The deer are also about again looking for new things to chomp on, though they don't seem to care for forsythia of daffodils.
Every season has its own vibe. Spring in these parts always seems to start and then reboot. That might be the case again as the temperatures are expected to plummet again in a couple days. Perhaps picking these beauties and putting them in a vase inside can made it seem like spring indoors.
The deer are also about again looking for new things to chomp on, though they don't seem to care for forsythia of daffodils.
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The Madrigal have been around the Franklin community for years. “Its identity has changed throughout the years, but it has always been a small ensemble choir. It’s a very big part of Franklin choir’s tradition,” Gilbert said. “It gives students the opportunity to be in a more advanced choral ensemble as a part of their high school music education. For those singing students that need an additional challenge, this is the perfect place for them.” Gilbert said the school district has been very supportive of the trip and how it gives these students a bigger stage and spread their music to hundreds more across the state. “The smaller group size allows for us to commit to being a part of community events throughout the year that would be less possible for our full-size group. We are also more able to travel outside of our own town to represent our community as well,” Gilbert added. And that is beneficial for these aspiring vocalists by adding more experiences to their oeuvre. “Students in this group work at an accelerated pace, so their skills are growing at an even faster rate, which makes singing after high school even more possible," Gilbert explained. “They also get to be a part of experiences that are more out of the norm, like singing with the Stambaugh Chorus in Youngstown, at Carnegie Hall, or for the PMEA All-State Conference. The advanced ability of this group in particular and the high level of skill they have allows for these additional opportunities to take place - things that are beyond their normal school choir opportunities.” Saturday’s concert will be at 7 p.m. at St. John’s Episcopal Church at 1145 Buffalo Street in Franklin. It is free and open to the public and a great way to support the arts.
The Venango Symphony Orchestra performed Fidelio Overture (abridged) Op. 72 by Ludwig Von Beethoven to kick off their annual concert Sunday afternoon at the Barrow-Civic Theatre. Under the direction of maestro Terri Wittreich the orchestra made up a scattering of northwest Pennsylvania musicians, they played pieces from Handel, The Man of La Mancha, Verdi, David Holsinger and Ernest Gold. The orchestra, which is a multi-generational collaboration, survives primarily from donations. They are always looking for new members who can play.
For more information contact anyone from the band and donations can be mailed to 10 Gateway Drive, Oil City, Pa. 16301 Edited to clarify location being across from Jones Hardwoods on Atlantic Avenue, not Franklin Industries. The Oil Region Alliance is now the owner of long abandoned property that once housed PVC manufacturer JM Eagle. Sitting between Atlantic Avenue and Grant Street, the 3.43 acre lot with buildings was purchased on March 18 for $125,000, according to the Venango County government website. The property is located across the street from the Purple Goose and Jones Hardwoods and next to the Sava-A-Lot/ Family Dollar. Once valued at $1.3 million, it was most recently assessed at $600,020. With the purchase now complete, the ORA says they plan to clean up and redevelop the area into a "multi-generational outdoor recreation facility." Though their press release (below) sent Thursday does not explain what that means exactly, it seeks to remedy a seemingly long forgotten property and building that was originally builtt in 1975 and has sat unused for 30 years. Below is the press release in full with photos from Eight & 322 OIL CITY, PA— The Oil Region Alliance (ORA) purchased the JM Eagle brownfield site in Franklin’s Third Ward last week. The property at 315 Grant St. has been vacant for about the last 30 years following PVC pipe manufacturer JM Eagle’s move to Cochranton in Crawford County. “We are excited for this opportunity to clean the site and create a community asset,” said ORA President and CEO John R. Phillips, II. The ORA plans to develop a multi-generational outdoor recreation facility on the site, which the ORA will own and maintain, according to Phillips. The ORA is partnering with the City of Franklin and the Franklin Industrial and Commercial Development Authority, as well as funding partners, the McElhatten Foundation and the Beith family. Late local realtor Richard Beith had been in talks with Phillips about the property’s potential prior to his passing in October 2024. Now his family, including his wife and three children, is taking on the project to preserve his legacy. “The Beith Family is ecstatic to have the opportunity to work on this project with the ORA, the City of Franklin, the McElhattan Foundation, and the residents of Franklin,” said Beith’s son Matt (Beith), who is also a local realtor. “My father and I spent many afternoons over the last decade talking about ways that this site might be redeveloped into a more productive use. Most of our conversations revolved around finding a buyer who would use the site in its current configuration; over the years, we even had several people approach us about buying it. Unfortunately, no transaction ever came together.”
A week before my father died, he came to me with this idea to redevelop the site into a recreational green space for the Third Ward,” said Beith. “As is true in real estate, the timing is everything, and my family had the opportunity to pursue this project. Sadly, my father isn’t around to see his idea take shape. But we are dedicated to making his vision a reality and are honored to collaborate with the residents and other partners to create a functional green space in the Third Ward.” This project will increase property values in the Third Ward and create additional opportunities to connect with and take advantage of French Creek while also serving as a gateway into the city, according to Phillips. “On behalf of the City of Franklin, I want to sincerely thank the Oil Region Alliance, the McElhattans, and the Beith Family for their dedication and commitment to this important project,” said City of Franklin Mayor Douglas Baker. “Their leadership and investment in the clean-up of the JM property will have a lasting impact onour community. For too long, this site has been a challenge for the surrounding neighborhood, but with this effort, we are taking meaningful steps toward positive change. We look forward to seeing this site transformed into a true community asset,” Baker said. Amanda Power, City of Franklin Community and Economic Development Director, echoed the mayor’s thoughts. “The revitalization of the JM property is more than just an environmental clean-up—it’s an investment in Franklin’s future,” Power said. “This project holds tremendous potential to enhance the quality of life for the residents of the Third Ward. By working with the Oil Region Alliance and our private and non-profit partners, we are turning a long-neglected site into a catalyst for community growth and development. This is a vital step in ensuring Franklin remains a vibrant place to live, work, and do business,” said Power. This type of project is right up the alley of the McElhattan Foundation, which states a commitment to the “economic prosperity and overall well-being” of the community of Franklin, where their family is rooted, directly on its website.
“The McElhattan Foundation is proud to collaborate with our valued partners—the Oil Region Alliance, the City of Franklin, and the Beith Family—on this transformational project in Franklin’s Third Ward,” said McElhattan Foundation Program Officer Sarah Pistella. “We believe that third spaces and accessible public spaces play a vital role in strengthening social connections, fostering economic mobility, and improving overall health outcomes. By investing in this project, we aim to create a welcoming, inclusive space where residents can gather, connect, and access opportunities. We are excited to see the lasting impact this initiative will have on the community.” This will be the first project for the ORA within Franklin’s footprint. The non-profit already owns Sandycreek Industrial Park to the south of the city limits. The ORA owns brownfield sites in Oil City and Emlenton in addition to historic properties throughout the Oil Region National Heritage Area, which is comprised of all of Venango County and the southwest corner of Crawford County and managed by the ORA. “This project is a very impactful brownfield that the ORA is committed to remediate for the benefit of the third ward and a gateway to the city,” Phillips said. “I am so excited to have this strong partnership assembled to work with us to make a better Franklin.” Franklin Area High School's annual springtime tradition turns 95 this year. The Broadcast showcase of talent that includes live music performed by students, no recorded music what-so-ever as well as several dance routines. There are two chances to see this little over an hour long show and to support the young performers who have worked hard to bring this show to life. Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. in the school's auditorium. Back on the market
You have six chances to find out the scuttlebutt. There will be performances at 7:30 p.m. March 14, 15, 21 and 22, and 2 p.m. on March 16 and 23. Tickets are available at the box office before each show or online at www.barrowtheatre.org.
When she said yes, a group of people walking by cheered as they watched the couple kiss. "That just makes this festival even more special," said Franklin events coordinator James Shreffler, upon hearing the news. Shreffler also said the number of people attending the chilly event was steady all day long with many stopping at sculptures to make their own memories. Perhaps laying the groundwork for future visits with even bigger memories made. The sculptures, which are sponsored by area businesses and organizations will remain in the Fountain Park as long as the weather allows. Below view even more photos from the event.
Editor's Note: While we love happening upon beautiful moments, like an engagement in the park, we must acknowledge that our presence at this particularly event was prearranged. “Why can’t we do an all kids show?” It was a simple question 25 years ago when Martha Heise posed it after watching the emotional experience of kids being turned away from a performance arts program. Hess's lightbulb moment gave birth towhead is now a very successful program that has become a staple of the Franklin Civic Operetta Association's performing arts Oeuvre.
See more photos below and even more by visiting sayerrich.zenfolio.com/p550931262 See more photos by visiting sayerrich.zenfolio.com/p550931262 Don't forget to visit Buffalo Street Lanes before it closes in a couple months.
![]() Back in September Abbie Colie was looking through some old photos, remembering her dad, Justin, who died from Huntington’s Disease in 2021. In one of the photos of her parents, her attention was drawn to a necklace of small shells worn by her dad. She wondered if her mom still had the necklace. After searching, she found it. With permission from her mom, Kristie, Abbie began wearing it. But after awhile Abbie wondered why she couldn’t get the necklace to lay correctly around her neck. “I noticed it was getting pulled in one direction,” she said. “And that’s when we noticed the lump.” On Christmas Eve, she had an ultrasound done. “The day after Christmas they sent us back for X-rays and that night the doctors said ‘you need to get to Pittsburgh immediately.’ By 11 p.m. that night, they told us it was cancer,” said Kristie as she choked back tears at the memory. The Titusville three-sport athlete was diagnosed with Stage 3 Hodgkin Lymphoma, a cancer that starts in white blood cells, called lymphocytes, which are a part of the body’s immune system.
“They have been nothing but extraordinary. The amount of people who have reached out to make sure we’re ok and providing us with all the help they can, it’s been absolutely amazing.” Her mom agrees. “(Abbie) has always been there for others so it is really nice when it’s her turn (to need help) how others get behind her too. It’s amazing.” Abbie remains upbeat about her prognosis. She has six months of treatments but isn’t planning on missing out on the sports she loves or helping her teammates however she can. She is looking forward to trying out for a manager position on the softball team. She is also looking ahead to majoring in health sciences at Duquesne University.
“This has also made me really realize that’s what I want to do is help people, especially the way they are helping me," she said. And she will continue wearing her dad’s necklace. “Without that necklace we wouldn’t have noticed,” Kristie said. “It was kinda like her dad is still taking care of her.” Even though the Titusville girls basketball team has struggled on the court this year, over the holiday break those struggles pale in comparison to the news one of their own received. Senior Abbie Colie was diagnosed with stage three Hodgkin Lymphoma, a rare cancer that starts in the white blood cells that are a part of the body’s immune system.
Colie began treatments and isn't expected to play much the rest of the season, so her coaches and teammates decided to show their unwavering support with a special senior night this Monday that will also act as a fundraiser for Colie and her family. “She recently started treatment and has a long road ahead," says a flyer about the special event. "To support her and her family we are having her senior night on January 20, 2025 at the Titusville High School gymnasium at 6 pm. That night we would also like to have a fundraiser for her and her family. We are asking local businesses to donate a basket to raffle, gas cards, or monetary donations. Anything will help and is greatly appreciated. "Abbie has been a leader to our Lady Rockets basketball team and has been greatly missed during this time. She is the most selfless person and would do anything for anyone. We want to show up big and pack the gym that night. If you can attend that night, please show your support and wear purple.” Purple is the color often associated with Hodgkin Lymphoma awareness. The community is already started stepping up to help in other ways as well. On March 9 at Fat Chads, a spaghetti dinner and more raffles are planned. Tickets for this event are $10 and can purchased at Fat Chads or State Farm Insurance. “Abbie Colie is the joy of so many peoples lives. She is a very active person in the community of Titusville,” the Fat Chads fundraiser flyer states. “Abbie participates in volleyball, softball, and basketball, making friends wherever she goes because of her unconditional kindness. She is loved by so many people and that is why it is so important to give a helping hand at this time.” Also a Go Fund Me (www.gofundme.com/f/v59jk-support-abbies-fight-against-hodgkins-lymphoma?attribution_id=sl:9122c331-8ed8-4c2f-bb25-66cd85b10728&lang=en_US&utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=messenge) was set up. In just a short time, it has raised over $16,000. It takes courage. We do not want to take lightly this sentiment.
See more photos from dress rehearsal at sayerrich.zenfolio.com/p556198628 See more photos from dress rehearsal at sayerrich.zenfolio.com/p556198628
Area school's treated family and friends to their holiday music collections to showcase the hard work of the students in the arts. We made it to the Valley Grove school district performance this week.
Congratulations to Franklin and all who worked behind the scenes to make it happen.
Thank you for helping so many lift their holiday spirits and remind us of the wonderful things a small town can accomplish.
To view even more photos please visit: sayerrich.zenfolio.com/p104585423 To view more photos please visit: sayerrich.zenfolio.com/p104585423
Volunteers worked all day Friday to get Franklin's35-foot plus spruce Christmas tree ready for their annual explosive kickoff to the holiday season.
This year's tree comes from out Utica way donated by Doug and Maria McGee who planted the tree as seedling many years ago, and Stephanie and Mike Harmon who now own the McGee's farm. Stephanie was on hand Friday to help put the star on the tree. The day and night will be filled with activities for all ages kicking off at 11 a.m. and continuing past midnight.
Spells bring commerce to a community in a fun fall holiday way Franklin's Witch Walk is meant to bring fun to the downtown prior to Halloween, and yes, the people who come take it seriously. The Franklin Retail Association's annual event drew hundreds to downtown Franklin again on Saturday. Many of them enjoying the retail shops as well as the eateries well into the evening. According to a social media post, nearly 300 people registered to participate in the gathering. There were also 26 participating businesses that offered special items, menu options, and activities. "It was a great night for downtown Franklin... It was great seeing everyone have so much fun," the post says. The group is currently looking for pictures attendees might have taken. See their Facebook post for more details. It was a witchin' good time. This story was updated after being shared.
Riley Brophy was named the 2024 Franklin Homecoming Queen during halftime of the Knights' epic overtime battle against Eisenhower. She was escorted by Matt Hallenbeck.
Click here to read more about the game. Picture perfect weather for this year's Applefest. Even the storms rolling in at the tail end allowed everyone the chance to get their wares in safe order. We don't know if the numbers this year broke any records, but the car show was packed, Saturday was packed and Friday was very well attended.
Below are some photos that caught our eye Sunday. Today we noticed mostly the interactions between folks. Great! Well if good weather begets good festive moods... the first two days of Applefest should be boosting good endorphins in all our brains. Friday and Saturday, if anyone wants to complain, was perhaps too perfect. Mild to warmish, but not hot temperatures seemed to bring out... well... everybody. If Sunday's car show goes as such, this could go down as one of the most successful Applefest's in its history. Saturday was certainly packed in both parks. Below are more scenes from Saturday walking around.
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