WHEREAS, in 1979 Jim and Haverly Marshall moved to Plano and set up the Balloon Academy of Texas. A love for hot air balloons inspired him to offer balloon rides to those attending the city’s 4th of July celebration, and this simple act led to the launch of the annual Plano Balloon Festival; and

WHEREAS, over the past four decades, the love of hot air balloons has grown exponentially in Plano. Citizens of all ages and visitors alike continue to be mesmerized by the many beautiful hot air balloons dotting the Plano skies each fall during the balloon festival. This signature event has attracted hundreds of thousands of visitors to Plano and an untold multitude of local residents enjoy the privilege of watching the balloons from their own backyards, nearby parks and neighborhood gathering places over the years; and

WHEREAS, hosting this successful annual event is a huge undertaking that engages our entire city. Our businesses, non-profits, faith-based groups, and countless others comprise the feet on the ground to work the festival while our hotels, restaurants, and retailers greet and extend exceptional service to all who explore beyond the festival to enjoy the many amenities the City of Excellence has to offer; and

WHEREAS, this year’s kick-off event starts on Thursday evening with a special outdoor concert performance by the Plano Symphony Orchestra led by Maestro Hector Guzman. This show will allow our community to honor our symphony’s milestone 40-year anniversary in a memorable way.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOHN B. MUNS, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF PLANO, TEXAS, do hereby proclaim Thursday, September 22 through Sunday, September 25, 2022 as H-E-B I Central Market Plano Balloon Festival Days in Plano, and I do thereby encourage all citizens to join me and the Plano City Council in inviting everyone to come to the Balloon Capital of Texas for this wonderful event!