Hershey, Pennsylvania

The warm colors of the surrounding autumn foliage greeted both the pilots and their crews as they gathered in "Chocolatetown U.S.A." for the eighth annual Hersheypark Balloonfest. This years event was held the 25th-27th of October. Living in the area, I've been fortunate enough to witness the growth of this annual event and this year was the best for all that were involved. Of course, the first thing I did when I arrived at the launch site on Friday was to purchase two of the event pins. I've learned over the years that these little babies go very quickly and are usually gone by early Saturday afternoon.

Over fifty balloons were scheduled to participate, with five flights and two "glows" on-tap. At last years event, Mother Nature played out her hand and the only things that took flight were the wind socks blowing horizontal and soaking wet, from the arts and crafts vendors stands. Not so this year, as everything was truely magical. The crowds on-hand were treated to five outstanding displays by the pilots and their crews in the art of inflating and flying their multi-colored balloons.

To see the looks on everyones face, especially the children, as the balloons broke the bonds of earth and touched the sky, was worth more than you could imagine.

Friday nights "glow" saw more than half of the participating balloons treat the large crowd who had gathered, to a spectacular light show. Two local TV stations video- taped this event, with one station, WPMT Fox 43, opening up their evening newscast with the balloons aglow in the background.

Saturday mornings launch saw the usual large crowd gathered on the hillside just north of the launch area. As has happened in the past, the balloons drifted so close to them that they could literally reach out and shake hands with the pilots as they drifted on by, and floated over the guests standing on the balcony of the famous Hotel Hershey.

In between launches, folks could roam around at their leisure and visit over 75 different arts and crafts vendors. There was no admission to the Hershey Balloonfest and families who had children could pay-as-you-go for the many rides available. Mini concerts were presented throughout the weekend on the stage just next to the launch site featuring a variety of musical acts. The Hersheypark Group, who sponsors this event, wants to make this a family affair, and with all that was going on within the Hershey area during the weekend, it would be hard for anyone to become bored. Hershey's Chocolate World, next to the launch site, with all its goodies was open late, along with a portion of Hersheypark for all to enjoy their many rides. My favorite place to visit this time of year is Hershey's Zoo America. They were having their annual event, "Creatures Of The Night," whereas flashlights are covered with red celophane and you can view the many animals in their natural enviornment without disturbing them.

Trust me, when you shine your light into the darkness of the wolves den and glowing red eyes stare back ar you, you'll be glad you're on the other side of the fence. Sometimes, the wolves are just on the other side and you can count the wiskers on their nose!

The second "glow" of the weekend took place on a calm Saturday night.

Again, the large crowd really gort into the spirit of things, as they counted down from three and shouted "GLOW", whereas the launch area became alive with flickering lights. Over and over again, the audience had the power to "turn-on" the lights with the pilots and crews really enjoying themselves. I wonder what the glow would look like from the Space Shuttle?

Sunday morning, I was treated to the ride that I will never forget.

Kenny Weiner, from Akron, Ohio, was kind enough to invite me to ride along with him in his "Ms. Autumn" pumpkin shaped specialty balloon. I've been fortunate in that each year this balloonfest has been here in Hershey, I've gotten at least one or more rides, so I was very familiar with the safety precautions associated with riding aloft. Nevertheless, and being the true professional pilot that he is, Kenny took the time before we lifted off to explain the safety rules he follows when flying. As we ascended through the slight cloud covering and started moving in a southwesterly direction, I became both photographer and tour guide as I pointed out the different buildings and attractions that surround the town of Hershey. We said "Good Morning" to a police officer, who was gladly writing a ticket for a car who was not suppose to be parked where he was. Kenny then hit the burners abit and, as we gained altitude, we drifted back across the launch field and over the Wildcat rollercoater ride. After a few minutes of not moving much, we slowly drifted back towards the launchfield, and touched down in the exact spot we took off from! I was impressed, believe me! The crowd went wild with applause and Kenny and I were smiling from ear to ear as we shook hands. Balloonmeister, Don Dillon, he himself an accomplished pilot, came over yelling, "Fantastic, just fantastic," as he also shook Kenny's hand. He, too, was smiling from ear to ear. For me, that was the ride I shall always remember.

Kenny lifted off once again and set "Ms. Autumn" down in the parking lot.

Whereas, it didn't take long for him to become surrounded by the crowd, most of whom just wanted to meet him. Can't say I blame them!

The final flight of the weekend was conducted Sunday afternoon and even though the pilots lifted off under somewhat overcast skies, that didn't deter the crowds from coming out once again to say good-by to the pilots until they see them again next year.

Just a few words about the outstanding organization with which this event is run. Since its beginning, this event has grown both in size and popularity within the central Pennsylvania area. New sponsors come on-board each year and the community now looks forward to this annual event. The landowners have grown accustomed to seeing large multi-colored objects float over and sometimes land in their fields or backyards. The pilots enhance the relations with the landowners by asking permission to land and by offering a "landowners package" filled with numerous goodies and gifts. Also, Dr. Richard Clark, Professor of Meterology at nearby Millersville University, who has been around for so long that I think gave the weather report to Noah before he left on his journey, combines his humor and extensive knowledge in giving the pilots their pre- flight weather reports. Mr. Don Dillon has been the balloonmeister for this event since its inception. Between he and his outstanding crew, you couldn't ask for a better person who not only is well organized, but takes care of the pilots and crews needs as only they know how. The Hersheypark Group, headed by Mr. Franklin R. Shearer, is to be commended for sponsoring this event, and they look forward to doing it again next year.

As I said, it was a truely magical weekend and it's sure to grow larger in the coming years as word spreads how well the balloonests were treated.

All I can say is, thanks again, Kenny. The flight was beyond words.

See ya again next year!