STATE COLLEGE

Scholar Hotels and its affiliate, Scholar Hospitality Holdings I LLC, announced the upcoming launch of a real estate investment platform designed to expand access to private market opportunities — featuring a planned minimum investment of $5,000 and a structure intended to include investors beyond the traditionally limited accredited investor base.

The initiative comes amid a broader shift in private markets, where regulatory frameworks such as Regulation A have enabled greater participation from retail investors. Historically, direct investment in institutional-quality real estate has been largely restricted to accredited investors. By lowering the minimum investment threshold and broadening eligibility, Scholar aims to open participation to a significantly wider audience while maintaining regulatory compliance.

The platform is designed to connect individuals with a passion for Happy Valley to ownership in a portion of Scholar Hotels’ State College portfolio, which includes five hospitality-driven assets. The portfolio consists of hotel, dining and retail properties supported by recurring demand from alumni, students and year-round visitation.

Applebee’s honoring teachers and nurses

In celebration of Teachers and Nurses Appreciation Week, Applebee’s locations owned and operated by Flynn Group are saying “thank you” with a bite of appreciation.

Now through Friday, teachers and nurses can enjoy a free appetizer (up to $12 value) or free dessert with the purchase of an entree at participating Flynn Applebee’s locations by simply showing a valid badge and mentioning the offer.

Participating area locations include Altoona, Ebensburg, Johnstown and State College.