Westmoreland County’s arts community has an opportunity to grow by creating stronger connections among writers, visual artists, musicians, libraries, museums and community organizations.

Cross-disciplinary programs and better ways for creators to find one another could introduce residents to new experiences while making greater use of community spaces that already exist.

The goal is not necessarily more venues, but stronger connections between them.

Westmoreland County teams and athletes packed the latest local sports notebook with wins, milestones and honors.

Belle Vernon Area won a close football matchup, Penn-Trafford girls soccer stayed atop its section, Hempfield Area named a new girls basketball coach, and Norwin announced its 2026 Athletics Hall of Fame class.

Burrell hockey and Seton Hill football also added victories to a strong week of local competition.

Former Kiski Area soccer standout Ally Zidek is making an impact at Washington & Jefferson College, where she earned All-PAC Honorable Mention recognition as a freshman.

Now a sophomore, Zidek continues to start on defense while developing her leadership and pursuing biomedical science and engineering studies.

Her progress offers a positive look at a Westmoreland County student-athlete succeeding at the college level.

Westmoreland County children got a hands-on science lesson when members of the county’s Forensic Services Division visited The Growing Tree Child Development Center during Community Helpers Week.

Detectives introduced students to the basics of forensic work and fingerprint science, then gave each child an opportunity to make a unique fingerprint to take home.

The visit turned a community-career lesson into an interactive experience while giving local children a memorable look at science in action.

Westmoreland County football brought overtime drama, shutouts and a stunning comeback.

Hempfield Area beat Canon-McMillan 38-34 in overtime on Carden Lippmann’s winning run; he also threw for 340 yards and three touchdowns.

Norwin topped Mount Lebanon 22-3, while Jeannette edged Riverview 14-7 behind Hunter Schaeffer’s 94-yard kickoff return.

Unbeaten Penn-Trafford crushed Connellsville 64-0, and Franklin Regional blanked Fox Chapel Area 35-0 for coach Brian Johnson’s first Panthers win.

Greensburg Central Catholic routed Springdale 56-7, Belle Vernon Area beat Greensburg Salem 49-14, and Ligonier Valley earned its 500th program victory, 52-12 over Carlynton.

Kiski Area lost a 28-0 lead in a 29-28 defeat to Plum; Monessen fell 10-6 to Burgettstown on a touchdown with 28 seconds left.

Derry Area, Greater Latrobe, Southmoreland, Mount Pleasant, Burrell, Valley and Yough also lost.

Westmoreland County’s Hobgoblin Hikes return this October, turning two familiar park trails into free, family-friendly Halloween adventures.

Guided walks run continuously from 7 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, October 17, at Cedar Creek Park in Rostraver Township and Saturday, October 24, at Twin Lakes Park near Greensburg.

Each half-mile route features eerie tunnels, cemetery scenes and more than 100 costumed zombies, ghosts and monsters.

Each park will have different scenes, giving families a reason to visit both.

The hikes are recommended for children ages eight and older, and parents are encouraged to join them because some scares may be intense for younger visitors.

Costumes are welcome, but no treats will be handed out.

Admission is free, donations are appreciated, and the hikes will proceed in rain unless weather becomes dangerous.

Westmoreland County Parks and Recreation also welcomes volunteers ages 15 and older as trail guides and scare actors.

Suicide prevention in Westmoreland County starts with recognizing that a mental health crisis can affect any family.

A rescue on the 40th Street Bridge near Millvale brought a young man to safety after police and businessman Herky Pollock spoke with him.

Pollock drew on painful family losses to connect with him, showing how listening can help someone accept support.

But bystanders should not enter dangerous situations; call 911 and follow responders’ directions.

Millvale Police Chief Tim Komoroski stressed calm communication, while Mayor Brian Spoales urged people to ask questions rather than make assumptions.

Social worker Serena Buday warned that stigma can leave families isolated when they need help most.

Pollock’s restaurant company announced a September prevention campaign, but awareness must continue year-round.

If someone talks about wanting to die, ask about their safety and stay with them while seeking help.

For round-the-clock crisis support, call or text 988.

Westmoreland County residents considering an mRNA flu vaccine this fall may need to call ahead to find one.

Moderna’s mFlusiva is authorized for adults 50 and older, but pharmacies and clinics may not have it in stock.

Before traveling to Greensburg, Latrobe or Murrysville, ask whether a provider has mFlusiva, requires an appointment and accepts your insurance for that vaccine.

Unlike conventional flu shots, mFlusiva uses messenger RNA to help the body recognize a flu protein.

Faster production could eventually help vaccine makers respond to changing flu strains, but other flu shots remain important options.

MFlusiva received standard approval for adults 50 to 64 and accelerated approval, requiring further study, for those 65 and older.

Older adults should ask a clinician how it compares with the enhanced flu vaccines recommended for their age group.

If mFlusiva is unavailable nearby, ask about another age-appropriate shot rather than delaying flu protection.

Residents in Westmoreland County are once again witnessing a massive superload transport making its way across Western Pennsylvania this week.

This marks just the start of a months-long sequence, as many more oversized loads are slated to traverse the streets in the near future.

The ongoing superload schedule is turning daily life upside down, sparking both curiosity and frustration among commuters and business owners.

The current convoy’s route, stretching from Schenley to Route 66 and then winding through Leechburg, Apollo, and Delmont before joining the Route 22 corridor, is already causing notable delays.

Route 22, long known for congestion, faces intensified traffic disruptions from these oversized hauls.

Transport officials urge drivers, especially near Blairsville and Indiana County, to seek alternate routes as the superloads move equipment to the Homer City data center site.

For now, patience is a necessity as slow-moving convoys and detours define local commutes.

This unfolding challenge is set to shape daily life along Route 22 throughout 2024.

High school football action thrilled Westmoreland County as local teams delivered dramatic wins and unforgettable moments.

The Penn-Trafford Warriors stole the spotlight, crushing Franklin Regional by an astonishing 68-0 in their home opener, sparking excitement among fans with standout plays on both sides of the ball.

Mount Pleasant’s potent passing attack secured a 31-20 victory over Derry Area, while Southmoreland edged out Greensburg Salem 42-34 in a point-packed showdown that kept families and students riveted.

At North Allegheny, Hempfield Area battled fiercely but fell 14-7 after a late-game touchdown.

Pittsburgh Central Catholic made waves by overpowering Norwin, and Greater Latrobe fired up their crowd with a crucial win against Gateway.

Roman Smith’s five touchdowns led Deer Lakes to a blowout, while Ligonier Valley’s unbeaten run and Jeannette’s shutout over Springdale fueled local excitement.

With rivalries looming and playoff hopes rising, communities buzz with pride—proving Friday nights here are about much more than just football.

Westmoreland County is experiencing the effects of the autumnal equinox, as daylight and darkness reach balance and fall arrives in earnest.

The noticeable shortening of days now brings cooler weather and a shift in daily routines throughout the region.

Some residents welcome the crisp air, while others adjust to nights that settle in earlier each week.

Walks through local parks reveal golden sunlight filtering through leaves just beginning to change, a subtle signal of the new season.

Westmoreland County can expect to lose more than three hours of daylight by winter solstice, impacting school schedules, family outings, and business hours.

The shifting sunlight not only affects community mood but also reshapes how locals experience commerce and outdoor activities.

As autumn deepens, residents savor the season’s slower pace and the fading glow of evening skies.

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.

The 9/11 Memorial in Hershey stands as a moving tribute to loss and resilience, deeply affecting Westmoreland County residents.

On September 11, 2001, shockwaves spread when locals learned Michael Horrocks, a beloved Hershey High School alumnus and former Marine Corps pilot, was aboard United Airlines Flight 175.

Michael’s legacy as a supportive teammate and inspiring leader endures among classmates and the wider community.

The Hershey High School memorial, recently moved outdoors for greater accessibility, now serves as a gathering point for remembrance and reflection.

At West Chester University, a statue honors Michael, with football players touching it before games in tribute.

Plans for a public Michael Horrocks memorial in Hershey are underway, with the site and design secured but additional support still urgently needed.

This new space promises a meaningful focal point for collective memory, underscoring Hershey’s enduring resolve to never forget its hero.

Westmoreland County, PA just faced what many locals are calling the hottest summer on record, as average temperatures soared well above usual.

Neighborhood chatter and official weather reports both confirmed the persistent, relentless heat across the region.

Parks and playgrounds emptied through sweltering afternoons, with families rescheduling outdoor plans to beat the oppressive midday highs.

Gardeners struggled as even robust perennials wilted, while local farmers saw crops mature unpredictably and show signs of stress.

Greensburg businesses and nearby towns saw a spike in visitors to ice cream shops and public pools, as residents scrambled for ways to cool off.

School and health officials issued frequent heat safety reminders, adjusting schedules for youth sports and camps.

This record-breaking heat is a vivid sign that Westmoreland County is now feeling the effects of a changing climate.

Westmoreland County high school football delivered an action-packed weekend, filled with fierce rivalries and memorable moments that energized the local community.

The showdown between Penn-Trafford and Hempfield Area stole the spotlight, kicking off with Kason Offield’s stunning 94-yard return that instantly ignited the Warriors’ momentum.

Quarterback Ben Grabowski led Penn-Trafford’s dynamic offense, showcasing his versatility with over 250 total yards and multiple touchdowns.

Nick Ponko added firepower, grabbing six catches and four touchdown receptions, while Hempfield’s defense struggled to slow the relentless attack.

Despite Carden Lippmann’s 300-plus passing yards for Hempfield Area, turnovers and defensive breakdowns left them trailing.

The community also rallied around Jeannette, where the football team played in honor of a teammate battling cancer.

With football fever intensifying and other teams notching impressive victories, anticipation is high for the next chapter in local sports.

The Trump 5000 dividend proposal is sparking major discussion throughout Westmoreland County, PA, as locals weigh the impact of a possible $5,000 direct payment for American adults.

President Trump announced that this cash proposal depends on his party’s continued control in Washington, adding urgency to the political climate.

With inflation driving up household costs and economic uncertainty lingering, many families see the proposal as potential relief.

However, community leaders urge caution, pointing to the challenge of passing such a significant package through Congress, especially with ongoing federal budget concerns.

Conversations reveal a mix of hope and skepticism, as residents recall how past stimulus payments helped offset financial strain but also question the long-term effects of another large payout.

As debate continues in Washington, Westmoreland County is closely watching for clarity—and answers.

Westmoreland County families will find a wave of new and engaging art classes for children launching this fall.

The region’s creative spirit is thriving, with organizations unveiling sessions aimed at nurturing self-expression and building friendships among young artists.

Youth art programs are expanding beyond traditional painting and drawing to include hands-on crafts, exciting theme days, and activities for a range of age groups.

Parents report a confidence boost in kids whose artwork is showcased or shared locally.

Many art centers are increasing accessibility by lowering fees or offering discounts, making creative learning available to more families.

This season also features family-friendly events like senior center open houses, which offer residents a look at art workshops, wellness programs, and entertainment for all ages.

With new studios in Irwin and Latrobe, the local art scene is growing more dynamic, reflecting a renewed commitment to the arts across the community.

Westmoreland County has launched new initiatives in honor of National Recovery Month to aid residents facing substance use and mental health struggles.

September marks a time to highlight the resilience and bravery of those pursuing recovery, as well as the unwavering determination that journey demands.

Local groups such as Sage’s Army and Lost Dreams Awakening remain devoted to guiding individuals and families through ongoing challenges.

Community leaders are prioritizing expanded access to mental health resources and working to break down the stigma attached to seeking help.

This year’s fresh outreach campaigns and neighborhood events, from Greensburg to New Kensington, are boosting awareness and participation across the county.

The effort is drawing broad local support, with businesses, educators, and faith groups uniting to promote recovery and hope.

Help is always available through confidential hotlines and local centers for anyone in need in Westmoreland County.

Westmoreland County parks continue to be at the heart of community life, drawing both locals and visitors with their scenic trails, lakes, and playgrounds.

Recent community spotlights have highlighted the individuals, businesses, and organizations dedicated to sustaining and revitalizing these public spaces.

Honors like the Green Luncheon shine a light on civic leaders and sponsors whose efforts bring beloved events—such as March for Parks and seasonal festivals—to residents of all ages.

Families are returning not just for picnics, but also art festivals, fitness boot camps, and environmental workshops, reflecting a new wave of creativity and activity.

Upgrades to accessible playgrounds, trails, and sports facilities underscore the county’s commitment to inclusivity and wellness.

Westmoreland County’s parks remain vital sources of stability and inspiration, proving their importance in every season.

Floodwaters surged across Westmoreland County, PA, after heavy rainfall Thursday night, triggering chaos and widespread damage throughout local neighborhoods.

Rivers and creeks rose swiftly, forcing emergency rescue teams into action as cars and residents became stranded in places like Hempfield Township.

Scenes turned extreme within minutes, as streets filled with fast-moving currents and locals watched flood levels climb rapidly.

First responders waded through deep waters to guide residents to safety, while photos revealed vehicles half-submerged and streets transformed into streams.

Severe winds added to the crisis, knocking down trees and power lines and causing outages for thousands of homes and businesses.

State highways, including Route 30, remained shut as utility and emergency crews scrambled to assess ongoing hazards.

As forecasts warn of more storms and flood watches continue, Westmoreland’s community vows resilience while recovery efforts push ahead.

Westmoreland County is shaped by the enduring presence of family owned farms that have sustained local agriculture for generations.

Celebrated as century farms and bicentennial farms, these properties symbolize tradition and resilience across the region’s hillsides.

Recent recognition events have spotlighted families—like Thomas and Belinda Derr of Sewickley Township—who have upheld stewardship since 1919, maintaining both family heritage and the historic landscape.

Today, forty farms in Westmoreland County hold Century Farm status, while eleven have been designated Bicentennial Farms.

These honors reflect an unwavering commitment to preserving rural identity, even as technology, markets, and demographics shift.

Events such as local farm festivals and educational programs celebrate the ongoing impact of these farms, highlighting their essential role as both heritage sites and vibrant enterprises for the future.

Westmoreland County’s shared ride program is set for its first fare increase since 2018, prompting concern among riders who depend on this essential service.

Senior citizens and those with medical needs will soon pay higher prices, as officials emphasize the need to maintain financial stability with federal relief funds running out.

Leaders argue the fare hike is vital to keep door-to-door transportation available throughout the community, though some advocated for smaller, gradual increases to minimize disruption.

While seniors will see less of an impact thanks to ongoing subsidies, other riders, especially those on fixed incomes, worry about affordability and access.

Local officials stress that without this adjustment, the future of the shared ride program could be in jeopardy as relief funding ends.

Amid these changes, new regional transit projects continue to reshape mobility across Westmoreland County.

The Westmoreland County Fair is back, thrilling visitors with a mix of timeless favorites and exciting new features.

Crowds are flocking to secure tickets, especially for the ever-popular demolition derby that always lights up the grandstands.

Community ties run strong as families, farmers, and neighbors gather for a week of camaraderie.

This season, a brand-new pro wrestling show is debuting, sparking plenty of buzz alongside traditional showcases like the rodeo and draft horse exhibitions.

Guests are greeted by a local artist’s tribute to America’s 250th birthday, setting a patriotic tone from the moment they arrive.

Despite some challenges with vendor recruitment, food lovers will still find favorite treats, and local schools have arranged special shuttles for livestock exhibitors.

The Westmoreland County Fair remains a centerpiece of summertime, uniting the community in celebration.

Westmoreland County is seeing a surge in road maintenance as summer construction season enters its peak.

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is prioritizing long-awaited pothole repairs, especially on heavily traveled routes like Route 30 and Route 136.

Commuters can expect smoother rides soon, while local crews work on crack sealing along Route 981 in Derry Township and address drainage across several communities.

Residents are being urged to watch for detours, flaggers, and possible single-lane restrictions as workers press ahead.

Safety warnings are in place, reminding drivers to remain alert in work zones and adapt to temporary traffic shifts.

PennDOT teams are also replacing signs, cleaning up roadside litter, and reinforcing road shoulders, further improving conditions.

Enhanced efforts and new paving technologies signal a stronger commitment to maintaining local roads, promising Westmoreland drivers a safer, more reliable commute.

On Wednesday, August 12, Angela’s Angels hosted its Tiaras to Toes celebration at Simply Pink Party & Event Center at Beatty Crossroads in Greensburg. The special event welcomed 32 young ladies, along with their support team from Mosaic Community Development Center, for an afternoon designed to be fun, meaningful, and confidence-building.

Younger girls enjoyed a charming tea party and dinner, while teen participants took part in a fashion show followed by dinner. Every aspect of the experience was provided at no cost to the girls and their families.

Mosaic Community Development Center works to build a cross-cultural family rooted in faith, community, justice, mercy, and service to the people of Jeannette—especially those experiencing poverty.

The Tiaras to Toes event reflected that mission by giving young girls an opportunity to feel celebrated, supported, and seen.

“Protecting women’s self-esteem is at the heart of everything we do,” said Angela Rose O’Brien, founder of Angela’s Angels. “Self-esteem affects decisions, relationships, emotional health, and overall well-being.”

The event was made possible through the generous support of local businesses and community members committed to making a positive difference for area youth:

• Simply Pink Party & Event Center

• Mosaic Community Development Center

• Empire Beauty School

• Chick-fil-A Eastgate Plaza

• Bras N More

• The Cookie Shop

• Mary Kay Katie and Lara Zimmerman

• Michelle’s Chocolates & Catering

• Diversified Planners, Inc.

• Aug’s Logs

• DeMilio Inc. A/C & Refrigeration

• Pheple Federal Credit Union

• Gracefully Bloomed Creations

• Angela’s Angels
  
  

Angela’s Angels extends heartfelt thanks to every supporter who helped shine a light on both nonprofit organizations and create a memorable day for these young women.

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.

With Norwin and Greensburg Salem partnering with local businesses, mini-thons are evolving, drawing in more support through fun runs and online donation drives.

The momentum signals a shift in how Westmoreland County connects with causes that matter, nurturing deeper empathy, leadership, and a spirit of generosity that endures well beyond fundraising totals.

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.

These family farms serve communities with fresh produce and dairy, sustaining rural identity as fewer young people stay on the land.

With rising development pressures, historic farm honors renew pride and motivate families to adapt—adding agritourism or specialty crops—ensuring the spirit of Westmoreland’s century farms endures.

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.

Many community members express hope for reliable repairs, though some raise questions about long-term local control.

New assistance programs are being rolled out to support customers facing financial hardship during the change.

This acquisition mirrors a regional trend as more municipal wastewater systems turn to larger utilities for expertise and investment, aiming to secure essential services for future generations.

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.

The township opened the property to the public in April but closed it again in July after residents raised safety concerns. Neighbors John and Gail Hugo pointed to exposed pipes and the deteriorating stone restroom building, where a sagging roof could pose a risk if someone entered despite caution tape.

Baker said the restroom building is not automatically hazardous while it remains closed off, but it would need improvements before it could be used. He suggested a phased reopening could be possible if the township fences or ropes off hazardous areas while allowing public access to safer sections.

Resenic said many concerns are concentrated around the pavilion, meaning a limited reopening might leave visitors with only a grassy area. Stoner said supervisors may discuss that option but should first review Baker’s complete report.

Baker plans to consider engineering reports, public feedback, news coverage, costs and regulations in preparing his assessment. He said the township likely can maintain insurance coverage if it remediates identified hazards.

Beaufort said the walkthrough was productive and that the property will probably remain closed until supervisors are satisfied it is safe. He also said no asbestos was found during the inspection.

Township leaders continue to explore improvements, including preparing the pavilion for use, but no reopening timetable has been set.

Westmoreland County families are gearing up for the highly anticipated Labor United Celebration at Northmoreland Park this Labor Day weekend.

Longtime residents and newcomers alike will gather for a beloved tradition blending community pride and joyful festivities.

The park will buzz with energy as live bands energize crowds throughout Sunday and Monday, solidifying the festival’s reputation for top-notch entertainment.

Guests can savor treats from popular local vendors, while the lineup of carnival rides, inflatables, and a petting zoo guarantee thrills for every age—and all for a budget-friendly price.

The spectacular one-ring circus returns, bringing daring stunts and animal acts that delight families year after year.

Shoppers will also find a bustling flea market and crafts fair, with over 50 regional exhibitors and engaging animal presentations, all celebrating wildlife and conservation.

With free admission and parking, the event offers unmatched value and reflects Westmoreland’s energized, family-forward spirit.