Balloon committee
well pleased with event
To the editor:
The Crown of Maine Balloon Fest was a tremendous success thanks to all the organizations, clubs and individuals who planned events and activities throughout the weekend.
Staff photo/Scott Mitchell Johnson
UP, UP AND AWAY — Launching from the Northern Maine Fairgrounds in the early morning of Aug. 24, the hot air balloons Sinbad, left, piloted by Jim Rogers and Doug Shippee of Saint John, New Brunswick, and Mirage, flown by Janet Power of Gatineau, Quebec, were among the 12 hot air balloons in town for the 10th annual Crown of Maine Balloon Fest.
Alan Harding and the Presque Isle Elks Club did an amazing job with the Thursday evening Street Fair. This event just keeps growing and improving. The stores were jammed with customers, the music was festive and everyone was having a great time.
Friday, even though the weather did not fully cooperate, there was a good crowd for the balloon “glow.” Special thanks to Kenny Shumate and Mark Fritze for inflating their balloons after the wind dropped.
Saturday and Sunday were picture perfect days. Saturday there was more going on in the area than any one person could possibly take in! It is the hope of the organizing committee that the balloons will allow area businesses and organizations to capitalize on the attraction and increase revenue while supporting local business.
As we say good bye to the wonderful balloon pilots that are the focus of the Crown of Maine Balloon Fest, we look forward to the 2014 festival with hopes that the committee will grow to include more organizers and new ideas will come forward. If you are interested in joining this hard working group, please call the Chamber at 764-6561. Meetings resume September 10th!
This event like so many in the area would not be possible without the support of local businesses. Remember that the businesses are only able to support us if we support them!
The Crown of Maine Balloon Fest, Mapleton Lions Club and Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce thank you for your support, your participation and look forward to next year!
Floyd Rockholt
COMBF chair
