These topics air Friday February 7, 2014 at noon and 8pm on 90.5 WESA. To leave a question or comment before or after the show dial 412-256-8783. Join the conversation LIVE between 12pm & 1 pm weekdays at 412-246-2002. More Essential Pittsburgh segments can be heard here.
The Street Beat
Pittsburgh is an old city with old roads. From cobblestones, to brick, to brittle asphalt, the addition of winter weather can make our daily commutes pretty treacherous. Last week, Mayor Peduto appointed public works veteran, Mike Gable as the new Department of Public Works Director. He joins us to talk about the city’s approach to winter street maintenance and his plans for the department.
Preservation PA
Throughout the commonwealth there are a number of places with historic significance in danger of fading away. Neglect, weather and the wrecking ball pose a seemingly continual threat to the existence of these sites. How do we save these cultural treasures? We’ve asked Preservation Pennsylvania field representative Erin Hammerstedt, to give us some insight.
The Beatles' Big Night
Fifty years ago this Sunday, February 9, 1964, the Beatles first appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show. It was a live performance of several of their songs that had been hyped extensively and preceded by their hit song "I Want to Hold Your Hand" rising to the top of the American pop charts. WYEP Music Director Mike Sauter joins us to talk about the impact of the Beatles performance that night.