Author: Donna Gross

Downtown Tiffin Announces “Arts, Beats, and Eats” as April Third Thursday Theme

Written by Donna Gross on March 30, 2026. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – March 30, 2026 – Downtown Tiffin will launch the 2026 Third Thursday event season with “Arts, Beats, and Eats” on April 16 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. throughout the downtown district.

The event will feature live musicians and artists at multiple locations throughout downtown. Attendees will have the opportunity to view and purchase a variety of artwork, including glassware, marbles, jewelry, acrylic and mixed media paintings, watercolor cards and bookmarks, decorative garden poles, original artwork, prints, photography, oil paintings, colored pencil and graphite pieces, crochet items, folded book art, and miniature recycled book dioramas. Live musical performances will include a range of styles such as multi-genre, rock, country, and bluegrass.

Local restaurants and bars will offer grab-and-go food options and DORA drink specials during the event. Attendees are encouraged to visit participating establishments and explore downtown while enjoying food, live music, and local art.

Third Thursday events are held regularly to encourage activity within the downtown district and provide additional opportunities for businesses to engage with residents and visitors.

“This is a great way to kick off the Third Thursday season in Tiffin. ‘Arts, Beats, and Eats’ brings together everything that makes Tiffin special—local artists, live music, and great food—all in one place. It’s an opportunity for residents and visitors to experience the creativity and energy of our community while supporting the small businesses that help Tiffin thrive,” said Tiffin Mayor Lee Wilkinson.

Downtown Tiffin acknowledges the support of Third Thursday sponsors, Reineke Family Dealerships and UIS Insurance & Investments.

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About Downtown Tiffin
The revitalization of Downtown Tiffin began in 2011 with the formation of Tiffin Tomorrow, a grassroots initiative led by community members dedicated to promoting economic development and ensuring the long-term prosperity of the downtown district. In 2014, the City of Tiffin partnered with local organizations to serve as the official downtown development entity. Tiffin Tomorrow was incorporated into this effort, which now operates under the Seneca County Collaborative as the Downtown Development Board, the governing body for downtown revitalization efforts.

Since 2015, Downtown Tiffin has proudly participated in Heritage Ohio’s Main Street Program, further strengthening its commitment to historic preservation, economic vitality, and community engagement. Downtown Tiffin is also recognized as a nationally accredited Main Street America Program. Learn more at www.DowntownTiffin.org.

About the Seneca County Collaborative
The Seneca County Collaborative brings together the Seneca Regional Chamber & Development, Downtown Tiffin, and Destination Seneca County under one unified structure to better serve the businesses, communities, and residents of Seneca County. This integrated approach aligns economic development, tourism, downtown revitalization, and business services to create greater impact, improve access to resources, and drive long-term success across the county. Learn more at www.OneSeneca.org.

Downtown Tiffin to Host Heritage Ohio Revitalization Series Workshop: Design That Drives Downtown Success

Written by Donna Gross on March 23, 2026. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – March 23, 2026 – Downtown Tiffin will host the Heritage Ohio Revitalization Series Workshop, Design That Drives Downtown Success, on May 20, 2026, at the Chandelier Community Event Center. The full-day workshop will bring together downtown merchants, property owners, and community leaders from throughout the state to explore strategies that enhance storefront appeal and support economic vitality.

The morning session will feature Magnetic Main Streets: Designing Storefronts That Invite, Engage, and Increase Cash Flow, led by Tiersa Wodash, founder of Brick and Mortar. Wodash, a licensed architect in Minnesota and Wisconsin, specializes in revitalizing existing buildings and helping small businesses transform underutilized spaces into vibrant, high-performing destinations.

Participants will learn about key factors that influence storefront design and performance. Topics will include lighting basics, design cohesion, and interior and exterior improvements that can affect customer engagement and foot traffic. The session will provide practical tools and considerations that attendees can apply to their own spaces.

“This workshop is a great opportunity for business owners, downtown leaders, and community stakeholders from across Ohio to learn practical strategies they can use in any downtown setting,” said Donna Gross, Downtown Tiffin Main Street Manager. “By sharing practical design ideas and real-world insights, we hope to help communities of all sizes strengthen their business districts and create more inviting spaces.”

The afternoon sessions will include an overview of the Downtown Tiffin Façade Program and its impact on the downtown commercial district. The Gossman Group will present on the importance of a comprehensive downtown plan, followed by guided walking tours highlighting recent projects and investments in Downtown Tiffin.

Registration for the workshop is available online through Eventbrite.

Heritage Ohio promotes economic growth through the preservation and revitalization of downtowns and neighborhoods across Ohio. Heritage Ohio is the coordinating agency for the Ohio Main Street Program and is the designated statewide Ohio preservation partner with the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Through saving the places that matter we can all build a community and live better. Learn more about how to become involved by visiting www.heritageohio.org.

[Pictured: Tiersa Wodash, founder of Brick and Mortar]

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Downtown Tiffin Announces 2026 Community Clean-Up Dates

Written by Donna Gross on March 19, 2026. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – March 19, 2026 – The Downtown Tiffin Design Committee has announced its 2026 schedule for community clean-up events, inviting residents, businesses, and organizations to take part in maintaining and enhancing the appearance of Downtown Tiffin.

The clean-up events will take place on the following Saturdays: April 25, June 27, September 12, and November 21, with a special focus on leaf collection during seasonal transitions. Each event will run from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m., with volunteers meeting behind the Seneca County Collaborative office at 96 South Washington Street.

Downtown Tiffin will provide all necessary supplies, including trash bags, gloves, brooms, dustpans, and rakes.

In addition to individual volunteers, the Design Committee is encouraging groups to join the “Litter League,” a team-based community effort dedicated to promoting litter cleanup and beautification throughout Downtown Tiffin. Teams can include businesses, neighborhood groups, faith-based organizations, schools, civic groups, sports teams, and individuals alike.

Students from local schools and universities are encouraged to participate, as the clean-up events provide an opportunity to engage with the community. Participation may also count toward volunteer or service hour requirements, allowing students to fulfill academic or organizational commitments.

Community members interested in participating can find more information at www.downtowntiffinevents.com and can sign up for volunteer opportunities through SignUpGenius.

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Outbound Cycles to Rebrand Local Bike Shop in Downtown Tiffin

Written by Donna Gross on March 4, 2026. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – March 4, 2026 – Local cyclist and Tiffin native Mitch Stearns has announced the upcoming rebrand of the bike shop located at 70 E. Market Street in Tiffin. The business will soon operate under the new name Outbound Cycles, with the rebrand expected to take place within the next two months.

Outbound Cycles will continue providing bike sales and service for the community, including both traditional pedal bikes and electric bikes (e-bikes). In addition to in-shop repairs, the business will also offer home service calls and bike pick-up and drop-off services for a fee.

Stearns said his interest in launching a bike-focused business grew out of a need he saw in the community.

“When the opportunity came up to purchase the shop and rebrand it as my own, I couldn’t pass it up,” Stearns said.

Stearns has experience in cycling and bike service spanning more than two decades. He worked at GT Cycling and Fitness during high school and has spent much of his life riding road, mountain, and BMX bikes. He also worked with Spoke Life Cycles from 2023 to 2025, repairing and selling bikes prior to launching Outbound Cycles.

“This is a personal passion turned professional,” Stearns said. “Here at Outbound we love the idea of getting people moving and being outside. With over 20 years of riding hundreds of different bikes, we have a wide range of knowledge of what is out there and what is a quality ride that can deliver what you need to have a great time on two wheels.”

While the rebrand will include changes to some product lines, Outbound Cycles will continue offering access to a wide variety of bike brands and products.

Outbound Cycles will operate in downtown Tiffin at 70 E. Market Street. More information contact outboundcyclesllc@gmail.com.

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Final Week to Register for Downtown Tiffin St. Paddy’s Day 5K and Guarantee a Race Shirt

Written by Donna Gross on February 24, 2026. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – February 24, 2026 – Downtown Tiffin is reminding runners and walkers that there is less than one week left to register for the 11th Annual Downtown Tiffin St. Paddy’s Day 5K Run/Walk and guarantee a commemorative race T-shirt. Participants must register by March 1 to secure a shirt as part of their $30 registration.

The annual event will take place on Saturday, March 14, 2026, beginning at Calvert Catholic Schools, 152 Madison Street. Participant check-in opens at 8:30 a.m., with the race starting at 10:00 a.m. Children ages 10 and under may participate at no cost, with the option to purchase a youth-sized T-shirt. Official race timing will be provided by Dave’s Running.

Proceeds from the event directly support Downtown Tiffin’s ongoing revitalization efforts, including beautification projects, business support initiatives, and community programming that enhance the vitality of the downtown district.

Awards will be presented to the top male and female finishers in youth, adult, and senior divisions. A best-dressed participant award will also recognize the most festive St. Patrick’s Day-themed attire. Following the race, participants and visitors are encouraged to explore Downtown Tiffin’s shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Registration and additional event details are available at LuckyTiffin5k.com. Sponsorship opportunities are also available for $150 at DowntownTiffin.org/5k.

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Downtown Tiffin Announces Taste in Downtown Tiffin – Winter Edition

Written by Donna Gross on January 29, 2026. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – January 29, 2026 – Downtown Tiffin will host the Taste in Downtown Tiffin – Winter Edition on Thursday, February 26, 2026, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at The Chandelier Community Event Center, located at 151 S. Washington Street.

The event will feature 14 local restaurants and eateries, each offering a selection of menu samples. Attendees will have the opportunity to experience a variety of local flavors in one location while supporting area food establishments.

Tickets may be purchased in advance at Pan Yan Bookstore or Simply Susan’s, or with cash at the door on the night of the event. Ticket packs are available in two options: 5 tickets for $5 or 20 tickets for $20. Most food samples will cost one to three tickets, allowing attendees to sample multiple offerings without purchasing full meals.

“Taste in Tiffin has become a true downtown tradition at the Chandelier, and this Winter edition is the perfect reason to get out of the house and shake off the winter blues,” said Mayor Wilkinson.

The Taste in Downtown Tiffin – Winter Edition is sponsored by Reineke Family Dealerships and the Seneca News Daily.

For more information, follow Downtown Tiffin on social media or visit downtowntiffin.org.

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Downtown Tiffin Announces 11th Annual St. Paddy’s Day 5K Run/Walk

Written by Donna Gross on January 12, 2026. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – January 12, 2026 – The 11th annual Downtown Tiffin St. Paddy’s Day 5K Run/Walk will take place on Saturday, March 14, 2026. The event supports downtown revitalization programs.

The race will begin at Calvert Catholic Schools, 152 Madison Street. Participant check-in opens at 8:30 a.m., and the race will start at 10:00 a.m. Registration costs $30 and includes a commemorative race T-shirt for participants who register by March 1. Children ages 10 and under may participate at no cost, with an option to purchase a youth-sized T-shirt.

Awards will be presented to the top male and female finishers in youth, adult, and senior divisions. A best-dressed participant award will also be presented, recognizing St. Patrick’s Day-themed attire. Official race timing will be provided by Dave’s Running.

Event proceeds will support downtown revitalization efforts. Following the race, participants and visitors are encouraged to visit downtown businesses, restaurants, and attractions.

Registration details and additional information are available at LuckyTiffin5k.com.

Sponsorship opportunities are available for $150 at DowntownTiffin.org/5k. For more information, contact Donna Gross, Downtown Tiffin Main Street Manager, at dgross@oneseneca.org or 419-447-4141.

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Façade Enhancement Program to Continue in 2026

Written by Donna Gross on January 7, 2026. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – January 7, 2026 – The Façade Enhancement Program is a City of Tiffin reimbursement grant established in 2014 to support exterior improvements to residential and commercial buildings located within the downtown historic district. The program provides a 50 percent match for eligible projects, with each building eligible to receive up to $10,000 per calendar year.

Since its inception, the Façade Enhancement Program has approved 150 projects, contributing to more than $4 million in total downtown investment. The program remained active in 2025, with 15 building projects approved, representing an investment of more than $298,000.

The City of Tiffin has allocated $100,000 to continue the program in 2026, and applications are now open. Eligible improvements include exterior enhancements to the front façade of qualifying downtown buildings. Examples include awnings, masonry work, painting, restoration or replacement of exterior windows and doors, roofing system repairs or replacements, fire escapes or exterior upper-floor access, and other visible exterior improvements. All proposed work is subject to approval by the Architectural Board of Review.

“The Façade Enhancement Program continues to be an important investment in the strength and character of our community,” said Mayor Lee Wilkinson. “It helps to incentivize private investment that results in visible, lasting improvements that benefit the entire community.”

Project requirements and details regarding the full application process are available at https://www.tiffinohio.gov/ABR.

General contractors participating in the program must be licensed with the City of Tiffin. Licensing information and registration forms can be found at https://www.tiffinohio.gov/departments/city-administrator/general-contractor-license.

For questions about Downtown Tiffin, contact Downtown Tiffin Main Street Manager, Donna Gross, at dgross@oneseneca.org

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Downtown Tiffin Receives National Accreditation

Written by Donna Gross on December 22, 2025. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – December 22, 2025 – Downtown Tiffin has received National Main Street Accreditation for 2025 through the Ohio Main Street Program. The accreditation is awarded by Heritage Ohio, which serves as the coordinating agency in Ohio for Main Street America. Downtown Tiffin became a member of the Ohio Main Street Program in 2015.

During a full-day evaluation visit, Downtown Tiffin, a division of the Seneca County Collaborative, demonstrated clear evidence of a strong, effective program focused on achieving measurable outcomes in downtown revitalization. To qualify for Accreditation status, communities must meet rigorous national standards that include building grassroots-driven revitalization efforts, fostering strong public–private partnerships, supporting economic opportunity for small businesses and entrepreneurs, and actively preserving historic places, spaces, and cultural assets.

This designation reflects the dedication, vision, and hard work of Downtown Tiffin’s board, staff, and volunteers.

“This 2025 accreditation recognizes the coordination of local partners, volunteers, and stakeholders who support downtown revitalization efforts and organizational standards,” said Molly Armstrong, Downtown Development Board chair.

Mayor Wilkinson stated, “National Accreditation through Heritage Ohio and the Ohio Main Street Program is a proud milestone for Downtown Tiffin. It reflects the dedication of our community and the continued commitment to preserving our history while building a vibrant future.”

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About Heritage Ohio

Heritage Ohio helps people to save the places that matter, build community, and live better. As Ohio’s official historic preservation and Main Street Organization, Heritage Ohio fosters economic development and sustainability through preservation of historic buildings, revitalization of downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts, and promotion of cultural tourism. Since 1998, Heritage Ohio has contracted with the National Main Street Center as Ohio’s state coordinating agency for the Main Street Program™. Learn more about how to get involved by visiting www.HeritageOhio.org.

New Retail Store Thrift Junktion LLC Opens in Downtown Tiffin

Written by Donna Gross on December 11, 2025. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – December 11, 2025 – Thrift Junktion LLC, a retail resale business owned by Amber and Todd Stallard, has opened in Downtown Tiffin at 191 S. Washington St., Tiffin, OH 44883.

Thrift Junktion LLC offers new and gently used items at affordable prices. Inventory includes clothing, shoes, purses, tools, toys, collectibles, seasonal items, and other merchandise. New items are added regularly.

Amber and Todd Stallard are both Tiffin natives. Amber graduated from Tiffin Columbian High School and has 20 years of experience in retail. Todd has experience buying, trading, and selling a range of merchandise. The owners began selling at flea markets, through yard sales, and online before opening a year-round storefront location.

“Our goal is to provide new and gently used clothing and shoes at more affordable prices. We focus on finding quality items and passing those bargains on to others. Our inventory includes clothing, shoes, purses, tools, toys, collectibles, seasonal items, and more—and you never know what you’ll find when you stop in. We are constantly adding new items,” said owners Amber and Todd Stallard.

“I am excited to welcome Thrift Junktion LLC to downtown Tiffin,” said Mayor Lee Wilkinson. “Businesses like this not only add vibrancy and variety to our retail district, they also provide residents with affordable options while bringing new energy to our growing downtown. We’re grateful to Amber and Todd Stallard for choosing Tiffin and investing in our community.”

For more information, contact Thrift Junktion LLC at thriftjunktionllc@gmail.com or visit on Facebook.

[Pictured: Amber and Todd Stallard, owners]

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Seneca County Collaborative offers Free Family Fun & Loving Local

Written by Donna Gross on December 10, 2025. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – December 10, 2025 – The Seneca County Collaborative will sponsor a free community movie event on Sunday, December 14, 2025 at The Ritz Theatre featuring Christmas with the Kranks (2004). Santa will be available in the theatre lobby from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. for visits and photos, and the movie will begin at 2:00 p.m. The film stars Tim Allen, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Dan Aykroyd and follows Luther and Nora Krank as they attempt to skip Christmas until their daughter announces she is coming home, requiring a last-minute holiday celebration. Admission is free of charge through sponsorship from the Seneca County Collaborative and its divisions: Destination Seneca County, Develop Seneca County, and Downtown Tiffin.

Downtown Tiffin will host December’s Third Thursday, “Love Local in Downtown Tiffin,” on Thursday, December 18, 2025, throughout Downtown Tiffin’s business district. This all-day event is focused on supporting local businesses and encouraging local shopping and dining during the holiday season. Participating downtown merchants will offer specials, holiday sales, and giveaways throughout the day to support holiday shopping and promote small business participation. Downtown Tiffin’s Third Thursday events are sponsored by Destination Seneca County, Reineke Family Dealerships, UIS Insurance & Investments, Croghan Colonial Bank, and Mercy Health – Tiffin.

In addition to these two events from the Seneca County Collaborative, the community is invited to explore additional events and opportunities throughout Seneca County. Visit SenecaCountyEvents.com to learn more.

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Holiday Window Contest 2025 in Downtown Tiffin

Written by Donna Gross on December 9, 2025. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – December 9, 2025 – Downtown Tiffin businesses have completed seasonal window and storefront displays throughout the downtown district. Community members are invited to visit participating locations and vote for their preferred display by midnight on December 11.

Voting is available online at: https://forms.gle/uBemezmHqVZ6FPJw6

Votes recognize the time, effort, and creativity of local businesses participating in the holiday display initiative.

Participating locations include: Century 21 Bolte Real Estate; Elmwood Assisted Living at the Shawhan; Simply Susan’s; The Social Cigar; Assured Title Agency of Tiffin Inc.; Tiffin Architectural Practice; Tiffin Art Guild; Pan Yan Bookstore; Washington Street Outfitters; Access Wellness; SOUL Boutique; Deckers Furniture; Reclaim It 127; Burns Electric Inc.; JAM’s Markets.