Charles Sisk
Jul 28, 2026
📰 WEEKLY PREVIEW |
* Top Stories: I-70 Bridge Work Lane Closures * Pet of the week: Meet Matilda--Your new best Friend! |
Trivia Question❓Which country is home to the only national flag in the world that is not quadrilateral in shape? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
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Discover The Line Boutique, your go-to destination for thoughtfully selected clothing, accessories, beauty, and gifts. Enjoy browsing curated pieces from top brands like UNOde50, Z Supply, Elan, and Naples Soap Company, as well as unique handcrafted finds. Located in the vibrant heart of Downtown Irwin, The Line Boutique offers a welcoming shopping experience with a personal touch. Whether you're searching for the perfect outfit, statement accessories, or a delightful gift, you'll find something special here. |
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Motorists traveling along Interstate 70 in Westmoreland County should expect delays this week as construction crews implement temporary lane restrictions. According to PennDOT District 12, traffic will be reduced to a single lane in both directions between Exit 43 (Route 201 in Fayette City) and Exit 46 (Route 51/I-70 Interchange). The restrictions are scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., weather permitting. The lane closures will allow crews to remove temporary bridge deck formwork from the newly constructed Crawford Lane Bridge. Drivers are urged to remain alert and use caution while passing through the work zone. This activity is part of the larger $89 million Arnold City Interchange project along I-70, led by Golden Triangle Construction Co. The project aims to improve connectivity by linking Route 3011—which includes Finley Road and Indian Hill Road—as well as Daugherty Lane, to I-70. Read More... |
Nearly 263 years ago, in the heat of August, Col. Henry Bouquet led a relief force through dense oak and hickory forest just west of Fort Ligonier. What followed was one of the most decisive yet overlooked battles of early American history. Few Americans recognize the name Bushy Run, and fewer still have stood on its ground. Yet the outcome of that fight determined whether British settlements west of the Allegheny Mountains would endure the summer of 1763. Today, the battlefield is preserved across 213 acres along Route 993 in Penn Township, Westmoreland County. Known as Bushy Run Battlefield, the site is both a Pennsylvania state historic landmark and one of the only places in the country dedicated entirely to Pontiac’s War. It is far from a static memorial. Visitors encounter a living landscape, with a museum and theater screening “The Road to Bushy Run,” along with self-guided trails stretching through nearly 90 acres of restored woodland. Open year-round from morning until dusk, the grounds invite exploration of terrain that closely resembles its 18th-century form. Read More... |
Westmoreland County commissioners on Thursday approved $1 million in state funding to support the Arnold Palmer Legacy Experience, a planned interactive attraction highlighting the life and impact of the legendary golfer. The experience will be housed at Latrobe Country Club, where a newly constructed building will become part of a recreation of Palmer’s office. According to General Manager Paul Sherlock, additional features—including a tee program, meeting areas, an event center, and lodging accommodations—are also in development. “There’s a lot happening here that will be great for tourism,” Sherlock said, describing the project as something “truly special.” Read More... |
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The Heating & Air Conditioning Experts |
We pride ourselves in the level of customer service we offer. Many of our customers continue using our services for both their furnace and AC! Give us a try and we will gladly show you. 100% satisfaction Garenteed. |
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Family-Friendly Events in Westmoreland, July 28 – Aug. 3, 2026 |
Battle of Bushy Run |
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Step back in time at the Bushy Run Battlefield, a National Historic Landmark dedicated to interpreting Pontiac’s Rebellion and preserving Pennsylvania’s only recognized Native American battlefield. Visitors can explore museum exhibits, immersive galleries, and the scenic 281-acre state park to discover the rich history of this pivotal site. Enjoy self-guided tours, informative staff and volunteer insights when available, and unique shopping at the Edge Hill Gift Shop. The Visitor Center, featuring accessible facilities and amenities, offers a warm gateway to an unforgettable historical journey. |
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Ligonier Country Market |
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Discover a vibrant community experience every Saturday morning at Ligonier Country Market, where local farmers, bakers, chefs, and artisans come together rain or shine! Browse farm-fresh produce, specialty breads, artisan cheeses, fresh flowers, and unique handcrafted goods ranging from jewelry to home décor. With a welcoming atmosphere in beautiful Downtown Latrobe, the market is perfect for stocking your pantry, finding thoughtful gifts, or just enjoying time with friends and family. Experience one of the region’s favorite traditions going strong for over 50 years. |
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GET THE LED OUT |
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Experience the electrifying energy of Get The Led Out, one of the world’s premier Led Zeppelin tribute acts, returning to The Palace Theatre. This annual crowd favorite lights up the stage with faithful recreations of Zeppelin classics, drawing passionate fans and creating an atmosphere that’s as iconic as the music itself. Join us as The Palace Theatre celebrates its Centennial Anniversary with this unforgettable tradition. Don’t miss out on a night of legendary rock that has become part of the theatre’s storied legacy. |
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RICHARD MARX |
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Get ready for an unforgettable evening with Richard Marx, the Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, and producer whose hits have defined generations. Let his iconic voice and celebrated catalog sweep you away as he performs chart-topping favorites like “Right Here Waiting,” “Now & Forever,” and more. Don’t miss your chance to witness a music legend live at The Palace Theatre—a beautiful, historic venue that promises an intimate and memorable concert experience. |
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📚 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 July 7 – July 13. |
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Rizzo's Malabar Inn invites you to experience the best in authentic Italian cuisine, prepared with passion and rich tradition. Their legendary sauce and hand-crafted pasta dishes have delighted generations of diners — you'll taste the difference with every bite. Planning a special event? Rizzo's offers a stunning, state-of-the-art banquet hall and convenient catering services to make your celebration truly memorable. Whether it's a family dinner or a large gathering, Rizzo's hospitality and quality set them apart. Discover why locals call Rizzo's Malabar Inn the Great American Spaghetti House — your taste buds will thank you! |
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Welcome to this month’s local business roundup! We’ve got some wonderful new spots across Westmoreland County that are bringing fresh energy, delicious flavors, and unique passion projects right to our backyards. Whether you're looking for a cozy boutique near the theatre or a lively new dining spot for family dinner, here are two brand-new local openings to check out this month! 🐈 The Cat’s Meow Gift Boutique (Greensburg)If you’ve taken a stroll past the historic Palace Theatre on North Pennsylvania Avenue recently, you might have noticed a charming new sign at the lower level. After operating in Ligonier, owner Jan Mikan officially relocated and reopened The Cat’s Meow Gift Boutique in downtown Greensburg on July 9. Jan’s background is as heartfelt as it gets: after retiring from a 23-year career as a UPMC nurse, she turned her passion for local community work and animal rescue into a unique retail space. Jan previously worked with her neighbors in Greensburg to rescue, spay/neuter, and rehome stray neighborhood cats. Realizing how underrepresented feline lovers were in retail, she shifted her focus from antique furniture to an all-cat-themed store filled with giftware, specialty cat care items, and unique decor.
Jan’s boutique fills a fun, niche gap for pet lovers in our community, combining local rescue passion with high-quality, curated gifts. Downtown Greensburg is undergoing so much vibrant foot-traffic growth, and having Jan set up shop right next to the Palace Theatre makes a pre-show shopping trip or afternoon stroll all the sweeter.
🌮 Plaza Azteca (Hempfield / Westmoreland Mall Area)Bringing vibrant traditional flavors and a warm family-style atmosphere, Plaza Azteca officially opened its newest Westmoreland County doors at the former IronRock Tap House spot right outside the Westmoreland Mall. Known regionally for its fresh tableside guacamole, craft margaritas, and expansive lunch and dinner menus, the restaurant underwent extensive renovations before welcoming its first eager local diners. The Plaza Azteca brand prides itself on delivering authentic Mexican hospitality where every guest feels like a neighbor sitting down at a family table. Their team chose the Hempfield Route 30 corridor specifically to bring a lively, full-service dining option back to one of our county's central retail hubs, giving locals a go-to gathering place for everything from quick business lunches to weekend celebrations.
With menus featuring everything from sizzling fajita platters to brunch specials and fresh cocktails, Plaza Azteca is a fantastic addition to the Route 30 corridor, giving neighbors a delicious reason to support local dining near the mall.
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Westmoreland County is heading into early August with a strong mix of free festivals, kid-friendly activities, and classic small-town outings that are easy to enjoy as a family or visitor. Read More... |
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✨ LOCAL SHOUTOUTS, HEROES, CAUSES, FUNDRAISERS, VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
🌟 Local ShoutoutsHealthcare Hero Amy Pifer Earns 2026 Work Ethic AwardA huge round of applause goes out to Amy Pifer, Operational Services Lead at the Advanced Wound Center, who was named the recipient of the Third Annual Community Healthcare Work Ethic Award! Amy has devoted over 30 years of compassionate service to patients and families across Westmoreland County. Her dedication, warm heart, and commitment to clinical excellence make her a true treasure in our local healthcare community.
🦸 Local HeroesYoung Delmont Ballplayers Step Up to Support Local SeniorsTen-year-old Delmont resident proven that you're never too young to make a big impact! After realizing many local senior citizens could use a extra hand and some extra cheer, he rallied his youth baseball teammates to spend their off-days giving back to neighborhood elders. From yard cleanup to friendly visits, these young athletes are showing us what teamwork and community pride truly look like.
🌱 Local CausesRestoring Our Waterways: The Turtle Creek Watershed CleanupWestmoreland County has officially joined forces with the Turtle Creek Watershed Association to tackle the Irwin Discharge, currently recognized as Western Pennsylvania's largest untreated abandoned mine discharge. This major environmental restoration campaign aims to revitalize local stream health, protect aquatic ecosystems, and safeguard natural habitats for future generations.
💖 Fundraisers15th Annual "Pretty in Pink" Fundraiser Honors Legacy & Helps PatientsThe beloved "Pretty in Pink" fundraiser returns this weekend to support Westmoreland County cancer patients facing financial hardship. As the event enters its 15th year, volunteers and community members are coming together to honor the legacy of founder Lois Denning by keeping her mission of compassion alive. Having raised over $100,000 to date, every dollar collected directly assists local families during cancer treatment.
🤝 Volunteer OpportunitiesLend a Hand at the Westmoreland Food BankWith fresh produce season in full swing, the Westmoreland Food Bank is actively seeking volunteers to help pack and distribute over 6 million pounds of food to local families in need this year. Whether you have a few hours to sort boxes at the main warehouse or want to assist at a Fresh Express mobile distribution site, your time directly strengthens our community safety net.
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The Westmoreland Buzz newsletter is sponsored by |
Family Care Plumbing LLC |
I am letting you all know, it is a mission of mine to separate my self from the rest of the plumbers you may encounter. I don't go in thinking this is my next pay check. Even though this is my livelihood, with an honest living. But no, first thing I think of is how i can make my customers happy. With work done the right way the first time around, with the care you deserve, and not having to worry about my installs looking like a mess or worried about if it was done right. I will always have a break down of every process I am making and the reason behind it. I want this company to be a legacy passed down to my son one day hopefully, to keep this tradition going. Because at Family Care Plumbing, we truly do treat you like family, with the care you deserve. |
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💡 Answer to Trivia Question: Nepal |
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Warmly, Charles Sisk Editor |