January 8, 2026 - Edition No. 25

Hello, Southern Tier!

Thanks for opening up our weekly email edition. Take a look below at what's happening near you in the Enchanted Mountains!  👇

The world's largest kaleidoscope is located in what New York town?

NEWS WE'RE READING

A winning ticket worth over $35,000 was sold in Fillmore for the NY Lotto on Jan 2.

Meanwhile, a $1.5 million-winning scratch-off ticket was purchased recently at the Bradford Uni-Mart. 

Read more!

Governor Kathy Hochul introduced new proposals focused on enhancing online safety for children.

The measures include stricter age verification for platforms, increased privacy settings to prevent strangers from contacting kids, and the disabling of AI chatbots on social media.

Read more!

Community Care of Western New York, dba HomeCare & Hospice announces Dr. Thayaparan Mathanakaran, MD as the new Medical Director starting January 1, 2026.

Dr. Mathanakaran takes over from Dr. Witte, bringing years of experience and commitment to patient-centered care.

Read more!

The project to extend the Cuba Greenway has received a grant to progress further. This initiative aims to connect the community to the Genesee Valley Greenway.

The grant will be used to facilitate this important project and enhance access to the natural areas in the region.

This grant will contribute to the overall advancement of the local community and promote a healthier lifestyle through increased access to recreational spaces.

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!

THIS WEEKEND'S EVENTS

CLICK THE EVENT FOR MORE DETAILS!

Friday, January 9

• January Fish Fry at Little Valley VFW, 4 p.m.
• Reiki Share at Mystic Spirit Holistic Healing, 6 p.m.
• Brian Lothridge at Union Whiskey, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, January 10

• Frosty Pines Dice Run at Tall Pines ATV Park, 9 a.m.
• Winter Market at Miller’s Farm Market, 10 a.m.
• Bean Basket Weaving at Cuba Art Station, 10 a.m.
• Pour Painting at Tri-County Arts Council, 10:30 a.m.
• Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament at Seneca Gaming, noon
• Clam Bake at Talty’s Irish Pub, 1 p.m.
• Chili Cook-Off and Pie Auction at North Park Wesleyan, 5:30 p.m.-
• Brian Lothridge at Four Mile Brewing, 6 p.m.
• Country Music at Balloons, 6:30 p.m.
• Dueling Pianos at EBC Little Valley, 7 p.m.

Sunday, January 11

• Meet the Bacons at the Gin Mill, 10 a.m.
• Enchanted Winter Wonderland Ball at Wellsville Elks Lodge, 10 a.m.
• Wine Tasting at Tippy Top Liquor and Wines, noon
• “Soup”er Bowl at Salamanca Post 5296 Auxiliary, 2 p.m.

🛍️ DEAL OF THE WEEK

Get 50% off this sweet Samsung Galaxy Chromebook before the price skyrockets again! Get it here!

NEW LOCAL BUSINESS

Trattoria Partenope, a new authentic Italian restaurant located at 14 Washington St. in Ellicottville, is receiving rave reviews from customers since opening just before Christmas.

Owner Giovanni Sismondi, originally from Naples, draws upon centuries-old cooking traditions in his dishes.

The restaurant's name reflects the history of Naples, with references to the city's origins and folklore.

Sismondi promises an authentic taste of Italy with traditional recipes and a selection of Italian and California wines.

Currently open from 4 to 10 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday, Trattoria Partenope plans to expand to offer lunch in the future.

Read more!

This ultra-comfortable and effortlessly cool tee is perfect for showing off your Olean pride wherever you go.

Made with high-quality materials, this long sleeve tee is sure to become a staple in your wardrobe.

Whether you're lounging at home or out and about, this tee is the perfect way to showcase your love for Olean, NY.

Don't miss out on this must-have item - grab yours today and rock your local pride with confidence. 

LOCAL HEROES!

Genesis House recently received a generous donation from the Olean City School District Student Activities Council through their annual Homeless Huskies event.

The event, dating back to the 1990s, raises awareness and funds for local organizations supporting people experiencing homelessness.

Students participate by spending a night outside in cardboard boxes to understand the challenges faced by those without stable housing.

The event has grown over the years, engaging hundreds of students and community members, providing support for organizations like Genesis House.

The Student Council, advisors, and Olean City School District community were thanked for their dedication to making a difference in the lives of those in need.

Read more!

JOKE OF THE WEEK!

Why don't scientists trust atoms?

Because they make up everything, hahahaha! 😂

HOUSE FOR SALE OF THE WEEK

Victorian Farmhouse

This beautifully renovated Victorian farmhouse sits on nearly 12 peaceful acres in East Otto, offering country privacy with convenient access to Ellicottville and Springville — just a 15–20 minute drive away. Built around 1900, the 1,897-square-foot home blends historic charm with modern upgrades throughout.

Inside, cathedral ceilings and a vaulted great room with a wood-burning fireplace create a warm, inviting atmosphere. The updated kitchen features solid cherry cabinets, skylights, and dramatic lighting, flowing into a formal dining room with tray ceilings and cherry plank floors. The main level also includes a first-floor bedroom, a full bath with a Jacuzzi tub, and a den or study.

Upstairs are two additional bedrooms, a full bath, and a bright sitting area overlooking the gardens and lawn. The property offers practical updates including a stone foundation, copper plumbing, a new boiler, water softening system, high-speed internet, and a detached garage certified for food processing with water and electric.

See more details and pics!

PET OF THE WEEK

Meet Chance!

Chance is a young Mountain Cur mix with a big heart and an even bigger love for people. Born in June 2024, this medium-sized pup weighs about 50 pounds and is neutered and ready for adoption.

Chance rides well in the car, walks nicely on a leash, and plays beautifully with other dogs. He has also done well around cats, though an additional cat test is recommended for homes with feline friends. Deeply affectionate and people-oriented, Chance lives for belly rubs, ear scratches, and any attention he can get—he’ll even ask for more!

At night, Chance sleeps in his own bed, but he’s always happy to snuggle up on the couch or bed when invited. As staff continue to learn more about his personality, updates will be shared—but one thing is already clear: Chance is a loving companion just waiting for his forever home.

Learn more at JoyfulRescues.org!

Housed inside a 60-foot-tall silo, the world's largest kaleidoscope is located in Mount Tremper, NY. Learn more here!

THANK YOU!

Thanks, as always, for taking the time to read the latest edition of Hello Southern Tier. Please forward this email to a friend who might be interested in staying up to date on things happening locally. If you haven't yet subscribed to our newsletter, sign up here!