These topics air Friday February 20, 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.Drug Sentencing
Could changes be in the offing for the sentencing of non-violent drug offenders facing long, mandatory prison terms? What else is being done to reduce the prison population in the Commonwealth? We'll get insight from Angus Love, executive director of the Pennsylvania Institutional Law Project.
The Oscar Buzz
The Academy Awards are right around the corner, Sunday March 2nd to be exact. There’s plenty of speculation about who’s likely to win, along with conversation about who's worthy of the awards. Al Hoff is our movie contributor and a film critic for the Pittsburgh City Paper. She helps us parse through the top Oscar contenders and talks about some new flicks coming to town.
Pittsburgh Opera Opens Paul's Case
Willa Cather's classic short story Paul's Case has been adapted as an opera. Set partially in Pittsburgh, it will be performed by the Pittsburgh Opera Company's Second Stage Project. Joining us for a preview of the show are composer Gregory Spears and resident artist Daniel Curran who portrays Paul in the production.