press release
Tel: (516) 775-0435 ext 1
Cell: (516) 428-9327
E-mail: wjcorbett@corbettpr.com
(Phone numbers not for publication)
www.metronyballoonfest.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 20, 2007
CLUSTER BALLOONIST TO FLY ACROSS LI SOUND
AND AT BALLOON FESTIVAL
Cluster balloonist John Ninomiya will harness the force of 75 helium filled balloons to
lift-off in balloon race across LI Sound and at Metro NY Balloon & Music Festival
The world famous cluster balloonist John Ninomiya will participate in a spectacular balloon race across Long Island Sound scheduled for Wednesday, August 8th, weather and wind permitting (alternate date Thursday, August 9). The launch of 10 colorful hot air balloons and Mr. Ninomiya and his cluster of balloons will take place at 6:00 a.m. from Taylor Farm Park, Norwalk, CT. After landing on the North Shore of LI, he will prepare for more cluster balloon flights at the region’s largest summer event, the Metro NY Balloon & Music Festival at Brookhaven at Calabro Airport the weekend of August 10, 11 and 12.
Mr. Ninomiya’s boyhood dream was to fly with balloons. He did considerable research and developed a way to use the lift-force of several helium filled balloons to accomplish his desire to fly. A licensed pilot, Mr. Ninomiya will be harnessed into what is called a cloudhopper that consists of 75 or more balloons to make his ascension. Since helium expands as the cluster of balloons rise, it is very important for him to control his altitude and his descent. He uses water filled ballasts to control his flight and a handy knife to cut balloons away to help him maintain his altitude and descent. He uses his keen understanding of wind currents and the effect of temperature on his flights to be certain of a safe, easy landing.
Following the race, the Metro NY Balloon & Music Festival will offer a multitude of exciting fun and entertaining activities. There will be 50 colorful hot air balloons and the opportunity for tethered or flyaway balloon rides. The world class music performers appearing are Joan Jett & The Blackhearts, Friday, August 10th, with special guests Senses Fail and Head Automatica, co-headliners Big Head Todd & The Monsters and Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Saturday, August 11th and Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo, Sunday, August 12th with special guest Lennon. Grucci Fireworks will follow nightly performances.
The Festival will also include the Garcia Bros. Bilingual Big Top Circus; Carnival Midway by Newton Amusements; Home Improvement & Vacation Expo; Arts & Crafts Gallery; Automotive and Motorcycle Showcases; Metro Monster Truck Rally; BMX, Skate and Moto-Cross Teams; RE/MAX Skydiving Teams and NY Festival Food Court & Kiosks. For concert and Festival tickets and information go to www.metronyballoonfest.com or call (516) 794-4444.
Media Contact
Bill Corbett, Jr.
Tel: (516) 775-0435 x1
Cell: (516) 428-9327
E-mail: wjcorbett@corbettpr.com
(Phone numbers not for publication)
www.metronyballoonfest.com
