VIDEO: Up in the Air with a Michigan Challenge Balloonfest Pilot

Howell resident Jerry Stephan has competed in every Michigan Challenge Balloonfest since the event began in 1984.

Stephan has spent the last 38 years as a hot air balloon pilot and was a Marine Corps and Airline pilot before that. So while he has plenty of experience, he said that he never shows well during the event in his hometown for some reason.

"But I keep trying," he said laughing during a short flight above Howell during the Michigan Challenge Balloonfest Media Night on Wednesday.

Stephan will pilot his balloon 'Jedami II' during the event June 22-24 at the Howell High School complex.