PITTSBURGH (NewsRadio 1020 KDKA) — Some geologists believe that Pennsylvania sits on one of the largest deposits of natural gas in the world.

With more and more drills sprouting up around the area, Marcellus Shale has been in the news a lot lately. While supporters praise the economical benefits of drilling like job creation, opponents have raised questions about the environmental impact on our region.

On Thursday, October 11, NewsRadio 1020 KDKA will host an expo and town hall meeting on shale development and manufacturing and environmental innovation at the Western Pennsylvania Marcellus Shale Expo.

What: Western PA Marcellus Shale Expo/Town Hall Meeting
When: Thursday, October 11, 2012: 9am-5pm
Where: Regional Learning Alliance, Cranberry Township
More: For a complete schedule of breakout sessions and list of participants, click here.

Join us for the third Marcellus Shale Expo event where local businesses and industry leaders can network with each other in addition to sharing the latest news and information with consumers.

Admission is free for this one day event, for directions click here.

NewsRadio 1020 KDKA personalities will host two Town Hall Meetings with an expert panel who will address current issues including, economic impact, legislature and recruitment followed by audience questions. Breakout sessions will also be offered.

10am Town Hall Meeting on Marcellus Development & Manufacturing hosted by Robert Mangino:

Panelists:

•  Frank Brooks Robinson, Jr.  “Brooks”   – Regional Director of the Southwest office of the Governor’s Action Team  (!)
• Petra Mitchell, Catalyst Connections  (created program to help connect local companies with Marcellus Shale, Top Woman & Top Energy leader awards)
• Rep. Jim Christiana  (Beaver county/Shell Cracker interest)
• Matt Pitzarella, Range Resources

4pm Town Hall Meeting on Environmental Innovation hosted by Mike Pintek

Panelists:

• Alan Eichler,  Program Mgr for District Oil & Gas Operations – SW Region DEP
• Rep Marc Gergely (Democrat from the Mon Valley and well known outdoorsman and conservationist)
• John Ubinger, SVP of  PA Environmental Council   (interest in plugging orphan oil & gas wells)
• Matt Pitzarella, Range Resources

Brought to you in part by Range Resources

RELATED LINKS:

• Marcellus Shale In The News
• Marcellus Shale Coalition
• The Pennsylvania Marcellus Natural Gas Industry Study