You have to remember that LaRocca controlled not only Western PA, but he also controlled over half of Northeast Ohio, Erie, PA, the panhandle of West Virginia and Jamestown, NY. LaRocca also supported Frank and Stan Valenti (both made in Pittsburgh) to start their own crew/family in Rochester, NY and split profits with Buffalo and he also supported Salvatore and Angelo Marino (both made in Pittsburgh) to go out to San Jose and start their own family, which he got a piece of everything out there. John LaRocca was a nationally respected friend to everybody. His strongest suit was his uncanny ability to build and sustain relationships with other families around the country, and was especially close to Russell Bufalino, Angelo Bruno, John Scalish, Joe Zerilli, Tony Accardo and Carlo Gambino. LaRocca was godfather to one of Gambino's sons, if I'm not mistaken, it was Tommy (but not 100% sure on that). Big John was also next door neighbors with Paul Castellano in Pompano Beach, FL and the two of them used to charter fishing boats and go deep sea fishing with their wives and family.