News Makers, presented by the Tippecanoe Gazette

Inside BSA Troop 395 Building Leaders, One Scout at a Time

In this episode of the Newsmakers Podcast, host Greg Enslen sits down with members of Boy Scouts of America (BSA) Troop 395 in Tipp City to discuss the organization's long-standing local history, its commitment to youth development, and the life skills that Scouting teaches beyond the campsite.

Greg welcomes Scoutmaster Todd Sonnenstein, committee member Mike Ralston, and David Kearns, a Troop 395 committee member and unit commissioner for the Miami Valley Council. The conversation explores how Scouting helps young people develop leadership, problem-solving, teamwork, self-reliance, and mentorship skills through hands-on experiences.

Troop 395 has served the Tipp City community for approximately 70 years, with Tipp City Global Methodist Church serving as its charter organization throughout that history. The guests explain how Scouts learn by doing, from mastering outdoor skills like starting a fire and practicing first aid to learning how to teach others, overcome challenges, and take responsibility for their decisions.

The episode also takes a closer look at the troop's youth-led structure, including its patrol system, leadership roles, rank advancement, and the journey toward becoming an Eagle Scout. The guests discuss how adult volunteers guide Scouts while giving them opportunities to lead, learn from mistakes, and grow into confident, capable individuals.

With approximately 30 Scouts between the ages of 11 and 17, Troop 395 emphasizes that Scouting can fit alongside busy family schedules, sports, and other activities. The guests share how the troop works with families to help young people stay involved and continue progressing at their own pace.

Whether you're a parent considering Scouting for your child or simply curious about the impact of local youth organizations, this episode highlights the value of mentorship, community involvement, and learning skills that last a lifetime.

Interested in joining Troop 395? Visit tipptroop395.com to learn more about Scouting opportunities in Tipp City.

The Newsmakers Podcast is sponsored by the Tippecanoe Gazette

Miami County Parks: Making Sense of the Levy — and Lighting Up the Holidays

What does a lower millage rate mean for your property tax bill? And how did a local holiday celebration grow into a drive-through family tradition? 🎙️🌳

On the latest episode of News Makers, the official podcast of the Tippecanoe Gazette, host Greg Enslen welcomes Miami County Park District Executive Director Scott Meyers to explain the district’s proposed 1.4-mill levy, why it would increase costs despite a lower stated tax rate, and how the funding supports parks, conservation and community programs.

Then, get a behind-the-scenes look at Holiday Lights at Lost Creek Reserve — from its beginnings and community volunteers to this season’s online ticket option. Discover how the district connects residents with nature and helps families create lasting memories. ✨🚗

Episode timestamps

• 00:00 — Welcome and introduction
• 02:14 — Exploring the district’s 15 parks and 2,200 acres
• 03:44 — How property taxes support park operations
• 05:54 — Understanding the levy and current costs
• 09:45 — Rising expenses and planning for the future
• 12:55 — Why lower millage would still mean a higher tax bill
• 14:45 — Understanding the ballot’s “additional levy” language
• 21:13 — County parks vs. city parks: Who manages what?
• 22:50 — Finding levy information, newsletters and park updates
• 25:56 — “Every day is levy day”: Building community trust
• 27:45 — Holiday Lights and Lost Creek Reserve
• 31:29 — How Holiday Lights grew from an earlier tradition
• 35:30 — Volunteer groups and community partnerships
• 38:25 — Holiday Lights schedule, admission and online tickets
• 41:21 — Behind the scenes: Displays, decorations and setup
• 46:14 — Closing thoughts on park funding and community value

Connect and learn more

• Miami County Park District on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/miamicoparks/
• Miami County Park District on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/miamicoparks/
• Park programs and Holiday Lights information: https://www.miamicountyparks.com/

🎙️🌳 Lower millage — but a higher tax bill? Let’s break it down.

In this episode of News Maker’s, the official podcast of the Tippecanoe Gazette, Greg Enslen sits down with Miami County Park District Executive Director Scott Meyers to discuss the proposed park levy and what it means for residents.

On the agenda:

🗳️ Why the proposed 1.4-mill levy isn’t a simple renewal

🌿 How local tax dollars support parks, conservation and community programs

✨ The story behind Holiday Lights at Lost Creek Reserve

🤝 How volunteer groups help make the holiday tradition possible

🚗 This season’s online ticket option

From waterfall hikes to festive drives through the lights, the conversation explores the places and experiences that bring our community together.

🎧 Listen to the episode: [Insert episode link]

Follow News Makers: https://www.facebook.com/newsmakerspodcast/

Follow Miami County Parks: https://www.facebook.com/miamicoparks/

#NewsMakers #TippecanoeGazette #TippCity #MiamiCountyOhio #MiamiCountyParks #HolidayLights #LostCreekReserve

Four Winds Indigenous Fashion Show Returns to Dayton With Bigger Weekend of Fashion, Culture and Community

By Abbi Heckel

What began as an idea to bring Indigenous fashion and art to the Midwest is returning to Dayton this November with a larger event, more designers, more performers and an expanded weekend of programming.

The second annual Four Winds Indigenous Fashion Show will take place Friday, Nov. 6, at the Dayton Arcade. Organizer Ruby RedFox Irwin recently joined host Greg Enslen, along with photographer Sharon Elaine, on the Newsmakers Podcast to discuss the upcoming event and the growth of Four Winds following its sold-out inaugural year.

Last year's event was held in the Tank at the Dayton Arcade and quickly reached capacity, with people waiting outside hoping to get tickets. This year, organizers are moving the fashion show into the Arcade's larger Rotunda space to accommodate a significantly larger audience.

“We are anticipating over 600 people,” Irwin said during the podcast.

The move is one of several changes planned for this year's event. While the first show introduced audiences to Indigenous fashion, designers and culture, Irwin said the second annual event is intended to build upon that foundation while creating an even larger platform for artists, designers, models and performers.

The idea for Four Winds came from Irwin's own experiences with fashion and modeling. She began modeling at age 14 and has spent years working in the fashion industry, including modeling, makeup and participating in fashion shows.

After connecting with a First Nations designer who wanted her to model at a show in New York, Irwin began thinking about the opportunities available closer to home.

Rather than traveling to New York, Irwin decided to create the type of event she wanted to see in Ohio. She began making calls and building relationships, eventually turning the idea into the Four Winds Indigenous Fashion Show.

For Irwin, the name Four Winds represents the four directions and the many different communities that come together for the event. Last year's show featured representation from more than 40 tribal nations, with participants traveling from across the country.

The event also seeks to provide a platform for Indigenous designers and artists who might otherwise have fewer opportunities to showcase their work in the Midwest.

Sharon Elaine, the Tipp City Photographer and personal friend of Ruby described her experience at the show as seeing people of different ages, backgrounds, shapes and sizes coming together while being introduced to Indigenous culture.

“It was an amazing event,” Elaine said. “It just was too amazing to not do it again.”

Irwin said she wanted the show to include people of all ages, sizes and genders, giving participants an opportunity to showcase their creativity.

“It just is like, here I offer you my knowledge, and let's do this,” Irwin said.

This year's lineup will include returning participants as well as new designers and performers. Among the featured designers are Choke Cherry Creek and Copper Canoe Woman, along with Chebon Designs, which specializes in menswear, including beaded ties and vests. Some other superbly talented designers such as Ro Tree, Harmony Star Straub,Sage Mountainflower, Warriors of the Winter Moon, and Earthy Rebels will be spotlighted for their spectacular designs as well that you won’t want to miss out on!

The event will also feature Native American women warrior veterans, who were part of last year's show and will return this year. Irwin said the veterans will also debut their first fashion collection at this year's event.

Music and dance will play a larger role in the 2026 program. Pianist Connor Chee, who is Navajo, will perform pieces inspired by traditional stories between designer collections and during intermission.

Dancer Shaylynn Bird will make her modeling debut at the event, while two hoop dancers will also be featured. Children will return as performers, and organizers are planning an interactive dance during intermission.

The Dusty Creek Singers will return as well, this year bringing a hand drum and performing honor songs.

Food and shopping will also be a major part of the evening. The vendor market will feature more vendors than last year, including booths operated by participating designers. Traditional fry bread will return after selling out quickly at last year's event.

The vendor market will be open to the public from approximately 4 to 6 p.m., allowing visitors to shop even if they are not attending the fashion show. It will reopen after the show for additional shopping.

The fashion show itself is scheduled for approximately 6 to 8 p.m., followed by additional vendor shopping until approximately 9:30 p.m.

VIP ticket holders will receive small bites from Berenstein's Catering and a mocktail from Mach One Mocktails.

General admission tickets are $40, according to the podcast interview. Tickets are available through Eventbrite, with information also available through Four Winds Indigenous Fashion Show's social media presence and website.

Organizers are encouraging people to purchase tickets early. Last year's show sold out, and Irwin said she expects demand to be even greater this year.

The Four Winds weekend will continue Saturday, Nov. 7, with another new addition: Red Talk, a TED Talk-style educational event beginning at noon in the Dayton Arcade's Rotunda area.

The name stands for Rematriation, Education and Design. The event will give designers, models and special guests an opportunity to discuss topics including tradition, rematriation, basket weaving and other aspects of Indigenous culture and creative work.

Red Talk will be a separate ticketed event and will include opportunities for attendees to ask questions and learn directly from the people participating in Four Winds.

While the event has grown substantially since its first year, Irwin said Four Winds is still dependent on community support. Organizers are seeking additional sponsors, volunteers and makeup artists.

Sponsorship opportunities range from helping cover the travel costs of Native American Women Warrior Veterans to covering airfare and hotel expenses. Other sponsorship opportunities and in-kind donations are also available.

Volunteers are needed as well to help with various aspects of the event, including production and makeup.

The goal, however, extends beyond simply putting on a fashion show.

Irwin hopes Four Winds will give participants opportunities to make new connections, work with designers from across the country, have their work featured in publications and build relationships within the creative community.

“I just want it to be a platform,” Irwin said.

For tickets, vendor information, sponsorship opportunities and updates, attendees can search for the Four Winds Indigenous Fashion Show on Eventbrite and follow the event's social media pages.

With a larger venue, an expanded lineup and an entire weekend dedicated to fashion, art, education and culture, Four Winds is continuing the work that began with its sold-out inaugural event, bringing Indigenous designers, artists, performers and communities together in the heart of Dayton.

Preparing the Next Generation for Success with Stephanie Dunne

In this episode of the Newsmakers Podcast, sponsored by the Tippecanoe Gazette, host Greg Enslen sits down with Stephanie Dunne to discuss how local businesses, schools, and community organizations can work together to prepare students for life after high school.

Stephanie shares how career exploration, internships, and hands-on learning experiences help students discover their strengths, explore new industries, and gain valuable real-world skills before graduation. The conversation also explores the upcoming Tippecanoe High School College and Career Fair, where students will be matched with businesses based on their personal interests and natural aptitudes.

Rather than simply helping students find a job, Stephanie explains the importance of finding a career that aligns with their talents, goals, and sense of purpose. She also discusses why businesses must create meaningful opportunities for young workers and show them how their contributions make a difference.

Greg and Stephanie explore the importance of listening to young people's perspectives, involving students in conversations about local issues, and building stronger connections between generations in the workforce.

In this episode, we discuss:

• How high school internships benefit both students and local businesses
• The Tippecanoe High School College and Career Fair and its approach to career exploration
• Helping students discover their interests, aptitudes, and potential career paths
• Why real-world experiences are essential for preparing students for adulthood
• How local employers can get involved in student internships and career development
• The importance of creating meaningful career pathways instead of simply filling positions
• Giving young people a voice in community conversations and local decision-making
• How schools, businesses, and community organizations can work together to build a stronger future workforce

Listen as Greg and Stephanie discuss how investing in students today can help build a more connected, capable, and engaged community tomorrow.

The Newsmakers Podcast is sponsored by the Tippecanoe Gazette and highlights the people, ideas, and organizations making a difference in our community.

San Francisco Zodiacs: The Hustle and Life on the Local Music Scene

In this episode of the Newsmakers Podcast, host Greg Enslen sits down with Will, frontman of the Dayton-area band San Francisco Zodiacs, to talk about the band's history, making music, performing live, and the work that goes into building a name in the independent music scene.

After seeing San Francisco Zodiacs perform at the American Legion in Troy on September 27, Greg wanted to learn more about the band and the people behind its energetic live performances. Will shares how the group began around 2021 as a project rooted in his high school music days and how its lineup has evolved over the years.

Will also talks about his musical background and how he taught himself to play guitar, bass, and drums, drawing inspiration from a family with deep musical roots. He explains how consistent live performances have helped him and the band grow, with the group playing nearly 100 shows combined over the past two years.

The conversation explores the realities of being an independent band, including finding venues, booking shows, coordinating schedules, networking with other musicians, and planning trips outside the Dayton area. Will shares stories from the road, including the band's trip to Hamilton, Ontario, and the challenges and rewards of organizing performances in unfamiliar places.

Greg and Will also discuss the band's creative process, from weekly rehearsals and developing new songs to adapting older material as band members change. Will explains how ideas come together during practice and how performing regularly helps the group become a tighter musical unit.

Listeners can learn more about the band's recorded music, including its 2025 album Flyover State, which is available on Spotify and Bandcamp. Will also reflects on the excitement of playing live, meeting other musicians, and building something independently through persistence, collaboration, and a love of music.

Whether you're a fan of local music, an aspiring musician, or simply curious about what happens behind the scenes of an independent band, this episode offers a look at the dedication and hard work that go into making music and getting it out to an audience.

The Newsmakers Podcast is sponsored by the Tippecanoe Gazette.

Stories from the Sky Part Two: Keith Earley

The conversation with former fighter pilot Keith Earley continues in Part Two of News Makers, hosted by Greg Enslen.

Keith goes deeper into his experiences in military aviation and his later career flying for FedEx, discussing the challenges pilots face both in training and in the air.

One of the biggest takeaways from the conversation is that flying is not without risk. Keith explains how severe weather and storms can create difficult conditions for pilots and why understanding the weather is such an important part of aviation.

He also discusses the dangers involved in military training exercises. While training missions are designed to prepare pilots for real-world situations, Keith emphasizes that these exercises can be physically and mentally demanding, and that the risks involved can be very real.

Throughout the episode, Keith provides stories and firsthand perspective from a career that took him from military fighter aircraft to commercial aviation.

In this episode:

• The realities of military flight training
• Why training exercises can be dangerous
• The challenges pilots face during severe weather
• How storms can impact aviation
• Keith’s experiences flying for FedEx
• The importance of preparation and awareness in aviation
• Stories from Keith’s years as a pilot

Host: Greg Enslen

Guest: Keith Earley

Produced by Clock Tower Media

Stories from the Sky Part One: Keith Earley

In this episode of News Makers, host Greg Enslen sits down with former fighter pilot Keith Earley for a conversation about his remarkable career in aviation.

Keith takes us through his experiences serving in the U.S. Air Force, sharing stories from his time as a fighter pilot and giving listeners a glimpse into what life in military aviation can really be like. He discusses the demands placed on pilots and the importance of preparation, training, and staying alert in an environment where conditions can change quickly.

Keith also talks about the transition from military aviation to his later career flying for FedEx, offering insight into the differences between flying military aircraft and working as a commercial pilot.

Weather is another major part of the conversation. Keith explains how storms can affect flight and why pilots must take changing weather conditions seriously.

From Air Force training to flying commercially, Part One gives listeners a look at the experiences that shaped Keith's career in the sky.

In this episode:

• Keith Earley’s career in the U.S. Air Force
• His experiences as a fighter pilot
• The demands and realities of military aviation
• How weather and storms can affect flights
• Transitioning from military aviation to FedEx
• Stories and experiences from a career in the air

Host: Greg Enslen

Guest: Keith Earley

Produced by Clock Tower Media

On today's episode, we have our Guest Abbi from Clock Tower Media, who tells us more about what exactly Clock Tower Media provides. We cover what services, things Clock Tower has already done, and more in today's episode.

If you're interested in any of the services that Clock Tower Media provides. Please go to their website at https://www.clock-tower-media.com/.

We present the comprehensive schedule of forthcoming events in downtown Tipp City, foregrounding the Mum Festival as the immediate highlight and introducing Tipp the Halls as a major new holiday initiative. I, Tasha Weaver, and my colleagues at the Downtown Tipp City Partnership enumerate the principal gatherings, Friday’s car show, the Mum Festival parade and associated races, the Canal Jumpers’ Tippecanoe Cup with on-site beverage service, the Arts Council plein air festival, Ghost Tours, Merchant Trick-or-Treat, and the Yuletide Winters Gathering, while noting adjustments to parade routing and early morning event timing. We delineate the Tipp the Halls concept and its configuration in the Monroe Township building basement, describe its themed rooms and ticketed speakeasy, and explain that the space is available for private rentals through January. I emphasize the logistical particulars regarding preview-night tickets for the historic home tour, the holiday parade and tree lighting on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, and the partnership’s role in coordinating vendors, volunteers, and decorations. We solicit community support in the form of donations, sponsorships, and volunteer participation to sustain pot displays, facade grants, and event programming, and we direct interested parties to contact the partnership for reservations and further information. We invite residents and visitors to attend, participate, and contribute to ensure a vibrant and well-supported downtown season.

Takeaways:

• I outline the schedule of downtown events, emphasizing Mum Festival and related weekend activities.
• We announce new initiatives like Tip the Halls, a decorated community space available for rentals and private events.
• I describe holiday programming including the parade, tree lighting, home tour preview night, and Yuletide gatherings that draw many visitors.
• We ask for community support through donations and volunteers to sustain festivals, façade grants, and promotional efforts downtown.

Through the Grain

On this episode of News Makers, Greg Enslen sits down with photographer Cory of Staple Gun to talk about the art of capturing life through a different lens.

Cory never went to school for photography. What started with a basic DSLR and pictures of his dog eventually evolved into a passion for 35mm film photography, street photography, and documenting the people, places, and moments that often go unnoticed.

Cory discusses his transition from digital photography to film, why he believes film has more “life” and “soul,” and how shooting with a limited number of frames forces him to slow down and be intentional about every photograph. He also shares his experience photographing punk rock shows, including the challenge and reward of getting that one perfect image in the middle of hundreds or thousands of shots.

A major focus of Cory’s work is downtown Dayton, where he walks the streets looking for unusual, provocative, and authentic moments. From abandoned buildings and everyday encounters to people living on the streets, Cory's black-and-white photography captures a side of Dayton that isn't always seen in traditional photography.

Greg and Cory also dive into the growing resurgence of analog and physical media, comparing the experience of shooting film to listening to vinyl, watching movies on Blu-ray, and the trade-offs that come with an increasingly digital world.

The conversation also explores Cory’s photography of local and touring punk bands, his use of natural and existing venue lighting, the process of selecting and editing concert photographs, and his goal of eventually making photography his full-time career.

Looking toward the future, Cory shares plans for a potential photography book about downtown Dayton "Concrete Pillow", a project focused on people sleeping on the streets, with hopes of eventually donating proceeds to a local homeless shelter.

If you love photography, punk rock, Dayton, street art, or the beauty found in unexpected places, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Find Cory's work:

Follow Staple Gun DYT on Instagram to see more of Cory's photography and learn how to book him for events, concerts, and more.

Resignation Records: Local Music & Giving Back

On this episode of the Newsmakers Podcast, host Greg Enslen sits down with Mark, owner of Resignation Records in Troy, Ohio, to talk about the resurgence of physical music, the story behind his independent record store, and an upcoming charity concert benefiting the Health Partners Free Clinic.

Mark shares how Resignation Records got its start in December 2021 after leaving a corporate career and turning a longtime passion for collecting records into a local business. What began with his personal collection of nearly 2,000 records has grown into a shop built around music discovery, personal recommendations, and the experience of browsing physical media.

Greg and Mark also discuss the return of vinyl, the growing interest in CDs and even cassettes, and why physical music offers something that streaming and digital platforms can't quite replicate. From album artwork and listening to a record from beginning to end to discovering music you never would have searched for online, the conversation explores why physical media continues to attract new generations of music fans.

Mark also explains what customers can find at Resignation Records, including vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, T-shirts, slip mats, speakers, record players, and select replacement needles. The store also buys used record collections and pays cash, with inventory changing regularly.

The conversation then turns to an upcoming cancer benefit show on Saturday, September 26. After Mark's cancer diagnosis and surgery, local musician Brendan of Bat Thorn reached out with the idea of organizing a benefit. Mark suggested directing the proceeds toward the Health Partners Free Clinic, which provides health care to uninsured and underserved residents of Miami County and surrounding counties.

The all-ages event will feature five local bands: The Frankx, Bat Thorn, Menace 2 Sobriety, the San Francisco Zodiacs, and The Quells. Tickets are just $10, with doors opening at 6 p.m. and music beginning at 7 p.m. The event will be held at American Legion Post 43, 622 S. Market St., Troy, Ohio.

Whether you're a longtime vinyl collector, someone rediscovering CDs and cassettes, or simply looking for a way to support local music and a great cause, this episode is a great conversation about small business, community, music, and giving back.

In This Episode:

• The story behind Resignation Records
• The resurgence of physical media
• Vinyl, CDs, and cassettes
• The importance of music discovery
• Building a local record store community
• Buying and selling used records
• Supporting local artists and musicians
• The September 26 cancer benefit
• The Health Partners Free Clinic
• Five local bands coming together for a good cause

Resignation Records: 225 S. Market St., Troy, Ohio

Benefit Concert: Saturday, September 26 | Doors at 6 p.m. | Music at 7 p.m.

Location: American Legion Post 43, 622 S. Market St., Troy, Ohio

Tickets: $10 | All Ages

News Makers Podcast — Part Two

Kenzie & Evey Talk About the World

Host Greg Enslen welcomes back 11-year-olds Kenzie and Evey for Part Two of their Kids Takeover on the News Makers Podcast! The girls continue sharing their unfiltered opinions, funny observations, and completely unexpected takes on the world.

In this episode, the conversation takes a hilarious turn as Greg recounts his gondola experience, including the surprising discovery that his gondola singers apparently had no interest in singing—or even whistling. Instead, they spent their time yelling angrily at each other across the canals. Naturally, the girls have some thoughts about that!

The conversation eventually turns toward pets, animals, and some very unexpected future-pet possibilities. From discussing why dogs should be spayed and neutered to debating cats, frogs, horses, ponies, and even the possibility of getting a bear, Kenzie and Evey prove that there is no topic too random for the Kids Takeover.

And when it comes time to wrap things up, the girls each have their own unique way of leaving their mark—including a few Disney references that Greg definitely appreciates.

It's another hilarious and unpredictable conversation with Kenzie, Evey, and Greg that proves sometimes the best conversations happen when you simply let kids talk about whatever is on their minds!

In This Episode:

• Greg's unusual gondola experience
• Why the gondola singers weren't singing
• A conversation about responsible pet ownership
• Dogs, cats, frogs, horses, and ponies
• The possibility of owning a very unusual pet
• King Charles Spaniels and dream pets
• Disney and The Jungle Book references
• Kenzie and Evey's final thoughts
• Plenty of laughs and completely unexpected moments

Don't miss Part Two of the Kids Takeover on the News Makers Podcast!

🎙️ Hosted by Greg Enslen

👧 Featuring Kenzie & Evey

📺 News Makers Podcast — Kids Takeover, Part Two

News Makers – Part One: Seeing the World Through 11-Year-Old Eyes

What happens when you hand the microphones over to two 11-year-olds? You get an honest, hilarious, and surprisingly insightful conversation!

In this special two-part episode of News Makers, host Greg Enslen welcomes Kenzie and Evey into the studio to share what life is really like from the perspective of today's kids. From their favorite movies and music to the everyday drama of middle school, nothing is off-limits.

The trio dives into the entertainment they're obsessed with, the trends that adults just don't understand, and the ups and downs of navigating friendships and school. Their candid conversations offer plenty of laughs while giving listeners a genuine glimpse into the world through the eyes of the next generation.

Whether you're a parent, grandparent, educator, or simply curious about what today's kids are thinking, this episode is full of funny moments and refreshing perspectives.

In Part One, you'll hear about:

• Kenzie and Evey's favorite movies and entertainment
• The music and artists they can't stop listening to
• School life, friendships, and everyday drama
• Funny stories and honest opinions from two 11-year-olds
• A preview of even more conversations coming in Part Two

Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss the conclusion of this unique two-part conversation on the next episode of News Makers.

Real-Life Child Care Challenges Facing Miami County Families

By Abbi Heckel

The conversation surrounding childcare affordability and accessibility continued in Part 2 of the Newsmakers Podcast, sponsored by the Tippecanoe Gazette and hosted by Greg Enslen. Representatives from Child Care Choices of Miami County returned to the studio alongside local parent advocates to share personal stories highlighting the growing challenges families face when searching for quality childcare.

Joining Executive Director Janine Rigg were Sarah Laughlin and Sierra Westcott, two Miami County mothers who recently traveled to Washington, D.C., as part of a Child Care Aware of America advocacy initiative. Their mission was simple but powerful: put real faces and real stories behind the statistics lawmakers often see when discussing childcare policy.

The trip brought together childcare advocates from across the nation to meet with congressional representatives and their staff members. Child Care Choices was unique among participating organizations, serving a single county rather than an entire state or region. Despite its smaller footprint, the organization's impact resonated strongly throughout the discussions.

Laughlin shared her family's journey navigating the childcare system after losing a trusted babysitter when a family member returned to work. As a self-employed massage therapist and mother of three boys with another child on the way, she described the difficulties of finding affordable childcare options while balancing work responsibilities.

Her search led her to Head Start, where she experienced firsthand both the benefits and frustrations of waiting lists and limited availability. Although her children eventually secured placements, uncertainty surrounding funding and available classroom slots created months of stress and anxiety.

"There were moments when we didn't know if our children would be able to remain enrolled," Laughlin explained during the podcast. "Without childcare, I couldn't work. It affects every part of a family's life."

The conversation highlighted a reality many Miami County parents understand all too well: even when childcare programs exist, demand often exceeds capacity. According to Child Care Choices, many local families rely on unlicensed in-home providers simply because licensed centers and programs do not have enough openings to meet community needs.

Westcott's story echoed many of those same concerns. As a single mother, she recalled placing her daughter on multiple waiting lists before eventually finding an opening. When she later lost her job, childcare expenses continued despite the loss of income, creating an incredibly difficult financial situation.

Eventually, Westcott found employment at the childcare center her daughter attended. However, after leaving that position, the search for reliable care began all over again.

Today, she relies on the generosity of a friend who watches her daughter while she works. While grateful for the support, she acknowledged that temporary arrangements create ongoing uncertainty.

Both women said the opportunity to speak directly with congressional staff members was empowering. Sharing their experiences allowed policymakers to hear firsthand how childcare shortages affect working families, employment opportunities, and economic stability.

Rigg emphasized that these personal stories are often far more impactful than statistics alone.

"When lawmakers hear directly from parents who are living these challenges every day, it helps them understand the real-world consequences of funding decisions," she said.

The episode also served as a reminder that Child Care Choices operates largely through grants, donations, and fundraising efforts. The organization provides resources ranging from childcare referrals and kindergarten readiness programs to professional training and advocacy initiatives throughout Miami County.

For families, providers, and community members alike, Part 2 of the podcast reinforced an important message: access to affordable, quality childcare is not simply a family issue, it is a community issue that affects workforce participation, economic growth, and the future success of local children.

The full episode of the Newsmakers Podcast is available now through Clock Tower Media and the Tippecanoe Gazette.

Child Care Challenges and Community Solutions

By Abbi Heckel

The 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.

Kaylee and Cailey Go to Galloway Ireland

By: Abbi Heckel

The newest episode of the Newsmakers Podcast brings listeners back into the travel diaries of guests Kaylee Forest and Cailey Petsch for the third and final installment of their European adventure. This time, the focus shifts to Ireland, specifically their journey toward Galloway, after departing from Paris. What should have been a straightforward travel day quickly unraveled into a stressful airport experience filled with delays and TSA hurdles. Despite the chaos, the trio pushed through an hour-long delay before finally boarding their flight and landing in Dublin. Their arrival, however, came with a setback as Kaylee began feeling ill, forcing them to balance exhaustion and uncertainty while settling into a modest triple-bed hostel for the night.

Determined to experience a different side of Europe, they chose Ireland for its countryside charm after spending much of their trip in bustling cities. Their first taste of Ireland included seafood chowder, setting the tone for a slower, more grounded leg of the journey. After two nights in the hostel, they upgraded to a nearby Airbnb, which became their home base for exploring. The episode highlights their visits to a quaint café, attending a local mass, and making the unforgettable trip to the Cliffs of Insanity, famously featured in The Princess Bride. The storytelling captures both the scenic beauty and the unpredictable nature of travel, blending humor with moments of fatigue and resilience.

As Kaylee took time to recover, Cailey embraced her independent streak and ventured out alone, catching a bus to Doolin where she soaked in the chilly coastal atmosphere and spent time at a local bar before heading back. Eventually, Kaylee regained her energy and was able to enjoy some light shopping and smaller adventures before the group wrapped up their trip and returned to the United States. The episode closes on a hopeful note, with the trio already setting their sights on future travels, potentially to Vietnam or Thailand. While this chapter has ended, their journey is far from over.

On this episode of News Makers, host Greg Enslen continues his discussion with Cailey Petsch and Kaylee Foster about their trip to Europe. They tell us all about their trip to Paris! The duo took a bus from London onto a ferry that took them across the channel to France. They unfortunately were not allowed to stay on their bus for the journey across, and resorted to sitting in the cafe on the boat. There they watched the passing cliffs and scenery until they both decided to take a nap. Once in France they got to experience many exciting activities. They had dinner at Mon Marte before seeing a live performance of Moulin Rouge.

The pair stayed in Paris for a total of four days, including New Years Eve and Day. They mentioned that they outpartied the group of Australians on new years eve. They enjoyed some hot wine and want to have it again. They also visited an Irish pub called O’Sullivans while in the city, and enjoyed it quite a bit. They even ordered in French at a few places and didn’t encounter any of the stereotypes of people being rude or unkind to the tourists.

They both enjoyed the food the most while in Paris. Stating that it was all incredible, and that the bread is quite different over there but that it is way better. Overall they enjoyed their time in Paris immensely and would go back. Tune in for the third and final installment of their trip where they talk about visiting Ireland!

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.

Join Greg Enslen and Doug Slagel on the newest episode of New Makers to hear all about war reenactments. Doug Slagel tells us about his personal experiences doing these reenactments, with reenacting the battle of antietam being one of his favorites. He mentions that the civil war reenactments used to be very popular around the 80s and until the early 2000s when WOrld War 2 reenacting started to get popular instead. Doug’s wife was the one to get him interested in war reenacting, and she wholeheartedly supports his hobby. He is currently the president of the Stillwater Civil War round table in Troy, and the Vice Commander of the Sons of Union Vets in the Dayton area. He also happens to own a Jeep from World War 2 as well.

Doug happens to have a lot of reenactment events coming up this year. He will be down in Menassas, Virginia for a reenactment on May 16th. There will be a group of reenactors at the Tipp City Senior Center on May 20th where they will be doing demonstrations with their weapons. The governor has even been invited to this event. The July 4th weekend there will be a World War 2 reenactment up in Sidney at Tawawa Park, and they are currently looking for more people to participate in this event. Doug is also putting together a Civil War reenactment in Sidney at Tawawa park on September 18th of this year. These are all great opportunities to get involved if reenacting sounds fun to you. You can also get involved by visiting http://usv.com to find events that are going on or people to chat with.

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.

Cailey and Kaylee Go to London

By: Abbi Heckel

The newest episode of the Newsmakers Podcast features host Greg Enslen interviewing Cailey Petsch and Kaylee Foster, who share the story behind their bold and spontaneous European adventure. Cailey, an article writer for the Tippecanoe Gazette known for her “Lunch Break” column reviewing local eateries, brings a natural storytelling style to the conversation. Together, the two explain how they decided to take a leap and travel abroad on December 29, 2025, embracing the unknown in search of new experiences.

They describe how they used Contiki tours to find an affordable travel option, allowing them to visit destinations like London, Paris, and Galloway, Ireland without breaking their budget. Their journey began at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Airport, where excitement quickly set in as they prepared to cross the Atlantic. The episode highlights not just the logistics of planning such a trip, but also the sense of courage and curiosity that pushed them to go through with it.

When they arrived in London, they were immediately struck by the city’s rich culture and energy. Even though they only stayed in London for 21 hours, they made every moment count, visiting iconic landmarks like Big Ben, watching the Royal Guard, enjoying a meal in Chinatown, and ending their night at a lively speakeasy and gay bar that kept them out until sunrise. Their story captures the thrill of fast-paced travel and the unforgettable memories that can come from stepping outside of your comfort zone.

From Council Chambers to Community Legacy: Doug Slagel Reflects on Growth, Green Spaces, and Tipp City’s Future

By Abbi Heckel

The latest episode of the News Makers podcast, presented by the Tippecanoe Gazette, offers listeners a thoughtful and candid conversation between host Greg Enslen and former Tipp City Council member Doug Slagel. With both men now stepping away from their official roles in city government, the episode serves as a reflective look at their time in public service, while also shedding light on current developments shaping the future of Tipp City.

Enslen and Slagel begin by revisiting their shared experience on the council, where they often worked closely to advocate for what they believed was in the best interest of the community. Their discussion is marked by a sense of mutual respect and a clear commitment to transparency, as they pull back the curtain on how certain decisions were made and what considerations influenced their votes.

A major topic of discussion centers around a new housing development project that will bring approximately 200 homes to the area. While the project is already underway, both Enslen and Slagel reveal that they had initially supported a different vision for the site. Their preference was for light manufacturing, which they argue would have created more local jobs while minimizing traffic congestion compared to a residential expansion. The conversation highlights the complexity of balancing growth with infrastructure and long-term planning, offering a deeper understanding of the trade-offs involved in municipal decision-making.

Beyond policy discussions, the episode also celebrates Slagel’s long-standing contributions to the city through his work in landscaping and park development. Known for his hands-on approach and eye for design, Slagel has played a key role in shaping many of the parks and green spaces that locals enjoy today. Although he has recently retired from his landscaping career, he shares that he has been called back to assist with a few select projects, opportunities he has gladly accepted. Still, Slagel expresses appreciation for the slower pace of retirement, joking about the simple pleasure of being able to sleep in.

The conversation also turns toward the increasingly debated topic of data centers. Enslen and Slagel explore the arguments both for and against their development, particularly in terms of environmental impact. While some critics raise concerns about energy consumption and resource use, others point to advancements in efficiency and the potential economic benefits these facilities can bring. Rather than taking a hard stance, the two emphasize the importance of examining credible data and maintaining an open, informed dialogue as the issue evolves.

Throughout the episode, what stands out most is Slagel’s enduring dedication to Tipp City. From his years on council to his lasting imprint on the city’s parks and public spaces, his contributions reflect a deep commitment to community well-being. Enslen’s conversation with him not only highlights past achievements but also reinforces the idea that civic engagement does not end with holding office.