From Tax Dollars to Triumphs: Funding for Projects, Cheerleaders Shine, and Human Trafficking Awareness Day in Cambria County!

Trivia Question❓

Cambria County, Pennsylvania is known for its rich history and industrial background. In what year was the first steel mill opened in the county?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

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Millions Awarded to Transform Recreation and Conservation Projects Across Central Pennsylvania

A monumental investment from the state is set to enhance parks, trails, and open spaces across Central Pennsylvania.

The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) has awarded nearly $82 million for vital recreation and conservation projects throughout the region.

This funding directly benefits our local communities.

In Bedford County, Green Park is receiving $640,000 for a major overhaul, including new pickleball courts and walkways.

Meanwhile, the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy will protect over 700 acres of open space.

Further north in Cambria County, the Forest Hills School District is getting $180,000 to renovate its courts.

Conservation is also a priority in Centre County, with funds going toward protecting the Susquehanna River Watershed.

This strategic investment is designed to improve public health, grow local economies, and ensure all residents have access to high-quality outdoor recreation close to home.

New Business Openings (January 2026)

Chipotle Mexican Grill (Ebensburg): A new Chipotle opened at 4580 Admiral Peary Highway at the start of January. This location features the brand’s "Chipotlane," a dedicated drive-thru for digital order pickups. The expansion has brought approximately 30 new jobs to the area.
Jimmy T’s Firehouse Pub: Recently announced as a new member of the Cambria Regional Chamber, this NYC-firehouse-inspired scratch kitchen is making its mark in the local dining scene.
Treats by Mimi: A small, female-owned bakery specializing in custom cakes, cookies, and scones has officially joined the regional business community this month.

Major Business & Economic News

County Tax Increase Approved: The most significant business news for January is the approval of a 6.75-mill property tax increase for the 2026 budget. While intended to balance the $68.7 million general fund, local business leaders and the Cambria County Farm Bureau have expressed concern that this increase—roughly $72 more for the average homeowner but significantly higher for large properties—places an "undue burden" on local agriculture and small businesses.
1st Summit Bank Purchase: In a major commercial real estate move, 1st Summit Bank announced the purchase of the Crown American Building in Johnstown. This transition of one of the city's most iconic office structures is expected to stabilize downtown commercial occupancy.
America250PA Kick-Off: On January 23, 2026, Cambria County will host the official kick-off for Pennsylvania’s 250th-anniversary celebration at the courthouse in Ebensburg. This event is part of a statewide tour to promote historic tourism and local heritage businesses.
Solar Energy Initiative: County officials have finalized plans to install 10 to 15 acres of solar panels at the Cambria County Prison later this year, a project designed to reduce long-term operating costs for the county government.

Upcoming Business Events

Chamber Kickstart 2026: A networking event for "New Connections, New Members, New Execs" is scheduled for January 29, 2026, at the Cambria Regional Chamber.

Chamber WIN (Women in Networking): A session titled "Fear Less and Travel More" will be held on January 21, 2026, focused on professional women's safety and empowerment.

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

Interesting Facts

- Did you know that Cambria County is home to the Johnstown Flood National Memorial, commemorating the tragic flood of 1889 that devastated the region? - Cambria County is known for its rich coal mining history, with the county once being one of the largest producers of coal in the United States. - The county is also famous for its annual Thunder in the Valley motorcycle rally, attracting bikers from all over the country to the area.

Local Shoutouts, Causes, Fundraisers, and Volunteer Opportunities

Mayor Sylvia King: Johnstown Community Leadership Spotlight Mayor Sylvia King, elected in November 2025, is recognized this week as a lifelong public servant and community advocate with deep roots in Johnstown. She will be the featured speaker at an upcoming convocation on January 19, where she will share her rise to leadership and her implementation of the "Beloved Community" concept in the city.
Richland High School Blue Ribbon Excellence and Safety Commitment A shoutout goes to Richland High School for maintaining its status as a back-to-back National Blue Ribbon School. Additionally, the school district is being highlighted this week for its commitment to student safety as it implements new transparency and reporting requirements under PA Act 44, which took effect on January 6, 2026.
Westmont Hilltop High School Hockey Team Performance Local shoutouts are extended to the Westmont Hilltop hockey players who competed this week at the 1st Summit Arena. The student-athletes continue to represent the district in regional competitions, including a scheduled game against South Park on January 13.
Jolly Glass Snowman Workshop at Keystone Restaurant Community members can participate in a creative local fundraiser and crafting event on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM. Held at the Keystone Restaurant, the "Do You Wanna Build a Jolly Glass Snowman" workshop offers a social and educational experience for area residents.
Westmont Hilltop Elementary PreK Transition Event On January 15, 2026, Westmont Hilltop Elementary School will host a transition event for local preschool students to ease their move into kindergarten. The program includes a bus ride to the school, a classroom read-aloud session, and a snack in the cafeteria to help children feel comfortable in their future learning environment.
Saint Francis University MLK Day Convocation Saint Francis University will hold a campus-wide convocation in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday, January 19, 2026. The event, held at the DiSepio Institute, is designed to engage students and the public in discussions about community service and social progress.
Mount Aloysius Mountie Community Series: Genealogy Mount Aloysius College is continuing its "Mountie Community Series" with a session titled "Genealogy for Beginners" on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. This educational outreach program is open to the public and runs from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM.
University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown United Way Virtual Bingo The Pitt-Johnstown community is organizing a Virtual Bingo fundraiser on January 22, 2026, from noon to 1:00 PM to benefit the United Way. This initiative is part of the university's broader campaign to support local non-profit organizations and social mobility throughout the region.
Ebensburg Ice Breaker Challenge Fundraiser The first annual Ice Breaker Challenge will take place on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at Lake Rowena in Ebensburg. This community fundraiser invites participants to plunge into icy water to raise money for the Cambria County Swift Water Rescue Team and the Cambria County S.E.R.T..
Life Church Ebensburg Community Workshop Life Church in Ebensburg is hosting a community-focused workshop titled "Hearing God & Interpreting Dreams/Visions" on January 24, 2026. The session begins at 10:00 AM and is open to local residents interested in spiritual education and growth.
Greater Johnstown YMCA Volunteer Program The Greater Johnstown YMCA has ongoing volunteer opportunities for community members to serve as greeters, assist with youth programming, or help execute special events. The organization relies on these volunteers to help fulfill its mission of fostering community growth and providing vital services.
Cambria County Trail Maintenance and Beautification The Cambria County Conservation & Recreation Authority (CCCRA) is seeking volunteers to assist in maintaining over 50 miles of local trails. Individuals and groups can organize work days for trash pick-up and brush trimming to help preserve the county's natural recreational spaces.
Animal Welfare Volunteering at the Humane Society of Cambria County The Humane Society has an immediate and ongoing need for volunteers to support animal welfare through dog walking, cat cuddling, and facility cleaning. These roles are open to community members aged 12 and older who want to support the operations of the local shelter.

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!

Looking for a new best friend? This week, we're delighted to feature Teddy a male Domestic Short Hair Cat from the Humane Society of Cambria County who is eagerly awaiting a forever home!

About Teddy:

Age: estimated age 3 years 7 months
Gender: male
Weight:
Adoption Fee: $31
Why Teddy Needs You: "Like so many animals at the shelter, Teddy is patiently waiting for a loving family to call his own. He dreams of a family to love, a comfy bed and toys to play with!"

How to Adopt Teddy:

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

Visit the Humane Society: Teddy 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 Teddy'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 Teddy or the adoption process, you can call the Humane Society of Cambria County at (814) 535-6116.

Give Teddy the forever home he deserves!

💡 Answer to Trivia Question:

The first steel mill in Cambria County, Pennsylvania was opened in 1853.

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Warmly,

Charles Sisk

Editor