📰 WEEKLY PREVIEW |
* Top Stories: State launches Innovate tax credit |
Trivia Question❓In what year did the world population reach 5 billion, an event commemorated by the United Nations as 'World Population Day'? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
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If you love animals and want to support a compassionate, community-driven cause, Central PA Humane Society is the perfect organization. They tirelessly care for animals in need, providing loving shelter and essential services—all thanks to the generosity of friends like you. From adoption to volunteering, every bit of support helps save lives. Whether you give your time, donate supplies, or help fund their mission, you’re making a real difference for pets throughout Central Pennsylvania. |
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Suicide prevention stands at the forefront in Blair County, as the community unites to foster change and resilience.
This weekend, the annual Out of the Darkness walk returns to Lakemont Park, bringing together families, friends, and advocates who are breaking the silence around mental health.
Every step taken honors loved ones lost and brings light to those still struggling in silence. Read More... |
The Logan Valley Trail in Blair County, PA is drawing outdoor lovers eager to explore new terrain for walking, hiking, and enjoying nature.
Winding alongside an active railroad and once-forgotten coal sites, this expanded trail creatively revives historic land.
The project showcases community vision, transforming hazardous ground into a scenic corridor now accessible to all ages. Read More... |
Blair County is embracing a wave of enthusiasm as the new Innovate in PA 2.0 Tax Credit seeks to ignite the local startup ecosystem.
Focused on sectors like life sciences, advanced manufacturing, and biotechnology, this initiative represents a bold shift from previous economic incentives.
Economic leaders and entrepreneurs cite increased partnerships with workforce groups and venture studios as evidence that the region’s business landscape is gaining momentum. Read More... |
Blair County is buzzing as elementary football teams prepare for a much-anticipated new season.
Young athletes have begun practices, drawing eager families and longtime fans back to local fields.
The Altoona football league remains a cornerstone of community spirit, hosting weekend games that bring neighbors together.
Bishop Guilfoyle Academy’s elementary teams amplify the excitement, uniting kids from several area schools in friendly competition. Read More... |
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Family-Friendly Events in Blair, Aug 24 – Aug 30, 2026 |
Williamsburg Community Farm Show |
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Experience the heart of Blair County at the Williamsburg Community Farm Show! From classic contests and livestock auctions to lively nightly entertainment, this cherished fair brings together families, friends, and neighbors for six fun-filled days. Delight in a wide variety of activities suitable for all ages. Nestled in the scenic town of Williamsburg, guests can enjoy unique traditions, exciting competitions, parades, and fireworks. Whether you're a long-time local or a first-time visitor, you'll make lasting memories at this beloved community event. |
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Hollidaysburg Farmers Market |
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A weekly downtown market (running through September) with local produce, baked goods, crafts, live music, and family-friendly kids' craft activities from area vendors. |
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Pickled Palooza 2026 |
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Join the fun at Pickled Palooza 2026, hosted by ABATE of Blair County! Experience a lively event packed with exciting activities and great company. With access options for everyone, get ready for an unforgettable gathering. Whether you opt for General Admission or treat yourself to VIP perks like priority entry and reserved seating, there’s something for everyone at this can’t-miss community celebration. |
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Mascot-Palooza: Altoona Curve vs. Erie SeaWolves |
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LOCO celebrates his 11th birthday by inviting a lineup of MiLB/MLB mascot friends to PNG Field for a night of on-field antics alongside a full Double-A baseball game — a lively, high-energy family outing. |
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📚 Blair County Public Library Events: Aug 24 - Aug 30The Blair County Library System has 8 member libraries. Below is the link to the Blair County Library System where you can access the calendars and events for all libraries. Be sure to check all confirmed events. |
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⚾ The Card Craze Gives Blair County Collectors a Place of Their OwnSports-card collecting has a new home in Duncansville with The Card Craze at 1308 Third Avenue. The former Blair Animal Hospital was completely remodeled into a boutique-style sports-card shop designed specifically with collectors in mind. The story behind the store is especially local: Andrew joined forces with his uncle, Shawn McCarl, to turn a long-standing dream into The Card Craze. Inside, collectors can browse sports cards across multiple sports, Pokémon products, bargain boxes, graded cards and higher-end collectibles, with buying, selling, trading and help with card-grading submissions also part of the experience. The shop has quickly developed a reputation as a welcoming place for everyone from kids opening their first pack to longtime collectors hunting for something special. Hours are 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. Saturday and closed Sunday, and the store can be reached at 814-999-0204. |
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The **Williamsburg Community Farm Show** continues through Saturday, August 29, bringing livestock, exhibits, midway rides, games, tractor pulls, entertainment, and classic fair food to the county’s largest agricultural celebration. It is an easy all-ages outing that showcases rural Blair County at its liveliest. [discoverblaircounty](https://www.discoverblaircounty.com/calendar/) Downtown Altoona’s **Farmers Market** is set for Thursday, August 27, a timely chance to support regional growers and makers while exploring the Heritage Plaza area. [altoonapa](https://www.altoonapa.gov/residents/community-events) On Saturday, August 29, history becomes walkable during the **Civil War Altoona Historic Walking Tour**. Led by historian Dr. Jared Frederick, the 7 p.m. downtown experience costs $10 and welcomes all ages—an engaging option for visitors who want local stories alongside their sightseeing. [discoverblaircounty](https://www.discoverblaircounty.com/calendar/) Altoona’s most delightfully unusual trend arrives Sunday, August 30: **Pickled Palooza** at Lakemont Park. Expect more than 30 pickle-themed vendors, inventive foods and treats, contests, and free admission for children 12 and under with a paid adult. [discoverblaircounty](https://www.discoverblaircounty.com/calendar/) Also August 30, the Blair County Convention Center hosts an ArtsAltoona double tribute concert celebrating the Steve Miller Band and the Doobie Brothers—an upbeat finale for multigenerational music fans. [blairconventioncenter](https://www.blairconventioncenter.com/upcoming-events) |
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Welcome to this week's edition of the Blair Buzz Community Newsletter! We've gathered some heartwarming stories, local achievements, and great community causes right from our backyard.
👏 Local ShoutoutsCelebrating Half a Century of Tyrone History Uncovered!
The Borough of Tyrone took a wonderful step back in time when local residents and borough officials gathered to unearth a bicentennial time capsule buried 50 years ago! Originally set in the ground in 1976 by the "Big Spring" monument at Washington Avenue and West 10th Street, opening the capsule brought back incredible memories and sparked big smiles for lifelong residents who were there when it was first buried. Shoutout to the community historians and Tyrone leadership for preserving our rich local heritage!
🦸 Local Heroes8-Year-Old Emmy Brings Big Smiles & Cold Drinks to Altoona
When the August heat kicked up, 8-year-old Emmy Irvin stepped up in the best way possible! Setting up her neighborhood lemonade stand in front of her home on 57th Street in Altoona, Emmy served up cold drinks and brightened the days of neighbors and passersby across the community. It’s young, kind-hearted neighbors like Emmy who remind us what makes Blair County such a warm and special place to live.
💚 Local CausesFairview Hills Back-to-School Bash Builds Stronger Neighborhood Ties
The Altoona Housing Authority and Fairview Hills community hosted their annual "Back to School" event under the neighborhood pavilion to help students gear up for the upcoming academic year. The initiative focused on connecting neighbors, providing family fun, and making sure local children hit the classroom with confidence and support.
🎟️ Fundraisers & Community EventsPaws 2 Read: Supporting Literacy and Shelter Animals
The Altoona Area Public Library is teaming up with the local humane society for their heartwarming "Paws 2 Read" program! This event gives local young readers a chance to practice reading aloud to gentle shelter animals, boosting childhood reading confidence while bringing comfort and affection to shelter pets awaiting adoption.
🤝 Volunteer OpportunitiesLend a Hand Outdoors with the Blair County Game, Fish and Forestry Association
If you love the outdoors and want to give back to Blair County’s natural spaces, the Blair County Game, Fish and Forestry Association is looking for volunteers! Opportunities range from maintaining public hiking and 3D archery trails to helping out with flower box gardening, habitat box building, and trail upkeep. It’s a great way for families, outdoorsmen, and local groups to get active and keep our local landscape beautiful.
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If you apply to adopt, please let the Humane Society know that you saw the listing in The Blair Buzz Newsletter! |
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💡 Answer to Trivia Question: 1987 |
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Warmly, Charles Sisk Editor |