Westmoreland Buzz

Over 2,400 acres of forest on Chestnut Ridge in Westmoreland County have been permanently conserved, marking a milestone for local environmental protection.

Local families in Derry, Fairfield, and Ligonier townships contributed through land donations and conservation easements.

The area includes the headwaters of wild trout streams like Trout Run and McGee Run, designated as Cold Water Fisheries by Pennsylvania’s DEP for their ecological value.

Most of this land remains private under easements, safeguarding habitats and native species, while 300 acres become a public nature preserve managed by the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy.

This region, part of the Ligonier Valley and the globally significant Chestnut Ridge Penn View Mountain South Natural Heritage Area, is crucial for species such as the Allegheny woodrat and rare native plants.

These efforts ensure clean waterways, resilient wildlife, and lasting outdoor experiences for the community and future generations.

Local entrepreneurs in Westmoreland County often face a frustrating truth.

Expensive digital ads are showing your business to people states away who will never walk through your door.

Meanwhile, a family living just four blocks away—actively looking for what you offer—might not know you exist.

This is where hyper-local advertising changes the game.

Instead of reaching anonymous users across the internet, you connect with actual households in Greensburg, Latrobe, and surrounding towns.

These are the neighbors who become regulars and tell their friends about your business.

Your next loyal customer isn't browsing from another zip code; they are right here in our community.

It's time to stop wasting ad dollars on the wrong audience and start investing in the neighbors ready to become your best customers.

A lucky individual in Westmoreland County is celebrating a $1.42 million windfall after purchasing a jackpot-winning Match 6 Lotto ticket at the Sheetz on Route 30 in North Huntingdon Township.

The winning ticket perfectly matched all six numbers drawn—1, 11, 12, 28, 38, and 43—securing a life-changing prize.

For its part in the win, the Sheetz store earns a $10,000 bonus.

More than 48,800 additional tickets also took home prizes from the same drawing, adding a surge of excitement across the region.

Winners are advised to check and sign their tickets quickly, as prizes must be claimed within a year.

These local lottery successes, including a $150,000 Powerball prize in April, continue to energize Westmoreland County, while lottery proceeds support important programs for older residents in Pennsylvania.

"Embrace each day with a grateful heart and watch how positivity surrounds you."

 Introducing our "Every Snack You Make" t-shirt, the ultimate must-have for all Dog lovers!

This quirky and fun design features a playful twist on the classic song lyric, perfect for anyone who can't resist a tasty treat.

Made from high-quality materials, this t-shirt is not only stylish but also comfortable for all-day wear.

Whether you're out and about or lounging at home, this tee is sure to turn heads and spark conversations.

Embrace your snack obsession with our "Every Snack You Make" t-shirt and let your love for your furry friend shine! 

Free Events

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Open House

• Date/Time: Monday, January 19, 2026, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

• Location: The Westmoreland Museum of American Art, 221 N Main St, Greensburg, PA 15601

• Description: A special MLK Day open house with free admission to the galleries, family art activities, and programs honoring Dr. King. A good indoor cultural option for families visiting downtown Greensburg.​

• Ages: All ages; school‑age children and teens may get the most from the educational content.​

• Cost: Free admission.​

• Source: https://www.golaurelhighlands.com/event/martin-luther-king-jr-day-open-house/48660/​

Life in Christ Week – Campus & Community Events

(Latrobe – good for older kids/teens and adults)

• Dates Covered in This Range: Monday–Friday, January 19–23, 2026 (part of Jan 17–23 series)

• Location: Saint Vincent College, 300 Fraser Purchase Rd, Latrobe, PA 15650 (various campus venues)

• Description: A week of talks, services, and service projects focused on faith, community service, and reflection; specific events during Jan 19–23 include donation drives, prayer services, a concert, blood drive, and a public lecture. Families with teens or college‑bound students may enjoy the lecture or concert portions.​

• Ages: Best for teens and adults; younger children are welcome at some events but content is more mature/reflective.​

• Cost: Events are listed as campus and community activities with no admission charge noted; treat as free unless a specific event page indicates tickets.​

• Source: https://www.stvincent.edu/community-events/events/life-in-christ-week.html​

(Check the PDF linked on the Saint Vincent page for exact times and which individual events during Jan 19–23 you’d like to attend.)​

Paid Events

Joyful Celebration – Greensburg Church Event

• Date/Time: Monday, January 19, 2026 (church events calendar entry for this date; time typically listed on church site or bulletin)​

• Location: Greensburg Church of the Brethren, 554 Stanton St, Greensburg, PA 15601 (confirmed via church site main info; verify exact address when you check details)​

• Description: Church calendar lists “Joyful Celebration” on Jan 19, 2026; these events at Greensburg Church of the Brethren are usually fellowship‑style gatherings with music or community time, appropriate for families comfortable in a church setting. Please confirm specific format (concert, dinner, children’s program) and time directly with the church before attending.​

• Ages: All ages welcome; typical church‑family environment.​

• Cost: The calendar does not indicate a fee; many such events are free or donation‑based, but check with the church office to confirm if any meal or ticket cost applies.​

• Source: https://gbgcob.org/events/soup-sale-8/ (site calendar also shows “Joyful Celebration – 19 Jan 26”)​

Soup Sale – Greensburg Church of the Brethren

• Date/Time: Saturday, January 24, 2026 (church events calendar lists “Soup Sale – 24 Jan 26”; time usually morning to midday—confirm on the event page or by calling).​

• Location: Greensburg Church of the Brethren, 554 Stanton St, Greensburg, PA 15601.​

• Description: Take‑out soup sale organized by the church; a simple, family‑friendly stop for a warm meal while exploring Greensburg or between other activities. Children are welcome to come along and choose soups.​

• Ages: All ages.​

• Cost: Pricing is typically per quart/bowl (not listed on the calendar page); call or check closer to the date for current prices, but expect a modest per‑container charge.​

• Source: https://gbgcob.org/events/soup-sale-8/​

Westmoreland Red, Light, & Blue – America250PA County Kick‑Off

• Date/Time: Friday, January 24, 2026, 4:30 PM

• Location: Westmoreland County Courthouse, 2 N Main St, Greensburg, PA 15601

• Description: Westmoreland County’s official kickoff event for America’s 250th anniversary, featuring a patriotic ceremony and symbolic activities at the courthouse; promoted as a family‑friendly, community‑wide celebration.​

• Ages: All ages; good for school‑age children interested in history and civic events.​

• Cost: No ticket price is listed; county courthouse community ceremonies are typically free, but check the event listing closer to the date to confirm.​

• Source: https://www.facebook.com/events/1337155798165942/​

Family‑Friendly Cultural Performance – The Palace Theatre (Check Specific Title)

• Date/Time: Saturday, January 24, 2026 – evening (Westmoreland Heritage notes a family‑friendly event that night at The Palace Theatre; the Facebook post encourages families to arrive early, but truncation hides the exact show title—likely tied to America250 or a special performance).​

• Location: The Palace Theatre, 21 W Otterman St, Greensburg, PA 15601.​

• Description: Regional cultural partners highlight a family‑friendly show at The Palace Theatre on Jan 24, 2026, in connection with Westmoreland’s America250 celebrations; expect a mix of live performance and community atmosphere. Because the Facebook post is truncated, verify the exact show name and content (music, storytelling, etc.) on the Palace Theatre or Westmoreland Cultural Trust event calendar before purchasing.​

• Ages: Likely all ages; Palace Theatre community events often welcome children, but content can vary by show.​

• Cost: Standard Palace Theatre ticketing applies; pricing will depend on seat selection and show, so check the official ticket page for Jan 24, 2026 listings for current prices.​

• Source: Westmoreland Heritage Facebook reference to Jan 24 family‑friendly event at The Palace Theatre in Greensburg: https://www.facebook.com/WestmorelandHeritage/posts/1473187311479732/ and venue info at https://druskyentertainment.com/venue/the-palace-theatre/​

Community / Civic Program – Norwin Area (North Huntingdon / Irwin)

• Date/Time: Various in January 2026; Norwin Chamber lists several January 2026 events, some of which fall between Jan 19–25 (exact dates/times for each business/community event vary).​

• Location: Norwin / North Huntingdon / Irwin area (venues vary by event).​

• Description: The Norwin Chamber of Commerce highlights a series of January 2026 events (mix of networking, community gatherings, and sometimes family‑friendly activities such as open houses or expos). Families should look specifically for clearly labeled community or family days within Jan 19–25; many business‑only mixers will not be child‑oriented.​

• Ages: Mostly adults; some events may allow older teens or families depending on format.​

• Cost: Many chamber events involve registration fees or meal costs; check each listing for member/non‑member pricing or note if it is a free community event.​

• Source: https://www.facebook.com/groups/184532755373202/posts/2221654054994385/​

Need a Pet Sitter for your next out of town visit or vacation? Find one now!

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

Tuesday, January 20, 2026: High 35F, Low 25F. Partly Cloudy.

Wednesday, January 21, 2026: High 38F, Low 28F. Mostly Sunny.

Thursday, January 22, 2026: High 40F, Low 30F. Chance of Rain/Snow.

Friday, January 23, 2026: High 37F, Low 22F. Windy with Snow Showers.

Saturday, January 24, 2026: High 29F, Low 15F. Cold and Sunny.

Sunday, January 25, 2026: High 31F, Low 18F. Partly Cloudy.

Monday, January 26, 2026: High 34F, Low 21F. Mostly Sunny 

The Eyes are Here!

Westmoreland Buzz

Rutter’s has launched its first store in Westmoreland County, bringing fresh competition to local favorite Sheetz.

Located at I-70 and Waltz Mill Road in Sewickley Township, this 24-hour location combines a gas station, truck stop, and something new for area residents—a 1747 Bar & Lounge offering beer, wine, cocktails, and multiple TVs for entertainment.

Inspired by its award-winning Milton, Pennsylvania store, Rutter’s features both familiar convenience and elevated amenities.

The Westmoreland site is the company’s 93rd location and marks the brand’s westward expansion beyond its base in eastern Pennsylvania, joining other area outlets in Johnstown, Altoona, Duncansville, and Bedford.

In honor of its opening, Rutter’s Children’s Charities pledged $1,000 each to the Hunker Volunteer Fire Department, the 4-H Youth Program of Westmoreland County, and the Westmoreland County Food Bank.

Rutter’s hopes its vibrant new presence and signature bar will establish a unique niche in the region.

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

If you apply to adopt , please let Ninth Life Rescue Center know that you saw the listing in The Westmoreland Buzz Newsletter!

Raleigh's Story

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Warmly,

Charles Sisk 

Editor