The BFA Board recently unanimously approved the Balloon Event Guidelines. They are now available in pdf format for download, and all organizers, event officials and pilots are encouraged to review and become familiar with any of the publication's content pertinent to their needs. The publication contains a wealth of information for the novice as well as experienced individuals associated with hot air balloon events.
The Guidelines are just that, and those referencing the publication are encouraged to utilize the recommendations considering the event's local environment and work in concert with organizers and the event's primary officials including Event Director, Safety and Weather Officers in all matters of safety.
The Guidelines Chairman, Maury Sullivan, wishes to thank the Guidelines ad hoc committee, its advisors and contributors, the BFA Board and the entire ballooning community for all its support throughout this year- long process.
Sid Cutter, who, along with Tom Rutherford, founded the Albuqerque International Balloon Fiesta, has died. Sid reportedly passed peacefully in his sleep at about 1 am on Saturday, May 21, 2011. He had been fighting cancer for many months.
All good projects must come to an end as they say. I am stepping down as the Chair of the BFA Balloon Clubs Committee. I started this committee in 1994, I saw a need to get the clubs more involved in the BFA. I have always been under the opinion that if you are chair of something you should try to find your replacement. I have asked Mick Murphy in Litchfield, CT to be my replacement. Mick accepted.
