Local News
- ⚡ PA Goes Big: $90B Drop for Energy & AI—Trump, Google, Blackstone in the Mix
At Pittsburgh’s first Energy & Innovation Summit, President Trump and Sen. Dave McCormick announced a massive $90B investment wave for energy and AI, with Google revamping hydro plants and Blackstone pouring $25B into data centers and infrastructure. The ambitious push will bring tens of thousands of construction and tech jobs to Pennsylvania as industry giants and tech firms transform the state’s energy landscape. (Altoona Mirror)
- 🥩 Hepler’s Meats Celebrates 30 Years of Local Flavor
Hepler’s Meats, a family-owned staple in Nickleville and Cranberry Township since 1994, has spent three decades supporting local farmers and serving fresh, locally sourced cuts. Here’s to another 30 years of top-tier steaks and ground beef that didn’t have to travel far to hit the shelf. (The Derrick)
- 🚀 Pennsylvania Bets Big: $90B+ AI & Energy Boom Announced at Bipartisan Summit
Sen. Dave McCormick and President Trump dropped $92B in new AI and energy investments at Carnegie Mellon, with Google and Amazon leading the charge to make Pennsylvania a tech powerhouse. Despite protests over fossil-fuel policies, leaders say this could be the blueprint for aligning policy, big tech, unions, and academia nationwide. (Post-Gazette)
- 🇺🇸 PA’s $92B Power Play: Trump & McCormick’s Mega Energy Summit
President Trump joined Sen. Dave McCormick in Pittsburgh to announce $92B in new tech and energy investments for Pennsylvania—including data centers, nuclear projects, and major grid upgrades—making the state a new hotspot for the energy and AI future. (PoliticsPA)
- 🏬 Cranberry Mall Sale Still a Go, Say Venango Commissioners
Despite rumors, Venango County Commissioners confirmed that selling the Cranberry Mall remains a top priority, with plans still actively in motion. (The Derrick)
- 💧 Aqua Pennsylvania Tapped for $5.5M Rhodes Estates Water Overhaul
Aqua Pennsylvania is set to invest over $5.5 million in upgrades for Venango County's Rhodes Estates water and sewer systems after a major contamination, as ordered by state regulators. Expect new infrastructure and safety fixes, with costs ultimately passing to customers. (PA Environment Daily)
- 💡 Trump Eyes $70B for AI & Energy as Wall Street & Big Tech Rally
Trump will announce a $70 billion private-sector investment in data centers, energy, and AI job training near Pittsburgh, featuring a $25B Blackstone-led project and appearances from CEOs of BlackRock, Palantir, Anthropic, and major energy firms. The initiative aims to create thousands of jobs and an AI-powered energy grid. (Stocktwits)
- 🌲 Oil Region Alliance Launches $10K Outdoor Recreation Biz Contest
The Oil Region Alliance is launching its Elevating Outdoor Recreation Business Contest—offering $10,000 for first place and $5,000 for second—to help Venango County startups and expansions grow. The contest kicks off July 22 with an info session at Oil City’s Rhoades Center; no RSVP needed. (MyProgressNews)
- 🌲 Outdoor Biz Builders: Oil Region Alliance’s Startup Contest Kicks Off July 22
Ready to launch your own outdoor business? The Oil Region Alliance’s “Elevating Outdoor Recreation Business Contest” kicks off July 22 with info, networking, and guidance for aspiring entrepreneurs. (The Derrick)
Chamber Events
🚴♂️ Oil Heritage Festival Bike 'n Brew 2025
- When: July 20, 2025
- Where: Oil Heritage Festival (details on event page)
- Highlights: Enjoy local craft brews, free merch, and both curbside or in-person participation; VIPs get exclusive perks. (Event info & tickets)
🎉 Oil Heritage Festival 2025
- When: July 24 – 28, 2025
- Where: Throughout Venango County, PA
- Highlights: Celebrate 47 years of tradition with parades, music, food, family activities, and more at this beloved five-day festival! (See details)
🥩 Venango Chamber Steak Fry 2025
- When: 2025, exact date TBA