Downtown Lowdown Podcast Hosts School Board Candidate Lydia Pleiman

Downtown Tipp City’s spirit of collaboration extended to the world of public education in the latest episode of the Downtown Lowdown podcast, the official podcast of the Downtown Tipp City Partnership. Tipp City’s school board race is heating up, and Executive Director Tasha Weaver welcomed Tipp City School Board candidate Lydia Pleiman to talk about her vision for the future of Tipp City Schools. Pleiman shared her priorities, hopes, and thoughts on what Tipp City schools need next.

Listening to the Community and Prioritizing Transparency

Pleiman’s central theme throughout the episode was transparency and trust. She believes school board members must actively listen to all voices—parents, teachers, staff, and students—before making decisions that impact the district.

Her decision to run was inspired by her faith and a heart for service, grounded in the values of Philippians 2:3–4, which speak to humility and servant leadership. Pleiman has been a regular at board meetings, even recording them for those unable to attend. “If people can’t be there, I want to stand in the gap for them,” she said, underscoring her commitment to accessibility and openness in public education.

Experience That Counts

Pleiman’s leadership experience runs deep—from serving on her college’s student government and working alongside athletic departments to founding an English language program in Brazil. These experiences, she explained, gave her a strong grasp of organizational leadership and the importance of collaboration.

Priorities for Tipp City Schools

Among her top priorities are completing construction projects, resolving the stadium debate with meaningful community input, and improving access to curriculum so parents can proactively see what their children are learning.

Safety, Success, and Smart Use of Technology

On school safety, Pleiman supports proactive, practical measures—investing in secure facilities and training for teachers and staff. She also celebrates Tipp’s status as a leading AI school, while reminding listeners of the need for balance and responsibility when integrating technology into classrooms. “We need to teach students how to use these tools wisely,” she noted, calling for partnerships with local professionals and even retired teachers to expand mentorships and real-world learning opportunities.

Supporting Teachers and Strengthening School Spirit

Pleiman spoke passionately about professional development, arguing that investing in teacher training directly improves student success. She also celebrated Tipp City’s vibrant extracurriculars—from athletics to the new fabrication lab—emphasizing that activities help students build teamwork, confidence, and pride in their schools.

Fiscal Responsibility and Future Planning

Addressing community concerns about spending, Pleiman encouraged a thoughtful approach to budgeting. She shared small but telling examples—like welcome packets for kindergartners that could be distributed more efficiently—to illustrate how small savings add up. With Tipp City’s population growing but student enrollment remaining steady, she also stressed the importance of careful planning for future facility needs.

A Candidate Rooted in Hope and Transparency

When asked to describe Tipp City Schools in one word, Pleiman chose hopeful. She sees community engagement—even tough questions—as a sign that people care deeply about their schools. “They’re showing up,” she said. “And that’s powerful.”

As the conversation closed, Pleiman reiterated her commitment to transparency, accessibility, and servant leadership. “If you want to feel like your voice is heard in our school system,” she said, “I’m the candidate who will make sure it is.”

Stay Tuned for upcoming episodes of the Downtown Lowdown

New episodes of the Downtown Lowdown drop every Wednesday. Hosted by Tasha Weaver, the show shines a light not just on people, but the issues shaping Tipp City’s future. Tune in for stories behind the storefronts and the personalities making Tipp City a magical place to call home. For more details, sponsorship opportunities, or to get involved, visit downtowntippcity.org.

Downtown Lowdown Podcast hosts School Board Candidate Josh Grear

Downtown Tipp City’s spirit of collaboration extended to the world of public education in the latest episode of the Downtown Lowdown podcast, the official podcast of the Downtown Tipp City Partnership. Executive Director Tasha Weaver welcomed Tipp City Schools Board candidate Josh Grear to talk all things education, community, and the unique synergy between local government, schools, and community.

Engaged Conversations on Schools and Community

This episode’s special guest was Josh Grear, local school board candidate with an ambition to improve Tipp City’s educational environment. Grear discussed recent high-profile school board challenges, emphasizing a need for teamwork and shared culture across the district. "We need people who bring a positive attitude and desire to make the district better for everyone and not just for a single person," Grear said, sharing his commitment to a thriving Tipp City for students and families alike.

Weaver and Grear discussed the recent work of the Tipp City Schools Board, addressing public questions about school policies, facility needs, and the district's mission. “Schools are the heart of a great community—and our teachers, staff, and families make Tipp unique,” Grear shared.

Josh Grear spoke candidly about his reasons for joining the Tipp City Schools Board, citing both personal conviction and community spirit as his main inspirations. Grear described himself as a parent first, invested in Tipp City’s future and determined to be a voice for local families. He shared that running for the board provided an opportunity to advocate for transparent decision-making and to ensure that all students, regardless of background, have access to the best possible education.

Emphasizing importance of strategic investments in school facilities

Looking ahead, Grear outlined a vision rooted in collaboration and long-range planning. He emphasized the importance of strategic investments in school facilities and modern educational tools that meet the evolving needs of Tipp City’s children. Grear expressed his commitment to ongoing dialogue with teachers and parents, believing that the most effective solutions emerge when the whole community is engaged and listened to.

Grear’s plans also include fostering even stronger partnerships between local businesses, civic groups, and the school district. He hopes to promote real-world learning experiences through internships, mentorships, and service opportunities, connecting students more closely to their downtown community. By supporting both academic success and practical life skills, Grear aims to prepare Tipp City students for whatever path lies ahead—making sure each graduate is empowered, adaptable, and proud to call Tipp home.

Grear also addressed issues including school infrastructure and community reputation—stressing fiscal responsibility for facility improvements and a plan to highlight the district's best qualities. Grear gave listeners his take on local leadership, and Grear highlighted upcoming board meetings, public forums, and ways for families to share ideas or concerns. “Transparency and listening are key—we want everyone to feel heard,” Grear said, pointing out recent efforts to solicit community feedback on major decisions.

Stay Tuned for upcoming episodes of the Downtown Lowdown

Stay tuned for more Downtown Lowdown episodes, dropping every Wednesday. Tune in for stories behind the storefronts and the personalities making Tipp City a magical place to call home. For more details, sponsorship opportunities, or to get involved, visit downtowntippcity.org.

Downtown Lowdown Podcast hosts School Board Candidates Ernst and Kaibas

School Board Candidates Katie Ernst and Karen Kaibas appeared on latest episode of the Downtown Lowdown, the official podcast of the Downtown Tipp City Partnership. The two write-in candidates brought both energy and insight to the latest episode of Downtown Lowdown, as they joined Executive Director Tasha Weaver in a lively conversation about their campaign for Tipp City's Board of Education.

Listeners were treated to fun icebreakers before the show dove into why both women are running for school board and what they hope to bring to the table. Ernst, a decade-long resident with deep Air Force roots, and Kaibas, a former physical therapist and current community advocate whose family is known for its theatrical flair, spoke warmly about the special sense of belonging Tipp City provides.

Both credited their decision to run to encouragement from fellow parents and an interest in maintaining the district’s recent positive momentum, especially as two long-serving board members step down this year. “I just was really worried that there was going to be a risk that the positive momentum would be disrupted,” said Ernst, inspired by her hands-on experience with district projects, community engagement, and levy campaigns.

Leadership and Collaboration

The conversation also touched on leadership and the importance of collaboration. Both Ernst and Kaibas emphasized how essential it is for board members to work together productively, even in tough situations. Kaibas talked about her 15 years of involvement in the Tipp City schools and Tipp community, saying that she appreciated the impact the school system had on her children.

The family started in the area by enrolling their daughter in St. Patrick’s Catholic school in Troy, but “after meeting families in Tipp City and students and her peers in attending the Stagecrafters program, we decided to go to Tipp City schools. And then through those 15 years of educating my kids here, we have become in love with their education and what their impact was from their educators and from their experience.”

The conversation highlighted the importance of the forthcoming PK-8 construction project—the “top priority for our district”—while recognizing the need for ongoing focus on academics, fiscal stewardship, and open communication with families and the wider community. Both candidates championed student-centered policies and praised the district’s tradition of robust extracurriculars, from athletics to choir and Quiz Bowl, noting these activities build skills far beyond the classroom.

Ballot Instructions

The candidates made sure listeners knew exactly what to expect come Election Day: as write-in candidates, Ernst and Kaibas’s names won’t appear on the ballot, so voters will need to fill in their names by hand. The duo pointed out that poll workers can provide accurate spelling and campaign cards if needed.

With gratitude for the Downtown Tipp City Partnership’s platform and Weaver’s hosting style, both candidates ended by conveying their shared commitment: “That’s really what I think our campaign is about, giving people a choice,” concluded Ernst, looking forward to helping write the next chapter of the Tipp City schools story.

Stay tuned for more Downtown Lowdown episodes, dropping every Wednesday. Tune in for stories behind the storefronts and the personalities making Tipp City a magical place to call home. For more details, sponsorship opportunities, or to get involved, visit downtowntippcity.org.

The House Of Glass

By: Abbi Heckel

On this week’s episode of the Downtown Lowdown, Host Tasha Weaver interviews Sue Shira, the owner of a shimmering new business opening right here in Tipp City that may catch your eye! Located next to Topsy Turvey Toys you can’t miss the beautiful artistry at the House of Glass!

What Is The House Of Glass?

If you have a passion for stained glass but haven’t ever known where to get started, then the House of Glass is perfect for you! With multiple upcoming seasoned themed classes, you can bring home your very own piece of stained glass. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert there is a wide array of classes tailored specifically to fit your glass needs! This could be your next night out on the town! As a reminder, some classes require that you register in advance. If you don’t have the time for a class or aren’t the crafty type but love stained glass you’re still in luck! The front of the shop features glass work that you can purchase from local artists!

Upcoming Events:

On September 23rd, the House of Glass started offering walk-in mosaic classes that have no registry required! If you’re exploring Tipp City with some time to spare, consider creating a mosaic today! If you’re wanting a bit of a challenge and are in need of some new seasonal decor then look no further than the seasonal foil glass workshop! This three-week workshop will have you feeling like a pro in no time at all! There are many other workshops to choose from ranging from three to six weeks! You can register or explore what the House of Glass has to offer today at www.thehouseofglass.org or feel free to stop inside the shop to take a look around! Together let’s make Tipp City shine!

Pot Tarts: Transforming Ordinary Flowerpots into Extraordinary Art!

By: Abbi Heckel

Have you ever been exploring downtown Tipp City and taken notice of the magnificent flower pots that adorn the walkways? Maybe you’ve thought to yourself, “Who maintains and creates these floral masterpieces?” Meet Kathy Skinner! An ambassador for the Master Gardener Program in Ohio, As well as contributing as a member of the Design Committee for the Tipp City Partnership.

What all goes into the Flower Pots?

Every season Kathy and four of her friends re-envision the flower pots with themed flora transforming the downtown to help welcome the changes in weather. Once every month, Kathy gets together with like-minded plant enthusiasts to brainstorm how to improve the pots even further in the future. When the pots are fully constructed the city then maintains and waters them throughout the season to ensure their beauty doesn't fade.

What other events and projects are part of the Master Gardener Program?

It may come as a surprise to you when it comes to the variety of events that are only possible through the program. Just a few examples include; Conduction plant clinics to help teach you on how to medicate and diagnose problems in your home garden. Helping homeowners beautify their yards before the ‘Tippecanoe and Christmas Too’ event. Hosting their annual Garden tour where 6-8 different houses have the opportunity to show off their greenery creations. Students in Piqua help shape the cultural Native American garden and as a tasty reward they can collect their crops at the end of the season. All of the produce from the Victory Garden next to the Upper Valley Medical Center is donated to the local food pantry. They also feature a Winter pruning school where you can learn how to care for and prepare your plants for the harsh winter temperatures as well as many other insightful projects.

How can I get involved?

Members of the community can contribute to the beautification of Tipp City by sponsoring the fifteen different pots of plants downtown. You can email the partnership at info@downtowntippcity.org to donate. If you want to join the Master Gardener Program call the extension office and ask for Amanda Bennett - (937)440-3945 or email her directly - bennett.709@osu.edu . Be sure to support the Downtown Lowdown podcast today featured anywhere you get your podcasts!

Downtown Lowdown: Tippopoly is Almost Here!

New Board Game and Grants Program from the DTCP Put Tipp Businesses in the Spotlight

By Greg Enslen

Downtown Tipp City is buzzing not only with new businesses but creative fundraising ideas. One of the biggest hits this year will likely be the Downtown Tipp City Partnership’s (DTCP) upcoming Tippopoly board game, a custom physical board game inspired by the town’s landmarks, local favorites, and business icons.

On the latest episode of the DTCP’s official podcast, the Downtown Lowdown, Executive Director Tasha Weaver shares the story behind Tippopoly and how it extensive project came together. The game is a collaborative effort with the Economic Development Committee and designed to celebrate Tipp City’s community spirit by featuring businesses and organizations. Sales of the Tippopoly board game will go to raising money for the Partnership’s new Small Business Grant Program.

Tippopoly Board Game

The board game, designed to look exactly like a real Monopoly game board, will feature a who’s who of downtown businesses and local organizations, inviting players to experience Tipp City’s essence, one roll at a time. Spaces on the board game were secured by local businesses and organizations through a cash donation to the Partnership, and sales of the spaces proved so popular that nearly every space sold out within weeks of the game being announced, a testament to merchant enthusiasm and community pride. The last open sponsorship space was even auctioned off to the highest bidder, giving one lucky business the chance to join the Tippopoly lineup ahead of the game’s launch.

Small Business Grant Program

Funds raised from Tippopoly will go directly to fund the DTCP’s new Small Business Grant Program, designed by the members of the Economic Development committee to support and strengthen local entrepreneurship by assisting local businesses with funding. Once the program is launched, downtown businesses will be able apply for these grants, designed to help with everything from improvements and expansions to marketing and innovation—ensuring the heart of downtown Tipp City keeps growing and evolving for years to come.

Partnership and Social Media

These initiatives—alongside streetscape projects, events, and more—are driven by the Downtown Tipp City Partnership and Tasha Weaver’s leadership. For more details on the grant program or to ask about purchasing a copy of the Tippopoly board game, once they become available, reach out to the DTCP at:

· Partnership Website: downtowntippcity.org

o Facebook: @DowntownTippCity

o Instagram: @downtowntippcity

o Twitter/X: @TippCityDT

On Downtown Lowdown, Weaver and guests continue to champion the people and programs that make Tipp City a place where businesses—and board games—can thrive. And don’t forget to subscribe to the Downtown Lowdown podcast for more stories behind Tipp City’s storefronts—new episodes drop every Wednesday! Listen, like, and subscribe—and see you downtown!

The Tippecanoe Canal Jumpers: Let’s Cover All the Bases!

By Abbi Heckel

Let’s take a jump back in time with our favorite local vintage baseball club, the Tippecanoe Canal Jumpers! Downtown Lowdown host Tasha Weaver discusses in depth the history of the canal jumpers and why the team is important to the downtown community. She is joined by some very special guests who definitely know the ins and outs of vintage baseball! And who doesn’t love a good old fashioned game of baseball?

Who are the Canal Jumpers?

Tippecanoe Canal Jumpers Shawn Sugden and Glen McMurry, as well as former Canal Jumper Greg Enslen and host Tasha Weaver, tell us that the Tippecanoe Canal Jumpers are a vintage baseball club with the mission to promote downtown Tipp city through a well loved gentleman’s game. Nothing brings people together more than sports! Each year, Tippecanoe holds its very own championship tournaments called the Tipp Cup. Other vintage baseball club teams come together to face off in a fun for the whole family event. Be sure to mark your calendars for the 2026 Tipp Cup!

Upcoming games include the Tippecanoe Cup, to be held on September 28 at Tipp City Park, and the Canal Jumpers final game of the season, to be played in Gatlinburg, Tennessee against the Cincinnati Red Stockings on October 4, 2025. From their Facebook page: “The Tippecanoe Canal Jumpers Vintage Base Ball Club is a project of The Downtown Tipp City Partnership, Inc. Our mission is to promote downtown Tipp City through this fine gentleman's game. We are a member of the Vintage Base Ball Association.”

How can I contribute?

The Canal jumpers are on the lookout for interested new players! Come watch the team play! The Canal Jumpers wanna see the stands filled! If you want to contribute in a monetary way, there is also available merchandise that you can pick up for yourself at any of the games. With fun items such as hats and T-shirts and so much more you don’t wanna miss out on. Maybe if you ask hard enough, you might get a signed baseball! Contact Tasha Weaver if you would like to help donate money to the team so we can all keep enjoying a good old-fashioned game of baseball with them!

For more information on the Canal Jumpers, check out their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/TippecanoeCanalJumpers. And for more information on the Downtown Tipp City Partnership, see their webpage at https://downtowntippcity.org.

How to Connect

For more information on the Tipp Canal Jumpers or the Downtown Tipp City Partnership, or to catch more local stories and meet the people shaping Tipp City, subscribe to the Downtown Lowdown podcast, hosted by Tasha Weaver and brought to you by the Downtown Tipp City Partnership.

· Downtown Tipp City Partnership

o Facebook – @DowntownTippCity

o Instagram – @downtowntippcity

Flooring, Family, and Small Town Dreams: Zack Snyder's Big Year Downtown

There’s never a dull moment in downtown Tipp City, especially when you tune in to the Downtown Lowdown podcast, the official show of the Downtown Tipp City Partnership! On the latest episode, host and Executive Director Tasha Weaver sits down with a local business owner whose name might ring a bell—Zach Snyder. No, not the “Justice League” director, but Tipp City’s own champion of flooring and community spirit!

From Floor Installer to Downtown Anchor

Zach Snyder’s love affair with flooring started early—at age 13, working alongside his dad, a carpet installer and electrician. That knack soon became a full-on passion, and after years spent perfecting his craft, Zack opened his own shop: Zach Snyder Flooring and Design.

“Flooring’s been very, very good to me,” Snyder shares, recalling how he started out with a humble spot in the old Sugden Furniture Building. Fast-forward to today, and not only does he run a thriving showroom in the historic Dettrick House (23 W. Main Street), but he’s now purchased the century-old Sugden Furniture Building—talk about coming full circle.

Investing in Tipp City, One Building at a Time

Why invest downtown? For Snyder, it’s about roots and relationships. “Tipp has always supported me from the beginning,” he says. “Whenever the downtown needs something, I’m happy to help out.” His dedication shows: whether sponsoring party buses, embracing community crawls, or keeping legendary furniture stores as tenants, Zach is determined to keep the heart of Tipp City beating strong—and local.

“My showroom is warm and historic. I want it to feel like you’re dropping by my house,” Zach says. Customers agree: whether it’s hardwood, carpet, or a kitchen makeover, Snyder’s hands-on, personal approach and eye for detail keeps clients coming back—and spreading the good word. “Every job and every happy customer, they’re my best salesmen.”

Small-Town Service, Big-Town Selection

In an era of big-box retail, Snyder stands out for personalized consultations, honest advice, and a knack for finding the just-right solution. He champions shopping local, reminding listeners that buying from neighbors often means better service, quicker fixes, and dollars that benefit the entire community.

From historic tax credits (thanks to Downtown Tipp City Partnership programs) to ideas about revitalizing old basements or adding new design services, Snyder’s enthusiasm and willingness to collaborate serve as a blueprint for modern Main Street success.

Showroom Details and Community Fun

· Location: 23 W. Main Street (“the Dettrick House”), downtown Tipp City

· Parking: Dedicated space next to the showroom for customers

· Popular products: Everything from vinyl plank and hardwood to custom tile showers and area rugs

· Atmosphere: Cozy, historic, and “a five senses experience”

· Tip: Often participates in community events like beer and bourbon walks, so stop in and say hi!

How to Connect

Catch more local stories and meet the people shaping Tipp City by subscribing to the Downtown Lowdown podcast, hosted by Tasha Weaver and brought to you by the Downtown Tipp City Partnership.

· Downtown Tipp City Partnership

o Facebook – @DowntownTippCity

o Instagram – @downtowntippcity

· Zach Snyder Flooring and Design

o Facebook – ZachSnyderFlooring

o Instagram – @zacksnyderflooring

Want to learn more, lock in a consultation, or just swap renovation stories? Visit Zach’s downtown showroom or message him via social media. As Snyder puts it: “Every day is the best day of my life—and Tipp just keeps getting better!”

Subscribe to the Downtown Lowdown and discover the stories that keep Tipp City rolling forward—one personal connection (and one beautiful floor) at a time!