‘Her light will never be extinguished’

By Mon Valley Independent

By TAYLOR BROWN

tbrown@yourmvi.com

Quiet sobs filled the air between the chirps of crickets at Serra Catholic’s football stadium Thursday evening as friends, family and neighbors gathered to mourn one of the school’s most bubbly and bright students. Sophomore Samantha Lee Kalkbrenner, 15, was killed when her school van was hit early Wednesday morning at the intersection of Richland Avenue and Third Street in Dravosburg.

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

Latest News, Main

Pa. could require paid family leave — if lawmakers can decide who bears the cost

April 7, 2026

The concept has bipartisan support in both the House and Senate, but disagreement about cost remains a roadblock. By JAXON WHITE Spotlight Pa HARRISBURG — There’s a real chance Pennsylvania lawmakers ...

Latest News, Main

GE Vernova buys Rostraver warehouse

By LADIMIR GARCIA lgarcia@yourmvi.com

April 7, 2026

Township officials are uncertain about what the company plans to do with the property. GE Vernova, formerly part of General Electric, spent $70 million to purchase a distribution center in Rostraver l...

Latest News, Main

Charleroi council discusses mowing costs at vacant properties

By TAYLOR BROWN, Senior Reporter

April 7, 2026

It has become too time consuming for the street department to handle. With warmer weather arriving and grass-growing season already under way, Charleroi council is preparing to hire outside help to ke...

Latest News, Main

Elizabeth Townships addresses e-bike, scooter safety

April 7, 2026

Safety and damage concerns have been expressed in the township. By SARAH PELLIS spellis@yourmvi.com E-bike and scooter safety was the main topic of conversation among Elizabeth Township commissioners ...

Around The Valley, Latest News

Monessen Elks grant will help fund public library

April 7, 2026

Monessen Elks BPOE Lodge 773 secured a $4,000 grant to help the library increase its book collection. For the MVI Like many organizations that provide public services to residents in their community, ...

Around The Valley, Latest News

Utility assistance fair set in McKeesport

April 7, 2026

Pennsylvania American Water will host the free event April 15 at the McKeesport Palisades. For the MVI Pennsylvania American Water will hold a Utility Assistance and Resource Fair from 3:30 p.m. to 6:...