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"Controversy in Murrysville: New Data Center and Solar Project Regulations Ignite Debate, Ianni's Pizzeria Reopens After Fire, Neighborhood Academy Makes History in WPIAL Playoffs"
"Controversy in Murrysville: New Data Center and Solar Project Regulations Ignite Debate, Ianni's Pizzeria Reopens After Fire, Neighborhood Academy Makes History in WPIAL Playoffs"
"Controversy in Murrysville: New Data Center and Solar Project Regulations Ignite Debate, Ianni's Pizzeria Reopens After Fire, Neighborhood Academy Makes History in WPIAL Playoffs"
Exciting updates in Murrysville: Data centers and solar projects debate, Ianni's Pizzeria reopens after fire, and Neighborhod Academy's historic playoff run! 🌟🍕🏀 #newsletter #excitingnews
Charles Sisk
Feb 24, 2026
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Trivia Question❓In Westmoreland County, PA, which famous amusement park was originally intended to be a tourist attraction for employees of the Mellon family's Ligonier estate? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
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Municipal leaders in Murrysville are developing new regulations for data centers and solar installations amid rising local interest in these projects.
Currently, no specific ordinance or zoning classification exists to manage either type of development, according to Michael Nestico, who highlighted the need for proactive controls to protect the community.
Examples from Hempfield Township and debates in Springdale and Homer City underscore concerns over energy use and emissions, driving Murrysville officials to discuss the best regulatory framework.
Some council members, such as Michael Korns, oppose a standalone ordinance, citing legal vulnerabilities, while solicitor Wes Long shared ordinance models used by other municipalities.
The council is favoring zoning-based regulations, ensuring thorough review and adapting statewide model ordinances to fit local needs.
A draft proposal is expected soon, with residents invited to the next meeting on March 4. Read More... |
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Ianni’s Pizzeria is back in business in Delmont, emerging strong nearly two years after a fire left it shuttered and the community in shock.
The September 2024 blaze caused heavy damage and forced a lengthy closure, just as the pizzeria was enjoying national buzz from a major pizza review.
Reconstruction proved challenging, with delays in equipment delivery and unexpected building issues slowing the process. Still, the dedicated owners pressed ahead, determined to welcome customers once again.
Ianni’s now offers takeout only, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Saturday, as the team works toward a full reopening by month’s end. Loyal customers have shown overwhelming support and excitement for the comeback.
The pizzeria encourages patrons to follow their official channels for the latest hours and updates. Read More... |
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The WPIAL basketball playoffs are reaching an exciting peak in Westmoreland County, PA, with local teams chasing championship dreams.
Neighborhood Academy celebrated a milestone by capturing its first-ever state title, overcoming Sankofa Freedom 60-51 in the PIAA Class 1A final.
Senior guard Courtney Wallace starred with 21 points and 18 rebounds, leading the Bulldogs through a demanding postseason.
Now, the Bulldogs prepare for their WPIAL Class A championship showdown against No. 6 Serra Catholic, set for 5 p.m. Thursday at Petersen Events Center—an eagerly awaited matchup after strong seasons from both squads.
Monessen will face Nazareth Prep in the third-place game Tuesday, keeping their state tournament hopes alive.
The ongoing playoffs are fueling enthusiasm across the region, highlighting the dedication and deep-rooted tradition of high school basketball in Westmoreland County. Read More... |
Quote Of The Day |
"Every day may not be good, but there's something good in every day." |
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🗓️ Family-Friendly Events in Westmoreland County, PAFebruary 24 – March 2, 2026Sources verified from: Westmoreland County Libraries (wclibraries.org), Westmoreland Museum of American Art (thewestmoreland.org), Westmoreland Cultural Trust / Palace Theatre (westmorelandculturaltrust.org), AllEvents.in/Greensburg, and Green Beacon Gallery (greenbeacongallery.com). ✅ SECTION 1: FREE EVENTS🏛️ CULTURAL / EDUCATIONAL1. Ongoing Exhibition: Steel Valley Visions — Free Museum Admission
2. Public Tour of the Westmoreland Museum
3. 2026 ACDA Northeast Dance Conference – Free Public Performance
📚 LIBRARY EVENTS (All Free)The Westmoreland County Libraries network (26 libraries across the county) has a rich program of free family and children's events this week. All are free unless otherwise noted. 4. Storytime – Multiple Locations Throughout the Week (Verified across multiple branches from wclibraries.org)
5. Virtual Author Talk: Smithsonian Curator Tom Crouch on "Smithson's Gamble"
6. Teen Art Club
7. Inked & Glued — Creative Journaling & Paper Crafts
8. Tech Class: Cyber Security
9. Take & Make Art Bags
🌿 COMMUNITY & WELLNESS10. Health & Wellness Pop-Up Market
11. Red Cross Blood Drive
12. Spring Bingo Event
13. Greensburg Vinyl Club
14. Movie Night Screening: Megalopolis
15. Seton Hill ACDA Dance Experience – Public Showings
💰 SECTION 2: PAID EVENTS1. Pop-Up Studio: Hot Chocolate! (⚠️ SOLD OUT)
2. Teacher Workshop – Steel Valley Visions: An American Legacy
3. Stand-Up Comedy Night at Green Beacon Gallery
4. Punk Rock Pizza Party 🍕 at Green Beacon Gallery
5. Earth, Wheel and Fire Wood-Fired Pizza Pop-Up
6. Steve Hawk Live at All Saints Brewing Co.
7. Top Dog Youth Program (10-Week Session Begins)
8. BASH – Elements Salon & Wellness Spa
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Here is the 7-day weather forecast for Greensburg, PA: Tuesday, February 24, 2026: High 36°F, Low 17°F, Cloudy with a chance of snow
Wednesday, February 25, 2026: High 43°F, Low 23°F, Light snow transitioning to clear periods Thursday, February 26, 2026: High 41°F, Low 23°F, Rain and snow showers Friday, February 27, 2026: High 48°F, Low 26°F, Partly sunny with a stray shower Saturday, February 28, 2026: High 56°F, Low 34°F, Mostly sunny and milder Sunday, March 1, 2026: High 38°F, Low 24°F, Cloudy with evening snow showers Monday, March 2, 2026: High 37°F, Low 22°F, Rain and snow mix
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🎵 Terrapin Bistro — Latrobe501 Avenue B, Latrobe | Opened February 7, 2026 If you've driven past the B&D Creekside Activity Center on Avenue B lately and noticed something new and a little groovy happening inside, you're not imagining things. Latrobe resident Richie Matsko opened Terrapin Bistro on February 7 — a Grateful Dead-inspired bar and restaurant named after the band's ninth studio album, Terrapin Station. TribLIVE Richie had been carrying this dream around for nearly a decade, and now Latrobe gets to reap the rewards. The menu pays tribute to his music idols with dishes like the "Fast Eddie" smash burger, "Let it Grow" zucchini planks, and the "Dark Star" salmon salad TribLIVE — but don't worry if you couldn't tell a Deadhead from a doorknob. The vibe is welcoming to absolutely everyone. What makes Terrapin Bistro extra special is that Richie has turned it into something of a mini art gallery for local talent. He invited local artists to bring their work in, and the walls are now filled with Grateful Dead-inspired pieces — including woodcuts by Latrobe artist Jack DePree — at no charge to the artists, helping get their names out in the community. Latrobe Bulletin News It's that kind of generous, community-first spirit that makes this place feel like more than just a restaurant. "It's all about love and community and family," Matsko said. "I want people to feel welcome no matter who they are." Latrobe Bulletin News Terrapin Bistro is open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day at 501 Avenue B in Latrobe. Latrobe Bulletin News Stop in, order a smash burger named after a classic song, and soak up what might just be the most soulful new dining room in Westmoreland County. 👗 Once Upon a Child — Hempfield TownshipGreengate East Shopping Plaza, Route 30, Hempfield | Opened December 4, 2025 Here's a feel-good story for any parent who's ever watched a toddler outgrow a perfectly good pair of sneakers in what feels like six minutes. Corey and Stephen Uber of Upper Burrell opened one of the latest Once Upon a Child franchise locations at the Greengate East Shopping Plaza along Route 30 in Hempfield on December 4. TribLIVE The store buys and resells gently used children's clothing and shoes — from preemie sizes all the way up to youth 18–20 — and gives sellers cash on the spot. For a family on a budget, or just a family that's smart about not spending a fortune on clothes a kid will outgrow by spring, this is a genuine gift. The Uber family's journey to opening this store is one of those stories that restores your faith in everything. After years of believing they wouldn't be able to have children, the couple adopted two daughters, then had three biological children in quick succession — going from zero to five kids in under two years. TribLIVE Once Upon a Child had been a lifesaver for their own family's budget, and eventually the dream of owning one took hold. "I always told my husband, 'I would love to own one of these stores,' and it was always kind of a pipe dream," TribLIVE Corey said. Their oldest daughter Samantha pushed them to go for it, and the community showed up big: "We were really overwhelmed by the response. We knew it was a really good area and we would be busy, but it way exceeded our expectations." TribLIVE
🍳 Cafe 993 — Manor BoroughManor-Harrison City Road, Manor Borough | Opened November 2025 Not all great restaurants are born in culinary school — some are born in a family that's been feeding the community for nearly two decades. Julia Gutkowski, 19, of Irwin, reopened the former Manor Grille building under a new name, Cafe 993, in November 2025. TribLIVE If the name Manor Grille rings a bell, it should — her parents, Derek and Megan Gutkowski, ran the original restaurant out of that same building for more than 18 years before closing the location in March 2024. TribLIVE Julia grew up waitressing there, and when the building sat empty, she couldn't let it stay that way. The menu will feel familiar and cozy to anyone who was a Manor Grille regular — think eggs, bacon, pancakes, french toast, homemade sausage, Reuben sandwiches, and chicken caesar wraps. Around the holidays, Julia served french toast made with her mother and grandmother's famous nut roll recipe TribLIVE, which honestly sounds like a reason to go back every weekend. And she's not doing it alone — her dad Derek has been right there helping with renovations and the business side of things. "I really couldn't imagine doing it without him, honestly," she said. "He knows everything."
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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 town's name, Greensburg, comes from General Nathanael Greene, who was a hero of the American Revolution. |
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Local Shoutouts, Local Heroes, Local Causes, Fundraisers, and Volunteer Opportunities
🌟 Westmoreland Buzz Community NewsletterWeek of February 23, 2026🏆 LOCAL SHOUTOUTSRecognitions, achievements, and notable accomplishments Mark Nobile of Unity Township: "Bag A Week – Keep It Neat" Hero Gets State Recognition Mark Nobile was just recognized by PA State Representative Leslie Rossi with the Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful Community Pride Award — and honestly, he's earned every bit of it. Before most of us have had our morning coffee, Mark is already out walking the roads of Unity Township picking up litter, often before sunrise, in rain, snow, and summer heat alike. His personal motto is "Bag A Week – Keep It Neat," but he far exceeds that — collecting more than five tons of garbage per month entirely as a volunteer. Key Details: Mark was recognized in December 2025. To learn more about the Keep PA Beautiful program, visit keeppabeautiful.org. Source: Keep PA Beautiful – Community Pride Award Westmoreland Cultural Trust Named 2025 Non-Profit of the Year — And a Century of Culture Is Worth Celebrating! The Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce named the Westmoreland Cultural Trust its 2025 Non-Profit of the Year, and the timing couldn't be better — their historic Palace Theatre in downtown Greensburg is turning 100 this year! The Trust draws more than 157,000 people to events annually and contributes nearly $13 million to our local economy. A yearlong Centennial celebration is underway, featuring a community time capsule, special symphony concerts, and a grand gala. Key Details: The Palace Theatre is located at 21 W. Otterman St., Greensburg. Share your Palace memory or submit a time capsule item at westmorelandculturaltrust.org. For event info, call 724-836-1123. Source: Westmoreland County Chamber / Pittsburgh Newswire Westmoreland DA's Detective Bureau Earns National Accreditation District Attorney Nicole Ziccarelli announced that the Westmoreland County Detective Bureau's Forensic Services Division has received national accreditation from the ANSI National Accreditation Board — a two-year effort involving rigorous evaluation. It's a big deal that positions Westmoreland as a leader in reliable, scientific law enforcement. Key Details: For more info, visit westmorelandcountypa.gov. Source: Westmoreland County News Flash 🦸 LOCAL HEROESPeople going above and beyond for others New Alexandria 4-H Kids Bring Care Packages to Cancer Patients How's this for a heartwarming story? Members of the New Alexandria Home Economics 4-H Club assembled and personally delivered care packages to patients at the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center at Arnold Palmer Pavilion. These young folks are proving that community care starts early and can make a real difference for folks facing tough times. Key Details: To connect with 4-H programs in Westmoreland County, visit westmoreland.psu.edu. Source: Latrobe Bulletin News – Local News Judge Tim Krieger: A Champion for Veterans in the Courtroom Judge Tim Krieger of Westmoreland County Common Pleas Court was honored with the prestigious Fred Funari Award for Outstanding Service to the Mental Health Community. As a U.S. Navy veteran himself, Judge Krieger leads the county's Veterans Court, which helps veterans with unique criminogenic needs transition back into civilian life — with overwhelmingly positive results for graduates. Key Details: Westmoreland County Veterans Court info available at westmorelandcountypa.gov. Source: Westmoreland County News Flash 📣 LOCAL CAUSESCommunity issues and initiatives that need your attention ICE Partnership with County Sheriff Sparks Community Conversation Residents packed the Westmoreland County Commissioners' chambers this month, with the vast majority of speakers voicing concerns about the Sheriff's Office agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement — a deal signed last September that most residents and commissioners say they weren't aware of. Commissioner Ted Kopas has questioned whether the sheriff had authority to sign the agreement without commissioner approval. This is an evolving story with community voices on both sides, and the public comment process remains open. Key Details: Commissioners meetings are held at 10 a.m. on Thursdays at the Westmoreland County Courthouse, 2 North Main St., Greensburg. Check westmorelandcountypa.gov for agendas. Sources: Latrobe Bulletin News | WCCS Radio Cold Weather Shelters Open Now — And They Need Our Awareness With winter still gripping us, it's worth spreading the word: both the Welcome Home Shelter (for women and families) and the Union Mission (for men 18+) are operating cold weather emergency shelters through March 31 on nights when temps drop below 25°F. Shelters are open 8 PM – 8 AM. If you know someone without heat or experiencing homelessness, please share this resource. Key Details: Call 211 to connect someone to a shelter. Welcome Home Shelter: 218 S. Maple Ave., Greensburg. Union Mission: 2217 Harrison Ave., Latrobe. Source: Westmoreland County News Flash Arts Organizations: Apply Now for County Arts Grants Before March 24! Local nonprofit arts organizations and government entities have a deadline approaching — Tuesday, March 24, 2026 — to apply for Westmoreland County arts grants covering music, theater, dance, puppetry, and visual arts projects taking place June 1–December 31, 2026. Up to 60% of project funding is available. Key Details: Apply online at WestmorelandCountyPA.gov/Parks or call (724) 830-3950. Applicants notified by June 4, 2026. Source: Westmoreland County News Flash 💛 FUNDRAISERSActive campaigns to support March for Parks 2026 — Help Save Our Parks on March 28! One of Westmoreland County's most beloved annual traditions is back! The 24th annual March for Parks fundraiser is set for Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Twin Lakes Park in Greensburg. Last year's event drew around 350 participants and raised over $61,000 for our county parks and trails. Lace up your sneakers (dogs welcome!), form a team, and help raise money for projects like the Westmoreland Heritage Trail expansion and regional park improvements. Key Details: Saturday, March 28, 2026 at Twin Lakes Park, Greensburg. Donate $30 and get an official t-shirt. Register at WestmorelandCountyPA.gov/Parks or call (724) 830-3950. Source: Westmoreland County 2026 Schedule of Events Comedy Nights for County Parks — March 6 & 7 Looking for a fun night out? The Westmoreland County Parks & Recreation Citizens Advisory Board and the Westmoreland Heritage/Five Star Trails are hosting two Comedy Night fundraisers on Friday, March 6, and Saturday, March 7, at The Venue at Live! Casino, Westmoreland Mall, Hempfield Township. A great way to laugh and give back at the same time! Key Details: The Venue at Live! Casino, Westmoreland Mall, Hempfield Township. March 6 & 7, 2026. Call (724) 830-3950 for ticket information. Source: Latrobe Bulletin News – Events of Area Interest Support the Palace Theatre Centennial — 100 Years of Community The Palace Theatre's 100th anniversary celebration is underway all year long, and Westmoreland Cultural Trust is inviting community support through donations, sponsorships, and contributions to their community time capsule. Every gift helps fund preservation of this historic landmark and the free and low-cost programming that serves over 157,000 residents a year. Key Details: Donate or submit a time capsule item at westmorelandculturaltrust.org. Palace Theatre is located at 21 W. Otterman St., Greensburg. Call 724-836-1123. Source: Westmoreland Cultural Trust 🤝 VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIESWays to give back right now Volunteer at Independence Health System — All Ages Welcome (16+) Westmoreland Hospital, Frick Hospital, and Latrobe Hospital are actively seeking volunteers age 16 and older across multiple roles — from patient care areas to pet therapy (yes, your dog could comfort patients!). This is a flexible, rewarding opportunity whether you're a student exploring healthcare or a retiree looking to give back. Key Details: Apply online at independence.health or call 724-832-4099. Locations include Westmoreland Hospital (Greensburg), Latrobe Hospital, Frick Hospital, and outpatient locations county-wide. Source: Independence Health System – Volunteer Opportunities Westmoreland Conservation District — Hands-On Volunteer Roles The Westmoreland Conservation District welcomes volunteers for a variety of opportunities from light landscaping and office tasks to guiding barn tours and helping set up events. Their mission is clean streams, healthy forests, stable soils — and they need your hands to make it happen! Key Details: Conservation District is located at 218 Donohoe Road, Greensburg, PA 15601. Events are also held at the Fred Rogers Center at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe. Contact via westmorelandconservation.org. Source: Westmoreland Conservation District / VolunteerMatch YWCA Westmoreland County — Multiple Volunteer Roles for Women's Programs The YWCA Westmoreland County has an array of volunteer openings: sorting and organizing their thrift shop, cashiering, customer service, and more. Volunteering here directly supports programs empowering women and families across the county, from technology classes to ESL and health services. Key Details: YWCA Westmoreland County, 424 N. Main Street, Greensburg, PA 15601. Phone: 724-834-9390. Visit ywcawestmoreland.org to learn more. Source: YWCA Westmoreland County – Get Involved |
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 |
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If you apply to adopt , please let the Humane Society know that you saw the listing in The Westmoreland Buzz Newsletter! Daisy's StoryDaisy is a gorgeous 2½-year-old female Shepherd mix who returned to AFA after her owner’s health issues made it impossible to keep her. She’s bursting with energy and loves to play, soaking up every bit of attention and affection from the staff. Daisy enjoys exploring on her walks, taking in all the sights and smells, though she’s quite strong and tends to pull, so she’ll need some leash training. Anyone interested should be ready to walk her to ensure they can handle her strength. She’d thrive in an active home with a family who can match her energy and help her learn the manners she needs. *Daisy needs a home without children under 13. Daisy also needs a home without cats or other dogs, where she can enjoy all the love, attention, and time from her new family.*
Action For Animals Inc. Humane SocietyLocation
386 Route 217 Latrobe, PA, 15650
Please give Daisy the forever home she deserves!
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💡 Answer to Trivia Question: Idlewild and SoakZone |
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Warmly, Charles Sisk Editor |
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