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"Empowering Girls, Great Deals, Dairy Hub, Pittcon, PFEW Revolution, Sports Roundup!"

Westmoreland Buzz
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"Empowering Girls, Great Deals, Dairy Hub, Pittcon, PFEW Revolution, Sports Roundup!"

Charles Sisk
Apr 28, 2026
Trivia Question❓The Eiffel Tower in Paris is painted every 7 years to prevent corrosion. How many cans of paint are needed to cover the entire tower? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
This Newsletter is Sponsored by: Angela's Angels |
Angela’s Angels in Latrobe offers more than just beautiful gowns—it's a lifeline for young women across the region.
For nearly twenty years, founder Angela Rose O’Brien and her dedicated team have ensured local girls don’t miss important moments like prom, pageants, or interviews due to financial hardship.
Each gown and accessory comes with a story, but the true transformation occurs when a young woman discovers her own confidence and self-worth in the mirror.
With every fitting, volunteers uplift and empower clients, going far beyond offering a wardrobe—they offer dignity and hope.
This personal touch has turned Angela’s Angels into a beloved community fixture.
In a world often short on kindness, Angela’s Angels demonstrates how generosity and encouragement can change lives—sometimes starting with a dress, and ending with new possibilities. Read More... |
Reach the Heart of the County: 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.
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. |
Top Stories Sponsored by: Westmoreland Sale for Kids Celebrating 20 years! |
Westmoreland Sale for Kids is expanding its savings with a special Teen and Adult Clothing and More consignment event this spring at the Westmoreland Fairgrounds in Greensburg.
Catering to teens, men, and women, the sale offers youth sizes 12–20 and adult styles from XS to 3X, with everything sorted by gender and category for easy browsing.
Shoppers will find thousands of gently used items, with prices typically 70–90% below retail.
Perks include free admission, free parking, and 10 on-site fitting rooms—bringing major value and convenience to local bargain hunters.
On Sunday, select items go half price, making it the perfect time to refresh your wardrobe.
The event runs on a separate weekend from the kids’ sale, so you can shop both without missing out.
Mark your calendar and get ready for spring’s best finds at the Westmoreland Fairgrounds. Read More... |
Food21 Pennsylvania is advancing plans for a $20 million dairy processing hub in Westmoreland County, positioning Salem Township as the top contender for its location.
The envisioned site would bring together cheese and extended shelf life milk production, a research center, demonstration farm, and waste-to-energy systems to lift local dairies into higher-value markets and cut transportation costs.
A Fourth Economy study confirms the region’s milk supply and market demand could support this mid-sized hub, while Food21 leaders believe it could become profitable within a few years with proper demand and financing.
Farmers like Wayne Frye and the Hopeway Dairy highlight the need for nearby processing, citing high current shipping expenses.
Public support includes a $30,000 state grant, helping Food21 move from feasibility to active recruitment of tenants and partners, with further success depending on buy-in from the local agricultural community and new investment.
Read More... |
Seven Saint Vincent College students showcased their scientific research at the Pittsburgh Conference on Analytical Chemistry and Applied Spectroscopy (Pittcon), hosted at the Henry B. González Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas, from March 7 to 11, 2026.
Guided by Dr. I. Mitch Taylor, Chemistry Department chair, the group engaged with top scientists worldwide and presented original findings to an international audience.
All students served as aides, facilitating discussions alongside experts in laboratory science.
Standout research topics included radiosensitization of medulloblastoma cells, synthetic methodologies for quinoline compounds, and analysis of photocatalytic materials.
Dr. Francis Arnold, a Nobel Laureate from western Pennsylvania, delivered the keynote address and interacted personally with students.
Students reported a renewed confidence in their scientific understanding and credited the Saint Vincent College curriculum for their preparation.
Next year's Pittcon will be held in Pittsburgh, continuing these invaluable opportunities for scientific growth. Read More... |
Westmoreland County high school sophomores and juniors have an exciting summer option that breaks the camp mold.
The Pennsylvania Free Enterprise Week (PFEW) in Williamsport immerses students in a fast-paced, hands-on business simulation.
Participants form teams, run their own “companies,” and navigate real-world business challenges from marketing strategies to managing financial hurdles.
Teamwork, ethics, and leadership become as important as profit, making the experience unforgettable.
Thanks to the support of the Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce and generous local business sponsors, nearly all of the $1,500 program cost is covered, with just a small registration fee for families.
Local students return energized, with stronger communication skills and a new vision for their futures.
This summer, help your student discover the “PFEW Magic” that could ignite their next big step. Read More... |
Spring brought high energy to Westmoreland County athletics as local programs shined across the board.
Saint Vincent’s Bearcats remained fierce in baseball and track, while Seton Hill’s Griffins navigated crucial conference battles, especially in lacrosse.
Pitt-Greensburg’s Bobcats fueled excitement with recruiting advances, keeping baseball and softball rosters active for future growth.
Belle Vernon’s Leopards and Franklin Regional’s Panthers made statements in baseball, softball, and track, staying hungry for postseason berths.
Hempfield Spartans and Norwin Knights flexed strength in both team and individual competition, building momentum at the perfect time.
Kiski Area, Burrell, Southmoreland, and Yough each delivered gritty performances, while Jeannette, Greensburg Salem, and Greensburg Central Catholic set a fast pace with shutout wins and explosive track showings.
Playoff dreams are alive all over the region as every win, run, and relay counts in the final spring stretch. Read More... |
Quote Of The Day |
"The world is full of wonderful things you haven't seen yet. Don't ever give up on the chance of seeing them." — J.K. Rowling |
🗓️ Family-Friendly Events in Westmoreland County, PAApril 28 – May 4, 2026
✅ FREE EVENTS1. Toddler Story Time & Family Storytime (Multiple Dates) 📅 Tuesdays–Thursdays, Apr 28–May 1 | Various times 10:00 AM–Noon 📍 Greensburg Hempfield Area Library, 237 S. Pennsylvania Ave., Greensburg 📋 The library system runs multiple concurrent early literacy storytimes each week — toddler sessions, baby lapsit, and preschool programs — covering songs, movement, stories, and crafts. Registration required for most sessions. 👶 Ages: Infants–Preschool 🔗 Source: wclibraries.org/events/2026-04-28 2. Family Storytime at Ligonier Valley Library 📅 Tuesday, April 28 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM 📍 Ligonier Valley Library, 120 West Main Street, Ligonier 📋 Join the library every Tuesday for an hour of reading and crafts with Miss Bobbi! Occasionally there will be music, but there will always be fun and learning. 👶 Ages: All ages 🔗 Source: wclibraries.org 3. Family Storytime at New Kensington (Peoples Library) 📅 Tuesday, April 28 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM 📍 Peoples Library, 880 Barnes Street, New Kensington 📋 Join the library at the New Kensington location for songs, stories, activities, and fun. 👶 Ages: All ages (free event) 🔗 Source: wclibraries.org 4. Sensory-Friendly Maker Space (Inclusive Connections) 📅 Tuesday, April 28 | 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM 📍 Greensburg Hempfield Area Library, 237 S. Pennsylvania Ave., Greensburg 📋 A special sensory-friendly Maker Space activity for everyone ages 3 and up, offered in partnership with Inclusive Connections. Each session features different creative activities for everyone to try. Great for children with sensory sensitivities and their families. 👶 Ages: 3+ (all abilities welcome) 🔗 Source: wclibraries.org 5. Teen Art Club – Ligonier Valley Library 📅 Tuesday, April 28 | 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM 📍 Ligonier Valley Library, 120 West Main Street, Ligonier 📋 A relaxed, creative space for teens to hang out, make art, and work on personal projects. Supplies like paint, markers, colored pencils, modeling clay, and more are provided. 👶 Ages: 12–18 🔗 Source: wclibraries.org 6. Mount Pleasant Library Bi-Annual Book Sale (Bag Sale Final Days) 📅 Monday–Saturday, Apr 28–30 | Library hours (Mon–Thu 10AM–8PM, Sat 9AM–4PM) 📍 Mount Pleasant Public Library, 120 S. Church Street, Mount Pleasant 📋 The bi-annual book sale runs through April 30, with "bag sale" pricing (fill a bag for a flat price) available from April 25 through the final day. A great opportunity for bargain hunters of all ages. 💰 Cost: Free to browse; Bag sale pricing applies to purchases 🔗 Source: wclibraries.org 7. Arts, Crafts & STEM at New Kensington & Lower Burrell (Peoples Library) 📅 Thursday, April 30 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM (New Kensington) | 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM (Lower Burrell) 📍 Peoples Library, 880 Barnes Street, New Kensington 📋 All ages are welcome to join at the New Kensington or Lower Burrell library locations for a fun and exciting STEM-based craft project. 👶 Ages: All ages 🔗 Source: wclibraries.org 8. Gratitude Soup Storytime & Collage Creation 📅 Thursday, April 30 | 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM 📍 Ligonier Valley Library, 120 West Main Street, Ligonier 📋 Children of all ages and their parents, caregivers, and grandparents are invited to this Poetry Neighborhood storytime event. Participants will listen to the storybook "Gratitude Soup" by Olivia Rosewood, then create their own gratitude soup collage with provided craft materials. 👶 Ages: All ages (family event) 🔗 Source: wclibraries.org 9. Greensburg Night Market — Season Opener 📅 Thursday, April 30 | 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM 📍 South Pennsylvania Avenue, Downtown Greensburg 📋 The Greensburg Night Market, presented by Charley Family Shop n' Save, features vendors ranging from local artisans to farmers and makers, with fresh produce, handmade goods, live music, food trucks, and kids activities across several blocks of downtown. This is the 2026 season opening market. 👶 Ages: All ages 💰 Cost: Free admission 🔗 Source: greensburgnightmarket.com | Verified also via AlIEvents.in 10. Backyard Composting Workshop — Mount Pleasant Library 📅 Thursday, April 30 | 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM 📍 Mount Pleasant Public Library, 120 S. Church Street, Mount Pleasant 📋 Natalie from Westmoreland Cleanways will give a crash course in composting, covering how kitchen scraps and yard waste can improve garden soil without harmful pesticides. Educational and family-friendly. 👶 Ages: All ages 🔗 Source: wclibraries.org 11. Virtual Author Talk with Jason Reynolds — Ligonier Valley Library 📅 Thursday, April 30 | 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM 📍 Ligonier Valley Library, 120 West Main Street, Ligonier (virtual) 📋 Bestselling author Jason Reynolds joins in conversation with the library. Reynolds is known for his beloved books for young adults and children. 👶 Ages: Teens & adults (YA fans) 🔗 Source: wclibraries.org 12. Fort Ligonier — Open Daily (Ongoing Attraction) 📅 April 28 – May 4, daily | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM 📍 200 S. Market Street, Ligonier, PA 15658 📋 The historic site and museum are now open seven days a week. America celebrates its 250th birthday in 2026! Visit Fort Ligonier and discover the Road to Revolution with hands-on immersive experiences and activities that connect the French and Indian War and Fort Ligonier's history to the American Revolution. The reconstructed 1758 British fort includes artillery, galleries, and the George Washington Gallery. 👶 Ages: All ages (especially great for school-age children) 💰 Cost: Adults $14 | Seniors (62+) $11 | Youth (4–17) $7 | Children 3 & under FREE (based on 2025 pricing — confirm at fortligonier.org) 🔗 Source: fortligonier.org/event | fortligonier.org/plan 13. Ligonier Valley Museum Day — "Give What You Can" 📅 Sunday, May 3 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (tours close at 3:30 PM) 📍 Six museums throughout the Ligonier Valley: Fort Ligonier (200 S. Market St.), Compass Inn Museum (Rte. 30 East, Laughlintown), Ligonier Valley Rail Road Museum, Lincoln Highway Experience (Unity), Antiochian Heritage Museum (Fairfield Township), and Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art–Ligonier Valley 📋 Bring the entire family for a fun-filled day of historical activities during the annual Museum Day in the Ligonier Valley. From extraordinary art and rare artifacts to transportation history including wagons, trains, and cars, the six museums have planned a fun day of activities, demonstrations, and tours both inside and out for participants of all ages. Each museum offers a special activity; visitors can earn a $250 Ligonier Valley gift certificate by collecting stamps at four or more sites. 👶 Ages: All ages — especially great for families 💰 Cost: "Give What You Can" (donation-based admission in 2026) 🔗 Source: fortligonier.org/event/free-museum-day | compassinn.org | lvrra.org 14. Historic Hanna's Town — 2026 Season Opening Day 📅 Saturday, May 2 | Hours TBD (typically aligned with park hours) 📍 Historic Hanna's Town, 809 Forbes Trail Road, Greensburg 📋 Historic Hanna's Town opens for the 2026 season on Saturday, May 2nd, opening its doors for America250! Explore a Revolutionary War-era site with reconstructed log buildings and stockade. The Westmoreland History Education Center also opens its doors in conjunction with Opening Day, offering exhibits, a research library, and the Westmoreland History Shop with special sales discounts. 👶 Ages: All ages 💰 Cost: Donation-based admission (in 2026, in honor of America's 250th) 🔗 Source: westmorelandhistory.org | westmorelandhistory.org/events 15. Dungeons & Dragons at Murrysville Community Library 📅 Saturday, May 2 | 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM 📍 Murrysville Community Library, 4130 Sardis Road, Murrysville 📋 Take on the role of a fantasy hero and help tell your story in collaboration with fellow players and Dungeon Master, Alyssa! No background in D&D required. Come learn how it works and participate at your own pace. 👶 Ages: 6th–8th graders 🔗 Source: wclibraries.org 16. Sew a Friend! — Greensburg Hempfield Area Library 📅 Saturday, May 2 | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM 📍 Greensburg Hempfield Area Library, 237 S. Pennsylvania Ave., Greensburg 📋 Use felt and your imagination to sew a friend! Participants will be sewing by hand using buttons, ribbons, and more to make a unique stuffed friend. Some sewing skills are helpful but not required. Registration required. 👶 Ages: Children/Tweens (all levels) 🔗 Source: wclibraries.org 💰 PAID EVENTS17. "Tapestry" — A Tribute to Carole King 📅 Thursday, April 30 | 7:30 PM 📍 The Palace Theatre, 21 West Otterman Street, Greensburg 📋 This show captures the essence and vibe of a 1970s Carole King Concert. Suzanne's boundless energy, piano and vocal skills engage her audience from the moment she takes the stage. The performance recreates Carole King's iconic catalog including beloved classics. 👶 Ages: Teens–Adults (all ages welcome) 💰 Cost: Tickets available via Westmoreland Cultural Trust Box Office; pricing varies (check westmorelandculturaltrust.org or call 724-836-8000) 🔗 Source: tapestrylive.com | ticketluck.com | Verified April 30, 7:30 PM at Palace Theatre – Greensburg 18. Pittsburgh Oldies All-Stars 📅 Sunday, May 3 | 3:00 PM 📍 The Palace Theatre, 21 West Otterman Street, Greensburg 📋 The Pittsburgh Oldies All Stars, featuring The Jaggerz, Chuck Blasko's Vogues, The Skyliners, The Marcels, and Pure Gold, are set to light up the stage with their greatest hits. A nostalgic afternoon of beloved Pittsburgh-area music acts. 👶 Ages: All ages (family-friendly nostalgia show) 💰 Cost: Tickets available via Westmoreland Cultural Trust Box Office (724-836-8000) or online 🔗 Source: westmorelandculturaltrust.org | Verified May 3, 3:00 PM at Palace Theatre 19. Fort Ligonier — Paid Daily Admission (with special America 250 programming) (See also entry #12 above in the Free section; listed here as a paid event for clarity) 📅 April 28 – May 4, daily | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM 📍 200 S. Market Street, Ligonier 💰 Cost: Adults $14 | Seniors $11 | Youth (4–17) $7 | Under 3: FREE Optional guided tour of historic site: +$5 🔗 Source: fortligonier.org/plan (2025 pricing; confirm for 2026) 20. Glass Etching Class — Delmont Public Library 📅 Saturday, May 2 | 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM 📍 Delmont Public Library, 75 School Road, Delmont 📋 Glass etching is a surprisingly easy and fun craft project that looks sophisticated when finished. You may bring your own glass item, or one will be provided. Registration required. 👶 Ages: Adults/Teens 💰 Cost: Likely a small materials fee (check delmontlibrary.org for registration/cost details) 🔗 Source: wclibraries.org ⚠️ Important Verification Notes
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Here is the 7-day weather forecast for Greensburg, PA: Tuesday, April 28, 2026: High 65°F, Low 51°F, Light rain |
Hi neighbors! Before I dive into highlighting some fresh small business energy in **Westmoreland County**, I'd love to hear from you. Have you spotted any new shops, eateries, or services opening up in the past month or coming soon in areas like **Greensburg**, **Latrobe**, **Irwin**, **Murrysville**, **Ligonier**, or elsewhere? Any specific spots or neighborhoods you'd like me to prioritize? Drop them in a reply—I'm all ears and ready to chase down the local stories that connect us! In the meantime, I've been digging into recent openings and near-term debuts. While the past 30 days haven't brought a flood of widely publicized grand openings (our county's growth often bubbles up through word-of-mouth, chamber updates, and community posts), a few standouts have caught attention, along with some exciting momentum heading into May and beyond. ### Cosmic Crumbs Bakery in Greensburg Owner details point to a passionate local team focused on "out-of-this-world treats," and the vibe is all about community connection through comforting, made-from-scratch goodies. What makes it special? It's that personal touch in a busy area along Route 30—perfect for grabbing something unique for a family gathering, office treat, or just because. Residents are already raving about the weekend availability and custom options that fill a need for quality, non-chain bakery fare close to home. Stop by to support them: Current hours are typically Friday & Saturday 9 AM–5 PM, Sunday 10 AM–2 PM (call to confirm as they tweak for demand). Reach them at 724-572-7730 or visit cosmiccrumbs.biz. Follow on Facebook and Instagram (@cosmiccrumbsbakery_) for daily specials and custom order info. Swing in, say hello, and tell them your neighbors sent you—nothing beats tasting local success! ### Moss & Rain Boutique and Downtown Greensburg Buzz While full owner backgrounds and quotes are still emerging through community channels, these boutique-style openings often stem from locals who see potential in revitalized downtown spaces—filling needs for unique, curated shopping that big boxes can't match. Support is easy—stroll downtown, browse during their open hours (check socials for updates), and follow local groups or Instagram for sneak peeks. These businesses thrive when we show up, share on social, and spread the word. Keep an eye on the area for more pop-ups and openings; Greensburg's momentum is real! Looking ahead, whispers of new venues in **Latrobe** (like potential spots on Main Street opening spring 2026) and continued retail at places like Westmoreland Mall suggest more good news on the horizon. Larger developments, such as expansions and new facilities in industrial parks, also signal a healthy environment for small businesses to grow alongside them. What do you think—ready to plan a "shop local" Saturday? Share any tips or businesses you've heard about, and I'll keep the spotlight shining on the folks building our county's future. Let's keep supporting each other—one visit, one purchase, one conversation at a time. See you around town! 🌟 |
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 Longest Swinging Bridge: The Hyde Park Walking Bridge is the longest swinging bridge in Pennsylvania, stretching 600 feet across the Kiski River. |
Local Shoutouts, Local Heroes, Local Causes, Fundraisers, and Volunteer Opportunities
Hello neighbors! It is a beautiful week to be a part of Westmoreland County. From classrooms to local legions, our community is buzzing with people looking out for one another. Here is your weekly roundup of the good news and great opportunities happening right in our backyard. Local ShoutoutsA Gold Star for Our Very Own Teacher of the Year!We are sending a massive round of applause to Madeline Loring, who was recently named the 2026 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year! Known for making fourth-grade math an absolute blast and for her incredible heart, Madeline’s dedication is a shining example of the talent we have in our local school districts.
Local HeroesFeeding the Heart of GreensburgA huge shoutout to the dedicated volunteers and local organizers working with the United Way this week. These local heroes have been spending their mornings at food pantries and local agencies in Greensburg to ensure families impacted by domestic violence and food insecurity have the support they need.
Local CausesBreaking Stigma at the ID/A Awareness EventThe Westmoreland Mall recently turned into a hub of celebration and education for the Intellectual Disabilities and Autism (ID/A) Community Awareness Event. This initiative brings our neighbors together to promote inclusion through games, music, and "Olympic-style" teamwork, proving that we really are better together.
FundraisersEyes on the Prize: Ray of Hope Bingo NightGet your lucky daubers ready! The Ray of Hope Suicide Awareness and Prevention Task Force is hosting a Bingo Fundraiser this coming Saturday. It’s a fun way to support a vital cause, with all proceeds going toward local mental health awareness and their annual $1,000 high school scholarship.
Volunteer OpportunitiesLibrary Helpers and Community Spruce-UpsOur local libraries and schools are looking for a few extra hands! Whether it's helping with "Spruce Up" events or assisting with upcoming book sales, your time is the best gift you can give.
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! đź’™ |
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! Milton's Story
Meet Milton — Could He Be Your New Best Friend? Please give Milton the forever home he deserves!
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đź’ˇ Answer to Trivia Question: Approximately 60 tons of paint (over 25,000 cans) are needed to repaint the Eiffel Tower. |
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Warmly, Charles Sisk Editor |
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