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Blair County's Empowering Events: Gala, Fun Fair, Celebration, and Basketball Triumphs!
Blair County's Empowering Events: Gala, Fun Fair, Celebration, and Basketball Triumphs!
Blair County's Empowering Events: Gala, Fun Fair, Celebration, and Basketball Triumphs!
Don't miss the empowering Purple Purse Gala, the Olympic Fun Fair, Mac's Bash, and a thrilling basketball victory in Blair County!
Charles Sisk
Mar 16, 2026
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Reach the Heart of the County: The Blair Buzz is where the county’s most active citizens, small business owners, and non-profit leaders gather to stay connected. Why Sponsor the Buzz? Values-Based Alignment: Place your ad alongside uplifting, local stories that matter to families and community leaders. High Engagement: Our subscribers are "doers" who actively look for ways to support small business and organizations like the Hollidaysburg Area Public Library. Support Local Storytelling: Your sponsorship keeps the "Buzz" alive, allowing us to highlight the boutiques, volunteers, heroes, and success stories that make Blair County home. Join our next issue: Connect with your neighbors and grow your local influence. Contact us today to discuss sponsorship and advertising opportunities. |
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The 9th Annual Purple Purse fundraiser returns on April 1 at the Blair County Convention Center, offering a night filled with fashion, raffles, and community unity to support local survivors of abuse.
Organized by Family Services Inc., the event fuels the Victim Services Program, which last year aided nearly 1,000 individuals across Blair County impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault, and related crimes.
This year, attendees will hear from a guest speaker discussing the complex realities victims face in their pursuit of justice, and special guest Morgan Koziar will lend her support to the cause.
The Purple Purse Gala is not just a fundraiser—it's a powerful act of solidarity for everyone affected.
For ticket details or to seek help, visit familyservicesinc.net or call the 24-hour hotline at 814-944-3585. Read More... |
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Children from Blair County can enjoy a day of fun and friendly competition at the Kids Athletic Games Fun Fair hosted by Smith Corner Church in East Freedom on Saturday, March 14, from 2 to 4 p.m.
Families will experience Olympic-inspired events tailored for kids, including activities like luge, bobsled races, torch toss, gymnastics, and javelin.
Each child receives a scorecard for tracking their points, and every participant is guaranteed a prize regardless of outcome.
Volunteers have transformed church spaces with handmade props and vibrant decorations, creating lively game stations throughout the venue.
Prize tables will be brimming with toys, books, and special grand prizes for different age groups.
Families can drop in at any time during the event to participate, support each other, and share in the community’s joy — and everything is completely free. Read More... |
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The 23rd annual Mac’s Bash united Blair County residents at the Convention Center on March 13, honoring the enduring impact of Dick “Mac” McEldowney.
This sold-out celebration is the leading fundraiser for the McEldowney Academic Scholarship Fund, which has distributed nearly $500,000 to local students since its founding.
High school seniors from all eight county schools, along with regional technical students, benefit each year—about $27,000 is awarded annually to empower Blair County’s youth to pursue college or trade school.
McEldowney’s longtime dedication to education and service—rooted in his 1980s tenure on Altoona City Council—continues to thrive thanks to passionate volunteers and community support.
Through Mac’s Bash, one man’s vision keeps uplifting the next generation right here at home. Read More... |
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In a dramatic PIAA Class 6A quarterfinal, the Altoona girls basketball team clinched a 38-37 overtime win against Cardinal O’Hara at Cumberland Valley High School.
This victory is Altoona’s first trip to the state semifinals in 20 years.
Zaelinh Nguyen-Moore, Altoona’s senior point guard, led with 16 points, showcasing poise and leadership.
Sophomore Brionna Hudson contributed nine points and junior Raylin Eyer added 12, sinking key three-pointers to fuel the Lions’ comeback.
Cardinal O’Hara, a perennial powerhouse and recent state champion, found trouble cracking Altoona’s fierce defense despite Brigidanna Donahue’s 19 points.
The teams traded leads throughout, with Hudson’s clutch free throws forcing overtime.
Nguyen-Moore’s aggressive drives and Hudson’s late free throws sealed the win, setting up Altoona for a highly anticipated semifinal showdown.
The community rallies behind Altoona, hopeful for another historic playoff moment. Read More... |
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Have a business opening, community event, local hero story or pet-related news to share? Email Us your updates for next week's newsletter! theblairbuzz@gmail.com |
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Interesting Facts |
The smallest country in the world is Vatican City, an independent city-state located within Rome, Italy. It measures just 110 acres in total area and has a population of around 1,000 people. |
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FREE EVENTS
Library Programs (Blair County Libraries)Altoona/Blair County Photo Society Meeting
Crafty Kids
Shimmie Shake
Tiny Art Workshop
Teen Gaming Club
Friends Game Night
Intro to Spanish for Kids
Cow Check-In Storytime & Craft
Friends of the Library Book Club
Crafternoon: Musical Roses
Outdoor Activities & AttractionsHiking at Canoe Creek State Park
Geocaching Adventure at Canoe Creek
Lakemont Park Walk & Playground Visit
Community Gatherings & ActivitiesDowntown Altoona Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt
Church Community Dinner (Various Churches)
Penn State Altoona Campus Walk & Art Tour
PAID EVENTSFamily Activities & EntertainmentBowl for Kids’ Sake 2026
Blair County Antique Auto Club Super Spring Swap Meet
Amazing Downtown Dash & Discover Scavenger Hunt
Claysburg-Kimmel High School Drama: Shrek the Musical
Arts & CultureCommunity Theatre Performances
Museum Visit
Historic Engineering Landmark Visit
QUICK SUMMARY (BEST FAMILY PICKS)Best Kids Activities
Best Outdoor Activities
Best Weekend Events
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The 7-day weather forecast for Hollidaysburg, PA, from Monday, March 16, 2026, through Sunday, March 22, 2026, is as follows: Monday, March 16, 2026: High 56°F, Low 22°F, Rain and snow
Tuesday, March 17, 2026: High 28°F, Low 18°F, Mostly cloudy Wednesday, March 18, 2026: High 34°F, Low 19°F, Cloudy Thursday, March 19, 2026: High 51°F, Low 29°F, Cloudy Friday, March 20, 2026: High 58°F, Low 34°F, Mostly cloudy Saturday, March 21, 2026: High 53°F, Low 41°F, Partly sunny Sunday, March 22, 2026: High 43°F, Low 26°F, Cloudy |
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DG Market – TyroneTyrone is getting a new DG Market at 5495 E. Pleasant Valley Blvd., with the company announcing a projected opening in spring 2026, subject to construction progress. This isn’t your standard dollar store format; DG Market locations are designed to offer more fresh and everyday groceries right in the neighborhood. According to the company’s description in a recent local business brief, the Tyrone DG Market will feature expanded produce, refrigerated and frozen foods, dairy products, and an assortment of fresh meats, on top of the usual Dollar General mix. The store expects to employ about 10–15 people, and interested applicants are being directed to apply online at Dollar General’s careers website. |
Have a business opening, community event, local hero story or pet-related news to share? Email Us your updates for next week's newsletter! theblairbuzz@gmail.com |
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ere's this week's Blair Buzz Community Newsletter — your friendly roundup of what's happening in our neck of the woods! 🗺️ 🌟 The Blair Buzz Community Newsletter Week of March 14, 2026
🏆 LOCAL SHOUTOUTSLady Lions Roar Into the PIAA Semifinals — First Time in Two Decades! Give it up for the Altoona Area High School Lady Lions girls basketball team, who are headed to the PIAA semifinals after a nail-biting week on the court! The Lady Lions advanced to the PIAA quarterfinals for the first time in 20 years by knocking off Pennsbury, 37-34, at Mechanicsburg Area High School. They then outlasted Cardinal O'Hara, 38-37, to punch their ticket to the semis. This team has been something special all season — hats off to coach Chris Fleegle and every player who's made this run possible! Details: The PIAA semifinals are scheduled for Monday, March 16. Keep an eye on altoonamirror.com for game updates. Source: Altoona Mirror Blair County Women Go Red — and Go Big — for Heart Health Blair County had a banner year in the fight against heart disease, and the momentum isn't stopping. The Blair County Go Red for Women campaign built on the region's strong 2025 momentum, when the local initiative raised $118,000 and produced a national top-ranked winner. Last year's Blair Woman of Impact, Amy Van Kleunen, a physical therapist at Powerback, earned 100,000 impact points and ranked No. 11 nationwide. Now five new local women are carrying that torch forward in 2026! Details: The campaign will conclude on April 9, when one local nominee will be named the Blair County 2026 Woman of Impact winner. Learn more at heart.org/blairgored. Source: American Heart Association 🦸 LOCAL HEROESAltoona's WWII POW Finally Gets His Bridge A beautiful tribute came to Altoona this week. Sen. Judy Ward announced the unveiling of the Private First Class James A. Behe Memorial Bridge in Altoona, located on Wopsononock Avenue over Spring Run. After graduating from Altoona Catholic High School in 1942, Behe joined the U.S. Army and was later captured as a prisoner of war in Moosburg, Germany, until the 101st Airborne liberated him in April 1945. He was awarded the EAME Campaign Ribbon with two Bronze Battle Stars, Army Good Conduct Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, WWII Victory Medal, POW Medal and a Purple Heart. What a life of service — and what a fitting way to honor it. Details: The bridge is on Wopsononock Avenue, Altoona. The unveiling took place Friday, March 13. Source: WTAJ 💛 LOCAL CAUSESFight for Firefighters: Pinecroft Volunteer Fire Company Needs Community Support This one hits close to home for a lot of folks out in Blair Township. A Blair County judge granted a preliminary injunction to the Pinecroft Volunteer Fire Company against a decertification scheduled by Antis Township supervisors, who have been pushing for a merger with Excelsior Fire Department No. 1 of Bellwood. Decertification could lead to the loss of eight to 10 Pinecroft firefighters, as well as the company's station and equipment. A hearing is set for March 26 — the outcome will directly affect emergency response in your community. Details: Hearing is scheduled for March 26. Stay informed at altoonamirror.com. Source: Altoona Mirror Operation Our Town: Keeping Blair County Drug-Free Operation Our Town continues its important mission of fighting drug abuse and crime in Blair County neighborhoods. Their goal is to take back our neighborhoods from drugs and crime in Blair County, and they are currently accepting grant applications — the upcoming fiscal period runs from August 2026 through August 31, 2027. This month they're also spotlighting the Altoona Area Public Library's Parent & Caregiver Resource Library as a grant recipient. Community, education, and partnership — that's what it's all about. Details: Visit operationourtown.org for grant info, their March newsletter, and ways to get involved. Source: Operation Our Town 🙏 FUNDRAISERSTyrone's Beloved "Darby the Clown" Needs Your Help This one will tug at your heartstrings. The Tyrone community is rallying to support Jonathan Holmes, a local teacher and Shriner's clown, following his diagnosis with POEMS, a rare blood disease. Multiple fundraisers are currently underway to help the Holmes family with medical and travel expenses. Holmes has had to step away from his position at the Tyrone Area School District and his clown persona "Darby" to focus on his health. The community response has been incredible — within hours of launching a fundraiser, more than 150 bracelets were sold, with orders coming in from former students as far away as Virginia, New Hampshire, and California. Details: Green "Darby" bracelets are $5 each and are being sold at Tyrone Irish Heritage Days events this week. Bake Shop Bakes is donating from its pie day fundraiser on March 14, and Domino's Pizza of Tyrone is hosting a pizza benefit on Wednesday, March 18. Visit the Tyrone Events and Promotions Facebook page to donate. Source: WTAJ | Altoona Mirror Flashlight Egg Hunt for Grieving Kids — Adults Needed! Here's a fundraiser that's equal parts fun and meaningful. The Home Nursing Agency Foundation is hosting the fourth annual Flashlight Egg Hunt on Friday, March 27, at the Altoona Curve stadium to benefit the Healing Patch Children's Grief Program. Adults 18 and older gather eggs in the dark that may contain prize winners — past prizes have included vacation lodging, gym memberships, and local restaurant gift cards. All proceeds benefit free grief services for children and families in Bedford, Blair, Cambria and surrounding counties. Details: Doors open at 6 p.m. on Friday, March 27. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. Food trucks open at 5:30 p.m. Get tickets at the Altoona Curve box office or via the Facebook event page. Source: Altoona Mirror 🤝 VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIESBe a Listening Ear: CONTACT Altoona Needs You Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is simply listen. CONTACT Altoona has been assisting Blair County residents since 1982, and their volunteers represent a wide range of experiences and backgrounds — what they share in common is the willingness to make a difference. No experience is necessary, as in-depth training is provided. You can serve as a helpline volunteer, a reassurance caller (daily check-ins for isolated seniors), or in a crisis intervention role. Details: The helpline is available 7 days a week at (814) 946-9050. To apply to volunteer, visit contactaltoona.com or call (814) 946-0531. Source: CONTACT Altoona Volunteer for America's 250th — Blair County Style With the national 250th birthday bash approaching, Blair County is looking for volunteers to help plan and staff local America250PA events leading up to July 4, 2026. As the commission moves forward in planning and organizing events, there will be a great need for volunteers in the community, including opportunities to sit on a committee or staff a booth at an event. It's a once-in-a-lifetime chance to be part of history! Details: Submit a volunteer form at america250pablair.org. Sponsorships are also being accepted through Central PA Community Foundation. Source: America250PA Blair County
đź’™ Stay Connected, Blair County! Have a story to share about someone making a difference in our community? Know about an upcoming fundraiser or volunteer opportunity? We'd love to hear from you for next week's newsletter! Send it to theblairbuzz@gmail.com Remember: Our community is strongest when we support each other. Whether you're donating, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, every bit helps make Blair County a better place to call home. |
Have a business opening, community event, local hero story or pet-related news to share? Email Us your updates for next week's newsletter! theblairbuzz@gmail.com |
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Here is Snow White. Can you open your heart?
Snow White is a 12 year old female. She is a short-haired cat. She is a return adoption as her owner passed away. She is front declawed. She can live with a calm dog. She did not like cats. Kids who can respect her space would be best as she likes to nap a lot! ** Snow White is in our care in Altoona PA. Each cat gets microchipped, spayed/neutered, snap FIV/FeLV combo tested and vaccinated. (We DO NOT declaw). The adoption fee covers those costs. Adoption fees are listed on the applications. In person applications take priority over ones mailed or emailed (especially on a popular animal). Applications can be emailed to: cattery@centralpahumane.org
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Quote Of The Day |
"Home is not where you live, but where they understand you." - Christian Morganstern |
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