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"Taxes, Christmas Lights, and Water Grants: Controversy and Cheer in Cambria County!"

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"Taxes, Christmas Lights, and Water Grants: Controversy and Cheer in Cambria County!"

"Taxes, Christmas Lights, and Water Grants: Controversy and Cheer in Cambria County!"
Discover the latest in Cambria County: Tax debates, festive displays, waterway grants, local business spotlights, and more! 🎉 #StayInformed

Charles Sisk

Dec 10, 2025

Trivia Questionâť“

In the popular Christmas movie "Home Alone," what food do Kevin McCallister use to prank the burglars trying to break into his house?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

This Newsletter is Sponsored by:

Just Love Coffee and Cafe

Love has the power to change everything, even your soda.

FB: https://www.facebook.com/justlovenortherncambria

Web: https://justlovecoffeecafe.com/pa-northern-cambria/

🌟OPEN EVERYDAY 7am-2pm🌟
Welcome to Kimmies Kitchen, a unique and uplifting family restaurant.

 

3766 William Penn Ave, Johnstown, PA

PH (814) 749-9900

Cambria County is at the center of a heated dispute over a proposed 6.75-mill property tax increase designed to balance the 2026 budget.

 

President Commissioner Scott Hunt argues the hike is vital, citing a 12% tax drop over nine years against a nearly 30% inflation surge that has deepened the financial gap.

 

While about 25 jobs will remain vacant to save $2 million, Hunt says these efforts won’t cover the looming $14 million deficit.

 

Commissioner Tom Chernisky staunchly opposes the plan, calling it too harsh on families already stretched by rising living costs.

 

He pledges to vote no and seeks alternate fixes to rein in spending and protect essential services.

 

Realtor Doug Meagher warns the increase could hit first-time buyers and residents on fixed incomes hardest, amplifying local anxieties as the commissioners’ final vote approaches.


Read More...

Portage Borough shines as a festive winter wonderland, enchanting both locals and visitors with its vibrant Christmas displays.

 

At the center of the celebrations, a spectacular light show—lovingly crafted by a devoted resident—mesmerizes onlookers while raising important funds for the Portage Area Historical Society.

 

Throughout downtown, businesses, led by the Chatter Box, decorate windows with exceptional creativity, inspiring holiday joy for all.

 

The community spirit glows brighter thanks to Portage High School students, whose towering 6-foot wooden soldiers line the streets, representing unity and tradition.

 

Elegant lighting from the women's club and borough-wide decorations tie everything together, offering a magical atmosphere for the season.

 

Everyone is invited to experience Portage Borough’s festive charm—a true celebration of togetherness and holiday delight.


Read More...

The Foundation for Pennsylvania Watersheds has awarded $265,000 in grants to support conservation and restoration projects across the state.

 

These biannual grants target clean streams, pollution fixes, and wildlife habitat improvements, with funding going to both longstanding organizations and new initiatives.

 

This fall’s competitive grant cycle covers a diverse range of efforts, including riparian plantings by Tree Pittsburgh, shoreline stabilization in Washington County, and acid mine drainage treatment in Shamokin Creek.

 

Additional funding supports projects like improving trout populations, public outreach around the Conowingo Dam, and studies of road salt contamination.

 

In partnership with the Fish and Boat Commission, the FPW’s Unassessed Waters Initiative also led to the classification of 57 new wild trout streams in 2025.

 

The next application period opens in February 2026, continuing FPW’s commitment to clean, healthy waterways for communities and wildlife across Pennsylvania.


Read More...

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"The food options at Panda Garden are endless, check out our online menu and select to either pick up your order or have it delivered right to your front door. We are happy to serve you!"

https://www.pandagardennortherncambria.com/

2910 Bigler Ave, Northern Cambria, PA, United States, Pennsylvania
(814) 948-6000

Events in Cambria County, PA: Dec. 10, 2025 – Dec. 16, 2025

Dec 10, 2025
Story Hour — Portage Public Library (10:30 AM). (cambriacounty.librarycalendar.com)
Holly Bazaar — Community Arts Center of Cambria County (all-day craft market). (Visit Johnstown)

Dec 11, 2025
Holly Bazaar — Community Arts Center of Cambria County (day 2). (Visit Johnstown)
Merry Maker’s Mart — Bottle Works (art/vendor pop-up). (Visit Johnstown)
Drop-In Storytime — Peoples Natural Gas Park (family/kid activity). (Heritage Johnstown)


Dec 12, 2025
Christmas Express (train rides) — Central Park / Christmas Village (5:00–8:00 PM). (Visit Johnstown)
Holly Bazaar — Community Arts Center of Cambria County (day 3). (Visit Johnstown)
Merry Maker’s Mart — Bottle Works (day 2). (Visit Johnstown)
Christmas Tree & Christmas Village — Central Park (evening light display / village). (Visit Johnstown)


Dec 13, 2025
[Holiday Pops! (Matinee, 3:00 PM) — Johnstown Symphony Orchestra @ Pasquerilla Performing Arts Center].(https://www.johnstownsymphony.org/calendarofevents/decemberconcert) (Johnstown Symphony Orchestra)
[Holiday Pops! (Evening, 7:30 PM) — Johnstown Symphony Orchestra @ Pasquerilla Performing Arts Center].(https://www.johnstownsymphony.org/calendarofevents/decemberconcert-aw3xh) (Johnstown Symphony Orchestra)
Cambria City Cookie Tour (1:00–4:00 PM) — Heritage Discovery Center (ticketed). (Visit Johnstown)
John Crist: “Jokes for Humans” — 1st SUMMIT ARENA (comedy — ticketed, 7:00 PM). (1stsummitarena.com)
Hope of the World Christmas Concert (6:00 PM) — Peniel Church (free / free-will offering). (AllEvents)


Dec 14, 2025
Sundaes with Santa — Heritage Discovery Center (ticketed family session). (Heritage Johnstown)
Children’s Holiday Concert (family/kids performance — listed on Purplepass). (purplepass.com)


Dec 15, 2025
Holly Bazaar — Community Arts Center of Cambria County (Dec. 15 occurrence). (Visit Johnstown)


Dec 16, 2025
Merry Maker’s Mart — Bottle Works (Dec. 16 occurrence). (Visit Johnstown)
Holly Bazaar — Community Arts Center of Cambria County (Dec.
16 occurrence)
. (Visit Johnstown)

Need Vet Service for your furry friend but don't want another trip?
Try  Dutch Vet Service and get online Vet service!

 

Johnstown's Favorite Award Winning Family Sports Bar & Restaurant!

1750 Bedford St, Johnstown, PA, United States, Pennsylvania
(814) 266-6814
Here is the 7-day weather forecast for Ebensburg, PA from Wednesday, December 10, 2025, through Tuesday, December 16, 2025.
 

Wednesday, December 10: High 38°F, Low 20°F. Conditions are expected to be windy with some snow, possibly a frozen mix or rain/snow.

Thursday, December 11: High 24°F, Low 19°F. Conditions include a chance of snow showers, which may be breezy early.

Friday, December 12: High 26°F, Low 23°F. Expect low clouds with a chance of snow showers or flurries.

Saturday, December 13: High 26°F, Low 12°F. Conditions will be snowy with flurries at times.

Sunday, December 14: High 18°F, Low 8°F. More snow and flurries are expected at times.

Monday, December 15: High 20°F, Low 15°F. The day is expected to be cloudy with low clouds and a chance of snow showers.

Tuesday, December 16: High 27°F, Low 17°F. Conditions will be partly cloudy with a chance of light snow. 

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

Joyce's Jems Consignment and More

I have taken over the former Five Sisters Consignment Shop under the name Joyce's Jems Consignment and More.
Address : 4108 Crawford Avenue, Northern Cambria, Pa.
Phone number: 582-822 1563. 
My hours will be as follows:
Monday - Closed
Tuesday - 9-2
Wednesday - 12- 5. This is will be the day that I will be receiving clothing, ( womens, mens, children , youth, babies ).
I will be accepting, shoes, boots, jewelry, etc.
Thursday - 9-2
Friday - 9-2
Saturday- 9-2
Any questions about how we receive clothing, please call me, Joyce Douglas at 582-822 1563.

Taylor Ann's Deli & Café in Patton, PA

445 Glendale Lake Road, Patton, PA, United States, Pennsylvania
(814) 523-8029

CV Chiropractic

At CV Chiropractic, we are dedicated to helping you achieve optimal health and wellness through personalized chiropractic care!

 Chiropractor
141 Woodstown Highway , Hollsopple, PA 15935
(814) 701-8644

Randall Motors Inc.

3663 Portage Street Portage, PA 15946  814-736-9621

 

2019 Chevrolet Colorado 4WD Crew Cab 128.3" LT

All Crumbs Accounted For
601 Bedford Street, Portage, PA, United States, Pennsylvania
(814) 552-0966
Interesting Facts
In Cambria County, Pennsylvania, there is a unique tradition known as "Belsnickeling," where people dress up in disguises and go door-to-door on Christmas Eve, singing carols and exchanging gifts.

It's a fun and festive way to celebrate the holiday season in the region.
Takeout · Dine-in · Curbside pickup
601 Bedford St, Portage, PA, United States, Pennsylvania
(814) 270-2609

Local Shoutouts, Causes, Fundraisers, and Volunteer Opportunities
 

Cambria County Conservation District Receives $25,000 Grant for Colver Reservoir Ramp and Habitat Improvement Project (Local Cause/Shoutout - Recent News) The Cambria County Conservation District was recently awarded a $25,000 grant for the Colver Reservoir Ramp and Habitat Improvement Project as part of the Foundation for Pennsylvania Watersheds' Fall 2025 grant cycle, announced on December 8, 2025.

$62,000 Raised for Firefighters and Trail Maintenance from Ghost Town Trail-a-thon Fundraiser (Fundraiser/Shoutout - Recent News) The Chernisky Ghost Town Trail-a-thon, which took place in October, recently presented a check, generating about $62,000 to be split between the Cambria County Conservation and Recreation Authority (CCCRA) for trail maintenance and the Cambria County Regional Firefighters Association for equipment and training.

Senator Langerholc Commends Leaders at 2025 State of the County Address (Local Shoutout - Recent News) Senator Langerholc's office reported on December 5, 2025, that he joined leaders in Cambria County for the 2025 State of the County Address hosted by the Cambria Regional Chamber, highlighting engagement among local government and business.

Westmont Hilltop High School Rock Band Private Rental at VOMA on December 10, 2025 (Local Event - Dec 10, 2025, Onwards) The Westmont Hilltop High School Rock Band has a private rental scheduled at the Venue of Merging Arts (VOMA) in Johnstown on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Story Hour at Portage Public Library on December 10, 2025 (Local Event - Dec 10, 2025, Onwards) The Portage Public Library is hosting a Story Hour for children ages 3-5 on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM.

Drop-In Storytime at Peoples Natural Gas Park on December 11, 2025 (Local Event - Dec 10, 2025, Onwards) Cambria County Library, Heritage Johnstown, and the United Way of the Southern Alleghenies are partnering to host a special Drop-In Storytime at Peoples Natural Gas Park on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 11:00 AM, featuring a story, craft, and snack.

Mount Aloysius College Nursing Pinning Ceremony on December 11, 2025 (Local Event - Dec 10, 2025, Onwards) Mount Aloysius College is holding its Nursing Pinning Ceremony for graduating students on Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

Candle in the Wind Jazz Ensemble Performance on December 12, 2025 (Local Event - Dec 10, 2025, Onwards) The Johnstown-based jazz ensemble Candle in the Wind will be performing at the Venue of Merging Arts (VOMA) on Friday, December 12, 2025, from 7:30 PM to 10:30 PM.

Wreaths Across America at Ebensburg Veterans Memorial Park on December 13, 2025 (Local Cause/Volunteer Opportunity - Dec 10, 2025, Onwards) Wreaths Across America will be at Ebensburg Veterans Memorial Park on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at 12:00 PM to Remember, Honor, and Teach by laying Remembrance wreaths on the graves of fallen heroes.

No Where to Wear It Holiday Gala on December 19, 2025 (Fundraiser/Event - Dec 10, 2025, Onwards) A "No Where to Wear It Holiday Gala" is scheduled for Friday, December 19, 2025, at 6:00 PM at Studio 404 in Johnstown.

Ongoing Volunteer Opportunity: VFW Veterans Winter Drive (Volunteer Opportunity - Dec 10, 2025, Onwards) The Ebensburg VFW is collecting socks, hats, and gloves for veterans in the community. Items may be dropped off at the Cambria County Treasurer's Office or the Ebensburg VFW Post 4963 until January 9, 2026.

Ongoing Volunteer Opportunity: Trail Maintenance for Cambria County Conservation & Recreation Authority (CCCRA) (Volunteer Opportunity - Ongoing) The CCCRA welcomes volunteers for general trail maintenance, including trash pick-up and brush trimming, along its over 50 miles of trails. Groups or individuals can contact the authority to organize a private volunteer workday.

Ongoing Volunteer Opportunity: Greater Johnstown YMCA Volunteer Program (Volunteer Opportunity - Ongoing) The Greater Johnstown YMCA is continually seeking volunteers for various roles, such as greeting, assisting with youth programming, and helping with special events to support their non-profit mission.

 

276 Glessner Rd, Johnstown, PA 15905

3Beds  2Baths  1,500Sq.Ft.  TypeSingle Family

MLS# 96037804

Listing Courtesy of REALTY ONE GROUP LANDMARK JOHNSTOWN

 

Contact:

Lynn Hess

License#: RS369481

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

 

Over Fifty years of Service to our customers!
We refuse to compromise on quality in our restaurant. That's why we source our fresh ingredients from local farmers' markets.

800 Broad Street, Johnstown, PA
(814) 536-6554

 

Looking for a new best friend? This week, we're delighted to feature Little Girl, a Female Mix Dog from the Humane Society of Cambria County who is eagerly awaiting a forever home!

 

About Little Girl:

 

  • Age: estimated age 3 years 10 months
  • Gender: female
  • Weight: 55.7 lbs.

  • Adoption Fee: 

  • Why Little Girl Needs You: "Like so many animals at the shelter, Laylah 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 Little Girl:

 

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

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

Give Little Girl the forever home she deserves!

đź’ˇ Answer to Trivia Question:
Kevin uses a series of booby traps involving items like paint cans, tarantulas, and marbles to thwart the burglars.

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We'd love your feedback! - thecambriabuzz@gmail.com

 

Warmly,

Charles Sisk 

Editor

Cambria Buzz
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