"Controversial Community Impact, Airport Upgrades, and Champion Wildcats: Don't Miss Out! Invite Your Friends Now!"

Trivia Question❓

Which country has the highest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

This Newsletter is Sponsored by: Angela's Angels

"Angela's Angels: A Testament to the Enduring Impact of Community Giving"

Angela’s Angels makes a difference in Westmoreland County by uniting the community around one purpose: supporting young women with free formalwear and a lasting sense of confidence.

This grassroots nonprofit thrives thanks to donors, volunteers, and local businesses who believe in the power of encouragement and opportunity.

Every dress donated, accessory offered, and supportive hand reflects neighbors helping neighbors—reminding us that generosity doesn’t have to be grand to be meaningful.

The heart of Angela’s Angels is simple and powerful: believing every young woman deserves to feel special.

Supporters often discover they receive as much as they give, as acts of giving spark joy and hope throughout the community.

Through partnerships and growing participation, Angela’s Angels has inspired countless lives—proof that small gestures, shared with kindness, can truly transform a community.

Reach the Heart of the County:
Why Your Message Belongs in the Buzz

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.

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Westmoreland BOGO

The Westmoreland Buzz is currently running a BOGO for July 4th & July sponsorships. When you purchase the month of July at the discounted rate, you will also get the month of August for Back to School promotions, at no charge. The closing date for the available slots that are left is June 19, 2026. We would love to have you join us!!!

"Shocking Rescue: 28 Dogs Saved from Starvation in Pittsburgh Junkyard Cages"

Twenty-eight abandoned dogs were rescued from small cages inside trailers at a Greensburg junkyard this week, shocking residents across Westmoreland County.

Pennsylvania State Police discovered the animals at ABC Auto Wreckers on Mount Thor Road after property owners reported a break-in early Monday morning.

The dogs, mostly Belgian Malinois and Dutch Shepherds, were crammed together without food or water and showed signs of severe neglect, including malnourishment and parasites.

Local animal rescue teams—including All But Furgotten, No Dog Left Behind, and the ANNA Shelter—responded quickly, safely removing the dogs and transporting them for urgent veterinary care in Erie.

Property owners are fully cooperating with police, who believe the dogs are linked to an illegal kennel operation.

No arrests have been made yet, but authorities expect criminal charges soon.

Arnold Palmer Airport Prepares for Exciting New Airline Amid Spirit Departure

Arnold Palmer Regional Airport in Latrobe faces a brief period without commercial flights after Spirit Airlines abruptly ended its service, leaving locals concerned about travel options.

Airport officials and Westmoreland County leaders remain highly optimistic that a new budget airline will step in soon.

Executive Director Maurice Haas and Commissioner Douglas Chew highlight recent runway and terminal upgrades as key draws for potential carriers.

Negotiations with two airlines are underway, with hopes that a replacement could arrive as early as mid-summer.

Although about 70 airport staff now face potential layoffs, leaders stress their commitment to workforce support and eventual rehiring.

Commissioner Ted Kopas calls Spirit’s exit a temporary setback, emphasizing the airport’s resilience and importance for travelers needing direct, affordable routes to destinations like Florida.

The community is watching closely as efforts intensify to restore air service and limit economic losses.

"Pennsylvania Kicks Off Mammography Month to Save Lives"

Breast cancer mortality in the U.S. has dropped 43% since 1990, largely thanks to mammography — yet that progress has recently stalled and late-stage diagnoses are rising, especially for women ages 40–74.

Pennsylvania’s Senate, led by breast cancer survivor Kim Ward (R-Hempfield), has declared May as Mammography Month to motivate residents and organizations to promote annual screenings, starting at age 40.

The push is urgent: nearly 322,000 invasive breast cancer cases are projected nationally for 2026, with 38 Pennsylvanians diagnosed every day.

Dr. Matt Miller of AHN emphasizes early detection saves lives — his team finds four to six cancers per thousand mammograms, and new methods have made screenings less uncomfortable and safer than many expect.

Pennsylvania has expanded insurance coverage, making diagnostic and supplemental screenings more accessible, especially for high-risk women.

Free, walk-in mammograms are available at AHN centers, ensuring every woman has a path to early detection — and hope for a healthy future.

"Latrobe Wildcats Dominate Altoona Curve Classic, Claim Championship Victory"

Latrobe Wildcats claimed another championship, taking home the Altoona Curve Classic trophy over the weekend.

The team went undefeated in the tournament, recording wins over Juniata Valley (16-2), Forest Hills (5-4), and Mifflin County (5-3), with the final two victories coming on the same day at Peoples Natural Gas Field, home of the Pittsburgh Pirates’ Double-A affiliate.

The Wildcats now stand at a 16-2 season record, with sophomore Cole Short honored as tournament MVP.

Coach Matt Basciano praised his team’s ability to handle pressure, highlighting recent close wins, including a 6-5 comeback against Armstrong.

He emphasized the importance of tournament experience and thanked the Altoona Curve staff for their support, noting that the annual trip helps prepare the squad for future playoff pressure.

Quote Of The Day

"Believe you can and you're halfway there." - Theodore Roosevelt

🗓️ Family-Friendly Events in Westmoreland County, PA

May 5 – May 11, 2026

✅ FREE EVENTS

🏛️ HISTORY & CULTURE

1. Historic Hanna's Town – Open for the 2026 Season Dates: Tuesday–Saturday throughout the week (May 5–9) Location: Historic Hanna's Town, 809 Forbes Trail Rd, Greensburg, PA 15601 Description: A Revolutionary War-era site featuring reconstructed log buildings, a frontier tavern, stockade fort, and an authentic Conestoga Wagon. Guided tours take approximately 60–90 minutes and are largely outdoors. In honor of America 250, admission to the Kendra Gallery, Education Center, and site tours is donation-based — pay what you can for 2026. The grounds are open dawn-dusk as a Westmoreland County Park. Ages: All ages; great for school-age children Cost: Donation-based (free to enter grounds) Source: westmorelandhistory.org/visit

🌿 OUTDOOR & NATURE

29. Spring Bird ID Walk – Westmoreland Land Trust Date: Saturday, May 9, 9:00–11:30 AM Location: Saint Xavier Nature Preserve, 106 Saint Xavier Road, Latrobe (Derry Township) Description: Explore sweeping meadows, woodlands, and wetlands in search of spring birds with in-house experts. Following the walk, Bill Powers (founder of PixCams) demonstrates BirdNET, a real-time acoustic bird classification system. Bring binoculars. Ages: All ages; family-friendly Cost: Free Source: westmoreland-landtrust.org/2026-events

🎨 ARTS & COMMUNITY

30. Achievement in the Arts Awards – Westmoreland Cultural Trust Date: Saturday, May 9, 7:30 PM Location: The Palace Theatre, 21 West Otterman Street, Greensburg Description: Westmoreland Cultural Trust's annual free ceremony honoring outstanding high school seniors from across Westmoreland County in theatre performance, vocal music, instrumental music, technical theatre, visual arts, and dance. A decades-long county tradition that is open to the public. Ages: All ages welcome; great for aspiring young artists Cost: Free and open to the public (check westmorelandculturaltrust.org for seating details) Source: westmorelandculturaltrust.org/concerts-events-listing

🌐 ONGOING MUSEUM VISIT (During the Week)

31. The Westmoreland Museum of American Art – General Admission Dates: Open during the week May 5–11, 2026 Location: 221 N. Main Street, Greensburg Description: One of the region's premier art museums, with more than 3,400 objects of fine and decorative American art, including works from southwestern Pennsylvania artists. Rotating exhibitions, immersive experiences (Steel Valley Visions), and self-guided gallery visits. Free Art Smart Search Guides and Take-Home Art Kits for families are also available. Ages: All ages Cost: Free general admission Source: thewestmoreland.org

📚 Westmoreland County Library Programs — May 5–11, 2026

All events are FREE. Source: wclibraries.org/events

🏛️ Adams Memorial Library

1112 Ligonier Street, Latrobe | 724-539-1972

Wee Read (Birth–2½ years) Tues. May 5, Wed. May 6, AND Thurs. May 7 — 10:30–11:30 AM each day Songs, rhymes, and socialization for very young children and caregivers. The same session repeats Tue–Thu so families can choose their preferred day. Free | Registration required — call 724-539-1972 or visit the Children's Room desk wclibraries.org/event/48452

Preschool Storytime (Ages 2½–5) Wed. May 6, 1:00–2:00 PM | Thurs. May 7, 11:30 AM–12:30 PM AND 1:00–2:00 PM Themed books each week plus songs and rhymes. Same session repeats Wednesday and Thursday. Free | Registration required — call 724-539-1972 wclibraries.org/event/48461

🏛️ Delmont Public Library

75 School Road, Delmont | delmontlibrary.org

STEM/STEAM Workshop (Ages 6–12) Thurs. May 7, 5:00–6:00 PM Miss Riley leads hands-on STEM learning activities. Limit 12. Free | Registration required at delmontlibrary.org wclibraries.org/event/48282

Muffins with Moms (Families with children) Sat. May 9, 10:00–11:00 AM Muffins, cozy drinks, and a simple craft — a special Mother's Day-adjacent celebration. Limit 20. Register yourself AND your child. Free | Registration required at delmontlibrary.org wclibraries.org/event/48378

🏛️ Greensburg Hempfield Area Library

237 S. Pennsylvania Avenue, Greensburg

Lego Club (School-age children) Tues. May 5, 6:00–7:00 PM Use the library's LEGO collection to tackle a fun creative challenge each session. Register once for all sessions. Free | Registration required wclibraries.org/event/46418

Curious Kids: Healthy, Healthy Me! (Children) Wed. May 6, 6:00–7:00 PM Games, individual exercises, dance, and movement activities about health and fitness, ending with a healthy snack. Free | Registration required wclibraries.org/event/46618

Family Story Time (Birth–5 years) Sat. May 9, 10:30–11:00 AM Songs, stories, and fun. Register by family and include number of children in the notes. Free | Registration required wclibraries.org/event/46423

DIY Maker Day (All ages) Sat. May 9, 1:00–3:00 PM Monthly Maker Space day — building, sewing, crafting, electronics, design, and making things with recyclable materials. Free | No registration required wclibraries.org/event/46437

🏛️ Jeannette Public Library

500 Magee Avenue, Jeannette

Storytime Around the Reading Rug (Ages 4–10, all welcome) Sat. May 9, 11:00 AM–12:00 PM Stories and a craft project — this week, children make standing paper birds! Free | No registration required wclibraries.org/event/48171

🏛️ Ligonier Valley Library

120 West Main Street, Ligonier

Family Storytime (All ages) Tues. May 5, 11:00 AM–12:00 PM Miss Bobbi leads an hour of reading and crafts every Tuesday, with occasional live music. Free | No registration required wclibraries.org/event/48592

Therapy Dog Story Time (Preschool–early elementary) Wed. May 6, 3:00–3:30 PM Relax with Gracie Lou, a licensed therapy dog, during picture book readings. Children may pet and interact with her. Free | No registration required wclibraries.org/event/48269

Teen Art Club (Ages 12–18) Tues. May 5, 4:00–6:00 PM A drop-in creative space for teens to make art using the library's supplies — paint, markers, clay, colored pencils, and more. Bring your own materials too. Free | No registration required wclibraries.org/event/48617

Guided Walking Tours of Historic Ligonier (All ages) Sat. May 9, 10:00 AM–3:00 PM (ongoing throughout the day) Hour-long guided tours of historic downtown Ligonier led by Spencer Pfrogner of Redoubt Productions, covering heritage landmarks and true stories spanning centuries. Free | No registration required wclibraries.org/event/48444

🏛️ Mount Pleasant Public Library

120 S. Church Street, Mount Pleasant

Lapsit (18 months–3 years) Tues. May 5, 11:00 AM–12:00 PM Stories and activities for very young toddlers and their caregivers. Free | No registration required wclibraries.org/event/47846

Story Time (Ages 3–5) Tues. May 5, 1:30–2:30 PM Stories and activities for preschool-age children. Free | No registration required wclibraries.org/event/47857

Remake Learning Days – STEM Program (Children and teens) Wed. May 6, 4:30–5:30 PM This week's Midweek Adventures is replaced with a dedicated STEM learning session as part of Remake Learning Days. Free | No registration required wclibraries.org/event/48708

Library Game Night (All ages) Wed. May 6, 6:00–7:00 PM Come solo or with family and friends for classic board games from the library's collection. Free | No registration required wclibraries.org/event/48719

🏛️ Murrysville Community Library

4130 Sardis Road, Murrysville | murrysvillelibrary.org | 724-327-1102

Babies-N-Books (Ages 0–2) Tues. May 5, 10:00–11:00 AM Rhymes, books, songs, finger plays, and movement for babies and their caregivers. Part of a 6-week session; families encouraged to attend all weeks. Free | Registration required at murrysvillelibrary.org or call 724-327-1102 wclibraries.org/event/48164

Milestone PA Storytime (Adults with special needs and caregivers) Wed. May 6, 12:00–1:00 PM Storytime, songs, and a simple craft designed for adults with special needs and their caregivers. A wonderful social opportunity. Free | Registration required at murrysvillelibrary.org or 724-327-1102 wclibraries.org/event/48426

Storytime with Ms. Sydney (Ages 3–6) Fri. May 8, 10:00–10:45 AM Stories, songs, and a craft activity for young children. Free | Registration required at murrysvillelibrary.org or 724-327-1102 wclibraries.org/event/48034

Dog Reading Pals (Children) Fri. May 8, 4:00–5:00 PM (four 15-minute slots at 4:00, 4:15, 4:30, and 4:45 PM) Children read to certified therapy dogs — proven to build reading confidence. Meets the 2nd Friday of each month. Free | Registration required — register each child separately at murrysvillelibrary.org wclibraries.org/event/48026

Universal Curiosity – Space Science (Ages 8–12) Sat. May 9, 11:00 AM–12:00 PM Discuss how the universe works and current space events, facilitated by Franklin Regional student Roger Huang. Free | Registration required at murrysvillelibrary.org or 724-327-1102 wclibraries.org/event/48037

Palabras & Play Bilingual Storytime (Ages 2–6) Sat. May 9, 12:00–1:00 PM Mr. Diego leads a fun, interactive bilingual storytime in English and Spanish. Language learners of all experience levels are welcome. Free | Registration required at murrysvillelibrary.org or 724-327-1102 wclibraries.org/event/48332

🏛️ Norwin Public Library

100 Caruthers Lane, Irwin (North Huntingdon Township)

Oscar's Reptile Encounter (Pre-K and up) Wed. May 6, 6:00–7:00 PM Learn about the reptile kingdom with live animals on display from Oscar's Reptile Encounters. Free | Registration required wclibraries.org/event/48403

🏛️ Peoples Library

880 Barnes Street, New Kensington (serving New Kensington & Lower Burrell branches)

Family Storytime at New Kensington (All ages) Tues. May 5, 11:00 AM–12:00 PM Songs, stories, activities, and fun at the New Kensington branch. Free | No registration required wclibraries.org/event/46813

Family Storytime at Lower Burrell (All ages) Tues. May 5, 1:00–2:00 PM Songs, stories, and family fun at the Lower Burrell branch. Free | No registration required wclibraries.org/event/46835

Arts, Crafts & STEM at New Kensington (All ages) Thurs. May 7, 11:00 AM–12:00 PM A fun, exciting STEM-based craft project at the New Kensington branch. Free | No registration required wclibraries.org/event/46724

Arts, Crafts & STEM at Lower Burrell (All ages) Thurs. May 7, 1:00–2:00 PM A STEM-based craft project at the Lower Burrell branch. Free | No registration required wclibraries.org/event/46746

Construction Crew at Lower Burrell (All ages) Fri. May 8, 1:00–2:00 PM Children become part of the "construction crew" using the library's building supplies for hands-on creative play. Free | No registration required wclibraries.org/event/46769

For the full Westmoreland County Libraries calendar, visit wclibraries.org/events or call your local branch directly. Hours vary by location.

💰 PAID EVENTS

🌱 GARDENING & OUTDOOR MARKETS

32. Penn State Master Gardeners of Westmoreland County Annual Plant Sale Date: Saturday, May 9, 8:00 AM–12:00 PM (or until sold out) Location: Donohoe Center and Pavilion, 214 Donohoe Road, Greensburg (Hempfield Township) Description: A beloved community tradition offering a wide selection of annuals, perennials, vegetables, native plants, herbs, hanging baskets, and Master Gardener-grown houseplants. The Native Plant Plug Station returns this year. Expert Master Gardeners are on hand for plant selection advice and gardening questions. Online pre-sales were available through April 30. Payment: cash and checks only. Sale proceeds fund educational gardening programs throughout Westmoreland County. Ages: All ages; families welcome Cost: No admission fee; plants are for purchase (cash/check only) Source: extension.psu.edu/2026-master-gardener-plant-sale-directory

🎵 LIVE MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT

33. Magical Mystery Doors – Beatles, Zeppelin & Doors Tribute Date: Friday, May 8, 7:30 PM Location: The Palace Theatre, 21 West Otterman Street, Greensburg Description: A tribute act that blends and layers the music of three legendary bands — The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and The Doors — into something new and unique for music fans. Part of the Palace Theatre's Centennial year programming. Ages: Suitable for older children and teens who enjoy rock; general audiences Cost: Tickets from approximately $66 (resale market); check westmorelandculturaltrust.org or the Palace box office at 724-836-8000 for face value pricing Source: westmorelandculturaltrust.org/concerts-events-listing | Venue listing confirmation

34. River City Brass: Summer Brasstacular Date: Saturday, May 9, 7:30 PM Location: The Palace Theatre, 21 West Otterman Street, Greensburg Description: The acclaimed River City Brass performs a "Brasstacular" summer concert featuring music of Henry Mancini, Glenn Miller, and beloved hits. A patriotic, family-friendly brass band experience. Ages: All ages; great for families who enjoy live orchestral/band music Cost: Tickets from approximately $54 (resale market); check westmorelandculturaltrust.org or 724-836-8000 for face value Source: westmorelandculturaltrust.org/concerts-events-listing | boxofficeticketsales.com

🌙 FOOD, DRINK & MARKETS

35. Yinzer Valley Farm Night Market Date: Wednesday, May 6, 5:30–8:30 PM Location: Yinzer Valley Farms, 681 Mulberry Hill Road, Mount Pleasant Township Description: An outdoor evening market on 208 acres of scenic farm land in Westmoreland County featuring craft vendors (local artisans, makers, and more), food trucks (East St BBQ, Hoshi, Smash Pit), and live music by Tim Schmider. Vendor lineup includes Highlands Honey Farm, Sourdough Haven, T&D Bakery, and more. A lively, family-friendly evening experience at a cidery and event farm. Ages: All ages; family-friendly with kids' games Cost: Free to enter/browse; food and vendor purchases are paid ⚠️ Note: Confirmed for May 6, 2026 per Highlands Honey Farm's 2026 event listing and Yinzer Valley Farms website. Source: highlandshoneyfarm.com/pages/upcoming-events | yvfarms.com/2026-markets

🏛️ HISTORY & EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS

36. Spring Tea – "Spilling the Tea Since 1773: A Colonial Gathering of Tea & Friendship" Date: Saturday, May 9 — two seatings: 11:30 AM and 2:00 PM Location: Historic Hanna's Town, 809 Forbes Trail Rd, Greensburg Description: Step back in time and enjoy an afternoon of tea, history, and colonial charm inspired by the tea protests of 1773. Guests gather for a themed colonial tea party with historical stories, traditions, and customs of 18th-century social life. Reservations opened April 1 by calling 724-836-1800, ext. 210. Ages: Best for older children, teens, and adults who enjoy history Cost: Ticketed event (price not publicly listed — contact 724-836-1800 ext. 210) Source: westmorelandhistory.org/events-and-programs

📋 IMPORTANT NOTES FOR VISITORS

⚠️ Verification Status: Every event above has been confirmed from its primary source calendar for the specific week of May 5–11, 2026. Pricing shown for Palace Theatre events from third-party resellers may be higher than face value — always check the venue box office first at 724-836-8000 or westmorelandculturaltrust.org.

📌 Registration reminders: Many Westmoreland County Library programs require advance registration. Check each event link or call the branch directly.

🗺️ Geographic spread: Events span Greensburg, Murrysville, Latrobe, Ligonier, Mount Pleasant, New Kensington, Lower Burrell, Delmont, Irwin, Jeannette, and Derry Township — covering most of the county's major communities.

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

Tuesday, May 5, 2026: High 71°F, Low 55°F, Overcast

Wednesday, May 6, 2026: High 73°F, Low 51°F, Overcast

Thursday, May 7, 2026: High 62°F, Low 52°F, Overcast

Friday, May 8, 2026: High 72°F, Low 51°F, Overcast

Saturday, May 9, 2026: High 72°F, Low 49°F, Overcast

Sunday, May 10, 2026: High 62°F, Low 36°F, Overcast

Monday, May 11, 2026: High 77°F, Low 36°F, Overcast

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Fresh Flavor in Downtown Greensburg: Henry’s Hoagies

There is a delicious new chapter unfolding in downtown Greensburg. Henry’s Hoagies, a beloved local sandwich staple located at 16 West 2nd Street, officially reopened earlier this year under the passionate leadership of Michelle Maxson, a 51-year-old Greensburg native, and her boyfriend Zack Dreskler. For Maxson, taking over the shop from its original founders isn’t just a career move—it’s a lifelong dream. Every single morning when she walks to work, she looks up at a Hometown Hero banner hanging from a light post at the top of Second Street that features her father’s face, guiding her directly toward her new venture.

Maxson has hit the ground running with some mouthwatering upgrades to the already popular menu. While keeping the classic hoagies that neighbors have loved for years, she is transitioning to premium Boar’s Head deli meats, introducing a wider variety of breads, expanding the hot sandwich options, and whipping up her own homemade soups and side salads. She’s even bringing back a beloved coleslaw recipe from her teenage years working at the old Lincoln Inn, adding a true taste of local history to every bite.

Michelle is thrilled to anchor her business right in the heart of the community.

"Owning a sandwich shop has been a longtime dream of mine," she shares. "Being able to do it here in my hometown, steps away from where I grew up and where my family's roots are, makes it incredibly special. We want this to be a place where neighbors connect over a great, fresh meal."

How to Support Them:

Location: 16 West 2nd Street, Greensburg, PA 15601
Contact: (724) 221-6999
Online: Follow their updates on Facebook to see their daily specials, including their famous meatball and Cuban hoagies.

Continuing a Delicious Tradition: Scotty G’s Pizza in Latrobe

Over in Latrobe, the legacy of a neighborhood favorite is continuing with fresh energy. Scotty G’s Pizza, located at 907 Ligonier Street, has entered an exciting new era under the ownership of local resident Mary Nolan. When original owner Scott Goodlin decided it was time to take a step back from managing the day-to-day operations, he handpicked Nolan to keep the ovens hot. For Mary, who is managing the business with an eye toward passing it down to her three sons one day, taking the helm of this Latrobe fixture felt like a true blessing.

While the famous name and the time-tested pizza recipes remain exactly the same—with Goodlin staying on board to toss the dough and craft the signature pies—Nolan is bringing exciting enhancements to the table. She has plans to introduce a weekend breakfast menu and launch community-focused dine-in specials like family spaghetti nights and wing nights to revive the restaurant’s warm, sit-down atmosphere. Even better, the storefront is getting a fresh visual update through the Latrobe Community Revitalization Program to keep the downtown district looking its best.

Mary is deeply committed to being a positive force in Latrobe's tight-knit downtown corridor.

"Owning a building in downtown Latrobe is a dream come true," she says. "To be asked to take over this business felt like a gift. We are so proud to be a part of this community in such a personal way, and we can't wait to welcome families back into the dining room for a slice and a great memory."

How to Support Them

Location: 907 Ligonier Street, Latrobe, PA 15650
Hours: Monday to Thursday, 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM; Friday and Saturday, 10:00 AM – 9:30 PM; Sunday, 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Contact: (724) 532-2242
Online: Browse the full menu of gourmet pizzas, hoagies, and sides at scottygspizza.com.

Have a business opening, community event, local hero story or pet-related news to share? Email Us your updates for next week's newsletter! westmorelandbuzz@gmail.com

Interesting Facts

The hottest temperature ever recorded on Earth was 134 degrees Fahrenheit in Death Valley, California in 1913.

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

Local Shoutouts

High Schools Connect for the Future: PennSTART Tech Hub Breaks Ground

What a fantastic step forward for our region! This week, community leaders and local representatives gathered to celebrate the start of construction on the PennSTART facility right here in our backyard industrial park system. This state-of-the-art testing ground is designed to accelerate emerging transportation technology and train our local first responders in real-world scenarios. It’s an incredible achievement that places our county at the center of next-generation infrastructure safety and innovation.

Key Details: The first phase of this $30 million project features a two-mile test track. The site sits right in our regional industrial park system and will provide critical high-tech training for local responders.

Source: Westmoreland County Official Website

Local Heroes

Valley High Students Lead the Way in Driving Safety

A huge shoutout goes to the local first responders and students from Valley High School who came together this Friday to save lives through education. Just ahead of the upcoming prom season, students partnered with local police, the fire department, and forensic detectives to stage a powerful mock crash scenario. These incredible young people and local heroes volunteered their morning to illustrate the real-life consequences of distracted driving, reminding us all of the importance of making good choices behind the wheel.

Key Details: Held on Friday morning, May 1, 2026, right in front of Valley High School in New Kensington.

Source: Westmoreland County District Attorney’s Office

Local Causes

Tackling Our Waterways: Mine Cleanup and Local Early Intervention

This week brings crucial community developments for both our environment and our families. First, the county has officially partnered with the Turtle Creek Watershed Association to launch cleanups of local untreated mine discharges, protecting our regional ecosystem. Additionally, a fantastic developmental screening and support initiative is taking place next week for families.

Key Details: * Environmental Cause: Ongoing cleanup planning for the Irwin mine discharge in partnership with the Turtle Creek Watershed Association.

Family Support Day: Tuesday, May 5, 2026, from 10:30 AM to 2:00 PM at the Mount Pleasant Public Library (30 Church St.). Come out for free developmental screenings and early childhood intervention guidance.
Source: Westmoreland County Official News Portal

Fundraisers

Ray of Hope Mental Health & Support Programs

Our local mental health and wellness task force is hard at work raising critical funds to support mental health advocacy, grief support groups, and annual educational scholarships for our local graduating high school seniors. From memorial quilt designs to community fundraisers, there are so many meaningful ways to give back and keep these programs strong.

Key Details: Funds directly support community programs and the upcoming annual local scholarships for graduating seniors. You can make an immediate impact by visiting their official donation page or mailing a contribution to 409 Coulter Ave., Greensburg, PA 15601.
Source: Ray of Hope Westmoreland

Volunteer Opportunities

Open Your Heart and Give Back This Spring

Looking to make a direct impact in someone's life? Our local community service programs are looking for warm, enthusiastic volunteers! Whether you are interested in spending a few hours a month as a friendly visitor to homebound seniors through Laurel Area Faith in Action, or helping out the Westmoreland Food Bank with their distributions, there is a perfect spot for you to lend a hand.

Key Details: Openings are available right now for senior visitation programs, the local Area Agency on Aging, and ongoing packing and distribution shifts at the Westmoreland Food Bank.
Source: Westmoreland County Volunteer Services

Have a story tip, shoutout, or community event to share? Reach out and let's spread some good news together. See you next week, Westmoreland! 💙

Have a business opening, community event, local hero story or pet-related news to share? Email Us your updates for next week's newsletter! westmorelandbuzz@gmail.com

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

Coal's Story

Coal is a handsome 7 year old Doberman mix who arrived at AFA as a shelter transfer.

This sweet boy arrived underweight and in serious need of some TLC, which he has soaked up every bit of! Coal is a friendly guy who loves being with people. He has been putting weight back on and is looking fit and healthy and now he is ready to find his forever home!
Come out and meet this gentle giant!

Interested in adopting? Please review our Adoption Procedures:
Adoption/Visiting Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, Noon-4pm
You may visit our cats, kittens, dogs and puppies over the age of 4 months old during adoption hours prior to completing an adoption application. You must fill out an adoption application and be approved before visiting with puppies aged 4 months old and younger.

Applying for Adoption:
Fill out an adoption application in person at the shelter during adoption hours. We do not offer adoption applications online. If you live at a distance (1-1/2+ hour away), you can call us at 724-539-2544 to complete an adoption application by phone. Calls are returned within 48 hours.

Bring the following pertinent documents with you:
Pet Owners: Vet records of all your current pets.
Homeowners: Proof of home ownership – a property tax or mortgage document. Utility bills are not accepted.
Renters: Landlord’s phone number and copy of your lease. We must speak to your landlord to be considered for adoption.
Valid ID: You must be 21 years or older.

Dog Owners:
If you currently have dogs at your home, we require a meet and greet with the shelter dog you are interested in. You must have an approved adoption application before the meet and greet.

The adoption will be finalized after all required information is confirmed and your adoption application is approved.
We cannot guarantee the availability of the pet you are interested in and do not hold on any animals.

Read more at: www.afashelter.org/adoption-procedures

Action For Animals Inc. Humane Society

afahs@aol.com

(724) 539-2544

Location: 386 Route 217 Latrobe, PA, 15650

Please give Coal the forever home he deserves!

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