2 Bellefonte businesses honored for their contributions to grow nature tourism in PA Wilds
Two Bellefonte businesses have been recognized for their role in growing the outdoor recreation economy and nature tourism in central Pennsylvania.
Belle Mercantile and The Gamble Mill were among nine winners of the 2022 Champions of the PA Wilds Awards. The Pennsylvania Wilds is a 13-county region that includes northern Centre, Clinton, Clearfield, Elk and Lycoming counties.
“The Champion of the Pennsylvania Wilds Awards celebrate individuals, groups, organizations, communities and businesses that in the last year have made significant contributions to help grow and sustainably develop the outdoor recreation economy and nature tourism in the Pennsylvania Wilds in a way that creates jobs, diversifies local economies, inspires stewardship and improves quality of life,” the PA Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship said in a statement Wednesday.
Belle Mercantile was awarded business of the year. Andrea Skirpan and husband Brian Bonner opened the artisan marketplace in 2020. “In addition to providing a cost-effective space, Belle Mercantile promotes the businesses within through its own advertising efforts while also acting as a customer service representative to handle customer orders and requests,” the PA Wilds Center said, noting that Skirpan and Bonner are leaders in the business community.
The Gamble Mill received the Great Design Award. Brothers Chris and Jonathan Virgilio bought the historic waterfront property in 2019. “The owners had to find the right balance in the design to preserve the historic nature of the building while incorporating modern amenities,” the PA Wilds Center said. The mill now operates as an inn and features a restaurant, cocktail lounge, speakeasy and boutique.
County governments, visitor bureaus, local organizations as well as the state departments of Conservation and Natural Resources and Community and Economic Development participate in the award process. All of the winners will be honored at a dinner July 28 at Bald Bird Brewing Co. in Jersey Shore.