August Business Roundup: Legal Battles, New Openings, and Changing Ownerships in Centre County
August proved to be a transformative month for the Centre County business landscape, characterized by a mix of high-stakes legal action, fresh entrepreneurial ventures, and the passing of the torch at beloved local institutions. As the region continues to evolve, here is a look at the major headlines shaping the local economy.
Legal Disputes and Strategic Shifts
The downtown State College corridor saw a significant legal development involving the Yugo Echelon high-rise at 330 W. College Ave. The property manager has initiated a lawsuit seeking over $1.16 million in unpaid rent from PSU Bagel Restaurant LLC. The developer had originally announced plans for a “Figo” Italian restaurant and a “Bagels & Co.” location, but neither venue opened at the site.
Meanwhile, the local gaming sector is undergoing a leadership change. Following a 33% revenue drop between May and June—marking the largest decline among Pennsylvania mini-casinos to date—Happy Valley Casino has appointed Peter Longi as its new general manager to stabilize operations.
Landmark Transitions and New Arrivals
In Bellefonte, a local icon has entered a new chapter. Jim Boscaino, the longtime owner of the 70-year-old Jim’s Italian Cuisine, has sold the establishment to Gary Landon, the owner of Happy Wraps. Landon has committed to preserving the restaurant’s cherished menu and staff, though he plans to scale back some of his existing Happy Wraps operations to focus on the transition.
State College’s dining and fitness scenes are also seeing new energy:
- Retail Returns: Jimmy John’s is set to return to the State College area, signing a lease at 1718 S. Atherton St. in Creekside Plaza, taking over the space formerly occupied by Subway.
- Fitness Expansion: Celebrating its 10-year anniversary, MBI Fitness is launching a 6,000-square-foot facility at 2101 S. Atherton St. in Hills Plaza. The gym, which held its grand opening on August 29, will cater specifically to personal training clients.
- Coffee Culture: Local coffee expert Frank Yeager is preparing for a mid-October opening of Third Planet Coffee Brewers at 300 S. Allen St., adding a new multi-roaster option to the downtown area.
Community Resilience and Culinary Growth
The month also highlighted the resilience of small business owners. In Worth Township, Salina and Ethan Swancer officially opened Swanky Beans at 7690 S. Eagle Valley Road. The launch came after more than a year of challenges, with the couple receiving significant support from the Port Matilda community in the form of labor, funds, and seating.
Additionally, local catering has gained a new flavor with the launch of “Philly Girl Eatzz.” Founder Janae Ross is bringing traditional Philadelphia-style soul food—including favorites like smothered chicken, fried fish, and collard greens—to local events and pickup services.
While growth remains steady in many sectors, the area also saw the closure of the Way Fruit Farm market on East Calder Way, which shuttered following failed lease negotiations. Despite the downtown exit, the business continues to operate its flagship location in Port Matilda.
The summary points above were compiled with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists. The source reporting referenced above was written and edited entirely by journalists.
