HVAB awards recognize excellence in local tourism/hospitality industry

By The Express STATE COLLEGE, PA — The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau (HVAB) recognized standouts in the Centre County tourism and hospitality community on Tuesday, Nov. 12, at the Third Annual Happy Valley Hospitality Awards.

Sponsored by Titan Park, the event drew a crowd of nearly 300 to Brass 16823 in Bellefonte for an Academy Awards-themed celebration of and thank you to Happy Valley’s hospitality industry.

“2024 was a banner year for tourism to Happy Valley, Pa., both in terms of visitors and economic impact,” said HVAB President and CEO Fritz Smith. “The efforts of those on the front lines of the visitor experience make it possible for The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau to confidently market Centre County as a premier, four-season Mid-Atlantic destination. We thank each and every one for choosing hospitality and tourism as a profession and caring about the work they do in support of tourism.”

The HVAB received a record 64 nominations in seven categories. An independent committee selected the finalists and winners.

The 2024 recipients of Happy Valley Hospitality Awards are:

— 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 at Big Spring Spirits

— Excellence in Tourism/Hospitality Service – Mike Tedesco, owner of Happy Valley Nomadic Spirits

— Excellence in Tourism/Hospitality Teamwork – Casie Garber and Asia Pilger, Assistant Innkeepers at The Queen Bed & Breakfast.