This Newsletter is Sponsored by: Angela's Angels

Angela’s Angels in Latrobe transforms prom dreams into reality for young women, regardless of family finances.

This cherished boutique on Ligonier Street offers a dazzling array of gowns, shoes, and jewelry — but the real value lies in stories like Merrissa’s.

Years after receiving her own prom dress from Angela’s Angels, Merrissa mailed it back from Georgia with a heartfelt letter.

She thanked founder Angela Rose O’Brien for letting her feel beautiful without financial worry, even during her family’s toughest times.

Today, Merrissa is a mentor, passing on the generosity she received.

Angela’s Angels invites local families, students, and volunteers to be part of this community tradition.

Donating gently used dresses or accessories gives another girl a chance to shine — proving that each dress holds the promise of new memories and hope.

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This week’s spotlight on Angela’s Angels showcases the incredible power of the Westmoreland County community. Stories like Angela’s Angels—a beacon of hope in Westmoreland County since 2006 shows the value of The Westmoreland Buzz and expresses the true reasons that drive our readers to engage, share, and support local.

The Westmoreland Buzz is where the county’s most active citizens, small business owners, and non-profit leaders gather to stay connected.

Why Sponsor the Buzz?

     Values-Based Alignment: Place your ad alongside uplifting, local stories that matter to families and community leaders.

     High Engagement: Our subscribers are "doers" who actively look for ways to support small business and organizations like Angela's Angels.

     Support Local Storytelling: Your sponsorship keeps the "Buzz" alive, allowing us to highlight the boutiques, volunteers, heroes, and success stories that make Westmoreland County home.

Join our next issue: Connect with your neighbors and grow your local influence. Contact us today to discuss sponsorship and advertising opportunities.

Charles Sisk * westmorelandbuzz@gmail.com * PH (814) 201-7511

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Westmoreland Sale for Kids Celebrating 20 years!

Westmoreland Sale for Kids returns to the Westmoreland Fairgrounds in Greensburg this spring, celebrating 20 years as a top family shopping event.

This massive, 14,000-square-foot indoor consignment sale features gently used, high-quality items from 250-350 local families.

Shoppers will discover everything from newborn and children’s clothing (up to size 12), nursery gear, toys, books, outdoor play equipment, and even ride-ons — all at a fraction of the retail cost.

There’s also a dedicated Teen and Adult Clothing Sale from April 30–May 3, offering apparel in sizes 12/14 to 3X, plus fitting rooms for easy shopping.

Admission and parking are free, and many items are half-price on Sundays.

If you’re outfitting a growing child, updating wardrobes, or just looking for deals, it’s the sale Westmoreland County families have trusted for two decades.

Gas prices across Southwestern Pennsylvania are nearing $4 per gallon, putting extra strain on residents already facing higher living costs.

AAA East Central links the surge to the ongoing Iran conflict, which has disrupted global oil routes — especially in the crucial Strait of Hormuz — pushing crude oil prices to around $100 a barrel.

Crude oil now accounts for a bigger share of what drivers pay at the pump, with costs climbing swiftly as oil prices rise.

Seasonal factors like increased spring travel and the shift to pricier summer-blend gasoline are also fueling the hike.

In Pittsburgh, regular gas averages $3.80 per gallon, almost 60 cents higher than last month.

Beaver County reports the region’s steepest prices, while Indiana and Armstrong counties remain slightly lower.

Pennsylvania’s statewide average of $3.76 is closely tracking the national rate.

Experts caution that the future of gas prices depends on global tensions and local demand.

Greater Latrobe Area School District will start its 2026-2027 academic year on August 24, coinciding with the Westmoreland Fair slated for August 21-29.

Superintendent Dr. Kim Rieffannacht assured families that students involved in fair and agricultural events could request excused absences through their principals.

However, several parents voiced frustration, feeling their concerns were overlooked during the board meeting.

Many emphasized the fair’s significance, especially for students in 4-H who dedicate months to projects culminating in this annual event.

Parents worry that the overlapping dates force students to juggle school with fair participation or miss out on key experiences.

Some noted this scheduling conflict affects students across other county districts as well.

The traditional August start for the fair remains unchanged, leaving families hopeful for future adjustments to align school calendars with community traditions.

Westmoreland County is experiencing a notable surge in playground renovation funding, with major park upgrades unfolding across several communities.

In Greensburg’s Fifth Ward, Spring Avenue Park has received a dramatic makeover, adding vibrant new playground equipment, a basketball half-court, and smoother walkways, fueled by over $570,000 in grant funding.

Smithton Borough has transformed a once-empty lot into Play Smithton Park, introducing innovative play areas and accessible features through nearly $210,000 in support.

Betty Ambler Park in Rostraver Township now boasts modern playground gear and fresh picnic spaces, jumpstarted by $55,000 in grant assistance.

In Avonmore Borough, over $185,000 has created ADA-accessible play zones and improved park amenities, expanding local recreational access.

These revitalization efforts highlight a strong commitment to safe, inclusive outdoor spaces for Westmoreland County families.

Latrobe, Pennsylvania, radiates pride for Fred Rogers, beloved TV icon and local treasure.

Downtown visitors find solace at Rogers Park, where a bronze statue warmly welcomes all to reflect on his legacy.

For 31 seasons, “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” shaped generations with messages of empathy and respect.

Even after the show’s end in 2001 and Rogers’ passing in 2003, his teachings remain central to the community fabric.

The Pittsburgh Penguins paid tribute in March 2026 with their inaugural “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood Day,” connecting fans to his enduring values at PPG Paints Arena.

Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Pirates hosted “A Beautiful Night in the Neighborhood” in June 2025, capped by a dazzling post-game drone show at PNC Park.

Latrobe’s annual Mister Rogers Family Days draws crowds for joyful activities, storywalks, and live performances, celebrating his life and message.

The Fred Rogers Institute at Saint Vincent College carries forward his mission, ensuring the neighborhood spirit shines on in every corner of Latrobe and Pittsburgh.

"Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, but learning to dance in the rain."

Easter Egg Hunt Events

Here are the upcoming Easter Egg Hunt events in Westmoreland County, PA between March 24, 2026 and April 4, 2026, in date order.

March 28, 2026 – City of Greensburg Annual Easter Egg Hunt – Lynch Field, City of Greensburg, PA – city parks and recreation egg hunt; families are invited to bring baskets for the annual hunt (see City of Greensburg Parks & Rec announcement for time details).

March 28, 2026 – Sewickley Township Annual Easter Egg Hunt – Sewickley Township Baseball Fields, 1451 Herminie-West Newton Road, Herminie, PA 15637 – begins 12:00 pm; ages 0–3 at 12:00 pm, ages 4–7 at 12:30 pm, ages 8–12 at 1:00 pm; free for Sewickley Township & Yough School District children, food and refreshments available.​

March 28, 2026 – SAMA Ligonier’s 9th Annual Easter Egg Hunt / “Let’s Go Hunting!” – Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art at Ligonier Valley, 1 Boucher Ln, Ligonier, PA – starts 1:00 pm; garden egg hunt with additional activities such as face painting.

March 28, 2026 – Easter Egg Hunt at Pantalone Pavilion – Pantalone Pavilion, 110 Hannastown Rd, Greensburg, PA – 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm; egg hunt with separate age groups (up to 4, 5–8, 9 and older) hosted as a community event.​

March 28, 2026 – Easter Egg Hunt and Photos with the Easter Bunny – Twin Lakes Park, Pavilion 10, 219 Twin Lakes Road, Latrobe, PA 15650 – egg hunt begins 11:30 am; in-person community hunt with treats and photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny.
​

Note: Listings are based on currently available public event postings; individual organizers may add or change events, so you may want to confirm times and details closer to the date.

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

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Interesting Facts

Greensburg was home to early gas manufacturing operations starting in the 1850s, which produced gas by heating coal rather than extracting natural gas from the ground.

Local Shoutouts, Local Heroes, Local Causes, Fundraisers, and Volunteer Opportunities

🌟 Westmoreland Buzz Community Newsletter

Week of March 21, 2026

🏆 LOCAL SHOUTOUTS

Recognitions, achievements, and accomplishments worth celebrating!

Norwin Engineers Crush It at St. Vincent Pasta Bridge Competition!

Local brainiacs from Norwin High School absolutely dominated the 19th Annual St. Vincent College Pasta Bridge Engineering Competition earlier this month — walking away with four of the five available awards! The winning team's pasta-and-glue bridge held an impressive 30.3 pounds before giving way, also earning the Engineering Design and the Natalie Carbone Mangini Aesthetics awards on top of first place.

• When: Competition held Monday, March 9, at the Fred M. Rogers Center, Saint Vincent College, Unity Township
• Who won: First place — Christopher "CJ" Elliott, Connor Gurekovich, Cade Kubistek, Maerek Moenssens, Beckham Warhold, and Richie Zula; Second place also went to Norwin students; Third place went to Greensburg Salem's Onno Lohmann and Luke Rullo
• Schools competed: Connellsville, Greensburg Salem, Hempfield, Jeannette, and Norwin
• Source: Saint Vincent College News | Latrobe Bulletin
  
  

History Makers to Be Honored at Arthur St. Clair Awards Dinner

The Westmoreland Historical Society has announced its 2026 Arthur St. Clair Historic Preservation Award recipients — and it's quite a lineup! Fort Ligonier, the Westmoreland Museum of American Art, Rosalind L. Ashmun, and Dr. Millie Pipman will be honored for their work in preserving Westmoreland County history. Latrobe Bulletin News Fort Ligonier's award recognizes groundbreaking archaeological research that deepened public understanding of a pivotal moment in regional and national history.

• When: Wednesday, March 25, 2026 at 5:45 p.m.
• Where: Rizzo's Malabar Inn (Rizzo's Banquet Hall), Salem Township / Crabtree, PA
• Tickets: $90 per person; table of 8 for $690. Reserve online at westmorelandhistory.org or call 724-836-1800 x210
• Source: Westmoreland Historical Society | Latrobe Bulletin
  
  

🦸 LOCAL HEROES

People going above and beyond for our community

Unity Township's "Bag A Week" Man Is a Litter-Picking Legend

Most of us are still hitting snooze when Mark Nobile of Unity Township is already out on the roads picking up litter before sunrise. Rain, snow, or summer heat — it doesn't matter. His personal motto, "Bag A Week – Keep It Neat," has become a symbol of dedication, though his efforts far exceed that goal. In a single month, Mark collects more than five tons of garbage, all as a volunteer. Keep PA Beautiful PA State Representative Leslie Rossi recognized Mark with the Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful Community Pride Award for his unwavering commitment.

• Learn more / get inspired: Keep PA Beautiful Community Pride Award page
• Want to join the effort? Contact Westmoreland Cleanways at 724-834-9909 or visit westmorelandcleanways.org
• Source: Keep PA Beautiful
  
  

📢 LOCAL CAUSES

Important issues and initiatives that need your attention

$5.7 Million Win for Families in Older Westmoreland Homes!

This is big news for families living in older housing across the county. Westmoreland County's Community Development Division announced that Lead Safe Westmoreland has been awarded a $5.7 million grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through the Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes. Dailycourier The program will help address lead-based paint hazards in homes built before 1978 — at no cost to qualifying homeowners or tenants. If you have a child under 6 in the home, you may qualify!

• Who qualifies: Households in Arnold City, Greensburg, Jeannette, Latrobe, Lower Burrell, Monessen, Mt. Pleasant, New Kensington, Penn, Scottdale, Trafford, and Vandergrift; income limits apply; child under age 6 in the home required
• Contact: Westmoreland County Planning & Development at (724) 830-3366 or email [email protected]
• More info: westmorelandcountypa.gov Lead Safe Program
• Source: Daily Courier | Westmoreland County Official News Flash
  
  

Local Artists & Nonprofits: Arts Funding Deadline Is Coming Fast!

Westmoreland County Parks and Recreation has arts project grants available for local nonprofit arts organizations and government arts entities — but the application deadline is just days away! A qualified, independent review board will evaluate all applications received by Tuesday, March 24, 2026. Up to 60% of project funding is available for direct costs of proposed projects. Westmoreland County Eligible projects include music, theater, dance, puppetry, and other visual and performing arts.

• Deadline: Tuesday, March 24, 2026
• Eligible projects: June 1 – December 31, 2026
• Apply: Visit WestmorelandCountyPA.gov/Parks or call Westmoreland County Parks and Recreation at (724) 830-3950
• Source: Westmoreland County News Flash
  
  

💛 FUNDRAISERS

Active campaigns supporting our neighbors

March for Parks Is Almost Here — Lace Up Those Sneakers!

One of Westmoreland County's most beloved community traditions is almost here! What started 24 years ago at Twin Lakes Park in Greensburg with fewer than 100 participants has grown into a vital community tradition Westmoreland County supporting parks and trails across the county. Grab your friends and family, form a team, and help raise money to sustain the green spaces we all love. Raise $30 and you'll score an official March for Parks t-shirt!

• When: Saturday, March 29, 2026
• Where: Twin Lakes Park, Greensburg
• How to participate: Form or join a team, raise donations; t-shirt with $30+ raised
• More info: WestmorelandCountyPA.gov/Parks or call (724) 830-3959
• Source: Westmoreland County Schedule of Events | Sponsor Package Info
  
  

🙌 VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Ways to get involved and give back right now

Unity Township Spring Cleanup Needs YOU — Save the Date!

Unity Township is gearing up for its sixth annual Neighborhood Spring Cleanup, and they're aiming big — Unity Township is gearing up to fill 40 to 50 dumpsters the last weekend of April. Latrobe Bulletin News This is your chance to help spruce up the community by dropping off household rubbish, recyclables, and more at convenient township locations. Westmoreland Cleanways & Recycling partners with the township to make sure as little as possible ends up in the landfill.

• When: Saturday, April 25, 2026 (dumpsters placed at the Unity Township municipal building parking lot)
• Where: 154 Beatty County Road, Unity Township; plus multiple village drop-off sites
• Contact: Unity Township at (724) 423-6888 or visit unitytownship.org
• Source: Unity Township Website | Latrobe Bulletin
  
  

Volunteer at Westmoreland Hospital — Applications Due March 31!

Looking for a meaningful way to spend your time this summer? Independence Health System welcomes volunteers age 16 and older at their Frick, Latrobe, and Westmoreland Hospital campuses, with opportunities for adult volunteers and students preparing for future careers. Independence Health System The Junior Auxiliary Program for high school students (entering 11th or 12th grade) has a deadline coming up fast!

• Junior Auxiliary Deadline: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 (preference given to early applicants)
• Program runs: June 8 – August 14, 2026
• Adult volunteering: Open year-round; call (724) 832-4099
• Apply: Visit independence.health/volunteer
• Source: Independence Health System

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