News Makers, presented by the Tippecanoe Gazette

Child Care Challenges and Community SolutionsBy Abbi HeckelThe latest episode of the Newsmakers Podcast, sponsored by the Tippecanoe Gazette and hosted by Greg Enslen, featured an insightful discussion with representatives from Child Care Choices of Miami County, shedding light on the challenges facing families, childcare providers, and advocates across the region.Joining Enslen were newly appointed Executive Director Janine Rigg and young parent advocate Bethany Henry, who shared both the mission of Child Care Choices and the real-life impact quality childcare has on local families.Child Care Choices has served Miami County for nearly four decades as a child care resource and referral agency. The organization helps families locate childcare, provides training opportunities for childcare professionals, supports early childhood education initiatives, and promotes kindergarten readiness throughout the county.Rigg, who recently stepped into the executive director role after previously serving as the organization's training coordinator, explained that Child Care Choices continues to expand its resources for parents and educators. One of the organization's newest initiatives is a comprehensive kindergarten readiness webpage that provides families with direct links and contacts for each school district in Miami County.The conversation also highlighted one of Child Care Choices' longest-running programs: the Story Ladies. For more than 25 years, trained volunteers have visited preschool classrooms to read books and provide every child with a copy to take home. Teachers also receive activity guides designed to reinforce important early learning concepts. The program has become a cherished tradition for many local families.A significant portion of the episode focused on advocacy efforts at the national level. Earlier this year, Child Care Choices received a grant through Child Care Aware of America that allowed several family advocates to travel to Washington, D.C., to meet with members of Congress and discuss childcare accessibility and affordability.Henry, an 18-year-old mother and childcare worker, was among those selected for the trip. During the podcast, she shared her personal story of becoming a mother at age 15 while continuing her education and working toward her future goals.Henry spoke candidly about the challenges young parents face when seeking assistance programs. She explained that many support programs consider a teen parent's household income, including their parents' earnings, making it difficult to qualify for assistance while still living at home."It's a sticky situation," Henry said, describing how young parents can find themselves caught between needing support and being unable to access it because of eligibility requirements.The advocacy trip gave participants an opportunity to share these real-world experiences directly with lawmakers and their staff. Rigg emphasized that putting a face to the statistics helps policymakers better understand the challenges families encounter every day.The discussion also touched on workforce issues within childcare, including the need for competitive wages to reduce staff turnover and provide stability for children. Rigg shared her own experiences as a parent of a child with autism, noting how consistency among caregivers can dramatically affect a child's success in a childcare setting.Despite the challenges, both guests expressed optimism about the future. Henry has since become involved with additional advocacy efforts and plans to continue speaking up for families and childcare providers.For those interested in supporting Child Care Choices, the organization relies heavily on grants, private donations, and fundraising efforts. More information can be found through Child Care Choices of Miami County's website and social media channels.The full episode of the Newsmakers Podcast is available now.

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

Mauk Cabinets by Design: Crafting Dreams and Community in Tipp CityBy 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 PowerhouseMauk, 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” ApproachOne 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 ProcessMauk 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 WisdomMauk’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 FutureAs 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 ConnectMauk 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!

Local Podcast Swings into Golf and Tennis: A Lighthearted Look at Tipp City’s Athletic SceneThe 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 WelcomingWeaver, 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 RangesThe 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 FitnessThe 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 EventsWeaver 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 TogetherThroughout 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.

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 InvolvedTCAAC welcomes volunteers, sponsors, and new board members. Those interested can reach out via email (tippcityartscouncil@gmail.com), 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!

Learn all about the Tipp City Foundation!Heather Bailey and Diana Featherstone of the Tipp Foundation drop by the News Makers podcast to chat with Greg about all the amazing work the Foundation is doing and offer an inside look at how the Foundation operates and the impact it has on Tipp City and surrounding areas. Shaping the Future of Our CommunityThe Tipp City Foundation, a cornerstone of local philanthropy since its founding in 1943, has quietly grown into a $10 million force for good-thanks largely to the generosity and vision of local residents. With humble beginnings of just $1,300, it has expanded to more than $10 million today, with most growth coming directly from community contributions rather than market gains. A Legacy of Local GivingThe Foundation now manages over 60 endowment funds, nearly all established by individuals or families to honor loved ones, commemorate milestones, or support causes close to their hearts. The Tipp City Foundation is a Local Charity whose Primary Purpose is “giving back” to the Community. As a local charity, the Tipp City Foundation focuses on the core principles of “we give,” “we receive,” and “we say thanks.”Funds and Funding SourcesThe Foundation promotes local community endeavors and advances charitable giving through an unwavering commitment for future generations. The Foundation collects dollars and puts them into endowed funds.Each fund is invested, with only 4% of its earnings distributed annually to ensure long-term sustainability. This model allows the Foundation to support needs both large and small, from $230 grants for quiz team buzzers to $75,000 commitments for major projects like the Tipp Pride stadium. The funds support a diverse range of priorities, including scholarships, beautification, animal welfare, tree planting, and even literary magazines at the high school.Local Stewardship is the KeyAs Heather Bailey noted, “I know exactly what my community will look like long after I’m gone because I know what the priorities are that people are identifying.” With its unique model of local stewardship, the Tipp City Foundation ensures that the hopes and values of today’s residents will continue to shape Tipp City for generations to come.Stay InformedFor more information about the foundation, upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, and how to support the Foundation, listeners are encouraged to visit the Foundation website at https://tippfoundation.org or call 937-528-2482. They can also be found on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/tippfoundation/.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!

News Makers, Episode 21 - We are joined by Scott Family McDonalds!Greg Enslen of the Tippecanoe Gazette and Meredith McKee of the Tipp Chamber chat with Cindy Frantz from the Scott Family McDonald’s! Cindy is the Community Relations and Recruitment Manager and dropped by the News Makers podcast to catch Greg and Meredith up on all the fun things happening at the Tipp City McDonalds and their other locations. Turns out they have 15 Ohio locations and 10 Kentucky locations, with a 26th location coming soon to Sidney, Ohio. They have four stores in Miami County, and Cindy works directly with the store managers to manage recruitment and retention of employees for the Scott Family McDonalds stores. She also manages community relations, interfacing with local communities and local organizations like the Tipp City Chamber of Commerce.Recent community outreach programs included working with the Tipp City police department on a kid's outing and book reading last summer. Cindy discussed the 50-year anniversary of the Scott Family opening the doors of their first McDonalds franchise. Over the years, they’ve seen countless faces and served thousands of meals, each one created with the same passion and dedication that started it all. Cindy expressed that the company is all about family, and they regularly give out tens of thousands of coupons every year. They've held events that celebrated the Minions, Paw Patrol and the Incredibles. Internally, the Scott Family team works hard to be proactive in coming up with solutions to problems. And the company offers Archways, a scholarship program to assist with tuition costs for college and language training. Minecraft is just - Mind Blowing Currently, guests are lining up for the Minecraft Happy Meals, including adult versions of the Happy Meals. The meals celebrate both the Minecraft movie, in theaters now, and the game itself with McDonalds toys and themed Happy Meal boxes. The adult version of the Happy Meal has been very popular, selling out quickly. In fact, it's been more popular than the Pokémon meals. Because the toys are hard to find, they become instant collector’s items. Current Favorites - and Upcoming Offerings She mentioned that her favorite go-to order at McDonald's is the iced coffee, and Greg learned that you can actually order extra shots of espresso to be added into your drinks. Who knew? Greg chatted up the McDonald's mobile app, which allows customers to order and pay for their food ahead of time, and Cindy mentioned that it has increased efficiency at the stores--and it also allows McDonalds to drive traffic to the stores through online and app exclusive offers and specials. Cindy also mentioned some featured food and drinks:a new kind of CRISPY CHICKEN strips called McCrispy Strips that rival those of Chick-fil-A very soon – and there’s a new special sauce, they feature coffees and iced coffee – and Greg didn’t know that customers can add individual shots of espresso to any drink, and SNACK WRAPS could be returning in some form or fashion this summer (the franchises are preparing now).More information about the Scott Family McDonalds: The Scott Family McDonalds is your trusted family-owned and operated restaurant serving Mid-West Ohio for over 50 years. Since opening our doors in 1974, Scott Family McDonald’s has been more than just a place to eat – it’s been a place where families gather, students study, and retirees catch up with each other. We are honored to be part of your community for over half a century now, delivering smiles and delicious meals to families, friends, and neighbors all along the way! For more information on the Scott Family McDonalds organization, please visit https://scottmcdonalds.com. You can also find them on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.More information about Cindy: You will find Cindy out and about in all of our communities spreading the word about the Scott Family McDonald’s! In her spare time she loves working out and volunteering, as well as spending time with her husband and two kids. Cindy grew up in Anna and is a recent grad of Bluffton University where she was awarded “Student of the Year” in 2014! If you catch Cindy at one of our locations she will be working away on her laptop!Thanks for tuning in! Thanks so much to the Tipp City Chamber of Commerce for joining us on this special episode - for more information, visit their website at https://www.tippcitychamber.org. 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!

Greg Enslen of the Tippecanoe Gazette and Meredith McKee of the Tipp Chamber chat about the Chamber's amazing gift card program!Support Tipp City businesses by sending an eGift Card to family, friends, employees, teachers and everyone else! Tipp City, Ohio has many of your favorite retailers, restaurants, services and entertainment all in one place. Redeem the eGift Card at all participating locations throughout the city (in-store and online) — there is truly something for everyone! Support Our Local Businesses!How it WorksSelect the value of your Tipp City eGift Card. Choose your recipient (family, friends, employees) and send via email or text. The recipient can use it to make purchases at participating eGift Card merchants located in 45371 (in-store and online).Additional TermsNON-RELOADABLE. NO CASH ACCESS. Purchase, acceptance or use of the Voucher constitutes acceptance of Terms of Use. While this Voucher does not expire, a $3.00 fee will be deducted monthly from the Voucher balance starting on the 1st day after 12 consecutive months of inactivity starting from the date of issuance or last Activity on the Voucher. Activity means any action resulting in a change in Voucher balance, other than fee imposition, or adjustment due to error or prior transaction reversal.To buy a gift certificate or review the list of locations where the cards can be used, visit their website at https://www.tippcitychamber.orThanks for tuning in! Thanks so much to the Tipp City Chamber of Commerce for joining us on this special episode - for more information, visit their website at https://www.tippcitychamber.org. 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!