AMERICA250PA: 'Growing our Nation'

Founded by Penn State grad student Joel N. Myers in 1962, AccuWeather has grown from its inception in Ferguson Township to provide weather for communities all across America, through newspapers, radio, television, and the internet.

Every resident of Centre County understands how important the beautiful Pennsylvanian outdoors are in their community. Appalachian Outdoors was founded in 1974 to provide the wardrobe and equipment they need for adventure.

Named after the Lenape Chief Woapalanne, Bald Eagle State Park opened to the public for camping and exploration in 1971. Its dam is named after native resident Private Foster Joseph Sayers, who gave his life for our freedom against the Axis powers in WWII.

In 1982, a group of residents met in Duffy's Tavern to develop a center where locals can gather to learn about and celebrate their community. Thus, Boalsburg Heritage Museum was born.

Established in 2015, the Central PA Tasting Trail embodies the entrepreneurial spirit of America by unifying the brewery craftsmen of Centre County. Unique flavors and beautiful vistas make this a relaxing way to explore our community.

The spirit of competition has long been a part of America's story, and in Centre County that is no different. Established in 2016, the Centre County Sports Hall of Fame seeks to recognize local athletes beyond the parameters of Penn State.

The LGBT+ community has long faced adversity in the American story. In 2014, Centre LGBT+ was established to prevent LGBT+ suicides in our community. Less than a year later, same-sex marriage would be legalized through the Supreme Court. Since then, the struggle for civil rights has remain precedent in American politics. The LGBT+ center continues to support and educate Centre County on its community.

Athleticism and exploration is a core part of the American spirit. Climb Nittany serves to give people of all ages an outlet to express themselves and test their limits in a safe environment.

From Lewis & Clarke's expedition to Roosevelt's safari, Americans have always had a curiosity for nature and its diverse inhabitants. Clyde Peeling was no different when he founded his zoo in 1964.

Fishing and hiking has always been an essential recreation for Americans of all types. For some, it's even a profession. Colyer Lake was established in 1966 to provide a welcoming space for these activities.

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) brought our scientists to develop the first airplane. It allowed us to be the first humans to step foot on the moon. The Discovery Space & The Rivet opened in 2011 to inspire the next generation of scientists.

America does not have as strong of a cycling culture compared to other countries. A group of college friends pledged to change that when in 2005 they opened a bicycle shop out of their basement. Today, Freeze Thaw Cycles remains a cornerstone of our community, promoting America's push toward eco-friendly forms of transportation.

The Lincoln Caverns were discovered in 1930 by a family of farmers. The next year it was opened to the public and has since been passed down through generations of different owners. The second half of the cavern, the Whisper Rocks, were discovered in 1941. Today these caves continue to incite adventure in our community.

The 19th century was an active time for deforestation as America was building itself. Pennsylvania was no different, by the end of the century much of the Moshannon Forest was uninhabitable. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania purchased this land in 1898 to preserve it. Today, Moshannon houses three state parks.

Agriculture played a major role in America's early years, and in Centre County it was no different. The PASTO Agricultural Museum exhibits the technology used by local farmers up until the 1930s, when industrialization really began to influence the way we harvested our food.

From Saquon Barkley to Jack Ham, Penn State has produced thousands of pro athletes during its 170+ year history. The All-Sports Museum was founded in 2002 by former Athletic Director Tim Curley and Head Football Coach Joe Paterno out of an old trophy room to celebrate their school's legacy.

Built in 1928, Rec Hall has been the epicenter for many of Penn State's sports programs. Multiple championships were won here across its near-100 year history, and it continues to house gymnastics, volleyball, and wrestling matches to this day.

Opened in 1917 shortly after America's involvement in WWI, The Rowland Theater is one of the oldest operating movie theaters in America. Risked at being shut down in the late 1970s, the Philipsburg community rallied to save their theater. It has since been placed on the National Register of Historic Places, and continues to screen new and classic movies to this day. Since 2019, it has been a leading venue in the Centre Film Festival.

Opened in 1946, The Bicycle Shop is the oldest in Centre County. Their diverse line of equipment accommodates everything from casual to mountain biking.

Since 1926, the Woodward Cave has provided hundreds of yards for adventurers to explore. Originally known as Red Panther to European Settlers, legend has it that that the son of a Seneca tribe chief was buried here after being killed by lightning for cutting down a sacred tree. Since 2013, the Woodward Cave has promoted a bat restoration habitat for its declining population. In just under a decade, over 1000 bats have returned to their natural habitats.