Dozens of area residents gathered Saturday in Oil City to send a clear message to drug traffickers - the city's doors are closed.

Concerned residents gathered together at the Oil City YMCA for the second annual anti-drug rally, sponsored by the Oil City North Side Association.

Rain chased the event from last year's location at the Central Avenue plaza, and forced the crowd into the backup spot in the YMCA gymnasium.

However, the weather did little to dampen the spirits of those in attendance.

"The event was very successful, even though the weather took its toll," said Venice Lewis, the Association's president.

As the rally began, the crowded gymnasium bleachers were led in a "charge" played by about 50 members of the Oil City High School band, led by drum major Brandon Kennedy.

Before each charge, Lewis announced that the doors of the city in the north, south, east and west were closed to drug traffickers.

That sentiment was supported in speeches by Mayor Sonya Hawkins and state Rep. Scott Hutchinson, who were among the local officials on hand.

A keynote speaker, Hutchinson stressed the importance of fighting drugs and blight on two fronts - with both a strong offense and defense.

He explained that strong laws and stiff penalties can serve as a defense when drug trafficking invades a city.

But residents also need to take the offense, through neighborhood associations such as the North Side Association, the Siverly Neighborhood Association and the South Side Association, he said.

"We need good wholesome activities for young people," Hutchinson said. "We need all your help."

Lewis urged residents to devote as little as one hour a month to a neighborhood or business association meeting.

"It is up to all of us," Oil City Councilman Lee Mehlburger said. "We want to make a better place for all our children to live and stay."

Randy Seitz, president and CEO of the Oil Region Alliance for Business, Industry & Tourism acted as the emcee for the rally. Oil City police Chief Robert Wenner and members of state probation and parole and the local drug addiction treatment specialists were also present.

"The Cty of Oil City has given 100 percent support and Chief Wenner has given 200," Lewis said of the Association's relationship with local officials.

Several local businesses supported the event, the proceeds of which will be dedicated to the North Side Association's ongoing efforts to eradicate blight.

Wenner and representatives of the Golden Living Center presented a $1,000 donation to the neighborhood associations.

The donations allow the Association to continue its efforts to curb area drug use, Lewis said.

Lewis claims to have seen improvement in the year since his organization's first rally. He added that suspicious activity, once commonplace in his neighborhood, has drastically decreased.

Next for Lewis may be the rest of the community. And to help, the Association has created weather-resistant placards that can be displayed in area lawns and street corners.

The signs have an image of a lighthouse and carry the logo "A Beacon of Hope for a Drug-Free Community."

The signs can be purchased at various locations for $6 a piece. Residents can contact Lewis for additional information.