Four Winds Indigenous Fashion Show Set for Dayton Arcade

By Greg Enslen, Tippecanoe Gazette

Ruby Redfox Shares Vision and Community Impact of Bringing Indigenous Peoples together in Celebration of Culture

The latest episode of the News Maker’s podcast, presented by the Tippecanoe Gazette, spotlights the much-anticipated Four Winds Indigenous Fashion Show scheduled for November 9 at the Dayton Arcade. Special guests Ruby Redfox and Sharon Elaine provided exclusive insights into the event’s significance, lineup, and broader aims.

The Four Winds Indigenous Fashion Show will take place on Sunday, November 9, 2025 in the Tank at the Dayton Arcade from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. During her interview, Redfox emphasized that the event will feature storytelling, traditional music, live art displays, and family-friendly activities designed to educate and inspire participants of all ages. The Fashion Show promised to be the highlight and will feature fashions from indigenous designers – and indigenous models of all ages.

This gathering, created and organized by Ruby, aims to celebrate Indigenous heritage, promote cultural understanding, and bring the Dayton-area community together in a joyous recognition of ancestral traditions.

Guests from Across the Country

Podcast hosts Greg Enslen and Abbi Heckel chatted with Redfox and Elaine about the inspirations behind the event. Redfox underscored the importance of recognizing cultural heritage, especially in the Midwest, and spoke about the large group of designers, models, dancers and vendors that will be in attendance, flying in from all over the country. Each will share wisdom, stories, and performances reflecting their unique contributions to cultural heritage and community art.

The Four Winds Great Miami Indigenous Fashion Show promises to be a spectacular showcase of traditional and contemporary Indigenous fashion designs. Visitors will get a chance to experience the rich cultural heritage and creativity of Indigenous artisans and designers, and the event promises an immersive journey into the world of Indigenous fashion, featuring unique pieces that celebrate tradition and innovation.

The show will also be featuring the amazing women of NAWW, a group of Native American women veterans from around the country, as well as tribal elders, singers, dancers and musicians. Genuine cuisine representative of Indigenous cultures will be offered as well.

40 Tribal Nations to be Represented

Redfox was excited to share that representatives from many tribal nations would be represented. She stated that the name of the event holds a special meaning: “Four Winds” also means “Four Directions” as guests will be coming in from all directions, gathering from East, South, West, and North to bring stories and voices together in unity and celebration through fashion and art.

The vendor and art fair will showcase Native American artisan and other wares as each shares wisdom, stories, and performances reflecting their unique contributions to cultural heritage and community art.

The entire event will be capped off with a fashion show which will feature Harmony Star, Aaron Buffalo, Okwarikowa Originals, Deerheart, and the Featured Designer, Kayla Lookinghorse.

Thanks for tuning in! 

For more information on the Four Winds Indigenous Peoples event—including schedules, featured performers, and volunteer opportunities—visit Ruby Redfox’s Facebook page by searching on Facebook for “Four Winds Indigenous Fashion Show.” Tickets are also available on the Facebook page along with updates on the event ahead of November 9. Additional coverage and local updates are available from the Tippecanoe Gazette at tippecanoegazette.com.

The News Makers podcast is a presentation of the Tippecanoe Gazette. For more information about the podcast or to subscribe to the newspaper, visit www.tippgazette.com. Talk soon!

Let’s Talk Insurance With Phil Cox

By: Abbi Heckel

Have you ever been overwhelmed by your personal finances? Have you ever been in desperate need of a reliable and most importantly, local insurance firm? Did you know Tipp has one of the best firms right here in the heart of our town! This week's episode of the News Makers podcast features hosts Meredith Mckee and Greg Enslen as they talk to special guest Phil Cox, the owner of Royal Crest Insurance Agency, to see how they can make insurance less of a stressful experience for you. 

Who Is Phil Cox?

Originally hailing from Darke County, Ohio, Phil grew up in a farm setting. At the age of 18 Phil Cox attended Bowling Greene State University to obtain a degree in Public Relations. After college Phil used his education to travel across almost all of the United States gaining further knowledge in Public Relations. After his travels, Phil came back to Ohio to further his studies at University of Dayton for a degree in law. Phil also earned a masters degree in the school of business education. Phil then went on to start his first official insurance position in Columbus, Ohio. He has been in the industry ever since for nearly forty years under his belt now. 

What is the Royal Crest Insurance Agency?

You may not know this but Royal Crest started out in the food industry selling dairy products in Dayton, Ohio. Alongside the dairy production, the Royal Crest name was also used for a distribution company that transported the goods across the country. Phil Cox’s father was a part owner of the Royal Crest company. This is how the Royal Crest name has stayed around to this very day. What sets Royal Crest Insurance Agency apart from a competitive standpoint is that they are considered independent. This means they have a lot more freedom to help you get the best outcome for whatever your situation. Royal Crest also excels in the world of bonds, which helps boost your projects so they become a reality in half the time. With access to hospitals, accounts, lawyers, physical therapists, and so much more. Royal Crest has YOU covered. So before you find yourself in desperate need of insurance coverage consider Royal Crest to be your best bet.  

Royal Crest Insurance Agency, Insurance Made Easy! News Makers is a presentation of the Tippecanoe Gazette, a weekly print and digital newspaper published in Tipp City, Ohio. Subscribe today to the newspaper at www.tippgazette.com to enjoy weekly reporting covering local news, sports, events and items of interest.

By: Abbi Heckel

In this special episode for the Tippecanoe Gazette Greg Enslen, along with City Manager Eric Mack as well as Brad Doudican head of Woodard Development to give you the insider scoop on the once abandoned grocery store in Tipp City, Ohio. 

What Happened to the Grocery Store?

The space started out as a Food Town. Tipp Cities very own local grocery store that unfortunately fell on hard times and was no longer able to keep up with expenses. That’s when La Plaza Tapitia stepped into the spotlight as a Mexican grocery store with vast cultural cuisine. La Plaza Tapitia much like its predecessor, ended up closing its doors to the public in 2022. Earlier this year in February it was decided by the Tipp City council that the property was to be purchased and updated to help bring in more foot-traffic to the quaint town. 

What Do We Know Now?

The once dilapidated building is already getting a breath of new life. Brad Doudican has been hard at work with Woodard Development to clean and clear out the space to prepare for upcoming renovations and for public safety measures. The Tipp City Plaza in its entirety has already turned into a brighter hub with a shiny new parking lot. The old Burger King is no longer an eyesore to passersby. As well as small beautifications to the property and new safety measures. With so many possibilities in store for the Plaza’s future you’ll want to stay updated by checking out the Gazette in paper form but also now in video form! We can't wait to see what's in store for Tipp City… 

and here is the recent Tipp Gazette article on the exclusive interviews:

Plaza Progress! How Tipp City and Woodard are Revitalizing Tipp City’s Old Grocery

Staff Reports, Tippecanoe Gazette

An exclusive walkthrough of the former grocery building with Tipp City Manager Eric Mack and Woodard Development’s Brad Doudican

On a sunny afternoon inside the old La Plaza Tapatia grocery store ­— aka, Food Town — the Tippecanoe Gazette scored an exclusive look behind Tipp City’s most intriguing redevelopment project. We walked the space, now owned by the City of Tipp City, while chatting with Eric Mack, Tipp’s City Manager, and Brad Doudican of Woodard Development. Woodard has been tasked with bringing new life to the Tipp Plaza—and the old grocery space, a once-bustling community anchor.

From Forgotten Space to Future Possibility

The echo of footsteps in the freshly cleared aisles signaled just how far the building has come. “When we first stepped in, we knew there was a long road ahead,” Doudican shared. Woodard Development, together with Tipp City's council and staff, began their hands-on involvement more than two years ago, culminating in the City’s purchase of the building and other adjacent property in February of 2025. “Our role started with helping the city acquire this property,” Doudican explained. "Then came a lot of property management—figuring out the leases, refreshing the building, and making the whole plaza presentable again."

City Steps Up to Address Long-Standing Issues

Eric Mack shed light on why the city purchased the plaza, stating that it had been a "major eyesore" and a source of ongoing complaints for years. "The goal was to clean up this issue for the city," he said, describing the extensive work done since the February acquisition to stabilize the property and begin the redevelopment process.

"This place had been closed for about two years," Mack noted. "A significant amount of abandoned food was left behind by the previous tenant, and, unfortunately, much of it was unusable. We coordinated with the Needy Basket food bank to salvage what we could and responsibly disposed of the rest."

Recent videos on social media showed the empty grocery store full of trash and shelves stacked with expired food. But today’s tour of the space brought a measure of relief – and an opportunity for the city to get ahead of the potential problem.

Out With the Old, In with the Clean

The city took possession of the property in February and addressed the interior issues—and the abandoned food—as quickly as possible. Woodard’s team replaced the roof, sealed up the building, addressed concrete and asphalt issues in the parking lot, and took care of security. They also repaved the entire parking lot and restriped all the parking areas.

“We started on the outside and worked our way in,” Doudican said, emphasizing the commitment to both safety and curb appeal.

Their biggest challenge was the need to remove an entire store’s worth of left-behind food. Local food pantries were invited in to take away and reuse as much canned food and other items as they could. Unfortunately, because the store had been closed for so long, most of the food was expired and had to be destroyed.

Read the full article here: https://www.tippgazette.com/news/2025/8/plaza-progress-how-tipp-and-woodard-are-revitalizing-tipps-old-grocery?rq=plaza

Discovering Dayton's Culinary Gems: Highlights from the News Makers Podcast

If you’re a food enthusiast looking for your next culinary adventure, you won’t want to miss the latest episode of the News Makers Podcast. In this exciting installment, host Greg Enslen invites Frank S. to take the audience on a tantalizing journey through the vibrant food scene around Dayton, Ohio, showcasing a mix of hidden gems and beloved staples that make the area a foodie paradise.

One of the standout mentions from the episode is the Silas Creative Kitchen, located in Versailles. Frank tells the other guests about this charming establishment, noting its commitment to producing the most spectacular flavors. The ambiance is just as unique with the Silas being tucked away inside of the local hotel. Listeners are encouraged to sample their mouth–watering delectable dishes, which creatively blend local flavors with culinary trends. The hosts share personal anecdotes about their favorite dishes, making it clear that Silas Creative Kitchen is not just a place to eat, but an experience to savor.

Moving on to another highlight, Frank gives high praise to the Hamburger Wagon, an iconic retro-style food stand known for its classic American fare. Specializing in delicious hamburgers served in a no-frills environment, it’s a must-have for anyone craving a quick, satisfying bite. Frank describes the burgers as juicy and flavorful, with a perfect balance of toppings. The conversational vibe adds to its charm. You won't find a retro food wagon around the Dayton area quite like this one! Frank's enthusiasm for the Hamburger Wagon shines through as he encourages listeners to come hungry, ready to order an amazing meal in a not-so-typical fashion.  

As delicious as hamburgers are, the podcast doesn’t stop there. Greg and the team also shine a spotlight on La Catrina in Troy, Ohio. If you’re on the hunt for exquisite Mexican cuisine and stellar drinks, this is the place to be. The hosts describe La Catrina as a vibrant, colorful space where the menu is extensive but carefully crafted. (I can't remember her name) recommends trying their skinny margaritas, which she insists are among the best in the area – refreshing, flavorful, and just the right amount of alcohol. Furthermore, the episode dives into how La Catrina always seems to hit the spot and they consider the establishment to be one of the most authentic Mexican style eateries in the area. 

Throughout the episode, Greg and his co-hosts discuss the sense of community that these eateries cultivate. Their conversations reveal how food is not just about sustenance but is intricately tied to culture, history, and personal connection. Marking the culinary landscape of Dayton, these establishments not only serve delicious dishes but also provide gathering spaces for friends and family to enjoy together. Don’t worry if you think your favorite spot has been overlooked! The News Makers episode highlights quite a few other spectacular restaurants and recommendations.

If you’re curious about where to find the best eats in the Dayton area or just want to immerse yourself in the stories behind these beloved food joints, tuning into the News Makers Podcast is a must. The latest episode delivers delicious insights and recommendations that will have your taste buds tingling and your list of must-visit eateries growing. 

Partnership Teases Launch of new “Downtown Lowdown” Podcast to Spotlight Community Life

TIPP CITY — Tipp City’s vibrant downtown is getting a fresh new voice, as the Downtown Tipp City Partnership (DTCP) launches its own podcast, “Downtown Lowdown.” The announcement was made on a recent episode of the News Makers podcast, the official podcast of the Tippecanoe Gazette, with the DTCP’s Tasha Weaver joining as guest to share the news and her excitement for this new venture.

A New Platform for Downtown Stories

The “Downtown Lowdown” aims to go beyond the events calendar and offer listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the people, projects, and passion driving downtown Tipp City. While the News Makers podcast will continue to highlight upcoming events and community news, the new DTCP-branded show will focus on the inner workings of the organization, including its design and promotion committees, economic development efforts, and the many ways residents and businesses can get involved.

“We do so much more than events,” Weaver explained. “The Downtown Lowdown is going to be a deep dive into what our design committee is doing, what our promotion committee is doing, economic development, and all of that.” Listeners can expect episodes on topics such as the group’s recent accreditation from the National Main Street organization—a distinction earned by fewer than 1,200 communities nationwide—and the ongoing facade improvement programs that help keep Tipp City’s historic downtown looking its best.

A Collaborative Community Effort

The partnership between the Tippecanoe Gazette and DTCP means Tipp City residents will enjoy even more coverage of the people and projects shaping their community. “At the end of the day, Tipp City wins and that’s what we want,” said podcast host Greg Enslen, highlighting the collaborative spirit that defines both the newspaper and the new podcasting efforts.

Tune In and Get Involved

The first episode of “Downtown Lowdown” is set to launch in the coming weeks and will be available wherever you get your podcasts. Residents are encouraged to subscribe to both the News Makers and Downtown Lowdown podcasts to stay informed, inspired, and connected to all things Tipp City.

For more information about the Downtown Tipp City Partnership, visit DowntownTippCity.org or follow them on social media. To stay up to date with local news and events, subscribe to the Tippecanoe Gazette and tune in to the News Makers podcast.

Thanks for tuning in! 

The News Makers podcast is a presentation of the Tippecanoe Gazette. Find more free episodes of the podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. For more information or to subscribe to the newspaper, visit www.tippgazette.com. Talk soon!

Mauk Cabinets by Design: Crafting Dreams and Community in Tipp City

By Greg Enslen

A Local Business Owner’s Journey from Passion to Full-Service Renovation

TIPP CITY – In the latest episode of the News Maker’s podcast, presented by the Tippecanoe Gazette, listeners got an inside look at the story behind one of Tipp City’s most trusted home renovation companies: Mauk Cabinets by Design. Owner and designer Aaron Mauk, joined by Meredith McKee of the Tipp City Chamber of Commerce, shared insights on the evolution of his business, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the trends shaping home design in the Miami Valley.

From Humble Beginnings to Full-Service Powerhouse

Mauk, originally from Vandalia and now a fixture in Tipp City, has been designing and installing cabinets for over 30 years. Fifteen years ago, he made the leap from working long hours for someone else to working even longer hours for himself—a decision he’s never regretted. “Every day is something new,” Mauk said, reflecting on the excitement and unpredictability of running his own business. What started as a cabinet-focused operation has grown into a full-service renovation company. Mauk now leads a team of designers and installers, handling everything from cabinetry to flooring, tile, drywall, and electrical work. The company averages 10-12 remodels per month, a testament to its reputation for quality and reliability.

The “Meeting of the Minds” Approach

One of the hallmarks of Mauk Cabinets is its unique “meeting of the minds” process. Before any project begins, Mauk and his team meet with clients to discuss their vision, anticipate challenges, and introduce them to the installers who will be working in their homes. “It gives my team an opportunity to see the project, meet the customer, and anticipate any issues,” Mauk explained. This approach ensures seamless communication and a single point of contact for clients, streamlining what can often be a stressful process.

Adapting to Trends and Trusting the Process

Mauk keeps a close eye on design trends, noting that while white kitchens remain popular, clients are increasingly opting for warm wood tones and timeless finishes. “People want to be timeless,” Mauk said. “The best way to do that is to give them something a little bit more safe—that’s why white is still really popular. But we’re infusing it with warmer stains, like quarter-sawn white oak.” He also emphasized the importance of trusting the process. “You’re buying into that person, the relationship has to be there, and trust has to be there,” Mauk advised. “We’ve done this before. We know the order in which things go.”

Community Involvement and Entrepreneurial Wisdom

Mauk’s commitment to the community is evident in his involvement with the Tipp City Chamber of Commerce, where he previously served on the board and as president. He credits networking and community engagement with much of his business’s success. “It’s not lip service,” Mauk said. “When I first got to Tipp in 2011, I was told to get involved, network, and be a part of the chamber. That’s what I did, and it really made a difference.”

For aspiring entrepreneurs, Mauk offers simple but powerful advice: “Don’t be afraid. Don’t let your fear or your doubt get the better of you. Love what you do, try new things, and don’t be afraid to take risks.” He also stressed the importance of delegating and trusting a great team. “If you’re a business owner and entrepreneur, you want to do it all because you want it done right. But I’ve learned that other people can do it better—sometimes much better.”

Looking to the Future

As Mauk’s children grow and begin their own journeys, he looks forward to devoting more time to community events and exploring new opportunities. In the meantime, he remains focused on delivering exceptional service and innovative design to clients across the Miami Valley. “I get up in the morning and I can’t wait to go to work,” Mauk said. “That’s the dream.”

How to Connect

Mauk Cabinets by Design is located at 131 West Main Street in Tipp City. For more information, visit maukcabinets.com or call 937-506-8655. You can also find them on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Thanks for tuning in! 

The News Makers podcast is a presentation of the Tippecanoe Gazette. Find more free episodes of the podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. For more information or to subscribe to the newspaper, visit www.tippgazette.com. Talk soon!

Vintage in the Village Featured on News Makers Podcast

By Greg Enslen

Vintage in the Village Set to Take Over Downtown Tipp City

TIPP CITY — One of Tipp City’s signature summer events, Vintage in the Village, is back and ready to transform downtown into a bustling marketplace of antiques, art, and small-town fun on Saturday, June 14, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The annual festival, now in its third decade, promises a day full of unique finds, food trucks, and family-friendly entertainment—all while supporting the ongoing beautification of Tipp City’s historic core.

On the latest episode of the News Maker’s podcast, presented by the Tippecanoe Gazette, host Greg Enslen sat down with event chairs Chelsea and Andi and Downtown Tipp City Partnership director Tasha Weaver to discuss what residents and visitors can expect from this year’s celebration.

This year’s event marks a significant transition as long-time event chair Andi passes the torch to Chelsea, a familiar face from Midwest Memories and a passionate advocate for Tipp’s vintage scene. “I’m excited to run it and pass it along at the same time,” Andi shared. Chelsea, who will be leading the event for the first time, brings fresh energy and deep connections to the local antiques community. “She knows a lot of people in the industry,” Andi said, highlighting the event’s tradition of evolving leadership to keep the festival vibrant and relevant.

What’s New and What’s Classic

While the core of Vintage in the Village remains unchanged—an open-air market with vendors lining Main Street—Chelsea is taking a year to learn the ropes before making any big changes. “I want to learn that before I can figure out what to change about anything, but I feel like it’s been pretty smooth so far,” she said. The event typically draws thousands of visitors and dozens of vendors from Tipp City and beyond, with a focus on high-quality, curated booths. “My goal was to get it to 100 quality vendors,” Andi noted, emphasizing the importance of attracting both local and regional talent to keep the event fresh.

Vendors, Food, and Fun

This year, attendees can expect around 60 to 70 vendors, including downtown merchants who bring their wares out onto the sidewalks for a festive “sidewalk sale” atmosphere. Highlights include the Tippecanoe Library’s used book sale, the soap shop’s popular “brown bag” deals, and a strong showing from Midwest Memories’ antique dealers. 

Food options abound, with favorites like Sip and Smash serving up smash burgers and inventive lemonades, alongside wild banana smoothies, Kona Ice, Sweet Pea popsicles, and more. “You will not be hot this year—we have lots of refreshments,” organizers promised, reflecting on last year’s heat and ensuring plenty of cold treats for all.

Organizers stressed that parking remains plentiful, with most side streets open and ample public lots available. “If you were going to a mall, you would be parking farther away than you would for this event,” organizers said, addressing a common misconception about downtown parking.

Supporting Downtown’s Future

Proceeds from Vintage in the Village benefit the Downtown Partnership’s facade improvement program, which helps building and business owners restore and enhance the historic charm of Tipp City’s downtown. “It’s something that benefits the entire downtown,” organizers said, noting that any downtown building or business owner can apply for grant funds from the program.

Rain or Shine—and a Family-Friendly Playlist

The event is rain or shine. “Our vendors all bring tents, and you can hunker down in the buildings and visit our merchants downtown,” Andi explained in the case of inclement weather. And this year’s event will feature a curated “family fun” playlist heavy on classic rock and summer favorites, curated to keep the atmosphere lively and welcoming for all ages.

Making a Weekend of It

With other vintage and antique events happening nearby the same weekend, organizers hope visitors will make a “tour” of Miami County’s summer festivals. “We’re hoping people make a weekend of it instead of avoiding it and only going to one thing,” Chelsea said, inviting everyone to experience the best of Tipp City and its neighboring towns.

For updates, follow @tippvintageinthevillage and @downtowntippcity on Instagram. To hear more about the planning and passion behind Vintage in the Village, you can listen to the full episode of the News Makers podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Thanks for tuning in! 

The News Makers podcast is a presentation of the Tippecanoe Gazette. Find more free episodes of the podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. For more information or to subscribe to the newspaper, visit www.tippgazette.com. Talk soon!

Local Podcast Swings into Golf and Tennis: A Lighthearted Look at Tipp City’s Athletic Scene

The latest episode of the News Maker’s podcast, presented by the Tippecanoe Gazette, took a playful detour from its usual civic fare to explore the world of golf and tennis in Tipp City. Host Greg Enslen welcomed Tasha Weaver of the Downtown Tipp City Partnership for a spirited conversation that blended local sports culture, personal anecdotes, and practical advice for newcomers.

Golf in Tipp City: Accessible and Welcoming

Weaver, an avid golfer, shared her experiences playing in local outings, including the upcoming Tipp City Rotary Club and Chamber of Commerce golf tournaments. Both events are open to the public, with Rotary members getting the first chance to form teams before registration opens to all. “You don’t have to be good, it’s so much fun,” Weaver assured listeners, emphasizing the camaraderie and accessibility of these community events.

The hosts explained the concept of a golf “scramble,” a popular tournament format where all team members tee off, then play from the best shot, making the game less intimidating for beginners. Local courses mentioned include Homestead Golf Course in Tipp City, Miami Shores in Troy, Echo Hills in Piqua, and Sugar Isle in New Carlisle, offering plenty of options for area residents[1].

For those just starting out, Weaver recommended not getting discouraged and suggested taking lessons or simply borrowing clubs to begin. “If you’re just learning, go to Goodwill and look for some golf clubs-you’ll find them. Those are the best to practice with,” she advised, noting that local courses and shops often offer rental equipment for beginners[1].

Practice Makes Perfect: Local Driving Ranges

The discussion highlighted two popular practice spots: Pin High at Kyle Park in Tipp City and Long Shots between Tipp City and Troy. Pin High offers buckets of balls for just $5, making it an affordable way to hone one’s swing. Weaver described her own practice drills and the supportive, nonjudgmental environment at these ranges[1].

Tennis and Pickleball: Friendly Competition and Fitness

The conversation also volleyed into tennis and pickleball, with Enslen sharing his own tennis experiences and the unique scoring system of the sport. Both hosts noted how tennis can be more physically demanding, sometimes prompting older players to transition to pickleball for a less strenuous but equally social activity.

Upcoming Community Events

Weaver teased the return of “Putter Palooza,” a Downtown Tipp City Partnership event scheduled for August 1, which features creative putting challenges and supports local promotions. Details are available on the Partnership’s website, and more information will be shared in future podcast episodes.

A Community That Plays Together

Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasized Tipp City’s welcoming spirit and the importance of trying new activities, regardless of skill level. Whether it’s golf, tennis, or simply enjoying the outdoors, local resources and events make it easy for residents to get involved and have fun.

For more information on the Downtown Tipp City Partnership and upcoming events, visit downtowntipcity.org. To stay informed about local news and listen to the News Maker’s podcast, visit the Tippecanoe Gazette at tippgazette.com. 

Tipp Arts Council Unveils Canal Music Fest Details, Busy Summer of Art Events

The Tipp City Area Arts Council (TCAAC) is gearing up for a packed summer and fall, with a full calendar of events designed to celebrate local creativity, support artists of all ages, and bring the community together. In a recent episode of the News Maker's podcast, the official podcast of the Tippecanoe Gazette, TCAAC President Marilee Lake and Administrator Lynn Shirk-Terrell joined host Greg Enslen to share details about upcoming festivals, art shows, camps, and more.

A Year of Artful Engagement

TCAAC kicked off 2025 with successful events including the annual Art Affair and Fine Art Exhibition, which drew more than 175 entries and robust attendance. “Our judge couldn’t tell the difference between amateur and professional work this year,” Lake noted, underscoring the depth of local talent. The Art Affair, held each spring, features a vendor-style format with fine arts and crafts, while the Fine Art Exhibition showcases juried works from across the region.

Looking ahead, the council will reprise its popular A Holiday Affair in November, offering another opportunity for the community to shop for unique, handcrafted gifts and artwork.

Canal Music Fest Returns June 14

The centerpiece of TCAAC’s summer is the Canal Music Fest, slated for June 14 at Tipp’s City Park, just past the aquatic center. This free, family-friendly festival has grown from a modest gathering to an event that now attracts up to 4,000 attendees, depending on the weather and headlining acts. This year’s main act is Barracuda, a Nashville-based Heart tribute band, with local favorite Stranger opening with 1980s hits.

Gates open at 5 p.m., and while admission is free, donations are encouraged to help offset rising production costs, which have increased significantly this year. Food trucks, adult beverages, face painting, and children’s activities will be on site, making it a true festival atmosphere. “Our goal is to break even, but the focus is on bringing people together for a great night of music and fun,” said Shirk-Terrell.

The event is made possible thanks to the support of presenting sponsors Edison State Community College, Matt Buehrer - Thrivent, and the Duke Foundation, along with a host of local businesses.

Art for All Ages

TCAAC’s commitment to youth engagement continues with the Wild and Whimsy Art Camp, running June 23–26. Led by art educator and architect Prathysaksha Krishna Prasad, the camp offers hands-on projects, artist talks, and collaborative activities for 25–30 children each year. The camp culminates in a student exhibition for parents and the community.

The council also supports young artists with annual scholarships for students pursuing art-related careers and hosts a children’s plein air painting event during the fall’s outdoor art festival.

Community Projects and Fundraisers

In addition to its signature events, TCAAC is participating in community celebrations such as the Tipp City Public Library’s summer reading kickoff, Monroe Federal’s birthday block party, and National Night Out. The council also organizes fundraisers like the Quarter Auction (August 26), which supports scholarships and children’s programming, and the Artist pop-ups on First Fridays in August and September.

A long-awaited public art project-a large metal tree sculpture by artist Marie Mack-will soon be installed at Canal Lock Park, with an unveiling planned for late summer or early fall.

Upcoming Key Dates:

• Canal Music Fest: June 14
• Wild and Whimsy Art Camp: June 23–26
• Quarter Auction: August 26
• A Holiday Affair: November 8

How to Get Involved

TCAAC welcomes volunteers, sponsors, and new board members. Those interested can reach out via email ([email protected]), phone (937-543-5115), or through the council’s website and Facebook pages. For a full list of upcoming events and sponsorship opportunities, visit tippcityartscouncil.com. 

Thanks for tuning in! 

The News Makers podcast is a presentation of the Tippecanoe Gazette. For more information or to subscribe to the newspaper, visit www.tippgazette.com. Talk soon!

The Tipp City Area Arts Council Needs Board Members!

The Tipp City Area Arts Council (TCAAC), a cornerstone of the local creative community since its founding in 2009, is actively seeking new board members to help continue its mission of supporting and promoting the arts in Tipp City and surrounding areas. On a recent episode of the News Maker’s podcast, presented by the Tippecanoe Gazette, TCAAC President Marilee Lake and Administrator Lynn Shirk-Terrell joined host Greg Enslen to discuss the council’s structure, ongoing events, and the critical need for dedicated volunteers to join their working board.

A Mission Rooted in Community
The TCAAC’s mission is to ensure a thriving cultural scene for all ages. “We are dedicated to the promotion, development, and support of the visual, musical, performing, and literary arts in Tipp City, Ohio, and surrounding areas,” Lake explained. The council’s vision statement emphasizes making the arts an integral part of life in Tipp City, inspiring creativity and bringing people together through support, education, and engagement.

Diverse Programming and Community Impact
Over the past 16 years, TCAAC has provided a wide range of arts-related programs, including annual camps for young writers and artists, fall photography classes, and fine art exhibitions. The council also collaborates with area organizations and schools, supports member artists, and hosts popular fundraisers such as the upcoming Chipotle night in Troy on May 17 and a Dayton Dragons game outing on July 23. These efforts help keep children’s programming affordable and accessible. They are also holding a Plein Air event on October 4th.

A Unique, Hands-On Board
Unlike some organizations, TCAAC’s board is a “working board,” with each member responsible for a specific area or event. “Our board is the beating heart of the Arts Council,” Lake noted, emphasizing that members are expected to attend monthly meetings, chair or co-chair events, and participate actively throughout the year. The council currently has nine board members and is seeking at least three to four new members to reach its goal of 12. Importantly, artistic experience is not required -- just a passion for the arts and a willingness to contribute time and energy.

Opportunities for Involvement
Prospective board members or volunteers can apply through the council’s website, where a simple online form initiates the process. Applicants are invited to attend a board meeting to ensure the fit is right for both parties. The public is also welcome to attend board meetings, held at 7 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month at the Tipp Center, which also houses the council’s permanent art collection.

A Lasting Legacy
The Tipp City Area Arts Council traces its roots to a 2009 community art project, when local artists created and auctioned painted window frames to raise seed money for the organization. Since then, TCAAC has grown into a vital institution, thanks to the dedication of its board, volunteers, and supporters. 

How to Get Involved
TCAAC welcomes volunteers, sponsors, and new board members. Those interested can reach out via email ([email protected]), phone (937-543-5115), or through the council’s website and Facebook pages. For a full list of upcoming events and sponsorship opportunities, visit tippcityartscouncil.com. 

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The News Makers podcast is a presentation of the Tippecanoe Gazette. For more information or to subscribe to the newspaper, visit www.tippgazette.com. Talk soon!