Crown of Maine Balloon Fest draws near

    PRESQUE ISLE – Aug. 21 will be the launch of the fifth annual Crown of Maine Balloon Fest. The Presque Isle Area Chamber of Commerce is looking forward to an exciting weekend filled with a variety of activities.
    “As we celebrate the 225th anniversary of the first man-made technology flight and the 30th anniversary of the Double Eagle II transatlantic flight that departed from Presque Isle,” said Theresa Fowler, executive director of the PIACC, “we anticipate the largest number of balloons at the Crown of Maine Balloon Fest to date. Thanks to a growing number of sponsors, we were able to accept applications from more balloonists this year.
    “Seeing the sky filled with the silent, floating, multi-colored hot air balloons, against our natural background of natural beauty, is one of the most spectacular visions you might ever witness,” she said. “Chasing your favorite balloon, watching, or even joining with the crew when it lands, can be an exhilarating experience for the whole family.”
    Activities will begin Thursday, Aug. 21 with the first launch scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Friday starts bright and early with launches starting at 5:30 a.m. There will be an amateur photography competition running all weekend. Friday for supper enjoy the wares of the Presque Isle Historical Society’s barbecue before or after the “Burning of the Ribbon” and the 5:30 p.m. launches. Also, watch special shape Jumpin’ Jack stand up and play while the other balloons fly away.
    “This Comedy Show is Rated PG-13” will be held at Weiden Hall at the University of Maine at Presque Isle campus, starting at 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 22. The headliner for this show is well known Portland native, the “Reverend” Brian Giles. Giles, a regular performer in the nationally acclaimed Improv group, “The Escapists,” performs from New Orleans to Madawaska. Steve Scarfo, a regular on the Boston scene, has been doing stand-up since 1996. His high-energy approach and bizarre views bring laughter from coast to coast. Presque Isle native Ryan Gartley rounds out the evening performers. Gartley has been performing in clubs, colleges and casinos for the past nine years and may be seen opening for such well known acts as Jeff Dunham and Dave Coulier. General admission tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door, and will be available at Country Collectibles, Aroostook Centre Mall and the PIACC office.
    Also taking place at the fairgrounds will be the evening glow of the amazing hot air balloons.
    “If you have not had the opportunity to see this before,” said Fowler, “it is absolutely breathtaking and beautiful.”
    The balloon glow provides an opportunity to chat with pilots and crew while they keep the tethered balloons inflated to show off their colorful envelopes. The Crown of Maine Balloon Fest provides an opportunity to enjoy the sights associated with this majestic, simple method of flight.
    Aug. 23 will be a full day of activities starting, of course, with the morning launch and more opportunities for photographers when Jumpin’ Jack takes to the air. The Order of the Eastern Star will be preparing breakfast from 8-10:30 a.m. Join the pilots and crew for breakfast at the Masonic Hall, 230 State St., when they return from their morning flight. Take this opportunity to meet and talk with these adventurers from near and far. After breakfast, enjoy children’s activities at the fairgrounds or wander through town and watch local artists working on pieces that will be sold at public auction Saturday evening.
    Join the fun at the Presque Isle Country Club, help the Spragueville Extension celebrate the anniversary of the Double Eagle II Transatlantic flight at the launch site on the Spragueville Road, watch Aroostook Football Scrimmage, visit local merchants, and enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants or have a hot-dog at St. John’s Episcopal Church.
    After your children have participated in the children’s activities at the fairgrounds, they will have an opportunity to attend a special afternoon showing at the Braden Theater. Parents can recall their enjoyment of Saturday matinees at the Braden Theater when they accompany their children to this event.
    Saturday evening you can enjoy supper cooked by the American Legion, Ray Goding Post No. 88 while the balloons launch and Jumpin’ Jack comes out to play. Then have a chance to sample foods from many countries as Main Street closes from 5-10 p.m. for a Street Fair that runs from 6-8 p.m. Citadel Broadcasting will provide music on Main Street during this time. Main Street will remain closed for more activities Saturday evening. Don’t forget the balloon glow at dusk!
    The weekend will be capped off with a Sunday morning flight and the broadcast of Paul Parent’s Garden Club (listen in on WEGP) from northern Maine.
    For more information, please visit the Crown of Maine Balloon Fest Web site at www.crownofmaineballoonfest.org or by calling the Presque Isle Area Chamber of Commerce at 764-6561.