They Came from Blair County By Eric Shields

In his first book, local author Eric Shields tells the stories of Blair County natives who've achieved notability in their lives. Shields examines the personal and professional accomplishments of more than 31 individuals from Blair County, past and present, from commonly known local celebrities such as Charles M. Schwab and Wilmer Stultz to others that many Blair County residents may not realize are from the area. MMA Fighter Charlie Brenneman, famous gossip columnist and actress Hedda Hopper, and supermodel Typhani Russo are some of the names readers will encounter.

In this book, readers will find artists, sports stars, musicians, and more. The subjects' stories range from the mid-1800s to 2019, including people spanning from 10 years old to those who were still making headlines at 80.

The foreword is by author and actor Fred J. Lauver, who also has a passage devoted to him in the book. Lauver's first acting dream came true when he was featured on the stage at The Totem Pole Playhouse in Fayetteville, Pa., with "All in the Family" actress Jean Stapleton who played Edith on the television show. After graduating from Penn State, Lauver became a columnist for an entertainment magazine and eventually decided his passion was writing fiction, though he still enjoys acting. He offers advice to anyone looking to find their talent and encourages them.

Shields, a Blair County native himself, currently resides in Altoona, Pa. As a fan of local history and those who create it, Shields looks forward to releasing the second edition of "They Came from Blair County" as well as expanding his "They Came from Pa" series.

To learn more about the book series, visit http://www.theycamefrompa.com or any of his current Facebook pages: They Came From Blair County, They Came From Cambria County and They Came From Pittsburgh.

A great book for local history buffs as well as any Blair County resident, "They Came from Blair County" serves as a tribute to small-town people who have made a significant impression in their trade and is a brilliant reflection of the people of Blair County. Shields highlights the diverse backgrounds, interests, and aspirations of each Blair County individual. Check out a copy at the Williamsburg Public Library. You might just see someone you know!

This comes to our library as a donation in memory of Marv Hicks, who obtained some local celebrity status with his giant pumpkin growing with the PGPGA, his largest pumpkin being 745 pounds.