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

"Blair Buzz BOGO: Veterans Hospital Windfall, Big Boy Locomotive, Roadwork Chaos, Supersonic Renaissance!" "Share the excitement with friends & neighbors!"
Get the scoop on local heroes, historic trains, roadwork chaos, and America's supersonic comeback in this week's Blair Buzz BOGO newsletter! Share the excitement with your friends and neighbors now!

Charles Sisk

May 25, 2026

Monday, May 25, 2026 - Memorial Day

Memorial Day is a federal holiday dedicated to honoring and mourning military personnel who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. 

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:
Simply Drost at SimplyDrost.com

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:
Why Your Message Belongs in the Buzz

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.

theblairbuzz@gmail.com* PH (814) 201-7511


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.

 

is seeing lane and shoulder restrictions between mile markers 23 and 33, with multiple bridge and safety projects extending through 2028.

 

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!!!

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You can read our News Feed for back articles and releases

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You can read our Newsletter Back issues HERE?

🗓️ Family-Friendly Events in Blair County, PA

May 25 – May 31, 2026

 

⚠️ Key Verification Notes:

  • The Altoona Curve plays AWAY all week (Hartford, CT) — no home games at PNG Field May 26–31.
  • Most libraries are closed Monday, May 25 (Memorial Day). Roaring Spring is closed May 22–25.

FREE EVENTS


🎖️ Memorial Day — Monday, May 25

Catholic War Vets Memorial Day Parade

  • Date/Time: Monday, May 25 | 8:40–10:40 AM
  • Location: Starts at 13th St & Crawford Ave; proceeds to St. Mary's Church; returns to St. Mary's Cemetery, Altoona
  • Description: Annual Catholic War Veterans parade honoring fallen service members, ending with Mass at St. Mary's Church.
  • Ages: All ages
  • Cost: Free
  • Source: altoonapa.gov


Juniata Memorial Day Parade

  • Date/Time: Monday, May 25 | 9:30–11:00 AM
  • Location: Starts N. 4th Ave & N. 8th St; ends at Juniata VFW, N. 16th Ave & N. 2nd St, Altoona
  • Description: VFW Post 8685 parade through the Juniata neighborhood, followed by services at the VFW.
  • Ages: All ages
  • Cost: Free
  • Source: altoonapa.gov


Memorial Day Parade — Downtown Altoona

  • Date/Time: Monday, May 25 | Forms 10:00 AM, steps off 10:30 AM
  • Location: 8th Ave & 17th St → 12th St → 11th Ave → Robert E. Laws Veterans Mall, Downtown Altoona
  • Description: Blair County War Veterans Council & City of Altoona parade through downtown, followed by a ceremony at Veterans Mall.
  • Ages: All ages
  • Cost: Free
  • Source: altoonapa.gov


Hollidaysburg American Legion Memorial Day Parade

  • Date/Time: Monday, May 25 | ~10:00 AM
  • Location: Downtown Hollidaysburg
  • Description: Annual parade organized by the American Legion honoring fallen service members. Historically includes a Vietnam-era UH-1 Huey helicopter.
  • Ages: All ages
  • Cost: Free
  • Source: Altoona Mirror


🎵 Music & Entertainment

Post Season (with The Big Time, Crash Nebula, Abstentious & Anchors to Anchors)

  • Date/Time: Saturday, May 30 | Doors ~5:30 PM
  • Location: ArtsAltoona (The Grotto), 2212 6th Ave, Altoona
  • Description: Live multi-band concert at ArtsAltoona's Grotto venue. All ages welcome; no outside drinks; light concessions available at the snack bar.
  • Ages: All ages
  • Cost: Free (confirm at door)
  • Source: allevents.in/altoona


🏛️ Community & Historical

Voices of Valor: Stories from the Front Lines

  • Date/Time: Saturday, May 30
  • Location: Blair County Convention Center, 1 Convention Center Dr, Altoona
  • Description: Central PA American History Museum event featuring speakers sharing personal military experiences and historical insight from the front lines. Concludes with a banquet keynoted by Rocky Bleier (Vietnam vet, Purple Heart & Bronze Star recipient, 4x Super Bowl champion with the Pittsburgh Steelers). Check cpahm.org for ticket details — the daytime speaker program may have free elements; the banquet is ticketed.
  • Ages: All ages
  • Cost: Free (speakers); banquet ticketed — see cpahm.org
  • Source: blairconventioncenter.com & Altoona Mirror


America 250 Blair County Community Day

  • Date/Time: Sunday, May 31
  • Location: Legion Park, Hollidaysburg
  • Description: Community gathering with food trucks and historical societies from Blair, Bedford, and Huntingdon counties celebrating America's 250th anniversary.
  • Ages: All ages
  • Cost: Free
  • Source: Altoona Mirror


🧘 Outdoor Activities

Outdoor Yoga + Sound Bath at Chimney Rocks

  • Date/Time: Wednesday, May 27 | 6:00–7:00 PM
  • Location: Chimney Rocks Park, Hollidaysburg area
  • Description: All-levels outdoor yoga session followed by a relaxing crystal singing bowl sound bath in nature. Bring a yoga mat, water, and comfort items.
  • Ages: Teens & Adults
  • Cost: $27 per person
  • Source: discoverblaircounty.com

(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 Library

All 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)

  • Date/Time: Monday, May 25 | All Day
  • Description: Library closed in observance of Memorial Day.

AAPL — Mother Goose

  • Date/Time: Monday, May 26 (note: confirmed recurring Monday program) | 9:30–10:00 AM
  • Description: Unique one-on-one lap-sit program for children 12–24 months and caregiver. Registration required — call 814-946-0417 ext. 123.
  • Ages: Ages 12–24 months

AAPL — Toddler Time

  • Date/Time: Tuesday, May 26 | 9:30–10:00 AM
  • Description: Music and movement story time for children ages 2–3 and caregiver. Registration required.
  • Ages: Ages 2–3

AAPL — Preschool Explorers

  • Date/Time: Tuesday, May 26 | 10:30–11:00 AM
  • Description: Structured literacy-based program for ages 4–6 preparing to transition to preschool, incorporating literacy, socialization, and creativity aligned with PA Early Childhood standards.
  • Ages: Ages 4–6

AAPL — Toddler Time (Two Sessions)

  • Date/Time: Wednesday, May 27 | 9:30–10:00 AM & 10:30–11:00 AM
  • Description: Two back-to-back sessions of music and movement story time for ages 2–3. Registration required.
  • Ages: Ages 2–3

AAPL — Board of Trustees Meeting

  • Date/Time: Wednesday, May 27 | 4:00 PM
  • Location: Library Board Room, 1600 5th Ave, Altoona
  • Description: Regular public meeting of the AAPL Board of Trustees.
  • Ages: Adults/Public

AAPL — Mahjong Club

  • Date/Time: Thursday, May 28 | 11:00 AM–2:00 PM
  • Description: Open mahjong play for adult patrons. No registration required.
  • Ages: Adults

AAPL — Chess Club

  • Date/Time: Thursday, May 28 | 4:30–7:30 PM
  • Location: Rear tables, first floor
  • Description: Open chess for all skill levels. No registration required.
  • Ages: All ages

AAPL — Fantastic Fridays

  • Date/Time: Friday, May 29 | 2:30–3:30 PM
  • Description: Weekly Friday afternoon drop-in program for children. Activity themes vary; contact library for specific May 29 activity.
  • Ages: Children


Cresson Public Library

Cresson, PA | 814-886-2619 | Closed Monday, May 25

Cresson Library — Closed (Memorial Day)

  • Date/Time: Saturday, May 23 & Monday, May 25 | All Day
  • Description: Library closed for Memorial Day weekend.

Cresson Library — Story Stitchers Sewing Club

  • Date/Time: Tuesday, May 27 | 5:00–7:00 PM
  • Description: Open sewing club — anyone who can thread a needle can participate. Call 814-886-2619 for current project information.
  • Ages: Teens & Adults
  • Source: Altoona Mirror


Hollidaysburg Area Public Library

405 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)

  • Date/Time: Monday, May 25 | All Day
  • Description: Closed in observance of Memorial Day.

Hollidaysburg Library — Canasta & Mah Jongg

  • Date/Time: Monday, May 26 | 11:00 AM
  • Description: Open game sessions for adults. Beginners welcome.
  • Ages: Adults

Hollidaysburg Library — Maker Mondays

  • Date/Time: Monday, May 26 | All Day (Children's Room)
  • Description: Drop-in crafts and activities station in the Children's Room with a new activity set up each week.
  • Ages: Children

Hollidaysburg Library — Needlework & Arts Group

  • Date/Time: Tuesday, May 26 | 12:30 PM
  • Description: Adult crafting club; bring your own materials and projects.
  • Ages: Adults

Hollidaysburg Library — Storytime and Craft

  • Date/Time: Tuesday, May 26 & Friday, May 29 | 10:30 AM
  • Description: Weekly Storytime and Craft sessions. Children must be accompanied by a caregiver.
  • Ages: Children (with caregiver)

Hollidaysburg Library — Twisted Stitchers

  • Date/Time: Wednesday, May 27 | 5:00–6:00 PM
  • Description: Yarn and hook crafting group. Bring your own project and spend time with other crafters.
  • Ages: Adults

Hollidaysburg Library — Dance, Sing and Play!

  • Date/Time: Thursday, May 28 | 10:30 AM
  • Description: Energetic movement, singing, parachute, and shaky eggs for young children and caregivers.
  • Ages: Young children


Roaring Spring Community Library

Roaring 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 EVENTS


DelGrosso's Amusement Park & Laguna Splash — Memorial Day Weekend

  • Date/Time: Saturday, May 25 – Monday, May 27 (Memorial Day weekend hours; verify at mydelgrossopark.com)
  • Location: 4352 E. Pleasant Valley Blvd, Tipton, PA (Antis Township, Blair County)
  • Description: Blair County's beloved family amusement and water park. Over 30 rides and attractions, Laguna Splash Water Park, and DelGrosso's famous Italian food. A Memorial Day weekend tradition for families.
  • Ages: All ages
  • Cost: All-Day Fun Pass required; prices vary — see mydelgrossopark.com
  • Source: mydelgrossopark.com


Outdoor Yoga + Sound Bath at Chimney Rocks

  • Date/Time: Wednesday, May 27 | 6:00–7:00 PM
  • Location: Chimney Rocks Park, Hollidaysburg area
  • Description: All-levels outdoor yoga followed by a crystal singing bowl sound bath. Bring a yoga mat, water, and comfort items.
  • Ages: Teens & Adults
  • Cost: $27 per person
  • Source: discoverblaircounty.com


Voices of Valor Banquet (Keynote: Rocky Bleier)

  • Date/Time: Saturday, May 30
  • Location: Blair County Convention Center, 1 Convention Center Dr, Altoona
  • Description: Banquet portion of the Central PA American History Museum's Voices of Valor event, with keynote speaker Rocky Bleier — Vietnam veteran, Purple Heart and Bronze Star recipient, and 4x Super Bowl champion. Check cpahm.org for ticket pricing and details.
  • Ages: All ages
  • Cost: Ticketed — see cpahm.org
  • Source: blairconventioncenter.com & Altoona Mirror


Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark

  • Date/Time: Daily, May 25–31 (verify holiday hours)
  • Location: 640 Kittanning Point Rd, Altoona
  • Description: Iconic railroad engineering landmark and National Historic Site. Funicular railway to the viewing platform, visitor center, and gift shop. Excellent for rail fans and families of all ages.
  • Ages: All ages
  • Cost: ~$5/person for funicular; grounds access may be free
  • Source: railroadcity.com


Railroaders Memorial Museum

  • Date/Time: Tuesday–Sunday, May 26–31 (closed Monday, May 25)
  • Location: 1300 9th Ave, Altoona
  • Description: Museum celebrating Altoona's railroad heritage with locomotives, interactive exhibits, and extensive displays on Pennsylvania Railroad history.
  • Ages: All ages
  • Cost: ~$10 adult, reduced for children/seniors — verify at railroadcity.com
  • Source: railroadcity.com


Baker Mansion History Museum

  • Date/Time: Fri–Sun during the week; verify Memorial Day weekend hours
  • Location: 3500 Baker Blvd, Altoona
  • Description: Beautifully preserved 1844 Greek Revival mansion, home of ironmaster Elias Baker; furnished with period antiques reflecting mid-19th century Blair County life. Nighttime lantern tours available seasonally.
  • Ages: All ages
  • Cost: ~$5–$8/person — verify at blairhistory.org
  • Source: blairhistory.org


Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art (SAMA Altoona)

  • Date/Time: Tuesday–Saturday during May 26–31 (verify holiday hours)
  • Location: 1210 11th Ave, Altoona
  • Description: Regional art museum featuring permanent and rotating exhibitions of contemporary and historical American art. The 2026 Arts for Your Heart 5K Run/Walk was held May 23 (just prior to this week).
  • Ages: All ages
  • Cost: Varies by exhibition — verify at sama-art.org
  • Source: sama-art.org


Quaint Corner Children's Museum

  • Date/Time: Tuesday–Sunday, May 26–31 | 10 AM–4 PM (Wed, May 29 includes Toddler Time at 10:30 AM — see Free Events)
  • Location: 2000 Union Ave, Altoona
  • Description: Hands-on interactive children's museum featuring a "tiny town" and imaginative play areas for young learners. Toddler Time on May 29 (gardening theme) is included with admission.
  • Ages: Ages 2 and up
  • Cost: $5 per person ages 2+; free for members & babies under 2
  • Source: Altoona Mirror

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.

Owner Jamie Ross and her family have built the restaurant around classic hometown diner hospitality — the kind of place where regulars are greeted by name and breakfast conversations stretch across the counter. (altoonamirror.com)

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 Shoutouts

High 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.

  • Date of Event: Monday, May 19, 2026

  • Location: Blair County, PA

  • How to Participate: You can celebrate these local leaders by keeping an eye out for the Altoona Mirror’s upcoming "Hometown Favorites" daily voting window starting next week to nominate more outstanding local businesses and individuals.

  • Source: Altoona Mirror

Local Heroes

Keeping the Flame Alive: Local Officers Run for Special Olympics Athletes

If 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.

  • Date of Event: Happening this week (Mid-May 2026)

  • Location: Region-wide across Blair County and surrounding areas

  • How to Participate: Wave, cheer, and show your support when you see our local police forces out in the community engaging in these safety and outreach efforts.

  • Source: Altoona Mirror

Local Causes

Blair 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.

  • Date of Event: Thursday evening, May 21, 2026 (5:30 PM - 9:00 PM)

  • Location: Blair County Convention Center, 1 Convention Center Drive, Altoona, PA

  • How to Participate: You can keep the momentum going by learning more about preventative heart health or making a contribution online.

  • Source: American Heart Association Newsroom & Blair County Convention Center

Fundraisers

Beautiful Blooms for a Beautiful Mission: Mother's Day & Memorial Day Flower Sale

Looking 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.

  • Dates & Times: Running daily through May 31, 2026. Weekdays from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM; Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

  • Location: The garage directly behind the Jaffa Shrine Center, Altoona, PA

  • How to Participate: Stop by the garage during sale hours to buy your baskets cash-and-carry, helping secure free medical transport for local kids.

  • Source: Altoona Mirror

Volunteer Opportunities

Step 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.

  • Dates & Schedule: Games run consecutive Saturdays through August (game times at 10:00 AM, 11:30 AM, and 1:00 PM)

  • Location: Miracle League Field on Maryland Avenue, Altoona, PA

  • How to Volunteer: Head over to their website or check out their official Facebook page to sign up as a volunteer or to make a supportive donation.

  • Source: Altoona Mirror

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!!

She is 9 years old. She cannot live with cats. She is dog selective, would prefer another calm friendly dog. She can live with kids 6+ and older. She is still strong on the leash!

** Zelda is in our care in Altoona PA. She is available for adoption. Each animal gets microchipped, spayed/neutered, 4DX tested (if over 6 months of age), flea treated, and vaccinated. The adoption fee covers those costs. Adoption fees are listed on the application. An application must be filled out in order to visit with any dog or cat. They can be found on our website www.centralpahumane.org. Scroll down and under number 2 you will see dog adoption application. Do not click on “browse our pets.” Applications are also available at the shelter. Our animals are posted on Facebook and Petfinder - only when time permits. A Petfinder inquiry is not an application, and they may not be responded to. We can only accept so many applications for each animal. We do adopt out of state, but we cannot hold the animal. **

PA Kennel License #1333.

 

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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Be there to get it first. So if you want to know what’s happening around Blair County before your neighbor casually drops that little tidbit in conversation at the next get-together, that you didn't know about....join in before the grapevine gets it wrong again.

 

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Warmly,

Charles Sisk 

Editor

The Blair Buzz

© 2026 The Blair Buzz.

The Blair Buzz is the neighborly hum of Blair County, PA, delivering the essential happenings of our county. Each issue is a friendly roundup of local news, upcoming events, hidden gems tucked away in our historic county, and shoutouts that celebrate the people who make our community special. It’s a weekly dose of connection, capturing the unique spirit of life in the heart of Blair County.

© 2026 The Blair Buzz.

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