Colorful sight returning to Nebraska skies

Nebraska may not have the Rocky Mountains or great surfing beaches but one thing we do have is an abundance of clear blue skies.

What better way to show them off than as a backdrop for a fleet of multicolored hot-air balloons?

That's what's on tap for this year's McCook Balloon Fest, scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 8-9.

Anyone who's attended a balloon festival knows it's a great social event as well as spectacular display.

Founder John Kugler said 13 pilots are already registered to fly, and the total could reach as high as 20 for this year's event.

Balloon fans will recognize the names of many of them, from previous appearances in McCook or other balloon festivals.

They include Gary Born of Colorado Springs, Dennis Brown of Denver, Bob Bryant of Cheyenne, Wyo., Don Dougherty of Colorado, Gordon Emry of Cozad, Matthew Grote of Omaha, Scot Nash of Rapid City, S.D., Elaine LaCroix of Omaha, Kathy McCoy of Cozad, Marv McKinley of Wheat Ridge, Colo., Dewe Reinhard of Colorado Springs and Ken Tadolini of Denver.

Of course, any balloon ascent depends on the weather, which makes a successful flight that much more of a treat.

And, any successful event depends on sponsors, and the McCook Balloon Fest is no exception.

All area businesses are welcome to participate, and Gondola Level sponsors receive the opportunity to experience ballooning first hand with hot air balloon rides during the event.

For information on how to become a sponsor, contact Linda Henthorn at (308) 345-2280 or visit http:// www.mccook ballonfest.com.