AN UPLIFTING ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF OUR HEROES

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta Salute to New Mexico Veterans, October 5, 2003

Contact: Kathie Leyendecker, Director of Media and Community Relations
(505) 821-1000 or (505) 228-9874

ALBUQUERQUE, NM—Sept. 9, 2003—The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta has announced that on October 5, the second day of this year’s event, there will be a special salute to New Mexico Veterans. Representatives from over 200 veteran organizations will gather with Mayor Martin Chavez, New Mexico military commanders and other military and government officials for an exciting program including balloon rides, music, pageantry and a military flyover.

“For 32 years, the Balloon Fiesta has symbolized the spirit, imagination and heart of New Mexico,” explained Art Swenka, president of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta Board of Directors. “This year, we will give a special tribute to the veterans in our state.”

Representatives from over 200 New Mexico veteran organizations are expected at the Salute including Metal of Honor recipients, Bataan survivors, Navajo code talkers, Korean War veterans, Vietnam veterans, as well as veterans from Operations Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom.

AGENDA—SALUTE TO VETERANS, October 5, 2003

AN UPLIFTING ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF OUR HEROES: The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta Salute to New Mexico Veterans, October 5, 2003

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta Salute to New Mexico Veterans is made possible thanks to our sponsors: Technology Ventures Corporation and Hispanic Broadcasting Corporation (97.3 FM Kiss, 101.3 FM La Jefa, 101.7 FM Viva, 102.5 FM Coyote and 105.1 FM The Horizon).

For a complete 2003 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta schedule of events, visit www.balloonfiesta.com.

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Balloon Fiesta executives, veterans and military and government officials are available for interview.