Centre Daily Times week in review
Family of five displaced after Harris Township fire
A family of five has been left without a home after a fast-moving fire destroyed their Harris Township residence along the 600 block of Smith Lane. Woody and Molly Wilson, parents of three children aged 6 to 12, were awakened just before midnight when fire broke out in their garage and spread rapidly into the first and second floors before engulfing the roof. Woody Wilson, who operates Wilson Home Farms, used the garage as a business workshop. The family, along with their three dogs and a cat, evacuated safely, though Wilson burned his arm attempting to salvage belongings. Four volunteer fire companies responded, with a Centre Region fire marshal now investigating the cause. A GoFundMe organized by family friend Bodhi Spiegel raised more than $22,000 within 10 hours. Wilson told the Centre Daily Times the family hopes to remain on the property, calling it a magical place to raise children.
Reported by Bret Pallotto, published May 5
Beer festival canceled weeks before event
State College’s Hoppy Valley Brewers Fest was abruptly canceled just three weeks before the May 24 event at Panzer Stadium. Organizers cited “lower-than-anticipated ticket sales” and industry challenges for the cancellation. The festival, which featured upward of 70 breweries, first launched in 2024 at Beaver Stadium drawing over 3,000 attendees. It moved to Porter Lot North in 2025 due to stadium renovations and was set for Panzer Stadium this year. Ticket prices have risen from $75 in 2024 to $85 this year. All purchases will be automatically refunded through Ticketmaster, though organizers haven’t confirmed if the festival will return in 2027.
Reported by Josh Moyer, published on May 1
Pipe burst led to long hotel stays for apartment residents
A pipe burst on the 12th floor of The Maxxen, a luxury high-rise in downtown State College, in early February left multiple residents displaced for weeks or months, according to those affected. Residents described poor communication, unexpected costs for meals and laundry, and per diem payments issued only as gift cards. At least one student remained in a hotel as of late April, still paying $1,700 monthly rent despite being unable to return home. One resident said she was charged late fees after withholding March rent and placing it in escrow. Tom Wolf, regional manager of University Partners, said resident safety remains the top priority and that accommodations and compensation are consistent with lease terms. The Borough of State College said The Maxxen has remained code compliant throughout the incident.
Reported by Halie Kines, published April 30
Howard cabinet shop destroyed by fire
A custom kitchen cabinet shop in Howard was destroyed by an overnight fire that required an estimated one million gallons of water to extinguish. The cause is under investigation by a fire marshal and may have been electrical, authorities say. No one was inside when the blaze began. Owner Jim Josefik said 38 people were employed at G.P. Cabinets, which was set to mark its 12th anniversary the day after the fire. Josefik said he hopes to rebuild, though he estimates it will be at least six months before the company can move forward. Twenty-three fire companies from Centre and Clinton counties responded, with upward of 50 volunteer firefighters on scene. No injuries were reported.
Reported by Bret Pallotto, published April 30
Penn State director of athletic medicine dies at 68
The Penn State community is mourning the death of Dr. Wayne Sebastianelli, director of athletic medicine, who passed away Monday at age 68. Sebastianelli served Penn State athletics for more than 30 years and spent 38 years in the medical field, also holding roles as associate chief medical officer for Penn State Health in Centre County and chief of staff at Mount Nittany Medical Center. Athletic director Pat Kraft said he “embodied the very best of Penn State,” while President Neeli Bendapudi credited his lasting impact across students, colleagues, and the broader community. Former football player Adam Taliaferro, paralyzed during a 2000 game, offered a deeply personal tribute, calling Sebastianelli family and crediting him with giving hope in his darkest moment.
Reported by Jon Sauber, published May 5
Whiskey Barber Salon opens downtown
The Whiskey Barber Salon has opened at 135 S. Pugh St. in downtown State College, beneath the Scholar State College hotel, offering hair and beard grooming services with a western-themed atmosphere. Owner Tanya Campbell, a licensed cosmetologist with 15 years of salon management experience, describes the shop as focused on precision and personal connection rather than quick turnarounds. Standard haircuts start at $35 and include shampoo, conditioner, eyebrow trims, and a hot steam towel. The shop features whiskey-infused hot towels, Duke Cannon products made with Buffalo Trace bourbon, and complimentary refreshments. The Whiskey Barber Salon is also the first recipient of State College’s Retail Launch Assistance Program, which offers up to $15,000 in matched funding for first-time brick-and-mortar business owners.
Reported by Matt DiSanto, published May 1
This story was originally published May 6, 2026 at 4:49 PM with the headline "Centre Daily Times week in review."