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"Blair Buzz BOGO: Veterans Hospital Windfall, Big Boy Locomotive, Roadwork Chaos, Supersonic Renaissance!" "Share the excitement with friends & neighbors!"


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"Blair Buzz BOGO: Veterans Hospital Windfall, Big Boy Locomotive, Roadwork Chaos, Supersonic Renaissance!" "Share the excitement with friends & neighbors!"

The Blair Buzz
Archives
"Blair Buzz BOGO: Veterans Hospital Windfall, Big Boy Locomotive, Roadwork Chaos, Supersonic Renaissance!" "Share the excitement with friends & neighbors!"

Charles Sisk
May 25, 2026
Monday, May 25, 2026 - Memorial Day Observed annually on the last Monday of May, it serves as a solemn day for Americans to reflect on the ultimate sacrifice made by these individuals to secure and protect the nation's freedoms. |
Trivia Question❓What is the longest-running scripted TV show in America, surpassing even "The Simpsons" and "Law & Order"? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
The Blair Buzz is Sponsored by: |
Jessica Drost, a Northern Cambria mom, is redefining fashion with her boutique, Simply Drost. Her mission is clear: Every woman deserves to look and feel good in what she wears — without stressing over prices or harming the environment. Simply Drost offers curated pre-loved clothing, handbags, and accessories, ensuring each piece is both stylish and sustainable. Jessica’s careful selection means shoppers can trust they’re getting items that are cozy, flattering, and confidence-boosting — never just random leftovers. This approach matters for budget-conscious families in Cambria County, where every purchase stretches further. Monthly pop-up events across Blair, Cambria, and Westmoreland Counties let locals browse the boutique in person and meet Jessica herself. For those who prefer convenience, Simply Drost also offers online shopping with both pickup and shipping options. Support sustainable style and discover finds that truly fit — right in your community. Read More... |
Reach the Heart of the County: The Blair Buzz is where the county’s most active citizens, small business owners, and non-profit leaders gather to stay connected. Why Sponsor the Buzz? Values-Based Alignment: Place your ad alongside uplifting, local stories that matter to families and community leaders. High Engagement: Our subscribers are "doers" who actively look for ways to support small business and non-profit organizations. Support Local Storytelling: Your sponsorship keeps the "Buzz" alive, allowing us to highlight the boutiques, volunteers, heroes, and success stories that make Blair County home. Join our next issue: Connect with your neighbors and grow your local influence. Contact us today to discuss sponsorship and advertising opportunities. |
The James E. Van Zandt VA Medical Center in Altoona has received over $1.9 million in federal funding to enhance its infrastructure, marking a boost for veterans’ healthcare in Central Pennsylvania.
The majority of funds—nearly $1.3 million—will update the Food and Nutrition Service kitchen, adding new refrigeration and freezer units, a classroom for Healthy Teaching kitchen sessions, and expanded exam room space.
A separate project, valued at $275,000, will upgrade the air handling system at the VA Police Department, aiming to provide a safer environment for staff and visitors.
These initiatives are funded through the Veterans Health Administration’s Non-Recurring Maintenance program, which has allocated $4.8 billion this fiscal year to modernize VA healthcare sites nationwide.
The improvements are expected to ensure efficient, modern care for local veterans. Read More... |
The world’s largest operating steam locomotive, Big Boy No. 4014, will make a historic stop in Altoona from July 8 through July 11.
This visit marks the locomotive’s first East Coast tour, coinciding with celebrations of America’s 250th anniversary and a series of landmark events across several states, including Philadelphia’s Fourth of July festivities.
Altoona, known as “Railroad City” and home to the stellar Horseshoe Curve, will offer public and private viewing opportunities as Big Boy arrives the evening of July 8.
The event culminates with Big Boy’s dramatic climb up the Horseshoe Curve—an unforgettable moment uniting two icons of American railroading.
Local leaders expect a surge of visitors and urge early planning for hotels and dining.
Final viewing schedules and community events will be announced soon as excitement builds throughout Blair County. Read More... |
PennDOT is urging drivers to remain cautious, slow down, and stay alert in all active work zones.
Ongoing construction along Route 866 in Williamsburg and Woodbury is causing delays of up to 15 minutes and daytime lane restrictions as crews work on drainage, resurfacing, and safety upgrades.
On Route 453 near Tyrone and Snyder Township, drivers will see minor delays and a 23.5-mile detour through late August 2026 while major resurfacing, ADA ramp improvements, and culvert work continues.
In Bellwood, short delays are expected at the Business U.S. 220 and Stadium Drive intersection for a traffic signal and ADA ramp project.
Motorists are encouraged to follow posted signs and flaggers for everyone’s safety. Read More... |
On May 20, 1971, the U.S. Senate decisively canceled Boeing’s 2707 Supersonic Transport project, ending a vision for American commercial supersonic flight that had consumed nearly $1 billion and drawn orders from 25 major airlines.
Two prototypes were underway in Seattle, but neither would ever fly.
The abrupt termination cost over 60,000 Boeing workers their jobs, plunging the Puget Sound region into economic crisis and inspiring the iconic “Will the last person leaving Seattle please turn out the lights” billboard.
Technical struggles, environmental fears—especially around sonic booms and ozone—and shifting political support doomed the ambitious 300-seat, Mach 3 jet.
Today, supersonic dreams return as American and United Airlines order Boom Supersonic’s Overture jet, promising quieter, slower, and greener speeds.
Decades after the 2707’s demise, hopes for American supersonic travel rise anew. Read More... |
Have a business opening, community event, local hero story or pet-related news to share? Email Us your updates for next week's newsletter! theblairbuzz@gmail.com |
Blair Buzz BOGO |
The Blair Buzz is currently running a BOGO for July 4th & July sponsorships. When you purchase the month of July at the discounted rate, you will also get the month of August for Back to School promotions, at no charge. The closing date for the available slots that are left is June 19, 2026. We would love to have you join us!!! |
🗓️ Family-Friendly Events in Blair County, PAMay 25 – May 31, 2026
FREE EVENTS🎖️ Memorial Day — Monday, May 25Catholic War Vets Memorial Day Parade
Juniata Memorial Day Parade
Memorial Day Parade — Downtown Altoona
Hollidaysburg American Legion Memorial Day Parade
🎵 Music & EntertainmentPost Season (with The Big Time, Crash Nebula, Abstentious & Anchors to Anchors)
🏛️ Community & HistoricalVoices of Valor: Stories from the Front Lines
America 250 Blair County Community Day
🧘 Outdoor ActivitiesOutdoor Yoga + Sound Bath at Chimney Rocks
(Note: Listed here as it is a relatively low-cost wellness event worth noting near the free section.) 📚 Blair County Public Library Events — Listed Alphabetically by LibraryAll library programs are FREE unless noted. Libraries are closed Monday, May 25. Altoona Area Public Library (AAPL)1600 5th Ave, Altoona | 814-946-0417 | altoonalibrary.org Hours: Mon/Tue/Thu 8:30 AM–8 PM | Wed/Fri 8:30 AM–5 PM | Sat 9 AM–4 PM | Closed Sun & Mon May 25 AAPL — Closed (Memorial Day)
AAPL — Mother Goose
AAPL — Toddler Time
AAPL — Preschool Explorers
AAPL — Toddler Time (Two Sessions)
AAPL — Board of Trustees Meeting
AAPL — Mahjong Club
AAPL — Chess Club
AAPL — Fantastic Fridays
Cresson Public LibraryCresson, PA | 814-886-2619 | Closed Monday, May 25 Cresson Library — Closed (Memorial Day)
Cresson Library — Story Stitchers Sewing Club
Hollidaysburg Area Public Library405 Clark St, Hollidaysburg | 814-695-5961 | hollidaysburglibrary.org Programs below follow the confirmed 2025 recurring pattern. Call to confirm 2026 schedule. Hollidaysburg Library — Closed (Memorial Day)
Hollidaysburg Library — Canasta & Mah Jongg
Hollidaysburg Library — Maker Mondays
Hollidaysburg Library — Needlework & Arts Group
Hollidaysburg Library — Storytime and Craft
Hollidaysburg Library — Twisted Stitchers
Hollidaysburg Library — Dance, Sing and Play!
Roaring Spring Community LibraryRoaring Spring, PA | Closed May 22–25 (Memorial Day). Reopens Tuesday, May 26. Check their Facebook page for events during May 26–31.
Bellwood-Antis, Claysburg, Martinsburg, Tyrone, and Williamsburg libraries: No specific May 25–31 events were retrieved from online calendars. Contact each library directly for their schedules. PAID EVENTSDelGrosso's Amusement Park & Laguna Splash — Memorial Day Weekend
Outdoor Yoga + Sound Bath at Chimney Rocks
Voices of Valor Banquet (Keynote: Rocky Bleier)
Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark
Railroaders Memorial Museum
Baker Mansion History Museum
Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art (SAMA Altoona)
Quaint Corner Children's Museum
Note: The Yoga + Sound Bath at Chimney Rocks ($27) appears in both sections for visibility — it is a paid event. |
The 7-day weather forecast for Hollidaysburg, PA is as follows: Monday, May 25, 2026: High 69°F, Low 57°F, Cloudy
Tuesday, May 26, 2026: High 76°F, Low 57°F, Cloudy Wednesday, May 27, 2026: High 79°F, Low 58°F, Mostly Cloudy Thursday, May 28, 2026: High 84°F, Low 53°F, Partly Sunny Friday, May 29, 2026: High 80°F, Low 52°F, Sunny Saturday, May 30, 2026: High 75°F, Low 52°F, Partly Sunny Sunday, May 31, 2026: High 79°F, Low 48°F, Partly Sunny |
Quote Of The Day |
Hope is the only thing stronger than fear. |
One of the most talked-about upcoming openings in Blair County right now is 7 Brew Coffee, a fast-growing drive-thru coffee chain preparing to open along busy Plank Road in Altoona this summer. According to local reports, the stand plans to bring roughly 100 jobs to the area and will specialize in customizable coffees, teas, smoothies, shakes, and energy drinks — with literally thousands of drink combinations available. (WJAC) What’s interesting about this opening is how intentionally the company is talking about becoming part of the community, not just another quick-stop coffee place. Matt Peters, director of operations for Southern Pennsylvania, told WJAC they’re “excited to bring what 7 Brew is” to the Altoona area. That enthusiasm has already created buzz locally, especially among younger residents and commuters looking for more grab-and-go options along the Logan Township corridor. (WJAC) Once open, residents will be able to support the business at its new Plank Road location near the Logan Valley area. Hiring is already underway through the company’s careers page, and local coffee fans are watching closely for an official grand opening announcement later this summer. (WJAC) Another newer local favorite continuing to build momentum is Jamie’s Diner in Tyrone. The diner officially opened on May 1, 2025, but has quickly become one of the area’s emerging success stories after recently being selected for a feature on the “America’s Best Restaurants” Roadshow. Part of what makes the diner feel so connected to the community is the family involvement behind it. Jamie’s daughter and public relations director, Harkey Orsborne, shared how meaningful the support from the region has been, saying the family felt “beyond amazing” to be recognized so early into the restaurant’s journey. The recognition shines a spotlight not just on the diner itself, but on the growing number of independent restaurants and small businesses finding loyal support throughout northern Blair County. (altoonamirror.com) Residents can support Jamie’s Diner by stopping in for breakfast or lunch, following along on social media for the upcoming Roadshow feature, and continuing to spread the word about one of the county’s newest locally owned eateries. (altoonamirror.com) |
Hello, Blair County neighbors! It has been an incredible week across our communities. From high school auditoriums to local main streets, our neighbors have been stepping up, working hard, and looking out for one another. Grab a warm mug of coffee and take a look at the wonderful things happening right in our own backyard this week. Local ShoutoutsHigh School Stars Shine Bright at the 21st Annual Mirror Banquet!We have some amazing young talent in our area, and this week they got the star treatment they deserve. The Altoona Mirror hosted its annual sports banquet on Monday evening, celebrating the absolute best in local high school athletics. A massive round of applause goes to Zaelinh Nguyen-Moore of Altoona (Soccer and Basketball), Josh Banks of Hollidaysburg (Football and Baseball), and Mason Campagna of Claysburg-Kimmel (Football and Baseball) for being named the prestigious Athletes of the Year. Beyond their incredible stats on the field, these students were praised for bringing kindness, deep sportsmanship, and leadership into our community.
Local HeroesKeeping the Flame Alive: Local Officers Run for Special Olympics AthletesIf you saw a flurry of running sneakers and flashing lights on the highways this week, you were witnessing our local law enforcement heroes in action! Local police officers teamed up with inspiring Special Olympians to carry the torch through our region for the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run. These dedicated officers ran miles side-by-side with the athletes, raising awareness and showing unwavering support for individuals with intellectual disabilities. It was a beautiful, high-energy display of inclusion and community protectors going the extra mile—literally!—to make everyone feel like a champion.
Local CausesBlair County Unites at the Convention Center to "Go Red for Women"Heart disease remains the number one killer of women, but our local leaders are refusing to let that fact go unnoticed. This week, the Blair County community gathered for the hallmark Blair Go Red for Women evening to wrap up a massive, multi-week fundraising and advocacy push. Following a record-breaking previous year that raised over $118,000 locally, five amazing Blair County women stepped up as "Woman of Impact" nominees this spring. They spent weeks teaching hands-only CPR, spreading vital cardiovascular health education, and ensuring that our local mothers, daughters, and sisters have the tools they need to live long, healthy lives.
FundraisersBeautiful Blooms for a Beautiful Mission: Mother's Day & Memorial Day Flower SaleLooking to brighten up your front porch for the holiday weekend while supporting an incredible cause? The Jaffa Shrine Road Runners are hosting their annual hanging flower basket sale right now! Every single penny raised from these gorgeous flowers directly funds the Road Runners' mission: transporting local children who require specialized medical care to and from Shriners Hospitals in Philadelphia, Erie, and Dayton, Ohio—completely free of charge to their families. Rick Feltenberger, the group’s president, and his team have the garage packed with color and are waiting to help you pick the perfect basket.
Volunteer OpportunitiesStep Up to the Plate with the Miracle League of Blair County!The weather is warm, the double-headers are booked, and the Miracle League of Blair County is officially celebrating its landmark 20th season of adaptive baseball! This amazing non-profit gives children under the age of 21 with special needs a full, authentic baseball experience—complete with team uniforms, dugouts, and booming stadium announcements. But a league this special, needs an equally special roster of volunteers. They are actively seeking friendly local faces to step up as "buddies" to help players on the field, serve as coaches, or help dish out smiles and hot dogs at the concession stands on Saturday mornings.
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Have a business opening, community event, local hero story or pet-related news to share? Email Us your updates for next week's newsletter! theblairbuzz@gmail.com |
If you apply to adopt, please let the Humane Society know that you saw the listing in The Blair Buzz Newsletter!
About Zelda!
Poor Zelda is back in our care. She is no stranger to the shelter system. This is her 2nd time through no fault of her own!! Let's make this a short stay for her!!
Central PA Humane Society 1837 East Pleasant Valley Blvd. Altoona, PA 16602 PH (814) 942-5402 Please give Zelda the forever home she deserves! |
💡 Answer to Trivia Question: "Gunsmoke," which aired for 20 seasons from 1955 to 1975. |
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Warmly, Charles Sisk Editor |
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