Becky Stockert lives and works in Fort Wayne, and is the owner of Cat People Press. She teaches art history and studio art classes at Ivy Tech Community College and the University of Saint Francis, and does freelance teaching of art to people of all ages all over the Midwest.

Becky’s work explores our world through narrative illustration; topics that interest her include feminism, sustainability, environmentalism, and the lives of cats. She often uses nature imagery as a springboard for exploring these ideas, especially the natural flora and fauna of the Midwest. As well, Becky enjoys using imagery from popular culture for reference and for the sake of humor.

Owner of Capriglione Creations Pottery and Clay Classes, she creates pieces that are beautiful and functional. Her serving bowls, planters, pitchers, earrings, and other creations are beautiful to look at and fun to use!

Singer-songwriter Adam Baker is a multi-genre artist who has spent much of the past 20 years writing, recording and performing his own brand of original music. Whether it’s an acoustic guitar driven song in the style of Dylan, Wilco or Tom Petty, or something industrial composed entirely of synths and samples, Adam’s musical vision is constantly evolving, and includes his solo album Junk Drawer, as well two full-length albums from his band, Adam Baker & the Heartache. Adam’s other projects, The Essentials and A Couple of Ukes, have also released original singles in recent years.

When Adam is not working on his own music or that of his bands, he can usually be found hosting local songwriting showcases or working with other local songwriters and musicians in his home-based studio, Heartache Productions. Outside of music, Adam spends his time cooking, gardening and hanging out with his cats.

A newly formed string quartet from Fort Wayne, this close- knit family enjoys sharing the intimate sounds of orchestral music.

Cowboy Abhyasi is a folk artist from Chicago’s south-side. After years on the road as a solo project, he has now made a home in Fort Wayne. Syncing up with four other talented musicians from all walks of life, Cowboy Abhyasi has a lot to offer. Rooted in alternative and indie music with heavy folk and blues influences, there’s a little something for everyone.

The Dead Man’s Dance is a psychedelic jam band with plenty of folk, jazz, and hard rock influence. The band loves to cover artists like the Grateful Dead, The Beatles, and Johnny Cash, with a few originals thrown in as well. Dead Man’s Dance aim to pay tribute to great music with their own fun and improvisational twist.

The band that is “creating the ‘Midwest Sound’”, The Howlin’ Hounds brings an exciting and creative approach to the country music genre. The group contains the brilliant minds of Quentin Wright (guitar, harmonica, vocals), Yasbeth Ortega (bass, vocals), and Brandon Blair (lead guitar). From the music to the heroes that are no longer with us, these boys sure have something to offer. Whether it’s the bouncy bass lines, wailing guitars, or the sound of the howlin’ harmonica, their Midwest Sound is sure to get you on your feet! Honest storytelling is what makes their songs stand out from others in town. Watch and listen to the music and lyricism and you will see what these boys are about!

Kevin Pifer plays acoustic pop/rock covers of everything from Buddy Holly & Johnny Cash to Lady Gaga & Post Malone. Between the songs you love and the originals you may not know yet, his upbeat and entertaining performances offer something for everyone.

Middle Names is a 4-piece indie rock band hailing from Fort Wayne, IN. With a blend of upbeat power indie roots, Middle Names has been likened to Manchester Orchestra, Pedro the Lion, and Jimmy Eat World.

The four life-long musicians that make up Sexy and the Succulent play original alternative rock with some funk and punk influences; think Red Hot Chili Peppers, Foo Fighters and Muse. Covers are also included in their sets. The band’s first single will be coming out just before PorchFest; come hear them and learn how to get it!

This pop punk band from Fort Wayne started out in the summer of 2017. We're just trying to have a good time while bringing the fun atmosphere of pop-punk with us wherever we go.

Elizabeth Hodges is an historian, former museum educator, and Senior Librarian in the Allen County Public Library Genealogy Center. After receiving her BA in History she pursued a Master’s degree in Irish and Irish American Studies at the New York University while working as an educator at the Lower East Side Tenement Museum. As a museum educator, Elizabeth’s love for family history grew exponentially through sharing the stories of immigrants, migrants, and refugees who once resided in an historic tenement in lower Manhattan. Upon graduating from NYU she began working for the New York Public Library in the Map Division as a page, while working to obtain a Masters in Library and Information Science from St. John’s University in New York. In her work at the Allen County Public Library Genealogy Center Elizabeth has assisted countless patrons discover their family stories. While her specialties and interests lie in Irish migration/immigration, house history, the experiences of immigrant women, and local history, she is always eager to learn and help others find their family’s story.

Judy Summers and her husband moved into the neighborhood in 2006 on the enthusiastic recommendation of their son and daughter-in-law, who were already living here. They were so very right, as they have loved the neighborhood and neighbors – the best!

Judy taught special education for 31 years in 13 different schools (!), and taught several of her students to read. Reading was not part of the standard curriculum, but it thrilled the students, their parents, and her! Reading and seeing children learn to love books has always been her passion. Judy’s very best days are when she gets to read – or tell stories – to children and then do related activities with them.

While you're enjoying Porchfest at Williams Woodland Park, join one of our neighborhood residents, Senior Genealogy Librarian Elizabeth Hodges, and Creager Smith, Fort Wayne Historic Preservation Commission Planner, for an intriguing mini historical walking tour!

We'll start our tour on the 300 block of W Suttenfield and conclude just around the corner on the 300 block of W Taber. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to learn about the lives of past residents and admire the stunning architecture of these beautiful homes.

Join us at 11:30 am or 1:30 pm – we will be gathering at 353 West Woodland. With two chances to join us during Porchfest, this is a unique and engaging experience you won't want to miss!