01/21/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/21/2026 11:38
The Farmers Bank officially celebrated the opening of its new Tipton Financial Center on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, with a community open house and ribbon-cutting ceremony in the heart of downtown Tipton. Located directly across from the Tipton County Courthouse, the new financial center is now open and serving customers.
The celebration included an open house from noon to 3:00 p.m., during which community members had the opportunity to tour the new facility, meet The Farmers Bank team, and learn more about the bank's services and commitment to relationship-focused community banking. A ribbon-cutting ceremony followed at 1:00 p.m. in the building's atrium.
Remarks were shared by Megan Pore, Interim CEO of the Tipton Chamber of Commerce, followed by Chris Cook, President and CEO of The Farmers Bank. "This moment represents much more than the opening of a new financial center," said Chris Cook, President and CEO of The Farmers Bank. "It reflects our belief in Tipton, in downtown communities, and in the power of local banking relationships. We are proud to be here, proud to invest in this community, and excited to grow alongside the people, businesses, and organizations that make Tipton such a special place."
Tipton Mayor Kegan Schmicker concluded the ceremony by reflecting on the importance of reinvesting in downtown Tipton and the significance of opening a new bank in the city center just eight months after the previous bank location closed. Mayor Schmicker emphasized the impact of the new financial center on the community and its downtown vitality, noting the importance of having a locally focused bank once again serving residents and businesses in the center of the city.
Convenient Banking Services and Expanded Access
The Tipton Financial Center is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. The location features a fully operational Video ATM available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The financial center's Video ATM allows customers to speak directly with a live team member. Live Video ATM support is available Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon.
A Local Team Focused on Relationships
The Tipton Financial Center is led by Tipton native Joni Ripberger-Young, who serves as Financial Center Director. Amy Jackson Cowan serves as Assistant Financial Center Director. Additionally, longtime Farmers Bank team member Sandra Brant is providing operational support during the location's opening months. Brant, who currently serves as Financial Center Director for the Kirklin and Michigantown locations, will remain in Tipton through May to help ensure a strong and successful launch.
Founded in 1876, The Farmers Bank celebrates its 150th anniversary in June and continues to grow thoughtfully across central Indiana, guided by a commitment to personal service, community investment, and long-term relationships.
For more information about The Farmers Bank and its continued commitment to the community, visit http://www.thefarmersbank.com.
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About The Farmers Bank
Founded and headquartered in Frankfort, Indiana since 1876, The Farmers Bank is a community bank with 12 full-service locations across Boone, Clinton, Hamilton, and Tipton counties. Built on a legacy of trust and personal connection, The Farmers Bank offers comprehensive banking solutions - including deposits, lending, investment, and trust services - tailored to meet the needs of individuals, families, and businesses. Committed to growing stronger communities through meaningful relationships, The Farmers Bank continues to deliver a better banking experience-one relationship at a time. Member FDIC Equal Housing Lender. Learn more at thefarmersbank.com. Let's Grow!
MEDIA CONTACT
Lisa Ferguson, AVP Communications
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Steve Latour, VP Community & Customer Experience
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