J. Lauren Interior Design owner Delores Timco was presented with the first grant from the Ronnie and Joyce Weller Tidioute Development Fund to be awarded. Pictured, back row from right, are Kim Slocum, Joyce and Ronnie Weller, Delores Timco. Front row, from right, are Jim Decker (WCCBI), Rick Wagonseller and Cindy Lindemouth.

Ronnie and Joyce Weller have spent nearly 72 years together and made a life in Tidioute.

They raised their children, opened the Flying W Ranch, which their son currently runs, and have served the community in countless ways over those years.

Mr. Weller was instrumental in raising the nearly four million dollars needed to open Tidioute Charter School and sat on the board for 20 years, retiring at age 89.

The Wellers continue to stay connected and committed to the Tidioute community. In cooperation with the Community Foundation of Warren County, they created the Ronnie and Joyce Weller Tidioute Development Fund to boost economic growth by supporting existing businesses and fostering the creation of new ones.

Kim Slocum, Rick Wagonseller, and Cindy Lindemouth were among the Weller Tidioute Development Fund’s advisory panel members who attended to present the first grant check.

The first grant from the fund was awarded to Delores Timco of J. Lauren Interiors, a long-time business in Tidioute. Like the Wellers, Timco takes pride in the town and helps to beautify it by volunteering her design skills for projects. Timco plans to use the funds for facade restoration and to market the many local artisans’ crafts that her storefront sells. Local Artisans’ items include original watercolor paintings framed with barnwood frames from Tidioute, glass blown in Tidioute, and pottery and beads made at the kiln in Tidioute–all made in and by Tidioute locals.

“I am honored and grateful that Ronnie and Joyce have selected me to receive the first grant. It truly is a legacy that will last for generations as they contribute to our community,” said Timco.

Businesses within a five-mile radius of the Tidioute Borough that would like to learn more about the grant opportunities or those wishing to support the foundation through a tax-deductible donation are encouraged to call Ronnie Wellner at (814) 730-1680.