As we finalize plans for the 44th Oil Heritage Festival, Chamber staff work to confirm each small detail that comes together to create a weeklong celebration of community and heritage in our region.

Planning for each year begins early and the first task is to invite sponsor support. While these generous donations provide the income needed to purchase entertainment, supplies, and promotion for OHF, they also serve as a vote of confidence that the business community understands the value of the yearly celebration.

There are businesses that continue a long-standing tradition of providing OHF sponsorship, and we welcome new supporters each year, too. All are important to continuing the level of activities and entertainment.

Among the long time supporters of Oil Heritage Festival is Stubler’s DriveThru Beverages. Under the ownership of Becky Stubler, the business has enjoyed the influx of visitors who come to town, often returning the last weekend in July for family or class reunions. Over the years, many visitors have been greeted by the welcoming smile of Ed Schossler. Ed, who has worked for the business for more than 25 years, recently became the new owner of Stubler’s.

Stublers opened for business in 1878, by Peter C. Stubler, and was handed down four generations to Bob Stubler, husband of Becky Stubler. Each of the generations that followed made significant advances to the business. Grandfather Peter C. Stubler secured the 14th liquor license issued in Pennsylvania. The next in line of ownership was Bob’s late father Charles “Chuck,” who is fondly remembered for his continued expansion of the business, as well as his extreme generosity throughout the community.

That spirit extended to his employees and set an example for Bob and his wife, Becky. Bob was the successor to Charles Stubler and expanded the businesses to Franklin. Bob then took ownership of the Franklin business (which has since changed ownership) while Becky would take ownership of the Oil City location in 1995, with Bob continuing to be actively involved in the management of operations.

As the business changes ownership, little else is changing. Ed Schossler shares that he will continue the traditions of excellent customer service and giving back to the community. When asked about his commitment to staying with Stublers for all these years, Ed remarks: “I have always been treated well, from the very beginning, as a part-time employee. Bob trusted me and the others who work here. Surprising to many, the work here can be hard and labor intensive, but it is very satisfying. We have great customers and a community we love.”

Ed is also committed to continuing improvements, including the recent step into social media, improved payment systems, and increased product offerings. Among the staff that ensures the business continues without interruption is Larry Yashinki, Assistant Manager and long time employee.

Bob and Ed are clearly friends and share their excitement about the upcoming Oil Heritage Festival. Whether regulars, old friends returning to town, or visitors for the first time, the staff of Stubler’s (11 total) are ready for the opportunity to greet those who come through the convenient drive thru. They are perfect ambassadors for the region, providing consistent, reliable hours and a dependable friendly greeting.

This article was published in the Venango Chamber’s July 2022 VenangoWorks! Newsletter.