Airport fix or false hope? Breeze, a $10.7M helicopter, Banana Ball at school & campus golf

Banana Ball brings joy! Plus Breeze buzz, a new medical helicopter & campus golf drama.

Charles Sisk

📰 WEEKLY PREVIEW

* Top Stories: WVU Medicine to place new $10.7 million medical helicopter in Westmoreland County
* Local Events: Greensburg Halloween Parade and Party
* What's Trending: Pumpkin-powered family fun
* Community Engagement: Westmoreland Community Action Programs
* Pet of the week: Meet Okie! - Please adopt me!

Trivia Question❓

If you set out to visit the country with the most ancient pyramids and assumed Egypt was the obvious choice, which neighboring country would surprise you with more pyramids, many built by rulers of the Kingdom of Kush?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

The Westmoreland Buzz newsletter is sponsored by:

Pletcher's Farm Market

Starting Tuesday Morning 830am and lasting for the rest of the season.

All carving pumpkins and Specialty Fall Mix Pumpkins(stackers) priced $5 and up are going to be

BUY 2 GET ONE FREE!!
Sunday November 1st will be the last day of the season.

	Address	175 State Route 711, Champion, PA, 15622
	Days Open	Open Tuesday through Sunday 830am-6pm closed Mondays.
	Hours	830am-6pm
	Phone	724-593-8330

Click to visit sponsor

💬 3 Comments

Banana Ball League star brings science, kindness and dance to Western Pa. school

At Allard Elementary School in Moon Township, Party Animals baseball player Bronny Balholm gave fourth-graders a chance to dance, explore science and talk about kindness.

He started with a Banana Ball League-inspired dance lesson, then used a bat to show how motion, timing and the sweet spot affect a swing.

Balholm, who has an aerospace engineering degree from Arizona State University, helped students connect a familiar sport with ideas they study in class.

3 readers are talking about this

Top first

Dave Thompson · 21 hours ago

Moon Township is a bit far from Westmoreland, but I hope Balholm visits schools here too.

8 likes

See all 3 comments

💬 2 Comments

Does Breeze Airlines solve airport's woes? - Altoona Mirror

Breeze Airways could give Westmoreland County travelers a reason to start their trips close to home again.

Under a two-year agreement, the airline plans twice-weekly flights from Arnold Palmer Regional Airport in Unity to Myrtle Beach and Orlando.

The service is welcome after Spirit Airlines’ departure ended scheduled passenger flights, cost the airport its federal security-screening presence and prompted a charter operator to move regular operations elsewhere.

For families and businesses around Latrobe and Greensburg, a nearby departure offers convenience, though two vacation routes cannot meet every travel need.

2 readers are talking about this

Top first

Dave Thompson · 3 hours ago

Two days a week sounds helpful, but I wonder how many people can plan their trips around that schedule.

1 like

See all 2 comments

WVU Medicine to place new $10.7 million medical helicopter in Westmoreland County

Westmoreland County could gain a locally based medical helicopter in spring 2027, giving care teams another option for transferring patients who need specialized treatment.

The WVU Health System board has approved the Airbus H135, which would serve Westmoreland County and surrounding Pennsylvania communities.

HealthNet Aeromedical Services will own the aircraft and manage clinical care aboard it.

In Westmoreland County college sports, the final score rarely tells the whole story.

For families following athletes from Greensburg to Latrobe, a steady round, a reserve’s contribution or a senior’s leadership can matter as much as a headline-making result.

The PAC men’s golf championship brings that perspective into focus for Saint Vincent College in Latrobe.

WVU Medicine plans new medical helicopter base in Greensburg

Family-Friendly Events in Westmoreland, Oct 20 – Oct 26, 2026

Living History Day! Fall Family Day: Harvest at Hanna’s Town, Children’s Trick or Treat!

	Date	Saturday, October 24, 2026
	Time	11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
	Location	Historic Hanna’s Town
	Price	Free

Celebrate fall with the whole family at Historic Hanna’s Town! Explore the history of Halloween through living history demonstrations, seasonal crafts and trick-or-treating at the historic log buildings. Costumes are encouraged, and admission is free.

Watch frontier skills in action, help reenact a historic court case, or settle in for children’s story time. You can also wander the site at your own pace, visit the exhibit gallery and browse the Westmoreland History Shop. Food and beverage vendors will be on site.

	809 Forbes Trail Road, Greensburg, PA 15601
	(724) 836-1800

Click to find out more

Halloween Parade and Party

	Date	Saturday, October 24, 2026
	Time	11:30 AM – 2:00 PM
	Location	City Hall parking lot

Dress in your most creative Halloween costume and join the City of Greensburg’s annual Halloween Parade and Party on Saturday, October 24. Lineup begins at 11:30 AM at the Courthouse Annex in Downtown Greensburg before the parade heads along South Pennsylvania Avenue.

After the parade, the celebration continues in the City Hall parking lot until 2:00 PM. Enjoy a DJ, face painting, games and activities, and show off your costume for a chance to receive a gift basket for the most creative look.

520 New Alexandria Rd, Greensburg, PA 15601-1445

Click to find out more

Event name

	Date	Oct 23, 2026
	Time	7:30 pm
	Location	The Palace Theatre
	Price	Tickets: $35 \| $40 \| $45 \| $50 \| $55 (plus fees)

Through this live performance experience, you’ll be immersed in the magic of Michael Jackson’s music, from his breakthrough album “Off the Wall” to his timeless hits like “Thriller” and “Smooth Criminal” and of course “Billie Jean.”

You’ll be transported back in time to the golden era of Michael Jackson, with a fully immersive experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories. From the choreography to the lights, costumes, and of course, the music. Now get ready for the magic of Michael Jackson. This is MJ The Illusion a must-see for all fans of music.

	21 W. Otterman St., Greensburg, PA 15601
	724-836-1123

Click to find out more

Idlewild HallowBOO! (Kids’ Costume Parade weekend)

	Date	Saturday Oct 24 and Sunday Oct 25.
	Time	3:30 pm
	Location	Hillside Theater
	Price	Dated online tickets as low as $34.99. Any-Day HallowBOO! admission is $54.99 (gate price $65.99). Children 2 and under are free.

Enter event description

Idlewild & SoakZone, 2574 Lincoln Hwy, Ligonier, PA 15658

Click to find out more

Bonus mentions:

Non-Profit Trunk or Treat: Thu, Oct 22, 2026, 5:00–7:00 pm at 310 Donohoe Rd, Greensburg. Local businesses and nonprofits decorate trunks, hand out treats, and share info about family programs. No price is listed. https://allevents.in/greensburg/non-profit-trunk-or-treat/200030116136755 allevents allevents
The Trendy Bunny’s 7th Annual Halloween Party: Oct 24, 10AM–5PM at The Trendy Bunny Play Café, 123 McKeon Way, Downtown Greensburg. All Halloween activities are free for children under 10 with any purchase in the café or boutique that day. https://allevents.in/greensburg/halloween-party/200030666665712 allevents allevents
Grandview Haunt (free neighborhood haunted garage walkthrough): Grandview Ave & Longview St, Greensburg; admission free, non-perishable food donations accepted. Some younger children may find it too intense. Saturday, October 31, 6 - 11 pm https://happeningnext.com/event/grandview-haunt-2026-eid3a0dwwswff happeningnext happeningnext
Jazz Concert Series: Rich Zabinski Jazz: Wed, Oct 21, 7:00–9:00 pm at 221 N Main St, Greensburg, which is The Westmoreland Museum of American Art. Price isn’t listed. https://allevents.in/greensburg/jazz-concert-series-rich-zabinski-jazz/200030828688317 allevents
Daughtry – 20 Years Unplugged: Monday, October 26th, 2026; doors 7:00PM, show 8:00PM, The Palace Theatre; this event is all ages. Check the link for prices.
https://westmorelandculturaltrust.org/events/daughtry-1026/?occurrence=2026-10-26

📚 Westmoreland County Public Library Events

The Westmoreland County Library System has 26 member libraries. Click the link below to the main library finder where you can get their calendars. Be sure to check library calendars for all confirmed events.

🍦 Valley Dairy Restaurant | North Huntingdon

Location: Norwin Hills Plaza along Route 30, North Huntingdon, PA

Opened / Opening: Fall 2026

Type of Business: Casual, family-friendly diner & ice cream parlor

The Latrobe-based local favorite Valley Dairy expands its presence in Westmoreland County with a brand-new restaurant in North Huntingdon! Known across Southwestern Pennsylvania for its home-style breakfasts, classic burgers, and legendary ice cream sundaes, the company converted a prominent retail location in the Norwin Hills Plaza to serve up community favorites close to home.

"We always eat at the Latrobe location, and it’s wonderful to see Valley Dairy bring great food and family values right to North Huntingdon." — Local community member

How to Support: Stop in at Norwin Hills Plaza along Route 30 for breakfast, lunch, or a sundae! Check out their full menu and updates at valleydairyrestaurants.com.

💈 Lounge Barbershop | Greensburg

Location: East Pittsburgh Street, Downtown Greensburg, PA

Owner: Adam Jacobsen

Type of Business: Barber shop and hair care services

Hempfield resident Adam Jacobsen launched Lounge Barbershop right in the heart of downtown Greensburg. Having spent over four years cutting hair in South Greensburg, Jacobsen decided to take the leap and open his own storefront to contribute to downtown Greensburg's ongoing revitalization.

"I look at my job like, yeah, it’s just haircuts, but everybody knows when you get your hair done, it makes you feel good... To be able to get into downtown Greensburg right now and be a part of all the stuff they’re doing down here is pretty exciting." — Adam Jacobsen, Owner

How to Support: Walk in or book an appointment at their East Pittsburgh Street shop! Follow Lounge Barbershop on social media or stop by during regular business hours to welcome Adam to the neighborhood.

☕ Cafe Zara | Greensburg / Hempfield

Location: 611 New Alexandria Road (next to Dairy Queen), Greensburg, PA

Owner: Zara Wan

Type of Business: Mobile Middle Eastern coffee & bakery trailer

Greensburg resident and LECOM medical student Zara Wan brought vibrant Middle Eastern flavors to the local coffee scene with Cafe Zara. Serving authentic Middle Eastern coffee drinks and fresh baked goods, this pop-up mobile unit offers a unique taste experience while proving that health challenges won't stop entrepreneurial passion.

"I moved here for my studies, but I wanted to share something deeply personal and cultural with the area while building connection." — Zara Wan, Owner

How to Support: Visit the cafe trailer at 611 New Alexandria Road on weekends from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Keep up with pop-up hours and specials on their Instagram and Facebook pages.

🍝 Mangia featuring DeLallo | Hempfield / Latrobe Area

Location: Live! Casino Pittsburgh at Westmoreland Mall, Hempfield Township, PA

Owners: The DeLallo Family & Live! Casino

Type of Business: Italian market, specialty eatery, and craft soda bar

Celebrating 76 years of culinary heritage starting right in Jeannette, PA, the fourth-generation family business DeLallo Italian Foods partnered with Live! Casino to launch Mangia featuring DeLallo. The new market and eatery serves authentic fresh Italian comfort foods, custom paninis, artisan pasta, and specialty Italian cream sodas alongside a retail counter.

"We are grateful to partner with DeLallo — a beloved local brand that offers authentic food and shares our same community values." — Sean Sullivan, General Manager of Live! Casino

How to Support: Located inside Live! Casino Pittsburgh at Westmoreland Mall. Learn more at pittsburgh.livecasinohotel.com.

🍂 Humidor Cigars & Lounge | Jeannette

Location: Downtown Jeannette, PA

Owner: Aaron Allen

Type of Business: Cigar retail shop and community lounge

Local entrepreneur and state police trooper Aaron Allen brought Jeannette its very first dedicated cigar lounge. Humidor Cigars & Lounge carries over 120 brands of cigars and accessories, while partnering with local eateries in Jeannette to deliver food straight to lounge guests during community events and watch parties.

"Every Jeannette restaurant will deliver mobile orders to the lounge... We want to bring people together, host community watch parties, and support neighboring businesses at the same time." — Aaron Allen, Owner

How to Support: Drop by the downtown Jeannette storefront to check out the humidor selection, relax in the lounge, or support local delivery partners!

Westmoreland’s Autumn Buzz

Five family-friendly outings. Fall fun continues across Westmoreland County, with opportunities to gather, create and explore. These five upcoming events offer residents and visitors seasonal adventures, from downtown Irwin to historic destinations around the county.

Community connections in Irwin. Share an Oktoberfest dinner October 22, from 4–7 p.m., at First United Church of Christ, 400 Main Street. Tickets cost $14 for adults and $7 for children; call 724-863-0430.[community.triblive]
Costume creativity downtown. Irwin’s Store to Store Trick-or-Treat and Halloween Costume Parade takes place October 24 on Main Street. Children can dress up, collect treats and join the festivities, with prizes recognizing standout costumes.[incommunitymagazines]
Pumpkin-powered family fun. Compass Inn Museum in Laughlintown hosts its 11th Annual Pumpkin Carving Contest October 24. Families and individuals are encouraged to participate, making this a seasonal stop for creative visitors.[business.westmorelandchamber]
Outdoor adventures near Greensburg. Twin Lakes Park’s free Hobgoblin Hike runs October 24, from 7–9 p.m. The half-mile haunted woodland walk is recommended for ages eight and older—not little ones seeking scare-free entertainment.[westmorelandcountypa]
Hands-on history in Scottdale. West Overton Village’s DIY History Day brings crafts and children’s trick-or-treating October 25, from 3–6 p.m. Reservations are required, so plan ahead for this family outing.[community.triblive]

✨ LOCAL SHOUTOUTS, HEROES, CAUSES, FUNDRAISERS, VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

🎉 Local Shoutouts

Judge Christopher A. Feliciani Enters Derry Area Hall of Fame

President Judge Christopher A. Feliciani of the Westmoreland County Court of Common Pleas has been officially selected as a 2026 inductee into the prestigious Derry Area School District Hall of Fame. This wonderful recognition honors his longstanding commitment, legal leadership, and deep roots in the community.
- Key Details: Celebrated locally this October. More details can be found through the Westmoreland County official news portal.
- Source Link: Westmoreland County PA News Flash
Local Leadership Excellence: Terri Hauser Recognized

Terri Hauser, Manager of the Latrobe Municipal Authority, has been honored by the Shapiro Administration with a prestigious 2026 Governor's Award for Local Government Excellence. This statewide award highlights her exceptional dedication, innovative management, and steadfast service to the Westmoreland County region.
- Key Details: Announced mid-October 2026 by the PA Department of Community & Economic Development.
- Source Link: PA DCED Newsroom

🦸 Local Heroes

Homeless Engagement Subcommittee Members and Advocates

The dedicated volunteers and community partners driving the Westmoreland County Homeless Engagement Subcommittee continue to go above and beyond. Meeting regularly at Sage's Army, these local heroes work tirelessly to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and connect vulnerable neighbors with vital housing and support resources.
- Key Details: The subcommittee meets on the second Tuesday of every month at 1:30 PM using a hybrid model hosted at Sage's Army.
- Source Link: Westmoreland County Calendar

🤝 Local Causes

Welcoming Westmoreland Inclusion Initiative

Welcoming Westmoreland is shining a light on the importance of creating a truly inclusive environment for residents of all backgrounds, ages, and ability levels. The initiative invites community members to support local programs that build bridges and ensure everyone feels at home in our county.
- Key Details: Ongoing community initiative. Residents can reach out via email at welcome@westmorelandca.org to learn how to support upcoming events and advocacy efforts.
- Source Link: Welcoming Westmoreland Volunteer Page

💖 Fundraisers

Mutual Aid Ambulance Service's "Dueling for a Difference"

Mutual Aid Ambulance Service hosted an unforgettable night of music and community support with their annual "Dueling for a Difference" fundraiser. Proceeds directly support the life-saving emergency medical services and programs provided by the organization throughout the local area.
- Key Details: Held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM at The Venue LIVE! inside Live! Casino Pittsburgh in Greensburg.
- Source Link: Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce Calendar

🙋 Volunteer Opportunities

Westmoreland Community Action Programs

If you are looking for a meaningful way to give back this season, Westmoreland Community Action is seeking compassionate volunteers. By stepping up to help with local family assistance programs, food distributions, and poverty-reduction initiatives, you can make a tangible difference right here in our backyard.
- Key Details: Flexible volunteer schedules are available year-round. Visit their website to check out current opportunities and sign up.
- Source Link: Westmoreland Community Action

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

💡 Answer to Trivia Question:

Sudan

Enjoyed this? Invite your friends and neighbors. Share with a friend!

👉 Like and follow us on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/WestmorelandBuzz

👉 Join the Westmoreland Buzz Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/westmorelandbuzz

👉 Sponsor the Westmoreland Buzz: Claim Your FREE Strategy Session

We'd love your feedback! - westmorelandbuzz@gmail.com

Warmly,

Charles Sisk

Editor