OLEAN — A community-wide fundraiser supporting the Olean Fireworks presented by the Olean Oilers is now underway. Residents and local businesses are being asked to help sustain one of the area’s most cherished summer traditions.
Specially designed firework donation canisters are now available throughout Olean and Portville, giving residents convenient opportunities to contribute.
Current locations include Pleasant Valley Greenhouse & Nursery on North Route 16; The Beach House Tanning Salon, Kevin’s Custom Creations, Austin’s Lock and Key, and 3rd Base on West State Street; Mastel Ford-Lincoln, Tony’s Napoli, Mickey’s, and Toad’s Butcher Shop on East State Street; Worth W. Smith Company locations on both East and West State streets; 2 Sweets Desserts, Beef ’N’ Barrel Restaurant, Christie’s Boutique, Greater Olean Area Chamber of Commerce, and Green Acres on North Union Street; Threehouse Law Firm on North Barry Street; Worthy’s Pharmacy on Main Street; Walmart on Plaza Drive; and ZET’s Cuisine on South Main Street in Portville.
Donations may be made by placing spare change or cash directly into the canisters or by using the Venmo information displayed on each container. Additional locations continue to be added as more businesses join the effort.
The fundraising initiative reflects a strong collaboration among local businesses, volunteers, and community leaders. Organizers extended their appreciation to Worth W. Smith Company and Nate Smith for generously providing the materials used to construct the canisters.
The concept for the fundraiser originated years ago with Claudia Attard-Keary and Ed Jennings, whose vision helped inspire the current initiative. Over the winter months, Mike Threehouse dedicated significant time assembling the canisters, which feature patriotic designs including the American flag, stickers representing all branches of the U.S. military, and imagery celebrating the nation’s anniversary.
Organizers emphasized that the Olean Fireworks celebration is entirely funded through community donations, making public participation essential to continuing the longstanding tradition.
A continually updated list of donation canister locations will be shared through social media at www.facebook.com/OleanFireworksShow and www.facebook.com/OleanOilers as additional placements are confirmed, allowing residents to easily find opportunities to contribute.
Community members are encouraged to participate and help ensure another successful fireworks celebration at Bradner Stadium with the Olean Oilers.
