Kokomo Magazine June 2021

MAGAZINE

JUNE 2021

KOKOMO FROZEN CUSTARD OWNER REFLECTS ON HISTORY AND CURRENT SUCCESS OF LOCAL TREAT SHOP

CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2021 ALL ABOUT LOVE

FAMILY TALKS TAYLOR GODFREY’S ROAD TO RECOVERY

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I N THI S I SS UE

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Kokomo Frozen Custard: Owner Reflects on History and Current Success of Local Treat Shop The Power of Print: How the Local Magazine Niche is Thriving in a Digital Media World Congratulations Eastern High School Class of 2021 Congratulations Kokomo High School Class of 2021 Congratulations Northwestern High School Class of 2021 Congratulations Taylor High School Class of 2021 Congratulations Western High School Class of 2021 Congratulations Class of 2021 All About Love: Family Talks Taylor Godfrey’s Road to Recovery June Word Search

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Kokomo Frozen Custard

OWNER REFLECTS ON HISTORY AND CURRENT SUCCESS OF LOCAL TREAT SHOP Writer / Matt Keating Photographer / Jason Graves

Sometimes if you return to a place you remember fondly from the past, it just won’t be the same as you recalled it to be.

This wasn’t the case for Kelly Wells Schneider, owner of Kokomo Frozen Custard.

After living in Chicago for 20 years, she returned to Kokomo to take over one of Kokomo’s best places to find a sweet treat.

Schneider, a 1988 Kokomo High School graduate, says she has fond memories of the shop.

“Mike Hinkle, the previous owner, originally opened Kokomo Frozen Custard in 1985,” Schneider says. “He died in February 2020, and I wanted to keep the business going because it is such a popular part of the Kokomo community. It’s an institution here.”

Schneider says Hinkle and her father, Roger Wells, were friends for a long time.

community has been pleased she took over the business.

“My dad died in January 2020, and I think the two of them are looking down on me, and enjoying seeing me take over the business,” Wells says. “I think they are in heaven playing golf or gin, and smiling about what I have done.”

“I really wanted to keep Kokomo Frozen Custard going again,” she says. “I’ve had so much positive response from the community. People love this place as much as I do. That’s such a wonderful feeling.”

Schneider adds that the Kokomo TownePost.com / JUNE 2021 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / 7

Schneider reopened the shop on June 13, 2020.

“People were right there to support us,” she says. “That’s a great way to get a business going again. We opened for this year on March 27, and the same people who have always supported us were right there again. They love our custard and other treats. This year we will be open until about mid-October.”

Schneider says the fresh taste of her frozen yogurt has remained the same throughout the last 36 years.

“Everything here is made fresh daily,” Schneider says. “All of our ingredients are very fresh and delicious. It’s premium custard. Our most popular item is Eternal Sunshine, which has vanilla, hot fudge, butterscotch and butter pecans. It’s absolutely delicious, and a lot of people told us they were very happy they could have it again. They love it.”

Schneider says there are always three mainstays on the menu.

“We have vanilla, chocolate and butter pecan every day,” she says. “Our fourth custard flavor rotates every day. Some popular flavors for the fourth choice include key lime and mint chocolate chip.

Those are just a few of the many favorites.

We also had lemon, blue moon, salty caramel, wedding cake, cookie dough and strawberry. Our returning customers, and there are many, all have their particular favorites.”

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Schneider says other popular flavors include chocolate banana, white chocolate macadamia nut and black raspberry.

“We have some customers who love mocha and cotton candy,” Schneider says.

“Chocolate monkey and black raspberry are also big hits with some customers.”

Schneider’s personal favorite is a strawberry jubilee shake.

“It has fresh strawberries and chocolate flakes,” Schneider says.

She adds that Kokomo Frozen Custard

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has a selection of flavored drinks, shakes, slushees and “cyclones with any kind of candy.”

Schneider credits the people of Kokomo for keeping her business going.

“The people in Kokomo really know how to support small businesses and keep them moving in the right direction,” she says. “I love them for it. They have as many good memories as I do.”

Schneider says she also gets support from several local high school students, including graduating seniors.

Available to anyone in Howard and Tipton counties

“The girls that work here are just absolutely awesome,” she says. “They work so hard, treat the customers with respect, and they really help me.”

Schneider adds that they also juggle work with several school activities.

“Mackinley Davis, a senior at Western High School, also runs track, manages the football team, and she is in the school’s National Honor Society,” Schneider says.

“She plans to attend Ball State, where she will major in nursing.”

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Schneider says other seniors working at Kokomo Frozen Custard include Claire Seagrave, a senior at Kokomo High School, who is a member of the school’s Girls League, National Honor Society, and the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Board.

She will attend Indiana University in the fall to major in political science.

“We also have Abby Guge, a senior at Western High School, who is a cheerleader, a member of the National Honor Society, and is in The Kokomo CEO program,” Schneider says. “She was also her class vice president for three years. She is going to Purdue to study Finance.”

Kokomo Frozen Custard is located at 3107 South Webster Street in Kokomo.

For more info, call 765-450-3894, or visit facebook.com/KokomoFrozenCustard.

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PO ER THE POWER R OWE P OF PRINT

HOW THE LOCAL MAGAZINE NICHE IS THRIVING IN A DIGITAL MEDIA WORLD Writer / Tom Britt

Traditional media channels have been dramatically impacted over the last couple decades by what is known as the democratization of media. While television and radio networks have been disrupted by streaming services, the hardest hit media happens to be the poster child for the print industry - newspapers. Over the last 10 years, post-recession newspaper revenues are down 67%. However, in an industry that has been called dead by many critics, print is thriving

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in the local print magazine sector - thanks in part to the adoption of digital media.

With the democratization of media also comes the localization, even hyperlocalization of media. This dynamic has created a need – and in turn opportunity – to create a local content aggregation business model that includes print. Thus, the hyper local magazine niche has emerged and thrived in recent years, especially those that have adopted and embraced a digital media strategy.

PRINT MARRIES DIGITAL While the printing process has not changed over the last few decades, the world of publishing digital content changes daily.

Small businesses that advertise to support local magazines are turning more and more to Facebook, Google, and digital ad platforms for instant, measurable results.

Meanwhile, print magazines are still on a two-week runway for printing and distribution with little or no way to track response. However, small businesses that leverage print and digital in a local market see a much higher rate of return. When print marries digital in a local market, the response rate increases significantly.

In recent years, Instagram has become a priority amongst local magazines as well. In a white paper entitled Magazine Media 360 published by the Association of Magazine Media, Instagram followers and likes grew 997% from 2014-2019, outpacing Twitter (166%) and Facebook (103%).

Publications today must be relevant every day of the month, not just the day they arrive in the mailbox. Social media, namely Facebook and Instagram, are providing that daily delivery of magazine content.

PRINT IS STILL PREFERRED

Digital media has in most cases replaced the daily paper, but people still yearn for a DIGITAL FIRST printed copy to hold and to read. According Early in 2003, we launched the website for our to the Factbook 2020 report published by the Association of Magazine Media, 73% local community called atGeist.com serving of adults prefer the feel of a print magazine the Geist Reservoir neighborhoods near Indianapolis. We offered free online classifieds, over digital. Magazine readers are also more receptive to advertising, outperforming a local event calendar, stories about local websites and TV viewers in the same study. students, and homeowners association news.

Digital ads were sold at a whopping $30 per Picking up a print magazine and thumbing month with no promise of impressions. through local stories about your community is a nice break from the blue screens. Paper Nine months later, we published the first based reading results in more focused print publication and direct mailed to roughly 2,800 homes. Response to our new attention, less distractions, and leads to higher comprehension and recall according concept from advertisers and homeowners to neuroscience. was exceptional. Not only did we fill a local void that newspapers were creating, we also struck a nerve with small business owners that were trying to attract customers within 3 miles of their front door. We found the combination of web and print to be immensely powerful and local businesses were jumping onboard for the ride.

ALONG COMES SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook has become a primary traffic source for many local publications, leveraging pages to promote local businesses, community events, and stream live video. In many cases, local businesses have forgone websites to dedicate all their digital bandwidth to their Facebook page.

STREAMING VIDEO Many content providers, including magazines, have turned to video to tell their stories. While we were one of the first magazine networks to incorporate video, we have yet to develop a solid revenue model to support it. In more recent years, we have turned to doing video interviews with our local businesses and then sending the video interview to a writer to produce the print and online story. Consumers want more video, social platforms want more engagement that comes with video, so video will need to be an integral part of any local magazine’s future strategy.

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FRANCHISE MODEL TO THE RESCUE Magazine publishing companies have historically been privately owned, regional businesses. Overhead costs (graphic design, circulation, accounting, rent) and just the fundamental know how of printing and producing magazines creates a natural barrier of entry to get into the local magazine business.

ENTER THE FRANCHISE BUSINESS MODEL Centralized graphic design and production, back office accounting, online training and support, negotiated print pricing, dedicated USPS support, and many other corporate functions allow local magazine publisher wannabes to set up their territory and launch on a very short runway. Advertisers appreciate the customer support and professionalism of working with an established brand, and franchisees like the ongoing product development to keep the local magazines current.

WHAT’S NEXT With more and more local content being created every day across all platforms, the need for local portals with accompanying magazines increases. Consumers are far more interested in content that is local to them and they will always value those aggregators that package it up and feed it to them throughout the month. =========================== Tom Britt is the founder and CEO of the Towne Post Network headquartered in Fishers, Indiana. For franchising information, visit townepost.com.

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Congratulations

EASTERN HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2021 Kourtney Adair Sarah Alexander Kaylee Anthony Cameron Arcari Adam Arnett Deanna Ayres Niko Bailey Anna Bates Skylynn Bell Emily Belt Emily Benson Addison Boles Jacob Bramel Callum Brand Olivia Bryant Bryce Buckley Addison Budde Katelyn Cauthern Damien Clingaman Grace Cowsert Kevin Cox Shayla Crawford Shelby Davis Rylie Davison Zane Downing Olivia Ellis Loralei Evans Breaunna Fansler Ella Flanary Olivia Foland Leighton Gilbert Cody Graber

Alison Hahn Jerrika Hall Jaeden Hannah Jacob Haynes Carsen Helton Kiersten Helton Cassidy Hendershot Jayden Hendershot Caleb Henn Nathan Herr Elijah Hertzog Matthew Hetzner James Hibschman Gabriel Hoagland Dillon Hollis Kamden Johnson Chelsea Kanney Ella Kantz Will Keisling Lily Kendall Marrin Kindley Jenah Kirkman Matthew Laubenstein Alyssa Lett Eli Locklear Rees Maines Sara Mann Samuel Martinez Erin Matheny Aden McClain Kyle McCreary Caleb Melton

Malachi Middleton Kinzie Miller Korbin Miller Evan Mink Chad Monize Evan Monize Ellie Moore Tallan Morrisett Gavin Mygrant Dominic Nead Ashton Parrow McKenzie Patterson Reona Pence Ethan Preston Magnolia Pruitt Kaitlyn Pulsipher Khyler Pundt Grace Quezada Cruz Addison Ream Jasmine Redmann Makhai Reed Brayden Richmond Brycen Richmond Abigail Roberts Keyton Romero Cecilia Roswog Kalee Rubow Kelsee Rubow Javen Ruckman Sarah Rushing Natalie Schneider Joshua Shallenberger

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Lauryn Shane Reagan Shepherd Marra Shook Delilah Shupperd Erin Shupperd Cooper Sicking Kiersten Slater Meghan Slaughter Hayden Smith Hope Smith Jase Spencer Lucas Stout Shayden Swinson Joseph Trine Arianna Turner Caleb Vogl Benjamin Vore Cameron Wagler Tara Wagoner Tera Wagoner Carissa Watkins Clayton Watkins Allyson White Aleksei Wiles Heidi Williams Kaiden Williams Cynthia Wilson Heavin Wooden Audrey Wyrick

Congratulations

KOKOMO HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2021 Adcock, MaKayla Elizabeth Adkins, Jakob Matthew Alston, Deionye Montrell Armfield, Jaden Nicholas Taylor Arreola, Lejeida Marie Arrington, Nevaeh Amya Atkinson, Emma Kaylyn Avery, Mandy Marie Bahcivan, Fatih Isik Baity, Samuel Thomas Baker, Amillyon Crystal Elaine Balantine, Sanighia Marie Ballew, Raygan Elizabeth Banks, Trevon Dantavius Barlow, Connor Tristan Barnett, Shawn-Michael Wayne Barr, Harvey Edward Bates, Aubrey Alexis Behny, Adam Jonathan Belt, Caydan Joseph Berchtold, Tyler Jakob Berry, Dalton Michael Berry, Kendra Lynn Blake, Stormy Lee Bolen, Brianna Nichole Booher, Kamryn Elizabeth Born, Tyler Anthony Boruff, Jaiden Vera Boruff, Jeshua Micheal Bowers, Macy Alana Bowers, Noah Alan Brackett, Sterling Ryan Breedlove, Elizabeth Montgomery Briggs, Ava Elaine Brittain, Khloe Lee Brown, Emily A Brumley, Halie Brianne Bufkin, Blake Hunter Bufkin, Brook Logan Bui, Khiem Duy Burthay, Makenzie Jo’nae Butler, Jawuan Lavar

Butler, Madison Rose Callane, Jon Matthew Calvert, Zoey Maree Elizabeth Cannon, Sareyah Nicole Carey, Orion Marius Hayashid Carpenter, Makaila Lin Carpenter, Nathan James Carter, De’Ja Jemeeriah Childers, Mackenzie Sue Choojaem, Songploo Churchill, Madison Jewel Clark, Aliya Serenity Clark, Krystalynne Evie Cleaver, Jake Edward Clemens, Chelsey Cyan Cline, Kendra Jordan Cobbins, Michael Armoni Cohee, Ashton Michael Lee Cohee, Dakota Lex Coleman, Dashaun Akio Collier, Jamarius Jovon Collins, Madison Nicole Colmenares Torres, Paul Enrique Commons, Arianna Renee’ Contreras, Janneth Contreras, Matthew Ray Copeland, Jaylee Brooke Corrales Quintana, Wilmer Corrales, Selena Marie Corso, Anna Michelle Cox, Emily Alaine Cox, Ka’jaun Rondell Crowell, Alec Bennett Cummings, Amir Kenyon Cuttriss, Sarah Elizabeth D’Acquisto, Lila T Dalton, Aubrey Catherine Davila, Isiaha Marquese Davis, Brett Anthony Davis, Devington Sage Davis, Gabrielle Elaine Davis, Logan James

Davis, William Isaac Nicolaas Deditch, Abigail Brianne DeMoss, Wilson Timothy Depalma, Korea Janea DeWitt, Owen James DiSalvo, Kennedy Jade Diveley, Dylan Lee Dodd, Ashlyn Elisabeth-Jean Dodd, Christopher Steven Drake, Breanna Marie Droke, Emily Lynn Duhn, Rachel Anne Duncan, Taylor Anthony Durham, Brennon Klay Durham, Brian Robert Eden Emry, Lydia Danielle Ervin, Paul Waymon Esparza, Jennifer A Faulkner, Bradlen Wayne Fernandez, Nathan Fillenworth, Alanah Nolene Fink, Kaitlyn Roseann Jo Finkler, Griffin Stewart Finley, Jacob Richard Fitchpatrick, Gabrielle Antonia Flowers, Preston Andre Flowers, Tiana Forte, Shimani Barbara-Onyae Fortner, MaKayla Ruth Gallaher, Breann Nicole Garang, Emmanuel Mayol George, Allysson Nichole Gibson, Kolton Ryan Green, Elinathan Ben Greenwald, Zoe Rae Greenway, Blake A Griggs, Emily Renee Guge, Branson Lee Guire, Ethan Cecil Hale, Tyler Joseph Hall, Bryan Anthony Hall, Clayton Allen

Hall, Nathan Lewis Hall, Summer Alexis Hamilton, Gordon John Hancock, Summer Brianne Harris, Breanna Lynn Hatt, Natasha Ann Hawkins, Emma Elaine Hawkins, Jenaka Blu Pokrzywa Heath, Correll Denise Henderson, Emily Rose Hendrickson, Zavieon Montez Hernandez-Argueta, Mayeli Alejandra Hicks, Olivia Nicole Hillman, Rachel Marie Hoang, Duy Anh Holloway, Rheagen Danielle Horton, Jervionte Leeshon Horton, Jordan Jamel Hou, Jiashu Hrabos, Seth Huffer, Alizabeth Leann Hughes, Jonah Michael Hughes, Kylie Maria Ellen Hunter, Gavin Alexander Hunter, Molly Grace Huymaier, Michael Andrew Huynh, Ngoc Nhu Irick, Branden Michael Jackson, Antione Justine Jackson, Ta’nijah Sauhnea Jay, Audrey Elaina Jeffries, Nojir Olayeni Fasina Jewell, Abigail Destiny Johnson, Aniya Michelle Johnson, Kaitlynn Paige Johnson, Lafaizon Aarale Mishae Johnson, Margo Jean Johnson, Selena Ann Jones, Arianna Chenea Jones, Aries Sue Rose Jones, Jacob Ryan

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Jones, Marcus Keith Jones, Xavier Michael Jordan, Kalub Bradley Jung, Yunseo Kazlas, Kathryn Carol Keesling-Mayer, Baileigh Marie Keller, Mason Matthew Kendrick, MaKaylah Ja’neece Kenner, Serenity Grace Khong, Thu Minh Kidwell, Francis Joann Kim, Minseong Kline, Matthew Paul Knutson, Alistar Gwendolyn Kwok, Akira Shyanne Lamberson, Zechariah Dean Lamott, Cayden Anthony Lapid, Jay Ybanez Lay, Katherine Marie Lee, Isiah David Lee, Jayden Joshua Lees, Lauren Ellen Lenard, Ariyana Suk Lenoir, Myles Donovan Lewis, Richard Brighten Lindley, Skyler Blaine Scott Lockridge, McKinsey Alexis Long, Gabrielle Cathe Rae Long, Kiana Nicole Lowe, Lucas Matthew Lucas, Alivia Matea Lucas, Angel Pina Loraine D Lucas, Jesse James Mahan, Simone Jada Marden, Courtney Jane Marquez, Martin Fernando Marshall, Brookes Orion Reed Mason, Dontasia Catrena Mavrick, Molly Kate McCarter, Lushon Allen DeWayne McCartney, Susan Kay Jean Louise

McClung, NeVaeh Lei McClure, Brailyn Nicole McGraw, Kaitlyn Elizabeth McKinney, Angel Marie McKinney, Ian Robert McKoon, Aidyn Sue McNeil, Emily Grace Mendenhall, Jonathan Warren Mickle, Kolton Ray Miller, Charles Lilburn Miller, Nicholes Allen Miller, Olivia Grace Mims, Jada Sophia Mitchem, Evvie Jailynn Moore, Joshua Thomas Mote, Brittany Marie Ngatunga, Brian Linus Nguyen, Hai Dong Nguyen, Van Thi Nichols, Malori Ryan Nicholson, Makalah Adia Noe, Emily Mayfield Nutter, Hayley Breann Oakes, Phoenix Michael O’Bryan, Carson C. Oglesby, Romon Rodrick Old, Rose Marie Lynn Oldaker, Oran James Owensby, Elishah William

Paprocki, Noah Joseph Parslow, Noah Joseph Gerald Pastor Ketterer, Pablo Paul, Kaylee Marie Paul, Logan David Peerna, Brita Pennington, Ethan Tyler Perdue, Dantionna Lynn Perisho, Kaelyn Reanae Persons, Olivia Grace Petty, Zachary Lee Pickett, Kendra Jane Pierce, Whitney Renee Pillati, Amanda Pitner, Logan James Pittman, Hanna Renee Pointer, Jeffrey Matthew Pratcher, Camden Tyler Price, Trenton Andrew Qiu, Chris Lin Randolph, Zephaniah Quentarius Reece, Jannessa Ladae Reed, Zoey Shonta Reynolds, Kayla Ann Rice, Mia Teagan Richards, Blake Jackson Richardson, Lian Riley Ridenour, Skyler Shayne

Riley, Brooke Autumn Rivers, Savannah Psalm Rizer, Emily Nicole Roark, Dalton Zane Roark, Samantha Dawn Robertson, Aaron Trevor Rockeymoore, Alysha Grace Rogers, Asiah Jade Rogers, Gabriella Elizabeth Rogers, Jadah Simone Ruckman, Hannah Kay Russeau, Christopher L Russell, Brayden Elijah Edward Russell, Hope Irena Saban, Madison Elizabeth Samuel, Layla Marie Samuel-King, Madeline Paige Sawyer, Addison Cane Raylee Scheiman, Cole Joseph Schelbert, Trelaine Isabella Schmitt, Jaden Alexander Seagrave, Claire Louise Sears, Josiah Lamar Sellers, Rajon Nashawn Lee Selley, Caleb Matthew Shack, Darrion Jayse Shelton, Sydney Paige Shelton-Hicks, Donovan Terrell Shiraef, Paige Alexandra

Shoemaker, Bryson Joseph Simmons, Parker Wayne Slone, Brailyn Rain Smalley, Noah Dennis Smith, Bronson Kyrie Smith, Caleb Levi Smith, Cory Allen Smith, Dion Creed Smith, Hannah Jo Smith, Jayden Dewayne Smith, Torian Arthur Sparger, Jakobe Jahki Spencer, Malachi Michael St Clair, Madelyn Delaney Jo Stafford, Dejah Marie Standt, Ethan Anthony Stewart, Victoria Christine Stoltzfus, Bryan Thomas Stonebraker, Sarah Elizabeth Stull, Jacob Allen Sutton, Trayton Cam’ron Swain, Drew Joseph Swigeart, Kelsey Jo Tharp, Rylee Nicole Thieke, Douglas Ray Thomas, Ozir Kushite Ali Torres, Joshua Matthew Trischman, Amelia Lyza-Nichole Tyler, Amodrian Devonte

To the Kokomo High School Class of 2021: I am proud to be the Principal of an incredible Kokomo High School senior class that has handled this ongoing pandemic with grace and flexibility. These seniors quickly adapted to COVID-19 procedures in the classroom, in athletics, and in extracurriculars, while setting an amazing example for younger students. I have talked often about the meaning behind our KHS hashtag, #legacymatters, and the legacy this Class of 2021 leaves is one for the record books!

The perseverance our seniors have shown in the face of unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic will be remembered; but their legacy does not end there. The academic, athletic, and musical achievements - as well as the leadership and service efforts - of this class will be remembered. Some students in the Class of 2021 helped lead our Wildkat Winter

Van Horn, Mitchell Stephen Vandiver, Kaelyn Aubrey Vaske, Gavin Edwin Voght, Kya Chyann Wainscott, Noa Michael Walker, Franceska Jolee Walls, Casper Joe Ward, Jacob Ray Watanabe, Koko Weaver, Colleen Raelynn Wells, Brayden Scott Whitfield, Kameron Mikhail Deion Whittaker, Drake Zander Williams, Abigail Faith Williams, Quatavious Marquan Wilson, Arlene Tonya Denise Wilson, Jacob Allan Wyman, John Paul Xiao, Leyao Yockey, Chiara Rose Young, Aria Iris Young, Shar’Zayhia Yar’kayla Young, TraJhan Demond Young-Weaver, Daija Zackschewski, Ethan Li

Winds, Winter Guard, and Indoor Percussion groups to State Finals appearances in spite of numerous pandemic adjustments, including virtual performances. Several seniors served as core members of the new KATS Together student group, which promotes inclusiveness by bringing students with and without disabilities together for meals, games, and friendships. One senior was named a Coca-Cola Scholar Semifinalist, while another earned National Merit Finalist status and was named an Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction.

I wish only the best for our students in the KHS Class of 2021 whether they are entering the workforce, joining the military, or beginning their college careers at postsecondary institutions. I have no doubt these 2021 KHS graduates will continue to enhance our legacy at Kokomo High School!

Sincerely, Angela Blessing

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Congratulations

NORTHWESTERN HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2021 Anthony P. Aguirre Kolby Blake Ahnert Alexandrea Allen Aidan Alexander Alter Jordyn Alicia Anthony Ellie Marie Armstrong Mary Catherine Babcock Paxton R. Bachman Grace Riane Bagwell Allison Bailey Tyler Gene Ballinger Ashlyn Rose Bammerlin Emma Linley Barnett Madyson Mae Baxter Jeremy A. Bell

Ann Catherine Bourff Drew A. Bowser Ellie Marie Boyer Caraline Renee Brandt Hope Alexandra Braun Samantha R. Bumgardner Michael R. Burton Kaylee L. Butcher Isabella Lucinda Capoun Kyle Emery Cardwell Sarah Michele Castillo Marcos L. Castorena Logan Neil Brooks Caudill Jordan A. Davis Andrew Delelio

Brodyn Alexander De Vault Cora Irene Dunkin Anthony Wayt Dunten Joan Bree Easter Elizabeth Grace Felker Brianna Nicole Fierro Nolan Alexander Floyd Jaelen A. Fowler Max Michael Garro Tyler Lane Gilbert Drew Tyler Gingerich Ryleigh J. Grant Jamie C. Graves Kalia Elyse Griggs Isaac Raymond Guffey

Amelia Habig Jackson Xaiver Hale Kinsey Rashelle Hansen Maison Claire Hardin Mason Harrell Lewis Reed Harris Nicholas A. Hayes Bodey Thomas Henry Addison Teagan Horner John Henry Houlahan Shayla Layne Howell Alivia Kristina Hughes Christian Lee Hughes Austin Parker Huskey Ashlyn Rachelle Johnson

Henry J. Johnson Lillian Lou Johnson Jennah Marie Jones Kinzey A. Keating Layla Maeve Kinnaman Kaitlyn Small Lagoni David Mateo Lane Ruby Danielle Lashbrook Alivia Grace Leeman Blayne Joseph Leeman Jenavese Leigh Loer Gabrielle Starr Alize Lolmaugh William Thomas Lovelace Thomas A. Lunsford

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Ashlyn Elizabeth Markley Kaylan Nikole Markley Erika Marie Martin Jacob Liam Martin Jared T. Melton Taylor Marie Melton Abigail Elaine Metz Zamzam Alexander Miller Hunter Thomas Daniel Mohr Delanee Charlene Morgan Clare N. Mula

Owen Rheo Myers Noah Clayton Nix Emma E. O’Dell Leah Ellen Parrott Laney Parsons Rayven Leeann Philapy Ashton Bryan Powers Alexcia Nichole Prince Cadance Leslie Rain Reiter Taylor Leeann Rhine Brylee Jo Riebe

Isabella Hope Rogers Luke Michael Rood Sonny James Rosetto Sophia Kay Rozzi Emily Russell Leann Nicole Saul Brayden Lee Scering Samantha Marie Schrock Gabriel Lee Short Alexandra Mae Smith Caitlin Rose Smith

Lynn A. Smith Coleman Edward Stone Christian Brayden Stout Lauren Alissa Lee Tanner Ethan Coen Thatcher Brooklyne Renée Titus Eayn E. VanSickel Jenelle Sue Ward Sydney Ann Ward Bethanie Noel Warnock Adam J. Welsh

Dear Northwestern Class of 2021, The 2020-2021 school year belongs to you...YOUR MEMORIES, YOUR SENIOR YEAR, AND YOUR NORTHWESTERN GRADUATION! First and foremost, you navigated in-person and virtual instruction with quarantines and uncertainty. You created a phenomenal spring musical, spectacular band and choir concerts, championship winter guard performances, athletic competitions, student section memories, Prom and so much more! Over half the class earned an honors diploma (Academic and/or Technical). Among you, there were eleven 21st Century Scholars, three Lilly Finalists and one Lilly Recipient. We also had three College Board National Recognition Program Scholars and one 2021 Indiana Academic All-Star. Each one of you has a success story! Every moment has helped to define the person you are today, a Northwestern High School graduate. I am extremely proud to be your superintendent. I look forward to hearing about your future endeavors, as I know your positivity, perseverance, and Tiger Pride will carry you far.

Congratulations, Mrs. Kristen Bilkey Proud Superintendent Northwestern School Corporation

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Graduation is no time to learn you haven’t saved enough for college.

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Congratulations

TAYLOR HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2021 Keegan Ryan Alexander Amari Jamal Barbary Yazmine Lynn Berkshire Jack Robert Bogue Madison Nicole BoothbyJenkins Joshua Andrew Bowman Ethan Anthony Cage Graciela Marie Cavazos Lilyann Grace Cohee Tristen Robert Comstock Dakota Matthew Cox Madysen Rhea Cox Ty’Mon Lam’Au Davis Arianne Nicole Dill Joshua James Doty Bre’Are Lolita Nicole Dozier Madison Elisabeth Estok Riley Dina Fausett Autum LeeAnn Fleenor Caidyn Nickoli Foster Jace Anthony Fritsch Isabella Coral Fuentes Aalia Priscilla Gatlin Conner Avery Gibson

Ryley Glenn Gilbert Elijah James Gray Jaylen Allen Harris Mattie Rose Hensley Brandon Bodine Hilligoss Jamal Saleh Hindarish Kaya Breeze Holmes Truman Quincy Howerton Justice Noel Isaacs Maddyson Taci Elizabeth Isbell Zoe Laryn Iseminger Nathaniel David Keene Ethan Lee Klepinger Ashlen Krisanna Kropczynski Kendall Lee Lanning Alexis Grayce Marini Dakota David McClish Benjamin Riley Paul McNally Connor Paul McNally Dreams Dailie Michael Jacob Lee Morgan Ann Hoang Ngoc Nguyen Jennie Nguyen

When I say, “You made it,” it certainly takes on a different meaning than previous years. Rather than dances, social times at lunch, clubs and final flings, you have dealt with masks, distancing, the dreaded “distancing pole,” restrictive hallways and quarantines. It is a testament to the drive and determination of a group of young people making the most of a difficult time. You had every excuse to quit and throw in the towel, but you didn’t. In fact, you excelled. 64% of you earned a B- or better GPA in the face of adversity. Well done Class of 2021.

Now that you are leaving our doors, I would encourage you to use what you have learned- the knowledge and skills developed over the course

Giselle Angelic Nieves Hailey Alexis Owens Jill Rakeshkumar Patel Pranay Pankajkumar Patel Mindy Viola Peterson Makala Renay Pfefferkorn Dayton Matthew Phelps Abigail Marie Pyle Ryleigh Paige Schesser Blake Austin Shanks Anna Rose Shelton Tra’vyan Donshea Shumpert Haieden Nathaniel Blake Snow Madison Nicole Spane Zoey Louise Taylor Sean Benjamin Townsend Madelyn Louise Uncapher Olivia Ann Uncapher Ethan Thomas West Nicholas Quinn White Emma Nicole Williams Hannah Marie Williams

of your academic life. Follow your dreams and let nothing stand in your way- not fear, not doubt, not seemingly insurmountable hard work and most certainly not failure. If it’s worth it, you will find a way. As lyricist Neil Peart says, “We will pay the price, but we will not count the cost.” Start paying that price now and go out there and change the world.

I look forward to personally delivering your diplomas on June 4 and sending you off to do great things. It has been a pleasure to work with you these past four years. Congratulations!

Sincerely, Steve Dishon

TownePost.com / JUNE 2021 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / 19

Congratulations

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Congratulations

WESTERN HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2021 Kaylee Marie Aeschliman Paul Lucas Amaya Bryson Christopher Armstrong Tredan Gerald Zayne Arnett Caleb Tanner Bailey Sophia Rose Baker Joseph Robert Batchelor Brysen Domanick Begley Haelie Elizabeth Bellaw Aidan Joseph Belt Taylor Jade Berry Brady Tayler Bitner Hunter Ryleigh Black Jacob Edward Bohlmann Elijah Vaughn Bourff Regan Nichole Brady Abigail Lynn Brandenburg Justin David Brantley Christopher Wayne Branyan Hannah Grace Bray-Plummer Noah David Bright Braeden Scott Bryant Rose Marie Buch MaKayla Ray Bugher Gavin Phillip Burns Grace Anne Elaine Burtcher Bethany Lynn Caine Drew Dee Caldwell Marlee Faith Campbell Ryan James Cannon Drew Alan Carpenter Ashton Mikal Carter Zachary Albert Cline Allison Elizabeth Coffman Ty William Collier Caroline Mae Collins Romey Samuel Collins Kinzie Rose Conaway Patrick James Connolly

James Austin Conyers Lotte Cools Alexis Burlyne Creal Cassie Victoria Cregar Justice Renay Curella Brayden Michael Curnutt Brandon Joseph Damron Jr. Zoe Leila Damron Cheryl Mae Dashiell Jameson Cole Davenport Jacob Michael Davies Mackinley Shaye Davis Mason Stephen Davis Tanner Steven Duncan-Irwin Natalie Jo Dunham Kaelee Rose Dunn Matthew Charles Edison Braydon Robert Erb Ethan Joseph Erb Darryen Scott Evertt Mallory Elizabeth Falcigno Alivia Marie Ford Kenzie Nichole Fouch Noah Gregory Fouts Macy Mikayla Gerber Dexter Austin Gilsinger Tiffany Bree Goley Lucas Lee Grant Abrina El’Marie Green Olivia Noel Green Anna Katherine Grobengieser Abigail Lyn Guge Hannah Grace Hall Quinn Steven Hammond Sadie Jo Harding Jackson Taylor Hartsough Danyela Hernandez Cardenas Brody James Herren Natalie Lynn Hess

Grant Thomas Heyer Levi Thomas Hicks Michael Thomas Hjelmeland Jesse Matthew Lamon Holaday Mille Bendix Holbæk Spencer Marie Holder Jacob Calvery Holt Heaven Rose Holt-Minaker Lucas Michael Hopwood Vincent Avery Horn Hunter Aaron Hozey Jenna Nicole Hulka Preston Ray Hunt Hayli MacKenzee Irvin Hannah Renae Isaac Cooper Matthew Jarvis Amya Caprice Johnson Elijah Andrew Johnson Isabel Lorene Johnson Savanna Breeann Johnson Paula Jean Jones Emma Elizabeth Kahn Maxemus Alan Keegan Clayton James Kelly Cayden Shermann Lafayette Nolan McGregor Landrum Landon Bryce Lee Nicholas Sterling Leep Evan Kent Leisure Brooke Elizabeth Lemons Riley Connor Lewis William Nathaniel Liddell Jr. Caden Matthew Locklear Abigail Reese Lopez Arie Phoenix Lowe Jimena Macias Sarah Liz Manuel Daniel Joseph Marley Anthony Joseph Martin

Dear Western Seniors,

I am so thankful that we have been in school this year and that the majority of you have been able to experience your senior year on campus. Your experiences while in school will create lasting memories, and a bond that you will have with one another for the rest of your lives.

During the last part of your Junior year, last summer, and through the many quarantines that some of you have experienced this school year, you have learned to navigate the challenges and how to persevere. While we hope that you will never have to experience another pandemic, you will face challenges throughout your lives.

Adrienne Elizabeth McCarty Addisyn Faith McClain Gunnar Ericson Meissnest Cacin Alexander Mendenhall Hilary Ann Merica Maxim Elijah Mijic Emma Grace Moore Emily Renee Morgan Ethan Andrew Morgan Rylan Jay Morgan Eden Morrison Jonathan Lawrence Muehl Evan Jacob Murphy Caleb Jerrel Obenchain Obiekezie Daniel Ozoigbo Joseph Glenn Packard Jerial Allen Padgett Ethan William Parvin Zachary Bryson Paschal Alana Kalmanova Pate Claire Elizabeth Pate RaiShawna Lillian Pearson Kalista Echo Pisula Ty Alexander Pogue Andrea Polakova Jada Elisabeth Quillen Timothy Mark Renken Jalen Paul Reynolds Melannie Sierra Rhymer Taryn Mariah Roe Olivia Ann Ronk Faith Gabrielle Salinas Kyle Lamont Sanders Kaelyn Micha Scarberry Haley Alexis Scott Taylor Nicole Scott Kensley Rani Seekri Connor Nathaniel Shane Carley Marie Sheffer Blake Michael Shelby

Alexis Janelle Shepard Cade Edward Shock James Payton Showers Jadn Tyler Simpson Narasimha Davis Sinkfield Adam Michael Sipes Jaedon Daniel Lee Smith Madyson Michele Smith Michayah Justine Smith Mollie Rose Smith Morgen Ann Smith Hayden Robert Sordelet Cameryn Marie Stewart Caroline Elaine Sullivan Abbey Janelle Summerfield Brayden Lee Summers Ariana Nicole Sweares Vianna Gail Taflinger Mariana Taskey Matthew Paul Tuchscherer Cobyn Clay Tuggle Jackson Paul Wages Aaron Hamili Ward Gavin Ray-Micheal Ward Kendrick Jackson Ware Anissa Katherine Washington Keaton Leah Wells Ava Dawnmarie Wenger Riley Garrison Western Abbigail Lynn Wheeler Ella Grace Williamson Mark Owen Williams Thomas Allen Dale Williams Loryn Elizabeth Worthington MaKenzie Rae Wunderlich Emma Jewel Wylie Dylan Patrick Zweifel

As you leave Western, know that with every challenge you will face that you can overcome the challenge and move on.

The Class of 2021 has had several accomplishments that are part of your legacy for others to follow. Congratulations on your many accomplishments at Western. I wish you all the best in your future endeavors, and hope that each of you will continue to work hard and will be a positive influence on others in all that you do.

Sincerely, Randy McCracken

TownePost.com / JUNE 2021 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / 21

CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2021 ELLIE ARMSTRONG

ABBY GUGE

WESTERN HIGH SCHOOL Congratulations Abby!!! We are so proud of you. Here’s to the end of one chapter and the beginning of the next. Have a great time at Purdue! We love you! Dad, Mom & Linsay

NORTHWESTERN HIGH SCHOOL Congratulations Ellie, you have made your Dad and entire family extremely proud!

ARIANNA COMMONS

KOKOMO HIGH SCHOOL Congratulations my beautiful girl! You did it, & I couldn’t be more proud of you! You have turned intro a kind, loving, funny, & independent young woman, and I can’t wait to see what you do w your future. The world is yours baby, go take it!

Love you always & forever + a day, Mom

NATHAN HALL

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We are proud of you!

You did it! From Mom, Pawpaw, Grannie,Tee-Tee, Ari and Chez

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KINZIE MILLER

EASTERN HIGH SCHOOL Congratulations Kinzie!!! We are so proud of your hard work and determination!!! You set your goals and watching you achieve them has been such a blessing!!! We wish you the best in your next adventure in life and we can’t wait to see you succeed in all that you set out to do!!!

Always keep Jesus first and know He is guiding your path. Our love and prayers, Mom, Tony, Quinnton and the rest of your family and friends

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NORTHWESTERN HIGH SCHOOL Congratulations Kinzey from all of us at Hawg Heaven! We’re so proud of you.

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Wherever your journey in life takes you, enjoy the ride and never forget your way back home. We’re always here for you. We are so proud of what you’ve accomplished and the woman you have become.

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TownePost.com / JUNE 2021 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / 23

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manufacturing, and an incredibly safe driver, always putting her phone on silent mode before placing it in her back seat to avoid distractions.

Speaking of phones, Taylor and her friends had installed Life360 tracking on their devices so they could monitor one another’s whereabouts. When Taylor’s friends texted Natalie to ask if she was home, they mentioned that Taylor’s phone indicated that she had been at the same location for more than half an hour - just two miles down the road from her house. Natalie’s stomach dropped.

“When I saw she was at an intersection on State Road 26, that’s when I knew it was bad,” Natalie says.

ALL ABOUT LOVE FAMILY TALKS TAYLOR GODFREY’S ROAD TO RECOVERY Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photography Provided

The world was in the midst of a global pandemic, but folks were starting to settle into some routines that made them feel less alone, more connected and a bit more hopeful that the future would turn out OK. Taylor Godfrey, 18, was within days of finishing her senior year at Western High School. A tomboy at heart who adores agriculture, working on her truck,

and playing with her dog, a Border-Aussie named Nutmeg, she’s the quintessential girl next door.

On May 11, 2020, Taylor met up with friends to finish their final papers for school, then celebrate by grabbing ice cream. She was due home around 10 p.m., though her mom Natalie didn’t panic when she didn’t come through the door right on time. After all, she was a responsible young lady about to head off to college to study

Taylor had been heading south on 400 West - the same intersection she had crossed over hundreds of times. On this night, however, as she was crossing the intersection, a semitrailer truck T-boned her.

Taylor was rushed to the hospital with a long list of severe injuries. She had a traumatic brain injury, broken ribs, a broken pelvic bone, two fractured hips, a bruised and lacerated kidney, two collapsed lungs, internal bleeding, as well as head-to-toe scratches, wounds and tears. Doctors had to perform a decompressive craniectomy to remove half of her skull bone in order to relieve pressure on her brain. It was nothing short of a miracle that she survived such a horrific accident.

She remained in a coma for three weeks at Parkview Health in Fort Wayne.

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“Her first week at Parkview, we weren’t allowed to be with her,” says her father Rodney. “That was excruciating.”

The pandemic was stressful enough, but here they were grappling with not knowing if their daughter was going to live or die, and the thought of her passing away and not being in the room with her was nearly too much to bear.

“It almost broke us,” Natalie says, choking back tears.

When Taylor began to emerge from her coma, it was not instantaneous the way it’s often portrayed in the movies.

“Hollywood lies,” Rodney says. “Coma patients don’t wake up and start carrying on full conversations like you see on TV. It’s a progression. June 3 was when she squeezed my hand for the first time.”

Rodney alerted Natalie, who immediately FaceTimed her daughter.

“The second Taylor saw me, she started crying,” Natalie says. “She recognized me.”

The ultimate goal was to get her into an inpatient rehabilitation facility where she could continue to get hospital care, since she still had a tracheostomy tube for breathing. After doing some research, Rodney and Natalie decided to send her to Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

“We found some top-notch rehab hospitals for brain injury in Denver, Atlanta and Chicago, but we ruled those out because we weren’t sure she could make the travel,” Rodney says.

Mary Free Bed was closer to home, though still a four-hour drive, and it provided the level of care as well as the access to Taylor that they wanted.

The couple took turns being with her every

other week - one stayed home with their son Mason while the other was in Michigan with Taylor.

“We would come home and decompress, trying to be as quasi-normal as possible,” says Natalie, who describes the past year as the “longest, fastest year because all the days gelled into one.”

Taylor was at Mary Free Bed from June 18 until October 15. The day she came home

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was highly emotional because of the way the individual texting was too tedious. Before community rallied around the family. long the page reached thousands of people, and prayers poured in from far and wide.

“The excitement was tangible,” says Natalie, whose support system had grown quickly as a Homecoming day was special as the result of a Facebook page she had created days emergency medical services, fire, and after the accident called “Prayers for Taylor.” sheriff ’s departments coordinated their efforts to provide a 20-mile police escort The page provided a way to mass from the Howard County line all the way communicate with friends and family, since home as supporters lined the streets, waving and cheering.

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Since then, visitors have been practically nonexistent due to COVID-19, but that doesn’t mean the family hasn’t felt the love from the community.

“People have organized meals, provided relief, made signs and T-shirts, and prayed,” Rodney says. “Throughout this journey, the level of support has been enormous, which is so comforting. That’s been a bright spot in this ordeal.”

The family’s faith has been the cornerstone of their fortitude and resilience during this challenging and draining year.

“We leaned hard on our church family,” Natalie says.

They witnessed faith in action every single day.

“I would receive texts from people at just the right time in just the amount I needed,” Rodney says.

Congratulations Class of 2021

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Though they were believers prior to the accident, their faith has grown exponentially since that fateful day.

“It has grown so much that it actually makes us feel, for a lack of a better word, happier because we know that in spite of what could have happened and in spite of what is happening, we are trusting God with all of this and that takes away our stress for a time,” Rodney says. “If it wasn’t for God, Taylor wouldn’t be here today. Neither would we.”

When people tell them that Taylor’s story has caused them to become reacquainted

with their faith after having pulled away from God in the past, or that they started following Taylor’s journey and found God as a result, they couldn’t be more thrilled.

“Taylor has always been a faith-filled person and a lamp for others, so the fact that she is still leading people to Christ makes me happy,” says Natalie, who notes that though her daughter has forgotten so many things, faith has remained at the forefront of her heart and mind. “We would watch church online at Mary Free Bed and Taylor would get emotional. It was beautiful to see that she never forgot her faith.”

becomes safer to venture out into the world, the family plans to travel to see other family members, including their son Andrew, who lives in Tennessee with two children of his own.

“We missed out on so many things last year,” Natalie says. “Rodney and I both turned 50.

Taylor graduated from high school. Mason graduated from college. I feel like we need to have one big party to celebrate everything. If

and when that will happen, nobody knows.

We’re just going to enjoy each day as it comes.”

About this time, Taylor enters the room and is asked if there’s anything she’d like to say to those who have been checking in on her and her family throughout the past year.

“I love them,” she says sweetly.

“That’s perfect,” Natalie says.

Today Taylor is still recovering, and though she’s come a long way through the past 12 months, she still has a long way to go.

“I see improvements on almost a daily basis,” Rodney says. “Physically, she’s doing really well. It’s the cognitive functioning that still needs improvement - short-term memory recall and problem solving.”

Nevertheless, the strides she has made have been incredible, especially considering that doctors told the family that this is one of the most severe cases they have ever seen. Though she no longer needs medical care, she still requires self-care, meaning that someone needs to be with her constantly to help her navigate the world.

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“It’s almost like a toddler in a grown-up body because she gets up like she’s on a mission but then forgets where she was headed and why,” Natalie says.

As high school graduates take to the stage in their caps and gowns this June, the Godfreys think about last year as they watched Taylor’s graduation ceremony online from her hospital room in Grand Rapids.

“She didn’t really understand at the time what was happening or what was going on,” Natalie says.

Still, they celebrated that milestone and continue to celebrate new ones every day.

As COVID vaccinations ramp up and it

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KAIDEN XAYNE ROGERS

TIPTON HIGH SCHOOL Your journey in life is just beginning.

Can’t wait to see where it takes you! You have grown into such a wonderful young man! So proud of you! We love you!

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You have achieved a great milestone.

Here’s wishing you many more successes in the future.

Good luck and congratulations!

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KENADIE FERNUNG

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Congratulations to each of you!

You’ll do great things!

“Do not follow where the path may lead. Go, instead, where there is no path and leave a trail.”

–Ralph Waldo Emerson

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CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2021 ANTHONY BYRD

TRI-CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL Congratulations! We are so proud of your determination, hard work, and accomplishments. Keep it up best of luck at IU!! We Love You, Mom & Dad

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TIPTON HIGH SCHOOL Congratulations Ava!!! We know you’ll go on to do great things! We’re so excited for you! Urban Homestead

MYLAN SWAN

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MADISON POWELL

TIPTON HIGH SCHOOL You are such a bright light in my world! The universe awaits you my sweet. Love you so much

ZACHARY PETERS

TIPTON HIGH SCHOOL Congratulations Zach! I am beyond proud of you! I can’t wait to see what the future holds for you. I know you will do great things. The Army is getting one fine young man! Wishing you all the best! Love you always! Aunt Kat!

NYA BROGOITTIRANDALL

TIPTON HIGH SCHOOL Congratulations on your graduation! All the best to you at Franklin College!

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Levi Michael Lee Abernathy Darril Eugene Baty Ashley Marie Beaudette Nathan Shawn Bitner Susan Roxalena Boldry Azia Jean Bowman Jackson Verlon Brewster Abigail Olivia Brooks Detlef Peyton Burke Anthony Joseph Byrd Cole Ryan Byrd Kylin Eve Carter

32 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / JUNE 2021 / TownePost.com

Congratulations

TRI-CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2021 Julie Elizabeth Childers Cameron Joseph Cooper Justin Lee Dyer Mackenzi Eileen Eller Kenadie Lynne Fernung Emily Nicole Gardner Noah Dale Gillum Aidin Donald Gooch Clementine Gras-Hubeau Garrett Wiley Graves Zachary James Griffith Gavin Drew Helvey Carlos Manuel Hernandez Connor Jackson Hight Conner Reynolds Hindman Wyatt Benjamin Host

Logan Michael Julian Hailey Christine Mahaney Miguel Angel Marmolejo Alexis Jade Mason Alaina Mariah Montgomery Mallory Grace Mullins Isabelle Diane Newton Zephanie Marie Niccum Celia Louise Parton Vincent Arnold Parton Xzavior Michael Philapy Mason Shane Lewis Pickens Emma Jean Piske Lauren Elizabeth Piske Trevor Jacob Portell Holden Jay Rayl

Lillian Sue Rounds Quintin Robert Shaffer Mackenzie Jean Spangler Carolyn Grace Spicer Brittany Marie Temple Takota Dylan Thompson Jan Tobiska David Allen Trujillo Preston Lee Vann Chandler Scot Vanosdol Braydon Anthony Voiles Hope Elizabeth Williams Meghan Haleigh Woodruff

Dear Tri-Central Class of 2021,

On behalf of the staff and students at Tri-Central Middle/High School I want to congratulate you on this momentous occasion. You have all worked diligently to make it to this point in your education. I know that the past couple of years have not been what you expected, nor has it been easy, but you have endured and have completed this milestone in your life.

Take the challenges that you have overcome and allow those experience to make you stronger. Go from here and dream big.

Use the knowledge and skills that you have obtained to further your education and/or career. We are all excited to see what you will become and achieve.

I encourage you to take what you have learned and give back. Volunteer in the community and do what you can to help those who are older and the young people who look up to you. Do your best to make the world a better place.

Best Wishes and May God Bless the Class of 2021!

Adam D. Long, Principal Tri-Central Middle/High School #TogetherWECan!

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Graduating Juniors Lydia Tragesser Trey Robinson Thomas Williams Isabelle Hunter Seniors Benjamin Aulbach Natalie Baldridge Quenton Ballinger Halina Baranowski Kole Beachy Lillian Boswell Gracelyn Boyer Brody Brack Charis Brock Nya Brogoitti-Randall Dane Burton Graham Burton Camden Calloway Marife Camba Gavin Campbell Brayden Clark

Ava Clouser Noah Cole Hannah Comstock Emma Courtney Clayton Cowan Cameron Crawford Emma Crawford Karly Cruzan Madison Culbertson Shelby DeStefano Jayce Edwards Sam Edwards Gabriel Emmert Brenna Euriga Sydnee Euriga Caleb Everling Shane Floyd Gerardo Fortuna Sara Gall Samuel Gasho Kendra Goodnight Tera Gotschall

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Congratulations

TIPTON HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2021 Casey Greene Amanda Grimes Brendon Gutierrez Fabian Hansmann Makenzey Harpel Evan Harris Carter Harrison Kimberly Hearn Gabriela Hernandez Marika Herron Graham Hill Cassandra Hoover Cheyenne Hughes Hannah Isaac Cole Jackson Ellie Keifer Breanna Kerr Nathan Leap Veronica Lee Emily Lester Sable Lewis Gwendolynn Long

Dear Tipton High School Class of 2021,

Katherine Long Jayvin Lyons Cristo Macias Fernandez Karli Marks Abigail McElfresh Logan Monday Kierstyn Mooney Maleah Moore Scotlyn Moore William Morgan Kyla Morton Isaac Mundell Brandon Muse Kara Myers Michael Nasser Samantha Nead Ava Newcom Ashley Nightenhelser Austin Owens Brian Oxley Andrew Pearce

I want to let you all know how proud of you I am. You have worked so hard to make this time at THS a memorable time, not only for yourselves but for all of us as well. You are definitely a special group.

I have admired how close you are to each other. I think that care for each other and helping others is what makes you a special class.

A lot of attention was given to last year’s class and rightly so, but we can’t forget all of the sacrifices you have all had to make. You lost your spring sports season and prom. You lost your last weeks of school last year. In addition, you have had to come to school during a pandemic.

You have had to move between in person and virtual classes, to be

CONGRATS!

Aspen Pearson Makenna Perry Zachary Peters Megan Phifer Trayjan Phifer Kole Plake Madison Powell Abigail Proffitt Courtney Rich Katelyn Riddle Noah Ridgeway Dakota Riley Carly Ripberger Rachel Ripberger Wade Roby Kaiden Rogers Caleb Royal Will Sayers Carissa Schambers Lauren Schram Bailey Schroeder Allenah Shelly

Zion Shook Quentin Sloan Malia Springer Ayden Stanley Colin Stapleton Jonathan Stokes Amaya Stowers Mylan Swan Josiah Theobald Haley Townsend Kamden Tuggle Bianca Tunmer Ethan Vawter Parker Walsh Macie Wampner Cheyenne Watson Joash Williams Kennedy Wittkamper Christopher Zech

sent home to be quarantined because you happened to be sitting next to someone with COVID-19, and had events and game canceled or modified. All of those things were outside of your control but you kept on moving forward and achieved.

I’m so happy to be able to give you a “normal” end of the school year.

Ii’m looking forward to having a “normal” graduation ceremony, and I am very much looking forward to seeing all of the success you will have in the future, Good luck Class of 2021! We will miss you!

Sincerely, Rik Stillson, Principal

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deals on weekend afternoons, and offer a twilight rate during the week that is very popular. For example, junior golfers ages 22 and younger, and enrolled in school, can pay $100 and play as much golf as they want all year long. A senior, 62 and older, can pay $470 and play as much as they want. Our season passes don’t include cart fees, but being that our course is easy to get around, we have a lot of pass holders that walk the golf course and keep their costs per round at a minimum.”

Bontrager notes that the course includes two distinct 9-hole courses.

“The front 9 is a lot easier, and perhaps some would see it as more fun, while the back 9 is a longer test with some very challenging holes,” Bontrager says. “Both sides offer tree-lined fairways, small green complexes, and Big Cicero Creek that runs the outside of the property. The back 9 offers Buck Creek that plays a big role on most of the holes.”

Bontrager stresses that the Tipton course is a great practice facility.

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“We have a driving range, chipping green and putting green for players to take advantage of,” Bontrager says. “We also have some customers that drive from Kokomo just for our practice facilities.

We have several leagues and groups that give a lot of golfers the ability to play as part of a group.”

To find out more about the Tipton Municipal Golf Course, located at 2211 South 200 West, call 765-675-6687.

6 / TIPTON MAGAZINE / JUNE 2021 / TownePost.com

36 / KOKOMO MAGAZINE / JUNE 2021 / TownePost.com

“One of the things I love most about golf, and about playing at the Tipton course, is that I appreciate how much of a social sport it is.

You are only out to beat yourself, and it’s a great environment.”

— Amaya Stowers players don’t lose many golf balls as they go around. While some golf courses take over four and sometimes five hours to play, most of our golfers get around in three hours, which frees up their day. In this day and age, people don’t have as much time as they used to, so to be able to play in three hours is a big deal.”

Like all golf courses, Bontrager says the greens make the difference.

“Our greens are consistently some of the best greens around,” he says. “They are typically fast and true on a daily basis. We get people coming off the golf course, and they are really excited about the quality of our greens.”

Bontrager says the quality of the playing surfaces is strong.

“We put in a new irrigation system a couple years ago, and it has made a world of difference,” he says. “We used to have to worry about keeping grass healthy on several areas of the course. With the new irrigation system and a fantastic superintendent, Jake Talley, the golf course has never been better. The word is getting out about how good it is. We are getting a lot of players from out of town, and more season passes being sold this year than what we have seen the past several years.”

Bontrager says the course fees are reasonable.

“Our fees are also very competitive,” he says. “We are consistently on the low end of green fee pricing, golf cart pricing and season pass pricing. We offer some great

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School girls golf team last fall.

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Stowers has high praise for the Junior Golf Program.

Amaya Stowers, a senior at Tipton High School, says the Tipton Municipal Golf Course has been a huge part of her life since she was a young girl.

how to really improve, and put in the time to become better.”

Writer / Matt Keating Photographer / Jason Graves

“I’ve honestly been playing golf for so long that I can’t remember the exact age I was when I started,” Stowers says. “I know I’ve been playing my whole life, and Tipton Municipal Golf Course has helped me become a better golfer over the years.”

Stowers says she has received great advice from people at the course.

“Rusty Ripberger, who was a golf pro here before, always used to tell us to not run on the green,” Stowers says. “He also taught us

“You learn so much just by being out there on the course every day,” she says. “It’s really a great culture here. I’m glad I started playing golf here when I was young. I was able to pick up the lingo and just keep improving.”

Stowers also works at the golf course.

“I work at the cash register and outside,” she says. “It’s nice to be able to work at a place where I know a lot of the people.”

Stowers also played on the Tipton High

“We did really well last season,” Stowers says. “We were the first full girls team to make it to regionals. I’m really proud of the team. Emma Crawford, who is also a senior, did an outstanding job.”

Stowers was also president of the Mayor’s Youth Council, was on the student council for four years, and was a member of the National Honor Society.

“I also worked in the school’s athletic training office, where I helped the girls basketball team,” Stowers says.

Stowers is planning to attend the University of Indianapolis in the fall.

“I’m going to study psychology and I’m going to be in the university’s Honors College program,” Stowers says. “I’m very excited about it.”

Stowers says she will still find time to play golf.

“One of the things I love most about golf, and about playing at the Tipton course, is that I appreciate how much of a social sport it is,” she says. “You are only out to beat yourself, and it’s a great environment.

Golf teaches you about life skills, and it is something you can still do when you are 80 years old. This is a wonderful place.”

Ryan Bontrager, director of golf at Tipton Municipal Golf Course, agrees.

“There are a lot of great things about Tipton Golf Course,” Bontrager says. “The golf course is easy to get around. It is flat, and

4 / TIPTON MAGAZINE / JUNE 2021 / TownePost.com

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Trula Womack, director of marketing and branding excellence for Best-One of Indy, says the customer’s experience is a driving factor at the company’s stores in Tipton, Kokomo and elsewhere.

The company has a reputation for customer excellence.

“Our mission is Creating Raving Fans, and we take that very seriously,” Womack says. “If a customer isn’t happy, we address it. People want to be heard, and they want to know they can trust you - we take care of both.

Relationships that are lasting have to be built on trust, and this is especially true between our team members and their customers.”

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Womack stresses that the company isn’t a big-box chain. They have been locally, and family-owned for over 35 years.

“We work harder, provide better service, and go above and beyond what the customer expects,” Womack says. “We received a Yelp review for our Fishers store and the customer said, ‘They are very helpful, and their prices are competitive. I’m pretty sure the tires at any of the places are around the same cost, but what sets BestOne apart from the others is their speed and customer service.’ [Best-One’s Company founder] Paul Zurcher would say, ‘That’s powerful.’ Reviews like that one are not uncommon for our 13 locations. We sell tires, but we serve people. We care about their experience, from the time they drop

their car off for service to when they are picking up their keys and driving away.”

Womack notes that the Tipton location also takes care of farmers.

“Tipton is a mix of retail, and farm tires and equipment,” Womack says. “We have a few select locations like this, and we know the importance of taking care of our farmers.

We are as connected to them as they are to their land.”

While R&T Tire has changed to Best-One of Tipton, the customers will see the same familiar faces they have come to trust over the years.

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