Even though it rained most of Saturday, it still was a successful weekend for the Children’s Miracle Network.
All 231 LSU Phi Mus, along with alumnae and Phi Mu members from Millsaps University, gathered for the sorority’s annual philanthropy, the CMN Balloon Launch.
CMN Balloon Launch has been Phi Mu’s fall philanthropy project since 1986.
The launch lifted off at CMN-sponsored St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Gonzales at 5 p.m. Nov. 1 and 2.
Among Phi Mu sorority, its alumnae and corporate sponsors, the CMN Balloon Launch helps families finance CMN patients recovering from cancer.
Usually 50 balloonists from around the country gather for a special weekend of competition in the Baton Rouge area. However, last weekend’s downpour dropped the competing number to 11.
But, the rainy weather did not dampen spirits.
Phi Mu President Brandi Oliver said, “The look on children’s faces when the balloons finally are inflated is priceless.”
In addition to entertainment and great food, the crowd mostly came to take $5 rides in the huge hot air balloons.
The ceremony began with a Color Guard presentation and a local girl’s performance of the song “Proud to Be an American.”
The event was free and open to the public. The core fund raising came from the event’s corporate sponsors and sales at different booths set up around the grounds.
After Phi Mu members helped set up the food booths, the public could enjoy jambalaya, hamburgers, nachos, popcorn and doughnuts.
Phi Mu volunteers also prepared and sold toys and painted faces.