Features
July 14, 2026

CALENDAR WATCH

• Back to School Family Fun-Damentals, featuring free food, games, an Atari tournament, giveaways and a prize for best-dressed throwback outfit, sponsored by Monessen Communities That Care and SPHS Family Center, open to the public, Monessen Civic Center, 861 Donner Ave., Monessen, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Coke Works blast ‘should never have happened’
Latest News, Main
Coke Works blast ‘should never have happened’
By TAYLOR BROWN, Senior Reporter 
August 11, 2026
The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board has released its report on the 2025 explosion that killed two workers. One year after an explosion at U.S. Steel’s Clairton Coke Works killed tw...
Elizabeth church helps students get ready to go back to school
Latest News, Main
Elizabeth church helps students get ready to go back to school
By SARAH PELLIS spellis@yourmvi.com 
August 11, 2026
Backpacks and other supplies were distributed at First Presbyterian’s fifth annual event. Backpacks, school supplies and more were donated to several hundred students and families who attended a back-...
‘Abnormalities’ discovered at Monessen school
Latest News, Main
‘Abnormalities’ discovered at Monessen school
By SARAH PELLIS spellis@yourmvi.com 
August 11, 2026
Additional details won’t be released until testing is completed today. Air quality testing began Saturday at Monessen City School District’s middle/high school after discoveries of “abnormalities” in ...
Chief addresses concerns of reduced police presence
Latest News, Main
FORWARD TOWNSHIP
Chief addresses concerns of reduced police presence
By MICHAEL VINSICK mvinsick@yourmvi.com 
August 11, 2026
Only one ticket was issued last month along Routes 51 and 136 in the township. Residents raised concerns over potential decreases in police presence along Routes 51 and 136 at Monday’s Forward Townshi...
Pittsburgh Zoo reveals name of African lion cub
Around The Valley, Latest News, Main
Pittsburgh Zoo reveals name of African lion cub
By By JOYCE HANZ TribLive 
August 11, 2026
A public viewing of Kiazi was held Monday to celebrate World Lion Day. The newest African lion cub at the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium is officially named and ready to roar — someday. Zoo officials hoste...
Public input sought on Rostraver Twp. slide repair
Around The Valley, Latest News, Main
Public input sought on Rostraver Twp. slide repair
By TAYLOR BROWN, Senior Reporter 
August 11, 2026
Comments on the project can be submitted online through Aug. 24. Rostraver Township residents have an opportunity to weigh in on planned improvements along Route 906 as PennDOT opens a virtual display...