Features
November 21, 2025

ODDS AND ENDS

(AP) — The results of the new study, published last month in the journal Subterranean Biology, spread rapidly online due to the striking images of the giant 1,140-squarefoot spider web, a carpet-thick sprawl that stretches along a narrow passage wall inside Sulfur Cave, which extends into Albania from its entrance in Greece. But the most surprising thing about the spider colony — which boasts an estimated 110,000 spiders — had less to do with its enormity and more to do with what scientists found inside the huge mass of funnel-shaped webs. Scientists say it could offer clues into the natural world.

Bears celebrate 15th WPIAL championship
Latest News, Main
November 24, 2025
The Clairton Bears celebrate their program’s 15th championship, second all-time in WPIAL history, after beating Laurel 8-6 Saturday in the Class 1A championship game at Acrisure Stadium. See our game ...
Stockdale ‘sparkles’ to usher in the holidays
Around The Valley, Latest News, Main
By LADIMIR GARCIA lgarcia@yourmvi.com 
November 24, 2025
The second annual event brought the small Washington County community together. Friends and neighbors gathered in Stockdale for another successful Stockdale Sparkle holiday kick-off celebration Sunday...
North Belle Vernon holds annual Light up the Night
Latest News, Main
November 24, 2025
North Belle Vernon Councilman Jon Wasicek keeps the bonfire going during the holiday celebration at Community Bank Park. Photos by Heather Hart, For the Mon Valley Independent See more photos in our o...
60th annual Salute to Santa parade held in McKeesport
Latest News, Main
November 24, 2025
The 60th annual Salute to Santa parade was held Saturday in McKeesport. Among the participants were the junior cast members of the McKeesport Little Theater production of “Shrek the Musical Jr.” See m...
MVAA celebrates student achievements
Around The Valley, Latest News, Main
By TAYLOR BROWN, Senior Reporter 
November 24, 2025
The Mon Valley Academy for the Arts is celebrating four standout students who have earned major musical honors across regional and national stages. The MVAA, a nonprofit organization based in Brownsvi...
No tax increase in Elizabeth Township’s proposed budget
Latest News, Main
By SARAH PELLIS spellis@yourmvi.com 
November 24, 2025
Commissioners warned a tax increase could be coming in the future due to increased costs. Elizabeth Township property owners are not expected to have a tax increase next year. The township commissione...