Cambria Buzz

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Charles Sisk * thecambriabuzz@gmail.com * PH (814) 201-7511

Pennsylvania’s Department of Education is intensifying its fight against campus sexual violence with new funding through the It's On Us PA initiative.

Mount Aloysius College in Cambria County will receive $40,000 to strengthen sexual assault prevention and education efforts.

This grant is part of a larger investment across 24 counties, illustrating the state’s unwavering commitment to student safety.

Mount Aloysius, a leader in proactive measures, opened its Healthy Relationships Resource Center in 2020 after winning a nearly $300,000 Department of Justice grant.

The center provides education and support on sexual assault, dating, and domestic violence for students.

The college’s Criminology program also offers hands-on learning, including a modern crime scene lab, preparing students to tackle complex safety challenges.

These efforts highlight a holistic approach to campus safety and embody the spirit of statewide prevention campaigns.

The Richland School District in Cambria County, Pennsylvania, has demonstrated exceptional community generosity, raising over $11,000 for local causes.

This significant amount came from staff supporting dress-down day donations and payroll deductions.

The funds were distributed by the Richland District Foundation to benefit the foundation itself and groups like the Richland Township Volunteer Fire Company, Cambria County Humane Society, and the Richland High School Key Club.

Superintendent Arnold Nadonley praised the staff’s dedication, noting their commitment reaches far beyond the classroom to the larger community.

This thoughtful effort highlights a growing culture of philanthropy and engagement in the district, securing its place as a vital community supporter across Cambria County.

Ebensburg Borough is set to benefit from a Small Town Challenge grant, offering a matching opportunity of up to $25,000 thanks to the Community Foundation for the Alleghenies.

The initiative is designed to help towns like Ebensburg create a long-term endowment fund, ensuring ongoing support for local projects.

To unlock the full grant, Ebensburg must gather at least $10,000 in donations over two years, with grantmaking starting one year after achieving the fundraising goal.

Danea Koss, Community Development Director, remains optimistic the community will rally behind this investment in Ebensburg's future.

Other towns, including Indiana, Southmont, and Westmont Boroughs, also received similar grants, each striving to establish their own endowments.

A fundraising event is planned for March 19 at Amici’s Banquet Room, with food, live music by Bruce Shettig, and insights from foundation representatives.

Donations are accepted through the Community Foundation’s website and are tax-deductible.

The Laurel Highlands Historical Village is hosting a veterans food drive this Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Walmart near Ebensburg, aiming to support local veterans and elderly residents facing hardship.

Community members can contribute by donating non-perishable foods, gift cards, hygiene items, paper products, blankets, towels, ceramic heaters, and new or gently used kitchen goods.

Additional donation drop-off spots include the Galleria Mall in Johnstown, Hoss’s in Ebensburg and Johnstown, Kimmie’s in Mundys Corner, Stager’s in Portage, and Randy’s Bi Lo in Windber.

Gift cards and cash donations can also be mailed directly to LHHV at 390 Rose Branch St., Johnstown.

Requests for veteran assistance are rising, highlighting an urgent local need.

Residents are encouraged to launch their own drives through churches or schools. For help, contact the LHHV office at 814-241-6123.

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Events in Cambria County, PA: Mar. 18, 2026 – Mar. 24, 2026

✅ FREE EVENTS

1. 🏛️ "Her Story: Women and the American Revolution" Lecture

Date/Time: Wednesday, March 18 @ 6:30 PM Location: Venue TBD — presented by Heritage Johnstown & AAUW (check heritagejohnstown.org for exact venue) Description: Dr. Paul D. Newman explores the roles played by American women in the Revolution — Revolutionaries and Loyalists, elites and working women alike — as part of Women's History Month programming. Age Appropriateness: Teens & Adults (educational content) Cost: Free Source: Visit Johnstown | Heritage Johnstown

2. 🎵 Coffee House Series — "Pay What You Decide" Music Night

Date/Time: Thursday, March 19 @ 7:00–9:00 PM Location: Community Arts Center of Cambria County, 1217 Menoher Blvd., Westmont (Johnstown) Description: A relaxed evening of live music open to the public with no RSVP required. Coffees, teas, and baked goods are available for purchase. Donations go directly to the performers. Age Appropriateness: All ages Cost: "Pay What You Decide" (free admission; donations encouraged) Source: Visit Johnstown | CACCC

3. 🏠 MEGASHOW: Home, Garden, & Business Expo

Date/Time: Friday–Sunday, March 20 (10 AM–8 PM), March 21 (10 AM–8 PM), March 22 (12–5 PM) Location: The Johnstown Galleria, 500 Galleria Drive, Richland Township Description: One of the region's largest community expos, bringing together 100+ local businesses, home improvement contractors, makers, crafters, and vendors from Cambria and Somerset Counties under one roof. Features demonstrations, family activities, prize drawings, and more. Age Appropriateness: All ages; family-friendly Cost: Free admission Source: Visit Johnstown | Tribune-Democrat

4. 🔍 March Morley Madness Scavenger Hunt

Date/Time: Saturday, March 21, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (also offered March 7, 14, 28) Location: Johnstown Children's Museum (Heritage Discovery Center, 201 Sixth Ave.) AND Johnstown Flood Museum (304 Washington St.), Johnstown Description: A free add-on activity for museum visitors — find all ten hidden "Morleys" (the famous cast iron flood-surviving dog) throughout the museums and win a prize. A fun, interactive challenge for kids. Age Appropriateness: Children & families (activity is included with museum admission) Cost: Free activity with paid museum admission (museum: $10 adults, $8 seniors/children 3–18, under 2 free) Source: Heritage Johnstown

5. 📚 Johnstown Writer's Circle

Date/Time: Friday, March 20 @ 10:00 AM–12:00 PM Location: Third Floor Programming Room, Cambria County Library, 248 Main Street, Johnstown Description: A recurring creative workshop held in partnership with Craftwork Studios — a great opportunity for writers of all levels to meet fellow writers, share work, and receive supportive feedback. Age Appropriateness: Adults & Seniors Cost: Free Source: Cambria County Library System Calendar

6. 🧶 Crafty Tuesday — Intro to Knitting

Date/Time: Tuesday, March 24 @ 5:00–6:00 PM Location: Third Floor Programming Room, Cambria County Library, 248 Main Street, Johnstown Description: A hands-on crafting and conversation session on the library's third floor, featuring an introductory knitting lesson. Participants are welcome to bring their own unfinished projects. Snacks provided. Age Appropriateness: Teens (13–18), Adults, Seniors Cost: Free Source: Cambria County Library System Calendar

7. 🐣 Easter Storytime

Date/Time: Tuesday, March 24 @ 6:00–6:45 PM Location: Ebensburg Cambria Public Library (main room), Ebensburg Description: A seasonal storytime for children ages 3–7 featuring Easter-themed stories and a hands-on correlating activity. Registration is required via the library calendar. Age Appropriateness: Pre-K through early elementary (ages 3–7) Cost: Free (registration required) Source: Cambria County Library System Calendar

8. 🏛️ "Let Me Be Myself: The Life Story of Anne Frank" — Exhibition

Date/Time: Open throughout the week: Thursday–Saturday 10 AM–5 PM, Sunday 12–5 PM (closed Tue/Wed during winter schedule) Location: Frank & Sylvia Pasquerilla Heritage Discovery Center, 201 Sixth Ave., Johnstown Description: This internationally acclaimed traveling exhibition — developed by the Anne Frank Center at the University of South Carolina — follows Anne Frank's life from birth in 1929 to her death in 1945, set against the context of the Holocaust and WWII. Heritage Johnstown has expanded the show with local WWII artifacts and trained docents. The exhibition runs March–June 2026. Age Appropriateness: Ages 10+; especially impactful for teens and adults (parental guidance suggested for younger children) Cost: Included with Heritage Discovery Center admission: $10 adults, $8 seniors/children (3–18); children under 2 free. SNAP EBT cardholders: $3/person. Source: Heritage Johnstown | WTAJ | Visit Johnstown

⚠️ Note: The Anne Frank exhibition admission is bundled with general Heritage Discovery Center admission. The exhibit itself does not have a separate free entry — it is listed here because it is part of the museum experience covered under standard admission pricing, and Museums for All discounts apply.

9. 🌱 Ebensburg Small Town Challenge Networking Event

Date/Time: Thursday, March 19 @ 5:00–7:00 PM Location: Amici's Restaurant, 102 South Center St., Ebensburg Description: A community fundraising and networking event for the Ebensburg Borough endowment fund (Small Town Challenge Grant). Features complimentary food, refreshments, and live music by Bruce Shettig. Open to all community members. Age Appropriateness: Adults and families Cost: Free (complimentary food & refreshments provided) Source: Altoona Mirror

💰 PAID EVENTS

1. 🎸 MercyMe: The Wonder + Awe Tour

Date/Time: Friday, March 20 @ 7:00 PM (Doors 6:00 PM) Location: 1st SUMMIT ARENA at Cambria County War Memorial, 326 Napoleon Street, Johnstown Description: Multi-platinum Christian contemporary music band MercyMe brings their signature worship experience to Johnstown, joined by Big Daddy Weave, Tim Timmons, and Sam Wesley. Named after their latest album Wonder + Awe, this 24-city national tour stop promises an uplifting evening for fans of all ages. Age Appropriateness: All ages; family-friendly faith-based concert Cost: $38.80–$130.10 (standard); $45.10–$142.60 (aisle seats) — includes fees; taxes additional. (Resale prices vary.) Source: 1st Summit Arena | Ticketmaster | Visit Johnstown

2. 🎵 VOMA Folk/Bluegrass Series: Blue Diggity + Tim Wetmiller

Date/Time: Friday, March 20 @ 7:30–10:30 PM Location: Venue of Merging Arts (VOMA), 305 Chestnut Street, Johnstown (Cambria City) Description: Blue Diggity is a nationally touring West Virginia bluegrass band featuring tight harmonies, traditional licks, and a high-energy stage presence. Joined by special guest Tim Wetmiller, a Johnstown-born violinist who now performs about 200 shows per year in Seattle. Age Appropriateness: All ages (BYOB 21+) Cost: $15 Source: Visit Johnstown

3. 🏒 Johnstown Tomahawks Hockey vs. New Hampshire Mountain Kings

Date/Time: Saturday, March 21 @ 7:00 PM; Sunday, March 22 @ 3:00 PM Location: 1st SUMMIT ARENA at Cambria County War Memorial, 326 Napoleon Street, Johnstown Description: Catch the Johnstown Tomahawks of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) in a home weekend series. Junior hockey is fast-paced, exciting, and a great introduction to live hockey for all ages. Age Appropriateness: All ages; great for families with kids Cost: $10–$16 Source: Visit Johnstown | Ticketmaster

4. 🎷 VOMA Jazz Series: Don Aliquo Quartet + Guest Vocalists

Date/Time: Saturday, March 21 @ 7:30–10:00 PM Location: Venue of Merging Arts (VOMA), 305 Chestnut Street, Johnstown (Cambria City) Description: Pittsburgh's Don Aliquo Quartet — featuring saxophone, bass, keys, and drums — performs with special guest vocalists Jessie Wills, Phat Man Dee, and Esai Aliquo. A smooth jazz evening in VOMA's intimate listening room. Age Appropriateness: All ages (BYOB 21+) Cost: $10 Source: Visit Johnstown

5. 💃 Square Dance with Klassic Kountry

Date/Time: Saturday, March 21 @ 7:00–10:00 PM Location: Venue TBD — check Visit Johnstown for venue details Description: Square dancing with live calling by Dave Lang and music by Klassic Kountry. Food and beverages are included. A fun, active community event for families and beginners alike — no prior experience needed. Age Appropriateness: All ages Cost: $10 Source: Visit Johnstown

6. 🎶 AM GOLD: Yacht Rock Tribute Show

Date/Time: Saturday, March 21 @ 7:30–9:00 PM Location: Pasquerilla Performing Arts Center, 450 Schoolhouse Road, Johnstown (UPJ campus) Description: New York City-based AM GOLD performs the adult-contemporary hits of the late 1970s through mid-1980s, including songs by Hall & Oates, Steely Dan, Huey Lewis, Christopher Cross, and more in an era-faithful tribute show. Age Appropriateness: All ages; especially fun for adults who grew up with this music Cost: $44–$52 Source: Visit Johnstown

7. 🎻 Johnstown Concert Series: Tim Wetmiller & Friends

Date/Time: Sunday, March 22 @ 3:00 PM Location: First Presbyterian Church, 309 Lincoln Street, Johnstown Description: A Sunday afternoon concert featuring local Johnstowner Tim Wetmiller's signature blend of Gypsy jazz and folkloric world music influences. An intimate, accessible performance with tiered pricing. Age Appropriateness: All ages Cost: $5–$25 (sliding scale) Source: Visit Johnstown

8. 🧩 Adult Speed Puzzling Competition

Date/Time: Friday, March 20 @ 6:00–9:00 PM Location: Ebensburg Cambria Public Library, Ebensburg Description: Teams of up to four compete to assemble a 500-piece puzzle as fast as possible. Teams can be pre-formed or open to individual participants joining. The fastest team wins! Limited to 8 teams — register in advance. Age Appropriateness: Adults & Seniors (18+) Cost: $5 per person entry fee Source: Cambria County Library System Calendar

📝 Important Notes for Visitors

Museum Hours (Winter Schedule, Jan–Apr): The Heritage Discovery Center and Johnstown Flood Museum are open Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat 10 AM–5 PM and Sun 12–5 PM. Both are closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Cambria County Library System: The library system has 14 member branches across the county including locations in Johnstown, Ebensburg, Portage, Patton, Northern Cambria, Hastings, Nanty Glo, and more. Events listed above are free unless noted. Full calendar: cambriacounty.librarycalendar.com
 

Did you know.....?

You can read our News Feed for back articles and releases

 that never made it to our newsletter HERE?

You can read our Newsletter Back issues HERE?

It is such an exciting time for our community! From the revitalization efforts in downtown Johnstown to the expansion of the Scalp Avenue corridor, Cambria County is seeing a wonderful wave of new local spots and services.

Here is the latest on what’s popping up around the neighborhood this spring.

The Loft at Winterset (Ebensburg)

Location: 931 Manor Drive, Ebensburg, PA

Projected Opening: Spring 2026 (Now booking!)

If you’ve been looking for a fresh, elegant spot to host your next graduation party, wedding shower, or family reunion, you’ll want to keep an eye on The Loft at Winterset. This brand-new event venue is officially opening its doors this spring, bringing a sophisticated but cozy vibe to the Ebensburg area. The space is designed to blend modern amenities with that classic Laurel Highlands charm, making it a perfect addition for residents who usually have to travel further out of town for high-quality event spaces.

The owners have shared that they wanted to create a space that feels like home but looks like a million bucks. They noticed a real need for a mid-sized, versatile venue in the northern part of the county and decided Manor Drive was the perfect spot to plant their roots. It’s a true family-run venture, and they’ve been hard at work all winter getting the interior just right for their first round of guests.

How to support: You can follow them on Facebook for construction updates and a first look at the finished interior. They are currently taking reservations for spring and summer events, so give them a call at 814-408-5174 to snag your date!

7 Brew Coffee (Richland)

Location: 1523 Scalp Avenue (East Hills Plaza), Johnstown, PA

Status: In Development (Zoning hearing held March 2026)

Caffeine lovers, get ready! The Richland Township area is one step closer to welcoming 7 Brew Coffee, a popular drive-thru coffee stand known for its high energy and massive menu of custom drinks. The project recently hit a big milestone with a zoning hearing this month to clear the way for its construction at the East Hills Plaza. Unlike your typical sit-down cafe, 7 Brew focuses on "cultivating kindness" through fast, friendly service and a fun, music-filled atmosphere right at the window.

The team behind the move to Johnstown noted that the Scalp Avenue corridor is the "heartbeat" of shopping in the county and they wanted to provide a quick, upbeat stop for folks heading to work or running errands at the Town Center. With over 20,000 unique drink combinations (including sugar-free and dairy-free options), they are aiming to fill the gap for customizable, on-the-go beverages in the East Hills.

How to support: Keep an eye on the East Hills Plaza for construction crews! Once open, they typically operate from early morning until late night. You can check out their menu at 7brew.com to start planning your first order.

Downtown Johnstown Food Market

Location: Former Ryen Building, Main Street, Johnstown, PA

Projected Opening: Summer 2026 (Construction began February/March 2026)

There is finally major movement on the long-awaited Downtown Johnstown Food Market! Construction officially kicked off over the last few weeks in the historic Ryen Building on Main Street. This $1.1 million project is more than just a grocery store; it’s a cornerstone of the downtown "New Life" initiative. The market will feature a full-service deli, fresh local produce, and everyday essentials, finally bringing a dedicated food source back to our downtown residents and workers.

The developers, Terra Vista Capital, have been vocal about their commitment to Johnstown, noting that a healthy downtown needs a place where people can walk to get a gallon of milk or a fresh sandwich. By preserving the historic character of the building while modernizing the inside, they are helping to bridge the gap between Johnstown’s storied past and its bright future.

How to support: While we wait for the grand opening this summer, you can support the vision by continuing to shop at other downtown retailers. 

Have a business opening, community event, local hero story or pet-related news to share? Email Us your updates for next week's newsletter! thecambriabuzz@gmail.com

"Today’s Cambria County quote of the day: 'In Cambria County, we cherish our rich history and vibrant community, embracing the spirit of resilience and unity that defines us.' Stay connected and inspired with Cambria Buzz!" 

Local Shoutouts, Causes, Fundraisers, and Volunteer Opportunities

Have a business opening, community event, local hero story or pet-related news to share? Email Us your updates for next week's newsletter! thecambriabuzz@gmail.com

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

Meet Chloe, an 8-year-old sweetheart whose gentle heart has endured more than most, but who still believes in love, kindness, and second chances. Chloe came from a difficult household where the other dogs weren’t very kind to her. Life in that home may have been challenging, but it never broke her spirit—she’s still open to meeting new canine friends, showing that even after hardship, her heart is ready to trust again.

Chloe is a little cautious at first, especially with new people. She takes her time to observe, to make sure the world is safe, and to figure out who she can count on. But if you give her patience, understanding, and gentle love, she will bloom into the most loyal companion you could imagine. Once she knows she can trust you, Chloe will be your shadow, your confidante, and your best friend—her love is quiet but unwavering, and the bond she forms is deep and lasting.

Despite her reserved nature, Chloe is affectionate, gentle, and full of heart. She enjoys quiet moments, soft pets, and the comfort of knowing she is safe and loved. She has a resilience and grace that is truly inspiring—Chloe has learned that life can be tough, but love is worth the wait.

Chloe is looking for a calm and patient home, where she can feel secure and be allowed to warm up at her own pace. In return, she will offer unwavering loyalty, endless affection, and the quiet joy of a devoted companion who knows the true value of kindness. She may have had a difficult past, but Chloe’s story is one of hope, courage, and the promise of a brighter, loving future.

If you’re searching for a dog with a heart full of love, a spirit full of resilience, and a gentle soul that will treasure you forever, Chloe is ready to make her next chapter with you.

About Chloe:

• Age: estimated age 8 years 1 months
• Gender: female

• Weight: 43.5 lbs
  Adoption Fee: $150 

• Why Chloe Needs You: "Like so many animals at the shelter, Dutchess is patiently waiting for a loving family to call her own. She dreams of a family to love, a comfy bed and toys to play with!"

How to Adopt Chloe:

If Chloe sounds like the perfect addition to your family, don't hesitate!

• Visit the Humane Society: Chloe is currently staying at the Humane Society of Cambria County located at 743 Galleria Dr Ext, Johnstown, PA 15904.

• Learn More & Apply: You can view Chloe's full profile and learn more about the adoption process by visiting the Humane Society's website: https://www.humanecambria.org/adoptable-animals/ 

• Contact Information: For questions about Chloe or the adoption process, you can call the Humane Society of Cambria County at (814) 535-6116.

Give Chloe the forever home she deserves!

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Warmly,

Charles Sisk 

Editor