Author: Bryce Riggs

TIFFIN, OHIO – August 18, 2023 – During a meeting Tuesday, August 15th, the City of Tiffin Architectural Board of Review (ABR) approved façade grants for three different buildings in Downtown Tiffin.

The ABR approved a $10,000 Façade Enhancement Grant for St. Joseph Catholic Church at 36 Melmore St. to restore one of many stained-glass windows. The $39,600 project was approved for the maximum grant amount.

Nichole Johnson was approved for a $10,000 Façade Enhancement Grant at 95 S. Monroe St. to repair and replace the roof, soffits, gutters, and downspouts.

The third Façade Enhancement Grant was granted to Watchtower LLC for re-plaster and stucco to the commercial storefront at 55 Madison St. This project was allocated the remainder of the 2023 Façade Enhancement Grant funds.

Mayor Iannantuono commented about the positive impact of the Façade Enhancement Grant stating, “It is wonderful to see our downtown buildings continue to be a priority in the eyes of our community. The support of the Architectural Board of Review and hard work of our committed citizens will keep our city beautiful and preserved for years to come”

The 2023 Façade Enhancement Program continues to be successful with 13 building project approvals for an investment of more than $240,359. Since the Façade Enhancement Program’s inception in 2014, 116 projects have been approved for a total downtown investment of more than $2.7 million.

TIFFIN, OHIO – August 14, 2023 – The Taste of Downtown Tiffin will take place this 3rd Thursday, August 17th from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Twenty local Tiffin eateries will gather at National Corner, the Public Library parking lot, and Jefferson Street to serve a unique variety of menu samples. Included in this year’s lineup are both familiar establishments like Jolly’s, Reino’s, and The Empire, and new additions to the event such as Wall Street Pub, Happy Days Nutrition, Double D’s, and The Deli Cafe, to mention just a few.

Tiffin’s Mayor, Dawn Iannantuono, is thrilled about the upcoming event and enthusiastically expresses her support, stating, “The Taste of Downtown Tiffin event is a great way to find your favorite flavors within our city! Much like the culinary minds that create these dishes, you’ll find some sweet, some a little salty, and some even a little spicy. There is something for everyone, come join in the fun!”

Tickets for the Taste of Downtown Tiffin are available for purchase at either the event itself or in advance at Pan Yan Bookstore, a pack of 5 tickets for $5 and a pack of 20 tickets for $20. Most items are priced between 1-3 tickets, giving attendees an opportunity to taste different items without committing to a whole meal.

During the 3rd Thursday event, the Tiffin Municipal Art Commission (TMAC) will host the Court Street Market, featuring a display of local artists, makers, and crafters showcasing their handmade products.

Adjacent to the Taste of Downtown Tiffin, the Tiffin City Parks & Recreation Department will present its annual “Band Bash” at the Frost-Kalnow Amphitheater on the East Green from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. This concert will highlight the musical talents of local university and high school marching bands, including Heidelberg University, Tiffin University, Columbian High School, and New Riegel High School.

TIFFIN, OHIO – August 11, 2023 – Prominent entrepreneur, Kelli Dariano, the owner of Threads at Wolf Creek Plaza, has acquired Washington Street Outfitters (WSO) from founders Zoé Dolch and Spenser Blackiston. WSO, a cherished destination for clothing, accessories, home goods, and music since its establishment in 2017, is set to enter a new era under Dariano’s expert leadership.

Zoé Dolch, the co-founder of WSO, announced the decision with a mix of gratitude and excitement: “After six wonderful years, we have decided to embark on a new chapter and pass the torch to someone who will undoubtedly take our legacy to even greater heights. With a mix of nostalgia and anticipation, we announce the sale of our store to a remarkable entrepreneur, a familiar face in our community – a woman who has been the driving force behind a thriving retail establishment for over two decades.

The announcement comes as a bittersweet moment for the community, as Dolch and Blackiston express their deep gratitude for the unwavering support received from the residents of Tiffin. “Our final act as stewards of this establishment will be a heartfelt sale, a way to say thank you for your loyalty, and an opportunity for you to snag some incredible deals before our chapter ends,” Dolch added.

Kelli Dariano stated, “I am beyond excited to become a part of the WSO family and carry on the unique brand that Zoe and Spencer created. We formed a friendship years ago built on community, over competition, in this dynamic world of small-town business and fashion. I love the vision they executed and hope to continue preserving the essence of what makes WSO special while introducing new and exciting elements that will resonate with loyal patrons and new customers. I sincerely look forward to joining the growing Downtown Tiffin Community.”

Mayor Dawn Iannantuono shared her support for the acquisition, stating, “Tiffin has always been a community that values its local businesses, and we are eager to see this transition continue to bring success to a beloved boutique in our downtown. I know with Kelli Dariano’s established entrepreneurial success, Washington Street Outfitters is in great hands and will continue to thrive.”

Washington Street Outfitters is located at 186 S. Washington St., Downtown Tiffin. For more information, visit WSO’s Facebook page.

TIFFIN, OHIO – August 4, 2023 – A Tiffin tradition is coming under new ownership. The Clover Club, a local institution that has been a part of the community for 87 years, announces it will be passing the torch to new ownership.  Randy Waire, a longtime Tiffin resident and owner of Champs Barber Shop, will be the new owner of the Clover Club, adding a new chapter to the restaurant’s storied legacy.

Waire has been working closely with the previous owner, Sharon Gosche, for a while, putting the final touches on the sale of the Clover Club, which she has successfully owned since 1997.   Keeping what the Clover Club stands for, Waire affirms that the menu will remain unchanged, continuing to feature the dishes that have won the hearts of Tiffin’s residents for years.  However, Waire plans to introduce an exciting Irish pub flair to the Clover Club by incorporating a selection of enticing new menu items and a range of specialty drinks.

The Clover Club’s rich history dates back to its grand opening on June 5, 1936.  The building, constructed in 1893, was the original home of Dehmer & Sons cigars and then later became a soda shop.  With the utmost respect for tradition, Waire has plans to commemorate the bar’s original inception each year by hosting an annual celebration on this significant date.

Randy Waire stated, “The Clover Club has a rich tradition, and I can’t wait to keep it going for years to come.  I want to thank Sharon for giving me the opportunity to purchase the Clover Club.  It is truly an honor and privilege to take the torch from a Tiffin legend.”

Previous owner, Sharon Gosche, expressed her sentiments saying, “I didn’t want to sell the business to just anyone.  Randy is that person who understands the legacy of the Clover Club and this community.”

Mayor Dawn Iannantuono congratulated Randy Waire on his future venture, stating, “It is great to know that the Clover Club will continue to be a valuable asset to our downtown experience.  Randy has shown his dedication to the revitalization of Downtown Tiffin for many years and we know this will continue for years to come.  I would also like to thank Sharon for her commitment to the Clover Club’s legacy and her involvement with our community.”

In addition to the Clover Club, Randy Waire will continue to operate his acclaimed Champs Barber Shop, which opened its doors in 2007, further cementing his dedication to serving the Tiffin community.

The Clover Club is located at 266 S. Washington St., Tiffin.  For more information and updates on this exciting transition, please visit them on Facebook.

TIFFIN, OHIO – July 28, 2023 – Downtown Tiffin is thrilled to announce the return of the “Taste of Downtown Tiffin,” the region’s premier culinary event.  Mark your calendars for August 17, 2023, from 5 to 8 p.m. as Jefferson Street, between Market Street and Perry Street and the Tiffin-Seneca Public Library parking lot will come alive with local flavors and lively entertainment.

The Taste of Downtown Tiffin is an annual tradition that celebrates the community’s favorite and latest culinary offerings in the heart of Downtown Tiffin.  Now in its 4th year, this event has become an anticipated gathering that brings together the community, local businesses, and food enthusiasts from near and far.

Greg Dell, Co-Chair of The Taste of Downtown Tiffin, expressed his excitement about the event’s growth, saying, “Every year, The Taste of Downtown Tiffin is getting bigger and bigger. We have added new food and drink vendors and new menu items to keep the lines shorter and the food flowing.”

Admission is open to all, with tickets available for purchase for just $1 each at the event or ahead of time at Pan Yan Bookstore.  This affordable pricing allows attendees to explore a wide array of food tastings from local restaurants showcasing their best culinary creations.

Adjacent to the event, the Tiffin City Parks & Rec will host “Band Bash” at Frost-Kalnow Amphitheater on the East Green from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.  The concert will feature lively performances by local university and high school marching bands, Heidelberg University, Tiffin University, Columbian High School, and New Riegel High School, showcasing their musical talents.

For more information about the event, please visit our website at www.downtowntiffin.org or Facebook

Downtown Tiffin 3rd Thursdays are made possible through the generous support of Destination Seneca County, Reineke Family Dealerships, and UIS Insurance & Investments.  Their commitment to the community and love for Downtown Tiffin have helped make these events a success.  For a complete list of Downtown Tiffin 3rd Thursdays and more information about The Taste of Downtown Tiffin, please visit www.DowntownTiffinEvents.com.

TIFFIN, OHIO – July 17, 2023 – Downtown Tiffin is gearing up for an evening of holiday cheer with its highly anticipated 3rd Thursday Christmas in July event.  Set to take place on July 20th from 5-8 pm, this festive extravaganza promises an array of exciting activities and entertainment for all ages.

Lot 7 will host Santa’s Heroic Helpers “Touch-a-Truck” event featuring the Tiffin City police, fire, and rescue vehicles, allowing families to get up close and personal with the courageous heroes who protect their community.  As an extra treat, rumor has it that Buddy the Elf may make a special appearance.

Located in front of Calvert Catholic Schools, kids will delight in the North Pole obstacle course bouncy house, generously donated by Tiffin Inflatables.  Just across the street, JAMs Monthly Markets will be hosting their Christmas in July Market, offering an opportunity to browse and purchase unique holiday-themed items.

The RTA Lot will be transformed into a food lover’s paradise, with a variety of food trucks including Tijuana Tacos, Double D’s Food Cart, and Dough My Gosh.  Meanwhile, local merchants throughout Downtown Tiffin will be in the holiday spirit, offering Christmas in July sales, exclusive discounts and specials.

TMAC will host its first Court Street Market of the summer to provide a haven for art enthusiasts, showcasing the talents of local artists, makers, and crafters.  Attendees will have the chance to explore a diverse range of handmade products, from stunning artworks to intricately crafted crafts.  To cap off this festive evening, the Thursday Night Tunes concert series will be hosting The Eric Sowers Band at the East Green Frost-Kalnow Amphitheatre starting at 7:00 p.m.

Mayor Dawn Iannantuono invites everyone to come enjoy the event and support our local businesses and artists, “Downtown Tiffin’s 3rd Thursday Christmas in July is a great opportunity to bring our community together.”

3rd Thursdays in Downtown Tiffin are made possible with the generous support of event sponsors Reineke Family Dealerships, Destination Seneca County, and UIS Insurance and Investments.

Free street parking will be available in addition to City Lots 1-6.  For more information and updates on Downtown Tiffin’s Christmas in July Third Thursday event, please visit the event page on Facebook or www.DowntownTiffinEvents.com.

TIFFIN, OHIO – July 7, 2023 – Happy Days Nutrition, the popular health and wellness hub known for its shakes, protein coffees, teas, and specialty drinks, is thrilled to announce its upcoming relocation to Downtown Tiffin.  The owners, Jose and Kimberly Arias, who first opened their doors on the northeast side of town in 2020, are excited to move to their new location at 31 Court Street in late summer. The new space, double the size of their previous establishment, boasts an impressive 1600 square feet.

The move to Downtown Tiffin aligns perfectly with the owners’ vision of bringing good vibes, fostering a sense of community, and contributing to the city’s revitalization efforts. The expanded space will provide room for indoor seating, allowing customers to relax, work, or socialize while enjoying their beverages.  Additionally, Happy Days Nutrition will offer complimentary Wi-Fi, catering to college students who are seeking a conducive study environment.

Jose Arias, co-owner of Happy Days Nutrition, expressed his enthusiasm about the move, saying, “We are beyond excited to bring Happy Days Nutrition to Downtown Tiffin. Our goal has always been to create a positive environment where people can enjoy healthy, delicious options and feel inspired to lead a balanced lifestyle. With our new location, we look forward to attracting more foot traffic, connecting with the community, and being an integral part of the Downtown Tiffin revitalization.”

Mayor Dawn Iannantuono expressed her support for Happy Days Nutrition’s relocation. She stated, “We are glad to welcome Jose and Kimberly into downtown.  Happy Days Nutrition’s commitment to promoting health and wellness aligns perfectly with our city’s vision for a vibrant community, and know this new location will serve them well. We believe their presence will enhance the overall experience for both residents and visitors, contributing to the economic and social growth of our downtown area.”

In addition to their physical location, Happy Days Nutrition will also offer free delivery within Downtown Tiffin through their user-friendly mobile app.  This convenient service allows customers to enjoy their favorite beverages and snacks at their desired location.

Tiffin Capital Investments, building owner and key player in the city’s revitalization efforts, was recently approved for a Downtown Façade Enhancement Grant at 31 Court Street.  This funding will be utilized to reface the storefront, further beautifying the Downtown Tiffin area and creating an inviting atmosphere for both businesses and visitors.

To stay up-to-date with Happy Days Nutrition and their exciting journey in Downtown Tiffin, follow them on Facebook and Snapchat.

TIFFIN, OHIO – June 29, 2023 – Downtown Tiffin is thrilled to invite residents and visitors to join them for a delightful evening of holiday cheer during their upcoming 3rd Thursday event, Christmas in July.  This festive occasion will take place on July 20th and promises to offer a unique blend of traditional Christmas spirit combined with the enjoyable summer weather.

“One of our goals with the Christmas in July event is to bring the joy and spirit of Christmas to our community in a fun and unexpected way,” said Marisa Stephens, Committee Chair of the event.  “We’re excited to see families and friends come together to celebrate and create lasting memories during this unique event.”

One of the highlights of the evening will be live music performed in Lot 7, featuring local talent Paul Grover, “No Eileen,” and Santa’s Heroic Helpers.  Visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy an enchanting musical ambiance while exploring a variety of activities.  Among these attractions are the chance to check out a police vehicle, fire engine, and more, thanks to the presence of local heroes.  Additionally, rumor has it that Buddy the Elf and Summer Santa may make a special appearance, adding an extra touch of magic to the event. Additional event details will be regularly updated on the event page as they are confirmed.

Families and children will delight in the North Pole obstacle course bouncy houses, generously donated by Tiffin Inflatables, located in front of Calvert Catholic Schools and across from JAM’s Monthly Markets, where their Christmas in July Market will be taking place.  In the RTA lot, attendees are invited to roam through the community lot to learn more about local businesses and organizations, grab a bite to eat from Tijuana Tacos, Double D’s Food Cart, and Dough My Gosh who will be parked and ready to serve for the evening.  To add to the excitement, numerous merchants will be hosting special Christmas in July sidewalk sales, offering great deals and unique holiday-themed merchandise.

The Christmas in July 3rd Thursday event will be held from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, providing ample time for everyone to enjoy the festivities.  Furthermore, attendees are encouraged to stay for the Thursday Night Tunes concert at the East Green Frost-Kalnow Amphitheatre, ensuring a full evening of entertainment by The Ohio based modern country music band, The Eric Sowers Band.

3rd Thursdays in Downtown Tiffin are made possible with the generous support of event sponsors Reineke Family Dealerships, Destination Seneca County, and UIS Insurance and Investments.

Don’t miss out on this fantastic celebration that combines the best of both worlds, where Christmas meets summertime fun.  Join us in Downtown Tiffin on July 20th to revel in the festive atmosphere, indulge in exciting activities, and discover the joy of Christmas in July.

TIFFIN, OHIO – June 28, 2023 – Collaboration Therapy LLC, a provider of speech and feeding therapy services, is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its new location in Downtown Tiffin at 300 S. Washington St. With a focus on pediatric tethered oral tissue, feeding and swallowing disorders, and orofacial myofunctional disorders, Collaboration Therapy LLC aims to provide exceptional care and support to children in need.

Founded by Katlyn Martin, a licensed speech-language pathologist and local resident, Collaboration Therapy LLC is set to introduce patient centered speech therapy in Tiffin.  Katlyn holds a Master’s of Science degree from Bowling Green University, and her expertise enables her to offer specialized treatment options tailored to each child’s unique needs.

As a resident of Downtown Tiffin, Katlyn Martin shares her family’s deep-rooted passion for the community. “Opening Collaboration Therapy in Downtown Tiffin was a deliberate decision for us. We wanted to be in a walkable community, close to schools, and surrounded by a vibrant atmosphere,” said Katlyn Martin. “Our goal is to create a patient-centered model that not only benefits the children but also fosters collaborative relationships with other healthcare providers. By working together, we can ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.”

Collaboration Therapy was created to service the community, utilizing a team approach, working closely with physical, therapists, occupational therapists, doctors, dentists, chiropractors, craniosacral therapists, lactation consultants, and family members.

“Mayor Dawn Iannantuono stated “The addition of this specialized speech and feeding therapy center will further enhance the healthcare options available in our community. We appreciate Katlyn Martin’s dedication to providing exceptional care to our children and her commitment to building relationships with other healthcare professionals.”

Collaboration Therapy LLC is now accepting patients, with appointments available from Monday to Friday. To schedule an appointment or to learn more about their services, interested individuals are encouraged to contact Katlyn Martin, M.S., CCC-SLP at 567-220-6545 or via email at collaborationtherapyllc@gmail.com. The clinic is located at 300 S. Washington St., Tiffin, OH 44883.

For the latest updates and information about Collaboration Therapy LLC, please visit their Facebook page here Facebook

TIFFIN, OHIO – June 26, 2023 – Downtown Tiffin is set to welcome a new health-focused restaurant, Wild Bunch Wellness Bar, owned by local resident and registered nurse, Lacie Pace. The restaurant, located at 71 E Market Street, will offer natural, organic, made from scratch breakfast and lunch food options, including a grab-and-go cooler with readymade salads and grain bowls made fresh daily.

The building, previously known as The Duck Inn, will now be transformed into a health-focused restaurant that caters to the growing demand for healthy food options.   Some of the featured menu items will include cold pressed juice, smoothies, smoothie bowls, sandwiches, toasts, and seasonal items.

“I am thrilled to bring Wild Bunch Wellness Bar to downtown Tiffin,” said Lacie Pace. “My passion for holistic health and wellness inspired me to create a space that not only offers delicious healthy food options but also promotes overall wellbeing.  Our menu will be made with only the freshest and most natural ingredients, providing our customers with the nourishment they need to thrive.”

Mayor Dawn Iannantuono expressed her support for the new business saying, “The addition of Wild Bunch Wellness Bar to our downtown area highlights the growing demand for healthy food options and demonstrates our commitment to promoting wellness within our community.  I wish Lacie and her team all the best and look forward to the success of this new venture.”

In 2022, JVC Properties received approval from the Architectural Board of Review (ABR) to receive a Façade Enhancement Grant of $10,000 for the restoration of the storefront located at 71 E Market St. Furthermore, JVC Properties has recently been granted a 2023 grant for the neighboring storefront, further contributing to the ongoing revitalization of the block.

The upcoming opening of Wild Bunch Wellness Bar has generated enthusiasm within the community, as locals eagerly anticipate the arrival of this new establishment.  For more information, contact Lacie Pace, Wild Bunch Wellness Bar, 71 E Market Street, Tiffin, OH at Laciepace.lp@gmail.com  or (567) 938-8900.

TIFFIN, OHIO – June 12, 2023 – Downtown Tiffin is gearing up to host its highly anticipated 3rd Thursday event, Fête de la Musique (Music Day), on June 15th from 5-7 pm.  The streets will come alive with the sounds of over 30 talented musicians who will captivate audiences throughout Downtown Tiffin in front of merchants, on sidewalks, and street corners.

Fête de la Musique will showcase a diverse range of musical styles, from classic rock, country, and pop, to acoustic folk, indie, barbershop, blues, reggae, jazz, beatbox, R&B, and more.  Music lovers of all tastes are sure to find something that resonates with them as they stroll through the streets of Downtown Tiffin.

One of the highlights of the event will be the Tiffin Community Foundation’s sponsorship of “Kidchella” at Cherry Alley.  This special area will give children the opportunity to try out different instruments, fostering a love for music and inspiring the next generation of musicians.

In addition, music enthusiasts will have a unique chance to experience a remarkable tubular-pneumatic organ concert at the historic Second UCC church located at 156 Jefferson St.  The church’s organ dates back to 1904.

Mayor Iannantuono stated, “Downtown Tiffin’s 3rd Thursdays are a celebration of our community’s vibrant spirit.  The Committee Chairs have done a wonderful job bringing these events to life.  Fête de la Musique promises to be a harmonious blend of music, culture, and togetherness.”

To enhance the evening further, Downtown Tiffin’s merchants, bars, and restaurants will be offering exclusive specials and promotions throughout the event.  City Lot 7 and Court Street will also host a variety of food trucks.

As the evening progresses, The Cherry Bombs will perform at The East Green Amphitheatre, sponsored by Nicole Miller, State Farm.  From 7-9 pm, this talented group will take center stage, captivating the audience with their dynamic high energy band featuring pop, rock and a little bit of country.

The success of Downtown Tiffin’s 3rd Thursday events would not be possible without the generous support of sponsors:  Reineke Family Dealerships, UIS Insurance & Investments, and Destination Seneca County.

Downtown Tiffin has been designated as an Accredited Main Street America™ program for meeting rigorous performance standards. Each year, Main Street America and its partners announce the list of Accredited programs to recognize their exceptional commitment to preservation-based economic development and community revitalization through the Main Street Approach™.

“We are very proud to acknowledge this year’s 862 Accredited Main Street America programs, and their steadfast dedication to nurture economically and culturally vibrant downtown districts,” said Hannah White, Interim President & CEO of Main Street America. “The increase in the size and impact of our network speaks volumes to the power of the Main Street movement to respond to the needs of local communities and drive innovative solutions.”

In 2022, Main Street America programs generated $6.2 billion in local reinvestment, helped open 7,657 net new businesses, facilitated the creation of 29,174 net new jobs, catalyzed the rehabilitation of 10,688 historic buildings, and leveraged 1,528,535 volunteer hours. On average, for every dollar that a Main Street program spent to support their operations, it generated $24.07 of new investment back into their downtown communities.

Collectively, 2 million people live or work within the boundaries of designated Main Street America districts. An estimated workforce of 1.1 million people contribute their skills and expertise to advancing the missions of these historic downtowns and commercial corridors.

Downtown Tiffin’s performance is annually evaluated by Heritage Ohio, which works in partnership with Main Street America to identify the local programs that meet rigorous national performance standards. To qualify for Accreditation status, communities must meet a set of rigorous standards that include commitments to building grassroots revitalization programs, fostering strong public-private partnerships, nurturing economic opportunity for small businesses and entrepreneurs, and actively preserving historic places, spaces, and cultural assets.