As we welcome summer, FLEX is gearing up to make this season not only enjoyable but also meaningful. Venango County offers a variety of activities, from local restaurants to parks and landscaped downtown areas, with many people enjoying the local trails and waterways. Summers in Venango County are special, yet we often hear the same old phrase: “there is nothing to do here.”
With programs such as Be Here and Venango Heart & Soul, the goal is to spread the word about ways to live, work, and play in our region because oftentimes many residents and visitors are unaware of all that we have to offer. The Be Here website is a great place to find information about what is going on in our region. You will find information on parks, trails, canoeing & kayaking, golfing, theater, art & music, museums & societies, libraries, youth & family activities, festivals & events, and more! We encourage you to take advantage of everything the area has to offer this summer.
FLEX is inviting young professionals and community members alike to get involved in the vibrant atmosphere, connecting with fellow young professionals and community members. Here are three ways to get involved:
1. Attend and Experience: Join the lively events, connect with other community members, expand your network, create lasting memories, and support the community.
2. Spread the Word: Be an advocate for the region. Share the excitement with your friends, family, and colleagues, inviting them to join in on the festivities. By spreading the word, you contribute to the growth and impact of these events, making them even more memorable.
3. Volunteer and Give Back: Volunteering provides an opportunity to directly contribute to the community, make new connections, and build your professional skills.
Upcoming FLEX Events
Bike ’n Brew: The first event on the summer calendar is the highly anticipated Bike ’n Brew on Saturday, July 20, at the Venango Chamber in Oil City. Bike ’n Brew includes a Biking Scavenger Hunt and a brewfest portion with live music and entertainment from 4 to 7 p.m.
There are two ways to participate:
• Curbside Pickup ($45): Get a ticket to pick up a cooler tote bag full of at least 10 craft beers from local breweries along with fun swag from brewers and sponsors.
• VIP Ticket ($55): Includes the curbside tote bag PLUS a tasting of several different craft beers from our local Brew Crew at the brew-festival outside the Chamber of Commerce with live entertainment and outdoor games.
Ice Cream Social: The second event on FLEX’s summer lineup is the Oil Heritage Festival Ice Cream Social. Mark your calendars for Thursday, July 25, as Central Ave Plaza, adjacent to the Oil City Library. From 5 to 7 p.m., FLEX will be serving up ice cream and beverages to the community during the festivities.
Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast, an ice cream fan, or simply looking to contribute to your community, there are lots of ways to engage and make a difference. To get involved or stay updated on FLEX’s upcoming events, visit us on Facebook.
This article was published in the Future Leaders & Entrepreneurs Exchange’s (FLEX) July 2024 edition of the FLEX Your Ideas (FYI) Newsletter.