Follow the Money: Tourism is Happy Valley’s Economic Horse to go “all in” on.
1,117+ new hotel rooms.
14 new lodging developments.
Cranes rising. Rooms booking. Momentum building.
This isn’t a feel-good story. It’s a growth story—and the numbers don’t lie.
Tourism is the fastest-moving sector in our economy—and the smartest money knows it.
You Are Creating Connect Happy Valley: A Platform Fueled by Your Voice
You Spoke. We Listened. And We’re Building This Together.
We recently asked you—our neighbors, creatives, business owners, nonprofit leaders, and dreamers—what you needed most from Connect Happy Valley. And your voices were clear, honest, and full of heart.
Centre County Population Growth Levels Off: 2018 Peak Unlikely to Be Surpassed
Centre County experienced steady population growth for much of the 20th and early 21st centuries. However, recent data shows that growth has slowed significantly.
Connect Happy Valley Report: Centre County by the Numbers — 2025 Trends and Insights
Centre County is changing — and in some interesting ways. From Penn State’s workforce to shifts in who’s moving in and what jobs are growing; here are some numbers worth knowing as we look at what’s ahead.
Understanding the 2025 Federal Budget Law: What It Means for Centre County
A sweeping new federal budget law passed in July 2025 has major implications for Penn State students, local service workers, retirees, and the regional economy. Here’s a breakdown of the key facts, when they go into effect, and what they mean for our area—opinions, just the numbers:
The Torch Is Now Theirs—And They’re Carrying It Boldly
In a time when college athletics are shifting rapidly—more professional than amateur, more transactional than transformational—it’s easy to forget the foundations that once made college sports a proving ground not just for talent, but for character.
It’s easy, that is, unless you’re Sue Paterno or Dana Dokmanovich Harris.
Run with Heart — Because That’s How We Lead, Live, and Grow Together
Last month, we kicked off our first Community Conversations with a powerhouse panel of leaders who embody what it means to serve, shape, and spark change in Happy Valley.
Foundations: Building a Penn State Sports Legacy
At the Nittany Lion Inn | Saturday, July 26 at 7 PM
What does the name Mike Reid mean to you?
Grammy Award-winning songwriter. Concert pianist. Penn State All-American. NFL Pro.
On July 26, he returns to where it all began—for one unforgettable night.
Be entertained by Penn State’s own Mike Reid — the embodiment of the “Grand Experiment.”
Now Live: CentralPAJobSource.com
Why it matters:
• Launched by Pennsylvania Business Central to support local hiring and career growth
• Focuses on Central PA’s core industries: manufacturing, healthcare, tech, education, logistics
• Bridges the gap between job seekers and local employers
