Kokomo Magazine January 2025 by Towne Post Network, Inc.

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PUBLISHER KIM SENKUS kim@townepost.com (317) 501-1743

KEY CONTRIBUTORS JOHN BOLINGER DEVON DEAN NATALIE PLATT JULIE YATES

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. FOUNDER, CEO TOM BRITT tom@townepost.com (317) 496-3599

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CONTACT THE PUBLISHER Have a story idea or suggestion for

JANUARY CROSSWORD PUZZLE

1. Shock absorber

4. Pucker

8. Some stay at home

17. Subcompact

18. Bay tree

20. Delivery means 22. Salts on deck

23. Naval rank

27. Bygone leaders

29. Be snoopy

30. Big one

31. Fine-tune

32. Purchase

33. It’s often swatted

34. Symbol of industriousness

35. Camera movement

36. Opportunities, so to speak

37. Shortened, as a sail

39. Does and bucks

40. Disdained newspaper

41. More than touched

DOWN

1. Just what the doctor ordered, maybe

2. Callas specialty

3. New member of society

4. Contract addenda

5. Russian range

6. Foldaway, perhaps

7. Dishonorable doings

8. Curses

9. “What Kind of Fool ___?”

10. Slip on

11. Hit the slopes

19. Like hen’s teeth

21. “___ takers?”

24. Ding-a-ling

25. Drive or reverse, e.g.

26. Circus props

27. Scorch

28. Court defense

29. Wit’s end?

32. Wisconsin footballers

33. Takes one’s leave

35. Shade of green

36. Harder to penetrate

38. Worries

39. Part of L.E.D.

42. Not yet final, at law

43. Old flames

44. Double header?

45. What’s more

46. It may get flipped

48. Wish undone

44. View from a hill

47. Archer of myth

49. Cake recipe word

50. Blood-bank measure

51. Like some awakenings

52. Wear and tear

53. Casino calculations

54. Nostradamus, reputedly

55. Acapulco affirmatives

ALL SUMMED UP

Writer / Natalie Platt

Frances Jones enjoys crunching numbers, and ensuring clients maintain accurate, timely and compliant financial records. She also enjoys live music, spending time in Arizona and in the warm sunshine, time spent with family, and giving back.

Jones launched All Summed Up in 2018. She started with two clients initially: the health practice she used to bookkeep for, and another company under the same ownership. Since then, she’s seen All Summed Up grow to 18 clients and has added one part-time employee.

And this all happened by chance. Years ago Jones had a friend who was retiring, and asked if she could teach Jones bookkeeping skills so Jones could take her place. Ironically, it was a crucial time for Jones to grow her finances and she gladly took her friend up on the offer, especially as she had a legal background with experience in business property tax. Now, she loves helping other businesses succeed.

“I’m proud of helping businesses that love what they do continue working in the area they thrive in,” Jones says. “They can grow their business and revenue by working with me to keep their books at a maximum level for their financial gain, and it feels great to give back to a city my family has lived in for several generations.”

Jones currently resides in Tipton County, and is open to clients anywhere as her services are remote, though most clients are in Kokomo and surrounding areas.

All Summed Up maintains monthly records of all bank, credit card, loan and liability transactions; provides regular reports for monitoring of business performance; handles payroll; files business licenses; handles accounts payable and receivable; and files 1099s.

The bookkeeping business also provides general consulting and training, offers cleanup services on accounts from prior periods, and works with tax professionals to keep businesses in an optimal tax position.

All Summed Up works with small to medium-sized companies in varied business sectors, and offers free consultations to any potential client to discuss if All Summed Up is a good fit.

The most unique aspect of All Summed Up is how the small company gives back to the local communities. Jones focuses on giving part of her small-business proceeds to local ministries that help children and the elderly. All Summed Up donates items and money at the beginning of the school year and around the holidays to give children a good experience, and visits nursing homes with Alzheimer’s units to deliver items and

spend time with those in need. All Summed Up also supports the Dream Center in Indianapolis, a program that helps single mothers who are facing loss of housing or government assistance.

“Giving back is a passion of mine,” Jones says. “I feel like it is my life mission. My motivation is to enjoy my family and better the life of anyone I come in contact with,

what is going on in their life or day.”

All Summed Up has close relationships with clients, and appreciates the people they work with - and this brings Jones and her team a sense of fellowship.

You can contact All Summed Up for a consultation at 317-417-1390, or by emailing Frances Jones at fjones@

UNLEASHING POTENTIAL,

PASSION AND PURPOSE

KOKOMO URBAN OUTREACH UP PROGRAMS CREATING CHANGE

Writer / Julie Yates Photographer / John Bolinger

The mission of Kokomo Urban Outreach is to provide young people with the skills needed to become successful adults. Its UP program mentors participants aged 3 to 18 by instilling values, developing work and life skills, as well as imparting the importance of education. Goals for graduating students exiting the UP program include trade school, college, the military or a job.

Kokomo Urban Outreach has existed for almost 20 years, but for its first 10 years it operated as a food pantry and clothing giveaway. Today its programing focuses on educating youths for a lifetime of success. The shift came after Executive Director Jeff Newton had an awaking.

“I saw teenagers with babies coming in and asking for what we could give them, because their parents had done that,” he says. “The realization hit me that people in poverty are treading in water, and we keep throwing them things to keep them in the water. It’s like a whirlpool; it’s difficult to pull adults out because that is what they are accustomed to. Instead of getting them through, we need to help them get out. Children are not in the water in the beginning, but later get sucked in. What is

up the stream and pulling them in? I was influenced by the book ‘Toxic Charity’ by Robert D. Lupton and did a lot of reading about education. I spoke to many people about mentoring. We gradually stopped all our giveaways over a three-year period.”

In 2016, with the help of Deanna Ancil, a preliminary program known as ManUP began. It focused on educating boys on what a real man is - not one who is disrespectful of women and authority, or makes easy money selling drugs.

“I lived across from a middle school so it seemed a logical place to start,” says Newton. “Of the first three boys I recruited, one was shot and killed. Another one who was 14 years old came in crying because his girlfriend had a miscarriage.”

Soon, StepUP for girls was added. In 2018 MiniUP for children aged 3 to 9 was formed. Although the same life skills and core values were taught, genders were kept separate for older students until COVID, when the two merged into the UP program of today.

“UP stands for unleashing potential, passion and purpose,” says Newton. “At the present

time we are serving 300 boys and girls. The MiniUp Program for 3- to 9-year-olds focuses the values of respect, responsibility, reliability and readiness taught in the book ‘Talking Toolbox’. The regular UP program is for those aged 10 to 18.

“Huddle is held each Wednesday for the regular UP program,” Newton adds. “It is led by Director Kare en Dunn. Kareen is a community leader who has served prison time. After huddle there is free time to visit the gym, game room and recording studio. Points earned in the program can be used to buy food, hygiene items or gift cards. This enables a sense of empowerment and helps them learn budgeting. There is a three-legged stool needed by age 18 to take care of yourself: work ethic, life skills and educational goals.”

The UP program develops work ethic by providing after-school work opportunities twice a week. Spruce UP Specialists pull weeds, do yard cleanups, and handle many other outdoor projects such as planting. Participants in UP Creations Powered by Kids make home decor items such as wreaths, which they sell at farmers markets and craft shows.

The BuildUP Fabrication Center constructs folding chairs and book cases, and also uses a 3D printer to make items like dog show trophies, which are sold. From the GroundUP Urban Farm grows vegetables ordered by Yolk Social Table restaurant. WhatUP Dough Cookie produces goodies sold at Gravity Trampoline Park. HandUP is an intern program for special-needs students who work at Goodwill.

In the winter, life-skills classes are held. The first one, Life Skills 101, is eight weeks long and includes laundry lessons, menu making, as well as cooking and food safety. Students are given $20 to buy ingredients, and whoever makes the best-tasting food wins a prize. Other life-skill classes teach home repairs and first aid. Adulting 401 is for 17and 18-year-olds. Subjects covered include how to buy a car, read a lease and purchase insurance.

Every parent gives UP staff permission to check their child’s grades and interact with the school. If an UP student gets in trouble, Dunn is called. If suspended, the child does community service with Dunn.

“The program has been successful,” says Newton. “The first year, 60% served time in juvenile detention and 12% graduated. This past year, only 10% were in juvenile detention and 100% graduated. The cost of UP is $2,000 per child, which pays for staff,

insurance, overhead and tutors. Juvenile detention costs $2,000 for 10 days and prison costs $2,000 for two months.”

UP relies on donations and grants to keep its programs running. An annual fundraiser, Empty Bowl, will be held the second Friday in March. A lunch or dinner of soup, salad and a cookie will be served, and fire-glazed bowls crafted by UP participants are available for a donation. Bigger bowls made by notable locals will be auctioned off in the evening.

Newton feels that more kids need to be involved in the program to combat poverty. He is hopeful that plans to acquire a second, larger building will allow 600 to 700 children to participate.

“I want to say thank-you to the Kokomo community for their support,” says Newton. “Kids’ lives are being changed. They have a better chance at being successful and selfreliant. We are preventing drug addiction and homelessness. By 2040 whatever these kids learn from UP will be what they teach their own kids.”

Kokomo Urban Outreach is located at 1701 South Locke Street. For more info, email urban.outreach@gmail.com, call 765-4571983 or go to kokomourbanoutreach.org. Also visit them on Facebook.

THE CITY OF KOKOMO

A 2025 PREVIEW

Writer / Natalie Platt

Kokomo and Mayor Tyler Moore have a lot to reflect on with regard to 2024, and even more to look forward to in 2025.

After a year marked by growth and innovation, the city continues to maintain its legacy as a place that blends tradition with forward-thinking ambition. Kokomo’s success in 2024 highlights its strategic focus on advanced industries, sustainability and infrastructure, cementing its reputation as a regional economic powerhouse poised for long-term growth.

The city’s downtown also continues to thrive as a hub of activity with new businesses and events celebrating local art, music and food, highlighted by the highly anticipated hotel and conference center that broke ground in August. This event marked the beginning of a project that will significantly enhance the local economy and provide a state-of-the-art venue for small conventions, meetings, conferences

and more. The new development is designed to meet the growing demand for premium lodging accommodations and meeting spaces in Kokomo. The conference center will also be home to the Kokomo Automotive Museum, with a space to display the museum’s permanent collection of historically significant and Kokomomade Haynes-Apperson automobiles.

“I couldn’t be more excited about breaking ground on the hotel and conference center,” Moore says. “This project is a long time coming - almost 10 years in the making. To see the dirt finally start to move and see that it’s coming to fruition has been amazing. It’s the final piece of the rebirth of downtown. It will really bring it all together.”

Downtown also saw the implementation of its new Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA.) Residents and visitors will be able to purchase alcoholic beverages from approved businesses and enjoy them

within the boundaries of the DORA district, operating year-round from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. The DORA is designed to make it easier to stroll within the district and support our local restaurants and bars. You can purchase a drink from one of these approved DORA business participants: Cook McDoogal’s Irish Pub, Cooper’s Pub, The Coterie, Foxes Trail, The Hobson, Marble The Steakhouse, Oscar’s Pizza, and Sun King Brewery. The DORA is designed to make it easier to stroll within the district and support our local restaurants and bars.

Moore also reflected on the jobs and investment in the community from Jaewon Industrial, a South Korea-based supplier of chemicals and allied products. The supplier established operations in the community by locating a new chemical recycling plant in Kokomo, to serve lithium-ion battery manufacturers and the growing electric vehicle supply chain. The investment will likely have a transformational economic

impact for generations to come.

“As we near the end of the year, the first battery plant is starting full production and will have actual product leaving the plant in the middle of December,” Moore says. “We’re thrilled to see things continue to plug along there and the economic impact the supplier and employees are providing. Seeing these individuals integrate themselves into the community and being welcomed and embraced is wonderful.”

As Kokomo looks forward to 2025, the focus shifts to enhancing the quality of life

for residents through plans for expanded recreational spaces and housing, upgraded public transit, and continued investment in education.

“For the coming year, there’s excitement in seeing a number of housing projects getting started,” Moore says. “We’re finalizing details on a number of them now, and 2025 will see ground being broken on muchneeded housing options: apartments, townhomes and single-family homes. There

Moore is also excited to add amenities to local parks that have been in the works in the past year. There will be new restrooms at Jackson Morrow Park, along with a pump house that will supply water to the new splash pad. At Cutler Park, new pickleball and tennis courts are being added.

“We are continuing to focus on the rotating effort of the additional parks and upgrading equipment,” Moore says. “We’re also looking forward to the miniature golf course

FEBRUARY

MARCH

THE YEAR IN TOWNE POST NEWS

KOKOMO’S TOP STORIES FOR 2024

ANOTHER YEAR IS IN THE BOOKS AND THE WORLD IS COLLECTIVELY ON TO 2025. WE FELT IT WAS A GREAT TIME TO REFLECT ON 2024, AND THE GREAT STORIES OUT OF KOKOMO AND THE SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES.

KEYTON ROMERO: THE SOUND OF STRENGTH

Keyton Romero, a Kokomo-based performer and motivational speaker, has overcome adversity to pursue her passion for music and inspire others. Her journey is one of resilience and dedication, with music serving as both a creative outlet and a source of healing.

TENDERLOIN-TASTIC

Sure, it’s not in Kokomo per se. But who wouldn’t want to do a road trip to Tin Plate Fine Food & Spirits in Elwood to taste an Indiana classic?

TEACHER SPOTLIGHT: HATTIE JOHNSON, WESTERN MIDDLE SCHOOL

When Western Middle School teacher Hattie Johnson learned she had been named Best Educator for the Kokomo Tribune’s 2023 Best of Kokomo Awards,

she was delighted, but also stunned. Those who know the sixth-grade social studies teacher and sports coach weren’t surprised. Her ability to build connections with her students is legendary.

PASTORS CELEBRATE NINE YEARS AT FUEL CHURCH

With locations in Kokomo and Westfield, the mission of Fuel Church is to fill people up with the grace and hope found in Jesus Christ. It is led by Co-pastors Jacob and Tara Burgei, who returned home to Indiana in 2015.

THE THIN RED LINE: NICHOLE DUFF

Nichole Duff has been with the Kokomo Fire Department for 23 years. She is currently an EMT, is involved in the Pink Heals Tour and Goodfellows of Kokomo, and also serves as the Muscular Dystrophy Association coordinator for the local Fill the Boot campaign - a role she has occupied for 20 years.

MEDICARE CHANGES ON DECK

Back in July we spoke to Nick Byrd, the Medicare and health insurance specialist at Brady Insurance Group in Kokomo and the rehabilitation director at Silver Birch Assisted Living Facility. With 67 million Americans enrolled in Medicare and projections showing that number will reach 80 million by 2030, Medicare’s impact on health care services continues to grow.

INDIANA MR. BASKETBALL

Flory Bidunga, a 2024 Kokomo High School graduate,

was named the 2024 Indiana Mr. Basketball. Originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Bidunga quickly excelled as a dominant center, earning Indiana Gatorade Player of the Year honors twice and scoring 1,609 career points. He continued his basketball journey at Kansas.

WOMEN IN BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: COMMUNITY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

Amy Benner’s favorite quote, by the former head coach of the esteemed University of Notre Dame football program, Lou Holtz, may be the foundation for her success in the Kokomo community: “Do the right thing, do the best you can, and always show people you care.” Benner has surely done that. As the current president and CEO of Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union, she exemplifies a profound commitment to both career and community.

DADCAMP

DADCAMP is not just a camping or fatherchild activity. It’s an experience where dads are inspired to become the best they can be. DADCAMP aims to bridge the gap between disengaged fathers and children, and rebuild strong relationships and leaders with a ministry-focused experience that is fun for both the child and dad.

What will 2025 hold in store? Our hope is more great stories from in and around Kokomo. If you have a story to share, we’d love to hear from you. Just email us at info@ townepost.com. Cheers to another great year!

KOKOMO MAGAZINE’S TOP 2024 SOCIAL POSTS

1. For nearly 80 years, Martin Brothers TV & Appliances has served the Russiaville community with unparalleled customer service and a strong selection of products. Rooted in family values and adapting through decades, they offer everything from GE to Whirlpool appliances and LG televisions, ensuring your kitchen and entertainment needs are met with expertise. Experience the difference of a family business that cares.

2. Meet Savanah Lipinski, a standout Northwestern High School student who is soaring to new heights, quite literally.

3. So proud of our Taylor High School student Rylee Morris! Not only has she excelled in academics, but she’s also a star athlete in volleyball and cheerleading, and in theater Tipton Comment Theatre. She’s also a dedicated peer mentor. Big shoutout to her teachers and coaches for their mentorship and support in shaping her into the amazing person she is today!

4. Looking for high-quality, locally sourced meat in Tipton County? Maucks Meats is a family-owned butcher that offers a variety of cuts each month and is working toward a subscription delivery service.

5. Meet Taliah Wright. She is one of our Fortitude Scholarship contestants.

6. Kansas Jayhawks recruit and 2024 Indiana Mr. Basketball winner Flory Bidunga’s journey at Kokomo High School was nothing short of impressive, from averaging double digits in points, blocks and rebounds to earning prestigious awards like the Indiana Gatorade Player of the Year!

7. Jacob and Tara Burgei celebrate nine years at Fuel Church.

8. Congratulations to our fall semester class of 2025 Fortitude Scholarship winner, Taliah Wright from Kokomo High School. Thank you to all 3,542 people who voted, as it was your individual vote that determined our winner (only 200 votes separated third from first.) Thank you also to all who donated toward these students’ education. Congratulations to all five students for their schools’ nominations.

9. ROAD TRIP!!! In Elwood, The Tin Plate-Fine Food & Spirits serves up 375 mouth-watering breaded pork tenderloin sandwiches each week! Created by accident during their 2015 soft opening, Owner Patrick Rice’s distraction led to the discovery of a recipe that’s become a local legend.

10. Congratulations to Eastern Howard School Corporation’s class of 2024!

“Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” -Malcolm X

11. Here’s to the class of 2024 Kokomo School Corporation Wildkats! “Just remember, you can’t climb the ladder of success with your hands in your pockets.” -Arnold Schwarzenegger

12. Congrats to Northwestern School Corporation’s class of 2024! “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” -Peter Drucker

13. Local country singer-songwriter Keyton Romero has a powerful voice and can play a rousing fiddle.

14. Paul Wyman is a successful real estate developer in Kokomo and a proud veteran who served in Iceland and Saudi Arabia during Operation Desert Shield.

15. Check out our Teacher Spotlight on Western School Corporation’s Hattie Johnson! Her dedication to building connections with her students and helping them reach their full potential is truly inspiring. We’re so lucky to have her at Western Middle School!

A LOOK BACK AT KOKOMO 2024 COVERS

A LOOK BACK AT TIPTON 2024 COVERS

TIPTON’S TOP STORIES FOR 2024

ANOTHER GREAT YEAR IS BEHIND US IN TIPTON. WE WERE SO PROUD TO BRING YOU GREAT STORIES FROM THE COMMUNITY AND THE SURROUNDING AREA. HERE ARE JUST A FEW OF YOUR FAVORITES FROM 2024:

MAUCK’S MEATS

Trey and Kayla Mauck’s passion for livestock continued to grow over the years. They eventually realized while marketing their meats that there was a need in the community for locally grown meat in smaller portions. So, the Mauck family started Mauck’s Meats in 2023.

ALDO GARZA

Tipton High School class of 2024 member Aldo Garza’s story is a reminder that students can find a niche and feel a sense of purpose. Garza was in danger of not being able to graduate with his class, due to a lack of required credits for a diploma. Two programs were able to get him on track. He dug in and worked hard while participating in the Tipton Achievement Academy. Then, he was willing to assist English language learner students.

SPARROW INSURANCE

As an independent Medicare broker in Tipton, Beth Woelfert of Sparrow Insurance helps people determine what Medicare product is best for them by explaining the differences between Medicare Supplement (Medigap) options and Medicare Advantage plans.

THE SHACK IS BACK

In the heart of Tipton lies The Shack, formerly Pizza Shack by the Tracks. The Shack reopened on April 4 after closing due to the previous owner retiring and the pandemic. The grand reopening was a smashing success with record numbersnumbers which were broken again on the first Saturday after the reopening.

MEET SUCCESSFUL ARTIST AND TIPTON NATIVE JEFF STAPLETON

Jeff Stapleton grew up in the close-knit community of Tipton, which was akin to being part of an extended family, where everyone knew each other’s names and stories. From an early age, Stapleton found solace and inspiration in the arts. Under the tutelage of Ruth Ross, a revered art mentor and local painter, and the nurturing

embrace of the Tipton County Art Association, he embarked on a journey of creative exploration. These early influences instilled in Stapleton a deep appreciation for the power of artistic expression and the importance of community support.

TIKI’S FURNITURE AND MORE

Tiki’s Furniture and More honors their tagline, “Customization is our specialty,” and then some. Offering items from unique baby gifts like personalized blankets and onesies to custom quilts and memory bears, as well as reviving older furniture with restoration, painting, and upholstery services, Tiki’s can transform almost anything into a unique piece of work.

PASTURE + CRATE BURNS BRIGHT

Janelle Mitzner grew up on a farm in northwest Indiana. Her parents, aunts, uncles and siblings were business owners, and the idea that she would move two hours away and work at her marketing job at Beck’s Hybrids was a bit of a shock. Still, despite Mitzner’s move with her fiancé to his pig farm, her entrepreneurial spirit continued to burn. “I saw an advertisement from a big candle and bath company, and I thought I could probably make candles myself.” What began as a fun, creative outlet, making six candles in an hour over a double broiler in her kitchen, became Pasture + Crate, a thriving, high-end candle business.

To read the full stories, visit townepost. com/kokomo. Got a story idea? Email info@townepost.com.

THE SHACK IS BACK

TIPTON MAGAZINE’S

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

JANUARY AROUND THE COMMUNITY, 2025

Dec. 31

SWIFTIE NEW YEAR’S

CONCERT

Rhum Academy of Music, 500 W. Superior St., Kokomo 8 PM

Ring in the new year at our all-ages tribute concert featuring your favorite Taylor Swift hits performed by the Tortured Poets Band! Visit eventbrite.com for tickets.

Jan. 1-12

THE FROZEN SANDLOT

Kokomo Municipal Stadium will turn into The Frozen Sandlot for the holiday season; the 60-by-90-foot rink features real ice. Check their schedule for public skate dates and times. Open select days from Nov. 29 through Jan. 12. All tickets can be purchased at the rink. Get information, and schedule of days and hours open for ice skating, at frozensandlot.com.

Jan. 3

FIRST FRIDAY KOKOMO

Downtown Kokomo

5:30 PM

The community will gather for this arts-based, open-house tour of beautiful downtown Kokomo. Each month features a theme with downtown venues catering their activities to the month’s theme. Visitors to the downtown area during the event will find discounts and activities at shops and

restaurants, as well as live music, public art, family-friendly activities and more. The fun of First Friday continues with First Friday After Hours. Dive into the downtown vibe with bars, pubs, live music and a myriad of entertainment options tailored for adults.

Jan. 18

COMEDY NIGHT FEATURING

DAVE DUGAN

The Elks, 117 E. Madison St., Tipton 7 PM

Join us for an unforgettable evening of laughter and fun at our Comedy Night! This is the perfect opportunity to kick back, relax and enjoy Dave Dugan, ready to tickle your funny bone and bring a smile to your face. Our Comedy Night promises to deliver a diverse mix of humor that caters to every taste. From relatable anecdotes to clever one-liners, you’ll experience a blend of styles that will leave you in stitches. Whether you’re looking

for a date night, a fun outing with friends or just a chance to indulge in some much-needed laughter, this event has it all! Plus, enjoy delicious bites and refreshing drinks available for purchase at the Elks. Don’t miss out on this fantastic night of comedy and camaraderie! Grab your tickets now and get ready to laugh until it hurts! We can’t wait to see you there! Visit tiptonchamber. org for more information.

Jan. 21

ST. JOSEPH RETREAT & CONFERENCE CENTER, TIPTON

9AM

Tired of all the demands tugging at you? Do you feel like you could use some space to just get away? Come to our campus for a peaceful day of prayer. Enjoy the beautiful grounds, visit the shrines, read in one of our cozy gathering spaces, make the Way of the Cross, and spend time in prayer in the St. Joseph Chapel. This unstructured retreat is anchored with five opportunities for activity. You may participate in as few or as many as you wish. Times are approximate. Visit stjosephretreat. org/events.

Jan. 24

HUNKS THE SHOW

Elite Event Center, 2820 S. Lafountain St., Kokomo 8 PM

Don’t miss the ultimate girls’ night out! Grab your tickets now for a night full of fun, excitement and unforgettable memories. On sale now at eventbrite.com.

You might know Megan Keith from previous story spotlights - the serial entrepreneur most recently owned TwistedThreadsbyMegg, a unique yarn store at 119 North Main Street in downtown Tipton. After deciding the niche business idea was not sustainable for the area, Keith transitioned her downtown brick-and-mortar store to a small discount shop that quickly outgrew the Main Street location.

Now called Penny Pinchers, the new discount store in Tipton has quickly become a favorite shopping destination for budgetconscious residents. Having opened in 2023 and moved to a new 4,500-square-foot space in late 2024, the store offers a wide range of affordable items, including household goods, clothing, and seasonal merchandise, making it a one-stop shop for families and individuals seeking quality products without breaking the bank. Items change daily, which has helped to build a base of loyal, repeat customers for the relatively new retail store.

Located conveniently at 850 North Jefferson Street, Penny Pinchers has brought energy to the area, attracting a steady stream of customers and creating new jobs for the local community - and regulars who love the store so much that they have become part of the nine-person staff. Penny Pinchers meets the needs of diverse shoppers from Tipton as well as some shoppers from Frankfort, Anderson and Noblesville, while maintaining a commitment to

value and quality - something Keith is proud of.

“There’s a lot of discount and liquidation-type stores around, and I think some customers steer clear of them because it’s not wellorganized or presented,” Keith says. “We really pride ourselves on quality control, sifting through every delivery to make sure we’re selling great products, not junk, and presenting our products with nice displays throughout the store.”

Penny Pinchers specializes in a wide range of discount items including apparel, office supplies, home goods, gift items, pet supplies, beauty supplies and cosmetics, baby supplies, books, accessories and much more. The new discount store takes pride in providing additional offerings such as military and first-responder discounts, and being handicap accessible to cater to all customers’ needs.

“The people here are really great,” Keith says. “The entire community is. Our business has felt so welcome here and Tipton locals are just so supportive. We try to give back where we can to show our gratitude.”

Keith says she also puts products that might have minor damages, like a handful of slightly crooked Christmas trees, behind the store for pickup, and will post on social media that the items are free for

whoever is in need on a first-come, first-served basis.

Penny Pinchers will soon start a loyalty program through which customers’ visits will be tracked, and for every dollar they spend, they’ll receive a point that will earn a coupon. Keith sees an estimated 500 to 700 customers per week and wants to reward her clientele.

Keith is supported in her busy store by nine employees, including six full time and three part time. A handful of these are family members, making it very much a family business.

“I’m really proud of building this business from the ground up,” Keith says. “Starting from scratch is a lot of hard work and I think we’ve done a really good job so far of figuring out what works and how to make people in the community happy with our product.”

Keith is excited to grow her business in the heart of Tipton with brand-name items up to 60% off. With new items arriving daily, the Penny Pinchers team can’t wait to meet you.

You can contact the store at 463-273-8492 or by emailing pennypincherstipton@gmail.com. The store promotes additional sales and events on their Facebook page @pennypincherstipton. Also visit pennypincherstipton.com.

Our

“I AM GONNA MAKE IT THROUGH THIS YEAR IF IT KILLS ME.”

—THE MOUNTAIN GOATS, “THIS YEAR”

RESOLUTE FOR 2025

A NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION GUIDE

Writer / Devon Dean

2024 is in the history books, and we’re now collectively bundled up and ready to tackle 2025. Each time the ball drops in Times Square and people uncork the Korbel, it’s a chance to reset the balance and state some good intentions for the next 365 days.

A recent study by the American Psychiatric Association showed some 76% of adults in the U.S. will make resolutions this year, and more than a quarter of these (28%) are focused on mental health, with many of us setting our sights on improving wellness through both mental and physical/habit changes:

• 67% plan to exercise more.

• 49% plan to meditate.

• 40% plan to focus on spirituality.

• 35% plan to see a therapist.

• 31% plan to take a break from social media.

• 26% plan to journal.

• 21% plan to use a mental health app.

• 21% plan to see a psychiatrist.

• 3% plan to try something else

(Source: psychiatry.org/news-room/news-releases/making-a-mental-health-newyear%E2%80%99s-resolution-one-i)

Dr. Anne Mary Montero is a licensed clinical psychologist and director of behavioral health at IU Health North. She says change can be elusive, particularly when it comes to lifestyle.

“Certainly, there are excellent mental health benefits to setting and achieving goals for change toward wellness, but it is helpful to anchor goals in a few ways to maximize both the psychological benefits, and to minimize risk, including if we don’t achieve everything we set out to do,” she says.

“Psychological risks to goals that are unrealistic or too harsh can be demoralizing and even lead to anxiety or depression, but envisioning change, and being motivated to try, is the first step toward mental health support for yourself, helping you see the change you want to create with your resolution.”

GOAL-SETTING STRATEGIES

• Keep goals anchored in values. What is most important to you will help you stay motivated when initial enthusiasm may wane, and the impact of achieving your goal will mean the most to you when you reach it.

• Stay positive with a healthy balance of discipline and selfcompassion; even the most driven people benefit from grace, and you can support yourself best if you stay in a positive frame of mind. In fact, studies of happiness show that we are not only in a better mood, but we are actually more productive and effective when we keep a positive outlook. Also, keep in mind that self-care is critical, particularly with winter in full swing.

• Consider counting steps. A large goal can be less overwhelming if broken into components or sequential steps, even micro steps, toward change. While it’s healthy to dream, we want to set our sights on a balance of vision and achievability to keep positive success realistic and within our reach.

• Write goals and progress down. You will not only keep yourself accountable, which usually serves to help with motivation, but you can count steps toward progress that support and reinforce the excellent impact your efforts can have.

“Another critical strategy can be to ask for help,” Montero says. “Telling your plans to someone who cares about you and asking for a regular check-in about this can serve both as an accountability check and a built-in reminder.”

Montero’s final piece of advice is to use positive self-talk. She says reminding yourself of your power and emphasizing your progress can be especially powerful. “You are the ultimate authority on what you are feeling and how you expect to move forward,” she says. “You are aware of your efforts against all the forces that challenge you, and you can uniquely and authoritatively acknowledge the good you have done.”

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