[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 140 (Wednesday, October 2, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1902]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                24TH ANNUAL ADIRONDACK BALLOON FESTIVAL

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                         HON. GERALD B. SOLOMON

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, October 2, 1996

  Mr. SOLOMON. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call the Nation's attention 
to one of the world's most important outdoor events. I am extremely 
proud to announce that the 24th Annual Adirondack Balloon Festival was 
again held this autumn in my hometown, beautiful Glens Falls, NY. It is 
the largest, best-known event of its kind in the entire United States.
  Originally held in Queensbury, for the past 20 years the festival's 
home has been the industrial park adjacent to the Warren County 
airport. As they have for the past quarter century, balloonists from 
all over the globe will participate in this world-class event.
  The Adirondack Balloon Festival was the brainchild of public 
relations man Walter W. Grishkot of Glens Falls. He wanted to attract 
visitors to the scenic region in upstate New York. It was a stroke of 
brilliance: Each year, over 100,000 spectators flock to the region to 
see the balloons and a variety of other entertainment. Mr. Grishkot has 
provided a fall getaway to the historic Adirondack region for millions 
of folks over the years and in doing so has spurred the tourist 
industry for his friends and neighbors in the community.
  Mr. Speaker, I would like to commend Walt Grishkot for his great idea 
and welcome everyone to come up to Glens Falls, NY, for the Adirondack 
Balloon Festival, which still does not charge admission.

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