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Essential Pittsburgh: Could Train Derailments Cause a Dilemma for Pittsburgh?

AP Photo/Chris Tilley
An image from the site of the most recent oil tanker train derailment. This one is in West Virginia.

Topics on today's Essential Pittsburgh include the West Virginia train derailment, and ski resorts near and far  

Oil Train Safety   

An oil tanker derailment and fire in West Virginia is raising questions about the apparent failure of safer tank cars to prevent an explosion. 

DaveMistich, Digital Editor/Coordinator for West Virginia Public Broadcasting offers an update on how residents have been effected by the derailment,

"The folks that I talked to Tuesday...one woman described it like being in hell. So I think people are a little afraid of the situation still. But I think things are getting a little bit back to normal "

Penn Future's Evan Endres talks about the steps that need to be taken to protect municipalities and why these new tanker cars did not work.

Hit the Slopes (44:30)

Punxsutawney Phil recently forecasted six more weeks of winter. Rather than stay indoors, travel contributor Elaine Labalme suggests we get in the spirit of the season and hit the slopes. She joins us this week to recommend ski resorts where you can get the most out of the winter snows. 

Labalme recommends these ski resorts to get the most out of winter:

Blue Hills Ski Resort, Boston: Some of the best prices on ski packages and great snow conditions.

Hunter Mountain, New York: Another awesome destination for great skiing conditions.

Snowshoe Mountain, West Virginia: Selling "Ridiculous Pass" for skiers all season.

Beaver Creek, Colorado: Beautiful mountain with super sweet snow powder.

Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico: Warm skiing temperatures and a variety of Native American activities. 

To leave a question or comment before or after the show dial 412-256-8783. More Essential Pittsburgh segments can be heard here.