How weird - that's where I grew up. The balloons used to fly over our house every year, and we'd sit out in the yard and wave and shout at the ballooners.
When do you all plan on attending? I may be able to drive up for some shots? I'm not sure of my schedule yet, and depending on if this heat calms down a bit. Let me know what your schedule is.
Hey, guys & gals. I'm happy there is interest in the balloon fest. I've never seen a hot air balloon close-up and can't wait to see them.
As for a "GTG": I think that's a good idea, but I'm not sure how I could participate. My main reason for returning to central Illinois that weekend is for a family reunion, and my free time will depend heavily on the schedules of my mom, brothers and sisters, some of whom are also traveling a good distance and have limited time. I'm sure my sisters also have PLANS.
Whatever, I do plan to be around Lincoln that weekend, and if it works out I'd love to at least say hello! I just can't commit to a meeting, sorry. I hope others can!
Thank you Larry, and yes we know each other by name. I flew with him in Abq last October to take pics of his friends balloon, "Thunderstruck" which is blue, white and yellow and has a cloud with lightning on it.
In the pic, Capt. Rick is the one with the white bush hat on. He is easy to spot. I hope that you get to see him, and it may help you to get some insider photos if you can meet him. Most of the balloon events allow people to mill around all under the balloons when they are on the ground. In any case, I hope that all of you have a great time and good weather.
You may also want to ask about David Justice, my stepson, Steven's uncle, who owns Celebration Balloons, which built and flew most of the Disney character shaped balloons.
Thank you Larry, and yes we know each other by name. I flew with him in Abq last October to take pics of his friends balloon, "Thunderstruck" which is blue, white and yellow and has a cloud with lightning on it.
In the pic, Capt. Rick is the one with the white bush hat on. He is easy to spot. I hope that you get to see him, and it may help you to get some insider photos if you can meet him. Most of the balloon events allow people to mill around all under the balloons when they are on the ground. In any case, I hope that all of you have a great time and good weather.
You may also want to ask about David Justice, my stepson, Steven's uncle, who owns Celebration Balloons, which built and flew most of the Disney character shaped balloons.
Thanks, Waddy. Now I know who to look for. I don't know how many balloons will be in this upcoming event, but I'll be sure to seek them out and grab a snapshot.
Cheers for now,
-- Larry in NYC
I just looked at the website, and didn't see either of them in the list of pilots and sponsors, but most of the pilots will know David Justice, as he is rather a high profile balloonist thru his company. If you can get in with a chase crew, that is a lot of fun too, but it restricts your photo shooting because you will be busy running all over town with them.
