Tipton Magazine October 2023

TRI THIS AGAIN

WHETHER WITH FAMILY, CAREER OR COMMUNITY, BRIAN BEAR MAKES IT COUNT

SADDLE SAVVY

BAR STABLES ACCOMMODATES RIDERS OF ALL AGES AND SKILL LEVELS

TIPTON WOMEN IN BUSINESS

GETTING TO KNOW LOCAL LADY LEADERS

tiptoncf.org

TIPTON COUNTY FOUNDATION

Writer / Natalie Platt

Photography Provided

765-675-1942

Through philanthropic donor services, strategic grant making and constructive leadership, your hometown community foundation of Tipton County unites the gifts of many to sustain the causes that matter to all - now and for generations to come. Tipton County Foundation (TCF) is home to over 150 unique funds that serve the county in many different ways, including Community Grant-Making funds, Field of Interest funds and the Scholarship funds.

“The role of the foundation is to steward the resources of community-minded donors toward impactful community benefit,” says Chad Huff, associate director. “Tipton County has so many generous citizens. I am always taken aback by just how much people in this community are willing to give of their time, talent and treasure. That is why it is so essential that TCF does everything it can to ensure that goodwill doesn’t go to waste. There is no wrong way to be generous, but there are effective and ineffective ways.”

As we approach fall, TCF is setting its sights on a day of major fundraising - Giving Tuesday. Founded in 2012, Giving Tuesday, often stylized as #GivingTuesday for the purposes of hashtag activism, is the Tuesday after Thanksgiving in the United States. It is a day dedicated to generosity, encouraging individuals to cultivate a culture of philanthropy and altruism. It reminds people of the joy and fulfillment of helping others, and contributing to charitable causes that resonate with their values.

TCF is hosting a Holiday Reception on Tuesday, November 28 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the foundation office. Guests will enjoy a light meal and dessert provided by local eateries, and it is not necessary to donate in order to attend the reception.

“This is a great opportunity for us to invite the community to visit our building and enjoy fellowship and food from local businesses,” says Dawn Dunn, community outreach and donor relations manager. “We enjoy sharing TCF stories with people who may not know what we do in the community. The foundation celebrates this special day by running matching programs to build endowments that will benefit Tipton County for years to come.”

“The foundation is a community convener, a catalyst for change, and a tool that anyone can use to ensure that their philanthropic vision can become a sustainable reality,” Huff adds.

TCF accepts donations via their website’s online portal. They accept gifts via cash, check, credit card, stock, as well as grain and other commodities. The community’s needs aren’t just financial. TCF needs your time and talent, and encourages you to seek out your favorite charity or cause to see how you may help.

“I encourage everyone to ask themselves, what do you want your legacy to be?” says Mark Baird, executive director. “We all have a limited amount of time on this earth, but what do you want to be known for in your community? TCF can help you think through the best way to fulfill your passion for the community.”

For questions, contact Dawn Dunn at dawn@tiptoncf.org or call 765-675-1942.

Local kids can beat the heat at the local splash pad, a project of the City of Tipton, made possible by the Foundation’s largest grant to date at $160,000. Amenities like this one make Tipton a great place to live, work, worship, and play!

Horticulture students are hard at work in the new state-of-the-art greenhouse at Tipton High School. The Tipton County Foundation was proud to be a part of this project, making an investment in education in the form of a $150,000 grant.

Photograph by Chelsea McFalls

PUBLISHER'S NOTE: Last month, we inadvertently published the wrong story for this Brian Bear feature. Our apologies, and thanks for being a good sport Brian.

TRI THIS AGAIN

WHETHER WITH FAMILY, CAREER OR COMMUNITY, BRIAN BEAR MAKES IT COUNT

Writer / Julie Yates Photography Provided

Brian Bear has a heart for his hometown of Tipton. Although he lives in Cicero with his wife, Lisa Bear, and their golden retriever, Jake, Bear continues to support Tipton through event sponsorships and donations to nonprofit organizations. He also gives back by mentoring area athletes.

Bear is in his 50s, yet he is an avid athlete. In 2022 he qualified for and ran the Boston Marathon. The famous race is arguably the hardest United States marathon to qualify for. He continues to participate in sprint triathlons and Half IRONMAN competitions, while placing within his age group to go on to local meets. Brian is still a top runner in the area at age 54.

Several Tipton residents influenced him after he began running at age 13. His Parents, Ray and Shirly Bear, were both runners, and

the family attended many running events. At Tipton High School his coaches, Brian Shortridge and the late Jay Whelchel, were mentors. The late Joe Bear, his uncle, and former Tipton High School counselor, was also an inspiration. Bear received a crosscountry scholarship to Vincennes University.

Bear gives back by encouraging other runners and IRONMAN athletes. He is glad to share advice on training, diet, and what shoes to wear. A triathlon consists of three parts: swimming, biking and running. Bear has encouraged individuals training for the swimming portion by kayaking alongside them as they swim. In addition, he has helped organize several 5K runs in nearby communities.

“Brian loved being on the cross-country team at Tipton High School,” says Lisa Bear.

“He graduated in 1987 From Tipton. I have heard of many pranks and shenanigans that went on with the team and the team having a great time. Brian stays in contact with many of the Tipton Team members such as Tom Powell, Craig Baumgartner, Scott Davis, Matt Dean, Jody Mitchell, Steve Watley, Craig McCormack, Scott Seward and others.

The couple stays connected with the business community of Tipton. As owner and mortgage broker at Main Street Mortgage in Cicero, he continues networking and building business relationships.

His wife Lisa has been a Real Estate agent for 25 years at Century 21, and currently has listings in Tipton.

“Brian has owned his business for 23 years,” she says. “He is very experienced. He works

well with all buyers, especially first-time ones. He is always available on evenings and the weekend.”

Bear continues to volunteer, fundraise and support Tipton. Among other endeavors, he is always sponsoring many Tipton events like the Tipton County Pork Festival and Tipton on Tap. As a Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus, he will give out free hamburgers and hot dogs during tailgating at this year’s Tipton High School football games.

“Brian does a lot for the community of Tipton,” says Lisa Bear. “He’s an all-American guy. He’s very giving.”

Main Street Mortgage is located at 269 West Jackson Street in Cicero. Call 317-420-5192 or go to loanswithbrianbear.com to learn more.

For more info on Lisa Stokes-Bear’s Century 21 listings, visit lstokes.agent.c21scheetz.com or call 317-513-4086.

• Class of 2023 earned $738,515 in scholarships

• Class of 2023 earned 447 Dual Credit hours through Ivy Tech = $75,649 in tuition dollars

• Class of 2023 earned 334 Dual Credit hours through Indiana University = $100,200 in tuition dollars

GROWING EMPOWERED, FUTURE-READY STUDENTS WHO ARE PREPARED FOR A LIFETIME OF OPPORTUNITY AND SUCCESS.

#BlueFuture

Timeless and inventive, Nyla's brings a casual, chef-inspired eccentricity to Westfield's Restaurant Row. Our chalkboard menu, handcrafted by Chef Esli of the Italian House, balances hits from homemade fried chicken to sea bass. Everything will hit your taste buds like lightning. That, along with a cocktail lounge & outdoor patio, well, it's just something we can't wait for you to see for yourself.

BECKS

BENTLEY

BLUE

BOND

BUG

GRIFFIN & OBERYN

KING

LADY & MAGGIE

LILIBET

MAISEY

PERRY

SASHA RAINE

For many years Brock and Laura Rutledge, owners of BAR Stables, have been involved with training and showing horses. As members of the equestrian community, they enjoy sharing their knowledge with others of all ages and skill levels. The couple’s six good-tempered horses are ready for beginning students as well as advanced riders.

Brock started competing when he was 10 and turned pro at age 18. As a teenager he worked in barns. He showed Morgan horses, one of the oldest breeds in the United States, and later elegant American Saddlebreds, which he continues to train.

“I got into it because there was a barn down the road where I took lessons as a kid,” Brock Rutledge says. “I fell in love with the community of it. It’s how I met my wife.”

Laura is from southern Indiana and participated in a 4-H horse program. While pursuing an equestrian science degree from William Woods University in Fulton, Missouri, she did an internship in Westfield. Brock was employed by stables as well.

Today the couple has three children, aged 18 months to 12 years. The older siblings are involved in 4-H Horse and Pony. Additionally, the whole family looks forward to going trail riding whenever possible.

“All of the horses have different personalities and traits, and I know their tendencies well,” Rutledge says. “Rosie is our beginner horse, and she is just a sweetheart. Everyone seems to love her. Even when students advance past her, she is still their favorite. There’s just something about her that people connect with. She is gentle and patient.”

“We have students that are beginners all the way up to advanced,” he continues. “Our youngest student is 6 and our oldest one is 72 years old. It is a fun experience to see someone touch a horse for the first time. When people are starting riding lessons for the first time, they learn to realize that the rider must do all the thinking for a 1,000-pound animal. The rider must make all the decisions for them.”

BAR Stables is situated halfway between Kokomo and the Westfield-Carmel area.

Students come from the surrounding area, as well as the north side of Indianapolis including Broad Ripple. Private lessons are $50 and group lessons are $40. The sessions are usually held during the evening hours of 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

The business has been open since March of this year, and primarily focuses on riding lessons. BAR Stables uses its own horses for English and Western riding lessons. Along with lessons, BAR Stables also offers professional horse training. This winter and next spring, Rutledge is planning on taking students to some competitions in nearby places such as Cloverdale and Edinburgh.

“The BAR comes from the initials of my name - Brock Andrew Rutledge,” he says. “It is wonderful to see the joy on someone’s face when they learn to ride. It is wonderful when they get an understanding. You can see their sense of accomplishment.”

BAR Stables is located at 6500 West 600 South in Atlanta, Indiana. For more information, email barstablesllc@gmail.com or call 317-752-1446.

SPLENDID STAY

Photography Provided

Beth Rutledge is offering a chance to experience a getaway in small-town America. Her company, Runaway Rentals, recently listed a historic house on Airbnb, an online booking company for short- and long-term home stays and experiences. The charming home, located in downtown Arcadia, has been in the family for many years.

Writer / Julie Yates

Rutledge was attending the University of Evansville when she got engaged. It was important to her to finish her degree before she got married. During this time, her husband-to-be, Mike Rutledge, had the opportunity to purchase the quaint twobedroom house. The plan was to remodel the home and move into it after the couple was married.

“I graduated, we were married and then we finished it together, but we never moved in,” says Rutledge. “Our house turned into a long-term rental for the next 40 years. I wanted to update our business model because I saw a need for leasing short-term for our growing town. Thus the creation of a new Airbnb.”

“Runaway Rentals was created as a family passion project to connect families and local businesses within our community,” she adds. “Our name stems from when Mike’s father ran away from Tennessee to Indiana for a better life of working as a farmhand.”

The house is one of the oldest homes in Arcadia. The interior expresses this with original woodwork, plus columns from a local bar. The unattached garage has

the fireplace where the neighborhood blacksmith worked. It is a historical home with modern amenities.

“I had a vision of interior decorating that would make anyone’s stay affordable, relaxing, comfortable, and have a genuine feeling of homeyness,” says Rutledge. “Tapping into our youngest son Levi’s previous experience in high-end hotel management/customer service, and our oldest son Nathan’s expertise on house functionalities, we combined our skills to create Runaway Rentals - a home away from home.”

There are several nearby attractions that highlight the best of Midwest living. Within walking distance is El 5 De Mayo, a Mexican restaurant, and across the street is Remnant Coffee Shop. A couple blocks over is Northbrook Brewing Company. Just a short drive away, A Lit’le Bit of Heaven Farm raises alpacas and angora rabbits. In-season shearing exhibitions are hosted in the farm store, which carries a variety of merchandise including knitting supplies. Finally, Wilson’s Farm Market is a must-stop for delicious baked goods, scrumptious fried chicken and much more. Surrounding

towns like Tipton, Kokomo and Noblesville also have farmers markets every Saturday through the summer. Grand Park is a short, 15- to 20-minute drive for families coming to town who don’t want to stay in an expensive hotel.

Guests can enjoy the entire house, front porch and backyard. The home can sleep six guests, and has a newly remodeled kitchen plus WiFi. The economical pricing varies slightly with the season. A door keypad allows for self-check-in, but Levi is available via messaging to answer any questions.

“We currently have some reservations booked,” says Rutledge. “We encourage family, traveling nurses, friends, business associates and out-of-town guests to experience a delightful atmosphere in a safe neighborhood. I hope, with the success of our Airbnb, we can bring visitors into our community and Runaway Rentals will continue to grow.”

Email Runaway Rentals at runaway.rentals.in@gmail. com. For more information or to book a stay, use this QR code or go to airbnb.com.

Women in TiptonBusiness

GETTING TO KNOW LOCAL LADY LEADERS

Story & Photography Provided

BETH RUTLEDGE, RUNAWAY RENTALS

Who was your favorite teacher in school (if you grew up locally) and why?

I attended Hamilton Heights but all three of my sons are Blue Devil graduates. As a Blue Devil parent, I especially appreciated Kim Warner, not only for her teaching, but also for being instrumental in getting the German students involved with the Friendship Exchange Program. It eventually led to additional students coming to live with us and Levi securing a job in Germany for a time, after his college career. Additionally, Jim Makosky believed in his students, not only for what they were doing, but what they could do. His encouragement and mentorship was invaluable.

What store in town is your go-to for decorating your home? Horton’s Home & Garden has such a variety of items that I never have a hard time finding something special/unique. I seldom leave without purchasing some of their delicious fudge. I also like to browse in Tim’s 1.

What are your favorite local activities to do?

As a child I attended the Diana Theatre and continue to do so today. What a bargain, right in our back yard. Of course, treating myself to the South Pole is a must when in town.

What do you love about living in Tipton?

Using a very familiar quote from “Cheers,” “You want to be where you can see our troubles are all the same. You want to be where everybody knows your name.”

What would you like to see in Tipton that we do not have yet?

I would like to see a MedCheck come to Tipton. There are many times I would like a professional opinion but do not think it is emergency room worthy. There really isn’t any fine dining in Tipton, but I’m looking forward to the new establishment along the railroad tracks.

HOPE RANDALL, HOPE JEWELERS

Did you grow up in Tipton? If so, where did you graduate from?

My sister, daughter and cousins went to Tipton schools. I went to Western and received my GED at 16.

Who was your favorite teacher in school (if you grew up locally) and why?

Mrs. Obermeyer, as she was always kind.

What store in town is your go-to for decorating your home? Dollar General, Tim’s 1 and the Side Street Mall.

What do you love about living in Tipton?

Living near family and friends, as well as the small-town vibes.

What would you like to see in Tipton that we do not have yet?

Somewhere for kids to skateboard and hang out.

What’s your go-to place for clothes?

The Feel Goods.

Who has had the most influence/who has inspired you the most as a woman in business?

Beth Moser.

LISA FERGUSON, HEART AND SOUL CARING

Did you grow up in Tipton? If so, where did you graduate from?

I grew up in Tipton County, working at the age of 12 in Tipton. I worked at Tom’s Cafe, Polar Bear (which is Dairy Queen now) and Merle Norman Cosmetics. I was active in FHA, band and cheerleading, from fifth grade through my senior year of high school at Tri-Central High School. I played tennis at Tipton High School, due to my school not offering the sport. I was beyond blessed to have friends from both Tipton High School and Tri-Central High School, where I graduated from.

Where do you like to go out to eat on special occasions locally?

There are so many wonderful restaurants in our town, where the food is amazing. My all-time favorite would have to be Faye’s Northside Restaurant. The atmosphere is filled with so many friends, and the food and service is simply, well, unexplainable. Our all-time favorite saying in the restaurant is, “You just can’t get this type of service anywhere else.” Nothing but respect for owner and dear friend Theresa Ogden Louthen.

What do you love about living in Tipton?

We are a small enough community to know one another, and large enough to make a difference in one another’s lives. Tipton is a very compassionate place to call home.

What would you like to see in Tipton that we do not have yet?

A car wash with a detailing area.

What’s your go-to place for clothes?

I love all five boutiques we have in Tipton - Annmarie’s Boutique, Rockin’ J’s Boutique, The Feel Goods, Horton’s Home & Garden, and Tinkerhouse. All are within two blocks of one another and are unbelievably reasonably priced, with really unique clothing, shoes, and all the accessories anyone would ever need.

LAURA RUTLEDGE, BAR STABLES

Did you grow up in Tipton? If so, where did you graduate from?

I did not grow up in Tipton. My husband is from here and I moved here when we got married almost 15 years ago. I feel lucky to call Tipton my home.

Where do you like to go out to eat on special occasions locally?

If we have something to celebrate, we usually like to go out to eat. Our go-to places are one of the Mexican restaurants or Main Moon Restaurant.

What are your favorite local activities to do?

My family likes to either go bowling at Suburban Lanes or watch a movie at the Diana. It is so nice to have two local places to go with my three kids.

What do you love about living in Tipton?

I love the small-town atmosphere of Tipton. I grew up in a small town myself and am glad my kids get to as well. The closeness of the community is very important to me.

KINDRA TRAGESSER, URBAN HOMESTEAD

Did you grow up in Tipton? If so, where did you graduate from?

Yes, I did grow up in Tipton. I was born in Howard County and we moved to Tipton when I was 3. I know nothing other than Tipton being my hometown. I graduated from Tipton High School in 1985.

What’s your favorite local salon/spa if you want to treat yourself?

Absolutely You. Hannah McElfresh is simply the best.

What do you love about living in Tipton?

I love the vibe in Tipton. I love watching the growth that is happening, and people having a desire to make Tipton an even better place to live, work and shop.

Who has had the most influence/who has inspired you the most as a woman in business?

Judy Burton. Judy always seemed fearless to me, watching from the outside. Judy is the epitome of female entrepreneurship. Judy opened a very successful children’s clothing store and has had many more successful business ventures since. I have always admired her tenacity and kindness.

LISA STOKES BEAR, CENTURY 21 SCHEETZ

Did you grow up in Tipton?

Yes. I graduated in 1991.

Who was your favorite teacher in school (if you grew up locally) and why?

Mr. Mike Grimme. He was my drivers ed teacher and I still obey the driving laws he taught me.

Where do you like to go out to eat on special occasions locally?

Pizza Shack pizza (the Shack’s U-Bakes).

What store in town is your go-to for decorating your home? Horton’s in downtown Tipton.

Watching movies at the Diana Theatre is definitely a favorite past time as well. Their prices can’t be beat.

What do you love about living in Tipton?

I love the small-town atmosphere. The people are so friendly and we have the kindest neighbors. We are blessed in Tipton to have several cute shops, some great local dining and a beautiful park. All of these things help to make Tipton the charming town that it is.

MARY BURCHETTE, SERENDIPITY

What store in town is your go-to for decorating your home? Anchored in Hope. I have several items in my home from Susie’s cute shop. I love that so many of the items she sells are made by local artisans, and she offers custom home goods as well.

What’s your favorite local salon/spa if you want to treat yourself?

Absolutely You. I’ve been going there for almost five years to have my hair done and to get the occasional manicure. Bre Burket is my hair stylist and she is amazing. The staff is friendly and their prices are very reasonable.

What are your favorite local activities to do?

Any event that Horton’s puts on is always done well and is a great time. The annual Pork Festival is a lot of fun too.

SUSIE HUSSONG, ANCHORED IN HOPE HOME DECOR

Did you grow up in Tipton? If so, where did you graduate from?

I was born and raised in Tipton and graduated from Tipton High School in 1994. I have lived in Tipton most of my adult

life with my husband, Andy, and our boys, Kaden and Kellen.

Who was your favorite teacher in school (if you grew up locally) and why?

My favorite teacher was my fourth-grade teacher, Mrs. Everidge, at Lincoln Elementary. I was actually a kindergarten and first-grade teacher for nineteen years, and Mrs. Everidge was a big influence in my dream to be a teacher from the time I was in elementary school. She was very caring and empathetic during a very difficult time in my childhood when my mom was battling cancer.

What are your favorite local activities to do?

Even though I am usually in my store, I love to have girlfriends come to town and take them to all of our little shops and boutiques in town. I also enjoy taking my grandkids to play at our beautiful park. I have such fond memories of playing there as a kid, and love it that my kids and grandkids have been able to make memories there as well.

What do you love about living in Tipton?

When I was a teenager I couldn’t wait to get out of Tipton and never thought I would come back here after college. As an adult I have come to appreciate living in a small town. I love that my kids are growing up with the kids of friends I went to high school with. I also enjoy having a storefront downtown and getting to engage with people in the community. Tipton is a great place to love and raise a family.