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Girls, Grit & Game-Changers: Cambria County Is Rewriting the Rules! 🔥
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Girls, Grit & Game-Changers: Cambria County Is Rewriting the Rules! 🔥
🏊‍♀️ Comebacks, ballparks, girl wrestlers & local events you won't want to miss!
Charles Sisk

Charles Sisk

Jul 22, 2026

📰 WEEKLY PREVIEW

* Top Stories: Cambria County's Game-Changing Ballpark
* Local Events: Ebensburg Downtown Shutdown--Shallow 9
* What's Trending: 🚣 Outdoor Water Adventures & Lake Days

* Community Engagement: Scouts Making a Difference
* Pet of the Week: Meet Emily - Adopt and Love!

Trivia Question❓

During the 1800s, the tiny European nation of Liechtenstein sent 80 soldiers to fight in the Austro-Prussian War of 1866, but when the army returned home after the conflict ended, how many soldiers came back — more than the 80 who left?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

The Cambria Buzz newsletter is sponsored by Cambria Exteriors!

💬 5 Comments

Jess Stoddard has earned her place in the Cambria County Sports Hall of Fame — but her journey is one of grit, comeback, and giving back.

 

Stoddard began swimming at age eight, admitting she was once the worst on her team.

 

She pushed through, becoming a five-time All-American and PIAA state champion at Richland High School, earning a full scholarship to Michigan State University.

 

Then a serious car accident shattered her hip, with doctors saying she'd never swim again.

 

She proved them wrong — returning to help Clarion University win a PSAC championship and finishing as a six-time NCAA All-American.

 

Now coaching at Detroit Catholic Central, Stoddard has produced 39 All-Americans, 13 state champions, and an Olympic Trials qualifier.

 

Her message to young athletes is clear: believe in yourself, take the risk, and you never know how far you can go.


Read More...
LP
Linda PraskoReader
1 month ago

“It's just you in your lane — that quote really stuck with me. Life is kind of like that too. Love that she's passing those lessons on to the…”

💬 3 Comments

The Miracle League of Cambria County has received a $650,000 state grant to build a specialized baseball field for children with special needs at Roxbury Park in Johnstown.

 

The funding comes through Pennsylvania's Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program, announced on July 16 by Sen. Wayne Langerholc Jr.

 

Plans call for a new baseball field, bleachers, a concession stand, a press box, and stormwater improvements — all designed to make the park more accessible and welcoming for people of all abilities.

 

Miracle League President Jeffery Cramer credited the senator's support as critical to making the project a reality, with hopes it becomes a regional destination for families and athletes with special needs.

 

The new facility is expected to expand inclusive play opportunities and strengthen community connections across Cambria County.


Read More...
BP
Beth PalumboReader
1 month ago

“Never heard of the Miracle League before this but just looked them up and wow, what a great organization. Glad Cramer and Langerholc got thi…”

💬 3 Comments

The University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown wrapped up its 78th annual summer wrestling camp, closing out another milestone year — this time welcoming the highest number of female wrestlers in the camp's history.

 

The four-day event drew boys and girls from first through 12th grade, offering a mix of skill-building, competition, and community.

 

Founded by the late coach Pat Pecora, the camp has been a summer staple for decades and continues to grow alongside a national surge in girls' wrestling, now one of the fastest-growing high school sports in the country.

 

That momentum is felt directly at UPJ, which recently launched its own women's wrestling program.

 

Head men's coach Tyler Reinhart credits the camp's unified, gender-inclusive philosophy for much of its appeal, emphasizing that wrestling brings all athletes together under one shared identity — and that camps like this are key to introducing the next generation to the sport.


Read More...
JT
jt_wrestler05Reader
1 month ago

“Curious how the womens program at UPJ is shaping up. Are they competing yet or still getting it off the ground? Would be cool to see local g…”

The Weathered Farmhouse

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Family-Friendly Events in Cambria, July 15 – July 21, 2026

Cambria County Community Heroes Carnival

Ebensburg Downtown Shutdown Featuring Shallow 9

AmeriServ Flood City Music Festival 2026

Ebensburg Homecoming

📚 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

The Cambria Buzz is sponsored by Daniel's Depot

The Johnstown, Pennsylvania area is seeing exciting growth in both community spaces and local industry.

One standout addition is The Rusty Cat Cafe, located on Walnut Street and opened in early 2026. As the city’s first cat cafe, it offers a unique experience combining a traditional coffee shop with a dedicated “Cat Room,” where guests can spend time with adoptable cats. Partnering with the Johnstown Animal Welfare Society (JAWS), the cafe supports animal rescue efforts while giving visitors a relaxing and meaningful way to unwind. Guests can enjoy La Prima espresso, snacks, and a cozy atmosphere, with reservations required for time in the Cat Room.


Nearby in Windber, The Rustic Blend Cafe continues to grow as a welcoming community hub. Established in 2024 and led by Coast Guard veteran Jason, the cafe emphasizes connection and comfort. Known for its globally sourced coffee beans, artisanal drinks, and house-made pastries, it has become a popular “third space” where locals gather to socialize, work, or relax. Its focus on quality and community has made it a valued part of the region’s culture.


Beyond cafes, the local economy is also strengthening. JWF Industries has announced a $500 million expansion expected to bring around 200 jobs to Windber by 2027. Additionally, staffing agencies like WorkLink are reporting new job openings, reflecting steady employment growth across the area.

Here are five positive, community-focused activities that are trending right now.

1. 🚣 Outdoor Water Adventures & Lake Days (Northern Cambria / Patton Area)

Prince Gallitzin State Park

Prince Gallitzin State Park Web Address: 966 Marina Rd, Patton, PA 16668, United States Phone: +1 814-674-1000

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Nothing says summer in northern Cambria County like Glendale Lake. Families are flocking to:

  • Kayaking & paddleboarding

  • Swimming at the public beach

  • Fishing

  • Pontoon boating

  • Picnics and camping

  • Sunset photography

This continues to be one of the county's biggest summer destinations and draws visitors from throughout Western Pennsylvania.


2. 🥕 Farmers Markets & Shop Local Movement (Ebensburg • Johnstown • Northern Cambria)

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The local food movement is stronger than ever this summer.

Featured markets include:

  • Downtown Johnstown Farmer's Market

  • Westmont Farmer's Market

  • Northern Cambria Farmers Market

People are shopping for:

  • Fresh vegetables

  • Homemade baked goods

  • Local honey

  • Handmade crafts

  • Flowers

  • Live music

The weekly markets have become community gathering spots, not just places to shop. (Visit Johnstown)


3. 🚴 Hiking, Biking & Rail Trails (Ebensburg • Nanty Glo • Johnstown)

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Outdoor recreation is booming this summer.

Popular destinations include:

  • Ghost Town Trail Ebensburg Trailhead

  • Gallitzin State Forest

  • Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail

Families, cyclists, runners, and photographers are taking advantage of:

  • Cooler mountain temperatures

  • Scenic overlooks

  • Historic railroad tunnels

  • Wildlife viewing

  • Waterfalls and streams

The Laurel Highlands continues to market hiking and biking as one of the region's biggest attractions. (Visit Johnstown)


4. 🎵 Festivals, Concerts & Community Celebrations (Countywide)

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Summer weekends are packed with positive community events.

Some of the most talked-about include:

  • Northern Cambria Regional Heritage Festival

  • Ebensburg Homecoming

  • Flood City Music Festival

  • Roxbury Bandshell Concert Series

  • Community carnivals

  • Outdoor movie nights

These events are drawing thousands of residents together while supporting local nonprofits and businesses. (Visit Johnstown)


5. 🌊 Johnstown Outdoor Adventure Scene (Johnstown & South Fork)

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Johnstown has become a hub for active summer fun.

Popular activities include:

  • Coal Tubin on the Stonycreek River

  • Johnstown Flood National Memorial tours

  • Johnstown Mill Rats baseball

  • Sunday Market in Cambria City

  • Jazz Along the River

  • Downtown events and block parties

The combination of outdoor recreation, history, and downtown entertainment is bringing new energy to the city throughout the summer. (Visit Johnstown)

Overall Summer Trends in Cambria County:

  1. 🌿 Spending time outdoors (parks, lakes, hiking)

  2. 🛍️ Supporting local farmers markets and small businesses

  3. 🎶 Community festivals and live music

  4. 🚴 Active recreation (biking, kayaking, tubing)

  5. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly free community events

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

 

  • Local Shoutouts

    Celebrating Our Community Heroes

    This week, we’re tipping our hats to the organizers behind the very first Cambria County Community Heroes Carnival. Recently featured on FOX8, this new event highlights the incredible work of local first responders and community leaders, bringing neighbors together to celebrate the folks who keep our county safe and strong.

    Local Heroes

    Girl Scout Troop 46828 Making a Difference

    A huge shoutout to the dedicated young ladies of Girl Scout Troop 46828 (Richland)! As part of their Girl Scout Bronze Award project, these scouts created an informative video to help the community understand the vital importance of adopting, donating, and volunteering at the Humane Society of Cambria County. They even went the extra mile by collecting much-needed donations for our shelter animals.

    Local Causes

    Supporting Our Seniors: Updates to County Services

    Cambria County officials have announced a shift in operations for our local senior centers to ensure resources are used effectively across the region. While some locations—including the Portage center—are closing, the county remains fully committed to providing wellness, friendship, and dependable meal services to all senior citizens through the remaining hub locations.

    Fundraisers

    Helping Our First Responders

    A big thank you to everyone who participated in the 12th Annual Chernisky Classic last weekend! The event, held on the beautiful Ghost Town Trail, saw a fantastic turnout of runners and walkers. Every single dollar raised from the 5K and 10K races goes directly to supporting the Training Facility of the Cambria County Regional Firefighters Association.

    Volunteer Opportunities

    Lend a Hand at the Humane Society

    The Humane Society of Cambria County is always looking for compassionate volunteers to help care for animals awaiting their "furever" homes. Whether you have time to walk dogs, cuddle cats, or help with light maintenance and event staffing, your support makes a world of difference for local pets.

    • Key Details: Volunteers 18+ can work independently after orientation and a dog-handling course; those aged 16–17 may volunteer with guardian permission. Apply online at the link below or call 814-535-6116.

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

The Cambria Buzz is sponsored by Lee's Hardware

💡 Answer to Trivia Question:
81 soldiers returned, as they came back with a new Austrian friend they had made during the campaign.

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Warmly,

Charles Sisk 

Editor

Cambria Buzz

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Cambria Buzz is your go-to source for everything happening in Cambria County. From local news and community events to business highlights, lifestyle stories, and cultural happenings, we bring you the stories that matter most. Stay connected and informed with Cambria Buzz, your trusted source for news and happenings across the county.

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