HAMMACHER SCHLEMMER LAUNCHES SINGLE-PILOT HELIUM BALLOON.

Chicago, Ill. (July, 1999) - World renowned retailer/cataloger, Hammacher Schlemmer, presents the only balloon that allows one individual to float over the ground. This balloon is reminiscent of the quaint, Victorian era when men in similar balloons raced each other over open meadows while spectators placed their bets. After World War I, the sport became dormant until this balloon's maker engineered the only new Single-Pilot Helium Balloon. It is sure to entertain party guests or offer a distinctive pastime to those 8 years and older. Unlike other hot air balloons, this balloon is smaller, less noisy, and environmentally friendly. Hammacher Schlemmer also equips the rider with an easy-to-follow instruction video.

To take to flight, the 20-foot diameter balloon is first inflated with helium? enough to almost counteract the rider's weight. Using only leg power, the rider pushes off the ground and effortlessly ascends to as high at 100 ft. For hours, the rider can bounce and soar while taking in the panorama. Two tethers, held by two people on the ground, and three rider-controlled helium release valves assure the balloon stays under control and the rider has a safe, gentle landing. At the end of the day, the entire balloon can be deflated, folded and transported in the back seat of the car.

For over 150 years, Hammacher Schlemmer has offered customers quality products as unique as their name. This balloon is the only one of its kind?and another fine example of this exceptional tradition.

Hammacher Schlemmer is the nation's longest continuously published catalog and has been introducing high quality, innovative, products to further the lifestyle of American consumers since 1848. The company also operates retail stores in New York City, Chicago and Beverly Hills, has a web site at www.hammacher.com (AOL keyword: Hammacher).

To order or request a catalog, call 1-800-543-3366, visit the company's web site at www.hammacher.com or retail stores in New York, Chicago and Beverly Hills.