10-15-2009
ALBUQUERQUE NM
President Barack Obama was surprised to learn this afternoon that he was awarded the "Balloonist of the Year" award by the International Hot Air Balloon Association.
Citing the President's obvious concern for the safety of 6-year old aspiring balloonist's throughout the world, IHABA President, Wilflot Hyer said that "balloonist's across the globe are deeply indebted to President Obama for his untried efforts at improving the sport we love so dearly."
The President speaking through his Press Secretary issued the following response: "Let me be clear, I have always been full of hot air and to have been given this distinct honor means a lot to me. I hope that I can continue to do nothing to further this great sport and that we can all come together to repair the damage done to the international ballooning community by my predecessor."