Residents of Northern Cambria voiced strong concerns at a recent borough meeting about the proposed sewer project and its financial impact on homeowners.

 

Many are frustrated that they will be required to pay for new inspection ports on their own property, despite doubts this will fix persistent water runoff and sewer problems.

 

Some residents argue that because the sewer system serves several municipalities, the costs should be distributed more fairly—rather than falling solely on borough residents.

 

The West Branch Sewer Authority has applied for funds to help cover installation costs, but homeowners remain concerned, as they must still pay for pressure testing and potentially costly water line replacements if tests fail.

 

Tensions are rising as many feel their voices are not being heard, pushing the community to demand a more equitable approach to funding and managing the project.

Major strides are underway in Cambria County as the Ghost Town Trail Loop nears completion near Nanty Glo, Pennsylvania.

 

This unique project will soon debut as the only continuous rail-trail loop east of Oregon, featuring new bridges, restored rail lines, and reclaimed mine land transformed with grass, trees, and kayak launches.

 

Crews are removing “bony piles” left from former mining, dramatically improving the landscape and environment.

 

The $4.4 million venture, backed by state and mine reclamation funds, is projected to finish by late November and already draws visitors worldwide, providing a vital boost to tourism and local businesses.

 

Nearby, a $26.1 million water treatment facility is scheduled for completion in 2025, aiming to restore 25 miles of Blacklick Creek and create a future fishery.

 

The Ghost Town Trail Loop stands as a bold symbol of the county’s dedication to outdoor recreation and environmental renewal.

Weakland Farms in Cambria County is welcoming fall with the grand opening of its celebrated corn maze and family-centered activities.

 

Nestled at 582 Munster Road, Portage, the six-acre corn maze features 1.5 miles of twists and turns, plus interactive trivia stations for a unique adventure among towering corn stalks.

 

Families can enjoy traditional wagon rides, a chance to meet barnyard animals, and a vibrant pumpkin patch perfect for both carving and autumn décor.

 

Indoor play areas and autumn-themed crafts ensure fun for all, no matter the weather.

 

Special community events, including a Craftastic Show, Pumpkin Painting Night, Car Cruise-In, and Flashlight Night, bring something new each weekend.

 

Admission is $10, while children under three enter free, with farm festivities continuing weekends through October from 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

 

This weekend’s sunny, mid-70s forecast makes it a perfect time for a visit.

Cambria County leaders are seeking court approval to borrow over $8 million as the ongoing Pennsylvania state budget delay leaves critical funding gaps.

 

Solicitor Ronald Repak and attorneys from Dinsmore & Shohl LLP were instructed to file formal legal petitions on Thursday.

 

President Commissioner Scott Hunt clarified that the funds would be accessed as a draw-down loan, only withdrawing amounts as urgently needed.

 

This emergency borrowing aims to keep essential county services running, especially as withheld Act 148 payments threaten Children and Youth services.

 

The county’s formal request seeks an $8.5 million general obligation note, with repayment structured over 10 years.

 

To stabilize finances, commissioners may need to raise property taxes for debt service and the general fund.

 

With arguments set for September 26, local officials underscore that the temporary loan is vital to maintaining public health and safety, despite state-level gridlock.

Jamere Christian, a junior at Richland High School, has earned the prestigious title of Pennsylvania High School Football Player of the Week from Sports Illustrated.

 

His standout defensive play on August 30 pushed the Rams to a 28-18 triumph over reigning Class 1A state champions Bishop Guilfoyle Academy.

 

Christian made a significant impact by intercepting three passes, consistently halting Bishop Guilfoyle’s offense.

 

His sharp instincts and leadership on the field have inspired both teammates and rivals throughout this early season.

 

This recognition brings newfound pride to the Richland program and celebrates the immense talent simmering within Pennsylvania high school football.

 

With each game, Christian’s influence grows, making him a top player to watch as the Rams chase more victories this season.

Johnstown Fashion Week is set to light up The Johnstown Galleria from September 19 to 21, offering an exciting series of style-focused events for area fashion lovers.

 

Festivities begin Friday with a lively meet-and-greet and photo exhibit at Ultra Snaps Studio, followed by an exclusive showcase featuring acclaimed Bahamian designer Marton.

 

Saturday brings the main highlight—a dynamic evening show spotlighting top regional designers, ending with an upbeat after-party for guests to mingle and celebrate.

 

The celebration wraps Sunday with a networking brunch mixer and a runway event featuring beloved stores from The Galleria.

 

Tickets start at just $28.52 and are available on Eventbrite—making this fashion-packed weekend both accessible and can't-miss for locals eager to support area creativity and see the season’s hottest trends.

The Mount Vernon Yellow Jackets clinched a dramatic 35-34 overtime victory against the Johnstown Johnnies in a high-stakes high school football clash Friday night.

 

Both teams dominated on the ground, with Mount Vernon racking up an impressive 385 rushing yards and Johnstown trailing closely with 292 yards.

 

Coach Mark Weber commended his squad’s resiliency, celebrating their incredible 11.7 yards per carry and their relentless spirit.

 

Quarterback Mason Richards was electric, sprinting for a 66-yard score early on and following with another dazzling 44-yard touchdown.

 

Johnstown’s signature rushing attack kept the contest intense, but the game’s turning point came in overtime.

 

After Johnstown’s go-ahead touchdown, Mount Vernon’s defense denied the two-point conversion, sealing the win.

 

This hard-earned victory boosts Mount Vernon to 2-2, injecting fresh confidence as they prepare to face Heath next week.

 

Galliker’s Dairy Company is rolling out its first no-sugar, no-calorie drink: Zero Lime Iced Tea.

 

This refreshing option matches the signature bold lime taste of their classic iced tea, now with zero sugar and calories.

 

Local fans can find Zero Lime Iced Tea on shelves starting August 28th.

 

The Johnstown-based company plans to unveil more “Zero” varieties soon, continuing its focus on healthier choices.

 

Recent innovations include the nationwide debut of Galliker’s Anywhere iced tea delivery in November 2024 and spiked iced tea flavors in cans introduced in April.

 

Founded in 1914, Galliker’s remains a trusted community name, blending tradition and innovation.

 

With Zero Lime Iced Tea, Galliker’s caters to evolving tastes, putting flavor first while supporting healthier lifestyles.

Johnstown, Pennsylvania will come alive with the Squonkapalooza festival on August 2, 2025, welcoming families from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Bottle Works Ethnic Arts Center in Cambria City.

 

The event spotlights the Squonk, a legendary creature from local folklore famed for its unusual appearance and perpetual sadness.

 

Inspired by tales set in Pennsylvania’s hemlock forests, organizers aim to transform the Squonk's forlorn reputation into a symbol of celebration and acceptance.

 

Festival co-founder Joe Fogle, a Johnstown native, believes in bringing the community together through this quirky, heartfelt tribute.

 

Expect lively music, art, food, guest speakers, and entertainers, all centering on cryptids and regional stories.

 

The beloved compliment contest encourages visitors to share poems or uplifting stories for the Squonk, spreading positivity throughout the day.

 

The festival promises a joyful nod to Pennsylvania's folklore and a unique way for neighbors to connect.

For decades, the Little Conemaugh River in Cambria County was scarred by acid mine drainage, its waters left lifeless and stained orange by pollution from the abandoned St. Michael mine shaft.

 

Through a landmark partnership between the EPA and Pennsylvania DEP, a 3,000-gallon-per-minute toxic discharge—polluting the river since the 1960s—has now been stopped.

 

Today, the river’s recovery is visible, with clear water signaling dramatic improvement for local ecosystems.

 

Key to this turnaround was Rosebud Mining Company’s treatment facility, built in 2013 and funded to guarantee long-term clean water, even after mining ends.

 

The DEP estimates this initiative will cut iron pollution by 98% and aluminum entirely, restoring hope and vitality to the community.

 

Ongoing projects and grants, like the Victor #10 Abandoned Mine Discharge Pipeline, mark a renewed commitment to revitalizing Pennsylvania’s waterways and securing a healthier future for residents and wildlife.