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Feds Visit Goodwill, Wildlife Agencies Face Shakeup, Community Steps Up After Outage!
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Feds Visit Goodwill, Wildlife Agencies Face Shakeup, Community Steps Up After Outage!
Big changes for wildlife, community heroes after outages, tree-clearing efforts, & special visits!
Charles Sisk

Charles Sisk

Sep 9, 2026

📰 WEEKLY PREVIEW

* Top Stories: Local group steps up with meals
* Local Events: American Legion County Fair
* What's Trending:  Outdoor tourism
* Community Engagement: Hope City Church Steps Up

* Pet of the Week: Meet Bane -- Adopt me!

Trivia Question❓

Which South American country is home to the world's oldest continuously operating university founded by women, the National University of San Marcos, established in 1551?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

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Goodwill Keystone Area is becoming a cornerstone for Cambria County residents pursuing modern job training programs and career advancement.

 

As local officials and the wider community turn their attention to these resources, Goodwill's support emerges as an essential tool for individuals seeking to overcome hiring obstacles.

 

Retail operations at Goodwill reinvest profits directly into career development, creating a cycle where donations fuel real opportunities for jobseekers.

 

Many who seek help at Goodwill have faced barriers such as employment gaps or limited education.


Read More...

Cambria County residents are rallying together after damaging storms caused widespread power outages, leaving families with spoiled food and daily hardships.

 

Hope City Johnstown quickly shifted focus, organizing a hot meal distribution that brought comfort to neighbors grappling with darkness and empty fridges.

 

What began as a plan to serve 150 meals grew rapidly, thanks to surging food donations and support from churches and community members.


Read More...

A new wildlife management study is sparking intense debate across Cambria County, thrusting local conservation efforts and agency oversight into the spotlight.

 

The Pennsylvania Game Commission is considering significant changes in response, with the fate of the deputy game warden program at the heart of the controversy.

 

Many former deputies are frustrated by the study’s timing, which followed closely after their program ended—fueling suspicions about transparency and decision-making behind closed doors.


Read More...

Stackhouse Park faces a pivotal challenge as Westmont residents and supporters mobilize for storm cleanup after recent severe weather wreaked havoc on the beloved green space.

 

Downed trees line once-busy trails, with splintered trunks and tangled branches blocking access for hikers.

 

Volunteers and part-time rangers are working tirelessly, hauling debris and cutting through obstacles to reopen pathways.


Read More...
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Family-Friendly Events in Cambria, Sept. 9 – Sept. 15, 2026

Cambria County Arts & Heritage Festival
DateSeptember 12 - September 13
LocationDuman Lake County Park
PriceFree

Discover the vibrant history and creative spirit of Cambria County at the Arts & Heritage Festival. This weekend gathering is perfect for families, featuring living history groups, engaging Civil War battle reenactments, and camps open for interactive experiences.

Enjoy live musical performances and a diverse lineup of activities that showcase the region’s rich heritage. It's a wonderful way to spend the weekend, meet fellow community members, and immerse yourself in local culture.

157 County Park Road, Ebensburg, PA 15931 United States
814-241-6123
Click to find out more
Art Attack
DateSeptember 12
Time10:00 am - 4:00 pm
LocationCommunity Arts Center of Cambria County
PriceFree

Join us for ART ATTACK, a lively kids' art day designed to spark creativity and fun! Children and youth up to age 17 are invited to dive into a world of arts and crafts, catching up on all the hands-on activities they may have missed out on during festivals.

This event is completely free for all attending kids, and donations are warmly welcomed. Bring your family for a day filled with imagination and artistic delight at the Community Arts Center of Cambria County.

1217 Menoher Boulevard Johnstown, PA 15905 United States
814-255-6515
Click to find out more
American Legion County Fair
DateAugust 31, 2025 - September 6, 2025
LocationCambria County Fairgrounds
Price$10

Experience the excitement of the American Legion County Fair, a week-long celebration near Ebensburg, PA. Enjoy classic carnival rides, fun games, local food and craft vendors, and entertainment for visitors of all ages.

Gather family and friends to celebrate agriculture and community spirit at this festive county gathering. Create lasting memories and embrace a tradition that brings together creators, neighbors, and fair lovers from near and far.

883 North Julian Street, Ebensburg, PA 15931
814-472-7491
Click to find out more

Weakland Farms Corn Maze

DateSeptember 12
Time1:00 pm - 8:00 pm
LocationWeakland Farms
Price$10

Celebrate the arrival of fall at the Weakland Farms Corn Maze! Stroll through a sprawling mile and a half, six-acre field of towering corn, where wide pathways wind through a storybook design. Along the way, test your knowledge with fun hidden stations suitable for all ages.

Bring your family or friends and enjoy fresh air, a bit of challenge, and plenty of laughter as you navigate this unique outdoor adventure. Make memories and savor a perfect autumn outing at Weakland Farms.

582 Munster Road, Portage, PA 15946
814-999-1261
Click to find out more

📚 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 BOOST Café — 314 Main Street, South Fork. South Fork has a welcoming new place to grab coffee—and help local students gain valuable experience. The BOOST Café officially opened August 6 through a partnership involving the Forest Hills School District, South Fork Public Library and Pennsylvania’s BOOST grant program. Students helped renovate the building, create the business plan and develop a menu featuring coffee and popular “dirty sodas.” Library Treasurer Stacey Lewis explained that the café will be “a nice place for people to gather and have conversation,” while also providing internet and computer access for students who may not have those resources at home. The café’s current social-media listing says it is open Thursday and Friday from 7–11 a.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m.–noon. Residents can support the young team by stopping in for a drink, following The BOOST Café on Facebook or emailing TheBoostCafe314@gmail.com. WJAC opening report

The Locker Room Bar — 101 Washington Street, Johnstown. The former Stadium Pub and By George Inn space beside Sargent’s Stadium received new life when The Locker Room Bar celebrated its grand opening August 3. Co-owner Zach Sipeco and his partners purchased the property in December and spent months remodeling it into a sports bar serving beer, signature cocktails, mocktails and dirty sodas. The team selected the location because it sits near the stadium, arena and downtown festivals. “We want to see more events like that come downtown and we just want to be a part of the community,” Sipeco told WJAC. The owners originally hoped to introduce food in September, but I could not verify that the kitchen has opened or locate a reliable current schedule or telephone number. Readers should therefore confirm operating hours and food availability through the bar’s social media before visiting. WJAC opening report

Optional community-opening sidebar: United Lighthouse Staffing and Mentorship, a nonprofit led by Executive Director Sarina Hardison, opened August 29 on the 700 block of Belmont Avenue in Johnstown. It provides job preparation, personal development, business-planning assistance and connections to employers—particularly for returning citizens and others facing employment barriers. “We’re here to help,” Hardison said while explaining that the organization works with people regardless of their past. Exact street number, hours and public contact information were not available from sufficiently reliable sources, so I would obtain those directly before publication. WJAC report

Five Bright Spots Across Cambria County

Cambria County is heading into a lively, family-friendly fall, with community events and outdoor attractions creating fresh reasons to explore every corner of the region.

1. Agriculture remains a major draw in Ebensburg. The American Legion County Fair continues through September 12, bringing carnival rides, food, crafts, entertainment and a celebration of local agriculture to families and visitors.[visitjohnstownpa]

2. History takes center stage at Duman Lake. The Cambria County Arts & Heritage Festival, scheduled for September 12–13, will feature living-history groups, Civil War reenactments, music, vendors, educational displays and children’s activities.[visitjohnstownpa][lhhv]

3. Johnstown’s cultural energy continues to grow. The city’s event calendar highlights festivals, markets, arts programming and community gatherings that celebrate local traditions and bring residents together.[visitjohnstownpa]

4. Northern Cambria’s hometown spirit remains strong. Local heritage programming and seasonal festivals continue to spotlight the area’s history, traditions and small-town hospitality, offering visitors an authentic northern-county experience.[cambriacountypa][eventbrite]

5. Outdoor tourism is entering its most colorful season. A September 20 driving tour through State Game Lands 108 will showcase mountain terrain and early fall foliage between Frugality and Blandburg, providing a scenic adventure for nature-loving families.[solomonswords]

Together, these trends point to a county where agriculture, heritage, culture and outdoor recreation are creating an upbeat autumn welcome.

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

 

👏 Local Shoutouts

  • Martella’s Pharmacy Honored for Community Resilience and Service

    Local staple Martella's Pharmacy was highlighted state-wide for its persistence and dedication to providing reliable pharmacy services to the region. New Pennsylvania state budget provisions aim to bolster the pharmacy chain and spark broader residential revitalization across blighted properties in Cambria County. It is a massive win for locally-owned healthcare access and community growth!

    • Location: Martella's Pharmacy, Johnstown, PA
    • Details: Learn more about state revitalization efforts through the PA House News Release.
🦸 Local Heroes

  • Hope City Church Steps Up to Support Families After Local Storms

    When severe weather swept through Cambria County causing localized power outages, the team and volunteers at Hope City Johnstown immediately sprang into action. Reaching out to families facing sudden hardship, the group provided warm meals, essential household check-ins, and a helping hand as power was restored across the area.

    • Location: Hope City Johnstown, Johnstown, PA
    • Details: Read the full story on FOX8 TV News.
📢 Local Causes

  • Cambria City Community Connection Resource Fair Bringing Local Support Together

    Connecting local families with job training, essential healthcare resources, and social services, PA CareerLink Cambria County is gearing up to host the Cambria City Community Connection Day. This free gathering brings dozens of local non-profits and employment partners under one roof to support residents seeking career advancement or local family assistance.

    • When: Tuesday, September 15, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM
    • Location: Bottle Works Ethnic Arts Center, 411 3rd Avenue, Johnstown, PA
    • Details: Free and open to the public. Visit PA CareerLink Cambria County for vendor lists and details.
💸 Fundraisers

  • Riverside Volunteer Fire Company Annual Cash Bash

    Our local first responders work around the clock to keep us safe, and now you can help support their equipment and operations while enjoying an evening out! The Riverside Volunteer Fire Company is hosting its September Cash Bash featuring food, community fellowship, and $2,000 in cash prizes up for grabs.

    • When: Saturday, September 12, 2026 (Doors open at 5:00 PM; drawings start at 6:00 PM)
    • Location: Riverside Volunteer Fire Company, Johnstown, PA 15905
    • How to Participate: Tickets are $20 per person. Get yours at the door or view the schedule via Riverside Volunteer Fire Co. Events.
🤝 Volunteer Opportunities & Nearby Library Events

  • American Red Cross Blood & Platelet Drive

    The Greater Pennsylvania Red Cross Center in Johnstown is seeking local heroes to step up and donate blood or platelets. Volunteer donors play an essential role in supporting regional surgical units and emergency medical care across Cambria County.

    • When: Ongoing weekday appointments available throughout September
    • Location: Johnstown Red Cross Donation Center, 250 Jari Drive, Johnstown, PA 15904
    • How to Get Involved: Book an appointment directly at Red Cross Greater PA.
  • Family Puzzle Swap at Altoona Area Public Library

    Looking to clear out old board games and connect with neighboring families? The Friends of the Altoona Area Public Library are hosting an all-ages Puzzle Swap. Bring a complete, gently-used puzzle and take home a new-to-you challenge!

    • When: Tuesday, September 8, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM
    • Location: Altoona Area Public Library, 1600 5th Avenue, Altoona, PA
    • Details: Free, no registration required. Event details are available at the Altoona Area Public Library Calendar.
  • Upcoming: Community Programs at Hollidaysburg Area Public Library

    Keep an eye on regional municipal updates and local library storytimes hosted by the Hollidaysburg Borough community center to stay connected with youth literacy and local council workshops.

    • Location: 401 Blair Street, Hollidaysburg, PA 16648
    • Details: View upcoming municipal and public schedule dates at Hollidaysburg Borough Events.

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

💡 Answer to Trivia Question:
Peru

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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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