Curt Andersen, 62, faces voluntary manslaughter charges after the fatal shooting of Maria Florinda Ríos Pérez de Velázquez, a 32-year-old mother of four in Whitestown.

On November 5, 2025, Ríos Pérez de Velázquez and her husband, who mistakenly arrived at Andersen's home for a cleaning job, tried to unlock his door using a work key.

Andersen fired a single shot through the closed door, killing her instantly.

Boone County Prosecutor Kent Eastwood stated the incident did not meet the requirements of Indiana's "Stand Your Ground" law, underscoring that shooting through a closed door without warning wasn’t justified.

Defense attorney Guy Relford insists Andersen acted in self-defense and plans to fight the charges in court.

A community vigil brought more than 200 people together to demand justice for Ríos Pérez de Velázquez, intensifying local calls for accountability and a closer look at self-defense laws.

Indiana’s sweeping property tax reform is set to deliver significant tax cuts for owners of high-value homes and expansive farmland, but not all Hoosiers will benefit equally.

According to Indiana Fiscal Policy Institute analyst Larry DeBoer, owners of lower-value single-family homes and smaller businesses may face a heavier burden as changes take effect.

By 2031, the fixed $48,000 homestead standard deduction will be eliminated, with the supplemental deduction rising to 66.7%.

This means households in pricier homes will enjoy bigger savings, while those living in homes valued below roughly $102,740 could actually see their property taxes increase.

For businesses, a higher exemption for personal property is welcomed, but companies with significant real estate investments may see their overall taxes climb.

Farmland and upscale properties emerge as the clear winners, leaving small homeowners and some local businesses with increased pressure.

Fort Wayne grocery prices saw notable shifts this week, especially in dairy essentials.

Milk prices dropped at Walmart by $0.39, and eggs fell at all four major chains, with Aldi reporting the biggest decrease.

Butter and cheddar cheese also trended down, with Meijer cutting butter by $0.50 and other chains posting smaller cheese declines.

However, yogurt inched up in price at Kroger and Walmart, reflecting national cost pressures.

The total grocery basket fell the most at Aldi—down 14.8% from last month—while Walmart’s basket ticked up about 5% due to yogurt and fewer discounts.

Local food costs are now about 0.3% below Indiana’s state average, making Fort Wayne a relative bright spot compared to national trends.

Prices were recorded on November 12, 2025; actual totals may vary by store.

Community Harvest Food Bank has set a new milestone, collecting over 137,000 pounds of food during its annual “U Can Crush Hunger” campaign.

The initiative united schools, businesses, and local groups from across Northeast Indiana in a spirited competition, all focused on raising donations and boosting awareness of food insecurity.

This surge in generosity arrives at a crucial time, as more families face hunger heading into the holiday season.

The food drive’s impact is significant, with tens of thousands of meals now available for families through partner agencies and mobile pantries.

CEO Carmen Cucchiarella praised the community’s heartfelt efforts, highlighting how collaboration showcases the spirit of Fort Wayne.

With demand for support remaining high, Community Harvest urges residents to keep giving or volunteer during the winter ahead.

As winter approaches, Fort Wayne officials have detailed the 2025-2026 Winter Contingency Plan, a critical safety net for residents needing shelter from the cold.

The plan activates a network of overnight shelters and daytime warming centers across the city.

From December 1 through the end of March, three key locations will provide overnight shelter for those in need.

These include The Rescue Mission on E. Washington Blvd., St. Joseph Missions Women’s Shelter on Lake Ave., and Just Neighbors.

For daytime relief, numerous warming centers will be available, offering a warm and safe refuge.

Key locations include the downtown Allen County Public Library, The Rescue Mission, and InAsMuch Ministry.

In a unique partnership, Citilink buses will also serve as mobile warming centers for riders with a valid pass.

This coordinated effort ensures that vulnerable community members have access to essential services throughout the harsh Indiana winter.

On a crisp morning, families gathered for Veterans Day events at local schools, with children waving flags and parents exchanging news in the car line.

Indiana’s Department of Education released fresh updates, including new and renewed Purple Star Schools—schools recognized for outstanding support of military-connected students.

Parents can now access the IREAD Good Cause Exemption dashboard, which offers detailed insights on third grade reading performance and promotions, adding transparency for families.

A new math support webinar explains that, starting in 2026-27, schools will provide interventions for K-8 students who fall behind, featuring clear tiered help.

Public comment is open on ASL standards for Deaf/Hard-of-Hearing students, while the Science of Reading series brings teachers up to speed on handwriting, spelling, and keyboarding.

Families are also encouraged to check out upcoming PSAT/SAT office hours and workshops, plus special support sessions for English learners.

Fort Wayne grocery shoppers are seeing modest price changes this November, with Walmart and Aldi leading the way on price drops across staple items.

While cooking oil and peanut butter saw increases—especially at Kroger—orange juice prices eased at both Kroger and Aldi.

Meijer’s basket totals stayed flat, but Kroger posted the largest month-to-month jump, driven by pantry goods. Walmart delivered the lowest five-item total for the second consecutive month, finishing under $16.50.

On a regional scale, Fort Wayne’s five-item basket rose only 1.2 % versus Indiana’s inflation rate of around 3 %.

For a full basket of 20 goods, Walmart remains the value leader under $50, while Aldi’s new basket lands mid-range and competitive.

Local grocers are managing to keep increases well below state and national averages, giving families a break as the holiday season approaches.

Fort Wayne Community Schools announced it will permanently close South Wayne Elementary School at the end of the current academic year.

The historic school, a neighborhood fixture on Cottage Avenue for over a century, is closing due to overwhelming financial challenges.

District officials blame the high cost of necessary building repairs and a staggering $11 million revenue shortfall linked directly to Indiana's new property tax laws.

This difficult decision will impact approximately 340 students, who will be reassigned to nearby schools, primarily Abbett Elementary and Fairfield Elementary.

FWCS is actively working with affected families and staff to ensure a smooth transition.

While the oldest part of the building is set for demolition, the remaining structure will be renovated to house district-wide education services, including special education programs.

Indiana hunters are facing some of the most significant rule changes in years as the 2025 deer season begins.

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources has overhauled regulations to make them simpler and more consistent across the state.

A major update is the elimination of the confusing county bonus antlerless system.

It's been replaced with a straightforward county-specific bag limit, with a new statewide cap of six antlerless deer per hunter.

Firearm regulations have also been modernized.

Hunters can now use any firearm that fires a bullet of at least .219 inches (5.56 mm), opening up many new options.

Locally, Northern Indiana hunters should note changes to deer reduction zones after last year’s EHD outbreak.

While zones near South Bend and Elkhart are still active, the Porter County zone is suspended to allow the local herd to recover.

As Halloween decorations barely collect dust in Arlington Park, longtime resident Tammy R. is already scaling a ladder at dawn to string up Christmas lights.

With a Mariah Carey playlist and inflatable snowman appearing before neighbors remove their tombstones, Tammy’s early celebration lit up a fiery debate across the cul-de-sac.

Her neighbor Greg protested with shrieking ghosts and a gravestone marked “R.I.P. Fall.”

The Arlington Park Neighborhood Facebook group exploded, racking up dozens of comments, Grinch GIFs, and stern reminders to be kind.

The community is split—some locals cherish Tammy’s bold cheer, while others want pumpkins to decompose before Santa moves in.

Even the HOA weighed in with holiday rules, sparking more controversy.

By Sunday, a mysterious “One Holiday at a Time, People!” sign had appeared—then disappeared overnight, replaced by fresh twinkle lights.

The last Friday of October buzzed with Halloween spirit as families lined up at Indiana schools, cars packed with candy and excitement.

Parents chatted about kids’ costumes, the famous Blue Ribbon Schools announcement, and the rush of pre-holiday energy.

Eleven public and private schools across the state, including Carmel, Fishers, Batesville, Richmond, and Mount Vernon, earned well-deserved Blue Ribbon honors—set to be celebrated at next month’s Educational Excellence Awards Gala.

Teachers and families juggled news of the Teacher Appreciation Grant (open through January 30, 2026), the latest STEM Integration Grants, and December’s upcoming “AI is Computer Science” events, empowering educators statewide.

PSAT/SAT workshops are scheduled for December in Fort Wayne, and support for multilingual learners rolls out with special WIDA sessions.

As the car line crawled ahead, laughter and school pride set the perfect scene for a sweet, energetic Indiana Halloween.

Fort Wayne grocery shoppers saw small but notable changes in October produce prices.

At Kroger and Meijer, most fresh staples like potatoes and apples dipped in price, thanks to strong harvests, while Walmart’s total basket crept up slightly due to higher lettuce and apple costs.

Aldi’s prices fluctuated, largely reflecting bulk buying and seasonal sourcing; potatoes there were especially variable this month.

Walmart still held the cheapest total basket in the city at $9.86, even as Kroger and Meijer both dropped below last month’s totals.

Overall, Fort Wayne’s produce remains 2–3% lower than Indiana’s average, giving locals an edge at checkout.

Summit Staples tracks these trends weekly to offer a clearer, local snapshot amid national inflation headlines.

Prices were gathered October 29, 2025, from major north-side locations, giving Fort Wayne families real-time insight.

Parkview Health is dramatically expanding its ambitious health research initiative, the Parkview DNA Insights program, inviting the entire community to participate.

Previously limited to patients and employees, the program is now open to any adult with a Parkview MyChart account, offering no-cost genetic screening.

Participants provide a simple blood sample to identify potential health risks before they become critical.

The screening searches for inherited risk factors for certain cancers—including breast, ovarian, and colorectal—and a hereditary form of high cholesterol.

The goal is to empower individuals with personalized information while building a powerful research database for future medical breakthroughs in Fort Wayne.

In partnership with Helix, the program aims to enroll 100,000 people over five years.

Led by Dr. Jamie L. Renbarger, the initiative provides no-cost genetic counseling for those with positive results to create a proactive care plan.

If you’re up early in Sycamore Hills, you’ll spot Brian K., the local morning enthusiast, powering through the sunrise with a smoothie and contagious cheeriness — much to the mixed delight and exasperation of his household.

While Brian tackles 5:30 a.m. with motivational music and kale smoothies, his wife Emily clings to every possible minute of sleep, treating his lively rituals more as a test of endurance than inspiration.

Their pre-dawn routine’s a comedy of opposites, with Brian channeling a motivational speaker and Emily surviving by sarcasm, caffeine, and sheer willpower.

By the time the rest of Fort Wayne stirs, Brian’s already energized the block, while Emily keeps local coffee shops thriving.

Still, beneath the groans and giggles, there’s a small-town love story: two people, one sunrise, and a daily dance between optimism and reality in Summit City.

On a brisk Friday in Indiana, parents in the school pick-up line discussed sweeping changes aiming to make education more effective and less bureaucratic.

Indiana just submitted a federal flexibility waiver to the U.S. Department of Education—promising schools fewer administrative burdens and a bigger focus on kids.

Starting Nov. 3, families can check eligibility for a $1,000 Indiana Learns tutoring grant for students in grades 3-8 who need help in reading or math, especially those in underperforming schools or on free/reduced lunch.

Teachers receive new AI guidance and will benefit from tools like the Continuum of Support to help struggling readers.

Bilingual educators can also attend a free WIDA workshop on Nov. 20, supporting multilingual learners.

With streamlined paperwork and more learning support, Indiana families and schools are hopeful about a simpler, student-centered future.

Fort Wayne grocery prices shifted in October, with protein costs easing after a summer rise.

Shoppers saw the best deal on chicken breast at Aldi ($1.99/lb), while ground beef prices dropped at Kroger and Meijer.

Pasta nudged higher at most stores except Walmart, and rice costs spiked especially at Aldi, reflecting their imports.

Kroger and Meijer posted the biggest month-to-month basket decreases, down 10.9% and 6.1% respectively.

Across Indiana, a slight decline in meat prices matches national USDA trends, though pantry staples ticked up about 1% due to grain markets.

Fort Wayne’s food-at-home inflation appears to be stabilizing faster than the state average.

Next week’s update will focus on produce, tracking how harvest season shapes fresh food costs for local families.

Every October, Hollowbrook Drive erupts into festive rivalry as neighbors battle for the title of top Halloween decorator.  

For three years, Terry “The Terror” Gossman has dominated with his over-the-top displays, from animatronic zombies to sound systems that shake the street.  

This year, families stepped up their game, plotting elaborate scenes and daring to challenge Terry’s reign.  

But while the block wondered if he’d sit out, Terry secretly prepared his most audacious creation yet.  

With the help of two nephews, he unveiled “The Battle of Bone Hill,” a jaw-dropping Civil War diorama featuring LED-lit skeleton soldiers and synchronized explosions.  

Kids and families crowd the yard nightly, turning Terry’s home into a local spectacle—while the HOA debates city codes and neighbors question if the tradition’s gotten out of hand.  

As “The Terror” heads for his fourth win, Hollowbrook’s Halloween has become legendary—equal parts spooky fun and competitive spirit.

Indiana’s schools are entering a fresh chapter this fall, with state leaders unveiling a new accountability model for measuring student success.

Instead of relying solely on test scores, Indiana aims to assess students by their skills, experiences, and work readiness—what officials call the “Portrait of a Graduate.”

Public feedback is open on the second draft of the rule until November 17, including a public hearing at the Indiana State Library.

Meanwhile, high schools are reminded that the Graduation Rate Audit closes October 24, and elementary educators can get involved by volunteering for math or assessment committees.

Teachers are also encouraged to explore Nimble hiring support, free science of reading professional development, and opportunities to shape data science and computer science strategies in schools.

Parents’ voices are especially crucial now as Indiana works to define what real student growth looks like for every child.

The car line is alive with fall spirit as golden leaves drop and pumpkin spice fuels parents bracing for October’s whirlwind.

Amid soccer tournaments, Halloween excitement, and back-to-back school events, Sarah and Maria swap laughs about the chaos—especially with Halloween falling on a Friday this year.

Their gratitude shines as they applaud Indiana’s principals for National Principals Month, highlighting messages from Dr. Jenner and news of top schools earning Blue Ribbon honors from Governor Braun.

There’s buzz about state pushes for data science and computer science education, including efforts to get students more hands-on math experience and teacher feedback shaping future tech programs.

Festivities continue with Farm to School Month, corn-themed meals, and the Indiana Apple Crunch promoting local farms.

With reminders about audits and deadlines, new teacher recruiting support, and a nod to Cybersecurity Month, this October, schools are celebrating, innovating, and keeping things delightfully local.

Fort Wayne grocery shoppers are seeing modest but genuine relief at checkout this October, especially on staples like milk, eggs, butter, cheese, and yogurt.

Price dips were noted at all major chains—including Kroger, Meijer, and Walmart—with eggs and milk leading the drop compared to last month.

Aldi’s recent addition brings higher options such as cage-free eggs, but remains highly competitive on basics like butter.

Walmart currently offers the lowest total basket, saving local families about a dollar compared to other stores.

Across Indiana, food prices have ticked down among dairy, while packaged items remain flat—mirroring national trends.

Still, Fort Wayne’s downward slide is measured, not dramatic, so households get a bit more breathing room with each trip.

Next, the focus turns to proteins and pantry staples—traditionally the most volatile grocery categories for local budgets.

Richmond’s favorite feline, Francine, sparked a citywide search after vanishing from the Lowe’s on West Broad Street this September.

The beloved calico, who’d charmed shoppers and won hearts since 2017, was discovered on security footage hitching a ride in a delivery truck all the way to Garysburg, North Carolina—85 miles from home.

Store manager Mike Sida, associate Wayne Schneider, and devoted fans launched a massive rescue mission, combining flyers, cameras, and high-tech gadgets to bring Francine back.

Even Lowe’s corporate joined “Operation Meow-nificent,” while social media rallied around #WheresFrancine.

After two tense weeks, Francine was safely captured and returned, sparking joyful celebrations—including a community “Francine Fest.”

Her homecoming reminded Richmond just how deeply a little community cat can connect a city.

After one month of the Summit Staples Snapshot, Fort Wayne residents now have a clear picture of local grocery prices for staples and household essentials at Kroger, Meijer, Walmart, and soon, Aldi.

This week’s focus on “quiet groceries” — orange juice, cooking oil, peanut butter, and Cheerios — showed Walmart consistently offering the lowest prices, with Kroger close behind.

For a 20-item basket, Walmart comes in cheapest at $50.13, around $5.50 less than Kroger or Meijer, which remain tightly matched.

Across Indiana, grocery inflation is still present, with steady prices for basics and more dramatic swings for fruit and brand-name items.

Fort Wayne’s average basket price of $53.91 will now serve as the Index Number to watch each month as local trends evolve.

Expect next month’s update to track price changes and include Aldi for a fuller comparison.

Summit City Scoop proudly welcomes Maddison Knafel, holistic financial advisor with Northwestern Mutual, as our newest Financial Content Contributor.

Fort Wayne readers can look forward to Maddison’s practical advice each week, including personal “Financial Hacks,” free one-on-one check-ups, and real-time answers to money questions in our Summit Secret Scoops Facebook group.

She’ll also highlight real-world case studies showing how locals and small businesses are making confident, positive changes with small, consistent steps.

Maddison’s approach is holistic—building plans that fit real lives, goals, and even the emotional side of money.

Her passion comes from experience: growing up with financial stress motivates her to help others gain confidence and peace of mind.

Ready to take control? Maddison’s free, no-pressure check-in is open to all, so even small changes can spark your best financial future.

Fort Wayne is embracing the Halloween spirit as crisp autumn breezes and rustling leaves signal the start of the spooky season.

Locals can explore Haunted Castle & Black Forest, open through October, or test their bravery at Hysterium Haunted Asylum and Columbia City Haunted Jail, all serving up classic scares.

Families and community groups are invited to gentle events like Garden Trick-or-Treat and Trunk or Treat at Auburn Cord Duesenberg Museum.

Downtown Fort Wayne's Fright Night promises zombie walks and street festivities, while the zoo hosts adults with its Rock & Roar Halloween.

Autism-inclusive trunk-or-treats and family-friendly ghost hunts round out the lineup.

Day-trippers can reach top attractions in Valparaiso, Hartford City, Churubusco, and Crown Point—perfect for anyone seeking chills within a two-hour drive.

Share your photos and stories for a chance to be featured in local Halloween roundups!

Megan Johnson of Plainfield has been named Indiana’s 2026 Teacher of the Year, recognized for her 18 years in fourth grade and her dedication to science of reading and project-based learning.

Her school and family orchestrated a heartwarming surprise, evoking “feel-good movie” vibes.

The Indiana Department of Education is busy this month, with a Graduation Rate Audit through October 24, and the launch of a new Blue Ribbon Schools designation, with honorees to be celebrated at the Educational Excellence Awards Gala.

Key deadlines loom—multilingual learner counts and enrollment certification are due by October 10, and the FAFSA for 2026–27 is open earlier than ever.

Meanwhile, teachers gain support with on-demand AI sessions in the Learning Lab and free access to the Nimble job board.

October is also Cybersecurity Awareness Month, offering schools free IT assessments, and PSAT testing runs through the end of the month.

Fort Wayne and Allen County offer a full slate of garage sales, estate sales, and auctions this October.

The Windsor Woods Community Garage Sales take place Friday and Saturday, October 3-4, featuring multiple homes in NW Fort Wayne.

Neighborhood garage sales pop up in Grabill (Oct 2-4) with appliances, decor, and garden supplies, while the popular 2 Sisters Barn Sale on Leesburg Rd returns Oct 2-4 and Oct 9-11—think vintage finds, tools, and crafts.

Shoppers can also visit the multi-family sale on Pine Mills Rd (Oct 1-3) for bikes, books, and furniture, and check out the Huntertown Multi-Family Sale (Oct 3-4) for household goods and tools.

Estate sales and local auctions round out the lineup, including online appliance, personal property, and vehicle auctions throughout the week.

Don’t miss out—connect with fellow bargain hunters in the Summit Secret Scoops Facebook Group!

October is officially Family History Month, and Fort Wayne's own Allen County Public Library is offering a full slate of free programs for the community.

The renowned Genealogy Center, one of the nation's largest, is hosting events for all skill levels.

Whether you're just starting your family tree or have hit a research roadblock, there are workshops designed for you.

Special presentations include “Chasing Ghosts: The Story of the Ghost Army” and another session on how to make historical records reveal their hidden stories.

All activities are free and open to the public, primarily held at the main library branch in downtown Fort Wayne.

This is a perfect opportunity for Allen County residents to connect with their past and explore the incredible resources available right here in our city.

Indiana’s economic development strategy transformed in 2005, when former Governor Mitch Daniels created the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) to jumpstart the state’s struggling economy.

By running more like a business and opening the door to flexibility—and secrecy—the IEDC reduced job incentive costs and attracted giants like Toyota, Honda, and Eli Lilly.

But transparency and oversight faded as the IEDC created more affiliates, fueling ever-larger deals with fewer checks. 

Recent years brought headline projects from Amazon, Meta, and Google, along with data centers and distribution hubs that demand immense power and water but offer relatively few high-quality jobs.

Much of the infrastructure—including a $2 billion water pipeline—trails behind, leaving many costs to taxpayers and residents through higher rates.

As investigations and audits reveal deep fissures, Indiana faces a pivotal choice: continue secretive mega-deals or invest in broader, more sustainable growth for local communities.

Indiana’s education scene is buzzing with energy as three Teacher of the Year finalists are announced, each representing years of dedication and community impact.

Martin Briggs of La Porte has taught 4th grade for an impressive 47 years, L.A. High from Penn-Harris-Madison has raised over $70,000 for Riley Children’s Hospital, and Megan Johnson of Plainfield recently earned her Early Literacy Endorsement while leading science of reading initiatives.

Key dates this week include: Graduation Rate Audits running through Oct. 24, Count Day and PSAT/NMSQT testing starting Oct. 1, a STEM Certification webinar on Sept. 30, and School Improvement Plan and Teacher Appreciation Grant deadlines on Oct. 3.

Families should note that FAFSA for 2026–27 is now open, with Indiana’s deadline on April 15, 2026, and schools are providing assessment grant funds for grades 3–8.

October is also Cybersecurity Awareness Month, with staff receiving free training and toolkits.

Don’t forget to check for your new Family Portal login codes for ILEARN and IREAD results.

Allen County schools celebrated a week filled with student honors, campus upgrades, and major investments in safety.

Freshmen at North Side earned Student of the Week, while South Side’s Ms. Sierra Miranda turned a Meijer shopping spree into classroom supplies for her peers.

Families at Wayne toured newly renovated facilities, and Concordia Lutheran broke ground on a historic $34 million campus expansion.

Schools including Carroll, Homestead, New Haven, Woodlan, Blackhawk Christian, and Bishop Dwenger each secured significant state safety funds, promising improved security for students countywide.

Snider’s launch of a new business-learning program, Heritage’s participation in the Fort Wayne Area College Fair, and Canterbury’s wave of National Merit Semifinalists showcased local academic growth.

Construction at Leo signals big changes ahead, and Carroll’s food service team earned citywide recognition.