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"Furry Heroes to the Rescue & Chipotle's New Prototype Restaurant in Westmoreland County!"


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"Furry Heroes to the Rescue & Chipotle's New Prototype Restaurant in Westmoreland County!"

Westmoreland Buzz
Archives
"Furry Heroes to the Rescue & Chipotle's New Prototype Restaurant in Westmoreland County!"

Charles Sisk
Mar 10, 2026
Trivia Question❓What city in Westmoreland County PA is indeed famous as the birthplace of the banana split, which was invented there in 1904 by David Strickler at Tassell Pharmacy.
Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
This Newsletter is Sponsored by: Angela's Angels |
In 2012, local student Merrissa found her dream dress at Angela’s Angels, a Latrobe nonprofit devoted to helping young women afford memorable prom experiences.
Growing up in a single-parent home, finances were tight, and extras like formalwear seemed impossible.
Access to a beautiful dress, free of charge, became a life-changing gift.
Challenges followed, including eviction and unexpected moves, but the support Merrissa received inspired her future.
Now based in Georgia, she mentors girls facing similar hardships through the Girls of Excellence organization.
Recently, Merrissa sent her treasured dress back to Angela’s Angels, giving other Westmoreland County girls the same opportunity she once received.
This act highlights Angela’s Angels’ mission; it’s a place where confidence and kindness take center stage, fostering hope for generations.
Every visitor and volunteer helps keep this local legacy alive. 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. |
Rescue dogs trained to find survivors are now joining urban search and rescue efforts in southwestern Pennsylvania, enhancing life-saving capabilities for Westmoreland County and beyond.
The Pennsylvania Urban Search and Rescue Strike Team (PA-ST1), headquartered in Pittsburgh, is working towards achieving Type 3 task force accreditation after a $6 million state grant.
New canine recruits—Prada the Labrador and Bailey the German shepherd—are in training to help locate people trapped beneath rubble during disasters.
Handlers like Bill Cummings and Greg Wehner Jr. are focused on obedience, agility, and scent detection, advancing the team's accreditation goals.
Once additional funding is finalized, resources will go toward critical equipment and training upgrades, reinforcing regional preparedness.
PA-ST1, which covers 14 counties including Allegheny and Westmoreland, aims to expand its team and response speed—providing vital support whenever catastrophe hits. Read More... |
The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art at Ligonier Valley will host its ninth annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 28, partnering with the Ligonier Valley Business and Professional Women’s Club. This family-friendly tradition also benefits the Ligonier Food Pantry with a canned food drive. Festivities open at 1 p.m. with face painting, followed by the egg hunt amid the museum’s gardens and yard. The celebration is open to children of all ages, rain or shine. Living Treasures Animal Park will bring special animal guests, including a baby kangaroo and bunnies, adding excitement for young participants. Ligonier Scout Troop 372 will help with event activities, ensuring a day filled with fun and community spirit. Children can exchange their eggs for toys and treats, courtesy of Friends of SAMA, and take home art kits to continue the creativity. Registration is encouraged but not required for families who wish to join. Read More... |
Ray of Hope has expanded its support for families grieving overdose losses with the new Drug Overdose Survivor Support (DOSS) team, offering compassionate outreach in Westmoreland County and beyond.
DOSS teams, modeled after the successful LOSS initiative for suicide survivors, dispatch trained volunteers—including members who have experienced loss themselves—to provide direct assistance and resources after a tragedy.
The LOSS program has steadily grown since 2023, now supporting up to 40 people at its grief support group and reaching 168 families through heartfelt cards on significant dates.
Although Ray of Hope no longer receives automatic death notifications, their team remains committed to prompt, meaningful support.
The group maintains a 24/7 grief hotline at 724-535-1829 and will host its 20th annual Suicide Awareness & Prevention Walk on August 29, 2026.
Ray of Hope relies on community support and donations to continue its vital work. Read More... |
Chipotle Mexican Grill is bringing its new 'Habanero' restaurant design to Irwin in Westmoreland County.
The location is planned for 9174 Route 30, on the site of a former Denny’s, just half a mile from the Pennsylvania Turnpike’s Irwin exit.
Irwin’s Planning Commission has unanimously endorsed Chipotle’s land development plan, created alongside local engineering firm Bohler.
The project awaits a final vote by the Irwin Borough Council in January, pending fulfillment of PennDOT and Westmoreland Conservation District stormwater requirements.
If given the go-ahead, the restaurant could open in 2026, featuring Chipotle’s striking new interior concept, with updated materials, textures, and artwork inspired by the brand’s history.
The Habanero model adds indoor seating and special pick-up lines for online orders, aiming to boost convenience.
Chipotle’s move underscores its push to expand innovative store formats throughout Pennsylvania. Read More... |
Quote Of The Day |
"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 10, 2026 and April 4, 2026, in date order. March 21, 2026 – 12th Annual Easter Egg Hunt hosted by Top Dog Therapy Team, Mt. Pleasant, PA (Westmoreland County) – Visit with the Easter Bunny and participate in the egg hunt; check host’s page for exact time and location details. March 22, 2026 – Easter Egg Hunt – Penn Township Municipal Park, Penn Township, Westmoreland County, PA – 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm; township-sponsored community egg hunt at the municipal park. March 22, 2026 – Easter Egg Hunt & Breakfast with the Bunny – 814 Lanes & Games / S&T Bank, 4589 State Route 136, Greensburg, PA 15601 – 8:30 am to 12:00 pm; free egg hunt with age divisions and breakfast with the Bunny (advance registration recommended). 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.
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🗓️ Family-Friendly Events in Westmoreland County, PAMarch 10–16, 2026
All events verified through direct source calendars. Where specific pricing or registration details were not publicly available, notes are included. Always verify before attending, as schedules can change. ✅ FREE EVENTS1. 🔬 "Shamrock Roots" — Irish Heritage & Genealogy ProgramDate/Time: Tuesday, March 10 | 6:00 PM Location: Norwin Public Library, 100 Caruthers Lane, Irwin, PA (North Huntingdon Township) Description: Explore Irish culture and trace your ancestral roots with this special St. Patrick's Day-themed program. Attendees will receive take-home research materials to assist with their Irish genealogy journey. Age Appropriateness: Adults & older teens; families welcome Cost: FREE (registration requested) Source: Trib Live / Norwin Community | Norwin Public Library | Call: 724-863-4700 ext. 3 2. 📚 Song and Rhyme Time (Virtual/On-Demand)Date/Time: Monday, March 16 | 1:00 PM (also available anytime online) Location: Adams Memorial Library, 1112 Ligonier Street, Latrobe, PA Description: Miss Karen hosts a song and rhyme session designed for young children and their caregivers, available to follow along on the library's website and social media for early literacy engagement. Age Appropriateness: Infants and toddlers with caregivers Cost: FREE Source: Westmoreland County Libraries 3. 🐕 Dog Reading PalsDate/Time: Friday, March 13 | 4:00–5:00 PM (four 15-minute time slots: 4:00, 4:15, 4:30, 4:45 PM) Location: Murrysville Community Library, 4130 Sardis Road, Murrysville, PA (Murrysville Municipality) Description: Children read aloud to therapy dogs, a proven technique to build reading confidence and skills. Kids may bring their own book or choose one at the library. This popular program meets the second Friday of each month. Age Appropriateness: School-age children (best for early readers) Cost: FREE (registration required for each 15-minute slot) Source: Westmoreland County Libraries | Register: www.murrysvillelibrary.org or 724-327-1102 4. 🍀 St. Patrick's Day Family Fun NightDate/Time: Friday, March 13 | 6:00–7:00 PM Location: Smithton Public Library, 615 Center Street, Smithton, PA (Rostraver Township) Description: A festive St. Patrick's Day–themed evening for families featuring stories, games, a craft, and more. Part of the library's monthly Family Fun Night series. Age Appropriateness: All ages; best for children Cost: FREE Source: Westmoreland County Libraries 5. 🎨 Public Tours — Westmoreland Museum of American ArtDate/Time: Saturday, March 14 | 1:00–2:00 PM Location: The Westmoreland Museum of American Art, 221 N. Main Street, Greensburg, PA Description: Free guided public tours of the museum's galleries, including the current exhibitions. A great way for families and visitors to explore American art in a welcoming, historic setting. Age Appropriateness: All ages Cost: FREE Source: The Westmoreland 6. 🎓 Teen Club — Westmoreland MuseumDate/Time: Saturday, March 14 | 10:00 AM–1:00 PM Location: The Westmoreland Museum of American Art, 221 N. Main Street, Greensburg, PA Description: A free art-making and creative session exclusively for high school students (grades 10–12). Teens can explore the museum's galleries and participate in hands-on activities. Age Appropriateness: Grades 10–12 Cost: FREE Source: The Westmoreland 7. 🌌 Universal Curiosity — Space Science for KidsDate/Time: Saturday, March 14 | 11:00 AM–12:00 PM Location: Murrysville Community Library, 4130 Sardis Road, Murrysville, PA Description: A STEM program for children ages 8–12, facilitated by Franklin Regional student Roger Huang. Kids will learn about how the universe works and discuss current events happening in space. Age Appropriateness: Ages 8–12 Cost: FREE (registration required) Source: Westmoreland County Libraries | Register: www.murrysvillelibrary.org or 724-327-1102 8. 📖 Literacy Love Conference (Public Educational Event)Date/Time: Wednesday, March 11 | 8:30 AM Location: Fred M. Rogers Center, Saint Vincent College, 300 Fraser Purchase Road, Latrobe, PA Description: Saint Vincent College hosts the 2026 Literacy Love Conference, featuring bestselling author and nationally recognized literacy educator Penny Kittle as keynote speaker. The full-day event offers breakout sessions for educators and literacy professionals — open to the public and education community. Age Appropriateness: Adults / educators; families with interest in literacy welcome Cost: FREE (registration may be required — verify with SVC) Source: Saint Vincent College Events 9. 🏛️ "Medieval Revivals and the Climate of Devotion" — Free Public LectureDate/Time: Thursday, March 12 | 7:00–9:00 PM (lecture ~1 hour; reception 8:00–9:00 PM) Location: Verostko Center for the Arts, Dale P. Latimer Library, Saint Vincent College, Latrobe, PA Description: A free public lecture by Dr. Virginia Chieffo Raguin, professor emerita of humanities at the College of the Holy Cross, exploring medieval stained glass and religious art. A Q&A and light reception follow. Co-hosted by SVC's School of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences. Age Appropriateness: All ages; best for teens and adults Cost: FREE Source: Saint Vincent College News 10. 🐟 Lenten Fish Fry — St. Bruno ParishDate/Time: Every Friday during Lent, including March 13 | 4:00–7:00 PM Location: St. Bruno Parish Center, 1729 Poplar Street, Greensburg, PA Description: A beloved community Lenten tradition offering fried and baked fish dinners and sandwiches, specialty seafood items including Orange Roughy, fried shrimp, crab cakes, baked weekly specials, kids' meals, and desserts. Dine-in and take-out available. Age Appropriateness: All ages; family-friendly Cost: Priced per meal (typically $10–$16; verify directly) ⚠️ Note: Meals are sold at cost — listed here as a community food/cultural event; minimal cost per plate Source: 2026 Diocese of Greensburg Fish Fry Guide — The Catholic Accent
11. 🐟 Lenten Fish Fry — St. John the Evangelist ParishDate/Time: Every Friday during Lent, including March 13 | 12:00 Noon–6:00 PM Location: St. John the Evangelist Parish, 306 St. John Drive, Latrobe, PA Description: One of the Laurel Highlands' most popular all-day fish fry events, running from noon into the evening. Traditional fish dinners, sandwiches, and sides available for dine-in or carry-out. Age Appropriateness: All ages; family-friendly community tradition Cost: Priced per meal (verify directly) Source: Diocese of Greensburg Fish Fry Guide 12. 🐟 Lenten Fish Fry — St. Elizabeth Ann Seton ParishDate/Time: Every Friday in Lent, including March 13 | Lunch: 11:30 AM–1:30 PM; Dinner: 4:00–7:00 PM Location: St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, 200 Leger Road, North Huntingdon, PA Description: A large and popular drive-through and dine-in fish fry serving North Huntingdon Township. Check the parish's Facebook page for the weekly menu, pricing, and call-ahead lunch options. Age Appropriateness: All ages Cost: Priced per meal (check Facebook for current pricing) Source: Diocese of Greensburg Fish Fry Guide 💲 PAID EVENTS13. 🎻 Spring Symphony — Westmoreland Symphony OrchestraDate/Time: Saturday, March 14 | 7:30 PM Location: The Palace Theatre, 21 W. Otterman Street, Greensburg, PA Description: A stunning evening of classical music celebrating the arrival of spring. The program features Brahms' Hungarian Dances, Mendelssohn's beloved Violin Concerto in E minor performed by internationally acclaimed violinist Chee-Yun (making her third appearance with the WSO), and Schumann's Symphony No. 1, "Spring." Age Appropriateness: All ages; great introduction to orchestral music for older children Cost: Tickets vary; check Westmoreland Cultural Trust website Source: Westmoreland Cultural Trust | AllEvents.in Greensburg 14. 🎤 Steven Curtis Chapman — SPEECHLESS The TourDate/Time: Sunday, March 15 | 7:00 PM Location: The Palace Theatre, 21 W. Otterman Street, Greensburg, PA Description: Back by popular demand, multi-Grammy-winning Christian artist Steven Curtis Chapman brings SPEECHLESS The Tour to Greensburg, celebrating the 25th anniversary of his iconic Speechless album, playing it front to back. Suitable for the whole family and fans of all ages. Age Appropriateness: All ages; family-friendly Christian concert Cost: Tickets vary; check Westmoreland Cultural Trust for pricing Source: Westmoreland Cultural Trust | AllEvents.in 15. 🍺 Art on Tap: St. Paddy's Whiskey BashDate/Time: Friday, March 13 | 6:00–9:00 PM Location: The Westmoreland Museum of American Art, 221 N. Main Street, Greensburg, PA Description: A festive St. Patrick's Day–themed evening at the museum for adults 21 and over, featuring whiskey tastings and a lively atmosphere within the galleries. Age Appropriateness: 21+ only Cost: $12 (members) / $15 (non-members) Source: The Westmoreland 16. 🎭 Disney's Frozen — Kiski Area High School MusicalDate/Time: Wednesday–Saturday, March 11–14, 2026
17. 🎵 Kaleidoscope — SVC Music & Performing Arts ShowcaseDate/Time: Sunday, March 15 | 2:00 PM Location: Performing Arts Center, Robert S. Carey Student Center, Saint Vincent College, 300 Fraser Purchase Road, Latrobe, PA Description: A one-hour public showcase featuring soloists and ensembles from across all of Saint Vincent College's Music & Performing Arts programs. A wonderful afternoon of student talent in an intimate, welcoming setting. Age Appropriateness: All ages Cost: Verify with Saint Vincent College (likely low-cost or free; call 724-532-6600) Source: Saint Vincent College Events 18. 🎨 Museum Members: Explore TourDate/Time: Thursday, March 12 | 3:00–4:30 PM Location: The Westmoreland Museum of American Art, 221 N. Main Street, Greensburg, PA Description: A special guided exploration tour of the museum's current exhibitions, exclusively for museum members. A unique chance to explore the galleries in depth. (Non-members can join by becoming a member.) Age Appropriateness: All ages Cost: FREE for members (membership required; visit thewestmoreland.org/membership) Registration Deadline: March 11 Source: The Westmoreland 📌 Important Notes & Verification Reminders⚠️ Always confirm before attending: Event details, times, and pricing can change. Call ahead or check the source links provided. 🐟 Lenten Fish Frys: March 13 falls on a Friday during Lent 2026. Dozens of churches, fire halls, and community organizations across Westmoreland County host fish fries every Lenten Friday. The Diocese of Greensburg's full guide is available at theaccentonline.org/2026lentenfishfryguide — a wonderful, deeply local family tradition. 🎭 Additional High School Musicals in the Region (some in/bordering Westmoreland County): Per OnStage Pittsburgh's verified 2026 listing, several area schools have productions overlapping this week. Apollo-Ridge High School (Mamma Mia!, March 12–14) and Belle Vernon Area High School (Wizard of Oz, March 12–15) are close neighbors worth checking for dates/tickets. Fort Ligonier: The fort grounds are closed until April 1, 2026, but the museum is open Friday–Sunday for families interested in colonial history. Admission applies. Visit fortligonier.org for current hours and pricing. |
Here is the 7-day weather forecast for Greensburg, PA: Tuesday, March 10, 2026: High 68°F, Low 52°F, Cloudy with a 35% chance of rain
Wednesday, March 11, 2026: High 68°F, Low 33°F, Rain with a 75% chance of precipitation Thursday, March 12, 2026: High 41°F, Low 27°F, Cloudy with a 20% chance of snow Friday, March 13, 2026: High 50°F, Low 28°F, Light rain with a 20% chance of snow Saturday, March 14, 2026: High 46°F, Low 32°F, Cloudy with a 10% chance of snow Sunday, March 15, 2026: High 66°F, Low 40°F, Light rain with a 10% chance of rain Monday, March 16, 2026: High 49°F, Low 23°F, Snow showers with a 35% chance of snow
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New Neighbors & Neighborhood FlavorsIt’s an exciting time to be out and about in Westmoreland County! Whether you're a lifelong resident or a newcomer, there's nothing quite like the buzz of a new local spot opening its doors. From a groovy new bistro in Latrobe to a legendary family name returning to Hempfield, here are the latest stories from our community's small business scene. Terrapin Bistro – Latrobe
If you’ve been near Main Street lately, you might have noticed a new turtle-themed sign that’s bringing a lot of "good vibes" to downtown Latrobe. Richie Matsko, a local resident who spent years as a house painter and machinist, finally brought his decade-long dream to life last month with the opening of Terrapin Bistro. Inspired by his love for The Grateful Dead, the bistro is more than just a place to eat—it’s a passion project filled with musical tributes and a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere. Richie isn't just hiding in the kitchen, either. He’s often seen at the tables, checking in on neighbors and making sure everyone feels at home. When asked why he chose to set up shop right here in Latrobe, Richie shared:
The menu is a treat for both "Deadheads" and foodies alike. You have to try the "Let it Grow" zucchini planks or the "Fast Eddie" smash burger. It’s the kind of place where the owners’ heart is on every plate, filling a need for a creative, community-focused gathering spot in the heart of town.
Mangia featuring DeLallo – Hempfield (Live! Casino)
Get ready for a "noodle cutting" instead of a ribbon cutting! This April, the legendary DeLallo family is bringing a fresh concept to the front entrance of Live! Casino. Mangia is a fast-casual Italian eatery and marketplace that celebrates the heritage of the DeLallo brand, which started right here in Westmoreland County as a roadside market in 1950. While DeLallo is now a household name across the country, this new venture is a deeply local affair. It will feature indoor and outdoor seating, an express window for those on the move, and a retail market where you can grab their signature oils, cheeses, and even chocolate-covered pretzels. According to the team, the goal is to offer a high-quality, authentic experience that honors their roots:
Pizzaiolo Primo – Murrysville
Murrysville residents have a brand-new reason to skip the cooking tonight! Pizzaiolo Primo just opened its doors in the former Atria’s location. Entrepreneur Ron Sofranko, who has a knack for revitalizing beloved regional spots, has transformed the space into a hub for artisan, Neapolitan-style pizzas and authentic Italian entrees like branzino and chicken parmigiana. The opening fills a significant gap on the William Penn Highway corridor, turning a vacant space back into a vibrant community anchor. It’s the third location for the group, but it feels uniquely tailored to Murrysville’s family-friendly atmosphere.
Coming Up in the Community: If you're looking for even more ways to connect with neighbors, don't forget that the Ligonier Country Market is gearing up for its spring market on Saturday, March 14, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the high school. It’s the perfect preview before their regular season kicks off in May!
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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 |
In Greensburg PA the primary monumental statue, is the Westmoreland County Veterans Monument, which features a 6-foot tall bronze Union soldier atop a 25-foot base. It is located at Courthouse Square and was rededicated in 2015. |
Local Shoutouts, Local Heroes, Local Causes, Fundraisers, and Volunteer Opportunities
🌟 Westmoreland Buzz Community NewsletterWeek of March 9, 2026Your weekly roundup of good news, great neighbors, and ways to get involved right here at home. ⭐ LOCAL SHOUTOUTSRecognitions, achievements, and things worth celebrating 🏭 Big New Jobs Coming to Our Backyard! Westmoreland County just landed a major economic win — and it's one worth celebrating. Chelsea Building Products and ARCO Pittsburgh broke ground on a 228,000-square-foot manufacturing facility at Commerce Crossing at Westmoreland, marking a major investment in the county's industrial growth. Westmoreland County This kind of project means real jobs and a stronger local economy for years to come. Key Details: Commerce Crossing at Westmoreland industrial park. For economic development info, visit westmorelandcountypa.gov or contact WCIDC. Source: Westmoreland County Official Website 🎭 Local Arts Festival Earns National Bragging Rights — Again! We've got the best festival scene in the state and the numbers to prove it. The Westmoreland Arts & Heritage Festival was ranked #1 in Pennsylvania and #11 in the nation by Sunshine Artist Magazine on its list of "The 100 Best Classic & Contemporary Craft Shows" for 2025, and also took home the Gold Award Winner for Annual Event/Festival from Best of Westmoreland County. Artsandheritage Start making plans now — the 2026 festival is coming up! Key Details: The 52nd Westmoreland Arts & Heritage Festival runs July 2–5, 2026 at Twin Lakes Park in Greensburg. Artsandheritage Free admission. Info: artsandheritage.com or (724) 834-7474. Source: Arts & Heritage Festival Website 📚 North Huntingdon Native Makes History — Then Keeps Going Even after being fired from her post, a local woman is making waves on the national stage. Colleen Shogan, a North Huntingdon native who was the national archivist until she was removed by President Donald Trump in February, has found a new role leading an initiative that will explore lessons in leadership from American presidents. TribLIVE The nonprofit initiative, called "In Pursuit," has recruited former presidents, notable journalists, and academics to write essays about every U.S. president through Barack Obama — essays made freely available online via Substack. WESA Key Details: Read the essays for free at the "In Pursuit" Substack — no paywall. Shogan graduated from Norwin High School Wikipedia right here in Westmoreland County. Source: WESA Radio 🦸 LOCAL HEROESPeople going above and beyond for our community 🌿 One Man, Five Tons of Trash a Month — Meet Mark Nobile Before most of us have had our morning coffee, this Unity Township resident is already cleaning up our roadsides. PA State Representative Leslie Rossi recognized Mark Nobile of Unity Township, Westmoreland County, as a recipient of the Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful Community Pride Award, celebrating his unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship. In a single month, Mark collects more than five tons of garbage — all as a volunteer — often before sunrise and through all kinds of weather. Keep PA Beautiful His motto? "Bag A Week – Keep It Neat." Though honestly, that undersells it by about five tons. Key Details: If you see Mark out on the roads of Unity Township, give him a wave and a thank you! Learn more about the Keep PA Beautiful program at keeppabeautiful.org. Source: Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful 🌸 25 Years of Keeping Smithton Beautiful Talk about dedication — Smithton's own Mayor has been organizing litter cleanups for a quarter century. Smithton Borough Council honored Mayor Christine Tutena with the Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful Community Pride Award for her exceptional dedication to community improvement. Since 2000, she and a small group have grown their cleanup effort to cover three state roads totaling over three miles around Smithton, including along the Youghiogheny River. Keep PA Beautiful Key Details: Want to get involved in litter cleanup in your own neighborhood? Contact Keep PA Beautiful at keeppabeautiful.org to find or start a local affiliate. Source: Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful 🔔 LOCAL CAUSESImportant issues that need your attention 🚨 Nominate a First Responder Who Changed a Life Our firefighters, EMTs, and police officers deal with more than physical emergencies — they're often the first ones on scene during mental health crises, too. Westmoreland County is inviting residents to nominate a local first responder for a Behavioral Health Award, recognizing those who go above and beyond in supporting community mental health. Westmoreland County If you know someone who deserves that recognition, speak up! Key Details: Visit westmorelandcountypa.gov/HumanServices or call (724) 830-3617 for nomination details. Don't let a deserving hero go unrecognized! Source: Westmoreland County Human Services 🎨 Arts Grants Available for Local Nonprofits — Deadline Coming Fast! If your nonprofit brings music, theater, dance, or arts programming to our community, there's funding available right now — but the clock is ticking. The Westmoreland County Bureau of Parks and Recreation is offering grants to non-profit organizations to support arts-related projects benefiting county residents, with applications due by Tuesday, March 24, 2026. Grants cover up to 60% of direct project costs for activities taking place June 1 through December 31, 2026, with award notifications going out by June 4, 2026. Westmoreland County Key Details: Apply online at westmorelandcountypa.gov/Parks or call (724) 830-3950. Eligible activities include music, theater, dance, puppetry, and visual arts — projects must be open to the general public. Source: Westmoreland County News Flash ❄️ Cold Shelter Still Open Through March It's still cold out there, and no one should have to face it alone. The Welcome Home Shelter (for single women and families) and The Union Mission (for men 18+) offer cold weather emergency shelter from November 1 through March 31 on nights when temperatures fall below 25°F, operating from 8 PM to 8 AM. Call 211 to connect. Westmoreland County Key Details: Welcome Home Shelter: 218 South Maple Ave., Greensburg. The Union Mission: 2217 Harrison Ave., Latrobe. Call 211 for availability on any given night. Source: Westmoreland County News Flash 💛 FUNDRAISERSWays to give back right now 🌲 March for Parks — Coming Up Saturday, March 28! One of Westmoreland County's most beloved annual traditions is just around the corner, and you can make it count for our parks and trails. What started 24 years ago at Twin Lakes Park with fewer than 100 participants has grown into a vital community tradition supporting the mission to "sustain, preserve, and expand important recreation resources in the county." Westmoreland County Last year's event raised over $61,000! Key Details: The March for Parks fundraiser at Twin Lakes Park in Greensburg features live entertainment, fun family activities, tasty food, and other surprises. Form a team of friends and family to raise money — donate $30 and get an official March for Parks t-shirt! Westmoreland County The event is Saturday, March 28, 2026. Register at westmorelandcountypa.gov/Parks. Checks payable to "WCPRCAB," 194 Donohoe Road, Greensburg, PA 15601. Dogs welcome! Source: Westmoreland County Parks Schedule 🙌 VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIESRoll up your sleeves and make a difference 🌳 Volunteer at the March for Parks! Can't march but still want to help? The March for Parks event needs helping hands to make it all come together. This is a great way to give back, meet neighbors, and support the green spaces that make Westmoreland County such a great place to live. Key Details: Event is Saturday, March 28, 2026 at Twin Lakes Park, Greensburg. Contact Westmoreland County Parks and Recreation at (724) 830-3959 or visit westmorelandcountypa.gov/Parks to sign up. Source: Westmoreland County Parks 💼 Westmoreland Community Action Needs You Year-Round Whether you have a few hours a week or want a more regular commitment, Westmoreland Community Action is always glad for extra help. Volunteer opportunities include general office work, filing, and other support. Their offices are located at 226 Donohoe Road, Suite 111, Greensburg, and 316 Donohoe Road, Greensburg, open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. Westmorelandca through the afternoon. Key Details: Contact Westmoreland Community Action at westmorelandca.org or visit either Greensburg location to get started. They serve families facing poverty, housing challenges, and more — every hand helps. Source: Westmoreland Community Action |
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! Peter's StoryPeter is a charming 4-year-old Bulldog mix who arrived as a shelter transfer back on 2/1/25. He desperately hopes his forever family finds him soon!
Action For Animals Inc. Humane SocietyLocation
386 Route 217 Latrobe, PA, 15650
Please give Peter the forever home he deserves!
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💡 Answer to Trivia Question: Latrobe |
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Warmly, Charles Sisk Editor |
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