
Autumn's checklist
Pretty soon, the sweltering, sun-drenched days of summer will be giving way to chilly fall days. Getting plants, pools and yards ready for the wrath of Jack Frost will be reappearing on many to-do lists. Test your soil ‘‘Our first recommendation is getting your soil tested,’’ said Tom Ford, director at Penn State Cooperative Extension Blair County. ‘‘That way you can bring the level of nutrients up to a level that is appropriate for your plants and crops.’’ Soil samples may be taken at any time of the year, but in planning for the next year’s growing season, fall is best, Ford said. Fall testing also allows you to take advantage of end-of-the-year sales, as well as plan for the upcoming spring. With soil, five things typically need to be tested, Ford said: pH (acidity versus alkalinity levels) and potash (impure potassium carbonate) concentration, as well as phosphorus, magnesium and calcium levels.
» Full StoryWinter heating can be environmentally friendly
As the evenings turn cooler and football season enters its second weekend, many of us have thoughts of colder weather and our slide (literally and figuratively) into winter.
» Full StoryBuilding on tradition
Video game fanatics can venture from the couch to Lakemont Park this weekend, as IGX Interactive Games & Contests makes it debut at Altoona First Festival.
» Full StoryBottom view is fantastic
When we’re talking about water, the best view is from the bottom of the hill. For what we see here at the top is a nursery of newborns.
Our region nurtures some of the nation’s finest rivers.
Mirror seeks 20 under 40 nominees
The Mirror is now accepting nominations for its second “20 under 40” publication, which will recognize 20 deserving community members under 40 years old.
» Full StoryStyle guide
By Samantha Critchell, The Associated Press
Ever wonder the difference between a sheath dress and a shift?
The fashion world uses insider lingo like, well, insiders.


