Without football in Happy Valley, this fall will be unlike any other in recent memory. Through the promotion of safe and responsible visitation, we have an opportunity to show all that makes Happy Valley a desirable place to visit, live and work all year long.

Visitation is a critical economic driver for Centre County. At no time in recent history will the weight of this fact be more known or more felt than it will be this fall. The HVAB is committed to safe travel, and conducts its destination marketing mission with that outcome in mind.

For Centre County restaurants, shops and establishments negatively impacted by the ongoing pandemic and just trying to remain afloat, “to mask or not to mask” is not up for debate. Wearing a mask is necessary for economic recovery.

The HVAB Board of Directors recently welcomed one new member, while recognizing the long-time service of an outgoing member.

The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau and other tourism promotion agencies in the Alleghenies Region are urging Congress to expand Paycheck Protection Program eligibility to DMOs.

The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau (HVAB) recently awarded grant funding for tourism projects throughout Happy Valley.

Centre County’s move into green was welcome news. We are not out of the woods yet with regard to health concerns related to COVID-19. However, the re-opening of businesses, even with restrictions in place, is another step forward in an eventual return to normal. Till then, our hard-hit restaurants, retail shops, lodging facilities and attractions are navigating a host of new operating procedures and implementing enhanced safety standards all designed to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and keep customers safe.

Lisa Rager of Visit Johnstown speaks on behalf of Pennsylvania’s destination marketing organizations to the Pennsylvania House Tourism Committee