📰 WEEKLY PREVIEW |
* Top Stories: Scores & Highlights | 2026 High School Football |
Trivia Question❓In what year did all seven continents officially compete in the Olympic Games for the first time, marking a global milestone in sports participation? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
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The arrival of data center proposals in Blair County has triggered a heated debate over transparency and community involvement.
Tech firms are increasingly pressuring municipalities to move quickly, often asking officials to sign non-disclosure agreements during the early planning phase.
These NDAs keep details about project locations, environmental impacts, and development scope under wraps, fueling local concerns. Read More... |
Hollidaysburg American Legion Memorial Park has closed its beloved wooden playground, raising concern over playground safety across Blair County.
Orange barrels and caution tape now block the once-busy entrance, highlighting a sense of urgency throughout the community.
Local officials cite multiple hazards—from splintered, weathered wood and bee infestations to alarming vandalism, including a dangerously damaged slide.
For families, the closure is a difficult loss, as the playground has long been a symbol of community spirit, built decades ago with backing from civic groups and local leaders. Read More... |
Blair County, PA is intensifying suicide prevention efforts as mental health concerns remain a pressing issue in the community.
This month marks the return of a heartfelt suicide prevention walk at Saint Francis University, where the campus mall transforms into a supportive space for those affected by suicide and mental health struggles.
Since its launch in 2017, the annual walk has drawn a growing crowd, highlighting the profound impact of suicide on families and neighbors. Read More... |
Blair County pulsed with energy Friday night as high school football action drew packed crowds and sparked lively conversations across the region.
Week 2 games delivered both surprising upsets and dominant wins, with local fans filling stadiums and celebrating together under the lights.
Central sent a bold message by overwhelming Greater Johnstown 44-0, while Bellwood-Antis cruised past Bishop McCort 33-6, igniting the home crowd’s excitement.
The much-anticipated clash between Bishop Guilfoyle and Richland was a highlight, as Richland edged out a tight 21-16 victory, reflecting the fierce, competitive spirit of the LHAC this season. Read More... |
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Family-Friendly Events in Blair, Sept. 6 – Sept. 13, 2026 |
OX Roast Festival |
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Celebrate the end of summer at the Ox Roast Festival, happening every year on the Sunday and Monday of Labor Day Weekend! Enjoy delicious food, live music, and a variety of fun activities including kids games, Bingo, knife ring toss, and an exciting Sportsman’s Flea Market. The festival offers plenty for everyone, from shooting events to a wide assortment of unique vendors ready to showcase crafts, snacks, and more. Gather your friends and family and make unforgettable memories at this beloved community event. |
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Angelic Wellness Festival 2026 |
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KPOP WARRIORS LIVE! |
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Get ready to turn up the volume with K-POP WARRIORS LIVE! Experience an electrifying evening packed with music, excitement, and nonstop action to the rhythm of K-Pop right here in Altoona. This one-of-a-kind live show features stunning choreography, vibrant costumes, and high-energy performances that bring your favorite hits to life. Whether you're a longtime K-Pop fan or a newcomer, you'll enjoy a colorful, unforgettable night of music and entertainment. |
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Twilight at the Curve |
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Get ready to turn up the volume with K-POP WARRIORS LIVE! Experience an electrifying evening packed with music, excitement, and nonstop action to the rhythm of K-Pop right here in Altoona. This one-of-a-kind live show features stunning choreography, vibrant costumes, and high-energy performances that bring your favorite hits to life. Whether you're a longtime K-Pop fan or a newcomer, you'll enjoy a colorful, unforgettable night of music and entertainment. |
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From retail hubs in Altoona to beloved neighborhood spots in Hollidaysburg and Duncansville, exciting local updates are taking shape across Blair County.
Academy Sports + Outdoors (Altoona)
Shoppers across the region have a major new destination for athletic gear, camping supplies, and outdoor equipment with the grand opening of Academy Sports + Outdoors at 213 Park Hills Plaza. The new 60,000-square-foot facility officially opened its doors to hundreds of eager local customers, creating roughly 60 new jobs for our area. Store Management noted that the company chose Altoona to make active lifestyle gear more accessible to central Pennsylvania families, stating, "We're thrilled to bring a wide selection of top brands at great value to Altoona and give our neighbors everything they need to enjoy the outdoors right in their backyard". What makes this location special is its massive assortment of specialized hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation equipment tailored specifically to regional sports enthusiasts. You can welcome them to the community by visiting Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM and Sunday from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, or connect with them on Facebook (Academy Sports + Outdoors - Altoona, PA).
The Blue and White Snack Bar (Hollidaysburg)
A cherished local landmark has officially reopened its doors at 905 Union Street in Hollidaysburg under the proud new ownership of local couple Steve and Christina Bender. After remaining closed since May 2020 following the passing of longtime owner Nancy Kerns, the Benders stepped up to restore the beloved eatery. Christina Bender shared their passion for preserving a community institution, saying, "Seeing people here have such an iconic place to congregate and enjoy a sociable gathering for good food adds to the quaintness of our little slice of heaven, and we wanted to bring that tradition back for another generation". The diner retains its historic neighborhood charm while serving up classic diner breakfasts, smash burgers, and retro milkshakes. Stop in to support them Tuesday through Sunday for breakfast and lunch, and check out their Facebook page (@BlueAndWhiteSnackBar) for daily specials and updates.
The Sweet Spot Creamery (Duncansville)
Tucked behind Coffee on 3rd at 1524 Third Avenue in Duncansville, The Sweet Spot Creamery is a sweet addition to the local food scene. Launched as a hands-on student mentorship initiative in partnership with the Hollidaysburg Area School District and Coffee on 3rd owner Ashlyn Dugan, the store is entirely built and run by local high school students under the guidance of district coordinator Deb Faith. "It's a win for students to get real-world business experience, a win for local shop owners, and a win for the whole community," noted marketing manager Linda Stotler. The creamery serves iconic Penn State Berkey Creamery ice cream out of a cozy outdoor seating space. Residents can treat themselves and encourage these young entrepreneurs Tuesday through Friday from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM and Saturday from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
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Blair Buzz: Five Positive TrendsBlair County is trending toward a lively, family-friendly fall filled with festivals, entertainment, learning and outdoor fun. 1. Wellness and community connection in Hollidaysburg: The Angelic Wellness Festival returns to Legion Memorial Park September 12–13. The free event features more than 130 vendors, food trucks, live music, demonstrations, pony rides, face painting, a petting zoo and a children’s treasure hunt. Sunday is especially geared toward families.[discoverblaircounty] 2. Model railroading excitement in Altoona: The N-Scale Weekend arrives at the Blair County Convention Center September 12–13, bringing layouts, exhibits and vendors for hobbyists and curious visitors alike. Kids 12 and under can attend the related model train show free.[altoonamirror][blairconventioncenter] 3. Local agriculture takes center stage: Altoona’s 93rd Annual Sinking Valley Farm Show runs September 15–19, celebrating regional farming with livestock, produce, baked goods, tractor rides, children’s games, entertainment and food vendors.[discoverblaircounty] 4. Hollidaysburg’s community traditions continue: The Hollidaysburg Community Fair is scheduled for September 21–24, offering livestock shows, 4-H competitions and local food while showcasing the borough’s agricultural heritage.[countyfairguide] 5. Tyrone gets a spirited Halloween preview: Camp Anderson will host the family-friendly Zombie Trail Fun Run October 24, with 4.5-mile, two-mile and one-mile options, costumes encouraged and fun for multiple ages.[discoverblaircounty] These events show Blair County embracing togetherness, creativity and seasonal adventure. |
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Local Shout-outs, Heroes, Causes, Fundraisers, Volunteer OpportunitiesThe Blair BuzzWelcome to this week's edition of your Blair County neighborhood check-in! From local honors to crucial community causes, here is what’s happening in our own backyard this week.
👏 Local ShoutoutsSweet Success: Patty Shaw Receives 2026 Lifetime Achievement Honor
We are throwing a massive local round of applause to Patty Shaw, CEO of Shirley's Cookie Company, Inc! Patty is being officially recognized by the Blair County Chamber of Commerce as the 2026 Lifetime Achievement for Business Excellence Award recipient for her extraordinary leadership and lasting dedication to our local business community.
🌟 Local HeroesCommunity Fur-ends: CPHS Pets Visit the Hollidaysburg Library
A huge shoutout to the dedicated staff and sweet rescue pets from the Central PA Humane Society! These furry heroes are heading over to the Hollidaysburg Area Public Library to give local youngsters a gentle, non-judgmental partner to practice their reading skills with.
📢 Local CausesProtecting Our Neighborhoods: Blair County West Nile Virus Mitigation
Blair County field crews are taking active steps this week to protect our families from mosquito-borne illness through ultra-low-volume vector spraying across several municipalities. While county staff are working hard to curb insect populations, residents in target areas are asked to take precautions and stay indoors during application times.
💸 FundraisersWalking for Hope: 2026 Blair County Out of the Darkness Walk
Local teams are lacing up their sneakers to raise vital funds for suicide prevention and mental health support across Blair County. Organized in partnership with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, this uplifting community walk brings families together to share resources, honor loved ones, and break the stigma.
🤝 Volunteer OpportunitiesLend a Helping Hand at the Altoona Area Public Library Puzzle Swap
If you love bringing neighbors together for fun family activities, the Friends of the Altoona Area Public Library can always use a hand organizing community events! This week, the library is hosting a community-wide puzzle swap where neighbors can bring gently used puzzles and trade them for new family challenges.
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If you apply to adopt, please let the Humane Society know that you saw the listing in The Blair Buzz Newsletter! |
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💡 Answer to Trivia Question: 2000 |
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Warmly, Charles Sisk Editor |