SparkVlog

Local high school has grand re-opening of shop named after Columbine shooting victim

Altoona Area High School held a grand re-opening Wednesday morning of an upcycling shop, named after a student killed in the Columbine High School shooting. The project is called Rachel’s Closet, named after Rachel Scott, who was the first student killed in the shooting. Madison Aboud with Rachel’s Closet says the project was inspired by Rachel’s wish to spread kindness and positivity. Students can come to the shop for items such as clothing, school supplies and personal hygiene items free of charge.

Local restaurant offers new dining experience

If you're in downtown Johnstown, you may notice something new near Main Street. Balance Restaurant is now able to use its courtyard space for winter dining as well as summer. Owner Amanda Artim says she did some research and came up with the idea to bring in "igloos" for a change in atmosphere. There are two available, each seating eight, and equipped with heating and blankets to make sure guests stay comfortable when sitting outside, and Thursday is the first night they are officially open to the public with one group already reserved.

Veterans given free rides to medical centers

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. (WJAC) — Veterans in Johnstown can now get free rides to medical centers four days a week. Rides will be available to the Johnstown outpatient clinic and the Altoona Veterans Affairs medical center Monday through Thursday. Rides must be requested at least three days in advance, and medical appointments should be scheduled between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Veterans must also be able to get in and out of vehicles unassisted to be eligible for rides through this service.

Woman charged in fatal Altoona fire claims to be a 'witch' & 'Egyptian Goddess'

UPDATE | BLAIR COUNTY, Pa. (WJAC) — Authorities have released new details about what led to the arrest of an Altoona woman for her role in a fatal fire last February. On Tuesday, police filed a multitude of charges against 43-year-old Heather Evans, including multiple counts of murder and aggravated arson, for setting fire to an East 5th Ave. home on Feb. 15th, 2022. Investigators say the fire claimed the life of 75-year-old Mark Stewart, and also resulted in multiple firefighters being injured while battling the blaze.

Authorities searching for Saltsburg area man who reportedly failed to show up to work

Indiana County, PA (WJAC) — Authorities in Indiana County are searching for a Saltsburg area man who was reported missing on Wednesday. Police say 45-year-old Bryan John Bialas, of Conemaugh Township, Indiana County, reportedly failed to show up for work and was reported missing by his family and co-workers. Troopers say Bialas is described as a white male, approximately 6 feet, 1 inches tall, with a thin build, brown eyes and long brown hair.