PGI Convention 2013 Talk

[displayfireworks1]

For those that do not know the Pyrotechnic Guild International convention 2013 Cooper Lake Pennsylvania will start this Sunday. It really starts Saturday but it appears Saturday is more of setup day. I have been networking with various people and fireworks companies to capture some great video.
I am also going to use this convention to shoot the 20 Emergency Rocket Flares off I have been saving. The PGI told me to check with the Safety Team on where to shoot them. If anyone wants to be a part of shooting these let me know. It would be cool to shoot all of them at the same time. You can also purchase some yourself and we can increase the number to 30 or greater. Someone is always selling these at the convention. It is usually tough to find the proper venue to use these. The massive clearance at this shoot site should easily allow us to use these. Here is a video I have about them if you are not familiar with how they work.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YBGsDlqTF0Q
http://www.mailspeedmarine.com/photo/10527501/6610da5e1eb6d539418b8474534b7aab/10527501_3.jpg
http://www.sa.gov.au/upload/franchise/Transport,%20travel%20and%20motoring/Marine/MarineSafety%20images/parachute_flare.jpg
http://www.cumbriacrack.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/boat-parachute-signal-rocket.jpg
http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTvpM7IKzwzP65XLXXp_UVkFA6RNlP8b uPjwUnDu-SlJn2FrPHp6Q

[displayfireworks1]

I have going to have complete coverage of the "Rocket Event" the famous rocket builder featured in my videos will be putting on what will be his best rocket display ever, with effects and colors that are new. There will be multiple audible effects you will not see at all, if you watched my videos in the past you will know what that means. I know the exact amount of rockets , all I can tell you is it will be north of 100.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PvHQzcn4I5Y
http://i1.ytimg.com/vi/VmNxAGeJFoQ/hqdefault.jpg
http://i1.ytimg.com/vi/MnwpoLrGC-0/hqdefault.jpg
http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcT9gvRO799FmHThFeVCvmYqnp4trEKfP kLVgNRjm4U8xmnmOJij
http://i1.ytimg.com/vi/fu4gh_WrymE/maxresdefault.jpg

[displayfireworks1]

I will add the rocket maker is requesting help to bring the "Coffins" into the seminar area for the special seminar on the making of the rocket display. This is simple labor unloading and loading a truck. If you are attending the seminar please offer to help him before and after the seminar. He is great teacher and loves to share his knowledge. I am hoping to pass it along to my viewers.
His display will be entirely timed without the use of electric match or any firing system. He has precisely timed each firing with traditional timed fuse. It looks like I will be at ground zero for this event, if anyone is able to capture the audience view of the rocket display and can pass the footage along to me I will add it to my production. This should be a one in a life time pyrotechnic event.
After the rocket firing help is needed to collect the cardboard launch tubes and bundle them in groups of seven. if you want to help with this you are going to need field access.

[PyroManiacs]

OK, now Im entirely pissed that I am unable to make it!

[displayfireworks1]

The word I am getting is the Sunday display will be "Little Big Shots" The owner is Albert, you may know of Albert as the pyro-technician featured on the TV show "Dirty Jobs" he is also know for making the lampare shells and those massive American made salutes. The famous Girandola builder Tony will be adding a special touch to the display. I wish I could tell you more perhaps forums member Matt can add to this post. I do not want to reveal any special information told to me. Here some video and pictures of Albert.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDzLPYftERo
http://img.rp.vhd.me/4556846_l4.jpg
http://i1.ytimg.com/vi/0vMMDxiKORo/hqdefault.jpg
http://i1.ytimg.com/vi/c1eQi986Nks/hqdefault.jpg
http://i1.ytimg.com/vi/tDQKh4HTgS8/maxresdefault.jpg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wVQ5Pu2baBo

[displayfireworks1]

Word I am getting is one of the two Friday displays will be Bixler Pyrotechnics. If you have been following my videos you may remember one of Bixlers goals was to be part of the PGI displays for the week. Below is a video from Bixler at the Crackerjacks in Virginia, it should be interesting to see what he will do for convention, perhaps forums member Joe can tells more because he will be part of the crew.
The Bixler video below is one of my front page pyrotalk videos. If you have not watched it here it is.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dKL934WDC9c

[Matt]

Technically, the show on Sunday is a PORC show and not LBS. Not everything in the show can be purchased through LBS.

The theme is BACON - The Very Best of PORC

Here is a preview of the show:

http://youtu.be/elQJJfJ7JP0

[displayfireworks1]

I only heard part of the nightly fireworks displays. is someone able to post the complete nightly display by day of the week. the PGI schedule only has TBA each night.
http://www.pgi.org/convention/2013/

[Pyro Nation]

One show will be from Bixler and another show will be PPA club combine with Celebration fireworks

[PYRO321]

This is going to be a great show with a lot products and a lot of talent ,are you going rob?

[displayfireworks1]

An update on the rocket display, word I am getting is of course this rocket maker is know for his exact timing of his crossette's , that will not be the case for some of the crossette rockets. What exactly that means I do not know, I can only speculate.
http://pyrotechnics.no-ip.org/files/crossette.jpg
http://www.fireworksarcade.co.uk/media/wysiwyg/fa/Crossette.jpg
Since Matt will not reveal much about the Sunday display, we know Albert is involved and Albert makes Lampares? Albert also makes massive salutes and Tony makes Griandola's.
http://www.fitzstuff.info/images/explosion.jpg

[displayfireworks1]

Do not be alarmed if you see this vehicle at the PGI convention. It has a specially equipped approved explosive basket attached to the motorcycle. The motorcycle also has a custom exhaust sound as demonstrated below.
http://i1.ytimg.com/vi/88qDQVEvqY0/hqdefault.jpg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JD3YaFuJe-4

[displayfireworks1]

https://www.visitbutlercounty.com/images/headers/pgi.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R5dgxSGkPHk
http://northernconnectionmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/July-13-NC-web-banner-1-2.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/s720x720/58842_609355769093589_144259196_n.jpg
https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/s720x720/972255_639402809422218_762038797_n.jpg
https://www.visitbutlercounty.com/sites/default/files/media/photos/accommodations/Coopers%20Lake%20Campground%20sign.JPG

[displayfireworks1]

Here is the PGI superstring from last year. This is a limited release video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QURU1iXZUWs

[valmo2379]

i like your motorcycle :)

[displayfireworks1]

Thanks Valmo2379. I should let the Green Man ride my motorcycle.
There are usually several people from outside of the United States that make to the PGI fireworks convention, I wish you could be one of them.
Here is the PGI "Green Man" video from last year.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R3kDOeQhzo4
http://blog.myplainview.com/ericturner/files/2010/07/johnbategreenman.gif
http://www.greenmanenigma.com/photos/other_fireworks.jpg
http://www.wilddragonfireworks.com/images/fireworks/500G/popups/GreenMan.png
http://proxpyro.com/graphics/PGIIlogoSmall.gif
http://www.bixlerpyrotechnics.com/PGI.gif

[PyroJoeNEPA]

Word I am getting is one of the two Friday displays will be Bixler Pyrotechnics. If you have been following my videos you may remember one of Bixlers goals was to be part of the PGI displays for the week. Below is a video from Bixler at the Crackerjacks in Virginia, it should be interesting to see what he will do for convention, perhaps forums member Joe can tells more because he will be part of the crew.
The Bixler video below is one of my front page pyrotalk videos. If you have not watched it here it is.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dKL934WDC9c

All I am at liberty to say is you are going to see an awesome front!

[PyroJoeNEPA]

There will be multiple audible effects you will not see at all,
You are allowed to say Dark Salutes Dave!!! It's your site!! LOL!

[PyroJoeNEPA]

One show will be from Bixler and another show will be PPA club combine with Celebration fireworks
The PaPyroArtists Club & Celebration Fireworks show is Wednesday night.
Bixler show is Friday night & Fireworks Extravaganza's Grand Public Display is after the Bixler show Friday night.

[PYRO321]

Sounds like this is going to be a hell of a pyro show i wish i could make it and i'm going to try.

[displayfireworks1]

Of course I will be talking to Frankie about doing a video of the Junior Pyrotechnic Guild International. I always enjoy doing a video of them. Just think one day one of these teenagers may be a big time fireworks one day. I like to imagine they will sent the email to their friends of post it on their Facebook.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eVPdUl8fr_w
.
.
I do this video even though Frankie treats me mean. Here is a video of him treating me mean. You will recognize his voice.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vpKyDUaJ-sw

[displayfireworks1]

I was looking through the PGI schedule of events and I do not see Super String? I do see Mega String, did they cut back on the firecrackers this year?
http://www.pyroinnovations.com/Superstring_2.jpg
http://i1.ytimg.com/vi/tvaPGKEf8WU/maxresdefault.jpg
http://www.pyroinnovations.com/Superstring_5.jpg
http://www.pyrouniverse.com/gallery2/data/506/medium/P1010164.JPG
http://i1.ytimg.com/vi/r7G424LCIUI/hqdefault.jpg?feature=og

[Northern Sky]

I was looking through the PGI schedule of events and I do not see Super String? I do see Mega String, did they cut back on the firecrackers this year?

Set-up starts Thursday in the JPA tent from noon till 3:00.

Construction is from 1 till 8:00PM on the track on Friday.
Mega string Raffle 7:40
Mega string 8:35.

This is on the daily schedule along with all the events for the weeks.

https://docs.google.com/viewer?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pgi.org%2Ffiles%2F2013 %2F2013-Daily-Schedule.xls

[displayfireworks1]

From my YouTube channel.
.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCz8z19Y9go

[displayfireworks1]

If all goes well I will have a brief interview of the Veverka Brothers and the PassFire movie. If anyone has a suggestion of a question I should them please tell me.
.
http://i.cdn.travel.cnn.com/sites/default/files/styles/article_large/public/2012/07/03/main.china_.fireworks.jpg?itok=jq1H2EMV
http://i.cdn.travel.cnn.com/sites/default/files/styles/inline_image_624x416/public/2012/06/28/terry-winkle.jpg?itok=4jnsd3dv
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8515/8473910336_0a1785c618.jpg
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8243/8472820743_b722ba2503.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/p480x480/1005253_571045326251501_177445810_n.jpg
http://dd508hmafkqws.cloudfront.net/sites/default/files/styles/article_node_view/public/Jeremy%20Jesse%20.jpg

[displayfireworks1]

It looks like the PGI on site registration is open. Here are some photos from the PGI
https://sphotos-b-iad.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/1150285_669523836410115_349451003_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/994326_669523823076783_2031853853_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/1098233_669523816410117_1216167444_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/1004638_669523779743454_2000881929_n.jpg
https://sphotos-a-iad.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/554971_669523783076787_265946655_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/1150381_669523773076788_525898239_n.jpg
.
I am going to need some better food than that. Someone with a grill is going to have to invite me over for something to eat.

[Kickthefog]

Good stuff Dave, thanks for getting this thread going. Lots of good info. :)

[displayfireworks1]

At Kickthefog
Thanks for the comment, I wanted to post some things so people new to the convention such as yourself will have so idea what goes on before you get there. I should be there on Sunday.
Here is video from two years ago, I can imagine the Butler County Pennsylvania will be thrilled to have us.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yxJnv6SFePk

[Kickthefog]

Yes indeed Dave, Very helpful indeed! We appreciate it. :)

Regarding the Super String, I see on Page 4 of the July PGI Bulletin that the Superstring has been cancelled. Or at least it was at the time of that writing. Not sure if that is still the case or if something has changed.

Pat

[displayfireworks1]

I am getting inquires from people that are PGI members and want to attend the convention. You apparently can still do this. The person in charge of membership has a detailed message on her answering machine. Dial 920-558-4681 let it ring until the message plays.
As a reminder to everyone including myself. Remember to bring your membership card. I would also advise to have a copy of your ATF license in your vehicle if you are transporting fireworks. Signing up for the convention now may require a cash payment.

[RAA516]

You can also sign up to be a member if you are not one and attend also... Just to make sure you can bring your own fireworks to shoot besides the stuff your going to buy?

[jknepp1954]

You can also sign up to be a member if you are not one and attend also... Just to make sure you can bring your own fireworks to shoot besides the stuff your going to buy?
You can buy anything there you want to. There is a special building just for 1.4g sale - has 12 vendors in there - including hubby and I from Kneppy's Fireworks. Make sure you all stop by our tables and introduce yourselves - i already met a couple of you last night!
Joyce

[Steviet000]

So I'm less than 45-50 miles from PGI this year and am not a member yet and haven't taken any vacation days for this. I kind of have that sick feeling in my tummy lol

[Pyro Nation]

WHAT!!!! STEVE u need a whipping

[displayfireworks1]

It is 2:30am and I just want to give a quick PGI convention update. While this convention is easy access off of a 4 lane highway. The highway is under construction and down to one lane in parts and for some reason the PGI has all members entering the convention for the back way. This requires some convoluted back road pain in the ass way to enter. Even after all the public spectator are gone they still will not open the easy way into the convention. I am sure glad I have a GPS. I am sure the PGI has a reason for this.
The P.O.R.C display was delayed due to a technical issue, they were using a Night Hawk firing system. The Zambelli display went off as planned, I thought it was nice but my daughter said the Disney theme display at Pyro Fest was better. The property is really dark at night I saw one guy fall over the orange fence because he did not see it. Lighting is poor. The nice thing is there are plenty of portajohns. I got there too late to get field access.
I have a great recorded interview with Rob Berk a senior member of the PGI and a interview with Terry Winkle on video. The price of fireworks is high in my opinion, I remember the price of fireworks at the Indiana convention was great, I am not seeing that here. Perhaps they will lower prices as the convention continues. The Afterglow food and drink was great, everyone seems to be having fun and is in a great mood. Since I arrived late today my first day , I never made it into any of the tents.

[displayfireworks1]

Currently unlisted video from the PGI 2013
You may have to know Rob Berk to like this video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mwFafMRwLc0

[Engalwood]

HOLY CHIT.... I have not seen something like that. Man when I get my lic I gotta get a few of them.

[displayfireworks1]

Update Monday 08/12/2013 PGI convention 2013

It rained brief but heavy today. While the member’s entrance into the PGI remains convoluted, it is now marked with signage. Thanks PGI. Today was the Rocket Man seminar, and I toured the manufacturing area. Met many nice people that are following my videos. My favorite was an older member yelling out “I know you, I recognize your voice.” He then said “Over the top and through the V”. He finally figured out how to tie that Clove Hitch knot he told me. A few approached me to tell me they now have their ATF license with the help of my video package. Mostly open shooting and competition displays at night.
Here is an unlisted video from today.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2uvL7DYddUg

[PyroJoeNEPA]

Having a great time here at the convention. Opening segment has 2000 2 1/2" salutes going off within a few seconds. It was intense. And the guys from P.O.R.C. did a great job in spite of having to start late due to tech issues [that were not their fault]. Albert's 5" ground bomb salutes shook the mountain & the Lampares were awesome! Zambelli did a great job with a lot of nice product--but their music selections for the pyromusical did not flow or have a common design element. Each song was well scripted & the fireworks were great--but it was like watching several mini-shows one after the other.
Tonight they shot off a 24" Willow Diadem Shell ....WOW!!! There is a clip on youtube of them loading it in the gun--the lift is a 5 gallon plastic bucket! You had to be here to experience it & the thump it made coming out of the gun was unbelievable! Someone told me there will be another 24" shell shot sometime this week.

[PYRO321]

That is awesome joe glad someone is having fun there wish i could have went lol. If you get a video of the 24" shell going of post it that would be great to see.

[RAA516]

I will be there tomorrow cant wait !!!!!!

[displayfireworks1]

PGI update 08/13/2013

Another day of nice displays in the evening, I thought for sure it would rain today but it never did chances are we are going to have clear weather for the reminder of the convention. I have it hand it to the PGI there was a mud section of road from prior rain the other day , that area is now covered with gravel. The highlight of the day was the Rocket Man display went off with only a few minor errors. Talked to the Ververka brothers on camera and they say the PassFire movie is still one year away.
Here is a cool ground zero clip you all may enjoy from the rocket display.
Unlisted Video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WSA6rhLN4kM

[Steviet000]

WHAT!!!! STEVE u need a whipping

Yeah, I know. I guess I'll just make it harder on myself and travel next time.

[displayfireworks1]

Today at the PGI a wedding, two members got married at the PGI, with fireworks of course, a reception immediately followed. Gasoline fireball class. Open shooting and a special wedding fireworks display. Tomorrow the grand public display. Yesterday the Junior Pyrotechnic Association and more great nightly displays. I meet many of my video subscribers, members of the forums and a great forums member from New Zealand with a great story and video involving a bottle of champagne. For the reason the chemical vending tent seems has been shut down for two days

[PyroManiacs]

Must have been an awesome wedding!

[displayfireworks1]

Just made it home it is close to 3am. the PGI convention is over. Two great displays tonight Bixler Pyrotechnics and Fireworks Extravaganza. It was nice to see Bixler shooting at the PGI convention because this is something he was looking forward to. Perhaps when PyroJoe gets time he can tell us more about the display because he was a crew member on the Bixler display. The grand public display was Fireworks Extravaganza, it was a very emotional display with many special effects and a massive salute final that was literally thousands of salutes. I have set up video for both of this display and video from pyro headquarters on the Fireworks Extravaganza display.
The only downside of the convention that comes to mind is the demeanor of some of the PGI safety, registration and security people. This behavior comes from some of the more senior workers. It would be interesting to learn how these members get these position every year. I would recommend the PGI board conduct some sort of a "How to interact with the public" or give these jobs to some new people. If the PGI board would be interested I would be happy to let them see and listen to a few of these events.

[PyroManiacs]

Cant wait for the vids... really excited!

[pyrola]

Will there be videos posted of all of the shows?

[RAA516]

Dave you are a 100% correct the safety guys were very nasty they did not know how to talk to people the right way including myself and i told him that this is not how you talk to people you could be nicer about it .. It was nice meeting you Dave like i said you are much taller in person lol

[displayfireworks1]

I should note on that Safety, Security issue, it was just a few people, the problem is they are the most senior people. Most places I worked the senior workers set the example for how a job should be done. Once things settle down a bit I will email the officers about some of the issues I experienced with me and my family. As much as I tried to prevent issues by getting permission ahead of time, they unfortunately occurred.
I did see some of the Safety and Security workers behaving positively; a few times, I saw them stop to give older or handicapped members a ride on the golf cart back to their car. I wish I could find a confidential source in the Safety and Security staff because I would bet in confidence they would confirm they are tired of some of these more senior workers and their behavior.
The PGI board should consider a post convention evaluation sent to the members, similar to what a hotel or business does.
Example
1. How would rate you experience during the registration process.
2. How would you rate access to the shooting areas.
3. How would rate the Safety and Security workers.
4. How would rate the meal served at “After Glow”
5. Do you wish to comment on a particular staff member?
I could think of probably 20 questions, I am sure most of us could, this can easily be accomplished by email to those that attended the convention.
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To answer the others comments, yes it was great meeting everyone following my videos and members of this forum. I heard from a few people I look smaller in the videos. For the record, I am 6’2’’ and 250 lbs.
When will the PGI videos be ready? I am already at least two or more videos behind before I went to the PGI convention. I have some great footage from the convention in Pennsylvania, now I have my Collier Sportsman fireworks display coming up and still more video. I will probably do the Fireworks Extravaganza fireworks display first. I am excited to add Fireworks Extravaganza as an advertiser on pyrotalk. Not only are they doing fabulous fireworks display they are selling 1.3 fireworks to private ATF license holders, they will also provide required documents to people I am helping get their ATF license. This takes us into New Jersey, North Carolina and other locations. I was at pyro headquarters for the Grand Public Display with Fireworks Extravaganza, here is a short clip of my future video. Other than me in the video are John Sagaria of Fireworks Extravaganza and Dan Barker of FireOne.
Unlisted Video clip

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-vMT9w1e4XU

[jknepp1954]

Dave - being a vendor at PGI - they were actually helpful to us. I had a somewhat of a crisis situation - and they came thru with flying colors.
And yes - Bixlers display and Fireworks Extravaganza - AWESOME!
Videos will be great - but nothing like being there.
Whose display was the first one on Friday? Got there after the introduction...

[fullauto223]

First, I would like to thank Dave for making note of the PGI convention and having easy access to the form to join the PGI on his forum, thank you.

The convention was great I made it Sun., Tues.,Wed., Fri. . I got meet and hang with an awesome group of people Dave and family included. I did hear talk about how difficult it was to find the PGI entrance (I my self got lost twice leaving and I live 20 miles away) but once I realized that the Portersville exit was the entrance for the PGI to simply sneak in the back way every time and avoid the main front entrance. It became very easy an extremely convenient.

I'm looking forward to the next one already and looking at ways to set my 7x16cargo trailer to camp in.

[displayfireworks1]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GmHaksQY9wU
https://sphotos-b-iad.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/543847_593501294005904_756753406_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/1185911_594649967224370_1615124639_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/1175290_595194620503238_1637670599_n.jpg

[PuroJon]

Heck Dave, for a moment I thought you might actually show your camera person! :o

Love your coverage of the PGI. No one else offers a such a wide variety of show experiences.

[displayfireworks1]

Here is a local programming clip from the Butler County area where the PGI 2013 was held.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e0LYy46z3FY

[displayfireworks1]

I can release a few short unlisted videos from the Pyrotechnic Guild 2013 Convention here on the forums. For those that do not know an unlisted video will only play where the link is. While these are on my YouTube channel, my YouTube subscribers will not see them. They are just short clips that will eventually be part of a larger video. I will try to put them in some perspective.
Entrance to the PGI members only.
This convention was literally right off of an interstate highway exit. The public spectators were given the main entrance on to the site. After 1pm PGI members had to enter the site from the back. At first, it was a nightmare to find it but once things got rolling most people figured it out. This video is my entering in from the back entrance. If the PGI ever comes back to Pennsylvania I will make a complete video of the entire site, this would include all entrances and locations of shooting areas. For some reason I am feeling there is going to be another major fireworks event at this site other than the PGI. Keeping those involved anonymous, I am hearing “They” are looking for a site to conduct major fireworks display competitions. This site has a lot going for it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-qnZQZLucQk

Tim from New Zealand
If you look in the New Zealand section of the pyrotalk forums, you will see a post from a forums member timtom31. He asks the question in the New Zealand section about anyone going to the PGI convention in United States. No one responded. That apparently did not stop him. This is timtom31 from New Zealand in the video.
The champagne was flowing so to speak at one of the camp areas. Someone gave my wife a taste of the champagne. Late that night there was a PGI auction, someone from the PGI gathers donations from vendors at the convention, and the donations are then auctioned off with the proceeds going to the PGI. I donated some pyrotalk T-shirts, others donated fireworks mortars etc. The word was the champagne flowing at the VIP campsite was creamy French champagne. Did this donated bottle of champagne come from that camp area? Was it a fine French champagne with a PGI label on it? I told my wife if I had to bet, it was a regular bottle of California sparkling wine. It did not matter to her it was late and she wanted to win it at that auction. The bottle was starting to be auctioned off, I looked where she was and she was talking to someone, I went over and said are you going to try to get this bottle? Yes she said, I yelled out a bid and the woman running the auction said it was too late, we missed by seconds. My wife said something along the lines of she waited all day hoping to win that bottle of champagne. I did not see who won it, and then a man approaches my wife and insist my wife take the bottle. He refused to accept any money for the bottle. Then I find out he is member of pyrotalk and this is the video that follows

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=raa9U5NrhNU

Fireworks Extravaganza crew member
Once I post the full video, you will see the crew from Fireworks Extravaganza did a massive amount of work. This is a short video from one of the crew that wanted to share pictures.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=siMQ8zlKFlw




General PGI announcement
I just grabbed this clip to show some of the PGI people, the female in the video is “Ruth.” Once the PGI board members grant me access to various shoot sites, Ruth is who I see to get the proper wrist band etc.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fEJLgvv0Kgw

The PGI wedding
I am not sure if everyone knows there was a wedding at the PGI 2013 in Pennsylvania. Ruth and Jim were married at the convention. I contact Ruth prior to the convention and requested permission to video and post parts of her and Jim getting married. I thought it would be a nice to share on my YouTube channel. A wedding at a PGI convention had to be a first. I told Ruth, if you tell not to video any of it, I will honor your request. She told me I could share it with my viewers and they do not have an official photographer. I offered to make a video of her getting married and the reception free of charge and will mail it to her. While I am not a professional photographer, I captured some great footage that will eventually make its way to her and Jim. Here is a short clip.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sKxqwvgPOVw

[killer57]

nice videos dave, keep them coming. that couple looks like they were having the time of their lives.

[displayfireworks1]

Here are three more short unlisted videos.

Boys from Texas.
Down by the ground salute area I really received some Texas hospitality. They had multiple grills cooking steak and lobster. They were also passing out beers. How they cam all the way from Texas and accomplished this is amazing.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_pjPq9Ljy6k


The Rain
It would not be Pennsylvania if it did not rain at least one time, from my assessment rain did not hamper this event.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GZ_b8u0UxY8

Here is shot of the Cobra system

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EAVl0B0_xOg

[mfmacdaddy]

I had a blast at the pgi I took the display operators class I joined the nhpa I got to meet dave on the last day.:D

[PyroManiacs]

Awesome vids and great stories.

Cant wait to hear what becomes of that site and the competitions!

[Dart]

This was my 1st convention and had a good time. I found all the VOLUNTEER safety, security etc people to be very helpful. I thanked them all for their efforts. There was no shortage of people who think they are "special" and didn't adhere to common sense, perhaps that's why had a different experience..

[displayfireworks1]

"He is destroying the fireworks hobby". "He is bad for the fireworks industry". There are about 15 critics that will tell you that about me. Do not believe a word of it. When I attended this convention numerous people approached me to say hello, thank me for the videos, tell me they joined the PGI and/or received their ATF license, and wanted to be in a video. When I post these videos you will see how exciting and fun being part of the fireworks world can be. I keep preaching, Fireworks do not need protected , they need promoted.
I heard so many comments, "Hey, I know you, I finally figured out how to tie that knot". "I joined the PGI because of you, I never knew such a think existed". "I bought your video, I have my ATF license" "I just wanted to stop and tell you thank you and do not stop making those videos" "I am so glad to meet you in person" "You look shorter in the videos" "Is this your daughter, I saw her video". "I know your voice, I hear my husband watching your videos all the time" " I told my friend I think its that guy from those YouTube videos". "I watched every one of your videos" , "Look at these pictures of my fireworks setup" "Next time we have a show I want you to come".......
It was great meeting everyone and getting such positive feedback. to everyone I met at the convention, thank you all for your nice comments. I am amazed and grateful for such a supportive audience.

[mfmacdaddy]

Dave my family and I can't thank you enough. I joined the pgi 3 years ago because of your videos. The best thing of all is I now buy wholesale. If I told u what I spent all together this year u would think I'm crazy. My wife gave me the green light to buy anything I wanted as long as I beat my neighbor on the fourth. Thanks dave for everything you do keep it up!

[RAA516]

No one thinks that they are special there is just a polite way to talk to people and that's it .. Dave if you don't mind what is the reasoning that people say that you are destroying the hobby the way I see it is you help teach people about it and want them to enjoy it more than they thought they could like I told you I never would known about any of this if it wasn't for your videos and now I am having more fun with fireworks than I have ever had thanks again Dave...

[PyroManiacs]

I would have to agree with you there RAA516. If I didnt find these videos or website... I wouldnt be where im at now either.

[PyroJoeNEPA]

378This is what the setup in the field looked like for the first night of the PGI shows. Stuff EVERYWHERE!!!!!

[Kickthefog]

At PGI, there was one Dola that didn't go up according to plan. I wondered what it would have looked like. Then I stumbled across this video:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rz719fZK1wA

Pat

[boom23]

Attended my first pgi friday night... I'll b a member soon, my family had a great time as well, only wish i could of gotten there earlier but had to stop at the Grove City Outlet Mall and do some school shopping. If u havent had to get three females out of a mall... well u know what i mean... Keep up the good work Dave, I decided to apply for my Type 54 and elevate my shows from watching your videos...

[displayfireworks1]

This video is from the PGI Pennsylvania convention.
Two great guys Bill Bahr past PGI president and Harry Gilliam of Skylighter. This video is from outside of the wedding reception at the PGI.
Unlisted video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELXPfxdaXKk

[algrant1]

This was my first PGI Convention. I am a PGI member but was there to help out a fireworks company with their display. Below are some of my observations.
When we arrived everyday (Mon thru Thurs) there was no security at the PGI gate. On Monday I arrived and registered. Two of the members were very helpful with providing me with information. A third person I needed information from was not helpful and did not want to be bothered or provide any info. We entered the camp ground with no problem. On the first day I entered the field to set up and no one stopped or questioned me. The next 3 days there was a security guy who came around and greated us and passed out daily field wrist bands. The security in the viewing area was hit or miss. Most were very helpful while two people in particular had an attitude that needed to be adjusted. On the night of the shoot we all even walked right up to the shooters table with no questions asked. The PGI enterance could have been paved with stone to prevent the trucks and cars from sliding and getting stuck in the mud when it rained. I did not get a chance to do any events or see the vendors. Maybe next year. Overall, it was an amazing experience and was very happy that I attended.

[PyroManiacs]

Maybe for next year we can look into getting a "PyroTalk group" hotel deal. :)

[Joe woz pa]

Had a great time , best bean soup I've ever had thanks pyrojoe and bixler team
Went by the campground yesterday and got depressed not hearing salutes.

[PyroJoeNEPA]

http://i973.photobucket.com/albums/ae212/rockinrico/PGI%202013/100_8517.jpg

[UniversalPyro]

Very nice photo Joe! You guys did a really good job on the show and all your work is top notch! The shell was amazing!

[PyroJoeNEPA]

http://youtu.be/SuOY71oPIlg

Great color & symmetry on this incredible shell. Unfortunately, I do know who the builder was to post his name for the credit he deserves. If anyone that was there knows whose shell this was, let me know. It was on Sunday night I believe.

[PyroJoeNEPA]

http://youtu.be/izGJflsC_V4

Here's the video of our show from PGI. This was filmed from along side the shooting table, so it is rather "close up". There are a couple other videos on YouTube taken from farther away you might want to check out. Thanks to everyone that shot video & posted it.

[PyroJoeNEPA]

http://i973.photobucket.com/albums/ae212/rockinrico/PGI%202013/MikeTesting-1.jpg

Mike Bixler with the Fire One system doing a test prior to show time. This show was done using the wireless remote modules--no wires were run from the panel out to the field like others had to do.

[PyroJoeNEPA]

http://i973.photobucket.com/albums/ae212/rockinrico/PGI%202013/100_8520.jpg

[PyroJoeNEPA]

http://i973.photobucket.com/albums/ae212/rockinrico/PGI%202013/oneshots-3.jpghttp://i973.photobucket.com/albums/ae212/rockinrico/PGI%202013/100_8417.jpghttp://i973.photobucket.com/albums/ae212/rockinrico/PGI%202013/100_8420.jpg

[Dart]

That was the winning shell constructed by Dan, a New Hampshire Pyrotechnics Association member

http://youtu.be/SuOY71oPIlg

Great color & symmetry on this incredible shell. Unfortunately, I do know who the builder was to post his name for the credit he deserves. If anyone that was there knows whose shell this was, let me know. It was on Sunday night I believe.

[PYRO321]

http://youtu.be/SuOY71oPIlg

Great color & symmetry on this incredible shell. Unfortunately, I do know who the builder was to post his name for the credit he deserves. If anyone that was there knows whose shell this was, let me know. It was on Sunday night I believe.

WOW this looks amazing the color and the bursts AAA+++.

[displayfireworks1]

Unlisted PGI Pennsylvania 2013 video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMt2Xwn6X44

[displayfireworks1]

From the PGI convention Pennsylvania 2013. Terry Winkle Interview.
Unlisted video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZgdfIg0Igrw
.
Here is Terry in the PassFire promo

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tTL0cU6va7o

[PyroJoeNEPA]

That was the winning shell constructed by Dan, a New Hampshire Pyrotechnics Association member
Yes, the builder was Dan Chubka of the NHPA. He saw the vid on YouTube & contacted me. Awesome shell!!!!

[displayfireworks1]

Currently unlisted video.
The Green Man PGI convention 2013 Pennsylvania

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6nfodRPh1R8
http://www.thegreenman.me.uk/images/animan.gif
http://www.greenmanenigma.com/photos/other_fireworks.jpg