Latest News
February 13, 2020

Newly elected district judge still must pass test

By Mon Valley Independent

By PAUL PIERCE

Trib Total Media

Although Monessen voters elected a new district judge last November, it could be at least March — or longer — before he is finally sworn in.

Wayne P. Vlasic, 63, confirmed he still needs certification from the state minor judiciary board to begin serving as district judge. The Democrat defeated Monessen police Chief James Smith for the post that has been vacant since May 2018, when Joseph Dalfonso retired after 25 years.

Vlasic said he did not pass the state-mandated examination on his first try.

“I’ve been honest with everyone who’s asked me why I’m not in there yet. It’s embarrassing, but I’m going to take the test again at the end of the month,” he said.

To read the rest of this story, please see a copy of Friday’s Mon Valley Independent, call 724-314-0035 to subscribe or subscribe to our online edition at https://e.monvalleyindependent.com.

Stuff the Bus expands efforts to assist area students
Latest News, Main
By TAYLOR BROWN, Senior Reporter 
October 17, 2026
It’s now an independent nonprofit organization with a reach far beyond Charleroi. Stuff the Bus is spreading its wings. After nine years of supporting students in the Charleroi Area School District, t...
Ringgold High School crowns homecoming king and queen
Latest News, Main
October 17, 2026
Eli Pierce and Bella Schnupp were crowned as homecoming king and queen at Ringgold High School. Photo by Heather Hart / For the Mon Valley Independent
McKeesport Area High School crowns homecoming queen and king
Latest News, Main
October 17, 2026
McKeesport Area High School chose Michelle Ferguson and Barrett Greenlee as its homecoming queen and king. Photo by  Jeff Helsel / Mon Valley Independent
Donora arrest, video sparks investigation
Latest News, Main
By TAYLOR BROWN, Senior Reporter 
October 17, 2026
Shawn Bowman contends excessive force was used when he was taken into custody in August. Donora borough officials say they are investigating the actions of a police officer captured on video punching ...
Crash deaths ruled accidental
Latest News, Main
October 17, 2026
Four Yough High School students were killed in a March 21 crash. By RENATTA SIGNORINI TribLive The deaths of four Yough High School students in a fiery March crash have been ruled accidental. On Frida...
Washington County’s annual Road to Recovery Symposium held
Around The Valley, Latest News, Main
October 17, 2026
The event brings together people involved in the fight against opioid addiction. For the MVI More than 150 community stakeholders working to address the opioid epidemic gathered Wednesday at the Penns...