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Centre Hills Country Club Membership Approves $6 Million Renovation Project

Posted on by Jules Slater

State College, PA – October 8, 2025— Centre Hills Country Club is pleased to announce that its membership has approved a $6 million renovation project that will transform the Club’s recreational offerings with a new pool complex and racquet facility. This investment represents one of the most significant facility upgrades in the Club’s 100-year history.

The project is scheduled to begin in May 2026 with the completion expected by Summer 2027.

Highlights of the renovation include:

  • New Aquatics Complex: A resort-style pool with lap lanes, children’s zero-entry splash area, expanded deck, shaded seating, and poolside casual dining.
  • Racquet Facilities: Modern tennis and pickleball courts with upgraded lighting and a year-round covered pickleball facility.
  • Supporting Amenities: A new pool house, expanded parking, and enhanced landscaping to complement the facilities.

“These upgrades reflect our commitment to investing in the future of Centre Hills,” said Thomas Smith, Club President and General Manager. “They will elevate our amenities, strengthen our community, and ensure that Centre Hills remains a premier private club in the Centre region.”

Founded in 1921, Centre Hills Country Club has proudly served members and their families for more than a century, offering championship golf, racquet sports, aquatics, dining, and social events.

Community Leaders Launch State College Air Service Alliance, Fly State College Fund

Posted on by Jules Slater

Initiative to grow commercial air service to State College unveiled at the State College Regional Air Service Summit, a CBICC Voice of Business event.

CENTRE COUNTY, PA – October 14, 2025 – The Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County (CBICC), the Centre County Airport Authority (CCAA), The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau (HVAB), and The Pennsylvania State University (PSU) today announced the creation of the State College Air Service Alliance (“the Alliance), a formal partnership to maintain and grow air service at the State College Regional Airport. The Alliance will work collaboratively to strengthen access to airline networks, drive job creation, and support economic development, tourism, and quality of life in Centre County.

The Alliance was unveiled at the State College Air Service Summit, part of CBICC’s Voice of Business series, where speakers provided insights into the current state of regional air service and incentives that attract and retain new air carriers. In addition to representatives from CBICC, CCAA, HVAB, and PSU, featured speakers included Mike Carroll, Secretary of Transportation for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and Tim Sieber, Managing Director of Volaire Aviation Consulting.

“The State College Air Service Alliance was formed to address an important need for our community’s economic development and quality of life: air service,” shared Greg Scott, President and CEO of CBICC. “Our organizations will work together to retain existing service and attract new airline partners and routes that enhance connectivity to national and international destinations, and support tourism and business growth through increased travel options for residents and visitors.”

Goals of the Alliance include unifying advocacy efforts for regional air service, providing coordinated community and business outreach to demonstrate need for air service, pursuing marketing strategies that attract and retain carriers, and exploring and securing public, private, and grant-based funding opportunities to support incentives for new service.

“Through the Alliance, we aim to strengthen State College Regional Airport’s position to attract new routes, retain existing ones, and expand travel options for businesses and residents,” said Ralph Stewart, Executive Director of CCAA. “We’re grateful to have community partners who share our commitment to strengthening regional connectivity and who are ready to lead initiatives that incentivize airlines to choose our airport.”

A key initiative of the Alliance, the Fly State College Fund, was also unveiled at the event. The fund will help ensure that the community remains competitive in securing new air service by providing revenue guarantees, marketing support, and financial incentives that go beyond what the Airport alone can offer prospective carriers.

“To attract new air service, we must be able to respond quickly when opportunities arise,” said Scott. “The Fly State College Fund allows us to raise capital locally and demonstrate that our community is invested in increasing service at State College Regional Airport.”

The Alliance has set an initial goal of raising $500,000 for the Fly State College Fund and has already secured $130,000 in commitments from partners including CBICC, CCAA, HVAB, PSU, and local municipalities.

The Alliance also launched a “Fly Local” campaign to incentivize local travelers to fly from State College Regional Airport.

“When residents and business choose to fly from State College, we strengthen demand, reduce leakage to other airports, and send a clear message to airlines that our market is worth investing in,” said Stewart. “Every ticket purchased at State College Regional Airport shows passenger demand and helps improve our long-term air service.”

As Centre County’s tourism and destination marketing agency, HVAB will lead promotional campaigns and gather visitor insights to help identify markets with the highest potential for new service.

“Targeted promotion to bring in new airline partners and desired connections is an important part of the Alliance’s mission,” said Fritz Smith, President and CEO of HVAB. “By analyzing data on demand, market opportunities, and competitor performance, our marketing strategy intends to strengthen connectivity for business and leisure travel and drive Happy Valley’s tourism economy.”

To ensure the Alliance’s success, each partner organization will play a clear and complementary role. CCAA will spearhead engagement with carriers, manage airline incentive programs, and coordinate with federal and state aviation entities; CBICC will lead business community engagement, identify corporate travel demand, and coordinate private-sector support, serving as the fiscal agent for the Fly State College Fund; HVAB will drive marketing and tourism strategies to support visitor growth and airline interest; and PSU will provide institutional insight, travel demand data, and strategic collaboration to support the Alliance’s mission.

“We look forward to collaborating closely with Alliance partners to strengthen air service in State College and streamline travel for Penn State students, staff, faculty, visitors, and community members,” said Mike Stefan, Vice President of Government and Community Relations at PSU.

More information and details on how businesses and community members can get involved are available at www.flystatecollege.com.

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About the State College Air Service Alliance

The State College Air Service Alliance is a partnership between the Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County, the Centre County Airport Authority, The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau, and The Pennsylvania State University to maintain and grow air service at the State College Regional Airport. The Alliance works collaboratively to retain and attract commercial air service, enhance connectivity to major destinations, support regional economic development and tourism, and improve quality of life through expanded travel opportunities.

CBICC Welcomes Seven New Members

Posted on by Jaimie Confer

Every new member adds something special to Centre County’s business community. Some bring new energy and ideas. Others deepen existing connections or open doors to new opportunities. Together, they reflect what makes our region strong—innovation, collaboration, and a shared sense of purpose.

This month, we’re proud to welcome a group of new members who are already helping move Centre County forward.

SpeedPro Central PA
SpeedPro Central PA is the place to go for bold, high-quality visual branding. From banners and trade show displays to vehicle wraps and specialty graphics, their team helps local businesses stand out. With more than 40 years of combined experience, SpeedPro is known for quick turnarounds, sharp detail, and results that make a lasting impression. Learn more at SpeedPro.

Henry Architecture & Design
With more than 25 years of experience, Henry Architecture & Design offers a full range of architectural and design services shaped by creativity and purpose. Their work in healthcare, education, and community spaces blends form and function, creating environments that serve the people who use them every day. Rooted in collaboration and attention to detail, the firm continues to deliver designs that last. Learn more at Henry Architecture & Design.

The Hideaway Electric Speakeasy
Tucked away in downtown State College, The Hideaway Electric Speakeasy brings a touch of surprise to the local scene. With its neon glow, craft cocktails, and elevated comfort food, it’s a place that feels both lively and laid-back. Every detail, from the music to the menu, is designed to make guests slow down, connect, and enjoy the moment. Learn more at The Hideaway Electric Speakeasy.

Tierney Education
Tierney Education began with a simple belief: students thrive when they have the right support and a clear path forward. Founded in 2021 by James Tierney, the organization has grown into a team of coaches and tutors serving students at Penn State and beyond. Their personalized, evidence-based approach helps learners build confidence, develop strong habits, and carry those skills well beyond the classroom. Learn more at Tierney Education.

PFG Wealth Advisors
PFG Wealth Advisors helps individuals and businesses plan for a secure financial future. Guided by integrity, honesty, and a client-first approach, their team works to understand each person’s goals and create strategies that minimize risk while building long-term stability. Their focus is simple—service, trust, and helping clients move forward with confidence. Learn more at PFG Wealth Advisors.

Ghana Medical Relief
Ghana Medical Relief is a nonprofit organization delivering critical healthcare and medical supplies to communities across Ghana. Partnering with hospitals, churches, and organizations in the U.S., the group provides everything from hospital beds to ultrasound machines for clinics in need. Their volunteers, healthcare professionals, and educators share one goal: to provide healthcare, one village at a time, and help build lasting systems that improve lives. Learn more at Ghana Medical Relief.

Downtown Bellefonte, Inc.
Downtown Bellefonte, Inc. helps keep Bellefonte’s historic downtown thriving. Through events, business development, and community partnerships, the organization strengthens the local economy and celebrates what makes Bellefonte unique. Their work connects history and creativity, supporting the people and small businesses that bring the town to life. Learn more at Downtown Bellefonte, Inc.

We’re excited to welcome these new members to the Chamber and grateful for the energy, talent, and ideas they bring to our community.  If you’d like to learn more about becoming a member, click here.

Let’s Celebrate Chamber of Commerce Month and Support Your Local Chamber of Commerce Day!

Posted on by Jaimie Confer

Thanks to a statewide proclamation from Governor Josh Shapiro, October 2025 is officially Chamber of Commerce Month! What’s more, the Centre County Board of Commissioners recently declared Wednesday, October 15th as Support Your Local Chamber of Commerce Day. We’re so grateful for the recognition of the work we and Chambers across Pennsylvania do to engage our business communities, support local workforces, and build a strong and prosperous future for all.

These important recognitions aren’t just about the work we do in the CBICC office day in and day out – they’re about you, the members who make up our business community. At its heart, our Chamber is a network of 740+ member organizations who show up, connect, collaborate, and invest in the future of Centre County.

We see the Chamber in action every day: in a sold-out State of the County, at each ribbon cutting for new, local businesses, in the conversations sparked at networking events, and in countless other ways our members support one another. Together, we’re building something special and ensuring Centre County remains a thriving place to live, work, and do business.

Thank you, Chamber community, for your partnership and support. It’s thanks to you that this community continues to grow stronger.

To learn more about how you can get involved and support your local Chamber, reach out to Melissa Roth at melissa@cbicc.org or 814-954-2850.

Geisinger names Chris Beck VP of Government Relations

Posted on by Jaimie Confer

DANVILLE, Pa. – Geisinger has tapped Chris Beck, an experienced government affairs leader at the state, federal and health system level, to serve as the organization’s vice president of government relations.

“Chris brings a deep understanding of how things work in the halls of government, but equally as important, he has an extensive background with health systems in Pennsylvania,” said Amy Brayford, Geisinger’s executive vice president and chief of staff. “Chris is an excellent choice to be our eyes and ears in Harrisburg and Washington, D.C., working to advocate on behalf of Geisinger and our patients for the unique challenges Geisinger faces as a healthcare leader serving rural and urban communities throughout central and northeastern Pennsylvania.”

Beck joins Geisinger from DeBrunner & Associates, a Harrisburg firm where he spent the last 5 years as director of state government relations. There, he served as liaison with the Pennsylvania General Assembly and key administration officials for numerous healthcare clients, including hospitals and health systems. He also led legislative and regulatory advocacy efforts for the Safety-Net Association of Pennsylvania (SNAP) while at DeBrunner, including for Medicaid reimbursement, preserving the hospital Quality Care Assessment and improving the regulatory climate for hospitals.

After starting his career as an aide to U.S. Senator Arlen Specter, Beck moved into government affairs roles with The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), Penn Medicine and Vertex Pharmaceuticals before returning to Penn Medicine in 2017 to serve as its director of public affairs for more than 3 years.

“Working at health systems allowed me to see firsthand what exceptional healthcare can mean for people’s lives,” said Beck. “But it also opened my eyes to the legislative hurdles that impact how effectively and efficiently health systems can provide that care. It’s my mission to do everything I can, to lean into relationships I’ve spent years developing and cultivating, to ensure the state and federal governments are strong allies for Geisinger as we bring great care to the communities we serve.”

In his new role, based in Harrisburg, Beck will collaborate with Geisinger’s leadership and cross-functional teams to ensure legislative and regulatory priorities and community benefit activities are aligned with the organization’s strategic vision and goals. That will include analyzing legislative and regulatory proposals, and developing new policy frameworks for emerging issues.

Beck has a bachelor’s degree in history and political science from Drexel University.

About Geisinger

Geisinger is among the nation’s leading providers of value-based care, serving 1.2 million people in urban and rural communities across central and northeastern Pennsylvania. Founded in 1915 by philanthropist Abigail Geisinger, the nonprofit system generates more than $8 billion in annual revenues across 163 care sites — including 10 hospital campuses — and Geisinger Health Plan, with more than half a million members in commercial and government plans. Geisinger College of Health Sciences educates more than 5,000 medical professionals annually and is conducting more than 1,400 clinical research studies. With more than 27,000 employees, including 1,800 employed physicians and 5,200 registered nurses, Geisinger is among Pennsylvania’s largest employers, having an estimated economic impact of $16.8 billion on the state’s economy. In 2024, Geisinger joined Risant Health, a nonprofit charitable organization created to expand and accelerate value-based care across the country. Learn more at geisinger.org or follow on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

News release

Oct. 7, 2025

CONTACT:

Chris Murphy

cmurphy4@geisinger.edu