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Ligonier Beach Sparks Feud, Water Takeover Complete, Mini-THON Triumphs—What's Next for PA?
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Ligonier Beach Sparks Feud, Water Takeover Complete, Mini-THON Triumphs—What's Next for PA?
Ligonier Beach’s future, new farms, water updates, big charity wins—catch this week’s highlights!
Charles Sisk

Charles Sisk

Aug 18, 2026

📰 WEEKLY PREVIEW

* Top Stories: Westmoreland Mini-THON
* Local Events: THE CANINE STARS
* What's Trending: Heritage & Storytelling
* Community Engagement: March for Parks & Trails

* Pet of the week: Meet Roxie - Adopt me!

Trivia Question❓

Which city became the first in the world to host both the Summer and Winter Olympic Games, and in what year did it host the Winter Games?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

Looking for authentic Italian fare in the Mon Valley? La Eda's Family Restaurant is a local favorite, serving classic dishes made from the freshest ingredients and breads baked daily.

Whether you're dining in to enjoy their cozy atmosphere or grabbing a takeout meal for home, every visit offers homestyle comfort and genuine hospitality.

Treat yourself and your loved ones to the best Italian food in the area—make La Eda's your next dining destination!

Address1723 Grand Blvd, Monessen, Pennsylvania 15062, United States
Days OpenClosed Mondays
HoursTue–Thu 11am–8pm · Fri–Sat 11am–9pm · Sun 11am–8:30pm
Phone(724) 684-7664
Click here to visit La Eda's Family Restaurant

Ligonier Township officials are awaiting a safety report before making further decisions about the future of Ligonier Beach, a nearly 9-acre property that has remained largely unused since the township purchased it in 2019.

Chuck Baker, director of safety management services for Inservco Insurance Services, conducted a three-hour walkthrough of the property Thursday with township officials. Baker said the site has several conditions that must be addressed before it can operate as a safe public park, including exposed pipes near the former filtration house and the lack of electricity.

Baker expects to complete his report within three weeks. Township supervisors John Beaufort, Wade Stoner and Dan Resenic said they will wait for the findings before determining the next steps.


Read More...

In Westmoreland County, the legacy of century farms is a vibrant part of local life, with families who have cultivated the same soil for over 100 years.

 

The county’s iconic barns and open fields reflect generations of dedication as farmers here weather economic shifts, tough seasons, and the lure of urban development.

 

Recent recognition of several historic operations highlights this enduring commitment—farms like those of the Derr family have thrived through wars, droughts, and innovation, holding onto at least ten acres or more.


Read More...

Westmoreland County's wastewater services are undergoing a major transformation as Pennsylvania American Water officially acquires the Sutersville-Sewickley Municipal Sewage Authority's system.

 

This transition affects residents and businesses in both Sutersville Borough and Sewickley Township, promising overdue infrastructure upgrades and a strong focus on sustainability.

 

Households are already noticing more affordable bills under Pennsylvania American Water's regulated rates, while local leaders emphasize that future rate changes will remain subject to the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission’s oversight.


Read More...

Mini-thon programs are igniting energy and compassion across Westmoreland County high schools, uniting students, families, and the wider community in the fight against pediatric cancer.

 

Students from Franklin Regional, Greensburg Salem, Hempfield Area, and Norwin packed gyms and auditoriums, joining lively dance marathons, creative challenges, and emotional ceremonies—all in support of local families.

 

Teachers and staff amped up school spirit, cheered on by donning costumes and embracing friendly antics, while volunteers noted a rising number of newcomers, inspired by classmates’ personal stories.


Read More...
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Family-Friendly Events in Westmoreland, Aug 18 – Aug 24, 2026

Great American Banana Split Celebration

DateSaturday, Aug 22, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM & Sunday, Aug 23, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
TimeSaturday, Aug 22, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM & Sunday, Aug 23, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
LocationLatrobe / Rogers Park, 811 Ligonier Street, Latrobe, PA 15650
PriceFree admission
Click to find out more
STEM Stations
DateThursday, August 20, 2026
Time5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
LocationChildren's Wing

Bring your curiosity to the Children's Wing for a fun, hands-on exploration of science, technology, engineering, and math. At STEM Stations, guests will rotate through interactive challenge stations and enjoy engaging activities at their own pace—no sign-up needed.

Whether you're a budding scientist or just looking to try something new, this welcoming event is perfect for students and lifelong learners alike. Drop in anytime during the hour and discover the excitement of STEM!

120 W Main St, Ligonier, PA 15658-1243, United States
Click here to find out more
THE CANINE STARS
DateFriday, August 22, 2026
Time3:00 PM
LocationThe Palace Theatre
PriceTickets starting at: $23 | $28 | $38 | $48 | $75

Celebrate 100 years of The Palace Theatre with The Canine Stars, a family-friendly event honoring the venue’s very first show. Experience jaw-dropping stunts and inspiring performances by rescued dogs as they leap, dive, race, and dance their way into your hearts.

Perfect for guests of all ages, this high-energy event promises nonstop action, audience interaction, and unforgettable moments. Relive the spirit of the theatre’s grand opening with a show that inspires compassion and celebrates the magic of rescue pets.

21 West Otterman Street Greensburg, PA 15601
Click to find out more

History Alive! “Silent Hunters of the 18th Century" Traditional Archery Demonstration

DateSaturday, August 22, 2026
Time10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
LocationFort Ligonier
PriceAdults $17.00, Youth (Ages 4-17) $10.00, Children (3 and under) FREE

Step back in time at Fort Ligonier’s History Alive! “Silent Hunters of the 18th Century” Traditional Archery Demonstration. Watch Leon Briggs of the Seneca Tonawanda bring the art of traditional archery to life as he crafts bows, arrows, and stone tools, sharing insights into Native American hunting practices from centuries ago.

Experience hands-on history with engaging demonstrations throughout the day, and learn what daily life was like at a frontier military outpost. Perfect for history buffs, families, and curious minds of all ages.

200 S Market St, Ligonier, PA 15658-1242, United States
Click to find out more

📚 Westmoreland County Public Library Events

The Westmoreland County Library System has 26 member libraries. Click the link below to the main library finder where you can get their calendars. Be sure to check library calendars for all confirmed events during Aug 18  – Aug 24.

**Here’s a warm look at some recent and upcoming small-business openings across Westmoreland County that neighbors will want to check out.**

These spots reflect the kind of local energy that keeps our communities connected—family-run or independently owned places filling everyday needs with a personal touch.

### Full of Flavor (Trafford)
Shawn and Dana Hickman, a Monroeville couple in their early 40s, just opened Full of Flavor on August 12 at 502 Cavitt Avenue. It’s a bright new breakfast-and-lunch spot serving up French toast, fresh fruit smoothies, smash burgers, blackened salmon Cajun fries, Brazilian lemonade, and standout signatures like the “Best Bagel” (steak, sausage, egg, and cheese) and “Pimp ‘n Grits” (sautéed peppers, onions, mushrooms, and spinach over creamy grits). The Hickmans previously ran an iced-coffee and catering operation and transferred that experience into this bold new concept. Shawn put it simply: they wanted “something new, something bold and something that defined what we represent.”  

Hours are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. You can dine in, grab takeout, or order delivery/online—phone 412-626-3165 or visit fullofflavor.net. Stop by soon and give these neighbors a warm Trafford welcome; a good bagel and friendly faces go a long way.

### KP Threads Boutique (Greensburg)
Kelly, a Western Pennsylvania native who launched her embroidery business in her early 50s, is celebrating the grand opening of her brick-and-mortar location with a Westmoreland County Chamber ribbon-cutting on Tuesday, August 18, from 4–5 p.m. at 646 South Urania Avenue. KP Threads specializes in custom business apparel—embroidery, heat transfers, patches, hats, shirts, hoodies, and more—done 100% in-house with no subcontracting, fast turnaround, and no minimums on most items. Kelly’s passion traces back to watching her grandma stitch quilts and her mom make colorful afghans; her background managing wineries in Virginia and handling finance/operations for a landscaping company gave her the tools to take the leap. She’s proud to be part of the local brick-and-mortar scene and works around other small-business owners’ schedules.  

Initial hours are roughly 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday–Friday (with a midday break), plus flexible appointments. Call or text 724-244-8611, visit kpthreadsboutique.com, or stop by to brand your business (or just say hi to Kelly and her pup). Local companies already rely on her—supporting KP Threads means supporting the folks who keep our workwear looking sharp.

### Valley Dairy (North Huntingdon)
The Latrobe-based, family-owned Valley Dairy Restaurants is bringing its 14th location to Norwin Hills Plaza along Route 30 in North Huntingdon, with an expected September opening. This all-day family diner will serve classic breakfast, lunch, and dinner plus the chain’s signature ice cream, creating about 75 full- and part-time jobs. President Melissa Blystone and the team chose the busy Route 30 corridor near housing and healthcare for its strong local draw. As a longtime Westmoreland County institution (Fairview Dairy Inc.), they’re known for that familiar, welcoming feel.  

Hiring is underway at valleydairy.net—keep an eye out for the exact grand-opening date and hours. When the doors open, it’ll be an easy stop for a meal or a scoop after work or errands. Supporting Valley Dairy keeps a hometown favorite growing right here in the county.

These openings show how entrepreneurs are putting down roots and creating gathering spots for neighbors. Swing by, say hello, and help them thrive—Westmoreland runs on local love like this. If you hear of more new spots popping up, let us know so we can share the news!

What’s Buzzing in Westmoreland County

5 Family-Friendly Trends & Events to Catch After August 18

As summer winds down, Westmoreland County is packed with excitement for families and visitors alike. Here are five positive local trends to check out starting this week:

  • The 72nd Westmoreland County Fair (Greensburg): Kicking off August 21–29, this iconic county staple brings classic agricultural showcases, 4-H livestock displays, carnival rides, and delicious local food vendors.
  • High-Flying Family Entertainment: The historic Palace Theatre in Greensburg welcomes the incredible stunt dogs of The Canine Stars on August 22, offering a fun, action-packed show for kids and adults.
  • Art Meets Outdoor Play: The Westmoreland Museum of American Art continues its popular Puttapalooza, letting visitors play art-inspired mini-golf through August 30.
  • Downtown Nightlife & Live Shows in Irwin: Downtown Irwin’s Lamp Theatre keeps the community vibrant with family-friendly live performances and tribute concerts throughout late August.
  • Heritage & Storytelling: Local Westmoreland libraries and historic venues are hosting interactive heritage events, including musical history programs that celebrate western Pennsylvania’s rich roots.
Whether you’re hitting the fairgrounds or exploring historic downtowns, there’s plenty of local charm to enjoy across the region!

The Westmoreland Buzz Community Newsletter

 
Welcome back, neighbor! Grab a cup of coffee and get ready to catch up on what’s happening right in our backyard. From local wins and dedicated community heroes to ways you can lend a hand, here is your weekly roundup of goodness across Westmoreland County!

📣 Local Shoutouts

Celebrating the Best of the Best in Westmoreland!

TribLIVE’s annual 2026 Best of the Best Community Choice Awards nominations have just wrapped up, highlighting hundreds of standout small businesses, family-owned shops, and neighborhood favorites across Westmoreland County! It’s such an inspiring reminder of the hard-working entrepreneurs who make our towns thrive. Keep your eyes peeled as top nominees move into the final voting round to claim top honors later this season!

🦸 Local Heroes

Honoring Our Local Veterans at Norwin Elks Lodge

A huge tip of the hat to the members and volunteers at the Norwin Elks Lodge #2313 in Irwin! This week, the lodge opened its doors to host a free community summer picnic treating military veterans across Westmoreland County to great food, fellowship, and warm hospitality. It’s small acts of gratitude like these that showcase the real heart of our community.

🌿 Local Causes

Protecting Local Wildlife with 'Wings Over Westmoreland'

The Brandywine Conservancy is hosting Wings Over Westmoreland this Saturday at Penguin Court in Ligonier Township! This educational initiative brings focus to regional conservation efforts, combining "Hummingbird Day" and "Monarchs, Milkweed and More" to protect crucial native pollinators and delicate habitats right here in our county.

🎟️ Fundraisers

March for Parks & Trails Chapter Campaigns

Westmoreland County Parks and Recreation’s Citizens Advisory Board and trail chapters are currently building momentum for upcoming park improvement initiatives, including new trail extensions on the Westmoreland Heritage and Five Star Trails! Proceeds go directly toward maintaining local green spaces, playground updates, and trail gaps.

🤝 Volunteer Opportunities

Step Back in Time at Historic Hanna’s Town

The Westmoreland County Historical Society is looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help bring regional Revolutionary War-era history to life! Volunteers assist with living history demonstrations, children's educational activities, and living court reenactments. It’s a wonderful way for families and students to share history with the public while earning volunteer hours.

💡 Answer to Trivia Question:
Beijing, 2022

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Warmly,

Charles Sisk

Editor

Westmoreland Buzz

© 2026 Westmoreland Buzz.

Westmoreland Buzz is the neighborly pulse of Westmoreland County, PA, delivering a curated look at what makes our community special. It's your one-stop read for hometown local news, weekend events, uncovered hidden gems, and celebratory shout-outs that stitch our neighborhoods together.

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