WORLD BRIEFLY Japan’s Takaichi tries to reaffirm alliance with Trump

WASHINGTON (AP) — Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi sought to re- affirm her alliance with Presi dent Donald Trump on Thursday after the president this week seemed to complain that Japan was among the nations that did not quickly join his call to help protect the Strait of Hormuz.

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Ready to roll at Kennywood Park

April 18, 2026

Park employees test ride the Sky Rocket roller coaster Friday afternoon as Kennywood Park in West Mifflin prepares to open today. Jeff Helsel / Mon Valley Independent

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Data center bills get bipartisan support

By LADIMIR GARCIA lgarcia@yourmvi.com

April 18, 2026

House members from both parties see the need to provide legal protections. The Pennsylvania House passed two pieces of legislation this week that aim to protect state residents from the negative effec...

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Supreme Court rules Bartolotta challenger can stay on ballot

By TAYLOR BROWN, Senior Reporter

April 18, 2026

It decided in favor of Al Buchtan, upholding a Commonwealth Court decision by a 4-3 margin. The Pennsylvania Supreme Court has ended the legal fight over whether Republican state Senate candidate Al B...

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Fern Fitness: Workouts in a welcoming atmosphere

By SARAH PELLIS spellis@yourmvi.com

April 18, 2026

The Elizabeth Township fitness studio opened its doors in March. A new fitness studio has arrived in Elizabeth Township. Cousins and Elizabeth Township natives Molly Watterworth and Kelly McHolme open...

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$11M in upgrades nearly complete at Elrama plant

April 18, 2026

The improvements became necessary after a drop in Monongahela River water levels. By the MVI Pennsylvania American Water says it is completing more than $11 million in upgrades at its E.H. Aldrich Wat...

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Monessen Lions present 10-year anniversary gift to MVI

April 18, 2026

Monessen Lions Club presented a donation to the Mon Valley Independent as the newspaper commemorates its 10year anniversary. From left are 1st Vice President Lion Mark Panicucci, Treasurer Lion Debbie...