Fort Wayne’s growing tennis scene can be found everywhere from public parks to racquet clubs. For many players, finding someone to play with can become just as important as finding a court. That need is becoming more apparent as tennis participation continues to grow nationwide. In 2025, a record 27.3 million people played tennis in the United States, marking six consecutive years of growth. Women are also driving that momentum, with 1.1 million more women taking up tennis in 2025 than the year before. Julia Marrero is the Entrepreneur behind Tennis Girl Social Club. For Miami entrepreneur and content creator Julia Marrero, that challenge became personal when she returned to tennis after many years away. Marrero hadn’t played since she was about 14. As life became increasingly busy with work, children, and responsibilities at home, she realized she needed something that was just for her. “I believe when we work, when we have kids, when we take care of the house, we kind of get lost in it all,” Marrero said. “Sometimes it’s hard for us to find the time or something that we enjoy and that we only do for ourselves, to clear our minds.” She joined tennis clinics near her home and quickly discovered that returning to the court offered more than exercise. Tennis became a form of mental escape. “I call it my meditation moment because when you are playing tennis, you can’t think about anything else,” she said. “You need to be paying attention to the ball, to your form, to your backhand, your forehand. So it’s an amazing way to clear your head.” For Marrero, the court became a place where she could step away from the demands of everyday life and do something simply because she enjoyed it. “We are often the pillars of our home, and if we don’t take care of ourselves, who is going to take care of it all?” she said. Once she found her way back to the sport, however, she wanted more women to share it with. At the suggestion of a friend, Marrero began collecting phone numbers from women at her tennis clinics and created a group chat to coordinate matches. The group quickly grew to approximately 120 women. What started as a simple way to find a time and opponent that worked for everyone became increasingly difficult through a text thread. That was when Marrero’s son, a recent computer engineering graduate, saw an opportunity. “He told me, ‘So what if we built an app and then you could have the whole city to play?’” Marrero said. That conversation became the starting point for Tennis Girls Social Club. With her son helping build the app, Marrero turned a simple need into a business. “It started out of the need for me to find other girls to play with, like a community, a little space that I can just go play, have a coffee, and then come back to my daily routine,” she said. The Tennis Girls Social Club brand launched in November 2025, followed by the app’s official launch on March 20, 2026. Today, the platform has roughly 2,000 members across the country and is expanding into new cities. The app allows women to create profiles based on their availability, skill level and preferred style of play. Members can create matches, invite other players and choose whether they want to play socially, competitively or a combination of both. The flexibility is intentional. Marrero knows what a player wants from the court can change from day to day. “Sometimes you just feel like you want to go out and have fun and not take the game too seriously,” she said. “Other times, you want to play competitively and you want to win.” Tournament features also give members a way to organize friendly competitions, giving players another way to meet and compete outside of traditional group chats. But the more Marrero brought women together through matches and events, the more she saw the relationships that developed beyond the court. Some women became close friends, traveling together, and attending events together. “I started to create different events and different little get-togethers, and I realized there was a huge need for a community, you know, for a sense of belonging,” she said. Those connections can also help women grow as players. Marrero encourages members to step outside their usual circle of friends and play against different styles and skill levels. “If you are thinking of playing in a league or to get better, you need to play everyone around you, not just your two, three, four friends,” she said. “You need to challenge yourself.” As women meet new players, building trust becomes just as important as finding the right match. Tennis Girls Social Club is designed for women 18 and older, and new members go through a verification process. Marrero said members provide a photo of themselves while holding their identification so the team can verify their identity, age, and gender before they gain access to the platform. That trust has helped Marrero take the idea beyond Miami. The app is now available nationwide, with its strongest communities in Miami, New York, Los Angeles, and Texas. She has even seen a small group form in Guam. Local hosts help bring the club to new cities by organizing events and connecting women with one another. That opportunity could eventually extend to Fort Wayne. Women interested in bringing Tennis Girls Social Club to the area can apply to become a city host. The vision for Tennis Girls Social Club extends well beyond individual cities. Marrero hopes to build a global community for women who love tennis, with tournaments, social events, travel experiences, and partnerships along the way. “I want to become a global community for women who love tennis,” she said. “The sky is the limit.” For Marrero, though, the most meaningful measure of what she has built may not be membership numbers or how many cities join the club. It is found at home, where her children have watched her turn an idea into a business. “To see their face of how proud they are of me, I love it,” Marrero said. Even when she has doubts, her daughter reminds her, “Mommy, it’s going to work. Don’t worry.” That encouragement has given Marrero a perspective on success that goes beyond the growth of the app. “Even if it doesn’t work, that to me, is success already, just to see them be able to see that I’m able to dream about something, create something and make it work,” she said. “To me, that’s priceless.” What started as Marrero’s search for something that was just for herself has grown into something far bigger than she expected. As Tennis Girls Social Club continues expanding into new cities, she is carrying with her the same lesson that brought her back to the court in the first place: making time for something you love can sometimes lead you somewhere you never expected to go.

STEADY MOVEMENT & SHIFTING INVENTORY Northeast Indiana Housing Market Numbers: Averaged days in market: 20 New Listings: 222 Closer Sales: 129 Median Sales Price: $244,900 The real estate market in Northeast Indiana continues to show steady movement, with homes still selling at a consistent pace compared to recent years. While the market is not as fast-paced as it was during peak demand, well- priced homes are still attracting strong interest from buyers. Inventory has started to slowly increase, giving buyers more options than they had in previous years. Even with this increase, available homes remain somewhat limited in certain price ranges and popular neighborhoods. This balance between supply and demand is helping the market feel more stable and less competitive overall. For both buyers and sellers, success in today's market comes down to pricing strategy, presentation, and being prepared to act when the right opportunity comes along.

This July, local families will have the opportunity to experience more than just a week of soccer. Iglesia Avalon and Surge Soccer International are partnering to host a youth soccer camp from Monday, July 13 through Sunday, July 19, inviting children entering first through sixth grade to come together for a week centered on teamwork, community, and fun. Alessandra Ryan in partnership with Surges Soccer International The camp will run daily from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and costs $15 per child. Throughout the week, campers will participate in skill-building activities, games, and team development before wrapping up the week with a soccer tournament on Saturday. Children will be grouped into teams representing different countries, allowing them to build friendships and work together throughout the week. The week will conclude on Sunday with a combined awards ceremony and bilingual church service from noon to 2 p.m., followed by a World Cup watch party beginning at 3 p.m. While the camp promises plenty of soccer, its purpose extends far beyond the field. For Alessandra Ryan, who helped bring the camp to life, soccer has always been more than a game. A lifelong player, former collegiate athlete at Huntington University, and former coach, Ryan has spent years investing in young athletes. However, it was a sports ministry trip to the Dominican Republic last year that completely changed her perspective on what soccer could accomplish. “My eyes were super opened to see how God was using soccer as a way to reach people, how to bring communities together, and how to not stay stuck in poverty,” Ryan said. “It was a really cool way to be able to bring people together and unite around one thing.” That experience introduced Ryan to sports ministry and revealed the unique ability sports have to connect people across cultures and backgrounds. “There’s been multiple times where I’ve played with people, we don’t speak the same language, but we all know how to play soccer,” she said. “Then we become friends after. It’s so fun. There’s just a different level of connection. There’s not too many things in this world that can bring people together like that.” Ryan says that belief in soccer’s ability to unite people actually began long before her experience in the Dominican Republic. Growing up, some of her favorite memories were playing pickup soccer with her dad in their neighborhood. “We used to play soccer all the time just for fun,” Ryan said. “People would come out from their backyards when they saw us playing and ask if they could join. By the end, people who started as strangers were leaving as friends. That was one of the first times I saw how soccer could truly bring people together.” Ryan credits her father with inspiring that perspective from an early age. “I can’t thank my dad enough for showing me that,” she said. “He taught me that soccer is about so much more than the game itself. It’s about creating community, welcoming people in, and giving them a place to belong.” When Ryan and her father recently stepped away from coaching after many years she suddenly found herself facing her first summer without a team. “I’ve always been coaching,” Ryan said. “This was the first summer that I wasn’t doing anything, and I was like, ‘Oh, I don’t like that.’” Rather than stepping away from the sport entirely, Ryan began thinking about ways she could continue serving local families and investing in the community. “We were like, ‘Okay, well, what if we have something locally, like a camp, for our own community?’” she recalled. “A way to bring people together.” Knowing the impact sports ministry had on her own life, Ryan immediately thought of Surge Soccer International, an organization she has worked alongside that uses soccer to share hope and build relationships around the world. When she approached her church, Iglesia Avalon, with the idea, the vision quickly became a collaborative effort. According to Alessandra, the partnership has allowed each organization to contribute its strengths. “Surge brings a lot of things to the table,” she said. “It’s really been a partnership.” Ultimately, Ryan hopes the camp offers children and families something increasingly difficult to find: genuine connection. “I thought this soccer camp would be a great way to give back to our community and bring families together,” she said. In a world that often feels divided, Ryan believes soccer still has the power to unite people. And this July, local families will have the opportunity to experience firsthand why the sport is often referred to as “the Beautiful Game.”

In less than a year, Fort Wayne Coffee Club has transformed from a grassroots idea into a rapidly growing local business with events, a mobile café, and plans for a permanent location. Founded by Ally and Cameron Youngblood, The Fort Wayne Coffee Club is redefining what it means to build community; one event, one conversation, and one cup of coffee at a time. Like many parents, the Youngbloods found that building meaningful friendships as adults wasn’t always easy, especially while navigating life with young children. What started as a personal challenge soon turned into a larger vision: creating a space where people could show up exactly as they are and feel a sense of belonging. As Ally puts it, “Creating friendships as adults is hard—and it’s even harder when you have kids. My goal was to create a group that left judgment and worries at the door and allowed people to show up fully as themselves, then leave a little less lonely.” That vision became reality on August 17, 2025, when they hosted their very first playdate. What they expected to be a small, casual gathering quickly turned into something much more meaningful. At Buckner Park, they showed up with coffee and donuts, unsure if anyone would come. “We expected at least a couple people to show—or at the least, we could pretend those already at the park were there for the coffee club,” Ally said. Instead, more than 80 people attended, many sharing the same sentiment: “we’ve needed this.” For the Youngbloods, it was a powerful confirmation that what they had created was more than just an event, it was something their community had been waiting for. From that moment, it was clear the Coffee Club was filling a real need in the community. While the early focus was on playdates for parents, demand quickly expanded beyond that audience. Messages started coming in from people without children who were also looking for connection, prompting the couple to broaden their events into something more inclusive. As the community grew, so did the business. What began as gatherings funded out of pocket soon evolved into a multi-faceted operation centered around both events and coffee. Ally describes the brand today as “a community of change makers,” noting that while it started with playdates, it has grown into “general community events centered around friendship, kindness, and coffee.” Coffee itself has always been part of the vision. After years of talking about opening a coffee shop, the couple decided to take a step in that direction by launching a mobile café. “My husband and I have always wanted to own a coffee shop and have talked about it weekly for the last 8+ years. It just felt really natural to who we are,” Ally said, explaining that creating their own drinks gave them a fun, creative outlet while serving their growing audience. From there, new ideas continued to take shape, many of them rooted in the same mission of connection and care. One of the most meaningful expansions came from a simple desire to give back. Ally shared, “We decided to offer an essential worker giveaway program where the community could nominate anyone they wanted—teachers, hospital staff, firefighters, police officers, etc—and every month we’d pick one to deliver 10 drinks free of charge.” What began as a small gesture quickly became something much bigger. “This is still one of my favorite things that we do because it’s such a small gesture to give back to those that give so much to us,” she said, adding that each delivery is intentionally personalized. “We personalize all the bottles with names and ribbons because we want every person to feel seen and like we did spend the extra couple minutes making that drink specifically for them.” As those deliveries gained traction online, the response from the community naturally expanded beyond the giveaway itself. Schools and local businesses began placing regular purchase orders, turning what started as a giveback initiative into another way the Fort Wayne Coffee Club could show up consistently for the people around them. That same mindset, prioritizing connection over competition, also shapes how they approach other local businesses. Rather than positioning themselves against other coffee shops, Ally says collaboration has always been a core value. “We believe full heartedly there is room for everyone at the table and we are all so much better together,” she explained, pointing to partnerships with local favorites like The Hive Coffee House and Mocha Lounge Dupont. It was that belief in supporting one another that opened the door to one of their most meaningful milestones, a partnership with Icing for Izaac. “Grayce [owner and founder of Icing for Izaac] feels very in sync with the Coffee Club, and our goal is similar in making our community better while supporting moms and parents,” Ally shared. The collaboration gave Fort Wayne Coffee Club a place to put down roots, creating a consistent presence within the bakery Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., while deepening their connection to the community. For Ally, it was more than just a business opportunity, it was a turning point. “This partnership feels like the foundation of the Coffee Club and when we really started to take it seriously and consider if I should leave my full-time job.” As the business continued to grow, so did the demands on Ally’s time. Balancing motherhood, a full-time job, and the rapidly expanding Coffee Club eventually led to a major decision, stepping away from her career to focus fully on the business. It wasn’t an easy choice, but it was one rooted in passion. “We knew we’d have to make the coffee club a hobby… or go all in,” she said. “It’s very scary and the riskier option but, for me, it brings me more joy than any set paycheck.” That leap has paved the way for the next chapter: the Fort Wayne Coffee Club’s first brick-and-mortar café, opening in Huntington, Indiana. The space is designed to reflect everything the brand stands for; connection, inclusivity, and community. “You can expect the standard coffee shop with the local ingredients, including our beloved Hyde Away beans, and some fun Huntington specific menu items. You’ll see an elevated play space. Think storefronts that kids can actually go into and play with a heavy focus on cleaning and sanitizing. We will have spaces to read and relax, coffee club merch that also highlights local businesses, and a kindness corner for purchasing coffee for strangers, affirmations, and free friendship bracelets/ keychains.” Ally’s vision is clear: “Whether you’re a 17-year-old high school student… a mom in the trenches of motherhood, or someone who has just preferred black drip coffee for the last 65 years, you find a place in our space and feel welcome.” Of course, the journey hasn’t been without challenges. From early logistical hurdles, like figuring out equipment and transportation, to the complexities of hiring staff and opening a physical location, each step has required learning on the fly. Still, Ally views those challenges as part of the process. “We have learned SO much and I know this will continue to be the case - forever.”  As the Fort Wayne Coffee Club continues to grow, its foundation remains rooted in something simple but powerful; connection. What began as a small gathering has become a space where people feel seen, supported, and welcomed, no matter their stage of life. For Ally and her family, that purpose is what makes every challenge and leap of faith worth it. “Life is too short to not chase the things that bring you joy, no matter how scary they may seem,” she said. “It’s beautiful chaos, but I’ve never felt more sure that this is what my family is meant to do for the greater Fort Wayne area.” And behind it all is a deeper foundation that continues to guide them forward. As Ally shared, “Rooted in the love and example of our parents and family—who taught us to always do what’s right and pour endless love into our community and girls—we’re here because they believed in us first.”

In a world where first impressions are often made online, having a strong, intentional brand is more important than ever. That’s exactly where Salt & Sand comes in, a design studio focused on helping women-owned businesses create websites and brands that are not only visually striking, but deeply personal and built to last. Founded by Audra Leverson, Salt & Sand has grown into a nationwide brand and web design studio known for its fully custom approach. Rather than relying on templates or one-size-fits-all solutions, Audra works closely with each client to create something entirely unique. As she describes it, “Salt and Sand is a brand and web design studio that works with small to medium sized women-owned businesses nationwide… I take pride in the fact that I have never built the same website twice and I have never used a template, ensuring every single business I work with stands out from the crowd and is authentically themselves.” That commitment to originality didn’t happen overnight, it’s rooted in a journey that began much closer to home. Audra, a native of Garrett, Indiana, first discovered web design in an unexpected way. What started as a simple blog to document post-graduation travel quickly turned into something more. “During my senior year I built my first blog to document some traveling I did after graduation, which ended up being my first introduction to building websites.” she said. That early curiosity eventually led her to an entrepreneurial program in South Carolina, where her interest in branding and design took shape. By 2021, while still in college, she officially launched Salt & Sand, an ambitious move for someone just 20 years old. But for Audra, entrepreneurship never felt out of reach. Growing up surrounded by business owners and leaders, she was immersed in that mindset from an early age. “To put it simply, I never really had a reason to doubt myself,” she said, crediting generations of entrepreneurs in her family who encouraged her to think bigger and supported her along the way. Even with that strong foundation, the early version of Salt & Sand looked very different from what it is today. Initially, Audra tried to be everything for everyone, offering a wide range of design services without a clear niche. While that approach brought in work, it didn’t always reflect the level of creativity she knew she was capable of. Over time, she realized that trying to serve too many audiences made it difficult to create the storytelling-driven designs she cared most about. That realization led to one of the most important shifts in her business, narrowing her focus to serve women-owned businesses and building brands that feel both strategic and expressive. Today, every project is intentionally crafted, blending editorial-style design with thoughtful layouts that highlight each client’s individuality. Along the way, however, not every pivot came easily. One of the most challenging moments in her journey came when she followed advice that pushed her brand in a more corporate, conventional direction. While it initially seemed like a step toward growth, it ultimately left her feeling disconnected from her own work. “I slowly realized I had lost the very thing that made my work distinctive in the first place,” she said, explaining how her brand began to feel more focused on conversions than creativity. Stepping away from that path required both reflection and confidence. Audra ultimately chose to rebuild her brand in a way that felt authentic again, leaning back into the expressive, custom design style that originally defined her work. That decision reshaped not only her business, but also her perspective. As she puts it, “Just because you choose the prettier path rather than the quickest doesn’t mean you won’t reach your destination.” Those seasons of rebuilding became some of the most defining moments in her career. They taught her to trust her instincts, even when outside advice suggested otherwise. “When you’re young in business, it’s very easy to assume that someone more experienced must automatically know the right path for you. What I eventually realized is that advice, even when it comes from very successful people, still has to align with who you are and what you are trying to build.” She explained, emphasizing the importance of protecting the creative vision behind her work. Today, Salt & Sand reflects that clarity. With more than 50 businesses served nationwide and recognition as a Wix Studio Design Partner at “Legend Status,” Audra has built a portfolio that showcases not only her design expertise, but also the creativity and strength of the women she works with. Her journey has also taken on new meaning in recent years with the addition of motherhood. Becoming a mom has shifted how she approaches both her time and her business, bringing a deeper level of intention to everything she does. It’s no longer just about building beautiful brands, it’s about creating a sustainable career that supports her life and her family. At the same time, she hopes her work encourages other women to pursue their own paths, believing it’s important to have “creative pursuits, skills, and sources of independence alongside motherhood.” Through all of her experiences, Audra has gained a clear perspective on what sets successful brands apart, and where many new entrepreneurs go wrong. One of the most common mistakes she sees is rushing the process and skipping foundational steps in pursuit of quick results. As she explains, many entrepreneurs “see the destination without giving any thought to how they are going to get there,” often ending up with something that feels generic rather than intentional. Looking ahead, Audra has no plans of slowing down. She’s exploring new ways to expand Salt & Sand, including launching custom website templates, offering educational resources, and continuing to share her journey through storytelling and community engagement. With new tools and technologies shaping the future of design, she’s especially excited to explore how innovation, like AI, can enhance the creative process. Still, when asked what she’s most proud of, her answer is simple. “What I’m most proud of is simply staying with it,” she said, reflecting on the ups and downs of building a business from a young age. From uncertain seasons to complete rebuilds, the journey hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been worth it. Because at its core, entrepreneurship isn’t just about success, it’s about resilience. It’s about navigating both the highs and the lows, learning in real time, and continuing forward even when the path isn’t clear. As Audra puts it, “It’s an extremely emotional journey because the highs are just as real as the lows, and both are where the drive comes from to keep going.”   To end our conversation we asked Audra if she’s had anyone in her life that’s influenced her entrepreneurial journey, she said, “Absolutely, and I have been blessed beyond measure with an entire family of well known entrepreneurs in the Fort Wayne area. Daryle Doden (grandfather, founder of Ambassador Enterprises), Eric Doden (uncle, politician and owner of PAGO), Brian Best (father, business counselor, personal motivator), Tami Best (mother, owner of Best Yet Design), Kara Bishop (aunt, owner of Gen-D LLC), Jared Doden (uncle, licensed lawyer), and even a couple of my in-laws - Paul Leverson (father-in-law, physical therapist), Brianna Schilling (sister-in-law, co-owner of Leinen & Liebe), and Aunnah Leverson (sister-in-law, owner of Leinen & Liebe). I mention them by name because it would be a disservice not to. These are the people I grew up watching, learning from, and turning to for guidance. Having access to their experience, advice, and encouragement has been an incredible gift as I’ve navigated my own path in entrepreneurship.” As Salt & Sand continues to grow, Audra’s journey serves as a reminder that building something meaningful rarely follows a straight path. What started as a simple curiosity for web design has evolved into a business that not only reflects her creativity, but also empowers other women to step confidently into their own. Through every pivot, lesson, and season of growth, one thing has remained constant, her commitment to creating work that feels both intentional and authentic. And in doing so, she’s not just building brands, but helping shape the stories behind them.

Located at 6211 Stoney Creek Dr, 46825 Fort Wayne, Serenity + Sage Spa offers a tranquil escape for those seeking rejuvenation and self-care. Owned by Felicia Phomsoupha, a seasoned esthetician with over 25 years of experience, this spa is more than just a place to enjoy beauty treatments; it’s a space designed to foster confidence, relaxation, and wellness. Felicia's journey into the world of esthetics began over two decades ago. As a registered nurse, she has always combined her clinical knowledge with her passion for skincare. "I’ve spent the last 25 years working in the esthetics industry, primarily as a solo provider, building relationships with clients and helping them feel confident in their skin. In addition to my work in esthetics, I’m also a registered nurse, which has allowed me to bring a more clinical understanding of skin health and overall wellness into the services I provide." She shares. Her commitment to continuing education has kept her at the forefront of skincare advancements, allowing her to offer clients the best and most innovative treatments available. Inspiration for Serenity + Sage Spa was born from Felicia’s desire to create a welcoming and peaceful environment, rooted in her personal journey. Reflecting on her past, she shares, “One of the biggest inspirations for me was my own experience growing up with skin issues. I understand firsthand how much our skin can affect our confidence and how we feel about ourselves. Because of that, I always knew I wanted to help others feel more comfortable and confident in their own skin.” This passion for empowering others, combined with her interest in skincare and wellness, naturally led her into the aesthetics industry. Felicia explains, "Much of the inspiration behind Serenity + Sage Spa comes from wanting to create a peaceful space where people can slow down, take care of themselves, and feel supported." She finds it incredibly rewarding to help clients improve their skin while providing a nurturing atmosphere. The idea to start Serenity + Sage didn’t come from a single moment; it was a gradual realization over time. "I began to envision something bigger, a space where I could not only continue serving my clients but also create an environment where other talented estheticians could grow and work together as a team. Serenity + Sage Spa is the realization of that vision, and it’s exciting to finally see it come to life after years of dedication to the industry." Felicia recalls. She recognized a unique opportunity to combine results-driven skincare with relaxation, leading to the birth of Serenity + Sage Spa in January of this year. At Serenity + Sage Spa, clients can indulge in a wide range of services designed for both beauty and overall wellness. From zero gravity pedicures, waxing services, and lash extensions to brow tattooing, skin care, and facial services, the spa aims to cater to every client’s needs. Since the launch of Serenity + Sage Spa Felicia has added several new experiences, including infrared saunas and Korean lash lifts to her service offerings. Today some of the most popular services include Brazilian waxing, dermaplaning, microneedling, and lash extensions, all aimed at helping clients feel refreshed and empowered. Walking into Serenity + Sage Spa, clients can anticipate an immediate sense of calm. "Life can be busy and stressful, and my goal with Serenity + Sage Spa is to create a space where people can slow down, take a break from their daily routine, and focus on themselves for a little while," Felicia expresses. “Whether someone is coming in for a treatment, skincare guidance, or simply a moment to relax, I want every client to leave feeling refreshed, cared for, and more confident.” Serenity + Sage Spa is a testament to Felicia Phomsoupha’s journey and commitment to the esthetics industry. It’s a sanctuary where clients can learn, unwind, and empower themselves through better skin health and wellness practices. If you're in Fort Wayne and looking for a place to rejuvenate your mind and body, Serenity + Sage Spa awaits you at 6211 Stoney Creek Dr. Discover the perfect blend of results-driven skincare and true relaxation.

Today, we are visiting 229 West Berry Street , home to a striking piece of early 20th-century Fort Wayne history. In 1911, a local manufacturer Forest G. Gauntt purchased the southeast corner lot at Berry and Webster for $26,000 with plans to construct a modern 'flat building factory' for Gauntt Manufacturing Company. But plans changed and the concept for the kind of building to erect here was being reconsidered. The site previously held one of Fort Wayne's oldest homes, dating back to the 1830s. It was a 12-room frame house and was last owned by E.L. Chittenden, a former city clerk. Advertisements were placed in 1913 to have the house moved or removed but was razed in 1913 to make way for Gauntt’s vision. Gauntt and Indiana Engineering & Construction began building the ambitious 5-story office building for $100,000—a major investment in 1914! Construction started in April 1914, and by January 1915, at only 3 stories tall, it was already being praised as one of the most modern and completely equipped office buildings in northern Indiana. It featured marble and glass finishes, water to each office, and a grand vestibule leading to an elevator. Gauntt's building also featured 3 storefronts on Berry Street, and every office on the upper levels, including the interior suites, benefited from abundant natural light via a courtyard. 229 West Berry was also the farthest new office building from Calhoun Street’s central commercial district. It pushed the boundaries of the downtown business district further west along Berry, which up to that point was mostly residential. The building gained notoriety for only allowing "professional men' and 'medical practitioners' as tenants. While various medical professionals leased space well into the 70s, the initial concept didn't last long as shoe stores, dressmakers, publishers, and training schools quickly moved in by 1916. It became a highly sought-after location in those first few years. Wildwood Company, a publishing and construction tenant, is quoted as having moved there because of the “high grade of tenants, excellent services furnished by Mr. Gauntt, and the location.” In 1918, Charles Niezer purchased the building for $135,000. That same year, Anthony Wayne Institute moved in, praising the new building's terrazzo floors, mahogany woodwork, well-ventilated rooms, and proximity to the business district and one of the city's best residential neighborhoods. The Medical Protective Company purchased the building in 1919 and completed construction of the 4th and 5th floors in 1920, calling it the Medical Arts Building. After that, it had many names as various insurance companies and colleges owned and occupied the building into the late-1900s. Some may recall it as the Medical Protective Co. Building, Midwestern United Life Insurance Building, or Commercial College Building. As Downtown Fort Wayne saw a decrease in popularity in the 70s, vacancy increased and was fully vacant well into the 80s. That is until 1986 when the building was rebranded as the Financial Independence Center. Since then, 229 West Berry has been occupied by more typical office users, replacing the once popular medical professionals. And more than a century later, 229 West Berry stands as a reminder of our city's early vision to expand modern business. Today, there is one suite available for lease, and Sturges Property Group proudly manages this building as well. Contact Andrew Eckert or John Caffray to learn more about leasing office space. 260 424 8448 Article is written by Kendall Heiser and Amy Schuldt of Sturges Property Group.

J+Space Studio provides seamless design-to-completion solutions for residential and commercial clients. Fort Wayne, IN – A new woman-owned interior design and project management firm is redefining how businesses and homeowners approach renovation and remodeling projects. J+Space Studio, founded by Interior Designer Jenni Poffenberger, has officially opened with a clear mission reflected in its tagline: Design. Detail. Deliver. By integrating interior design expertise with disciplined project management, J+Space Studio eliminates the most common renovation frustrations — miscommunication, delays, budget surprises, and decision fatigue. Clients benefit from a single point of contact, clear communication, and an organized process from initial concept through final installation. “Renovations can feel overwhelming for homeowners and business owners alike,” said Poffenberger, founder of J+Space Studio. “There are countless moving parts, and mistakes cost time and money. My goal is to bridge the gap in this industry, providing clarity, communication, and a sense of calm throughout the process. I deliver solutions and beautiful spaces, but I am very passionate about the client experience of how we get there.” J+Space Studio serves both residential and commercial clients, offering expertise across a wide range of project types. From paint and furniture or kitchen remodels to commercial interiors and space planning, they handle it all. The firm specializes in helping busy professionals and business owners navigate projects with confidence while protecting both the aesthetic vision and financial investment of each renovation. This full-service model ensures budgets, timelines, contractors, and materials are managed efficiently—resulting in cohesive spaces delivered on time and on target. Services include: ● Interior design and space planning ● Residential and commercial renovations ● Full-service project management ● Contractor coordination and oversight ● Furniture, fixture, and material selection As a female entrepreneur in the construction and renovation industry, Poffenberger brings a client-centered perspective rooted in communication, organization, and accountability. “I want people to feel excited about transforming their space — not stressed by the process,” Poffenberger said. “When the right systems and communication are in place, renovation can actually be an enjoyable and empowering experience.” J+Space Studio serves Northeast Indiana with in-person services and virtual services nationwide. For more information, visit the company’s website www.jspacestudio.com  or @jspacestudio on social media. Article by: Northeast Indiana Small Business Center

For years, buying a first home was considered a milestone many people reached in their late 20s or early 30s. Today, that timeline has shifted significantly. Across the United States, the average age of a first-time homebuyer has climbed to around 40 years old, marking the highest level on record and reflecting how much the path to homeownership has changed. Fort Wayne realtor Emily Ewing says the number often surprises people, but it closely mirrors what she sees buyers facing every day. “Right now, the average first-time homebuyer in the U.S. is about 40 years old, which is older than most people expect,” she explained, “A decade or two ago, buying your first home in your late 20s or early 30s was pretty common, but today many people are waiting longer.” Several forces have contributed to this shift. Rising home prices, higher mortgage rates, student loan debt, and the challenge of saving for a down payment have all pushed that first purchase later in life. As a result, today’s first-time buyers often look very different than the stereotype many people still imagine. “In everyday terms, that means a lot of first-time buyers today are more established in their careers, may have kids, or are buying after years of renting, not fresh out of college like past generations often imagine,” Emily said. While the average buyer age had already been creeping upward for years, the pandemic-era housing market accelerated the change. Before 2020, many first-time buyers were still entering the market in their early 30s. But as competition intensified and prices surged during and after the pandemic, younger buyers were often priced out or forced to delay. “Before the pandemic, the typical age for someone buying their first home was generally in the early 30s,” Emily said. “But following the pandemic, especially through 2023, 2024, and into 2025, that median age climbed more sharply.” By 2024, the median age of first-time buyers had risen to about 38, and by 2025 it reached roughly 40 years old, the highest level recorded by major housing surveys. However, that national data doesn’t always tell the full story at the local level. In Fort Wayne and throughout much of Indiana, first-time buyers tend to be younger than the national average. Emily notes that affordability plays a major role in that difference. “Indiana and smaller Midwest markets tend to have younger buyers compared with national averages,” she said. “Even though people across the U.S. are generally becoming older when they buy their first home, areas with more affordable housing still tend to attract younger first-time buyers.” Statewide data from recent years supports that observation, showing many buyers under 35 were likely purchasing their first home, with some parts of Indiana reporting average first-time buyer ages closer to the late 20s. That trend aligns with Emily’s personal experience working locally. “In my personal experience, I work with a lot of first-time homebuyers in the 25–35 age range,” she said. Despite some encouraging local signs, Emily believes the broader national trend will likely continue, at least in the near future. Affordability challenges remain, and most forecasts suggest only modest improvement in mortgage rates and home prices. “Based on current data and expert housing forecasts, it does seem that the average age of first-time homebuyers will continue to trend upward,” she said. “The most important thing to do is save what you can.” She encourages buyers to prepare early and build savings in ways that work harder for them. “I specifically suggest to my clients opening a high-yield savings account,” Emily added. Looking ahead, Emily believes meaningful change would require homes to feel financially reachable again, especially for younger buyers. That could come from lower mortgage rates, slower price growth, or more entry-level homes being built. “When monthly payments drop to a level that feels manageable, younger buyers don’t have to wait as long to save, qualify, and feel comfortable making the leap,” she said. She also points to assistance programs and incentives as an important piece of the puzzle. Down payment and closing cost assistance, often offered through state or local housing agencies, nonprofits, or lenders, can reduce the biggest upfront barriers. “These programs don’t necessarily make homes cheaper,” Emily explained, “but they can make the upfront costs much more manageable, which helps buyers get in the door earlier.” At the same time, Emily sees an opportunity for builders to meet an underserved demand. “I believe many builders will start to build more ‘affordable’ homes for this data specifically. I personally feel like that is an untapped market for many builders,” she said. With higher prices and interest rates becoming the norm, first-time buyers today need a different approach than buyers did in the past. Longer planning timelines, careful budgeting, and flexibility around location, home size, or condition can open up more realistic options. “First-time buyers today benefit most from being informed, patient, and strategic rather than rushed,” Emily said. She also notes that the current market, while challenging, offers something buyers didn’t have during the pandemic years, time. “The market has slowed down, and it’s easier for buyers to think about their purchase decision than it was during the COVID years, when properties were flying off the market.” For buyers debating whether to wait or move forward, Emily encourages focusing less on headlines and more on personal readiness. “If you’re financially stable, plan to stay put for a while, and can afford the monthly payment comfortably, buying now can still make sense,” she said. “Waiting might help if you need more time to save, improve your credit, or reduce other debt.” Ultimately, she says, the right decision looks different for everyone. “The best move is the one that fits your budget, lifestyle, and long-term plans — not just what you see on the news.” As the average age of first-time homebuyers continues to rise nationwide, it’s clear that the path to homeownership looks very different than it did for previous generations. Higher costs and longer timelines have reshaped expectations, turning what was once an early milestone into a decision many people reach later in life. Yet, as Emily Ewing points out, local markets like Fort Wayne still offer opportunities for younger buyers willing to plan ahead, stay flexible, and explore available resources. While no one can predict exactly when market conditions will shift, one thing remains consistent: informed buyers who prepare early and make decisions based on their personal financial situation are best positioned for success. Whether someone is ready to buy now or still a few years away, understanding today’s realities and working with experienced local professionals can make the journey to a first home feel far more achievable.

The Artlink 2026 Midwest Regional Exhibition, Storied, and Postcard Exhibition & Sale Launch will be open January 8, 2025 - February 8, 2025. There will be an opening reception on Thursday, January 8, 2025 from 5-8PM. Attendance is free and open to all ages! Artlink is located at 300 E. Main Street Fort Wayne, IN 46802 inside the Auer Center for Arts & Culture across the street from the Fort Wayne Museum of Art. About the 2026 Midwest Regional Exhibition Juried by professional artist and educator Dominic Mangila, our 2026 Midwest Regional includes work by 56 artists residing in the Midwest. Mangila selected a wide variety of works, both in material and concept, which in his words reflects the dynamism and diversity of art practices in the Midwest. Dominic Mangila said “I looked for inventiveness; a sense of wonder or questioning that is true to the artist; and sensitivity and pleasure in material exploration.”   Storied: Narrative Art Whether it be a personal experience, a historical event, or an imagined tale, narrative artwork brings us together in a shared experience of curiosity and interpretation. This exhibition was open to artists who tell stories through their artwork and juried by Artlink’s Development Coordinator, Jen Brown. Postcard Exhibition & Sale The Postcard Exhibition & Sale includes postcard-sized artworks donated by artists from anywhere in the world. All postcards are for sale, with proceeds directly benefiting Artlink’s exhibition programming. Artworks by: Laurel Dugan (Storied) Laurie Hoen (Storied) Tanya Wilkinson (Storied) Elizabeth Busey (Midwest Regional) John Hrehov (Midwest Regional) Brian Ach (Midwest Regional)