Sunny Day, DMC and Life's a Beach

1. Here comes the sun! The National Weather Service is calling for a wonderfully sunny day with a high near 82ºF and a slight breeze.

2. Happy Birthday to these people, all born on May 31:

• DMC, 1964 (yes, that DMC)
• Kenny Lofton, 1967
• Colin Farrell, 1976

How about you? Do you have anyone you want to wish a happy birthday to today?

3. Today and Friday are shaping up to be beautiful days. The weather will be so nice that you might consider taking dip in one of the area state park ponds or maybe even traveling down to the shore to hit one of the beaches along the sound.

If you have a . While you're at it, register a quick vote on favorite beach poll to help your friends and neighbors decide on where to schedule their next swimming outing.

4. Whether your a novice or an expert, if you like growing and cultivating fresh herbs to use in your cooking or to help heal what ails you, then you might be interested in the Connecticut Herb Association's event this weekend in West Granby.

The association is hosting its on Saturday at 9 a.m.

5. When you pack the kids or yourself up for a boat ride, most people go through the mental checklist: water, sun block, snacks, life jacket. But do you do the same for your dog when he or she heads out into the open water?

Patch columnist Ed Ricciuti reminded readers Wednesday of how important it is to , along with your human family members. And don't forget the life jacket!