Cambria Buzz BOGO! - Sponsor the Buzz!

Cambria Buzz is currently running a BOGO for Memorial Day & May sponsorships. When you purchase the month of  May at the discounted rate, you will also get the month of  June at no charge. The closing date for the available slots that are left is April 24, 2026. We would love to have you join us!!!

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Cambria Buzz is where the county’s most active citizens, small business owners, and non-profit leaders gather to stay connected.

Why Sponsor the Buzz?

     Values-Based Alignment: Place your ad alongside uplifting, local stories that matter to families and community leaders.

     High Engagement: Our subscribers are "doers" who actively look for ways to support small business and local organizations.

     Support Local Storytelling: Your sponsorship keeps the "Buzz" alive, allowing us to highlight the boutiques, volunteers, heroes, and success stories that make our county home.

Join our next issue: Connect with your neighbors and grow your local influence. Contact us today to discuss sponsorship and advertising opportunities.

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

April marks Child Abuse Prevention Month, prompting Cambria County leaders to emphasize the need to protect children from abuse and neglect.  

On Wednesday, county commissioners honored the Circle of Support Child Advocacy Center for its dedicated work in education, prevention, and outreach this April.  

The organization is hosting events all month to inspire local action, including symbolic blue pinwheel displays around neighborhoods and a variety of educational programs.  

These campaigns are designed to help families and residents learn important strategies to keep children safe.  

Diana Grosik, the center’s executive director, underscored the mission’s urgency, highlighting statistics that one in ten children experience sexual abuse before age 18.  

Community involvement is vital, Grosik noted, since awareness leads to prevention.  

The Pizza for Prevention event on April 8 will see Domino’s in Richland and Westmont donate part of their sales to support advocacy efforts.

Chick-fil-A has cleared a significant hurdle toward opening a new location in Richland Township, Cambria County, after the Zoning Hearing Board granted key setback variances.

The approval allows the popular chain to build closer to Constable Avenue and Frances Street on Scalp Avenue, making room for a drive-thru canopy and dumpster enclosure.

The restaurant is planned for 1130 Scalp Avenue, the former Wolf Furniture site, which will be demolished to make way for a modern eatery and drive-thru.

Landscaping enhancements, including new evergreen trees, will help screen the property and maintain the neighborhood’s visual appeal.

Set to open by 2027, the Chick-fil-A is expected to employ 15 to 20 workers and operate daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., offering a new dining option across from McDonald’s in a bustling area.

Cambria County residents benefit from reliable medical transportation services, making it easy to reach vital healthcare appointments.

Since April 1, 2025, the Cambria County Transit Authority (CamTran), in partnership with rabbittransit, has operated the Medical Assistance Transportation Program (MATP), which gives eligible individuals non-emergency rides to clinics, pharmacies, and more.

Residents should schedule rides by calling CamTran at 1-800-252-3889 at least one business day ahead, by 2:00 PM, to ensure a spot.

For those with their own vehicles, MATP provides mileage reimbursement for travel expenses when all documentation is submitted.

CamTran also runs the Reserve-A-Ride program, a door-to-door service for Cambria, Blair, and parts of Somerset and Bedford counties, offering lift-equipped buses for those with mobility needs.

These services help safeguard health by ensuring everyone can access care.

Families in Cambria County now have a new ally in special education support.

Brandy O'Brien, a local educator and former special education teacher, has launched Inclusion Pathway Education Consulting LLC to guide parents through the complexities of special education and empower them to advocate for their children.

O'Brien’s consulting service offers personalized advice, helping families understand their rights and navigate the process with confidence.

Meanwhile, the Pennsylvania Department of Education is stepping up to tackle the statewide shortage of special education teachers by expanding its Accelerated Program for PK-12 Special Education Teacher Certification, with the aim of training over 450 new educators.

The Penn Cambria School District continues its commitment by offering a variety of specialized programs tailored to local student needs.

These initiatives together strengthen the support system for Cambria County families seeking effective advocacy and comprehensive resources for special education.

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Events in Cambria County, PA: April 8, 2026 – April 14, 2026

✅ FREE EVENTS

1. "Let Me Be Myself: The Life Story of Anne Frank" Exhibition 📅 April 8–14 (ongoing exhibition through June)

• Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat: 10 AM–5 PM | Sun: 12–5 PM | Closed Tues & Wed 🏛️ Frank & Sylvia Pasquerilla Heritage Discovery Center, 17 N. 6th St., Johnstown 📝 A moving large-scale exhibition developed by the Anne Frank Center at the University of South Carolina, exploring Anne Frank's life and the history of the Holocaust. Also features WWII artifacts. Appropriate for ages 10+. 💰 Free (contributions welcome) 🔗 Source: visitjohnstownpa.com/event/let-me-be-myself-the-life-story-of-anne-frank
  
  

2. Story Hour at Portage Public Library 📅 Wednesday, April 8, 10:30–11:30 AM 🏛️ Portage Public Library, Second Floor, Portage, PA 📝 A free, volunteer-facilitated story hour designed to help young children develop a lifelong love of reading and learning. Registration is required via the library calendar. 👶 Ages: Pre-K (3–5 years) 💰 Free 🔗 Source: cambriacounty.librarycalendar.com

3. A Short Hike on Long Road 📅 Thursday, April 9, 10:00 AM 🏛️ Prince Gallitzin State Park, 966 Marina Road, Patton, PA 16668 (Cambria County) 📝 Join park staff for a guided walk to search for the location of the old amphitheater near Headache Hill, using historic photos. A gentle, educational hike along the edge of the fields below the water tower. All ages welcome; great for families. 💰 Free (PA State Park – no day-use fee) 📞 814-674-1000 🔗 Source: visitjohnstownpa.com/event/a-short-hike-on-long-road | dcnr.pa.gov

4. Tuesday Noon Recital Series – All-Star Student Jazz Band 📅 Tuesday, April 14, 12:00 PM (noon) 🏛️ First Lutheran Church, 415 Vine Street, Downtown Johnstown 📝 Students from area high schools perform in this free concert series. Experience the musical energy of high school instrumentalists, directed by five talented teachers. firstlutheranjtown A light luncheon follows the recital. No admission fee — funded by grants from the 1889 Foundation and Thrivent Financial. 👨‍👩‍👧 All ages welcome 💰 Free (contributions appreciated) 📞 814-536-7521 🔗 Source: firstlutheran.in/recital-series | tribdem.com

5. Crafty Tuesday – Embroidery Workshop 📅 Tuesday, April 14, 6:00–7:00 PM 🏛️ Cambria County Library, Third Floor – Programming Room, 248 Main St., Johnstown 📝 Join library staff for crafting and conversation on the 3rd floor. This month's art project will be embroidery. Snacks will be provided. librarycalendar A welcoming drop-in event. 👩‍👧 Ages: Teens (13–18), Adults, Seniors 💰 Free 🔗 Source: cambriacounty.librarycalendar.com/event/crafty-tuesday-9026

6. "Let Me Be Myself" Exhibition — Sunday Hours 📅 Sunday, April 12, 12:00–5:00 PM 🏛️ Frank & Sylvia Pasquerilla Heritage Discovery Center, 17 N. 6th St., Johnstown 📝 (See listing #1 above — Sunday hours are noon to 5 PM.) 💰 Free 🔗 Source: visitjohnstownpa.com

🎟️ PAID EVENTS

7. Riverdance 30 – The New Generation 📅 Thursday, April 9, 8:00 PM (Doors open 7:00 PM) 🏛️ 1st Summit Arena @ Cambria County War Memorial, 326 Napoleon Street, Johnstown 📝 To celebrate its 30th year milestone, Riverdance embarks on a special anniversary tour, rejuvenating the much-loved original show with new innovative choreography and costumes and state-of-the-art lighting, projection and motion graphics. 1stsummitarena A world-class Irish dance spectacle suitable for all ages. 👨‍👩‍👧 All ages 💰 $78.55–$128.55 (includes fees; taxes additional; VIP not included) 🔗 Source: 1stsummitarena.com/events | visitjohnstownpa.com/event/riverdance-30-the-new-generation | allevents.in

8. The Clarks – Live at the Pasquerilla Conference Center 📅 Friday, April 10, 8:00 PM 🏛️ Frank J. Pasquerilla Conference Center, 301 Napoleon Street, Johnstown 📝 The Clarks are an American rock band from the Pittsburgh region, originating at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Over the course of thirty-plus years, they have produced eleven studio albums, two live albums, two compilation albums, an EP, and four solo releases. Visit Johnstown Note: This is a 21 & Over, standing-room show. 🔞 Ages: 21+ only 💰 $25–$30 🔗 Source: visitjohnstownpa.com/event/the-clarks-2 | 1stsummitarena.com

9. From The Top Unplugged – Debut Performance 📅 Saturday, April 11, 7:00 PM 🏛️ Jimmy T's Firehouse Pub, 526 Main Street, Downtown Johnstown 📝 Live music in Johnstown at Jimmy T's Firehouse Pub allevents — debut performance by the unplugged acoustic act "From The Top." A casual pub atmosphere; likely mixed ages but check with venue for under-21 policy. 💰 Check with venue (likely low/no cover) 🔗 Source: allevents.in/johnstown

10. Johnstown Tomahawks Hockey — Home Game(s) 📅 Check schedule for April 8–14 home dates (season playoffs typically in April) 🏛️ 1st Summit Arena @ Cambria County War Memorial, 326 Napoleon Street, Johnstown 📝 The Johnstown Tomahawks are a Tier II Junior A hockey team in the North American Hockey League (NAHL). The Johnstown Tomahawks is a hockey team in the East Division of the NAHL, part of the USA Hockey National Junior Development Model. Visit Johnstown Fast-paced, affordable family entertainment. 👨‍👩‍👧 All ages 💰 $10–$16 🔗 Source: visitjohnstownpa.com | johnstowntomahawks.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?

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 world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page."

Local Shoutouts, Causes, Fundraisers, and Volunteer Opportunities

🌟 Cambria Buzz Community Newsletter

Week of April 6, 2026

🏆 LOCAL SHOUTOUTS

Ghost Town Trail Loop Is Now Complete — And It's a National Record!

Big news for trail lovers and outdoor enthusiasts: the Ghost Town Trail's 32-mile loop — the second-largest rail-trail loop in the nation — is now complete. The final $4.6 million project included constructing two bridges, a pedestrian box culvert, and reclaiming former mine lands, closing a gap near Nanty Glo that's been in the works for decades. This is a massive win for our region's outdoor recreation scene and something the whole county can be proud of!

Key Details: The Ghost Town Trail runs from Black Lick to Ebensburg. For trail maps and event info, visit cambriaconservationrecreation.com or call the CCCRA office. Source: Visit Johnstown PA | Tribune-Democrat

Johnstown Mom Launches Business to Help Families Navigate Special Ed

Johnstown resident Brandy O'Brien has firsthand knowledge of the difficulty parents sometimes face when entering the special education world of schools — that's why she launched Inclusion Pathway Education Consulting LLC, a unique service created to help families navigate this field and advocate for students. O'Brien was inspired by her own son's journey when he entered preschool and was found to need assistance. What a great example of turning a personal challenge into community impact!

Key Details: Inclusion Pathway Education Consulting LLC serves families across Pennsylvania, offering tutoring, IEP support, parent coaching, and more. Source: Tribune-Democrat

🦸 LOCAL HEROES

Dozens Step Out in Faith for Good Friday Cross Walks Across Cambria County

Faith and community came together this past Friday in a beautiful way. Community members across Cambria County marked Good Friday by taking part in cross walks, including events in Sidman and Johnstown. The Forest Hills Ministerium held a cross walk at Forest Hills High School in Sidman, proceeding into South Fork with scripture readings and stops along the way. In Johnstown, dozens gathered for the annual East Hills Cross Walk organized by Beulah Community Church — about 35 people walked along Bedford Street, symbolizing the path Jesus carried the cross. Rain or shine, these folks show up for their community and their faith every year.

Key Details: The Johnstown walk began at Beulah Community Church and ended at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church in Richland Township. Watch for next year's event announcements through local churches. Source: WJAC TV

DAV Volunteer Driver David Wagner — A True Veterans' Hero

If you know a local veteran who needs a ride to a medical appointment, chances are David Wagner and his volunteer team have been there for them. Wagner, the commander of DAV Chapter 2 in Windber, ran a volunteer driver program handling nearly 85 riders a month before the pandemic. He's been working to rebuild the program and continues to call for more volunteers, noting that many veterans in the area don't have a reliable alternative to the DAV Transportation Network. His quiet, consistent service is the backbone of veterans' care in this region.

Key Details: To volunteer with the DAV Transportation Network in Cambria County, contact DAV Chapter 2 in Windber or visit dav.org. Source: DAV.org

💛 LOCAL CAUSES

Farming Families Feeling the Squeeze — Local Agriculture Needs Our Support

As the conflict in Iran continues, local farmers say they are growing more worried about what it means for their operations as planting season ramps up. Diesel and fertilizer prices remain high, and Cambria County's farming families are feeling it right now when they can least afford it. This is a good reminder to shop local farmers markets this spring and support the agricultural businesses that feed our community.

Key Details: Look for local farm stands opening up around the county this spring. Farmers markets in the Johnstown area typically launch in May — check with the Cambria Regional Chamber for updates: crchamber.com or call (814) 536-5107. Source: WJAC TV

Northern Cambria Borough Scores Grant for New Open Space Along McCombie Avenue

Here's some great news for the Northern Cambria community! Northern Cambria Borough received $128,000 in state funding toward the acquisition of approximately 98 acres along McCombie Avenue for open space, passive recreation, and water access. This kind of investment in green space is exactly what builds a healthier, more connected community for families and future generations.

Key Details: This grant was awarded through the PA DCNR's Community Conservation Partnerships Program. For more information, contact Northern Cambria Borough offices or visit northerncambriaborough.net. Source: Altoona Mirror

🙏 FUNDRAISERS

Support Your Local Veterans Through the DAV's Community Impact Campaign

WJAC and Sinclair Broadcasting have partnered with the Disabled American Veterans on a campaign that hits close to home for Cambria County. Sinclair Cares: DAV Community Impact Day launched on March 16 and ran through April 4, encouraging viewers across the country to pledge their time in service to veterans. Sinclair kicked off the campaign with a $25,000 corporate donation to DAV. Even though the official campaign day has passed, you can still donate and support DAV's mission any time — and local chapters like the Windber DAV Chapter 2 always need help.

Key Details: Donate or volunteer with DAV at dav.org. For local Cambria County veterans services, call the County Veterans' Services Office at (814) 472-5440. Source: WJAC TV | Globe Newswire

Support CAPCC — Helping Cambria County Families in Need

The Community Action Partnership of Cambria County is one of the unsung pillars of our community, and they always need support. Every dollar donated to CAPCC supports vital programs that provide food, housing assistance, education, and emergency services to families in need. Their programs include free diapers, pullups, and wipes for households in need throughout the Laurel Highlands, and help for women to access free menstrual hygiene products. These are real neighbors helping real neighbors.

Key Details: Donate at capcc.us or call (814) 536-9031. CAPCC is located at 516 Main Street, Johnstown, PA 15901. Source: CAPCC

🙌 VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Help Out at the Cambria County Library — Bookworms Wanted!

If you love books and community, the Cambria County Library has a spot for you! The Friends of the Library group is always accepting new members. The group operates the Inclined to Read bookstore and creates fundraising opportunities throughout the year, including basket raffles, lotto trees, and more. The library also welcomes volunteers to help with shelving books, cleaning, and other operations.

Key Details: Contact the Head of Reference at (814) 536-5131, ext. 212, or visit cclsys.org to sign up. Background clearances are required and are free for volunteers. Source: Cambria County Library

Volunteer with the Ghost Town Trail — Get Outside and Give Back!

With spring here and the newly completed trail loop open, this is a perfect time to get involved with trail maintenance. Volunteers can help clean up trails through trash pick-up, brush trimming and removal, and mowing and weeding. CCCRA provides gloves, vests, and trash bags to all cleanup volunteers. Groups and families are especially welcome to organize private volunteer days!

Key Details: Email Caytlin Lusk at clusk@co.cambria.pa.us to schedule a volunteer work day. Trail races and events in the 2026 Cambria County Trails Series also need event volunteers — the 11th Annual Ghost Town Trail Challenge is set for Saturday, June 20, 2026. Source: CCCRA Volunteer Page

Become a CASA Volunteer — Be a Voice for a Child

CASA of the Laurel Highlands recruits, trains, and supports community volunteers to advocate for the best interests of children who have experienced abuse or neglect in Cambria and Somerset Counties. CASA volunteers become that one consistent, caring adult in a child's life who truly has their back in the court system. It's one of the most meaningful things a neighbor can do.

Key Details: Apply to become a CASA Volunteer through Beginnings Inc. at beginningsinc.org. Source: Beginnings Inc.

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!

About Hissterical: Domestic medium hair female cat

Don’t let the name fool you—Hissterical isn’t actually very hiss-terical at all… unless you count how hilariously lovable she is. This 10-year-old lady proves that age is just a number, because she still has plenty of playful energy and personality packed into her fluffy little self.

Hissterical absolutely loves to play and doesn’t seem to realize she’s technically considered a “senior.” Toys? She’s on it. Wand toys? Even better. Something moving across the floor that might be a toy… or might just be imaginary? She’s ready to investigate. Let’s just say retirement hasn’t slowed this girl down one bit.

When she’s not busy showing off her playful side, Hissterical is more than happy to soak up attention from anyone willing to give it. Pets, scratches, and quality time with her people are some of her favorite things. She enjoys being around humans and will gladly remind you when it’s time to give her the love she deserves.

And of course, we can’t talk about Hissterical without mentioning one of her greatest passions in life… food. This girl takes her meal times very seriously. If there were a gold medal for enthusiastic eating, Hissterical would already have it hanging proudly in her trophy case. The sound of a food dish being filled? Music to her ears. If you’re looking for a dinner buddy who will always be excited about snack time, she’s your girl.

Hissterical is the perfect mix of playful, affectionate, and just a little bit silly. She brings a lot of personality wherever she goes and isn’t afraid to make her presence known—especially if food or toys are involved.

Now she’s looking for a loving home where she can continue her important daily routines of playing, snacking, and soaking up attention like the queen she is. If you’re ready for a cat who will keep you laughing, keep you company, and keep a close eye on the food bowl, Hissterical is ready to pounce right into your life.

After all, life’s just better when it’s a little… Hissterical.

• Age: estimated age 10 years 4 months
• Gender: female

• Weight: 
  Adoption Fee: $65

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

How to Adopt Hissterical:

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

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

Give Hissterical the forever home she deserves!

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Warmly,

Charles Sisk 

Editor