News Release
- June 23, 1997-

Small Local Business Shoot's for the Stars

When Chuck Rogness was a young boy playing with firecrackers, he never realized that someday he would turn his fascination with fireworks into a business. At 40 years old, Chuck still gets a thrill out of a big bang, only now the shells are much larger and the bangs much louder. Along with two other friends, he began the business by doing the 4th of July firework show for a local church in Kalona. Gradually he built up to his current crew of 12, half of which are certified pyrotechnics. Chuck and his partner Tim Schlatter formed the "Richmond Shooters", the obvious name since they both live in Richmond, Iowa. Over the last few years they have been requested to perform shows in Illinois, Wisconsin and closer to home in Kalona. This summer they have been invited back to put on the fireworks display for Kalona Days.

What is unique about the Richmond Shooters is their artistic way of choreographing the fireworks to a musical background "Our electronic ignition system gives us greater control in firing and is much safer", remarks Chuck, "we can actually time the explosion to coordinate to the music. Marches and patriotic music are my personal favorites. We also use a variety of style and sizes of shells to correspond to the mood of the music to give the desired effect. The largest shell we've used so far is a 12 inch, which was about the size of a volleyball. Wow, what a noise that one makes."

On July 3rd, you can witness for yourselves the artistry of the Richmond Shooters as they put on another spectacular display near Kalona at the Shiloh Church Amphitheater. It follows an outstanding musical that rivals stage productions performed in larger cities. Last year it attracted 25OO people from the surrounding communities. This year's firework show will be bigger and better than ever, according to the crew of the Richmond Shooters. Watch for more details on times and ticket prices in local papers.