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 Kids
and adults alike could visit the colorful balloon, touch the fabric,
and then walk through the mouth (the opening where the air is blown
in) to experience what it is like from the inside. Everyone could
also get up close to a hot air balloon basket. The basket on display
measured 42 by 58 inches and could hold 3 or 4 passengers.
No one had to worry about damaging the balloon since this one no
longer flies. Justin Hoffman explained that every year hot air
balloons must undergo a mandatory inspection that includes a pull
test and a stretch test. If the balloon shows signs of degradation
or a panel begins to come apart, the balloon must be retired unless
the panel can be replaced. The balloon on display did not pass its
annual inspection, so Hoffman takes it to communities and schools
for educational programs.
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Hoffman received his pilot’s license in 2021 after
instruction from Jim Phelan, but he said he has been around hot air
balloons since he was nine years old. He loves piloting hot air
balloons because “you can brighten up somebody’s day.” He said,
“When I go flying and passengers go up, I’m showing them God’s
creation.”
Hoffman added that “if you see a balloon [in the sky] and feel like
chasing it down, the balloonist would be glad to see you and happy
for your help.” Many people were happy to see and experience
Hoffman’s balloon on the ground.
[Stephanie Hall] |
