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"Tax-Free Budget, Bearcats Bike 360 Miles, Desserts with a Mission! Plus More Local Highlights 🌟"
"Tax-Free Budget, Bearcats Bike 360 Miles, Desserts with a Mission! Plus More Local Highlights 🌟"
"Tax-Free Budget, Bearcats Bike 360 Miles, Desserts with a Mission! Plus More Local Highlights 🌟"
Discover the secrets behind Derry Area School District's tax-free budget, an epic 360-mile bike journey for student success, and a sweet mission turning desserts into success! Plus, don't miss out on upcoming events in Westmoreland!
Charles Sisk
Jun 30, 2026
Saturday, July 4th is Independence Day🧨 |
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Trivia Questionâť“What popular toy of the 1980s was created by a Hungarian designer and is known for its twisting, turning puzzle cube? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
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The Westmoreland Buzz newsletter is sponsored by |
Cutie's Coffee Company |
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243 West Otterman Street, Greensburg, PA 15601 |
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The Derry Area School District board has unanimously approved its 2026–27 budget, ensuring no property tax increase for the sixth year in a row.
The plan counts on approximately $42.2 million in revenue while projecting $45.8 million in expenses, with a $3.6 million shortfall covered by the district’s fund balance.
Business Manager Scott Chappell noted that spending reductions, especially in special education, dropped projected expenses by over $166,000 since May.
Instruction remains the largest line item at $25 million, with support services and special education also key drivers, even as enrollment has declined by over 150 students in ten years.
Despite increased state support, rising special education costs outpace subsidies.
Superintendent Greg Ferencak warned that delayed state budgets risk substantial investment losses, urging residents to press for prompt action in Harrisburg. Read More... |
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St. Vincent College students, alumni, faculty, and supporters recently cycled 360 miles from Pittsburgh to Washington, D.C., tracing the Great Allegheny Passage and C&O Canal Towpath right after spring commencement.
The Bearcats on Bikes initiative raised more than $16,000 for the Students First Fund, boosting resources and opportunities for students.
Organized by Dr. Jeff Mallory and Dr. Greg Bisignani, the ride took place May 9–15, with cyclists covering about 60 miles per day and overcoming rain, scenic hills, and memorable stops in Pennsylvania and Maryland towns.
Along the way, riders connected with alumni, paused to celebrate Mother’s Day, and built lasting bonds—demonstrating the power of the Bearcat community.
The journey ended in Washington, D.C., capping a challenge that organizers hope to make annual, with plans to involve even more participants for future student-support efforts. Read More... |
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SpectroDolce Confectionery has made a heartwarming return to Westmoreland Mall, offering chocolates, candies, milkshakes, and Liege waffles while focusing on creating meaningful jobs for people on the autism spectrum.
Visitors are greeted by enthusiastic staff—like Madeline Bahnak—who share smiles and samples, making every customer feel welcome.
The shop, originally founded by Bryan and Angie Kiger in 2019 and now owned by Achieving True Self, operates with a mission of workforce development through individualized training plans that prepare associates for future employment.
Every ten dollars spent in the store supports an hour of work, directly contributing to opportunities for those often facing barriers to employment.
Strong local partnerships and recipes from beloved former businesses deepen SpectroDolce’s roots in the community.
Here, inclusion and personal growth are just as important as the delicious treats they serve. Read More... |
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Kingfisher Coffeehouse |
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211 E. Main St., Ligonier, PA 15658 |
Westmoreland Buzz BOGO - Closed - We're Sorry You Missed it |
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But you can still claim your FREE Sponsorship Strategy Call. |
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Family-Friendly Events in Westmoreland, June 30 – July 6, 2026 |
🎨 52nd Westmoreland Arts & Heritage Festival |
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Dates/Times: Thursday, July 2 – Sunday, July 5, 2026 Thursday–Saturday: 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. | Sunday: 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Location: Twin Lakes Park, 252 Twin Lakes Road, Latrobe, PA 15650 (Derry Township, Westmoreland County) Description: This nationally acclaimed festival offers the best in visual and live performing arts, traditional and fine crafts, cultural heritage activities, humanities, and exciting ethnic foods — providing something for everyone's tastes. The annual festival includes over 50 live performances, 220 arts and craft exhibitors, heritage and history demonstrations, and ethnic food booths. Children's programming features interactive workshops, juried student art exhibits, and hands-on activities throughout the festival grounds. Age Appropriateness: All ages; dedicated children's programming available Cost: FREE ADMISSION & FREE CONCERTS. Source: artsandheritage.com/2026-festival | westmorelandcountypa.gov |
🎵 Summer Sparklers – Salute to America's 250th (Free Outdoor Concert) |
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Date/Time: Sunday, July 5, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. (Instrument Petting Zoo: 5:30–6:50 p.m.) Location: St. Clair Park, Robertshaw Amphitheater, 135 N. Maple Avenue, Greensburg, PA 15601 Description: The Westmoreland Symphony Orchestra presents this free one-hour outdoor concert featuring a festive mix of patriotic favorites, movie music, Broadway classics, and the traditional grand finale, Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture. In celebration of America's 250th birthday, the program includes The Star-Spangled Banner, Armed Forces Salute, Stars and Stripes Forever, and Gould's American Salute. Audiences will also enjoy music from Raiders of the Lost Ark, The Phantom of the Opera, West Side Story, and many other selections. Families are invited to come early for an Instrument Petting Zoo, provided by Brighton Music from 5:30 p.m. to 6:50 p.m. Age Appropriateness: All ages; especially engaging for young children (Instrument Petting Zoo) Cost: The concert is free, and donations are accepted. Source: westmorelandsymphony.org |
🏛️ Compass Inn Museum – Regular Docent-Led Tours |
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Dates/Times: Tuesday–Sunday, July 1–7, 2026 (museum open Tues–Sun, 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.; final tour begins no later than 3:30 p.m.) Location: Compass Inn Museum, 1386 Route 30 East, Laughlintown, PA 15655 (3 miles east of Ligonier, in Westmoreland County) Description: An authentically restored stagecoach hostelry and tavern dating to 1799, the museum offers costumed docent-led tours through the original inn and outbuildings, including a working cookhouse with open-hearth demonstrations, a blacksmith shop, and a barn housing an authentic stagecoach and Conestoga wagon. It's a living history experience ideal for curious kids and history-loving families. No special event is required — walk-ins welcome throughout the July 1–7 week. Age Appropriateness: All ages; particularly engaging for school-age children and up Cost: Adults — $14, Seniors (Ages 62+) — $12, Youth (6–17) — $10, Active Duty Military — Free. Children 5 and under are free. Tickets purchased on-site at the Visitor Center/Gift Shop. Source: compassinn.org/visit-the-museum | pabucketlist.com |
🎶 Summer Sounds Happy Hour at the Westmoreland Museum of American Art |
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Date/Time: Friday, July 3, 2026 (evening; Happy Hour begins before the outdoor concert) Location: Westmoreland Museum of American Art, 221 N. Main Street, Greensburg, PA 15601; concert at adjacent St. Clair Park Description: Join us Friday evenings all summer long for SummerSounds Happy Hour at the Museum! Gather with friends, explore the galleries, enjoy a drink on the Swank Terrace, and soak in the atmosphere as you eagerly await the start of the SummerSounds concert at St. Clair Park. The SummerSounds concert series takes place at the adjacent outdoor venue and offers live music in a family-friendly park setting. This July 3rd edition coincides with pre-Independence Day celebrations. Age Appropriateness: All ages for the park concert; Happy Hour portion for adults (21+) Cost: Admission to the Museum galleries is charged (adult general admission is typically $12 for adults; free for members and children under 12 — confirm current pricing at thewestmoreland.org). The outdoor SummerSounds concert at St. Clair Park is free; the museum's Happy Hour component involves drink purchases. Source: allevents.in/greensburg | Westmoreland Museum of American Art official listings |
📚 Westmoreland County Public Library EventsThe 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 June 30–July 6. |
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The Westmoreland Buzz newsletter is sponsored by |
Carmine's Pizza & Pasta |
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Your Neighborhood Italian Eatery! 1311 Ligonier St., Latrobe, PA 15650 PH 724-539-4100 |
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What's New in Our Neck of the Woods!🍝 Mangia Featuring DeLallo — Hempfield Township (Greensburg Area)If you've driven past Westmoreland Mall lately and spotted something new at the front entrance of Live! Casino, you're not imagining things — Mangia featuring DeLallo opened in April 2026 at Live! Casino at the Westmoreland Mall, and it's already turning heads. The fast-casual destination offers a combination of fresh Italian comfort foods and a retail marketplace, developed as a partnership between the casino and DeLallo, a fourth-generation, family-owned Italian foods brand based right here in Jeannette. Think pizza, pasta, hoagies, salads, and desserts — plus shelves stocked with DeLallo's beloved pastas, sauces, olive oils, meats, and cheeses. WPXIWPXI What makes this one special to our community is the deep local roots. Originally founded as a roadside market in 1950, DeLallo has grown into a nationally recognized brand with products sold in supermarkets across the United States — and now they're bringing that same quality home in a sit-down setting. Live! Casino General Manager Sean Sullivan said the casino wanted to stay local, and DeLallo noted that "this community is our home." There's also a gelato cart with rotating flavors, craft Italian sodas (try the Strawberry Basil!), and an Illy coffee and espresso bar. Mangia is open from 11 a.m. and is accessible to guests of all ages — you don't have to set foot on the casino floor to enjoy it. WPXI + 2
🥟 Bubba's — Latrobe (Route 30)Westmoreland County's beloved Polish comfort food institution has planted another flag, and this time it's right on Route 30 in Latrobe. Bubba's in Latrobe, PA, is a standout spot blending hearty Polish comfort food with exceptional pizza, known for homemade dishes like pierogi, haluski, and stuffed cabbage, with generous portions and great value. If you haven't been yet, customers are already raving about the light, buttery pizza crust and unique toppings — think kielbasa and pierogi on a pie — alongside classics like chicken lips with sweet-and-sassy sauce and golden potato pancakes. Res Menu There's even a Gem Cookie shop located inside Bubba's, so you can finish your meal with something sweet without going anywhere. The Latrobe location joins the original Greensburg spot and the Irwin location, making this a true Westmoreland County homegrown success story. The placement on Route 30 gives the business an advantage, with people travelling from Pittsburgh and Somerset County daily introducing new options that weren't there before. Res MenuThe High Post
💪 OsteoStrong — GreensburgHere's one for the whole family, but especially for anyone who's been told to watch their bone density or joint health: OsteoStrong opened at 1020 Towne Square Drive, Greensburg, and offers a holistic therapy approach with once-weekly sessions aimed at improving bone quality and bone density naturally, building strength and improving balance, and helping reduce or eliminate back and joint pain. The studio uses specialized robotic machines guided by trained session coaches, and the sessions take just minutes — making it one of the most accessible wellness options to come to our county in recent memory. TribLIVE The Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce helped introduce OsteoStrong to the local business community through a ribbon cutting, BASH social, and Women of Westmoreland event, and the studio has been actively connecting with neighbors ever since. The Greensburg location is owned by Matthew Wolff. If you're curious, they offer a free first visit — it's a low-commitment way to see what the buzz is about. WestmorelandchamberBetter Business Bureau
🌟 Coming to Route 30 in Unity Township (Near Latrobe): A Whole New Corridor!It's worth a mention for readers keeping an eye on growth along Route 30: Unity Township is welcoming a wave of new establishments, including Chick-fil-A, Chipotle, 7 Brew drive-thru coffee, Five Below, and The Coffee Tree, all expected to open or recently opened in 2025-2026. Unity Township Supervisor Mike O'Barto noted that the Chick-fil-A alone had been the number-one requested business for the past five years. While these are national names rather than local mom-and-pops, they represent real investment in our community and new jobs for our neighbors — and they're making the Route 30 corridor a destination in its own right. |
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Here are 5 positive community highlights and uplifting trends buzzing across Westmoreland County, featuring local updates from Irwin, Greensburg, and Latrobe: 1. No Tax Increases for Greater Latrobe Property OwnersThe Greater Latrobe School Board unanimously approved a $70.3 million budget for the upcoming year with 0% property tax increases. The district successfully wiped out an initial $1.9 million shortfall through careful expense reductions and staff attrition, giving local homeowners a welcome financial breather (TribLIVE). 2. A Massive $1.6M Boost for Local Recovery ProgramsWestmoreland County commissioners just announced over $1.6 million in new funding to seven local community agencies (including Sage’s Army in Hempfield and Westmoreland Community Action). Funded by national opioid litigation settlements, this initiative is actively driving down local fatal overdose numbers, which are currently at a multi-year low (TribLIVE). 3. The Return of the Iconic Mister Rogers StampLatrobe’s most famous neighbor is back in the national spotlight. The beloved 2018 Fred Rogers Forever Stamp officially won the USPS "Stamp Encore" contest, beating out 25 recent offerings with over 500,000 community votes. To celebrate, the Postal Service has reissued the special souvenir sheets nationwide (Greater Latrobe Laurel Valley Chamber). 4. Summer Concert Series Packing Local ParksLive music is drawing big crowds across the county. The 2026 Free Summer Concert Series at Twin Lakes Park (Greensburg) and Cedar Creek Park is in full swing. This weekend features community favorites like Mon Valley Push and the Joe Porembka Orchestra Tribute Band, pairing free, family-friendly entertainment with local food trucks (Westmoreland County PA Gov). Downtown Irwin is seeing great turnout for its summer street markets and local business collaborations. A prime example is the annual Pet Friends Wine Event happening this weekend at Greenhouse Winery, which brings together classic car cruises, local craft vendors, and live music to raise critical funds for local animal rescue efforts (Discover Irwin, Greenhouse Winery). |
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✨ LOCAL SHOUTOUTS, HEROES, CAUSES, FUNDRAISERS, VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
🌟 Westmoreland Buzz — Community Newsletter
Your weekly roundup of good news, great people, and ways to get involved right here in Westmoreland County! 🏆 LOCAL SHOUTOUTSRecognitions, achievements, and notable accomplishments Latrobe's Terri Hauser Wins Governor's Award for Local Government Excellence! Hats off to Terri Hauser, Manager of the Latrobe Municipal Authority, who was just named a recipient of the 30th Annual Governor's Awards for Local Government Excellence by the Shapiro Administration — one of a select group of individuals from across the entire Commonwealth to be honored. These awards celebrate municipalities and local government leaders for their commitment to making Pennsylvania communities stronger. It's a big deal for our little corner of the state, and Terri's dedication to Latrobe is clearly being noticed all the way in Harrisburg! Key Details: Award presented at a statewide ceremony this month. Learn more at the PA Department of Community & Economic Development's website. Source: PA DCED – Governor's Awards for Local Government Excellence PennDOT District 12 Team Honored for Innovation — Westmoreland Included! Our region's roads are in good hands! PennDOT recognized District 12 employees — covering Fayette, Greene, Washington, and Westmoreland counties — with Innovation Awards for creating efficiencies and implementing best practices. PennDOT District 12 also received the prestigious George W. McAuley Jr., P.E. Innovation Award, which recognizes employee-driven teams that promote continuous improvement. These are the folks keeping our roads safe every day — it's great to see them getting their moment in the spotlight! Key Details: Award announced in May 2026. For road conditions and more, visit 511PA.com or call 5-1-1. Source: PA.gov – PennDOT Honors Local Employees for Innovation Leadership Westmoreland Class of 2026 Celebrates Graduation! A fresh crop of local leaders is ready to make their mark! Sixteen students were awarded certificates of completion at the Leadership Westmoreland graduation ceremony, held at the Greensburg Garden and Civic Center in May. This program, run through the Westmoreland County Chamber, develops the next generation of civic-minded professionals and community advocates right here at home. Congratulations to the Class of 2026! Key Details: Graduation held May 15, 2026, at the Greensburg Garden and Civic Center. Learn about future Leadership Westmoreland programs at westmorelandchamber.com. Source: Latrobe Bulletin News 🦸 LOCAL HEROESPeople going above and beyond for their neighbors Teacher Melissa Fligger: Making Every Kid Feel Like They Matter You know that teacher who just gets every kid? For students in Westmoreland County, that's Melissa Fligger. She has been recognized as a UPMC Community Hero for making every person in her classroom feel like they matter, helping every child discover what they're capable of in their own way and at their own pace. Teachers like Melissa are the backbone of our communities, and she's a shining example of what educators in Westmoreland County are all about. Key Details: Recognized through KDKA/CBS Pittsburgh's UPMC Community Hero program. Nominate your own community hero at cbsnews.com/pittsburgh/upmc-community-heroes/. Source: KDKA CBS Pittsburgh – UPMC Community Heroes 💛 LOCAL CAUSESImportant community issues and initiatives that need our attention New Recovery Housing Funds Coming to Westmoreland County — Help Is Available Westmoreland County has been selected to receive a share of more than $1.2 million in state funding from the Shapiro Administration's Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs to expand access to recovery housing and recovery support services for young adults with opioid and/or stimulant use disorders. The Westmoreland Drug & Alcohol Commission, Inc. (WeDAC) is among the grantees, with the grants running through September 30, 2026. If you or someone you love is struggling, this is a reminder that help is out there and real support is being invested in our community. Key Details: For local resources, contact WeDAC at wedacinc.org or call (724) 542-4508. Free Narcan is also available by mail to Westmoreland County residents — contact WeDAC for details. Source: PA.gov – DDAP Recovery Housing Investment West Newton Gets a Recreation Upgrade — Thanks to Community Block Grants Good news for West Newton families! Westmoreland County is releasing Community Development Block Grant funds to improve recreational facilities located on the corner of North Second Street and School Street in West Newton, which is a 54.70% low-to-moderate income area. With assistance from CDBG funding, West Newton Borough already improved their basketball and pickleball court in 2025 — and more upgrades are coming. This is community investment at work for one of our hardworking boroughs! Key Details: Project underway in West Newton Borough. For more info on CDBG programs in Westmoreland County, contact the Dept. of Planning & Development at 724-830-3600. Source: Westmoreland County News Flash 🙏 FUNDRAISERSActive campaigns to support local people and organizations SpectroDolce Is Back at Westmoreland Mall — And Every Sweet You Buy Makes a Difference! This one is near and dear to a lot of hearts. SpectroDolce, a confectionary business that aims to provide widely applicable job skills to people with autism, has returned to Westmoreland Mall, filling the former Main Street Sweets space. The store was founded by Bryan Kiger, who was inspired by the 85% unemployment rate among people with autism, and is dedicated to creating a supportive work environment tailored to their needs. Every milkshake, Belgian waffle, and chocolate-covered strawberry you buy helps an employee with autism build real, transferable job skills. That's pretty sweet — in every sense! Key Details: SpectroDolce is on the first floor of Westmoreland Mall, 5256 Route 30. Hours: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday–Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Source: TribLive – SpectroDolce Returns to Westmoreland Mall Blood Drive Coming to Greensburg — Save a Life on July 8th! Summer means blood supplies run low — and our neighbors need us! The Laurel Highlands Workforce & Opportunity Center and Vitalant are hosting a blood drive on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM at LHWOC, 310 Donohue Road, Greensburg. One donation can save up to three lives, and it only takes about an hour. Mark your calendar! Key Details: July 8, 2026 | 12:00–4:00 PM | 310 Donohue Road, Greensburg. Schedule your appointment at vitalant.org or call ahead. Source: Westmoreland County Chamber Community Calendar 🙌 VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIESWays to give back to the community you love Westmoreland Arts & Heritage Festival Needs You — July 2–5! The 52nd Annual Westmoreland Arts & Heritage Festival is just days away and it's going to be HUGE — celebrating both the festival's legacy and America's 250th birthday! The festival takes place July 2, 3, 4, and 5, 2026 at Twin Lakes Park and includes over 50 live performances, 220 arts and craft exhibitors, heritage and history demonstrations, and ethnic food booths. Volunteers are the lifeblood of this beloved event, and they're looking for helping hands. If you love this festival as much as we do, now's your chance to be part of the magic! Key Details: Twin Lakes Park, 252 Twin Lakes Road, Latrobe. Contact the festival at 724-834-7474 or visit artsandheritage.com to inquire about volunteering. Source: Westmoreland Arts & Heritage Festival Westmoreland Manor Wants Friendly Faces — No Experience Needed! Know someone who would love to brighten a senior's day? Volunteers at Westmoreland Manor provide services such as escorting residents, recreational activities and religious services, shopping for residents, and making friendly visits. The Snack Bar is open most days and evenings, and volunteers are warmly welcomed from the community. It's one of the most heartwarming ways to spend an afternoon, and our seniors would love to see you! Key Details: Contact Westmoreland Manor at westmorelandcountypa.gov/2424 or call (724) 830-4000 to learn more about joining the volunteer team. Source: Westmoreland County – Recreation & Volunteers Westmoreland Conservancy – Summer Hike Series Continues! Love the outdoors? The Westmoreland Conservancy invites volunteers to support stewardship, special events, hikes, fundraising, and newsletters at their beautiful nature preserves across the county. Their 2026 Seasons on the Land Hike series continues this summer at the Walter Reserve — a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and your neighbors at the same time! Key Details: Volunteer interest and event registration at westmorelandconservancy.org. Hikes and events are free and open to the public. Source: Westmoreland Conservancy 📌 QUICK NOTE FROM YOUR EDITOR: While I've done my best to verify all stories with direct sources, some details (especially for volunteer sign-ups and event logistics) may have updated since publication. Always double-check with the listed organizations before showing up or donating. Have a story tip? Know a local hero? Send it our way! Stay kind, Westmoreland. 💛 |
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Warmly, Charles Sisk Editor |