Latest news with #HVAB
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Happy Valley tourism receives over $1 million in grant funding
CENTRE COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ) — The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau (HVAB) is rolling out over $1 million in tourism grants to 81 recipients over the net fiscal year. The annual event awards funding to projects and organizations that 'foster visitation' according to a press release from the HVAB. This year the bureau is giving out a record-breaking $1,100,750. HVAB CEO Fritz Smith attributes the boost in funds to the county doubling its hotel tax five years ago. 'When we got the room tax increased five years ago, that was our goal was to, within five years, reach that $1 million mark in terms of grants that we awarded,' Smith said. Juniata College receives approval from state nursing board for new nursing program Commissioner Steve Dershem said it took 'a lot of thought' to make the decision to raise the tax. But, five years out from the tax raise, he says the initiative was a 'tremendous success.' The $1.1 million is being split among 81 recipients, including tourism heavy-hitters like 4th Fest, Grange Fair and Arts Fest. Of the 81, 11 of them are newcomers to the program. 'We also wanted to stimulate new events,' Smith said. 'And so over the years, we've really been able to be successful with that because of this program.' Some of the new faces include Burning Ma'am, AAUW State College and the Bellefonte Historical Railroad Society. New or old, local officials say each organization plays a role in making the county more appealing. 'These large events are major economic drivers for the local economy, and they're places for reunions and fellowship among local residents and those who return to our community for these events,' Commissioner Amber Concepcion said. The grants will begin distribution in July. For a full list of the recipients, visit the HVAB's website. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
06-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Centre County businesses offering sensory kits for neurodiverse visitors
CENTRE COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ) — Centre County businesses are being equipped with sensory comfort kits to ensure the county is more welcoming and accessible to neurodiverse individuals. The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau (HVAB) and the Acres Project partnered to provide 100 of these kits to establishments. This is part of the Acres Project's Sensory Friendly Centre County initiative. Each kit contains several items which includes, earmuffs, coloring books, Play-Doh, and fidget toys. The goal of the kits is for individuals with sensory processing disorder feel more comfortable when in public settings. Sensory processing disorders affect how the brain receives and responds to sensory input, which can make everyday activities challenging. 'We want to show that we care that we are a welcoming county and provide these kits so that these families and these individuals that have sensory processing issues can enjoy the attraction, the restaurant location or activity a lot longer,' Chief Operating Officer Josiah Jones said. Pediatrician hiking 300 plus miles to support two foundations The launch of the expanded initiative coincides with National Tourism & Travel Week, May 4-10, and prior to Penn State graduation, a time when Happy Valley will see an influx of visitors, and summer trip planning is underway. Acres Project Founder and Executive Director Bellamarie Bregar said she appreciates the Happy Valley Adventure Bureau's interest in strengthening the Sensory Friendly Centre County program. 'Through this partnership, more businesses and organizations will be able to request comfort kits that can be given to guests/customers if ever needed,' she said. 'We applaud the Acres Project for the tremendous work the organization does serving neurodivergent individuals,' HVAB President and CEO Fritz Smith said. 'With our commitment to fostering an inclusive destination, we saw a need to get more establishments, hospitality businesses in particular, to participate in the Sensory Friendly Centre County initiative.' The sensory comfort kits will also be available at the HVAB's three visitor centers at 204 W. Beaver Ave. in State College; the Bellefonte Train Station; and the Moshannon Valley Heritage Center at 22 N. Front Street in Philipsburg. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
