Five Things To Know Today

1.  Today is Thursday, June 9.  It'll be hazy and hot, with a slight chance of rain or thunderstorms in the afternoon, according to the National Weather Service. The high temperature will reach 87 degrees, and the low will fall to 65 tonight.

2.  Assistant Assessor Mary Gardner will take over the assessor's job on Monday, replacing Town Assessor John Philip, who is resigning to take a job with the City of Hartford. Gardner has served as assistant assessor since 1999, and previously worked as a staff member in the assessor's office from 1986 until 1995. She said the timing was right for her to take the new job. "I feel it's a challenge, but I'm comfortable moving up," she said.

3.   High School student Emery W. Young III, was recognized by the Groton Town Council Tuesday for achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. Young worked as a cook and in the kitchen at Webster Scout Camp in 2009, served as assistant ranger of the camp in 2010, and built a portico at Groton Congregational Church as his Eagle Scout project.

4.  The Town is holding a farewell “roast” at 5 p.m. on June 22 for John Silsby, who is retiring as Groton’s director of Parks and Recreation. The cost is $12, and includes a donation.  Hamburgers and hot dogs will be served, along with jokes at Mr. Silsby’s expense.

5.  The Town Council approved three appointments this week. Fran Davis was appointed tenant member of Groton’s Housing Authority; James Kamercia was named a member of the Parks and Recreation Commission, and Hal Zod was reappointed to continue as an alternate member of the Planning Commission.