Hot Aire Balloons Headed
For Hopkins County

by: Bobby McDonald

"Pray for the thunderstorms to move out of the area and the weather to be calm and clear," was the word from Pam and David Black, Chairmen of the Dairy Festival Hot Aire Balloon Committee. "We're hoping the weather will 'clear out' and the balloons will be able to lift-off on Friday morning for the 'Media Launch' and the rest of the weekend. Keep your fingers crossed!"

Twenty-seven balloons are scheduled to make their way to Hopkins County for this year's event. "They'll begin moving into Sulphur Springs on Thursday night, and hopefully we'll be able to launch on Friday morning," explained the Blacks. "We'll meet a the Southwest Dairy Museum (Beside the Big Cows) at 5:45, on Friday morning, for a briefing and know then, if we'll be able to launch!"

Then, at 9:30 a.m., on Friday, in the lot beside Guaranty Bond Bank (South of the Bank), there will be a ribbon cutting and opening ceremonies conducted. "We're looking forward to having everyone come out and meet the balloon pilots and welcome them to Sulphur Springs," exclaimed Lynda Hager, Marketing Director of Guaranty Bond Bank. "This is a chance for everyone to give the balloon pilots a warm welcome to Hopkins County and begin the week long 50th Anniversary Dairy Festival!"

Friday night, at 7:00 p.m., the Hot Aire Balloons have plans to lift-off from the track field adjacent to Sulphur Springs High School. Then, at 8:00 p.m., there will be the beautiful "Balloon Glow," at the same location.

Downtown Sulphur Springs from a Hot Aire Balloon.....

Saturday's schedule will be the same, with the balloons also making an appearance in the 50th Anniversary Hopkins County Dairy Festival Parade.

Smooth, Safe landings.....that's what it's all about!!!

Sunday morning will be another opportunity for you to get up and see balloons in the air, as balloon pilots will be competing in a series of games and competition among themselves, over Sulphur Springs.

Don't miss this annual event that adds so much to the skies of Hopkins County!!!

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