Plans are being finalized for the California Balloon Invitational, scheduled for Saturday, July 16 in California. The hot-air balloon race will be held at the Windmill Ridge Estates just off Business 50. The event will start at 12 p.m., with entertainment and vendors and the balloons scheduled to take flight in early evening.
Community business leaders have been very supportive and helpful in providing sponsorships to bring the hot-air balloon event to California. "As of this date, there are 16 hot-air balloons that will be participating," Ernie Timbrook, organizer of the event, said. "There are a couple more pilots available, if additional sponsors can be obtained." Sponsorship for the balloon includes two riders in a hot-air balloon during the competition flight; banners with your business logo on the hot-air balloon basket; free vendor space at the launch site; four tickets to the appreciation dinner/reception featuring Burgers' Smokehouse and Lutz BBQ, your business logo on the website and all promotional material and opportunity to be on the ground crew for your balloon.
If you are interested in becoming a sponsor or vendor, providing donations or gifts for the pilot gift bags and appreciation dinner or entertainment, you may contact Ernie Timbrook at 573-230-0884, or email at [email protected].
For additional information about the event, including vendor applications and volunteer opportunities, visit the website at www.californiaballoons.weebly.com or find them on Facebook.