Five Things To Know Today

1.  Today is Thursday, June 16. The National Weather Service predicts sunny skies, a high temperature of 79 degrees and a low of 60 tonight. There's a slight chance of showers overnight.

2.  Taxpayers could be asked to vote on a special bond referendum Sept. 13, seeking approval of $2.7 million to upgrade Groton’s wastewater treatment plant. Town officials were told last year the town is eligible for up to $2.7 million in Clean Water funding to upgrade the facility, but the learned this week that spending must be approved before November. Of the total, about $900,000 is a grant, and the rest is a low-interest loan.  The package would save the town an estimated $100,000 to $120,000 in interest over the 20-year bond.

3.  Groton expects to receive a $650,000 grant from the state to help buy the Spicer property on Thomas Road, and recently had a series of site walks with federal fish and wildlife officials. Town Manager Mark Oefinger told the Town Council that the wildlife officials identified about a half dozen, mostly small grants the town could try to access as well. Oefinger said the area is home to cottontail bunnies and the site walk proved “encouraging.” The town is interested in the property to preserve it as open space.

4.  The Connecticut Elks and other organizations will hold a week-long program to honor veterans who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan. The events will take place from June 20 to June 25, and include a wreath-laying ceremony at the National Submarine Memorial – East in Groton.

5.   Mystic Seaport holds its 20th Annual WoodenBoat Show the weekend of June 24, from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.  More than two dozen families who buy kits, then work together to build their own canoe or skiff.  Some of the boats are later launched during the boat show. In addition, more than 100 boats of various types will be on display, including kayaks, runabouts and a 70-foot Scottish fishing boat.