Shifting Ground: As Rockview Closure Looms, Centre County Faces a New Economic Reality

Centre County is bracing for economic upheaval as Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration moves to close Rockview State Prison by September 2025. The decision, part of a broader $100 million cost-cutting initiative, has been met with resistance from local officials and union leaders who warn of job losses, economic ripple effects, and community disruption. Rockview employs 658 people, making it a major economic anchor in the region.
Understanding Trump’s Actions and Policies and “Where the Puck is Going”

As the Trump administration moves forward with its agenda, several key policy changes and actions are poised to significantly affect higher education. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help clarify the steps being implemented and those proposed for the future:
Will Penn State Follow Another Big 10 School’s Lead in Innovating the Future of Higher Ed?

As we look ahead to potential shifts in education policy under the Trump administration, Penn State stands at a pivotal crossroads. With the proposed abolishment of the Department of Education and shifts in funding priorities, it is crucial for both the university and local businesses in State College, PA, to remain agile and proactive.
Penn State “All In” on Big Time Football

Jim Knowles, architect of OSU’s championship defense, spurned offers to remain in Columbus or depart for Oklahoma to instead become the new defensive coordinator at Penn State.
Catalyst Magazine’s upcoming Spring issue: Your chance to shine as a sponsor in Happy Valley’s Premier Publication

The third issue of HappyValley Industry’s Catalyst magazine is in the works. Reserve your space now and save 10%. We’re collaborating with various sponsors to produce 10,000 print copies, engage our 5,000 loyal email subscribers, and leverage our substantial website traffic. HappyValley Industry garners thousands of views monthly. You can view more of our fantastic […]
America’s economy surges ahead–can Happy Valley seize its moment or be left behind?

A recent article published by The Economist states that the American economy has left other countries in the dust. According to the article, the U.S. economy has consistently defied predictions of decline and continues to lead the world in growth, outperforming many of its global peers, including the G7 countries. Since the start of […]
“We want to make our community healthier and better”

By Holly Riddle As we’ve covered in the past, Happy Valley is in the middle of a healthcare boom, with multiple projects coming from Mount Nittany Health, Penn Highlands and Geisinger. As for the latter, Geisinger currently has approximately $30 million in projects underway throughout the county, including a new Bellefonte Medical Clinic and an […]
Kish Bank breaks ground on new Mifflintown branch, expands Juniata County presence

MIFFLINTOWN, PA –August 13, 2024 – Kish Bank ceremoniously broke ground on its new Juniata County branch on Tuesday, August 13 with Kish Bank leaders, Kish regional advisory board members, local elected officials, and representatives from the Juniata River Valley Chamber of Commerce in attendance. The new 2,300 square-foot facility will be located at 4215 […]
Generosity fueling student opportunities in State College schools

SCASD Education Foundation was established in 2015 as a separate charitable organization for private fundraising for student experiences and learning opportunities beyond the district’s budget. The foundation has created a partnership between donors from the community and its alumni base and the district to keep dollars in the community and benefit current K-12 students across the […]