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Shining rays of sun on some good news:
The recent recognition of Merrill "Whobbie" Hoover through his work at the Blair Regional YMCA Summer Basketball League for girls and women was most deserving.
Despite a long battle with throat cancer that renders him unable to speak, Hoover has contributed to the program in various ways for more than 30 years.
He wrote a letter to the YMCA Summer Basketball League staff, players, coaches and spectators, thanking them for being a big part of his life.
"It has been fantastic," Hoover wrote. "I began in 1989, and I've loved it."
We congratulate Whobbie on his attitude and perseverance. It's been an inspiration to all who have known him.
Kudos to the John Lipple Post 4315 in Ashville, which was presented with the prestigious Diamond Jubilee Award to honor its 75th anniversary.
The Ashville VFW is currently in its 76th year of operation, but the ceremony was postponed from 2020 due to the coronavirus.
We can never thank our veterans enough.
Former Blair County Judge Jolene Kopriva and her husband, Tom, the retired executive director of the Blair Regional YMCA, are planning walking tours to highlight Hollidaysburg's rich history.
Called "Hollidaysburg Heritage Guided Tours," they will kick off, appropriately enough, on Sept. 11.
The Koprivas have recruited a dozen volunteers to assist in their efforts.
The tours will have a fee, which includes an option for brunch, and proceeds will benefit the Hollidaysburg Area Public Library.
After a year when the emptiness of the Mishler Theatre created a deafening silence -- not to mention creating a challenging financial picture -- the city's grand old theatre is back to booking outstanding acts that are filling the seats again.
It's nice to see ... and hear.
On the sports front, perhaps the greatest dynasty in area summer recreation sports history added another feather in its cap.
Lilly Conrad Chiropractic/American Legion won the Greater Altoona City Baseball League for the third straight season. Even more remarkably, the team's championship was its 16th in the last 19 years.
Tonight marks the beginning of another high school football season, and unlike last year when crowds were extremely limited due to the coronavirus -- often to just parents -- this season should bring a welcome breath of fresh air.
Here's to a successful season for all area teams.