CAMBRIA COUNTY, Pa. (WJAC) — Community members in the Moxham section of Johnstown -- which they say is known for having a "bad reputation" -- are trying to change that narrative.
Camillya Taylor is a business owner in Moxham and said she loves going to work every day in the historic district.
"There's so many great people over here. There's so many great things going on," she told 6 News. "I think if more good comes, then eventually you won't even pay attention to the bad."
She owns The Lounge Cafe and Camille's House of Styles Salon & Boutique, both just right down the street from each other.
"Sometimes Moxham gets a bad reputation. So much goes on, and people focus on that," Camillya said.
"I've had people come to the salon and say, 'Hey, aren't you scared to be here?' And I'm like, 'No.' It's actually amazing over here."
So, Camillya and the community are taking action instead of pressing judgment.
"We decided that we were going to make good noise. We were going to change the narrative of Moxham."
Last week, they hosted the town's first Light Up Night and hold many community events throughout the year.
Camillya said they've given kids free back-to-school haircuts and donated school supplies.
"I think if more good comes, then eventually you won't even pay attention to the bad," Camillya said.
She said if you still don't believe it, come and see the place for yourself instead of judging from afar.
"I just think come in for a cup of coffee or come get a haircut, and you'll see it's amazing down here."
The Russell House will hold its 22nd annual Christmas event on Saturday and Sunday, December 11th and 12th.
- Saturday’s hours will be from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday’s hours will be from noon to 5 p.m.
- There will be live entertainment, sleigh rides, and a visit from Santa.
- All events are free and open to the public.
ncG1vNJzZmivmpawtcKNnKamZ56axLR7y6iamqRfmLWiusaipaBlpJ2ybrrAq6marJmrsm65zrGfmqVdmLyuudSnoK2xXaKyrq7Eq6pmoJmcta21xqGrZqyYmnqxu9Kiq6KulQ%3D%3D