Mayor Rodolico Takes Oath of Office [VIDEO]

Mayor John A. Rodolico's swearing-in ceremony at Ledyard Center School today was attended by a full house of town officials, family members, friends and political supporters, a crowd that included four former Ledyard mayors.

But is was the large contingent of elementary school students sitting on the floor closest to the stage that seemed attract special attention from the new mayor.

Rodolico, 61, told the youngsters that 50 years ago he, too, was an elementary school student, the son of immigrant parents in Brooklyn, NY.

"I'm here to tell you that if you study hard and work hard, you can be anything you want to be in this great country of ours," he said.

Rodolico, a Republican, took the oath of office, administered by Town Clerk Calvin Brouwer, shortly after 10 a.m. today. He succeeds former Mayor Fred B. Allyn Jr.

He thanked the town or its trust and support.

"Ledyard is a special place," he said. When I look around the room I see many people who I have known for many, many years. What impresses me is that many of you, as Joyce and I did, raised and educated your children here. And most importantly, after your children graduated, you chose to make Ledyard your place to live. That makes Ledyard a special place."

As a special place, he said, Ledyard deserves a government that serves all of its citizens. "As taxpayers, we should expect a government that is professional, efficient and open," he said, reprising his campaign theme.

But he added an update: "Where we do not measure up I expect that you will let us know and that your concerns will be addressed."

Rodolico said Ledyard has a promising future. "We are a town strategically located, with natural beauty, a proud heritage, an educated and skilled workforce, and an enthusiastic community spirit."

He said his goal is to do all he can, in cooperation with town agencies and organizations, to preserve and protect Ledyard's quality of life for this and future generations. But he said government cannot do this along.

"The appearance and reputation of our town must be a community effort, and I'm calling on all of us to work together," he said. "Together we can realize that future."

Schools Superintendent Dr. Michael Graner said afterward the new mayor hit all the right notes.

"By inviting our students, I think he made the point that he wants to make sure that our town meets the needs of our children and our future, so I'm delighted."

Republican Town Councilor Linda Davis, the town highest vote-getter in the recent election and Rodolico's campaign manager, said for her the swearing-in ceremony was like Christmas morning.

"I think we can move forward now," she said. "We have a professional staff, and now we have a professional mayor. I'm just really excited."

Democratic Town Council member Bill Saums shared his colleague's enthusiasm.

"I think this is a good day. I'm really happy for John, I'm happy for Ledyard, and as I've said before, it's time now to move on and get back to work."

Joyce Rodolico, who attended the ceremony with children and grandchildren, said her husband is her best friend.

"He's worked really hard for this and I think he deserves it. I think he's going to do a really good job," she said. "You know, most people retire and they just fade into the background, and he's starting a new job. But I've never seen him this energetic and enthused before in my life."

Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Chairman Rodney Butler attended the ceremony with Council Secretary Marjorie Colebut-Jackson. "We're certainly excited about seeing John take office and hopefully we can build on the momentum of the town and tribe working together."

Colebut-Jackson said that momentum really began with Mayor Sue Mendenhall. "We continue to look forward to these efforts with every new Ledyard mayor," she said.

State Rep. Tom Reynolds, D-42nd, said he an Rodolico will be talking on a weekly basis. "I'm thrilled to be here and happy to do all I can to make sure John is a very successful mayor, and I know he will be," he said.

Allyn, who attended but did not speak during the formal ceremony, appeared to be enjoying his first minutes as "just a citizen." He said he wished to thank for town for the opportunity to serve as its mayor. "It was challenging, exciting, frustrating, satisfying and unforgettable."

He also extended a personal thanks to his staff. "There are no regrets in serving your community," he said.

Rodolico's son-in-law, Glenn McKenzie, a member of the Friendship Community Church and also an ordained minister, offered the invocation. The benediction was given by the Rev. Ronald Gauss of the Bishop Seabury Anglican Church.

The National Anthem was performed by the Ledyard High School Chamber Chorus, which also performed a beautiful a cappella number titled "Wanting Memories."

Outgoing Councl Chairman Terry Jones praised Rodolico on his exemplary attibutes. "He's meticulous, he's thorough, dedicated and energetic, so I think we're going to see a good four years," he said. "At least four years."