Kokomo Magazine March 2026 by Towne Post Network, Inc.

Built Right

Bergstrom Home

Improvement Delivers

Reliable Craftsmanship

Kid City USA

PRESCHOOL NETWORK TARGETS CENTRAL INDIANA FOR CONTINUED EXPANSION

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

JONATHAN HAWKINS ROBERT JONES NATALIE PLATT

TOM BRITT tom@townepost.com (317) 496-3599

JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com (317) 810-0011

ERIN TURK

CREATIVE DIRECTORS

AUSTIN TONI EADS EDITOR JOSH BROWN

NEER

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

2026 DIRECTORY & RELOCATION GUIDE

INCLUDE MY BUSINESS!

TARGET YOUR MOST SOUGHT-AFTER LOCAL CONSUMERS

EXISTING AND NEW MOVERS TO YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY

Back by popular demand, our Annual Directory & Relocation Guide for will feature all sorts of local extras to make it a keepsake reference for the entire year. In addition to our regular distribution in April, we will be mailing copies throughout the year to the following people:

 New movers: We purchase a list of new homeowners each month and mail them a complimentary copy via First Class USPS.

 Relocation requests: Through TownePost.com, people looking to relocate can request a FREE copy.

TARGETED DISTRIBUTION

• Direct mailed to all local residents in April

• Online requests from new movers

• Mailed out to new movers monthly

• Realtors, relocation companies, and real estate developers

• Home builders and new home communities

IF YOU ADVERTISE JUST ONE TIME PER YEAR, THIS IS YOUR ISSUE!

(317) 501-1743

Russiaville Rentals is a locally-owned service business based in the Kokomo and Russiaville area, offering dumpster rentals, junk hauling and bulk material delivery for homeowners and contractors.

Owner Danny Shelton grew up in Kokomo, graduated from Western High School in 2007, and moved to Russiaville about 12 years ago. He still works third shift in maintenance at Haynes International and runs his rental business during the day, fitting deliveries and pickups around a demanding schedule.

MADE TO FIT

RUSSIAVILLE RENTALS OFFERS FLEXIBLE RENTALS FOR REAL-LIFE PROJECTS

“I’ve always worked with my hands,” Shelton says. “I like staying busy, and I like being useful.”

Russiaville Rentals is now in its third year of business, serving Kokomo, Russiaville and surrounding communities. The company focuses on practical services that support home projects, cleanouts, renovations and especially jobs that fall outside the minimums of larger suppliers.

Shelton and his wife, Jessica, have been together since high school and married in 2008. She stays home with their seven

Writer / Natalie Platt

children, whose ages range from 6 to 16, and helps keep the business running by answering calls while Shelton sleeps between shifts. Their older children pitch in as well when customers need extra help.

“This really is a family business,” Shelton says. “My wife runs the phone most days, and the kids help when they can. Everybody’s involved.”

The services are straightforward, and Shelton hopes to expand in the coming years. Right now, Russiaville Rentals delivers dirt, gravel, mulch and firewood in quantities that are

often too small for larger companies to handle. Shelton says many customers find him through referrals from local gravel yards and lumber suppliers.

“A lot of places have minimums,” he says. “If someone doesn’t need a big order, they’ll give them my number, and I’ll bring it out.”

Dumpster rentals make up the other side of the business. Shelton offers 10- and 15-yard dumpsters, including dump trailers designed for tight spaces or yards where traditional roll-off dumpsters might cause damage.

“The trailers sit on wheels, so they’re easier on grass and driveways,” Shelton says. “They’re also more convenient if you’re working in a backyard and don’t want to walk everything to the front of the house.”

Rental timelines are flexible. While a standard rental is a week, Shelton does not limit how long customers can keep a dumpster if a project runs long.

“Stuff comes up,” he says. “Renovations don’t always go the way you plan.”

Shelton does not charge weight fees, something he says sets the company apart from other local options. Many companies charge extra once a load exceeds a certain weight, but Shelton does not. Because he also offers junk hauling, loads are sometimes combined. Shelton says it would not be right to return later with a surprise bill larger than expected because of a double load.

Junk hauling is available for customers who do not need a full dumpster, including single large items or smaller cleanouts.

“People get stuck with things like old mattresses or furniture and don’t know who to call,” Shelton says. “That’s where we come in.”

Russiaville Rentals serves Howard County as its primary service area, with availability beyond the county when equipment allows.

Shelton says he rarely turns someone away if he has a dumpster available. What sets the business apart, he says, is the way customers are treated.

“I know what it’s like to need help,” Shelton says. “If someone calls and explains what’s going on, I’m going to work with them.”

Looking ahead, Shelton hopes to expand into tool and party rentals, creating a local option for equipment rentals without driving out of town.

“I want it to grow into something the community can continue to use,” he says. “If you’re not sure what size you need or how long a project will take, just call. We’ll figure it out.”

You can contact Russiaville Rentals at russiavillerentals@yahoo.com or by calling 765-867-8104. The business can also be found on Facebook at @RussiavilleRentals and on their webpage, www.russiavillerentals.com.

Kid City USA

PRESCHOOL NETWORK TARGETS CENTRAL INDIANA FOR CONTINUED EXPANSION

Writer / Natalie Platt

Photographer / Robert Jones

Kid City USA is expanding its Indiana footprint with a new preschool location opening in Kokomo, part of a broader push into communities seeing sustained family growth across the state. One of the more noticeable child care and early education networks expanding across the United States, including the Midwest region, Kid City was founded as a community-focused preschool that has grown substantially through franchising over the past two decades.

Its mission is to provide a nurturing environment tailored to the unique needs of children ages 6 weeks to 12 years. Emphasis is placed on the idea that it’s not just a daycare, it’s a community where every child thrives. The Kid City USA curriculum-based preschool prepares children to feel more confident when they enter kindergarten and elementary school. With extended before- and after-school care, parents and guardians can work without worry knowing their child is cared for from early morning to late afternoon.

The company, founded and led by Audrey Bruner, now operates roughly 130 locations across 10 states, with Indiana emerging as one of its fastestgrowing markets.

The expansion into the Midwest reflects broader growth in the U.S. child care market and increased demand from families for reliable early learning and care options. This has encouraged franchising in suburban and growing communities where young families are a key demographic.

The city also reflects the type of development Kid City USA looks for when entering a new community. The area is experiencing residential growth, long-term investment and increasing demand for early education that goes beyond basic child care.

Bruner, who grew up in Indiana and now oversees the company from its headquarters in Daytona Beach, Florida, says the state has remained central to Kid City USA’s expansion strategy.

“I’ve always felt connected to Indiana,” Bruner says. “We’ve had strong franchisees there for years, and the communities themselves value early education when it’s done well.”

Kokomo, in particular, aligns with the company’s focus on central Indiana. The new location joins a cluster of Kid City USA schools opening throughout the greater Indianapolis area, including Westfield, Avon, McCordsville, Whitestown and Indianapolis. Bruner points to steady population growth and long-term planning as key reasons the area continues to attract families.

A major driver behind the residential and school district growth — and continued growth — is Stellantis. The global automaker announced it will invest more than $100M in Kokomo facilities and add more than 100 jobs as part of a record $13 billion U.S. expansion over the next four years. In addition, the city is focusing on enhancing quality of life for residents through plans for expanded recreational spaces and housing, upgraded public transit and continued investment in education.

Locally, Kokomo High School offers several programs aimed at supporting students’ career exploration and investing in personal development alongside traditional academics. Through the Kokomo Area Career Center, students can participate in career and technical education pathways that emphasize hands-on learning, industry

Audrey Bruner

experience and opportunities to earn college credit or certifications. The school also provides dual-credit coursework and specialized academies, including STEMfocused programs and International Baccalaureate options, designed to build critical thinking and transferable skills. Together, these initiatives give students exposure to potential career paths while helping them prepare for college, the workforce or other postsecondary opportunities.

Much of the company’s recent development in Indiana has been supported by longtime partner David Nash and his team, who have worked with Kid City USA on multiple facilities across the state. Their involvement has allowed schools to be designed specifically around the company’s operational and safety standards.

Indiana has become one of Kid City USA’s fastest-growing states, second only to Florida. Even as early childhood education faces funding freezes and reductions at the state and federal levels, Bruner says the company’s approach has allowed it to continue expanding.

“We’re being selective about where we grow,” she says. “We’re placing schools in communities that can support high-quality programs without relying entirely on subsidy.”

Kid City USA positions itself as a preschool rather than a daycare, a distinction Bruner says matters most during the birth-to-5-years stage.

“Anyone can watch children,” she says. “Educating them at this stage requires structure and intention.”

That approach is reflected in the company’s curriculum, which combines early academics with character development. In addition to classroom instruction, the company emphasizes nutrition through participation in the USDA food program and physical activity through structured movement initiatives.

Operational oversight is maintained through both state inspections and an internal quality assurance team. Staffing ratios remain another point of emphasis. While Indiana has adjusted required teacher-to-student ratios, Kid City USA plans to maintain its previous standards.

“Those ratios give teachers the ability to be present,” Bruner says. “Children benefit from that attention.”

Bruner says those decisions were not made lightly but reflect what has proven effective over time.

“If something is working for children, I’m not interested in changing it just because it’s easier,” she says.

The company’s approach to enrollment reflects a similar philosophy. Kid City USA does not interview children or screen families based on perceived fit. Instead, schools work with parents to support a wide range of developmental needs, and when

a child requires services beyond what a particular location can provide, staff assist families in finding appropriate alternatives rather than simply turning them away.

Bruner describes this as part of a broader responsibility to families rather than a transactional relationship.

To ensure children are happy while away from home, Kid City provides a safe, secure and engaging environment they want to return to every day. Bruner’s own professional commitment to early education is reinforced by her role as a grandmother to three young children, all under age 5.

“You see very quickly how much those early years matter,” she says.

The preschool prides itself on allowing children to grow and develop in a handson, literacy-enriched environment. Use of television or video is limited to educational purposes only with proper authorization. At Kid City USA, curriculum is used to promote development at all stages of childhood. Most of all, the organization provides families with loving, trained caregivers who understand that all children develop differently. The program works diligently to develop the social, emotional, cognitive, physical and character development of each child while respecting the uniqueness of each family’s customs and beliefs.

As Kid City USA prepares for open houses and grand opening events in Westfield and Kokomo, Bruner says the company’s focus remains steady.

“We’ve had to adapt as an industry,” she says. “But we’re not willing to adapt at the expense of children.”

Kid City USA is committed to exceptional child care and early childhood education in a homelike environment, providing families with a safe, healthy and structured setting filled with love and encouragement.

For more information about Kid City USA, visit kidcityusa.com.

1. Opposite of rural

Fresh Finish

NEWVIEW PAINTING & COATINGS BUILDS QUALITY THROUGH PREPARATION AND CRAFT

Writer / Natalie Platt

NewView Painting & Coatings is a locally owned painting company based in Greentown, Indiana, serving residential and commercial clients across central and northcentral Indiana. The business is owned by Zack Pence, who started the company after several years working in the trade and has grown it steadily since 2019.

Pence grew up in Greentown and attended Eastern School Corporation from kindergarten through high school. After graduating, he worked for a contracting

company while in college, painting during the summers and learning the day-to-day realities of the job.

“I painted while I was in college and worked for another contracting company in the summers,” Pence says. “In 2019, I decided to go out on my own, and since then we’ve been growing and hiring painters.”

NewView Painting & Coatings now operates with a five-person crew and serves a broad service area that includes Kokomo,

Greentown, Marion, and surrounding communities. The company regularly works between Indianapolis and Plymouth, with occasional projects extending into nearby regions depending on scope and scheduling.

Residential work makes up about 60% of the company’s projects, with commercial jobs accounting for the remaining 40%.

On the residential side, NewView handles interior and exterior painting, power washing, drywall repair, wallpaper removal, and the painting of cabinets and doors.

Pence says the goal is to offer full surface preparation and finish work rather than simply applying paint.

On the commercial side, the company works with interior and exterior paint, specialty coatings, fluid-applied flooring systems, and commercial wall coverings. One growing area of demand has been digitally printed wall coverings, which allow large-scale images to be installed directly onto walls.

“A digitally printed wall covering is where an image can be printed life-size onto a wall covering material and then installed,” Pence says.

For homeowners considering a repaint, Pence says the process begins with an in-person visit. A member of the team meets with the client, reviews the space, takes measurements, and talks through expectations before preparing a detailed written estimate.

“We meet with them, have them show us the areas, measure everything, and explain how the job will go,” he says. “We break it into smaller parts like walls, trim, cabinets, ceilings, and doors, and explain our process for each one.”

That breakdown is especially important in older homes or spaces with prior

damage. Pence says surface condition and preparation often determine how successful a finished project will be.

“There are times when special priming or repair work needs to be done,” he says. “Water stains, old wallpaper paste, textured walls. Figuring out what needs to be addressed is step one, and that’s why we break projects into phases.”

Material selection plays a major role in durability and long-term appearance. Pence encourages homeowners to ask contractors about the products being used and why.

“Quality of product is a big deciding factor,” he says. “Any legitimate company should be willing to share what they use and what they’ve had success with.”

He adds that cutting costs on materials often leads to disappointing results over time.

“If someone is just trying to get the cheapest price, they may not be getting a quality product or experienced application,” Pence says. “Using good materials and doing it right the first time makes a difference in how long it lasts.”

Much of NewView’s business comes through referrals. Pence says word of mouth has been the company’s most reliable source of growth, driven by repeat

clients and recommendations. Their client list and referrals are what set them apart from the competition, and Pence is always happy to share past client information with prospective clients so people can talk to someone the company has worked for before.

One point Pence emphasizes is that the company does not subcontract its work. Every painter on a job is a company employee who lives and works in the area.

“The people showing up are my employees,” he says. “They’re local, they’re vetted by me, and they’re not subcontracted from somewhere else.”

NewView Painting & Coatings is located in Greentown, Indiana. Estimates can be scheduled by calling 765-867-3407.

BUILT RIGHT

BERGSTROM HOME IMPROVEMENT DELIVERS RELIABLE CRAFTSMANSHIP

Writer / Natalie Platt

Founded in 2000 and locally owned and operated, Bergstrom Home Improvement has established itself as a versatile contractor serving Kokomo and surrounding central Indiana communities. Kokomo resident Mike Bergstrom has grown the company from a single truck and two helpers into a full-service operation with multiple crews, in-house sales, design support, and a dedicated office team. In recent years, that approach has earned community recognition, including being named the

After serving in the U.S. Navy, Bergstrom’s construction knowledge grew as he progressed through multiple levels of the construction trades. His reputation as a diligent worker created an atmosphere that encouraged his peers to perform at higher levels. Bergstrom later realized his passion for the construction profession by establishing Bergstrom Home

FIRST HARMONIC EGG SESSION FREE

Improvement. To this day, he remains directly involved in daily crew operations. From mentoring employees to providing project consultation with homeowners, Bergstrom has built a company with a diverse range of services.

With more than two decades of experience in the construction and renovation trades, the company undertakes a wide range of residential improvement projects across both interior and exterior spaces, striving

RAISING KOKOMO’S FREQUENCY ONE CLIENT AT A TIME

• QHHT SESSION

• REIKI SESSION

• HEALY ENERGY HARMONIZING

• HARMONIC EGG ELLIPSE

• ZARARITY

2025 Best Local Construction Company in Kokomo.

for quality craftsmanship and reliable service on every job.

“When I started my company, I was working for somebody else, and I noticed they didn’t answer their phones and didn’t call people back,” Bergstrom says. “They took the jobs they wanted and ignored the rest. I thought, if I just answer my phone, call people back, and do what I say I’m going to do, I should be successful.”

Bergstrom Home Improvement now employs nearly 20 construction professionals, a certified interior designer, along with sales staff, an office manager, and an operations manager.

“That’s over 25 years in business,” he says. “So I think that mindset worked.”

On the interior, Bergstrom offers remodeling services that help homeowners transform key living spaces. The team handles kitchen and bathroom remodels, room additions, and flooring installations, working with clients to design functional and beautiful spaces. The company also provides custom and stock cabinetry options and aging-in-place remodeling

to improve accessibility and comfort in existing homes.

The process typically begins with a call to Stacey, the office manager, followed by an in-home visit from Bergstrom or Courtney, the company’s in-house interior designer.

“Courtney measures the space and asks a lot of questions about how you use it and what you’re trying to accomplish,” he says.

After gathering that information, the team creates a layout and detailed proposal with itemized costs for flooring, cabinetry, countertops, lighting, and finishes, aiming for transparency and clear communication throughout the process.

That mindset continues to resonate with homeowners looking for reliability as much as craftsmanship.

“We’re not trying to be fancy,” Bergstrom says. “We’re just trying to do a professional job, communicate clearly, and take care of people.”

On the exterior, the company’s capabilities include roofing, siding replacement, and

the installation of gutters, downspouts, and leaf-guard systems to enhance curb appeal and protect structures from the elements. Bergstrom also installs windows and doors, offering a variety of styles designed to improve energy efficiency and natural light.

Concrete work is another key service. The team performs driveway, sidewalk, and foundation installation and repair, addressing issues such as cracks, uneven slabs, and general deterioration to improve durability and safety. Outdoor living spaces, that are both functional and beautiful, featuring stamped concrete patios with full outdoor kitchens and fire pits are built with quality craftsmanship and attention to every detail. Bergstrom’s concrete crew can transform your backyard into the ultimate outdoor living space!

Bergstrom Home Improvement can be reached at 765-457-5327 or by email at info@bergstromhi.com. More information about services, project galleries, and scheduling is available at bergstromcontracting.com. The company is also active on Facebook under Bergstrom Home Improvement.

SMART MOVES

WHY WORKING WITH A REALTOR® MATTERS IN HOWARD AND TIPTON COUNTIES

In Kokomo (Howard County), the median sale price is around $190,000, with homes spending an average of 57 days on the market. Home values have risen an average of 16% from 2024 to 2025. In Tipton County, the median sale price is $214,000, with homes spending an average of 41 days on the market. Home values have risen 8% from 2024 to 2025.

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO USE A REALTOR®?

It’s important to know that using a Realtor® helps homeowners get top dollar for their home while buyers get the most value, without either side feeling taken advantage of.

SELLERS:

1. Pricing it right for the market. Overpricing can cause the home to stall on the market, resulting in less traffic, a lack of offers and, eventually, price drops. Underpricing leaves money on the table. Realtors® use real comps, local trends and buyer behavior to hit the “sweet spot” that brings strong offers.

2. Prepping for maximum returns. Most sellers don’t know what matters most to buyers. This is where the expertise of a Realtor® comes in by helping sellers focus on high–return-on-investment fixes.

3. Marketing. A Realtor® isn’t just “putting it online or in the MLS.” A good Realtor®

creates exposure through professional photos and videos, MLS strategy, social media targeting, open houses and agent networking. There are differences among Realtors®, so be sure to ask what your agent will provide.

4. Negotiation to protect the bottom line. Many sellers lose money simply by not knowing what’s normal or negotiable. A Realtor® manages inspections, lender timelines, appraisal issues, title problems and contract deadlines. Many items are handled before the seller is even aware, reducing stress and protecting the seller’s outcome.

BUYERS:

1. Guiding buyers to the best value homes. A Realtor® identifies hidden value, overpriced homes and red flags that could cost buyers money later.

2. Negotiating for savings. A Realtor® negotiates for better pricing, seller-paid closing costs, repair credits, warranties and concessions.

3. Protecting buyers through the inspection. What is normal? What is a true concern? What is an expensive repair risk?

4. Helping avoid costly mistakes. Buyers can lose money by skipping steps,

missing deadlines, choosing the wrong loan option or buying a home with hidden issues.

LET’S

DO A FEW THINGS TO MAKE BUYERS FALL IN LOVE BEFORE THEY EVEN WALK INTO YOUR HOME!

1. Make the entryway pop. Buyers start evaluating your home the moment they arrive. Add a new welcome mat, potted plants, clean or paint the mailbox, and straighten railings and porch furniture.

2. Fresh exterior paint or front door paint. This is one of the best bangs for the buck. Painting the front door, trim and shutters can completely change the vibe of the home. Consider adding new house numbers, door hardware, a wreath or plants at the entrance.

3. Clean up the landscaping for a better “wow” factor. Add fresh mulch, trim or remove overgrown shrubs, edge the beds and add seasonal plants.

4. Power wash. This is a big one — the entire home, not just the front. Take into consideration siding, porches, driveways, sidewalks and steps. Be sure to wash windows inside and out. This inexpensive step can offer a dramatic transformation.

5. Upgrade exterior lighting. Replace dated fixtures, add warm bulbs and install solar path lighting. All are easy upgrades.

NOW, LET’S MAKE THEM FALL IN LOVE WITH THE INSIDE OF THE HOME.

1. Declutter. The home should look as spacious as possible. Removing clutter allows buyers to focus on the home itself. Remove personal items and organize closets and cabinets. Closets should be about 50% to 70% full. Excess furniture can be placed in storage. A knowledgeable agent can also help with staging. Garages should be straightened up and organized.

2. Clean. The market expects a clean home. Hiring a professional cleaner can help, including cleaning appliances, windows, bathrooms and kitchens. Keep the home show-ready during marketing. Make beds daily, pick up clothes and towels, and keep counters clean and organized.

3. Smells. Odors can be deal killers. Find the source first. If you don’t remove it, you’re just “perfuming a problem.” Common sources include pets, smoke, cooking grease, musty humidity, trash or refrigerators, dirty carpets, HVAC filters, duct dust and furniture that holds odors. Avoid heavy plug-ins and strong candles before showings — buyers may wonder what’s being hidden.

4. Storage. Storage sells homes because it makes the house feel bigger, cleaner and more functional. Buyers judge storage hard. Ideas include wall shelves, hooks behind doors, pegboards in garages

and laundry rooms, and tall bookcases instead of wide ones. Closet upgrades such as double hanging rods, shelf-androd kits, shoe racks and storage cubes help. Don’t forget dead spaces like under stairs, hallways, above laundry machines and inside pantries.

WHAT MAKES HOWARD AND TIPTON COUNTIES ATTRACTIVE TO OUT-OF-TOWN BUYERS?

1. Buyers can often get larger homes, bigger yards, garage space, outbuildings and more updates compared with many metro areas.

2. Both counties offer easy access to Indianapolis, Lafayette and Marion via interstate and highway connections, along with access to airports, making commuting easier.

3. Small-town living appeals to many buyers, with less traffic, quieter neighborhoods, community events and friendly vibes.

4. Many buyers value strong school systems and parks, which both counties offer.

5. Howard County draws buyers due to established employers, healthcare and manufacturing growth, and a steady job base. Tipton County appeals to buyers seeking a quieter county feel while remaining close to major job markets. Both offer restaurants, shopping, health care, acreage, outbuildings, room for gardens, animals and privacy. Demand for country living remains high for these reasons.

Overall, Howard and Tipton counties offer affordable homes, room to breathe and a prime

location within reach of Indianapolis and other major hubs — ideal for those seeking value, space and a more relaxed lifestyle.

Carrie Gruel, Owner and Managing Broker for Carrie Gruel & Associates

REALTORS®. With proven expertise in residential, land and commercial real estate, buyer representation, listing strategy and commercial sales.

Known for delivering high level client service, strong negotiation skills and market driven pricing strategies that maximize value for sellers while helping buyers secure the best possible terms. Experienced in guiding clients through complex transactions including investment properties, owner occupied properties, land and commercial properties.

WHAT IS MOST IMPORTANT TO HER? CUSTOMER SERVICE!

Focusing on the seller or buyer so that they have a great experience as all real estate transactions should be. The client is #1 and takes all priority.

Carrie Gruel, Broker/Owner Carrie Gruel & Associates, REALTORS®, is celebrating her 26th year as a licensed Broker and is member of Realtors® Association of Central Indiana, Indiana Association of Realtors®, Metropolitan Indianapolis Board of Realtors® and the National Association of REALTORS® and holds designations in the following:

ABR — Accredited Buyer’s Representative GRI — Graduate of Realtor® Institute

CSE — Commercial Sales Expert RISP — Residential Investment Specialist She can be reached at 765-432-8955. Office location: 4009 S. Webster St., Kokomo.

Locally Owned, Family Focused and Community Driven. Serving Howard, Tipton and Surrounding Counties with all your Collision Repair needs. Specializing in Auto Body Repairs, Paint and Glass Work. Free Estimate, No Appointment needed. We work with all Insurance Carriers along with Self Pay. Stop by or Give us a call.

CLOSE TO HOME

GREENSIDE REALTY NAVIGATES GROWTH IN SMALL-TOWN MARKETS

Writer / Natalie Platt

Brayton Scott did not set out to work in real estate. The Elwood native took a path that looked a little different at first. He studied at IUPUI, worked as an adult probation officer, and later earned a master’s degree from Indiana Wesleyan. By 2021, he realized he wanted something different. That turning point led him back home and into business with family.

“I was born and raised in Elwood, and my cousin London, and co-owner of Greenside Realty Group, was, too,” Scott says. “We had this pipe dream of starting something together. Real estate was not originally the plan for me, but once we got going with Greenside, we just ran with it.” We now have a fantastic team of four agents, and look forward to the continued growth of our brand.

Scott and his cousin, London Leavell, coown Greenside Realty, a brokerage built around relationships, local knowledge, and a

hands-on understanding of homes in smaller communities throughout Madison and all other surrounding counties.

Growing up in Elwood gave Scott a perspective he says continues to shape how he works with buyers and sellers. He has watched the area shift over the years as more people look outside larger metropolitan areas for affordable housing and shorter commutes. Scott has seen the town change for the better, crediting an influx of residents because of Elwood’s close proximity to suburbs and towns such as Noblesville, Anderson, and Muncie. Prices are much more affordable than what buyers find in Hamilton County, with growth happening quickly.

Scott says migration from Hamilton County has played a major role in shaping housing prices across surrounding communities. Sellers who cash out in more expensive markets often arrive with larger budgets, which can shift pricing trends in smaller towns.

“They sell in Hamilton County and bring that cash with them,” Scott says. “That affects pricing here. We are seeing it not just in Elwood but across several communities along the corridor moving north.”

As the housing market continues to adjust, Scott says many buyers remain cautious, especially while watching interest rates. He encourages homeowners who are considering

READY TO TAKE

selling to begin preparing well before peak listing season arrives.

“Spring is when things usually start picking up,” Scott says. “Rates are coming down slowly, but nobody has a crystal ball. If you are thinking about downsizing or upgrading, now is the time to start preparing. Late March is when activity usually increases.”

Sellers should meet with a brokerage early in the process to understand their options and financial outlook. Scott says early preparation gives homeowners time to make meaningful improvements that can strengthen their home’s market appeal.

“The first step is meeting with a brokerage to get a ballpark idea of numbers and making sure the move makes sense financially,” Scott says. “Connecting with a lender helps you understand what is realistic. An agent can suggest simple upgrades or cleaning projects that can make a home more appealing to buyers.”

When it comes to return on investment, kitchens and bathrooms remain the strongest areas for homeowners to focus on improvement efforts.

“Kitchens and bathrooms are your money makers,” Scott says. “Upgrades there usually go the furthest. Walk-in showers and higher-finish

CURELLA

tile work are also things buyers notice right away.”

Exterior improvements can also influence buyer perception, even if they do not dramatically change appraisal values. Buyers still care about things like privacy fences, sheds, and attached garages. They may not carry the same weight on paper, but they hold weight in buyers’ minds, Scott explained.

For buyers, Scott emphasizes the importance of careful inspections, especially when considering older homes common throughout the region. He says overlooked structural or infrastructure concerns can quickly become expensive surprises.

“If a home has been vacant or is older, having a strong inspector is key,” Scott says. “I always recommend doing a sewer scope, especially on older homes with clay pipes. Those lines

can crack or shift, and that can lead to serious issues. Radon testing is another thing buyers should consider if the home has a basement.”

Scott says his approach to real estate centers on transparency and long-term relationships rather than fast transactions.

“We do not put on a fancy image,” Scott says. “We work on homes ourselves, and we understand how they function. Most of our business comes from word of mouth. People know us, they know our families, and they trust us.”

Their hands-on knowledge helps agents notice details buyers might overlook when touring properties.

“Our job is to advocate for the client and point out concerns,” Scott says. “Sometimes buyers are excited about a home and miss things. We

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try to slow that process down and make sure they understand everything they are stepping into.”

Greenside Realty operates as a team-driven brokerage, something Scott says benefits clients regardless of which agent they work with.

“When you work with one of us, you work with all of us,” Scott says. “We market each other’s properties and help bring buyers to the table. Everyone has their own clients, but you get the support of the entire brokerage.”

Scott credits that team mindset to his partnership with Leavell and the family connection behind the business.

Greenside Realty is proud to be the only brickand-mortar real estate brokerage in Elwood, founded by dedicated local realtors with a shared vision: to grow as the trusted real estate resource alongside the community it serves. The office can be reached at 765-551-7117 or visited at 9271 W. 1050 N., in Elwood.

VISIT ELWOOD

POWER BARN HOUSE OF PAYNE

1900 S Anderson St, Ste 5 Elwood, IN 765-620-0214

Founded in 2019 by Elwood local Rickie Payne, Power Barn is a familydriven fitness space built with passion and grit. Rickie runs a construction company and tree service, while Jacklyn works in real estate as a mortgage loan officer. In 2023, they welcomed their daughter Jentry— their biggest inspiration. Everything they do is for her and their family. Thanks for considering Power Barn. They are excited to grow with you.

DIANA DUNHAM

KW North Indy RE Experts

765-623-7113

Diana Dunham is a trusted broker associate with North Indy RE Experts, proudly living and working in Elwood. Deeply invested in the local housing market, Diana brings firsthand knowledge of the community, its neighborhoods, and its opportunities to every client she serves. Whether buying or selling, she is committed to guiding clients with integrity, expertise, and personalized care. Known for her approachable style and strong local connections, Diana truly understands what makes a house feel like home. With her slogan, “Opening the Door to Real Estate,” Diana Dunham is ready to help you confidently open the next chapter of your real estate journey. Each Office is independently owned and operated.

CLEAR CHOICES

BARBARA TAYLOR HELPS LOCAL RESIDENTS

NAVIGATE STATE FARM COVERAGE

Barbara Taylor grew up in Carmel, though you’ll see her face around Tipton at her State Farm insurance office almost every day now. Taylor is proud to be a Hoosier — her family has lived in central Indiana for generations, including relative Virginia Jenckes, the first woman elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from Indiana. But she is even more proud to head north on U.S. 31 to serve a smaller community — a town Taylor says still has a Hallmark quality to it. Over the course of the last month, she has been guiding people in Tipton through financial decisions that are often confusing, emotional, and long overdue.

Before insurance, Taylor spent 13 years running Decorating Den Interiors, an interior design business. She worked inside

Writer / Natalie Platt

Photographer

Jonathan Hawkins

people’s homes, learning how they lived before recommending anything.

“You have to understand people first,” Taylor says. “You’re walking into their personal space, and you can’t help them unless you listen.”

Running her own business taught her how to manage risk, build trust, and transfer that experience to her new State Farm office. Her path shifted in 2018 with the birth of her youngest son, who was diagnosed with Down syndrome. The diagnosis forced Taylor to think practically about the future in ways she had not before.

“I needed to know what his life would look like when I wasn’t here,” she says. “That meant figuring out how to fund care long term, not just hoping it would work out.”

Taylor and her mother

As she talked with other families navigating similar situations, she noticed a pattern. Many people understood the need for protection but had no idea how insurance, estate planning, or financial tools actually worked together.

“Everyone wants security,” she says. “Most people just don’t know how to build it.”

She originally earned her life insurance license to help families like her own. That work caught the attention of State Farm, which recruited her to take over an agency in Tipton after the previous agent passed away. Taylor accepted the position, seeing it as a chance to expand her reach while staying hands-on with clients.

Her office sits near the courthouse in downtown Tipton, in the same location and with the same phone number longtime customers recognize.

“It matters that people didn’t lose their agency,” Taylor says. “They just have someone new sitting across the desk from them now, picking up right where they may have left off.”

While she lives in Carmel with her family, her days are spent in Tipton, meeting clients and continuing relationships already in place.

Taylor approaches insurance with a straightforward process. She starts by understanding what a client owns and what they are exposed to financially.

“Coverage should match your assets,” she

says. “If something happens, insurance should take the hit, not your savings or retirement.”

She explains liability, property coverage, and risk in plain language, often pointing out gaps clients did not know existed.

In addition to insurance, Taylor is licensed in financial services and offers investment and retirement planning. Her framework is simple.

“Protect first, then invest,” she says. She believes growth only makes sense once the basics are covered.

Her agency provides auto, home, renters, life insurance, Medicare supplements, supplemental health, pet insurance, small business coverage, and financial products, including IRAs, annuities, and education savings plans. Taylor does not present every option at once.

“People get overwhelmed,” she says. “My job is to slow it down and explain what actually applies to their life.”

For Taylor, insurance is not about selling products. It is about helping people avoid financial damage they may never see coming and ensuring clients leave understanding what they chose and why, all while building lasting relationships within the Tipton community.

“When people are properly insured, it keeps things from falling apart,” she says. “Not just for them, but for the community as a whole.”

You can reach Barbara Taylor at her State Farm office at 125 W. Jefferson St., Suite 7, or by calling 765-675-8751.

EVERYDAY STYLE

PRECIOUS BEAUTIES & GENTS BOUTIQUE EXPANDS WITH COMMUNITY FOCUS

Writer / Natalie Platt

Precious Beauties & Gents Boutique owner Felicia Harmening moved to Kokomo in 2018 for a retail management job that brought her from the Chicago suburbs to Indiana. What was meant to be temporary became permanent, and nearly eight years later, she owns the popular boutique, which recently opened its second location in Tipton in addition to the Kokomo storefront. The shop focuses on everyday clothing, inclusive sizing, and a relaxed shopping experience, all of which Harmening is proud of.

The word boutique can intimidate some shoppers, something Harmening is well aware of.

“People think boutique means super expensive or super fancy, and that’s not me at all,” she says. “I’m affordable. I’m casual. I want people to buy things they can wear to work and then wear out to dinner and feel great about themselves.”

Harmening purchased Precious Beauties & Gents Boutique in 2023 from its previous owner, taking over an already established shop inside Kokomo’s Terrace Plaza. Rather than starting from scratch, she focused on expanding what was already there. She

added men’s clothing, ear-piercing services, permanent jewelry, and inclusive sizing, shaping the store around how people actually shop and live.

“I took the opportunity to expand the brand that was already here and add my personal touch,” she says. “It was a leap of faith to buy a business and put your own spin on it, but it’s been a lot of fun.”

That momentum led to a second location. In November 2025, Precious Beauties & Gents opened in downtown Tipton, as PB&G Boutique. Harmening says the decision was less about growth for growth’s sake and more about finding the right place.

“Tipton just felt like home,” she says. “The small-town community feel is really strong. People genuinely show up for each other, not just customers, but other small businesses too.”

She spent time talking with local business owners before committing. What stood out was collaboration instead of competition.

“Every single business in Tipton is willing to work together,” Harmening says. “I didn’t want to just open another store. I wanted to be part of a community, and Tipton was that opportunity.”

The Tipton and Kokomo locations share the same overall aesthetic but offer varied inventory. Harmening is intentional about keeping each store distinct. The stores share the same style, vibe, affordability and inclusive sizing.

Earlier this year, the Kokomo store

underwent a full remodel to better align with the Tipton space, creating a cohesive feel between the two. The result is a shopping experience that feels familiar without being repetitive.

Both locations carry women’s and men’s clothing, accessories, shoes, purses and jewelry. Seasonal home items like candles and simmer pots rotate in occasionally, but Harmening is deliberate about not overextending and letting other Tipton businesses shine.

“There are so many great home decor boutiques in Tipton that do that better than me,” she says. “When I say I want to collaborate, I mean it. We should be working together, not competing.”

One of the biggest differentiators for PB&G Boutique is its men’s selection, something Harmening noticed was missing in many small towns.

“Men have nowhere to shop,” she says. “I was shopping for my husband, my dad, my nephews, and thinking, where do you find good men’s clothing?”

Now, the boutique focuses on casual, wearable pieces rather than dressy or overly trendy items.

“I want to sell people clothes they actually live in, not something you wear once and it sits in your closet forever,” she says.

But for Harmening, the most meaningful feedback has nothing to do with sales.

“When someone tells me I’ve changed the way they get dressed in the morning or how they see themselves in the mirror, that’s the biggest compliment,” she says. “We’re not getting rich owning a small business. I’m showing up for the community, and I want to be part of the community. That’s why I’m here.”

P B & G Boutique in Tipton is located at 125 W. Jefferson St., in the Side Street Mall and can be reached at 765-398-5854. The Kokomo location is at 3706 S. Lafountain St. and can be reached at 765-559-3621. Updates and announcements can be found on Instagram, @preciousbeautyinsta (Kokomo) and @pbgboutiquetipton (Tipton) and on Facebook through the Precious Beauties & Gents Boutique pages.