Grief, Anger, Prayer in America’s Coal Country
EmailEmbedded below is last night's report about the deadly explosion at Upper Big Branch coal mine in Raleigh County, W. Va. It is, sadly, out of date. In introducing the segment, Terry Moran warned the number of fatalities could jump depending of the fate of 19 unaccounted for workers. As you may know, the number of confirmed dead is now 25, making the explosion the worst mine disaster in the United States since 1984. Four workers remain trapped with "slim" chances of survival. We also had a live conversation with Chief Investigative Correspondent Brian Ross, who has reported extensively on the Massey Energy Co., which operates Upper Big Branch, and CEO Don Blankenship. Ross talks about some previous safety violations at the mine and controversy involving Blankenship, including a tense 2008 confrontation between the mine executive and an ABC News reporter. We will have much more tonight on the explosion and reaction in a community crushed by the tragedy, as well as the latest on the early investigation into what caused the blast. For those wishing to send prayers or condolences to the miners and their families, a Facebook page has been set up — and already more than 32,000 members are following.
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You folks have GOT to understand that if we do not mine coal here in the US, That the very second we stop, we will be turning to China to buy coal to generate electricity. Until we find a better and more eco-friendly way to power our Nation, THIS is how you power your home. To down the miners who have taken advantage of the ONLY source of income within 200 miles of them and decided to work in the mine, is ignorant. There is a demand for coal, so therefore that demand is being met by a supply. You all must ALSO understand that Southern WV mines generally mine Metallurgical coal, which is primary ingredient in creating Iron. Iron which builds cars and everything else you touch. This type of coal is much more expensive to obtain and much higher priced, but regardless of the environment there will ALWAYS be a need for metal and therefore ALWAYS a need for coal. Get the facts straight.
Posted by: Luke Corns | April 6, 2010, 4:14 pm 4:14 pm