Balloonists at locations all across the United States (and possibly worldwide) joined together today in a release of pibal balloons to celebrate the life of Sid Cutter. The release of balloons was the idea of Longview, TX pilot Dr. Bill Bussey. He asked that balloon enthusiasts everywhere release balloons with a happy face and "Best of the Best" written on them. Bussey had said he hoped the rising balloons would alert Heaven to Cutter's coming arrival.

A final garden party was held at the Cutter home in Albuquerque with Jewel and Sid as hosts. After emails circulated announcing Sid's failing health resulted in a flood of well wishes Cutter reportedly said that if so many people wanted to see him one more time they should have a party. Bussey supplied 150 of his "Best of the Best" balloons and in true ballooning fashion the release took on a humorous note when many of the balloons flew straight into a tree. (See the video on Youtube here : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ARLL9k95zpo)

Cutter's accomplishments in ballooning are many but he is perhaps best known as co-founder of the world's largest balloon festival, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, that celebrates its 40th Anniversary this year.

God Speed Sid!