Balloon classic lifts off in Indianola

It’s not like Iowa needs more hot air — but the National Balloon Classicgets underway today in Indianola, 12 miles south of Des Moines. The firstmass ascension of the huge hot air balloons begins around 7 tonight witha “night glow” at 9 as tethered balloons light the night with their burners.There are all sorts of events over the nine-day run.Gerald Knoll (nole) is director of the Classic, which this year is alsomarking the 150th anniversary of Indianola. He says 30-thousand spectatorsare expected for the world class ballooning event.About 90 balloons are expected from as far away as California. He saysspectators will be able to hitch a ride on the balloons, but it’s notexactly cheap.For more information, call 800-FLY-IOWA or go to this website:www.nationalballoonclassic.com