The Darr Mine Disaster
On December 19, 1907, a tremendous explosion shook the Youghiogheny River Valley at the Darr Mine in Van Meter, Westmoreland County, killing 239 men and boys. It remains the worst mining disaster in Pennsylvania history and led to important changes in the mining industry. Yet very few people know the story. With compelling interviews and rich archival images, the story focuses on a small, dedicated group of people - led by elderly Ann Toth of Bobtown, Pennsylvania - all determined to preserve the Darr's place in history. The documentary is from writer/producer David Solomon and videographer/editor Paul Ruggieri.
The Darr Mine Disaster aired on Dec 20, 2010.
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Series: Experience
Once the victim of an online predator, Alicia Kozakiewicz now takes her harrowing experience into Pittsburgh classrooms with an educational presentation that helps raise awareness and protect children. Alicia's message to students and parents is now being heard nationwide. This Emmy-winning documentary is from the team of writer/producer David Solomon and videographer/editor Paul Ruggieri.
Original airdate: May 31, 2007
WQED follows a group of Western Pennsylvanians who journeyed to the sites of America's Civil Rights struggle. The Return to the Roots of Civil Rights Bus Tour covered nearly 2,600 miles, traveling from Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania to cities throughout the deep south. Participants, who ranged in age from 15 to 75, explored historic locations and met some of the foot soldiers who helped abolish segregation.
Original airdate: Oct 18, 2006
