expertise to its franchisees, who also benefit from its place in the United Franchise Group™ (UFG) of affiliated brands and consultants. Brokers assist with research and have numerous resources to call on, including comprehensive listings of viable businesses. The company represents acquisition-minded corporations or individuals interested in owning their own company or franchise. From business brokerage to mergers and acquisitions, Transworld Business Advisors are business sale specialists that bring buyers and sellers together for a business. “Our decision to join this established, industry leading brand was an easy one,” added Ross. “They have more transactions, experience and data than anyone else, which is important when you’re buying or selling one of the largest assets you’ll ever own. We’re eager to share our passion for serving others in our community by helping them in the process of buying and selling of businesses.”  Adam and Molly Ross met while working at Zesto, a famous local ice cream stand. Both are licensed business intermediaries and have owned seven businesses over their 23-year marriage, which has also blessed them with three children, two of whom work at Zesto. Learn more about Adam and Molly Ross at the Fort Wayne Business Journal, Love at First Scope: The Journey from Zesto Employees to Zesto Owners “We have a vast network of business owners that we have accumulated for over 40 years,” said Ross. Who’s been part of Fort Wayne’s business community since working in his father’s popcorn franchise at age five. “We feel that our city will benefit from a new, energetic and professional approach to buying and selling businesses, and we’re excited about taking on that mission.”  To celebrate the grand opening of the office, the Ross’ are giving away a 1927 Ford hot rod at the Fort Wayne Rod and Custom Show, March 28-30 at the Fort Wayne Coliseum. The show will feature over 350 cars. The giveaway is free to enter, and the drawing will take place March 30.  New Office and Events Detail: To learn more about the new office, go to Transworld Business Advisors or call 260-706-2444. For more information on the hot rod giveaway, visit the Fort Wayne Road & Custom Show .

By Jules Pequignot  It was 2004 and I’d been at my job at a Fort Wayne manufacturer for a decade—growing from machine operator to quality technician to research and development technician.   That’s when the news came. The founder of the company was retiring and selling the business.   We were nervous as could be. When a company is sold, you never know what the new owner is going to do. Would they cut back? Would we all have jobs? It was nerve-racking for everyone.     When we heard our boss was selling to Massachusetts-based Web Industries, which was 100% employee-owned, we went from scared to confused.   None of us had ever heard of an employee stock ownership plan, or ESOP, a qualified retirement plan that provides tax incentives to companies who share ownership with workers.   We had no clue it was about to change our lives.   The first positive sign was the mass layoffs never came. Web came in and explained who they were, what the ESOP was and how we’d all be a part of it if we decided to stay. Almost everyone stuck around, and we slowly started learning about what it means to be employee owners. We got disabused of the notion that we’d have to make HR or corporate strategy decisions, but were taught that everything we do affects the company’s bottom line, and our own wallets.   Next came that first ESOP statement. “Oh, this is kind of cool,” we all thought as we saw the modest balances. But if I’m being honest, it took a lot of us a lot of years to realize what the ESOP really  meant and how it could impact us. The moment for me came one day when I was looking at my 401(k) statement and realized it wasn’t growing very fast. I was losing as much as I was putting in there. But with the ESOP, I wasn’t putting in anything except my hard work and it kept climbing. All of a sudden, I realized it had surpassed what I had in my 401(k). That got my mind changing on what it means to be an owner.   Alongside my ballooning retirement account, it also just felt different to work at an employee-owned company. I always had a good attitude at work, but when I realized everything I do can impact the share value for better or worse, I took it to heart—things as little as showing up each day with a positive attitude or proactively making a small suggestion to cut down on waste. Being an owner becomes part of your culture. If someone needs a hand, you help them out, you work together. When we had a single owner, there was a lot of competition, but in our ownership culture it’s, “how can we all do that together?” If one shift is getting four sets on a machine and the other shift’s getting two in the same amount of time, we work together to get everyone to four sets.   When I see a machine running slow, I joke around with the operator: “man you’re taking money out of my wallet, too.” They laugh and then speed the machine up. We’re all working towards a common goal. We’re working for ourselves even though we’re working for a company. We’re working to build our future wealth.   As time went on, and I understood the value of the ESOP, I joined the company’s ESOP Committee, which helps to build our ownership culture, particularly among new hires. Sometimes it’s tough to get young people excited about retirement--they want the cash now to buy wheels for their truck--but I explain to them that they’re building wealth and that resonates.   The ESOP is really a powerful tool, but I’ve come to realize there are too few of them. There are only 194 ESOP companies in Indiana , but a new national campaign, Expanding ESOPs, is working to change that, and bring ownership to every worker in the country. I’m proud to lend my voice to achieving that goal. As I creep closer to retirement, I realize I’m one of the lucky ones. Most Americans have little saved for retirement. And as prices go up and up, you need to save more and more. That sale we were all so worried about ended up being our savior. I feel secure thinking about my future, thanks to the ESOP. I hope for the day when all Americans can feel that way.  Jules Pequignot is a senior process technician at Web Industries, an employee-owned manufacturer in Fort Wayne.

Owners: Scott and Kelli Lutterbeck The Brothers that just do Gutters announced the opening of its newest location in Fort Wayne, IN, owned and operated by Scott and Kelli Lutterbeck. Serving Northeast Indiana, this franchise will provide expert gutter installation, repair, and cleaning services to homeowners and businesses throughout the region. Scott Lutterbeck, a retired Marine Corps officer and helicopter pilot, brings a wealth of leadership experience and dedication to service. After 24 years in the Marine Corps, followed by a 15-year corporate career, Scott sought a new opportunity that would allow him to build something meaningful for his family and local community. His wife, Kelli Lutterbeck, a former corporate travel agent and dedicated stay-at-home mom, joins him in this new venture, combining their strengths to create a customer-focused business. "The Brothers that just do Gutters stood out to me because of the strong culture, proven systems, and unparalleled support," said Scott Lutterbeck. "After years in the corporate world, I wanted to transition into something where I could have a direct impact on my employees and customers. I’m excited to lead a team that prioritizes quality craftsmanship, professionalism, and integrity while serving our community." The Lutterbecks are passionate about building a cohesive team that understands the vital role gutters play in protecting homes and businesses. Their mission is to deliver top-tier service, ensuring customer satisfaction and home protection through high-quality, professional gutter solutions. The Brothers that just do gutters aims to redefine the home service industry by prioritizing professionalism, communication, and customer experience. Their motto, “Reinventing Contractor Service,” reflects their mission to provide reliable, high-quality gutter solutions that enhance home protection and longevity About The Brothers That Just Do Gutters: A community-driven, customer-focused gutter contractor, The Brothers That Just Do Gutters specializes in premium gutter services with a commitment to honesty, integrity, and superior customer service. As part of the Evive Brands family, the company is dedicated to enhancing home protection and serving communities across the U.S.

Fort Wayne, IN – Old Fort Baseball Co. is proud to host the Second Annual Vintage Baseball Showcase, a one-of-a-kind celebration of baseball history and tradition, taking place on June 28 at Lawton Park. Following the success of last year’s inaugural event , this year’s showcase promises to be even bigger, featuring a game between the Indianapolis Blue and Hillsdale People. The teams will compete in a baseball game played by 1864 rules, showcasing vintage style uniforms, period authentic equipment to allow the fans to step back in time to see how America’s Game began. This family friendly, free event is open to the public and is complete with food vendors, giveaways and activities for fans of all ages. “We’re thrilled to bring the Vintage Baseball Showcase back for a second year,” said Logan Wiening, Owner of Old Fort Baseball Co. “This event not only celebrates the heritage of America’s pastime but also Fort Wayne’s unique connection to baseball history. It’s a day of nostalgia and fun for everyone.” Event Details • What: Second Annual Vintage Baseball Showcase • When: June 28, 2025 - 2:00PM • Where: Lawton Park, Fort Wayne • Cost: Free For more information, visit oldfortbaseballco.com/vintageshowcase About Old Fort Baseball Co. Founded in 2021, Old Fort Baseball Co. is a passionate endeavor dedicated to creating high-quality, baseball-inspired merchandise that pays homage to the rich sports history of Fort Wayne, Indiana. Recognizing the deep roots of baseball in the community, the company focuses on crafting unique apparel that not only celebrates the game but also highlights the stories of local teams and players throughout Fort Wayne history. Through community-focused events, such as the vintage baseball showcases , Old Fort Baseball Co. fosters a sense of camaraderie among baseball enthusiasts, encouraging them to engage with the sport's legacy in a meaningful way. By blending nostalgia with modern design, the company aims to evoke cherished memories while also inspiring a new generation of fans to appreciate and support the beloved pastime. In doing so, Old Fort Baseball Co. plays a vital role in reinvigorating the love for baseball in Fort Wayne, ensuring that its legacy continues to thrive for years to come. Meet the Owner Logan Wiening from an interview by Fort Wayne Business Journal

The Roller Dome was built in 1950 by James (Jim) and Marjorie (Marg) Wall. Marjorie and James met previously at Lincolndale Roller Rink, where James paid his friend a quarter to ask if Marjorie would skate with James. They were married three months later. James was drafted into the Air Force in 1943, and when he returned from war, he and his wife decided to open a business. They wanted to be sure that if something happened to James, Marjorie could keep the business going. They both settled on a business that had brought them together: a roller rink. They soon purchased land on Coliseum Boulevard, which at the time was called California Road. Their only neighbors were Don Hall's Hollywood Drive-In and a gas station, since they were five miles north of State Boulevard, the northern city limits boundary at the time. The Roller Dome was wildly successful upon opening, and it was most popular in the 50s. Over one thousand kids would show up daily for the all-day skates! Some parents dropped their kids off at 9am and picked them up at 5pm after work. All-night skates were also popular, with some folks skating from 7:30pm to 6am the next day. About 20 years after the Roller Dome opened, the Wall family diversified their business and opened Wall Skate Supply Company, which provided roller skating and rink maintenance equipment. They continued to grow and built roller rinks throughout the Midwest and Florida. James and Marjorie worked at the Roller Dome 24/7 over the years to make sure it was always successful, and Marjorie became somewhat of a local celebrity because of her daily presence at the rink. The couple had been married 56 years when James Wall passed away in 1993. With the help of her children, Marjorie continued to run the rink. She passed away in 2015 after running the Roller Dome for 65 years. Marjorie once said in an interview, "The rink is my home... the rink means my life." Today the Roller Dome is up for sale. If you are interested in purchasing a piece of Fort Wayne history follow the link below for details. https://sturgesproperty.com/properties/roller-dome-redevelopment We would like to give a special shout-out to Kendall Stevens and Amy Schuldt of Sturges Property Group for the photography and copy in this article. If you enjoyed reading this article check back every month to see what new historical property Sturges Property Group has to share.

Aunt Millie’s Bakeries is removing the Sunbeam Bread signfrom the downtown location to be refurbished and preserved. The removal and restoration will begin immediately with relocation updates to follow as plans progress.   Aunt Millie’s is looking for the perfect home for the iconic sign that has been a part of the downtown Fort Wayne scenery for more than 67 years. The hope is to keep the sign a part of downtown Fort Wayne; however, if no resolution can be found the sign will ultimately land at the new corporate office at 6230 Bluffton Road.   Aunt Millie’s no longer owns the property at 350 Pearl Street so we cannot guarantee the sign’s preservation. Given the current downtown development we believe that by restoring the sign now we can make sure it will be a part of Fort Wayne for many years to come.   “We are excited that the sign is being preserved,” says Bohn Popp, Aunt Millie’s Executive Vice President of Quality and Brand Strategy. “We know it has been a part of so many great memories for generations of Fort Wayne residents, and we are committed to preserving the sign for future generations.”   The Sunbeam Bread sign was commissioned in 1957 by current Aunt Millie’s President John Popp’s late brother, H. Leslie Popp Jr. Measuring 36 feet across and 15.5 feet high, the sign shows a giant loaf of Sunbeam bread emptying onto a plate, slice by slice. The scene is powered by a small engine, rotating the graphic illustrating nine slices of bread. Each slice takes 2.3 seconds to fall. More about Local Fort Wayne Company, Aunt Millie’s: Founded in 1901, Aunt Millie’s Bakeries is a family-owned commercial bakery headquartered in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and is one of the largest commercial baking and distribution companies in the United States. Its brands include Aunt Millie’s, Live Carb Smart®, Sunbeam and Hillbilly Bread. Aunt Millie’s also produces private-label products for major retailers and fast-food restaurants. For more information, visit AuntMillies.com .