Students at the Hudson Falls Intermediate School started their Thursday off with a unique science lesson. B.J. Sullivan, a 2004 graduate of Hudson Falls High School, returned to the school he once attended to show off both of his hot air balloons.
The blue, white and purple balloon was inflated and stood up with its basket, as it was last year. However, this year a second balloon was inflated which came equipped with a single seat which Mr. Sullivan presented from. Sullivan gave the students a brief history of ballooning and the science behind it. Buoyancy like a boat on water, was the key message for the elementary students. “Warm air inside the balloon becomes less dense than the outside air allowing it to float”, proclaimed Mr. Sullivan.
Students were then allowed to ask questions that ranged from how old do you have to be to pilot a balloon, to how long has the Adirondack Balloon Festival existed. The balloons never actually took flight but Sullivan did demonstrate a rise in his single seater to about 10 feet in the air to the delight of the students. At the conclusion of the event a couple of classes were able to assist in the deflation and packing up of the balloons.
Everyone was encouraged to attend the 51st anniversary of The Adirondack Balloon Festival to see the hot air balloons fly. The Adirondack Balloon Festival kicks off Thursday evening in Glens Falls at Crandall Park and Mr. Sullivan and his balloon will be there. Thank you B.J Sullivan and team for this assembly.
