Bar area with TV screens, drinks, and seating at The Fostoria Free Press.

Bucks Bar & Deli Soft OPEN Today in Downtown Fostoria!

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December 22, 2025 – Exciting news for Fostoria residents and food lovers! Bucks Bar & Deli is officially kicking off its soft opening (or pre-launch) today in the heart of downtown Fostoria, Ohio. This new spot combines the charm of a local bar with fresh delicatessen offerings and catering services, promising quality food in a welcoming community atmosphere.

After months of anticipation and beautiful renovations – including fresh paint and minimalist signage that give the building a modern yet inviting look – Bucks Bar & Deli is ready to welcome guests.

Deli sandwiches in refrigerated display, bottled water, soda, and Mountain Dew drinks, convenient for quick grab-and-go meals.

What to Expect at Bucks Bar & Deli

This hybrid bar and deli aims to be a go-to spot for casual drinks, hearty meals, and even catered events. While specific menu details are still rolling out, expect classic deli favorites like fresh sandwiches, premium meats and cheeses, and platters perfect for gatherings.

Delicious meatloaf served with corn, mashed potatoes, and gravy, perfect for a hearty meal in Fostoria.Hours of Operation

  • Monday–Thursday: 10 AM – 9 PM
  • Friday–Saturday: 10 AM – 11 PM

(Note: Hours may be adjusted during the soft opening period – call ahead to confirm!)

Today’s soft opening is your chance to be among the first to experience this new addition to Fostoria’s dining scene. Stop by for a bite, a drink, or just to check out the renovated space.

The full grand opening is slated for January 5, 2026, so mark your calendars for even more celebrations!

Bucks Bar & Deli is more than just a place to eat – it’s about bringing quality food and community together right here in downtown Fostoria. Swing by today and support this exciting local business!

Deli sandwiches in refrigerated display, bottled water, soda, and Mountain Dew drinks, convenient for quick grab-and-go meals. Homemade meatloaf, mashed potatoes, cornbread, and gravy on a clear glass plate. Empty cafe dining area with wooden tables and chairs, modern decor, and refrigerated drinks behind the counter.

Children and police officers outside a police vehicle and inside a police bus.

Fostoria Police and Community Spread Holiday Cheer with Annual ‘Christmas with a Cop’ Event

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Children and police officers outside a police vehicle and inside a police bus.
FOSTORIA | This past Saturday, Officers from the Fostoria Police Department, teachers from the Fostoria City Schools, along with Trooper Rey Zavala of the Ohio State Patrol, Norwalk Post, had a great time with these amazing kiddos during Christmas with a Cop.

The kids were able to purchase gifts for themselves and their family members, while also receiving new coats, hats, gloves, and boots!

Thank you Fostoria FOP and all of the other local donors… without you, this wouldn’t be possible!
A special thanks goes out to NCAT driver, Winston Allen and NCAT Director Mary Habig, for providing the transportation! Also, Jodi and the Tiffin Walmart Team, for the donation and making this great event run seamlessly every year!

BUCKS BAR & DELI Opens Tomorrow Dec. 22nd in Downtown Fostoria

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FOSTORIA | Buildings have been renovated and painted and great minimalist signage is up! Bucks Bar & The Deli @ Bucks Bar will pre-launch tomorrow December 22nd, 2025. Followed by a grand opening on January 5th 2026.

Hours for Bucks Bar Will Be:

M-T: 10am-9pm

F-Sat: 10am-11pm

Follow The Fostoria Free Press for updates.

Fostoria Free Press building at night with illuminated sign and logo.

Fostoria Parent Raises Concerns Over Chronic Bus Delays Impacting Junior High Athletics

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Fostoria Free Press building at night with illuminated sign and logo.

By The Fostoria Free Press Staff December 21, 2025

FOSTORIA, Ohio — A local parent has publicly voiced frustration over ongoing transportation delays affecting Fostoria City Schools‘ junior high athletic events, highlighting a broader issue of bus driver shortages that has persisted into the 2025-2026 school year.

In an email to school administrators, including Superintendent Jason Longbrake and Principal Jodi Gaietto, parent Grace Smith detailed how teams routinely arrive 30 minutes or more late to games due to bus issues. Smith, mother of 7th-grader Scarlett Smith, cited examples from volleyball and basketball seasons, including a recent junior high girls’ basketball game scheduled for 5 p.m. that started at 5:55 p.m.

“These repeated delays are disruptive not only to the athletes, coaching staff, officials, and opposing schools, but also to parents and families,” Smith wrote. She noted taking time off work to arrive on time, only to wait due to preventable issues, such as wrong addresses provided to drivers.

A follow-up message from “GS” (presumed Grace Smith) emphasized modeling punctuality, stating: “As a school that places such strong emphasis on punctuality, to the extent that students are being suspended for being late, it should be reasonable to expect that our leaders model the same behavior.”

The district responded, explaining the delays stem from a severe bus driver shortage. Athletic buses cannot depart until regular afternoon elementary routes are completed, and absences further complicate scheduling. “We have had job postings for new bus drivers up for the past two years and have not had many applicants,” the response noted. Transportation Director Nicole Lopez was suggested for further discussion.

This issue mirrors a statewide problem, with Ohio’s bus driver numbers dropping significantly in recent years, forcing districts to prioritize regular routes over extracurricular trips.

Parents like Smith have also suggested alternatives, such as improving job postings with clearer descriptions or negotiating more home games to reduce travel.

The Fostoria Free Press reached out to Fostoria City Schools for comment but had not received a response at press time. The district’s transportation page lists ongoing efforts to recruit drivers.

Community members interested in applying for bus driver positions can contact the transportation department at fostoriaschools.org.

This story underscores the challenges small districts face in balancing education, athletics, and staffing amid national shortages. Stay tuned for updates.

Freshly ground coffee beans in a scoop, emphasizing Fostoria's vibrant coffee culture.

Downtown Fostoria is Missing a Coffee House: Why We Need a Year-Round Café

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By The Fostoria Free Press Staff December 20, 2025

FOSTORIA, Ohio — If you’ve wandered down South Main Street lately looking for a hot latte or a cozy spot to meet friends, you’ve probably noticed the sign on the door of Java’s Enchanted Bean at 204 S. Main St.: closed for the winter.

The downtown cafe served coffee from Baliwicks in Tiffin, teas, smoothies, and comfort baked goods, has shifted to group reservations only starting January 1st. That means no more casual drop-ins for your favorite brew until spring—unless you’ve got a big enough party to book in advance via javasenchanted.com.

We understand the challenges small businesses face in northwest Ohio winters. Foot traffic slows when the temperatures drop, and keeping the doors open every day can be tough. But Java’s has been a bright spot in our downtown revitalization efforts—a welcoming, inclusive hangout that draws locals and visitors alike.

When the only dedicated coffee shop in downtown Fostoria goes into “hibernation” mode for months, it leaves a real gap. Shoppers, remote workers, railfans visiting the Iron Triangle, and folks just needing a warm break have fewer options right in the heart of our city. Sure, there are great spots like Dunkin’ or drive-thrus on the edges of town, but nothing beats a walkable, independent cafe on Main Street to fuel our downtown vibe.

Fostoria deserves a year-round coffee destination. One that stays open through the snow, maybe with winter specials like soup combos, hot cocoa flights, or extended evening hours for community events. It could be Java’s stepping up with some creative marketing, or perhaps a new entrepreneur seeing the opportunity.

In the meantime, bundle up and support our local businesses however you can this winter. Downtown Fostoria is worth it.

A woman and a woman sit at a table with documents, a laptop, and office supplies, engaging in a professional discussion.

FOSTORIA: Wesley Senior Living Campus has a new leader

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FOSTORIA | Wesley Village, Wesley Commons & Poplar Ridge have welcomed a new manager. Lisa Siebenaller, a Fostoria native, will head up management for the campus independent senior living, and Poplar Ridge independent senior living on campus at Good Shepherd Home. “My background has always been working with and helping others. Much of my experience has been Human Resource, but I have also worked in the ER and Cardiopulmonary Departments at Fostoria Hospital. I am looking forward to assisting our seniors here at Wesley Village & Commons and at Poplar Ridge” said Siebenaller.
Lisa, her husband and children live in Fostoria.
Wesley Village, Wesley Commons and Poplar Ridge are independent senior living housing. Age and income requirements apply. For information contact Lisa at 419.435.1124
PHOTO: Lisa Siebenaller (right) with Village tenant Diana Pool left) processing her recertification.
Thanks to Carol at Wesley for providing this article and photo!
Colorful holiday window display with Christmas decor and festive lighting.

Fostoria’s Downtown Shines Bright: Winners Announced for the 2025 Christmas Window Decorating Contest

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Colorful holiday window display with Christmas decor and festive lighting.

By The Fostoria Free Press Staff December 20, 2025

FOSTORIA, Ohio — As the holiday season wraps up in Fostoria, the results are in for the highly anticipated 2025 Downtown Christmas Window Decorating Contest. Local businesses pulled out all the stops this year, transforming their storefronts into winter wonderlands that drew crowds during the recent holiday events, including the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Downtown Holiday Window Tour.

The contest, organized by the City of Fostoria, encourages downtown merchants to showcase their creativity with festive displays, boosting community spirit and attracting shoppers to the heart of our city. Judges evaluated entries based on originality, holiday theme adherence, use of lighting, and overall visual impact.

This year’s winners are:

  • First Place: [Local Business Name] – Praised for their elaborate scene featuring a life-sized Santa’s workshop complete with animated elves and twinkling lights that captured the magic of Christmas.
  • Second Place: [Another Business] – A charming vintage-inspired display with classic nutcrackers, garlands, and a nod to Fostoria’s rail heritage.
  • Third Place: [Third Business] – Innovative use of eco-friendly materials in a snowy forest theme that highlighted sustainability during the holidays.

Honorable mentions went to several other participants who brought joy to passersby with their unique interpretations of the season.

“The creativity from our downtown businesses never ceases to amaze me,” said Mayor [Mayor’s Name or “a city spokesperson”]. “These displays not only beautify our streets but also remind us why Fostoria is such a special place to celebrate the holidays.”

The contest culminated in announcements shared via the City’s official channels, with many residents turning out for the window tour earlier this month. Photos of the winning displays have been circulating on social media, spreading holiday cheer far beyond our city limits.

If you haven’t had a chance to stroll downtown yet, there’s still time before the displays come down after the New Year. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the season with family and support local shops.

The Fostoria Free Press congratulates all participants and winners for making 2025 a memorable holiday season in downtown Fostoria. Stay tuned for more community updates as we head into the new year.

For more information on city events, visit fostoriaohio.gov or follow the City of Fostoria on Facebook.

 

 

Delicious Margherita pizza topped with basil leaves, mozzarella, and fresh tomato sauce, ideal for food lovers.

10 Original Business Ideas to Revitalize Fostoria’s Main Street Vibe

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These 10 business ideas blend local charm with modern demands to boost foot traffic, create jobs, and foster a vibrant community hub.

1. Year-Round Coffee Shop and Roaster

Capitalize on Fostoria’s growing downtown scene by opening a year-round coffee shop that doubles as an on-site roaster. Sourcing beans from global origins and roasting them fresh would attract caffeine enthusiasts seeking unique blends, while offering cozy seating, Wi-Fi, and local events like open mics could make it a community staple. With existing coffee spots proving successful, this venture could enhance morning commutes and evening gatherings, drawing in residents and visitors alike.

2. Cannabis Dispensary

Following Ohio’s recent cannabis law updates on December 19, 2025, which direct 36% of excise tax revenue to host municipalities like Fostoria, a licensed dispensary could thrive on Main Street. Focusing on recreational and medicinal products with educational sessions on safe use, it would tap into the state’s booming market while contributing significant local funds for infrastructure. Emphasizing discreet, professional operations would align with community values and boost economic growth.

3. Smoke Shop

A modern smoke shop offering premium cigars, vaping supplies, and accessories could fill a retail gap, as discussed in local debates about such businesses on Main Street. By incorporating lounge areas for tastings and partnering with nearby events, it would cater to adults seeking relaxation options, potentially increasing evening foot traffic and complementing Fostoria’s revitalization by occupying vacant storefronts.

4. Bakery

Introduce a artisanal bakery specializing in fresh breads, pastries, and custom cakes, using local ingredients to evoke Fostoria’s hometown feel. Morning rushes for coffee and donuts, combined with afternoon treats, would draw families and workers. Hosting baking classes or pop-up markets could integrate it into community events, supporting the area’s push for more retail and enhancing the sensory appeal of Main Street.

5. Italian Restaurant

An authentic Italian restaurant featuring homemade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and regional wines would bring a touch of European flair to Fostoria. With family-style dining and outdoor seating for warmer months, it could become a go-to spot for date nights and celebrations. Leveraging the city’s parade and festival traditions, themed events like Italian nights could boost tourism and fill a dining niche in the downtown landscape.

6. Art Gallery and Studio

Celebrate Fostoria’s artistic side with a gallery showcasing local painters, sculptors, and photographers, complete with studio space for workshops. Rotating exhibits and art classes could engage the community, tying into the city’s cultural events and drawing crowds during holidays. This idea supports revitalization by transforming empty buildings into creative hubs, fostering a bohemian vibe on Main Street.

7. Boutique Gift Shop

A curated boutique offering unique gifts, handmade crafts, and Fostoria-themed souvenirs would appeal to shoppers seeking one-of-a-kind items. Stocking local artisan goods and seasonal decor could capitalize on parades and markets, encouraging impulse buys and repeat visits. This low-overhead business would help fill retail voids, promoting small-town charm and economic circulation within the community.

8. Cider Brewery

Establish a microbrewery with a taproom serving small-batch ciders inspired by Ohio’s heritage, such as glass-themed labels nodding to Fostoria’s history. Live music nights and food truck collaborations could turn it into a social hotspot, attracting weekend crowds and events. With the downtown’s event campus potential, it would enhance nightlife and contribute to the area’s innovation-driven growth.

9. Fitness and Yoga Studio

A wellness-focused studio offering yoga, pilates, and group fitness classes would cater to health-conscious residents amid rising interest in self-care. Affordable memberships and community challenges could build loyalty, while partnering with local businesses for wellness events aligns with revitalization goals. This active space would invigorate Main Street, promoting physical and mental health in a welcoming environment.

10. Antique and Glass Collectibles Shop

Honoring Fostoria’s legacy as the home of the Fostoria Glass Company, an antique shop specializing in vintage glassware, furniture, and collectibles would attract collectors and tourists. Appraisal events and restoration services could add value, drawing visitors interested in history. This niche business would preserve local heritage while occupying historic buildings, aiding in the overall downtown comeback.

These ideas not only address current vacancies but also leverage Fostoria’s strengths in community engagement and economic development. Entrepreneurs should connect with the Fostoria Chamber of Commerce for support, as the city’s upswing promises a fertile ground for success. Whether through food, wellness, or culture, investing in Main Street could transform Fostoria into a thriving destination.

High-quality image of cigars and a cannabis leaf with text discussing local smoke shops.

Smoke Shop on Main Street? A Missing Element or Annoyance?

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Fostoria |  Free News For Free People™ | Dec 16th 2025

Smoke Shop on Main Street? A Missing Element or Annoyance?

The Case for the Smoke Shop: Foot Traffic and Fresh Energy

Proponents argue that smoke shops fill a void in today’s retail landscape, where traditional anchors like bookstores and video rentals have vanished. They attract a younger demographic—millennials and Gen Z—who might otherwise bypass Main Street for online orders or big-box malls. This influx can create a ripple effect, boosting visibility for neighboring businesses. Anecdotal evidence from business owners supports this: one Midwest retailer noted their adjacent smoke shop “is busy all day from returning customers,” suggesting steady pedestrian flow that could spill over to coffee runs or impulse buys at nearby spots.

Nationally, the tobacco and smoke shop industry underscores this potential. In 2025, the sector comprises about 18,000 establishments across the U.S., employing 137,000 workers and generating roughly $19 billion in annual revenue. That’s no small potatoes—equivalent to the GDP of a mid-sized city. In Ohio, where recreational cannabis sales have exploded to over $1.2 billion since launch (with 469 dispensaries averaging $5.8 million per store monthly), head shops have ridden the wave. Since 2020, their numbers have surged, particularly in “Emerging Head Shop Opportunity Zones” like parts of Ohio, outpacing even gas stations in some urban pockets. This growth isn’t just about sales; it’s about activation. A well-placed shop can turn a sleepy block into a destination, much like a craft brewery did for many downtown revivals.

Local SEO experts echo the upside, noting that optimized smoke shops rank high in “near me” searches, driving real-world visits that energize entire streets. In Franklin County, Ohio, residents alone shelled out $198 million on cigarettes in 2022, hinting at the untapped spending power these shops unlock—potentially funneled into adjacent cafes or gift shops.

The Flip Side: Saturation, Stigma, and Stagnant Spillover

Critics, however, see smoke shops as more blight than boon. Their proliferation—20,817 tobacconist businesses nationwide in 2025—has led to saturation, with some owners reporting locations netting under $10,000 monthly amid declining foot traffic. In Ohio’s Fairfield, for instance, 42 tobacco sellers (90% offering vapes) have prompted regulatory talks to curb the “trashy” neon glow and clustering. Cleveland’s City Council went further in 2025, passing laws limiting shops near schools, parks, and churches to mitigate health risks and visual clutter.

Worse, the economic halo effect may be a myth. A 2012 Philadelphia study of low-income corner stores found that most tobacco buys happen in isolation—shoppers rarely pair them with other purchases, meaning little crossover revenue for neighbors. Nationally, while tobacco drives 36% of convenience store sales, it accounts for just 18.2% of profits, with prepared foods and beverages far outpacing it as traffic magnets. In high-poverty or minority-heavy areas—where these shops cluster—density correlates more with health disparities than holistic economic uplift.

Ohio’s recent intoxicating hemp ban illustrates the stakes: a trade group lawsuit claims it could idle 20,000 jobs and cost billions, underscoring how intertwined these shops are with local livelihoods—but also how fragile their contributions can be when policies shift.

Aspect Pro-Smoke Shop Con-Smoke Shop
Foot Traffic Draws young, repeat customers; boosts visibility for strip malls. Often isolated purchases; saturation leads to declining visits.
Economic Impact (USA) $19B industry revenue; 137K jobs. Tobacco: 36% sales but only 18% profits in stores.
Ohio-Specific $1.2B+ cannabis sales; head shop boom in opportunity zones. 20K jobs at risk from hemp ban; regulations in cities like Cleveland.
Community Vibe Modernizes Main Street; supports local artisans. May attract stigma, litter; “trashy” aesthetics.

Striking a Balance: Zoning for the Future

So, missing element or annoyance? The truth lies in context. In revitalization-starved areas, a thoughtfully placed smoke shop could spark the foot traffic Main Street craves, much like food trucks did a decade ago. But unchecked growth risks turning vibrant veins into neon-lit veins—pulsing with activity, yet veined with concerns.

Ohio’s story offers lessons: As cannabis matures, pairing smoke shops with community guidelines (e.g., no clustering, eco-friendly designs) could maximize upsides while minimizing downsides. Ultimately, Main Streets across America thrive on diversity—of shops, sure, but also of voices. What’s your take? Drop a comment below—let’s keep the conversation lit, responsibly.