Author: Donna Gross

East Tower Project Approved by City of Tiffin Architectural Board of Review

Written by Donna Gross on December 3, 2025. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – December 3, 2025 – The City of Tiffin’s Architectural Board of Review (ABR) approved the exterior design and renovation plans for the East Tower project this week. The project includes a complete renovation of the East Tower building to create luxury apartments and a ground level commercial space intended for a future food and beverage operation.

The renovation includes a new addition on the south side of the building with a footprint of 1,387 square feet over three floors. The addition is designed to cover the demolition remains of the former high school’s southern wing, as well as add over 4,000 square feet. The addition will become the new main entrance, and contain an elevator, exit stairs, lobby area, as well as more apartment space..

The project also includes construction of eight garages, to be maintained in two garage buildings on the south side of the property adjacent to the building addition.

“This approval keeps the East Tower restoration and repurposing moving forward and allows us to advance to the next phase of work,” said owner Andrew Kalnow, “The plan preserves the building’s historic character while adding the infrastructure needed for long-term use, including housing and a commercial space that can support downtown activity.”

Built in 1893, the East Tower building features a compatible combination of Romanesque and Gothic Revival architectural styles. The building originally housed Columbian High School and later East Junior High. It is located at the corner of East Market Street and Jefferson Street.

The building was purchased in 2012 by Andrew Kalnow, Chairman and CEO of National Machinery LLC, with the stated intent of ultimately restoring and repurposing the structure for continued use and supporting downtown Tiffin revitalization.

For more information, visit https://www.easttowertiffin.com.

[Pictured: Rendering of East Tower]

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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.

Donna Gross Elected to Serve on the Ohio Main Street Manager’s Advisory Committee

Written by Donna Gross on November 12, 2025. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – November 12, 2025 – Heritage Ohio has announced that Donna Gross, Downtown Tiffin Main Street Manager, has been elected to serve on the Ohio Main Street Manager’s Advisory Committee. She joins fellow directors Jen Tinkler(Marietta), Kate Repola (Vermilion), Mitch Price (Van Wert), Amy Breinich (Troy), George Sam (Medina), and Courtney Hendershot (Delaware).

The committee provides input and guidance to the Heritage Ohio Revitalization Committee, Board of Trustees, and staff. Members review and recommend programs, policies, and training opportunities, as well as coordinate Director’s Roundtable meetings and assist in setting program requirements. They also serve as communication links between Heritage Ohio staff and local Main Street directors, supporting collaboration among established and emerging Main Street and Downtown Affiliate Communities across the state.

“The committee plays an important role in maintaining consistent communication and ensuring that local programs have the tools they need to be effective,” said Gross. “It’s an opportunity to share knowledge and strengthen the collective impact of Main Street programs throughout Ohio.”

Gross has served as Downtown Tiffin’s Main Street Manager since early 2023. She is also a small business owner and entrepreneur, bringing firsthand experience in local business operations and community engagement to her role.

Heritage Ohio and Main Street America promote the revitalization of downtowns and commercial districts through a model that integrates economic development, historic preservation, and community collaboration.

“The Main Street model is not a short-term plan or a one-size-fits-all solution,” Gross said. “It is a practical framework that communities can adapt to their own strengths and priorities.”

Through technical assistance, advocacy, research, professional development, and capacity-building programs, Heritage Ohio and Main Street America support communities in developing sustainable local economies and a shared sense of place.

Gross added, “Engaging with Heritage Ohio and Main Street America provides communities with the tools and support to make measurable progress. When local leaders work together toward shared goals, downtowns become stronger, more resilient, and better connected to the people they serve.”

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Downtown Tiffin to Host November Third Thursday “Sip & Shop”

Written by Donna Gross on November 6, 2025. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – November 6, 2025 – Downtown Tiffin will host its November Third Thursday event, Sip & Shop, on Thursday, November 20, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. The event invites community members and visitors to stroll through downtown while enjoying a beverage and exploring local businesses.

Participants may carry a drink purchased within the Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) or enjoy a coffee, tea, or cocoa as they visit downtown shops. The evening provides an opportunity to begin holiday shopping, support local merchants, and view seasonal decorations.

During the event, attendees are encouraged to take part in the Holiday Window Display Contest. Downtown businesses will transform their storefronts into holiday-themed displays, and visitors may vote for their favorite.

Mayor Lee Wilkinson commented, “I encourage everyone to take a stroll through downtown to shop and support our local merchants. Events like this remind us what makes Tiffin such a special place to live, work, and celebrate the season.”

Downtown Tiffin’s Third Thursday series is sponsored by Destination Seneca County, Mercy Health – Tiffin, Croghan Colonial Bank, UIS Insurance and Investments, and Reineke Family Dealerships.

For additional details about Third Thursday events and other downtown activities, visit www.downtowntiffinevents.com or Downtown Tiffin’s Facebook Events .

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The Empire Restaurant Announces Rebranding as The Empire Bistro

Written by Donna Gross on November 3, 2025. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – November 3, 2025 – The Empire Restaurant, located at 138 South Washington Street in Downtown Tiffin, has announced a rebranding and reinvention as The Empire Bistro. Formerly recognized for its fine dining, the new concept now features a casual, neighborhood-style setting designed to reflect the look and service of a neighborhood pub.

The Empire Bistro will offer an affordable and approachable priced menu featuring burgers, salads, steaks, and rotating weekly specials. The beverage lineup includes an expanded beer selection with domestic, imported, and craft options.

The restaurant has been renovated to reflect Tiffin’s local architectural style and to create a versatile space suitable for casual dining and social gatherings. The updates include new televisions for sports viewing and scheduled theme nights such as “Burger & Beer” and “Ladies Night Out.”

Co-owner Rick Reser stated, “We wanted to create a place where you can come in wearing shorts after a round of golf or get dressed up to propose to someone special. The Empire Bistro is a place for everyone.”

Manager Sharon Elchert added, “Our goal is to make The Empire Bistro a place where people come to gather, meet friends, and have a good time.”

The Empire Bistro will be open for lunch on Fridays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dinner service will be available Tuesday through Saturday from 5 to 9 p.m., with the bar remaining open from 9 to 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Reservations are not required, and a private event room continues to be available for special occasions.

An official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony will take place on Friday, November 14 at 5:00 p.m., hosted by the Seneca Regional Chamber & Development, a division of the Seneca County Collaborative. The public is invited to attend and will have the opportunity to order from the new menu that evening.

For more information, visit their Facebook page here or call 419-448-7733.

[Pictured: The Empire Bistro staff]

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Aglet Brewing to Open in the Historic Laird Building in Downtown Tiffin

Written by Donna Gross on October 29, 2025. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – October 29, 2025 – Aglet Brewing has announced plans to open in early 2026 at 114 S. Washington Street, Suite D, located in the historic Laird Building in downtown Tiffin.

Aglet Brewing is owned by Rick and Mel Sutter, both born and raised in Tiffin. The Sutters began home brewing 15 years ago, producing hundreds of batches while refining their craft. Rick manages the brewing operations, while Mel oversees the taproom and business aspects. Mel previously worked as one of the first bartenders at the LAB Brewery, formerly located in the same location.

Aglet Brewing will feature 12 taps offering a wide range of beer styles, including lagers, pilsners, stouts, IPA’s, rarities such as Kentucky common ale, and rotating seasonal selections.

Rick Sutter stated, “No beer style is off limits. We aim to provide a variety of quality beers to the community in the heart of Downtown Tiffin.”

Mel Sutter added, “Aglet Brewing will have something great to offer and give back to the community. People love variety in craft beer, and we’re excited to contribute to that in downtown Tiffin.”

The Sutters plan to host events within the Laird Building and collaborate with neighboring businesses to support the downtown Tiffin community.

Tyler Shuff, Director of Operations at the Laird Building stated, “The owners of the Laird are thrilled to be able to continue to develop and facilitate locally owned small businesses and entrepreneurs. Rick and Mel’s vision matches our group’s mission.”

For more information, contact agletbrewing@gmail.com.

[Pictured: Mel and Rick Sutter, owners]

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Main Street Volunteer of the Year award given to Downtown Tiffin’s Vickie Wilkins

Written by Donna Gross on October 21, 2025. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – October 21, 2025 – Heritage Ohio hosted its annual awards ceremony on October 15 at the Canton Palace Theater in conjunction with its statewide conference. The event honored outstanding projects, places, and individuals making significant contributions to historic preservation and community revitalization across Ohio. Winners were selected by an independent jury.

This year’s Main Street Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to Vickie Wilkins.

Since 2014, Wilkins has played a key role in the Downtown Tiffin Main Street Program, contributing to numerous committees and initiatives. She served as board chair of the Downtown Development Committee, where she provided leadership and guidance in advancing downtown growth and programming. Her work has also supported the development and continuity of popular community events, including Third Thursdays, Fall Flannel Fest, Fête de la Musique, and the St. Paddy’s 5K. Through her leadership and strategic involvement, Wilkins has helped strengthen organizational planning and enhance community participation in downtown activities.

The Main Street Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes an individual whose time, expertise, and commitment have contributed substantially to the success of a Main Street program. Wilkins’ efforts exemplify this standard and highlight the impact of volunteer engagement in community revitalization.

In addition to the Volunteer of the Year honor, several other Downtown Tiffin-based initiatives and individuals were recognized as finalists in their categories:

Best Ohio Main Street Committee Project: Best Foot Forward
Young Preservationist: Weston Reinbolt & Suzie Reineke
Main Street Business of the Year: MST Pub & Grub

[Pictured: Vickie Wilkins]

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Dress Right Dress Inc. Announces New Office Location in Downtown Tiffin

Written by Donna Gross on October 14, 2025. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – October 14, 2025 – Dress Right Dress Inc., a nonprofit organization assisting Service Members and Veterans of the United States Armed Forces, will relocate its office to 120 1/2 S Washington Street, Suite 215, in Downtown Tiffin later this fall.

Founded in 2015 and established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2019, Dress Right Dress Inc. provides peer-to-peer support and resources to assist Veterans and Service Members facing transitional hardships and life after military service. The organization currently serves Veterans incarcerated within the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections system and those residing in Ohio, with services available across all 88 counties in the state.

In 2021, the organization was certified by the Department of Ohio Mental Health and Addiction Services as a peer-run organization. In 2022, it expanded its mission to include a Reentry Program specifically for Veterans involved in the justice system. The Dress, Right, Dress™ curriculum, a peer-facilitated program, focuses on mental health, substance use disorders, and other reentry needs. Participants who complete the program while incarcerated work with peer mentors and program administrators to develop goal plans and receive information on community resources. Upon release, graduates are provided wrap-around services to support their reintegration into society.

“Each year, more than 250,000 Service Members transition out of the military, and many are unprepared for civilian life or unaware of available community resources,” said Jeremy Parkins, founder of Dress Right Dress Inc. “Our goal is to bridge that gap by providing education, mentorship, and access to resources that ensure our Veterans are supported at every step of the transition process.”

Mayor Wilkinson commented, “We are honored to welcome Dress Right Dress Inc. to Downtown Tiffin. Their mission to support our Service Members and Veterans through mentorship and reentry services fills a critical need in Ohio and beyond.”

For more information about Dress Right Dress Inc. or to connect with available programs and resources, contact the organization at (419) 455-1404 or admin@dressrightdressinc.org. Updates are also available on Facebook and LinkedIn.

[pictured: Jeremy Parkins, founder]

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McCall Sharp Genet Opens Architectural Branch Office in Downtown Tiffin

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

TIFFIN, OHIO – October 9, 2025 – McCall Sharp Genet has opened a new architecture branch office in the historic district of Downtown Tiffin. The office, located at 120½ S Washington St, Suite 209, officially opened on September 1, 2025. The firm’s main office is based at 14 East Main Street, Springfield, Ohio.

McCall Sharp Genet is an established architecture firm with seven employees. The firm provides services across a wide range of projects, including residential, commercial, and municipal design. Over the past decade, McCall Sharp Genet has developed a strong specialty in designing fire stations, completing approximately one project of this type each year, including the Danbury Fire Station in 2022. Projects range in scale from home additions to a $30 million behavioral health facility.

The Tiffin branch will be led by Craig Genet, a Tiffin native and part owner of the firm. Genet graduated from Calvert High School in 2008 before earning degrees in Architecture from Ball State University (2012) and Miami University (2014). He began his career with McCall Sharp Architecture in 2014, obtained his architecture license in 2018, and became part owner in 2024. His professional experience includes work on historic renovations, new municipal buildings, and residential design.

Genet explained the decision to establish the Tiffin office as a combination of family and professional reasons. He and his wife chose to relocate to Tiffin to be closer to family following the birth of their second child. At the same time, McCall Sharp Genet sought to expand its business beyond the Springfield region as part of its long-term growth strategy.

“I wanted to be at the center of economic action in Tiffin, alongside many other local small businesses, and I wanted to be able to walk or ride my bike to work every day,” said Genet. “Walkable and bikeable communities are the most vibrant communities for living and working, and I want this office to embody that.”

Mayor Wilkinson commented, “We are proud to welcome McCall Sharp Genet to Downtown Tiffin and especially excited to see Craig Genet, a Tiffin native, return home to invest in our community. Their presence in our historic district not only strengthens our downtown but also adds to the growing momentum of professionals choosing Tiffin as a place to live, work, and thrive.”

The Tiffin office will operate Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Appointments are recommended.

For more information, contact McCall Sharp Genet Architecture at 937-765-8340 or visit mccallsharp.com. The firm can also be found on Facebook and Instagram.

[pictured: Craig Genet]

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Downtown Tiffin to Host Annual Third Thursday Trick-or-Treat and Great Pumpkin Drop

Written by Donna Gross on October 8, 2025. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – October 08, 2025 – Downtown Tiffin will host its annual Third Thursday Trick-or-Treat and Great Pumpkin Drop on Thursday, October 16, beginning at 5:00 p.m. Participating Downtown merchants, organizations, and building owners will distribute candy and treats to trick-or-treaters throughout the downtown district, including South Washington Street. Costumes are welcome.

At 6:30 p.m., the Tiffin Fire /Rescue Division will conduct the third annual Great Pumpkin Drop in City Lot 6, using a 100-foot ladder truck. Students from Vanguard-Sentinel Career & Technology Centers (VSCTC) will decorate pumpkins in advance to represent their programs. These pumpkins will be displayed in City Lot 6 prior to the drop. Community members are invited to donate in support of SkillsUSA, a student leadership and professional development program. Each donation also counts as a vote for your favorite pumpkin, with all proceeds benefiting Sentinel Career and Technology Center.

Additional activities in City Lot 6 will include interactive crafts sponsored by VSCTC and food trucks.

Tiffin City Mayor Wilkinson commented, “The downtown Trick-or-Treat and Great Pumpkin Drop is a wonderful example of how our community comes together to celebrate, support our youth, and showcase the spirit of Tiffin.”

The annual Downtown merchant Halloween window decorating contest will also begin on October 16. Visitors may vote for their favorite displays by scanning QR codes available at participating businesses.

More information about the event can be found on Downtown Tiffin’s Facebook page.

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Poignon Project to Host Glass Pumpkin Scavenger Hunt October 11

Written by Donna Gross on October 6, 2025. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – October 6, 2025 – The Poignon Project will host a free, family-friendly glass pumpkin scavenger hunt on Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at 227 E. Perry St., Tiffin, OH 44883. The event is being held in recognition of the Poignon Project’s 10-year anniversary.

More than 40 handcrafted glass pumpkins created by the Poignon Project will be placed throughout the Tiffin area for participants to find. The pumpkins represent over $1,000 in prizes. The scavenger hunt will begin and end at the Poignon Project, where maps and clues will be distributed at 10:00 a.m. Participants are encouraged to arrive early for complimentary donuts and apple cider.

During the event, the Poignon Project parking lot will be closed. On-street parking and additional parking at the Heidelberg University lot, located across from the Poignon Project, will be available.

For more information, visit: Event Page.

[pictured: Monica and Ryan Poignon]

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Pan Yan Bookstore Announces Change in Ownership

Written by Donna Gross on September 29, 2025. Posted in Uncategorized.

TIFFIN, OHIO – September 29, 2025 – Pan Yan Bookstore, located at 144 S. Washington Street in Downtown Tiffin, has announced a change in ownership. The business has transitioned from founder and owner Judy Dezse, who opened the store in September 2022, to Penelope Logsdon, a Heidelberg University graduate and native of Medina County.

Pan Yan Bookstore offers a wide selection of new and used books, as well as a variety of knick-knacks. The store currently hosts several monthly book clubs, a Write Night, and a Fiber Club, along with multiple author events throughout the year.

Dezse said, “Opening Pan Yan Bookstore has been one of the greatest joys of my life, and I am so grateful for the love and support this community has shown since the beginning. I know the store is in good hands, and I can’t wait to watch it grow and thrive in the years to come.”

Logsdon has been the Store Manager of Pan Yan Bookstore since 2023. Looking ahead, she shared her vision for the store: “Judy’s foundation of the store has become an asset to our community and I plan to expand Pan Yan Bookstore’s existing impact. We’re introducing monthly craft workshops along with new bookish events that provide more opportunities for readers to connect. We’re also working on a mobile bookstore filled with rotating genres that will allow us to meet residents where they are and bring books to our surrounding communities. In short, Pan Yan Bookstore is going big, and we can’t wait.”

Tiffin Mayor Lee Wilkinson added, “Small businesses are an important part of our local economy, and we are glad to see Pan Yan Bookstore continue its presence in downtown Tiffin.”

More information about Pan Yan Bookstore can be found at www.panyanbooks.com.

[pictured: Penelope Logsdon (seated), Judy Dezse]

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Downtown Tiffin Marks 10 Years as a Nationally Accredited Main Street Program Recognition Highlighted at 2025 Main Street Celebration and Downtown Summit

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

TIFFIN, OHIO – September 11, 2025 – The 2025 Main Street Celebration and Downtown Summit was held on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at the Chandelier Community Event Center.

The event included a panel discussion featuring Aaron Montz, Amy Reinhart, and David Zak, who spoke about the origins of the Main Street program in Tiffin and the decision to join the coordinating program, Heritage Ohio ten years ago.

Donna Gross, Downtown Tiffin Main Street Manager, provided remarks on Downtown Tiffin’s recognition as a Nationally Accredited Main Street Program for the past decade.

The summit also recognized community members, building owners, business owners, and volunteers who have contributed to the revitalization of Downtown Tiffin. The 2025 Downtown Tiffin Main Street Award recipients were:

JVC Properties/Wild Bunch Wellness Bar – Development Award
The Turntable – Entrepreneurial Award
Ralph’s Joy of Living – Business Legacy Award
City of Tiffin – Main Street Director Award
Andrew and Cindy Kalnow – Lifetime Achievement Award
Reclaim It – Golden Broom Award

Downtown Tiffin will participate in the Heritage Ohio Main Street Awards Ceremony at the annual Heritage Ohio Preservation and Revitalization Conference, scheduled for October 15, 2025, in Canton, Ohio. Downtown Tiffin has been named a finalist in the following categories: Best Main Street Committee Project, Main Street Volunteer of the Year, and Main Street Business of the Year.

Downtown Tiffin 10 Year Celebration Video.

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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 the Seneca Industrial and Economic Development Corporation (SIEDC) to serve as the official downtown organization. Tiffin Tomorrow was incorporated into SIEDC, which later evolved into the Tiffin-Seneca Economic Partnership (TSEP), and 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. For more information, click here.

About Heritage Ohio

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.

About Main Street America

Main Street America leads a movement committed to strengthening communities through preservation-based economic development in older and historic downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts. For more than 40 years, Main Street America has provided a practical, adaptable, and impactful framework for community-driven, comprehensive revitalization through the Main Street Approach™. Our network of more than 1,600 neighborhoods and communities, rural and urban, share both a commitment to place and to building stronger communities through preservation-based economic development. Since 1980, communities participating in the program have generated more than $101.58 billion in new public and private investment, generated 168,693 net new businesses and 746,897 net new jobs, rehabilitated more than 325,119 buildings, and levered over 33.7 million volunteer hours. Main Street America is a nonprofit subsidiary of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. For more information, visit mainstreet.org.