Author: Bryce Riggs

TIFFIN, OHIO – February 27, 2024 – During the month of February, the City of Tiffin’s Architectural Board of Review (ABR) approved façade grants for two different buildings in Downtown Tiffin. The project investments total $67,782 which shows a $4 to $1 return on investment for downtown building restoration.

The ABR approved a $10,000 Façade Enhancement Grant for 92 S. Washington St. to restore both balconies, windows, door trims, wood cornice, and exterior paint. The $54,470 project was approved for the maximum grant amount. This will be the fourth renovation project to the building by owners, Killian Family Properties LLC.

Rose Kahler was approved for a $6,656 Façade Enhancement Grant at 210 S. Washington St. to repair siding, replace an exterior door and railing on the second-floor balcony.

Mayor Wilkinson commented about the positive impact of the Façade Enhancement Grant stating,” I am happy to see that the facade program continues to spur the investment in Tiffin.”

The Façade Enhancement Program continues to be successful with 13 building project approvals in 2023 for an investment of more than $240,359. Since the Façade Enhancement Program’s inception in 2014, 118 projects have been approved for a total downtown investment of more than $2.7 million.

Can you beat the Leprechaun? 

TIFFIN, OHIO – February 20, 2024 The annual St. Paddy’s Day 5K Run/Walk in Downtown Tiffin is set for March 16, giving participants a chance to chase the leprechaun. The race will start promptly at 10 a.m., with check-in beginning at 8:30 a.m. at JAMs Market, 145 Madison St.

Registration is available for $30 on Eventbrite. The deadline to pre-order T-shirts is March 8th. Children aged 10 and younger may participate for free (T-shirts available for youths for $15 each).

Awards will be presented at The Renaissance, 129 S Washington St., recognizing the top male and female runners in both youth and adult categories. The race is open to families and pets, with costumes encouraged but not mandatory.

Mayor Wilkinson stated, “By mid-March, we might be seeing a hint of Spring in the air. I hope to see you at the 9th Annual St. Paddy’s Day 5k Run/Walk on Saturday, March 16, 2024. Remember that children 10 and under can participate for free.”

Proceeds from the event will contribute to Downtown Tiffin’s revitalization.

To register online, visit EVENTBRITE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2024-st-paddys-day-5k-tickets-804037215957?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl

[pictured: participants from 2023 St. Paddy’s Day 5K]

TIFFIN, OHIO – January 23, 2024 – Under the Surface Records, owned by Jacob Wheeler, is excited to announce its move to a new and expanded location at 134 S. Washington Street, Tiffin. The store, originally located at 16 E. Market St. since September 2021, specializes in metal and punk music genres, offering a diverse selection that includes jazz, soul, country, and classic rock.

The larger space will accommodate a more extensive inventory and include a dedicated music performance area for local and guest artists/bands. This has been Wheeler’s vision from the start of his business.

Wheeler stated, “My goal is to build a community around music. I think being in Downtown Tiffin is the best way to connect with those who live and visit here.”

The new location will continue to offer a range of music products, including vinyl records, CDs, cassette tapes, concert DVDs, and both new and vintage concert T-shirts.

Mayor Lee Wilkinson commented on the move, “We are excited to see Under the Surface Records be able to bring even more of their eclectic inventory to Downtown Tiffin, giving music lovers of all kinds the opportunity to find their next favorite album or a gem from yesteryear. Congratulations to Jacob Wheeler and his team on coming to their new home on South Washington Street.”

The grand re-opening of Under the Surface Records is scheduled for February 1st. To celebrate the occasion, customers who make a minimum purchase of $20 on that day will automatically qualify for a chance to win a store gift certificate. Each $20 spent entitles the customer to one entry into the drawing.

Store hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 11 AM to 7 PM. For more information, visit the official website at www.underthesurfacerecords.com and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.  (567) 268-9278 or email underthesurfacerecords@gmail.com

TIFFIN, OHIO – January 16, 2024 – Chef and owner, Rob Malone, is bringing a new culinary perspective to Downtown Tiffin with the opening of his restaurant, The Turntable. Malone is returning to the area with a Grand Diplome from Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Institute and over 20 years of experience in the food, beverage, and distribution industry. The menu will offer artistically driven dishes that are unique and encouraged to share.

The Turntable will offer a different dining experience with a focus on small plates featuring locally sourced farm-to-table ingredients. With a seating capacity of 30+, the restaurant will provide a cozy atmosphere for guests to enjoy a diverse menu inspired by the vibrant flavors of Ohio and beyond.

Malone’s culinary creations range from a classic “I Am a Real American” pressed smash burger to modern interpretations of traditional Italian dishes like the “Peoples Therapy.” The menu will also feature an extensive selection of wines, sakes, cocktails, and beers to complement the diverse culinary offerings.

Drawing inspiration from post-World War II listening lounges in Japan, The Turntable will feature a state-of-the-art Hi-Fi sound system playing vinyl records including jazz, blues, classic rock and more. Malone’s goal is to transport patrons into a world where exceptional food meets unparalleled ambiance.

Rob Malone is looking forward to contributing to the Downtown Tiffin revitalization stating, “I’m excited to bring a small, quaint farm-to-table culinary forward restaurant to the area I grew up in and be a part of the apparent reinvestment and flourishing community.”  Malone, along with his wife Brittany, resides in Downtown Tiffin and is committed to being an integral part of the community’s growth.

Tyler Shuff, Development Director of the Tiffin Community Reinvestment Group (TCRG), shares the excitement, stating, “I’m thrilled to see a new eatery opening in Seneca County that will support our local farms and farmers. Rob’s vision fits the mission of the TCRG.”

The Turntable is set to open its doors at 116 S. Washington Street in the Laird Building this spring 2024. For more information, visit The Turntable’s website at www.tiffinturntable.com

TIFFIN, OHIO – December 15, 2023 – Downtown Tiffin is gearing up for its final 3rd Thursday event of 2023. On December 21st, the community is invited to join the “Last Call Holiday Shopping” event, encouraging last-minute shoppers to explore local retail shops that will be keeping their doors open later for the occasion.

To enhance the 3rd Thursday experience, the Downtown Marketing Committee has crafted a special “Last Call Holiday Shopping” BINGO game. Participants can pick up their BINGO cards at local shops or at the Downtown Tiffin lobby located at 96 S. Washington Street. The BINGO cards are designed to guide shoppers through various participating locations, encouraging shopping, dining, and exploring the downtown area.

Completed BINGO cards should be returned to the Downtown Tiffin lobby on the same evening. As an extra incentive, all completed cards will be entered into a drawing, and one lucky winner will be awarded $50 in Chamber Cash.

“We wanted to create a memorable and engaging experience for our community, especially during this festive season. ‘Last Call Holiday Shopping’ is a great way to support local businesses, enjoy a delicious meal or beverage, and have some fun with the BINGO game,” said Vickie Wilkins, vice-chair of the Downtown Development Committee.

The 3rd Thursday events have become a monthly tradition in Downtown Tiffin, which will continue in 2024 during the whole calendar year.

For more information about Downtown Tiffin’s 3rd Thursday “Last Call Holiday Shopping” event, visit the Facebook event at https://www.facebook.com/events/1399707570616134 or visit https://www.downtowntiffin.org/events.

Downtown Tiffin 3rd Thursdays are made possible by the generosity of our sponsors: Destination Seneca County, Reineke Family Dealerships, and UIS Insurance & Investments.

TIFFIN, OHIO – December 8, 2023 – The Social Cigar is thrilled to announce the upcoming opening of The Social Cigar-Den at 58 W. Market St. This exciting expansion, just a few minutes walk from the downtown store located at 92 S. Washington, is set to become the ultimate year-round lounge for patrons seeking a warm and inviting atmosphere to savor their favorite cigars.

Founded by Todd Steen and Gemma Marschke in 2022, The Social Cigar has quickly become a destination in the community, offering a curated selection of premium cigars and accessories. The addition of The Social Cigar-Den will elevate the overall experience, providing a dedicated space for enthusiasts to relax, connect, and indulge in their passion.

The new location will be open to the public, age 21 and over, offering a comfortable environment, making The Social Cigar-Den a second home for those who appreciate the finer things in life. Exclusive membership options will be available, allowing patrons to enjoy additional perks and privileges.

Todd Steen and Gemma Marschke, Owners of The Social Cigar, expressed their excitement about the expansion, “The Social Cigar-Den is a testament to our commitment to creating a welcoming community for cigar enthusiasts. We are thrilled to provide a space where patrons can come together, share their love for cigars, and enjoy a unique and comfortable setting. This expansion reflects the incredible support we’ve received since opening our doors in 2022, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone to The Social Cigar-Den.”

In recognition of Todd and Gemma’s entrepreneurial spirit and significant contributions to Downtown Tiffin, they were honored with the Downtown Tiffin 2023 Main Street Entrepreneurial Award. This prestigious award celebrates individuals who have played a pivotal role in revitalizing and enhancing the downtown community.

Mayor Dawn Iannantuono shared her support for The Social Cigar-Den, “We are happy to see The Social Cigar expanding its footprint in Downtown. This expansion aligns with our ongoing efforts to create vibrant spaces that contribute to the overall growth of our city.”

Announcements on the opening celebration and membership details will be available at https://www.facebook.com/TiffinSocialCigar or https://thesocialcigar.net/.

[pictured: Owners, Todd Steen and Gemma Marschke]

TIFFIN, OHIO – November 27, 2023 – Downtown Tiffin under the Tiffin-Seneca Economic Partnership will host its annual Kris Kringle Markt this weekend, December 1 and 2. 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, live ice sculpture carvings, live reindeer, complimentary holiday wagon rides, and a parking lot dedicated to donations for the Salvation Army of Tiffin. Cherry Alley will feature live Christmas trees for sale that are being sponsored by local businesses along with “S’mores Land” featuring characters: Olaf, Sven, Anna, Elsa.

Mayor Dawn Iannantuono said, “The Kris Kringle Markt is the perfect way to welcome everyone into Downtown Tiffin for the festivities. The two-day celebration kicks off with the lighting of the courthouse tree.  This is truly a special event that all residents and visitors alike will enjoy!”

The Kris Kringle Markt will be open Friday, December 1st from 5 pm – 9 pm in conjunction with the Holiday Tree Lighting Experience at the Justice Center and Saturday, December 2nd from 10 am – 3 pm following the Tiffin Kiwanis Christmas Parade.

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

TIFFIN, OHIO – November 7, 2023 – The Downtown Tiffin Marketing Committee under the Tiffin-Seneca Economic Partnership is planning its annual Kris Kringle Markt on December 1 and 2. The festival will highlight an open-air holiday market with German/Bavarian-inspired Christmas offerings.

Visitors can enjoy the sounds of live holiday music, traditional German food, late-night retail shopping, children’s activities, and the ambiance of an old-world German Christmas.

Court Street will be transformed to take on a traditional European Christmas market, or Weihnachtsmarkt, featuring 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, live ice sculpture carvings, live reindeer, complimentary holiday wagon rides, and a parking lot dedicated to donations for the Salvation Army of Tiffin. Cherry Alley will feature live Christmas trees for sale that are being sponsored by local businesses along with “S’mores Land” featuring characters: Olaf, Sven, Anna, Elsa.

Mayor Dawn Iannantuono said, “The Kris Kringle Markt is the perfect way to welcome everyone into Downtown Tiffin for the festivities. The two-day celebration kicks off with the lighting of the courthouse tree.  This is truly a special event that all residents and visitors alike will enjoy!”

The Kris Kringle Markt will be open Friday, December 1st from 5 pm – 9 pm in conjunction with the Holiday Tree Lighting Experience at the Justice Center and Saturday, December 2nd from 10 am – 3 pm following the Tiffin Kiwanis Christmas Parade.

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

TIFFIN, OHIO – November 6, 2023 – The Downtown Tiffin Design Committee is excited to announce its upcoming Leaf Clean-Up event, scheduled for Saturday, November 18, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. This family-friendly community initiative welcomes individuals of all ages to participate in a morning of leaf and trash clean-up.

Volunteers will meet at Cherry Alley, located across from the Ritz Theatre, where the event will kick off. Leaf bags, rakes, and brooms will be provided. The event offers an excellent opportunity for anyone in need of community service hours or anyone who wants to help continue the beautification of Downtown Tiffin.

Mayor Dawn Iannantuono stated “The community’s hard work and dedication to cleaning up downtown has already made a significant impact, and we’re excited to see that spirit continue at the Leaf Clean-Up event.”

A special addition, to this year’s downtown clean-ups, is the “Litter League,” where individuals or teams can compete to see who can collect the most leaves and litter. So far this year over 1000 pounds of trash have been collected during the Downtown Tiffin Clean-Ups.

To make the event as efficient and organized as possible, volunteers are encouraged to sign up in advance. Registration is available at https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0944A5AB2AA1FCC70-downtown#/. Sign up as an individual or gather a team. Every participant in the Leaf Clean-Up event will receive a free t-shirt and a lunch coupon to enjoy after the clean-up.

TIFFIN, OHIO – November 1, 2023 – Downtown Tiffin is thrilled to announce a new 3rd Thursday event, taking place on November 16th from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. The event will feature an exciting new addition known as “Sip & Shop.” Residents and visitors alike are invited to stroll through downtown, exploring the unique retail shops, enjoying DORA (Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area) beverages, and witnessing spectacular holiday window “reveals.”

The schedule for the evening’s holiday window “reveals” is as follows:

• 5:00 PM: Reclaim It 127
• 5:30 PM: SOUL Boutique
• 6:00 PM: Washington Street Outfitters
• 6:30 PM: Tom Rodgers Flower Shop
• 7:00 PM: Pan Yan Bookstore
• 7:30 PM: Simply Susan’s

Local businesses participating in 3^rd Thursday will offer special promotions, discounts, and extended hours while customers will have an opportunity to get a head start on holiday shopping and enjoy the festive atmosphere of Downtown Tiffin.

Mayor Dawn Iannantuono commented, “The popularity of our 3^rd Thursdays continues with the new addition of the Sip & Shop. This event will also host the unveiling of the beautiful lighting and downtown window displays. The evening promises to be the highlight of the season! We invite all our residents and visitors to join us to experience the magic of downtown Tiffin during the holidays.”

In addition to the “Sip & Shop”, the new Downtown Tiffin Holiday lights will make their grand debut, illuminating the downtown streets with a warm and welcoming holiday glow.

For more information about Downtown Tiffin’s 3rd Thursday “Sip & Shop” event and updates on participating businesses, please visit our website at www.downtowntiffin.com or Facebook at @DowntownTiffinOH.

TIFFIN, OHIO – October 27, 2023 – Downtown Tiffin is preparing for a new look this holiday season with bigger and brighter decorations. Thanks to the generous support of the Downtown Tiffin Merchants Committee, Tiffin Seneca Economic Partnership (TSEP), local businesses, and individuals, the heart of the town will be adorned with white LED lights and evergreen wreaths this year.

Downtown Tiffin’s lamp posts and trees will be illuminated with brilliant white lights starting November 16th in conjunction with the Third Thursday’s Sip & Shop. Over $10,000 has been donated by the Downtown Tiffin Merchants Committee and TSEP, with additional contributions from local businesses and individuals totaling over $26,000 in donations.

The creative force behind this project is the hardworking volunteer committee led by Christy Wiser and Judy Hafley. Numerous community volunteers have been decorating and hanging thousands of lights throughout the month. Christy Wiser, expressed her enthusiasm, saying, “I had a vision to make Tiffin more festive and brighter this Christmas Season.  With the help of my husband Randy, Chris and Judy Hafley, Ned and Karen Behm, Lee and Susan Wilkinson and other volunteers the downtown area will be revealing over 82,000 lights. This would not have been possible without the donations from Downtown Merchants, TSEP, and many businesses and private citizens that donated.  We hope to be able to add more next year!  We hope everyone enjoys them and shops local to support our merchants.”

In addition to the new white LED lights and evergreen wreaths, new multi-color lights will be added to the courthouse lawn tree in time for the annual tree-lighting planned for December 1^st.  Last year’s metal snowflakes will be repurposed into 3-dimensional art displayed throughout the holiday season.