Be a Part!

By Linda Henderson

Have you had visitor's who came and were full of exclamations about the beauty of Venango County and it caused you to pause a moment? It's easy to take for granted. It's also easy to become focused on what's wrong and what's missing.
I'm happy to be surrounded by people who are seeing the positive and determined to turn whatever negative exists INTO positive. In order for any dream to come true, you first have to create the dream. See things as they can be and then become so focused on that vision, that the solutions become obvious. Visualize the perfect race, then run it. Most of all, understand what strengths you have.
Sound simple? Far from it. It takes training and determination. It requires seeing past the pain of the present, and the reality of the moment that may make the dream appear impossible. It requires a huge heart and an open mind.
In Oil City, that is happening. It's the new people I am meeting who have helped me take full measure of it. They are delighted with their experiences here - the people they meet, the Arts Revitalization efforts, the recreation and beauty here - and I am rejuvinated because of them. They are full of creative ideas and bring great experiences from other places to show us how to make good things happen.
Be part of this - Venango County natives! Welcome our newcomers and seek their input and stories. It's uplifting and a whole lot of fun!
And if you want to see some evidence of what can come of it - go see the Latonia's front window. You will see a collaborative effort - Venango County natives and transplants, young and old, gay and straight. And we had a great time creating it!