July 2020 Newsletter

Borough Council Resolution on Hate Speech and Parades

The Ebensburg Borough Council adopted a formal resolution denouncing hate speech and the public display of the Confederate flag, declaring it inconsistent with borough values. This followed complaints about a flag displayed during the 2020 Memorial Day Parade.

Key decisions include:

• These will now be organized by private groups, civic organizations, or individuals (e. g. , Main Street Partnership).
• New Permit Ordinance: A new ordinance will require permits for any parade or event on public property to ensure accountability and proper planning for police protection and street sweeping.
• Citizen Advisory Board: A group called "Inclusive Ebensburg" has formed to act as a citizen advisory board on diversity-related topics.

Nathan’s Divide Nature Center Progress

Nathan’s Divide, a nature center planned for the area of Ebensburg’s reservoir, is making progress. The independent group aims to protect water resources and promote environmental education and recreation.

• Boating Access: The Ebensburg Municipal Authority has approved boating on the reservoir. Kayaking, canoeing, and boats without gasoline engines are allowed.
• New Dock: A new float dock accessible from North Center Street has been installed.
• Rules: Fishing is allowed from boats or shore, but standing/swimming in the water is prohibited. No fishing or activity is permitted on the breast of the dam. The intake tower is off-limits.
• Enforcement: The PA Fish & Boat Commission patrols the reservoirs (Lake Rowena and Jenck’s Dam). All their regulations must be followed.
• Website: More info at www. nathansdivide. org.

2020 Census Reminder

The 2020 Census is underway, and participation is critical for political representation and federal funding.

• Response Rate: As of June 29, Ebensburg’s response rate was only 72%, which is more than 8% below the 2010 rate.
• How to Respond: Residents can respond online at www. 2020census. gov, by phone, or by mail.
• Field Visits: Census takers will begin visiting homes in mid-August for those who haven’t responded.
• Verification: Official census employees will have an ID badge with a photo, Department of Commerce watermark, and expiration date. They will also carry an official bag and Census Bureau-issued electronic device. Work hours are 9 am to 9 pm.

Sustainability Certification

Ebensburg Borough has been recognized for its sustainability efforts. The borough already qualifies for Gold Certification under the Sustainable Pennsylvania Community Certification program and is working toward Platinum Certification.

Ebensburg Dog Park

The Ebensburg Rotary Club is constructing a dog park on borough property at Lake Rowena, located between the hockey rink and the Ebensburg Animal Hospital. Work is expected to begin in 2021.

Concerts in the Park

The Ebensburg Main Street Partnership presents "Concerts in the Park" at Penn Eben Park from 6–9 PM on the following dates:

• Ray Scanlan)

Other Community Events

Due to health restrictions, Downtown Shutdown and PotatoFest have been canceled. The following events are scheduled:

• Farmer’s Market: Every Saturday, 9 am–12 pm, July 11 – September 19 at Penn Eben Park.
• Ebensburg Homecoming: Saturday, July 25 in the Ebensburg Area.
• Ebensburg Beer & Wine 5k: Saturday, August 8 at YPCC - Lake Rowena.
• YPCC Golf Tournament: Friday, September 11 at Ebensburg Country Club.
• Fall Foliage Ride: Sunday, October 6 at 2 pm on Ghost Town Trail.
• Ebensburg Turkey Trot: Thursday, November 28 (Hosted by Ebensburg Area Running Club).
• Dickens of a Christmas: December 4–6 in Downtown Ebensburg.

Updates will be posted on their website: www. ebensburgmainstreet. com.