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"Veterans Honored, Sports Teams Blossoming in Cambria County!"

"Veterans Honored, Sports Teams Blossoming in Cambria County!"
Exciting updates in Cambria County: Pavement resurfacing, road construction, bridge naming for veterans, and spring sports team domination! 🌟🏗🛣🏆

Charles Sisk

Apr 22, 2026

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Which U.S. President was known for keeping a pet opossum in the White House during his time in office?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

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Major traffic delays are expected throughout Cambria County beginning Monday, April 20, as PennDOT launches major road construction projects.

 

A major pavement resurfacing effort will impact Route 756 from Route 403 to Route 3016, spanning Geistown and Lorain boroughs, Johnstown city, and Stonycreek Township.

 

The $1.36 million project, led by Quaker Sales Corporation, includes ADA ramp upgrades, drainage work, guide rail improvements, and paving, with work scheduled to finish by June 2026, weather permitting.

 

A separate bridge rehab on U.S. 219 in Richland Township starts April 13, causing lane restrictions and closing Mt. Airy Drive (Route 3104) over U.S. 219.

 

Detours will route traffic via Solomon Run Road, Galleria Drive, and Oakridge Drive.

 

Both projects aim to boost local road safety and efficiency, though substantial delays are anticipated.

 

PennDOT urges drivers to stay alert and use 511PA for updates.


Read More...

Two Cambria County veterans will be permanently honored after Governor Josh Shapiro signed new legislation dedicating local bridges in their names.

 

The law follows proposals by State Representative Jim Rigby, combining his efforts into Senate Bill 78, which designates infrastructure statewide.

 

Now, the bridge over Bear Rock Run in Lilly Borough becomes the Corporal James D. Sloan Memorial Bridge, while Patty’s Run in Gallitzin Township is named the USMCR Mary A. Lidwell Memorial Bridge.

 

Corporal Sloan, a Penn Cambria alumnus and Vietnam War veteran, received several high honors, including the Purple Heart and Vietnam Campaign Medal.

 

Mary A. Lidwell, a Gallitzin native and former Marine, served with the Women’s Aviation Reserve during WWII and earned the Congressional Rosie the Riveter Medal.

 

The new designations ensure their legacy remains visible in the communities they served and loved.


Read More...

Cambria County athletic teams are hitting their stride mid-April 2026 with spring sports heating up across local colleges and high schools.

 

At Saint Francis University, the Red Flash women’s tennis team celebrated a historic first NEC championship, highlighted by freshman Helena Lynn’s record 28th win.

 

The men’s volleyball squad clinched the NEC regular-season crown, while the reigning-conference champion softball team faces fierce competition in a key series.

 

UPJ’s Mia Smith surpassed 400 career strikeouts as Mountain Cats softball split with Clarion. The baseball team earned a narrow 7-6 victory over Gannon, and UPJ will host the 2026 Division II Super Regional golf tournament at Sunnehanna.

 

Mount Aloysius surged in baseball and softball, with Jessica Koptcho reaching 300 strikeouts and a new men's basketball coach, Pat Martinelli, named.

 

On the high school front, Bishop McCort, Central Cambria, Northern Cambria, and Cambria Heights all posted critical wins in baseball or softball, while Richland’s boys ran to a major track title.


Read More...

Penn Highlands Community College is launching its Smart Start Promise Program, aiming to make college more affordable for recent Cambria County high school graduates.

 

The innovative pilot will cover full tuition and mandatory fees for up to 30 credits during a student’s first year, allowing greater access to higher education without overwhelming debt.

 

Students can use this support for any approved degree or certificate and attend classes in person or online, though they remain responsible for books and other supplies.

 

Backed by leaders like President Steve Nunez, local lawmakers, and a $900,000 grant from the 1889 Foundation, the program directly responds to community needs.

 

Graduates from 2026 to 2028 will benefit, with hopes to retain local talent and strengthen the workforce.

 

For families and students, the program represents an affordable path forward—offering hope and a critical first step toward a brighter future.


Read More...

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Events in Cambria County, PA: April 22, 2026 – April 28, 2026

 

 

🗓️ Family-Friendly Events in Cambria County, PA

April 22–28, 2026

All events have been verified against live calendars as of today (April 19, 2026). Sources are linked for each event. Note that the Vino for Vets listing on AlleEvents.in could not be independently confirmed for 2026 on the official VFW site; it is flagged accordingly. Always call ahead to confirm times and prices.


âś… FREE EVENTS


1. "Let Me Be Myself: The Life Story of Anne Frank" Exhibition (Ongoing) 📅 April 22–28 (daily — see hours below) 📍 Frank & Sylvia Pasquerilla Heritage Discovery Center, 7th Ave & Broad St, Johnstown (Cambria City) 📝 This internationally acclaimed traveling exhibition — developed by the Anne Frank Center at the University of South Carolina — traces Anne Frank's life and the history of the Holocaust, supplemented with local WWII artifacts donated by Johnstown-area families. Student docents from area high schools lead tours. Note: General museum admission applies (see Paid Events). 👨‍👩‍👧 All ages; best for ages 10+ ⏰ Mon–Fri 10am–5pm; Sun noon–5pm (closed Tuesdays) 💰 Admission to the exhibition is included with museum entry ($10 adults / $8 seniors & children 3–18 / children 2 & under free). The exhibition itself does not carry an additional admission charge — this event is listed here for prominence; full museum pricing is in Paid Events. 🔗 Source: Visit Johnstown | Heritage Johnstown


2. Story Hour at Portage Public Library 📅 Wednesday, April 22, 10:30–11:30 AM 📍 Portage Public Library (Second Floor), Portage, PA 📝 A free weekly story time facilitated by library volunteers, designed to help young children develop a love of books and learning through reading, songs, and activities. 👨‍👩‍👧 Ages 3–5 (Pre-K) 💰 Free (registration required — register at cambriacounty.librarycalendar.com) 🔗 Source: Cambria County Library System Calendar


3. Genealogy Huddle at Cambria County Library 📅 Wednesday, April 22, 5:00–6:00 PM 📍 Cambria County Library, Third Floor – Programming Room, 248 Main St, Johnstown 📝 A recurring community gathering for genealogy enthusiasts to share questions, work through research "brick walls," and collaborate with fellow family historians. 👨‍👩‍👧 Teens, Adults, Seniors 💰 Free (no registration required) 🔗 Source: Cambria County Library System Calendar


4. Johnstown Writer's Circle 📅 Friday, April 24, 10:00 AM–12:00 PM 📍 Cambria County Library, Third Floor – Programming Room, 248 Main St, Johnstown 📝 Held in partnership with Craftwork Studios, this workshop-style gathering is a supportive space for writers of all levels to share work, give feedback, and connect with fellow local writers. 👨‍👩‍👧 Adults, Seniors 💰 Free (no registration required) 🔗 Source: Cambria County Library System Calendar


5. Art in Bloom Spring Art Show (Saturday) 📅 Saturday, April 25, 12:00–6:00 PM 📍 Cambria County Courthouse, Ebensburg, PA 📝 Ebensburg's premier annual juried art show, open to artists of all skill levels, featuring entries in painting, photography, mixed media, dimensional art, and drawing. Monetary prizes are awarded. The artist reception is also Saturday evening, 7–9 PM. 👨‍👩‍👧 All ages 💰 Free admission for viewers (artists pay a $10 entry fee) 🔗 Source: Ebensburg Borough | Visit Johnstown | Cambria County Government


6. Autism Awareness Arts & Craft Day 📅 Saturday, April 25, 12:00–3:00 PM 📍 Johnstown (specific address: confirm via event organizer — listed as a collab tech hub in Johnstown) 📝 An inclusive, free community event held annually in April in honor of Chaz Antwan Williams, who was on the autism spectrum. Open to all, featuring arts and crafts activities in a welcoming environment. 👨‍👩‍👧 All ages; especially inclusive for children and families 💰 Free 🔗 Source: Visit Johnstown


7. Art in Bloom Spring Art Show (Sunday) 📅 Sunday, April 26, 11:00 AM–4:00 PM 📍 Cambria County Courthouse, Ebensburg, PA 📝 Second day of Ebensburg's premier juried art show. Artwork pickup is 4:30–closing. A great chance to view prize-winning work and support local artists. 👨‍👩‍👧 All ages 💰 Free admission 🔗 Source: Ebensburg Borough | Visit Johnstown


8. Twilight Tales Evening Story Time 📅 Monday, April 27, 6:00–7:00 PM 📍 Highland Community Library (Children's Room), Johnstown area 📝 An evening story time designed for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers — a cozy end-of-day option for families who can't make morning programs. 👨‍👩‍👧 Ages 0–5 💰 Free (registration required at cambriacounty.librarycalendar.com) 🔗 Source: Cambria County Library System Calendar


9. Tuesday Noon Recitals 📅 Tuesday, April 28, 12:00 PM 📍 Location: Confirm with Heritage Johnstown (typically held at the Heritage Discovery Center or associated venue, Johnstown) 📝 A recurring free lunchtime live music performance. A light luncheon follows each recital. Contributions are accepted but not required — a lovely midday cultural experience. 👨‍👩‍👧 All ages 💰 Free (contributions accepted) 🔗 Source: Visit Johnstown


10. Ebensburg Borough Council Meeting (Public Civic Event) 📅 Monday, April 27, 6:30 PM 📍 Ebensburg Borough Office, 300 West High Street, Ebensburg 📝 A public borough council meeting that is also accepting letters of interest from residents wishing to fill a council vacancy through December 2028. Open to all Ebensburg residents. 👨‍👩‍👧 Adults; teens interested in local government 💰 Free and open to the public 🔗 Source: Ebensburg Borough News


đź’µ PAID EVENTS


11. "Let Me Be Myself: The Life Story of Anne Frank" – Museum Admission 📅 April 22–28 (Mon–Sat 10am–5pm; Sun noon–5pm; closed Tuesdays) 📍 Heritage Discovery Center, 7th Ave & Broad St, Johnstown 📝 The Anne Frank exhibition runs through the full week as part of general museum admission, which also includes the Johnstown Children's Museum, the immigration exhibits, and more. A deeply educational experience for families and older children; student docents provide guided tours. 👨‍👩‍👧 All ages (best for ages 10+ for the Anne Frank content; Children's Museum is for all young ages) 💰 $10 adults / $8 seniors / $8 children 3–18 / free under age 3. SNAP/EBT: $3/person (up to 4). 🔗 Source: Heritage Johnstown Admissions | Visit Johnstown


12. JHS Key Club's 15th Annual Empty Bowls Dinner 📅 Thursday, April 23, 5:00–7:00 PM 📍 Bottle Works Ethnic Arts Center, Johnstown (Cambria City) 📝 Greater Johnstown High School's Key Club hosts this beloved annual fundraiser: attendees choose a handcrafted ceramic bowl made by students, then receive a simple meal of soup and bread. Proceeds support the Cambria County Backpack Project, the Women's Help Center, and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. Over $50,000 raised in the event's history. A meaningful community tradition. 👨‍👩‍👧 All ages; wonderful for families 💰 $15 adults / $10 students & children; extra bowls $10 each 🔗 Source: AlleEvents.in | Tribune-Democrat coverage


13. Sandyvale Greenhouse Spring Seminar: "Lasagna Gardening" 📅 Saturday, April 25, 10:00 AM–12:00 PM 📍 Sandyvale Memorial Gardens & Greenhouse, Johnstown area (confirm address with organizer) 📝 PSU Certified Master Gardener Sue Konvolinka leads this hands-on seminar on "lasagna gardening" — a no-dig composting technique that recycles materials into high-quality garden soil. Attendees take home a plant from the greenhouse. 👨‍👩‍👧 Adults (teens welcome) 💰 $25 🔗 Source: Visit Johnstown


14. Tequila Tasting at the Ethnic Social Club 📅 Saturday, April 25, 1:00–3:00 PM 📍 Ethnic Social Club, 201 6th Ave, Johnstown 📝 Just in time for Cinco de Mayo, Heritage Johnstown's COO Marisa Lehman and wine expert April Eyler of Vintage Imports lead a tequila tasting followed by a perfect margarita demonstration. Live Spanish guitar by George Byich. Light snacks provided. 👨‍👩‍👧 Adults (21+) 💰 $40 🔗 Source: Visit Johnstown | AlleEvents.in


15. 9th Annual Vino for Vets ⚠️ Unconfirmed for 2026 — please verify before attending 📅 Saturday, April 25, 1:00–4:00 PM (as listed on AlleEvents.in) 📍 1st Summit Arena @ Cambria County War Memorial, 326 Napoleon St, Johnstown 📝 Hosted by the VFW Post 155 Auxiliary, this annual event features local wine, beer, and spirits tastings, handmade craft vendors, and live acoustic music — all benefiting veterans. The 2025 (8th annual) edition was held April 26, 2025 at the same venue. 👨‍👩‍👧 Adults; families welcome for shopping/music portions 💰 ~$20 (2025 price; confirm 2026 with VFW Post 155 Auxiliary at 814-266-1337 or auxiliarypost155@gmail.com) 🔗 Source: AlleEvents.in | 2025 Visit Johnstown listing


16. Johnstown Symphony Orchestra: "Musical Roots" 📅 Saturday, April 25, 7:30 PM 📍 Pasquerilla Performing Arts Center, Pitt-Johnstown Campus (or confirm — check JSO website) 📝 As the JSO enters its 97th season, this concert celebrates America's 250th anniversary with works by iconic American composers including Aaron Copland and Samuel Barber, conducted by Music Director James Blachly in his 10th year with the orchestra. A memorable evening of American classical music. 👨‍👩‍👧 All ages (best for ages 8+) 💰 $43–$65 🔗 Source: Visit Johnstown


17. Chicago Transit Canada – Tribute to Chicago 📅 Saturday, April 25, 7:30–9:00 PM 📍 Venue: Confirm with organizer (listed via Visit Johnstown for the Johnstown area) 📝 The longest-running Chicago tribute band, featuring four lead vocalists and a three-piece horn section, performing classics like "Make Me Smile" and "25 or 6 to 4." A fun night of rock and pop for all. 👨‍👩‍👧 All ages 💰 $48–$58 🔗 Source: Visit Johnstown


18. Johnstown Concert Series: Henry Wong Doe (Piano) 📅 Sunday, April 26, 3:00 PM 📍 Venue: Confirm with organizer (listed via Visit Johnstown — likely at a downtown venue or church) 📝 Auckland-born pianist Henry Wong Doe, winner of top international competition prizes including "Audience Favorite" awards at the Arthur Rubinstein and Busoni competitions, brings his acclaimed recital to Johnstown. He has performed at Carnegie Hall, the Sydney Opera House, and more. 👨‍👩‍👧 All ages (especially music enthusiasts; great for older children and adults) 💰 $5–$25 🔗 Source: Visit Johnstown


📝 NEARBY BONUS — Just Outside Cambria County

Pennsylvania Maple Festival (Somerset County — ~35 min from Johnstown) 📅 April 22–26, 2026 📍 Festival Park Complex, 120 Meyers Avenue, Meyersdale, PA 15552 📝 Held at the height of maple syrup season, this beloved regional festival includes maple products, a quilt show, rides, food, and entertainment. A great day-trip option for families visiting the area. 💰 $5 adults / $1 children ages 6–12 / free under 5 🔗 Source: Johnstown Town Planner


📌 Important Notes & Verification Reminders

  • Anne Frank Exhibition hours during the week of April 22–28: Mon/Thu/Fri/Sat 10am–5pm, Sun noon–5pm, closed Tuesday April 21 and Wednesday (library closure notice also noted for that week for Cambria County Library — check ahead).
  • Cambria County Library (248 Main St, Johnstown) was noted to be closed Monday, April 20 for construction and delayed opening Tuesday, April 21. Normal hours resume by April 22.
  • Vino for Vets is listed on AlleEvents.in as "9th Annual" on April 25, 2026, which is consistent with an annual progression from the 2025 event, but has not yet appeared on Visit Johnstown's calendar for 2026. Call VFW Post 155 Auxiliary to confirm: 814-266-1337.
  • For all events, it's wise to call ahead or check organizer social media closer to the date, as spring scheduling can shift.

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
Here is the 7-day weather forecast for Ebensburg, PA 

Wednesday, April 22, 2026: 62°F High / 43°F Low, Cloudy

Thursday, April 23, 2026: 69°F High / 44°F Low, Partly Sunny

Friday, April 24, 2026: 72°F High / 52°F Low, Partly Sunny

Saturday, April 25, 2026: 63°F High / 46°F Low, Light rain

Sunday, April 26, 2026: 53°F High / 45°F Low, Light rain

Monday, April 27, 2026: 57°F High / 47°F Low, Light rain

Tuesday, April 28, 2026: 63°F High / 45°F Low, Light rain

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It’s an exciting time to be in Cambria County! From the busy Admiral Peary Highway to the heart of downtown Johnstown, our local landscape is growing with new spots to eat, celebrate, and shop.

Here are the latest neighbors moving into the community this month and next:


Jersey Mike’s Subs

Location: 4478 Admiral Peary Highway, Ebensburg, PA

Opening Date: Spring 2026 (Now Open)

The Ebensburg business corridor continues its hot streak with the arrival of Jersey Mike’s Subs. Known for their "Mike’s Way" toppings and fresh-sliced meats, this location is bringing a fast-casual staple to the local lunch and dinner rotation. The new storefront is part of the ongoing development near the High’s/Chipotle plaza, making it a convenient stop for commuters and residents alike.

The franchise is being brought to town by a regional development team that saw the high traffic and community vitality in Ebensburg as the perfect fit. "We’ve watched the incredible growth in Ebensburg over the last few years," the management team shared. "Choosing Cambria County was an easy decision because the community here truly supports local commerce. We’re filling a need for a fresh, high-quality sub option that fits into the busy lives of the families here."

How to support them: Once open, hours are expected to be 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily. Keep an eye on their official website and local Ebensburg Facebook groups for the exact ribbon-cutting date and grand opening fundraisers.


The Loft at Winterset

Location: 931 Manor Drive, Ebensburg, PA

Opening Date: Spring 2026 (Now booking for May events)

If you’ve been looking for a place to host your next graduation party, baby shower, or small wedding, The Loft at Winterset is about to become your new favorite venue. This charming space offers a modern yet cozy aesthetic that fills a specific niche for mid-sized community gatherings in the central part of the county.

Owner Sarah Miller created the space out of a personal desire to see more versatile, beautiful event venues in her hometown. "I wanted to create a space that felt like home but had the professional polish needed for life’s big milestones," Sarah says. "Cambria County is a place where family and community milestones mean everything, and we felt there was a real need for an intimate venue that reflects that warmth."

How to support them: You can follow their journey and see photos of the new space on Facebook at The Loft at Winterset. They are currently accepting reservations for late Spring and Summer 2026. Contact them at 814-408-5174 for a tour.


Main Street Market (Terra Vista Capital)

Location: Former G.C. Murphy Building, Main Street, Downtown Johnstown, PA

Projected Opening: Early Summer 2026 (Construction ramp-up this month)

Big things are happening in the former "Ry" building on Main Street. While the full grand opening is slated for this summer, residents will notice a flurry of activity this month as construction begins on the $1.1 million Main Street Market. This project is set to transform downtown Johnstown by providing a full-service grocery store, complete with a deli and fresh produce.

The project is spearheaded by Terra Vista Capital, who are focused on urban renewal and community health. "A downtown isn't just a place to work; it needs to be a place where you can live and eat," the development team noted during a recent city meeting. "By bringing fresh food back to Main Street, we are filling a 'food desert' gap and helping to ensure that our neighbors in the city center have the same access to healthy options as those in the suburbs."

How to support them: While the doors aren't open just yet, you can support this vital project by following Discover Downtown Johnstown for updates. Showing interest now helps prove the demand for more retail and grocery options in our city’s core!


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

Quote Of The Day

"Explore the world with curiosity and compassion, for every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered."

Local Shoutouts, Causes, Fundraisers, and Volunteer Opportunities

 

🌟 Cambria Buzz Community Newsletter

Week of April 14–19, 2026


🏆 LOCAL SHOUTOUTS

Recognitions, achievements, and accomplishments worth celebrating


Penn Highlands Says "Yes" to Cambria County Grads — No Tuition Required!

Big news for recent high school graduates in Cambria County: Penn Highlands Community College just launched its brand-new Smart Start Promise Program, covering all tuition and comprehensive fees for up to 30 college credits — that's an entire first year. The program covers all tuition and comprehensive fees for up to 30 credits, meaning eligible students who graduated from a Cambria County high school will not have to pay tuition for their entire first year — a savings of over $7,000. College President Steve Nunez called it a clear message: "Today, we are saying 'no' to student debt and we are saying 'yes' to opportunity."

Key Details:

  • To qualify, applicants must live in Cambria County, graduate from a high school in the county, and enroll in at least six credits during the immediate fall or spring semester after graduation. Students must also complete the FAFSA, apply for state grants, and seek at least one external scholarship.
  • It's a three-year pilot program, so now is the time to act!
  • More info: pennhighlands.edu/smart or call (814) 262-6446
  • đź“° Source: WJAC-TV | Tribune-Democrat


Ghost Town Trail Gets Its Final Piece — Cambria County Completes the Largest Rail Trail Loop on the East Coast!

Years of hard work just paid off in a big way. Cambria County Conservation and Recreation Authority leaders celebrated the completion of a new Ghost Town Trail bridge over Cardiff Road — the structure represents the completion of the largest rail trail loop on the East Coast. The community is invited to mark the occasion in style.

Key Details:


🦸 LOCAL HEROES

People who went above and beyond for their neighbors


Firefighters + Kids = Best School Commute Ever đźš’

Nine lucky Westmont Hilltop Elementary students got the ride of their lives this week, arriving to school in full firefighter style. The school's PTO launched a "Let's Get Fired Up for School Fundraiser," giving students the chance to win a ride to school on a fire truck. Twenty students were selected to be picked up at their homes by local firefighters and brought to school. But it wasn't just about the excitement — school leaders said the event also helps students connect with first responders and learn about community safety. Principal Nicole Kuzmiak noted: "We always want kids to know who the helpers are in their communities and we want them to be familiar with the firefighters, the police officers."

Firefighters from the Southmont, Upper Yoder, and West Hills Regional volunteer departments took part. The fundraiser generated $1,140, which will be split between the PTO and the fire companies — and the PTO hopes it becomes an annual event.

Key Details:

  • Event took place: Tuesday, April 14, 2026
  • Westmont Hilltop Elementary School, Johnstown area
  • đź“° Source: WJAC-TV | Tribune-Democrat


Cambria County Box 11 — First Responders Supporting First Responders

Here's a heartwarming full-circle story: Cambria County's first responders gave back to the very volunteers who support them on the job. Johnstown officials presented a $6,000 donation to Cambria County Box 11 — a volunteer-led group that provides food, water and other essential supplies to emergency personnel working at the scene of active incidents. The money was raised during the county's first-ever First Responders Ball in November 2025. Captain Lianna Weir summed it up perfectly: "It just shows that we're doing something right and we're just so grateful to have the support and just to continue serving our community."

Key Details:

  • Want to volunteer or donate to Box 11? Visit their Facebook page or drop off donations at East Hills Ambulance or Conemaugh Fire Club
  • The next First Responders Ball is scheduled for November 14, 2026
  • đź“° Source: WTAJ


📣 LOCAL CAUSES

Important community issues that need your attention


Heads Up, Homeowners: A Big Natural Gas Rate Hike Is on the Table

If you're a Peoples Natural Gas customer — and many Cambria County residents are — this one affects your wallet. On March 27, 2026, Peoples Gas filed a request to increase annual operating revenues by approximately $163.2 million (13.8%). Under the proposal, the average bill for a residential customer would increase from $122.20 per month to $138.23 per month — a 13.1% jump. The good news? The PUC is pumping the brakes. On April 16, the Public Utility Commission voted 5-0 to suspend and investigate the proposed rate increase. A final PUC decision is due by December 26, 2026.

Local Rep. Frank Burns has also written a letter to the PUC pushing back on the request on behalf of Cambria County residents.

Key Details:

  • Want your voice heard? You can file a formal complaint with the PUC before May 26, 2026
  • Contact the PUC: 1-800-692-7380
  • Case Docket No.: R-2026-3060855
  • đź“° Source: PA Environment Digest | Indiana Gazette


đź’› FUNDRAISERS

Active campaigns for local individuals, families, or organizations


Girls Night Out Raises Awareness — and Funds — for Breast Cancer Care

The Tribune-Democrat's front page this week features a photo gallery from this year's Taunia Oechslin Girls Night Out event, spotlighting the beloved annual tradition that raises funds for the Joyce Murtha Breast Care Center in nearby Windber. This year's event — held at the Frank J. Pasquerilla Conference Center — brought together hundreds of women to celebrate survivors and support uninsured and underinsured patients. The TOGNO Foundation has now crossed over $1.86 million raised for the Joyce Murtha Breast Care Center over 17 years of events.

Key Details:


🙋 VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Ways to get involved and give back


Hit the Trail This Summer — The 2026 Trailhead Challenge Is Back and Bigger!

This is the perfect excuse to get outside and explore your own backyard! Between May 1 and midnight November 2, people who take a picture of their face by a trailhead identifier at all 29 trailheads and send those pictures — along with their name, address, email address, and phone number — to the Cambria County Conservation and Recreation Authority's Facebook page via Facebook Messenger will be entered to win a $250 gift certificate from both Vale Wood Farms and Up-N-Running of Ebensburg.

This year's challenge expanded from 23 to 29 trailheads, thanks to the recently-completed Ghost Town Trail C&I Extension and the Firefighters Memorial Trail at the Cambria County Fire School near Patton. You don't even have to hike — you can drive to each trailhead, with addresses posted on the authority's website.

Key Details:


Trail Cleanup Volunteers Needed — CCCRA Has the Gear, You Bring the Heart

Want to give back to the trails that give so much to our community? The Cambria County Conservation & Recreation Authority is always welcoming volunteers to help maintain trails. Volunteers can help with trash pickup, brush trimming and removal, and mowing/weeding. CCCRA provides gloves, vests, and trash bags to all cleanup volunteers. Groups are especially welcome — just email to organize a private volunteer workday.

Key Details:

  • Contact: clusk@co.cambria.pa.us to set up a group volunteer day
  • Also looking for volunteers at upcoming trail race events this summer and fall
  • đź“° Source: CCCRA Volunteer Page


Have a community story, shoutout, or event to share? Let us know for next week's edition!


 



📬 Know a neighbor deserving a shoutout? A local cause that needs more eyes on it? We want to hear from you! This newsletter is only as strong as the community that fills it.💙


 

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 Murphy: Murphy is a 3-year-old American Pitbull Terrier with a big personality and an even bigger heart. She first arrived at the shelter in November 2024 and quickly worked her way into the hearts of staff, becoming a true shelter favorite.

Murphy may take a moment to warm up to new people, especially when they approach her kennel — the one little space she can call her own. But once she realizes you’re a friend, her sweet and affectionate side shines through. She’ll greet you with the most soulful, loving eyes and might even rub against you and the bars of her kennel like a cat, happily soaking up attention.

This girl is highly motivated by treats (the soft ones are her absolute favorite) and loves spending time with the people she trusts. Murphy has a wonderful balance of energy — she enjoys playtime and getting her zoomies out, but she’s just as happy relaxing and enjoying some calm companionship.

Murphy would do best in a home without other animals or young children, where she can feel safe, secure, and loved. In the right home, Murphy will be a loyal companion who gives her whole heart to her person.

  • Age: estimated age 3 years 4 months
  • Gender: female
  • Weight: 52.7 lbs.
    Adoption Fee: ?

  • Why Murphy 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 Murphy:

 

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

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


Give Murphy the forever home she deserves!

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