🎅Get Ready for the Holidays with the Jingle Bell Jubilee in Olean & More!

Trivia Question❓

What is the name of the historic train station in Wellsville that was built in 1911?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

Celebrate the Holidays at the Jingle Bell Jubilee in Downtown Olean

The Greater Olean Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting the Jingle Bell Jubilee in downtown Southern Tier on December 13.

The event includes an arts and crafts show, horse-drawn carriage rides, a chance to meet Santa, live holiday music, a live nativity scene, and food trucks.

The day is filled with joyful traditions and local talent, bringing the community together for a festive celebration.

Attendees can shop for handcrafted gifts, enjoy warm food and drinks, and soak up the sights and sounds of the season.

Read more!

🛍️ DEAL OF THE WEEK

Thank you for being a loyal Hello Southern Tier subscriber! Because of your dedication and support of the newsletter, we're sharing an exclusive 50-60% off on thousands of holiday deals at Old Navy .... just for you. Shop online here until Dec. 18!

BUZZ AROUND TOWN

St. Mary of the Angels Nominated for Historic Registry Recognition

St. Mary of the Angels in Olean has been nominated for the State and National Registers of Historic Places.

The complex, built in 1915, includes the Roman Catholic Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels, a former convent, rectory, carriage house, and parish life center.

The basilica is a remarkable example of Gothic Revival architecture with stunning interior art and windows.

The nomination was recommended by the New York State Board for Historic Preservation.

Read more!

Ribbon Cutting Set to Celebrate Renovation and Expansion of Wellsville Jones Memorial Hospital

Jones Memorial Hospital in Wellsville will be showcasing their newly renovated and expanded patient care areas with a ribbon-cutting event on December 18.

The celebration will highlight the hospital's commitment to providing top-notch medical care to the community.

This development demonstrates Jones Memorial Hospital's dedication to enhancing patient experience and ensuring the highest quality of care possible.

Read more!

You can support the Hello Southern Tier newsletter plus add new local merch to your wardrobe. Please browse our growing selection of local clothing at our standalone store or on Etsy. Thank you!

NEWS BITS

🚚 Volunteers needed to deliver meals: The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) in Cattaraugus County is seeking volunteers to help deliver Home Delivered Meals to elderly and disabled adults. Drivers are especially needed Monday through Friday to ensure shut-in residents receive essential meals and support. Those interested should call 716-387-4278.

🙆 Tai Chi for Seniors: The Cattaraugus County Department of the Aging is offering a free Tai Chi for Arthritis program beginning Dec. 15 at the John Ash Community Center in Olean. The 16-class beginner series runs Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays and is open to older adults interested in improving strength, balance, posture, and overall well-being through this gentle, mindful practice. Call 716-387-4278 to register.

🍽️ Community Christmas dinner: The Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels is offering a complimentary Community Christmas Dinner on Dec. 25, with home delivery available from 10 a.m. to noon and takeout from 10–11:30 a.m. Residents can reserve their meals online or by texting their address and the number of dinners needed to 716-790-3785.

THIS WEEKEND'S EVENTS

CLICK THE EVENT FOR MORE DETAILS!

Friday, December 12

Tarot Pop Up at Little Alchemy Shop, noon

December Fish Fry in Little Valley, 4 p.m.

Holiday Bash at Allegany-Limestone Elementary, 6 p.m.

Christmas Candles Painting Workshop at Cuba Art Station, 6 p.m.

Jerod Eggleston at Halfway Inn, 6 p.m.

Pictures and Cookies with Santa in Wellsville, 6 p.m.

Jack Ellis at the Palmer, 7 p.m.

Performance of Christmas Shorts in Wellsville, 6:30 p.m.

OsbornNash at Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino, 7 p.m.

Christmas Variety Show at Arcade Elementary, 7 p.m.

Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and then some!) at Olean Theatre Workshop, 7:30 p.m.

Houghton Wind Ensemble Concert at Wesley Chapel, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, December 13

Breakfast with Santa at Great Valley Clubhouse, 9 a.m.

Breakfast with Grinch & Santa at Little Valley Fire Department, 9 a.m.

Demo Day at Holiday Valley, 9 a.m.

Hunter Jumper Christmas Fun Show at Houghton University, 9 a.m.

Old Fashioned Christmas in Bradford, 9 a.m.

Santa & Crafts at For Crafts Sake, 10 a.m.

Christmas Barn Show at Rusty Rooster, 10 a.m.

Christmas Soap Making at Cuba Art Station, 10 a.m.

Greek Focaccia Bread Baking at Lucky Day Homestead, 10 a.m.

Santa Express Train Rides at Gowanda Depot, 11 a.m.

Small Biz Market Pop-Up in Cuba, 11 a.m.

Jingle Bell Jubilee in Olean, noon

Christmas in Allegany at the Santa House, noon

Wreaths Across America at Portville Chestnut Hill Cemetery, noon

Porcelain Train at Ellicottville Distillery, noon

Free Community Luncheon in Friendship, 12:30 p.m.

Whoville at Wellsville Crosstown Alliance, 12:30 p.m.

Sensory Friendly Roller Skating at Funland Skate Center, 1 p.m.

Silent Film Series at Gowanda Hollywood Theater, 2 p.m.

Denver & Mile High Orchestra at East Randolph Methodist, 2 p.m.

Community Toy Market in Friendship, 2 p.m.

Christmas Magic at Arcade Village Park, 3 p.m.

Christmas Stroll in Ellicottville, 4:30 p.m.

Winter Wine Walk in Bradford, 4:30 p.m.

Miss Hoshi’s Trio at Four Mile Brewing, 6 p.m.

The Meaning of Christmas at Randolph Performing Arts Center, 6 p.m.

Performance of Christmas Shorts in Wellsville, 6:30 p.m.

Christmas Caroling and Children Activities in Friendship, 6:30 p.m.

Christmas Cash Extravaganza at Seneca Gaming, 7 p.m.

Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and then some!) at Olean Theatre Workshop, 7:30 p.m.

Ugly Sweater Party at the Sierra Inn, 8 p.m.

Sunday, November 14

Pancake Breakfast at Friendship American Legion, 7:30 a.m.

Santa Express Train Rides at Gowanda Depot, 11 a.m.

International Christmas Fair at St. Joseph's Maronite, noon

One Year Anniversary Party at Mill St. Sports Pub, 1 p.m.

Christmas Concert at St. Elizabeth Motherhouse, 2 p.m.

Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and then some!) at Olean Theatre Workshop, 2:30 p.m.

Annual Santa Visit at Twist & Scoops Great Valley, 3 p.m.

Community Christmas Concert at Arcade United Church, 3 p.m.

Chili Cookoff at Salamanca VFW 5296, 4 p.m.

Santa Visits for those w/ Developmental Disabilities in Olean, 4 p.m.

Christmas Concert at Genesee Valley Central School, 6 p.m.

SEASON OF GIVING

5 Ways to Give Back in the Southern Tier During the Holidays

During the holiday season in the Southern Tier, there are numerous opportunities to give back to neighbors in need in Olean, Salamanca, Cuba, Ellicottville, Wellsville, and surrounding areas.

Ways to give back include donating gifts to those in need through local organizations, donating winter clothing to Operation Warm Hearts, supporting the Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation, contributing to food pantries and drives, and volunteering time with seniors and homebound neighbors.

These small gestures can have a big impact on the community, spreading comfort and joy during the holiday season.

5th Annual Laine Business Accelerator Community Showcase

NEW BIZ TO WATCH FOR

New Liquor and Wine Store Opens in Wellsville

Local business leaders in Wellsville gathered to celebrate the opening of a new liquor and wine store on Route 19.

Owners Robin and "Junior" Green opened Tippy Top to offer residents another choice for spirits and wine, with a focus on providing competitive prices.

Tippy Top is hosting various tasting events throughout December, inviting customers to sample popular products.

The well-received store also plans to introduce delivery options in the future, making it easier for customers to access their products.

What is the Mexican dish that snowmen like?

Burrrr-ito, hahahaha! 😂

HOUSE FOR SALE OF THE WEEK

Ski Chalet Retreat

For $1.1M, this fully furnished six-bedroom ski chalet offers both a luxurious mountain escape and impressive income potential, generating over $100K in 2025 rental revenue. Located just minutes from Holiday Valley and HoliMont, it provides the perfect balance of convenience and privacy.

Enjoy floor-to-ceiling slope views, a spacious walk-out deck, and a first floor built for entertaining—complete with an open kitchen, fireplace, billiards, and bar. Each of the six themed bedrooms brings charm and comfort, making the home ideal for families or group getaways.

See more details and pics!

PET OF THE WEEK

Meet Polly!

Polly is a sweet and spirited young Catahoula Leopard Dog/Australian Shepherd mix. Born around May 1, 2025, Polly is spayed and expected to reach about 50–60 pounds.

Polly arrived a bit shy, but she’s warming up quickly and has already decided people are pretty great. She’s playful, smart, and happiest when she’s splashing around in the water.

Visit Joyful Rescues to adopt!

💡 Answer to Trivia Question:

Wellsville Erie Depot, which was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1987.

THANK YOU!

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