BETHESDA, Md., Sep 12, 2011 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- The American Pyrotechnics Association (APA) kicks off its 63rd annual convention today at the Grand Hyatt Seattle, Washington. APA's convention will draw more than 300 fireworks industry professionals from around the world who will attend sessions covering regulatory changes impacting their businesses to workshops on codes, standards, and China business relations.
The grand finale of APA's 63rd convention will occur on Friday evening, September 16, at the Emerald Downs race track in Auburn, Washington where APA members: Thunder Fireworks, Tacoma, Washington, and Icon Pyrotechnics International, Hong Kong, will produce a breathtaking fireworks spectacular to benefit the Starlight Children's Foundation Northwest.
APA's signature fireworks finale will showcase some of the newest fireworks products on the market including Black Cat (C) consumer fireworks sold at retail locations in the Pacific Northwest, and professional display aerial fireworks typically used in custom pyromusical productions. APA member, Entertainment Fireworks, Inc., Olympia, Washington, will provide display support services for the event.
The fireworks event, planned for the general public, is the 2nd Annual charitable event produced by the APA. In 2011, the APA produced "Light Up the Night for Life", in Savannah, Georgia to benefit Donate Life Georgia. The APA hopes that Emerald Downs' special night at the races and fireworks extravaganza will yield a sell-out crowd as Emerald Downs is graciously donating $1 from every admission to the Starlight Children's Foundation Northwest.
"We are extremely proud of the overwhelming support that we have received from Emerald Downs to help us raise awareness and funds for our charitable partner, Starlight Children's Foundation Northwest, as the APA takes great pride in giving back to the communities where we conduct our annual convention," said APA Executive Director, Julie L. Heckman.
"The Starlight Children's Foundation Northwest applauds the APA for selecting their organization as their charitable partner and expresses its sincere gratitude to Emerald Downs for their partnership and generosity in supporting a special night at the races as a fundraiser for the Foundation where 50 Starlight family members will be guests of Emerald Downs," said Steve McGraw, Executive Director of the Starlight Children's Foundation Northwest.
"Emerald Downs is proud to partner with the APA to put together a spectacular evening of family fun and fireworks at the races. We are pleased and honored to support the outstanding charitable work done by the Starlight Children's Foundation Northwest, helping families in our community who have seriously ill children," said Adrian Buchan, Marketing Director.
About the American Pyrotechnics Association
The APA is the leading trade association of the fireworks industry. The APA supports and promotes safety standards for all aspects of fireworks. The APA has a diverse membership including regulated and licensed manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers, importers, suppliers, and professional display companies. Additional information about the fireworks industry, facts & figures, state laws and safety tips can be found on APA's website at www.americanpyro.com
About the Starlight Children's Foundation Northwest
Starlight Children's Foundation is a non-profit organization providing education, entertainment and family events that improve the quality of life for children with chronic and life threatening medical conditions before, during and after treatment. Starlight Northwest touches the lives of 7,000 children and their families each month through over 90 in-hospital programs and various outpatient events in Washington and Oregon. To volunteer, support or learn more about Starlight, contact 425-861-7827 or visit www.starlight-northwest.org
About Emerald Downs
Situated midway between Seattle and Tacoma and conveniently located off Highway 167 in Auburn, Emerald Downs is the largest Thoroughbred racetrack in the Pacific Northwest. The 250,000 square-foot facility sits on 167 acres and hosts live racing in the spring and summer months and is available year-round for simulcasting, events and banquets.
SOURCE: American Pyrotechnics Association