Altoona Triumphs, Walmart Pasta Recall, Painful Inflation Ahead—Are Local Ads the Answer?

Altoona wins! Walmart pasta recall, Fed inflation warning, & local ad tips—don’t miss out!

Charles Sisk

📰 WEEKLY PREVIEW

* Top Stories: pasta sold at Walmart recalled
* Local Events: Live Magic Show
* What's Trending: Northern Cambria Homecoming
* Community Engagement: Historic Preservation Excellence
* Pet of the Week:

Trivia Question❓

Which African country is home to the church complex of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its 12th-century rock-hewn churches carved entirely from living rock?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

The Cambria Buzz newsletter is sponsored by

The Pike Steakhouse & Pub

For food lovers who value quality above all, The Pike Steakhouse & Pub stands out as Johnstown's top destination for an unforgettable dining experience.

Serving only USDA Prime beef, each steak is carefully hand-cut in-house and prepared to perfection. This attention to detail has earned them recognition for the best steak in town and a loyal community of regulars.

If you're craving extraordinary flavor and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, The Pike Steakhouse & Pub should be your next stop.

	Address	2340 FRANKLIN ST JOHNSTOWN, PA 15905
	Days Open	Open 7 days a week
	Hours	Mon–Fri 7am–2am · Sat–Sun 12pm–2am
	Phone	(814) 254-4686

Click Here to Visit

Altoona teams win invite -

The Altoona Mountain Lion Cross Country Classic drew athletes and fans from across Cambria County, creating an atmosphere of excitement on the Logan Elementary Course.

Altoona High School dominated both boys and girls competitions, reinforcing their regional reputation.

Seth Lieb’s fast runner-up finish and Ashlyn Noce’s determined second place in the girls’ race helped secure key victories for the team, while Bedford’s Chloe May shattered the girls’ course record, energizing the crowd.

A frustrating truth is dawning on many small business owners across Cambria County.

Broad digital ads are showing your business to people states away who will never walk through your door in Johnstown or Ebensburg.

Meanwhile, the family living four blocks away, actively searching for what you offer, likely has no idea you exist.

Cambria County shoppers are being urged to check their freezers after a frozen pasta recall impacted products sold at Walmart and other major stores.

Certain frozen fettuccine varieties could contain listeria monocytogenes, a bacteria especially dangerous for pregnant women, seniors, and those with weakened immune systems.

Residents are advised not to eat any recalled pasta and should return affected packages for a full refund.

Federal Reserve policy is profoundly impacting life in Cambria County, Pennsylvania.

Persistent inflation concerns nationwide are becoming increasingly evident in the local economy.

Recent statements from central bank officials indicate that ongoing efforts to rein in inflation may pose significant challenges for working families and small businesses around Johnstown and throughout the county.

Fun for all ages at the Angelic Wellness Festival

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Family-Friendly Events in Cambria, Sept. 23 – Sept. 29, 2026

Ebensburg PotatoFest

	Date	Saturday, September 26
	Time	9:00 am - 5:00 pm
	Location	Downtown Ebensburg
	Price	Free

Enjoy a delightful day at the Ebensburg PotatoFest, an annual celebration of Cambria County's rich potato heritage. Stroll through the vibrant downtown streets filled with over 200 crafters and artisans, savoring delicious foods and one-of-a-kind homemade wares.

With live entertainment and activities for all ages, this fun-filled festival promises something for everyone. Bring the whole family and experience the warm community spirit and festivities in beautiful Ebensburg!

	Ebensburg, PA 15931 United States
	814-472-8780

Click to find out more

Worldwide Day of Play at the Johnstown Children’s Museum

	Date	Saturday, September 26, 2026
	Time	10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
	Location	Johnstown Children's Museum (Third Floor, Heritage Discovery Center)
	Price	Free

Join families and kids at the Johnstown Children’s Museum for the Worldwide Day of Play—a special event celebrating fun, learning, and creativity. Enjoy free admission and engage with hands-on activities designed to inspire children’s curiosity while exploring Johnstown’s rich history and heritage.

This day is part of Nickelodeon’s Our World initiative, aiming to empower kids and build community alongside over 360 children’s museums. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to play, learn, and connect at the Heritage Discovery Center!

201 6th Ave, Johnstown, PA 15906

Click to find out more

Weakland Farms Corn Maze!

	Date	Sept.25-26-27
	Time	Friday:- 4pm - 8pm Saturday:- 1pm - 8pm Sunday:- 1pm - 8pm
	Location	Weakland Farms
	Price	$10.00 (Kids 2 and under: Free)

Experience autumn fun at Weakland Farms! Enjoy exploring the corn maze, visiting barnyard animals, and taking in the country atmosphere with a variety of family-friendly activities. Your admission includes access to the maze, wagon rides, play areas, and more, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Browse the country craft store, grab a snack at the concession stand, or snap a photo with charming farm cutouts. Make lasting memories with loved ones at this inviting seasonal destination.

	582 Munster Road Portage, PA 15946
	814-999-1261

Click to find out more

Live Magic Show

	Date	September 25
	Time	7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
	Location	Something Amazing Magic and Juggling Shop
	Price	$10

Get ready for a fun, family-friendly magic show at Something Amazing Magic and Juggling in the Johnstown Galleria. Enjoy impossible surprises, audience participation, and plenty of laughs as Chuck the Magician dazzles with his unique blend of clever magic and quirky humor.

This month's show is themed around classic games—think Rubik’s Cube, Clue, and the mysterious “Game That Can Never Be Won.” Don’t miss an evening full of wonder and interactive entertainment for all ages!

	500 Galleria Drive, Johnstown, PA 15904 United States
	337-353-2842

Click to find out more

📚 Cambria County Library System — All Branch Events

📚 CAMBRIA COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY CALENDARS

The Cambria County Library System (CCLSYS) operates 14 independent member libraries, each with its own programs and events.
The unified system calendar is at: https://cambriacounty.librarycalendar.com/events/month

The system-wide calendar (covering all branches) can be filtered by library, age group, and event type at: https://cambriacounty.librarycalendar.com/branches/select

Know a new business we should welcome? We’re looking for small businesses opening across Cambria County, from Johnstown and Ebensburg to our smaller communities. If you own one or have spotted a new storefront, reply with the business name, location, opening date, and a way to reach the owner. We’d love to share the story with our neighbors.

Welcome to this week's edition of the Cambria Buzz! Autumn is officially bringing vibrant energy and family-friendly fun across the region with fantastic events happening right after our September 23 publishing date.

Check out these five positive local highlights:

Ebensburg PotatoFest: Historic downtown Ebensburg kicks off its famous 35th annual celebration on September 26, featuring family entertainment, crafts, and delicious local potato growers' fare.
Northern Cambria Homecoming: The community comes alive on September 25 as Northern Cambria High School hosts its festive annual homecoming game, uniting local families and alumni.
Johnstown Hockey Opening: The 1st Summit Arena gears up for family sports entertainment as the Johnstown Tomahawks take to the ice starting October 2.
Free Fall Arts & Crafts: The Community Arts Center of Cambria County invites families out on October 10 for a wonderful, free day of seasonal creativity.
Outdoor Recreation: Across the county, local parks and the Ghost Town Trail are seeing a surge in hikers enjoying the crisp autumn foliage.

Be sure to get out and support these fantastic local happenings!

What is your favorite local fall tradition in Cambria County? Let us know so we can feature it in the next issue.

Local Shout-outs, Heroes, Causes, Fundraisers, Volunteer Opportunities

🌟 Local Shoutouts

Celebrating Historic Preservation Excellence

Brief Description: Three incredible Pennsylvania historical entities, including the historic First Cambria A.M.E. Zion Church, were recently recognized by the State Historic Preservation Office for their unwavering dedication to preserving our rich local heritage. Their hard work ensures that future generations across our region can continue to connect with the roots and stories of Cambria County.
Key Details: Recognized this season via the Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission (PHMC). More details on honorees can be found through state preservation announcements.
Source Link: PA.gov Newsroom

🦸 Local Heroes

Helping Hands Supporting Local Veterans

Brief Description: Across our broader region, community-minded volunteers are stepping up to bridge the gap for military veterans transitioning back to civilian life. These compassionate individuals coordinate resources, mentorship, and support networks to ensure our service members know their community stands firmly behind them.
Key Details: Ongoing regional initiatives coordinated via local community service chapters and partner networks.
Source Link: Spotlight PA Local Heroes Coverage

🤝 Local Causes

Strengthening Foundations with the Helping Hands Fund

Brief Description: The Community Foundation for the Alleghenies continues to champion the Helping Hands of Cambria County Fund, which directly supports local housing and building efforts for families in need. It’s a wonderful reminder of how neighborly support can uplift low-income households right here in our backyard.
Key Details: Managed year-round by the Community Foundation for the Alleghenies. Contributions and inquiries can be handled directly through their digital fund directory.
Source Link: Community Foundation for the Alleghenies

💝 Fundraisers

Support Local Animal Care at the Humane Society

Brief Description: Our furry friends need our help, and local supporters are rallying to fund daily shelter operations, medical care, and enrichment programs. Community donations directly impact the comfort and adoptability of shelter pets waiting for their forever homes.
Key Details: Donations can be made online anytime or by contacting the shelter directly.
Source Link: Humane Society of Cambria County

🙌 Volunteer Opportunities

Cuddle, Walk, and Care with the Humane Society of Cambria County

Brief Description: Looking for a rewarding way to give back this week? The Humane Society of Cambria County is actively welcoming new volunteers for everything from dog walking and cat cuddling to facility maintenance and helping out at special community events. It’s a fantastic way to meet fellow animal lovers and make a direct impact on local rescue animals.
Key Details: Volunteers must complete an initial orientation (and a dog-handling course for dog volunteers aged 18+). Minors aged 16–17 can also volunteer with written guardian permission. Sign up online through their volunteer portal.
Source Link: Humane Society Volunteer Page

If you apply to adopt, please let the Humane Society know that you saw the listing in The Cambria Buzz Newsletter!

💡 Answer to Trivia Question:

Ethiopia

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Warmly,

Charles Sisk

Editor