The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau on Tuesday honored some of the local businesses, events people who are helping the Centre County hospitality and tourism industry thrive.
The third annual Happy Valley Hospitality Awards welcomed nearly 300 attendees to Brass 16823 in Bellefonte for a celebration recognizing winners in categories ranging from Tourist Attraction of the Year to Excellence in Hospitality Service, as well as the Spirit of Hospitality Award honorees.
“2024 was a banner year for tourism to Happy Valley, PA, both in terms of visitors and economic impact,” HVAB President and CEO Fritz Smith said in a statement. “The efforts of those on the front lines of the visitor experience make it possible for The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau to confidently market the Centre County has a premier, four-season Mid-Atlantic destination. We thank each and everyone one for choosing hospitality and tourism as a profession, and caring about the work they do in support of tourism.”
From among 64 nominations from the public, an independent committee selected winners in seven categories:
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR
Renea Nash Nichols for her service to Eagle Ironworks and Curtin Village, and Union Cemetery.
FESTIVAL/EVENT OF THE YEAR
Centre Film Festival
TOURIST ATTRACTION OF THE YEAR
Nittany Meadow Farm
RISING STAR
Erin Pugh, General Manager, Hublersburg Inn
EXCELLENCE IN TOURISM/HOSPITALITY LEADERSHIP
Lucy Rogers, Tasting Room Manager, Big Spring Spirits
EXCELLENCE IN TOURISM/HOSPITALITY SERVICE
Mike Tedesco, owner, Happy Valley Nomadic Spirits
EXCELLENCE IN TOURISM/HOSPITALITY TEAMWORK
Casie Garber and Asia Pilger, Assistant Innkeepers, The Queen Bed & Breakfast
HVAB also honored two local hospitality leaders with the Peter J. Walker Spirit of Hospitality Award, named in honor of the late manager of Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park.
Liz Grove, owner of Pine Grove Hall and Flour & Stone, and Gary Brandeis, CEO and founder of Scholar Hotel Group received the award, which is presented to individuals who exemplify Walker’s traits of leading by example with strong work ethic, a commitment to serving others and leaving a positive impact on those around them.
“As we reflected on the highlights of the past year – and there were many – we realized that the local tourism and hospitality industry has amazing champions,” Jennifer Brooks-Stahl, general manager of the Wyndham Garden State College and chair of the HVAB Board of Directors, said in a statement. “We were thrilled to recognize two individuals whose commitments to and investments in Centre County are positively contributing to our vibrant tourism landscape and thriving communities. They are both demonstrated ambassadors for Happy Valley, and equally deserving of the Peter J. Walker Spirit of Hospitality Award.”
