Charles Sisk
Aug 11, 2026
📰 WEEKLY PREVIEW |
* Top Stories: Route 51 Lane Restrictions * Pet of the week: Meet Trooper Adopt Me! |
Trivia Question❓Which country is home to the world's southernmost city, Ushuaia? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
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Angela's Angels is a beacon of hope for local high school girls, making prom dreams come true regardless of financial circumstance. With a welcoming boutique full of beautiful dresses, shoes, and accessories, every young woman who visits is treated with dignity and compassion by a team of thoughtful volunteers. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit charity, Angela's Angels stands out for their heartfelt mission and unwavering support of those in need. Whether you're looking to contribute with a donation or know someone who could use a little extra magic for their big event, this organization is truly making a difference in the community. |
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The PSU New Kensington campus is at a turning point, capturing wide attention as discussions about its redevelopment gain momentum.
A recent open house invited locals, business owners, and leaders to weigh in, letting residents walk through campus and consider initial proposals.
This event reflects a commitment to inclusive planning, with organizers eager for public input before any major moves. Read More... |
Westmoreland County families may soon benefit from a new scholarship tax credit initiative that expands access to quality education.
With tuition costs rising and many neighborhoods facing limited academic resources, lawmakers are now weighing a proposal for Pennsylvania to join a federal tax credit program encouraging educational donations.
The program could help unlock vital funding for both public and private schools, including increased support for tuition assistance, school supplies, and special education services. Read More... |
Westmoreland County families are gearing up for the highly anticipated Labor United Celebration at Northmoreland Park this Labor Day weekend.
Longtime residents and newcomers alike will gather for a beloved tradition blending community pride and joyful festivities.
The park will buzz with energy as live bands energize crowds throughout Sunday and Monday, solidifying the festival’s reputation for top-notch entertainment. Read More... |
Drivers in Westmoreland County are facing single-lane restrictions along Route 51 in Rostraver Township as a major construction project transforms daily commutes.
Crews are busy with milling and paving work between McKenery Drive and Porter Drive, and these restrictions will last through the morning and afternoon hours.
Many local commuters experience frustrating delays but recognize the upgrades are crucial for safer, more efficient travel. Read More... |
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Family-Friendly Events in Westmoreland, Aug. 11 – Aug. 17, 2026 |
2026 Pittsburgh Steelers Training Camp |
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Experience the excitement of the Pittsburgh Steelers Training Camp at Saint Vincent College! Gather with fans for open practices, enjoy free admission, and soak up the unique energy of this annual football tradition. Bring your own chairs, wear plenty of sunscreen, and fuel up with offerings from local food trucks and the campus bookstore. Beyond football, make the most of your visit with stops at the Fred Rogers Exhibit, Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve, and the stunning Saint Vincent Basilica. There’s something for everyone to see, making training camp a memorable summer outing. |
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MATT SCHOFIELD |
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Get ready for an unforgettable evening as Matt Schofield, renowned British blues guitarist and singer-songwriter, brings his electrifying sound to the SummerSounds stage in Greensburg. Enjoy powerful blues, classic jazz, and soulful tunes delivered with his signature touch. The concert offers a warm summer atmosphere, where you can relax in the park, enjoy live music, and soak in the talents of one of the world’s premier blues musicians. Come early as the night kicks off with a special pre-show performance by Tim Woods. |
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Fort Ligonier Association’s 80th Birthday! |
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Come celebrate 80 incredible years with the Fort Ligonier Association! Join us for a day filled with special surprises in honor of this historic milestone at the place where history thrives. Stay tuned to our social media channels for updates, and discover how you can be a part of our mission to preserve and share the legacy of Fort Ligonier. |
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Step into history at the Compass Inn Museum, where every season welcomes immersive experiences for visitors of all ages. Explore authentic 19th-century rooms, watch skilled blacksmiths at work, and enjoy engaging events that bring America's storied past to life. Whether you're attending a lively 'Living History Weekend' or wandering candlelit hallways during a mystery-filled night, the Compass Inn Museum invites you to discover the stories and traditions that shaped Ligonier Valley and beyond. |
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📚 Westmoreland County Public Library EventsThe 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 during Aug. 11 – Aug. 17. |
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Dick's House of SportDick's Sporting Goods is opening its brand-new House of Sport concept store on August 7, 2026. Located at the Westmoreland Mall in Greensburg, PA, the venue spans over 100,000 square feet in the space formerly occupied by Sears. The destination features interactive athletic experiences, specialized sports gear, and grand opening events including athlete autograph sessions.
Pizzaiolo PrimoPizzaiolo Primo is celebrating the official ribbon-cutting opening of its new restaurant on August 19, 2026. Located in Murrysville, PA, this new dining establishment brings authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas and handcrafted Italian cuisine to the area. The location features a full cocktail menu, happy hour offerings, and live entertainment to welcome local diners.
Artistry of HopeArtistry of Hope will hold its official chamber ribbon-cutting ceremony on August 20, 2026. Situated at 725 Pellis Road, Unit D, in Greensburg, PA, the business offers personalized tribute services for families. Their team specializes in creating meaningful, handcrafted keepsakes, custom framing, memorial gifts, and floral preservation.
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Westmoreland County’s strongest current trends center on industrial reinvestment, energy infrastructure, workforce pressures, housing activity, and digital connectivity. These five stand out because they combine measurable momentum with major implications for jobs, residents, and future development. ## 1. Energy and grid-infrastructure investment Westmoreland County is emerging as a location for energy-system and grid-modernization investment, with projects announced by Hitachi Energy, Ebara Elliott Energy, and TECfusions within the past 16 months. Hitachi Energy alone is undertaking an $80 million county expansion tied to high-voltage equipment production, R&D, and customer-facing capabilities. This positions the county to benefit from rising electricity demand, electrification, and AI-related infrastructure—but also increases the importance of adequate power capacity and thoughtful local planning. [County economic-development update](https://www.westmorelandcountypa.gov/3550/Economic-Development-Updates) ## 2. Advanced manufacturing and autonomous transportation The county is shifting former industrial properties toward advanced manufacturing, logistics, and transportation technology. Construction has started on PennSTART, a $30 million autonomous- and emerging-transportation testing facility in East Huntingdon, while New Kensington, Jeannette, and the former SCI-Greensburg site are receiving substantial redevelopment attention. Manufacturing already accounts for 13.7% of county employment—well above Pennsylvania’s 9.4% share—so these projects build on a meaningful existing industrial base. [County economic-development update](https://www.westmorelandcountypa.gov/3550/Economic-Development-Updates) [PA workforce profile](https://www.pa.gov/content/dam/copapwp-pagov/en/dli/documents/cwia/products/county-profiles/westmoreland%20county.pdf) ## 3. Data-center growth—and community scrutiny Data centers are a fast-moving but contested local development trend, especially around the former Alcoa site in the northern part of the county. Municipalities including Upper Burrell, Lower Burrell, New Kensington, and Arnold have been considering rules governing data-center development; Upper Burrell’s moratorium was reported to run through November 2026. The trend may bring investment and infrastructure upgrades, but residents are seeking clear protections and transparency around power use, land use, and community benefits. [WPXI report](https://www.wpxi.com/news/local/organizations-look-discuss-impacts-data-centers-with-residents-request-pause-developments/EOQJVMCFORBSHO4DZVTAEQNZ5E/) ## 4. An aging population and tight talent pipeline Westmoreland County’s median age is 47.1, compared with 40.9 statewide, and residents age 65 and older make up 23.7% of its population. At the same time, online job postings rose 22.6% year over year to 6,573 in August 2025, signaling active employer demand. The practical result is a growing need for worker attraction, training, retention, healthcare capacity, and services that enable older residents to age in place. [PA workforce profile](https://www.pa.gov/content/dam/copapwp-pagov/en/dli/documents/cwia/products/county-profiles/westmoreland%20county.pdf) ## 5. Housing appreciation with broader supply The county’s housing market shows continued price strength alongside a modestly larger pool of listings. Realtor.com reports a median home price of about $220,000, 1,251 active listings, and a 13.68% year-over-year increase in median price; it also reports 170 rental listings with median rent around $1,000 per month. This suggests the county remains comparatively attainable for many Pittsburgh-region households, while rising prices make housing supply and affordability important development issues. [Realtor.com county market report](https://www.realtor.com/local/market/pennsylvania/westmoreland-county) ## 6. Broadband expansion for underserved areas Westmoreland County is actively using state and federal broadband programs to address areas without reliable high-speed internet. The county established financial-support guidelines for providers pursuing Pennsylvania BEAD funding, specifically aimed at unserved and underserved communities. Better connectivity supports remote work, telehealth, education, small businesses, and the county’s ability to compete for technology-oriented investment. [County BEAD policy announcement](https://www.westmorelandcountypa.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=8212) |
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✨ LOCAL SHOUTOUTS, HEROES, CAUSES, FUNDRAISERS, VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
📣 Local Shout-outsPenn-Trafford Trap Team's First Tournament — hosted more than 60 students July 18 at Western PA Sportsmen's Club in Murrysville. 🔗 https://community.triblive.com/c/murrysville-star/news/4109215 Back-to-School Backpack Walk — Latrobe Art Center, WQED & Adams Memorial Library, downtown Latrobe. Free, reservations required. 📞 724-537-7011 | 🔗 latrobeartcenter.org 🦸 HeroesOVN 8th Annual Fallen Heroes Ride & Freedom Festival — took place Aug. 1 at Z&M Harley-Davidson in Greensburg, honoring Westmoreland County service members lost in Desert Storm and Afghanistan. Good recap material or a thank-you note to Operation Vet NOW and riders. 🔗 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/register-to-ride-ovn-8th-annual-fallen-heroes-ride-registration-1991580696475 Greensburg Hometown Heroes Banners — an ongoing program honoring veterans, first responders, and community members with banners on light poles. I couldn't confirm a 2026-specific update, so I'd verify current status with the City of Greensburg before running it: 🔗 https://www.greensburgpa.org 💜 CausesYWCA Free Women's Mental & Emotional Wellness Workshop — Aug. 13, 5:30–7:30 p.m., YWCA Westmoreland County, 424 N. Main St., Greensburg. 📞 724-834-9390 | 🔗 https://business.westmorelandchamber.com/community-calendar/Details/free-women-s-health-series-mental-emotional-wellness-workshop-1867093 Turtle Creek Watershed Association — ongoing stream cleanups and educational events across the watershed. 🔗 https://turtlecreekwatershed.org/contact-us/ | Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/turtlecreekwatershedassociation/ 💰 Fundraisers🎶 Music Bingo Fundraiser for LHWOC — benefits Laurel Highlands Workforce & Opportunity Center. Two dates: Aug. 13 and Aug. 27, 6–8 p.m. 🔗 https://business.westmorelandchamber.com/community-calendar/Details/music-bingo-fundraiser-for-lhwoc-1690027 (Aug. 13) and https://business.westmorelandchamber.com/community-calendar/Details/music-bingo-fundraiser-for-lhwoc-1690033 (Aug. 27) March for Parks — annual Westmoreland County Parks & Recreation fundraiser at Twin Lakes Park; 2026 event raised over $60,000 for trails and park improvements. Good for a recap/thank-you or to promote next year's. 🔗 https://www.westmorelandcountypa.gov/1383/Schedule-of-Events 🙋 Volunteer OpportunitiesWestmoreland Food Bank — packing food boxes, food drives, produce distribution. 🔗 https://westmorelandfoodbank.org/volunteer/ Westmoreland Cleanways & Recycling — recycling center help, litter cleanups, illegal dump cleanups. 📍 355 Pleasant Unity Mutual Road, Greensburg | 🔗 https://www.westmorelandcleanways.org/volunteer/ |
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💡 Answer to Trivia Question: Argentina |
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Warmly, Charles Sisk Editor |