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.

Main
March 14, 2026
Catch up with all the weekend happenings in Monday’s online Mon Valley Independent.
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By TAYLOR BROWN, Senior Reporter 
March 14, 2026
Council also approved fees for park rentals. From park rental fees to street event signage, Donora council addressed several operational matters during Thursday’s meeting. Among the items on the agend...
Fire strikes Glassport home
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By SARAH PELLIS spellis@yourmvi.com 
March 14, 2026
High winds caused flames to spread to two other nearby structures. Firefighters battled heavy flames and smoke at a Glassport home Friday morning. The fire originated at 802 Ohio Ave., and winds cause...
High winds knock out power, topple trees
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By SARAH PELLIS spellis@yourmvi.com 
March 14, 2026
All of Southwestern Pa. was affected by strong wind gusts Friday night. Numerous trees and power lines were knocked down in the Mon Valley and across the greater Pittsburgh region Friday evening becau...
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By SARAH PELLIS spellis@yourmvi.com 
March 14, 2026
School board members received an update on construction. Elizabeth Forward School District will seek a $5 million Public School Facility Improvement Grant to be used for upgrades at the high school. T...