Community Corner

August 17: Board of Ed. Meeting, Hot Air Balloons

Find out about new Superintendent Karen Baldwin's first report to the Suffield Board of Education and more in today's 5 Things.

1. It will be sunny today with a high temperature of 85 °F. The wind will come from the west at a speed of 5 mph. It will stay clear tonight when the overnight low is 66 °F. The wind comes from the south at speeds between 3 mph and 7 mph, according to the National Weather Service.

2. Find out about new Superintendent Karen Baldwin's first report to the Suffield Board of Education here.

3. On Aug. 17, 1978, the first successful transatlantic hot air balloon flight landed outside of Paris. The Double Eagle II, a helium-filled balloon, accomplished this benchmark in aviation history is 1978. The balloon carried three passengers on its 137-hour journey.

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4. Hot air ballooning has been described as silent, tranquil, magical and fascinating. If you’ve ever wanted to experience the grace of a hot air balloon ride, you’re in luck. Connecticut has several organizations that offer rides. Check out these Web sites for prices, packages, flight schedules and more:

Brighter Skies, Woodstock

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Eastern CT Balloon, greater Mystic area

CT Ballooning, Kensington

You may want to also visit the Connecticut Lighter Than Air Society, which represents and promotes the sport of ballooning in Connecticut. Here, you’ll find everything you need to know about ballooning, including a more extensive list of balloon operators.

5. The takes place at Norton Park in Plainville on Aug. 26, 27 and 28. Balloons launch on Aug. 27 at 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Aug. 28 at 6 a.m. The festival also includes a band and fireworks on Aug. 26, five bands on Aug. 27, a craft fair, sock hop and classic car show. For more information and schedules, visit the Plainville Fire Company’s Web site.


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