Downtown Lowdown, presented by the Downtown Tipp City Partnership

Tippecanoe Gazette
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The official podcast of the Downtown Tipp City Partnership.

  1. 6d ago

    Yuletide Winter’s Gathering - Holiday Magic and Local Shopping - Downtown Lowdown, Episode 74

    Yuletide Winter’s Gathering: Holiday Magic, Local Shopping & Living Simply Soap The holiday season is almost here in Tipp City! In this episode of The Downtown Lowdown, host Tasha Weaver, Executive Director of the Downtown Tipp City Partnership, and co-host Greg Enslen welcome Tanya Brown, owner of Living Simply Soap, to talk about one of downtown’s most beloved traditions: Yuletide Winter’s Gathering. Taking place November 13–15, 2026, this festive weekend marks the kickoff to the Christmas shopping season, bringing visitors downtown to explore local shops, enjoy seasonal treats, and experience the charm of Tipp City. Tanya shares a behind-the-scenes look at preparing Living Simply Soap for its busiest season of the year, including handmade soaps, bath bombs featuring a special cocoa butter center, creative holiday gift sets, and exclusive packaging designed for Yuletide. She also discusses the growth of her business, the possibility of future workshop tours, and the importance of supporting local businesses. In This EpisodeYuletide Winter’s Gathering: Discover what makes this annual holiday tradition so special and what visitors can look forward to November 13–15.Holiday Shopping Downtown: Explore the unique gifts, festive decorations, and seasonal experiences offered by Tipp City’s local shops.Meet Living Simply Soap: Tanya shares the story behind her business and how her team prepares thousands of soaps and bath bombs for the holiday season.Unique Gifts for Everyone: Learn about custom gift packaging, holiday gift sets, stocking stuffers, and personalized gifts for friends, family, teachers, and coworkers.Festive Family Activities: Hear about horse-drawn wagon rides, Santa and Mrs. Claus, and opportunities to enjoy the holiday atmosphere downtown.Food and Community Spaces: Find out about food trucks, local restaurants, and community seating where visitors can take a break during their shopping adventures.A Sneak Peek at the Monroe Township Building: Learn about the public seating area and the gift-wrapping fundraiser supporting next year’s facade improvement program.Why Shopping Local Matters: Tanya explains how supporting small businesses helps keep downtown Tipp City thriving and preserves the community traditions residents love. Event Details: Yuletide Winter’s GatheringDates: November 13–15, 2026 Typical shopping hours: Friday, November 13: 10 a.m.–6 p.m.Saturday, November 14: 10 a.m.–6 p.m.Sunday, November 15: Noon–4 p.m. Visitors can enjoy downtown shopping, seasonal treats, horse-drawn wagon rides, and holiday activities throughout the weekend. Santa and Mrs. Claus are also expected to make appearances on Saturday and Sunday. Check the Yuletide Winter’s Gathering Facebook page for specific activity times and event updates. Visit Living Simply SoapLocation: 112 East Main Street, downtown Tipp City, Ohio Website: https://livingsimplysoap.com/ Whether you are searching for thoughtful holiday gifts or simply want to experience the magic of a small-town Christmas, Yuletide Winter’s Gathering is a wonderful opportunity to shop local and celebrate the community. Tune in to The Downtown Lowdown for more conversations with the people, businesses, and organizations that make Tipp City a special place to live, work, and visit. The Downtown Lowdown is brought to you by the Downtown Tipp City Partnership and powered by the Tipp City Foundation, investing in what makes our community thrive.

  2. Oct 21

    Let's Talk City Taxes - Downtown Lowdown, Episode 73

    The Downtown Lowdown: Understanding City Taxes & the BudgetOn this episode of The Downtown Lowdown, host Tasha Weaver is joined by Eric Mack, City Manager for the City of Tipp City, and John Green, Finance Director, for a conversation designed to answer a question many residents have: How do city taxes actually work? With the city’s budget process underway, the guests break down where Tipp City’s money comes from, where it goes, and why different sources of revenue cannot simply be used for whatever the city needs. Where Does Your Tax Money Go?One of the biggest misconceptions discussed in the episode is that property taxes paid by Tipp City residents primarily fund the city government. In reality, the city receives only a small portion of local property tax revenue. The city currently receives 1.4 mills of property tax, generating approximately $650,000 annually. The majority of property tax revenue goes toward schools and county government. The guests explain that the city's largest source of revenue is actually income tax. Tipp City collects approximately $9.5 million per year in income tax, with a portion dedicated specifically to capital improvements. The City's "Buckets" of MoneyA major part of the conversation focuses on fund accounting and the different "buckets" of money used by the city. Tipp City has 23 separate funds, with most of those funds restricted to specific purposes. For example, gas tax and motor vehicle tax revenue must be used for streets and related improvements, while water, electric, sewer and trash revenues support those respective services. That means money cannot simply be moved from one account to another because the city needs additional funding somewhere else. How Utility Bills Fit InJohn Green explains that Tipp City's electric, water, sewer and trash services are designed to be self-supporting. Money paid through utility bills goes toward operating those services, including employees, maintenance, equipment, infrastructure and other related costs. Utility revenue cannot simply be redirected to fund police, fire or other city departments. The discussion also touches on the city's efforts to keep utility costs manageable while planning for future improvements to the water and sewer systems. Police, Fire & Public SafetyPolice and fire represent a significant portion of the city's general fund expenditures. The guests discuss the transition to a full-time fire and EMS department in 2023, which increased the department's annual expenses substantially. The change was made without increasing the city's tax rate at the time, using a voter-approved reallocation of funding. The move to a full-time department has also improved emergency response capabilities, including ensuring that enough personnel are available to send multiple ambulances when needed. Capital Improvements & InfrastructureThe episode also looks at how the city pays for major projects such as street improvements, drainage projects, equipment and infrastructure. A half-percent income tax dedicated to capital improvements was approved by voters in 2011 and renewed in 2021. The guests explain that the money has been used primarily for projects including street improvements and public safety equipment. The city spends approximately $800,000 annually on paving, while larger drainage and infrastructure projects can cost hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars. The guests also discuss the city's use of objective road and alley assessments to help determine which projects should receive priority. Why Economic Development MattersAnother major topic is the connection between economic development and city revenue. Because income tax provides such a significant portion of the city's discretionary revenue, bringing new jobs and employers to Tipp City can help increase the city's revenue without simply raising taxes. The guests discuss the importance of finding a balance between residential, commercial and industrial development, noting that new businesses can bring additional jobs and income tax revenue while residential development can help provide the rooftops and traffic that businesses often look for when deciding where to locate. Understanding the City BudgetFor residents who want to learn more, the city publishes an annual budget document as well as financial reports explaining where money comes from and where it is spent. The episode also introduces a planned Citizens Academy, which will give residents an opportunity to learn more about city government, including finance, public works, police and fire. The program is expected to take place over several weeks during January and February. The Bottom LineThe conversation offers residents a behind-the-scenes look at the complicated process of managing a city budget. From taxes and utility bills to public safety, road improvements and economic development, the guests explain why responsible budgeting requires planning, prioritization and careful use of each funding source. Tune in to the latest episode of The Downtown Lowdown for the full conversation and a closer look at how Tipp City manages its finances and plans for the community's future.

  3. Oct 14

    The Talk of Tipp - Downtown Lowdown, Episode 72

    The Downtown Lowdown: Talk of TippOn this episode of The Downtown Lowdown, host Tasha Weaver, Executive Director of the Downtown Tipp City Partnership, sits down with Samantha McFadden from the Tipp City Chamber of Commerce to talk about Talk of Tipp, a community gathering designed to bring local businesses, organizations, and community members together. About Talk of TippTalk of Tipp is a collaborative event created by the Downtown Tipp City Partnership and the Tipp City Chamber of Commerce. Now in its third year, the event is open to everyone in the community, not just Chamber or Downtown Tipp City Partnership members. Each gathering typically brings together 35–40 local businesses and organizations, along with representatives from the city and schools. Attendees have the opportunity to hear community updates, share what is happening with their own businesses or organizations, and make new connections. A microphone is passed around during the gathering so attendees can introduce themselves and share announcements. Those who would rather listen are welcome to simply pass. Networking & Community ConnectionsTasha and Samantha discuss how Talk of Tipp has helped create meaningful connections throughout the community. The informal networking environment has led to new partnerships, business relationships, and even people taking on leadership roles within local organizations. The organizers also collect contact information so they can help connect local businesses and organizations when someone is looking for a particular service or resource. Attendees are encouraged to bring business cards and flyers to share with others. Upcoming Talk of TippThe next Talk of Tipp gathering will be: Thursday, October 22 9–10 a.m. Monroe Township Building – Basement Free admission No RSVP required Coffee will be provided, and community members can simply stop in and participate. Also DiscussedDuring the episode, Tasha and Samantha also discuss upcoming community activities, opportunities to get involved with the Chamber, and ways local businesses and organizations can continue working together. Tune in to the latest episode of The Downtown Lowdown to hear the full conversation and learn more about what is happening in Tipp City. #DowntownLowdown #TalkOfTipp #TippCity #TippCityOhio #DowntownTippCity #ShopLocal #SupportLocal

  4. Oct 7

    Christmas Home Tour and Parade with Kelly - Downtown Lowdown, Episode 71

    Highlighting Holiday Traditions and Call for Home Tour Participants By: Abbi Heckel The holiday season is already taking shape in downtown Tipp City, and the latest episode of the Downtown Lowdown offered listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the events, traditions and community volunteers helping make the season special. Hosted by Tasha Weaver, executive director of the Downtown Tipp City Partnership, the newest episode featured event coordinator Kelly Downing and Greg Enslen in a wide-ranging conversation about the upcoming holiday season. The biggest focus of the episode was the return of the historic Tippecanoe and Christmas Home Tour, an event that has become a longtime Tipp City tradition. This year's tour is planned for homes along First and Second streets, both north and south of Main Street. At the time of the recording, four homes and one business had committed to participate, but organizers are still looking for additional homeowners. The event remains pending until enough homes are secured, with organizers hoping to add at least two more properties. "We really want to be able to hold this event this year," Weaver said during the episode. The home tour has a long history in Tipp City and has attracted visitors from outside the community. Weaver noted that the event brings people into town, giving visitors an opportunity to experience the city's historic homes and downtown businesses. Downing emphasized that homeowners should not be intimidated by the idea of opening their homes for the tour. While preparing a home does require some work, homeowners receive considerable assistance from volunteers and professionals. The home tour committee helps measure homes for protective floor runners, while designers work with homeowners on decorating. Designers can help create holiday displays, including elaborate dining room tables, while homeowners also receive a $100 stipend to assist with decorating. The Downtown Tipp City Partnership also has extra Christmas trees, ornaments and decorations available, meaning homeowners do not necessarily have to purchase a large amount of new holiday décor. Master gardeners are also involved, offering homeowners advice about landscaping and outdoor preparations. Volunteers help with sidewalks and pedestrian areas, while groups such as the Canal Jumpers are assisting with safety and creating a welcoming atmosphere along the tour route. Downing said the goal is to make the experience manageable rather than overwhelming. The homes featured this year also offer a glimpse into Tipp City's history. One of the featured properties is the former home of the city's first mayor, located on First Street. Another is a cottage-style home with a beautiful courtyard that was reportedly associated with the Miami and Erie Canal and the person who helped monitor canal traffic. Other homes include a traditional Craftsman-style property and a home on North First Street connected to some of the earliest development of Tipp City. The historical character of the properties is one of the reasons organizers believe the tour is so appealing. Visitors do not simply walk through decorated homes; they also learn about the architecture, previous owners and stories that make each property unique. For homeowners who are worried about the condition of their property, Greg shared his own experience of participating in the home tour. He said the event gave his family an incentive to complete projects around their house that they had already been planning to tackle. Rather than being a source of panic, the approaching deadline helped provide motivation to get things done. Organizers also stressed that a home does not need to look like it belongs in a magazine to be included. "Magazine ready" is not the expectation, Downing explained, noting that the committee and its volunteers are there to help homeowners throughout the process. A Special Preview NightOne of the highlights of the home tour is the special preview night. The Friday evening event is planned for 6 to 8 p.m., giving visitors an opportunity to see the homes illuminated with Christmas lights, outdoor decorations and luminaries. A limited number of preview-night tickets will be available in order to keep crowds manageable and allow visitors more time to enjoy the homes. An after-party featuring appetizers and music is also planned as part of the preview-night experience. For those who cannot attend the Saturday portion of the tour, the Friday evening preview provides another opportunity to experience the homes. The regular home tour is planned for Saturday from noon to 5 p.m., with a cookie chalet among the attractions. Tickets for the home tour had not yet gone on sale at the time of the recording because organizers first need to confirm that the event will take place. Anyone who knows a homeowner on First or Second Street who might be interested in participating is encouraged to reach out to the Downtown Tipp City Partnership and help spread the word. Christmas Spirit Throughout DowntownThe conversation also turned to the broader holiday season in Tipp City, including Tipp the Halls and other seasonal programming. The Partnership is collecting Christmas decorations to help transform downtown and assist participating homeowners. Decorations in good condition, whether antique or new, are welcome, although organizers said they are not currently accepting inflatables. A storage space is being assembled to house the growing collection of Christmas decorations. Those decorations can then be used throughout the holiday programming and made available to homeowners who need additional décor. The episode also highlighted the community support behind the season's events, including volunteers, local organizations and businesses. Among the events discussed was the holiday parade planned for Saturday, Nov. 21, with organizers noting that the date could potentially be adjusted depending on the local high school football playoff schedule. The episode also looked ahead to Dec. 4, when the home tour's preview night will coincide with downtown's holiday activity and the Moonlight and Mistletoe after-hours shopping event. Merchants are expected to participate with extended hours, special promotions and other activities, helping create the festive atmosphere throughout downtown. The conversation also touched on the return of the Yuletide Winter Gathering, a tradition remembered by Weaver for its horses, snow and Christmas atmosphere. Organizers hope to bring carolers back downtown as part of the holiday experience as well. The Partnership's holiday season is expected to stretch well beyond Christmas, with holiday programming beginning around Nov. 1 and continuing through Jan. 31. A Community TraditionThroughout the episode, Weaver, Downing and Enslen emphasized that the holiday season is about more than decorations and events. It is about bringing people into downtown Tipp City and giving residents and visitors opportunities to gather together. For the home tour, the immediate priority is finding additional participating properties. With historic homes, Christmas decorations, illuminated streets, holiday shopping and community events all coming together, organizers hope the season will once again showcase what makes Tipp City special. The Downtown Lowdown is produced by the Downtown Tipp City Partnership and features conversations about the people, businesses, events and stories shaping the community. The podcast is released weekly and is available wherever podcasts are heard.

  5. Sep 30

    Tipp the Halls: Answering Your Christmas Questions - Downtown Lowdown, Episode 70

    Tipp the Halls: Answering Your Christmas QuestionsIn this episode of The Downtown Lowdown, host Tasha Weaver, Executive Director of the Downtown Tipp City Partnership, sits down with co-host Greg Enslen to answer some of the most common questions surrounding Tipp the Halls, the Downtown Partnership’s massive holiday project taking place in the basement of the Monroe Township Building. What exactly is Tipp the Halls? Is the space open to the public? Can you rent it for a private event? Are there vendors? How can you volunteer? Tasha and Greg break down the details and explain the vision behind turning the space into a festive Christmas destination for the community. In This Episode:🎄 What exactly Tipp the Halls is and how the holiday space will be used✨ The massive Christmas decorating project and the plans for making the space festive🧹 The October 28 cleaning pizza party and how community members can help prepare the space🎅 The October 30 decorating day, beginning at 9 AM, and how volunteers can get involved👀 Why Tipp the Halls is not open to the public every day🏠 How private events and community events will use the space🎁 The special vendor setup planned for Yuletide Winter’s Gathering weekend🎶 Upcoming public events including Christmas music bingo and Christmas music trivia📋 Why registration is required for certain free public events🎉 How businesses, families, and organizations can potentially rent the space for holiday gatherings📅 How the rental calendar and application process work🏛️ The role of Monroe Township in approving rental applications❤️ Why Tasha created Tip the Halls and the need for additional community event space🍪 And, of course, a brief discussion about Tipp City’s giant griddle Tasha also shares the bigger vision behind the project: creating a space where families, businesses, organizations, and the community can come together during the holiday season while embracing Tipp City’s reputation as a festive Christmas destination. Tipp the Halls isn't just one event it's a series of events designed to bring people together throughout the holiday season. Have more questions about Tipp the Halls? Tasha encourages listeners to reach out to the Downtown Tipp City Partnership for more information. 🎙️ The Downtown Lowdown is brought to you by the Downtown Tipp City Partnership and powered by the Tipp City Foundation.

  6. Sep 23

    Tipp City Chamber Gala - Downtown Lowdown, Episode 69

    Downtown Lowdown: Tipp City Chamber GalaHost: Tasha Weaver Co-Host: Greg Enslen Guest: Samantha McFadden, Executive Director of the Tipp City Chamber of Commerce The latest episode of The Downtown Lowdown welcomes Samantha McFadden, Executive Director of the Tipp City Chamber of Commerce, to talk about the upcoming Tipp City Chamber Gala and everything guests can look forward to this year. The annual gala will take place Wednesday, December 2, at 6 p.m. at the Arbogast Performing Arts Center (APAC). This year brings a few changes to the event, including the use of the APAC auditorium for the awards program and more space for guests to spread out and mingle. What's Happening at the Gala?The evening begins with approximately 45 minutes of networking, appetizers and a cash bar before guests move into dinner and the awards program. The Chamber will recognize recipients in four categories: Small Business of the Year — businesses with fewer than 10 employeesBusiness of the Year — businesses with more than 10 employeesYoung Professional of the Year — nominees under 40Citizen of the Year The winners are kept secret until the night of the gala, making the awards a surprise for the recipients. Community nominations are currently open through the Chamber's website. The gala will also recognize new Chamber board members and provide an opportunity to hear about the Chamber's work over the past year and what's ahead. New Changes for 2026One of the biggest changes this year is moving the awards program into the APAC auditorium. Dinner will still be part of the evening, but guests will be spread between the upstairs and downstairs areas, with a bar upstairs. The change is designed to create more room and encourage guests to continue networking and mingling throughout the evening. APAC has also made upgrades to the facility, including a new VIP area and a bar that is expected to be available for the event. Sponsorship OpportunitiesThe Chamber has several ways for businesses to support the gala. Signature Sponsorship — $1,000 Table for eightBusiness included on the gala invitationRecognition in the dinner program Premier Sponsorship — $600 Four seatsBusiness included on the invitation and dinner program There are also program sponsorships for $250 and a centerpiece sponsorship, which places the sponsor's logo on every table. Bar sponsorships for this year's event have already been filled. The deadline for sponsorships that need to appear on the printed invitation is September 30. TicketsBusinesses and community members who don't want to sponsor the event can still attend. Table of 8: $600Individual ticket: $65Ticket/sign-up deadline: November 20 Samantha also encouraged businesses that have never attended the gala to consider coming this year as a way to meet other local businesses, build connections and become more involved in the Tipp City community. Raffle Prizes & DonationsThe gala will once again feature raffle prizes donated by local businesses. Businesses interested in contributing a prize can contact the Chamber office or reach out to the Chamber directly. How to Get InvolvedTo purchase tickets, choose a sponsorship level or submit an award nomination, visit the Tipp City Chamber of Commerce website. Questions can also be directed to info@tipcitychamber.org. The episode also covers the Chamber's Coffee with Champions, held every Tuesday and open to the public, as well as a look ahead to the Chamber's 2027 calendar of events. Tune in to hear Tasha, Greg and Samantha talk about the gala, local business networking, the awards, sponsorship opportunities and what makes this annual event such an important gathering for the Tipp City community.

  7. Sep 16

    Ghost Tours are Back! - Downtown Lowdown, Episode 68

    Downtown Lowdown: Tipp City’s Ghost Tour Returns!On this episode of Downtown Lowdown, host Tasha Weaver and co-host Greg Enslen sit down with Amanda from Browse Awhile Books to talk about the return of a long-requested Tipp City tradition, the Downtown Tipp City Ghost Tour! After last taking place in 2018, the ghost tour is coming back for one night only this October. Amanda gives Tasha and Greg a behind-the-scenes look at what guests can expect, from the hidden and sometimes darker history of downtown Tipp City to stories, claims, personal experiences, and even some actual EVPs (Electronic Voice Phenomena) captured during paranormal investigations. The approximately two-hour walking tour will visit more than 30 locations throughout downtown, with stops featuring fascinating, and sometimes creepy pieces of Tipp City history. Guests will hear about some of the stories that aren't necessarily found in a quick Google search, including the town's more unusual and taboo history. Amanda also explains how EVPs are captured during investigations and how some voices or sounds aren't discovered until investigators review their recordings afterward. During the tour, guests will hear some of these recordings at the locations where they were captured. 👻 Ghost Tour Details📅 Saturday, October 24th ⏰ 7:00–9:00 PM 📍 Starts & ends at Browse Awhile Books 🎟️ $15 per ticket 👥 Maximum of 50 guests 🌧️ Rain or shine The tour will remain within the downtown area, traveling as far east as the Canal Lock and toward the railroad tracks before returning to Browse Awhile Books. Guests should plan to walk for approximately two hours and wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. This is a family-friendly event. It isn't a haunted-house-style experience with actors jumping out or touching guests. Instead, the focus is on Tipp City's history, stories, evidence, and the unexplained. And, of course, Tasha and Greg manage to get a little off-topic along the way including costumes, spooky season, parking, haunted downtown buildings, and the all-important possibility of a potty break! With only 50 spots available, this is one event you won't want to wait too long to grab tickets for. Tune in to this episode of Downtown Lowdown to hear more about the tour, learn a little about the history hiding in downtown Tipp City, and find out why there's a lot more to the city than meets the eye!

  8. Sep 9

    Celebrating Tipp City’s Downtown - Downtown Lowdown, Episode 67

    This podcast episode delves into the significant contributions of the Downtown Tipp City Partnership and its recent nominations for statewide awards, highlighting the impact of local initiatives on community engagement and development. We engage in a conversation surrounding the Heritage Ohio conference, which serves as a pivotal platform for recognizing individuals and organizations that enhance the vitality of Main Street programs. Throughout the discussion, we celebrate the achievements of local figures, including the Business of the Year award recipient and the nominees for various accolades that underscore the essence of community spirit. Furthermore, we explore the innovative Tipopoly board game project, which not only fosters local engagement but also supports the establishment of an endowment fund aimed at sustaining the partnership's future endeavors. Join us as we uncover the dynamic narratives that shape downtown Tipp City and reflect on the collective efforts that contribute to its thriving atmosphere. The Downtown Lowdown podcast, hosted by Tasha Weaver, is a vibrant exploration of the happenings in Tipp City, Ohio, particularly focusing on the community's interaction with Heritage Ohio. In this episode, Tasha and her co-host, Greg, delve into the significance of the annual Heritage Ohio conference, which serves as a platform for recognizing individuals and organizations that contribute positively to their communities. The discussion highlights the importance of Main Street programs, which aim to revitalize and preserve downtown areas, and how Tipp City is actively participating in these initiatives. The hosts express excitement about the upcoming nominations for community awards, reflecting on previous accolades achieved by local businesses, such as the Tippicanoe Gazette's recognition as Business of the Year. Through this dialogue, listeners gain insight into the collaborative efforts that underpin community development and the personal stories that fuel the passion for local engagement. Takeaways: The Downtown Tipp City Partnership plays a pivotal role in fostering community development.Heritage Ohio provides essential accreditation and support for Main Street programs across the state.Nominations for community awards recognize individuals and initiatives that positively impact downtown areas.Engagement with the local community is crucial for the success of downtown revitalization efforts.The Tipopoly board game has generated funds for an endowment to support local initiatives.The strategic planning meeting aims to set objectives for the next three years of community development.

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