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. 5d ago

    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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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!

  4. 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.

  5. Sep 2

    FORE the Love of Downtown! - Downtown Lowdown, Episode 66

    The forthcoming golf scramble, aptly named "For the Love of Downtown," serves as the central focus of this podcast episode. We are thrilled to discuss the intricate details surrounding this event, which is scheduled to take place on October 2nd at the Homestead Golf Course. Our esteemed guest, Rob Brown, representing the Main Street Financial Group, elucidates the significance of this tournament as a vital fundraising initiative for holiday community programming in Tip City. Participants can anticipate a unique experience at each hole, enhancing the traditional format of a golf scramble with various engaging activities. We invite our listeners to join us in this endeavor, as we strive to foster a vibrant downtown community through this enjoyable and philanthropic event. Takeaways: The Downtown Lowdown podcast is a significant platform for sharing local events and stories.The upcoming 'For the Love of Downtown Golf Scramble' is scheduled for October 2nd at Homestead Golf Course.This golf scramble aims to raise funds for community programming and beautification efforts during the holiday season.Attendees can expect unique experiences at various holes throughout the golf scramble event.The event is supported by Main Street Financial Group Thrivent and highlights the importance of community partnerships.Volunteers and participants are encouraged to register early to secure their spots before the event deadline.

  6. Aug 26

    Tippapalooza Rocks Downtown - Downtown Lowdown

    Downtown Lowdown: TippapaloozaEpisode Overview On this episode of Downtown Lowdown, Greg Enslen and Tasha Weaver sit down with Bill to talk all things Tippapalooza—the annual music festival that has grown from a small gathering at Eagles Park into a major community event in downtown Tipp City. Now celebrating its 15th year, Tippapalooza has become a Labor Day weekend tradition focused on live music, local businesses, food, drinks, and bringing the community together. The move downtown has helped transform the event into a free, family-friendly celebration that draws crowds from across the Miami Valley. What to Expect at TippapaloozaThis year's event takes place Saturday, September 5, with food and festivities beginning around 5 p.m. and live music starting around 6 p.m. South Second Street between Main and Dow will be blocked off for the event, with a large stage featuring four bands throughout the evening. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets, enjoy food and drinks from downtown businesses, and dance in the street. This Year's LineupTippapalooza is all about showcasing original music from talented artists with connections to the Miami Valley. Yuppie — An indie rock band blending gritty roots rock with storytelling. The band was also a finalist in this year's Dayton Battle of the Bands.Gage Thomas Band — A soulful mix of blues, rock, folk, and improvisational jams.Noah Witherspoon Band — This year's headliner. Witherspoon is an internationally recognized blues guitarist, an Ohio Blues Hall of Fame member, and an award-winning musician.Kiddinger — The night's closing act, featuring all-star players from different bands and a mix of indie pop, alternative rock, and synth pop. The Tippapalooza team spends much of the year scouting musicians and looking for artists who fit the event. Rather than focusing on cover bands, the festival prioritizes musicians who are writing and recording original music in the Miami Valley. Food, Drinks & Downtown BusinessesOne of the best parts of bringing Tippapalooza downtown is the opportunity to showcase local businesses. Several downtown establishments will offer food and drink specials, including grab-and-go sandwiches, ice cream, bubble tea, pizza by the slice, beer, cocktails, and other refreshments. Because the event takes place within Tipp City's DORA district, outside alcoholic beverages are not permitted. There will also be plenty of non-alcoholic options available, including bottled water and soft drinks. Keeping Tippapalooza FreeTippapalooza has been a free event for the past three years, and attendance has grown dramatically since admission became free. What once brought approximately 300–500 people now attracts roughly 1,000–1,200 attendees. Keeping the event free requires significant community support. Sponsors help cover expenses such as bands, staging, insurance, portable restrooms, printing, and other event costs. This year, organizers will also have donation opportunities during the event, including donation cans and a QR code. The goal is to help cover the rising costs of putting on a free community festival. Rain or ShineTipapalooza is a rain-or-shine event. The organizers have dealt with rainy years before and are prepared to keep the music going—even if attendees get a little wet. The Downtown Tipp City Partnership has even purchased 150 adult ponchos to help prepare for whatever weather Labor Day weekend brings. Parking & AccessibilityParking is not expected to be a major issue, with options available around downtown, including the Eagles parking lot, Broadway, spaces behind South Second Street businesses, the Methodist Church, and surrounding street parking. For attendees with mobility concerns, a golf cart service is available to pick people up from their parking location and bring them to the event. Arrangements can be made through the Downtown Tipp City Partnership. Get Ready for Tippapalooza!Whether you're a longtime Tippapalooza fan or you've never attended before, this year's festival promises a night of original music, local food, drinks, dancing, and community fun. Tippapalooza 2026 📅 Saturday, September 5 🕔 Food & festivities: Around 5 p.m. 🎶 Live music: Around 6 p.m. 📍 Downtown Tipp City 🎟️ Free admission 🌧️ Rain or shine For more information, visit Tippapalooza.com or check out the event's Facebook and Instagram pages for updates and details. About Downtown Lowdown: Downtown Lowdown brings listeners behind the scenes of the people, businesses, organizations, events, and stories that make downtown Tipp City a special place to live, work, and visit.

  7. Aug 19

    Eric Mack on the Future of Tipp City - Downtown Lowdown

    Downtown Lowdown: Eric Mack on the Future of Tipp CityGuest: Eric Mack, Tipp City City Manager Hosts: Greg Enslen and Tasha Weaver Episode OverviewIn the newest episode of Downtown Lowdown, Greg Enslen and Tasha Weaver sit down with Tipp City City Manager Eric Mack to discuss some of the biggest developments happening around the community — including the potential arrival of a new Meijer, the city's purchase of property, infrastructure improvements, downtown projects, and the future growth of Tipp City. With plenty of questions and discussion surrounding recent city council decisions, Eric provides insight into why the city has been acquiring property, how zoning affects what businesses can come to Tipp City, and what the city can and cannot control when it comes to attracting new businesses. The Future of the 60-Acre PropertyOne of the biggest topics of the episode is the city's acquisition of approximately 60 acres of property and what could eventually happen there. Eric explains that the opportunity came directly from the property owners, who approached the city because they wanted the land to have a community-focused future rather than simply selling it to the highest bidder. The timing also lined up with the city's ongoing efforts to evaluate development in and around the uptown area. The conversation explores why owning the property gives the city considerably more control over what eventually develops there. Could Meijer Be Coming to Tipp City?The biggest development discussed is the potential arrival of Meijer. The city recently approved a real estate option agreement that gives Meijer the exclusive right to purchase approximately 17 acres of the 60-acre property. The agreement provides an initial six-month option with another six-month extension, giving Meijer roughly a year to complete its due diligence and determine whether the property will work for its plans. Eric emphasizes that this does not mean Tipp City can officially announce that a grocery store is coming yet. There are still environmental, engineering, construction and other considerations that must be addressed before the deal can move forward. The agreed-upon purchase price discussed in the episode is $3.05 million, correcting a figure that was reported incorrectly elsewhere. Why Can't Tipp City Just Get Trader Joe's?The hosts tackle one of the questions they hear constantly: Why doesn't Tipp City just bring in Trader Joe's, Aldi, Dorothy Lane Market, or another popular grocery store? Eric explains that the city cannot force a private company to open a location. Grocery stores and other businesses make their own decisions based on factors such as market demographics, traffic counts, available property, projected growth and their individual business models. The city has reportedly had conversations with multiple grocery companies, but ultimately those businesses have to decide whether Tipp City fits their requirements. Why the City Buys PropertyAnother major theme is control. Eric and the hosts discuss the difference between owning property and simply having zoning authority over privately owned land. While zoning determines what types of businesses can operate in a particular area, the city generally cannot pick and choose between businesses that meet the requirements. By purchasing property, the city has more control over what ultimately happens with that land. That philosophy has played a major role in the city's decisions involving the Tip City Plaza and the 60-acre property. What Happens to the Rest of the 60 Acres?Meijer's potential purchase would cover roughly 17 acres, leaving the remaining property under city control. That means the city can continue working with its development partner, Woodard Development, to identify other businesses that could potentially occupy the surrounding outlots. The discussion explains how having a major anchor retailer could make the surrounding properties more attractive to restaurants, shops and other businesses because those businesses often look closely at traffic and customer volume when deciding where to locate. Growth Without Losing Tipp City's Small-Town FeelThe conversation also addresses one of the biggest concerns surrounding development: How can Tipp City grow without losing what makes Tipp City special? Eric discusses the city's newly adopted comprehensive plan and the public input that went into it. Surveys involving roughly 1,200 residents, along with a student survey, helped identify what people want to see in Tipp City in the future. Among the most frequently requested amenities was a grocery store, along with other ideas such as bike paths and a downtown historical museum. The location of the 60-acre property was also intentional. Because it sits on the western edge of the city and along major roadways, the city believes development there can occur without fundamentally changing the character of downtown Tipp City. Traffic, Infrastructure & Smart GrowthWhat about all the additional traffic? Eric explains that the city has already begun looking at the potential impact through a traffic study, while also examining utility and infrastructure needs. The city is planning ahead for potential improvements to roads, water, sewer and other infrastructure. The city has also secured approximately $1 million in state funding for infrastructure related to the project. Eric describes the goal as smart growth — allowing Tipp City to grow while planning for the infrastructure needed to support that growth. Will Taxpayers Pay for It?The hosts also address concerns about the project becoming a burden on Tipp City taxpayers. Eric explains that the city is looking at multiple funding mechanisms, including property revenue, state grants and other development-related financing tools, to help cover the costs associated with the project. He also notes that the city has received more than $1.5 million in grant funding so far this year, with additional applications pending. When Could Meijer Open?If Meijer completes its due diligence and moves forward with the purchase, there would still be a significant amount of work before the store could open. The city would need to design and construct infrastructure and utilities, while Meijer would need to move through its own construction process. Eric estimates that, assuming the project continues forward, 2029–2030 could be a reasonable general timeframe for a potential grand opening. Other Projects Happening Around Tipp CityThe episode isn't all about Meijer. Eric also provides updates on several other projects around town, including: Second Street culvert replacement near Parkwood and the Moki DitchA temporary change to the Tipp City Mum Festival parade route because of constructionUpcoming downtown pedestrian safety bollardsContinued alley resurfacingRecent street resurfacingSubstation work near Peters Road Eric explains that the city's alley resurfacing program prioritizes the worst-condition alleys first, with the goal of steadily working through the city's aging infrastructure over time. An Open Conversation About Tipp City's FutureThroughout the episode, Eric emphasizes the importance of communication between city officials and residents. He encourages residents with questions or concerns to reach out, ask questions and participate in the process rather than relying on rumors or assumptions. The conversation also recognizes that growth and development will inevitably bring disagreements. The challenge for city officials is balancing private property rights, neighboring residents, commercial development and what the city believes is best for Tipp City as a whole. From a potential new grocery store to road improvements and downtown development, this episode offers an inside look at what is happening in Tipp City now — and what could be coming next. In This EpisodeEric Mack joins Downtown LowdownThe history behind the city's 60-acre property purchaseWhy the city purchased the Tip City PlazaThe potential Meijer developmentWhat Meijer's option agreement actually meansWhy the city can't simply force Trader Joe's or another grocery store to move to Tipp CityHow zoning impacts developmentWhy property ownership gives the city more controlThe future of the remaining 60-acre propertyWoodard Development and potential future businessesTipp City's comprehensive planWhat residents say they want to see in the communityTraffic studies and infrastructure planningState funding and grantsHow the city is approaching smart growthPotential Meijer construction and opening timelineThe Second Street culvert projectChanges to the Mum Festival parade routeDowntown pedestrian

  8. Aug 12

    From New York to Tipp City and the Legacy of Captain Elijah Miles Part Three - Downtown Lowdown, Episode 63

    The Downtown Lowdown: From New York to Tipp City and the Legacy of Captain Elijah Miles Part Three By Abbi Heckel The conversation with local Ron Re continues in Part Three of this special three-part series of The Downtown Lowdown. In the final installment, Ron shares more about his own incredible journey. Before becoming a longtime Tipp City police officer, Ron worked as a police officer at the 1964–1965 New York World's Fair, where he met his wife, Sue Ann. He later moved to Ohio and went on to serve more than 30 years with the Tipp City Police Department. Ron also shares stories from the early days of Tipp City’s police department, including the department's transition from a largely volunteer force to a full-time police department. He recalls his first experiences working in Tipp City, the differences between policing in New York and Ohio, and how local residents, including the men who gathered downtown and the barbershop regulars, helped him learn the stories and history of the community. The episode then returns to the historic home at the corner of Fourth and Main Streets, once the home of Captain Elijah Miles. Built in 1888, the magnificent Victorian home stood for exactly 100 years before being destroyed by fire in 1988. Ron shares more about the home, its carriage house, and the history of the property. The episode concludes with a deeper look at Captain Miles himself and why he was so beloved by the community. A Civil War veteran, Captain Miles was the first person from the area to enlist in the Union Army in 1861. He served in numerous major battles and participated in Sherman's March to the Sea. After the war, he continued to serve Tipp City in numerous roles, including postmaster, bank cashier, president of the Board of Education, secretary of the Monroe Building and Loan Association, cemetery association secretary, church treasurer, and a longtime member of the Masons. He even personally helped care for the pool at City Park. With a lifetime of military and community service behind him, Captain Miles became one of the most respected figures in Tipp City history, making the parade held in his honor after his death a fitting tribute to a remarkable life. The series closes with a reminder of the importance of preserving local history and listening to the stories of the people who lived it. Ron’s stories offer a glimpse into a Tipp City that may look different today, but whose sense of community and history still lives on. 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.

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