This year the weather was most cooperative with the balloonist and since we are experiencing a drought no chase vehicles should have gotten stuck. Once again thousands attended this major event for Longview. I was happy to assist by giving permission for them to use my farm. In fact, the Saturday AM race included a bean toss closest to the target which was in my pasture. Thirty nine pilots dropped their bean bags while my cattle and horse enjoyed the diversion. Much to the dismay of other farmers, my cattle do not stampede or run through fences. They act just like the rest of us, enjoying the activities. The balloons certainly decorate the skies in the area and provide family entertainment with endless photo opportunities, not to overlook the great contribution to the local economy.