Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 18th of June.
Good morning, Fort Wayne.
A new community garden opened Wednesday afternoon at Tall Oaks Apartments to offer fresh produce and a space for neighbors to connect.
The garden is part of the Housing Authority’s Choice Neighborhoods Initiative and was funded by a $500,000 HUD grant, with residents managing the space.
Local Avenues recovery alumni are volunteering to help restore Black Pine animal sanctuary—a crucial move that staff say is essential for the facility's care.
The effort will continue over the coming weeks as the sanctuary enhances its services.
Fort Wayne officials held a ribbon cutting on Wednesday, June 17 to open the new Bluffton Road Bridge (a key local connection).
The event marked the bridge’s official debut for residents.
The Allen County Public Library is asking local patrons for feedback on planned branch upgrades to improve library services.
The library will review suggestions submitted since Wednesday, Jun. 17 to guide the project.
Father’s Day in the Garden returns this weekend in Fort Wayne, offering families an opportunity to celebrate dads with planned activities (exact details will be provided locally).
Fort Wayne-based Sweetwater Sound chairman Chuck Surack plans a $250M racetrack on 300 acres at the former Kruse auction park near I-69 & County Road 11A in Auburn, but the project is paused over landowner issues.
The first $100M phase is expected to start later this year.
Fort Wayne Zoo announced two North American bald eagles will soon join its Australian Adventure area, with Liberty set to appear before July 4 and Spirit arriving later this season + a ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 1 will mark Liberty’s debut and support conservation efforts.
Northeast Indiana farmers are nearly finished with first-time planting, though some areas still await replanting, according to Channel Seed sales agronomist Chris Brazel.
He noted that mixed weather—dry in the north and wet in the south—delayed initial planting and that fungicides may soon be applied to reduce crown rot in corn.
Northwest Allen County Schools superintendent Wayne Barker will retire effective June 30, 2027 (giving the board time to plan a smooth transition) as the district prepares to search for his replacement.
Northwest Allen County Schools announced Superintendent Wayne Barker intends to retire on June 30 (his final day) after 38 years in public education.
Barker began his career at Carroll High School and submitted his notice a year ago to ease the transition.
Fort Wayne paramedics have begun using the LIFEPAK 35 — a new defibrillator and heart monitor — to treat life-threatening emergencies, with officials noting the $60,000 unit has been in service for two weeks and already saved lives while older devices remain available.
The Bluffton Tigers won the program's first Regional Championship & first Semi-State game and title in recent weeks and now will finish their historic season in the upcoming State Championship game.
Friday Night Vibes with Night to Remember
8-10 p.m. — The Club Room at The Clyde — Reservations suggested — Enjoy live music from a beloved cover band while savoring delicious food and drinks.
Sawyer Brown Live
8:00-9:30 p.m. — Sweetwater — Cost info not provided — Experience legendary country music with Sawyer Brown on their 2026 tour.
South Bend Cubs vs. Fort Wayne Tincaps
1:05 – 2:05 PM — Parkview Field — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a family-friendly baseball game at the award-winning Parkview Field.
Cheap Trick Concert
7:00 – 9:30 PM — Clyde Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the iconic sound of Cheap Trick, a legendary band in American pop rock.
Coey Redd Concert with Savannah Dexter
7-9:30 p.m. — Century Music Hall — Ticketed event — Enjoy a night of music featuring Coey Redd and Savannah Dexter live in Fort Wayne.
Maddy Smith Live
6-11 p.m. — Summit City Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a hilarious night of stand-up with Maddy Smith at this local favorite venue.
Car Demolition Derby
1-2 p.m. — Allen County Fairgrounds — $10 admission — Get ready for high-octane crashes and spectacular car clashes at this thrilling derby event.
Drum Camp: Monday Pass
9 a.m. - 12 p.m. or 1 - 4 p.m. — Sweetwater Academy of Music & Technology — Starting at $149 — Immerse yourself in a three-day workshop focused on proper drum setup and techniques for young drummers.
Great Lakes Loons vs. Fort Wayne Tincaps
7:05–10:05 p.m. — Parkview Field — Affordable tickets available — Experience the excitement of a family-friendly baseball game at the award-winning Parkview Field.
Fort Wayne TinCaps vs. Great Lakes Loons
7:05-8:05 p.m. — Parkview Field — Tickets vary — Enjoy an exciting baseball game with family-friendly entertainment at the award-winning venue.
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