By Nancy Bowman

The Miami County Animal Shelter is a busy place, frequently taking on added responsibilities in limited space.

Miami County Partners for Animal Welfare, or MCPAW, is hoping to change that. The nonprofit organization was formed in 2023 to lead a capital campaign to raise $7.5 million to build a modern no-kill animal shelter, adoption center and veterinary medical clinic. The county commission has donated land off Lytle Road north of Troy (and near the existing shelter along County Road 25Af for the project.

This summer, the fundraising effort surpassed the $2 million mark.

“The current shelter built in 1971 is outdated and inadequate for its intended needs,” said Rob Craft, shelter director. “There is growing need for affordable vet care countywide.”

The shelter became a no-kill operation in 2019, adding to the population of cats and dogs. Although not required to accept cats, the shelter does, and is one of the only shelters in the area that takes in cats, Craft said. “We do it because we think it is the right thing to do,” he said.

The new building will include increased parking, specialized ventilation for odor and disease control, a multipurpose meeting room for staff meetings and community events and a medical clinic to allow for in-building animal care and larger events such as spay/neuter days or microchip clinics.

The current shelter housing capacity is 33 for dogs and 20 for cats. The new shelter is being designed to accommodate 48 dogs and 30 cats.

Among other shelter features will be:

• • Two-compartment kennel design, allowing dogs to eat, sleep and rest in space separate from where they eliminate, enabling staff to clean kennels more easily and quickly and with better sanitation for dogs and humans
  • Puppies to be house separate from adult dogs
  • Cat housing will have two-compartment cages allowing cage cleaning without having to relocate the cats Adoption interview area to assist adoptees in finding the perfect pet.
  • State of the art, hospital grade, climate-controlled HVAC in dog and cat housing areas.

The shelter service area covers the county including Tipp City and Bethel Twp. Among donors toward the project is the Tipp City Foundation. In March, the foundation awarded MCPAW an impact grant of $5,000 a year for 10 years for a total of $50,000.

MCPAW is dedicated solely to fundraising and development efforts for a new shelter. It is led by local resident Heidi Scribner, founding president.

A Sync for the Shelter fundraiser held earlier this year was “a huge success” raising more than $111,000 after expenses, Scribner said. The event featured local “stars,” including shelter staff, donating their time to a main fundraising event, which was led up to by various smaller community event featuring “performers.”

“Our STARS were very dedicated and brought such joy and enthusiasm to the project. They were truly an amazing group to work with. Community support was everywhere, every town and city in the county, and outside of the county as well. By the time the night arrived, we knew it was going to be a smash,” Scribner said. “Everyone who performed and attended was so supportive of the cause, and it was just a very special experience. Three days later, we started planning the next one!” That event is scheduled for April 11, 2026.

Among other MCPAW activities:

• • Hosting community events
  • Partnering with local leaders and businesses
  • Practicing transparency and responsible stewardship of every dollar raised
  • Asking the community for donations, seeking grant funding through private and public grants

MCPAW asks those who support the effort to help spread the word through MCPAW on Facebook. Learn more and offer help at MiamiCountyPaw.org. Or reach out to MiamiCountyPAW@yahoo.com to schedule someone to speak to a group or participate in an event.

Life has a way of teaching you what is important. It is your decision as to whether or not you learn the lessons. Joellen Heatherly is the perfect example of someone who has taken all that her life has given her, and evolved into a healthier, happier version of herself.

“As I approach 60 later this year, this phase of life has brought unexpected changes — some hard, some hopeful,” she mentions. “The end of a marriage, the adjustment to an empty nest, saying goodbye to friends who relocate across the US, and the joy of rediscovering old passions. I’ve returned to making art, joined a book club, reconnected with friends near and afar, and enjoy a supportive group of exercise buddies. I recently started tutoring a friend studying for her nursing license. I also now know enough medical lingo to confidently watch Grey’s Anatomy and mostly keep up.”

“Retirement has also given me space to focus on health and healing. After losing my sister Susan to breast cancer at 50, I promised myself I would prioritize my own well-being. I’ve participated in an international breast cancer study for over two decades, and in 2022 and 2023, I underwent preventative surgeries to protect my health. It wasn’t easy, but I know Susan would be championing my efforts to stay active and healthy.”

Don’t let the word retirement fool you. Joellen is probably even more active, both physically and in her community, than she has ever been. While she may no longer be employed in public service roles supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, Joellen fills her “free time” as a very active Tipp City resident. She is currently in her second term on the Tipp City Foundation board, and has served on the Tipp City Board of Education as well. She also enjoys volunteering at events like Tippapalooza and Vintage in the Village, and has worked on levy campaigns supporting Tipp City Public Schools.

“Retirement has given me the time and flexibility to serve in meaningful ways,” Joellen says with a smile. “Serving on the Tipp City Foundation board is so rewarding, working alongside people who care deeply about our community’s future. Whether funding school programs, preserving local history, or supporting the arts, the Foundation works to make Tipp City, Monroe Township, and Bethel Township stronger by awarding grants to local nonprofits. Every donation, big or small, helps keep our community vibrant and ensures our philanthropic spirit continues for future generations.”

When not volunteering her time, Joellen focuses consistently on her health. She is often found at Complete Fitness, taking spin classes and staying active. “Complete Fitness is a gem in our community,” Joellen notes. “It’s patrons are down-toearth and supportive — no flashy gimmicks, just good people at every fitness level. And I have to give a special shout-out to their commitment to the Miami County Special Olympics powerlifting team, The Crew. It’s a true example of inclusion, and it’s inspiring to see them lead the way.”

The biggest highlights in her life are her children, Grant and Claire, who are both Tippecanoe High School graduates. Claire, 26, lives in Tennessee near her boyfriend, Jalen. A University of Tennessee graduate, she works as a lead instructor at a Montessori school in Knoxville, teaching first through third grade. Grant, 24, lives in New Carlisle with his girlfriend, Maddie, and works as a certified cultivator at a medical cannabis facility in Dayton.

“It’s a growing industry, pun fully intended,” Joellen states with a laugh, “and it connects unexpectedly to our family’s agricultural roots in southern Ohio, where my relatives once grew tobacco. Same green thumb, just a different crop. Watching Grant thrive in this hands-on, science-driven field has been incredibly rewarding. Claire’s patient, creative approach is a perfect match for the Montessori philosophy, especially with neurodivergent students. Claire’s continuing the family tradition — my mom and grandmother were both elementary teachers — and both of them would be so tickled with her career choice, and so am I.”

Joellen feels it is family connections to Tipp City and its people and traditions that keep so many people in the city. A life-long resident, she endeavors to continue to build on its already strong foundation, and to help undertake new ventures as well.

“I was raised here in Tipp City, and while I’ve always appreciated its safe, small town feel, I also recognize how privileged I was to grow up in a place like this,” she says. “Not every community comes with strong schools, a solid foundation, and a built-in sense of home. That’s exactly why I chose to raise my family here — so my kids could have the same start that would help them thrive, whether they returned to Tipp City or ventured elsewhere. Citizens care for one another, and that spirit has endured for generations. Like any town, we have areas where we can grow — especially in becoming more open and welcoming to everyone who calls Tipp City home. I believe we’re capable of building a future that reflects the kindness and generosity already at our core. With excellent schools, a vibrant downtown, beautiful parks, and a library that brings people together, Tipp City remains a great place to raise a family. I’m proud to be from here — and hopeful for all the ways we can continue to grow together.”

“At this stage, I’ve learned it’s okay not to have everything figured out. What matters is staying open — to learning, joy, and connection. And for me, that always comes back to Tipp City: the people, the place, and the pride that lives in every corner of this town.”

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By Nancy Bowman

Students in the Tipp City Exempted City Schools will have the opportunity to enhance science learning via a portable planetarium theater.

The Discovery Dome Portable Planetarium Theater purchased with funding from several sources including the Tipp City Foundation arrived in Tipp City near the end of the 2024-25 school year, said April Taylor, a 27-year teacher who made math and science her focus areas while teaching to third graders last year.

“As a science teacher, mostly collaborating with other science teachers has been a way for us to apply others’ ideas and materials to teach our standards. I have always tried to be a hands-on teacher so that the students have more opportunity to explore and have fun with learning,” Taylor said. “I knew a portable planetarium theater could be an addition to provide students with more motivation and experiences to further their learning and understanding of scientific concepts.”

With encouragement from the schools’ curriculum director Dawn Scott, Taylor said she researched domes and found a company that could supply one that was adaptable for grades K-12, offer wheelchair accessibility and provide programs in languages to include English learners. The dome is large enough to hold an entire classroom of children.

This dome, which came with 22 free programs created based on the Ohio and Next Generation Science Standards, is available to all educators in the Tipp schools district to use in their classrooms.

Due to the timing when the planetarium arrived in the district, the dome first was used this summer during the STEM camp.  “The students used this theater to create a better understanding of constellations, after creating and naming their own constellation during their time in the classroom,” Taylor said. “We are very appreciative of all the generous foundations that have made it possible for educators in our district to utilize the dome to inspire, engage and provide a deeper understanding for all students.”

Funding for the $20,000 purchase came from the Tipp City Foundation with a $5,478 grant along with the schools, Tippecanoe Educational Endowment and the Miami County Foundation.

For more information on the Tipp City Foundation and a grant application, visit tippfoundation.org.

Mid-year grants were awarded during the Q2 meeting of the Tipp City Foundation. Ultimately, 11 organizations received 11 awards totaling $29,008.06.

New needs in our region were addressed such as the CASA/GAL office relocation, security for an area museum, and a new youth running club. Perennial programs such as holiday food baskets, mentorships, and façade improvement in the downtown were also supported.

Since 1943, $3,147,810.89 has been awarded to local causes.

The following is a list of recipients, award levels and the impact these grants will make. Any additional support that donor advisors of the Tipp City Foundation gave through their grantmaking is noted.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Big Brothers Big Sisters Miami Valley, $2,000, pairs local youth on a waiting list with mentors to help at-risk Miami Valley youth reach their potential.

CASA/GAL of Miami County, Inc., $10,000, expands the office space of this essential agency. CASA/GAL serves as advocates for children with abuse or neglect cases in the Miami County Juvenile Court system. Additional support from the Lucky 13 Fund rounds out this request for a total of $12,000.

Needy Basket of Southern Miami County, award, serves an expanding demand during the Holiday season. Baskets containing ingredients for a traditional Holiday meal will be distributed to families representing 900 residents. A Robinson-Walters Family Fund award.

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Dayton, $2,500, aids families as they grapple with their child’s illness during their stay at Dayton Children’s Hospital. Last year, 23 families from the Bethel/Tipp City community benefited from this support. Additional support from the Dave Drake Fund rounds out this request for a total of $3,000.

ARTS & CULTURE

Downtown Tipp City Partnership, $2,500, zhuzhes the exteriors of downtown properties identified through the Partnership’s Façade Improvement Program. An Urban Stewardship Fund award.

Miami Valley Veterans Museum, $2,500, safeguards over 10,000 items in the museum’s collection by supporting the purchase of a security system.

EDUCATION

Tipp City Exempted Village Schools, $5,000, revamps the high school video production course with new technology.

HEALTH & SAFETY

Tipp City Fire and Emergency Services, $1,775.06, replaces the banner and yard signs used to promote the annual Open House each October. A Safety First Fund award.

Tipp City Police Department, $868, represents the first award ever made by the Arthur J. and Nancy E. Hattan Fund, established in 2022. This grant underwrites costs associated with K9 Unit training, specifically the purchase of illegal narcotic training equipment.

RECREATION

Bethel Youth Run Club, Inc., $340, introduces 75 children to the basics of track and field during a one-day event focused on fun and participation.

Miamibucs, $325, covers the cost of medals for 50 children with different abilities who participate in the annual triathlon. A William’s Gift Fund award.

Tipp City Enrichment Program, $1,200, enhances the summer activities offered to more than 75 children attending this extended care program. This year’s activities will include daily crafts, science experiments and games to promote social skills. Additional support from the Dave Drake Family Fund rounds out this request for a total of $1,700.

Discretionary grants are made possible because of contributions, of any size, from the public. A full list of the foundation’s 66 endowment funds is available at www.tippfoundation.org.

Quarterly grant deadlines are February 15, May 15, August 15, and November 15 each year. Jim Ranft is available for your grant-related questions at 937-528-2482. Applications are available online at www.tippfoundation.org.

Members of the Foundation are Heather Bailey, Richard Bender, president, Bryan Blake, Diana Featherstone, Dee Gillis, Joellen Heatherly, vice president, Glen McMurry, Jim Ranft, distribution chair, Julie Taylor, treasurer, Andrew Venters, Jackie Wahl, Bill Wendel, secretary and Carolyn Wright.

The Tipp City Foundation is a component fund of The Troy Foundation. If you would like information about how to make a tax-deductible contribution or how to establish an endowment fund, please contact Heather Bailey at (937) 528-2482.

For more information visit www.tippfoundation.org or Tipp Foundation on Facebook and Instagram.

Scholars Benefit From Local Endowments

The Tipp City Foundation recently awarded over $33,000 in scholarships. These awards were for graduating high school seniors and adults returning to continue their education. Of the 66 endowment funds within the Foundation, 18 represent scholarships.

Often these funds commemorate inspirational values of the scholarship founder; when this is the case, applicants are measured against those standards. Winners are determined through a vetting process led by an independent body of judges. To read more about the stories behind each of the scholarship funds or to apply for future scholarships, visit www.tippfoundation.org.

Graduates from Tippecanoe, Bethel, Miami East and Troy are represented.

Ernest Clay Back Scholarship for History – Not Awarded

Lester & Cleon Bowers Family Scholarship – John Weddle

Marlene E. Chapman Memorial Scholarship – Jayla McDonald, Sadhil Mehta, Charlize Walters

Jeanette C. Gaston Memorial Music Scholarship – Parker Kaibas

Gilmore Family Scholarship – Jayla McDonald

Sarah Gross Scholarship for Sportsmanship – Jenna Krimm

Arthur J. & Nancy E. Hattan Scholarship* – Shawn Tidderington

Life is a Journey – Don’t Stop Believing Scholarship – Bridgette Marcum

Katherine G. Lobo Memorial Scholarship – Sadhil Mehta

McKee Family Matthew 5:16 Scholarship – Carson Hughes, Kaylyn Schultz

John and Louise Miller Memorial Scholarship – Lillian Mihelcic

Robert E. Nessle Memorial Scholarship – Layla Norris

The Road Less Traveled Scholarship* – Aiden Marcum

Elizabeth Spano Scholarship – Charlize Walters

Tipp City Rotary Club Scholarship** – Sadhil Mehta, Madelyn Gold, Tiffany Moore

Tippecanoe Alumni Scholarship – Jenna Krimm

Wenzlau Family Scholarship – Breanna Smith

Willhelm Family Scholarship** – Emily Richardson

*First time awards                   

**Renewable

The Tipp City Foundation is a member fund of The Troy Foundation. If you would like information about how to establish an endowment fund or to make a tax-deductible contribution, please contact Heather Bailey at (937) 528-2482.

For more information visit www.tippfoundation.org or find us on Facebook, Instagram and Linked In.

By Nancy Bowman 

Tipp City Fire and Emergency Services works not only to respond to illnesses and injuries but to educate community members about how to prevent injuries and deal with an emergency.

The city department’s education efforts are coordinated by Heidi Jones, an EMS lieutenant and community outreach coordinator.

Among the offerings is a project called A Matter of Life 2025 Community Outreach, which received a $1,988 grant in March from the Tipp City Foundation.

“It is our mission to provide the highest quality emergency services to all who call upon us for help and to promote goodwill in our community. These initiatives help us to provide education that saves lives. We want to actively participate in preventing tragedies before they occur and give our citizens the ability to be prepared if they do,” Jones said.

For many years, fire prevention has been at the forefront of public safety education. The tremendous efforts behind these initiatives have paid off, resulting in a significant decrease in fires, countless lives saved and stronger, more resilient communities, Jones said. Fire prevention programs have proven that proactive education and outreach can truly change outcomes, she added.

“In more recent years, we have come to recognize that the same proactive approach must be applied to medical emergencies.

Data accumulated by the American Heart Association (AHA) clearly demonstrates that bystander CPR saves lives. Within our own community, we have numerous testimonials that underscore this fact — real stories of lives saved because someone was prepared to act,” Jones said.

With the grant, some of the equipment and training material used has been replaced, specifically, junior firefighter gear and infant CPR mannequins.

The commitment to prevention has expanded far beyond CPR. EMS outreach now includes:

• First Aid Training
• Bike Helmet Education
• Seat Belt Safety
• Car Seat Installation Programs
• Stop the Bleed Education
• Emergency Preparedness Programs – we provide what you need to have to grab and go in case of emergency. We provide a bag with some basics along with a suggested list to put in the bag.  The Emergency To Go Bag program was funded by the foundation in 2024 through a $2,600 grant.
• Vial of Life Program – a document that speaks for you in case you can’t speak for yourself. It hangs on the refrigerator. Our providers are trained to look for this.  The Vial of Life program was funded by the foundation in 2022 with a $789 grant.
• Babysitting Safety Classes (coming soon)

Last year more than 2,000 residents of Tipp City and Monroe Township were reached through these education programs. This year, it is hoped that between 2,500 and 5,000 can be reached.

In 2025, Tipp City Foundation will award up to $18,000 for projects not covered by the Tipp Fire / EMS annual budget.  Primarily the grants are made through the Safety-First Fund of the foundation, established by Chief Steve Kessler before his death.

Those interested in a course, need to call 937-607-9082 or email pubedoutreach@tippcity.net.

Information on course schedules can be found on the City of Tipp City website, Tipp City Professional Firefighters Local #5491 Facebook group, Tipp-Monroe Fire Association Facebook group and the Tippecanoe Gazette.