MEN IN BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS
TERRY TRACY
RICH LACY
All-Pro Plumbing, Inc.
Holly’s Package Store
KENT CLOUSER
JORDAN HOPKINS
Ace Hardware of Tipton County
JULY 2026
JTH Industries
ROD RICHARDSON BRAD WHITMAN Down on Main Street Bar and Grill
PATRICK RICE The Tin Plate
DOUG NELSON
Whitman Roofing, Inc.
Midwest Modalities
TODD JORDAN
LES FELTON
Kokomo Toys and Collectibles
Motorwise
DYLAN AKSHAR Ace Exteriors and Restoration
NICK BYRD
Nick Byrd Medicare
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f i n a n c i n g ava i l a b l e * o a c Sewer back ups? Broken/damaged drain lines? What to look for: Slow, sluggish drains Soggy spots on your lawn where your sewer lines are located Reoccurring clogs affecting multiple drains Foul sewer odors Someone recommended that your drain is damaged or needs to be replaced
What causes these issues?
Drains back up because there is a problem with them. Some pipes are just old, rough and falling apart and tree roots are infiltrating through breaks. Other lines are smashed by the directional boring of gas, electric and fiber optic lines. Then there are the pipes that are installed wrong or get damaged during construction. How can All-Pro Plumbing help? We’ll identify the issues Assess root infiltration, breaks and damage to the line Find the option that’s best for you & your budget
plumbing drain cleaning sewer jetting camera/locate water conditioning trenchless sewer repair and more!
What solutions are available? Drain Maintenance program Excavation Point Repairs CIPP aka TRENCHLESS SEWER LINE REPAIR!
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TownePost.com | July 2026 | 3
PUBLISHER KIM SENKUS kim@townepost.com (463)466-5995 KEY CONTRIBUTORS ALYX ARNETT AMY MOSHIER NATALIE PLATT DYLAN SENKUS
22
7
JULY CROSSWORD PUZZLE
8
FAMILY FIRST
765 Collision Repair Builds Success Through Culture & Teamwork
10 JULY 2026
80 YEARS STRONG Lions Club Serves Greentown Through Community And Tradition
16
GREENTOWN MEN IN BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS
17
KOKOMO MEN IN BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS
22
CENTURY OF MEMORIES
Historic Diana Theater Continues To Bring Community Together
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4 | July 2026 | TownePost.com
FOUNDER, CEO TOM BRITT tom@townepost.com (463) 842-1488 PRESIDENT JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com (317) 810-0011 CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER ERIN TURK CREATIVE DIRECTORS VAL AUSTIN TONI EADS EDITOR JOSH BROWN DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER ERIC NEER DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT SKYLAR ANDERTON TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. 8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: (317) 810-0011 FOR FRANCHISE INFORMATION, VISIT FRANCHISING.TOWNEPOST.COM
JULY CALENDAR OF EVENTS /ATKOKOMO /TIPTONMAGAZINE
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Find us out and about at Markets, at The Shop and 2 booths in The Originial Treasure Mart!
Happy 250th Birthday America! 1403 Home Avenue / 1201 E Vaile Avenue / 765-513-5502
Get an affordable education close to home at Ivy Tech Schedule a campus visit, explore our program offerings, and apply today. Classes start August 24. Scan the QR code or visit IvyTech.edu/Kokomo to get started.
(765) 454-0689 | Mon-Fri 8AM-5PM
201 W. Morgan | Kokomo, IN 46901
RESERVE YOUR SPACE TODAY Contact Kim Senkus (317) 501-1743 kim@townepost.com
RESERVE YOUR SPACE TODAY FOR THE 2026 TIPTON CHAMBER BUSINESS DIRECTORY Copies will be printed and mailed to all chamber members as well as to all businesses and residents in Tipton. Additional copies will be available for new businesses, new chamber members, and distributed at multiple locations in Tipton.
6 | July 2026 | TownePost.com
JULY
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
ACROSS 1. Inhale
10. Strengthening
16. Coral bank
23. Intimidate
7. Raised (design)
12. Reflex movement
17. Plan of action
24. Immobility
20. Assured
25. Slides
8. Around (that date) 14. Low platform
DOWN 1. Portion of circle
5. Roughly calculated photographer
18. Teenage people
2. Proven truth
6. Proverbs
13. Elect
19. Floats on breeze
3. Complacent
9. Main artery
15. Walked in water
21. Utensil
4. Roamed
11. Video
16. Win back
22. Poorly-lit
Keep up with Full Time, Part Time, and Contract Positions job opportunities on our website at www.btdinc.com 550 Industrial Drive, Tipton www.btdinc.com TownePost.com | July 2026 | 7
FAMILY FIRST
765 COLLISION REPAIR BUILDS SUCCESS THROUGH CULTURE & TEAMWORK Writer / Alyx Arnett Photographer / Dylan Senkus
At 7:30 a.m., technicians at 765 Collision Repair are already hard at work — repairing dents, painting vehicles and moving through a packed schedule. But even amid the fast pace, owner Trampus Burke and his son, production manager Detlef Burke, say success starts not with the cars, but with the people fixing them. Now celebrating their second anniversary, the two say that philosophy has shaped everything about how they run the shop. “[Our employees] know they’re not just a number. We know what’s going on with them. We know about their families,” Trampus says. “It’s really tight-knit, and our world revolves around them.” Trampus, who got his start in collision repair in 1996, always 8 | July 2026 | TownePost.com
aspired to own his own shop, so when the opportunity arose, he asked his son, Detlef, if he wanted to join him. Detlef said yes. By then, Detlef, a 2021 Tri-Central High School graduate, had spent several years around the industry. During his junior year of high school, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted school schedules, and his father, who was working for a corporate body shop at the time, invited him to work as a porter. “I just liked the culture,” Detlef says. “I like how it’s just, if you work hard, you can make money doing it.” After working together for around two years, Trampus and Detlef opened their doors at 1101 S. Apperson Way in June 2024, offering
collision repair, paint and glass work, and paintless dent repair, with three employees. The team has since grown by 10 more employees. What sets the shop apart, according to the Burkes, is the value they place on their technicians. “A lot of shops treat it as the techs make money for the managers, but we treat it as it’s our job to make the techs money,” Detlef says. “I think that makes the culture a lot better. It makes people feel more respected, too.” Senior auto body technician Shane Butler, who has worked with Trampus for more than a decade, followed him to the new business. “They just take care of you,” Butler says. “It’s not just going to a job.” That employee-first approach also extends to work-life balance. The shop operates on a four-day workweek, from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m., giving the entire team a three-day weekend. “You’re not going to be here and live here; you’re going to have family time,” Trampus says. “It’s our job to make sure they’re efficient during the 40 hours they’re here.” The extra day off also allows the Burkes, who describe themselves as best friends, to golf, attend concerts and travel together. Another core part of their business model is investing in the next generation. Most of their staff is younger than 23. The Burkes train employees on-site and provide starter tools — which they get to keep if they stay for two years — as they learn the trade. “It’s cool to bring kids in who have a love for cars and then teach them how to work on them,” Trampus says. “We’re helping teach the younger generation that you don’t have to be in debt, you don’t have to go to college, and you can make really good money by working with your hands and be proud of it.”
SPECIALIZING IN AUTO BODY REPAIRS, PAINT & GLASS WORK Locally Owned, Family Focused and Community Driven Free Estimates / No Appointment Needed We work with all Insurance Carriers along with Self Pay Serving Howard, Tipton and Surrounding Counties with all your Collision Repair needs.
While customer demand grew faster than anticipated, hitting two-year goals within the first six months, the Burkes say they took a measured approach to hiring. They wanted to ensure there would be enough work for new hires, not only immediately but also long term. Looking ahead, the Burkes are considering expansion, either by adding on to their current building or opening a second location. But when asked what he’s most proud of after the shop’s first two years, Trampus didn’t talk about the business. He pointed to his son. 765 Collision Repair is located at 1101 S. Apperson Way, Kokomo, IN 46902. Call 765-459-8008 or visit 765collision.com for more information.
765.459.8008 1101 S. APPERSON WAY KOKOMO, IN 46902 MONDAY-THURSDAY 6am-5pm FRIDAY BY APPOINTMENT
TownePost.com | July 2026 | 9
80 YEARS STRONG LIONS CLUB SERVES GREENTOWN THROUGH COMMUNITY AND TRADITION Writer / Amy Moshier
The Lions Club of Greentown is celebrating 80 years of operation and tremendous service to Greentown. They are part of Lions Clubs International, the world’s largest service club organization, with 1.4 million members in approximately 26,000 clubs across the country, said Greentown Lions Club Membership Chairman Mike Imbler. With a membership of about 150, the amount of hours and service provided to the Greentown community is very impressive.
Howard Memorial Park. There was one food tent and a pet parade. The Lions Club also had a raffle for a phonograph. In 1947, the fair began to really resemble a fair. More tents, more exhibits, but the carnival was still two years away,” said Imbler.
The second Monday of every month, they have a dinner meeting, said Imbler.
“The whole purpose of the fair was to promote farming and agriculture, 4-H,” he says. “The fair started for four days; now we go five to six days.”
Their largest annual undertaking is the Howard County Fair, but they have other community projects as well. “The first fair was held in 1946 in Eastern
need a HAND?
“The whole purpose of the fair at that time was to promote farming and agriculture, so 4-H was already a big part of the developing fair. It started with four days; now we go five to six days. The first year, in 1946, there was also a pet parade, and the Lions Club held a raffle for a phonograph,” he added. In 1949, entertainment began having an influence. Imbler remembers one of the first groups to perform was Nancy Lee and the Hilltoppers. “The first tractor pull was held in 1949. In 1950, the number of exhibitors grew to 37,” he added.
An important part of the fair is Pioneer Village. “It’s basically a town established in about
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1860-70. It was developed to reflect that generation. Right now, we have four log cabins, a doctor’s office, a pharmacy, a land title office, a church and a grocery store,” said Imbler. “People love the fair. Why? People come to see the livestock, singers and events. The 4-H is the primary reason,” he said. Longtime member Jay Freeman says, “The fair is probably our biggest asset. We usually gain members during the fair because people want to be a part of it and want to help the community. I have been a member since October 1972.” Freeman also remembers some challenging events. “We have had tornado warnings and really bad storms that have blown tents down and flooded the grounds. We had runaway horses pulling a cart that threw the fair queen off the cart and bruised her legs. She went to the state fair contest with bruises
and quite a story for the judges,” he said. Another popular project the Lions Club participates in is raising money for food baskets for low-income families. Lions Club members, members’ children and friends alike raise money by ringing bells for donations. “One year we raised, through bell ringing and donations, probably $2,200,” Freeman said. Sometimes the whole family gets involved.
“We want to work with the school system to give a tree to every fourth grader,” Imbler said. “We have a membership committee that is working hard to get members,” said longtime member Jay Freeman. “Every month we bring in new members, but we lose some as well. If we can get younger members to help and volunteer with the fair and the Christmas baskets, I think you will see the club and the fair continue to grow,” Freeman added.
“People take their kids and grandchildren with them to ring. You join a service group to give back to your community. You see people giving their time. You meet so many nice people. You meet people from all over the world,” he said. Other projects under the Lions Club include an Easter egg hunt, music at the fairgrounds, dog shows and pig shows. Members also plant trees.
2026 Howard County 4-H Fair July 13-18 / Greentown, IN
80 years of sponsorship by the Greentown Lions Club
HowardCoFair.com TownePost.com | July 2026 | 11
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS
KOKOMO
TIPTON
4
4
1-4 p.m. Family-friendly fun and festive activities. The day rolls right into the evening with baseball and fireworks at Kokomo Municipal Stadium, plus a special veterans walk connecting downtown to the game. GreaterKokomo.com/summer2026
Star Spangled Bash 5K & Kids Color Run 8:30 a.m. (5K), 10 a.m. (Kids Color Run) Rockprairie.breezechms.com Jackwagons 4th of July Car Show Tipton City Park Tipton, Indiana 9 a.m. Parade sponsored by City of Tipton 3 p.m. Fireworks 10 p.m.
11
KOKOMO SUMMER CONCERT SERIES PRESENTS A FREE LIVE PERFORMANCE BY NASHVILLE ROCK GROUP HIPPIES & COWBOYS Kokomo Arts Pavilion Kokomo, Indiana 5 p.m.
JULY
AROUND THE COMMUNITY, 2026
FIRST FRIDAY’S STARS, STRIPES AND SUMMER NIGHTS…ON SATURDAY!
13-18
HOWARD COUNTY FAIR
Howard County Fairgrounds Greentown, Indiana 4-H exhibits, rides, food, live entertainment and more. howardcofair.com
25
BREWS ON BUCKEYE
Indiana Craft Beer & Spirits Festival Buckeye Street Downtown Kokomo, Indiana 5 p.m. facebook.com/brewsonbuckeye
25-26
KOKOMO COMIC & TOY SHOW
View All Local Events or Submit Your Own
Markland Mall Kokomo, Indiana Quad-Con.com KokomoCreekChubs.com KokomoSpeedway.net
TIPTON’S 250 STAR SPANGLED BASH INCLUDES:
9
SIDE STREET NIGHTS SUMMER PARKING LOT PARTY
Sponsored by Precious Beauties & Gents Boutique, Junk in the Trunk and PinFluence Pinball Arcade. Side Street Mall Tipton, Indiana 5-8 p.m. Community fun, local shopping, good trucks and live music.
10-11
HORTON’S SUMMER MARKET 112 S. Main St. Tipton, Indiana 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Hortonhomeandgarden.com
18
CONCERT IN THE PARK
Tipton City Park Tipton, Indiana 7-9 p.m. Free live performance by The Flying Toasters.
No appointment needed during store hours to sell your collection! We buy all from the 60’s! 70’s! 80’s! 90’s & modern collections! Located on Geek Street, in downtown Kokomo 111 East Sycamore Street / (765) 868-8151 Wed–Sat, 12PM–5PM
TownePost.com | July 2026 | 15
Greentown
Q&A
MEN IN BUSINESS ROD RICHARDSON, DOWN ON MAIN STREET BAR AND GRILL If your business had a personality, how would you describe it? Fun-loving and outgoing!
That I would still be here 28 years later.
Where do you want to retire and what are you going to do? Somewhere warm, and relax.
What’s been the best achievement/ award/recognition you’ve received?
What’s the most random skill you’ve gained from running a business?
Helping a needy family at Christmas and watching the little ones smile!
How to treat people; treat them the way you would want to be treated.
What’s something locally owned/small business owners do that corporate companies could never replicate?
What’s one thing you wish you had known about starting a business?
What’s your go-to motivation on tough days?
Treat others with kindness, and try to be a blessing.
What’s something locally owned/small business owners do that corporate companies could never replicate? The ability to offer a higher level of customer service.
What’s the weirdest thing you’ve ever had to handle at work?
What’s your biggest workplace pet peeve? When you’re in the alcohol industry, everything Someone putting the toilet paper wrong side out; it should roll down on the outside. LOL
Know your employees and respect them and all of your customers.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting a small business tomorrow, what would it be?
Don’t get a business partner. If you can’t do it
What’s the weirdest thing you’ve ever had alone, don’t do it. to handle at work? Getting customers into the walk-in cooler during What is a good “Men in Business” a tornado. question you wish I would’ve asked, and what is your answer? What’s your favorite way to support other Have you had fun over the years, and would you local businesses? do it again? YES!!!!! Tell people about them, and where and how to find them.
RICH LACY, HOLLY’S PACKAGE STORE If your business had a personality, how would you describe it?
What keeps you passionate about what you do? The people who support us and my associates.
What’s your most impressive skill that has nothing to do with your job?
It is what it is; all we can do is face it courageously.
The gift of gab; never be left speechless.
is weird.
What keeps you passionate about what you do?
It’s been a family business for almost 46 years, and family is more important.
What’s one thing you wish you had known about starting a business?
The cost it takes to be able to continue in business.
Where do you want to retire and what are you going to do?
Some place quiet, and do whatever I decide to do that day.
What’s been the best achievement/ award/recognition you’ve received?
Being able to have the opportunity to help others achieve their goals.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting a small business tomorrow, what would it be? Dare to be different!
Down On
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MEN IN BUSINESS DYLAN AKSHAR, ACE EXTERIORS AND RESTORATION
If your business had a personality, how would you describe it? The friend who’s always busy, always thinking and always willing to help. Big heart, creative mind, a little chaotic, but someone you can count on when it matters. What’s the most random skill you’ve gained from running a business? How to function with no sleep! LOL What’s your go-to motivation on tough days? I have too many people and dreams depending on me to quit. Control what you can, let go of what you can’t, and keep moving forward. What’s your favorite way to support other local businesses? Referrals, word-of-mouth and social media. If someone does great work, I’ll tell people about it. I truly believe a rising tide lifts all ships, and supporting local businesses helps strengthen the entire community. What keeps you passionate about what you do? It took me a long time to find my path, but when I found it, everything clicked. There’s
a different level of passion that comes from believing in what you do and standing behind it wholeheartedly. Not only do I get to build something meaningful for my family, but I also get to help others protect one of their most valuable assets. That’s a responsibility I don’t take lightly, and it’s what keeps me excited to show up every day. What’s one thing you wish you had known about starting a business? I wish I had known how much goes on behind the scenes. It’s one thing to see a successful business from the outside, but once you’re responsible for every decision, every problem and every outcome, you realize there’s a lot more to it than most people ever see. What’s been the best achievement/award/ recognition you’ve received? The greatest recognition I’ve received wasn’t an award — it was the opportunity to give back. This year, we provided a free roof, gutters, fascia and soffit to a family in need. Seeing the relief on their faces and knowing we were able to lift that burden off their shoulders was more meaningful than any trophy or plaque could ever be. If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting a small business tomorrow, what would it be? Start now. Don’t wait for the perfect time because it doesn’t exist. Fail often, fail forward,
Q&A learn from it and keep going. You’ll figure it out along the way.
TERRY TRACY, ALL PRO PLUMBING
If your business had a personality, how would you describe it? Tenacious. Caring. Loyal. All for one, and one for all. Something between Ned Stark, Batman and MacGyver. What’s something that locally owned/small business owners do that corporate companies could never replicate? Care. To care beyond profits, care about the people that work with us, care about our clients and care about the community. Truly caring means doing right on each end of it, for both the client and the person that works here. We can also be more creative, find new ways to solve problems and develop real relationships with our clients. If you could give a piece of advice to someone starting a small business tomorrow, what would it be? Read books. Read books about running a business. Read everything you can. “The Four Agreements” (Don Miguel Ruiz), “Atomic Habits” ( James Clear), “Traction” (Gino
ATTENTION ALL SENIOR CITIZEN RELATED BUSINESSES August is dedicated to helping our 55+ readers navigate their changing lives. If you are a business that would like to reach this demographic, contact Kim Senkus. PUBLISHER KIM SENKUS kim@townepost.com (317) 501-1743
TownePost.com | July 2026 | 17
Wickman) and “The E-Myth Revisited” (Michael E. Gerber). You can also get a mentor. If you can find somebody that will mentor you in business, it will be a big help. Another thing is, if you truly love what you do, like a trade, you have to realize that once you start a business, you’re no longer that. You’re no longer a plumber or an electrician. You’re a business owner, and your responsibilities change greatly. So if you want to be a plumber or an electrician or a tradesman, starting a business is the end of that and the beginning of something else. It will be different, so read the books and study business. Ask yourself why you are going into business. What’s your reason? That’s, to me, the biggest thing. Especially if you’re starting a business on a budget or you’re starting a business with little to no money, you’re going to have to spend a lot of time making up for that. If you’re starting a business, you’ve got to be willing to sacrifice, and that sacrifice comes in the form of hours and days and weeks and months and years. Just know what you’re sacrificing and be ready to do it: the time, the effort and the energy that it will take. It’s a give-and-take, honestly. If you have a why, you will sacrifice. That’s the biggest thing. But if you have your why, it will be worth it. You’ll have a purpose. So pick your why.
JORDAN HOPKINS, JTH INDUSTRIES
If your business had a personality, how would you describe it? Hardworking, dependable and a little bit perfectionist. We’re the kind of business that shows up, gets dirty, solves the problem and wants the finished job to look better than expected.
What’s the most random skill you’ve gained from running a business? Becoming a professional problem-solver in every category — scheduling, weather watching, customer service, repairs, equipment, billing and somehow knowing way too much about grass, water pressure and sprinkler heads.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting a small business tomorrow, what would it be? Take care of your reputation from day one. Do good work, communicate well, be honest and treat every customer like they matter — because they do.
What’s your go-to motivation on tough days? Remembering that we’re building something bigger than one hard day. Every job, every customer and every long season is helping build a business and reputation our family can be proud of.
What is a good “Men in Business” question you wish I would’ve asked; and what is your answer? Question: What does being a man in business mean to you? Answer: It means leading with integrity, taking responsibility, working hard even when nobody sees it and building something that supports your family, your customers and your community.
What sports mascot would you want to represent your business? If we had to pick our own, probably something tough, loyal and hardworking — like a bulldog with a shovel and sprinkler head. What’s your favorite way to support other local businesses? Referring them, sharing their posts, using their services and talking them up whenever we can. Small business owners know how much word-ofmouth matters. What’s your most impressive skill that has nothing to do with your job? Being able to juggle about 47 things at once and still somehow remember who needs called back, what job is next and what part we need to pick up. What’s been the best achievement/award/ recognition you’ve received? The best recognition is when customers trust us, refer us and call us back year after year. A repeat customer or referral means we did something right.
DOUG NELSON, MIDWEST MODALITIES
If your business had a personality, how would you describe it? It would be the guy who remembers your name, gives good hugs, asks how you’re really doing and somehow makes you laugh while helping you heal. What’s your go-to motivation on tough days? When I am feeling drained, I remind myself that there’s a really good chance the next person walking through the door needs exactly what I have to offer, and more than likely they will end up giving me exactly what I needed as well. What’s something locally owned/small business owners do that corporate companies could never replicate? Creating real community. Around here, people may walk in as a client but they leave as family.
NICK BYRD MEDICARE
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What keeps you passionate about what you do? Continually seeing people walk in carrying the weight of the world and their past and leave feeling lighter, seen and even hopeful again. Where do you want to retire and what are you going to do? I doubt I’ll ever truly retire. For me, slowing down looks more like spending time enjoying the nature in our woods and creating a retreat center on our property where people can come to rest, reconnect and heal. If I can continue helping people while surrounded by nature and the people I love, that is about as close to retirement as I would want. What’s been the best achievement/award/ recognition you’ve received? A heartfelt hug and sincere “thank you.” Seeing someone leave feeling lighter, heard and seen for who they truly are means more to me than any award ever could. What’s your biggest workplace pet peeve? When someone comes in carrying the same frustration over and over but isn’t quite ready to take the next step toward change. My favorite part of what I do is helping people move forward, so it’s tough to watch someone keep themselves stuck. If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting a small business tomorrow, what would it be? Be patient and be yourself. Success takes time,
but people will always remember how genuine you were along the way. What is the hardest part about being a man in business in your field? Many of my clients have experienced trauma involving men, so building trust can be the hardest part. Creating a safe space where they feel comfortable enough to lower their guard and be vulnerable is something I take very seriously.
LES FELTON, MOTORWISE
What’s your go-to motivation on tough days? Go to Black Wax Café and sort through albums. What’s something locally owned/small business owners do that corporate companies could never replicate? Personalized customer service. What’s the weirdest thing you’ve ever had to handle at work? Guest with missing snakes in her car. What’s your favorite way to support other local businesses? Depends on the business, but generally shopping/eating there. What keeps you passionate about what you do? Some of the guests and their families.
What’s been the best achievement/award/ recognition you’ve received? Small business of the month for Greater Kokomo Howard County Chamber of Commerce and several Manager of the Quarter/Year awards in the industry. What’s your biggest workplace pet peeve? Tracking things in my office (footprints).
NICK BYRD, NICK BYRD MEDICARE
What’s your favorite way to support other local businesses? Supporting local businesses. I do my best to support as many local businesses as possible. When we go to restaurants or order takeout, we have found that the local places are able to put their own recipes and create their own tastes, where they are not beholden to a corporate menu. What keeps you passionate about what you do? I get great satisfaction out of helping seniors work through the maze of the phone calls, mail, mailers, commercials and advice from friends and family when they are approaching 65 and become eligible for Medicare. Some have a good idea of what the process is and what they want. Giving those people the reassurance that they are on the right path and finding the exact plan that fits their needs is satisfying. Then there are some who are just completely overwhelmed with all the information. Helping those people
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sort through everything and finding them the Medicare Supplement or Medicare Advantage plan that would work best for them is also satisfying. What’s your biggest workplace pet peeve? This is more of an industry pet peeve for me, the Medicare call centers and television commercials that have one purpose: to get seniors on the phone. It’s not possible for a senior to get the best information and find the right plan. Many of these call centers are from one specific company, so they are only presenting plans from their company. I’m an independent broker with plans from all the major carriers and offer many more options. What’s been the best achievement/award/ recognition you’ve received? I’ve gotten recognition from several of the companies I offer plans from. However, the best recognition is a current client referring me to a friend or family member. That tells me that I have done a good job with them, and they trust me to help their friend or family member. Where do you want to retire and what are you going to do? Where I would like to retire and where I will ultimately retire are two completely different places. I’m no different than most people my age. I always thought I would want to be in a tropical environment, but as I’ve experienced more places, I find myself more attracted to the natural beauty of some places around the country. Places like the Great Smoky Mountains, Deception Pass in northwest Washington state, or Grand Canyon have me rethinking my plans. However, family ties and financial considerations will likely keep me here. Regardless of where I retire, I will always be doing my business as long as possible.
TODD JORDAN, KOKOMO TOYS AND COLLECTIBLES
If your business had a personality, how would you describe it? She’s a diva, always the center of attention. What’s the most random skill you’ve gained from running a business? The ability to convince people to drive three, four, sometimes five hours just to shop with us. What’s your go-to motivation on tough days? I lean into our loyal customers and our 18 years as a storefront. What sports mascot would you want to represent your business? Since the Creek Chubs took all the good ones, we default to Jar Jar Binks! What’s something locally owned/small business owners do that corporate companies could never replicate? We always donate to your local fundraisers when you ask, despite you having never stepped foot in our business before.
What’s your most impressive skill that has nothing to do with your job? I can rearrange any retail setting in my head to be the most efficient. If I’m in your store, I’ve already rearranged your displays twice in my head. Where do you want to retire and what are you going to do? Retire? That’s for quitters! They will find me in the Star Wars aisle with a price labeler in one hand and a coffee in the other. If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting a small business tomorrow, what would it be? Follow your dreams but remember you can’t sleep anymore. What is a good “Men in Business” question you wish I would’ve asked; and what is your answer? Donate to local charities! Give when nobody is looking. Find a need and use your business to fill it. Make it part of your core business plan. Support your mom-and-pop locally owned businesses. The money you spend with them directly helps support your community.
BRAD WHITMAN, WHITMAN ROOFING
What’s the weirdest thing you’ve ever had to handle at work? I had two guys nearly fistfight over who is worst, Ewoks or Gungans. What’s your favorite way to support other local businesses? We include many of them in our social media posts. Come to the toy store and also grab a bite to eat at The Coterie!
If your business had a personality, how would you describe it? Family-friendly. What’s your go-to motivation on tough days? I listen to a lot of motivational speakers like Steve Harvey.
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KENT CLOUSER, ACE HARDWARE OF TIPTON COUNTY
What sports mascot would you want to represent your business? Boomerang just being Boomer. What’s something locally owned/small business owners do that corporate companies could never replicate? Upgrades. Bigger companies charge them. I don’t. What’s your favorite way to support other local businesses? Usually sponsor events they put on if they have a good event. What keeps you passionate about what you do? Taking care of clients and installing top-of-theline products.
PATRICK RICE, THE TIN PLATE
How would you describe your business? The Tin Plate is the little engine that could — small, determined and always moving forward.
If your business had a personality, how would you describe it? Friendly and outgoing.
What’s your go-to motivation on tough days? Customer satisfaction. What’s something locally owned/small business owners do that corporate companies could never replicate? Local knowledge of common uses for products.
What’s your most impressive skill that has nothing to do with your job? Being a people person.
What’s your favorite way to support other local businesses? Refer customers to other local businesses when they are looking for a product that is not available to me.
Where do you want to retire and what are you going to do? I’ll retire right here in Tipton and watch my grandkids grow up.
What keeps you passionate about what you do? Helping people complete their projects makes you feel really good at the end of the day.
What’s been the best achievement/award/ recognition you’ve received? Best contractor in Hamilton County three years in a row.
What’s your most impressive skill that has nothing to do with your job? Being able to envision solutions to problems with projects that seem unfixable.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting a small business tomorrow, what would it be? Start slow and grow slow.
Where do you want to retire and what are you going to do? I plan to continue to work in the business in some capacity for as long as possible.
What is a good “Men in Business” question you wish I would’ve asked; and what is your answer? What is your reason for owning your business? Help homeowners navigate their insurance claim.
What skills have helped you succeed? In a small business, you wear a lot of hats. I’ve learned to multitask and do whatever needs done. What motivates you? Being my own boss and knowing every day is a new opportunity. If your business had a mascot, what would it be? The American Swine — because great tenderloins deserve a great mascot. What is something people may not know about you? I’m a professional trumpet player who has performed with world-class drum and bugle corps and professional bands. I’ve also had the honor of playing Taps for hundreds of local veterans’ funeral services. What does retirement look like for you? A big boat, my wife, my dogs and visits from the kids and grandkids. What accomplishment are you most proud of? Winning Madison County’s Top Tenderloin award four years in a row: 2023, 2024, 2025 and 2026, and in 2026 we also won Best Wings.
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F O Y R CENTU RIES MEMO ES ONTINU C R E T A HE ETHER DIANA T ITY TOG N HISTORIC U M M O BRING C
TO
Writer / Natalie Platt
On a Friday night in downtown Tipton, somebody is explaining, for the hundredth time, where they sat on their first date in 1978. Somebody else is juggling popcorn in one hand and sodas in the other while ushering their children into the historic theater for the first time. For nearly a century, the Diana Theatre has stood on Jefferson Street as both a landmark and a gathering place in downtown Tipton. Generations of families have passed beneath its marquee, settling into seats for first dates, Saturday matinees, holiday outings and summer blockbusters. This year marks the theater’s 100th anniversary, a milestone few small-town movie houses can claim. For owner Nick Paikos, the history of the Diana is inseparable from the history of his own family. “Our family has owned the Diana since
1926, when my grandfather turned a vaudeville stage into a movie theater,” Paikos says. “My father and mother began managing it with him in the 1950s through the 1980s. I have worked at the theater since 1966 in various capacities, helping to manage it since the 1990s.” That continuity has become increasingly rare in the movie business, particularly as independent theaters across the country have struggled to survive changing technology, streaming services and shifting entertainment habits. Yet the Diana has endured by evolving carefully while holding onto the atmosphere that has long made it part of Tipton’s identity. Paikos says improvements to the building have been ongoing for years, particularly
over the last decade and a half. Recent upgrades include a new heating and airconditioning system, updated projection and sound equipment, and new seating. “We are working to make the Diana an even more accessible and useful community downtown space,” he says. Walking into the theater today still carries traces of another era. The glow of the marquee spills onto the sidewalk. The lobby hums before a show begins. Teenagers work the concession stand while longtime customers exchange greetings before heading into the auditorium. In many towns, places like this have disappeared. In Tipton, it remains part of weekly life. Paikos says the connection between the
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theater and the community has always mattered most to him. “The most significant result of operating the Diana here for Tipton is the connection to the people of the community,” he says. “The feeling of contributing to the entertainment and social fabric of this area is rewarding and a blessing to be a part of.” He says there are hundreds of customers and current and former employees with whom he has connected through the theater, and they have forever been imprinted as some of his and his family’s fondest memories. “It is almost surreal at times, the staggering numbers of people that bring up memories
and stories connected to the Diana,” he says. Asked about favorite moments from nearly six decades at the theater, Paikos has stories to last a lifetime.
Keeping the theater operating has required long hours and a great deal of commitment, but Paikos credits the Diana’s staff for helping carry the business forward.
“So many that I could write a book,” he says. “Most of them involve seeing joy, wonder and feeling the gratitude from our customers.”
“We literally could not have made this happen without them,” he says. “They are the backbone, heart and soul of the Diana now.”
One moment, however, never loses its effect.
On weekends, the theater still fills with moviegoers, much as it did decades ago. The technology may have changed, but the experience remains familiar: popcorn in hand, lights dimming, the audience settling in together for a couple of hours inside the Diana Theatre — a place that, after 100 years, still feels central to the life of Tipton.
“To hear the entire auditorium of more than 350 people suddenly erupt into laughter or applause during a scene, or at the conclusion of a movie, is one of my favorite experiences here,” he says.
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