The Jackson Michigan Hot Air Jubilee is an event that is a must for the community. Laid-back, interactive, and entertaining events are going on all weekend long during this event, typically held in July. The weather is usually warm and the storms are unpredictable. It's always a 50% chance that the balloons will get to fly, but the other things going on around the event can make those times of non-flight interesting. From the nearby carnival to music and car shows, there is always something to do throughout the entire weekend. 

     On July 9, 2015, I was blessed to be a part of the media event which occurs about a week and a half before the actual event. It really holds the attention of those of us that have the ability to reach out to the population in and around Jackson. On that evening, I was paired up with a pilot, Tyler Jaques, of the Post (TM) team. I was able to tumble into a basket and fly for nearly 50 minutes over the southeast part of Jackson County. The flight was calm, relaxing and full of photographic opportunities. Mostly, because of the excellent pilot at the burst and vent controls.

     The big weekend of the event was July 17-19, 2015, and boy, was I looking forward to it. Although I wouldn't be flying during the event, nothing could have kept me from attending it. My first contact would be the Post (TM) balloon due to the fact that Tyler provided me with an experience I wouldn't ever forget. This picture (above) was taken on the launch field as the balloon was being inflated. Many hands are helping with this job, as it seems to go up effortlessly. Everyone knows their position, and they all do their jobs well. 

     I especially like the dual saw blades at the top. I'm not sure why, exactly, but it captures my attention every time. This shot was taken with the camera sitting on the tipped over basket as it was receiving gusts of air from a nearby fan. It's just one of those shots that can't typically be taken from someone along the outside of the launch field, and I hope this allows those that are interested to get a better view of what the pilots and crew get to see every time it inflates. Sometimes, those details are lost in the ritual of ballooning. I still find every aspect of the possibility of flight on a balloon exciting.