Fireworks convention lights up the sky in LaPorte

LA PORTE, Ind. -- The ground shook and the sky lit up Tuesday night in La Porte.

The convention for the Pyrotechnics Guild International started off with a bang. Over 2,000 people displayed and lit off their fireworks, with 20 different clubs from all over the United States and representatives from 17 different countries.

Members couldn't be happier to watch the show.

Host Tim Walczak said not only is the pyro show bringing some excitement to La Porte, it is also bringing big business.

"A waitress came up to me and hugged me and she said, ‘Thank you very much,’ and I was puzzled and I asked her, ‘For what?’ said Walczak. “And she said, ‘Without your convention coming to town, I wouldn't know how I was going to pay my bills this month.’"

PGI member Michael Seifker said people come from all over the United States to compete for bragging rights for the year.

"Southern Club, the Florida pyrotechnics, there are some phenomenal shell builders that really impress me," said Seifker.

According to Seifker, comradery is what really lit up the La Porte County Fairgrounds.

"The coolest part of PGI is the family atmosphere,” said Siekfer. “Fireworks are cool, but the people are spectacular. It is just a family atmosphere for us.”

The PGI is expected to bring in at least $3 million to the local La Porte economy and the display will be at the fairgrounds until Friday.