Where can I get lessons?

I live in Fort Smith Arkansas and would like to know where I can get lessons. Also is there a webpage of ballooning cllubs or organization. I am sure there is not one in my area but would like to know where the closest one is. I have never even seen a ballon in my area so I don't believe there is anyone around here that is into this hobby. Any info would be appreciated

Try www.hotairballooning.org That URL will take you to the Albuquerque Aerostat Ascension Association web page, that has lots of links.

Check with the Internet Ballooning Data Base:

If you become a member of the BFA (Balloon Federation of America), you will get a directory of members which will list all members along with their status such as Pilot, Crew, Commercial Pilot, etc. You can check in the section for Arkansas and look for Commercial Pilots and then call them to see if one wants to give you instruction. Another option would be to try World Balloon in New Mexico, or Adventure Flights in California. Both of these companies are part 141 flight schools for balloon pilots.

If you like, I will look in my BFA directory for you to see who I can find in Arkansas. Just let me know.

Thanks for the offer, but in my web travels of the last couple of days, I came accross launch.net and their links page had a page from a commercial balloon pilot right here in Fort Smith. I emailed him and got the ball rolling. He is very excited to have someone else in this small town interested in his hobby and wants to meet with me. I have so far offered to crew for him and am awaiting his response.

Thank you to everybody who replied.

Go for it!