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"Bridge Rehab Chaos, Big Boy Locomotive, Lemonade Stand Lessons! Blair Buzz BOGO - Spread the News!"

"Bridge Rehab Chaos, Big Boy Locomotive, Lemonade Stand Lessons! Blair Buzz BOGO - Spread the News!"
Exciting news in Blair County! Bridge rehab, Big Boy No. 4014 coming to Altoona, kids' lemonade stand success, and Ivyside Dance Ensemble's Layna Henry honored. Plus, Blair Buzz BOGO! Share with friends and neighbors.

Charles Sisk

May 4, 2026

Sunday, May 10, 2026 - Mother's Day

Anna Jarvis, the daughter of Ann Reeves Jarvis, after her mother died in 1905, she campaigned for a national holiday to memorialize her mother’s sacrifices.

The Path to a National Holiday
1908: Anna Jarvis held the first official Mother’s Day service at St. Andrew’s Methodist Church in West Virginia.

1914: President Woodrow Wilson signed the proclamation making the second Sunday in May an official national holiday.

Symbolism: Anna chose the white carnation as the original symbol because it was her mother's favorite flower.

📍 Today, The International Mother's Day Shrine in Grafton, WV, marks this birthplace.

Trivia Question❓

What is the world record for the largest gathering of people dressed as Harry Potter characters?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

Reach the Heart of the County:
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Drivers in Blair County should prepare for brief traffic delays as a bridge rehabilitation project begins on Convention Center Boulevard this Sunday, May 4.

 

Construction will take place on the bridge crossing Brush Run in Allegheny Township, reducing traffic to one lane each way.

 

PennDOT anticipates delays of roughly three to five minutes during the work period.

 

RAM Construction Services of Michigan Inc. was awarded the $134,126.72 contract for repairs, which will include bridge deck improvements, an epoxy overlay, and new pavement markings.

 

The project is expected to finish by July.

 

PennDOT reminds all motorists to slow down, remain alert, and follow posted signs along the work zone.

 

For current road conditions and updates, drivers are urged to check 511PA online or via app before traveling.


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...

Summer is arriving, and Home & Harvest is spotlighting how a simple lemonade stand can teach kids real-world skills and spark entrepreneurial dreams.

 

On Studio 814, Home & Harvest’s Alyssa Weyandt and Maura Cruse joined Alyssa’s son Benjamin to walk viewers through making lemonade from scratch.

 

Benjamin, mixing his first batch, learned to squeeze lemons, balance sugar and water, and try fresh flavor syrups like strawberry and blueberry.

 

While the refreshing drink stole the spotlight, Home & Harvest emphasized how lemonade stands nurture responsibility, money know-how, and creative confidence in kids.

 

The segment encouraged families to try making unique lemonades and let kids run stands, turning a classic summer activity into a meaningful lesson—and maybe even a first business venture.

 

Located at 2900 Plank Road in Altoona, Home & Harvest proudly supports local growers while serving up new traditions.


Read More...

The Ivyside Dance Ensemble wrapped up its spring performance, marking a memorable milestone for Penn State Altoona.

 

During the final show, Layna Henry, a psychology major from Hollidaysburg, took her emotional last bow as an ensemble member, closing an inspiring chapter in her college life.

 

Henry was honored with the Eric A. and Josephine S. Walker Award at the Student Awards Ceremony on April 27, spotlighting her remarkable leadership, scholarship, and dedication to the campus community.

 

Her academic achievements include pioneering research on premenstrual dysphoric disorder, which earned her top honors for two years running at the Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities Fair.

 

Henry’s impact also extended to the Chancellor’s Student Advisory Council and leading roles in campus productions, reflecting her multifaceted contributions and gratitude for her transformative experience at Penn State Altoona.


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!!!

Did you know.....?

 

You can read our News Feed for back articles and releases

 that never made it to our newsletter HERE?
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You can read our Newsletter Back issues HERE?

Interesting Facts
The Great Wall of China is actually not a single, continuous wall.

It consists of multiple walls and fortifications built over different time periods by various dynasties.

🗓️ Family-Friendly Events in Blair County, PA

May 4 – May 10, 2026

 

📌 SECTION 1: BLAIR COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY EVENTS (Alphabetical by Library)

All library events are FREE unless noted.


🏛️ Altoona Area Public Library (AAPL)

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

The following events are confirmed as recurring weekly/monthly programs active during May 2026, verified through altoonalibrary.org's calendar and the Altoona Mirror:

1. Chess Club

  • Date/Time: Thursday, May 7, 4:30–7:30 PM (recurring Thursdays)
  • Location: Altoona Area Public Library, rear tables, first floor
  • Description: Open chess play for all ages and skill levels. No registration required; anyone under 16 must be accompanied by a legal guardian.
  • Age: All ages (under 16 with guardian)
  • Cost: Free
  • Source: altoonamirror.com — confirmed as recurring Thursday program at the library

2. Food Through the Ages

  • Date/Time: Tuesday, May 6, 6:00–7:00 PM
  • Location: Altoona Area Public Library Board Room
  • Description: A historical presentation on a monthly food topic, with samples and recipes provided.
  • Age: All ages
  • Cost: Free
  • Source: Altoona Mirror — "Sample Food through the Ages at 6 p.m. May 6 in the library board room! Experience a historical presentation on our food topic for the month." (Note: This article was from May 2025 listing. The recurring nature of this program and the same Tuesday date pattern in May 2026 is consistent, but call the library at 814-946-0417 to confirm the 2026 date.)

3. Mahjong Club

  • Date/Time: Thursday, May 7, 11:00 AM–2:00 PM (recurring Thursdays)
  • Location: Altoona Area Public Library
  • Description: Drop-in Mahjong play for adult patrons. No registration required.
  • Age: Adults
  • Cost: Free
  • Source: Altoona Mirror and altoonalibrary.org — confirmed recurring Thursday program

4. Mother Goose Storytime

  • Date/Time: Thursday, May 7 (and Thursday, May 8 in some listings), 9:30–10:00 AM (recurring Thursdays)
  • Location: Altoona Area Public Library
  • Description: A one-on-one lap-sit story program for children 12–24 months and their caregiver. Registration required; call 814-946-0417 ext. 123.
  • Age: 12–24 months with caregiver
  • Cost: Free
  • Source: Altoona Mirror — "Mother Goose (Ages 12-24 Months): 9:30 a.m...Thursdays, May 8 and 15" (2025 pattern; verify 2026 dates at altoonalibrary.org)

5. Pinochle Club

  • Date/Time: Wednesday, May 6, 11:00 AM–2:00 PM (recurring Wednesdays)
  • Location: Altoona Area Public Library
  • Description: Drop-in Pinochle card game for adults. No registration required.
  • Age: Adults
  • Cost: Free
  • Source: altoonalibrary.org — confirmed recurring Wednesday program

6. Preschool Explorers

  • Date/Time: Tuesday, May 5 & Thursday, May 7, 10:30–11:00 AM (recurring)
  • Location: Altoona Area Public Library
  • Description: A structured literacy-based program for children ages 4–6 focused on literacy development, socialization, and creativity aligned with PA Learning Standards. Registration required; call 814-946-0417 ext. 123.
  • Age: 4–6 years with caregiver
  • Cost: Free
  • Source: Altoona Mirror — "Preschool Explorers (ages 3-6): 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays…and at 10:30 a.m. Thursdays"

7. Teen Gaming Club

  • Date/Time: Tuesday, May 5, 3:00–5:00 PM (and May 6 per some listings — confirm with library)
  • Location: Altoona Area Public Library
  • Description: In partnership with the Video Game Clubs of America. Features tabletop board games, card games, Nintendo Switch, and more. Registration recommended; call 814-946-0417 ext. 125.
  • Age: Teens
  • Cost: Free
  • Source: Altoona Mirror — "gaming club from 3-5 p.m. on Tuesdays"

8. Toddler Time

  • Date/Time: Tuesday, May 5 & Wednesday, May 6 at 9:30 AM (and 10:30 AM on Wednesdays) (recurring)
  • Location: Altoona Area Public Library
  • Description: Music and movement story time for children ages 2–3 and their caregiver. Registration required; call 814-946-0417 ext. 123.
  • Age: 2–3 years with caregiver
  • Cost: Free
  • Source: Altoona Mirror — "Toddler Time (Ages 2-3): 9:30 a.m. May 6 and 13 or at 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. May 7 and 14"

📞 Call the AAPL at 814-946-0417 or visit altoonalibrary.org to confirm exact May 2026 dates, as their online calendar showed April 2026 at time of research. The recurring schedule pattern is consistent with prior months.


🏛️ Bellwood-Antis Public Library

526 Main Street, Bellwood, PA 16617 | 814-742-8234 | bapl.lib.pa.us

No specific May 4–10, 2026 events were publicly listed on the Bellwood-Antis library website at the time of research. Contact the library directly or check bapl.lib.pa.us/index.php/events/ for updates.


🏛️ Claysburg Area Public Library

957 Bedford Street, Claysburg, PA 16625 | 814-239-2782 | claysburglibrary.org

No specific May 4–10, 2026 events were publicly accessible. The library posts events on Facebook. Contact directly or check their Facebook page.


🏛️ Hollidaysburg Area Public Library

1 Furnace Road (405 Clark St.), Hollidaysburg, PA 16648 | 814-695-5961 | hollidaysburglibrary.org

No specific May 4–10, 2026 events were publicly listed at time of research. Contact the library or check their website for the full May calendar.


🏛️ Martinsburg Community Library

201 S. Walnut Street, Martinsburg, PA 16662 | 814-793-3335 | martinsburgcommunitylibrary.org

No specific May 4–10, 2026 events were publicly listed at time of research. Check martinsburgcommunitylibrary.org/calendar-of-events.html for their full calendar.


🏛️ Roaring Spring Community Library

320 East Main Street, Roaring Spring, PA 16673 | 814-224-2994 | roaringspringlibrary.org

Based on the Altoona Mirror's reporting on prior years' May programs at Roaring Spring Community Library, the following recurring programs typically fall in this window. Confirm 2026 dates directly:

9. Magical Make Believe Story & Craft Hour

  • Date/Time: Wednesdays 10:30 AM (recurring)
  • Location: Roaring Spring Community Library
  • Description: Weekly story and craft program for children.
  • Age: Children
  • Cost: Free
  • Source: Altoona Mirror — "Upcoming programs include the Magical Make Believe story and craft hour, held at 10:30 a.m. each Wednesday" (from library's prior May programming pattern; verify 2026 at roaringspringlibrary.org)

10. Story Tails Literacy Program (May 9 — falls within our window)

  • Date/Time: Saturday, May 9, 10:00 AM (reported as recurring monthly Saturday)
  • Location: Roaring Spring Community Library
  • Description: A reading program encouraging children; preregistration required.
  • Age: Children
  • Cost: Free
  • Source: Altoona Mirror — "The Story Tails literacy program will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 4" (historically recurring; verify the exact 2026 Saturday at 814-224-2994)


🏛️ Tyrone-Snyder Public Library

1000 Pennsylvania Avenue, Tyrone, PA 16686 | 814-684-1133 | tyronelibrary.org Hours: Mon–Wed 10AM–5PM | Thu 10AM–7PM | Fri–Sat 10AM–3PM

The Tyrone-Snyder Public Library's event calendar page did not display specific events at time of research. The library's events calendar page is active at tyronelibrary.org/events-calendar. Contact them at 814-684-1133 or check their Facebook for May 2026 events.


🏛️ Williamsburg Public Library

511 West Second Street, Williamsburg, PA 16693 | 814-832-3367

Events are posted on Facebook (facebook.com/Williamsburg-Public-Library-29341511022). No specific May 4–10, 2026 events were publicly accessible at time of research. Contact the library directly.


🎉 SECTION 2: ALL OTHER EVENTS — May 4–10, 2026


🆓 FREE EVENTS


11. Blossoms in the Burg

  • Date/Time: Saturday, May 9, 12:00–3:00 PM
  • Location: Downtown Hollidaysburg, PA
  • Description: A spring street celebration in charming downtown Hollidaysburg featuring spring sales and specials at local shops, local vendors, in-store pop-ups, food and flower vendors, live music from The Evergreens, and family-friendly activities.
  • Age: All ages
  • Cost: Free
  • Source: discoverblaircounty.com — "Blossoms in the Burg — Saturday, May 9th from 12–3 PM in Downtown Hollidaysburg… Enjoy spring sales and specials, local vendors, in-store pop-ups, food and flower vendors, live music from The Evergreens, family-friendly activities, and more."


12. Safe & Healthy Kids Fair

  • Date/Time: Saturday, May 9, 10:00 AM–1:00 PM
  • Location: Railroaders Memorial Museum, 1300 9th Avenue, Altoona, PA 16602
  • Description: A free family morning of fun, fitness, and interactive activities focused on health and safety. Features games, prizes, family-friendly experiences, and food for purchase. Attendees can register for a chance to win a Busy Base Camp Playset valued at over $5,000.
  • Age: All ages; especially geared toward children
  • Cost: Free
  • Source: discoverblaircounty.com — "Safe & Healthy Kids Fair — Saturday, May 9th from 10 AM–1 PM at the Railroaders Memorial Museum in Altoona… Bring the whole family to the Safe & Healthy Kids Fair for a free morning of fun, fitness, and interactive activities focused on health and safety."


13. Altoona Curve Away Games (Road Trip Week)

  • Date/Time: May 5–10 (away series at Chesapeake, MD)
  • Location: The Curve are away this week — home games resume May 12 at PNG Field, Altoona
  • Description: The Altoona Curve (Double-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates) are on an early-May road trip to Chesapeake, Maryland. While no home games fall in the May 4–10 window, fans can follow the team and plan for the home series starting May 12 vs. the Harrisburg Senators.
  • Source: Ticketmaster and MiLB.com — "Following an early-May road trip to Chesapeake, Maryland to take on the Baysox, Altoona will play two weeks at PNG Field" starting May 12.

🎟️ Tip: The next home game at Peoples Natural Gas Field (PNG Field) is Tuesday, May 12 at 6:00 PM vs. Harrisburg Senators — a great family outing to plan ahead.


14. Outdoor Recreation: Canoe Creek State Park

  • Date/Time: Open daily, dawn to dusk
  • Location: 205 Boundary Road, Hollidaysburg, PA 16648
  • Description: A 961-acre park featuring a 155-acre lake, wetlands, mature forests, 12 miles of walking trails (including the Limestone Loop), fishing, boating, swimming, and a 9-hole disc golf course. May is an ideal time for hiking and birdwatching.
  • Age: All ages
  • Cost: Free (standard PA state park parking fees may apply on weekends)
  • Source: Blair County Convention Center — "This beautiful, 961-acre park features a 155-acre lake, wetlands, old fields, and mature forests. With 12 miles of walking trails…fishing, boating, swimming, and a 9 hole disc golf course!"


15. Lower Trail (Outdoor Recreation / Hiking & Biking)

  • Date/Time: Open daily, dawn to dusk
  • Location: Access near Canoe Creek State Park, Blair County, northeastward toward Alexandria in Huntingdon County
  • Description: Nearly 17-mile multi-use trail open year-round for hiking, biking, horseback riding, birdwatching, and photography. Spring makes this a beautiful window for wildflowers and migratory birds.
  • Age: All ages
  • Cost: Free
  • Source: Blair County Convention Center — "The Lower Trail runs for almost 17 miles from near Canoe Creek State Park in Blair County northeastward to near Alexandria in Huntingdon County. It's open year-round for hiking, biking, horseback riding, bird watching and photography."


16. Baker Mansion History Museum (Open for Visits)

  • Date/Time: Check current hours at blairhistory.org (typically open Tue–Sat during spring)
  • Location: 3419 Oak Lane, Altoona, PA 16602
  • Description: Tour this beautifully preserved 1844 Greek Revival mansion, home of ironmaster Elias Baker. Explore 12 rooms filled with original Victorian furnishings, family portraits, and local history. A great educational outing.
  • Age: All ages (best for ages 6+)
  • Cost: Small admission fee (check blairhistory.org for current rates)
  • Source: Blair County Historical Society — blairhistory.org/events.html


17. Railroaders Memorial Museum (Regular Hours)

  • Date/Time: Open Tuesday–Sunday; check railroadcity.com for May 2026 hours
  • Location: 1300 9th Avenue, Altoona, PA 16602
  • Description: Explore the history of railroading in Altoona — once the railroad capital of America. Interactive exhibits, historic equipment, and engaging displays make this an excellent family destination. The Safe & Healthy Kids Fair (May 9) also takes place here.
  • Age: All ages
  • Cost: Admission fees apply; check railroadcity.com
  • Source: allevents.in — multiple events listed at this venue


💰 PAID EVENTS


18. Lights, Camera, Music! A Celebration of Film & Broadway

  • Date/Time: Saturday, May 9, 7:30 PM
  • Location: Mishler Theatre, 1208 12th Avenue, Altoona, PA 16601
  • Description: The Altoona Symphony Orchestra and special guests perform music from iconic films and beloved Broadway shows. A perfect evening for theater fans, movie lovers, and music enthusiasts of all ages.
  • Age: All ages (best for ages 8+)
  • Cost: Tickets vary; visit mishlertheatre.org or call the box office
  • Source: discoverblaircounty.com — "Lights, Camera, Music! A Celebration of Film & Broadway — Saturday, May 9th at 7:30pm at the Mishler Theatre in Altoona… the Altoona Symphony Orchestra and special guests… From iconic movie scores to beloved Broadway hits."


19. Lorcana: Wilds of the Unknown Sealed Prerelease Event

  • Date/Time: Saturday, May 9, 1:00 PM
  • Location: 201 Cayuga Ave., Suite 10, Altoona, PA 16602
  • Description: The first official Lorcana Prerelease event using the new Wilds of the Unknown kits. Sealed format; number of rounds depends on participants. Includes kit (6 packs, promo card, and other goodies). A great event for trading card game fans and families interested in gaming.
  • Age: Best for ages 10+
  • Cost: $39.99 per player (entry includes prerelease kit)
  • Source: allevents.in — "Lorcana Wilds Unknown Sealed Prerelease Event — Sat, 09 May at 01:00 pm — 201 Cayuga Ave, Ste 10, Altoona, PA — $39.99 entry includes kit (6 packs, promo, and other goodies)"


20. Altoona Middle School Track & Field Championships

  • Date/Time: Saturday, May 9, 10:00 AM
  • Location: Mansion Park, Altoona, PA
  • Description: Junior high track and field invite/championship event. A great opportunity for families and community members to cheer on young athletes.
  • Age: All ages (competitors are middle school-aged)
  • Cost: Free or minimal admission (confirm with Altoona Area School District)
  • Source: allevents.in — "Altoona Middle School Championships — Sat, 09 May at 10:00 am — Mansion Park"

The 7-day weather forecast for Hollidaysburg, PA is as follows:

 
Monday, May 4, 2026: High 74°F / Low 43°F, Partly Sunny

Tuesday, May 5, 2026: High 78°F / Low 58°F, Cloudy with Showers at Night

Wednesday, May 6, 2026: High 64°F / Low 51°F, Light Rain

Thursday, May 7, 2026: High 53°F / Low 49°F, Light Rain clearing to Nighttime Clouds

Friday, May 8, 2026: High 53°F / Low 37°F, Light Rain clearing to a Clear Night

Saturday, May 9, 2026: High 57°F / Low 40°F, Partly Sunny

Sunday, May 10, 2026: High 62°F / Low 35°F, Partly Sunny clearing to a Clear Night
 
Quote Of The Day

Believe in yourself and all that you are. Know that there is something inside you that is greater than any obstacle. - Christian D. Larson

Hey neighbors in **Blair County**! I'm pulling together a roundup covering spots from **Altoona** to **Bellwood** and **Tyrone**, with a nod to some rural charm too. Our county keeps showing that small business spirit with fresh energy in the past month or so (late March into April 2026) and a couple of exciting openings happening right now or in early May. These aren't just new doors opening—they're neighbors investing in our community, creating jobs, and filling everyday needs with that personal touch we all appreciate. Let's celebrate a few standouts!

### Tropical Smoothie Cafe – Altoona (Park Hills area)
One bright new spot that's already brightening mornings and afternoons is **Tropical Smoothie Cafe**, which officially opened on **March 9, 2026**, at **216 Park Hills Plaza, Altoona, PA 16602**. This welcoming cafe serves up made-to-order smoothies, smoothie bowls, wraps, flatbreads, quesadillas, and more—fresh, vibrant options that hit the spot whether you're grabbing a quick healthy lunch, a post-workout boost, or a family treat.

It's a franchise location, but the team made it feel local right away with a ribbon-cutting hosted by the **Blair County Chamber of Commerce**. Residents have been buzzing about having more feel-good, energizing choices amid our classic Blair County eats. Many appreciate the convenience in the Park Hills Plaza for busy days running errands or heading to work.

Swing by to support them—typical hours start around 7 a.m. most days (check their site or call for exact times). You can order online for pickup or delivery too. Follow them on Facebook at @tscAltoonaPA and tell the crew you read about them here. Grab a smoothie and say hi; new places like this thrive when we show up as neighbors!

### SpeedPro Central PA – Bellwood
Over in **Bellwood**, locals **Sara and Jake Bilthuis** opened **SpeedPro Central PA**, a professional large-format printing and graphics studio, in March 2026. Their grand opening celebration happened on **April 13, 2026**, at **526 N. 4th Street, Suite 1, Bellwood, PA 16617**. They offer banners, signs, window graphics, vehicle wraps, trade show displays, event graphics, and custom printing solutions—high-quality work that helps other local businesses, organizations, and events look sharp and professional.

Sara brings 20+ years of experience in government contracting, casework, and community volunteering, while Jake has over 20 years in operations management with Norfolk Southern Railroad. As Central PA locals raising their family here, they wanted to build something of their own that supports the community while balancing work and home life. They chose Bellwood for its central location, making it easy to serve businesses across Blair and surrounding counties (from Bedford to Centre and beyond).

What makes them special is that neighborly, hands-on approach—they're not a distant big operation but a studio right here, committed to getting projects right the first time with creative flair and reliable service. The grand opening included printing demos, snacks, giveaways, and strong Chamber support, showing how our community rallies around new local ventures.

Give them a call at **(814) 656-8456** or visit speedpro.com/central-pa to see examples and request a quote. Hours are typically Monday–Friday (confirm when you call). Whether you need signs for your business, event banners, or vehicle graphics, stopping in or referring them keeps those dollars and that creativity circulating right here in Blair County. Sara and Jake are excited to help our area shine—let's help them succeed!

### Dollar General Market – Tyrone (and recent Altoona addition)
In **Tyrone**, a new **Dollar General Market** (DG Market) opened on **E. Pleasant Valley Boulevard**, with its grand opening on **Saturday, April 4, 2026**. This location stands out with an expanded fresh food selection—including meats, fruits, and veggies—alongside the everyday essentials we know and rely on. It adds convenient, affordable options with a bit more grocery feel, which many families appreciate in our smaller towns.

A similar Dollar General recently opened in **Altoona** (in a former Pizza Hut location), with its grand opening around late March 2026. These stores bring jobs and quick access to goods, helping fill everyday needs without a long drive, especially handy in our spread-out county.

For the Tyrone spot, the grand opening offered perks like $10 gift cards for the first 50 adult customers and tote bags for the first 100—classic DG welcome! Support them by shopping local when you need those quick household or fresh items. Check current hours on their site or app (usually 8 a.m. or earlier). Follow Dollar General locally for updates.

### Looking ahead: D1 Training Altoona & Good News Pottery Open House
Keep your calendars handy! **D1 Training Altoona** is hosting its grand opening event on **Thursday, May 7, 2026** (5:00–7:30 p.m.) with live workouts, music, food, and a chance to tour the facility at **305 Adventureland Dr., Altoona**. This performance training spot focuses on speed, strength, agility, and fitness for athletes of all ages—kids through adults—bringing more wellness options to our area. It's a great fit for families and sports-loving neighbors.

Also this weekend (as of early May), **Good News Pottery** in the peaceful countryside of Blair County is holding a special **Open House** on **Friday, May 1, and Saturday, May 2** (9 a.m.–5 p.m.). This hidden gem studio offers beautiful handmade pottery—dishwasher and microwave safe pieces that feel like little works of art with heart. It's the kind of unique, local maker spot that makes exploring our rural areas so rewarding. Perfect for finding one-of-a-kind gifts or something special for your own home.

Blair County feels alive with these additions—whether it's a fresh smoothie in Altoona, professional graphics help in Bellwood, convenient shopping in Tyrone, upcoming training in Altoona, or artistic finds in our quieter corners. Each one represents someone betting on our community and creating opportunities for all of us. If you visit any, tell the owners or team you saw them featured here—they love knowing neighbors are paying attention and showing up!

Got tips on other recent or upcoming openings I might have missed (maybe in Hollidaysburg, Roaring Spring, or Martinsburg areas)? Or corrections? Drop me a note so the next edition can spotlight even more. In the meantime, let's get out there, support these folks, and keep our local economy strong. See you around town—maybe sharing a smoothie or checking out some fresh signs together!

😊 What's one new spot you're planning to try first?

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


💙 Stay Connected, Blair County!

Have a story to share about someone making a difference in our community? Know about an upcoming fundraiser or volunteer opportunity? We'd love to hear from you for next week's newsletter! Send it to theblairbuzz@gmail.com

Remember: Our community is strongest when we support each other. Whether you're donating, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, every bit helps make Blair County a better place to call home.

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!

 

Reintroducing Hildegard!
 

** PLEASE READ ENTIRE POST AS SHE IS A DIFFICULT DOG TO PLACE! **

Hilde is a 6 year old Rottweiler Mix. She originally came to CPHS as a stray from Clearfield County. Hilde is overall a good girl, but on her terms. She absolutely can't live with cats, no dogs, and older kids.

Hilde is known to guard her things. This includes her findings in the yard. You absolutely can't remove these items from her mouth. She does this with her toys and other items she finds of value. This can easily cause a bite, if you are not familiar with dogs that guard their possessions. However, it's also something that is easy to manage when you know the behavior exists.

She needs a secure outdoor area. She enjoys leaving and simply not coming back. In the yards, she HATES going back inside. She finds her own fun. She plucks grass and dirt out of the yard creating little holes (great for gardening maybe?) She will play with a leaf. She will chase it while it blows in the wind. She loves entertaining herself with a tennis ball.

There have been a few individuals Hilde didn't enjoy the company of.

She does give warning signs (growls.)

She went into a foster to adopt home for a little period of time. She gave no issues with guarding. She was allowed her toys and the foster just simply didn't attempt to remove them from her mouth. What is hers was hers, easy enough.

Hilde wants to be outside. She is not afraid to try to slip past you or escape. She gets out of a harness and can slip a collar. She doesn't come back when summoned. She takes off. Over one night, she wandered 11 miles, which is crazy!

We know there is someone out there with breed experience! We also know guarding is an issue many have dealt with and people have experience managing this. Please share Hildegard's post. You never know who might see it and be her perfect match!

PA Kennel License #1333

Central PA Humane Society 1837 East Pleasant Valley Blvd. Altoona, PA 16602

​PH (814) 942-5402


Please give Hildegard the forever home she deserves!

💡 Answer to Trivia Question:

As of August 2023, the current Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of people dressed as Harry Potter is 1,748 participants, set in Hamburg, Germany.

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Editor

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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.

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