Enjoy all the activity of Balloon Fest

    This year Crown of Maine Balloon includes more activity and a wider range of events than before. Interest in balloon rides has increased and more visitors are expected to be in the area. I hope you saved the Crown of Maine Balloon Fest insert from last week’s paper, but, if you didn’t, you will be able to find them at various locations around town and at the information booth at the Northern Maine Fair Grounds prior to evening flights.     Several Main Street stores will remain open Saturday evening during the Street Fair. This will be a great evening to meet old and new friends, shop, eat, dance and enjoy performances by local musicians and street performers.
    The fun and excitement begins Thursday morning with a launch at 5:30 and continues throughout the weekend with balloon launches at 5:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., weather permitting. There will be music at Presque Isle High School, Riverside Park and The Connection. There will be charity barbecues at the Fairgrounds Friday and Saturday evenings. Miss Maine USA and area Queens will be at the “ribbon burning” Friday night. Local artists will be painting scenes of Presque Isle on Saturday and these works will be sold during an auction at The Northeastland Hotel Saturday evening starting at 7.
    Saturday the Presque Isle Kiwanis Club and Key Bank are jointly hosting a variety of children’s activities at the Forum at 11 a.m. and ending with a movie under the stars Saturday night.
    The Presque Isle Area Chamber of Commerce wants to remind you as you enjoy the activities of the weekend to be careful around the launch field and watch out for ropes attached to balloons. When the balloons start to rise, things move very quickly. Also if you are on the roads watching balloons please pull off to the side of the road and stop. The sight of balloons floating through the air is impressive; don’t let it cause an accident.
    We also ask that property owners who would welcome a balloon landing to place a white sheet on their property. If you are near crop fields, please respect the farmers’ investment and stay away from the crops. With late blight being such a concern and so spreadable, please stay on roads and public spaces if taking photos or just watching balloons.
    The Crown of Maine Balloon Fest is a fascinating event to have in the area, attracting more visitors every year. Please help us continue this annual event by supporting the businesses who support our local events, Remember to be cautious and considerate of others.
    Up, up and away!