Special Recognitions for Balloon Fest Volunteers and Pilots
Each year at a breakfast for Pilots and Sponsors, we take time to recognize pilots, sponsors, volunteers, and committee members. This year included the following milestones:
Becky Castellari for 30 Years serving on the Steering Committee
Dimond Bros. Insurance for 20 Years as a Balloon Fest Sponsor
Kaskaskia College for 20 Years as a Balloon Fest Sponsor
Withers Broadcasting for 20 Years as a Balloon Fest Sponsor
Macz Funeral Homes for 30 Years as a Balloon Fest Sponsor
Jim Phelan for 25 Years as a Balloon Fest Pilot
In addition, there were also three individuals who are recognized for their 35+ years of commitment to Balloon Fest. Each has been involved since the beginning, even if they were not officially on the committee, and each have retired from their respective industries.
Mike England, pilot, retired from commercial hot air ballooning in Phoenix, Arizona. Originally from Illinois, Mike returns each year to visit with his family and hot air balloon friends. He has been a staple of Balloon Fest and will continue to mentor new pilots in future years.
Susie Robbins, committee, retired from her professional career as the director of emergency services at St. Mary's Hospital, but continues to serve at the capacity of First Aid. In recent years, she has also helped with the Free Bike Helmet Giveaway sponsored by SSM Health St. Mary's Foundation.
David Sachtleben, committee, retired as the Foundation Park superintendent. From electricity, plumbing, lighting, security, and park maintenance, he has been instrumental behind the scenes to make sure Balloon Fest happens. Along with his wife Stephanie Sachtleben, they love the event and have helped over the years with several aspects of planning and improvements.
We appreciate all of the special recognitions for their decades of support!
Also during the breakfast, Brad Haege was selected as this year’s High Fly pilot. This award is for those who exemplify the spirit of hot air ballooning and championing for hot air balloon education. Brad started as a balloon sponsor, was on the board of directors for the chamber of commerce, then joined the steering committee, was chair of Balloon Fest in 2021, and became a hot air balloon pilot soon after. Brad lives in Nashville, Illinois, but considers Centralia his second home. He goes above and beyond in each role he has carried and continues to promote Centralia Balloon Fest and the community at every chance he can. Congratulations, Brad, for the great work!
During the High Fly presentation, Patty Williams recognized John Stuehmeier for his contributions to Balloon Fest and our community:
"Whether you knew him as a former mayor, a city councilman, co-owner of the Shopper’s Weekly Newspaper, a member of various boards and commissions, an animal activist, a theater performer, a balloon enthusiast, the town historian, or just a warm and caring man – John Wesley Stuehmeier was every one of these things and so much more."
"The ultimate Balloon Fest supporter, John, along with Cathy and the Shopper’s Weekly, were instrumental in creating the High Fly Cup, awarded to exceptional pilots, and the Tip of the Hat Award, which recognizes outstanding community contributions."
A huge thank you to all 23 sub-committees that each have a special role in the success of Balloon Fest. Many of these sub-committees could be an event all on their own: car show, children's day, craft fair, food truck event, hot air balloon event, and live entertainment. The only way we can have an event as big as Balloon Fest is due to the efforts, time, and support of the people on our steering committee! Thank you all for your dedication and hard work!
Car Show - Jamie and Jeremy Arenz
Cardboard Boat Races - Ethan Mahle and DG Cushman
Chamber Store - Nicole Lyons and Chamber Staff
Children's Activities - Ellie McClelland and Dimi Resch
Crafts - Terri Dobbs, Pam Logullo, David Knipping, and Jody Fear
Entertainment - Neil Miller and Israel Fontanez
First Aid - Susie Robbins and Tammy Donoho
Food / Ice - Josh Day, Ashley Campbell, Becca Deomes, and Justin Evans
Gates & Finance - Misty Meyer and Elizabeth Boozer
Grounds & Maintenance - Greg Schwarz, Brandon Beaver, Doug and Dana Lambert
Marketing - Nikki Holland and Chamber Staff
Park Announcers - Jason Cass and Kyle Blanchard
Parking - Lucas Parke and Kristy Claar
Pilot Liaison - Patty Williams and Brad Haege
Pilot Registration - Stephanie Sachtleben and Leslie Beard
Pilot/Sponsor Brunch - Jennifer Castellari and Karisa Neudecker
Security - Sharon Schwartz and Alan Betters
Signs/Banners - Anthony Harting and JJ Resch
Shuttles - Anna Lange and Gretchen Douglas
Site Electrician - James Hill (EFI Solutions)
Site Superintendent - Ben Nowak
Tethered Balloon Rides - Becky Castellari and JJ DeMattei
Volunteers & Gates - Laci Koester, Hannah Wood, Lily and Tracy Francois