• Courtesy of Destination Toledo
• Media Contact: Cathy Miller
• Destination Toledo Email:  info@visittoledo.org

Destination Toledo to kick-off 419 Ale Trail on June 18, 2021

Destination Toledo, the official Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) for Toledo and northwest Ohio, is launching the 419 Ale Trail on Friday, June 18, 2021. The objective of 419 Ale Trail is to promote Northwest Ohio’s thriving beer and craft beverage scene and entice people to get out and experience it. A total of 29 breweries and craft beverage makers, all located within the 419 area code, including 10 counties, are participating in this inaugural year of the 419 Ale Trail.

Complete details on how to sign up to begin the adventure can be found at 419AleTrail.com. Destination Toledo has partnered with technology company Bandwango to create a free, mobile-exclusive digitized passport that will allow visitors and locals alike to check in at participating craft beverage partner locations. The Trail will be gamified, meaning customers can earn prizes and redeem discounts with the goal of completing the Trail. Brochures will be available at all participating breweries that will include sign up instructions, a QR code, a map with brewery locations and a complete list of participating businesses.

“We are excited to launch the 419 Ale Trail to coincide with the summer travel season,” said Cathy Miller, 419 Ale Trail Ambassador for Destination Toledo. “With restrictions lifting, now is the perfect time to give people a new and exciting activity to get out and explore Toledo and northwest Ohio and spend money in our communities.” Guests who sign up for the 419 Ale Trail will receive a sticker upon their initial stop, followed by halfway prizes, completion prizes and entries into grand prizes drawings. Participants have until June 17, 2022 – one full year – to complete the Trail. A number of breweries will provide special discounts to redeem along the Trail.

Participating breweries and craft beverage makers include: 1820 BrewWerks, 60cc Brewing (opening soon), Aistear Brewing, Black Frog Brewery, Bowling Green Beer Works, Buffalo Rock Brewing Co., Carey Brewing Station, Catawba Island Brewing Co., Drop Tine Winery & Tap House, Earnest Brew Works, Findlay Brewing Co., Findlay CRAFTed Nano Brewery, Four Fires Meadery, HEAVY Beer Co., Inside the Five Brewing Co., The Laird Arcade Brewery, Maumee Bay Brewing Co., Modcraft Brewing, Moeller Brew Barn, Neon Groundhog Brewery, Patron Saints Brewery, Quenched & Tempered Brewing Co. (opening soon), Six Fifths Distilling, Toledo Spirits Company, Twin Oast Brewing, Two Bandits Brewing Co., Upside Brewing, The UrbanWoody Brewery and Wild Side Brewing Co.

About Destination Toledo Destination: Toledo is the driving force behind the tourism experience in the Toledo region. According to the most recent statistics from Tourism Economics (an Oxford Economics company), tourism in Lucas County welcomed 14 ½ million visitors, driving $2.5 billion in business sales, and supporting 23 thousand jobs. $155 million dollars in state and local taxes were collected supporting essential local services and infrastructure.

The Stemtown Historical Society Museum celebrated their reopening with a ribbon cutting on Saturday June 12, 2021 in Green Springs, OH. 

The celebration was attended by the board of the Historical Society, community members, and the Sandusky County Bicentennial traveling museum.  In addition to celebrating the reopening of the museum, attendees were also able to see the new exhibit, “Celebrating a Centennial of Local Library Services” that was on display.  The current public library hosted an open house for guests to stop by as well. 

The Stemtown Historical Society Museum is located in the former home of Revolutionary War soldier, Allen Watrous, and in an outbuilding used as an exhibit hall and for group gatherings. They feature local history from Seneca Indian days and the Oak Ridge Hotel era at the famous mineral springs. Of special interest is Civil War General McPherson’s school flag and GS School memorabilia. Other displays honor local military including Medal of Honor recipient Rodger Young, The horse-drawn Young Funeral Home hearse, farm tools, and  other local business artifacts are exhibited. GS Echo newspaper archives are housed here along with family files and copies of Green Springs Cemetery records.

Their hours are: 

June-August Noon – 4pm & Second Saturdays 10am – 2pm.  Also by appointment – Call Brenda 419.639.3017

You can learn more on their Facebook page here. 

A summer tradition is back in Downtown Tiffin with the Summer Stroll. The annual event, which was cancelled in 2020, returns 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, July 31.

Walkers can collect summer-themed treats at 25 participating locations and explore everything Downtown Tiffin has to offer.

Tickets are limited to 300 and are available at Simply Susan’s, 70 S. Washington St., and Washington Street Outfitters, 186 S. Washington St., for $25 – cash or check only. At ticket purchase, walkers will receive a ticket with map and a bag.

Online sales are at Eventbrite, or by clicking here. A confirmation email will be sent after ticket purchase, which can be presented at The Renaissance of Tiffin, 129 S. Washington St., starting at 9:30 a.m. July 31 for walkers to receive their ticket and a bag.

Walkers are asked to follow all CDC guidelines and respect the masking policies in place at individual businesses. For more information about the event, find Downtown Tiffin Summer Stroll on Facebook, and like the page for updates.

Participating businesses include:

• B.E.S.T. Tacos
• Cabin Creations Art Supplies
• Cabin Creations Gift Store
• Clover Club
• GW’s Fine Food & Spirits
• FroZone
• Hawkes Crystal
• JAM’s Monthly Markets
• Jolly’s
• JT’s Bagel Bar
• Laird Arcade Brewery
• The Poignon Project
• Ralph’s Joy of Living
• ReClaim it 127
• Reino’s Pizza
• The Renaissance of Tiffin
• Rustic Flair & Brush
• Simply Susan’s
• SOUL BoutiqueSlate Real Estate
• SSG Ink
• Tiffin Glass Shoppe
• 22mrkt (Record Store)
• UIS Insurance & Investments
• Washington Street Outfitters

This year, the event is being sponsored by Nicole Miller – State Farm.

About Downtown Tiffin

The revitalization of downtown Tiffin began in 2011, when a group of community members came together to for “Tiffin Tomorrow”, with the goal of promoting and encouraging economic development in downtown Tiffin, and creating plans, programs and actions to ensure long-term vitality and prosperity. In 2014, the city of Tiffin contracted with SIEDC to act as the downtown organization and “Tiffin Tomorrow” came under the SIEDC umbrella as the “Downtown Development Committee,” which serves as the governing board of the downtown organization. In 2015, Tiffin joined Heritage Ohio’s Ohio Main Street Program. For more information, click here.

This year’s Independence Day celebration is to be the biggest there has ever been.  From live music to food trucks to fireworks that will light up the town, be sure not to miss it!  Check out events to celebrate America’s birthday in Seneca County below.  

Tiffin, OH 

Date: Sunday, July 4th 

Location: Hedges-Boyer Park (491 Coe St. Tiffin, OH 44883)

Schedule: 

Food Vendors – All day 

Free Swimming and Pool Games – 1:00pm – 7:00pm

Live Music from Jake Heil and Bigfoot’s Brother – 6:00pm – 10:00pm 

Fireworks Display – 10:00pm (Rain out date is Monday, July 5)

Learn more at: http://www.tiffinohio.gov/city-of-tiffin-to-celebrate-fourth-of-july/

Fostoria, OH

Date: Saturday, July 3rd

Location: Foundation Park (1225 S Union St. Fostoria, OH 44830)

Schedule: 

Fireworks Display – Beginning at dusk  

Green Springs, OH 

Date:  Sunday, July 4th 

Location: Green Spring Community Park (499 E. County Road 113, Green Springs, OH 44836)

Schedule: 

Fireworks Display – Beginning at dusk 

* Know of other events happening the county that we may have missed?  Please contact Marisa Stephens at 567-220-6387. *

Every Friday this summer, Ironwood will be hosting a Party on the Patio! They will have the grill going with burgers and more, outdoor games available, drinks, and live entertainment.

The party starts at 5:00 pm, stop out after work or after a round of golf! Bring a friend and start the weekend off right with a night on the patio.

The live entertainment schedule is as follows: 

• 6/18 Char Pope
• 6/25 Mimi Johnston
• 7/2 Char Pope
• 7/9 Mimi Johnston
• 7/16 Char Pope
• 7/23 Mimi Johnston

Ironwood Steakhouse which features the Black Birch Bar is a Tiffin, Ohio restaurant and bar.  Ironwood Steakhouse and the Black Birch Bar are open to the public and welcome both walk-ins and reservations. To reserve a table you can call 419-447-8325 or reserve on OpenTable.  They create culinary innovations by preparing perfect cuts of tender steak, seafood and unique entrees in sync with their hand-picked wine and dessert menu. 

Locally owned, the owners make an amazing experience for each guest. The restaurant was completely renovated in July of 2017 when new ownership took over. The atmosphere is both elegant and inviting, providing an unforgettable experience for dinner, private events or on-site catered events.

Check out Ironwood and get a taste this summer at the Party on the Patio.  See you there! 

This Saturday’s Farmers Market will see the first children’s activities since before the pandemic. Activities will kick off this week with a bingo contest and coloring pages and will continue for the rest of the market season. Activities will include crafts, games, contests, education and more. Many local organizations are coming together to create family-friendly fun this season including Seneca County Common Ground, local churches, the SNAP educators of Seneca County’s OSU Extension office, the All Patriots Memorial group, and many others.

For the bingo contest this week, children are encouraged to visit different vendors and put a sticker on their card when they find the items listed on their card. All participants who complete the scavenger hunt will receive a small prize. Bingo sheets will be located at the Market Bank table. In the following months, a multitude of community organizations will come to the market to provide special activities for children. Some of these organizations include the SNAP Education leaders, from Seneca County’s OSU Extension Office. The SNAP Educators will be at the June 26, July 10, August 14, and September 11 markets and will be providing education, answering questions and engaging children with scavenger hunts. On September 11, the Tiffin Police and Fire All Patriots Memorial committee will be bringing supplies for people of all ages to make appreciation cards for soldiers, veterans and first responders. The Friends of the Tiffin Seneca Public Library also will be attending the fourth Saturday of each month. They have books available to take home for donation only. This book program is a great way for children to obtain new reading materials this summer.

The 2021 season of the Tiffin Seneca Farmers Market continues this Saturday, June 12, 9am-1pm. The market will occur on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month now through October and is located on South Washington Street between Perry and Market streets.

The list of vendors for this week includes: Adah Glee’s Garden, Baked By Bells, Bella Cuisine, Bear Haven Bakers, Bella Cuisine, Buckeye Star Alpacas, Catawba Island Juice Co., Countryside Acres, Clayhill Organic, Countryside Acres, Creative Pottery, Drowns Produce, Hopes Landing, I Love Cupcakes, LB’s Ectilict Eats, Me and the Boys, Miss Cindy’s Cookies, Project Noelle, Put Your Name on it, Raizen Girls Cookies, Riehm Produce Farm, Roseleaf Flowers, Sister Jenna Fanbert, Smith Brothers Sweets, Spirit Space Gallery and Gifts, Subtle Verse Photography, and the Tiffin Lions Club.

To learn more about the Tiffin Seneca Farmers Market and about the Market Bank programs, visit and subscribe at www.tiffinsenecafarmersmarket.com/. If you are interested in becoming a vendor or have questions, you may contact the Market Manager, Kirsten Ameling, at manager@sccommonground.org.

Seneca Caverns is open for the 2021 season and will now be operating seven days a week.  You can explore the Ohio registered natural landmark everyday from 9am – 7pm, with the last tour departing at 6pm.  No reservation is needed and the facility offers a one-hour guided tour of the cave, gem mining, a clean shaded picnic area, and a gift shop. 

Seneca Caverns is located in Bellevue, OH and is one of the area’s largest underground caverns, and one of America’s most fascinating geological wonders.  It was discovered in June of 1872 by two boys while they were hunting rabbits with their dog.  Their dog chased a rabbit into a brush pile, and then both disappeared.  When both boys went searching for their dog, the cave was discovered.  In 1931, Mr. Bell (owner of the cave) discovered a series of passageways and rooms not previously known to exist, which led to an underground river, which was the water table.  Following toe and a half year’s improvement efforts, Seneca Caverns was opened to the public on May 14th, 1933. 

Retained close to its original, natural, and wild state, this subterranean tour is a truly unique and educational experience you will always remember.  Stop in today! 

Go back in time at the Friends of the Old Northwest Rendezvous

Everyone is invited to take a break from present-day life and go back about 200 years.  Step through this portal of time by visiting the Friends of the Old Northwest Rendezvous. 

The Friends of the Old Northwest Rendezvous is a living history event that will take place from Saturday June 26th, 2021 to July, 1st 2021 at Miller Conservation Farm with operating hours from 10am – 4pm.  Visitors will be able to get a taste of life as it was lived when pioneers settled in Seneca County and Northwest Ohio.  You can spend a few hours walking the nature trails that Miller Conservation Farm has to offer, explore the nature area of Seneca Conversation District’s Proving Ground Farm, and make your way back to an encampment of white canvas tents and the smell of campfires. 

The Friends of the Old Northwest gather once a year to live a primitive lifestyle for ten days and travel from around the country and surrounding areas to participate.  This is the first time the Rendezvous will be hosted in Seneca County and will feature anywhere from 50 to 60 camps.  In addition to being able to ask questions about life pre 1840, visitors will also be able to witness archery, candle making, hawk and knives, shooting, and a blacksmith at work.  Participants will also be cooking at their camps, have hand-made furniture and candles available for purchase, and be dressed in the attire from that era. 

There is no cost to attend this living history event, but donations are accepted to help cover the costs of the event.  All are welcome, so be sure to go back in time while you can! 

Tiffin East Green Concert Series Season Lineup Announced

The Tiffin East Green Foundation has announced their season’s lineup that will kick off on June 26. The Concert Series is free and open to the public thanks to the many corporate sponsors of the foundation. You can bring blankets and chairs along with pets on a leash to these family-friendly events. Please be respectful of your neighbors by following the park rules that can be found here. For more information on the Tiffin East Green Concert Series, check out their website and Facebook page.

Lost State of Franklin

June 26 ▪ 8:00 to 10:00 PM

Lost State of Franklin is a “pure Americana” band that throughout Europe and North America has performed music, “Made with our own hands”. Born in foothills and surviving the cities, Lost State of Franklin is glory and grit, dirt roads and triumph, gone days and tomorrow’s dream, overcoming and succeeding when no one expects you still exist. They are the story of lost love and a love you’ll never leave, coal mines and shiny cars, rusted trucks and relentless steam trains. They are the American story, a one-of-a-kind band which performs unforgettable songs for audiences loved like family.

LowDown Brass Band

July 10 ▪ 8:00 to 10:00 PM

The LowDown Brass Band is a uniquely strong representation of Chicago Music culture. The all horn band leans heavily on dancehall and street beat rhythm, with the energy of conscious hip hop, jazz, reggae, and soul. Its two albums have received rave reviews nationwide, and the band’s appearances have included the Montreal Jazz Festival, Vancouver Jazz Fest, World Music Fest, Lagunitas Beer Circus, Chicago Jazz Fest, Alaska’s Salmon Fest, and many others. The Chicago Sun Times calls the band, “Not exactly Slipknot, but not exactly John Philip Sousa either. What it is, exactly, is AWESOME!”

Riehm Farm Gears Up for 2021 Roadside Stand Season Opener

Join Riehm Farm on Saturday June 5th, 2021 from 10am – 2pm to celebrate the season opening of their Roadside Stand. You can check out everything that Rhiem Farm has to offer while getting to experience other local vendors and businesses.

Businesses from around the area will have booths set up to help ring in the new season!  Purchase local and gather FREE samples from the following vendors who will be in attendance…

• Farmers Co-Op (Propane specials for Home Consumers in out area by Central Ohio Farmers Ohio) 
• Buckeye Star Alpacas (Alpaca Yarn and Clothes, Hardwood items made from Buckeye Star Alpaca Fiber) 
• Bella Cuisine Cooking & Catering (Homemade Cookies and Bread by Bella Cuisine) 
• Betsy’s Freshies 
• Subtle Verse (Inspirational Photography) 
• Salt & Light Botanicals (Homemade Goat Milk Soap) 
• Gracie’s Goodness (Homemade Treats) 
• Creative Pottery Tiffin (Handmade Pottery) 
• Farmer John from Riehm Produce Farm (Samples to try) 

During the season opener you can get your questions answered about Riehm Farm’s Weekly Veggie boxes and purchase their beef and pork cuts that can be customized so you can grab them from the freezer anytime.  

Riehm Farm has a five generation family legacy and has been growing produce since the mid 1950’s.  The roadside stand has grown to present day to include a wide variety of produce, fresh eggs, and cuts of frozen beef and pork.  

See you Saturday June 5th, 2021 from 10am – 2pm for an event that will be hard to “beet.” 

Barn Quilt Festival Coming to Fostoria Farmers Market

The upcoming Fostoria Farmers Market on June 19 will include a Barn Quilt Festival. The Barn Quilt Festival will include a hands-on barn quilt demonstrations from Barn Quilt Painting by Beverly. Guests will also have the opportunity to purchase a custom barn quilt from Brady’s Delicate Creations during the market. Guests can take a self-guided PocketSights walking tour of Downtown Fostoria to see the temporary and permanent displays of barn quilts, including: a 32-2′ x 2′ quilt on Main Street, a 4 – 2′ x 2′ quilt on Center Street and a 6-4′ x 4′ at R-Place Bar & Grill. They will have a special guest lecture from 2:00 to 3:00 from nationally-known author Suzi Parron Smith that will present: “Following the Barn Quilt Trail” at the First Presbyterian Church (201 West Fremont Street). To reserve a seat, RSVP to development@fostoriachamber.com. This event is being hosted by the Fostoria Area Chamber of Commence & Visitor’s Bureau.

Splash Pad and East Green Concert Series Set to Return 

Splash Pad

The East Green Foundation is pleased to announce a 2021 season for the splash pad located at National Corner on the East Green complex.  The splash pad was closed completely during 2020 for health precautions due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

The exact opening date is undetermined at this time because of major system renovations taking place in June.  The Foundation is investing in a recirculating water system similar to what the city pool has at Hedges Boyer Park. Foundation president Mike Klepper stated that the clear goal is to open the splash pad to the public this June, but the pump manufacturer cannot commit to a more specific delivery date.

Once the splash pad is up and running it will be spouting forth daily through Labor Day, then it will be operational on weekends through the first weekend in October weather permitting. Hours will be 11am to 7pm on weekdays, and 11am to 9pm on Saturday and Sunday. The restrooms will be open during those hours, as well as when performances of the East Green Summer Concert Series are taking place.

Trustee Andrew Kalnow noted that the lighted fountain shows with music that took place in August last year will again happen this year thanks to a sponsorship by National Machinery.

East Green Concert Series

The East Green Concert Series is excited to announce concerts are back for their third season. John Kerschner, Executive Director of the East Green Concert Series, stated the season will kick off on June 26^th at the Frost-Kalnow Amphitheater on the East Green. Additional concerts are planned for July 10^th & 24^th, August 7^th & 21^st and September 4^th. Concerts are free and family friendly, and start at 8:00pm. Reineke Family Dealerships once again is the general season sponsor, while individual concerts will have event sponsors or co-sponsors.

A further announcement will be coming soon about the performers for the June 26 concert, as well as the additional performances for the season. Kerschner also suggested that the public can monitor the website www.EastGreenConcerts.com for further information about the upcoming performers, as well as their Facebook.

The Frost-Kalnow Amphitheater is part of the East Green park complex located at the corner of West Market and Jefferson streets. The East Green park is managed by the City of Tiffin Department of Parks & Recreation, which also handles booking reservations for events at the Amphitheater.  Park rules and regulations are posted at on the Concert Series website. 

Car Show Announced To Kick Off Third Thursdays in Downtown Tiffin

Reineke Family Dealerships in partnership with Downtown Tiffin has announced that Third Thursdays will kick off on June 17 with Cruisin’ into Summer from 5:00 pm until dark. Rev up your engine and discover Downtown Tiffin in style! Take a drive or a grab a DORA (Downtown Outdoor Refreshment Area drink) and stroll through Downtown Tiffin to the retail businesses and restaurants for a fun evening the whole family can enjoy. Each participant will receive a free t-shirt and dash plaque and they will also have special sponsor giveaways. You can register your car here. Donations and non-perishable food items are requested as well that will be donated to St. Paul’s Church and The Salvation Army of Tiffin.

The remaining Third Thursday Series will consist of:

Sweet Summertime on July 15 – “Perfect song on the radio. Sing along ’cause it’s one we know. It’s a smile, it’s a kiss. It’s a sip of wine, it’s summertime… Sweet Summertime” Channel Kenny Chesney and enjoy sweet summertime in downtown Tiffin!

Taste of Tiffin on August 19 – Food and drink vendors will be set-up in the parking lot between the splash pad and the library.  Most will be selling food items for $1. Many downtown retailers and restaurants will be offering specials that night as well.

Seneca County Young Professionals Pizza Party on September 17 – Bring the whole family to enjoy a taste of Tiffin and Seneca County! The event will take place throughout Downtown Tiffin. Attendees can purchase $1 tickets that can be redeemed for a pizza from any vendor. Half of each ticket sold will go toward charity. 

Downtown Trick or Treat on October 22 – Bring the kids for the annual downtown trick-or-treat from 3:30-5:00. Then grab your friends for an early Halloween fun night out. Shop, grab a drink… and maybe dinner and dessert too!

You can check out other Downtown Tiffin events at DowntownTiffinEvents.com.

HD Cameras Now Offers Railfans 24/7 Streaming of Trains in Fostoria

Virtual Railfan, Inc., the leader provider of 24/7 live streams of popular railroad locations for train fans, is proud to announce the installation of two high-definition cameras at the Fostoria Iron Triangle Rail Park. Installed inside the world-famous triangular intersection of two CSX lines and a Norfolk Southern (NS) line, the cameras offer spectacular views of the more than 80 freight trains that roll by the rail park every day.

Ellen Gatrell, Secretary/Treasurer of the Fostoria Rail Preservation Society, was first approached by Virtual Railfan a couple years ago. The rail park was the company’s number one requested location, and an anonymous donor had come forward to sponsor the Fostoria cams. Gatrell immediately recognized the value of broadcasting the park to the 16 million monthly viewers of the Virtual Railfan’s YouTube channel. “We can spread the word about the rail park, the city, and everything we offer visitors with much greater reach than conventional advertising.”

Mike Cyr, the President and CEO of Virtual Railfan, couldn’t agree more, “Instead of chasing potential supporters and tourists, you have an audience of millions flocking to you and discovering why Fostoria is such a great place to visit.” When internet was finally installed at the park by the city earlier this year, the high-definition cameras went in quickly, including a pan/tilt/zoom model controlled by a team of operators.

Although the viewers turn in to watch trains, he says, the live chat which accompanies each feed provides a unique opportunity for people to converse about the area, and its history and events, while they wait for the next train. With the rail park already a popular destination, Cyrl expects Fostoria to be one of the top five locations in viewership.

The Fostoria live steam can be found here.

Tiffin Drive-In Theater Begins Second Phase of Major Renovation

New Concession Stand Building to House State-Of-The Art Movie Projectors

The Tiffin Drive-In Theater has commenced construction on another major upgrade project for the theater.

Last week construction began on an all-new concession stand building, replacing the old concession stand which had stood on the property since 1956. The old structure underwent demolition in January of this year, making way for the totally new building. In addition to an upgraded concession food operation, and new restroom facilities, the new building will bring state-of-the-art large screen projection capability to the drive-in as well.

The Tiffin Drive-In Theater’s new owner, Michael Cole, is working with the design team of RCM Architects and the building firm of Alvada Construction on the project. Many of the workers for both firms, as well as the project’s various subcontractors hail from the Tiffin/Seneca County area.

The project represents a 2nd phase of major renovation to the Tiffin Drive-In Theater since Cole took over the theater last August. In October of 2020, the original 1949 movie screen was brought down, and a new all-steel screen was erected in its place by Jerry Selby, whose company has built more than 2,000 drive-in screens over the last 50 years. A second all-steel screen was also erected at the rear of the lot.

The new concession stand building will house everything the theater needs to conduct a drive-in theater business for many years to come — the concession food operation, new restroom facilities, offices, even a gift shop. The most noticeable structural departure from the old building will be the addition of a partial second story — the location for two elevated projection booths for the theater’s two screens. These booths will house two all-new state-of-the-art laser cinema movie projectors, which will project the brightest, sharpest image available today in the movie industry.

The project will likely not reach completion until late August or early September, leaving only several weeks at the end of the season to debut the new building and its capabilities. An extension of the season is possible. Regular updates on the project will be posted on the theater’s website www.tiffindriveintheater.com and its Facebook page.

This is a major investment in the Tiffin Drive-in Theater, with the goal of providing quality outdoor entertainment and refreshment in a family atmosphere for many years to come.

Tiffin Pedal Company Launches New Bike for Third Season

The Tiffin Pedal Company is up and running for their third season! This year they begin their season with a new pedal bar bike, completely redesigned by Tiffin’s own Sarka Conveyor and Automation. The new bike includes a heavier frame, improved motor and battery, a built-in cooler in the back benches, a TV that can be hooked up to karaoke and the driver now powers the bike, instead of the pedalers.

The Tiffin Pedal Company is an entertainment service that features a 15-seat party bike. It consists of 10 pedaling seats and two back benches that can seat 5 more people. They supply a driver so all you must worry about is pedaling and having fun! They are a “go to” for your entertainment needs in Seneca County.  The bike is available to rent for events such as: bachelor/bachelorette parties, bar crawls, birthdays, anniversaries, beer/wine tastings and many more!

Guests over the age of 21 may bring alcohol on board the bike. Wine bottles and growlers are the only glass allowed on the bike and must be poured into a cup to be enjoyed. Each person is allowed 36 ounces of beer and 18 ounces of wine on the bike at one time. If you run out, you can restock at one of your many stops along the way. The bike has an 8-person minimum and runs rain or shine. To book your next ride click here.

Largest Flea Market in Northwest Ohio in Full Swing

The largest flea market in Northwest Ohio, the Tiffin Flea Market, kicked off their 43^rd year the weekend of April 24th at the Seneca County Fairgrounds (100 Hopewell Ave., Tiffin, OH 44883). The handicap accessible market is open to shoppers from 9:00 am to 4:00 on Saturday and 9:00 am to 3:00 pm on Sunday, rain or shine. Parking and admission are free. Food is also provided by a variety of vendors at the fairgrounds. The Tiffin Flea Market ranges from 250 to 400 dealers that draw 5,000 to 10,000 customers per show. Guests are encouraged to wear masks and to social distance. The remaining Tiffin Flea Market schedule is May 15 – 16, June 12 – 13, July 3 – 4, August 14 – 15, September 11 – 12 and October 2 – 3.

The Tiffin Flea Market, established in 1978, is sponsored by the Seneca County Junior Fair Foundation and brings guests from far and near to visit the market. The Seneca County Junior Fair Foundation, a non-profit tax-exempt organization is dedicated to providing opportunities for Seneca County youth to learn and develop leadership skills through participation in activities and programs. The funds raised through the Tiffin Flea Market help pay for improvements on the fairgrounds and other projects that benefit the Junior Fair youth.

Those are who are interested in becoming a vendor can click here.

The American Civil War Museum of Ohio to Host Prolific Author

The American Civil War Museum of Ohio has announced that prolific author, Brad Quinlin, will be at the museum for a book signing on Wednesday, May 5, 2021 from 12:00 to 4:00 PM.

Quinlin was born in Monmouth Illinois and moved to Indianapolis, Indiana at age 6. At 13 years of age he moved to Massachusetts. In 1982 he moved with his family to Georgia. Quinlin has always loved the study of American History. Moving to Georgia he took the path to study the American Civil War. He has been a reenactor for 33 years, worked on 32 movies and TV shows. He was a background artist in Glory, Gettysburg, Andersonville, and an actor in the TV show Perfect Tribute. On the TV show “Who Do You Think You Are” he showed the actor Matthew Broderick the last three days of his gr-gr-grandfathers life. Robert Martindale of the 20^th Connecticut Infantry was killed July 23, 1864 near Atlanta. Quinlin showed Matthew where Martindale is buried in the Marietta National Cemetery. Quinlin also was the research advisor on three more “Who Do You Think You Are” shows. Brad was the lead researcher and advisor for the Kennesaw Mountain Battlefield film called “One Last Mountain”, the film has now received three awards. Quinlin was a researcher on the TV documentary “The Untold Story of the Civil War”. He also worked as an advisor for the National Geographic show “Diggers”.

Quinlin is a master volunteer for the National Park Service with more than 10,000 hours of volunteer work.

Quinlin’s research is being used in the new exhibits for the new Cyclorama Building at the Atlanta History Center and he has researched five new wayside exhibits for Kennesaw Mountain Battlefield National Park.

Quinlin has written or co-written 21 books on the American Civil War. By the end of 2022, Quinlin and two of his friends will have seven books finished for the Charles H. Coolidge Medal of Honor Heritage Center. These books will be the rights and profits for the center.

Quinlin is also planning the funeral for a Union Civil War Soldier. The remains were discovered recently, and Quinlin was asked to plan the funeral and burial in Marietta National Cemetery. The event will take place in Marietta, Georgia between July 9 through July 11 that will have programs on the life and death of this soldier.

Seneca Caverns Prepares for 2021 Season

Join us for a unique experience at Seneca Caverns – Ohio’s Greatest Natural Underground Adventure as they kick off their 2021 season on May 1! Their hours are from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday with the last cave tour departing at 4:00 pm. Beginning Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day they are open seven days a week from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm with the last cave tour departing at 6:00 pm.

Get a peek at what is under the ground that we walk on every day. Walk the natural stone steps and pathways that will lead you through seven rooms or levels. Feel the temperature cool as you progress into the cavern. The largest room is 250 feet in length. At the lowest level, 110 feet below the surface, see Ole’ Mist’ry River; the crystal-clear flowing stream which is part of the vast groundwater system underlying the surrounding region. You will be amazed as you enjoy this very unique tour!

Seneca Caverns has been retained close to its original, natural, wild state, this subterranean tour is truly a unique and educational experience you will always remember.

After the tour, try your hand at mining just like they did in frontier days at the Seneca Mining Company. This “gem” is a fully operational sluice with flowing water. Here you can pan for gemstones, minerals, crystals, arrowheads, and fossils.

Seneca Caverns may be the only cave of its kind open for public visitation. Seneca Caverns is a Registered Natural Landmark by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Seneca Caverns is open from May through October, rain or shine. Visit www.SenecaCavernsOhio.com to plan your underground adventure!

Fostoria Rail Preservation Society Announces Newest Addition and Spring Open House

The Fostoria Rail Preservation Society (FRPS) has announced their newest addition, the C-3008 Caboose, to the Fostoria Iron Triangle Park, 499 South Poplar Street. The Fostoria Iron Triangle Rail Park is a 5-acre tract directly inside the three double-track mainline freight rail lines that meander through Fostoria. Open 24/7, this park provides a 360-degree viewing platform that allows one to experience the sights and sounds of the 100-plus trains that pass-through Fostoria daily. Their Spring Open House, that will feature their newest addition, will be held on Wednesday, April 28 from 11:30 am to 2:00 pm.

The B&O 3000 series cabooses were built by the International Car Company in Kenton, Ohio. The cabooses were built in the from 1965 to 1966, as the B&O received its first Class I-18 cabooses. They were the first B&O cabooses in almost 60 years to be purchased from an outside builder. The International Car Company built 46 cabooses numbered C-3000 to C-3045. These cabooses had fewer bunks (2), more seats (6), an automatic oil stove, 70-gallon water tank with a stainless-steel sink, electric refrigerator and a flushing toilet. The Class I-18 cabooses were the last B&O cabooses to be built with roof walks a classified under the B&O system. All future cabooses would be classified under the C&O/B&O classification system.

The B&O experimented with deadheading crews to their work assignments in cabooses which is why the extra seats, up to six. The cabooses that remained in serve in 1982 were renumbered to the 903000 series. They dropped the “C” prefix and added the “90” at the beginning of the number. Thus, the C-3008 would become the 903008.

The B&O C-3008 had serviced the northern Ohio area as we they have train orders reflecting the locations. They are not certain when this caboose was taken out of service but was eventually placed in the Carlisle Railway Museum. They know this caboose was one of five on display there. The C-3008 was there in September 1995. Due to vandalism the Carlisle Railway Museum disbanded the caboose park. The C-3008 was purchased in 2004 by Richard Craig and moved to his home approximately 10 miles south of Fostoria near Alvada, Ohio. Upon his death the caboose was again sold in May 2016 with the FRPS receiving the winning bid. In 2016 BMP Maintenance placed ballast and rail ties for the caboose at the rail park. A volunteer crew led by Alan Stouder, NS Road Crew employee, installed the rail. DSM Ventures, based in Romulus, Michigan, moved the caboose from its rural home to the rail park in May 2017. Hill Construction built and completed the ADA ramp and platform in September 2021. The total investment into the project totaled more than $58,000 and was covered by generous donations and FRPS.

The Seneca Regional Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Services and Destination Seneca County are pleased to announce that Marisa Stephens has been hired for the position of Stakeholder Relations and Marketing Manager. Stephens, a Seneca County native, brings a strong relationship building background with her passion for the community that helped raise her. Stephens will begin May 24, 2021.

The selection was the result of an extensive recruitment process. “We worked with our stakeholders to narrow down the field of 50 applications to find what that we felt was the right candidate for our growing organization and the individuals we have the pleasure of serving,” Chamber Executive Director Bryce Riggs said. “Deb Martorana and I are excited to have Marisa on the team, her skill set combined with her passion and energy for Seneca County will be a welcome addition to our organization.”

Stephens is eager to move back home, “After graduation I was offered the opportunity to gain experiences away from Seneca County, but I am excited to come home and serve the community that I love.”

“We are excited about the Chamber’s selection of Marisa Stephens to assist them in taking tourism to the next level and we know that she will make a difference in Seneca County,” said Michael Strong, Executive Director of The Ritz Theatre and Chair of the Seneca County Tourism Council.

Stephens has spent the last three years in sales and recruiting roles with Qualtrics, an experience management company that helps organizations improve and create world class experiences throughout their business through data driven decisions with headquarters in Provo, Utah and Seattle, Washington. Stephens is a 2014 graduate of Tiffin Columbian High School and a 2018 graduate from Kent State University.

A local tradition returns with the Downtown Tiffin Chocolate Walk, set for 10 am- 4 pm on Saturday, May 8. Enjoy a sweet stroll through Downtown Tiffin, with stops at 25 participating locations and collect a unique treat at each stop.

This year’s event is being generously sponsored by Chamber member, Superior Credit Union.

To maintain social distancing, walkers may start anytime and at any stop you wish — there is no registration on the day of. Some businesses will have tables set up outside their stores the day of the walk.

Tickets are limited to 500 and are available at Simply Susan’s, 70 S. Washington St., and Washington Street Outfitters, 186 S. Washington St., for $25 – cash or check only at this time. At ticket purchase, walkers will receive a map and a bag. This year, ticket prices will used to support participating businesses.

To purchase tickets online, click here. A confirmation email will be sent after ticket purchase, which can be presented at Washington Street Outfitters for walkers to receive a map and a bag before the event.

Walkers are asked to wear masks when in doors and to maintain social distancing. For more information about the event, find Downtown Tiffin Chocolate Walk on Facebook, and Like the page for updates.

Participating businesses include:

• Burns Electric Inc.
• Cabin Creations Art Supplies
• Cabin Creations Gift Store
• Clover Club
• GW’s Fine Food & Spirits
• FroZone
• Hawkes Crystal
• JAM’s Monthly Markets
• Jolly’s
• JT’s Bagel Bar
• Laird Arcade Brewery
• Locks by Cactus Hair Salon
• Ralph’s Joy of Living
• ReClaim it 127
• Reino’s Pizza
• Releve Bar Studio
• The Renaissance of Tiffin
• Rustic Flair & Brush
• Simply Susan’s
• Slate Real Estate
• SSG Ink
• Tiffin Glass Shoppe
• 22mrkt
• UIS Insurance & Investments
• Washington Street Outfitters

Fostoria Farmers’ Market dates are May 1 and 15, June 19, July 17, August 7 and 21, September 4 and 18.  The themed markets take place on East Tiffin and South Main Streets, Fostoria. For more information, including the Market Rules and Vendor Application, see www.fostoriaohio.org/fostoria-farmers-market. See what vendors are participating by following Fostoria Farmers’ Market on Facebook.

Tiffin Seneca Farmers Market dates: May 15 and 29, June 12 and 26, July 10 and 24, August 14 and 28, September 11 and 25 and October 9 and 23.  The Market will take place on South Washington Street between Perry and Market Streets, Tiffin. For more information about the market and to stay up to date on upcoming announcements, follow the Tiffin Seneca Farmers Market on Facebook and Instagram and subscribe on our website at www.tiffinsenecafarmersmarket.com. If you’d like to join the market as a vendor, please email manager@sccommonground.org.

This year, it’s still possible to dash through the snow all the way to Tiffin, Fostoria, and Seneca County for Christmas events! Help us kick off the Christmas season with the holiday window contest and Christmas tree lighting, and stick around for the Christmas Walk! And when you’re not riding along in your one horse open sleigh, stop by any of our local businesses for your Christmas shopping.  To add your event to this list, contact us!

Last Updated: December 10, 2020 9:57 am

Businesses can apply for grants up to $10,000

Seneca County announced that the application process for the Seneca CARES Small Business Relief Program, which provides small businesses in Seneca County, including the cities of Fostoria and Tiffin, with financial relief from loss of revenue caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, is to open next week. For businesses in Tiffin and Seneca County, the program opens at 12 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 28, and close at 5 p.m. Monday, Nov. 9. For business in Fostoria, program guidelines and restrictions will be available on Monday, Oct. 26, and applications will be available on Friday, Oct. 30 at 9 a.m. and will close at 5 p.m. Monday, Nov. 9. The program was approved by the Seneca County Board of Commissioners on Oct. 22 and is being administered by the Tiffin-Seneca Economic Partnership and Fostoria Economic Development Corporation. $500,000 is being allocated to the program.

Each applicant business must complete the online application during the application period; paper applications will neither be available nor accepted.

• For Tiffin and Seneca County businesses, applications can be found at senecacares.com. Businesses with between two and 30 employees are eligible for grants up to $10,000 and businesses with less than two employees are eligible for grants up to $5,000. After funds are allocated for businesses in rural Seneca County and non-profit business in the City of Tiffin, Tiffin businesses who received $6,000 and $3,000 under the Tiffin CARES program will be eligible for up to an additional $4,000 and $2,000 respectively. Announcements of funding are to be made on or before Thursday, Nov. 19, 2020. If there are more eligible requests than available funds, the winners will be drawn by lottery.
• For businesses in Fostoria, applications will be available at fostoriaedc.org. Businesses with between two and 30 employees are eligible for grants up to $10,000 and businesses with less than two employees are eligible for grants up to $5,000.   Announcements of funding are to be made on or before Thursday, Nov. 19, 2020.  If there are more eligible requests than available funds, the winners will be drawn by lottery.

Several townships and villages throughout the county have chosen to put a portion of their CARES Act funding toward grants for their local businesses as well. These include Hopewell Township, Clinton Township, Eden Township, Bloom Township and the Village of Bettsville.

Seneca County Board of Commissioners President Mike Kerschner said, “We felt it was necessary to distribute funding to those who are specifically affected right now. We are thinking of the waiters and waitresses, theater employees and people who have lost their jobs as a result of COVID-19. We need to make sure we positively affect as many people as possible.”

For additional information and program guidelines for Fostoria businesses, visit fostoriaedc.org or email president@fostoriaedc.org. For information on the general program and guidelines, visit senecacares.com or email senecacares@tiffinseneca.org, where a response will be provided within 24 hours and posted to a Frequently Asked Questions page at senecacares.com, or additionally, a series of public, online meetings are planned. Login at https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/339384213, or call (872) 240-3311, Access Code: 339-384-213. These will be recorded and made available for viewing at senecacares.com. Meeting times are:

• Monday, Oct. 26 at 10 a.m.
• Thursday, Oct. 29 at noon
• Wednesday, Nov. 4 at 7 p.m.