J Corks 

Hitachi Energy is making a major investment of over $70 million to expand operations in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania.

The initiative will generate over 100 new local jobs and significantly boost the production of sustainable electrical grid infrastructure.

The company will advance its Mount Pleasant facility into a state-of-the-art manufacturing hub, increasing output of eco-efficient products such as the EconiQ® SF6-free high-voltage switchgear and breakers.

A new site in Hunker, just seven miles away, will house a research and development lab and a customer experience center, driving innovation and collaboration.

Support from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development includes grants to assist with both expansion and workforce training.

Set for completion by 2026, this expansion strengthens the region’s reputation in the energy sector and supports global sustainability goals.

An era of stable property taxes in Hempfield Township has come to an end.

For the first time since 1990, homeowners are facing a significant property tax increase after supervisors voted to double the rate from 3 to 6 mills for the 2026 budget.

The decision establishes a new, dedicated 3-mill fire tax to provide a stable funding source for the township's nearly $2 million public safety department.

This new revenue will support critical fire service needs like vehicles, station upgrades, and paid staff.

For the average homeowner in Westmoreland County, this change means their annual tax bill will jump from roughly $80 to $160.

However, there is relief planned for older residents.

A proposed rebate program for eligible seniors 65 and older is expected to pass, which would completely offset the increase and keep their tax rate unchanged.

Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, charms with a lively dining scene that fuses small-town warmth and standout flavor.

Diners in Greensburg flock to J. Corks for creative American cuisine and a polished-yet-relaxed vibe, while Vallozzi’s Greensburg impresses with upscale Italian fare and steakhouse favorites, making it perfect for celebrations.

For a more casual outing, The Boulevard serves up expertly grilled salmon, fresh salads, and a welcoming bar-and-grill environment.

Beyond Greensburg, Bella Terra Vineyards and Dino’s Sports Lounge receive high praise for their friendly service and quality menus.

New to Murrysville, Pizzaiolo Primo is set to open, promising brick oven pizzas, pastas, and a selection of drinks.

The annual Greensburg Restaurant Week further celebrates culinary variety, bringing together local breweries, fine dining, and sports bars.

Westmoreland County offers memorable dining for every taste and occasion.

"Believe in yourself and all that you are. Remember that there is something inside you that is greater than any obstacle."

Looking for that Special Coffee shirt? Get it now!

🗓️ Upcoming Westmoreland County, PA Events (December 30, 2025 - January 5, 2026

Environmental Advisory Council Meeting – December 30, 2025, 7:00 PM. A public civic meeting held at the Murrysville Municipal Building on Sardis Road. (Source: Murrysville Municipality Meetings Calendar)

New Year's Eve at BTV! – December 31, 2025, 7:00 PM. A ticketed celebration at Bella Terra Vineyards in Hunker featuring music and local wine. (Source: Eventbrite)

NYE Live! New Year's Eve Pittsburgh – December 31, 2025, 9:00 PM. A large-scale, paid party at Live! Casino Pittsburgh in Greensburg with live entertainment and a midnight countdown. (Source: AllEvents.in Greensburg)

Early Bird New Year's Eve Party – December 31, 2025, 5:00 PM. A free-entry holiday social held at Greenhouse Winery in Rostraver Township. (Source: Eventbrite Rostraver)

New Year's Eve Celebration at Dorothy Six Cafe – December 31, 2025, 8:30 PM. A local dining and New Year's celebration in Greensburg. (Source: Eventbrite)

Derry Township Planning Commission Meeting – January 2, 2026, 4:00 PM. A public meeting for local residents to discuss township development and planning at the Derry Township Municipal Building. (Source: Derry Township Community Calendar)

Seton Hill Women's Basketball vs. Kutztown University – January 2, 2026, 12:00 PM. A collegiate athletic event held at the Katherine Mabis McKenna Center in Greensburg. (Source: Seton Hill University Athletics Calendar)

Seton Hill Men's Basketball vs. Kutztown University – January 2, 2026, 2:00 PM. Part of a double-header at the Seton Hill campus in Greensburg. (Source: Seton Hill University Athletics Calendar)

Seton Hill Women's Basketball vs. West Chester University – January 3, 2026, 10:00 AM. Another weekend home game for the Griffins in Greensburg. (Source: Seton Hill University Events)

Brynn Hurlstone: Resonance Exhibition Finale – January 4, 2026. This is the final day to view the glass and multi-media exhibition at The Westmoreland Museum of American Art; the museum offers free public admission. (Source: Go Laurel Highlands / Westmoreland Museum)

The Art of Elizabeth Catlett Exhibition Closing – January 4, 2026. The concluding day for this major exhibition featuring works from the collection of Samella Lewis in Greensburg. (Source: Westmoreland Museum of American Art)

Cavanaughs Wedding Show – January 4, 2026, 1:00 PM. A ticketed bridal expo held at Ferrante's Lakeview in Greensburg/Hempfield. (Source: Eventbrite)

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, December 30, 2025: High 25°F, Low 22°F, Snow showers
 
Wednesday, December 31, 2025: High 32°F, Low 23°F, Snow showers 

Thursday, January 1, 2026: High 28°F, Low 14°F, Snow showers 

Friday, January 2, 2026: High 21°F, Low 14°F, Partly sunny 

Saturday, January 3, 2026: High 31°F, Low 15°F, Mostly cloudy 

Sunday, January 4, 2026: High 31°F, Low 27°F, Rain and snow 

Monday, January 5, 2026: High 31°F, Low 22°F, Rain and snow

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

The Eyes are here in Westmoreland Buzz

Vallozzi's Greensburg

A surge of economic energy is sweeping through Westmoreland County, bringing new businesses and expanded services to the area in early 2026.

This welcome trend signals growing confidence in our local market.

In North Huntingdon, Bluebird Counseling of Western PA is expanding to a larger location to meet the rising demand for mental health services, with a ribbon-cutting set for January 21.

The bustling Route 30 corridor in Unity Township is also seeing significant activity.

A new 7 Brew Coffee is preparing to open, offering a convenient drive-thru option for commuters.

Nearby in the Latrobe 30 Plaza, discount retailer Five Below is moving into the former Rite Aid space.

Additionally, industrial cornerstone Kennametal Inc. is reaffirming its local commitment with a special showcase in Latrobe on January 13.

These developments point to a period of vibrant economic growth for our community.

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

2 Westmoreland Water Authority Workers Awarded Carnegie Medal for Heroism — Michael Johnson of Ligonier and Frederick “Rick” Palmer Jr. of New Alexandria were recognized this week as Carnegie Heroes for their courageous actions in saving a coworker trapped in an underground water tank in Mt. Pleasant; the pair descended into a flooding vault to free the pinned man and provided life-saving emergency care.

Missing Westmoreland County Girl Found Safe Following Community Search — Pennsylvania State Police reported on Dec. 23, 2025, that Kia Schuler, who had been reported missing from the Latrobe area earlier in the week, was located safely after local authorities and community members assisted in the search efforts.

Saint Vincent College and Archabbey Earn Multiple 2025 Community Choice Awards — The Latrobe Bulletin recently honored Saint Vincent College and the Archabbey with top honors in its annual Community Choice Awards, naming the institution the best local College/University and recognizing its theater and scenic grounds as premier community assets.

Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce Names December 2025 Chamber Champion — Authentic Perspectives Psychological & Consulting Services, LLC was recognized this month as the Chamber Champion for its commitment to providing mental health and consulting support to the residents of Westmoreland County.

Super Bingo Fundraiser for Educated Athletes First in New Kensington — A major bingo event is scheduled for Jan. 3, 2026, at St. Vladimir Ukrainian Church to benefit Educated Athletes First, a nonprofit dedicated to improving educational awareness for student-athletes.

Westmoreland Food Bank Warehouse Volunteer Opportunities (January 2026) — Volunteers are needed during the week of Jan. 5, 2026, to assist with sorting and boxing donated items at the Delmont facility; specific shifts are available on Jan. 8 for community members looking to support local food distribution.

United Way Lesson Plan Kit Packing Volunteer Event in Greensburg — On Jan. 22, 2026, the United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania will host a volunteer session in Greensburg to pack lesson plan kits, helping local educators and students prepare for the upcoming school semester.

The Westmoreland Museum of American Art Teen Club Art and Service Initiative — High school students in grades 10–12 can earn volunteer service hours by joining the Museum's Teen Club on Jan. 17, 2026, where they help make museum operations more accessible to the youth community.

Beginner Fly Tying Classes with Forbes Trail Trout Unlimited — Starting Jan. 8, 2026, in Mt. Pleasant, this local chapter offers classes to teach conservation-minded hobbyists the art of fly tying, with proceeds supporting local watershed protection efforts.

Greensburg Night Market Indoor Winter Session at Live! Casino — Supporting local vendors and causes, the popular night market returns for an indoor winter event on Jan. 29, 2026, providing a venue for local small businesses and community fellowship.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Open House at The Westmoreland — The Westmoreland Museum of American Art will host a special community open house on Jan. 19, 2026, to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., featuring exhibits that emphasize community and social history.

Seton Hill University Spring Student Art Exhibition — Running from Jan. 20 to Feb. 1, 2026, at the Harlan Gallery, this exhibition showcases the work of local university students, fostering arts and culture within the Greensburg area.

Westmoreland Community Action Monthly Food Distribution Support — Community members can volunteer on the third Thursday of the month (Jan. 15, 2026) to help pack and distribute food at the Greensburg center, supporting low-income families throughout the county.

Hempfield Area High School Transition Night for Families — On Jan. 8, 2026, the district will host an informational session at the Administration Building to support families navigating school transitions, providing resources to help local students succeed.

About Skelly:

• Age: estimated age 3 to 8 years
• Gender: male

• Weight: 26 to 60 lbs.

• Adoption Fee: 

• Why Skelly Needs You: "Like so many animals at the shelter, Skelly is patiently waiting for a loving family to call his own. He dreams of a family to love, a comfy bed and toys to play with!"

How to Adopt Skelly:

If Skelly sounds like the perfect addition to your family, don't hesitate!

• Visit the Humane Society: Skelly is currently staying at the Humane Society of Westmoreland County located at 139 Humane Society Rd, Greensburg, PA 15601.

• Learn More & Apply: You can view Skelly's full profile and learn more about the adoption process by visiting the Humane Society's website: 
  Humane Society of Westmoreland County

• Contact Information: For questions about Skelly or the adoption process, you can call the Humane Society of Westmoreland County at (724) 837-3779.

Give Skelly the forever home he deserves!

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Warmly,

Charles Sisk 

Editor