Kokomo Magazine August 2020

atKokomo.com

AUGUST 2020

MAGAZINE

Brewing Up a Presence Sun King Expands to Kokomo With New Partnership

FLIP FOR SPECIAL TIPTON EDITION

New Patients Welcome

Justin Roberts DDS

General Dentistry

765.455.1222

3415 S. Lafountain St. Ste I

www.caldwellmonument.com

Hobbies & Activities are sometimes a part of the life story being told

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. KOKOMO MAGAZINE

12

PUBLISHER Kim Senkus

Kim@TownePost.com / 317-501-1743

TOWNE POST CEO Tom Britt

Tom@TownePost.com

TOWNE POST PRESIDENT Jeanne Britt

Jeanne@TownePost.com

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Robert Turk

Rob@TownePost.com

CREATIVE TEAM

Catherine Shea / Austin Vance Valerie Randall

DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT Josh Brown

BREWING UP A PRESENCE: SUN KING EXPANDS TO KOKOMO WITH NEW PARTNERSHIP Indianapolis-based Sun King Brewing has partnered with the owner of Tin Man Kokomo Brewing on North Buckeye Street to offer a rebranded concept known as Sun King Kokomo, which all parties involved are excited about.

Josh@TownePost.com

EDITOR

Jon Shoulders

AUGUST WRITERS

Matt Keating, Jon Shoulders, Julie Yates

AUGUST PHOTOGRAPHERS

Heidi Pruitt, Jim Hunt, Austin Mariasy

7

7

SHOP LOCAL! Help our local economy by shopping local.

Advertising supporters of the Kokomo Magazine offset the costs of publication and mailing, keeping this publication FREE. Show your appreciation by thanking them with your business.

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS ARE SPONSORED CONTENT

7

Humble Home: Local Discount

Shop Brings Plenty of Value To Customers

10 Pets About Town 12 Brewing Up a Presence: Sun

King Expands to Kokomo with New Partnership

17 Community Leaderboard 18 Crossword 19 City of Firsts Game Page 20 Kokomo Events

3

7

Legends Music Academy: Local Instructors Teach the Healing Power of Music Urban Homestead: Home Decor Shop Brings Fresh Style to Tipton

The Kokomo Magazine is published by the Towne Post Network and is written for and by local area residents. Over 12,500 copies are distributed each month in the Kokomo area. In addition, the Tipton Magazine is a special section with a preliminary mailing of nearly 1,000 businesses and residents in Tipton County.

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC.

8800 North Street, Suite 117, Fishers IN 46038 Phone/Fax/Text: 317-810-0011

10 Sweat Sessions: Anytime Fitness

Reopens in Tipton

12 Tipton Events 4 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / AUGUST 2020 / atKokomo.com

atKokomo.com TownePost.com

Outdoor entertaining never looked so good!

Quality Amish-made products with lifetime warranty for years of enjoyment!

Over 30 Color Choices!

Adirondack Chairs Starting at $269

Kokomo South • US 931 South at Center Road (765) 453-0504 Mon & Fri 10 am - 7 pm • Tues - Thurs 10 am - 6 pm

Kokomo South • US 931 South at Center Road • (765) 453-0504 FURNITURE & MATTRESS

Sat •10Tues am - 6-pm • Sun10 12am pm -- 46 pm Mon & Fri 10 am - 7 pm Thurs pm Sat 10 am - 6 pm • Sun 12 pm - 4 pm

FRESH. LOCAL. DELICIOUS.

atKokomo.com / AUGUST 2020 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / 5

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

NICCI PERKINS 765-271-9088

• Knee Injuries

nicci@custom-moves.com

• Shoulder Injuries • Joint Replacement

2302 S. Dixon Rd. Suite 130 FJohnsonSportsMedicine.com

AMY POWELL-HURST

765-438-6183 amy62j@aol.com

765.453.5815

www.custom-moves.com Make your next move a Custom Move!

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

201 W. Morgan | Kokomo, IN 46901

Bank of Indiana

Full Selection of New Inventory Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm Saturday 8am-12pm

northcentraloutdoorpower.com 1947 S. Elizabeth St. Kokomo 765.457.1633

Voted Kokomo’s Best Bank 13 Years in a Row Small Business Lending Home Loans Checking & Savings

CFBindiana.com

6 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / AUGUST 2020 / atKokomo.com

Humble Home Gloria Dunn, Barbara Bizjack, Deb Dumoulin, Shanon Sharp, Owner- Renee Chandler

LOCAL DISCOUNT SHOP BRINGS PLENTY OF VALUE TO CUSTOMERS Writer / Matt Keating Photographer / Heidi Pruitt

Patio furniture is selling like hotcakes these days.

Just ask Renee Chandler, co-owner of Humble Home, a popular discount store in Kokomo.

“We have been very fortunate that a lot of people have really been wanting patio

furniture these days,” Chandler says. “It’s our customers’ favorite item. It’s really hot now. We have even had trouble keeping it in stock, but we keep ordering more for our great customers.”

Chandler is thrilled that her store has been constantly busy since reopening.

“We were closed between March 20 and May 5 due to COVID-19,” she says. “A lot of our customers were happy when we

atKokomo.com / AUGUST 2020 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / 7

reopened on May 5, and have been buying a lot of new items for their homes.”

Chandler has noticed that home decor has been particularly popular throughout the last few years.

“My husband Wes and I have a friend in the auction business who told us furniture and home decor items were really selling,” Chandler says. “He said we should give this kind of business a try, so we did,

and we have been very pleased. We buy truckloads, shelf pulls, and out-of-season merchandise from famous retail stores, and sell it for 25 to 75% off of the retail prices.”

Chandler says she and Wes are glad they are both busy these days. Chandler coowns Harrold-Chandler Real Estate in Kokomo, and Wes owns a construction company.

Chandler believes discount stores such as Humble Home have done very well in the current economy.

“People are at home more, and looking for new items to brighten up their homes,” she says. “Our stuff is very similar to items sold at Target and Home Depot. They have been selling very well.”

Sporting goods and area rugs are also popular.

“We also have unique items for teachers, as well as kids’ toys and clothing, small appliances, bedding, cleaning supplies,

“Home Town Values You Want Low Prices You Need” 931 South • www.McCools.com Next to Harley-Davidson Kokomo Kokomo’s Largest Flooring Store Locations in Kokomo, Carmel & Avon

8 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / AUGUST 2020 / atKokomo.com

bath products, baby cribs, curtains, mattresses and a whole lot more,” Chandler says. “We also have a lot of nice seasonal decor for the Christmas and Easter seasons. Our summer decor has also been very successful.”

Chandler says Humble Home offers delivery, curbside and contactless pickup, as well as financing.

“We also offer home stagings, consultations, exchanges and drop shipping,” Chandler says.

Chandler says her staff has been outstanding.

“We really pride ourselves on our great prices and excellent customer service,” she says. “We have a great store manager and warehouse staff that really keep our customers happy, and coming back. Our whole staff works extra hard to make the store successful.”

Chandler also has plenty of positive words for Kokomo.

“Kokomo is a big town, but everyone is connected,” Chandler says. “Everyone here is supportive of one another, and they go out of their way to make sure people are taken care of. I have seen a lot of people being kind to each other. It’s what makes Kokomo such a special place to live.”

At Ivy Tech Kokomo you’ll find faculty and staff who care about you and your success.

We pride ourselves in the high quality experiences we create for our students both inside and outside of the classroom, including our virtual classrooms. Our certificates and degrees provide many options for you to pursue the career of your dreams.

There’s no better place to begin your college education. Visit IvyTech.edu/applynow and get started!

Visit Humble Home at 2929 South Washington Street in Kokomo. Call them at 765-450-7273, or check out their website at humblehomein.com. atKokomo.com / AUGUST 2020 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / 9

SUBMIT AND SHARE YOUR PET PHOTO TO

TO SEE THEM FEATURED IN AN UPCOMING ISSUE

BENNY

BLACKJACK

ETHEL

GRACIE

JAXS

LOUIE

LUCY

MINNIE

OLLIE

PEWEE

PHOEBE

ROUBER & ELMO

ALL INGREDIENTS MADE WITH PURE INGREDIENTS FROM LOCAL FARMS! • Customizable Dog Bandannas • Organic Grain Free Treats • Wellness Products

We ship to you! *All treats tested by the FDA

Family owned Dog Bakery

home is

239.405.4069 WESSONSCANINEBAKERY.COM

10 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / AUGUST 2020 / atKokomo.com

Angie Roe and Kristi Ball were both very professional and courteous. It was a

So buy (espec can be

Home Buyer and Sellers Services ANGIE ROE Managing Broker

home is where the heart is Angie Roe is amazing! She never stopped working for us. She was always willing to go the extra mile. She is such a professional. She truly is vested in you and wants to help you find you your next home. She is easy to work with and so knowledgeable. I would highly recommend her. She makes the home buying experience enjoyable and easy.

-Amber Rhine

where the heart is 765-271-6875

ying a house cially your first home) e difficult and scary.

414 North Main Street • Kokomo, IN

Angie Roe is amazing! She never stopped working for us. She was always willing to

Angie was great! This was my first home buying experience and Angie Roe and Kristi

Owner & Operator Amanda Lewton and Sun King Co-Founder Clay Robinson

Brewing Up a Presence Sun King Expands to Kokomo With New Partnership

Carol Wills, Owner

425 W. Deffenbaugh St Mon: 10:30AM - 8:00PM Tue - Sat: 10:30AM - 9:00PM Sun: CLOSED

Free Delivery on orders $25 and over Fund-Raising Fish Frys • Catering For All Occasions 12 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / AUGUST 2020 / atKokomo.com

765-450-6584

contact with her throughout the years.”

Writer / Jon Shoulders Photographer / Jim Hunt

Lewton originally opened her Kokomo space under the Tin Man name back in 2017, and after becoming the only Tin Man location in Indiana when the company closed down its Evansville operations in 2018, she began considering creative ways to continue operating as a successful small-batch brewery and taproom. When the coronavirus pandemic took hold, she discussed a partnership possibility with Robinson and his fellow Sun King leaders.

Indianapolis-based Sun King Brewing has partnered with the owner of Tin Man Kokomo Brewing on North Buckeye Street to offer a rebranded concept known as Sun King Kokomo, which all parties involved are excited about.

The business arrangement was forged out of a long-time friendship and professional relationship between Amanda Lewton, owner and operator of the Kokomo-based brewery (which formerly operated under the moniker Tin Man Brewing Co.), and Sun King founders Clay Robinson and Dave Colt.

“With Tin Man selling their business to a company in Louisville, Amanda had been kind of floating out there, and we had a really organic conversation this spring about this arrangement we now have,” Robinson says. “My business partner, Dave, had put her in touch with a brewer named JD Alvarado, and throughout the course of that conversation we talked about coming together and doing what we’re doing now.”

“[Lewton’s] father and my father are friends, and my father is one of the business minds behind Sun King when we started 11 years ago,” Robinson says.

“My dad helped mentor her when she was opening her Kokomo Brewing Company around five years ago. So we’ve been in

P.F. HENDRICKS & CO.

101 N Buckeye St, Kokomo | 765.450.6417

421 W. North Street

Since 1975

1100 E. Markland Mon-Sat 10:30-7:00 FIND US ON FACEBOOK atKokomo.com / AUGUST 2020 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / 13

We can Build on Location Haul In & Move Out Carports/Carport Garages Amish Swing & Furniture

(765) 457-9037 U.S. 31 & Gano

Robinson says that since Sun King has continually grown its presence around the state through the past six years, including Central Indiana locations in Fishers, Carmel and Broad Ripple Village in addition to a downtown Indianapolis headquarters, a new presence a bit farther north made sense to the founders.

Available to anyone in Howard and Tipton counties

24/7 Home Banking and Bill Pay

Coming Soon: Email alerts for ATM/Debit/VISA/Loan/Savings We realize life can be hectic, and your time is valuable. That’s why we offer FREE, convenient, time-saving services to stay on top of things.

“We figured that since Tin Man doesn’t exist anymore, and Amanda runs a really great business - and also, Kokomo is a great community - what about the possibility of Kokomo Brewing Company becoming part of Sun King, and vice versa?” Robinson says. “We were all excited about the possibility, and we started going back and forth on what it would look like.”

Those conversations began in May, after both Sun King leaders and Lewton had respectively pushed past business concerns due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Before long, a concept was established - Lewton would continue to operate her establishment in much the same way she has been since opening three years ago, while operating under a new name - Sun King Kokomo - and carrying Sun King products amidst an interior that now features Sun King Brewing branding instead of Tin Man’s robot-themed signage.

“It’s kind of funny because with COVID, it actually made us get creative and rally together and come up with a plan that benefited us all,” Robinson adds. “There were no egos involved, and everyone approached it with an attitude that we wanted to provide the best for Kokomo Brewing and Sun King and be a true partnership.”

Celebrating 81 years serving Kokomo 765-459-0758 | www.coffcu.org 1120 South Main Street, Kokomo, IN 46902 14 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / AUGUST 2020 / atKokomo.com

The brewery remains a family and dogfriendly establishment, and board games and popcorn are both still available.

Patrons can bring in carry-out food to enjoy with beer selections.

Sun King Kokomo, which includes a small batch brewery whose staff brewed its first batch since the new partnership in

mid-June, will carry many of Sun King’s staple beer selections including the Osiris, Sunlight and Wee Mac ales among others.

“There are more than 20 taps there, and the location will have the seasonal, specialty, barrel-aged and sour beers that we have,” Robinson adds. “The smallbatch brewery will continue to put out new, unique, innovative beers under JD and our team.”

Lewton officially began offering Sun King products in early June, and Robinson says sales have been promising since then.

Robinson says Sun King Brewing has a minority interest in Kokomo Brewing Company and that the business arrangement is a partnership rather than a franchise.

“Amanda owns and operates it, and Sun King has come in as a strategic partner,” he says. “She has access to our brewing program, and our retail leadership team and marketing team. It’s a true partnership.”

Robinson feels Kokomo is a perfect setting to continue expanding the Sun King brand in the Hoosier state.

Serving Central Indiana

“The big picture of Sun King, and what Dave and I want for our customers, aligns very well with what Amanda has built in Kokomo and her approach to customer service,” Robinson says. “We all enjoy being part of the community and bringing people together through beer.”

POOLS DECKS PATIOS, WALKWAYS

OUTDOOR LIVING DRIVEWAYS

Decorative Concrete Specialist

Sun King Kokomo is located at 500 North Buckeye Street. For more information, call 765-416-0599.

Brad & Heidi Cottingham

CottinghamConcrete.com atKokomo.com / AUGUST 2020 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / 15

765-432-1144 With every closing, we’re

opening doors.

Is homeownership on your bucket list?

We can check it off together in 2020.

Contact me today to get started!

Aimee Romero VP. Branch Manager NMLS: 452032

765.860.1084

Jackson REALTOR

aimee.romero@ruoff.com Ruoff.com/aimeeromero Ruoff Mortgage Company, Inc., d/b/a Ruoff Home Mortgage, is an Indiana corporation. For complete licensing information visit: http://www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org/EntityDetails. aspx/COMPANY/141868. This is not an offer for extension of credit or a commitment to lend.

All loans must satisfy company underwriting guidelines. Information and pricing are subject to change at any time and without notice. Equal Housing Lender. NMLS #141868. 03052020

Thank you for 8 years of support, Kokomo!

Boat Service, Engine Service, Master Techs, New & Used Boat Sales, Engine Sales, Trailers, Boat Storage, Boating Accessories, and much more!

2000 N. Phillips St • kokomomarine.net

765.457.7700 | 206 N. Buckeye St

Historic Downtown Kokomo Tues-Fri: 10am-5pm • Sat: 10am-2pm Closed Sunday and Monday

16 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / AUGUST 2020 / atKokomo.com

COMMUNITY LEADERBOARD Writer / Julie Yates | Photography Provided

Hayden Carter

Jim Hunt

Michael Gasaway

Blake Fogelsong

I’m from Kokomo and graduated from Northwestern High School. I love Kokomo’s small-town feel and how close everyone is. My family and I enjoy going to the Half Moon Restaurant & Brewery. We like anything that has to do with motorcycles or dirt bikes and we are at the motocross tracks every weekend. My four-year-old son just starting racing and my six-year-old daughter rides motocross and dances.

In my business, I make sure everyone is being taken care of equally.

We love the loyal support customers have shown us. My grandfather ran the restaurant as a Rax, then my dad converted it over to Grindstone Charley’s. Kokomo is a very tight-knit community and we have people who have been coming in since it changed over in 1998. We donate 10 meals a year to the Kokomo Jackrabbits, feeding around 100 players and staff each time. Our Dine to Donate fundraisers support local schools. Our success is a product of hard work and consistency.

Coach Kokomo Jackrabbits

Kokomo Magazine Photographer

Last summer was my first year coaching the Jackrabbits. We played 72 games in 78 days. The season was canceled this year due to COVID-19, but I’m busy getting the roster set and preparing for the 2021 season. I’m from Southern California and my biggest surprise here is how nice people. They say hello and ask how I’m doing. My advice to the players I coach is to stay in the moment, be positive and control what you can, but know you can’t control everything.

I enjoy Kokomo’s quieter lifestyle, but also like that it is not too far away from Indianapolis and Chicago. When I’m on an assignment to photograph a business, I enjoy having a conversation with the owner because I learn a lot and realize what I need to take a photo of.

One of the most interesting shoots was Kokomo Toys & Collectables. I’m a member of the Kokomo Amateur Radio Club and I really enjoy going to hear the Kokomo Park Band concerts on Wednesday nights.

Shawn Barker Barker’s BK

Dirk Webster Ruoff Mortgage

I’ve lived in Kokomo my whole life and there’s never a dull moment. The best thing about it is the very wide range of people. My grandfather initially owned Barkers, but then my parents leased it out. I never thought I’d be in the business. Through a strange twist of events, I ended up buying the business 19 years ago. The community has been good to me and I try to give back. We donate to Shop with a Cop, We Care and various churches.

I graduated from Kokomo High School and IU Bloomington. One summer, I worked as an intern at Central Bank and stuck there after it became First Farmers. I started off as a teller, then went on to customer service, compliance office and worked my way up. Lately, business has been great due to low rates predicted to stay around a while. I sit on the boards of IU Kokomo School of Business and Haynes Apperson Festival.

Gaffney Insurance

Paul Wyman The Wyman Group

I’m from New Jersey but after being stationed at Grissom Air Force Base, I stayed in the area. Midwest living is better than East Coast living! My wife, two children and I love the area trails to bike, run and triathlon train. We participate in park sponsored events.

I’m board president for Turning Points and I’m also on the boards of Haynes Apperson Festival and Howard County Student Leadership Summit.

Grindstone Charley’s

Tyler Bowyer

Junkster’s Mini Dumpster

I grew up all around Kokomo and Peru.

Almost three years ago I noticed that most storage units were the size of a semi-trailer. I felt there was a niche for a smaller size. It was exciting to put in the effort and see where it took me.

It’s important to do what we promise.

Recently, we have been slammed with business. It says a lot about the community, that people want to stay productive at this time.

765-457-7558 | 1732 S. Washington St.

HOME • AUTO • LIFE • BUSINESS atKokomo.com / AUGUST 2020 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / 17

AUGUST CROSSWORD PUZZLE Presented by Custom Moves Real Estate Services, LLC

ACROSS

DOWN

1. To the point 5. Expired

1. Sweepstake

7. Large tooth

2. Enthusiastic

8. Questioner

3. In front

9. Ogled, ... at

4. Roofing grass

12. Referee’s device 15. Line of hereditary

5. Floats on current 6. Ridicule

rulers

10. Uniform

19. Burglaries

11. Grain tips

21. Financial

12. Route

22. Stupor

13. Skin irritation

23. Decoy

14. Slight quarrel

24. Makes stable

15. Gloomy 16. For each one 17. Sums 18. Evaluate 19. Cooking herb 20. Terminated

For the answers, visit our Facebook page, www.Facebook.com/atKokomo

NICCI PERKINS 765-271-9088 nicci@custom-moves.com

www.custom-moves.com

“Welcome Home” 18 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / AUGUST 2020 / atKokomo.com

BUY ONE, GET ONE FREE MINIATURE GOLF 409 Arrow St 765-450-8155

ADVENTURE PARK BATTING CAGES CORN HOLE GO KARTS OUTINGS SUMMER NIGHTS

ARCADE CHECKERED FLAG DATE NIGHT GREEN LIGHT PARTY RENTAL BASKETBALL

CITY OF FIRST FAMILY FUN HOLE IN ONE PUTT PUTT

• Single & Double Go-Karts • Arcade, Cornhole, Basketball • Two 18 Hole Miniature Golf Courses • Batting Cages

409 Arrow St • 765-450-8155 atKokomo.com / AUGUST 2020 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / 19

KOKOMO august Events 1,8,15,22,29

8

9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Located at the corner of Mulberry & Washington Streets Fresh produce, handmade items, homemade goods & more; Visit www.kokomofarmersmarket.com.

Foster Park; Movie starts at 9:00 p.m.

Free admission to the public; Call 456-7275.

Kokomo Downtown Farmer’s Market

1

13-16

Winding Creek Music Festival

Brews on Buckeye

Indiana Craft Beer & Spirits Festival on Buckeye Street in Downtown Kokomo 6-10 p.m.; Rain or shine; For tickets, visit https://event.ontaptickets.com/events/brews-onbuckeye-2020-8-1-2020

7

First Friday “Career Night”

KPRD Family Movie Night “E.T.”

Wildcat Valley in western Howard County Bluegrass bands in a wooded setting; Plenty of shade; Bring a lawn chair; Free primitive camping For ticket information and full schedule of bands, visit www.windingcreekbluegrass.com.

15

Weberfest

Learn about local careers and educational opportunities; Wear your career clothing!

Downtown Kokomo; 5:30-9:00 p.m.

Free, self-guided arts tour in the Downtown District For a full list of activities, call 457-5301 or visit www.firstfridaykokomo.com.

Kokomo Summer Concert Series at Kokomo Performing Arts Pavilion presents Weberfest, featuring Nashville’s Finest, an assortment of session players, touring musicians and Broadway Street performers straight from Music City (Nashville TN); Foster Park; 6-10 p.m.

Free admission; Visit www.kokomosummerseries.com.

COMMUNITY HOWARD HOSPITAL 1230 WEST JEFFERSON STREET (DRIVE THRU)

765-457-9530

20 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / AUGUST 2020 / atKokomo.com

22

Kokomo Symphony Orchestra “Pops in the Park” Kokomo Performing Arts Pavilion in Foster Park; 7-10 p.m.; Free admission; Visit www.kokomosummerseries.com.

28

Little Black Dress Event

Bel Air Events; 7-11 p.m.; All tickets purchased for this event will be honored on the new date; Visit www.z925fm.com.

Kokomo Speedway events www.kokomospeedway.net

Jackrabbits schedule and tickets www.kokomojackrabbits.com

*ALL EVENTS SUBJECT TO CHANGE

For a complete list of events in Kokomo, check out www.visitkokomo.org or The Kokomo App.

TIPTON august Events 1-31

4,11,18,25

Now open to the public; Heartland Church 3611 N. St Rd 19, Sharpsville

Jim Dandy; 203 W. Jefferson St 4pm - close

Heartland Disc Golf Course

Senior Citizen’s Night 1/3 off

1,8,15,22,29

6,13,20,27

9:00 AM – Noon; Located in the parking lot at the corner of Court St and Jefferson St.

Faye’s Northside Café; 506 N. Main St; 4:30 PM – 7:00 PM

Farmers and Artisans Market

Senior Citizen’s Night 15% off

3-7

15

122 W. Jefferson St, Tipton; Summer camps meet at Legends from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM Tuesday through Thursday and include a performance for families on Friday nights at 7:00 PM; For more information including schedules according to age and registration, call 765-408-0537 or visit www.legendsmusicacademy.com.

Concerts at Tipton City Park presents The 45 RPM Band; 7:00 - 9:30 PM; 550 City Park Dr

Legends Music Academy Summer Music Camps

The 45 RPM Band

*ALL EVENTS SUBJECT TO CHANGE

For list of events in Tipton, check out tiptonchamber.org or The Kokomo App.

Horton’s Home & Garden Home Décor ∙ Gifts ∙ Clothing Fudge ∙ Blinds ∙ Garden And So Much More!

765∙675∙2013 | 112 S. Main St., Tipton atTipton.com / 12 / TIPTON MAGAZINE / AUGUST 2020

Dakota Cole, Manager and Personal Trainer, Jennifer Sturges, Owner and Personal Trainer, Amanda Blair, Personal Trainer and Zumba Instructor

Sweat Sessions Anytime Fitness Reopens in Tipton Writer / Matt Keating ∙ Photographer / Austin Mariasy Jennifer Sturges, co-owner of Anytime it together for the first two years. Now I Fitness in Tipton, is glad her fitness center run the day-to-day operations, and Duke is open again. has taken more of an administrative role, assisting with advertising and For more than four years, she has enjoyed staff development, along with his fullbeing able to offer a positive place for time career. Duke is also an area sales local residents to exercise, and is thrilled representative for Ellison Technologies.” to be helping people again.

Sturges began her journey with Anytime Fitness back in 2008.

“My husband Duke and I own the Tipton Anytime Fitness together,” “I opened my first location in Beech Sturges explains. “We both opened this Grove, Indiana,” she says. “Duke and I location on December 31, 2015, and ran

opened our first location together in 2014 in Noblesville, Indiana. At that time, we had a trainer that was originally from Tipton, and he turned us on to the town.

I grew up in a small town in Michigan, and after opening and operating three Anytime Fitness facilities in larger cities, I was ready to get back to a place that reminded me of my hometown.”

Sturges enjoys helping people meet their fitness goals.

“I started out in hospital administration,

legendsmusicacademy.com

Helping build Legends - in music and life - one at a time!

Music Lessons, Performance, Instrument Sales and Repair

First Music Lesson Free

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

AUGUST 2020 / TIPTON MAGAZINE / 11 / atTipton.com

and was personal training on the side,” Sturges says. “I loved working with people, and helping them reach their goals and live healthier lives, but it wasn’t until I moved to Indiana that I was able to fully transition to personal training.

That led me to opening my first Anytime Fitness location in Beech Grove in 2008, and the second one in Indianapolis in 2010.”

Sturges says Duke has prioritized health and fitness since being a college athlete.

“We met through mutual friends and started the process of opening our first Noblesville location together in 2014,” she says. “We got married in 2015, and opened the Tipton location shortly afterwards.”

Sturges is relieved to be back in business after closing due to the coronavirus outbreak. She says members are also very happy the gym is open again.

“Being able to reopen was a huge relief in many ways,” she says. “My first concern in being closed was for the members.

Exercise is so important for people, both mentally and physically. I was very concerned about how they were holding up during the stay-at-home orders.

We posted workout videos and tips on Facebook to keep in touch with our members, and hopefully get them moving and motivated during a very stressful time. We had a very exciting new team training program that was set to roll out in April. The staff and I were heartbroken to delay it.”

The Anytime Fitness Tipton staff will now offer a team training program in August. The gym also offers red light therapy for anti-aging, chronic pain, hair growth and wound healing.

“Our Trainers at Anytime Fitness are all certified and passionate about helping our members reach their goals,” Sturges says. “Dakota Cole is our head trainer. He coaches team training sessions, teaches the Actively Aging classes and does one-

atTipton.com / 10 / TIPTON MAGAZINE / AUGUST 2020

on-one sessions. Amanda Blair teaches Zumba, coaches our team training sessions and does one-on-one training.”

Sturges says Anytime Fitness features treadmills, elliptical machines, rowers, adaptive motion trainers, spin bikes, upright bikes and recumbent bikes.

Additional amenities at Anytime Fitness include 24/7 access, private restrooms and access to locations across the world.

Sturges says the gyms are all locally owned and operated.

When she is not busy working, Sturges says she and Duke enjoy spending time with their dog.

“We have a fur baby named LJ, a fiveyear-old spoiled mini schnauzer,” she says.

Anytime Fitness is located at 341 West Jefferson Street in Tipton. For more information, give them a call at 765-271-2672, or visit anytimefitness.com.

URBAN HOMESTEAD

HOME DECOR SHOP BRINGS FRESH STYLE TO TIPTON Writer / Julie Yates Photographer / Jim Hunt

For Kindra Tragesser, Urban Homestead represents both the fulfillment of a dream and the desire to support the Tipton community. Located on East Jefferson Street in a renovated building owned by Tragesser and her husband Brent, the

business is a retail interior design goods store and studio. It’s a space that not only gives customers decor ideas, but also a place to buy gifts for anniversaries, weddings and baby showers.

As a realtor with more than 22 years of experience, Tragesser has also remodeled and flipped homes on the side. Designing AUGUST 2020 / TIPTON MAGAZINE / 9 / atTipton.com

and decorating quickly became her passion and she found herself building up a consultation business to share her expertise with others. Eventually, the idea of serving her clients with a retail shop was born and Urban Homestead opened in July of 2019. “I could have continued my consultation

business out of my home, but the idea of a shop grew and developed into this,” Tragesser says. “I felt like it was the right time to jump in and do it. Having a store has a double purpose. Clients can come in and see what can be done, and buying a building helps revitalize downtown.”

Tragesser says the shop name represents her affinity for the local community.

“I love my city, but I also live in the country,” she says. “We have a great city and county. If our downtown is healthy, so is the city and thus the county too.”

Urban Homestead offers items that can beautify a home, as well as personal and gift items. Visitors will find products from Simple Goodness Soaps and Capri Blue, as well as jewelry crafted by Tipton artisans. Furniture from CR Laine and Rowe is available and can be ordered in more than a thousand different fabrics.

Finishing touches to complete home decor projects, such as Uttermost lamps, mirrors, and art from local artists like Douglas David, are abundantly displayed throughout the store.

Home is where the “Heart and Soul” Live

Our Services: Grooming & hygiene, prompiting of medications, private sitting, light housekeeping, running errands.

We provide companionship and care for our clients and their families.

Contact us for a free consultation Lisa Ferguson: 765-860-2375 • • • •

“The store has quality products that can stand the test of time,” Tragesser says.

“People ask me, ‘What’s your style?’ I like all styles. Everyone is not the same, so I do my homework and have a wide selection. I carry unique items that have a story with Tipton. If I don’t have it, I can order it. If I wouldn’t want it, I don’t want my customers to have it.”

Tragesser’s advice to clients who want to refresh their home interior is to start from the ground up. She recommends beginning with flooring and paint to determine color tones, and working from there. A few additional, simple changes can make a big impact.

“A few things can be done that make refreshing an interior an inexpensive experience,” Tragesser says. “It doesn’t have to be overwhelming - you don’t have to eat the whole pie at once. Color makes the greatest impact. Once you decide

License Personal Service Agency Accredited with the Better Business Bureau serving Central Indiana Custom Care Packages to meet each Client’s specific needs Minimum of four hour shifts up to 24/7 shifts available with personally trained Caregiver’s to meet the needs of our Client’s

Website: www.heartandsoulcaring.com

COUNTRY LAWN & GARDEN REPAIR

FULL SERVICE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS Residential & Commercial Outdoor Power Equipment Small & Large Tractor ∙ Small & Large Zero Turns

2275 N. State Rd., Tipton 765-675-6770

Hours: M-F 8:00-5:00 Seasonal Sat hours 8:00-Noon atTipton.com / 8 / TIPTON MAGAZINE / AUGUST 2020

on the color of the floor and walls, one piece of furniture could be changed out, or get a new area rug. Replacing lamps or getting a few new pieces of wall art can make a huge difference.”

Tragesser is in the process of setting

up an online store. During the recent coronavirus-related shutdown of many retail businesses, Urban Homestead was closed for two and a half months, but the Tipton community continued to support the business. Throughout that time, people called to purchase items and curbside pickup was arranged.

“Opening Urban Homestead was almost like giving birth,” Tragesser says. “I had lots of labor pains. Brent and I have lived our whole lives in Tipton. I feel like the city is on the cusp and moving in the right direction. The shop is a way to give back, and hopefully inspire other people to invest in the community too. My heart is in this shop. I love it and all the products in it.”

Owners Kindra & Brent Tragesser

Urban Homestead is located at 114 East Jefferson Street in Tipton. For more info, call 765-675-4424 and visit facebook.com/urbanhomesteadllc.

Locally Owned

Get to a HEALTHIER PLACE

CONVENIENT SUPPORTIVE FRIENDLY

341 W. Jefferson 765-271-2672

AUGUST 2020 / TIPTON MAGAZINE / 7 / atTipton.com

A Vintage and Artisan Market • Local Artisans • ‘One of a kind’ treasures • Impressive ‘Man Cave’ selection

Tipton’s Best Kept Secret!

Wed - Sat 10am - 5pm

120 N. Main St - 765-675-3004

3718 N. 700 E • KOKOMO

Take Sycamore St. East to 700 E. Turn North 2.75 Miles

765.628.3173

Monday-Friday 8A-5:00P | Sat. 8A-3:00P Closed Sunday

CHEESE • DELI MEATS • BULK FOODS • HOMEMADE JAMS & JELLIES ORGANIC FOODS • FROZEN MEATS (BACON, CHICKEN, FISH, BEEF, PORK) • CANDY • BAKING • DISCOUNT GROCERIES SUPPLIES • EGGS • SPICES AND SO MUCH MORE!

The Perfect Home Deserves Carpet ∙ Hardwood The Perfect Floor Laminate ∙ Tile ∙ Lvt

THE FLOOR STORE Steve & Carolyn Swan

1003 E. Jefferson St. Tipton, IN 46072 765-675-3230 atTipton.com / 6 / TIPTON MAGAZINE / AUGUST 2020

Legends Music Academy Local Instructors Teach the Healing Power of Music Writer / Matt Keating Photographer / Jim Hunt

Dusty Teter of Legends Music Academy in Tipton is passionate about music, and believes it can heal and restore people.

It’s a belief Teter has held since the business opened in May of 2019.

“We are at a small, two-office space next door to where owner Chris Parton had been giving music lessons in Tipton for eight years, with the dream of expanding his teaching business into what Legends Music Academy is today,” Teter says.

Legends provides music lessons with a performance program, plus a retail music store for its students and the community.

“Legends music director and owner Chris Parton has been teaching for over 20 years,” Teter says. “A lifelong multiinstrumental performer, songwriter and musical educator, Chris mostly enjoys helping his students improve as musicians and seeing them grow as people. It is his vision to help build legendary musicians and legendary people. Chris approached his friends and fellow Tipton High School alumni, Jerry Teter - my husband - and I, about joining him to open Legends Music Academy. We are lifelong musicians,

passionate about sharing music with all ages, and we decided it was the right time to start this journey with Chris.”

Teachers Gabe Winn and Josh Phipps joined the Legends team in its first year, and together with Parton as well as Jerry and Dusty Teter, the staff offers lessons for guitar, bass, drums, keyboard, vocals, banjo, mandolin, ukulele, songwriting, recording and performance.

“We were voted Best New Business of the Year in 2019 by the Tipton County

765.675.4746

Transportation Activities & Wellness Programs

15% off

Senior night every Thursday 4:30-7:00pm

AUGUST 2020 / TIPTON MAGAZINE / 5 / atTipton.com

506 N. Main street, Tipton

Chamber of Commerce,” Teter says.

Legends is soon having a grand reopening.

“We quickly outgrew our original space, and the building next door at 122 West Jefferson Street became available,” Teter says. “We were excited to double our space, and provide a super cool space for folks of all ages to explore, learn and play music in a fun, nurturing environment.”

Teter says Legends has a fun stage, and encourages budding musicians to play together in ensembles or bands.

“We also doubled our retail space, and can now offer more instruments and accessories including acoustic and electric guitars, basses, ukuleles, banjos, mandolins, keyboards, drum sets, accessories and fun items,” Teter says.

“Visitors to Legends Music Academy also get to spin the prize wheel for prizes and discounts for store items.”

Visitors can also sit down at a drum kit, and play various instruments.

“We encourage musical play with the goal of instilling a lifelong love of playing or creating music,” Teter says. “We offer offstreet parking, and we pride ourselves in offering a safe and comfortable space for families.”

The Legends team recently renovated their building, which previously stood vacant for 13 years after a fire.

“We built four teaching pods, separate teaching spaces, plus a stage area and seating with tables,” Teter says. “We were able to have our ribbon cutting on March 12, but then were deemed nonessential and closed before we could celebrate our grand opening that weekend. We never really had our grand opening, so we are celebrating our reopening with a building dedication and jam.”

Legends Music Academy also offers free events like beginning ukulele workshops, a ukulele players club, jams, and paid

Becoming a House “Sold” Name 221 S. Main St | 765-675-3100 anewrealtyhomes.com atTipton.com / 4 / TIPTON MAGAZINE / AUGUST 2020

programs like summer music camps for all ages. The jams, free ukulele workshops, and ukulele players club are held once per month.

number of songs. The jams give people an opportunity to grow their skills, and we believe playing music with others is one of the best ways to grow as a musician.”

“Jams are about playing and sharing music with anyone interested,” Teter says. “With the current social distancing guidelines, we are limiting participation to 15 players.

Players are welcome to join in on any

Teter is excited to spread the word to the community about the reopening.

“We offer several programs to learn and explore music, and many other programs will be offered in the future,” Teter says.

“Our summer music camp has been very successful. Our performance program offers musicians the opportunity to play with others in front of an audience, and we are excited to be able to offer a variety of instrument choices for sale to suit all abilities and tastes.”

Teter enjoys being based in Tipton for many reasons.

“First, owners Jerry and Chris are native Tiptonians and are excited to provide this business for their hometown,” Teter says. “Both of them spent time away from Tipton. Chris worked as a professional musician and teacher. Jerry was a 20-year career Army veteran. Both were happy to return to this town they love, and serve this community. We’ve expanded to hire several high school students, and look forward to providing a long-standing place for the Tipton community and surrounding areas to learn and enjoy music for many years to come.”

Teter says the Legends staff enjoys helping people.

A wonderful selection of high quality decor, furniture and unique gifts.

114 E. JEFFERSON ST, TIPTON | 765-675-4424 URBANHOMESTEADLLC.COM

“We make music, we love music, and believe in its healing and restorative powers,” Teter says. “We are honored to be able to provide this service and this place for the community, to impact students and players of all ages and abilities.”

Legends Music Academy is located at 122 West Jefferson Street in Tipton. For more info, call them at 765-408-0537, or visit legendsmusicacademy.com.

You’ll either pay more or get less if you don’t shop Quality House 113 N. Main St., Tipton | 765-675-2554 Monday-Friday 10:00-5:30 Saturday 10:00-2:00 Closed Sunday

Funeral and Memorial Services Pet Creamations ∙ Preplanning ∙ Burials Memorial Videos ∙ Monuments

314 N. Main St 765-675-2963

www.taylorcowanfh.com

Now 100% open.

Welcome Back!

20999 Hague Rd On Morse in Noblesville

atTipton.com

AUGUST 2020

MAGAZINE

URBAN HOMESTEAD HOME DECOR SHOP BRINGS FRESH STYLE TO TIPTON

FLIP FOR KOKOMO MAGAZINE