THE SONOMA COUNTY FALCONS FOR FUN CHAPTER
The recent (July, 1999) Hot Air Balloon Festival held at Grossi Farms in Rohnert Park was a real treat. There was lots of fun, sun, food and adventure. Even though I hadn’t planned on it, I found myself taking my very first (although I’m sure not my last) balloon ride. It was truly a wonderful experience.
There were lots of balloons taking off in the early morning, and Bill was in one of them!
My two year old grandson was watching and waving to me as I ascended up and over the tree tops into what I’m sure he thought was the land of Oz. He was relieved to see Grandpa safely on the ground an hour later.
Being up close while the giant balloons are inflated, and watching them lift up into the sky in indeed an awesome and unforgettable experience. It was well worth the 5:00 AM wake up call.
I met several of the balloon pilots. I could easily share their enthusiasm and pride because what they do is similar to my interest in Falcons and preserving a bit of history. There were seven Falcons on display for the two-day event. They received a lot of attention and admiration from the crowd that were there for the show.
I would like to extend a big "Thank You" to Butch Guillen, and Richard and Judy Olendorf for all the work they did in making this event such a success, and for inviting the club to participate. You can bet that I will be there next year and I hope more of the Falcon family will also be able to attend.