The Blair Buzz
Archives
Father's Day Fun: County Fairs, Motorcycle Ride Saluting Vets, Hazardous Waste Solution - Invite Friends!
Father's Day Fun: County Fairs, Motorcycle Ride Saluting Vets, Hazardous Waste Solution - Invite Friends!
Father's Day Fun: County Fairs, Motorcycle Ride Saluting Vets, Hazardous Waste Solution - Invite Friends!
Celebrate Father's Day with County Fairs, Motorcycle Ride, Safe Disposal Event, Meat Market BOGO, Art Exhibition, Symphony, Baseball, and Live Music at Lakemont Park! Don't miss out - invite your friends and neighbors to join the fun!
Charles Sisk
Jun 15, 2026
Sunday, June 21 is Father's Day |
 |
Trivia QuestionâWhich fictional world is known for having a sorting hat that sorts students into different houses based on their traits and values? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
 |
The Blair Buzz newsletter is sponsored by |
Simply Drost - Good Outfit. Good Mood. Meet the Local Shop Behind the Tagline. |
 |
Value & Quality Real talk: good style shouldn't break the bank. đ¸ Simply Drost is an online consignment boutique run by Jessica Drost of Northern Cambria â and her shop is full of carefully chosen women's pieces at prices that make sense. Maxi dresses for $30. Everyday tops for $16. Shop online or catch her at a pop-up near you. đ www.SimplyDrost.com Follow on Facebook. |
 |
 |
Â
 |
 |
County fairs light up central Pennsylvania as summer winds down, bringing families and friends together for a season of classic fun.
Somerset County Fair in Meyersdale celebrates its 126th year from August 21â29, featuring animal exhibits, competitions, and a welcoming community spirit.
The Westmoreland Fair in Greensburg shares these dates, offering everything from demolition derbies to 4-H showcases, crafts, and hands-on farm exhibitsâplenty for all ages.
Locally in Blair County, the Williamsburg Community Farm Show (August 23â28) draws crowds with nightly entertainment, agricultural displays, and craft shows, emphasizing its role as the regionâs largest local fair.
The Indiana County Fair (August 28âSeptember 5) highlights agricultural sciences alongside rides, traditional foods, and friendly competition.
Rounding out the season, Ebensburgâs American Legion County Fair (September 6â12) is known as a âhomecoming,â where families reconnect over carnival rides, grandstand events, and local traditions.
Central PAâs fairs are a beloved tradition, promising unforgettable late-summer memories. Read More... |
 |
Motorcycle enthusiasts from across the region will unite for the America 250 Freedom Ride in Blair County, set for June 20 to honor the nationâs 250th anniversary.
The escorted ride starts with a ceremony at the Hollidaysburg Veterans Home, then travels past landmarks like Fort Roberdeau, culminating at PNG Field for the Altoona Curveâs anniversary celebration.
Co-chairs Christina Dambeck and Jim Patterson organized the event as a way to pay tribute to local veterans and celebrate Americaâs rich history.
Organizers hope to gather at least 250 motorcycles, symbolizing the milestone. The first 250 riders to register on-siteâstarting at 9:30 a.m.âwill receive a commemorative T-shirt and patch.
Participation is free, though donations are welcome, and all are invited to continue celebrating at PNG Field after the ride. Read More... |
 |
Blair County residents can safely dispose of household hazardous materials during a special collection event on Saturday, July 18.
The 2026 Household Hazardous Waste Collection will run from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Jaffa Shrine, helping locals properly discard dangerous substances that shouldnât go in regular trash.
Thereâs a base fee of $25 per vehicle and an extra $0.50 per pound for paintâcash or check only at the event.
Pre-registration is required but free.
Accepted materials include fluorescent bulbs, automotive fluids, pesticides, fertilizers, paint thinners, aerosol cans, and all types of paint.
Residents must stay inside their vehicles while staff remove items from trunks or truck beds for safety.
Find more details or register online, or contact 814-942-7472 for questions. Read More... |
 |
 |
Blocher's Meat Market – Altoona, PA |
 |
Blocher's Meat Market has been providing Altoona and the Blair County area with quality meats since 1923 â over 100 years in business. They are a local butcher offering locally grown products and services. Customers are passionate about the place. Reviewers rave about the fresh and smoked meats, calling it a "great family owned (100 years!) business" with friendly staff â and the bacon in particular has developed a devoted following, with people reportedly bringing coolers from out of town to stock up. They're located at 109 1st St, Altoona, PA 16602, and are open Tuesday through Saturday. |
Blair Buzz BOGO - Closing this week! |
 |
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!!! |
 |
Family-Friendly Events in Blair, June 15 â June 21, 2026 |
America 250 Photography Exhibition & Live Music — ArtsAltoona |
 |
đ
Date/Time: Saturday, June 20, 2026 | Noon â Evening ArtsAltoona, in partnership with ABC Photo Society, will showcase an exhibition of selected works from a community photography contest at the ArtsAltoona Center on June 20. The photos capture the diversity, culture, and landscapes of America in celebration of its 250th anniversary. The event will also provide visitors with live musical performances from local choral groups, featuring all-time American favorites and classic barbershop tunes. Starting at noon, guests will be able to vote for a "Fan Favorite." ArtsAltoonaWTAJ đ¨âđŠâđ§ Age Appropriateness: All ages; great for families who enjoy arts, culture, and music |
Star-Spangled Symphony — Altoona Symphony Orchestra at PNG Field |
 |
đ
Date/Time: Saturday, June 20, 2026 | Gates open 6:15 PM | Pre-concert 6:30 PM | Orchestra 7:30 PM The Altoona Symphony Orchestra invites the community to celebrate America's 250th anniversary at Star-Spangled Symphony on Saturday, June 20 at PNG Field. Sponsored by the America250 Blair County Commission, this free community concert promises an inspiring evening of patriotic music and a spectacular fireworks finale. Pre-concert music will begin at 6:30 p.m. by the Altoona Community Band, with the Symphony Orchestra performing the 1812 Overture and "Stars & Stripes Forever" starting at 7:30 p.m. The Courier ExpressWTAJ đ¨âđŠâđ§ Age Appropriateness: All ages; a once-in-a-generation patriotic outdoor event perfect for families |
Altoona Curve vs. Chesapeake Baysox — Minor League Baseball |
 |
đ
Date/Time: Monday, June 15, 2026 | 6:00 PM ET (first pitch) As the schedule turns to summer, the Curve will host the Chesapeake Baysox and Reading Fightin Phils in June with week-long series against both clubs. Named for the world-famous Horseshoe Curve that carves through the Alleghenies, the team delivers big-league energy in a scenic setting beside Lakemont Park's classic coasters. The Curve are the Double-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates, making this a great chance to spot future big-leaguers. MiLBVivid Seats đ¨âđŠâđ§ Age Appropriateness: All ages; minor league games are famously family-friendly with in-game activities, a mascot (Steamer), and affordable concessions |
Rockin' the Yard: ThunderBeard (ZZ Top Tribute) with Special Guest Flying Monkeys — Lakemont Park |
 |
đ
Date/Time: Friday, June 19, 2026 | 5:00 PM â 11:00 PM (doors open 5 PM, show 6 PM) Rockin' the Yard is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, raising funds for Shriners Children's Hospital and other local charities, committed to keeping ticket prices family friendly. Get ready for a night of classic rock as ThunderBeard brings the music and energy of ZZ Top to Lakemont Park. Sing along to legendary hits like "La Grange," "Tush," and "Sharp Dressed Man." Special guest Flying Monkeys opens the show. Lakemont Park is introducing Rockin' the Yard as a dynamic live music experience designed to bring energy, entertainment and new audiences to the area. WTAJ + 2 đ¨âđŠâđ§ Age Appropriateness: All ages welcome; outdoor concert setting. Note: outdoor event at a park, bring lawn chairs. |
đ Blair County Public Library System Events: June 15â21, 2026The Blair County Library System has 8 member libraries. Below are links to all libraries and their calendars. Be sure to check all confirmed events during June 15â21. Altoona Area Public Library Bellwood-Antis Public Library Claysburg Area Public Library Hollidaysburg Area Public Library Martinsburg Community Library Roaring Spring Community Library Tyrone-Snyder Public Library Williamsburg Public Library
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
Here is a look at two great new small businesses that just opened up their doors in June 2026 right here in Blair County. They make perfect additions to our community! CFT Cycles (Altoona)We have a fantastic new option for local motorcycle enthusiasts right in town! Clifford Taylor recently opened the doors to CFT Cycles, located at 511 N. Fourth Ave. in Altoona. The new shop is a full-repair motorcycle oasis that specializes in both major and minor repairs on Harley-Davidson motorcycles, as well as sourcing and installing custom parts. Clifford, a dedicated dad to two kids (ages 13 and 6), decided to take the entrepreneurial leap this season to gain the personal freedom to attend his family's milestones without answering to a boss. "I take great pride in figuring things out myself and finding a solution," Clifford shared, noting that he is thrilled to fill a need for dependable, expert local bike care. If your ride needs a summer tune-up or some custom upgrades, stop by the shop or reach out to Clifford on the North Fourth Avenue block to welcome him to the neighborhood business scene! ACCEL Fitness LLC (Altoona)If you've been looking to re-energize your health routine this summer, a vibrant new boutique fitness studio has officially arrived in our community! Owned by local fitness advocate Lindzie Miles, ACCEL Fitness LLC is now open at 1807 Ninth Ave. in Altoona, offering high-energy rhythm cycling, strength training, and recovery-focused classes. Lindzie worked closely with the Saint Francis University Small Business Development Center to bring her vision to life, aiming to fill a distinct need for a fitness experience that pairs high-intensity workouts with an inclusive, welcoming atmosphere. "There were many moving pieces, from branding and marketing to operations and technology, but staying focused on the vision and the community helped make the transition successful," Lindzie shared. Whether you are a lifelong athlete or just stepping onto a bike for the first time, Lindzie and her team are ready to welcome you with open armsâcheck out their class schedules online or drop by the Ninth Avenue studio to see what the buzz is all about! |
 |
đĽ 1. Summer Festivals & Community Events Are HugeBlair County residents are embracing local events more than ever, especially family-friendly experiences. Trending events:
âž 2. Altoona Curve Experiences Continue to TrendThe Altoona Curve remain one of the county's strongest community attractions. The biggest buzz:
âď¸ 3. Local Travel Is Having a MomentResidents are excited about new convenience options from the Altoona-Blair County Airport. The newest development:
đş 4. Craft Breweries Are Becoming Community HubsBusinesses like:
have evolved into gathering spaces that host:
đ 5. Railroad Heritage Is Trending AgainWith the anticipation surrounding the famous Union Pacific Big Boy locomotive visiting the region, railroad history is generating significant excitement. (WJAC) Interest is spilling over into attractions like:
đ˛ 6. Outdoor Recreation Continues to GrowDiscover Blair County continues heavily promoting:
Popular destinations include:
đď¸ 7. Supporting Local Businesses Is IncreasingThe Blair County Chamber continues emphasizing:
Blair County's Overall Vibe in Summer 2026:"Stay local, celebrate community, get outside, and support hometown businesses." |
 |
Local Shout-outs, Heroes, Causes, Fundraisers, Volunteer Opportunities
Hey there, Blair County neighbors! Grab a warm mug of coffee or tea and settle in. Itâs been a beautiful week across the county, and our local communities are buzzing with incredible energy. From creative summer programs kicking off at our amazing public libraries to neighbor-to-neighbor support, weâve got plenty of good news to share. Here is your weekly roundup of whatâs happening, who to celebrate, and how you can get plugged into the community we love. Local ShoutoutsCartoonist Brian Middleton Empowers Next-Gen StorytellersOur local youth have a fantastic opportunity to learn from one of Blair County's very own creative talents this month! Local cartoonist and author Brian Middleton (known for Poiko: Quests & Stuff) is partnering with the Bellwood-Antis Public Library to host a week-long sequential storytelling workshop. It's a wonderful shoutout to a local artist giving his time to help local kids turn their doodles into multi-page graphic novels and comic strips.
Local HeroesFour-Legged Friends and Patient Volunteers Help Kids Love ReadingWe have some truly paws-itive local heroes working in our library systems this week! Safe, gentle, adoptable animals from the Central PA Humane Society are stepping up to act as furry, non-judgmental listeners for young readers building their literacy skills. Special shoutout to the shelter volunteers and library staff who coordinate these magical sessions that bring joy to both kids and animals waiting for their forever homes.
Local CausesUnearth a Story with the Summer Quest 2026 Library Kickoff!Keeping our kids engaged, learning, and reading over the summer break is a vital community initiative, and our public libraries are answering the call big time. The highly anticipated "Summer Quest 2026: Unearth a Story" reading programs are officially launching across Blair County this week to prevent the "summer slide" and offer family-friendly fun. To make things even better, the Altoona Area Public Library is starting the celebration early with a massive, high-energy community show!
FundraisersStepping Out of the Darkness to Bring Hope to Blair CountyThe American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) has officially opened registration and donation tracking for its annual Blair County community fundraiser. This incredibly important movement raises vital funds that stay right here in Pennsylvania to support mental health research, advocacy, and educational programming in our local schools and workplaces. Itâs a beautiful way to walk in remembrance, support survivors, and build a community where no one feels alone.
Volunteer OpportunitiesHelp Shape an E.P.I.C. 250th Celebration for Blair CountyWith the United States Semiquincentennial (250th anniversary) coming up on July 4, the America250PA Blair County Commission is actively calling on local residents to help plan something truly historic. Our picturesque county has a rich heritage, and the commission needs passionate volunteers to help coordinate neighborhood potlucks, historic bell-ringing events, and community-wide celebrations. Whether you want to share fresh ideas, help staff a community booth, or sit on a planning committee, there is a place for you!
Have a fantastic week, Blair County! Let's keep lifting each other up and making our towns a wonderful place to live, work, and grow. |
 |
 |
If you apply to adopt, please let the Humane Society know that you saw the listing in The Blair Buzz Newsletter! |
 |
 |
Humble and Kind Boutique A locally owned Boutique offering Trendy, Comfortable Clothing at Affordable prices. Unique gifts, Local products and so much more! We even have a little free library! 2514 7th Ave Suite G, Altoona, PA 16602 PH 814-283-5451 |
đĄ Answer to Trivia Question: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter |
 |
Enjoyed this? Invite your friends and neighbors. |
đ Like and follow us on Facebook:
đ Join the Blair Buzz Facebook Group:
Enjoyed this? Invite your friends and neighbors. Share with a friend!
We'd love your feedback! - theblairbuzz@gmail.com
Warmly, Charles Sisk Editor |