Buzzard's Glory
The Continuing Story
Ballooning leaves behind more than tracks across the sky. There are photographs, friendships, early mornings, competitions, road trips, crew stories, unexpected landings and memories worth keeping.
The Flight Journal is our continuing record of those adventures—new flights as they happen and stories from more than five decades of Buzzard's Glory ballooning.
June 29, 2025
We patiently waited for the winds to die last night and were rewarded. Ended up doing a training flight with Chris! Great crew and mascot, Miss Maggie!
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June 8, 2025
We had to wait for weather to improve but were rewarded with a flight last night! Maggie met some new fans! Great crew! Great passengers! Great flight!
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June 7, 2025
After an excruciatingly slow start to ballooning in the Cedar Rapids area we had four flights this past week. The skies are hazy from smoke from the Canadian wildfires. Some nights it’s worse than others. Maggie is happy to be back into her ballooning routine.
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November 9, 2024
Beautiful flight over Marion. Tried landing at my house but the winds died! Thanks to my crew for a wonderful adventure, to Maggie for her kindness & Thomas for his pictures.
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November 1, 2024
November 1 flight over Iowa landscape! Thanks to my crew, Maggie and thanks to Thomas for inflight pictures.
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October 18, 2024
Natchez, Friday morning! Launched in Natchez. Chris and I both flew across the Mississippi and landed in Vidalia, LA. Beautiful morning with the Hunter’s moon still visible! Jan flew with me so of course it was a bit sporty aloft. Nice gentle landing. Thanks to my fabulous crew! And, of course Ma...
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October 10, 2024
Tuesday night, two balloons flying. Mike flew with Chris and Kevin flew with me. Cole was fabulous, organized his dad to be there when we landed on their property in the 6’ tall grasses. Fortunately there was a mowed trail for deflating the balloon. Thanks to fabulous crew. And, Maggie! Our inspi...
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September 27, 2024
Last night, Chris and I launched together and landed together. Great flight. Thanks to Maggie and rest of the crew!
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September 22, 2024
Shots from last night’s glow in Forest Park.
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September 15, 2024
Traveled to Harrison, AR for balloon event. Remnants of the hurricane impacted our weather. The glow on Friday and Saturday nights happened but not the Saturday and Sunday morning flights. We were hampered by low ceilings. As you can see we managed to entertain ourselves while we were there!
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September 12, 2024
Beautiful flight from Bass Farms over the farm fields! Thanks to my crew and Maggie!
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September 8, 2024
Last night’s flight over the area! Thanks to my fabulous crew, to Maggie for entertaining us and Reid for his pictures
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August 30, 2024
Our flight over Cedar rapids last night. Great crew, great passengers, great landing. Gorgeous night.
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August 24, 2024
Flew from Bass Farms last night over Iowa crops. Beautiful flight with Adam and John! Crew was great as always and had help from new recruits Amelia and Simon!
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August 21, 2024
Morning flights are the best! Instruction flight with Chris G! Great crew! And, Miss Maggie our driver!
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August 20, 2024
Best new crew award and best landowner award all took place last night! Our newest crew out did himself! Our landowner did too! Supplied everyone with adult beverages! Fantastic flight with Karol and Danny on Blue Moon night!
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August 14, 2024
Flat Jesus went for a ride in my balloon along with my passengers, Chris and Terry! We flew across the city and landed with next generation of balloon crew! Thanks to all who helped!
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August 11, 2024
Forty years after earning her commercial hot air balloon pilot's license, Susan celebrated with a morning flight, an evening flight, and generations of Buzzard's Glory crew.
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August 11, 2024
Ryan had a lesson this morning. We landed in a neighborhood full of willing helpers. They worked up an appetite for breakfast. We appreciated all the help and kindness from the neighborhood! Thank you
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August 8, 2024
Chris H and I had a training flight this morning! Wonderful steerage as we flew across the city and landed in a park.
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August 8, 2024
Another day, another beautiful flight over our area! Crew we haven’t seen for a while we’re at our landing site and helped pack up! Great surprise!
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August 8, 2024
Jude‘s birthday Flight last night. We had to wait for the wind to die and the ceiling to lift. But we had a gorgeous flight. Lots of fun crew helping out on pack up. The sunset was gorgeous. Thanks to my crew and to Jan for pictures.
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August 5, 2024
Up, up, and away! Flew again the other night! Landed in a neighborhood and was helped by future crew! Made our evening! Meg did a great job on her first time driving chase! Thanks to my crew for their help & to Chris, Jan and Ken for pictures
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August 3, 2024
3 balloons launched from same site and 8 miles later landed in the same field! Wonderful surprise having Kaden show up at landing! Maggie was delighted hanging out with the crew!
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July 31, 2024
Weather finally cooperated and we were able to fly last night! Reid got some burner time! Landed in great neighborhood! Thanks to the crew for all their help! Thanks to Jan, Chris and Reid for photos.
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July 25, 2024
Finally! First flight this week! Combination of storms and mist everyday and finally last night the weather settled so we were able to fly. Beautiful flight over the countryside.
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July 21, 2024
Bloomsbury celebrated Blooms and Balloons with a glow with four balloons. Two of us surprised and entertained them by flying from Atkins and landing at the venue! It was an added bonus. Thanks to the great pilots and crew!
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July 19, 2024
Very slow flight last night. Great passengers and crew! Gorgeous light!
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July 13, 2024
Another flight over our beautiful city. Landed in a wonderful neighborhood with great helpers. Future balloonist!
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July 12, 2024
Gorgeous flight over the Marion area last night. Great visibility! Maggie was delighted with all the special attention! Fabulous passengers and crew!
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July 5, 2024
This morning’s flight. We had fog/mist which made for beautiful pictures. It was slow and we ended up with a drop landing. McIntyre’s, the landowners, were fabulous as well as my crew!
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July 4, 2024
This morning’s flight n Battle Creek. Gorgeous! Great crew and mascot!
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June 30, 2024
We’re going to fly tonight (6/30) & then 4 or 5 of the balloons are going to Furniture Row to glow somewhere around 8-8:30
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June 24, 2024
We very patiently waited to see if the wind would die in time for a flight. And, it did. Chris and I were both able to get in the air. Fun night for everyone including Maggie. Thanks to Reid for pictures.
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June 16, 2024
Lovely flight over Linn County last night! We had to wait til winds died and move launch sites but we made it. Best crew and passengers both on launch and landing and also pack up. Maggie was delighted to make new friends! Thanks to Reid, our resident photographer for his contribution.
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June 12, 2024
Gorgeous flight over Marion the other night! Wonderful crew and passengers! Maggie loved Adam showing up at landing and all the attention! Thanks everyone!
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May 30, 2024
From last night’s flight flying over the beautiful Iowa countryside! Maggie was delighted to see all her friends again. And, a special thanks to Reid for pictures!
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May 25, 2024
We inflated today at the burial of Reid’s dad, Bob, who passed away in February. It was special for us. Some years ago Bob was an active part of our crew. We inflated around noon at the neighbors adjacent to the cemetery. Winds were amazingly light. We met the incredible owners of the property, i...
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May 17, 2024
We were able to get everything organized on the two balloons after annuals. We entertained some of the spectators for an hour. Thanks to all the crew, and to Maggie for your support and to Reid for taking pictures.
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May 14, 2024
Maggie had an exhausting day an annuals. We couldn’t have done it without her. Thanks Bill, Chris,Phil, Lisa and the rest of the team!
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May 6, 2024
Chris H is now current! He was able to get in his take offs and landings “with a little help from his friends!” Including Maggie! Thanks to the crew, including long time former crew Kathy who showed up at landing. Special thanks to Reid for some of the pictures.
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April 11, 2024
Thank you mother nature and my crew. First flight of the season and winds were calm enough I’m now current. Thanks to Reid for some of the pictures. Looking forward to many more flights and Maggie/crew adventures.
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December 14, 2023
Santa flew tonight! No reindeer but Maggie was there! Beautiful sunny flight! Thanks to Thomas for some of the pictures.
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November 16, 2023
Second flight this week. Anytime we get to fly in November is a plus! Last night was even more special. It was Lena’s first ride! We also had enough crew to launched two balloons so Chris and Reid flew together. Gorgeous night. Great crew and mascot! Thanks, Chris, Jan and Reid for some of the pi...
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November 14, 2023
Gorgeous flight over the Iowa countryside. 60+ degrees! Thanks to my fabulous crew and mascot!
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November 8, 2023
Peter has been here from Malawi for 5 weeks and during that time Chris has tried to give him a ride. It proved to be difficult with weather and everyone’s schedules. Finally, this morning, it happened. The day he heads back home. Beautiful flight.
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October 23, 2023
Recap of Natchez, MS! Great balloon event starting with both Chris and I glowing our balloons at “ Alive at Five” on Thursday night! Friday morning we had fog. Friday night wind. Saturday morning we launched in Natchez and flew across the Mississippi and landed in Vidalia, LA. Chris had a lot of...
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September 16, 2023
Beautiful weather for the glow at Forest Park last night! So many people! Crowd was fabulous! Maggie loved all the special treatment from all the spectators that stopped to pet her! Thank you St Louis!
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September 9, 2023
Perfect night for a balloon glow in Harrison, AR
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August 28, 2023
Chris flew this morning! Took his son Ryan for a ride. I crewed! No i didn’t forget how! Or at least that’s my version. Thanks to Ryan for the inflight shots!
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August 28, 2023
Flew in Anamosa last. Night! Picked up new crew. He learned the most important jobs including taking care of Maggie! Thanks to Reid & Courtney for some of the pictures!
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August 16, 2023
Beautiful night for a flight and training new crew! My niece, Gail and her family, including Cicely, Maximus and Nala, were there for launch! Cicely was our newest crew member working the mouth! Of course Maggie loved the attention and seeing Nala! Great crew as always and thanks to Jan, Reid, Th...
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August 13, 2023
A very happy Jude! He’s been crewing a lot this summer and heads to college Monday. We’ve been trying to get his ride in before he left and finally last night worked! Great experience with great crew and Maggie
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August 9, 2023
Les Girls! We ended up not flying last night but had a great time! Including Maggie.
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August 4, 2023
The overcast skies cleared in time for us to fly last night. Two balloons. Reid and I both took crew who are headed to school in a week or two. Maggie loved all the attention!
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July 24, 2023
Few shots from last night’s flight and Maggie’s Buddies! In flight photo taken by Reid.
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July 23, 2023
Moments from yesterday morning’s flight. Ryan back at it after a long lay off! Special thanks to crew from Maggie!
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July 23, 2023
Evening flight over the Cedar Rapids/Marion area! Great crew! Great mascot! Thanks to Aries and Thomas for pictures!
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July 20, 2023
Another flight last night! Landed in neighborhood with friends and former crew! Thanks to Jan and Thomas for some of the photos!
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July 20, 2023
Another lesson with John last night! Picked up some highly trained Crew!!!
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July 18, 2023
Lesson with John this morning and lots of Maggie love on landing
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June 23, 2023
We flew again this morning. Wonderful, unexpected surprise on landing. Friend and fellow pilot, Kelli Cook and her mom we’re passing through the area on their way from Galena back to Denver. They saw a balloon in the air and of course had to chase it. Maggie was delighted to meet new members of h...
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June 23, 2023
Thursday night flight out of Springville. Oliver and I critiqued the crops as we flew toward Marion! Great flight with my great crew and mascot!
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June 22, 2023
We flew this morning! Even threw baggies! Great crew! Great mascot!
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June 20, 2023
Balloon glow at last night’s Cedar Rapids Freedom Fest event! Ten balloons . Ten reasons to smile!
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June 15, 2023
Maggie rallied her fan club so that we could fly last night. It was a wonderful flight with my always fabulous crew!
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May 16, 2023
Reid was able to get current last night. Final landing area looked nice but turned out difficult to retrieve! Thanks Chad for being there. We were rewarded by a gorgeous sunset!
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May 11, 2023
Balloon annuals at Lindstrand today. Thanks Chris, Chris, Bill and Jayden. And of course Maggie. Most of all Phil and Lisa
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April 28, 2023
We flew this morning. A beautiful flight over the area with winds suitable for doing an elbow! Thanks Mother Nature! Thanks to my crew including Maggie and Lena. Thanks to Reid for the picture of the balloon.
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April 27, 2023
We’ve been trying really hard to get a flight in but mother nature keeps changing our plans. Last night we had the balloons laid out, everything checked and ready to start the fans and the winds picked up and stayed up. Maggie didn’t mind she loved all the attention.
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March 28, 2023
Pictures from our first flight of the year last night. It was a long wait but we finally made it. Chris and I were both able to make our three take offs and landings and are now ready to fly with passengers. Hopefully Mother Nature will turn down the speed on her wind machine and we’ll have many...
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November 1, 2022
Halloween flight with my crew! My wonderful crew! Including Maggie! Thank you!
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October 31, 2022
Another flight to end October! So many places to land now that most of the crops are out. And, warm enough temps we’re not all bundled up. Thanks to my crew for making it happen. Reid took some of the pictures! Maggie added the entertainment.
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October 30, 2022
Saturday night’s flight took me over both the CRCC and Elmcrest golf courses. Crew was there to catch me in the park. Maggie wasn’t sure if Ivy, the long haired dachshund puppy was really a dog!
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October 30, 2022
Saturday morning’s flight! Beautiful, crisp Fall morning. Mist in the low lying areas and along the river. Enough color left in the trees to add to the beauty. Thanks to Chris and the crew for the flight. And, thanks to the queen of the envelope bag!
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October 29, 2022
Yesterday was a beautiful afternoon flying over my area! Perfect end of October flight! Great crew! Great passengers! Great Maggie!
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October 17, 2022
After a 30 minute weather hold this morning we were able to fly. William flew with me. We actually saw and scored on all the targets. It was his first flight in many years! Thanks to my great crew and Maggie for making it happen.
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October 14, 2022
Chris flew this morning in Vidalia, LA for the media flight ! Reid went along while Kaden drove chase, Jayden navigated and I got to hang out with Miss Maggie, who found a new four legged friend at the landing site. Dan and Joanne from Amelia Island, FL helped us last night with the glow and agai...
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October 11, 2022
Crew launched and packed up two balloons last night. Chris and I both flew. I launched first and Chris did a fabulous job following me and landing in the same cut bean field with me. Great crew as always. Kaden, with Lisa’s expert navigation skills, performed well his first time driving chase. Th...
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October 2, 2022
We flew out of Bass Farms last night and then went back for the glow. Perfect fall weather for their rain date. Chris took the pictures of the four balloons.
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October 2, 2022
The morning started with a gorgeous pink sky, followed by a beautiful flight over the city. Special thanks to the sisters who helped pack up the balloon and to faithful Maggie,
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September 29, 2022
Fall flying in Iowa! Crops almost ready to be harvested which will open up more landing spots. Thanks Maggie for your energy!
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September 23, 2022
Flying on the 2022 Autumnal equinox. Beautiful start to this year’s fall! Thanks to everyone including Maggie! Special thanks to Josie!
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September 8, 2022
Crew launched and retrieved two balloons again last night. Maggie was delighted to have so many of her favorites around. Great night with beautiful sunset!
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September 7, 2022
Another great flight over Cedar Rapids/Marion. Landed in a wonderful neighborhood with a lot of eager helpers! So thankful for their help. Hope to see them again.
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September 1, 2022
Eventually the wind died down last night and we flew across the city. We could hear the sounds of the city including the events at NewBo and landed in the quietness of the county. Thanks to Will and Jen for some of the pictures and thanks to Maggie for driving Chase
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August 24, 2022
Another flight over our area last night. Both Chris and I were able to fly. Both of us had great landing spots and wonderful landowners. Thanks for all the help. And thanks to Miss Maggie for being there. Thanks to Reid and Will for some of the pictures.
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August 23, 2022
Before Derecho hit Cedar Rapids in August 2020 I could never launch or land at my house. I’ve launched there several times since then and last night I missed landing there by 150 feet. It was another beautiful night flying over the area. Reid and I both landed at the same spot. Maggie found lots...
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August 22, 2022
The skies cleared in time last night and we were able to fly. Four balloons flying over the Iowa countryside. Thanks to all those who made it happen and to our welcoming landowners. And, thanks to Maggie for her preciousness.
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August 19, 2022
Beautiful flight across the city yesterday morning. Fog along the river. Thanks to Maggie and my crew!❤️
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August 18, 2022
We launched two balloons last night. Jayden had a lesson and it was the first flight for crew Kevin. Chris landed on a golf course and had one of the golfers help walk him to the parking lot. Maggie got lots of attention and a special visit from Joel. Thanks to Carl and Hilda for the landing spot a...
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August 17, 2022
Gorgeous morning. Great steerage. Couldn’t do it without my fabulous crew. Thank you! Thanks to Reid for balloon pictures and Maggie for her patience
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August 17, 2022
Beautiful flight over iowa country side last night. We ended up landing by a field of wild flowers. While we were there the Angel Queen appeared in my basket and then helped us pack up the balloon! Thanks for everyone’s help.
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August 7, 2022
Sadly we watched as the other two balloons flew away last night. It was a little on the windy side for my passengers. We did pock up a two very high maintenance crew, the Dog Whisperer and his side kick, Mr Blue! Here’s to our next flight!
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August 5, 2022
Last night we celebrated the anniversary of the invention of Champagne by flying over beautiful iowa countryside. We found a road to land on and acquired a willing bunch of new crew! Of course Maggie was delighted with all her new fans! Thanks to my fabulous crew and to Reid for some of the pictu...
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August 2, 2022
Sunday morning’s flight at the Classic. First flight of competition. Wish I was staying the week. It was fabulous! The X’s were layered with baggies! Thanks to my crew for all they’re help including chase driver, Chris, navigating through all the road dust! Can’t say enough about the landowners....
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August 2, 2022
Wind finally calmed down last night and we were able to get in a short flight for crew. It was the first time for Kaden and Michael. We did celebrate including Maggie!
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July 30, 2022
Pictures from last night’s flight at the Classic in Indianola. My first time flying there since the Nationals moved out in the mid 1980s! I’m only here for the weekend but what a blast. A 100 plus balloons. Perfect weather. Special thanks to my crew and Maggie
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July 28, 2022
Beautiful morning from Monday this week - Flying over crops and Marion. Great passengers, crew and Miss Maggie. Thanks to Chris G and Reid for balloon pictures.
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July 28, 2022
Four flights in the past two days! Seems like old times! First time we’ve had that happen this year! Four beautiful flights! A mixture of passengers and training. And, all in the area! Thanks to my hard working crew for making it happen and to Miss Maggie for entertaining us!
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July 23, 2022
We weren’t able to fly last night because of weather around so we made use of the time training new crew. Maggie of course was delighted meeting new friends.
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July 20, 2022
Nice road landing last night out in the country. Beautiful flight over the crops. Beautiful sunset. Beautiful crew and Miss Maggie. Thank to Reid for some of the pictures.
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July 18, 2022
Last night’s flight was over beautiful Iowa both city and countryside. Thanks to my crew including Mascot Maggie!
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July 14, 2022
Beautiful flight on full moon night. Thanks for my great crew and thanks to Reid for pictures of the balloon flying. Thanks to Miss Maggie, the bunny chaser!
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July 10, 2022
Mike’s birthday flight. Beautiful flight over Iowa country side. Thanks to my crew and thanks to the new crew who helped at landing. Maggie loved the attention.
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July 3, 2022
Greetings from Battle Creek. Beautiful morning for a flight. Not so much for a competitive flight. We had a great launch and landing with fabulous land owners. Thank you crew. Maggie loved all the attention.
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June 28, 2022
Great flight last night. Beautiful sunset. Thanks for the help. Maggie thanks everyone for the attention
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June 23, 2022
Gorgeous morning to fly! Beautiful prairie and sky! Thanks to the crew and Miss Maggie.
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June 19, 2022
The Freedom Fest balloon glow happened last night in Cedar Rapids. Almost by magic the forecasted fast winds died down and 8 balloons glowed for over an hour and paid tribute to, not only the people of Cedar Rapids, but to a new venue , Jones Park and to a new night. Thank you to all the pilots a...
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June 11, 2022
Thank you Mother Nature. We finally got to fly! What a treat! What a beautiful night! What great help we had on landing! What a wonderful time we all had including Maggie. Thanks to Jan and Jayden for the pictures of the balloon flying.
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June 11, 2022
Weather certainly has put a damper on any flying in our area. So we improvised and made use of calm winds. We had a training session. The Deacon and some of his new crew finally had the chance to learn how to assemble and inflate his balloon. Luckily we had a few young men help us pack up. And, M...
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May 20, 2022
We have a new private pilot in the Cedar Rapids area. Reid is now a private hot air balloon pilot as of last night! Congratulations to him and all the crew who helped make it possible including, Heather, his wife and of course Miss Maggie
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May 7, 2022
Meg and her softball team showed up this morning to help with the balloon. Meg did a great job with her first inflation lesson. And, as always, Maggie was delighted with all her new and old fans! Thank you, my wonderful crew.
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April 23, 2022
It rained and rained today after a beautiful sunny calm day yesterday. Last night we had no wind so we tethered and it gave Chris, Reid and Ryan plenty of landing practice! And, it gave Maggie lots of chances to have fun with he friends!
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April 20, 2022
It wasn’t a very pretty ballooning day but it was a flyable day. Chris H flew Alley Cat and is now current and Reid was ready to lift off on another solo flight when we decided to cancel because the winds had started to increase. Thanks to all who helped including Miss Maggie.
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April 12, 2022
Reid had a solo flight last night. Perfect night to practice landings including using a drop line. As always, Maggie was delighted hanging out with her friends. Thanks for all who helped!
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April 10, 2022
Beautiful weather for a flight last night. Chris added another flight toward getting his commercial and Maggie added a few more friends both people and dogs! We landed with light winds in a neighborhood with willing helpers! Thanks to everyone who helped make the flight a success.
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March 16, 2022
Calm winds, warm temps, and sunny skies. Perfect weather for a balloon ride. Reid had a lesson with a couple of landings. Nice job after being off for four months. He’s well on his way to becoming a private pilot. Thanks to my wonderful crew and special thanks to our mascot!
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March 15, 2022
We flew last night. First flight of the season! Great to be back in the air and better yet to hang out with my fabulous crew! Maggie thoroughly agreed! Thanks to Jan for the photos of the balloon flying! Here’s to many more flights in 2022.
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December 26, 2021
Flying on Christmas Day! What could be better than that! Special thank you to Jan for suggesting it and the rest of the crew for making it happen! Maggie thanks you too! She was a little disappointed there was no candy left in the bottom of the basket! Thanks to David for the picture of the ballo...
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December 14, 2021
Thank you Santa for helping me get my balloon inflated. I really needed your assistance. I hope you enjoyed your flight over the northern part of Marion checking on young and old making sure everyone gets their wish at Christmas including the guy who asked for a new car. All the little kids were...
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December 5, 2021
We found Santa hitching a flight in Anamosa! As we flew he reminded everyone to leave him cookies! He drew quite a crowd both young and old! Here’s to more Santa flights in years to come!
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December 1, 2021
Reid closed out November 2021 with a solo flight. He had a great landing with wonderful landowners who helped back the balloon up while Miss Maggie dug for unknown treasure and stopped long enough to do her “job”. Thanks to everyone for making the flight possible.
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November 21, 2021
Mid 50s and light winds! Perfect weather for a November balloon flight! I launched from my house, thanks to last year’s Derecho and flew out into the country! Miss Maggie was delighted! Thanks to my crew for their help!
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November 4, 2021
Last night was perfect weather for a solo flight over the Iowa country side. Reid did a great job and even had two landings. It was great to have so many crew show up with such short notice and Maggie was delighted to have her friends with her! Here’s to many more flights for Reid before the end...
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October 31, 2021
Happy Halloween! No flight today because of wind but Bee Keeper Reid and I flew for 10 miles last night over the Iowa countryside. Most of the crops were out so a lot of landing opportunities. Thanks to my wonderful crew and to Miss Maggie. Special thanks to John, his first time crewing.
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October 15, 2021
We arrived in Natchez yesterday in time for Chris and I to glow our balloons at the kickoff event. We met a few long time friends, Ken and Patty and Al and Julie who helped us on inflation. Maggie, as always, was delighted to enroll new members in her fan club! Looking forward to great weather, l...
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October 14, 2021
Finally. After sitting for ten days we got to fly! A beautiful flight over the area. My passengers, Val and Nathan were celebrating Val’s 40th birthday. Maggie was celebrating getting to hang out with her buddies!
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September 30, 2021
Training flight with Chris G last night over the Iowa countryside. Farmers are in the fields harvesting crops so a lot of landing spots. Thanks to the crew and Miss Maggie who fell asleep in the chase vehicle on Jayden’s shoulder.
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September 27, 2021
The wind died down enough last night so we could glow at Bass Farm’s Fall Celebration. Thanks to everyone who helped and special thanks to Johanna for sharing her pictures.
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September 18, 2021
It was great to be back at Forest Park celebrating their 49th year. Great crowd of people milling among the balloons especially little kids asking great questions! Thanks to my pilot crew and Maggie for their help and entertainment! Look forward to tonight’s flight!
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September 16, 2021
I was able to take my beautiful niece, Camryn, for a ride last night before we head out of town tomorrow for St. Louis! She hasn’t had a ride since she was 13. So I’m glad we were able to fly. It was a gorgeous night with my wonderful crew, my niece and Queen Maggie!
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September 12, 2021
Ballooning on the 20th anniversary of 9/11. I drove chase this morning while Chris flew and gave Tony his first ride! Matt gave Reid a lesson this in Cost Cutters! Beautiful flights over the area! Maggie’s cousin,Nala, is here for the weekend and was part of the fun! Thank you crew.
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September 11, 2021
Beautiful flight over Iowa countryside last night! Maggie was delighted to have 3 four legged playmates where we landed and my late husband, Peter, had taken the landowner and his father for a ride in the 90s. Special thanks to Lisa for her pictures of the balloon!
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September 8, 2021
We flew last night. Pictures of passengers, crew and Maggie having fun including a picture of Joel and his new chase vehicle!
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September 6, 2021
Happy Labor Day! Great way to start the morning! Beautiful flight over Marion. Fabulous crew and passengers! Thanks Maggie for your sweetness!
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August 23, 2021
Kim finally got to celebrate her birthday with a balloon ride last night. A beautiful ride with a clear sky. Our land owners picked corn and tomatoes for us. Reid took photos of the balloon and Maggie and the crew were fabulous as always!
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August 19, 2021
We’ve had a good stretch of weather. Another training flight for Reid last night in the Cedar Rapids area. Thanks to those who helped including Miss Maggie
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August 18, 2021
Yesterday’s flight! Gorgeous flight with gorgeous passengers and crew. Maggie was thrilled!
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August 18, 2021
Flight over beautiful Iowa. Thanks to my crew and Maggie for being there.
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August 16, 2021
A beautiful morning flying over the Cedar Rapids area with Ryan at the controls. Thanks to Reid and Thomas for pictures of the balloon! Maggie! Another day with her friends!
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August 15, 2021
Another beautiful flight this morning. Reid had another lesson. Maggie got to spend time with her favorites! Thanks crew!❤️
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August 15, 2021
Ryan had a lesson last night. We flew out in the country over the beautiful Iowa fields. He too is close to his solo. We had two balloons in the air, Chris took his wife Michelle for a ride in celebration of their anniversary. We launched and landed in the same field. Maggie love the experience! ❤️
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August 15, 2021
Pictures from our flight yesterday morning in the Cedar Rapids/Marion area. Reid had a lesson. Closer to his solo every time he flies. Met new people which delighted Maggie! Thanks to my fabulous crew!
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August 10, 2021
Last night we decided not to fly. The winds shifted and our flight path would have taken us over downtown Cedar Rapids with limited landing spots and it was too late to move to a more suitable launch site so we used the opportunity for some scheduled maintenance and crew/pilot training. Of course...
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August 5, 2021
Crew worked really hard the other night. Dried out two balloons before flying. 🥰Lisa, my passenger for the flight started crewing about a month ago so it was a first for her. It was a great and pleasant surprise to see Pilot Randy at my landing.❤️Maggie found someone new and old to kiss! 😘Thanks...
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August 3, 2021
Ryan had a lesson this morning in light winds. The humidity was low so the visibility was wonderful. Thanks for the early risers. Maggie woke long enough to see her favorites.
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August 3, 2021
Mother Nature smiled on us again last night. We flew over crops and landed on the edge of Cedar Rapids. Maggie met new friends, crew and passengers and old friends! Thanks Mother Nature. And, thanks to my crew.
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July 28, 2021
The wind was a little to strong for a flight tonight so we took the time for a maintenance check on the envelope. Maggie’s cousin, Nala, was along to help entertain the crew! Alex, our newest crew and my nephew, helped in the fun! Thanks to my wonderful crew for helping out tonight!
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July 26, 2021
We flew last night. Brad and Patty, my passengers, were given a gift certificate by their children to honor their move to Iowa. It was a beautiful flight with beautiful passengers and a beautiful night. Maggie was in heaven, so many people, so little time. Thanks to all my crew for their help and...
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July 21, 2021
Another flight! Our passengers, Lisa and Andrew were from West Branch. Last night the sky was hazy and the sun setting a deep reddish orange as a result of the fires out west. All three balloons launched in the same area and landed in the same area. Thanks to Reid who took pictures of my balloon....
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July 20, 2021
Another great flight last night. My passengers were Pam and her granddaughter,Kyra, who had been saving for their ride for the past several years. Pam had flown before so it was wonderful watching Kyra’s face as we flew. It was a perfect night! Em and her kids were here from Ohio to lend a hand!...
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July 19, 2021
We flew this morning. Reid had a lesson. He’ll solo soon. The crew did a great job including Ryan G who was on the head rope. Thanks to Chris for showing up at landing and helping us pack up. Thanks to Maggie for reluctantly getting out of bed to join us
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July 18, 2021
We flew again last night. We launched out in the country and flew toward the city over corn, beans and a few farm buildings here and there. My passengers, Joe and Jolene, were farmers from the Ceresco area and it was great listening to them talk about the crops from their perspective. Four of us...
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July 17, 2021
We flew last night. Landed in Marion and headed west. My passengers, Elaine and Kelvin were from Coggon. We landed in a wonderful neighborhood in a new development. Maggie was her usual charming self. Thanks to my crew for taking the time out of their busy schedules to crew and make the flight po...
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July 16, 2021
We had a short flight tonight. The wind direction changed mid flight and we landed at my neighbor’s house! Maggie was in heaven! Two yellow labs and a big pond! Plus People! Not only crew people but new people! Thanks to my crew, Chris, Meg, Nick, Ben, Jayden, Reid, John, Patrice, Tony and Lisa!...
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July 14, 2021
We had the most amazing day yesterday. We took Peter’s old balloon, Morning Glory, built in 1977 to the Lindstrand factory in Galena. My plan is to glow it at indianola’s 50th anniversary of their first hot air balloon event later this month and I needed to know it was safe for me to inflate. I k...
Read the FlightJuly 11, 2021
Things we do when we can’t fly! Meg, one of our crew, plays softball for LinnMar. They lost their regional semifinal game last night to Prairie. They were tied, 1-1 at the end of regulation and then in the next inning lost. Meg is known for her speed. In this video clip she hits to the infield an...
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July 10, 2021
We were supposed to fly and then glow at Kernoustie golf course for the kickoff of Mt Vernon Heritage days but Mother Nature had other plans. After the rains there was a beautiful double rainbow and then the bagpipers played!
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July 9, 2021
We flew last night. We launched out in the country and landed in town. It was very peaceful flying over the crops. My passengers bought the ride in 2019 at an action for Lost Hope, an animal rescue non profit and after many attempts the weather finally cooperated. Two of my balloons were flying. C...
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July 4, 2021
We flew again this morning. Last morning of the competition. It was a fun morning with lots of steerage. Great for spectators. Lots of scoring at the targets. We launched with Matt and he nailed the first target! Mathew had a ride this morning. Maggie met a new friend where we landed and met lots...
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July 3, 2021
We flew again this morning. We launched with Matt from the front yard of wonderful landowners. Tight spot but it worked out perfectly. 19.5 miles. Not the prettiest of flights but fun. Lots of tasks! Reid flew with me and took some of the pictures. Maggie was her usual self! Happy!
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July 3, 2021
Tonight’s flight is cancelled. Too windy!
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July 2, 2021
We had a sporty flight this morning. Reid took the photos of my launch. Four of us launched in the same field and after flying for 14.5 miles we all landed in the same field. The owner’s weren’t home so we carried two of the balloons out. Maggie ended up meeting a friend! Thanks to my wonderful c...
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July 2, 2021
We weren’t able to fly tonight because of wind but we did watch a plane make some lovely air art!
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July 1, 2021
We’re in Battle Creek,MI for the balloon competition. Last night we launched from the airport and landed in a park much to the delight of the neighborhood! We ended up with some very helpful crew! Maggie was delighted to be a part of the excitement! Thanks to all those who helped!
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June 17, 2021
The winds above the surface were too strong for a flight. We found a protected area and John had inflation training. Thanks to Reid, Jan, Kristen, Joel, Shari and Lucy for their help. Thanks to Miss Maggie for her continuing support.
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June 15, 2021
Weather cooperates and we flew this morning. Reid had a training flight. Cole was back in town for a few days and helped. It was great to have him part of the team again. We missed him. Thanks to Cole, David, John, Shari and Lucy for their help. A special thanks to Miss Maggie for her specialness!
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June 15, 2021
We waited til the winds died down and were able to fly. Ryan had another training flight. Hopefully the weather will hold so he can have a few more. Maggie was delighted to have Meg and Lisa show up at the landing. Shari and her dog, Lucy, added extra spice to the night!
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June 14, 2021
We flew last night in the Cedar Rapids/Marion area. Ryan had a lesson, the first time since the Derecho last August. It was great to see the crew come out and support him. Maggie as always was delighted to see everyone and can’t wait until we fly again!
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June 3, 2021
I was finally able to give Kenna, the young lady who came up with the name “Midnight Glory” for my balloon with the dog, cat, moon and stars on it, a balloon ride. She invited her grandparents from Wisconsin to go up with her! We had a beautiful flight over the Cedar Rapids/Marion area and much t...
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June 2, 2021
Light and variable flight this morning. We flew in circles. Reid and Ryan had burner time. We landed a quarter mile from where we launched. Thanks to the crew for their help and thanks to Miss Maggie for letting River sit on the bag with her!
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June 2, 2021
We had a beautiful flight last night. Chris G had a lesson including four landings. Thanks to the crew and Maggie, our mascot, for your help!
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May 31, 2021
Memorial Day 2021! In remembrance of all our fallen heroes. Last night the weather cooperated and Reid had a lesson. We had lot of crew who added their support both physical and emotional. Miss Maggie added her usual charm and exuberance.! We flew over areas where you could still see effects of l...
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May 30, 2021
We tethered for a graduation party yesterday. Typical ballooning. We had to wait until the gusty winds died down. A special thanks to Brian Bennet who helped out with his balloon. Thanks to Reid for the panoramic shot. We packed up in the dark with Maggie’s help! Dinner was late and Jayden, our n...
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May 13, 2021
Another beautiful flight over our area last night. The high was sitting over us so it was very slow and variable! Every flight has its own adventure and this one was no different. After we packed up we found out the battery was dead in the chase vehicle. Thanks to Reid and his jumper cables we we...
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May 12, 2021
Beautiful flight this morning over Cedar Rapids and Marion. We had frost on the ground at launch and it warmed up nicely from there. My passenger had tried 20+ times before weather finally cooperated. We really appreciated her patience. Thanks to my crew for getting up early to help! As always, M...
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May 10, 2021
The very windy, gusty day calmed by flight time and we were able to fly on Mother’s Day. My passengers were a grandmother and her granddaughter who planned to take a flight for many many years and finally, successfully accomplished their dream. We landed in the NE part of Marion much to the delig...
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May 1, 2021
Finally! Last night a day of calm. A day to fly. A training flight for Chris. We went to three different launch sites because of the variable shifting winds. Matt was flying Cost Cutters, his first flight of the year. And, Maggie was in heaven being with her friends again! Thanks to my wonderful...
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April 4, 2021
We had a beautiful flight over the Cedar Rapids area. A special thanks to Kevin Kamp who made it possible for me to take Ben and his dad, Nick for a ride. It was Ben’s first flight after crewing for several years. We also have a new crew member, Chapi, who was very good at helping pack up the bal...
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April 2, 2021
We had a beautiful April Fools Day flight. Hanging out with the crew made the chilly day seem warmer than it was. Both Reid and Chris celebrated birthdays and Maggie celebrated being back with her favorite people. Thanks to all who helped.
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March 14, 2021
What a great night! Back in the air again. Thank you to my wonderful crew. Maggie gives you a huge “thank you” for making her life meaningful again!
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December 27, 2020
We celebrated Boxing Day by going ballooning! We launched in Marion and landed in Hiawatha. We picked up some new crew at landing. Five brothers helped pack up and get the balloon loaded in the trailer. They were so helpful, inquisitive and fun. I hope we see them again! Maggie was delighted to s...
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December 10, 2020
Santa had such a great time checking on the boys and girls in the Marion area last week he took a break from getting all the toys ready for Christmas and booked another ride with us. He had a delightful time waving and shouting greetings to all the people he saw and all the dogs! Thank you to my...
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December 6, 2020
Santa was checking his “naughty and nice” list and needed another look at the kids in Marion so booked a ride with me this afternoon. He seemed to be very pleased with what he saw. Thanks to all my crew, some who were there to see Santa up close! Special thanks to Maggie.
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December 3, 2020
Santa made an appearance today over Marion in my hot air balloon. Santa waved and sent greetings to many, many excited children and adults alike. Thanks to my wonderful crew for taking great care of Santa. Here’s to many more Santa flights. Thanks Maggie!
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November 22, 2020
Happy Montgolfier Day! We celebrated with a flight. Thanks to Reid, Jan, Kristen and Tom for helping launch the balloon. It was a special treat to give Jan and Kristen a ride on the anniversary of man’s first flight. Joel, Jon, Adam and Jessi were all there for our landing and so was a very charm...
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November 18, 2020
Another November flight. We had some cloud cover. As we flew and looked back toward the west there was a sliver of clear sky. After we landed and as the sun set the clouds were highlighted by the beautiful setting sun. Thank you Bill, Chris, Reid and John for your help. A special thanks to Ken wh...
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November 14, 2020
Friday the 13th flight! Beautiful, sunny, cool afternoon. Thanks to Chris, John, Reid, Dave and Thomas for making it happen. Thanks to Maggie for keeping us grounded.
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November 6, 2020
Flying in November with 70 degree temps and light winds! What could be better than that! Beautiful flight over the Cedar Rapids/Marion landscape. Saw a lot of damage from the August 10th derecho as we flew over but as terrible as it was there are still a lot of trees standing. The light was so bea...
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October 29, 2020
We flew yesterday. A chilly but beautiful, sunny day. Chris needed a biannual flight review and because of the cold weather we were able to fly in Alley Cat. I thought it was appropriate being this close to Halloween. Thanks to our crew and Maggie for making it happen!
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October 25, 2020
Chris and I both had a chance to fly tonight. The winds were variable which made for an interesting flight. Jan and Kristen flew with me and we landed in a park in Marion and met wonderful young spectators who helped us pack up the balloon. Maggie was in love. I think she kissed each and everyone...
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October 18, 2020
We had a great time road tripping to Natchez for their 35 annual balloon event this past weekend. It was not the typical event because of social distancing and weather didn’t cooperate but we did get to fly Saturday night and some of us were able to glow. We ate a lot, saw the sites & took a side...
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October 5, 2020
Another great flight last night in the Marion area. Thanks to my passengers, crew and Maggie for making it special.
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October 4, 2020
After several weeks of not flying weather finally cooperated and we flew Friday night. It was a slow night and after climbing to 2,000’ and not going anywhere I dropped down and headed back toward the launch site and ended up landing about a quarter of a mile from where I took off. Thanks to the...
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September 14, 2020
Ballooning is always an adventure. We arrived at the launch site and after setting off several pibals discovered we had a flat tire on the chase vehicle. Fortunately we parked very close to an area where we could launch. As I found out later changing the tire became its own adventure. It was a be...
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September 6, 2020
It’s been almost 4 weeks since we’ve flown in the Cedar Rapids area. It was great to be in the air but sad to see the destruction from the derecho that hit the area on August 10, so many homes impacted, so many blue tarps, so many downed trees and an extreme thinning of the beautiful canopy of tr...
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August 24, 2020
We flew again last night in the Anamosa area to the delight of the people who live there. Matt flew Cost Cutters, Chris H flew Buzzards Glory. Congratulations to Peter K who flew and passed his check flight and is now a private balloon pilot. Is was wonderful to share the skies with him. Thank yo...
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August 22, 2020
We went back to the Anamosa area and flew last night. I took Jayden for a ride in my new balloon. She used to live in Anamosa so it was fun having her be my tour guide. Chris H flew Buzzards Glory and gave John a ride. Peter K was flying solo in the third balloon practicing before he takes his ch...
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August 20, 2020
I needed a mental health day after dealing with the devastation from the derecho that hit Cedar Rapids a week ago Monday. I’m so very sorry for everyone and anyone who’s lost anything in this latest tragedy. We went to Anamosa to fly. The damage there was minimal compared Cedar Rapids/ Marion my...
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August 5, 2020
Three flights in a row! Fabulous! Reid had another training flight this morning across the city Thanks for those who helped and Maggie thanks you for her special ride!
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August 5, 2020
Beautiful hour and a half long flight over the country side. Thanks to all the crew for their hard work!
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August 4, 2020
A beautiful, cool morning for a flight. Chris H gave Joel a well deserved ride. We were able to watch Peter K do an excellent job flying solo. I had a wonderful relaxing time with my passenger. And! Maggie enjoyed herself chasing bunnies and cats! Thanks to the crew for their help!
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August 1, 2020
We were able to fly this morning after a week of sitting on the ground! Beautiful morning! Great passengers, great crew and as always great mascot. Thanks to all who helped. It was fun watching Peter on his solo flight this morning! Very proud of him!
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July 25, 2020
Last night, we had to wait for the wind to die down to fly which it ended up doing and it allowed Ryan to have a short training flight. Thanks to our faithful and loyal crew for hanging with us. Maggie thanks all her fans!
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July 25, 2020
We flew again last night. Matt flew passengers for me in Cost Cutters and Chris G gave one of our well deserving crew a ride. Maggie met new friends including a beautiful Collie. It was a great flight across Marion/Cedar Rapids! Thank you crew for making it happen!
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July 23, 2020
Another successful ballooning adventure with Maggie. Reid had a training flight this morning with three landings. Great job. Thanks to the always wonderful crew!
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July 23, 2020
Maggie was the star of the night even though Ryan had a great lesson. Thank you to our fabulous crew!
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July 20, 2020
We did a training flight with Reid this morning. Perfect morning for contour flying as well as practicing landings. Beautiful morning. Thanks to Maggie and the crew!
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July 20, 2020
Ballooning is always an adventure. Chris and I both flew last night. I had an easy landing in town and Chris landed in a remote area in the country with the nicest landowners, a three generation farm. Thank you to the landowners, crew and Miss Maggie . Here’s to many more adventures!
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July 17, 2020
Some shots from our flight last night in the Cedar Rapids/Marion area. Beautiful flight with our passengers, crew and mascot! Thanks for everyone’s help.
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July 7, 2020
We were able to fly again last night . Ryan had another lesson including two landings. His final landing was by a pond behind a house. The landowner used his four wheeler to carry the ballon out. Thanks to the crew and Maggie!
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July 5, 2020
A great flight to close out the 4th. We flew over the city as fireworks were going off below. What a site! Reid had his second lesson. Thank you crew & thank you Maggie!
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July 4, 2020
Happy 4th of July! Great way to start the holiday! We flew two balloons this morning. Chris G flew Buzzards Glory and I gave Ryan H a lesson. Thanks to all the crew for their support! Thanks to our mascot! We hope to fly again this evening!
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July 4, 2020
We flew again tonight! Two days in a row. Hope it continues! Fabulous night! Great passengers, crew, landowner and mascot! Thank you all!
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July 3, 2020
We flew last night. Four balloons in the air. We had to patiently wait for the weather to cooperate but it was worth it. Thanks to my wonderful crew and thanks to Maggie for her sweetness! Great start to the July 4th weekend!
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June 26, 2020
Last night the winds were a little too strong above the surface to take passengers. Karol, from Freedom Fest hoped to do a live feed of us lifting off instead we waited until the surface winds were calm enough, inflated the balloons and held them on the ground for half an hour. Three of the four...
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June 25, 2020
We’ve haven’t been flying lately because we’ve been dealing with too much wind and rain so it was a welcome change to have the weather cooperate this morning. It allowed us to fly two balloons, CRB&T and Buzzards Glory. We launched in Cedar Rapids and landed on the east side of Marion. Our wonder...
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June 13, 2020
Very happy to be in the air last night even though it was very slow with variable winds. Here’s to many more flights! Thanks to the crew for making it possible!
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May 30, 2020
After all the wind and rain we were finally able able to fly this morning along side Cost Cutters piloted by Matt! Chris H had an instructional flight and did very well as did the crew. Maggie was her usual entertaining self and was delighted to be with her friends again. We hope weather will hol...
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May 16, 2020
We flew last night with calm winds and beautiful sunshine. Tuesday was Cole’s 21st birthday so we celebrated by giving him a ride. We’re limiting number of crew and insisting everyone wear a mask among other restrictions. Maggie’s the only exception (she’s a dog). We’re slowly opening up and for...
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April 8, 2020
Our beautiful balloons are grounded during the pandemic. Hopefully we’ll be in the skies soon. In the meantime Maggie and I are walking daily. These are images we saw this morning on our walk. I’m not sure who the artist is but I would like to thank them for creating beauty during this stressful...
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March 7, 2020
Yesterday was the third flight in my new balloon and the first in the Cedar Rapids/ Marion area. Thanks to my crew for making it possible. Special thanks to Reid for the pictures of my balloon.
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March 1, 2020
Maiden flight this morning of my new balloon at the “Up Up And Away” event in Lakeland, FL. Thanks to my crew, Bill, Reid, Ryan, Lauren and Maggie for helping out. Pictures of my balloon courtesy of Johnny Petrehn
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January 30, 2020
We were at Lindstrand balloons in Galena today and watched while they did the test inflation on my beautiful new balloon.
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January 3, 2020
Another training flight with Chris H this afternoon. Beautiful light! First of many flights planned for 2020
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December 28, 2019
We flew two balloons this afternoon. Beautiful day for flying this late in the year. Chris G took his two sons. Chris H and I had a training flight. Fun time with all our crew and of course our perfect mascot!
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December 24, 2019
Merry Christmas! Yesterday afternoon weather cooperated enough so we were able to fly Santa. Hollywood Bob/Santa along with his Elves provided entertainment for young and old alike. To the delight of several families we landed in Hanna Park in Marion where Santa provided joy to the kids.
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December 5, 2019
We tried to take Santa for a ride today but Mother Nature had other ideas. We’ll try again tomorrow!
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November 23, 2019
Chris G took his wife Erica for a balloon ride last night. It’s was his first passenger as PIC! He launched from the Marion airport and landed in a cut bean field! Congratulations!
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November 20, 2019
Chris G took his check flight in Louisville, KY this morning, passed and is now a private balloon pilot! Congrats! Welcome to the club!
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November 10, 2019
Chris G was able to get in a short solo flight last yesterday and we ended the with an incredible sunset.
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October 19, 2019
Last night was a beautiful night for a flight. Chris & Susan were both able to fly. Maggie was in heaven. She met a lot of new friends. New friends who helped us pack up Chris’s balloon!
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October 15, 2019
First time for a wedding in the basket mid-flight. Susan officiated, Julie and Billie decorated. Here’s a few pictures from the evening. Congratulations to the happy couple!
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October 15, 2019
This mornings training flight with both of the Chris’s. Reid’s first balloon inflation
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October 13, 2019
The wind finally dropped and we were able to glow at Bass Farms last night!
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October 5, 2019
From our flight Friday morning! We recruited a new junior crew
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September 23, 2019
We spent the weekend at the Forest Park event in St. Louis with Arcis Golf as our sponsor for the third year in a row. Friday night’s glow was hampered by storms and wind. We were one of 27 out of 65 balloons that inflated. Saturday night’s flight was cancelled due to high winds. We ended up doin...
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September 17, 2019
Winds were a little too strong above the surface to fly so we ended up glowing along Highway 30.
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September 17, 2019
The sky cleared yesterday afternoon and we ending up flying. We landed in Marion. We had a lot of unexpected but very welcome help packing up. A wonderful time in the neighborhood!
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September 11, 2019
We had a 60 degree shift in winds so cancelled our flight.
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September 6, 2019
Chris soloed again Wednesday night. Launched in Springville and landed in a large side yard out in the country.
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September 2, 2019
Unexpected flight last night. Earlier forecast looked extremely doubtful. Beautiful view of Cedar rapids from the air.
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August 31, 2019
Beautiful night, last night, flying over Cedar Rapids.
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August 25, 2019
We inflated for Shueyville Lords Acre Fundraiser this morning. Ryan lost a bet and ended up in the dunk tank. Great fresh cinnamon roles and Kolaches.
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August 23, 2019
It was a beautiful flight across northern part of Marion, Cedar Rapids and Hiawatha last night. Matt and Susan launched side by side and landed about 200’ apart! Took Adam’s mother and father for a ride before they head back to New Jersey tomorrow.
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August 21, 2019
Winds were very slow in Cedar Rapids tonight. All our PiBals went straight up so we cancelled the flight and glowed instead. Chris G did a great job!
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August 20, 2019
Both Chris and Susan were able to fly last night!
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August 19, 2019
Weather not good enough to fly, so glowing instead. 🙂
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August 5, 2019
Congrats Chris on your first solo flight last night. Happy to have a lot of crew there to wish their fellow crew mate good luck!
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August 3, 2019
Defiance, OH this morning! Chris found out what it’s like when winds dramatically change direction in competition! Gorgeous flight! Fabulous landowners . Made coffee for us from freshly ground beans.
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August 1, 2019
Last night Ryan had his first training flight over Marion!
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July 31, 2019
We got to fly tonight! Beautiful night in Cedar Rapids/Marion area.
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July 26, 2019
July 25: Morning training flight over the Cedar Rapids/Marion area.
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July 14, 2019
Last night training flight across Cedar Rapids.
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July 12, 2019
Last night’s flight and glow at Kernoustie Golf Course in Mt Vernon, IA. Kickoff for Mt Vernon Heritage Days, which starts today!
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July 8, 2019
Honorary crew member, George, learning the ropes.
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July 7, 2019
Battle Creek “Field of Flight” 2019
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October 7, 2018
Chris completes the final step toward his hot air balloon pilot license with an FAA check ride in Louisville, Kentucky.
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August 3, 2018
Susan remembers the informal gatherings at Jim Birk's lake that grew into the Defiance Hot Air Balloon Festival, complete with balloons, crew, competitions, and plenty of fun.
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July 9, 2018
Susan reflects on the Battle Creek balloon competition, explains competitive ballooning, and says goodbye to longtime Balloon Meister and friend Jim "Birk".
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June 26, 2018
Susan's friend Jack, visiting from the UK, joins Buzzard's Glory for an excellent balloon ride during his U.S. travels.
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May 31, 2018
Susan combined two of her passions — tennis and ballooning — for a gathering at the Hammond house, where weather kept the balloon on a tether but did not stop the fun.
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May 15, 2018
Chris gets more solo flying time as he works toward his private pilot license, with a familiar launch site, a solid landing, and Maggie on duty.
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May 8, 2018
A beautiful evening flight from Valley View Baptist Church, with Lisa and Julie in the basket and the crew close behind.
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May 7, 2018
The new Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust balloon gets its first test inflation at the Lindstrand Balloon Factory in Galena.
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April 26, 2018
A beautiful spring flight from Butterfield Park in Marion, with Ryan and Julie along for the ride and a landing near Edith Lucille's.
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April 20, 2018
The wind kept the balloons on the ground, but the crew still found plenty to celebrate for Mathew's 17th birthday.
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April 4, 2018
Photos from the Lindstrand Balloons factory show the new Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust balloon taking shape.
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March 19, 2018
Maggie and Susan head to Galena for Maggie's first visit to the Lindstrand Balloon Factory and to check on Susan's new balloon.
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March 18, 2018
Another great March flying day, launching from Antioch Christian Church and landing in Squaw Creek Park.
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March 17, 2018
Buzzard's Glory opens the 2018 flying season on Saint Patrick's Day with a short but memorable flight.
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July 6, 2015
Battle Creek 2015 Mascot Sam and crew Flying with other balloons
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July 11, 2011
Playing with a new app. This was taken last night before we flew!!
Read the FlightJuly 5, 2011
Last night was a beautiful night to fly over North Liberty in the new Cost Cutters Balloon!
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