Author: Bryce Riggs

Cassie’s Canine Cuts has relocated its pet grooming business to a larger facility at 170 E Perry Street in Downtown Tiffin. After outgrowing her previous location, owner Cassie Halcomb has moved the business to better meet the needs of her current and expanding clientele.

Cassie, a certified pet groomer through Penn Foster, began operating her grooming business from her residence in September 2023. The business moved to a commercial location on East Market Street in early 2024 and has since expanded to a larger facility adding pet salon products, grooming tables, and kennels.

“I’m thrilled to take this next step,” said Cassie Halcomb. “Our new location provides the space and amenities we need to grow, and I’m excited to invite other groomers to join us by renting table space. It’s a great opportunity for independent groomers to build their own clientele while working in a professional, supportive environment.”

The new space offers multiple grooming stations and updated equipment. Services available include nail trimming, deshedding, and full grooming sessions. The business now offers table rentals for professional groomers interested in operating independently within the facility.

“Cassie Halcomb’s investment in a larger, more advanced space not only supports the needs of local pet owners but also creates new opportunities for independent professionals. We’re proud to see her business grow right here in Tiffin. This is a shining example of the kind of entrepreneurship that helps our community thrive,” said Mayor Lee Wilkinson.

To schedule an appointment or inquire about table rentals, contact Cassie’s Canine Cuts at (567) 230-2623 or Caninecuts111@gmail.com.

Downtown Tiffin will hold its next Third Thursday event, Sidewalk Sales, on Thursday, August 21. The event will run throughout the day during regular business hours.

Participating retail businesses in the downtown area will display and sell merchandise outside their storefronts. Items on sale will include clothing, books, music, home goods, antiques, furniture, and miscellaneous small items. Most clearance merchandise will be discounted by 25 to 75 percent. Some stores will also offer raffles and giveaways.

Participating retailers include Burns Electric, Kuebler Shoes, Simply Susan’s, The Social Cigar, SSG Ink, Under the Surface Records, Wild Bunch Wellness Bar, Washington Street Outfitters, SOUL Boutique, and other downtown businesses.

Mayor Wilkinson stated, “Third Thursdays are a great way to support our small businesses and enjoy everything our vibrant downtown has to offer. The Sidewalk Sales event is a perfect opportunity to explore local shops, discover great deals, and connect with neighbors. I encourage everyone to come downtown on August 21 and be part of the energy that makes Tiffin such a special place.”

Third Thursday events in Downtown Tiffin are supported by event sponsors Reineke Family Dealerships, Destination Seneca County, Croghan Colonial Bank, Mercy Health Tiffin, and UIS Insurance & Investments.

Additional information and updates about the Third Thursday Sidewalk Sales event can be found at www.DowntownTiffinEvents.com or by visiting the event page on Facebook.

The tanning salon located at 321 Jefferson Street, Tiffin, Ohio 44883, operating under the name S & S Tan It All LLC DBA Tan It ALL, is now under new ownership. The business was purchased three months ago by Lesley Smith.

Smith, originally from a small town in Michigan, has previous experience in the tanning industry, having owned a salon 15 years ago. She and her husband are real estate investors and had been seeking an opportunity to acquire a storefront. The tanning salon presented a fitting opportunity, combining Smith’s industry experience with their business goals.

Under the new ownership, the business plans to update its equipment by adding three to four tanning beds, including both stand-up and lay-down models. High-pressure tanning beds will also be introduced, designed to operate with shorter session times. In addition to equipment updates, the salon offers a variety of tanning lotions such as accelerators, intensifiers, and bronzers to support different tanning approaches and skin care routines.

Smith stated, “We are looking forward to the new experience of being a part of bettering the community and bringing good products and service to Tiffin.”

“It’s always exciting to see a local business grow under new leadership,” said Tiffin Mayor Lee Wilkinson. “We welcome Lesley Smith and thank her for investing in our community. Small businesses like Tan It ALL play an important role in strengthening our local economy.

Current hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Updated hours will be implemented in August to accommodate changes associated with the school calendar.

The business can be reached at 419-448-5555. For updates and information, visit their Facebook page:  S & S Tan It ALL

TIFFIN, OHIO – December 9, 2024 – Downtown Tiffin will host several events this December, providing opportunities for community engagement and holiday activities.

The Holiday Window Contest is underway and runs through December 14. Local businesses have created window displays for the contest, with the winner announced on December 15 at The Ritz Theatre before the screening of The Polar Express.

A FREE Holiday Movie showing of The Polar Express will take place on December 15 at 2:00 p.m. at The Ritz Theatre. Santa Claus will be available for visits from noon to 2:00 p.m. The event is sponsored by Downtown Tiffin, Tiffin-Seneca Economic Partnership, Seneca Regional Chamber of Commerce, and Destination Seneca County.

On December 12, Downtown Trivia: Christmas Edition will be held at 7:00 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus. Teams of up to six people may register to compete. Buddy the Elf, Santa, and the Grinch will serve as judges. Registration is available on Eventbrite.

On December 19, the Downtown Tiffin Third Thursday “Sip & Shop” event will provide a chance for last-minute holiday shopping at over 20 local businesses in the downtown area. Shoppers can enjoy the DORA program while shopping locally.

Mayor Lee Wilkinson commented, “I invite all of you to explore local businesses while enjoying festive events and holiday treats. Please join me in making memories with family and friends as we enjoy all that Tiffin has to offer this time of year.”

TIFFIN, OHIO – November 21, 2024   Downtown Tiffin, under the Tiffin-Seneca Economic Partnership, hosted a two-day Heritage Ohio “Preservation Assessment Workshop” on November 18 and 19. This event brought together community members and experts to focus on maintaining and preserving Tiffin’s historic buildings.

The first day featured an evening lecture at The Empire 138, delivered by David Mertz, a preservation specialist and former director of Belmont College’s renowned Building Preservation/Restoration Program. Mertz provided valuable insights into maintaining historic structures, followed by a Q&A session. The lecture was attended by more than 20 community members, including representatives from the Tiffin Historic Trust, Tiffin City Council, Mayor Wilkinson, local contractors, architects, and property owners. The Reineke/Reinbolt Family and the Tiffin Historic Trust generously sponsored the workshop.

On the second day, a team toured five historic properties in Tiffin to provide detailed preservation assessments. The group included David Mertz, Frank Quinn (Heritage Ohio Director of Preservation), Devin Miles (Heritage Ohio), Donna Gross (Downtown Tiffin Main Street Manager), Noah Paris (Tiffin-Seneca Economic Partnership), and building owners. The properties included:

• 297 E. Perry Street (Heidelberg University Octagon House)
• 52 E. Perry Street (Kildow Building)
• 95 S. Monroe Street
• 33 S. Washington Street
• 131 S. Washington Street

The building owners will receive comprehensive assessment reports from Heritage Ohio with recommendations for addressing maintenance needs.

“It was an honor to host the Heritage Ohio Historic Preservation workshop here in Tiffin,” said Mayor Wilkinson. “This event highlights the rich history and architectural treasures of our community, offering an opportunity to learn from preservation experts while showcasing the incredible work being done to maintain and celebrate our historic buildings.”

The Preservation Assessment Workshops are made possible through the support of the State of Ohio. For more information about Heritage Ohio’s historic preservation programs, contact Frank Quinn at fquinn@heritageohio.org.

TIFFIN, OHIO – November 20, 2024 – Ellen and Don Bell, owners of the local business Baked by Bells, are proud to announce the relocation of their production site to 185 S. Washington Street in Downtown Tiffin. The move allows the company to continue its growth and introduce an expanded product line, while maintaining a presence downtown, at the Tiffin-Seneca Farmers Market and other local community markets.

Ellen Bell, a Tiffin native, comes from a rich tradition of baking, inspired by her mother and grandmother, who taught home economics in the 1930s. “This move is an exciting next step for us,” said Ellen Bell. “We’re thrilled to continue sharing the baking traditions of our family with the community and to have the opportunity to expand our offerings in Downtown Tiffin.”

Don Bell, Ellen’s husband and the co-owner, is most often seen at Tiffin-Seneca Farmers Market. His desire to be a part of the downtown business community has driven this move to a more convenient and centrally located kitchen. “We are proud to live in a community that supports its downtown businesses and feel lucky to be a part of it.”

Baked by Bells is known for its unique and high-quality products, including freeze-dried candy, macarons, shortbreads, and specialty cookies. Customers can purchase these treats at the new location during Downtown Tiffin events, the Tiffin-Seneca Farmers Market, and three other regional markets.

This Thursday, November 21st, Baked By Bells will be open to the community from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. during Downtown Tiffin’s 3rd Thursday “Holiday Window Reveal” and allow residents to visit the remodeled space. Visitors can enjoy free samples of peppermint hot cocoa and get a preview of their holiday offerings.

“We are thrilled to welcome Baked by Bells to downtown Tiffin,” said Mayor Wilkinson. “Don and Ellen Bell’s passion for baking and their desire to contribute to our vibrant downtown business community is truly inspiring. This is a wonderful addition to Tiffin, and we look forward to supporting Baked by Bells as they continue to grow and enrich our community.”

For more information, visit Baked By Bells online at https://marketwagon.com/collections?vendor=6817&trk=bv47730h or Facebook and Instagram.

TIFFIN, OHIO – November 15, 2024 – Downtown Tiffin under the Tiffin-Seneca Economic Partnership will host its annual Kris Kringle Markt December 6th and 7th this year. The festival will highlight an open-air holiday market with German/Bavarian-inspired Christmas offerings, late-night retail shopping, and a variety of fun family activities.

Court Street will feature local vendors in white tents adorned with holiday lights offering fresh greens, garland and wreaths, handcrafted gifts, Christmas ornaments, and more. Local downtown retailers will stay open later to offer holiday shopping specials and complimentary treats.

Downtown Tiffin restaurants and bars will feature German-style food, beer selections, mulled wine (Glühwein), and specialty hot chocolate beverages. City Lots 5 & 7 and the County RTA Lot will host a variety of food trucks offering unique Bavarian dishes and beverages.

Santa will be available for pictures at Pan Yan Bookstore, and several other activities will be spread throughout downtown including strolling Christmas carolers, ice sculpture carvings, live reindeer, and complimentary holiday wagon rides. Cherry Alley will feature live Christmas trees for sale that are being sponsored by local businesses along with “S’mores Land” featuring Frozen characters: Olaf, Sven, Anna, Elsa.

“The Kris Kringle Markt is one of Tiffin’s most cherished holiday traditions designed to bring families together for a magical celebration this December,” said Mayor Wilkinson. “With the Christmas tree lighting, festive parade, and so many family-friendly activities, it’s a wonderful opportunity for our community to share in the joy of the season.”

The Kris Kringle Markt will be open Friday, December 6th from 5-9 p.m. in conjunction with the Holiday Tree Lighting Experience in front of the courthouse and Saturday, December 7th from 3-9 p.m. during the Tiffin Kiwanis Christmas Parade at 7:30 p.m.

For more information follow Facebook: @KrisKringleMarktTiffin, Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kriskringlemarkttiffin/ or visit the www.kriskringlemarkttiffinoh.com website.

TIFFIN, OHIO – November 8, 2024 – Downtown Tiffin invites residents and visitors to the 3rd Thursday annual “Holiday Window Reveals” on November 21 from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. The event will feature the unveiling of 21 uniquely decorated window displays throughout the downtown area.

The evening will begin at 5:30 p.m. in front of the Seneca County Justice Center Courthouse, where attendees can gather before joining the crowd and experience the festive stroll. Participants are welcome to follow along with the group or explore the displays at their own pace. A map of the window locations will be located on the Downtown Tiffin Holiday Window Reveals Facebook event page.

“The holiday window reveal is a wonderful way to kick off the season and celebrate the creativity and spirit of our community,” said Mayor Wilkinson. “We invite everyone to join us for this festive tradition and experience the magic of the season together. Let’s show our appreciation to all of our merchants who put in the extra effort to bring joy and holiday cheer to us all.”

Attendees are also welcome to visit local shops and restaurants and enjoy DORA (Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area) beverages. Many local businesses will offer special promotions, discounts, and extended hours to help kick off the holiday shopping season.

The “Holiday Window Reveals” is a community favorite, bringing people together to celebrate the season. Along with the event, the Downtown Tiffin holiday lights will illuminate the streets, adding to the cheerful atmosphere.

Downtown Tiffin would like to thank the Advertiser Tribune for donating the window covering paper for the “Holiday Window Reveals” event. Downtown Tiffin 3rd Thursdays are generously sponsored by Reineke Family Dealerships, UIS Insurance and Investments, and Destination Seneca County.

TIFFIN, OHIO – November 1, 2024    Monday Law LLC and Monday Title LLC, owned by Jessica Monday, opened a second location at 120 1/2 S. Washington Street (Suite 212) in the historic Laird Building, Downtown Tiffin. Specializing in real estate closings, escrow services, estate planning, estate administration, corporate and limited liability company formation (and continued advisory services), guardianships, and evictions Jessica Monday brings her extensive legal expertise to the heart of the community.

Originally from Carey, OH, Jessica maintains strong connections to Seneca County as a graduate of Heidelberg University. Monday Law LLC, which has been serving clients from its original office in Carey, is now expanding to a new location. Through this expansion, Jessica is committed to offering personalized legal services to the local community, ensuring that complex and often stressful legal matters are managed with efficiency and care.

“It is important to me to help my community with their legal needs, and I value making stressful situations as seamless as possible,” said Jessica Monday. “This location in the Laird Building is conveniently located across from the courthouse, allowing me to better serve my clients.”

“I’m excited to welcome Jessica Monday and Monday Law LLC to downtown Tiffin,” said Mayor Lee Wilkinson. “Jessica’s commitment to providing personalized legal services is a tremendous asset and an excellent resource for members of the Tiffin community.”

Derek DeVine, member of the Tiffin Community Reinvestment Group commented, “Jessica Monday is a great addition to Downtown Tiffin and the Seneca County legal community.”

The new location will operate by appointment only. To schedule a consultation, please call (419) 396-5357 or email Kayla at officemanager@jmondaylaw.com The office offers evening, weekend and virtual appointments by request.

For more information about Monday Law LLC and Monday Title LLC, visit their Facebook page, website at jmondaylaw.com or contact the office directly.

[pictured: Jessica Monday]

Columbus, OH—October 29, 2024  Heritage Ohio announced that the Tiffin Seneca Economic Partnership/Downtown Tiffin will host the next Preservation Assessment Workshop (PAW) beginning November 18. The workshop begins Monday evening with a free lecture at The Empire 138, 138 South Washington Street, beginning at 5:30 pm. No RVSP is required, and the lecture is open to the public, but seating will be limited.

Mr. David Mertz, former director of Belmont College’s renowned Building Preservation/Restoration program, will speak on building pathology and common issues that plague old and historic buildings. From the basics of being a good steward and planning your maintenance routine, to spotting water infiltration and masonry issues, Mertz will instruct building owners on carefully evaluating little problems now before they have the chance to become big problems in the future.

Mertz will spend Tuesday, November 19 in Downtown Tiffin, conducting one-on-one building assessments with building owners pre-selected by the workshop sponsor, Downtown Tiffin. He will evaluate current conditions of the owner’s building and provide advice to address maintenance issues, active deterioration, or future trouble spots. Heritage Ohio staff will follow up on assessment recommendations to ensure building owners have clear next steps to address priority actions.

Heritage Ohio thanks Downtown Tiffin and the City of Tiffin, for bringing the Preservation Assessment Workshop to their community. Herriage Ohio also thanks the Reineke-Reinbolt family, and the Tiffin Historic Trust for their sponsorship support. Heritage Ohio also thanks the State of Ohio for partially underwriting the workshop cost.

If you’re interested in bringing PAW to your downtown, contact Frank Quinn at 614.584.2441 or fquinn@heritageohio.org for more information.