Author: Donna Gross

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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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 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.

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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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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