Driven to Grow
Chariot Automotive Employee
Advances Career Through Education Program

Driven to Grow
Chariot Automotive Employee
Advances Career Through Education Program
EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT TURNS PASSION INTO COMMUNITY SPACE FOR PUPS
Growing Forward
Tri-Central Valedictorian Leads Indiana FFA With Purpose & Passion
PUBLISHER KIM SENKUS kim@townepost.com (317) 501-1743 KEY
FOUNDER,
TOM BRITT tom@townepost.com (317) 496-3599
JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com (317) 810-0011 PRODUCTION COORDINATOR ERIN TURK CREATIVE
8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: (317) 810-0011
The association’s mission is to unite Eagle Scouts in a lifelong commitment to Scouting’s highest ideals. Rooted in service, leadership and the principles of the Scout Oath and Law, it fosters a community that empowers Eagles to make a meaningful impact and inspires the next generation to soar to new heights.
For Pitzer, who earned his rank of Eagle Scout in May of this year, that means serving and leading in his community through his recent Eagle Scout project — something all
project, I chose to build a dog park — something that combined my love for dogs with a need I saw in the community,” Pitzer says. “I have two dogs of my own, and I’ve always been passionate about animals, so creating a safe, enjoyable space for dogs and their owners felt like the perfect fit.”
The dog park, located in Jackson Morrow Park, sits on the side of Webster near the skate park. A ribbon cutting was held in July to celebrate the grand opening.
To raise funds for the project — nearly $20,000 — Pitzer came up with the idea to create and sell custom displays featuring the different Scout ranks and merit badges. This not only helped raise the money he needed but also allowed him to share the Scouting
A licensed REALTOR® since 2014 and a longtime Howard County resident, Misty brings a true passion for helping others and a vision for every home. She believes home is your happy place — and she’s here to help you find it.
journey with others in a creative way.
Throughout the project, Pitzer developed a wide range of skills, like learning how to plan and manage a large-scale community project, how to coordinate with local organizations and volunteers, and how to keep everything moving on schedule. He also grew significantly in areas like public speaking, communication and multitasking — skills that he knows will serve him well in both college and his future professional career.
Pitzer is heading into his freshman year at Ivy Tech in Kokomo, where he will study computer programming and begin building a career in a field he is passionate about.
“Scouting has been an incredibly valuable experience for me,” Pitzer adds. “I’ve learned practical skills like first aid and wilderness survival, but beyond that, it’s taught me the importance of leadership, responsibility and teamwork. Earning the Eagle rank is something I’m really proud of, and the lessons I’ve learned will definitely carry over into my studies and career in technology.”
Pitzer has been fortunate to have a number of mentors who have supported and shaped him along the way to becoming an Eagle Scout. Some of the most influential have been family members, close friends, teachers and even family friends — each offering their own perspective, encouragement and guidance during difficult parts of his journey.
“I’ve also made lasting friendships with people I now spend time with outside of Scouts, which has made the journey even more meaningful,” he says.
Outside of his mentorship and friendships, a specific quote has helped Pitzer maintain his ambition and drive.
“One quote that really sticks out to me is from the Disney Pixar movie Up — ‘Adventure is out there,’” he says. “I love this quote because, to me, it means there’s always something new to explore or accomplish — you just have to be open to the possibilities and willing to go find them. Whether it’s in school, Scouts or life in general, I try to carry that mindset with me. It helps me stay motivated and curious, always looking forward to what’s next.”
Writer / Natalie Platt
Ivy Tech Kokomo is greatly expanding its partnerships with area school systems to allow high school students to begin working on their post-secondary credentials while still in high school. Students who complete their credentials before graduation can then transfer them to Ivy Tech to pursue a more advanced credential or transfer to a fouryear institution to get a head start on their bachelor’s degree.
These partnerships are addressing workforce gaps for employers in the greater Kokomo area. Since many of the courses students are taking are dual-credit, the initiative is saving students — and their families — time and money while leading to employment in some of the area’s most in-demand fields, such as health care and IT.
In Cass County, Ivy Tech is proud to offer a Pre-Healthcare Pathway that allows students to earn a Technical Certificate in Healthcare Specialist. Through this program, students also obtain certifications as Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs) and in dementia care, ultimately becoming state-licensed CNAs. The pathway includes essential prerequisite coursework for many of Ivy Tech’s selective admissions health care programs. Several students who completed this program have already progressed into Ivy Tech’s Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program,
while others are on track to complete four-year degrees one to two years ahead of schedule.
Beginning this fall, Ivy Tech will expand the Pre-Healthcare Pathway to Miami County, where students can choose to earn a certification in Certified Clinical Medical Assisting (CCMA) instead of CNA. This flexibility allows students to tailor their education based on career goals, while still earning the Healthcare Specialist Technical Certificate. Graduates will be well-prepared to either enter the workforce directly as CNAs or CCMAs or transition seamlessly into a selective admissions healthcare program immediately after high school. By completing prerequisite courses early, students can save up to two or three semesters of college coursework.
Looking ahead, Ivy Tech plans to introduce an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certificate to the Howard County program starting in fall 2026, further expanding opportunities for students pursuing careers in health care.
Ivy Tech is also proud to offer a dualenrollment partnership with the Kokomo Area Career Center, through which students can earn their Technical Certificate (CT) in Informatics and have the opportunity to
achieve their A+ Certification. The college is actively working to enhance the program by integrating work-based learning experiences in collaboration with local school districts and area businesses.
Criminal Justice pathways are offered in both Howard and Cass counties, allowing students to earn a Technical Certificate in the field. Through strong partnerships with local and state agencies, students benefit from engaging guest speakers, expert panels, hands-on learning experiences, and immersive field trips that bring real-world context to their studies.
There is also an Early Childhood Education pathway with Lewis Cass Polytechnic Academy where students earn their Technical Certificate in Early Childhood Education while completing work-based learning in the Lewis Cass Early Learning Academy.
Later this year, Ivy Tech is launching a Teaching Pre-Apprenticeship program designed for high school sophomores and juniors. Through this pathway, students will complete a Technical Certificate in Elementary Education while gaining valuable, hands-on experience through work-based learning in local classrooms.
RAISING KOKOMO’S FREQUENCY ONE CLIENT AT A TIME FIRST
• QHHT SESSION
• REIKI SESSION
• HEALY ENERGY HARMONIZING
• HARMONIC EGG ELLIPSE
• ZARARITY
Upon high school graduation, students will seamlessly transition into Year 2 of the Teaching Apprenticeship program.
Students continue to express interest in a wide range of career fields, and Ivy Tech is actively working to expand local work-based learning partnerships across all industries.
Within the Information Technology and Education pathways, efforts are focused on collaborating with school districts to help address transportation challenges that can impact students’ ability to participate in work-based learning experiences.
In the Industrial Technology Early College Pathway (ITEP), Ivy Tech’s most recent cohort partnered with Stellantis and HMH contractors. The college is now seeking to broaden these partnerships to provide even more opportunities for students across the region.
Ivy Tech Kokomo offers a variety of dual-credit and dual-enrollment courses throughout its service area. In addition to offering Indiana College Core courses, the institution offers programs in:
Accounting, Advanced Automation and Robotics, Advanced Manufacturing, Agriculture, Automotive Technology, Building Construction Technology, Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Cybersecurity, Design Technology, Early Childhood Education, Education, Electrical Engineering Technology, Healthcare Specialist, Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC), Hospitality, Human Services, Informatics, Industrial Technology, IT Support, Machine Tool Technology, Marketing, Medical Assisting, Networking, Photography, Precision Agriculture Equipment Technology, Smart Manufacturing and Digital Integration, Software Development, Visual Communications and Welding.
Going to college as an adult can open new doors and create lasting change. Whether advancing your career or pursuing a passion, higher education equips you with the skills to succeed. Adult learners bring experience and focus, enriching the classroom. It’s never too late to grow—take the first step toward the future you envision.
Ready to take the next step?
Schedule a campus visit, explore our program offerings, and apply today. Scan the QR code or visit IvyTech.edu/Kokomo to get started.
Writer / Natalie Platt
Typically a numbers-oriented thinker, Chariot Automotive Parts Manager William Myers went to Taylor University for physics and math. After learning that teaching wasn’t his passion, he found himself in a position where he needed a new job but wasn’t sure what
direction to go. Through what Myers calls God’s guidance, he found an opportunity at Chariot Automotive and then the Chariot Automotive Institute — where he was able to work toward earning college credits to further his automotive career at a pace that fit his work
and personal life, at no cost to him.
A company that values lifelong learning, Chariot Automotive Group developed the Chariot Automotive Institute — a handson educational program in partnership with Ivy Tech — that’s benefiting both high school students and nontraditional students in Indiana by providing them access to a full-time career. The program also addresses the automotive technician workforce gap, as there continues to be a nationwide shortage. The CAI offers accredited certifications and degrees in the fields of automotive technology and sales for participants that range from high school students to tenured professionals in the automotive field.
As one of the tenured professionals, Myers earned his technical certificate in business last summer and his associate degree in business administration in May of this year through the robust academic partnership with Ivy Tech. The business certificate requires 31 credit hours — something Myers was able to achieve through a flexible schedule that still allowed
him to work full time and support his family.
In his management position, he’s now interacting with customers all day and knew there would be value in additional education around soft customer service skills and a stronger foundation in business.
“I don’t know if I was really a people person in the sales and relationship aspect, but I knew I wanted to climb the ladder little by little,” Myers says. “I knew I needed to get this degree to eventually grow to a point where I have more employees underneath me, and I need to challenge myself and be able to understand them. A lot of what I’ve learned is understanding other people’s situations and pushing myself and learning how to apply that to my career.”
Any learning advantage Myers can take, he does — whether it helps him in his current role or in the future. It’s rare to see a business these days that has such a family aspect to it, and that’s what Myers loves — whether it’s
handwritten birthday cards from the CEO or learning opportunities. He says Chariot Automotive hits the nail on the head when it comes to truly taking care of their employees and boosting company morale — adding that he sees the joy and fulfillment on his coworkers’ faces every day.
“The company has been absolutely amazing to me and has provided me with so many opportunities,” he adds. “I’m not one to stay stagnant and really like to grow — Chariot has offered me that opportunity every step of the way, even before the Ivy Tech partnership. Things like Excel workshops and just simple things like that are usually overlooked but incredibly useful.”
Myers credits his wife for being his biggest supporter and driver. With three children, she was always there for him and their family, consistently encouraging him during the longer days.
“I just want to thank everyone — Chariot
Automotive and my wife — for this amazing opportunity that I wouldn’t have been able to get elsewhere,” Myers says. “It’s been a huge blessing, and not everyone is this fortunate, despite the challenges and time commitment it has taken. The end result has been so worth it.”
Chariot Automotive believes that making a lasting impact takes real investment. That’s why they provide their employees and the communities they serve with education, advancement opportunities and philanthropic support for important causes. The family-owned dealership believes that the opportunity to succeed — and the encouragement to take the reins, guided by a faithful moral compass — can chart a new path in life.
Though the faces, technology and cars will change from one generation to the next, their guiding principles will remain the same: People come first, and Chariot will always be driven to serve.
At 17 years old, Jamarion is showing the community what hustle looks like. The owner behind Common Grounds Landscaping & Lawn, he’s up and out early, making lawns look their best across Kokomo.
What started as a summer gig has turned into a growing lawn care service run with dedication, professionalism and a smile. From early mornings to freshly cut lawns, Jamarion Common is proof that age doesn’t define work ethic. His drive, reliability and attention to detail set him apart, and he encourages other young entrepreneurs to not wait for the perfect moment or feel like they need everything figured out — just start.
Taking his own advice, Common has learned more this summer than he could have anticipated — far outside the realm of lawn care services.
Communication has been one of the most important skills he has developed through his first year as an entrepreneur. Whether Common is providing quotes, responding to client questions or explaining his services, he’s learned how to express himself clearly, respectfully and professionally.
On the business side, he’s gained experience with invoicing, setting pricing, managing customer expectations, and tracking payments and expenses.
“I’ve also developed better time management skills,” Common says. “Coordinating multiple jobs, navigating changing weather, and staying organized while preparing to return to school requires discipline and planning. These are skills I know I’ll carry with me far beyond lawn care.”
Writer / Natalie Platt
One of the biggest surprises to Common has been how much personal growth happens behind the scenes. Initially, he thought running a lawn care business would mostly be about physical labor — mowing lawns, trimming edges and handling equipment. What he didn’t expect was how much it would challenge him mentally and emotionally. He’s learned how to handle pressure, how to stay professional when he’s exhausted and how to push through difficult days.
Something else that caught him off guard was the connection he’s built with clients.
“Many of them treat me like family, and that makes me want to show up with my best effort every time,” he says. “There’s a deep sense of pride that comes with seeing a job well done and knowing your name is behind it. That sense of ownership is what keeps me going.”
His mentors — two of the most important women in his life — have propelled him to where he is today.
“My mother and grandmother have been two of my most important mentors,” he says. “My mom taught me the value of hard work, accountability and independence. Watching her handle responsibilities while supporting our family has inspired me to lead with intention and stay focused. And my grandmother has always been a voice of wisdom and guidance. She keeps me grounded, reminds me to be thoughtful with my decisions, and encourages me to stay consistent even when the road gets tough.”
In addition, he’s learned from local business owners, contractors and other professionals in the industry. By observing how they interact with customers, structure their work and present themselves, Common has picked up valuable insights that continue to shape how he runs his business.
This fall, Common will be entering his junior year at Western High School. While balancing school and business will be a challenge, he’s confident in maintaining his strong routine of serving Kokomo-area clients reliably.
As his high school career continues, his goal is to continue growing Common Grounds Landscaping by investing in better equipment, expanding his service offerings, and possibly building a small team in the future. Long term, Common sees entrepreneurship as a path he wants to stay on.
“Whether it’s continuing with this business, pursuing other ventures like real estate or investing, or eventually owning multiple businesses, I want to remain in control of my future and keep building something that reflects who I am,” he says.
Common Grounds Landscaping & Lawn is available weekly for mowing, trimming and blow-off services starting at $40. You can contact Jamarion Common by calling or texting 765-513-8102. You can also visit facebook.com/CommonGroundsLawn for more information.
ACCUMARK DIAGNOSTICS (765) 627-4003
ADAM’S TRUCKING & EXCAVATING (765) 628-3674
AMERICAN AUTOMOTIVE (765) 450-8485
AMERICAN LEGION (765) 628-3943
AMERICAN QUICK LUBE & TIRES (765) 627-8079
ANTHONY DOWNING FARMS (765) 628-0316
BEAVER POINT (765) 945-7815
BLONDIES COOKIES (317) 883-4845
BOBCAT OF HOWARD COUNTY (765) 628-2800
BRAD HOWELL FORD (765) 628-3321
BRIAN’S SURPLUS (765) 628-3196
CASEY’S (765) 628-7422
CENTURY VILLA / CENTURY FIELDS (765) 628-3377
CHRISTIAN LIFE FELLOWSHIP 765-628-3000
CIRCLE PIZZA (765) 628-2049
COMMUNITY HEALTH NETWORK (765) 776-3030
COUNTRY MARK (765) 627-8270
DMW GRAPHICS (765) 431-1241
DOLLAR GENERAL (765) 507-3241
DONAHUE GAS / PLEVNA (765) 628-7091
DOWN ON MAIN STREET (765) 628-2700
EASTERN HOWARD SCHOOL CORP. (765) 628-3391
EL PATRON (765) 408-0268
ETTA’S GOOEY GOODIES (765) 252-8128
FINE TOOTH AUTO DETAILING (765) 432-6770
FIRST FARMER’S (765) 628-3309
FLODDER SAWMILL / SYCAMORE (765) 628-0280
GRABER HEATING & COOLING SOLUTIONS (765) 627-8072
GREENTOWN ANIMAL CLINIC (765) 628-7834
GREENTOWN APARTMENTS (765) 628-7935
GREENTOWN FLOORING (765) 627-8075
GREENTOWN GAS (765) 627-8270
GREENTOWN GLASS MUSEUM (765) 628-6206
GREENTOWN HISTORICAL SOCIETY (765) 628-3800
GREENTOWN LAUNDRY ROOM (765) 627-8059
GREENTOWN LION’S CLUB (765) 432-9910
GREENTOWN MAIN STREET ASSOCIATION (765) 776-6242
GREENTOWN MARKET (347) 260-2637
GREENTOWN NORTHVIEW CHURCH (317) 846-2884
GREENTOWN ANTIQUE MALL (765) 628-7570
GREENTOWN PUBLIC LIBRARY (765) 628-2882
GREENTOWN TAX SERVICES (765) 507-1001
GREENTOWN WESLEYAN 765.628.3106
HARVEY CONSTRUCTION (317) 326-4591
HASLER STOUT FUNERAL HOME (765) 628-3344
HERBST DRUG STORE (765) 628-3446
HOCHSTEDLER ENERGY SYSTEMS (765) 628-3331
HOLLY’S (765) 628-2712
HOMETOWN RESTAURANT (765) 627-4025
HOWARD COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS (765) 628-3247
HUCKS (765) 628-3543
HUGH’S CAR WASH (765) 628-7560
HUGH WYRICK EXCAVATING (765) 628-3982
HYDRATION / STATION (765) 507-3001
KAISER’S COFFEE (765) 480-1726
KAISER’S SWEET HOME REALTY (765) 860-7934
PERFECT SCOOP (765) 627-8106
KING CHEF (765) 628-2057
LADD DENTAL (765) 628-3770
LANNING APARTMENTS (765) 628-7935
LION’S CLUB 765-432-9910
MAIN OCCASIONS (765) 461-2329
MAKING MOVES WITH MISTY (765) 480-7308
MALYNN’S CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE (765) 627-8059
MOONLIGHT SERVICES INDIANA (765) 860-3024
NEW HOLLAND (765) 628-3305
NEW VIEW PAINTING COMPANY (765) 867-3407
NORRIS INSURANCE (765) 628-7572
OFF THE WALL (765) 628-3263
RESCUED TOYS (765) 210-9965
PLEVNA IMPLEMENT (765) 628-3374
REVIVAL FIBER ARTS (765) 627-8142
SCHLABACH WINDOWS (765) 628-2024
SHARON’S BEAUTY SHOP (765) 628-5990
SHAY’S SHEARS (765) 319-8951
SIMPSON JEWELRY AND UNIFORMS (765) 628-7674
SUBWAY (765) 628-0410
SUNFLOWER TANNING (765) 627-8059
TERRELL AUTO (765) 628-3328
THE FINISH TOUCH (765) 628-3489
TOWN OF GREENTOWN (765) 628-3263
WEL-DON POTS (800) 746-7687
WILDCAT MECHANICAL (765) 432-4216
WINGER FARMS (765) 628-3217
109 North Meridian St, Greentown 765-628-7572
The Norris Insurance family has been doing what’s right for our customers and communities since 1959. We believe the best person to help guide you through the important decisions in life is a friend who lives and works in the same place that you do. That’s who we strive to be. The Greentown office will use our knowledge and experience to protect your assets.
113 E Main St, Greentown
Kaiser Coffee Shop is a locally owned coffee shop serving expertly crafted hot and cold coffees, plus a vibrant selection of make-your-own energy drinks. With cozy vibes and bold flavors, it’s the perfect stop to fuel your day. Sip local, stay energized, and experience the passion in every pour.
115 W Main St, Greentown 765-627-1005
Now open, locally-owned Accumark Health Primary & Urgent Care offers trusted, compassionate medical services for all ages. From routine checkups to urgent care needs, our expert team is here when you need us. Most insurances accepted (call for more details) No insurance, high deductibles? No problem! Ask us about our direct pay membership! Convenient, affordable care is now in Greentown. Your health, our priority - every day.
203 E Main St, Greentown 765-860-7934
KAISER’S SWEET HOME REALTY
Old-Fashioned Service. Modern Results. Looking for a real estate experience that’s personal, professional, and powerful? We’re a boutique-style firm offering custom strategies designed just for you. Your dedicated agent will guide you from start to finish—backed by a handpicked team of trusted experts and incredible partners. At Kaiser’s Sweet Home Realty, we combine classic care with today’s smartest solutions to get you to the closing table with confidence. Your Home. Your Journey. Our Passion.
119 W. Main Street, Greentown 765-628-2712
When it comes to unique, in an industry, Holly’s Package Store just might be considered a hidden gem. Locally owned and operated, the store has been under the same family ownership since October 1st, 1980. Throughout those 45 years, Holly’s has hung its hat on being fair, being kind, and most recently being unique. They have a wide selection of products, and are even willing to order something for you, if they do not have it on the shelf. They invite anyone, to stop in and see what old and new things are happening, so that everyone has the opportunity to create a new memory.
113 E Main St, Greentown 765-461-2329
Main Occasions is a catering company specializing in smoked meats, international cuisine, and traditional American flavors. They travel throughout the state of Indiana, serving a wide range of events year-round. In Greentown, they operate a seasonal restaurant where guests can enjoy signature dishes like their mouthwatering brisket grilled cheese and famous lasagna. Owned by Grethel and Kyle Keeney since 2020, Main Occasions has grown steadily, with the couple working tirelessly to improve and expand their offerings every day. Their beautifully crafted charcuterie boards—known for their vibrant colors, attention to detail, and exquisite mix of cheeses and meats—have captured the attention (and appetite) of thousands.
113 W Main St, Greentown 765-627-4003
AccuMark Diagnostics is a family-owned and operated laboratory located in Greentown, Indiana. They prioritize providing innovative, timely, and quality laboratory services to their community. AccuMark Diagnostics offers a wide range of services including: Lab (blood) draws, DOT & Non-DOT Drug Testing, BAT, Strep, Flu A&B, HGA1C, PT/INR, Lipid/Glucose, and Urinalysis Testing. Gender reveal (Peek A Boo), & DNA testing also available.
118 South Green Street, Greentown
765-627-8059
Sunflower Tanning is located in The Depot along with Malynn’s Consignment Boutique, Shay’s Shears, and Greentown Laundry Room. First opened January 4, 2025. Our beds are full bronze beds offering a range of sessions and packages to fit your needs. We also offer various brands of tanning lotions, protective eyewear, after tanning lotions, tanning lotion gift sets, and gift cards are available.
118 S Green St, Greentown (In the Back) 765-627-8059
Greentown Laundry Room is Greentown’s only laundromat. Located in The Depot along with Malynn’s Consignment Boutique, Sunflower Tanning, and Shay’s Shears. First opened December 28, 2024 and open daily 9AM-9PM. No quarters needed, just download the free user friendly app, the QR code is located on the machines. We offer a Giant washer/dryer set and a Titan washer/dryer set and can hold a king comforter.
115 E Main St, Greentown 765-627-8075 greentownflooring.com
When John and Diana McCarthy officially opened the doors of Greentown Flooring in 2012, they created their standard of excellence – the understanding that the ideal customer experience doesn’t end with just carrying great products. While applying the hometown beliefs they hold so dear, the McCarthy’s pride themselves on helping customers select the right material for their project and budget and finishing each job with professional installation and a satisfaction guarantee. Experience the Greentown Difference.
107 W Main St, Greentown 765-627-8310
Veteran Owned
Greentown Antique Mall has more than 3600 sq. ft. of antiques & collectibles. There is a wide selection of Early American Pattern Glass (including Greentown Glass, Fenton Glass, Depression Glass & Art Glass), St. Clair lamps, paperweights, and collectibles, marbles, vintage toys, jewelry, coins, primitive, pottery, military items and so much more! Open all year (except major holidays), Tues - Sat 10a.m.-4p.m.
118 S Green St, Greentown 765-627-8059
Malynn’s is bringing you new and pre-loved chic right here in Greentown. Located in The Depot along with Sunflower Tanning, Shay’s Shears, and Greentown Laundry Room. First opened 10/28/2025. We carry women’s, men’s, juniors, and kids clothing and accessories along with some home goods and fun gifts. Consignment runs on a 90-day cycle and if you have items leftover you are welcome to have them back or choose to donate them. We donate to various organizations to spread the love and give back to our community and surrounding communities. Whether you are looking to shop, purchase a gift card, or sell your items, stop on in- you never know what you will find!
308 E. Main Street, Greentown 765-627-8079
American Quick Lube & Tires is a new and trusted quick lube business that is veteran owned, and family operated.
The American Quick Lube & Tires team is completed by owner Jay Akers and his co-owner wife, Laura, along with their daughters and son-in-law. They share Jay’s passion for vehicles, and his desire to provide Greentown and the surrounding area with the best possible service that they can provide in a personal, hometown atmosphere.
604 W Main St, Greentown 765-627-8106
The Perfect Scoop is a family-owned ice cream shop. Known for it’s small-town feel and classic hand scooped ice cream treats. Along with polar bears and sundaes, they also serve hamburgers, cheeseburgers, hot dogs, tenderloins, french fries, nachos, and other tasty food items. They are open all year round. It’s described as the perfect spot for creating sweet memories with family and friends!
Now Open!
114 W Main St, Greentown
Greentown Market is located in the heart of Greentown, bringing farm-fresh produce, quality meats & seafood, everyday essentials to our small town. Convenient and reliable, it’s your one-stop shop for everyday essentials close to home.
104 E Main St, Greentown 765-628-2700
Down on Main Street Bar and Grill has been serving up great food, cold beer, and unforgettable times for over 27 years. Home of the best tenderloin around, we offer karaoke, live bands, full-service liquor, and convenient carry-out. Come for the food, stay for the fun and local flavor!
765-867-3407
NewView Painting and Coatings LLC takes pride in being able to say that our projects are completed by professionals that live in the same community we work in. We will not subcontract out your project to an out-of-town crew. Our focus is to provide the highest quality product that you can find. When you hire us, you can trust that the quality of our work is unmatched. We use premium materials, modern tools, and proven techniques to ensure durable finishes and clean, efficient job sites. We work closely with homeowners, property managers, and business owners to ensure satisfaction from start to finish.
• Telehealth/ Virtual Care
• Routine Check Ups
• Wellness Exams
• Medication Reconciliation
• Management Of Chronic Condition
• High Blood Pressure
• Astma/Allergy Treatment + COPD
• Diabetes
• Weight Loss
• Vaccinations
• Preventive Services
• Screening For Common Age-Related Conditions
• Screening For Various Diseases
• Recommendations To A Specialist
• Lab Services
• Insurance Physicals
• EKG
• Urgent Services
• Direct Pay Primary Care Membership
• Sports Physicals
• AND MORE...
100 W Main St, Greentown (765) 628-3978
Blondie’s Cookie Inc. is a familyowned and operated Indiana based company celebrating 40 years of business! Our moto is simple, ‘It’s All About the Cookie.” We operate 6 divisions, which include our 7 retail stores located in shopping malls, nationwide shipping, wholesale, fundraising, 3rd party delivery and our NEW Party Room which is available to rent! Blondie’s was featured on the hit ABC show, “Shark Tank”. The Blondie’s family is happy to share our favorite treat with you... Cookies!
712 W Main St, Greentown 765-628-7834
Greentown Animal Hospital provides compassionate, expert veterinary care for pets in every stage of life. Locally trusted and owned, we offer wellness exams, diagnostics, surgery and urgent care. Our dedicated team treats every pet like family - because your animals deserve the very best. Proudly serving Greentown with heart and home-town values. Check out more on our staff at greentownvet.com!
laboratory
and operated.
SERVICES WE OFFER
• Blood Draws
• Covid Testing
• Flu A&B Testing
• Strep Testing
• Lipid/Glucose Testing
• HGA1C Testing
• Urinalysis Testing
• DNA Testing
• Peek A Boo (Early Gender Testing)
• BAT (Breath Alcohol Testing)
• On Site Drug Testing (Randoms, Post Accidents, Reasonable Suspicion)
• DOT Physicals
• Pre-Employment Physicals
• Fingerprinting (Identogo)
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5. Floats on current 6. Ridicule
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15. Line of hereditary rulers 19. Burglaries
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18. Evaluate
19. Cooking herb 20. Terminated
Located in the heart of downtown Greentown, Rescued Toys is more than just a toy store, it's a celebration of nostalgia, fun and community. Family-owned and collector-run, we buy and sell action figures and collectibles from the 1970s to today, including Star Wars, He-Man, Funko Pops, NECA, Power Rangers, Pokémon, G.I. Joe, Barbie and more. You'll also find Squishmallows, blind boxes, rare prototypes, premium sodas, and nostalgic candy. Whether you're a seasoned collector or discovering your first favorite toy, there's something for everyone. COME DISCOVER WHY RESCUED TOYS IS A TOY STORE FOR COLLECTORS, BY COLLECTORS!
Writer / Natalie Platt
Blooming with potential and rooted in passion — that’s how someone might best describe 2025 Tri-Central valedictorian and Lilly Endowment winner Kaitlyn Maruszewski’s professional and academic aspirations in horticulture and agriculture.
Maruszewski was recently announced as the new Indiana FFA president at the conclusion of the 96th Indiana FFA State Convention in June. She and her teammates will spend the next year serving Indiana FFA members from the Indiana FFA
Leadership Center in Trafalgar.
“I am overjoyed to have the honor of serving as the 2025-26 Indiana FFA state president,” she says. “As a state officer, I am taking a gap year from school to serve Indiana FFA and will be traveling the state of Indiana visiting with FFA chapters, planning Indiana FFA conferences, facilitating workshops and so much more. I am so honored to serve in this role because FFA has shaped the person I am today.”
Maruszewski will work alongside six teammates on these tasks and will spend the year living together at the Indiana FFA Leadership Center. She’s had countless experiences and opportunities through FFA that have pushed her outside of her comfort zone and challenged her — while giving her a home where she has met some of her very best friends in the blue jacket.
Driven beyond her years, the recent graduate says knowing her “why” helps her stay motivated and focused — though
learning about herself and figuring out that her motivation comes from the opportunity to grow has taken a bit of time.
“I love the quote by John Maxwell, ‘You must know yourself to grow,’” Maruszewski says. “Before you can grow, you have to know how you operate. When I set out to accomplish something, I think about how I can grow as a person through the experience. By making every experience or moment purposeful and intentional, I find I am a lot more motivated to do it by simply beginning with the end in mind and always trying to see the big picture.”
Having this in mind also helps Maruszewski when she falls short of a goal, reminding her that it isn’t all about the trophies, medals or banners — but rather the skills, connections and experience. When things get tough while trying to reach a goal, she always goes back to her “why” that keeps her rooted in her purpose.
She also has an entrepreneurial spirit — after her year of service to Indiana FFA, Maruszewski will attend Purdue University to study horticulture with a concentration in plant science. She hopes to earn her Ph.D. and one day work in the research field while continuing her small business, bykaitlyndesigns.
“I started this business as my supervised
agriculture experience in FFA, taking something that I learned in the classroom and applying it to a future job or career,” she says. “Bykaitlyndesigns is a houseplant, macrame and home décor business. I sell houseplants using asexual propagation methods I learned in my agriculture class. I also teach classes on macrame and plant techniques.”
Maruszewski wants to pass on her advice and passion for learning and growing to current high school students — for academics and beyond.
“Get involved in as many clubs, sports or activities that you can. Try anything that sounds interesting. When someone asks you to try something new, say yes,” she says. “Those three simple letters can take you places you could never imagine. Some things you might find out are definitely not for you, but others you will come to love. If it were not for my mom encouraging me to join FFA my freshman year of high school, my life up until this point would have looked 100% different.”
Maruszewski thanks her parents for always supporting her in everything she does. Without that support system to lean into — especially on the hard days — she wouldn’t be where she is today, or where she’s headed in the future.
kim@townepost.com (317) 501-1743