Posted on 07/03/2002 7:22:31 AM PDT by ReaganGirl
Many Americans are displaying flags to demonstrate their patriotism, but Pennsylvania couple Barry and Teri DiLibero are taking this show of pride one step further—with a large hot-air balloon shaped like the U.S. flag.
The United States Flag Balloon, first launched May 22, is booked for 10 appearances at balloon rallies and festivals throughout the Northeast this summer. The 124,000-cubic-foot balloon is an impressive sight. It is made of specially constructed rip-stop nylon and is 78 feet long, 53 feet tall, 29 feet deep, weighing 530 pounds.
"It flies much better than we expected. We expected it to fly like a brick," said Teri DiLibero, a self-described "political junkie." Beyond the awe-inspiring visual aspect of this project, the DiLiberos’ aim is to educate their audience as well. They pass out pocket editions of the Constitution to crowds at balloon rallies and other events, hoping to help Americans better understand their country.
"We live in an age where, sadly, students learn very little about the Constitution and even fewer have an understanding of the mindset of the framers. . . [Many students] have no idea why the 1st Amendment set America apart as a nation or why the document as a whole became the envy of the world and the reason that democracy has spread throughout the past two centuries," said Mrs. DiLibero, explaining why the couple wants to pass out as many copies of the Constitution as they can—at least 50,000.
The project, in the works since early 2001, has taken on greater meaning in a post-September 11 world. "Now, more than ever, we are excited about taking this balloon across the country as a reminder of the resolve of all Americans to hold firm to our love of the greatest country on earth," said Mrs. DiLibero.
More information about the balloon project can be found at http://www.usflagballoon.com.
Congratulations Teri and Barry.
Kudos to Teri (abner) and Barry (Victim of Circumstance).
Heck, just think what the Freeper Air Force could have done with this beast during the Clinton MalAdministration...
Enjoy your Independence Day -- will you be flying the Flag Balloon tomorrow?
Afraid not. RG Hubby and I are cooking out with friends and looking forward to sparklers and backyard fireworks with the neighborhood kids.
Have a happy 4th of July! God Bless America!
I'm going to have to check this out.
Today though, we will be in Center City Philadelphia with the US Flag Balloon at the National Constitution Center.
Happy Fourth!
Leni
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