World News
April 18, 2026

Iran reopens Strait of Hormuz; Trump says blockade on Iranian ships and ports will stay in force

BEIRUT (AP) — Iran said Friday it fully reopened the Strait of Hormuz to commercial vessels, but U.S. President Donald Trump said the American blockade on Iranian ships and ports “will remain in full force” until Tehran reaches a deal with the U.S., including on its nuclear program.

READY TO ROLL AT KENNYWOOD PARK
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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
Data center bills get bipartisan support
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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...
Supreme Court rules Bartolotta challenger can stay on ballot
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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...
Fern Fitness: Workouts in a welcoming atmosphere
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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...
$11M in upgrades nearly complete at Elrama plant
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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...
10-YEAR ANNIVERSARY GIFT FOR MVI
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10-YEAR ANNIVERSARY GIFT FOR 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...