Loneliness is epidemic, but there is a cure
By Cara Aungst Photo: Unsplash.com In May, the U.S. Surgeon General released a report on the national epidemic of “loneliness and isolation.” The report describes the very real health risks associated with loneliness; people who do not have social connections face the same risk of death as people who smoke 15 cigarettes daily. According to […]
Top Happy Valley events for 2023
By Holly Riddle Before football season kicks off, summer events in Happy Valley draw alumni and visitors who bring revenue for local accommodations, restaurants, and shops. Here’s a look at the top-attended events that are keeping Happy Valley happy this year. Historic Bellefonte Cruise – June 16–17 Every Father’s Day weekend, this classic car […]
Highlighting Happy Valley: Download these free slides to help recruit talent or new business
In recent months, we’ve had several requests from local companies for content that highlights Happy Valley and supports talent or new business acquisition. We’ve linked some content here and made it available for download and encourage you to customize it for your own efforts. HappyValley Industry believes a rising tide lifts all boats. Our goal […]
Happy Valley is in the middle of the brain belt: here’s what it means for the economy
By Holly Riddle In industry and research over the last decade, the term “brain belt” has grown in popularity as a way of describing regions where the cost of doing business is relatively low, but resources like those offered by a research university are ample. In many instances, these regions boast a low cost of […]
Penn State alumni boomerang back to invest in the area
By Stephanie Kalina-Metzger Bill Oldsey and his family attend a “White Out” game. It’s no secret that Penn State alumni feel a deep, lifelong connection to their alma mater. They also have a love for the place they called home during their college days, so much so that many return to live here or visit […]
Remote workers on why Happy Valley is the perfect home
by Holly Riddle Last year, Happy Valley welcomed a group of remote workers from around the country to experience what makes the region — and, in particular, Bellefonte — so special. As part of The Wilds are Working initiative, participants came from as far away as California to live, work and play over a month’s […]
Outdoor recreation is the future of economic development for small towns, and Purple Lizard is mapping the way
by Cara Aungst Purple Lizard maps showcase Happy Valley’s outdoor recreation assets. On the day of our interview, Mike Hermann and his team were days away from finishing their 17th map. The map represented more than a thousand hours spent over two years, starting with hiking boots on the ground exploring the trailheads and ravines […]
How thriving nonprofits contribute to Happy Valley’s livability
By David Rockower It’s not uncommon to hear Happy Valley residents talk about what a great place it is to raise a family. They boast about the wonderful opportunities to explore our rivers, fish our streams and hike our trails. They appreciate the events that get us into the community where we can connect with […]
Why Bellefonte’s unique bed and breakfasts are thriving post-pandemic
By Stephanie Kalina-Metzger The Queen. Photo: Provided. Part of Bellefonte’s draws for visitors are the unique lodging opportunities available at local bed and breakfasts. Owning and operating a B&B requires hard work and commitment, plus a passion for people and hospitality. Three Bellefonte B&B proprietors share how they have continued to thrive amid changes and […]
