Kokomo Magazine November 2020

MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER 2020

Sweet Peas Play Cafe Distinctive Concept Opens for Youngsters and Adults Alike FROM THE GROUND UP

STAR BUILDING SUPPLY HAS BEEN A TRUSTED KOKOMO BUSINESS FOR NEARLY 75 YEARS

THE THIN LINE: WARREN SIMS ALL AMERICAN AUTO SERVICE SUPPORTS LOCAL VETERANS

atKokomo.com

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Celebrating 81 years serving Kokomo 765-459-0758 | www.coffcu.org 1120 South Main Street, Kokomo, IN 46902

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As the very proud mother of a Veteran (Iraq/ Afghanistan), I more than understand the sacrifices our service men & women and their families have made for our freedoms! I will forever hold a special place in my heart for all Veterans as well as those still active. I Thank you and may God Bless all who have served our great country! - Nicci Perkins

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Owners Krystyne and Kirt Wilson and Family

Writer / Julie Yates Photographer / Jim Hunt

Sweet Peas Play Café, located on South Plate Street, is truly an all-ages concept. It’s an innovative idea that combines engaging play areas for children up to age 12 with a space for parents to catch their breath as they enjoy a great cup of coffee or tea. In addition to being a great venue for birthday parties, the leaders of the business have invested in the community by constructing a new facility and forging ties with several local businesses.

Sweet Peas Play Cafe Distinctive Concept Opens for Youngsters and Adults Alike atKokomo.com / NOVEMBER 2020 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / 7

The business is a vision brought to reality

by Krystyne and Kirt Wilson. The couple, who were sweethearts at Northwestern High School, are military veterans. Both were deployed to Iraq - Kirt did one tour alone, and then they completed a second tour together. Later, after having two children, their family was stationed in South Korea. In 2013, the Wilsons returned home to Kokomo.

Krystyne, who is expecting her fourth child this spring, distinctly recalls the family’s experience in South Korea.

“The Korean culture is very family oriented,” she says. “A friend told us about the play cafes that were in the area. We visited them and thought they were a great

“

THE KOREAN CULTURE IS VERY FAMILY ORIENTED. A FRIEND TOLD US ABOUT THE PLAY CAFES THAT WERE IN THE AREA. WE VISITED THEM AND THOUGHT THEY WERE A GREAT IDEA. - KRYSTYNE WILSON

” idea. After we returned home I thought, ‘Wouldn’t it be nice if we could go to a play cafe?’”

When the couple decided to build a play cafe in Kokomo, they investigated existing buildings before deciding to build a new structure. They were able to design a space according to their own specifications, which include age-appropriate slides and two BEAM interactive projection systems that allow participants to play games with light images. The sizable play space has two distinct areas - one for infants up to age 5, with a small section for crawlers, and another area designated for ages 6 to 12.

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Part of the area for ages 12 and under consists of three separate playhouses.

The science, technology, engineering and math “home” is sponsored by Jarrell Orthodontics, and includes a building area supplied with LEGOs and other toys.

There is also an imaginative playhouse with a pretend kitchen, a restaurant and plenty of baby dolls. Floyd’s Designs sponsors another playhouse, which is filled with arts and crafts supplies.

The Wilsons have partnered with Button Motors. The company’s courtesy vehicle will transport their customers over to Sweet Peas, allowing youngsters to play while parents are waiting on auto service.

The area for infants up to age 5 has a Button Motors-themed station, allowing children the chance to “service” cars. If customers at Button Motors don’t have children with them, they can opt to visit Sweet Peas just for a beverage.

In fact, some people within the community and employees from nearby businesses come in just for the coffee and other drinks. Coffee is sourced from Julian Coffee Roasters in Zionsville, and the menu also includes a variety of sweets from local bakers. Muggle Brew, which is a nod to butterbeer from “Harry Potter,” is popular with kids. A complete menu of hot and cold drinks can be found on the Sweet Peas website.

“To give real service, you must add something which cannot be bought or measured with money, and that is sincerity and integrity.”

“Our private birthday parties are wonderful,” Wilson adds. “It’s just you and your family in a space that’s clean and new.

Our staff attends to everything, so it is so easy for adults. Due to COVID, we are keeping our parties smaller in scale to be in compliance with current mandates.”

The cost for a day of play at Sweet Peas is $10 per child, and children under 1 year of age with a paid sibling get in for free.

To ensure a spot, it is best to reserve a day online. Parents are required to submit a signed waiver for each child, and all participants must wear socks.

“I was honored to have the opportunity to serve our country during a difficult time of war,” Wilson says. “When it was time to come home, we wanted to return to Kokomo and be with family. Now we are so happy to bring our dream of a play cafe to life.”

Sweet Peas Play Café is located at 1825 South Plate Street in Kokomo. For more info, call 765-450-1825 and visit SweetPeasKokomo.com.

Jordan Roe 765-461-2817 atKokomo.com / NOVEMBER 2020 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / 9

FROM THE GROUND

UP

Star Building Supply Has Been a Trusted Kokomo Business For Nearly 75 Years Writer / Julie Yates Photography Provided

Star Building Supply is a well-established business in the Kokomo community, but it has an interesting history that residents may not know. Although it’s been located at 1501 North Market Street since 1947, it once had a different name, and what it sold wasn’t construction materials. Its longevity over good times and bad is due to the ability to change with the times and fulfill the wishes of customers.

The business began more than 73 years ago as the Star Coal company. Original owner Westy Bassett had the foresight to begin selling building supplies such as brick and block when the practice of heating homes by burning coal declined.

During the 1970s, Bassett convinced his son-in-law, Bill Lambert, to leave California and help him with the business. By the late 70s, Lambert became the second owner of the business.

“Bill Lambert became a good family friend and was a mentor to me,” says current owner Rob Armstrong. “In 2006, he informed me that I needed to buy his business. I started working at Star Building Supply on January 1 and by March 15, 2007, I was the owner. It was a wonderful opportunity and I am so grateful for it.

“When I purchased the business, it was 10 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / NOVEMBER 2020 / atKokomo.com

Owner Rob Armstrong

100% brick, block, concrete and some tools,” he adds. “I knew we needed to diversify. Our product line grew by adding siding, windows, doors, cabinets and lumber. Today we have a full-time kitchen designer and carry engineered lumber and specialized building supplies such as steel beams. Additional buildings have been added.”

By 2010, Star Building Supply was developing relationships with contractors as well as individual consumers. Advances in products allow builders to construct large open spaces by using steel-made structural supports. Likewise, if a client wants a wall full of windows, their products can enable that look to be achieved.

WE LOVE BRINGING OUR CUSTOMERS’ DREAMS TO REALITY. BUILDING SUPPLIES ARE ALWAYS CHANGING AND TRENDING. THE COLORS AND TEXTURES OF OUR EXTERIOR PRODUCTS ENABLE PEOPLE TO INCREASE THE CURB APPEAL OF THEIR HOMES. - ROB ARMSTRONG-

“I thought the COVID shut down would really slow things down but instead we have been even busier,” Armstrong says.

“New construction is continuing as people seem to want to get out of the city. Or, they are reinvesting in their nest. Plenty of brand-new decks were built during the nice weather and now people are finding the need to have a new kitchen or bath.”

As the owner of a long-time Kokomo business, Armstrong has been able to forge strong ties within the community. He is a big believer in giving back and thrives on having a full plate. He currently sits on the board of the Salvation Army but is involved in and has held board positions

in multiple organizations such as the local Home Builders Association and St. Vincent Hospital Board.

“We love bringing our customers’ dreams to reality,” he says. “Building supplies are always changing and trending. The colors and textures of our exterior products enable people to increase the curb appeal of their homes. Popular interior colors and materials have changed a lot over the years. The relationships made while serving the people of the community make for a good life.”

(765) 457-9037 | SR 931 & Gano Since 1975

Star Building Supply is located at 1501 N. Market Street in Kokomo. For more information, give them a call at 765-459-4129 or visit them online at starbuildingsupply.com.

(765) 454-0689 | Mon-Fri 8AM-5PM

201 W. Morgan | Kokomo, IN 46901

atKokomo.com / OCTOBER 2020 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / 11

WARREN SIMS ALL AMERICAN AUTO SERVICE SUPPORTS LOCAL VETERANS

Writer / Julie Yates Photography Provided

The adage, “When one door shuts, another door opens” seems to apply to the life of veteran and co-owner of All American Auto Service, Warren Sims.

After a series of events and a period of serving the country in the Army, he had the opportunity to open a full-service auto facility. The business honors those who serve the community by offering free oil changes to veterans on Veterans Day and discounts all year round to veterans and first responders.

active duty, I was accepted into a program for my dream job, a physical therapy assistant (PTA). But in 2014, as I was still serving in the Army Reserves, I was called up and deployed to Afghanistan.

“When I came home in 2015, the PTA program had been dissolved, and it was back to the drawing board,” he adds. “I made the decision to start All America Auto Service, and we opened on October 1 of that year. There have been lots of struggles and hurdles, but we made three and five-year goals and met them. We recently purchased a building and moved to our new location at 810 South Reed Road.”

Today, the business handles both major and minor repairs as well as maintenance Sims is a Kokomo native and attended needs for both private owners and fleet Kokomo High School. In 2009, he was cars for businesses. Each Veterans Day working at Button Motors when the the business provides free oil changes to financial downturn affected the local veterans. NAPA Auto Parts absorbs some economy. So, at age 27, he joined the Army. of the cost by providing filters, but All American Auto Service provides the labor “I was stationed at Fort Polk in Louisiana and other materials. and specialized in operating heavy equipment,” Sims says. “In 2013, after From the beginning, the auto service 12 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / NOVEMBER 2020 / atKokomo.com

facility has supported area fundraisers. In 2017, Sims and other workers restored a 70-year-old truck and donated it to We Care to be auctioned off. The business Facebook page spreads the news of and supports Kokomo organizations and their events.

“Serving in the military was life-changing for me,” Sims says. “It was an opportunity to see things differently. One of the biggest pieces was working with the people in Afghanistan. After seeing what the Afghan people went through, it was eye-opening to realize how good we have it here.

“When I was in Afghanistan, we weren’t engaged in as much combat as others, but we had our share. When you go to war, you get close to guys because it might be the last group of people you will get to know.

It’s similar with my crew now. We talk with each other every day. We are very much like a family.”

All American Auto Service is located at 810 South Reed Road in Kokomo. For more information, give them a call at 765-450-8485.

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Sweet Peas

Play CafÉ

Coffee ~ Play ~ Parties ~ And more

Where Kids Can Play

while parents take a time out!

1825 S. Plate St ~ 765-450-1825

10% MILITARY / VETERAN DISCOUNT *with Military ID

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family events gender reveals

book online at www.sweetpeaskokomo.com mon, wed, fri 9-6 tues, thurs 9-5, sat 8-12 atKokomo.com / NOVEMBER 2020 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / 13

legendsmusicacademy.com Legends Music Academy is a veteran-owned small business. We appreciate the sacrifices military families make for this country.

Ask about our Veteran’s discount .

122 Jefferson St. Tipton, IN 765-408-0537

VETERAN OWNED

Lytle, Williamson and Teal Appraisals LLC Amy Teal- Navy 765-453-5850

American Legion Golf Course Bob Ronk | 765-453-2501 The 18-hole “American Legion” course at the American Legion Golf Course facility in Kokomo, Indiana features 5,634 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 70. The course rating is 66.5 and it has a slope rating of 92 on Rye grass.

American Legion golf course opened in 1937.

AA Auto Body Aaron Wilson- Army 765-461-9091 autobodybyaaron.com Anything you need for bodywork related problems. Insurance work and best prices for out of pocket jobs.

Motor Wise of Kokomo Les Felton- Army | 765-252-3211 motorwisekokomo.com Motor Wise of Kokomo is the model of auto repair in Central Indiana. We provide high quality auto repair with exceptional customer service.

Patton’s Shoe Repair Barry Lobdell- Army 765-453-9063 Monday - Friday 8:00am-5:00pm

Memory Lane Antiques Jack DeVault- Air Force 765-860-4997 memlaneantiques.com Antiques, Vintage, Retro and Artisan Wares. Located in Tipton. Not your grandma’s antique store.

The Wyman Group Paul Wyman- Air Force 765-419-1021 thewymangroup.com The Wyman Group is a local professional full service real estate firm serving North Central Indiana with offices in Howard and Tipton County. Call us for a great Real Estate experience!

Zak’s Handyman & Honeydoo’s Zak Stahl- Navy 765-431-9938 Insured Handyman service

DREEM Nutrition Austin Rhodus- Navy 808-469-2529 dreemnutrition.com DREEM Nutrition is a veteran-owned company that sells high-quality CBD products aimed to help people restore balance in their lives.

Moreover, we manufacture our products in house, which helps us maintain complete quality control over the formulation of our products.

Crystal Wand Creations, LLC JR McIntire- Navy 765-457-7700 facebook.com/TheCoolestLittleShopInTown “The Coolest Little Shop in Town” We’re veteran owned and veteran proud.

Always 10% off with ID. Our deepest thanks to those who have served and those currently serving.

Fast Lane Auto Sales Dan Lawson- Air Force 765-452-6697 Used Automotive Sales

Rutledge Well Drilling & Pump Service, Inc. Mike Rutledge- Army 765-292-2315 rutledgewelldrilling.com Rutledge Well Drilling & Pump Service, Inc., is an owned and operated family business in Atlanta, IN. They are the area’s well drilling specialists serving Hamilton, Boone, Tipton, Howard and Madison counties since 1979. They specialize in service and installation of softeners, iron filters, trenching, pumps, water well drilling, complete water systems and more.

14 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / NOVEMBER 2020 / atKokomo.com

Healing Hands Natural Therapy Spa Melissa & Kirk Amos- Army 765-450-4602 healinghandskokomo.net Full service Spa focusing on therapeutic & relaxing services to help you continue to help others and do what you do best!

20% military discount year round.

Sweet Peas Play Cafe Krystyne Wilson- Army 765-450-1825 sweetpeaskokomo.com An innovative pairing of coffee shop for adults and indoor playground for children, Sweet Peas Play Cafe has something for everyone! We host the most premeir private parties in Kokomo!

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

RD Filip Inc., A Veteran Business Enterprise Rick Filip- Air Force 765-459-0311 | rdfilip.com Owner/President of RD FILIP INC., Distribution of Professional Sanitary Maintenance Supplies to the Medical, 1st Responders, Industrial, Commercial, Government, Educational and Public sectors in the State of Indiana and beyond.

Foresite Terry Munson- Air Force 765-457-8095 | foresiteinc.com Laboratory that specializes in electronic failures and problem solving opportunities. Developing tools and equipment that solve contamination and reliability problems.

LaQuinta Inn & Suites Vernon Graves - Army 765-438-3871 wyndhamhotels.com LaQuinta Inn & Suites

by Wyndham Kokomo offers a Free Hot Breakfast, Free High Speed Internet, Indoor Heated Pool, Expanded Fitness Room, Jacuzzi Suites as well as Pet Friendly rooms.

Kokomo Event & Conference Center Vernon Graves - Army 765-438-3871 | thekokomoeventcenter.com Kokomo Event & Conference Center is ideal for trade shows, conventions, corporate conferences, banquets, wedding receptions and private parties.

From big to small, we can do it all!

YPG, LLC Brian Blanchard- Navy 765-867-3307 yourpropertygroup.com We serve the Kokomo Area by providing quality, clean, comfortable and functional rental properties. #specializinginquality

Stars and Stripes LLC P3 Consultants Nathan King- Army 765-480-2540 starsandstripesllc.godaddysites.com Stars and Stripes provides construct general labor and cleaning services.

P3 provides economic development, business, HR and marketing consulting services

Wesson’s Canine Bakery Aaron and Hannah Barrick Air Force | 239-405-4069 WessonsCanineBakery.com Wesson’s Canine Bakery is a family owned dog bakery based in Peru, Indiana however we ship internationally!

All of the treats we make are from the purest ingredients from local farms and are free from harmful dyes, preservatives, added sugars, additives, and chemicals.

Legends Music Academy Jerry Teter- Army 765-867-3307 legendsmusicacademy.com The Legends team is excited to share music with all ages. Legends Music Academy offers music lessons, instrument sales and repair, jams, workshops and more. For all things music, think Legends! atKokomo.com / NOVEMBER 2020 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / 15

Main Street Cafe’ Teri Rose- Army 765-236-1600 mainstcafe.org

All American Auto Service Warren Sims- Army | 765-450-8485 Service to all customers and appreciation to our veterans, first responders and union employees with 10% discount all year long.

Guardian Angel Hospice Brian Rude Air Force & Army 800-338-4043 guardianangelhospice.com Guardian Angel Hospice is locally owned and operated with dedicated owners who are active in the day to day function of the organization. We serve 30 counties in North Central Indiana.

Club Oasis Denny Shoffner- Army 765-459-9896 Pub, Bar and Grill. Dance and Night club.

Juliannos ’

Food that is...out of this world.

2333 W. Markland Ave. | 765-456-0804 Tuesday - Saturday 9:00am - 8:00pm Closed Sunday and Monday

10% discount with Military ID Free delivery to places of employment with $25 order.

AA AUTO BODY

YOUR FLOORING, PAINT AND CERAMIC TILE SPECIALIST

Owner Aaron Wilson 765.461.9091

721 E. Boulevard Kokomo, IN 46902 1/2 off your Deductible with Military ID

15% Veteran/Military Discount with ID

1816 S. Dixon Rd. • 453-0500 www.goochandcompany.com

PATTON’S SHOE REPAIR Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00am - 5:00pm 407 Arnold Ct | 765-453-9063 15% Veteran Discount (see store for details)

765.450.4602 |116 N. Dixon Rd |

healinghandskokomo

• Complete Auto Care • Car/Truck/Light Duty/ Medium Duty/Heavy Duty • Veteran Owned and Operated • Napa Auto Care Center

We Keep You On The Road.

1116 S. Leeds St ∙ 765-252-3211 • 10% off for Veterans 16 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / NOVEMBER 2020 / atKokomo.com

KOKOMO NOVEMBER EVENTS 1

14-15

26

Friday 5-10 pm, Saturday 11 a.m. – 10 pm; Sunday 12-6 pm 5-acre corn maze, pumpkin patch, hayride, straw maze, pedal karts & more Located at 9717 East 600 North (6 miles north of Greentown) Visit kendallfamilyfarmadventures.com.

Saturday 9 am – 5 pm Sunday 9 am – 3 pm Kokomo Event & Conference Center; Admission $5; Children ages 12 & under free; Visit centralindianagunshows.com.

Family-friendly 5K Fun Run on Thanksgiving Day; Race will start at the Kokomo Family YMCA and will go through a scenic route through downtown Kokomo, Foster Park and Walk of Excellence trail Call 765-457-4447 or visit www.kokomoymca.org.

Kendall Family Farm Adventures

6

First Friday “Main Street Mystery” 5:30 pm - 9:00 pm Downtown Kokomo Free, self-guided arts tour in the Downtown District. For a full list of activities, call 765-457-5301 or visit firstfridaykokomo.com.

14

Christmas, Art, Craft and Collectible Show

Central Indiana Gun & Knife Show

19

American Red Cross Blood Drive 12:30 pm - 6:30 pm The Excel Center; For information, contact Tami Clothier at tclothier@excelcenter.org.

22

Howard County Farm Toy Show

9 pm - 3 pm Howard County Fairgrounds in Greentown; Kids pedal pull at 1 p.m.; Admission $2; Kids ages 10 & under free.

9:00 am - 3:00 pm Howard County Fairgrounds Call 765-628-3309.

Turkey Trot

28

Christmas at the Seiberling Opening Night

6 pm - 9 pm Limited, timed-tickets will be available with tours starting at 4p.m. with last tour at 8:15 p.m.

Tickets must be purchased online at howardcountymuseum.org/events; For more information, call 765-452-4314.

NOV 29-DEC 30

Christmas at the Seiberling *ALL EVENTS SUBJECT TO CHANGE For a complete list of events in Kokomo, check out www.visitkokomo.org or The Kokomo App.

atKokomo.com / NOVEMBER 2020 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / 17

Tuesday-Sunday 1-4 pm Daily holiday tours; And a free virtual tour of the decorated mansion with music and more will premier opening night, November 28, on facebook.com/ HCHistory; Call 765-452-4314 or visit www.howardcountymuseum.org.

pharmacy tech position in high school.

I joined the HME department, and did insurance billing through college and for many years after that. I later shifted into more of a managerial role in 2016.”

HERE’S TO HEALTH MOORE’S HOME HEALTH & MEDICAL SUPPLY CELEBRATES 65TH ANNIVERSARY

toys, greeting cards and gifts. In 1975, they added home medical supplies including wheelchairs, hospital beds and oxygen equipment.

Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided

Sarah Cotner, the third-generation owner of Moore’s Home Health & Medical Supply in Kokomo, says she and her staff “In 1983 my mother, Janet Moore, left are thrilled to celebrate the company’s 65th her nursing job in the surgical intensive anniversary. care unit at St. Joseph Hospital to join the business full time, and grew the home “Plans are still in the works for specifics, medical equipment into a full department,” but we will definitely have an open house Cotner says. “She has always followed the on November 17 with refreshments, prize trends, and attended conferences and trade drawings and special sales,” she says. shows to be able to offer new product lines and any new offerings in home medical Cotner says the store has evolved through equipment.” the years, but some of its features have never changed.

In 2000, Cotner’s grandparents sold the “We have been on the corner of Markland and Courtland since 1955,” she says. “My grandparents [Don and Naomi Moore] originally opened the store as Moore’s Rexall Drug Store. It started when the business was attached to the Marsh grocery building as a pharmacy and soda fountain.”

After a fire in 1974, the Moores took over the Marsh building, and expanded the business to include hardware, cosmetics,

pharmacy to CVS, and her mother took over, turning the home medical equipment (HME) department into a full business.

“I joined her full time after college, and officially took over the business last year,” Cotner says. “I grew up in the store, learning to count in the pharmacy with M&Ms candies in the pill trays, and learning my colors with the gift-wrapping bows. I worked at the gift-wrap counter and the front register, and moved to a

Moore’s Home Health has many loyal customers.

“Many of our customers have been coming to our store for longer than I’ve been alive,” Cotner says. “I often get the ‘I knew you when you were knee-high’ comments.

We do our best to be a resource for them, rather than just a retail store. We love to sit down and take the time to catch up on their lives and families, and we always try to go above and beyond when they need extra help in any way.”

Cotner has plenty of praise for her staff.

“Our staff is well educated, not only on the items we sell, but also on what needs can be best met by the different items,” she says. “When a customer asks for a specific item, our staff usually starts off by inquiring who the item is for, and what need it will be fulfilling. We also try to offer good, better, and best in the products that we carry, to give people options to meet both their needs and their budgets.”

Cotner says her business also has highquality lift chairs and products.

“We carry Pride Mobility lift chairs,” she says. “We have worked with them for over 20 years, and love their products and their warranty support. In addition to lifting the patient up and out of the seated position,

VivaLift Raptor Increase your Just in! independence Brand sign! design! with new styledesi

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18 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / NOVEMBER 2020 / atKokomo.com

bath step Easier access to your bathtub

they also recline with the electric hand control, and some even have headrest tilt and lumbar extension. They also have battery backup in case of power failure.”

There are usually at least 10 to 12 lift chair models in the showroom.

“We also deliver the chairs and set them up in the home, to make sure they fit well in the space and are safely assembled,” Cotner says. “Additionally, we carry many of Pride Mobility’s scooters, and have several in the store for people to try out.”

Many scooters offered at the business fit in standard care trunks, with no need for trailers or lifts.

“We also have a large bathroom safety equipment department,” Cotner says.

“We carry many wound care products and incontinence products. We also have a full line of mobility equipment, from canes to walkers and wheelchairs, as well as cushions and ramps. We also have a

large selection of bracing, from ankles and knees to wrists and back braces. We can measure and fit someone in the store, so the customer knows they are going home with the right size and style of product.”

Doon Moore opening Moore’s Drugs in 1955.

The staff at Moore’s can also help customers find diabetic shoes.

“We have a trained pedorthist on staff to help patients select diabetic shoes, and measure and fit for the best style,” Cotner says. “She has been with us for over 15 years, and has worked with diabetic shoes for over 20 years.”

Moore’s soda fountain in the 1960’s.

Howard County have been so supportive of our family and business for the past 65 years. It has been a pleasure to help people remain active and independent in their homes all these years, and we look forward to continuing for many years to come.”

Cotner says customers are welcome inside the store as coronavirus-related restrictions continue to ease, but understands that some customers may be more comfortable with other options.

“We also offer curbside delivery, and inhome delivery for Howard County and the Visit Moore’s Home Health & Medical Supply at 608 West Markland Avenue in surrounding counties,” she says. “We are so thankful that the people of Kokomo and Kokomo. For more info, call 765-454-5210 and visit mooreshomehealth.com.

FRESH. LOCAL. DELICIOUS.

atKokomo.com / NOVEMBER 2020 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / 19

SELECTIVE INTELLIGENCE 317-983-4766 www.selectiveintelligence.com

Writer / Renee Larr Photographer / Linda Oldiges

Selective Intelligence offers large scale IT services with a small-town feel. Founded in 2015 by Owner Michael Harding, the company seeks to assist small businesses.

“We provide IT Services focused on small businesses,” Harding says. “That is kind of my sweet spot, anywhere between one and 25 users or devices. I find companies that size are looking to outsource their IT.” Many companies simply can’t afford to have an IT person on staff, much less a chief information officer. That’s where Harding can help.

“We provide full-spectrum IT services,” Harding adds. “If something breaks, we can fix it, or if you need to plan next year’s budget we’ll help with that too. We do all the things a CIO would do while helping customers focus on running their business, and on future growth.”

Selective Intelligence also offers web design, graphic arts production and data protection services.

“We will build their entire branding

IT’S JUST ABOUT WANTING TO HELP SMALL BUSINESSES SUCCEED… WE’RE TAILOR-MAKING A PROGRAM FOR EACH SPECIFIC BUSINESS.

Owner Michael Harding

presence,” Harding says. “We’ll do everything from logo creation to website design, to integration with other social media, to running and entire media campaign.”

Harding offers three different service models: managed services, time and materials and project-based.

“Managed services is like having an IT company on-call for a small monthly fee,” Harding says. “With time and materials, it’s an hourly rate. You can call us up and we’ll offer our services for a reasonable hourly price or we can do a project-based plan. We offer services at every price point.”

Harding has previously worked at the enterprise level and is aiming to target smaller, local companies with the same level of service.

“Every business has different support needs,” Harding says. “I take the time to learn and get to know them. I want to understand their goals. The technology doesn’t vary necessarily from company to company but the implementation and support of that technology definitely does vary.”

Harding realizes small businesses have traditionally been ignored in the IT services market.

“It’s just about wanting to help small businesses succeed,” Harding says. “We’re tailor-making a program for each specific business.”

For more information, visit www.selectiveintelligence.com or give them a call at 317-983-4766.

“I’ve worked for three of the largest health care organizations in the country,” Harding says. “I managed and supported thousands of devices across 15 or 16 locations. I understand big picture technology. I have consciously made the effort to focus on small companies. I can bring that enterprise-level experience to the small company at a price they can afford.”

Harding knows each business has its own distinct needs.

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HOME • AUTO • LIFE • BUSINESS atKokomo.com / NOVEMBER 2020 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / 21

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Cabinetry 28

Tipton-Based Company is Built on Tradition

Writer / Matt Keating Photographer / Jim Hunt

Smith’s grandfather, Readith Young, was also in the cabinetry business.

Dustin Smith, owner of Cabinetry 28 in Tipton, says cabinetry runs in his blood.

“My great-grandfather, Thory Shelton, was in the cabinetry business first,” Smith says. “He was a master carpenter from Kentucky, and the first person in my family to go to college. He went to Berea College in Kentucky, and I have his textbooks that were handed down to me. I keep them in my office.”

“There is a strong history of cabinetry in my family, and I love it,” Smith says. “I lived down the street from my grandfather when I was growing up, and I spent a lot of time with him. I picked up cabinetry from watching him and learning the business from him.”

Smith took his wealth of knowledge and made a career out of it, opening his own

store, Cabinetry 28, in 2019.

“My team and I have been doing bathroom and kitchen remodels for the last 10 years,” Smith says. “There is a lot of new home construction these days, and that has kept us very busy. We tell people that we can build cabinetry from scratch. We use really nice wood for our work.”

Smith says Cabinetry 28 has grown due to repeat business.

“Half of our business is referrals,” Smith

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says. “I think the home building industry is doing very well right now. There is really a lot of home remodeling going on too, and that’s been nice to see in this economy.”

Smith and his team strive to make all of their customers happy.

“We make sure people know that we are reliable, and do a wide range of projects,” Smith says. “We can do electrical work.

We do woodworking, bathroom fixture mounting, and a wide range of home projects.”

Smith says he and his team work hard to improve the look of bathrooms, kitchens and other home areas.

“We are continually inspired to make rooms look better,” he says. “The highest compliment we can get are referrals from our loyal customers, who want us to come back and do another room in their house.”

Smith and his wife Jen moved to Indiana two years ago from Cincinnati, where he had a remodeling business.

“Jen has family here in Tipton, so we bought a farmhouse and we love it here,” Smith says. “Jen’s uncle told me there was also a lot of cabinetry work in Hamilton County, and he was right.”

One day Smith was driving through Tipton to see what some of the shops were like, and heard about a great location to launch his own business.

“I was in Urban Homestead, and Owner Kindra Tragesser told me that a spot opened up next door to her business,” Smith says. “It was perfect, and exactly

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what I was looking for.”

Smith has been continually encouraged by positive feedback about his business.

“We have seen some of our cabinetry become very popular,” he says. “Our white shaker is our most popular cabinetry so far. It goes with anything, and we have received a lot of orders for it. White shaker cabinets look great, and really make a room look better.”

When Smith isn’t busy working, he and Jen enjoy spending time with their children, Estella and Emilia.

“

The highest compliment we can get are referrals from our loyal customers, who want us to come back and do another room in their house.

“Tipton really is a great place to live and have a family,” Smith says.

Cabinetry 28 is located at 112 East Jefferson Street in Tipton. For more info, call 765-389-3586 or visit cabinetry28.com.

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FLOORED Owners Steve & Carolyn Swan

Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided

With many people working from home these days, many homeowners are looking around their houses and realizing they need new floors.

This makes Steve Swan, co-owner of The Floor Store in Tipton, very happy.

“There is really a lot of strong interest in waterproof vinyl flooring right now,” Swan says. “It’s really popular. It’s the hottest thing on the market. It doesn’t scratch easily. It’s dominating the flooring business.”

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The Floor Store Has Been Serving the Tipton Area for Nearly 30 Years

Swan says parents or kids using kitchen tables as workspaces need a good floor to handle the messes that can happen in the course of a day.

“The waterproof vinyl flooring is easy to maintain,” Swan says. “If kids spill something, or the dog makes a mess, it’s much easier to clean up.”

Swan says that when COVID-19 began to force people indoors more frequently, it also inspired many people to make some positive changes to their homes.

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they wanted something new.” Swan says.

“They want to make their home office, living room or kitchen a nicer area to relax in. They decided to get new floors, and that has kept us busy.”

Swan says loyal customers have kept The Floor Store moving in the right direction ever since they opened.

“My wife Carolyn and I started The Floor Store in 1992,” Swan says. “We have a really strong customer base. We have had different generations of families come to us, which is a nice feeling. They tell their family members and friends about us, and that has helped us grow. We also help

people find the right floor that fits their budget.”

Swan’s knowledge of flooring has helped the store succeed.

“I have been installing floors since 1974,” he says. “I have a strong background in installation, and that gives me a unique perspective on what is good, quality flooring.”

Swan says The Floor Store also provides quality flooring installation service after customers make their purchase. He stresses that the people installing floors are the last key part of the flooring process.

“I always say they are the last salesmen,” Swan says. “I want the customers to know the installers did a great, high-quality job on their floors.”

Swan says The Floor Store has a wide selection of high-quality carpet, tile, hardwood, area rugs and more.

“We have great salesmen that will help you select the best flooring products that reflect your personal style,” Swan says. “We can help you with colors and finishes that will suit your taste and budget.”

Swan credits the Tipton community with helping The Floor Store become a fixture in the area.

“Carolyn and I just love it here,” Swan says.

“You just can’t beat the friendly people in Tipton. Everyone here looks out for each other, and there is a real sense of community.”

The Floor Store is located at 1003 East Jefferson Street in Tipton. For more information, give them a call at 765-6753230, or visit thefloorstoreindiana.com.

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THE FLOOR STORE Steve & Carolyn Swan

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NOVEMBER 2020

Cabinetry 28

MAGAZINE

Tipton-Based Company is Built on Tradition

COMPLETELY FLOORED

THE FLOOR STORE HAS BEEN SERVING THE TIPTON AREA FOR NEARLY 30 YEARS

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