The Oil Region Alliance is pleased to send you its newsletter. If you have difficulty viewing this format via this email, it will be posted on www.oilregion.org soon. Also, depending upon your computer system, you may need to click on "view images" to see the pictures. Feel free to contact me at deaton@oilregion.org with questions and comments concerning the newsletter.
If you wish to be removed from the Alliance's email distribution list, please let me know. |
In The Know...
by Michael Klapec, Alliance Chair and Chief Executive Officer
The execution of a long-term plan requires implementation of a long-term funding strategy. And, for those that are in the know... I want you to be well informed about matters that affect our long-term funding. In today's column, let's address the Human Services Complex which the ORA renovated and currently leases to Venango County and have just recently agreed to sell to them.
As you may recall, the ORA purchased the former UPMC Northwest building, popularly known as the West Unit, in 2007 at the request of the County Commissioners, who at the time were working toward the consolidation of the County's various Human Service Departments. A study revealed that the consolidation of these services, under one roof, would be more efficient and would allow for better service to be provided to the citizens of Venango County. The former West Unit building accomplished that goal rapidly and provided significantly better working conditions for the employees as well as nicer facilities and convenient parking for the citizens.
The ORA immediately recognized this as both an opportunity to generate ongoing revenue and to assist our partner, Venango County, with solving some of their problems. You see, Venango County Human Services are funded primarily by Federal and State dollars. This was, and still is, a great way for the citizens of Venango County to maximize these funds. The money is used to provide human service support to the citizens of Venango County, and then we use the money a second and third time to market and to promote the area for attracting more investment, more family-wage sustaining jobs, and more visitor spending!
So, why on earth are we selling the building? The ORA is selling the building for the same two reasons that we bought it. It advances the agency's funding strategy and because our partner, Venango County, asked us to. The county will save nearly $6 million, and the ORA has the funding to focus on what it does best -- job creation, business investment, visitor spending, and heritage development!
And, now you are "in the know"... |
Alliance Schedules Dedication of Historical Marker
by Melissa Mann, Oil 150 Deputy Director
At 10:00 a.m., Thursday, December 10, at the Benson Memorial Library in Titusville, Oil 150, the Alliance, and the PA Historical and Museum Commission will host a dedication and unveiling ceremony for the new Byron D.  Benson state historical marker. The public is welcome and encouraged to attend. Advance reservations are not necessary.
Speakers will include Neil McElwee, local historian; Barbara Zolli, Director of Drake Well Museum and PHMC representative; Randy Seitz, President and COO of the Oil Region Alliance; and Will Wingo, Oil 150 Director.
Following the ceremony, guests are invited to travel to 603 North Perry Street. The unveiling of the Blue/Gold state marker will take place in front of the home where Benson lived from 1872 through 1888.
A transplant from New York, Benson worked in Pennsylvania's Oil Region 1865-1888. He was one of the founders of the Tidewater Pipe Company (1878) and served as its first president 1878-1888. His greatest accomplishment was the completion of the first long-distance pipeline, running 109 miles from the Bradford oil fields over the Allegheny Mountains to Williamsport, PA. |
Oil Region Winter Activities Brochure Available 
by Betty Squire-VP, Marketing and Membership
If you haven't seen the new Calendar of Events brochure for Winter 2009/Spring 2010, stop by the office at 217 Elm Street, Oil City, and pick up a copy or two. It is packed with regional things to do here in "The Valley That Changed the World!" The Oil Region is home to several museums with themes about oil, music and antique cars, a vintage train, antique shops, and art studios.
For information call 814-677-3152. |
The Alliance "Employee of the Year" is............
Each year the Alliance staff chooses a co-worker who has, over the past year, consistently performed in a way  that achieves the goals and obectives of the Program of Work, has been actively involved in working to increase the prosperity and population of the Oil Region, or who has contributed significantly to the welfare of the Oil Region Alliance.
Mary Cochran recently received the 2009 award. Mary greets callers and office visitors with her cheery smile and voice and goes "above and beyond." And, as if this weren''t enough, she even provides many types of support to all the Alliance staff throughout the day, juggling the projects and getting them done on time. Congratulations, "Sunshine" Mary!
Alliance President, Randy Seitz, presented Mary with the award. |
Check Out This Trail Website
by Marilyn Black, VP-Heritage Development
A new website has been activated to track the development of the Erie to Pittsburgh Trail as it strives to link the Great Lake with Three Rivers.
The Erie to Pittsburgh Trail Alliance (of which the Oil Region Alliance is among its more than a dozen member organizations) invites one and all to check out www.eriepittsburghtrail.org for information and maps about the various segments of multi-purpose recreational trails.
The vision is for this network to be designed primarily with bicyclists in mind, and with features readily utilized by hikers, runners, and other outdoor enthusiasts as well.
Also activated during November are two social networking opportunities to exchange information and tips along those lines. You may dial up http://groups.yahoo.com/group/EriePittsburghTrail if you're a yahoo fan, or Facebook participants can find the Erie to Pittsburgh Trail Alliance group in that system, too. |
| Dedication Held for New Titusville Welcome Signs
by Mike Henderson, Project Manager
On November 13, a dedication ceremony was held for four newly-installed signs welcoming visitors to the Titusville. The signs, constructed of sandblasted high-density polyurethane, measure 8' wide and 5' tall, and were designed, built, and installed by the Grove City firm of Custom Signs. Intended as replacements for the old 8' square welcome signs, project partners chose to find new locations for the new signs that would be better suited with regard to visibility and maintenance. Colors for the signs were chosen to complement the colors of the smaller signs used with the new gateway derricks. Funding for the project was provided by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of Recreation and Conservation and Titusville Renaissance, Inc., with project management and administration provided by the Alliance. The signs now become the property of the Titusville Area Chamber of Commerce. Cooperation throughout the project was provided by the City of Titusville, Cherrytree Township, Oil Creek Township, Hydetown Borough, and PennDOT. The ceremony was at the east Route 27 entry into town, on the site hosted by All Tranz business owner Tom  McMunn. The three other sign locations are Marsh Planing, Route 8 South; St. Catharines Cemetery, Route 8 North; and the Randall residence, Route 27 West. Guest speakers included Leah Carter from Titusville Renaissance; Christa Batten from the Titusville Area Chamber of Commerce; Barbara Ives, office of Congressman GT Thompson; Titusville Mayor Jim Nystrom; Randy Seitz, Alliance COO; and Mike Henderson, Oil Region Alliance Project Manager.
Left to right: Mayor Nystrom, Randy Seitz, Joe Fadden, Barbara Ives,
Christa Batten, Mike Henderson, and Leah Carter. |
Feasibility Study for Natural Gas Museum is Underway
by Marilyn Black-VP, Heritage Development Consultants with Experience Design, Inc. of Boston have begun a feasibility study for the Alliance. On November 12, they visited Venango County Historical Society, DeBence Antique Music World, the Venango  Museum, and Drake Well Museum and Park and met with the on-site administrators and then examined current exhibits which address the history of the natural gas industry and its leaders. The next day, they attended the Alliance's Heritage Advisory Council meeting and briefed these volunteers on the methodology used for this study which is co-funded by the Heritage Area Program within the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the National Heritage Area Program within the National Park Service, and the National Fuel Gas Corporation Foundation. When the Oil Region National Heritage Area Management Action Plan was updated in 2004, its subject matter was defined as petroleum history, thus including both oil and natural gas. That Plan recommended a feasibility study to consider establishing a new museum about natural gas and to advise the Alliance regarding the extensive Natural Gas Artifact collection which it stewards. Among the options being considered are: start-up of a new facility; start-up of a satellite facility of an existing museum; location within an existing building in the Oil Region; sponsorship of temporary/traveling exhibits in area and other facilities; a virtual exhibit on the internet; educational programming about natural gas history; creation of events/activities about natural gas history; and combinations of these various alternatives. This study is being paced to conclude by the end of May, 2010. Interested individuals, groups, or companies are encouraged to contact Marilyn Black (Alliance Vice-President for Heritage Development) if they would like to meet with the consultant team during their next visits to the area. For more information, contact Mrs. Black at 677-3152, Ext. 105; mblack@oilregion.org. | |
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Welcome, New and Renewal Members
by Darlene Eaton, Membership Coordinator
BPG Global Consulting (new), 716-855-1600, A business-to-business consulting firm that focuses on income tax mitigation, wealth creation, liquidity planning and exit strategies.
Central Electric Cooperative, 724-399-2931, Electric distribution company in Venango, Butler, Clarion, Forest and Armstrong counties.
Gardner Optical, 437-1315, Make and repair eyewear for patients. Manufacture dress & safety eyewear for doctors and industrial (wholesale).
Gent, Gent & Snyder, 437-3754, Attorneys.
Hajduk, Frank and Kathleen (new), family membership.
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites, 677-2640, New hotel in 2007.
King's Landscaping, 676-6125, Landscaping and snow removal.
Kozy Rest Kampground LLC, 724-735-2417, Campground for tents, RV's cabins and yurts; many amenities on site
Morrison II Sporting Goods, 827-3811, Sporting goods, including guns, fishing supplies, hunting & fishing licenses, wood and pellet stoves and much more.
OCP Warehouse, 677-4204, 175,000 square foot building used for warehousing and manufacturing.
Quality Inn & Conference Center, 437-3031, Hotel and conference center.
Red Brick Inn Bed & Breakfast, 498-2659, Bed & Breakfast located in rural area, pre-Civil War farmhouse on a farm restored to architecture of its time.
Titusville Historical Society, 827-8870, Society devoted to the preservation of Titusville area history.
Titusville Redevelopment Authority, 827-2696, Umbrella organization which consolidates efforts of several agencies whose missions include economic, industrial, and commercial development.
WKQW Radio, 676-8254, 96.3 FM-1120 AM serving Venango County with local news, local sports and local information.
Webco Industries, 678-1360, Manufacturer of specialty tubing and pressure tubing products, such as carbon steel, stainless, alloy, and more.
It's Easy to Join!
Call Darlene at 814-677-3152 extension 117
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The Alliance's Major Members
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Alliance Board of Directors
The Oil Region Alliance is fortunate to call on some of the most distinguished citizens of the area, our Board of Directors, for guidance. Their visionary reach and wise counsel are among our greatest assets. For a listing of the board members, visit www.oilregion.org, click on "About ORA," then "Board Directory." |
Darlene Eaton, Membership Coordinator
814-677-3152 extension 117 Oil Region Alliance of Business, Industry & Tourism
217 Elm Street, Oil City, PA 16301
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| December 2009
Volume 5, Issue 10 |
Welcome To Our Open House
The Alliance is hosting an open house at its new location at 217 Elm Street in Oil  City (former Wachovia Securities office). It will be held between 4:00 and 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 16; light refreshments will be served.
From May through October the various departments relocated so now that all the staff has moved, it is time to showcase the new office.
Street parking is available as well as some parking behind the building. The public parking garage is within a short walking distance also.
RSVPs may be directed to 814-677-3152 extension 110 by December 10. |
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FLY FKL
Gulfstream International Airlines began serving Venango Regional Airport in September with daily flights between Franklin and Cleveland -- Continental Airlines' hub -- with connections to more than 60 locations. Travelers can park for free at the airport while on their trip. There are same day departure and arrival capabilities.
The Alliance urges business and pleasure travelers to use this valuable asset when planning trips.
To FLY FKL, simply work with your travel agent, your favorite travel web site, or call 1-800-523-FARE.
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Any Weekend Deal
Fly to Cleveland on weekends for $120 round trip; applies to departure from Franklin on any Saturday and return on any Sunday. Call O. C. Bell at 432-5333. |
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Upcoming Events
November 27 thru December 30, 2009
Holiday At Burgess
Come to Burgess Park in Titusville for the Holiday at Burgess Drive-Thru Light Display from 6 pm to 9 pm each night, donations appreciated, sponsored by the Take Pride in Titusville Committee.
December 2009
Holidays in the Gallery
The Transit Fine Art Gallery celebrates the holidays with a variety of fine art and craft work, items large and small appropriate for all of your gift-giving needs. Unique one-of-a-kind art treasures and fun seasonal items will make the Gallery the place to visit this month. And don't forget to stop by the National Transit Building on December 31st for our FIRST NIGHT fun and festivities...we'll be open until midnight!!
December 4, 2009
Cahal Dunne
Reservations required for this Cahal Dunne's Irish Christmas Dinner Show at the Arlington Hotel, downtown Oil City, at 6 pm, brought to you by Oil City Arts Council 814-678-3017 or www.ocartscouncil.com
December 4, 5, 11, 12, 13, 2009
A Christmas Carol
Come to the Barrow-Civic Theatre, downtown Franklin, for this holiday classic. This original adaptation of the Christmas classic includes music, dance and surprise special effects that are sure to dazzle any theatergoer. Friday and Saturday performances are at 8 pm and Sunday Matinee at 2 pm. Contact the box office 814-437-3440 or 800-537-7769 or www.barrowtheatre.com
December 5, 12, 2009
Santa Express
Ride the Oil Creek and Titusville Railroad and visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus and all their helpers; enjoy the beautiful wintertime trip through Oil Creek State Park. Join in singing Christmas carols lead by local church choirs. Complimentary hot chocolate and home-made cookies at the end of the trip back at Perry Street Station, Titusville. Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad 814-676-1733 or www.octrr.org
December 11, 2009
Arts in the Transit
Tom Roberts and Suzanne Orther/Roberts in the Great Room of the historic National Transit Building in downtown Oil City, brought to you by the Oil City Arts Council 814-678-3017. $ www.ocartscouncil.com
December 18, 2009
The Messiah
Come to the Barrow-Civic Theatre, downtown Franklin, for this holiday community concert. The performance is at 8 pm, contact the Box Office 814-437-3440, 800-537-7769 or www.barrowtheatre.com
December 31, 2009
First NightŪ Oil City
Enjoy this non-alcoholic, family oriented celebration offering over 70 different indoor performances located on Oil City's North & South sides. Purchase your button in advance to get into all venues. Sponsored by Oil City Arts Council, 676-3007 or www.firstnightintl.org
January 8, 2010
Arts in the Transit
Darl Weckerly Family in the Great Room of the historic National Transit Building in downtown Oil City, brought to you by the Oil City Arts Council 814-678-3017. $ www.ocartscouncil.com
January 17, 2010
DeBence Mini Event
The Bill Huber Jr. Trio will perform at 1:30 pm at DeBence Antique Music World. Donations appreciated. 814-432-8350 or www.debencemusicworld.com
January 30, 2010
Ski for Free Day
Learn to Cross Country Ski for free today at Two Mile Run County Park. Call for time availability and snow conditions 814-676-6116 or www.twomilerun.net
January 30, 2009
Groundhog Breakfast
Oil Slick, the third most famous ground hog in PA, will again visit with one and all as he prepares to make his weather predictions at the annual Ground Hog Day Breakfast at the VFW Post 5958 in Titusville. Co-sponsored by Titusville Council on the Arts (TCA), Titusville Renaissance, Inc. (TRI) and the VFW, it's a fun way to start the day - hearty farmers breakfast buffet, bake sale & entertainment. For more information, contact TCA at 814-827- 2381 or TRI at 814-827-6556. | |
