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Disaster Emergency Ahead of Pennsylvania’s Winter Storm, Toasty Toddler Program Serves 710 Children , Tyrone Student Rides into National Spotlight
Disaster Emergency Ahead of Pennsylvania’s Winter Storm, Toasty Toddler Program Serves 710 Children , Tyrone Student Rides into National Spotlight
Disaster Emergency Ahead of Pennsylvania’s Winter Storm, Toasty Toddler Program Serves 710 Children , Tyrone Student Rides into National Spotlight
Disaster Emergency Ahead of Pennsylvania’s Winter Storm, Toasty Toddler Program Serves 710 Children , Tyrone Student Rides into National Spotlight
Charles Sisk
Jan 26, 2026
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Trivia Questionâť“In Blair County, PA, what is the name of the historic mansion that was home to the prominent industrialist, Elias Baker? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
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Pennsylvania is under a statewide disaster emergency proclamation, signed by Governor Josh Shapiro, as a major winter storm approaches.
The declaration mobilizes key agencies like PEMA and PennDOT, ensuring state resources are ready to assist local communities.
Central Pennsylvania is expected to be hit hard, with forecasts calling for about a foot of snow beginning Sunday and continuing into Monday.
A severe Tier 4 vehicle restriction has been implemented on all interstates to prevent accidents and keep roads clear for emergency responders.
With temperatures predicted to stay below freezing all week, the danger of icy conditions will persist long after the snow stops.
Officials are strongly urging residents across the Midstate to stay off the roads for their own safety and to allow emergency crews to operate effectively. Read More... |
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This winter, the Toasty Toddler Program brought essential warmth to 710 local children from birth to age five in Blair County.
Each child received a brand-new coat, hat, and pair of gloves just as the cold weather arrived.
The massive community effort was spearheaded by the Family Resource Center of Blair County, a partner of the United Way of the Southern Alleghenies.
An incredible outpouring of local support made it all possible.
More than 32 area businesses, churches, schools, and civic groups contributed crucial donations and supplies.
A dedicated team of 48 volunteers also donated a combined 101 hours to sort and pack the winter gear for distribution.
While the primary distributions for the season are complete, the Family Resource Center continues to fill needs as they arise, showing the ongoing spirit of Blair County. Read More... |
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A ferocious winter storm blanketed Pennsylvania, shattering local records and challenging communities statewide.
Harrisburg saw a historic 11-inch snowfall at its International Airport, more than doubling the previous January 25 record from 1988.
In Pittsburgh, residents experienced the heaviest snow since 2010, with totals ranging from 9 to 14 inches.
Meanwhile, Philadelphia airport measured 7.4 inches, disrupting travel and daily routines across the city.
The National Weather Service has extended a Winter Storm Warning for the area, warning of dangerous conditions as snow and possible sleet linger into Monday.
Authorities have urged locals to monitor weather alerts and avoid unnecessary travel.
Emergency crews remain vigilant, working nonstop to clear roads and protect residents as the region weathers this formidable storm. 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 famous Horseshoe Curve, a National Historic Landmark located in Blair County, was completed in 1854 as part of the Pennsylvania Railroad's main line. |
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đź“… Blair County Events: January 19 - January 25, 2026
Here is a list of family-friendly activities and events scheduled for the week of January 26 through February 1, 2026. This week is headlined by the massive Setsucon anime convention and various community library programs designed for younger children. Free Events
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The 7-day weather forecast for Hollidaysburg, PA, from Monday, January 26, 2026, through Sunday, February 1, 2026, is as follows:
Monday, January 26, 2026: High 16°F, Low -3°F, Light snow and mostly cloudy |
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It’s an exciting time to be a neighbor in Blair County! We’ve had a busy start to 2026, with local entrepreneurs planting new roots and long-time favorites finding fresh spaces. From the bustling streets of Altoona to the scenic riverfront in Tyrone, there’s a real sense of "rebirth" in the air this month. Here are a least three spots that have everyone talking lately. Grab your calendar—you’re going to want to make some room for these visits! The Athenian Café: A Fresh Start in a New Spot
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Hello, Blair County neighbors! It’s been a brisk week here in the Alleghenies, but the local spirit is as warm as ever. From major state funding to grassroots efforts to help those in the cold, there is so much to be proud of in our community. Here is your weekly roundup of the good news happening right in our backyard:
🏆 Local Shoutouts
Tyrone Student Rides into National Spotlight A huge congratulations to Tyrone Area High School freshman Paisley Fix! Paisley recently wrangled a Reserve World Champion title in the National Reining Horse Association's 13-and-under division. Despite once being afraid of horses as a toddler, she has spent the last year competing across the country, earning 132 points—just nine points shy of the top national spot.
Blair County Secures Over $5 Million for Improvements Our local municipalities are getting a major boost! This week, state lawmakers announced a massive $5.1 million in funding for community projects. From filling in abandoned underpasses in Altoona to new snowplows for Taylor Township and high-efficiency upgrades for the Antis Township municipal building, these improvements are going to make our daily lives smoother and safer.
🦸 Local HeroesThe Guardians of the "Point-in-Time" Count While most of us were tucked away from the snow this past Wednesday evening, a dedicated group of volunteers from the Center for Community Action were out in the cold. These "street heroes" traversed Altoona, Tyrone, and Hollidaysburg to locate and offer help to our neighbors experiencing homelessness. They didn't just count numbers; they handed out backpacks filled with essential supplies and resource folders to provide a path toward help.
🤝 Local CausesHOPE Drop-In Center Takes the Stage This Friday, the Blair County Health and Welfare Council met to focus on a vital local resource: the HOPE Drop-In Center. Executive Director Sean Burns shared how the center provides a safe, supportive space for those navigating mental health challenges. It's a powerful reminder that in Blair County, no one has to walk their journey alone.
💰 FundraisersWinter Cash Bash for Bishop Carroll Looking for a fun night out that supports local education? Bishop Carroll Catholic High School is hosting their Winter Cash Bash this Saturday! Your ticket not only gets you dinner and drinks but also enters you for a chance to win a share of $7,000 in cash prizes—a great way to shake off the winter blues while helping our students.
🙋 Volunteer OpportunitiesBecome a Medicare Counselor (PA MEDI) If you enjoy solving puzzles and helping people, Blair Senior Services needs you! They are looking for volunteers to help local seniors navigate the often-confusing world of Medicare. You’ll get full training, and you can set your own schedule while making a huge difference in someone’s financial health.
The Arc of Blair County: Share Your Hobbies Do you have a talent for photography, knitting, or music? The Arc is looking for volunteers to teach classes at the Becky Sheetz Recreation Building. It’s a wonderful way to share your passion with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and build a more inclusive community.
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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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Pepe Le Pew: If you apply to adopt, please let the Humane Society know that you saw the listing in The Blair Buzz Newsletter! ... Pepe Le Pew is a 2 year old male who has been with us since December. He is a Husky mix. He was found tied to a pole was unfortunately sprayed by a skunk! He is 40-50 Ibs.
He is all Husky and is high energy. He cannot live with cats. He could live with another dog pending a visit, but he absolutely needs to be fed separately. This will need worked with as he does not give things of value up easily. Children should be 12+ years and older.
** Pepe Le Pew is in our care in Altoona PA. He is available for adoption. Each animal gets microchipped, spayed/neutered, 4DX tested (if over 6 months of age), flea treated, and vaccinated. The adoption fee covers those costs. Adoption fees are listed on the application. An application must be filled out in order to visit with any dog or cat. They can be found on our website www.centralpahumane.org under the "Adopt A Pet" tab, then "Adoption." Scroll down and under number 2 you will see dog adoption application. Do not click on "browse our pets." Applications are also available at the shelter. Our animals are posted on Facebook and Petfinder when time permits. A Petfinder inquiry is not an application, and they may not be responded to. We can only accept so many applications for each animal. We do adopt out of state, but we cannot hold the animal. ** PA Kennel License #1333. |
đź’ˇ Answer to Trivia Question: The Baker Mansion. |
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