The Great Balloon Race is in full swing and last night I had the opportunity to fly up in the FM95 Sponsored hot air balloon. I flew with Deb Griest from Mom’s Toy out of Urbana, Illinois. Now, I have a pretty bad fear of heights, I can’t even stand Ferris Wheels or tall ladders. Although I was pretty scared, I didn’t want to pass up this opportunity, and I am so thankful for it. The take-off was pretty scary as I watched the ground become farther and farther away from me. After about 20 seconds, I didn’t feel scared anymore, I was in awe of how beautiful the view was. It was calm and peaceful as we floated away from Lake Storey. I asked Deb a few questions about what inspired her to become a hot air balloon pilot, and she said she had a friend who made her do it and she loved it. Deb has been piloting for 18 years and designed her own balloon pattern around the blue colon cancer ribbon, since she is a 15 year colon cancer survivor. As we descended to the ground, I could see cows and corn getting closer and closer, as the crew members drove to come and pick us up. We got lower and lower until crew members were able to grab our basket and lead us to a ditch, where they tipped the basket and rolled up the balloon. Regardless of how scared of heights I am, I wouldn’t miss another opportunity to fly in a hot air balloon again. It was absolutely incredible. More flights are scheduled for tonight at 6 p.m. and tomorrow at 6 a.m., but you can also see the hot air balloon glow at dusk tonight.
-Melissa Williams, 93.7 FM/1400 AM WGIL News Reporter
