The Westmoreland Buzz is Sponsored by:
Simply Drost at SimplyDrost.com

Jessica Drost, a Northern Cambria mom, created Simply Drost to make fashion feel accessible for all women.

Her consignment boutique features pre-loved clothing, handbags, and accessories, ensuring affordable, environmentally conscious choices without sacrificing style.

Jessica carefully curates each item, choosing pieces that feel cozy, wearable, and confidence-boosting.

For families watching their budgets, Simply Drost offers a trusted alternative to clearance racks – every item has been sorted, washed, and styled by Jessica herself.

Local women can meet Jessica and shop in person at monthly pop-up events across Blair, Cambria, and Westmoreland Counties.

Follow Simply Drost on Facebook or visit her website to stay updated on new arrivals and upcoming pop-ups.

Let her know you found her through The Blair Buzz for a personal touch.

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🌟 Top Story

Hanna’s Town Farmers Market Officially Kicks Off Outdoor Season

• Summary: The highly anticipated outdoor market season returns to the beautiful, 18th-century setting of Historic Hanna’s Town. Organized by the Downtown Greensburg Project, the market features roughly 60 local vendors selling fresh agriculture, baked treats, and handcrafted goods.
• Why it matters: Local shoppers can directly support small family businesses, farmers, and artisans while spending a relaxing morning exploring one of the county's most treasured historic gems.
• Date: May 23, 2026
• Source: TribLIVE Market Announcement
  
  

🛍️ Small Business Spotlight

Voter Turnout Inspires Local Pride as Old Gate Flowers and Wendel Spring Farm Open Irwin Farmers Market

• Summary: The Irwin Farmers Market celebrates its vibrant opening weekend, showcasing iconic neighborhood vendors like Old Gate Flowers, Wendel Spring Farm, and Overdale Honey. Running every Saturday morning, the market is packing downtown Irwin with local flavor, baked goods, and community food trucks.
• Why it matters: It offers residents a reliable, weekly hub to purchase fresh goods straight from local growers, invigorating the downtown business district.
• Date: May 23, 2026
• Source: Irwin Market Social Update
  
  

🎨 Arts & Entertainment

An Artful Evening: Gilded Glamour Celebrates Gavin Benjamin at The Westmoreland

• Summary: The Westmoreland Museum of American Art is hosting a luxurious evening reception and dinner inside the Cantilever Gallery to honor contemporary artist Gavin Benjamin. Guests will enjoy a lively reception and a curated menu by The Common Plea, with decor and entertainment fully inspired by Benjamin's elegant style.
• Why it matters: It provides art lovers with an intimate opportunity to support local contemporary art and celebrate regional cultural contributions.
• Date: May 29, 2026
• Source: The Westmoreland Museum Event Page
  
  

Best of Broadway Closes the Westmoreland Cultural Trust Season in Style

• Summary: The Westmoreland Symphony Orchestra Chamber Singers and guest soloists are taking over the historic Palace Theatre stage for a showstopping musical finale. Audiences will hear timeless, uplifting tunes from classic Broadway hits like The Sound of Music, Carousel, Oklahoma, and The King and I.
• Why it matters: It brings world-class cultural entertainment right to the heart of Westmoreland County, celebrating performing arts close to home.
• Date: May 30, 2026
• Source: Westmoreland Cultural Trust Listing
  

Dark Orchid Takes the Stage for Free Outdoor Memorial Day Week Concert

• Summary: Classic rock band Dark Orchid will rock the outdoor stage at the Voodoo Brewery New Kensington Pub during a special holiday week celebration. Attendees can enjoy a night of zero-cover live music alongside great local food and craft beverages.
• Why it matters: Free, community-focused music events like this make local nightlife accessible and bring life to New Kensington's ongoing revitalization.
• Date: May 29, 2026
• Source: Voodoo Brewery Event Info
  
  

🎈 Family Fun

West Overton Village Launches Free "DIY History Days" for Children

• Summary: West Overton Village has announced a brand-new, cost-free educational program series designed to give kids hands-on experiences with history. The kickoff session allows kids to explore photography before the digital age, handle vintage cameras, and learn the science behind classic snapshots.
• Why it matters: It gives local families a wonderful, budget-friendly educational outing that sparks curiosity and keeps children engaged in regional history.
• Date: May 24, 2026
• Source: TribLIVE Youth Education Announcement
  
  

🤝 Community Spotlight

Former Export Public Works Employees Give Fire Hydrants a Patriotic Makeover [10]

• Summary: A half-century after painting the borough’s hydrants for the 1976 Bicentennial, longtime friends Bob Smith and Steve Veach teamed up again to give downtown fire hydrants a beautiful red, white, and blue makeover. The project prepares the town beautifully for its upcoming Memorial Day Parade and the nation's 250th anniversary.
• Why it matters: This heartwarming story of lifelong community pride and volunteerism adds local charm and historical symmetry to Export's downtown business district.
• Date: May 21, 2026 (Project completion) / May 25, 2026 (Parade viewing)
• Source: TribLIVE Export Feature
  
  

Greensburg Invites Residents to Shape Downtown Future via Redevelopment Meetings

• Summary: The Greensburg Community Development Corporation is launching three public feedback sessions to involve locals in transforming the downtown area. The strategy aims to help Greensburg secure the state's coveted Main Street Matters designation to boost local events and community infrastructure.
• Why it matters: It gives ordinary citizens, students, and workers a direct voice in revitalizing the community and improving the local economy.
• Date: May 25, 27, and 28, 2026
• Source: GCDC Public Meeting Notice
  
  

Hotrods & Hearts Car Cruise Fundraiser Drives Support for Regional Opportunity Programs

• Summary: The Laurel Highlands Workforce & Opportunity Center is opening its Greensburg facility for a community fundraiser car cruise showcasing classic hotrods. The day will feature local food trucks, basket raffles, a 50/50 drawing, and a DJ, with all proceeds directly benefiting workforce development programs.
• Why it matters: It mixes family-friendly entertainment with charity, allowing car enthusiasts and neighbors to lift up local employment training programs.
• Date: May 31, 2026
• Source: Laurel Highlands WOC Fundraiser Hub
  
  

Westmoreland County Water Authority Responds to Community with Free Infrastructure Service

• Summary: In a massive win for residential homeowners, the Municipal Authority of Westmoreland County dropped all previously proposed infrastructure fees to offer its lead water line replacement program completely free of charge. The voluntary initiative completely removes a potential $3,200 financial burden from local families.
• Why it matters: This policy shift shows public utilities prioritizing community health and economic relief, ensuring working families can easily achieve safe residential infrastructure.
• Date: May 22, 2026
• Source: TribLIVE Public Utility Report
  
  

Westmoreland County Community College Earns High Honors as Military Friendly Gold School

• Summary: Westmoreland County Community College has been officially recognized as a Gold Award-winning Military Friendly School for 2026–2027 by veteran resource organization Viqtory. WCCC stands out for its robust support services, specialized scholarships, and dedicated advising for military veterans and their families.
• Why it matters: It highlights the high caliber of local higher education and underscores our community's commitment to supporting those who served.
• Date: May 20, 2026
• Source: TribLIVE WCCC Education Feature
  
  

🌲 Outdoor & Recreation

Volunteers Band Together to Prepare New Ligonier Valley Farmers Market Grounds

• Summary: Dozens of passionate local volunteers gathered at the Loyalhanna Watershed Association's 9-acre site to rake grass and prepare fields for the upcoming debut of the Ligonier Valley Farmers Market. The brand-new project will split into a farm agriculture market and a boutique artisan crafts market.
• Why it matters: The massive volunteer response shows the unstoppable community spirit of Ligonier residents who are working hard to protect green corridors while keeping fresh-food access thriving.
• Date: May 20, 2026 (Volunteer Effort) / Launching June 13, 2026
• Source: TribLIVE Ligonier Preparation Feature

Country music superstar Luke Bryan will return to Western Pennsylvania this September, bringing his popular Farm Tour to 1846 Farms in Unity Township near Latrobe.

The concert is set for September 17, with tickets on sale starting May 21 at 9 a.m.

This marks a major event for the region, as organizers expect up to 20,000 attendees.

1846 Farms, owned by the Stas family, was chosen after impressing promoters during last year’s local Farm Tour stop.

The historic property — dating to 1785 and recently revitalized — will host the stage in one of its fields and is preparing extra parking for the crowd.

Farm manager Aleisha Stas hopes the show will spotlight both country music and ongoing efforts to preserve farmland for the Westmoreland County community.

Signage and venue upgrades are underway as Latrobe readies for a memorable fall concert.

"Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world." - Harriet Tubman

🗓️ Family-Friendly Events in Westmoreland County, PA

May 26 – June 1, 2026

Here is the 7-day weather forecast for Greensburg, PA:

Westmoreland Buzz BOGO

Did you know.....?

You can read our News Feed for back articles and releases

 that never made it to our newsletter HERE?
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You can read our Newsletter Back issues HERE?

**Hey neighbors!** I've dug into recent openings and upcoming spots from roughly mid-April through early June 2026. While big industrial moves and mall expansions get plenty of headlines, I've focused on smaller, community-rooted businesses where possible. Here's a roundup of a few highlights that are bringing fresh energy to our towns.

### Bealls Department Store – Mount Pleasant
**Bealls** celebrated its grand opening in mid-April with a lively ribbon-cutting right in the heart of Mount Pleasant. The new store is located at **100 Crossroads Plaza, Mount Pleasant, PA 15666**. This family-friendly department store offers clothing, shoes, home goods, and accessories for the whole family at great prices.

Locals are already buzzing about the convenient one-stop shopping that fills a need for affordable everyday essentials without driving all the way to bigger malls. It's a welcome addition that supports busy families and helps keep dollars circulating closer to home in the southern part of the county.

Stop by to explore their fresh inventory—many residents are raving about the variety. They're open standard retail hours (typically 9 or 10 AM to 8 or 9 PM—call to confirm). Follow them on social media for sales and events, or visit bealls.com for details. Supporting them means more options right here in Westmoreland!

### Mangia featuring DeLallo – Westmoreland Mall area, Greensburg
An exciting new Italian market and eatery, **Mangia featuring DeLallo**, opened in April 2026 inside the Live! Casino Pittsburgh complex at Westmoreland Mall. It brings authentic Italian specialties, fresh deli items, prepared foods, and a casual dining experience to the area.

This spot highlights quality imported goods and local favorites, filling a delicious gap for quick, flavorful Italian-inspired meals and groceries. It's perfect for grabbing lunch, catering a gathering, or stocking up on pantry staples. The connection to the well-known DeLallo brand adds a layer of trusted quality that feels special to our region.

Look for their hours aligned with the casino/mall (generally open daily—check the Live! Casino site or call ahead). Follow updates on social media through the mall or casino channels. Swing by soon and taste the community spirit!

### Rutter's – Commerce Crossing, Sewickley Township
**Rutter's** opened its first Westmoreland County location earlier this year (with celebrations carrying into spring) at Commerce Crossing along I-70 in Sewickley Township. This modern convenience store, gas station, and quick-service spot includes made-to-order food, premium beverages, and even a 1747 Bar & Lounge for a relaxed bite.

The team behind Rutter's chose this high-traffic, growing industrial area to serve both locals and travelers with reliable, friendly service around the clock. It meets the need for convenient, quality options in a part of the county seeing more activity and growth.

They're open **24 hours**—super handy! Find them near I-70 and Waltz Mill Road. Check rutters.com or their social pages for current specials and menu items. Grabbing coffee, fuel, or a quick meal here is a great way to support local economic momentum.

These openings show the quiet strength of our county—new spots that connect people, fill everyday needs, and create that neighborly vibe we all love. If you visit any of them, tell the owners you saw it in the newsletter! Got photos or your own experiences from these (or others I might have missed)? Share them so we can celebrate together in the next edition. 😊

What do you think—ready to check one out this weekend? Let's keep supporting the folks betting on Westmoreland!

Tell them you saw them in the Westmoreland Buzz!

Interesting Facts

Local Shout-outs, Local Heroes, Local Causes, Fundraisers, and Volunteer Opportunities

Westmoreland Buzz Community Roundup

Here are some positive and community-focused stories, opportunities, and shoutouts happening around Westmoreland County this week.

Local Shoutouts

Westmoreland County Community College Earns Military Friendly Gold Status

Westmoreland County Community College was recently recognized as a Gold Award-winning Military Friendly School for the 2026-27 school year. The honor highlights the college’s commitment to supporting veterans and military-connected students with educational resources and services.

Key Details:

• Recognition announced this week

• One of nearly 900 schools nationwide receiving the designation

• Located in Youngwood, PA

Source:
TribLive Story
(TribLIVE.com)

Local Arts Students to Be Honored at Achievement in the Arts Ceremony

Westmoreland Cultural Trust is preparing to recognize 64 high school seniors from across the county for outstanding artistic achievement. Students from 16 local schools will be celebrated for excellence in music, theater, visual arts, dance, and more.

Key Details:

• Ceremony held at The Palace Theatre in Greensburg

• Students from across Westmoreland County participating

• Focus on celebrating youth creativity and talent

Source:
TribLive Arts Recognition Story
(TribLIVE.com)

Latrobe Municipal Authority Leader Receives Statewide Recognition

Terri Hauser of the Latrobe Municipal Authority was honored as part of Pennsylvania’s Governor’s Awards for Local Government Excellence. The recognition celebrates public servants making a positive impact in their communities.

Key Details:

• Award announced by Pennsylvania DCED

• Recognizes leadership and service in local government

• Westmoreland County represented among statewide honorees

Source:
PA DCED Awards Announcement
(PA DCED)

Local Heroes

Volunteers Continue Supporting Seniors Across Westmoreland County

The “Open Your Heart to a Senior” initiative through United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania continues connecting volunteers with local seniors who need companionship, transportation, yard help, and wellness check-ins. It’s one of those quiet community efforts that makes a huge difference every day.

Key Details:

• Volunteers can assist with visits, errands, phone calls, and transportation

• Flexible commitment — often just an hour per week

• Based in Greensburg

Contact:

• Phone: (724) 205-6282

Source:
Open Your Heart to a Senior Program
(Westmoreland County)

Local Causes

Feeding the Spirit Expands Community Support Efforts

Feeding the Spirit continues its mission of helping neighbors facing poverty, homelessness, and food insecurity. Their recent updates highlight growing community involvement and upcoming outreach events aimed at supporting struggling families throughout the county.

Key Details:

• Assistance includes crisis support and food programs

• Community members can sponsor, donate, or volunteer

• Upcoming “Fill a Truck” community initiative highlighted for spring efforts

Contact:

• Phone: (724) 216-9208

Source:
Feeding the Spirit Official Site
(Feeding the Spirit)

Fundraisers

Blackburn Center’s “Walk a Mile” Event Raises Awareness and Support

Blackburn Center recently hosted its annual “Walk a Mile in Her Shoes” event to raise awareness and funding for survivors of domestic violence and abuse. Community sponsors, local organizations, and residents came together in a strong show of support.

Key Details:

• Annual fundraising and awareness event

• Supports victim advocacy and crisis services in Westmoreland County

• Hosted in April with continued donation opportunities available

Source:
Blackburn Center Walk Event
(blackburncenter)

Volunteer Opportunities

Westmoreland Food Bank Looking for Community Volunteers

Westmoreland Food Bank is actively seeking volunteers to help pack food boxes, organize donations, and assist with food drives. It’s a great opportunity for families, students, and community groups looking to give back locally.

Key Details:

• Volunteer opportunities available year-round

• Help support county residents facing food insecurity

• Group and individual volunteer options available

Source:
Westmoreland Food Bank Volunteer Page
(Westmoreland Food Bank)

If you apply to adopt, please let the Humane Society know that you saw the listing in The Westmoreland Buzz Newsletter!

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Warmly,

Charles Sisk

Editor