Rocco Vitale of Pyrotecnico is the face of fireworks in the Sept. 7 issue of ESPN magazine.
The New Castle native’s picture appears in an article titled, “Six things you should know about stadium pyrotechnics.”
Vitale, 31, who is general manager of his family fireworks empire, is an award-winning fireworks designer. He explains how shows are planned, beginning with a music track and computer software. He also discusses differences in indoor and outdoor venues, safety concerns and how weather affects a show.
Vitale said rain can be “manageable,” but wind might cause a stadium show to be canceled.
Pyrotecnico is the largest pyrotechnic company in the United States. It annually shoots at more than 100 collegiate and professional sports team events and produces more than 2,000 displays.
Pyrotecnico participated in the EQT Three Rivers Regatta in Pittsburgh on July 4 and at the grand opening at the Rivers Casino.
Last year Vital’s “Rock Loves...” took the Gold Jupiter award at LaRonde in Montreal, Canada, the most prestigious fireworks venue in the world.
Pyrotecnico plans to compete on the world stage next year at an international fireworks competition in Vietnam.
Entertainment
CREATING FIREWORKS: Vitale featured in ESPN magazine
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COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Aug. 17, 2011
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Haircut in China provides its challenges
Alison McNeal and her husband, John Nichols — New Castle residents and retired Slippery Rock University professors — are spending a year teaching in China. They are sharing their adventures with readers of the New Castle News.
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Alison McNeal: Shopping in China presents challenges
China is forcing me to reconsider my identity. In the states, I am definitely not a shopper, but here in Nanjing, I find myself devising ways to get to the store as frequently as possible — just for the entertainment.
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PHOTOS, VIDEO, STORY: Neshannock High production of ‘42nd Street’
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COUNTY CLIPS: Get the low-down on neighbors, friends
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VIDEO, PHOTOS, STORIES: Laurel, New Castle and Wilmington musicals
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PHOTOS, VIDEO, STORY: New Castle High presents ‘Thoroughly Modern Millie’
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PHOTOS, VIDEO, STORY: Laurel High production of ‘Seussical the Musical.’
Amanda Caughey gets to wrap her paws around a fun role — as the mischievous feline from the Dr. Seuss books in Laurel High School’s production of “Seussical The Musical.”
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