🎈 May/June Newsletter – A Sky Full of Yay! 🎈

The last two months have been a whirlwind of weather challenges, unforgettable adventures, and exciting growth for our team. Here’s a look back at all the fun we had along the way:

🌅 Gulf Coast Balloon Festival Highlights

Although Mother Nature had other plans for flight, the Gulf Coast Balloon Festival still brought us glowing balloons and glowing hearts. The evening glows were a crowd favorite, lighting up the sky with color and joy—even without liftoffs. Laska made a stunning appearance, drawing smiles from everyone who watched her shine.

One of the true highlights was our time with the local elementary school kids. Their boundless excitement and curiosity made even the rain feel like sunshine. It was a reminder that ballooning is about more than flying—it’s about connection, wonder, and shared joy.

We were also incredibly grateful to share this time with our amazing local crew and dear friend Jan Wagoneer. As always, Jan brought the hugs, laughter, and sunshine we needed to lift our spirits. Her presence was a gift, especially as she prepares to set off on her next great adventure around the world. We know Fred would be proud of her continued courage, joy, and dedication to the ballooning spirit.

And as always, ballooning brings people together—we met some wonderful new friends who we’re sure will be part of future adventures. The weather may have grounded us, but the memories and connections took flight.

🌴 Orlando Adventures

Our Orlando trip may have been short on balloon flights—thanks once again to some stubborn weather—but it was overflowing with inspiration and connection. Before the skies changed their attitude, Rob made sure to sneak in one special flight, giving our favorite website guy an unforgettable aerial reminder over Orlando of why we do what we do..

Even a rainy Mother’s Day couldn’t dampen our spirits as we explored the magic of SeaWorld with our balloon family: Matt and Nicol Hunter, and Rob and Hunter Nutting.

Between dolphin sightings, laughter, and soggy sneakers, we carved out time to collaborate, share ideas, and dream big. From creative concepts for the Ranch to planning surprise projects, our minds were just as full as our hearts.

Sometimes all it takes is a change of scenery to spark a fresh perspective—and this trip did exactly that.

⛰️ Helen to the Atlantic – Beauty, Balloons, and a Bit of Rain

This year’s Helen to the Atlantic event was filled with breathtaking views, unpredictable weather, and unforgettable stories. We kicked things off with stunning static displays and a peaceful flight over the Sautee Valley, where calm, variable winds allowed some of us to float gently across the field—without ever leaving it!

For the pilots chasing the Atlantic, Day 1 was a bit of a tease. Light winds kept them close to home, but it set the stage for Friday’s big push. Mark Meyer flew for several hours and came back with some wild stories (just ask him—or the Sawin family and Missy—about the recoveries… they’ve seen some things). Steve Stokoe gave Mark a run for his money, and while Jonathan Wright didn’t go the distance, he won big with some fantastic landowner connections—proof that the journey matters just as much as the finish line.

Despite bouts of rain, we managed to stand balloons on the field nearly every time, sharing the joy with the public and creating memories that made the mud and puddles worth it. Our chase crews had their own adventures, learning where to park in a field… and where not to. (IYKYK!)

This year also marked record-breaking attendance, thanks in large part to the incredible work of Catherine and Cole—they never fail to make this event something special. And of course, no trip to Helen is complete without some lazy river tubing to wind down the weekend.

🎉 Huge congratulations to Mark Meyer, Steve Stokoe, and Jonathan Wright on an incredible race!

🤠 Maverick Week at the Ranch

The Maverick Group joined us at the Ranch for a full week packed with training, bonding, and unforgettable moments. Huge shout out to Lauren, Sophia, and Jenna for helping make it all happen—we couldn’t have done it without you!

We kicked things off with hands-on experience: bringing out a balloon for inspection, inflation, and tethering in the back field when the winds were too light and the hour too late to fly. It gave everyone a chance to refresh their skills and ease into the week. From student pilots just beginning their journey to those working toward their commercial license, each Maverick came with a unique goal—and left with progress.

While flying every day would’ve been a dream, Mother Nature had other plans. Still, we made the most of every opportunity. One incredible flight and another valuable attempt taught us more than just how to fly—they reminded us how important it is to respect the weather. It’s always better to be on the ground wishing you were in the air, than in the air wishing you were on the ground.

The weather gave us the perfect excuse to focus on friendships, study sessions, and well-earned rest. We still packed our days full—with hikes through Providence Canyon, a visit to a retirement home for a static balloon display, teaching the Youth Glider Group how balloons work and how they are affected by thermals, and plenty of fun: bowling, swimming, volleyball, rescuing animals, and good old-fashioned board games.

We kept Hunter and Brooklyn in the loop by leaving video messages through the cameras so they’d know how much they were missed. And each evening, we paused to soak in the stunning sunsets and reflect on the day’s adventures.

The week was a perfect mix of laughter, learning, food, and fresh friendships—and we even managed to record our very first podcast!

🎓 BFA Balloon Camp – Passing the Torch

After an incredible week (or more) at the Ranch, many members of the Maverick Group headed straight to BFA Balloon Camp, ready to share their passion and experience with the next generation of balloonists.

They brought not only their skills but also their heart—forming new bonds, mentoring young pilots, and igniting a spark in the future of our sport. Watching them step into these roles with such joy and purpose made us incredibly proud.

Building a balloon family is something special. It’s the family you choose—the people you share the skies, the stories, and the passion with. The Maverick Group reminded us that the future of ballooning is in good hands.

We can’t wait to see what the next generation of balloon pilots will bring to the skies!

🎉 Congratulations, Hunter Nutting!

A huge congratulations to Hunter Nutting, who recently took to the skies in Iowa and confidently passed his check ride, earning his Private LTA Certificate! From day one, we knew Hunter had what it takes, and he proved it—navigating this next chapter of his ballooning journey with skill, focus, and heart.

Now officially a licensed pilot, Hunter will continue logging hours as he sets his sights on earning his Commercial Certificate. One of his dreams? Flying a racer in competition—and we have no doubt he’ll be chasing down that goal with the same determination and passion he’s shown so far.

Way to go, Hunter! The sky’s the limit—literally.

☀️ Wrapping Up: A Sky Full of Yay!

It’s been a “sky full of yay” these past two months—packed with weather curveballs, plenty of laughs, and incredible moments of growth. We wouldn’t trade the chaos for anything.

Looking ahead, we’re excited for what July and August have in store. Kiern is preparing to take his check ride in Iowa, Jett is headed to Nationals, and the Maverick Group is hitting the road, popping up everywhere with new adventures.

We can’t wait to hear all the amazing stories they’ll bring back. Here’s to soaring higher—together!