Cambria Buzz

Cambria Buzz is the Heartbeat of Cambria County every week!

A Pennsylvania lawmaker is pushing to repeal a liquor tax that many residents may not even know they are paying.

Representative Joseph D’Orsie of York County recently introduced House Bill 2142, which aims to eliminate the 18% Johnstown Flood Tax.

This tax originated as a temporary 10% emergency measure to help rebuild after the historic Johnstown flood of 1936.

Decades later, the tax not only remains but has increased.

The revenue, which totaled nearly $450 million last year, now flows directly into the state’s general fund instead of being used for disaster relief.

D'Orsie argues that a tax for a specific disaster recovery that ended in the 1940s is no longer justified.

While past efforts considered redirecting the funds, this new bill advocates for a complete repeal to return the money to consumers.

The bill’s fate now rests with the Committee on Liquor Control.

CamTran has released an update on the Johnstown Inclined Plane's rehabilitation, showcasing notable progress and the path toward reopening.

Recent milestones include the successful reinstallation of the East Haul Brake band after detailed adjustments, plus the creation of a new torque wrench testing setup.

Critical communication systems on the incline cars have passed testing, and upgrades such as a new electrical room fan controller are now complete.

Officials say only one task — adjusting the safety gate — remains before the Labor and Industry inspection list is finished.

Once addressed, state regulators will return for a final review, followed by a required 30-day staff maintenance and Operator training period.

After successful final inspections and training, the Inclined Plane will reopen to the public.

Meanwhile, Asiago's restaurant at the Visitor’s Center remains open for locals and visitors alike.

On a frigid Monday morning in Punxsutawney, PA, the nation’s most famous weather prognosticator made his annual prediction.

Punxsutawney Phil officially saw his shadow at Gobbler's Knob, forecasting six more weeks of winter.

Handler A.J. Dereume of the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club presented the legendary groundhog to thousands of bundled-up spectators who gathered for the 140th ceremony.

The announcement was met with a mix of celebratory cheers and disappointed groans from those hoping for an early spring.

The long-standing tradition holds that a shadow sighting means winter will linger.

Despite the bone-chilling temperatures, the festive spirit of the historic event was on full display.

For now, it seems winter is here to stay, so don't pack away those heavy coats just yet.

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Events in Cambria County, PA: Jan. 28, 2026 – Feb. 3, 2026

I. Free Events

Story Hour at Portage Public Library

• Date/Time: Wednesday, February 4, 2026 | 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM

• Location: 704 West Main Street, Portage, PA (Second Floor)

• Description: A recurring program led by library volunteers to foster a love for reading through stories and activities.

• Age Appropriateness: Best for Pre-K (Ages 3-5).

• Source: Cambria County Library System Calendar
  
  

Senior Science Day: "Hum in the Hive"

• Date/Time: Friday, February 6, 2026 | 10:00 AM (Listed as 7 AM PST in system, adjusted for local EST)

• Location: Prince Gallitzin State Park Office (Conference Room), Patton, PA

• Description: An educational program focused on the life of honeybees and their importance to the ecosystem.

• Age Appropriateness: All ages; marketed toward seniors but family-friendly.

• Source: PA DCNR Calendar of Events
  
  

"Ski Muskrat" Outdoor Recreation

• Date/Time: Saturday, February 7, 2026 | 1:00 PM (Local Time)

• Location: Prince Gallitzin State Park, Muskrat Beach Area #1, Patton, PA

• Description: A community winter recreation gathering where participants can enjoy cross-country skiing (weather permitting).

• Age Appropriateness: Families and children old enough to ski.

• Source: PA DCNR Calendar of Events
  
  

Little Critters: "Going on a Beaver Hunt"

• Date/Time: Tuesday, February 10, 2026 | 10:00 AM

• Location: Prince Gallitzin State Park Office, Patton, PA

• Description: A nature-focused program for young children to learn about local beavers and search for signs of their activity.

• Age Appropriateness: Specifically for toddlers and young children.

• Source: PA DCNR Calendar of Events
  
  

II. Paid Events

Mount Aloysius Women’s Basketball vs. La Roche

• Date/Time: Wednesday, February 4, 2026 | 7:00 PM

• Location: ACWC (Athletic, Convocation, and Wellness Center), Cresson, PA

• Description: A collegiate home game featuring local athletes in a high-energy environment.

• Age Appropriateness: All ages.

• Cost: Typically $5-$10 for adults; free for students/young children (Contact Athletics Office for exact door prices).

• Source: Mount Aloysius Athletics Schedule
  
  

Richland Rams vs. Freeport (High School Ice Hockey)

• Date/Time: Tuesday, February 3, 2026 (Pre-week Bonus) | 6:50 PM

• Location: 1ST SUMMIT ARENA at Cambria County War Memorial, Johnstown, PA

• Description: Local high school rivalry match played on professional ice.

• Age Appropriateness: All ages.

• Cost: Generally $5.00 for students, $7.00 for adults.

• Source: 1ST SUMMIT ARENA Events
  
  

Tim Michrina '14 Benefit Concert

• Date/Time: Friday, February 6, 2026 | 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

• Location: Mount Aloysius College, Cresson, PA

• Description: A benefit concert featuring local musical talent held on the college campus.

• Age Appropriateness: All ages.

• Cost: Varies (Benefit donation suggested); check college ticket office.

• Source: Mount Aloysius Academic/Alumni Calendar
  
  

Central Cambria Red Devils vs. Bishop McCort (Basketball)

• Date/Time: Wednesday, February 4, 2026 | 7:15 PM

• Location: Bishop McCort High School, Johnstown, PA

• Description: A competitive local high school basketball game.

• Age Appropriateness: All ages.

• Cost: Standard high school admission (approx. $5.00).

• Source: MaxPreps Schedule
  
  Black History Program: Honoring The Divine 9

• Date/Time: Saturday, February 7, 2026 | 6:00 PM

• Location: Horace Mann Elementary School, Johnstown, PA

• Description: A community cultural celebration honoring Black Greek Letter Organizations and history.

• Age Appropriateness: All ages.

• Cost: Check Eventbrite/local listing for ticket details.

• Source: Eventbrite Johnstown Listings
  
  

Westmont vs. Wheeling (Ice Hockey)

• Date/Time: Tuesday, February 10, 2026 | 8:50 PM

• Location: 1ST SUMMIT ARENA at Cambria County War Memorial, Johnstown, PA

• Description: Late evening high school hockey match at the historic War Memorial.

• Age Appropriateness: All ages (Late start time).

• Cost: Approx. $5.00 – $7.00.

• Source: 1ST SUMMIT ARENA Events

It is such an exciting time to be a resident of Cambria County! As your local community journalist, I’ve been out and about talking to the people who are putting their hearts (and hammers) into new projects across our region.

From a stunning new venue in Ebensburg to fresh energy in downtown Johnstown, here are the neighbors you should be sure to visit this month.

The Loft at Winterset

Location: 931 Manor Drive, Ebensburg, PA

Opening Date: Grand Opening April 2026 (Currently booking for Spring/Summer)

Services: Luxury event venue for weddings, corporate retreats, and community gatherings.

If you’ve driven past Manor Drive lately, you’ve likely seen the beautiful transformation happening at what is now The Loft at Winterset. This isn't just another banquet hall; it’s a sophisticated, barn-inspired venue that blends rustic Cambria County charm with modern elegance. Owned by local entrepreneur and developer Craig Ford, the space was born out of a desire to preserve the scenic beauty of the Ebensburg outskirts while providing a high-end space for life's biggest milestones. Craig has a long history of investing in the area, and this project feels like his love letter to the local landscape.

When I caught up with Craig, he was beaming with pride over the reclaimed wood and the expansive view of the rolling hills. "We chose Cambria County because there’s a sense of family here that you just don't find everywhere else," Craig shared. "People were traveling an hour or more to find a venue with this kind of 'modern farmhouse' feel. I wanted to give our neighbors a place right in their backyard where they could celebrate their weddings and family reunions without the long drive." What makes the Loft special is the "Winterset View"—a sunset vista that is arguably the best in the county.

How to Support: You can follow their progress on Facebook or Instagram at @TheLoftAtWinterset. They are currently hosting private tours for couples planning 2026 and 2027 weddings. For inquiries, visit their website or call (814) 472-2050.

Redemption Fitness

Location: 416 Main Street (3rd Floor), Johnstown, PA

Opening Date: Early 2026

Services: Boutique fitness studio offering group HIIT classes, personal training, and yoga.

Downtown Johnstown is continuing its "2.0" resurgence, and the latest addition is literally elevating the scene. Redemption Fitness has officially moved into the third floor of the historic building overlooking Central Park. Owner Jordan Karcher, a veteran fitness instructor with deep roots in the Laurel Highlands, decided it was time to bring a "metropolitan boutique" gym experience to the heart of the city. The studio features exposed brick, high ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling windows that provide an inspiring view of the park while you work up a sweat.

Jordan’s passion for the city is infectious. "I grew up seeing Johnstown as a place of grit and resilience," Jordan told me during a quick break between training sessions. "I chose downtown because it’s the heartbeat of our county. We’re filling a need for the professionals working on Main Street and the residents moving back into these renovated lofts who want a community-focused place to stay healthy." The studio is unique for its "Community Sweat" Saturdays, where a portion of class proceeds are donated to local Johnstown non-profits.

How to Support: Stop in for a "First Timer" class discount! You can find their schedule and sign up for sessions via the Redemption Fitness app or follow them on social media at @RedemptionFitness_Jtown. Hours vary based on classes, typically starting at 6:00 AM for the early birds!

"Embrace the beauty of Cambria County and let it inspire you to reach new heights today."

Christian Wrabley, a passionate history and civics teacher at Greater Johnstown High School, has earned national recognition as one of only 12 educators chosen for the esteemed PBS LearningMedia Teacher Ambassador program.

In partnership with WQED, Pittsburgh’s PBS station, Wrabley will now help curate and share educational content for classrooms and online platforms.

Integrating PBS resources, such as “The American Revolution” documentary, he already sparks student engagement and deepens historical understanding.

School leaders, including Assistant Superintendent Michael Dadey, commend Wrabley’s creativity and dedication to innovation in teaching.

His achievement brings both personal distinction and new collaborative opportunities to the Greater Johnstown School District.

This recognition coincides with Johnstown’s own progress — from opening Minersville Community Park to moving beyond Act 47 status — highlighting a season of renewal and hope for the whole community.

Local Shoutouts, Causes, Fundraisers, and Volunteer Opportunities

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 Gargoyle a male mix dog from the Humane Society of Cambria County who is eagerly awaiting a forever home!

About Gargoyle:

He is a big and beautiful boy who would thrive in an active home! Holler loves to take walks and run free in the yard playing with toys. He is a very active and energetic boy! 

• Age: estimated age 4 years 3 months
• Gender: male

• Weight: 87.2 lbs

• Adoption Fee: $150

• Why Gargoyle Needs You: "Like so many animals at the shelter, Gargoyle 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 Gargoyle:

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

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

Give Gargoyle the forever home he deserves!

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Warmly,

Charles Sisk 

Editor