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"Blair County Booms: From DUI crackdown to dog parks, don't miss the buzz! Share with friends!"
"Blair County Booms: From DUI crackdown to dog parks, don't miss the buzz! Share with friends!"
"Blair County Booms: From DUI crackdown to dog parks, don't miss the buzz! Share with friends!"
Discover the latest buzz in Blair County! From a successful backyard boutique to a new semi-pro hockey team, don't miss out on all the excitement happening in your area! #BlairBuzzBOGO 🐝🏒🎉 Invite your friends and neighbors to join the fun!
Charles Sisk
May 18, 2026
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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❓Which country is home to the largest stadium in the world, accommodating over 100,000 spectators? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
The Blair Buzz is Sponsored by: |
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Standing in front of a closet full of clothes but feeling you have nothing to wear is a struggle many locals know too well.
Jessica Drost, a wife and mom from Northern Cambria, decided to solve that frustration by launching Simply Drost, an online consignment boutique focusing on making dressing easy, affordable, and confidence-building.
Jessica carefully curates women’s clothing, handbags, shoes, and accessories—offering both new and pre-loved items selected for comfort and timeless style.
Unlike big online stores, Simply Drost gives shoppers a personal touch, with pieces that feel like they’ve been handpicked just for them.
Affordable pricing brings quality within reach, and, for Cambria, Blair, and Westmoreland County residents, Jessica also appears at monthly in-person pop-up events, bringing her collection offline and supporting the local community.
Stay up-to-date on events and shop anytime at her website, with convenient pickup and shipping options available. Read More... |
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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. |
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Blair County drivers should expect increased DUI enforcement over Memorial Day weekend.
The Blair County DUI Task Force will be patrolling area roads to catch impaired drivers, while Pennsylvania State Police plan additional DUI checkpoints and roving patrols in neighboring counties.
This safety initiative is part of a broader holiday effort focusing on impaired driving, seat belt use, speed, and other aggressive driving behaviors.
If stopped at a checkpoint, officials say drivers should be prepared with their license and registration, as stops are meant to be brief and routine.
Last year, Pennsylvania State Police recorded 108 alcohol-related crashes during Memorial Day travel, resulting in four fatalities and 85 injuries statewide.
Officials urge celebrants to plan ahead and always use a sober driver, taxi, or ride-share if alcohol is involved to keep roads safer for everyone this holiday. Read More... |
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Central Pennsylvania residents were treated to a rare aerial sight Tuesday afternoon as the iconic Goodyear blimp drifted across the sky. Local communities, including Altoona, buzzed on social media as residents shared snapshots and videos of the massive airship gliding overhead. Tracey Stoltz, an Altoona resident, spotted the blimp near Juniata Gap just after 1 p.m. on May 12, sparking curiosity throughout the region. The blimp was traveling from its home base near Akron, Ohio, en route to the PGA Championship in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, where it will appear May 14–17. Goodyear operates three blimps across the United States and one in Germany, with the Ohio-based airship frequently seen at sporting events and festivals.
After the tournament, the blimp is headed to Georgia for the Rock the Country Festival starting May 29. For many in Central Pennsylvania, spotting the Goodyear blimp provided a fleeting encounter with aviation history. Read More... |
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Beau’s Dog Park has opened in Duncansville, marking Blair County’s first free public dog park.
Located at 601 Park Drive next to Memorial Park, the fully fenced facility offers dogs a safe space to run, play, and socialize off-leash, while owners enjoy a convenient new gathering place in the community.
The project began with 16-year-old Aran Corey’s Eagle Scout idea and gained momentum thanks to Nicole Flanders, who hoped to honor her late dog Beau and bring awareness to canine kidney disease.
Flanders led successful fundraising, including a local 5K, to cover much of the $9,000 cost, and the park’s name is a tribute to Beau’s memory.
A ribbon-cutting kicked off celebrations, and a grand opening with a dog parade and costume contest is set for May 17, 2–5 p.m. For local pet lovers, Beau’s Dog Park is a cherished new asset. Read More... |
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Altoona is set to welcome a new era of hockey as the Altoona Inferno takes the ice at Galactic Ice Arena this fall.
The team joins the American Premier Hockey League (APHL), marking the debut of semi-professional hockey in the city and promising fast-paced action for local fans.
The APHL, designated as a “Senior A” league, showcases skilled players from former high school, college, and minor professional ranks, offering a competitive mix rarely seen in the region.
Founders Kevin and Cadence Diehl—father and daughter—are dedicated to growing hockey’s footprint locally, with defenseman Garrett Rupert named team captain.
The Inferno’s inaugural season will extend from September to April in the league’s western conference.
Tryouts are set for June 6 and 13, as excitement builds for Altoona’s newest team to unite the community and inspire the next generation of players. 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 |
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Blair Buzz BOGO |
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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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Interesting Facts |
The total length of the world's coastline is estimated to be about 356,000 miles, according to the CIA World Factbook. |
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🗓️ Family-Friendly Events in Blair County, PAMay 18 – May 24, 2026
🆓 FREE EVENTS(Alphabetical within categories) 🏟️ SPORTS & RECREATION1. Altoona Curve vs. Erie SeaWolves — Mon., May 18 (Education Day) 📍 Peoples Natural Gas Field, 1000 Park Ave., Altoona 📅 Monday, May 18 — 11:00 AM (Education Day game; limited public tickets) A Double-A Pittsburgh Pirates affiliate game. May 18 is part of the 12-game homestand (May 12–24). Note: Education Day games exclude standard "Why Not Wednesday" free Kids Zone perks. 🎟️ Cost: Tickets required — see Paid Events for pricing. 🔗 Source: Ticketmaster | MiLB Promo Schedule 📚 BLAIR COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARIES(Listed alphabetically by library name; all library programs are FREE unless noted) ALTOONA AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY📍 1600 5th Avenue, Altoona, PA 16602 | ☎️ 814-946-0417 | altoonalibrary.org Hours: Mon/Tue/Thu 8:30AM–8PM | Wed/Fri 8:30AM–5PM | Sat 9AM–4PM | Sun: Closed 🔗 Source: Altoona Mirror May 2026 coverage + Library site 2. Chess Club 📅 Thursdays (May 22) — 4:30–7:30 PM | All ages; under 16 must be accompanied by a guardian. Drop-in chess play at rear tables, first floor. No registration required. 3. Mahjong Club 📅 Thursdays (May 22) — 11:00 AM–2:00 PM | Adults Drop-in Mahjong for all adult patrons. No registration required. 4. Teen Video Game Club (in partnership with Video Game Clubs of America) 📅 Tuesdays (May 20) — 3:00–5:00 PM | Ages 12–18 Tabletop board games, card games, Nintendo Switch, and more. Call ext. 125 to register. 5. Story Times — Mother Goose (Ages 12–24 months) 📅 Mondays (May 18) — 9:30 AM & Thursdays (May 22) — 9:30 AM One-on-one lap-sit program for caregiver and child. Call ext. 123 to register. 6. Story Times — Toddler Time (Ages 2–3) 📅 Tuesdays (May 20) — 9:30 AM & 10:30 AM Weekly caregiver/child story time. Call ext. 123 to register. 7. Story Times — Preschool Explorers (Ages 3–6) 📅 Tuesdays (May 20) — 10:30 AM & Thursdays (May 22) — 10:30 AM Interactive story time developing early literacy. Call ext. 123 to register. 8. Fantastic Fridays (Children's special program) 📅 Friday, May 22 — Time TBD (check altoonalibrary.org) Special Friday programming for children; series confirmed active May 2026. Call ext. 123 for details. 🔗 altoonalibrary.org/series/fantastic-fridays-2/ HOLLIDAYSBURG AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY📍 1 Furnace Rd., Hollidaysburg, PA 16648 | ☎️ (814) 695-5961 | hollidaysburglibrary.org ⚠️ Note: The library will be CLOSED May 25 for Memorial Day. May 18–23 open. 🔗 Source: Altoona Mirror, Feb. 28, 2026 (confirms recurring programs; similar pattern expected for May) 9. Canasta and Mah Jongg 📅 Mondays (May 18) — 11:00 AM | All ages; beginners welcome Ongoing weekly drop-in game session. No registration required. 10. Dance, Sing and Play! 📅 Thursdays (May 22) — 10:30 AM | Children (all ages) with caregiver Songs, parachute games, and musical activities for young children. 11. Maker Mondays (Children's Room) 📅 Mondays (May 18) — All day | Children Different craft, challenge, or STEM activity each week. Drop-in. 12. Needlework & Arts Group 📅 Tuesdays (May 19) — 12:30 PM | Adults Bring your own project; crafting club for adults. Drop-in. 13. Storytime and Craft 📅 Tuesdays (May 19) & Fridays (May 22) — 10:30 AM | Children with caregiver Weekly story time and craft activity. Caregiver required. 14. Twisted Stitchers 📅 Wednesdays (May 20) — 5:00–6:00 PM | Adults Bring your own yarn and hook for this social crafting group. MARTINSBURG COMMUNITY LIBRARY — USED BOOK SALE📍 Morrisons Cove Memorial Park, Pavilion 2, Martinsburg, PA 16662 | ☎️ 814-793-3335 🔗 Source: Altoona Mirror "Across the Area," May 2026 15. Friends of the Martinsburg Community Library Used Book Sale 📅 Thu., May 21 — 10:00 AM–7:00 PM | Fri., May 22 — 10:00 AM–4:00 PM | Sat., May 23 — 10:00 AM–2:00 PM Blair County's beloved annual used book sale at the outdoor park pavilion. Fiction, children's books, DVDs, puzzles, and more at affordable prices. Saturday is $5-a-bag day. Friends Members Preview: Wed., May 20, 6:30–8:00 PM (Friends membership $10 at door). Donations of gently used books, audiobooks, DVDs, puzzles and games accepted Tue., May 19 and Wed., May 20, noon–6:00 PM at Pavilion 2. 💰 FREE admission (items priced individually; $5/bag Saturday) ROARING SPRING COMMUNITY LIBRARY📍 320 East Main Street, Roaring Spring, PA 16673 | ☎️ 814-224-2994 | roaringspringlibrary.org ⚠️ Note: Roaring Spring library is CLOSED May 22–25 for Memorial Day. 🔗 Source: Altoona Mirror, May 3, 2026 16. Scholars Steep Book Club (recurring) 📅 Recurring Tuesdays — 11:00 AM (check library for May 19 status before visiting) Adult book club; call ahead to confirm May 19 session before library closes May 22. ☎️ Call 814-224-2994 to verify. 🎭 ARTS, CULTURE & COMMUNITY17. "Spring Break" — Live Music at Levity Brewing 📍 1411 11th Ave., Altoona, PA 16601 📅 Friday, May 22 — 7:00–9:00 PM The best of 90's and 2000's pop rock performed live in the taproom at Levity Brewing Company. Family-friendly early evening; casual atmosphere. 💰 Free admission (food/drinks for purchase) 🔗 Source: allevents.in 18. "Southbound" — Live Music at Levity Brewing 📍 1411 11th Ave., Altoona, PA 16601 📅 Saturday, May 23 — 7:00 PM Southbound returns to Levity Brewing for another evening of live music in the taproom. 💰 Free admission (food/drinks for purchase) 🔗 Source: stayhappening.com
💰 PAID EVENTS⚾ SPORTS1. Altoona Curve vs. Erie SeaWolves — Multiple Games, May 18–24 📍 Peoples Natural Gas Field, 1000 Park Ave., Altoona, PA 16602 📅 Confirmed game times (all ET):
The Altoona Curve (Double-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates) wraps up their 12-game homestand with the Erie SeaWolves. All 7 games during this week feature a theme or promotion. Thirstday perks on May 21: $2 off 24oz domestic drafts, $2 22oz sodas, $2 hot dogs. Ages: All ages. Kids love the live mascots, on-field entertainment, and concessions. 💰 Cost: Tickets start around $9–$15 for general admission; varies by seat. Check AltoonaCurve.com or call 877-99-CURVE. 🔗 Source: Ticketmaster | MiLB Promo Schedule | WTAJ
🎢 AMUSEMENT & FAMILY FUN3. DelGrosso's Park & Laguna Splash — Memorial Day Weekend Grand Opening of Water Park 📍 4352 E. Pleasant Valley Blvd. (Rt. 220), Tipton, PA 16648 📅 Sat.–Sun., May 23–24 — Laguna Splash: 11 AM–6 PM | Rides: Noon–8 PM Blair County's beloved family amusement park celebrates the opening of Laguna Splash Water Park for the 2026 season on Memorial Day weekend! 30+ rides and attractions, famous food (Murf's Potato Salad, spaghetti, and more), and the full water park. 🎯 Ages: All ages; rides for tots through adults; water slides for all sizes 💰 Cost: All-Day Fun Pass — $27/person in May (includes Water Park on Memorial Day Weekend). No additional charge to enter the grounds. 🔗 Source: mydelgrossopark.com | Altoona Mirror 4. Toona 200 — 2nd Annual Sports & Trading Card Showcase 📍 DelGrosso's Park, 4352 E. Pleasant Valley Blvd., Tipton, PA 16648 📅 Saturday–Sunday, May 23–24, 2026 (Memorial Day Weekend) (exact hours TBD — confirm at centralpacardshows.com) Blair County's largest card show returns for its second year at DelGrosso's Park! Browse vendor tables featuring trading cards, sports memorabilia, collectibles, and more. Vendor tables available for collectors and sellers. 🎯 Ages: All ages; great for sports fans and collectors of any age 💰 Cost: DelGrosso's Park admission ($27 All-Day Fun Pass) likely required; verify at centralpacardshows.com or mydelgrossopark.com 🔗 Source: discoverblaircounty.com | centralpacardshows.com 🏥 COMMUNITY & CIVIC5. Mercedes Moment Night at the Altoona Curve 📍 Peoples Natural Gas Field, 1000 Park Ave., Altoona 📅 Thursday, May 21, 2026 — 5:00 PM The Home Nursing Agency Foundation's signature fundraiser event at the ballpark. Supporters cheer on the Curve and find out the 2026 Mercedes Moment winner. Game ticket purchase required. 💰 Cost: Game ticket + fundraiser ticket. See AltoonaCurve.com. 🔗 Source: allevents.in
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The 7-day weather forecast for Hollidaysburg, PA is as follows: Monday, May 18, 2026: High 90°F, Low 59°F, Mostly sunny
Tuesday, May 19, 2026: High 89°F, Low 66°F, Partly sunny Wednesday, May 20, 2026: High 77°F, Low 54°F, Light rain Thursday, May 21, 2026: High 67°F, Low 46°F, Sunny Friday, May 22, 2026: High 63°F, Low 47°F, Sunny Saturday, May 23, 2026: High 60°F, Low 52°F, Partly sunny Sunday, May 24, 2026: High 67°F, Low 59°F, Rain showers |
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Quote Of The Day |
"Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does." - William James |
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Sweet Spot Creamery, DuncansvilleSweet Spot Creamery is now open at 1524 Third Ave. in Duncansville, behind Coffee on 3rd. The creamery features Penn State Creamery ice cream and is a partnership between the Hollidaysburg Area School District and Coffee on 3rd. This is a fun one because it grew out of a student mentor program: seven students helped create the business, and it will be staffed by students. The owner named in the report is Ashlyn Dugan, owner of Coffee on 3rd, who provided the space for the school district’s program. |
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Hey there, Blair County neighbors! Happy Monday! It has been a beautiful, bustling May week across our mountain towns. Grab a warm cup of coffee or tea, and let’s dive into some of the most heartwarming, positive, and community-driven happenings right here in our own backyard. ## Local Shoutouts Our local youth have absolutely blown us away with their talent and patriotism! The local America250PA Blair County Commission, in partnership with the Blair County Bar Association, recently celebrated the grand prize and grade-level winners of the 2026 Law Day Essay and Poster Contest. Students from all across the county submitted beautiful interpretations of the theme "What Does America Mean to You?", and the top creators were invited to share their work right inside the historic courthouse. Keep an eye and ear out for our grand prize winner, who will be doing live readings of their essay at various community events as we march toward America's huge 250th birthday celebration! ## Local Heroes The wonderful team and dedicated volunteers at CONTACT Altoona are our absolute heroes this month as they work overtime to support our community's well-being. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and these local advocates are hitting the pavement to reduce stigma and provide vital listening ear services to anyone feeling overwhelmed. They are the friendly faces keeping our community connected, grounded, and supported when life gets heavy. ## Local Causes **Paint the Town Green for Mental Health Awareness** Local businesses and residents are banding together for a beautiful, glowing cause this week. CONTACT Altoona is spearheading a county-wide initiative encouraging local business owners and families to display a green light throughout the month of May to increase mental health awareness and spark open, supportive conversations. It’s a small, simple gesture that lets our neighbors know they are never walking in the dark. ## Fundraisers **Prepping for an E.P.I.C. 250th Birthday Bash!** Did you know that Blair County is already gearing up to help the nation celebrate its Semiquincentennial (250th anniversary) in July? The America250PA Blair County Commission is a non-profit group actively raising funds right now to ensure our county’s rich history is celebrated with a massive, unforgettable community bash. They are looking for local business sponsorships and individual donations to help cover the costs of planning, educational programs, and local historic promotions. ## Volunteer Opportunities **Be a Spark of Positivity at the Blair Regional YMCA** If you’ve been looking for a meaningful way to give back and meet some wonderful neighbors, the Blair Regional YMCA is looking for you! They are actively seeking helping hands to share their time and talents, whether it's mentoring local youth, helping out with healthy living programs, or assisting with childcare initiatives. It’s the perfect, family-friendly way to strengthen the bonds of Hollidaysburg, Altoona, Duncansville, and beyond. Have a beautiful, safe, and community-filled week, everyone! Remember to look out for one another and keep shining those green lights!
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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 |
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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!
Introducing Penelope!
Penelope is a 4 year old female. She is a short-haired cat. She is still adjusting to the shelter environment. When she first came in, she needed a lot of decompression time. We expect her to regress in a home before she is comfortable. She previously lived with a cat, but she has not made any new feline friends here at the shelter. She has not been dog tested. She cannot live with kids.
** Penelope is in our care in Altoona PA. Each cat gets microchipped, spayed/neutered, snap FIV/FeLV combo tested and vaccinated. (We DO NOT declaw). The adoption fee covers those costs. Adoption fees are listed on the applications. In person applications take priority over ones mailed or emailed (especially on a popular animal). An application must be filled out first in order to visit with any cat. Applications can be found on our website www.centralpahumane.org under the 'Adopt A Pet' Adoption tab or at the shelter. 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 do not transport and we cannot hold the animal. ** Applications can be emailed to cattery@centralpahumane.org Central PA Humane Society 1837 East Pleasant Valley Blvd. Altoona, PA 16602 PH (814) 942-5402 Please give Penelope the forever home she deserves! |
💡 Answer to Trivia Question: North Korea, with the Rungrado 1st of May Stadium in Pyongyang being the largest stadium in the world. |
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Warmly, Charles Sisk Editor |