Blowing A Lot of Hot Air Across Connecticut

1. 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.

2. 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

Berkshire Balloons, Litchfield and the Farmington Valley

Castle View Balloons, Cheshire

Aerostar Hot-Air Balloons, Woodbury

Adventure Balloon, Plymouth

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.

3. 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.

4. On this day in history, 1969, the Woodstock Music Festival came to a close in Bethel, New York.

5. Save for some patch fog in the early morning, today is expected to bring plenty of sunshine and a high of 85ºF. Tempatures will settle into the mid 60's tonight, according to National Weather Service reports.