The Cambria County War Memorial Arena has had its share of fiscal problems, but with a new management company in place and a new hockey team on its ice, the arena is making a comeback.

Even so, the facility is still dealing with budget issues.

The Cambria County War Memorial Authority and SMG Entertainment said between the memorial and its sister facility -- North Central Recreation Center in Ebensburg -- they have a $50,000 deficit. The board discovered the shortfall on Monday when it approved the budget.

But, officials said they could easily be in the black if the local community steps in and supports the venue.

War Memorial Authority Chairman Dean Gindlesperger said the last thing he wants it to ask taxpayers for money.

"We're not happy that it's not a balanced budget, but it is realistic," Gindlesperger said, adding that the deficit is far less than in years past. "I don't know if they've ever had a balance budget here. I mean, it's been pretty bad."

Officials with the War Memorial said it's up to the local community to help by coming to the venue and supporting the Johnstown Tomahawks hockey league.

Tom Grenell, acting general manager, said, "Success creates success. If we can put 3,000-plus people in this facility on 28 occasions, that will have a ripple effect that will be far reaching and it is an exciting product, an exciting game. … Failure is not an option. Not even a consideration. Because this is something that is quite successful and we'll continue to grow."

Gindlesperger said, "What we need now is those people who said they wanted hockey back to support it."

The authority also acknowledges the many improvements the memorial badly needs, like better equipment. But they reiterated that if they receive support from the community, that newer equipment can be a reality.