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Restek Joins CBICC as Investor-Level Member

Posted on by Jules Slater

We’re pleased to welcome Restek as an Investor-Level member of CBICC.

Founded in 1985, Restek designs and manufactures chromatography products that support scientists around the world in protecting air and water quality, advancing human health, and improving the safety and quality of the products people rely on every day. Headquartered in Centre County with teams around the world, Restek partners closely with customers globally, applying deep scientific expertise to solve complex analytical challenges.

As a 100 percent employee-owned company, Restek is committed to taking care of its people and supporting the well-being of employee-owners and their families, recognizing that a strong, healthy workplace benefits customers and communities alike. Their culture is rooted in caring for people, striving to be better every day, working with respect for all, and winning together alongside customers and the communities they serve.

We’re glad to have Restek as part of the CBICC network and appreciate the important role they play as part of a growing cluster of sensor, ultrasound, chromatography, and advanced materials companies in Centre County.

New Monthly Series in Philipsburg Connects Youth, Health Services, Local Businesses and Nonprofits

Posted on by Jules Slater

On Saturday, March 14, from 12pm-4pm, downtown Philipsburg will debut a new monthly event built around one idea: if you want a stronger community, start by listening to young people.

Second Saturdays will take place every second Saturday of the month, beginning with the March 14th kickoff event themed “Easter Gras,” Philipsburg’s annual Mardi Gras Celebration, moved a bit closer to Easter this year in hopes of better weather.

Organizers hope the series becomes a steady draw for families from across Centre County and surrounding communities. Downtown restaurants will feature specials, nonprofit organizations will host outreach tables, and families can enjoy a variety of activities including The Goat Bus petting zoo, food, vendors, and live music.

As part of the monthly series, Penn State Health’s Lion Mobile Clinic will be present on Front Street at each Second Saturday event, offering free walk-up healthcare screenings with no appointment required.

The initiative builds on the work of Keystone Community Partnerships, a Penn State Outreach program focused on youth leadership and sustainable community and economic development.

Over the past 6 months, local high school students have surveyed peers and residents, identified priorities, and asked tough questions about what Philipsburg needs next. Second Saturdays brings that work into public view, giving students a platform to share their findings and ideas and invite community response.

Student presentations will take place at 4pm at the historic Rowland Theatre, highlighting what they’ve learned and where they hope the community can go next.

The event will also offer practical resources. In addition to the Lion Mobile Clinic screenings, FNB Bank and Timberland Federal Credit Union will host financial literacy workshops on topics such as managing a checking account, purchasing a first home, and starting a business.

Centre County nonprofit partners including Centre Foundation, Centre Safe, Discovery Space & The Rivet, the Youth Service Bureau, and the Philipsburg Revitalization Corporation will be on site connecting with families and sharing resources.

“Following the collapse of the coal industry in the 1980s, generations of young people moved away from Philipsburg and never returned,” said Philipsburg Revitalization Corporation President Eric Rusnak. “We need young, new, strong leaders to see their own futures in Philipsburg and to build their home here, so we can improve our town’s economy and quality of life.”

Following the event, downtown partners will collaborate to shape future Second Saturday themes. The long-term goal is simple: create steady, predictable foot traffic downtown and build lasting economic momentum for Philipsburg businesses and organizations.

Additional dates include:

April 11
May 9
June 13
July 11
August 8

Additional partners include DiamondBack Covers and The DiamondBack Foundation, the Philipsburg-Osceola School District, UNESCO Youth as Researchers, Keystone Community Scholars, and local youth and residents.

The series will continue monthly through the summer, with potential expansion into the fall based on participation and community feedback.

Organizers describe the vision simply: keep youth leadership at the center, expand access to services, and strengthen downtown connections — month by month.

For more information, visit:
www.outreach.psu.edu/about/keystone-community-partnerships

Media Contact:
Jamison J. Malcolm, Ph.D.
Director, Keystone Community Partnerships
Penn State Outreach
jjm6100@psu.edu

CBICC Welcomes Seven New Members to Our Business Community

Posted on by Jaimie Confer

The Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County is proud to welcome several new members this month, representing healthcare, financial services, creative businesses, nonprofits, and local experiences. Each brings its own expertise and perspective to the region, helping strengthen the fabric of Centre County’s business community.

Botejue Health: Led by Dr. Mahesh Botejue, Botejue Health provides internal medicine care with a strong focus on preventative health and lifestyle-based wellness. Board certified in internal medicine, Dr. Botejue earned his MD and MBA through Temple University after completing his undergraduate studies at UC San Diego and his residency at UC Riverside. Drawn to rural healthcare and the sense of community in Central Pennsylvania, he is proud to call State College home and is committed to helping patients focus on long-term health and healthy aging. Learn more at: https://www.botejuehealth.com/

Chase Bank: Chase Bank works with individuals, families, and businesses to manage everyday banking and plan for what’s next. From checking and savings accounts to lending, investing, and business support, Chase offers a mix of in-person service and easy-to-use digital tools. With local branches, a large ATM network, and an emphasis on security and guidance, Chase provides practical banking options designed to fit customers’ lives. Learn more at: https://www.chase.com/

Bona Fide Photo: Bona Fide Photo is a photography business focused on helping people feel confident, comfortable, and like themselves in front of the camera. Specializing in engagement and wedding photography, Sara brings the same thoughtful, people-first approach to capturing a wide range of events and meaningful moments. Each session is designed so clients walk away feeling seen, celebrated, and truly represented in their photos. Learn more at: https://bonafidephoto.com/

Pets Come First: Pets Come First is a local nonprofit dedicated to placing stray and unwanted animals into safe, loving homes. Founded in 2005, the organization played a key role in transitioning the Centre Hall shelter to no-kill status and now facilitates more than 600 adoptions each year. Supported by donations, adoption fees, and a dedicated team of staff and volunteers, Pets Come First continues to strengthen animal welfare across Centre County. Learn more at: https://petscomefirst.net/

Central PA Tasting Trail: The Central PA Tasting Trail invites people to get to know the region’s breweries, wineries, distilleries, and cideries one stop at a time. Using a simple passport system, participants visit member locations, collect stamps, and earn a reward after completing the trail. It’s an easy, fun way to support local makers while enjoying the craft beverage scene throughout Central Pennsylvania. Learn more at: https://www.centralpatastingtrail.com/

Dads’ Resource Center: The Dads’ Resource Center supports single fathers working to remain active, involved parents while navigating complex court and social service systems. Founded in 2015 by AccuWeather Founder and Executive Chairman Dr. Joel N. Myers, the organization provides education, advocacy, and hands-on support with a child-centered approach. To date, the Dads’ Resource Center has helped more than 500 fathers and continues to advocate for fair, equitable parenting policies at both the state and national level. Learn more at: https://dadsrc.org/

Centre Cleaning Solutions: Centre Cleaning Solutions LLC provides commercial and residential cleaning services throughout Centre County, including office and janitorial cleaning, carpet cleaning, move-out services, and disinfection. Locally owned and operated, the company emphasizes quality, reliability, and attention to detail, offering customized cleaning solutions for businesses, medical facilities, and homes across the region. Learn more at: https://centrecleaningsolutionsllc.net/

Each of these new members adds something meaningful to our local business ecosystem. We’re proud to welcome them to the CBICC network and look forward to supporting their continued growth and connection within Centre County.

Geisinger to host Heart Month blood pressure screening event for community

Posted on by Jules Slater

LEWISTOWN, Pa. — In recognition of American Heart Month, Geisinger will host a free community blood pressure screening and heart health awareness event on Saturday, Feb. 28, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Geisinger School of Nursing in Lewistown. Community members can take advantage of this convenient opportunity to have their blood pressure checked and learn practical tips for maintaining heart‑healthy habits.

Geisinger clinicians will conduct blood pressure screenings. Educational materials, including medication cards and blood pressure tracking cards, will be available to help participants better understand and manage their heart health.

“Our goal during Heart Month is provide easy, accessible, personalized information about hypertension,” said Geisinger nephrologist Stacy Andersen, M.D., Ph.D. “High blood pressure usually has no symptoms. So simple screenings like this can help people take control of their heart health.”

In addition to screenings, attendees will receive heart‑themed giveaways, including pill organizers and magnets, while supplies last. Refreshments will also be available.

Adding a special community touch, homemade Valentine’s cards created by students at Lewistown Intermediate School will be shared with attendees, reinforcing the message of caring for hearts — both physically and emotionally.

The event is free and open to the public, and no appointment is required.

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 500 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.

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Increased Flight Service Will Provide Travelers with Expanded Flexibility

Posted on by Jules Slater

BENNER TOWNSHIP, PA. — The Centre County Airport Authority at State College Regional  Airport announced expanded commercial air service beginning March 30, increasing connectivity and travel options for passengers across Central Pennsylvania. 

The enhanced schedule reflects continued growth in passenger demand and ongoing collaboration between the Airport and its airline partners – American and United – to strengthen air service for the region.  

“Increased flight availability is an important step forward for our community and regional economy,” said Jason McMurtrie, Assistant Executive Director, Landside Operations for the Centre County Airport Authority.  “Expanding service beginning March 30 demonstrates confidence in our Central Pennsylvania market and reinforces our commitment to providing reliable, convenient air travel options for the residents, businesses, and visitors we serve.” 

Beginning March 30, United will operate up to ten flights on most days of the week, including Six flights to Chicago and four flights to Washington Dulles. Later in 2026, American Airlines will increase service to four daily flights to Philadelphia.  While flight schedules will adjust seasonally, the expanded service represents a significant increase in overall capacity.  As a result, State College Regional Airport projects approximately 20,000 additional seats available in 2026 compared with 2025 levels.   

Centre County Airport Authority leadership noted that the service expansion aligns with broader efforts to enhance connectivity, support economic development, and respond to sustained recovery in air travel demand. 

Passengers are encouraged to check directly with their airlines for updated schedules and booking availability as the March 30 service changes approach. 

About State College Regional Airport 
State College Regional Airport is co-sponsored by the Pennsylvania State University and the Centre County Airport Authority.  They work together with a focus on maintaining safe, efficient, and customer-focused operations while positioning itself for future growth.