Top Ten Stories of 2011: Number 10

As we reflect on the past year, here's a look at the top ten Tolland Patch stories of 2011, according to Patch tracking statistics. 

Number 10:

By 

A couple of dog walkers were walking the trails of this past Monday when they discovered a devastating scene. At 5:30 p.m., they made a call to Operations Manager Clem Langlois Jr., of Department of Public Works, informing him that the roof of the Pavilion had collapsed.

"It's a total loss," said Fire Chief John C. Littell. 

Overwhelmed by the number of town-owned properties from which to remove snow, Langlois said, "This was the only roof we didn't get to."

What is left of the pavilion roof now forms a 90º angle with the snow-covered ground. Langlois said that things like the grill and trash cans, stored underneath the pavilion to protect them during the winter months, were lost in the collapse as well.

"The insurance company has called for a demolition company," said Langlois.

The pavilion has been host to countless celebratory occasions during the warmer seasons. Families and friends used the grills and picnic tables for birthday and graduation parties, as well as less formal barbecues. Residents could rent the Pavilion on the weekends and have exclusive use of the sand volleyball court, large charcoal grill and horseshoe pits.

"The place is dangerous now," Langlois said.