Five-Year Tribute

By Jade Henry
FWIS Youth Writer

Congratulations to Fort Wayne Ink Spot for the anniversary of 5 years! I would like to pay homage to the first black owned newspaper in Fort Wayne, Indiana. The Frost Illustrated Newspaper paved the path for the Ink Spots existence. The Frost Illustrated Newspaper was established December 1968 and published through October 2017, almost 50 years. Without Frost, there would be no Fort Wayne Ink Spot.

Fort Wayne Ink Spot started publishing in March of 2018. My grandfather, John Dortch, wanted to keep the legacy of celebrating the stories of African Americans alive through print. Pop-Pop, as I affectionately call him, is the owner of this bi-weekly publication. His passion and love for reading became evident to all when he decided to start this journey. Pop-Pop believes in our youth and wanted to give an opportunity for the youth to express their thoughts through writing. The Ink Spots first essay contest was in 2021, in which I was a runner up. I am now a youth writer for the Ink Spot Newspaper, and I am beyond grateful that Pop-Pop afforded me this outstanding opportunity.

In conclusion, I would like to share this poem that I wrote:

Happy 5 years to the Ink Spot!

I feel so blessed to write for my Pop-Pop..

I know that you love to share stories and read,

But this is also how you are planting seeds.

Hopefully the community enjoys the Ink,

As it shares positivity, while making you think

Highlighting black folks in everyday life,

Giving young entrepreneurs a passion to ignite.

Cheers to another 5 published years

I look forward to continuing to share with my peers!