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"Controversy and Cheer in Cambria: Holiday Sounds, Tax Protests, and Nonprofit Boosts - All in One Newsletter!"
"Controversy and Cheer in Cambria: Holiday Sounds, Tax Protests, and Nonprofit Boosts - All in One Newsletter!"
"Controversy and Cheer in Cambria: Holiday Sounds, Tax Protests, and Nonprofit Boosts - All in One Newsletter!"
Spread holiday cheer with Richland HS Choir, farmers rally against tax hike, NAP doubles impact for nonprofits, Emerald Photography captures memories in Johnstown, and more in this exciting newsletter!
Charles Sisk
Dec 24, 2025
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Trivia Question❓In what country did the tradition of leaving out stockings for Santa Claus to fill with gifts originate? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
This newsletter sponsored by |
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The halls of Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center were filled with the sound of holiday hope this week.
Students from the Richland High School choir and orchestra brought their annual holiday tour to patients and staff, a cherished local tradition now in its twelfth year.
Around 70 student musicians participated in the heartwarming event.
Their tour spread cheer across Cambria County, with additional stops at nursing homes, local schools, and a final performance for shoppers at the Galleria Mall.
According to Orchestra Director Ben Easler, the community reception is always one of immense gratitude, as the music truly seems to uplift everyone who listens.
It’s a powerful exchange of community spirit, bringing a personal and uplifting touch to the holiday season in Johnstown. Read More... |
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Farmers across Cambria County are voicing deep concern over a proposed property tax hike, urging county commissioners to reconsider their stance.
Marty Yahner, who leads the Cambria County Farm Bureau, addressed officials directly, warning that a nearly 7-mill increase would hit agriculture especially hard.
He stressed that property taxes must be paid no matter a farm’s profit, making it a heavy burden for many in the farming community.
Yahner noted that local farmers often face property taxes up to five times higher than average residents.
The increase is intended to help fill a $14 million budget gap and would push the general fund tax rate to 30 mills, exceeding the state’s 25-mill legal cap—requiring court approval.
The final vote on the controversial hike is scheduled for December 23, with farmers vowing continued opposition. Read More... |
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A massive increase in state funding for the Neighborhood Assistance Program is delivering a powerful financial boost to vital organizations across Cambria County.
Statewide funding for the program recently doubled, empowering local businesses to invest directly in community projects in exchange for tax credits.
The Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank received the largest local award, securing more than $351,000 to distribute healthy food to families in need.
Additionally, The Learning Lamp was granted $171,000 to strengthen and support local childcare providers, a critical service for working parents.
Other key investments include over $33,000 for Johnstown Area Regional Industries (JARI) to fund worker training programs and more than $35,000 for the Cambria County Library System to improve facility access.
As explained by State Senator Wayne Langerholc, the program leverages private-sector dollars to solve our community’s most pressing challenges. Read More... |
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Emerald Photography, guided by Stephanie Bosworth, has earned the coveted 'Best of Johnstown 2025' title for its exceptional wedding and portrait photography.
With more than 14 years in the industry, Stephanie’s genuine passion shines through every image she creates, capturing each couple’s unique love story with authenticity.
Starting her journey at just 15, Stephanie’s talent has flourished, combining creative artistry and meticulous attention to detail.
Offering services from weddings to engagements and individual portraits, Emerald Photography consistently crafts sessions that reflect the personality and spirit of every client.
Clients praise Stephanie’s professionalism, flexibility, and dedication to making each session comfortable and memorable.
This recent recognition cements Emerald Photography as a leading choice in Johnstown for those seeking both technical excellence and a warm, personalized touch. Read More... |
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Please check out our Survey! |
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"The food options at Panda Garden are endless, check out our online menu and select to either pick up your order or have it delivered right to your front door. We are happy to serve you!"https://www.pandagardennortherncambria.com/  2910 Bigler Ave, Northern Cambria, PA, United States, Pennsylvania
 (814) 948-6000
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Please submit your Events to be shared on the Cambria Buzz Facebook Page, in the Facebook Group and in the Events section of the Newsletter! Events Form |
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Johnstown's Favorite Award Winning Family Sports Bar & Restaurant! 1750 Bedford St, Johnstown, PA, United States, Pennsylvania
(814) 266-6814
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Here is the 7-day weather forecast for Ebensburg, PA from Wednesday, December 24, 2025, through Tuesday, December 31, 2025.
Wednesday, December 24, 2025: High 39°F, Low 32°F, Cloudy |
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 |
The Eyes are here in Cambria Buzz |
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Color Me Diamonds |
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Unique dazzling gifts and decor that sparkle as bright as the smiles they create!
Arts & Crafts Store · Gift Shop · Home decor
149 Johns Dr, Carrolltown, PA, United States, Pennsylvania
(814) 659-1210
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Joyce's Jems Consignment and More |
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I have taken over the former Five Sisters Consignment Shop under the name Joyce's Jems Consignment and More. Address : 4108 Crawford Avenue, Northern Cambria, Pa. Phone number: 582-822 1563. My hours will be as follows: Monday - Closed Tuesday - 9-2 Wednesday - 12- 5. This is will be the day that I will be receiving clothing, ( womens, mens, children , youth, babies ). I will be accepting, shoes, boots, jewelry, etc. Thursday - 9-2 Friday - 9-2 Saturday- 9-2 Any questions about how we receive clothing, please call me, Joyce Douglas at 582-822 1563. |
Taylor Ann's Deli & Café in Patton, PA |
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445 Glendale Lake Road, Patton, PA, United States, Pennsylvania
(814) 523-8029
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CV Chiropractic |
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At CV Chiropractic, we are dedicated to helping you achieve optimal health and wellness through personalized chiropractic care! Chiropractor
141 Woodstown Highway , Hollsopple, PA 15935
(814) 701-8644
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Randall Motors Inc. |
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3663 Portage Street Portage, PA 15946 814-736-96212019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 4WD Double Cab 147" RST
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All Crumbs Accounted For |
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601 Bedford Street, Portage, PA, United States, Pennsylvania
(814) 552-0966
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Interesting Facts |
In Cambria County, Pennsylvania, there is a unique tradition known as "Belsnickeling" where individuals dress up in disguises and visit homes to entertain and give gifts during the Christmas season. This tradition dates back to early German settlers in the area and continues to be celebrated in some communities in Cambria County today. |
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Local Shoutouts, Causes, Fundraisers, and Volunteer Opportunities
A significant local shoutout goes to the Cambria County Community Support Organizations that were awarded nearly $600,000 in state tax credits on December 18, 2025. This funding recognizes and supports the vital work of JARI for job training, the Cambria County Library System for ADA-accessible renovations, The Learning Lamp Inc. for child care support, and the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank for its produce distribution partnership in the county. Our local hero for the week is Renee Schoop, a University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown alumna whose appointment to a new leadership role at the design firm HDR was announced on December 19, 2025. Beyond her professional achievements, she is recognized as a community leader serving as the President-Elect of her local Rotary Club and as a member of the American Legion Auxiliary. A special shoutout is due to the Westmont Hilltop Senior High Drama Students who recently completed their winter production of "Lord of the Flies". Performances held on December 19 and 20, 2025, highlighted the creative talents and dedication of local youth in the arts. Looking forward to the holidays, Celebration Johnstown is a major upcoming community event scheduled for December 31, 2025. This family-friendly, alcohol-free New Year's Eve party brings local businesses together for a night of live music and fireworks across downtown Johnstown. Another festive celebration on December 31 is "A Bright New Year" at Peoples Natural Gas Park, which kicks off at 5:00 PM. The event is a central part of the seasonal festivities held at the park and provides a welcoming atmosphere for residents to ring in the new year. For those seeking local entertainment this week, the Bluegrass Performance by Blue Diggity will take place on Friday, December 26, 2025. Hosted by the Venue of Merging Arts (VOMA) at 7:30 PM, the concert features special guest Tim Wetmiller and supports the local arts scene. The Christmas Tree & Christmas Village remains open nightly at Peoples Natural Gas Park through January 8, 2026. This ongoing event features an animated tree and custom-built houses created by local businesses, offering a free community space to enjoy the holiday season. Community members are also invited to For Johnstown Community Services scheduled for the upcoming weekend. Services and community gatherings will be held on Saturday, December 27, and Sunday, December 28, 2025, at Sunshine Avenue in Johnstown. The Ethnic Social Club Monthly Gathering will host its "Last Friday" event on December 26, 2025. Starting at 5:30 PM, this gathering serves as a local tradition for community connection and heritage celebration in Johnstown. A noteworthy local cause is the 55th Annual Holly Bazaar at the Community Arts Center of Cambria County, which continues through the end of December. This long-running fundraiser supports local artisans by offering handcrafted items for sale and helps fund the arts center’s programming. The Heritage Johnstown Holiday Membership Sale is a current cause supporting the Heritage Discovery Center and the Johnstown Flood Museum. Through December 31, 2025, residents can receive 15% off memberships, which provides critical funding for the preservation of local history. For those looking to give back, there are Humane Society of Cambria County Volunteer Needs throughout the holiday week. The shelter relies on community volunteers for daily roles such as dog walking, cat cuddling, and cleaning to ensure the well-being of local animals. Finally, a local scholarship cause for high school seniors is the PSATS Scholarship Opportunity, which has a deadline of December 31, 2025. This program awards $1,500 to seniors who demonstrate outstanding citizenship, academic achievement, and a commitment to community service. |
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276 Glessner Rd, Johnstown, PA 15905 |
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3Beds 2Baths 1,500Sq.Ft. TypeSingle Family MLS# 96037804 Listing Courtesy of REALTY ONE GROUP LANDMARK JOHNSTOWN
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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! thecambriabuzz@gmail.com |
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Looking for a new best friend? This week, we're delighted to feature Chumbawamba, a male Domestic Short Hair Cat from the Humane Society of Cambria County who is eagerly awaiting a forever home!
About Chumbawamba:
How to Adopt Chumbawamba:
If Chumbawamba sounds like the perfect addition to your family, don't hesitate!
Give Chumbawamba the forever home he deserves! |
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💡 Answer to Trivia Question: The tradition of hanging stockings for Santa Claus to fill originated in the Netherlands. |
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Warmly, Charles Sisk Editor |
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