Ice skating show on NBC will put city in spotlight

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

Youngstown will be in the national spotlight Sunday when “Skate for the Heart” airs on NBC.

The made-for-TV music and figure-skating special took place Oct. 10, 2010, at Covelli Centre before a local audience. It was taped for Sunday’s broadcast.

The two-hour program will air nationally at 4 p.m. as counterprogramming for those with no interest in the NFL playoff game between the New York Jets and New England Patriots, which kicks off at 4:30 p.m. It’s expected to attract a television audience of 10 million.

“Skate for the Heart” features performances by several of the world’s best skaters, including Joanne Rochette, 2010 Olympic bronze medalist; Tanish Belbin and Ben Agosto, 2006 Olympic silver medalists; Sasha Cohen, 2006 Olympic silver medalist; and Rachael Flatt, 2010 U.S. national champion.

It also includes musical performances by former “American Idol” contestants David Archuleta and Ruben Studdard and a cappella vocal group Straight No Chaser.

“Skate for the Heart” is designed to raise awareness for the American Heart Association. It was presented by Youngstown State University and the Mahoning Valley Convention & Visitors Bureau.