A Williamsburg tradition continues to show how one community can turn remembrance into practical kindness for animals in need.

Participants in the annual Laces for Alli 5K gathered on October 4 to walk, run and honor the memory of Allison Edwards.

The event remembers a Williamsburg native who died in an accident in 2015.

More than a decade later, the gathering remains a way for friends, family and neighbors to celebrate her life together.

That sense of connection is matched by a concrete charitable purpose.

Hollidaysburg is getting a welcome moment in the regional spotlight, and the attention reaches well beyond its historic courthouse.

A new October travel feature has presented the Blair County borough as an appealing fall day-trip destination for people looking to explore western and central Pennsylvania without booking an overnight stay.

For independent shopkeepers and other local businesses, that kind of attention offers something valuable: a chance to introduce a familiar hometown to a fresh audience.

The draw is not one giant attraction but the combination of walkable streets, distinctive storefronts, places to pause for coffee and the architecture that gives downtown its character.

Allegheny Street sits at the heart of that experience, with a streetscape that rewards visitors who take time to look around rather than hurry between destinations.

Blair County football teams had a mixed night, with Hollidaysburg beating Jersey Shore 50-18 and Bellwood-Antis defeating Chestnut Ridge 35-6.

Tyrone held off Penn Cambria 17-14, and Claysburg-Kimmel beat Curwensville 28-12.

Altoona faced the toughest result locally, falling 52-0 to State College.

Several nearby games were much closer: Central edged Central Cambria 29-26, Bellefonte beat Richland 16-13, and Huntingdon held off Bedford 28-21.

Bishop McCort outscored Philipsburg-Osceola 43-38 in one of the night’s highest-scoring contests.

In Heritage Conference play, United Valley beat Portage 36-29 in overtime, while Northern Cambria shut out Penns Manor 45-0.

The regional results ranged from narrow escapes to emphatic shutouts, giving local fans plenty to talk about beyond their own teams’ scores.

For Blair County farmers, higher diesel prices make harvest more expensive at the very moment crops are ready and weather leaves little room to wait.

Tractors and combines need fuel to work fields around Williamsburg and Martinsburg, while trucks move crops, livestock and supplies.

Even a small increase per gallon can add up over long workdays, squeezing budgets already stretched by fertilizer, repairs and other essentials.

Most growers cannot raise their selling prices to cover those costs, and delaying harvest can put crops at risk.

Dairy farms face regular hauling needs, too, regardless of fuel prices.

Some agricultural advocates have sought temporary tax relief, but off-road dyed diesel is governed by different rules than fuel used on highways.

For local farms, the challenge is paying today’s fuel bills while keeping enough money to plant again next season.

A little preparation can make Blair County's Halloween outing easier to enjoy. Start by confirming your municipality's trick-or-treat notice.

Hollidaysburg Borough has shared October 29, from 6 to 8 p.m., as the county window. Agree on the walking group, the supervising adult, a compact route and the finishing time before children head out. Save a recognizable meeting point and a pickup plan.

Try costumes with the shoes and outer layers children will actually wear.

Safe Kids Worldwide recommends reflective details, lights, properly fitting outfits and adult accompaniment for children younger than 12. Drivers should slow down and watch carefully for pedestrians, following National Highway Traffic Safety Administration guidance. Keep phones away during crossings and allow time for a calm trip home.

At home, give collected treats an adult review.

The Food and Drug Administration recommends a snack or meal before trick-or-treating, checking wrappers and allergy labels afterward, and removing items unsuitable for younger children. Our guide brings these steps into a practical family plan, along with suggestions for comfortable pickups and welcoming visitors at your door. Let tired children finish early and keep the focus on a pleasant evening together. Official safety resources and the local announcement are linked for easy reference. Save the organizer links for a final check. Safe Kids guidance · Driver and pedestrian guidance · Treat guidance

Gentler Halloween fun is still ahead for Blair County families. Del-Ghoul-So's at DelGrosso's Park in Tipton continues October 17–18 and 24–25, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The October 24–25 listing gives admission as $20 per person, with children under 24 months free. Check the page for your chosen weekend. Every guest needs event admission, including adults who will not ride.

For a farm outing, JB Tree Farm at 8100 JB Tree Farm Lane, Alexandria, offers Fall Frenzy activities in the Alexandria area.

Its current page lists corn-maze, hayride and play-area admission at $12 for ages 10–61, $8 for ages 4–9 and adults 62 and older, and free for ages three and younger. Check current hours, conditions and separate pumpkin costs before traveling.

Our guide helps you choose a comfortable seasonal outing without turning it into a Halloween marathon.

Review the park's costume rules, set a family spending limit and pick a few priorities. At the farm, decide which activities actually interest your group and ask about access needs in advance. A daylight visit, one pumpkin and time together can be plenty. Both organizers' pages are linked so you can check the latest details. Save the organizer links for a final check. Del-Ghoul-So's details · Park calendar · JB Tree Farm Fall Frenzy

Hollidaysburg Borough lists the Phoenix Volunteer Fire Department Halloween Parade for Saturday, October 31, with a 6 to 9 p.m. calendar window.

That is the overall event listing, not a confirmed three-hour procession. Look to the organizer's latest announcement for the step-off time, parade route, viewing details and participation arrangements before planning the evening.

The parade is separate from the October 29 neighborhood trick-or-treat night shared by the borough.

Keeping both dates clearly marked gives Blair County families different ways to celebrate without confusing a candy route with a spectator event. Anyone wishing to enter should check registration requirements directly; appearing on a public calendar does not establish entry eligibility or reserve a place.

Our guide focuses on a comfortable hometown outing: choose a recognizable meeting point, coordinate your group and let younger children enjoy as much of the parade as suits them.

Leave room for volunteers and moving entries, and review current parking and street notices rather than relying on an old route. Take the costume photo before leaving home if that makes the evening easier. Check the official event listing again on Halloween day for changes, then enjoy the chance to watch neighbors bring the season to life. Save the organizer links for a final check. Borough events · Community information · Pedestrian guidance

Baker Mansion's Haunted Lantern Tours run October 16, 17, 23 and 24, from 7 to 10 p.m. at 3419 Oak Lane in Altoona.

The Blair County Historical Society lists admission at $6 per guest. Each tour lasts about 30 minutes, with groups limited to 14. Costumes are welcome, and the organizer plans snacks and apple cider.

The setting brings together a historic local landmark and Halloween folklore.

Expect dim lighting, stairs and some jump scares. The society asks families not to bring children younger than three; parents should also consider each child's comfort with darkness and surprises. Treat the ghost stories as seasonal storytelling rather than established fact. Call 814-942-3916 to ask about ticket arrangements, availability and access needs before committing to the outing.

Our guide helps you decide whether this atmosphere suits your group, coordinate a time slot and leave room for a relaxed visit.

Same-evening ticket sales are planned from 6 p.m., but a space is not guaranteed. Advance arrangements are the more dependable choice for friends hoping to tour together. Check the Historical Society's current event page before leaving, wear comfortable footwear and choose a daylight alternative if someone would prefer gentler Halloween fun. Save the organizer links for a final check. Organizer and tickets · Plan a museum visit · Altoona community calendar

Blair County families have two Halloween dates worth saving, and neither is Halloween Saturday.

Hollidaysburg Area School District lists Safe Trick Or Treat — Senior High on Tuesday, October 27, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Its calendar does not provide admission, age eligibility, parking or entrance details, so check with the district before making plans. The guide links directly to the school event entry.

Hollidaysburg Borough has also shared Thursday, October 29, from 6 to 8 p.m. as the 2026 Blair County trick-or-treat window.

Confirm your own municipality's announcement before selecting a neighborhood, particularly if your family is traveling across municipal or county lines. Keep the school celebration and neighborhood candy night as separate calendar entries so dates do not get mixed up.

Make the outing easy to enjoy: choose a compact route, agree on a finishing time and try costumes with the coats and shoes children will actually wear.

A familiar block can be plenty for younger children. Save the organizer's latest details, coordinate adult supervision and have a small at-home backup if anyone tires early. Our guide explains what is confirmed, which questions still need an organizer's answer and how to keep the evening focused on fun. Save the organizer links for a final check. School event · Borough announcement · Walking safety

A practical equipment replacement at an Altoona manufacturer is showing how smaller improvements can make a meaningful difference for local businesses. Blair Image Elements received a $65,761 award through the RISE PA program to replace three aging rooftop heating and cooling units with higher-efficiency models. The project is expected to reduce annual energy expenses by approximately $9,900, according to a recent Penn State technical assistance report.

Twenty-one local organizations will share more than $80,000 in new prevention funding aimed at helping Blair County families before problems become crises. Operation Our Town announced its 2026 grants October 7, continuing a long-running effort to reduce substance abuse and crime through education, mentoring, and practical community support. The awards demonstrate that prevention can look very different depending on the people being served.

A four-legged military veteran is beginning a new chapter of public service in Blair County. The Sheriff's Office recently welcomed K-9 Aron, a six-year-old Dutch shepherd with previous service in the United States military. Aron is partnered with Sergeant Justin Bennett and is now assigned to work from the courthouse office in Hollidaysburg.

Blair County train travelers are getting a significant improvement in their options as a second daily Pennsylvanian passenger train prepares to launch November 18. The additional service is designed to connect communities along the Pittsburgh-to-New York City corridor, with Altoona positioned as an important stop in the middle of the route. For residents who rely on rail to reach family, appointments, colleges, or major cities, the expanded schedule means a trip no longer has to revolve around just one departure in each direction.

Amy Bradley has made telling Johnstown’s business stories a central part of her leadership as president and CEO of the Cambria Regional Chamber.

Her recognition among Pennsylvania’s leading women executives in 2026 reflects a career in communication, community service and advocacy.

Bradley joined the chamber in 2018 after 18 years in marketing, communications and public affairs at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center.

Earlier work in radio and television news sharpened her eye for people and projects that deserve attention.

Now, her weekly Good News Friday videos spotlight local businesses and positive developments without ignoring the region’s challenges.

She also teaches public relations at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown and remains involved in revitalization efforts.

For women CEOs and entrepreneurs in neighboring Blair County, Bradley’s approach offers a reminder that helping a community see its strengths can be a powerful form of leadership.

Blair County neighbors will rally around breast cancer survivors at Altoona’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Central PA walk on Oct. 11.

Walk ambassador Jessica King of Roaring Spring found a lump while showering at age 40.

Diagnosed in 2024 with invasive ductal carcinoma that had spread to nearby lymph nodes, she underwent chemotherapy, immunotherapy and a double mastectomy.

King now leads The Breastie Project, connecting and encouraging local people facing treatment.

The walk starts at Peoples Natural Gas Field, passes through Lakemont Park and returns to the ballpark.

Registration begins at 12:30 PM, with the kickoff at 2 PM.

Fundraising supports transportation to appointments, wigs, counseling and cancer research.

Beyond the walk, King wants neighbors to take breast changes seriously.

Anyone who notices a new lump or other concerning change should contact a health professional rather than wait for routine screening.

PennDOT District 9 is holding a hiring event Tuesday, Oct. 6, from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. at its Hollidaysburg office.

Applicants can learn about openings across the six-county district, get help with applications and speak directly with recruitment staff and hiring managers.

Seasonal winter CDL equipment operators are among the most immediate needs, and some candidates may be able to interview during the event.

Jobseekers should bring two forms of identification if they plan to pursue an opportunity.

Penn Highlands Community College is considering whether to keep its Blair Center at Logan Valley Mall when its lease expires in December 2027.

No decision to leave has been made, and college leaders say the mall remains a useful location for students.

Still, they want another option if renewing the lease does not make sense.

A $1.9 million state allocation could help pay for a lease and prepare a new Blair County facility, but the money would not be released for relocation if the center stays at the mall.

The question matters to students who depend on convenient access to classes and services, particularly those commuting around work and other responsibilities.

Penn Highlands is also reassessing space elsewhere, after moving its culinary program in Johnstown and considering whether its Ebensburg Center may need less room as online enrollment grows.

For now, renewal remains possible as the college weighs whether the mall can serve students reliably beyond 2027.

Truck drivers using North Eighth Street between Juniata and Logan Township should check Blair County bridge weight limits before turning onto the route.

Three county-owned bridges lie ahead, and two have different restrictions.

The bridge over Norfolk Southern’s mainline is limited to 29 tons, or 33 tons for tractor-trailers; the bridge over Rose Yard is limited to 20 tons, or 25 tons for tractor-trailers.

A truck allowed across the first bridge could be too heavy for the next.

Signs are posted at both ends, but drivers approaching from North Fourth Avenue may have trouble seeing them before the turn, partly because of a building near the corner.

Meanwhile, deterioration at the ends of beams supporting the mainline bridge has prompted replacement discussions involving the county, a consultant, the railroad and state officials.

For now, drivers should check both posted limits before entering North Eighth Street.

Myers Elementary students in Bellwood are turning a reading project into a tribute to Lori Crownover, a former fourth grade teacher who died in August after battling cancer.

Crownover led a student campaign that funded a water well in South Sudan in 2017, and the school hopes to raise $20,000 for another.

Students from prekindergarten through fifth grade are learning about the struggle to find safe drinking water.

Older students are reading A Long Walk to Water, while staff-recorded chapters help families join the conversation at home.

With $3,600 raised by the kickoff assembly, students are making posters and videos to seek community support.

The school’s Water Walk is set for Friday, October 9, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Bellwood-Antis track, with a story walk and family activities.

Logan Valley Mall could get a locally guided second act, but a sale remains uncertain.

The Altoona-Blair County Development Corporation is connecting private investors interested in buying the property from Namdar Realty Group.

The corporation would not purchase the mall itself, though it could help buyers identify redevelopment resources.

President Steve McKnight says talks with Namdar have been constructive, but price is the main obstacle.

Logan Township Manager Tim Brown has cited a $13.8 million property valuation and an asking price of roughly $30 million.

Potential buyers must also weigh the building’s condition and renovation costs, including concerns raised by a mall employee about roof repairs.

For Blair County retailers and shoppers, local ownership could open the door to new uses for the site.

No project has been announced, and the mall’s future depends first on whether buyers and Namdar can agree on a price.

A bold comprehensive plan is taking shape in Tyrone Borough, sparking fresh momentum for urban planning across Blair County, PA.

This week, officials launched a wide-ranging community survey to collect resident ideas and identify key development priorities.

Long-time locals, students, workers, and renters are all being invited to share what makes Tyrone unique and spotlight major challenges facing the borough.

While response has been positive, leaders hope to boost input from younger people and renters by reaching out at schools and retirement centers.

Community workshops are planned to fuel creative solutions and shape Tyrone’s long-term vision.

Each session will focus on challenges from downtown revitalization to affordable housing, ensuring broad voices guide the process.

Residents are optimistic the project will attract new funding, inspire growth, and ease the tax burden, making Tyrone an even better community for all.

The therapy dog program at Foot of Ten Elementary is making Hollidaysburg’s school days more joyful and comforting for children and staff.

Callie, a beloved certified therapy dog, strolls the halls as students light up with excitement, reaching out for a gentle pet and a reassuring smile.

The presence of Callie has brought a noticeable shift, creating a calmer and more connected atmosphere for everyone.

Fourth grade teacher Brigitte Donlan—Callie’s owner—partnered with administrators and parents to ensure health, safety, and emotional needs were met from the start.

Families were consulted, especially to address allergy and dog-related concerns.

Students who struggle socially or academically have found newfound confidence and focus thanks to Callie, particularly during reading or math.

With growing positive feedback across Blair County, more schools are exploring therapy dog benefits as families express gratitude for the comfort and connection these unique programs provide.

The Slinky Center in Hollidaysburg, Blair County, is drawing families and toy lovers eager to experience the iconic slinky’s story firsthand.

Set apart from the city’s famed factory, this lively new attraction lets visitors dive into the Slinky’s unique history through engaging exhibits, hands-on displays, and interactive fun.

An energetic opening day saw guests enjoying classic toys, festive treats, and community spirit.

Formed through collaboration between Hollidaysburg officials and the James family, the center features original models, rare artifacts, and a colorful gift shop to complete the experience.

Visitors often leave with a renewed sense of nostalgia, connecting generations through shared memories of the Slinky’s enduring charm.

Open daily, the Slinky Center stands as a vibrant symbol of local creativity, inviting all ages to celebrate and rediscover a beloved Blair County tradition.

Blair County’s labor market is shifting, with recent months bringing both momentum and mixed signals for local workers.

In August, Pennsylvania’s workforce hit a new record, marking a third straight month of state-wide job growth.

Blair County saw more residents working and the lowest unemployment rate in months, yet the number of people actively seeking jobs fell, reflecting broader state patterns.

Major growth came from education, health services, and leisure and hospitality, with hiring surges in local hospitals, clinics, and schools.

However, manufacturing and public sector jobs are down, leaving some uncertainty for those fields.

With policy changes nudging more people into the labor force, businesses are gaining access to fresh talent—yet the impact across all sectors is still unfolding.

Local leaders remain attentive to racial disparities and the possible effects on spending in sectors like retail and groceries.

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.

Music from local choirs set a reverent tone, while the emotional Walk of Honor saw applause for sacrifices made.

Speakers emphasized teaching future generations about the selfless resolve of Flight 93’s crew and passengers, whose actions saved countless lives.

New outreach programs will bring 9/11 lessons to area schools, ensuring these powerful stories endure as Blair County continues a tradition of unity and remembrance.

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.

Richland flexed its strength with a decisive 42-21 victory over Westmont Hilltop, sending a strong message to LHAC rivals.

Not every outcome brought celebration, as Bishop McCort cruised past Chestnut Ridge and Somerset stumbled versus Greater Johnstown.

Altoona’s explosive offense secured a thrilling 41-33 win over Central Dauphin East before a lively Thursday crowd.

Local businesses in downtown Altoona enjoyed a post-game boost, as the renewed love for live football continues to connect the community.

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.

Recent efforts are visible throughout Blair County, from fresh exhibits at Baker Mansion to Main Street renovations in Altoona blending modern business with vintage charm.

Locals say these preservation projects give new meaning to community pride while attracting visitors eager to explore the area’s heritage.

Attendees of the gala can enjoy local fare, lively auctions, and a celebration of the people keeping Blair County’s history at the heart of everyday life.

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.

The popular direct flights to Myrtle Beach remain a major draw, filling cabins and keeping advance bookings strong even as summer ends.

Hitting the 10,000 annual enplanement milestone secures crucial federal funding and confirms growing confidence in Altoona’s status as a travel hub.

Rental car agencies and airport amenities are thriving, while facility upgrades promise to improve passenger experience and sustain this upward momentum.

Blair County pulsed with energy Friday night as high school football action drew packed crowds and sparked lively conversations across the region.

Week 2 games delivered both surprising upsets and dominant wins, with local fans filling stadiums and celebrating together under the lights.

Central sent a bold message by overwhelming Greater Johnstown 44-0, while Bellwood-Antis cruised past Bishop McCort 33-6, igniting the home crowd’s excitement.

The much-anticipated clash between Bishop Guilfoyle and Richland was a highlight, as Richland edged out a tight 21-16 victory, reflecting the fierce, competitive spirit of the LHAC this season.

Elsewhere, Central Cambria and Tyrone rolled to strong wins, showing their strength early.

From Altoona’s statement victory to heritage-league shutouts, community pride ran high, reminding residents why these Friday nights are a cherished part of Blair County’s late summer tradition.