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Pennsylvania on the Edge: Train Derailment, FedEx Closures, Fire Company Dispute, & Wrestling Domination! 🚂📦🔥🤼‍♂️🏅
Pennsylvania on the Edge: Train Derailment, FedEx Closures, Fire Company Dispute, & Wrestling Domination! 🚂📦🔥🤼‍♂️🏅
Pennsylvania on the Edge: Train Derailment, FedEx Closures, Fire Company Dispute, & Wrestling Domination! 🚂📦🔥🤼‍♂️🏅
Breaking News: Train Derailment, FedEx Shakeup, Fire Company Dispute, and PA Wrestlers Dominate State Championships! 🚂📦🔥🏆
Charles Sisk
Mar 9, 2026
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Trivia Questionâť“In what year was Blair County officially formed in the state of Pennsylvania and how did it get its name? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
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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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An early-morning derailment on Saturday, March 7, 2026, left two Norfolk Southern locomotives and 17 empty railcars off the tracks near Blair County’s historic Horseshoe Curve.
No crew injuries were reported, and emergency teams moved quickly to secure the area and manage traffic.
Officials from Norfolk Southern confirmed there is no immediate danger to the public, while cleanup crews work to restore the site.
A timeline for reopening the route is still unknown.
The Federal Railroad Administration is investigating the cause of the incident.
Amtrak responded by providing alternative transportation for affected passengers between Pittsburgh and Harrisburg.
This is the second derailment in the area since early February, sparking concerns and calls for a review of local rail safety standards. Read More... |
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FedEx will close two shipping facilities in Central Pennsylvania as part of its major restructuring plan, dubbed Network 2.0.
The Pittston location in Luzerne County will shut down on May 2, affecting 63 employees.
Shortly after, distribution centers on Route 764 in Duncansville and Fox Hill Road in State College are also set to close, with both sites scheduled for May 4.
FedEx says these moves are part of efforts to modernize and streamline package delivery across the U.S. and Canada.
Some affected employees may be offered other choices within the company, while all impacted workers will have access to job placement and possible severance support.
Customers can still find nearby FedEx alternatives, though the company hasn’t revealed how many staff in Duncansville and State College will be laid off. Read More... |
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The Antis Township Board of Supervisors has officially decertified the Pinecroft Volunteer Fire Company, ending its township support and emergency response role as of Tuesday morning.
This decisive step comes after Pinecroft voted against uniting with the Excelsior Fire Department No. 1 of Bellwood, despite years of discussions and a state-led recommendation urging consolidation.
Township officials have pushed for the merger, pointing to shrinking volunteer ranks and rising costs.
Pinecroft members resisted, citing fears of losing their unique identity within the community.
Supervisor George Bell voiced regret, stressing that local residents risk losing critical services in the standoff, even as Excelsior is set to take over all fire and rescue coverage.
This move reflects a growing trend of consolidation as towns seek sustainable, effective emergency response amid tightening resources. Read More... |
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Thirteen area wrestlers competed at the GIANT Center on Saturday, each aiming for a state championship title.
By day’s end, seven local athletes captured gold medals at the PIAA Wrestling Championships, marking a standout showing for the region.
The evening’s highlight was Bishop McCort’s Bo Bassett battling Brandt Harer, Pennsylvania’s all-time wins leader.
Bassett dominated early, setting the tempo and clinching a pin with a brilliant fireman’s carry in the second period.
This victory not only secured Bassett another state title but also earned him the Class AA Most Outstanding Wrestler honor.
Bassett finishes his high school career undefeated at 170–0 with three PIAA championships, and the most wins by an unbeaten wrestler in PIAA history.
With his high school era closed, Bassett, a Virginia Tech recruit, looks ahead to new challenges. 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 world's largest volcano has returned to Mauna Loa in Hawaii. |
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FREE EVENTS📚 ALTOONA AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY EVENTS (alphabetical)1600 Fifth Ave., Altoona, PA 16602 | 814-946-0417 | altoonalibrary.org Source: Altoona Mirror, March 7, 2026 — https://www.altoonamirror.com/life/community/2026/03/altoona-area-public-library-sets-programs-events/
📚 HOLLIDAYSBURG AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY EVENTS (alphabetical)1 Furnace Rd., Scenic Pine Drive, Hollidaysburg, PA 16648 | 814-695-5961 | hollidaysburglibrary.org Source: Altoona Mirror, Feb. 28, 2026 — https://www.altoonamirror.com/life/community/2026/02/hollidaysburg-area-public-library-plans-march-activities-programs/
📚 ROARING SPRING COMMUNITY LIBRARY EVENTS (alphabetical)320 East Main Street, Roaring Spring, PA 16673 | 814-224-2994 | roaringspringlibrary.org Source: Altoona Mirror, Feb. 28, 2026 — https://www.altoonamirror.com/life/community/2026/02/roaring-spring-library-sets-programs-6/ Note: Library is closed Fridays. Hours: Mon–Wed 9 a.m.–7 p.m., Thu 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sat 8 a.m.–1 p.m., Sun 2–5 p.m.
📚 TYRONE-SNYDER PUBLIC LIBRARY EVENTS (alphabetical)1000 Pennsylvania Ave., Tyrone, PA 16686 | 814-684-1133 | tyronelibrary.org Source: Huntingdon Daily Herald, March 4, 2026 — https://www.huntingdondailynews.com/daily_herald/march-at-the-tyrone-snyder-public-library-learning-luck-and-family-fun/
🎠OTHER FREE COMMUNITY EVENTS
PAID EVENTS
ONGOING / ALWAYS-OPEN ATTRACTIONS (no specific event required)These Blair County attractions are open during the week of March 9–15 and welcome families and tourists year-round. Confirm hours before visiting:
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The 7-day weather forecast for Hollidaysburg, PA, from Monday, March 9, 2026, through Sunday, March 15, 2026, is as follows: Monday, March 9, 2026: High 66°F, Low 41°F, Sunny
Tuesday, March 10, 2026: High 72°F, Low 47°F, Sunny with light rain overnight Wednesday, March 11, 2026: High 66°F, Low 35°F, Light rain Thursday, March 12, 2026: High 39°F, Low 25°F, Light snow Friday, March 13, 2026: High 47°F, Low 27°F, Cloudy Saturday, March 14, 2026: High 54°F, Low 33°F, Cloudy with light snow overnight Sunday, March 15, 2026: High 44°F, Low 33°F, Light rain |
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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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Local Shoutouts
Blair County Chamber names 2026 Award WinnersThe Blair County Chamber of Commerce has announced a whole slate of 2026 award recipients, celebrating businesses and community-minded leaders helping Blair County thrive. It’s a nice mix of healthcare, small business, education, and servant leadership all getting a moment in the spotlight.altoonamirror+1
WISE Women of Blair County announce 2026 Tribute HonoreesWISE Women of Blair County is gearing up for its 2026 Tribute Dinner and has announced a group of remarkable women who will be honored for their leadership and service. The annual event is a community favorite and shines a light on women making a quiet but powerful difference across the county.wisewomenofblaircounty+1
Local HeroesScott Filler honored as Respected Citizen for decades of serviceEncompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Altoona CEO Scott Filler was recently honored with the Respected Citizen Award for inspiring and motivating people across Blair County for more than three decades. He was recognized at the Central Blair Recreation Commission’s Community Classic Dinner and Auction, which celebrates community service and youth-focused work.[youtube]​[altoonamirror]​
Home Genius Exteriors team takes the Polar Plunge for Special OlympicsThree team members from Home Genius Exteriors in Altoona—Jordan Anderson, Cam Strohe, and Angel Clarke-Paulakos—recently braved the icy waters of Canoe Creek Lake for the Special Olympics Pennsylvania Polar Plunge. Their chilly dip helped raise funds to support year-round programming for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities.[altoonamirror]​
Local CausesCounty seeking volunteers for emergency management supportBlair County Emergency Management is actively recruiting volunteers to help the community prepare for and recover from emergencies. They emphasize that neighbors helping neighbors is what gets Blair County through storms, floods, and other crises—and they’ll train you, no experience required.[blairco]​
Blair HealthChoices stakeholder committee looking for community voicesBlair HealthChoices is inviting adults, families, and young adults in Blair County to join its Stakeholder Committee to help shape the local mental health and substance use system. It’s a chance for everyday residents to speak into policy, identify concerns, and support meaningful improvements in behavioral health services.[blairhealthchoices]​
FundraisersCommunity Classic Dinner & Auction boosts youth recreationThe Central Blair Recreation Commission’s 16th annual Community Classic Dinner and Auction on February 28 served as the commission’s biggest fundraiser of the year, supporting youth scholarships and local parks. The evening mixed a sit-down dinner, auction items, and raffle baskets with an inspiring message from former Pittsburgh Steeler Chris Hoke.[youtube]​[altoonamirror]​
“Bet On The Arts” gala to support Altoona Community TheatreAltoona Community Theatre is hosting a brand-new fundraising gala, “Bet On The Arts,” later this month to support live theatre and arts programming in Blair County. Guests can expect casino-style games, live entertainment, and a fun night out while backing a local arts staple.[altoonacommunitytheatre]​
Blair Creators Festival helps fund free arts programsWhile it’s a bit further out on the calendar, the Blair Creators Festival 2026 is already accepting vendor applications and will serve as both a celebration of local talent and a fundraiser for ArtsAltoona’s free community programs. The festival turns downtown Altoona’s Heritage Plaza into a full day of art, music, food, and family activities.[artsaltoona]​
Home Show & related events boosting local vendorsThe 54th annual Blair County Home & Garden Show, held Feb. 27–March 1 at the Blair County Convention Center, doubles as a major promotional and revenue boost for local home, garden, and healthy-living businesses. Vendors like C.J. Cabinet Co. say the show helps generate new business and “millions of dollars worth of jobs” over time, which keeps local trades and services strong.blairchamber+2
Volunteer OpportunitiesBlair County Senior Services looking for senior volunteersBlair Senior Services continues to highlight a variety of ways seniors can stay active and give back through its VOICE volunteer program and national Senior Corps initiatives. It’s a good fit for older residents who want to use their time and talents in ways that directly benefit neighbors.[blairsenior]​
Emergency Management volunteers needed across Blair CountyAs noted above, Blair County Emergency Management is actively seeking residents willing to step up before and after disasters. Training is provided, and roles range from hands-on help at shelters to behind-the-scenes logistics.[blairco]​
Help shape mental health and addiction services as a StakeholderBlair HealthChoices is recruiting Stakeholders—adults, youth/young adults, and family members with an interest in mental health or substance use issues—to serve on its Stakeholder Committee. It’s a great way for local residents to ensure community voices are heard in decisions around behavioral health care.[blairhealthchoices]​
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! 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 PJ, a male cat.
Hello there! The names PJ! I am around 5 years old and the most handsome boy!! I was brought to the shelter as a stray with a bad upper respiratory infection, but the nice doctor fixed me up with antibiotics so now l am ready to find my forever home! You may have noticed l am missing half of my back leg.
I came to the shelter like that. Doctor Kayla said I may have been born that way or possibly an injury that healed on its own while I was living on the streets. It doesn't hold me back though! I do have one tiny request. If you could please help me scratch under my chin and ear on my left side since I'm not able to do it on my own. I will be ever so grateful! I am a little shy at first meeting new people, but I warm up quickly and my staff tell me l am the just the sweetest boy! I take interest in the other cats around me so another cat in the home who isn't too crazy would probably be ok. No dogs for me! I have not been around small children so that would be on a case-by-case basis, but older kids will be fine. am just a little scared being picked up at times due to my leg. If you think I would be the perfect fit for your home, please complete an application!
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đź’ˇ Answer to Trivia Question: Blair County was officially formed in 1846 and was named after John Blair, a prominent jurist and politician from the area. |
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