Get to Know Shenna Gonzalez of Shimmery Belle Boutique!

Posted on December 22, 2020, updated on December 22, 2020 by daniellewilkin

Chances are you’ve visited Shimmery Belle Boutique since it opened in 2016 (and if you haven’t, what are you waiting for?!), but have you had a chance to get to know Shenna Gonzalez? Shenna is the owner of Shimmery Belle and is a familiar face in Downtown and around the community.

Get to know Shenna Gonzalez, the owner of Downtown Findlay's Shimmery Belle Boutique! Shimmery Belle is open for in-person or online shopping! • VisitFindlay.com

Shenna, shortly after Shimmery Belle Boutique’s opening!

Shenna is a life-long Hancock County resident, growing up in Arlington and attending University of Findlay before deciding to make Findlay her home alongside her husband, Dave. Shenna always loved visiting boutiques while traveling and began to dream of opening her own in Findlay. When Shenna’s father passed away in 2015 it gave her the confidence in knowing life was too short and gave her the extra push to follow through with something she had been dreaming about for years.

Have you found the perfect outfit at Shimmery Belle Boutique yet?

In the four years since Shimmery Belle Boutique opened its doors in the 600 block of South Main Street has flourished and evolved, however Shenna says it has stuck tot he core aspects. When you walk into Shimmery Belle Boutique you will find trendy and affordable options, no matter what your style. The Belles, as they’re affectionally called, will help you find outfits that make you feel the best, both inside and out!

Whether you’re looking for an outfit, accessories, shoes, or just something fun – Shimmery Belle has you covered!

Shenna says the best part of owning a small business is being able to meet and get to known so many people in the community. She said that she has been able to make true friendships with customers and other small business owners. Shenna said that seeing Downtown grow and transform over the past four years has been great, especially because her fellow small business owners are so supportive of each other, which is a true testament of our community and neighbors.

They’re talking to you – plan to visit Shimmery Belle in-person or online!

Shenna has also made an effort to give back to the community by participating in local food and book bag drives, as well as donating items to charity fundraisers. She said the most memorable was when her team wrapped gifts for a family and presented it to Hope House to distribute. Having the opportunity to give back is what she is most proud about.

Facts about Shenna

Name: Shenna Gonzalez
Family: Husband, Dave; Stepson, Anthony; Son, Alex; Daughter, Kam
Pets: German Shepherd, Kobe
Hometown: Arlington, Ohio
Favorite Book: The Crossroads Between Should and Must
Favorite Travel Destination: Destin, Florida
Best Purchase You’ve Ever Made: My juicer – I am obsessed!

The perfect outfit is waiting – let the Belles help you today!

Findlay Favorites

Favorite Place in Findlay: Some local favorites are Wellness Studio Downtown, the Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, RooBarb Studios, and Thistle Exchange!
Favorite Local Event: ArtWalk and the Downtown Tree Lighting
Favorite Local Restaurant: All our Downtown restaurants, but i think i could eat at Rossilli’s and Stix every day!
Favorite Local Treat: Dietsch’s Ice Cream
Favorite Hidden Gem: Pizza at The Anvil, it is delicious!

You can find Shenna at Shimmery Belle Boutique, located at 620 S. Main Street. Visit in-person or order online for shipping or local delivery!

The Housing Boom of Findlay

Posted on December 10, 2020, updated on May 6, 2022 by patbauman

Don’t miss Pat’s earlier installments exploring Findlay’s history, including the previous segment, “Women Split No Wood in Findlay”.

As a result of the tremendous gas and oil boom in Findlay in the late 1880’s, there was an influx of people coming to Findlay to capitalize on the wealth to be made here. With all these new people coming to town, there was a great need for housing. Unprepared as they were, the housing industry proved to be another boom to Findlay.

The January 1, 1889 Findlay Daily Courier newspaper, gave an account of how many new businesses, schools, factories and houses were built in the past year, and included the names of builders and the costs of the buildings. Sometimes the builder of the house was intending to live in the house, but many were built to sell to newcomers.

The section of the article dedicated to houses read “Findlay is a city of beautiful homes. Many of the residences of the “Brilliant City” are such as would do credit to any American city. About 2,000 residences, ranging in value from $20,000 down have been built within the past 18 months.”

The low cost of the houses was due to the fact that you could make the brick, quarry the rock, burn the lime, dig the sand, saw the lumber, and make the glass, all in Findlay. The homes were built all over the town, and all areas were easily accessible due to the new street railway that had been installed, with the cars being pulled by donkey.

Advertisements read “Findlay has the cheapest and best fuel known. It costs only $3.50 a year for heating a stove or grate, while lights are only five cents per month.” They also extolled the culture, schools, factories, churches, and every other amenity possible to encourage people to settle in the Brilliant City.

Learn more about Findlay's Housing Boom of the late 19th century, which resulted in the beautiful historic homes that we see today! • VisitFindlay.com

Learn more about these beautiful homes, like the Charles Bigelow House located at 2616 N. Main Street, by visiting the Hancock Historical Museum or enjoying the self-guided historic homes walking tour!

There are many opportunities to learn more about the historic homes in Findlay and Hancock County! Hear from one of the home’s owners in this video, see them in-person by taking part in Visit Findlay’s self-guided historic homes walking tour, or enjoy them up close and personal by planning to participate in Hancock Historical Museum’s biannual homes tour!

This blog post was written by Visit Findlay blogger Pat Bauman. Pat is a Findlay history buff, author, mom and grandmother. That isn’t much, is it? Learn more about Pat and read her other blog posts here!

New Space, Same Face – Get to Know Lisa Allen of The Baker’s Cafe

Posted on December 9, 2020, updated on December 9, 2020 by daniellewilkin

During this spring’s stay-at-home period some people completed home projects, others used the time to garden, some binge watched their entire Netflix watch list, while others became puzzle pros. And some, specifically Lisa Allen, used the time for her cafe’s already-scheduled move to a larger space on Main Street in Downtown Findlay!

Get to know Lisa Allen, the owner of The Baker's Cafe located on South Main Street in Downtown Findlay! • VisitFindlay.com

Lisa Allen, the owner of The Baker’s Cafe, and the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce’s 2016 Women in Business Champion of the Year

You are probably familiar with The Baker’s Cafe. The lunch spot that opened in 2014 on Sandusky Street has grown exponentially from the tiny cafe that Lisa originally envisioned as a go-to lunch spot. To say that Lisa’s vision for the future came to fruition is an understatement. The Baker’s Cafe spent 5 years growing to the point where a table at lunchtime was nearly impossible to nab. Between their delicious food, even more delicious treats, and friendly atmosphere it was time to make the move to a larger location.

Scientific Fact: If you get a salad for lunch then the brownie for dessert doesn’t count towards calories.

Even in a larger space, Lisa and her team have held on to all the charm that was captured at the original location. The much new space still feels intimate and homey. The food is still delicious and the larger kitchen has allowed them to add even more drool-worthy desserts to their menu, including doughnuts and gluten-free options every Wednesday.

The Baker’s Cafe’s larger kitchen has allowed them to expand into new treats – like doughnuts!

Although Lisa is a stalwart force at The Baker’s Cafe, you are sure to have seen her out and about in the community. Lisa has served on a communications board for Cancer Patient Services, been a volunteer for Coats for Christmas, and volunteered for many other fundraisers. And Lisa brings that sense of community into The Baker’s Cafe. Her favorite part of owning the cafe is serving her friends and neighbors. She loves making people happy with her food and has created the feeling of walking in your friend’s house as soon as you walk into the cafe’s doors.

Walking through the doors of The Baker’s Cafe you get a sense of home, even in the larger space!

And it isn’t just her customers that Lisa wants to feel at home. Lisa’s team is a small group of local (mostly!) women who are more like family – and if you ever get a chance to watch the staff interact while you wait in line it is evident that they do see each other as family.

As the saying goes, “The team that dresses up for Halloween together, stays together.” or something like that!

Lisa’s goal is that visitors know that they are going to get a rich cup of coffee made from beans roasted locally; a sandwich created with love (cliché’s aside); and a bakery treat made from scratch with a recipe passed down from her great-aunt or grandma.

No matter what you order at The Baker’s Cafe, it is sure to be delicious!

Lisa and her team have done a great job adapting on the fly, including adding additional delivery hours! Plan to have The Baker’s Cafe for lunch today (don’t forget the brownie! Or a mini cheesecake…or a cookie…and the list goes on and on)! You can stop in and order at the counter, order online, or order delivery!

Take a seat and enjoy!

Facts about Lisa

Name: Lisa Allen
Family: Husband, Tom; Daughters Lydia, age 22, and Kaitlyn, age 19
Pets: Ollie
Hometown: Defiance, Ohio
Number of Years in Findlay: 16
Favorite Quote: “Don’t wait for the right opportunity…create it.”, George Bernard Shaw
What would you name your boat if you had one: Ships n’ Giggles
Favorite Travel Destination: Kauai, Hawaii

Findlay Favorites

Favorite Place in Findlay: If not my house or the cafe, our neighbor’s – Logan’s Irish Pub
Favorite Thing to Do in Hancock County: Take a stroll in Riverside Park or Riverbend Recreation Area
Favorite Local Event: Boogie
Favorite Guilty Pleasure: A Flight from Findlay Brewing Company

You can find Lisa at The Baker’s Cafe, located at 408 S. Main Street, during breakfast, lunch, or in the afternoon for a sweet pick-me-up! Visit in-person or order online.

Meet the faces behind Elida Candle Company, Mark and Diane Yonut!

Posted on December 8, 2020, updated on December 8, 2020 by daniellewilkin

If you’ve found yourself in Downtown Findlay in the past few months you may have noticed a few new shops joining the family, one of those being Elida Candle Company. Meet the faces behind the shop – Diane and Mark Yonut!

Meet Mark and Diane Yonut, the faces behind Downtown Findlay's Elida Candle Company, a hand-poured soy candle company located on Main Street! • VisitFindlay.com

Meet Diane and Mark Yonut, the owners of Elida Candle Company in Downtown Findlay

Diane and Mark are relatively new to Findlay as they relocated to Hancock County from Elida, Ohio two years ago for Mark’s job as the Chief Perfusionist for Blanchard Valley Hospital. Since their move to Findlay Diane and Mark have been keeping an eye out for the perfect retail space for their candle company, which would be the first brick-and-mortar location for their business. Previously, Diane and Mark ran their business for nine years selling online and wholesale to stores across the country.

For the first nine years you could only buy these candles online or at one of the locations across the country who carried them, like DorAnnes, the former occupant of 327 S. Main Street – a full circle moment!

When the space at 327 S. Main Street became available they thought it was perfect. Not only can they have their retail operations in the front, all of their candles are now made on-site in the back of the shop.

All of the Elida Candle Company’s signature candles are hand-poured in Findlay

What started as a hobby for Mark and Diane grew into what is today Elida Candle Company. They began in 2011 by making the candles at home and selling them at local craft shows with just eight fragrances. Today Mark and Diane sell their clean-burning, hand-poured soy candles in their shop, online, as well as continuing their existing wholesale business. And, their fragrances have grown from just the original eight – now there are over 300 fragrances created with about 120 available at a time.

Elida Candle Company is stocked with candles, ready for your perusal!

Opening a storefront has opened up a whole new facet of owning a small business for Diane and Mark. Diane, who runs the daily operation of the business, said that she loves meeting new people, which is something that she didn’t have the opportunity to do when they were selling online and wholesale only. With the brick-and-mortar addition Diane said she is able to really interact with their customers.

Pick up more than just candles at Elida Candle Company, check out the holiday décor as well!

In addition to Elida Candle Company’s signature candles, the new storefront has enabled a new side of the company – merchandise! Elida Candle Company just opened in Downtown Findlay this fall and has already become known for their seasonal and holiday decor, in addition to accessories and gifts for anyone in your life.

In addition to candles and décor, you can also pick up a gift – or something for yourself, we wont tell!

Even before Elida Candle Company joined Downtown Findlay, Mark and Diane were a fan of the community as a consumer! Since they joined the community Diane said that everyone has been very welcoming and supportive, which mirrors what she and Mark like the most about Findlay. Diane said that she even had a “Friendly Findlay” sign made for the shop to reflect what she loves the most about their new home.

“Friendly Findlay” is more than just a sign, it is what Diane loves most about Findlay!

Be sure to include Elida Candle Company on your next shopping trip to Downtown Findlay!

Fun Facts about Diane and Mark

Names: Mark and Diane Yonut
Family: Sons, Alex and Evan
Hometown: Elida, Ohio
Netflix Recommendations: The Crown and Mind Hunters
Favorite Travel Destination: Anywhere with a beach
Hobbies: Gardening and Scrapbooking

Findlay Favorites

Favorite Local Events: Oktoberfest and BalloonFest
Favorite Local Restaurant: Fins Seafood & Grille
Favorite Local Treat: Archie’s Ice Cream
Favorite Local Purchase: Outdoor chairs from The Granary – We love sitting outside by the fire in the summer!

You can find Mark and Diane at Elida Candle Company, located at 327 S. Main Street in Downtown Findlay! You can shop Elida Candle Company online or in-person.

Relax and Rejuvenate with Ben and Mandy Stevens

Posted on November 20, 2020, updated on November 20, 2020 by daniellewilkin

Four years ago an opportunity presented itself to Ben and Mandy Stevens. As two people who had always felt the call to own a business, finding out that a favorite spot of Mandy’s was for sale was a sign that their dream was about to be achieved. And that is how the Stevens family came to own Journey Salon and Day Spa.

Meet Ben and Mandy Stevens, the owners of Journey Salon and Day Spa!

Ben and Mandy agree that the timing of their purchase of Journey was kismet. Their youngest daughter, Ella, was born with health issues and, although Ben loved his job, the travel schedule wasn’t conducive to their family life. Mandy had found peace and relaxation at Journey for years, so when they found out it was for sale they knew it would a great place for them to help others experience the comfort Mandy had found. Plus, Ben’s degree in management and Mandy’s experience in leadership allowed them to use their knowledge and gifts to help others grow.

And their daughters Abbie and Ella

Since then, Ben and Mandy have grown Journey into a destination for residents and visitors alike. They are constantly on the lookout for new services and ways to expand their business, like the addition of a Halotherapy room and an on-location fair trade boutique, Light and Lovely, while continuing the services that initially attracted Mandy as a customer – a full service salon and spa that focuses as much on beauty and style as it does therapeutic and relaxation treatments.

Journey Salon and Day Spa focuses on beauty and style, as well as your health

The addition of Light and Lovely was a passion project of Ben and Mandy’s. They have always felt very strongly about making a difference in the world through the purchase of Fair Trade products. Fair Trade allows the artisans who make the products to make a fair and living wage to help get them out of poverty (think the opposite of a sweat shop). With some extra space inside Journey they decided it was the perfect time to open a boutique so their guests could shop for holiday gifts all in one. This is also allowing them to make a difference in the world at a time that it is greatly needed.

Light and Lovely, the Fair Trade boutique located within Journey, sells beautiful items that you can feel good about when buying

Ben and Mandy have surrounded themselves with great people, both in Journey and in Downtown! Mandy’s favorite part of owning Journey is working with the team of professionals to make a difference in people’s lives. She says they want to help make their guests feel better when they leave than when they came in, whether they’re just picking up a product or spending all day in the spa. They believe that so many people don’t feel seen, noticed or cared for, and want them to know that they are cared for by the our whole team. She says each person matters and they need to know that!

Journey Salon and Day Spa exists so you can peace and relaxation

Being part of Downtown is more than just a good location for Ben and Mandy, they truly love being part of the community. Ben says that they are always looking for ways to support the rest of the Downtown community (which they often do, check out their facebook!) and Mandy agrees, saying that too often it is easy to see competition, but they seem them as their community and want to lift them up.

Sit back and take a few minutes for yourself

With the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life Journey Salon and Day Spa offers a respite from the businesses and stresses. Plan to visit Journey, Light and Lovely, and Ben and Mandy soon for a few minutes of relaxation and peace!

Relaxation is waiting!

Fun Facts about Ben and Mandy

Names: Ben and Mandy Stevens
Family: Two Daughters, Abbie (14) and Ella (4)
Pets: Feathers, the beta fish
Hometowns: Mandy – Findlay
Ben – Born in Defiance, Raised in Dayton
Dream Home Location: Mandy – One a beach, or at least a large lake
Ben – Anywhere with a warm beach
Favorite Travel Destination: Mandy – Topsail Island, North Carolina
Ben – The Arizona desert
Favorite TV Shows: Mandy – The Office, Psych, Gilmore Girls
Ben – Psych and 80’s & 90’s throwbacks
Community Involvement: Active members of the Chamber of Commerce and volunteers at Cedar Creek Church

Findlay Favorites

Favorite Place in Findlay: Mandy – The reservoir
Ben – Riverbend Park
Favorite Thing to do in Findlay: Mandy – Walk down Main Street
Favorite Local Event: Both – Flag City BalloonFest
Favorite Local Restaurant: Both – Rossilli’s Restaurant
Favorite Local Treat or Guilty Pleasure: Mandy – Dark Chocolate Marshmallows from Light and Lovely!
Ben – Dietsch Brother’s Banana Splits
Favorite Hidden Gem: Both – Donnell Pond!

Meet Ben and Mandy Stevens, the owners of Journey Salon and Day Spa, and their new Fair Trade Boutique, Light and Lovely!

Donnell Pond is a favorite walking spot for the Stevens family!

You can find Ben and Mandy at Journey Salon and Day Spa, located at 127 W. Hardin Street in Downtown Findlay. You can shop Light and Lovely online, as well as purchase Journey gift cards!

Thanksgiving Weekend in 2020

Posted on November 19, 2020, updated on November 19, 2020 by daniellewilkin

This year’s theme is, “It won’t look like normal” and Thanksgiving, Small Business Saturday, and all the fun that normally occurs over the weekend is no exception. But, that doesn’t mean you can’t have a great time! We’ve rounded up plenty of ways to enjoy Thanksgiving weekend in the year 2020.

Thanksgiving at Home

A big Thanksgiving get together isn’t in the cards this year, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your favorite holiday treats! If you’re looking for baked goods, we have you covered. Pies from Kathy’s Korner, Dumplings from Brinkman’s, Cookies from Main Street Deli, Cupcakes from Buggy Whip, Brownies from Baker’s Cafe, and, of course, Butterflake Rolls from The Baking Company and Bread Kneads.

Thanksgiving, like everything else, won't look like normal in 2020 but there are still plenty of ways you can celebrate safely! • VisitFindlay.com

Don’t forget the rolls!

If you need more traditional Thanksgiving fare, Mancy’s Steakhouse has Thanksgiving To-Go! Get a full meal to be enjoyed at home, pre-order required by Tuesday, November 24!

Family Traditions

Thanksgiving Weekend kicks off so many holiday traditions for families, including the City of Findlay Tree Lighting Ceremony, Santa’s House, North Pole Express, and much more. All those events are still happening, but (say it together) they won’t look the same this year.

If you look forward to giving Thanksgiving a running start with Turkey Trot, you can still do so! WRC’s Turkey Trot is taking place virtually, but awards will still be given for several categories, like Clever Costume, Furry Friend, and Family Fun Foto – so get dressed up and get running!

The race is virtual, but costumes are still encouraged!

The City of Findlay Tree Lighting Ceremony will be taking place virtually and will be streamed on the Mayor’s Facebook page on November 27 at 6 p.m.! North Pole Express begins November 27 and will be as normal as possible in COVID times, with rides still taking place on the weekends through NWORRP’s beautifully decorated grounds. You will be able to still wander through the trees in the Train Barn, modified this year to have more space to socially distance.

The North Pole Express rides on!

Santa’s House is Santa’s Mailbox this year! The big man in red is safely stowed away in the North Pole awaiting Christmas Eve, so he asked Kiwanis elves to collect letters on his behalf. From November 20 – December 14 children can drop off letters at Trends! on Main or Smarty Pants in Downtown Findlay and will receive a reply from Santa himself!

Santa is staying in the North Pole so be sure to write him a letter! Santa’s Mailbox letters can be dropped off at Trends! on Main and Smarty Pants in Downtown Findlay

Bluffton Blaze of Lights is spreading the fun throughout several weeks, rather than just one day. From Small Business Saturday through the New Year, the Blaze of Lights display, including the Ream folk art collection, will be illuminated at Bluffton Presbyterian Church. The following weekend on December 5 the residential lights contest kicks off, complete with a map from the Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, along with other great events!

The Blaze of Lights in Bluffton will be illuminated beginning on Small Business Saturday through the New Year

Shop Local!

For many, the highlight of Thanksgiving weekend is completing your holiday shopping and that can still definitely be done and you can support your local shops! Did you know that for every dollar you spend at a local shop 2/3 of it stays in our community? You can make a huge difference in our community by simply purchasing even just a few of your Christmas gifts locally.

Small Business Saturday on November 28 is a great chance to kickstart your shopping. Many businesses are participating with special deals, extended hours, and some fun giveaways. If Cyber Monday is more your jam, you can still support your neighbors by visiting their websites or attending their Live Shows while wearing your PJs.

Get your shopping done over Thanksgiving weekend, whether in-person or online!

At the end of the day (or weekend!) we are lucky to live in a great community full of wonderful people. At Visit Findlay we are thankful for YOU! Have a great holiday, mask up, and stay safe!

Thankful for Family, Health, and our Community

Posted on November 24, 2020, updated on December 2, 2020 by Alissa Preston

At the height of a pandemic, I find myself with a lot to be thankful for. It may be my rose-colored glasses, or the time I’ve been given to reflect on the things that are most important to me. I can easily say those things are my family, my friends that are like family, our health, and the amazing community in which we live. The holiday week that is upon us gives me the opportunity to share some of my favorite things about being a Findlay-ite, pandemic-style.

Traditionally, my family kicks-off the holiday season with a night before thanksgiving bash, coined “Best Going Out Night”, that brings together old friends and new. This year we will have a “Family Night In” with games or a new puzzle from Smarty Pants Findlay. It will probably include a growler from Findlay Brewing Company as well….and maybe some Shirley’s Popcorn.

Visit Findlay director Alissa Preston shares how she and her family are continuing their Thanksgiving traditions in Findlay safely! • VisitFindlay.com

What flavor of Shirley’s Popcorn is best served with a growler of FBC’s Hop Seshhhhh?

Thanksgiving Day will still be filled with food and thankful memories of the health and wellbeing of our family and the year we’ve shared together.

Black Friday shopping takes a turn this year and will be spent from the comfort of our homes. Black Friday has never really been about shopping for the best deal, rather a time that my sisters and I spend together. Together we will map out our plan for Small Business Saturday, and make plans to be the first Fort Findlay Coffee & Doughnuts for donut holes and coffee bright and early the next morning!

Delicious donut holes lie in this box!

Although we will not gather at Dorney Plaza for Mayor Muryn’s annual lighting of the Christmas tree, we will still take our girls down to see the big tree and the obligatory photo op, masks included this year.

The annual photo by the tree is a must, even during a pandemic!

Small Business Saturday is one of my favorite days in downtown Findlay. The selection has grown with new retail locations that have opened this year – Light & Lovely, River + Road, Summer Creek Apparel, and Elida Candle Company to go along with our old favorites; RooBarb Studios, Shimmery Belle Boutique, Trends! on Main and definitely an Amici Mocha “Alissa Style” from Coffee Amici. Being home so much and looking at my bare walls, I will also be hitting Thistle Exchange and Bee Simple for home décor. Actually, I think my living room needs a new chair, soooo I’ll pay Hutchisons Fine Furniture a visit too.

Shops like Thistle Exchange and Bee Simple have great home decor to dress up your bare walls!

If I have enough energy left after shopping ‘til we drop, Christmas décor starts to make its way out of the attic on Saturday evening. I usually make my first swipe at Garden Central to fill in with some fresh greens. The scent of fresh evergreen gets me excited to decorate, and let’s face it – we’ve all checked our sense of smell more than usual in 2020.

Greenery from Garden Central will get you in the mood for the holidays!

2020 has also forced our local retailers to step-up their online presence. If you’re not up for in-person shopping on Small Business Saturday, our local retailers are going virtual with great Cyber Monday promotions.

Shop from the comfort of your home with many of our local shops!

I think we can all agree, we’re fatigued – physically, mentally, and emotionally. The events of 2020 have gotten to us in some way or another. I choose to take a step back and look at all of the good in our community. Have you reached out to a non-profit yet this year? Do you miss being in the theatre at MCPA or maybe you missed Oktoberfest Findlay with the Hancock Historical Museum or you weren’t able to attend the typical fundraiser that often gave you the opportunity to support one of many local charities. Now is the time to say THANK YOU to our local non-profits for providing the Findlay/Hancock County Community with amazing resources. Consider giving a little (or a lot) this Giving Tuesday to help support and ensure our non-profits continue to be active and visible for many years to come.

Cheers to the holiday season!

After the busy week ahead, I’ll definitely be ready to kick back with my big bottle of bubbly (Thanks, Wine Merchant) and enjoy the holidays at home.

This post was written by Alissa Preston. Alissa is the director of Visit Findlay, Oler’s Aficionado, and supporter of all things Findlay. That isn’t much is it? Learn more about Alissa here!

The Best Snacks for your Holiday Movie Binging

Posted on December 2, 2020, updated on December 2, 2020 by daniellewilkin

It is officially the holiday season, which means many things and among them is that it is time to find your favorite pajamas, snuggle up on the couch, and watch as many ridiculous holiday movies as possible. And I don’t mean Die Hard.

Its holiday movie season! Visit Findlay's Danielle wants to be sure you're prepared with the best movie-watching snacks Findlay has to offer! • VisitFindlay.com

These are the amazing movies I am talking about!

Holiday movies are the best. They’re cheesy, happy, light-hearted, and most of the time terrible, but in the best possible way. There is no wrong way to watch holiday movies, however there is the right way, which includes a lot of snacks. This list from NPR’s Linda Holmes has over 80 holiday movies ready to consume and giving you plenty of opportunities to consume all these great snacks I’ve listed below:

Baked Goods

The holidays and baked goods go hand-in-hand, so of course they are perfect for enjoying while watching holiday movies! Luckily, we have many spots to choose from no matter what you’re craving that day. Main Street Deli is my go-to for cookies, specifically their Monster Cookies – so good! The Baker’s Cafe’s mini cheesecakes and huge brownies are delicious (visit on Wednesdays for Gluten Free options!). Cupcakes are always a popular choice in my house and between Jen’s Buggy Whip Cakery and The Baking Company & Bread Kneads we find fun flavors that make everyone happy. Mornings are for movie watching too and We Serve. Coffee has the best coffee cake that is perfect for the occasion.

“I’ll have one of everything in this case”, is what you will want to say at The Baker’s Cafe!

Savory Snacks

If your sweet tooth isn’t as strong, or if you want a wide variety in your snacks then there are many options for you too! Popcorn is an obvious movie watching snack, but for holiday movies you need to up your game, and that is where Shirley’s Popcorn comes in. Full disclosure – I don’t know if the way I enjoy Shirley’s can be considered a savory snack because in my opinion, the more chocolate the better. However, they have savory flavors like Windy City, Afterburner, or good ole’ original. Your next stop should be to Wolfie’s Nuts and pick up a few bags of your favorite flavors. If you’re a newbie to Wolfie’s then you are in for a treat! I recommend the Crunchy Original Peanuts, Nutcracker Mix, or some hot nuts but you truly can’t go wrong!

Wolfie’s has every flavor nut imaginable, but my favorite is the Crunchy Original!

For other savory options consider some appetizers from your favorite local restaurants! I think some Loaded Tots from Findlay Brewing, Giant Pretzel from Logan’s, and the delicious Fries from Stix would be a great snack for movie watching!

Drinks

Now that we have food mostly covered, on to the drinks! Coffee is a good option to pep you up and keep you awake for the most movie watching hours. Coffee Amici, George House, and Fort Findlay Coffee and Doughnuts have you covered there. If coffee isn’t for you, but you still need to warm up try to some hot chocolate – I’m partial to The Baker’s Cafe or We Serve. Coffee’s dark hot chocolate.

George House has a wide variety of drinks you can order that pair perfectly with your holiday movie of choice!

If you enjoy your movies with a little booze pick up a growler, crowler, or some cans of your favorite brews from Findlay Brewing Company, or the new kids on the brewery block – Crafted Nano Brewery and Modcraft Brewery. Let’s be honest, you have no where to go. So pick up a few bottles of your favorite wines from Gillig Winery, Wine Merchant, Gathering Wine, or Hull’s Trace Wine Cellar to really indulge.

Visiting Modcraft Brewery to pick up their newest four pack sounds like a good idea to us!

Dietsch’s

Last, but not least, go into Dietsch’s Fine Chocolates and Ice Cream and point. That makes the best snack. I don’t care if it is chocolate covered pretzels, truffles, ice cream, just spin around (make sure no one is nearby!) and point – you’ve made the right decision. Don’t make a rookie mistake by purchasing just what you think you’ll need. Stock up. If you don’t have at least a box of chocolates in the pantry and 2 extra gallons of ice cream in the freezer you’re not trying.

Anything in Dietsch’s make an excellent movie-watching snack!

With this list in hand you’re prepared to enjoy holiday movies non-stop until 2020 is a thing of the past. Get your holiday shopping while you’re watching by shopping local online, and while I’m a proponent of snacks for meals, but if you would like an actual dinner check out any of our local restaurants for takeout – that way you can still enjoy it in front of the tv. Merry Christmas!

This blog post is written by Visit Findlay Community Relations and Development Manager Danielle Wilkin. Danielle is a reality TV aficionado, frequent Downtown diner, and a busy mom! That isn’t much, is it? See more about Danielle and read more from her here!

Welcome to Downtown River and Road!

Posted on November 10, 2020, updated on November 20, 2020 by daniellewilkin

The newest face in Downtown Findlay is Karen Worthington, the owner of River + Road, located at 212 W. Front Street. Formerly known as the home of Objects of Desire Artful Living, which has sense relocated to the Findlay Art League, Karen has long-held a dream to own a storefront, so when realtors Sharon Rooney and Erin Poling found the beautiful home-turned-shop she knew it was meant to be!

Downtown Findlays newest store River and Road brings beauty to your wardrobe and your home, meet the woman behind it all, Karen Worthington! • VisitFindlay.com

Meet Karen, the owner of River and Road in Downtown Findlay

Karen’s shop isn’t just the newest spot in Downtown Findlay. She, along with her husband, Brian, two sons Jake and Ty, and their dogs Bear and Yukon, moved to Findlay in January. Her family has moved a lot over the past 20 years for her husband’s career, most recently living in Alaska. There Karen dove into their community, serving on the Alaska Junior Theatre’s Board of Directors and volunteering for the Anchorage Museum’s annual gala and the Alaska Take Steps for Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation.

River + Road is a family affair!

When Karen makes time for herself she enjoys many things, including cooking and traveling. She enjoys being active – kayaking, hiking, trail running, and doing yoga, while also relaxing with a good book, like her favorite – Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See.

Head to River and Road to find items that will perfectly enhance your wardrobe

Getting involved in the community is one of the things that has Karen excited about joining the Downtown family. She says everyone has been warm and welcoming since her family arrived and joining in is what she is most looking forward to.

River and Road is located on Front Street, behind MCPA

If you haven’t already, you should make a trip to River + Road immediately, if not just to check out all the new renovations! Karen can’t pick just one aspect of the space’s new look she loves best. The new floors by Carpet Direct give warmth to the space and the paint by Denise Meeks makes the space seem bright and airy. And the dressing room sports beautiful linen curtains by Hutchinson Fine Furniture that put the perfect finishing touch on the shop.

Inside River and Road you will find beautiful pieces to add to your wardrobe, jewelry, home items and accessories, and much, much more.

Karen loves owning a boutique. After running her lifestyle brand over the years the best part of her current job is meeting people and helping them find exactly what they are looking for – or maybe didn’t even know they were looking for! Karen wants everyone who walks through her doors to feel like they’re home. She invites you to take your time to brose, try on, and enjoy the time just for you. She hopes all find pieces that will enhance your living space or compliment items in your wardrobe.

Be sure to stop in to River + Road to meet Karen, see the renovations, and enjoy some time to yourself.

Fun Facts about Karen

Name: Karen Worthington
Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Favorite TV Show: Fixer Upper
Dream Home Location: Sitka, Alaska
Favorite Travel Destination: Bali, Indonesia

Findlay Favorites

Favorite Part of the Community: How warm and welcoming everyone is
Favorite Place in Findlay: Riverbend Park
Favorite Local Treat: Dietsch’s chocolates!
Favorite Place for Cocktails: Stix

You can find Karen at River + Road in Downtown Findlay, located at 212 W. Front Street or you can shop online!

Zach Thomas

Posted on October 19, 2020, updated on October 21, 2020 by zachthomas

Zach is the Director of Wellness and Education at the Hancock County Board of Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services. He serves as the coordinator of the Hancock County Community Partnership and the Hancock County Opioid and Addictions Task Force which are long-standing community coalitions focused on substance abuse prevention, mental health promotion, and local health challenges. He also manages the Board’s prevention investments and communications, and leads work in cultural humility and health disparities. Zach also serves as a Teaching Artist for educational programming at the Marathon Center for the Performing Arts.

Zach began his career serving as Director of Bands at Liberty-Benton Local Schools in 1999 after graduating from Bowling Green State University with a degree in Music Education.

DOWNTOWN

DINE

SHOP

EXPLORE

EVENTS

Facts about Shenna

Findlay Favorites

You can find Shenna at Shimmery Belle Boutique, located at 620 S. Main Street. Visit in-person or order online for shipping or local delivery!

This blog post was written by Visit Findlay blogger Pat Bauman. Pat is a Findlay history buff, author, mom and grandmother. That isn’t much, is it? Learn more about Pat and read her other blog posts here!

Facts about Lisa

Findlay Favorites

You can find Lisa at The Baker’s Cafe, located at 408 S. Main Street, during breakfast, lunch, or in the afternoon for a sweet pick-me-up! Visit in-person or order online.

Fun Facts about Diane and Mark

Findlay Favorites

You can find Mark and Diane at Elida Candle Company, located at 327 S. Main Street in Downtown Findlay! You can shop Elida Candle Company online or in-person.

Fun Facts about Ben and Mandy

Findlay Favorites

You can find Ben and Mandy at Journey Salon and Day Spa, located at 127 W. Hardin Street in Downtown Findlay. You can shop Light and Lovely online, as well as purchase Journey gift cards!

Thanksgiving at Home

Family Traditions

Shop Local!

This post was written by Alissa Preston. Alissa is the director of Visit Findlay, Oler’s Aficionado, and supporter of all things Findlay. That isn’t much is it? Learn more about Alissa here!

Baked Goods

Savory Snacks

Drinks

Dietsch’s

This blog post is written by Visit Findlay Community Relations and Development Manager Danielle Wilkin. Danielle is a reality TV aficionado, frequent Downtown diner, and a busy mom! That isn’t much, is it? See more about Danielle and read more from her here!

Fun Facts about Karen

Findlay Favorites

You can find Karen at River + Road in Downtown Findlay, located at 212 W. Front Street or you can shop online!