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Shop with Purpose This Holiday Season at Good Day Café

Posted on by Jules Slater

Looking for thoughtful, easy holiday gifts for clients, employees, teachers, service providers, neighbors, friends, and family? Good Day Café has you covered with delicious, locally made gifts that feel personal and meaningful, without the stress of searching for the perfect item.

When you choose to gift Good Day Café items this holiday season, you are giving something people truly enjoy while also supporting something that truly matters.

Perfect for Business and Personal Gifting

Holiday Treats
Assorted cookie gift bags: $15
Half dozen sugar or chocolate chip cookies: $6

Coffee Lover’s Gift Bundle – $45
Includes a bag of Good Day Café coffee, a café mug, and flavored syrup. Beautifully packaged and ready to gift.

Premium Coffee Blends
One blend: $21
Two blends: $40
All three blends: $50

Mugs & Merchandise
Perfect for everyday gifting and team appreciation

Gift Cards
An easy option for clients, staff, and last-minute shoppers—let them choose their favorites.

How to Shop

  • Shop in store for coffee, cookies, mugs, and gift bundles. Located at Hamilton Square Shopping Center
  • Shop merchandise online at gooddaycafe.org/merch
  • Purchase gift cards in store or online at
    https://squareup.com/gift/GJ06WRP7NPEFM/order

Good Day Café is operated by Strawberry Fields and provides meaningful employment for individuals with intellectual disabilities, autism, and mental health challenges. Every purchase helps create opportunities that build confidence, independence, and skills.

This year, skip the generic gift basket. Choose gifts that taste great, support local, and make a real difference, one cup, one cookie, and one opportunity at a time.

Scholar Hotels Invites the Community to Celebrate the Magic of the Holidays at the Nittany Lion Inn & The Penn Stater Hotel & Conference Center

Posted on by Jules Slater

State College, PA — December 2025 — Holiday cheer is in full swing at the Nittany Lion Inn and The Penn Stater Hotel & Conference Center, where a festive lineup of events, culinary experiences, and hands-on workshops is transforming both hotels into the most spirited destinations in Happy Valley. From nostalgic traditions to interactive family fun, each event has been designed to bring the community — and visitors — together for a season of celebration.

Local media are invited to attend, capture the festivities, and experience these beloved properties during the holidays.

A Season of Culinary Delights & Festive Experiences

Weekend Brunch at Lionne American Brasserie AMERICAN BRASSERIE, Nittany Lion Inn
Every Saturday & Sunday | 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Beginning December 6
Lionne American Brasserie AMERICAN BRASSERIE at the Nittany Lion Inn has launched weekend brunch — an elevated, cozy morning experience complete with seasonal dishes, warm hospitality, and a fireside atmosphere perfect for family gatherings or a relaxing start to the day.

Holiday Luncheon Buffets at Lionne American Brasserie AMERICAN BRASSERIE, Nittany Lion Inn
December 5, 12, & 19
Designed for small businesses, family celebrations, and corporate teams, these festive lunchtime buffets offer a stress-free holiday meal with a beautifully curated seasonal menu.

Feast of the Seven Fishes — Christmas Eve Dinner at the Nittany Lion Inn
Guests can reserve a seat for this cherished culinary tradition featuring a thoughtfully crafted Seven Fishes menu — a timeless and flavorful way to celebrate Christmas Eve.

Christmas Eve & New Year’s Day Brunch at The Gardens, The Penn Stater Hotel & Conference Center
The Gardens is hosting two special holiday brunches, each featuring celebratory menus, warm ambiance, and dishes designed to bring people together.

The Return of a Beloved Tradition: The Nittany Lion Inn Gingerbread Replica

One of the Inn’s most nostalgic holiday traditions is back for the first time since reopening — a handcrafted gingerbread replica of the Nittany Lion Inn, created by the artist who made the display famous more than two decades ago.

Heather Luse of Delectable Delights, known for her longtime work with the Penn State Bakery, is once again bringing this sweet piece of history to life. The Nittany Lion Inn culinary team has contributed additional gingerbread creations to complete a full holiday display that promises to be a must-see attraction for guests, families, and photographers.

The display is located in the lobby near Harper’s boutiques and will be available throughout the holiday season.

Stan the Gingerbread Man: A Whimsical Holiday Scavenger Hunt

This year, the Nittany Lion Inn introduces Stan the Gingerbread Man, a playful character who “travels” around the Nittany Lion Inn. Guests are invited to join the hunt, find Stan in his daily hiding place, and claim a complimentary hot chocolate as their reward.

A charming, interactive activation — and a fun photo and video opportunity for media.

Family-Friendly Events & Creative Workshops

Brunch with Santa at the Nittany Lion Inn
December 13 | 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Families are invited to enjoy a magical holiday brunch experience complete with festive dishes and a visit from Santa himself.

Wreath-Making Workshop with Rooted Farmstead
The Penn Stater | December 14
Guests can create their own custom wreaths using seasonal greens and locally sourced materials.
More Information: https://www.rootedfarmstead.com/products/wreath-decorating-with-santa-penn-stater-holiday-2025

Holiday Centerpiece Workshop with Rooted Farmstead
Nittany Lion Inn | December 21
This hands-on floral workshop allows guests to design their own Christmas centerpiece in a cozy seasonal setting.
More Information: https://www.rootedfarmstead.com/products/christmas-floral-centerpiece-workshop-the-nittany-lion-inn-holiday-2025

A Festive Invitation to Local Media

Both properties welcome media to visit, take photos and video of the décor and events, and experience the warmth and joy of the season firsthand.
Interviews with hotel leadership, culinary team members, and event partners can be arranged upon request.

About Scholar Hotel Group

Scholar Hotel Group owns and operates a growing portfolio of hospitality properties with a passion for delivering exceptional experiences rooted in comfort, community, and local pride. The company is dedicated to preserving cherished traditions while bringing fresh energy, elevated dining, and innovative programming to each destination. Scholar Hotels currently manages: The Nittany Lion Inn; The Penn Stater Hotel & Conference Center; Scholar Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton; Hyatt Place; Courtyard by Marriott; and the Residence Inn in State College, PA, in addition to other properties located in Syracuse, NY; Philadelphia, PA; Morgantown, WV; and Radford, VA. 

HOLIDAY EVENTS AT A GLANCE — NITTANY LION INN & THE PENN STATER

December 5
• Holiday Luncheon Buffet at Lionne American Brasserie — Nittany Lion Inn
Time: Lunch service (exact service window as scheduled)

Beginning December 6
• Weekend Brunch at Lionne American Brasserie— Nittany Lion Inn
Every Saturday & Sunday through the season
Time: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM

December 10–January 1 Holiday Week (Ongoing)
• “Stan the Gingerbread Man” Interactive Hunt — Nittany Lion Inn
Daily — Guests find Stan to earn a complimentary hot chocolate.

December 12
• Holiday Luncheon Buffet at Lionne American Brasserie— Nittany Lion Inn
Time: Lunch service

December 13
• Brunch with Santa — Nittany Lion Inn
Time: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM

December 14
• Wreath-Making Workshop with Rooted Farmstead — The Penn Stater

December 19
• Holiday Luncheon Buffet at Lionne American Brasserie — Nittany Lion Inn
Time: Lunch service

December 21
• Holiday Centerpiece Workshop with Rooted Farmstead — Nittany Lion Inn

December 24 (Christmas Eve)
• Feast of the Seven Fishes Dinner — Nittany Lion Inn
• Christmas Eve Brunch at The Gardens — The Penn Stater

January 1 (New Year’s Day)
• New Year’s Day Brunch at The Gardens — The Penn Stater
Time: As scheduled

Ongoing Holiday Feature
• Nittany Lion Inn Gingerbread Replica — Lobby at the Nittany Lion Inn
Available daily throughout the holiday season.

Penn Highlands Healthcare Kicks off Annual Giving Campaign

Posted on by Jules Slater

Penn Highlands Healthcare has kicked off its Annual Giving Campaign, dedicated to Women’s Cancer Care, ensuring funding for hope and healing. With your support of the campaign, “Together for Her,” the health system can continue to offer early detection screenings, access to cutting-edge treatments and compassionate care that makes a real difference.

“When I first heard the words, you do in fact have breast cancer, I was terrified. I was diagnosed with stage 2 Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, and my world was turned upside down,” said Melissa Wayne who is a breast cancer survivor.  “From my very first meeting, Dr. Kelley Smith and her staff gave me hope. The care and skill she showed saved my life, and there are no words to express how grateful I am to her. Dr. Smith never made me feel like just another patient, but instead as a person whose well-being truly mattered.”

“Women who come to Penn Highlands Healthcare receive innovative therapies delivered by knowledgeable and skilled professionals using advanced technology. We know that a key factor in their outcome and care are their health screenings. Screenings save lives for patients, and improve overall outcome and staging of disease faster, than those who do not get regular screenings as part of their cancer prevention,” said Kelley Smith, DO, FACOS, a board-certified general surgeon at Penn Highlands Healthcare who specializes in women’s health.

The Annual Giving Campaign includes Penn Highlands Brookville, Penn Highlands Clearfield, Penn Highlands DuBois, Penn Highlands Elk, Penn Highlands Huntingdon, Penn Highlands State College and Penn Highlands Tyrone.

Members of the community can make a gift to the Penn Highlands Healthcare Annual Giving Campaign to help offer early detection screenings, access to cutting-edge treatments and compassionate care that makes a real difference. To donate online, visit //giving.phhealthcare.org/giving or send a check payable to Penn Highlands Healthcare to Penn Highlands Fund Development at 100 Hospital Avenue, DuBois, PA 15801.

Direct questions to Lindsey Herzing, Donor Relations Manager for Penn Highlands Healthcare System Fund Development, at ldherzing@phhealthcare.org or call 814-275-3902.

Air Service Alliance Calls for Community Contributions to Fly State College Fund

Posted on by Jules Slater

Fund aims to strengthen regional air service and expand connectivity at State College Regional Airport.

CENTRE COUNTY, PA – December 9, 2025 – The State College Air Service Alliance—a strategic partnership between the Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County (CBICC), Centre County Airport Authority (CCAA), The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau (HVAB), and Penn State University—is encouraging individuals and businesses to support regional air service by contributing to the Fly State College Fund. Launched earlier this year at the State College Air Service Summit, the fund remains open for public contributions of any size.

The Fly State College Fund directly supports air service growth and provides opportunities for community investment in reliable, competitive air service at State College Regional Airport (SCE). As the Fund continues to grow, the Alliance is calling for contributions from businesses and individuals in and beyond Centre County who recognize the regional benefit of strong, sustainable air service. Contributions to the Fly State College Fund serve as Centre County’s community incentive to attract and retain air service and routes at SCE.

According to a study by Volaire Aviation Consulting, only 13 percent of travelers within a 60-mile radius of SCE choose to fly from the airport. The remaining 87 percent drive to Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Harrisburg, and other airports to access direct flights to their destinations. Expanding flight options at SCE would significantly reduce this travel burden and keep tourism and travel dollars in the region, supporting local jobs, hospitality, and broader economic growth.

“The Fly State College Fund provides revenue guarantees, marketing support, and financial incentives that go beyond what the airport alone can offer prospective carriers,” said Greg Scott, President & CEO of CBICC. “This demonstrates that our community is invested in expanding air service locally and aware of its impact on our economy.”

Air service plays an important role in the region’s economic development, improving access for business and leisure travelers and fueling tourism and visitor spending. Volaire’s study also identified the top destinations for Centre County travelers as Orlando, South Florida/Miami, and St. Petersburg, Florida, reflecting strong demand for direct flights to Florida destinations from SCE.

“Investing in air service is a priority for economic development, including efforts to grow the economy through tourism,” said Fritz Smith, President and CEO of The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau. “Expanded flight options in key markets help to broaden our marketing reach and make it easier for more visitors to discover Centre County as a destination. In the process, greater support is provided to our small businesses, hotels, restaurants, events and attractions.”

For local institutions like Penn State University, air service also serves as an important connector to the rest of the country and the world.

“Reliable air service helps support faculty recruitment, student travel, research activity, and visitation to our campus,” said Mike Stefan, VP of Government and Community Relations at Penn State. “The Fly State College Fund is a tool that will help ensure the university and the region remain well-connected.”

The Fund complements CCAA’s ongoing air service development efforts, which include maintaining airport operations and engaging directly with airlines. So far, the fund has attracted contributions from major organizations including Alliance partners and local municipalities, as well as contributions from individuals and businesses in the community, totaling $130,000 of the fund’s $500,000 goal.

“It’s important that anyone in the community who would like to see enhanced service at State College Regional Airport gets involved now,” said Ralph Stewart, Interim Executive Director of the Centre County Airport Authority. “This united, community-backed fund strengthens our airport’s case for new routes and additional service.”

Contributions to the Fly State College Fund can be made online at www.flystatecollege.com, or by mailing checks payable to the Fly State College Fund to the CBICC office at 131 S. Fraser Street, Suite 1, State College PA, 16801.

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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.

Centre County United Way Launches “United Wins: The Give & Win Calendar”

Posted on by Jules Slater

Community raffle offers chances to win cash prizes while supporting essential local services

December 2, 2026, State College, PA – Centre County United Way (CCUW) is introducing a new way for community members to give back and have a little fun at the same time with the launch of United Wins: The Give & Win Calendar, a month-long cash calendar raffle benefiting CCUW’s Partner Agency Network.

Throughout the month of January, each raffle calendar gives the holder 10 chances per day to win cash prizes totaling more than $5,000, while helping fund programs that support the health, education, and financial stability of more than 40,000 Centre County residents.

“This calendar is about more than daily drawings—it’s daily impact,” said Megan Evans, Executive Director, Centre County United Way. “Every ticket purchased helps our neighbors access safe housing, nutritious food, early learning opportunities, financial coaching, mental health support, and more. Every prize awarded represents another win for Centre County.”

  • How the United Wins: Give & Win Calendar Works
  • CCUW has printed 1,000 raffle calendars, each sold for $25.
  • Every calendar includes a set of 10 unique four-digit numbers, which together cover all possible combinations for the PA Lottery “Pick 4” 7pm drawing.
  • Each night in January, the official PA Lottery “Pick 4” drawing determines the winning number.
  • The raffle ticket with the matching number sequence wins that day’s cash prize, which is sponsored by a local business, organization, or caring community member.
  • There will only be one winner per day.
  • 100% of proceeds remain in Centre County to fund United Way programs and services through CCUW’s Partner Agency Network.

Winning ticket holders must contact Centre County United Way to verify their numbers and claim their prize. CCUW will regularly update its website and social media channels with winning numbers, and each raffle ticket includes a QR code linking directly to the PA Lottery list of drawings.

How to Purchase a Calendar

Community members can purchase calendars in several convenient ways:

  • Online: Buy securely with options to ship or pick up by visiting the United Wins Online Shop.
  • Pop-Up Shops: Look for CCUW at pop-up sale locations across the community; dates and locations will be posted on the Centre County United Way website and social media.
  • CCUW Office: Stop by the new CCUW office at 112 W. Foster Ave., Suite 301, State College, PA 16801 for a tour and to purchase a calendar in person.
  • Partner Sales Sites: Select local businesses and organizations will host onsite calendar sales; locations and dates will be announced as they are confirmed.

Our neighbors

Help CCUW Raise $25,000 for Local Programs

The goal of the United Wins calendar is to raise $25,000 in funding to support CCUW’s Partner Agency Network and the critical services they provide to neighbors across Centre County.

Those who want to further amplify their impact can:

  • Share CCUW social media posts to spread the word.
  • Host a pop-up sale or onsite sale at their business or organization.
  • Become a United Wins Ambassador by taking packs of calendars to sell to friends, family, colleagues, or customers. Ambassadors have no financial obligation, simply return any unsold calendars by the deadline agreed and receive recognition for their efforts.

About Centre County United Way

Centre County United Way brings people together to build a stronger, healthier, and more resilient community by investing in programs that improve lives through health, education, and financial stability. Working through a network of local Partner Agencies, CCUW ensures that donations stay local and address the most pressing needs facing Centre County families. Visit ccunitedway.org for more information,