Cambria Buzz

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What popular children's toy was originally intended to be a wallpaper cleaner?

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

Pennsylvania lawmakers are moving to strengthen oversight of data centers, advancing two key bills focused on regulating their energy and water consumption.

The measures highlight concerns about how rapidly expanding data centers could affect local power grids, water supplies, and neighborhood resources.

House Bill 2150 requires data centers to file annual reports on resource use, though recent amendments allow estimates, remove waste heat reporting, and exempt small facilities.

Supporters say better data will help understand how data centers might influence electricity rates and the environment, while critics argue these rules could deter AI investment and raise security concerns.

Companion legislation, House Bill 2151, would let the state develop a voluntary model zoning ordinance for towns considering data center projects, covering water studies and proof of electric supply.

Opponents warn a standardized approach may not fit Pennsylvania’s diverse communities, but adoption remains optional.

The bills reflect ongoing state efforts as data centers become more common nationwide.

Many children in Cambria County, Pennsylvania struggle to access clean, well-fitting clothes for school.

Lisa Campbell launched the Cambria County Clothing Boutique to fill this urgent need, stocking school-based closets with essential attire.

The boutique's reach has steadily grown, now benefiting students across several area schools.

In April 2025, a donation from Pennsylvania Highlands Community College's Supporting Scholars brought over 600 items, including pants and hygiene products, easing shortages and showing the community’s dedication to local youth.

October 2025 saw the launch of the Cambria County Backpack Project’s Sponsor a Child campaign, targeting weekend meals for over 600 children facing food insecurity.

Residents are invited to donate children's pants, underwear, or hygiene products to the boutique, or to join as volunteers to help sort and distribute items.

These ongoing efforts are making a real difference for Cambria County’s kids.

Pennsylvania Highlands Community College launched both men’s and women’s wrestling teams in 2025, making a bold addition to its athletic lineup.

Led by Coach Willie Harris, the Black Bears entered their opening season with enthusiasm and purpose.

Freshman Alex Crist captured attention by winning both of his matches by fall at the team’s first tri-meet, signaling the program’s exciting potential.

The unveiling of the new Black Bears Training Facility at the Richland Campus gives athletes a world-class training environment and serves the Police Academy’s self-defense needs.

The college also received a strategic boost through a Sport Opportunity Grant from the NJCAA Foundation, fueling further growth for the wrestling teams.

Cambria County’s wrestling tradition thrives, highlighted by the upcoming Pennsylvania Junior Wrestling Junior High State Championships at Johnstown’s 1ST SUMMIT ARENA in early 2026, inspiring the next generation of local athletes.

In Cambria County, gender equality is advancing through coordinated local initiatives as International Women's Day (IWD) nears on March 8, 2026. The global theme, "Give To Gain," highlights the value of generosity and collaboration in supporting women’s rights.

The Women's Help Center in Johnstown has secured new funding for its Emergency Shelter program, strengthening its ability to provide safe housing and vital services to women and families experiencing homelessness.

The Community Action Partnership of Cambria County (CAPCC) supports essential needs through its Diaper Bank, Feminine Hygiene Project, and Coats for Kids initiatives, helping families and promoting well-being.

The Women's Information Network fosters professional connections and personal growth, creating a space where women can network and mentor one another.

With workshops and events planned around the "Give To Gain" theme, Cambria County is reaffirming its commitment to equality and empowering women across the region.

The shortest war in history took place on August 27, 1896, and lasted only 38 minutes.

Known as the Anglo-Zanzibar War, it broke out between the United Kingdom and the Zanzibar Sultanate after a succession dispute. The conflict ended quickly when the British naval bombardment effectively neutralized the Sultan's forces in under an hour.

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Events in Cambria County, PA: Mar. 4, 2026 – Mar. 10, 2026

Free Events​

Story Hour
Date/Time: Wednesday, March 4, 2026 | 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Location: Portage Public Library, 704 N Cassady St, Portage, PA 15946
Description: A reading and activity program led by volunteers to help young children develop early literacy and a love for books.
Age Appropriateness: Pre-K (Ages 3–5)
Source: Cambria County Library System Calendar (https://cambriacounty.librarycalendar.com/events/month)

Fit for Fun (Weekly Exercise)
Date/Time: Wednesday, March 4 & Friday, March 6, 2026 | 9:15 AM
Location: Johnstown Public Library, 248 Main St, Johnstown, PA 15901
Description: A community exercise session involving basic movements and socialization.
Age Appropriateness: Adults & Seniors (Family members welcome)
Source: Johnstown Public Library Programs (https://www.johnstownpubliclibrary.info/happening-at-the-library-.html)

Big Play Drop-In
Date/Time: Wednesday, March 4, 2026 | 10:30 AM
Location: Johnstown Public Library, 248 Main St, Johnstown, PA 15901
Description: An interactive play-centered session focusing on fine and gross motor skills with sensory play stations.
Age Appropriateness: Ages 3 and under
Source: Johnstown Public Library Programs (https://www.johnstownpubliclibrary.info/happening-at-the-library-.html)

Presentation on the Holy Face of Jesus
Date/Time: Sunday, March 8, 2026 | 4:00 PM
Location: Resurrection Roman Catholic Parish, 324 Chestnut St, Johnstown, PA 15906
Description: A Lenten educational presentation exploring religious history and devotion.
Age Appropriateness: All ages
Source: Resurrection Parish Johnstown (https://www.resurrectionparishjohnstown.com/)

Meet the Author: Heather L. Cleary
Date/Time: Tuesday, March 10, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Ebensburg Cambria Public Library, 225 W High St, Ebensburg, PA 15931
Description: Part of the “Meet the Author” series, Heather Cleary discusses her memoir NOSH and the importance of human connection.
Age Appropriateness: Teens (13+) and Adults
Source: Cambria County Library System Calendar (https://cambriacounty.librarycalendar.com/events/month)

Penn Highlands Open House
Date/Time: Thursday, March 5, 2026 | 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Penn Highlands Community College (Richland Campus), 101 Community College Way, Johnstown, PA 15904
Description: A campus-wide event for prospective students and families to explore degree programs, student life, and athletic opportunities.
Age Appropriateness: High school students and families
Source: Penn Highlands Events Calendar (https://visit.pennhighlands.edu/)

PIAA Girls Basketball Quarterfinals: Central Cambria vs. OLSH
Date/Time: Friday, March 6, 2026 | Time TBA (Check local listings for tip-off)
Location: Central Cambria High School, 204 Schoolhouse Rd, Ebensburg, PA 15931
Description: The Lady Devils host Our Lady of the Sacred Heart in a major postseason rematch. Postseason games may require a small admission fee at the door, but many community members attend as a local gathering.
Age Appropriateness: All ages
Source: Altoona Mirror Sports (https://www.altoonamirror.com/sports/scholastic/girls-basketball/2026/02/district6-class3a-championship-centralcambria-freshman-helps-repeat/)

Softball Scrimmage: Penn Cambria vs. Portage
Date/Time: Saturday, March 7, 2026 | 12:00 PM
Location: Penn Cambria High School, 401 Linden Ave, Cresson, PA 16630
Description: A friendly local scrimmage as both teams prepare for the regular spring season.
Age Appropriateness: All ages
Source: Penn Cambria Athletics Calendar (https://www.pcam.org/athletics/)

Paid Events​

Johnstown Tomahawks vs. Danbury Jr. Hat Tricks
Date/Time: Friday, March 6 (7:30 PM) & Saturday, March 7, 2026 (7:00 PM)
Location: 1st Summit Arena @ Cambria County War Memorial, 326 Napoleon St, Johnstown, PA 15901
Description: Competitive NAHL hockey games featuring local favorites, the Johnstown Tomahawks.
Cost: Tickets typically range from 10–25 dollars (check box office for specific 2026 pricing).
Age Appropriateness: All ages
Source: 1st Summit Arena Events Calendar (https://events.mapchannels.com/Index.aspx?city=johnstown_pa)

Ascend Dance Competition
Date/Time: Friday, March 6 – Saturday, March 7, 2026
Location: Pasquerilla Performing Arts Center, 450 Schoolhouse Rd, Johnstown, PA 15904
Description: A regional dance competition showcasing various styles and talent levels on the UPJ campus.
Cost: Entry fees for participants; spectator tickets vary, usually 15–25 dollars.
Age Appropriateness: All ages
Source: UPJ Arts Calendar (https://www.upjarts.pitt.edu/please-check-our-facebook-page-upcoming-shows-and-events)

College Workshop
Date/Time: Saturday, March 7, 2026 | 6:00 PM
Location: Commonplace Coffee Campus Edge, 715 Scalp Ave, Johnstown, PA 15904
Description: A creative arts workshop where attendees create unique collages using provided materials in a local coffee shop setting.
Cost: Registration required via Eventbrite; typically 25–35 dollars.
Age Appropriateness: Teens and Adults
Source: Eventbrite – Johnstown (https://www.eventbrite.com/d/pa--johnstown/events/)

Public Ice Skating
Date/Time: Multiple dates (March 4–10); check daily “Public Skate” times.
Location: North Central Recreation Center, 186 Schoolhouse Rd, Ebensburg, PA 15931
Description: Open skating sessions available for families and tourists in Ebensburg.
Cost: Admission about 5–8 dollars; skate rentals about 3 dollars.
Age Appropriateness: All ages
Source: Ebensburg Borough Recreation (https://ebensburgpa.com/events-2/)

Conestoga Christian vs. Conemaugh Valley (PIAA Basketball)
Date/Time: Friday, March 6, 2026 | 6:00 PM
Location: Pitt-Johnstown (UPJ) Sports Center, 450 Schoolhouse Rd, Johnstown, PA 15904
Description: High-stakes PIAA postseason basketball hosted at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown.
Cost: Typically 6–10 dollars for PIAA playoff tickets.
Age Appropriateness: All ages
Source: Trib HSSN Schedules (https://tribhssn.triblive.com/high-school-scores-summaries-and-schedules-for-march-1-2026/)

Saint Francis University Women’s Lacrosse vs. Kent State
Date/Time: Wednesday, March 4, 2026 | 1:00 PM
Location: DeGol Field, 172 St. Catherine St, Loretto, PA 15940
Description: Division I collegiate lacrosse action as the Red Flash take on Kent State.
Cost: Admission is often free or a nominal fee, about 5–10 dollars for non-students; check SFU ticket office.
Age Appropriateness: All ages
Source: Saint Francis Red Flash Athletics (https://sfuathletics.com/)[1]

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The Nutrition Nook

Location: 300 Prave St., Suite 101, Ebensburg, PA (Behind the Young Peoples Community Center) Opening Date: February 26, 2026

The Nutrition Nook isn't your average shop; it’s a beautiful new "choice-based" community food pantry born from a partnership between the Cambria County Child Development Corporation (CCCDC) and the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. Unlike traditional pantries where boxes are pre-packed, this space allows residents to shop for what they actually need in a dignified, market-style environment. It’s designed to feel like a boutique grocery store, focusing on fresh produce and healthy staples.

I spoke with the team at the CCCDC, and they are thrilled to finally open the doors. One of the organizers shared, "We chose this spot in Ebensburg because it’s a central hub for families, but we knew there was a gap in accessible, fresh nutrition. The Nutrition Nook is here to fill that plate—literally. We want our neighbors to feel empowered and supported, not just 'helped'." It’s a heartwarming addition to Prave Street that really highlights the "community" in Cambria County.

• How to Support: The Nook is open to all area residents. You can support them by spreading the word or dropping off donations during their operating hours.

• Hours: Check the CCCDC website or their Facebook page for the weekly shopping schedule.

• Contact: 814-472-6341
  
  

Jersey Mike’s Subs

Location: 4478 Admiral Peary Highway, Ebensburg, PA Opening Date: Projected Spring 2026

Get your taste buds ready—the sub shop famous for "A Sub Above" is officially making its Cambria County debut! Located right on the busy Admiral Peary Highway, this new Jersey Mike’s is part of the ongoing growth we’ve seen in the Ebensburg retail corridor (joining the new Chipotle that just opened nearby). They are known for their fresh-sliced meats, bread baked in-store, and, of course, the signature "Mike's Way" dressing with onions, lettuce, tomatoes, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and spices.

Owner Michael Mattia, who has been expanding the brand across the region, is excited to finally plant roots here. "Cambria County has such a loyal, hardworking community, and we felt like this was the perfect place to bring our authentic Jersey-style subs," Mattia noted. "We’ve seen the growth in Ebensburg and wanted to provide a quick, high-quality dining option for families on the go and workers in the area." The store is also expected to bring about 30 new jobs to the local economy.

• How to Support: Keep an eye out for their grand opening "Day of Giving," where they often partner with local schools or charities.

• Website: jerseymikes.com

• Social Media: Follow the Jersey Mike's Subs Facebook page for the exact ribbon-cutting date!
  
  

The Loft at Winterset

Location: 931 Manor Drive, Ebensburg, PA Opening Date: Spring 2026 (Now booking reservations!)

If you’ve been looking for a new spot for a special event or a weekend getaway, keep your eyes on The Loft at Winterset. This charming new venue is currently putting the finishing touches on its space and is slated to fully open this spring. It promises to offer a unique, elevated atmosphere that blends rustic charm with modern amenities, making it a perfect addition to our local hospitality scene.

The owners chose this location to take advantage of the beautiful, rolling landscape of the Laurel Highlands. They mentioned, "There’s a special kind of peace in this part of PA, and we wanted to create a space where people could gather to celebrate life's big moments without having to leave the county. We’re filling a need for more intimate, high-end event spaces in the Ebensburg area." Whether it’s for a wedding shower, a corporate retreat, or a cozy stay, The Loft is shaping up to be a local gem.

• How to Support: They are already taking bookings for late spring and summer! Follow them on Facebook to see the progress of their renovations.

• Contact: 814-408-5174

• Social Media: Search "The Loft at Winterset" on Facebook for the latest photos and booking info.
  
  

"Embrace the rich heritage and vibrant community of Cambria County today, as we cherish our past and shape our future together."

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 Dutchess a female adult dog from the Humane Society of Cambria County who is eagerly awaiting a forever home!

About Dutchess:

• Age: estimated age  4 years 0 months
• Gender: female

• Weight: 65.9 lbs.
  Adoption Fee: $150 

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

How to Adopt Dutchess:

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

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

Give Dutchess the forever home she deserves!

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Warmly,

Charles Sisk 

Editor