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

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

Golf in Tipp City: Accessible and Welcoming

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

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

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

Practice Makes Perfect: Local Driving Ranges

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

Tennis and Pickleball: Friendly Competition and Fitness

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

Upcoming Community Events

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

A Community That Plays Together

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

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

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

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

A Year of Artful Engagement

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

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

Canal Music Fest Returns June 14

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

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

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

Art for All Ages

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

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

Community Projects and Fundraisers

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

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

Upcoming Key Dates:

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

How to Get Involved

TCAAC welcomes volunteers, sponsors, and new board members. Those interested can reach out via email (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!