📰 WEEKLY PREVIEW |
* Top Stories: Never forget: Hundreds gather |
Trivia Question❓Which country holds the record for hosting the world's longest continuously running carnival, celebrated annually since the 18th century? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
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Looking for a lively local spot where great food, drinks, and fun always come together? Shenanigans is Claysburg's favorite bar, recently renovated with a modern touch and vibrant original artwork. It's the perfect place to catch up with friends, enjoy live music, or join in on Tuesday Night Trivia and awesome karaoke nights. Whether you're grabbing a drink, a bite to eat, or challenging friends to darts and Skills Games, the friendly staff will make you feel right at home. Support a proud, locally owned small business that brings the community together—check out Shenanigans today! |
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The 9/11 anniversary holds a profound significance for Blair County and central Pennsylvania, bringing residents together at Altoona’s Jaffa Shrine Center for a solemn day of remembrance.
With the nearby Flight 93 Memorial in Somerset County serving as a powerful reminder, locals reflect on heroism that unfolded close to home.
This year’s gathering united community members, first responders, and Gold Star Families, honoring both the victims and the enduring bravery of those who serve. Read More... |
Altoona-Blair County Airport continues to see impressive gains in passenger traffic, marking a bright spot for regional travel in Blair County, PA.
Passenger numbers surged 11% this year for its main airline, with August outpacing last year’s figures significantly.
Although enplanements dipped slightly from July’s record-setting month, they are still up over 25% compared to the previous August, attracting both locals and visitors to the area. Read More... |
Excitement surged throughout Blair County as high school football delivered dramatic moments and fierce rivalries for fans eager for Friday night lights.
Game-day energy brought local pride to the forefront, with students, families, and alumni turning out in force.
Central’s overtime 21-14 triumph over Tyrone electrified Dragons supporters, while Central Cambria’s gritty win against Bedford showed their resilience in a tough matchup. Read More... |
Blair County’s historic preservation community is buzzing with anticipation as the annual Blair County Heritage Gala draws near.
This year’s gala unfolds at Liberty Hall inside Hollidaysburg’s historic U.S. Hotel, setting the perfect backdrop for a night celebrating those who champion the county’s storied past.
Honorees will be recognized for revitalizing treasured landmarks, restoring local architecture, and keeping the county’s legacy alive. Read More... |
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Family-Friendly Events in Blair, Sept 14 – Sept 20, 2026 |
The 93rd Annual Sinking Valley Farm Show |
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Sinking Valley Fairgrounds is the perfect setting for your next celebration or gathering. With a variety of versatile and customizable event spaces, it's ideal for weddings, concerts, festivals, corporate events, and community get-togethers. Guests can explore unique exhibits showcasing local produce, livestock, arts, crafts, and much more during annual events like the Farm Show. Don't miss the chance to experience the vibrant atmosphere and innovative spirit that define this welcoming venue. |
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Fall Festival of the Arts |
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Parking available at the Grace Bible Church |
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Come From Away |
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Altoona Community Theatre will present the hit Broadway musical “Come From Away” from Sept. 17-20 at the Historic Mishler Theatre. |
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THEN AND NOW: HISTORICAL BUS TOURS |
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DESTINATIONS: Forgotten Areas Of Sixth Avenue (Fish Bowl Inn, Old Grand Hotel, Elias Baker's Grist Mill, And More) |
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📚 Blair County Public Library Events:The 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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7 Brew Altoona — 570 W. Plank Road, Altoona. If you’ve noticed a new burst of drive-thru activity along Plank Road, that’s 7 Brew, the beverage stand that held its grand opening and ribbon-cutting on July 28—just outside the strict past-month cutoff, but close enough to be a useful recent-newcomer note for neighbors who have not yet tried it. The stand serves customizable coffee and other drive-thru drinks, and its opening had an especially neighborly twist: during a July 17–19 donation weekend, customers could “pay what they want,” with proceeds supporting the Central PA Humane Society; the company later presented the organization with $23,494. The source identifies Jules Draper as Altoona’s stand manager and Turner Garza as director of operations for Brew Team Group, but it does not provide an owner quote, confirmed daily hours, or a local contact number—so those details should be checked directly with the business before publication. Still, a coffee run here can be an easy way to welcome a new employer while recognizing its early support for the humane society. |
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Five Feel-Good Things Happening Around Blair CountyBlair County is welcoming fall with several positive, family-friendly activities.
It’s shaping up to be a wonderful week for exploring, learning and supporting our community! |
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Local Shout-outs, Heroes, Causes, Fundraisers, Volunteer OpportunitiesWelcome to this week's edition of the Blair Buzz Newsletter! We are back with your weekly roundup of uplifting local news, amazing people, and meaningful ways to get involved across our vibrant community.
👏 Local ShoutoutsBlair County Business Leader Patty Shaw Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award
The Blair County Chamber of Commerce announced that Patty Shaw, CEO of Shirley's Cookie Company, is being celebrated as the recipient of the prestigious 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award! Under Patty's dedicated direction, Shirley's Cookie Company has grown as a staple of local industry, exemplifying hard work, quality, and deep commitment to community growth. Local business leaders and residents are coming together to celebrate her lasting contributions to our local economy.
🦸 Local HeroesRetired Educators and Volunteers Warm Hearts at the Salvation Army and Local Libraries
In a heartfelt week across the county, local volunteers are stepping up to support all ages. Dedicated retired teachers and community members continue to give back by assisting at the Salvation Army and hosting educational programs at our local libraries. Special shoutout to our community library staff and volunteers at the Altoona Area Public Library and Hollidaysburg Area Public Library, who hosted intergenerational celebrations like Grand Hands and Little Hearts and STEAM learning events for young learners this week! Their commitment ensures that Blair County's kids and families always have a warm, safe, and enriching place to learn and connect.
🎗️ Local CausesRaising Mental Health Awareness at the Annual Out of the Darkness Blair County Walk
This weekend, neighbors from across the county are rallying together for mental health awareness, suicide prevention, and community healing. The Out of the Darkness Blair County Walk, organized in partnership with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), brings attention to critical mental health resources and supports educational programs in local schools and workplaces. It’s a powerful movement showing every resident that they are never alone.
🍕 FundraisersDine for a Cause with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Blair County at Red Robin
Looking for an easy—and delicious—way to support local youth? Big Brothers Big Sisters of Blair County is hosting a "Dine for a Cause" night to fund mentorship programs for local kids! A portion of proceeds from food sales will directly support pairing local youth with positive adult mentors across Blair County.
🤝 Volunteer OpportunitiesLend a Helping Paw at the Central PA Humane Society
If you love animals and have a few hours to spare, the Central PA Humane Society (CPHS) in Altoona needs caring hands! CPHS is welcoming volunteers of all ages (minors with a parent/guardian) to assist with cat socialization, dog walking, morning kennel care, and event support. It’s a wonderful opportunity for families or individuals to give back and bring joy to shelter pets awaiting their forever homes.
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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: Trinidad and Tobago |
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Warmly, Charles Sisk Editor |