Flag Day is coming up.

Core Symbolism

National Unity: Unlike Independence Day, which celebrates freedom from British rule, Flag Day explicitly celebrates the birth of the primary symbol that binds the states together.

The Stripes: The 13 horizontal stripes symbolize the original colonies that declared independence.

The Stars: The 50 stars represent the collective strength of the 50 individual sovereign states.

The Colors: According to military tradition, red represents valor and bravery; white represents purity and innocence; blue represents vigilance, perseverance, and justice.

Pennsylvania is the only state that observes it as an official state holiday.

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Altoona-Blair County Airport is launching nonstop summer flights to Myrtle Beach, offering Central Pennsylvania travelers an easy escape to the coast.  

Starting July 1, Contour Airlines will operate flights twice a week—on Wednesdays and Saturdays—directly connecting Altoona and Myrtle Beach.  

Flights depart Altoona at 1:15 p.m., arriving in Myrtle Beach by 3:05 p.m., with return trips leaving South Carolina at 3:45 p.m. and landing home at 5:35 p.m.  

The seasonal schedule runs through August 22, perfectly timed for peak summer vacations.  

Local officials, including Morgan Koziar of Discover Blair County, highlight the route as stress-free and affordable for families—removing the need for long drives to bigger airports.  

Contour’s 30-seat regional jets feature extra legroom plus complimentary snacks and drinks, aiming to make trips smoother and more comfortable for residents.

2026 Blair County Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event

AFSCME Local 3157 members at Blair County Prison have approved a strong three-year contract, securing notable pay raises, extra holidays, and new benefits designed to attract and retain correctional officers and staff.

This agreement, achieved through active and united negotiations, reflects the union’s ongoing push to strengthen its ranks and enhance working conditions.

Veteran Sergeant Chad Murray called the deal a significant step forward, predicting the improved pay and vacation time will boost morale and help recruit new officers.

Negotiating team member Frank Irvin emphasized the power of member involvement in ensuring staff concerns reached management directly, leading to more realistic solutions.

Officers like Dennis Bishop reinforced the view that correctional staff play a critical yet often overlooked role in law enforcement, working tirelessly behind the scenes to keep the community safe.

Tom & Joe’s Restaurant at 1201 13th Ave. has been a downtown Altoona staple since 1933, serving generations of Blair County families with classic home-cooked fare and warm, familiar service.

Founded by brothers Tom and Joe Batrus, the diner remains family-owned, now expertly managed by third-generation owner George Jr.

The cozy, knotty pine-lined eatery is celebrated for its nostalgic “time warp” atmosphere, massive portions, and beloved breakfast offerings—especially the hearty “Breakfast Mess.”

Lunch regulars praise their house-made meatloaf and hot sandwiches, while all-day breakfast favorites and fresh coffee draw crowds seven days a week.

Open early every day, Tom & Joe’s is where Altoona locals and out-of-town visitors mix, making it a true community hub—and a delicious one at that.

Blair Buzz BOGO

Family-Friendly Events in Blair, June 8 – June 14, 2026

Summer Quest 2026 Kickoff — Air Weaver Big Balloon Show

StoryWalk Hollidaysburg — Self-Guided Downtown Walk

Sci-Fi Valley Con

Altoona Curve vs. Chesapeake Baysox — Mud Turtles Weekend / Beach Towel Night

SpeedPro Central PA — 526 N. Fourth St, Bellwood - Whether you're a small business owner looking to freshen up your storefront or a nonprofit needing signage for an event, these are your neighbors — and they're ready to help. Reach them at 814-656-8456, Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Center City Market — Downtown Altoona - The old McCrory's department store building, which stood empty for nearly 35 years, has been transformed into the Center City Market at 1306 11th Avenue — a vibrant food court and retail space. Find them online at centercitymarketaltoona.com. Center City Market + 3

Here’s a short weekend ideas list for Blair County, Hollidaysburg, Altoona, and Tyrone, based on currently trending local activities and event listings.[eventbrite]

Weekend ideas

1. Walk or bike the Lower Trail in Blair County for an easy outdoor outing, since local activity is focused on trails and active living.[activealtoona]

2. Visit the Horseshoe Curve area in Altoona for a classic Central Pennsylvania sight with nearby museum-style attractions.[pabucketlist]

3. Check out Altoona’s weekend event scene for concerts, comedy nights, scavenger hunts, and family activities.[eventbrite]

4. Spend time in Hollidaysburg’s Legion Park for a relaxed park day or a community event, since the area is showing strong family-friendly activity.[wjactv]

5. Look for craft shows or workshops in Hollidaysburg, which are among the more active current event types there.[eventbrite]

6. Go to a bingo night or charity fundraiser in Hollidaysburg, which is a popular local social option right now.[eventbrite]

7. Plan a family outing in Tyrone around community events like board game days, local gatherings, or park programs.[patch]

8. Try a Tyrone scavenger hunt or treasure-trip style event for something light, social, and outdoorsy.[eventbrite]

9. Explore Blair County’s historical main streets and small-town downtowns for shopping, food, and a casual stroll.[discoverblaircounty]

10. Make it a local sports or festival weekend in Altoona, where arts festivals, museums, and game-day energy keep things lively.[yelp]

Best easy picks

• Outdoor day: Lower Trail + Horseshoe Curve area.[activealtoona]

• Family day: Legion Park in Hollidaysburg or a Tyrone community event.

• Most active town for events: Altoona, especially for entertainment and scavenger-hunt style outings.[eventbrite]

Good mix for one weekend

A simple plan would be: Saturday in Altoona, Sunday in Hollidaysburg or Tyrone, with Blair County trails or parks as the backup option if you want something low-key.[activealtoona]

Local Shout-outs, Heroes, Causes, Fundraisers, Volunteer Opportunities

If you apply to adopt, please let the Humane Society know that you saw the listing in The Blair Buzz Newsletter!

The Blair Buzz newsletter is sponsored by

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Warmly,

Charles Sisk 

Editor