Hot air balloons dotted the skies over Santa Paula in a weekend event that drew pilots from across Southern California and hundreds of onlookers.
Spectators gathered on the tarmac at Santa Paula Airport before dawn and watched as balloons were filled with hot air. As the pilots took to the sky, some in baskets and others in hanging sling-like chairs, they waved to the crowd.
The event was held by the Southern California Balloon Association as part of its annual meeting. Efforts were spearheaded by Peggy Watson-Meinke, balloon pilot from Santa Paula. She noted previous annual meetings were held in hot weather climes like Riverside County.
“It’s 20 degrees cooler than down there,” she said of the Santa Paula location, noting that still warm temperatures
dictated flights be held early in the morning.
About 10 pilots took to the air each morning. The Flying Spoon restaurant opened early both days and drew a packed crowd.
Some area residents volunteered to serve as crew members. At least a couple of people talked their way into balloon rides, including Irasha Talifero of Ojai.
“I was so high up in the air, I felt like a bird,” she said.
Visit vcstar.com for more photos and video of the hot air balloons.
Tom Kisken covers health care and other news for the Ventura County Star. Reach him at tom.kisken@vcstar.com.
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This article originally appeared on Ventura County Star: Hot air balloons soar over Santa Paula in weekend event
