Week in Review: Politics and the Weather

Weather was a big story this week, with temperatures soaring into the 90s, posing a health risk to people, their pets, even runners crazy enough to go out there in the scorching heat. Torrential rain and high winds caused several power outages in the area. The rain continues today.

But the rain held off just long enough to allow a tree planting at Town Hall Saturday morning, one of many activities planned around the Ledyard's 175th birthday celebration. There was a walking tour of Ledyard in the afternoon. Watch for our report.

There was big political news this week. The RTC Nominating Committee endorsed John Rodolico for mayor. Rodolico announced his candidacy in early May, more than a month after Republican incumbent Mayor Fred B. Allyn Jr. announced he would seek a second term. It all points to a very interesting RTC meeting on Monday. Stay tuned.

No word from the Democrats yet.

Another tragic loss in town this week.  Lt. Thomas Forbes, of Chriswood Trace, was a 30-year veteran of the Groton City Police Department. On Friday, hundreds mourned his untimely death.

The high school was evacuated by a possible gas leak Friday after gas detection sensors were set off. It was the second time in a matter of weeks that the school was evacuated for a possible gas leak. Schools Superintendent Dr. Michael Graner said the detection system will be revamped this summer. 

Lots of awards this week. Ledyard Middle School Scholars were selected, and there were  awards presented to a host of LHS students at the Agri-Science/FFA awards assembly.  UConn students from Ledyard who made the Dean's List were named.

A tough week in sports, at least on this side of the river. The LHS boys' lacrosse team was bounced from the state tournament last week in the second round by St. Joseph's of  Trumbull. (Montville's baseball team had better luck Saturday against Seymour, winning a second straight state title. Congratulations Indians!)

And after two impressive wins against top-seeded Clemson last week in the NCAA Regionals, UConn's baseball team is one loss away from elimination in the Super Regionals vs. South Carolina after an ugly 5-1 loss Saturday. Take heart, Huskies fans. Remember what Yogi said about when it's over.

Not all runners out there in the scorching heat are crazy, by the way. This week a bunch of them were out there running for a very special cause.

This week we reported on a Ledyard Police K9 demonstration, starring Ringo and Lambeau, and we paddled through Poquetanuck Cove and marshland owned by the Avalonia Land Trust. If you go there, beware the mosquitos. (Use repellent.)

Patch restaurant reviewer Michael Costanza told us about a crab cake from heaven.  We told you about how to make a great salad, a delicious summertime dessert (lemon ice box pie) and the many tempting variations of coleslaw.

And we told you about several great picnic places in town – once it stops raining.