Nobody’s going to be thrilled about cuts to state payments to towns in the resulting Connecticut budget, following union rejections. But leaders in Meriden, Wallingford, Southington and Cheshire feel, apparently, that it could be a lot worse.
Southington seems to be in a fair way of being caught between a rock (Department of Labor, which says North Center School is a town project and must pay prevailing wages) and a hard place (Department of Revenue Services saying it’s a private project and hence materials are taxable). The state can’t have it both ways – and, contrary to what is being suggested, avoiding either contingency wasn’t the point of this arrangement at all.
Well, it’s a good thing that the Wallingford Housing Authority has gotten its budget proposal in to Connecticut Housing Finance Authority just under the wire. But we confess to some wonderment at decreases in maintenance while administrative costs rise.
Apparently, now on the table are legislative suggestions to trim areas in which Connecticut unions may bargain collectively. This is what comes of looking a gift horse in the face.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Wed., June 29, 2011
The unfortunate but not unexpected decision of The Hartford to close its remaining operations in Southington, which, though not a huge factor in real estate taxes, will make a dent in community participation by those employees who leave. On the bright side, Executive Boulevard is a desirable location and should attract new tenants.
A lot of State of Connecticut employees who live in our area are looking at the list of where cuts will be made and where layoffs will strike and are wondering where their names might appear on that list. We hope none of them voted to reject the deal worked out by their leadership and the governor.
Meriden’s YMCA saw significant growth during the past year as it marks that year’s end with a new president. On the list of initiatives are the assumption of the management of Head Start and a major investment in the Martin Gaffey Childcare Center on Crown Street.
It’s good that Southington’s Skate Park will not close entirely after budget cuts which take effect July 1. It’s even better that Town Council members are discussing ways of maintaining it open and continuing the service it provides.
Lake Compounce begins its road relocation project next week. Mount Vernon Road in Southington from Welch Road to the Bristol line will be closed for about five weeks as part of a project which allows Compounce to enlarge its water park.
A lot of State of Connecticut employees who live in our area are looking at the list of where cuts will be made and where layoffs will strike and are wondering where their names might appear on that list. We hope none of them voted to reject the deal worked out by their leadership and the governor.
Meriden’s YMCA saw significant growth during the past year as it marks that year’s end with a new president. On the list of initiatives are the assumption of the management of Head Start and a major investment in the Martin Gaffey Childcare Center on Crown Street.
It’s good that Southington’s Skate Park will not close entirely after budget cuts which take effect July 1. It’s even better that Town Council members are discussing ways of maintaining it open and continuing the service it provides.
Lake Compounce begins its road relocation project next week. Mount Vernon Road in Southington from Welch Road to the Bristol line will be closed for about five weeks as part of a project which allows Compounce to enlarge its water park.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Tues., June 28, 2011
Congratulations to Miss Connecticut, Morgan Amarone of Southington. After winning the Miss Southington title, she continued to compete and now has a full schedule representing the state.
Wallingford police are enforcing rules and laws against use of ATVs and motorcycles on town property. There is no tolerance for the damage these unauthorized vehicles cause on land which townspeople have invested time and money in to improve and maintain trails and wildlife.
Meriden has an $11,000 state grant to its health department to help fight obesity in young people. This is money well spent.
Indications from the soon-to-be established Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection that electricity rates, thanks to a slide in costs of natural gas, may drop 5 to 10 percent by January. This will be welcome news to those struggling with other increasing costs.
Wallingford police are enforcing rules and laws against use of ATVs and motorcycles on town property. There is no tolerance for the damage these unauthorized vehicles cause on land which townspeople have invested time and money in to improve and maintain trails and wildlife.
Meriden has an $11,000 state grant to its health department to help fight obesity in young people. This is money well spent.
Indications from the soon-to-be established Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection that electricity rates, thanks to a slide in costs of natural gas, may drop 5 to 10 percent by January. This will be welcome news to those struggling with other increasing costs.
Monday, June 27, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Mon., June 27, 2011
Indications that crime has declined in Connecticut and in many towns around the state, including Meriden and Southington. Many factors influence such rates, including the economy, but it’s clear that solid police work plays an important role.
Southington’s All Night Graduation Party, held last Thursday just after the high school graduation. It’s a fine way to provide a safe environment for the new grads, but it’s worth remembering that this party doesn’t just happen but that planning has been underway since last August and is not cheap to finance.
Southington’s All Night Graduation Party, held last Thursday just after the high school graduation. It’s a fine way to provide a safe environment for the new grads, but it’s worth remembering that this party doesn’t just happen but that planning has been underway since last August and is not cheap to finance.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Sun., June 26, 2011
Southington’s Parking Authority voted 3 to 2 to set aside up to 20 parking spaces in municipal lots for overnight parking for residential tenants of downtown apartments. There’s some controversy over this policy and some concern over clearing these areas during winter snows, and policies need to be clarified further.
There were reports of New England schools which didn’t let out until this year due to a) the rule requiring 180 days of school each year and b) snow days. One way of eliminating much of this problem, which is perennial as well as annual, is to reduce the number of casual one-day holidays (which begin, unfortunately, with Labor Day, often in the first week of school) and which can only serve to distract from a weekly routine and interrupt educational processes to very little purpose in our society.
TEAM, or Teacher Education And Mentoring, which pairs first and second year teachers in Wallingford with veterans who mentor them through some of the rough spots. It can make a huge difference in professional growth.
Meriden’s 22nd Black Expo which drew many hundreds of people to City Park on Saturday morning for music, dancing, food and a general good time. It is a tradition which brings forth a lot of smiles.
There were reports of New England schools which didn’t let out until this year due to a) the rule requiring 180 days of school each year and b) snow days. One way of eliminating much of this problem, which is perennial as well as annual, is to reduce the number of casual one-day holidays (which begin, unfortunately, with Labor Day, often in the first week of school) and which can only serve to distract from a weekly routine and interrupt educational processes to very little purpose in our society.
TEAM, or Teacher Education And Mentoring, which pairs first and second year teachers in Wallingford with veterans who mentor them through some of the rough spots. It can make a huge difference in professional growth.
Meriden’s 22nd Black Expo which drew many hundreds of people to City Park on Saturday morning for music, dancing, food and a general good time. It is a tradition which brings forth a lot of smiles.
Saturday, June 25, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Sat., June 25, 2011
A judge rejected a GOP legal challenge to this year’s Connecticut budget even as unions scuttled the deal. While some are claiming that the deal is a fraud because of state balanced budget rules, it’s also arguable that those balancing laws, which were eagerly passed by members of both parties, are almost as much of a fraud as any single budget.
Congratulations to Meriden gymnast Kirsten Dawkins who was selected as the 2011 Meriden Black Expo Teen Ambassador in kick-off festivities for the expo. This talented young woman and her fellow competitors play a leadership role in the community.
Southington Police Department and the Chamber of Commerce are teaming up to fight vandalism in town – especially graffiti. It’s destructive and unpleasant and deserves to be stopped.
Congratulations to Meriden gymnast Kirsten Dawkins who was selected as the 2011 Meriden Black Expo Teen Ambassador in kick-off festivities for the expo. This talented young woman and her fellow competitors play a leadership role in the community.
Southington Police Department and the Chamber of Commerce are teaming up to fight vandalism in town – especially graffiti. It’s destructive and unpleasant and deserves to be stopped.
Friday, June 24, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Fri., June 24, 2011
Prospects for ratification of the budget deal between Connecticut state unions and the governor look grim. What happens next will be unpleasant.
Amid the budget gloom, though, Meriden can look forward to a visit Monday through Wednesday by the Cole Bros. Circus, in a return from last year. The Hub is earning its name with these visits and other attractions.
Okay, now Meriden’s police union has filed grievances against treatment afforded the two officers who have filed grievances against the department. This is becoming complicated.
Meanwhile, state officials are letting local educators in on the new laws affecting education in Connecticut which are about to take effect – with or without the money to support activities required. We’ll see how each district manages.
The number of alums who return to Platt High in Meriden to teach after college is unusually high, but apparently fairly typical of many state high schools. There is something about one’s high school experience in general which tends to draw graduates back to the fold to repeat the teaching occasions for others and to pass on the knowledge.
Amid the budget gloom, though, Meriden can look forward to a visit Monday through Wednesday by the Cole Bros. Circus, in a return from last year. The Hub is earning its name with these visits and other attractions.
Okay, now Meriden’s police union has filed grievances against treatment afforded the two officers who have filed grievances against the department. This is becoming complicated.
Meanwhile, state officials are letting local educators in on the new laws affecting education in Connecticut which are about to take effect – with or without the money to support activities required. We’ll see how each district manages.
The number of alums who return to Platt High in Meriden to teach after college is unusually high, but apparently fairly typical of many state high schools. There is something about one’s high school experience in general which tends to draw graduates back to the fold to repeat the teaching occasions for others and to pass on the knowledge.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Thur., June 23, 2011
We are sorry to learn that there are some construction issues at Meriden’s newly renovated Chamberlain Heights: water in some basements, damaged appliances, and so on. Tenants, though, like the new surroundings and hope the problems can be rectified easily.
Congratulations to all the new graduates of all the high schools in the area. We wish them the best in future endeavors: higher education, the workplace, the military or whatever, but most of all we hope the economy improves for them.
In the “dig they must” category comes blasting in the Mill Street area in Southington as workers push through bedrock to keep the Farmstead Interceptor project moving forward. Patience is the watchword, and it will be done in reasonable time.
Outbreak of a contagious canine disease at the Meriden Animal Control Center. Sensibly, the center is not releasing animals for adoption or accepting new ones until the animals there are symptom free for two weeks, but it’s a good moment to remind dog owners to take their pets for distemper shots.
Congratulations to all the new graduates of all the high schools in the area. We wish them the best in future endeavors: higher education, the workplace, the military or whatever, but most of all we hope the economy improves for them.
In the “dig they must” category comes blasting in the Mill Street area in Southington as workers push through bedrock to keep the Farmstead Interceptor project moving forward. Patience is the watchword, and it will be done in reasonable time.
Outbreak of a contagious canine disease at the Meriden Animal Control Center. Sensibly, the center is not releasing animals for adoption or accepting new ones until the animals there are symptom free for two weeks, but it’s a good moment to remind dog owners to take their pets for distemper shots.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Wed., June 22, 2011
Superintendent Mark Benigni has received “A” marks on his first year in the top job in Meriden. Congratulations.
Vandals have struck the new linear trail in Southington. This behavior begins to sound like the work of a single person or a set of persons out to damage public property, and he or they need to be apprehended.
Cheshire’s artificial turf project is progressing, but it does seem likely that the Music in Motion event, the Cheshire High School Band Parent Association’s prime fundraiser will be displaced. They’ll do their best to move elsewhere, but perhaps the town would consider making up the difference if a different venue doesn’t draw the crowd.
Vandals have struck the new linear trail in Southington. This behavior begins to sound like the work of a single person or a set of persons out to damage public property, and he or they need to be apprehended.
Cheshire’s artificial turf project is progressing, but it does seem likely that the Music in Motion event, the Cheshire High School Band Parent Association’s prime fundraiser will be displaced. They’ll do their best to move elsewhere, but perhaps the town would consider making up the difference if a different venue doesn’t draw the crowd.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Tues., June 21, 2011
Cheshire High school going to fix about 30 % of roof . . . oddly, not the area where teachers have reported health issues.
Meriden’s City Council voted not to change zoning and ridgeline projection maps to accommodate a developer, following the recommendation of its Economic Development Committee. This would seem to have been a thoroughly correct decision.
Wallingford Town Councilor Jerry Farrell is maintaining his support for cuts imposed on paramedic services in the present year’s budget – even after an emergency call at his home – which we are glad of. The question, though, is not whether paramedic services are necessary but whether councilors are willing to tax citizens for them.
Meriden’s city council has approved purchase of that flameless pothole patcher. We’ll see those patches flipping onto roadways like flapjacks, no doubt.
Purchase of an 11.2-acre parcel for a new North Farms Volunteer Fire Station are apparently moving forward again after long delay. This is a good project to bring to completion in Wallingford
Meriden’s City Council voted not to change zoning and ridgeline projection maps to accommodate a developer, following the recommendation of its Economic Development Committee. This would seem to have been a thoroughly correct decision.
Wallingford Town Councilor Jerry Farrell is maintaining his support for cuts imposed on paramedic services in the present year’s budget – even after an emergency call at his home – which we are glad of. The question, though, is not whether paramedic services are necessary but whether councilors are willing to tax citizens for them.
Meriden’s city council has approved purchase of that flameless pothole patcher. We’ll see those patches flipping onto roadways like flapjacks, no doubt.
Purchase of an 11.2-acre parcel for a new North Farms Volunteer Fire Station are apparently moving forward again after long delay. This is a good project to bring to completion in Wallingford
Monday, June 20, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Mon., June 20, 2011
There are lots of ideas about renovations at Meriden's Maloney and Platt, and some concerns over how construction conditions might impact students during the long period of renovation. With careful planning and efficient and timely execution, though, students could remain all but unaware of any renovation underway, and we hope this turns out to be the case.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Sun., June 19, 2011
Wallingford schools seem to be on target with the district's Strategic Plan. It's a good deal of long-range planning with many goals and directives, and many people who worked on its development.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Sat., June 18, 2011
Meriden’s Board of Education has approved partnering with Concepts for Adaptive Learning, a nonprofit group that can provide technology to families in order to bridge the "digital divide." It’s a way “to increase parents' involvement in their children's education, using technology as a motivator.”
That stinky corpse flower “Titan Arum” has received more attention than any other vegetation in decades. Clearly, UConn’s greenhouses are a fine resource.
The success of Sonic restaurant in Wallingford, just off the Wilbur Cross, has been remarkable as well as good for the franchise owners. But now, with business still high but level, owners are turning to other plans for some of the remaining space on the parcel.
Adding air conditioning to any school is an expensive proposition, both in terms of cost efficiency and in terms of retro-fitting buildings. Given trends toward year-round use of school buildings, though, it makes sense to stick in air conditioning wherever possible. We hope plans include AC at Meriden's soon-to-be refurbished Platt and Maloney.
That stinky corpse flower “Titan Arum” has received more attention than any other vegetation in decades. Clearly, UConn’s greenhouses are a fine resource.
The success of Sonic restaurant in Wallingford, just off the Wilbur Cross, has been remarkable as well as good for the franchise owners. But now, with business still high but level, owners are turning to other plans for some of the remaining space on the parcel.
Adding air conditioning to any school is an expensive proposition, both in terms of cost efficiency and in terms of retro-fitting buildings. Given trends toward year-round use of school buildings, though, it makes sense to stick in air conditioning wherever possible. We hope plans include AC at Meriden's soon-to-be refurbished Platt and Maloney.
Friday, June 17, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Fri., June 17, 2011
The Connecticut Labor Department has ruled that the North Center School renovation project in Southington is subject to prevailing wage laws, since it is mainly a Southington municipal project. Although this complex project was not conceived of as a way around such rules (but rather as a way around the referendum trigger in the town’s charter), such rules still hold and may carry cost saving implications such as state education reimbursements as well.
Discussions of closing the Yalesville branch of the Wallingford Public Library hinge not only on costs, which are minor, but on use and on community. We hope the right decision is reached.
Connecticut’s Supreme Court decided a case on terminating parental rights, ruling that a non-custodial parent has a right to be heard in a neglect or termination petition. This seems simple fairness.
A language arts program in Wallingford’s pre-k through grade three will provide over 7,000 on-line titles accessible through reading stations. This could prove valuable beyond measure in an age where so few books seem to be read in busy homes.
A third party effort for Cheshire by the present treasurer of the Democratic Town Committee and a former council candidate? Interesting choice – which may not create much happiness among town Democrats.
Cheshire councilors are still considering how to go forward with Community Pool, now lacking a cover after the bubble broke. The problem is that the bubble itself was a compromise and turned into a compromise worse, apparently, than either original alternative.
Discussions of closing the Yalesville branch of the Wallingford Public Library hinge not only on costs, which are minor, but on use and on community. We hope the right decision is reached.
Connecticut’s Supreme Court decided a case on terminating parental rights, ruling that a non-custodial parent has a right to be heard in a neglect or termination petition. This seems simple fairness.
A language arts program in Wallingford’s pre-k through grade three will provide over 7,000 on-line titles accessible through reading stations. This could prove valuable beyond measure in an age where so few books seem to be read in busy homes.
A third party effort for Cheshire by the present treasurer of the Democratic Town Committee and a former council candidate? Interesting choice – which may not create much happiness among town Democrats.
Cheshire councilors are still considering how to go forward with Community Pool, now lacking a cover after the bubble broke. The problem is that the bubble itself was a compromise and turned into a compromise worse, apparently, than either original alternative.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Thur., June 16, 2011
“Function, not frills” may be the watch cry for some in Southington who are concerned about the terrifying cost of renovating both middle schools “like new.” But if there’s ever to be a thought of year round school – get ready! – that’s impossible in most existing schools, which not only lack air conditioning but often have non-opening windows.
We are sorry to read about the evident distress of Meriden's Carabetta Enterprises, Inc. in investigation and seizure by federal investigators. It’s hard not to be concerned at a government action of this kind which occurs without any formal declaration of what is happening and why.
Can it really be true that there are residential properties in downtown Southington without parking spots of any kind, where tenants have been used to using a few spaces in town-owned lots, and where some people would really try to end overnight parking? It’s fine to say that people should have realized the issue before they bought the real estate, but actually enforcing such a rule seems kind of hard line.
Scientists are extremely unlikely ever to be able to blame a particular weather event on global warming, human-caused or otherwise, just as no one can blame a particular cigarette for a case of lung cancer. But it’s hardly being evasive to observe scientific realities in discussing phenomena of such a kind.
One furlough day for Meriden teachers works out to four teaching positions which can be filled or saved. You have to think this is a good idea all around in terms of education.
Meriden police are preparing to expand public access on-line to police activities and records as well as allowing officers to operate with computer efficiency in vehicles. This has got to be a plus for the department and the community.
The National Red Cross is being rather silent for a charity which relies on local good will, which it forfeited in a significant way by closing the Meriden-Wallingford branch as part of a consolidation process shortly after major local contribution had renovated the offices. It should not take so long for an emergency response agency to respond to its benefactors.
Congratulations to all the valedictorians of local high schools whose hopes and dreams have been revealed in the profiles which have been appearing in the Record-Journal.
We are sorry to read about the evident distress of Meriden's Carabetta Enterprises, Inc. in investigation and seizure by federal investigators. It’s hard not to be concerned at a government action of this kind which occurs without any formal declaration of what is happening and why.
Can it really be true that there are residential properties in downtown Southington without parking spots of any kind, where tenants have been used to using a few spaces in town-owned lots, and where some people would really try to end overnight parking? It’s fine to say that people should have realized the issue before they bought the real estate, but actually enforcing such a rule seems kind of hard line.
Scientists are extremely unlikely ever to be able to blame a particular weather event on global warming, human-caused or otherwise, just as no one can blame a particular cigarette for a case of lung cancer. But it’s hardly being evasive to observe scientific realities in discussing phenomena of such a kind.
One furlough day for Meriden teachers works out to four teaching positions which can be filled or saved. You have to think this is a good idea all around in terms of education.
Meriden police are preparing to expand public access on-line to police activities and records as well as allowing officers to operate with computer efficiency in vehicles. This has got to be a plus for the department and the community.
The National Red Cross is being rather silent for a charity which relies on local good will, which it forfeited in a significant way by closing the Meriden-Wallingford branch as part of a consolidation process shortly after major local contribution had renovated the offices. It should not take so long for an emergency response agency to respond to its benefactors.
Congratulations to all the valedictorians of local high schools whose hopes and dreams have been revealed in the profiles which have been appearing in the Record-Journal.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Wed., June 15, 2011
Southington police are deploying a plate scanner. The kit should be useful, but it could be argued there are more important motor vehicle issues -- such as running red lights and aggressive driving – than pursuing more breeches of registration complexities.
Closure of the Yalesville branch of the Wallingford Public Library is under discussion. We hope this doesn’t happen: the annual cost is very minor and brings pleasure and opportunity to many: leave it open.
Meriden Public Works department is considering the purchase of a flameless pothole Patcher for city streets. The hope is that this machine, rather than the cold patcher which must be used in the winter, will cut down on multiple repairs, particularly re-patching the same holes.
Wallingford Superintendent of Schools Salvatore Menzo has been given high praise by members of the Board of Education. There’s no question of his abilities and hard work, tact and a number of other sterling qualities, especially considering how many changes he has initiated in the system over the course of his early tenure.
Closure of the Yalesville branch of the Wallingford Public Library is under discussion. We hope this doesn’t happen: the annual cost is very minor and brings pleasure and opportunity to many: leave it open.
Meriden Public Works department is considering the purchase of a flameless pothole Patcher for city streets. The hope is that this machine, rather than the cold patcher which must be used in the winter, will cut down on multiple repairs, particularly re-patching the same holes.
Wallingford Superintendent of Schools Salvatore Menzo has been given high praise by members of the Board of Education. There’s no question of his abilities and hard work, tact and a number of other sterling qualities, especially considering how many changes he has initiated in the system over the course of his early tenure.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Tues., June 14, 2011
Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection’s lawn mower grants can only be appreciated, considering the amount of pollution emitted by most machines. It’s a good idea even if the general public hasn’t yet tuned in to the “green” issues which surround use of these machines.
Governor Dannel Malloy has kicked off a Connecticut $2.6 million tourism effort, aimed at “high income women who make vacation decisions.” There’s nothing like taking careful aim.
Cheshire Democrats feel they’ve been ignored by Republicans who control the Town Council 7-2. This echoes feelings of Republicans who feel the Democratic majority in the General Assembly have ignored them. Both responses are standard when there is strong majority government.
A Wallingford man was walking on the Wilbur Cross Parkway West Rock Tunnel on Sunday afternoon, an incredibly dangerous action not only to himself but to drivers. In this case, two accidents occurred and a lane of the parkway was closed for five hours to deal with clean-up.
Governor Dannel Malloy has kicked off a Connecticut $2.6 million tourism effort, aimed at “high income women who make vacation decisions.” There’s nothing like taking careful aim.
Cheshire Democrats feel they’ve been ignored by Republicans who control the Town Council 7-2. This echoes feelings of Republicans who feel the Democratic majority in the General Assembly have ignored them. Both responses are standard when there is strong majority government.
A Wallingford man was walking on the Wilbur Cross Parkway West Rock Tunnel on Sunday afternoon, an incredibly dangerous action not only to himself but to drivers. In this case, two accidents occurred and a lane of the parkway was closed for five hours to deal with clean-up.
Monday, June 13, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Mon., June 13, 2011
Indications that more foreclosures are in store for the real estate market in our part of Connecticut as banks halted from the business straighten up their paperwork processing. This is certainly nothing to look forward to with any happiness.
Malloy’s Connecticut now will bear his stamp. Will voters be angry when taxes go up even though services continue, as Republicans predict, or will they be glad our state has not followed the slash and burn process followed in several other states? Stay tuned!
Southington officials are looking carefully at the water treatment plant. Replacing it and adding means to remove phosphorus will be expensive, but this is the only way to proceed and each town involved must play its part.
Malloy’s Connecticut now will bear his stamp. Will voters be angry when taxes go up even though services continue, as Republicans predict, or will they be glad our state has not followed the slash and burn process followed in several other states? Stay tuned!
Southington officials are looking carefully at the water treatment plant. Replacing it and adding means to remove phosphorus will be expensive, but this is the only way to proceed and each town involved must play its part.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Sun., June 12, 2011
Of course the expenditure of over two-hundred million for high school renovation is a lot of money, but what works in a two-party environment – such as Southington (where control of the Town Council has switched back and forth fairly often) – doesn’t necessarily work the same way in a single-party situation – such as Meriden. Opponents are certainly at liberty to push for Charter Change and try to alter that process.
Increasing tuition costs at Connecticut’s public universities and community colleges, the result of long-term budget squeeze, means ever-increasing costs for students and their parents, most of whom are already pressed by this economy. Assuming we can get out of the economic cycle eventually, it is worth noting that there are nations in the world where post-secondary education is a public responsibility.
If there is a conflict over tuition breaks given to undocumented aliens under Connecticut’s new law when federal law is applied, any doubts must be resolved. But who would challenge this law if a successful challenge could cost the state hundreds of millions?
The arrival of strawberry season in Connecticut and the wave of shortcake festivals in various communities, including Plantsville.
Increasing tuition costs at Connecticut’s public universities and community colleges, the result of long-term budget squeeze, means ever-increasing costs for students and their parents, most of whom are already pressed by this economy. Assuming we can get out of the economic cycle eventually, it is worth noting that there are nations in the world where post-secondary education is a public responsibility.
If there is a conflict over tuition breaks given to undocumented aliens under Connecticut’s new law when federal law is applied, any doubts must be resolved. But who would challenge this law if a successful challenge could cost the state hundreds of millions?
The arrival of strawberry season in Connecticut and the wave of shortcake festivals in various communities, including Plantsville.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Sat., June 11, 2011
The thunderstorms earlier in the week knocked out a huge number of power lines, leaving a lot of folks in Meriden and around the state without electricity for a good while. This sort of thing does happen, though – and if a temporary loss of power is the worst thing to happen to us, consider the alternatives!
Wallingford needs to raise the price of school lunches, bringing them into line with other towns, and that’s a reasonable move to take. We still don’t quite understand, though, why it seems to be needful to worry quite so much about the net cost: the purpose of lunch programs is not to make money but to provide food to kids who might otherwise go hungry or eat inadequately – it just isn’t about the bottom line.
The consequences of that horrible attack by a chimpanzee in Stamford 2½ years ago have extended now to a face transplant for the victim. The chimp was shot and killed, the owner has died and her estate and the state face huge lawsuits, and the woman attacked may someday be able to return to some sort of normal life.
Amazon has severed ties with Connecticut websites because of the state’s determination to subject internet sales to tax. Amazon is fighting this trend here and in four other states.
Band students, who have taken some ribbing over the years, tend to be among the top scholars in high schools, as statistics from Platt and Maloney show. This is a good thing to know, and good for the self esteem of a lot of hard-working Meriden instrumentalists.
Wallingford needs to raise the price of school lunches, bringing them into line with other towns, and that’s a reasonable move to take. We still don’t quite understand, though, why it seems to be needful to worry quite so much about the net cost: the purpose of lunch programs is not to make money but to provide food to kids who might otherwise go hungry or eat inadequately – it just isn’t about the bottom line.
The consequences of that horrible attack by a chimpanzee in Stamford 2½ years ago have extended now to a face transplant for the victim. The chimp was shot and killed, the owner has died and her estate and the state face huge lawsuits, and the woman attacked may someday be able to return to some sort of normal life.
Amazon has severed ties with Connecticut websites because of the state’s determination to subject internet sales to tax. Amazon is fighting this trend here and in four other states.
Band students, who have taken some ribbing over the years, tend to be among the top scholars in high schools, as statistics from Platt and Maloney show. This is a good thing to know, and good for the self esteem of a lot of hard-working Meriden instrumentalists.
Friday, June 10, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Fri., June 10, 2011
We hope that the longer day planned for some kindergarteners in Southington – part of a trend – goes to those youngsters who need it most educationally and developmentally, and not merely to those for whom daycare is needed. That, of course, is a different story and a different issue.
Wallingford Corporation Counsel Adam Mantzaris is retiring after a good many years in the job and of working for the town. Best wishes to him as he turns a new page.
Running a housing authority is not rocket science, but Wallingford’s efforts have been beset by so many bumps in the road it boggles the mind. We hope issues can be straightened out soon.
New London is being obliged to examine the difference between a public swimming pool and a fountain which many had scampered through to cool off after a vagrant used it as a public latrine. General rule: don’t drink the water.
Connecticut’s legislature has passed a bill authorizing tenant selection of housing authority representatives (as Wallingford has just done already). This is a good move.
Spontaneous support received by music writer Melissa Lorenzo when she suggested help cleaning Habershon Field in South Meriden. This sort of community support is heartfelt.
Wallingford’s school system, as part of its five-year strategic plan, is doing a survey to get feedback on such issues as safety, communication with homes, fairness, bullying. It will be interesting to see not only what feedback is received but what the system does with it.
Wallingford Corporation Counsel Adam Mantzaris is retiring after a good many years in the job and of working for the town. Best wishes to him as he turns a new page.
Running a housing authority is not rocket science, but Wallingford’s efforts have been beset by so many bumps in the road it boggles the mind. We hope issues can be straightened out soon.
New London is being obliged to examine the difference between a public swimming pool and a fountain which many had scampered through to cool off after a vagrant used it as a public latrine. General rule: don’t drink the water.
Connecticut’s legislature has passed a bill authorizing tenant selection of housing authority representatives (as Wallingford has just done already). This is a good move.
Spontaneous support received by music writer Melissa Lorenzo when she suggested help cleaning Habershon Field in South Meriden. This sort of community support is heartfelt.
Wallingford’s school system, as part of its five-year strategic plan, is doing a survey to get feedback on such issues as safety, communication with homes, fairness, bullying. It will be interesting to see not only what feedback is received but what the system does with it.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Thur., June 9, 2011
Best wishes to Wallingford Town Councilor as he makes a decision to end his service with this term’s end in November. Home and family summon him to duty.
Thunderstorms such as those which swept through Meriden and surrounding towns Wednesday night and early Thursday morning appear to offer relief from the heat, but they can also do unexpected damage. In this case, it was a power outage.
So here’s the explanation for those sewer back-ups on Stonegate Road in Southington: infiltration; that is, water entering the sewers from non-domestic sources, i.e., the ground. Okay. So the solution (way better than digging them up) is pipe liners which adhere and seal pipes. Worth a try.
Wallingford’s Mayor Dickinson produced his usual flair in presenting his credentials for re-nomination to his office. No surprise: he won a unanimous “aye.”
Of course it makes sense for Meriden police officers to be encouraged to learn Spanish, considering the city’s demographics. It’s important for officers to be able to communicate directly with people, whether they are parents of school children, bystanders to an incident of some kind or directly involved in any sort of situation.
Connecticut decision to close rest stops along I-91 has been reversed. As one might expect, it was an issue of safety for truck drivers in need of relief from driving.
Thunderstorms such as those which swept through Meriden and surrounding towns Wednesday night and early Thursday morning appear to offer relief from the heat, but they can also do unexpected damage. In this case, it was a power outage.
So here’s the explanation for those sewer back-ups on Stonegate Road in Southington: infiltration; that is, water entering the sewers from non-domestic sources, i.e., the ground. Okay. So the solution (way better than digging them up) is pipe liners which adhere and seal pipes. Worth a try.
Wallingford’s Mayor Dickinson produced his usual flair in presenting his credentials for re-nomination to his office. No surprise: he won a unanimous “aye.”
Of course it makes sense for Meriden police officers to be encouraged to learn Spanish, considering the city’s demographics. It’s important for officers to be able to communicate directly with people, whether they are parents of school children, bystanders to an incident of some kind or directly involved in any sort of situation.
Connecticut decision to close rest stops along I-91 has been reversed. As one might expect, it was an issue of safety for truck drivers in need of relief from driving.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Wed., June 8, 2011
In hot weather, schools can really heat up, and systems in Meriden, Wallingford, Southington and Cheshire are keeping an eye on conditions and stresses, considering the possibility of early dismissal. Imagine going to school before there was bottled water or when the main solution to heat was to open the windows!
Meriden teachers will take a furlough day in the 2011-12 academic year. This should help bridge the budgetary gap.
The community garden behind Southington town hall is almost ready to plant. We look forward to seeing the green shoots rising from the soil.
It’s reasonable that Wallingford’s school board reassess its field trip policies, particularly those which might involve international travel. It would be beneficial to sort out issues before plans are made and tickets bought rather than at the last minute.
Meriden teachers will take a furlough day in the 2011-12 academic year. This should help bridge the budgetary gap.
The community garden behind Southington town hall is almost ready to plant. We look forward to seeing the green shoots rising from the soil.
It’s reasonable that Wallingford’s school board reassess its field trip policies, particularly those which might involve international travel. It would be beneficial to sort out issues before plans are made and tickets bought rather than at the last minute.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Tues., June 7, 2011
Meriden’s City Council spilt in a somewhat predictable way on the vote to authorize and bond for the two high school renovation project at $216.7 million. Some of the naysayers seemed to think the city’s people are against the project, but it depends on who you talk to.
Wallingford’s Town Council has appointed a school building committee to replace 11 school roofs – with one pointed dissent. We hope the project goes smoothly.
Connecticut’s Senate has now passed the “partnership” bill which allows towns and non-profits to join the state’s health care system.
It will be interesting to see what happens to electricity rates after the newly approved overhaul of the regulatory system in Connecticut.
Connecticut will be closing the non-commercial rest stops along interstates, to save 41.3 million a year. This is one of the less-painful ways, we guess, to meet that budget number.
The circus is coming, the circus is coming! That will be to downtown Meriden’s Hub, where it was last year, on July 27, 28 and 29.
Wallingford’s Town Council has appointed a school building committee to replace 11 school roofs – with one pointed dissent. We hope the project goes smoothly.
Connecticut’s Senate has now passed the “partnership” bill which allows towns and non-profits to join the state’s health care system.
It will be interesting to see what happens to electricity rates after the newly approved overhaul of the regulatory system in Connecticut.
Connecticut will be closing the non-commercial rest stops along interstates, to save 41.3 million a year. This is one of the less-painful ways, we guess, to meet that budget number.
The circus is coming, the circus is coming! That will be to downtown Meriden’s Hub, where it was last year, on July 27, 28 and 29.
Monday, June 6, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Mon., June 6, 2011
The move to bond all those millions for the high school renovation project in Meriden is on for a vote tonight. We hope a prediction that all that is bonded for won’t be spent comes true.
Kids in 4th and 5th grades in Southington learning about gardens. That is an excellent school move, and gets young people more familiar with the outdoors.
Kids in 4th and 5th grades in Southington learning about gardens. That is an excellent school move, and gets young people more familiar with the outdoors.
Sunday, June 5, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Sun., June 5, 2011
Connecticut's Health Care bill, which would allow municipal employees and non-profits to enroll in the state insurance plan, seems completely sensible. Since it’s all really more of a pay-as-you-go program today, with employers paying in to “self-insurance” plans, the whole concept of health care programs as “insurance” should really be dropped as pointless.
Wallingford’s Town Council turned down both candidates for the Housing Authority. That’s okay. No need to rush, but we do hope eventual choices will be unanimous and appointees given some instructions.
Wallingford’s Town Council turned down both candidates for the Housing Authority. That’s okay. No need to rush, but we do hope eventual choices will be unanimous and appointees given some instructions.
Saturday, June 4, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Sat., June 4, 2011
There’s talk of eliminating one of the pools planned for Platt and Maloney renovations. Which one? Aye, there’s the rub. How about chopping both? Or the tennis courts? Or the auditorium? These are the Meriden discussions which need to take place, considering all the options.
Whether it’s a town’s responsibility to stock reservoirs with fish is an interesting discussion which Wallingford may need to have. Should the town be stocking for the convenience of those who want to fish could produce a number of answers and comparisons.
Three Southington bridges are rated as in need of repairs, but there’s no emergency involved. Due course is what’s in order, which is always the way, until a bridge falls down!
Whether it’s a town’s responsibility to stock reservoirs with fish is an interesting discussion which Wallingford may need to have. Should the town be stocking for the convenience of those who want to fish could produce a number of answers and comparisons.
Three Southington bridges are rated as in need of repairs, but there’s no emergency involved. Due course is what’s in order, which is always the way, until a bridge falls down!
Friday, June 3, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Fri., June 3, 2011
Wallingford’s Town Council has taken the affirmative and innovative step of deciding to let tenants of the Housing Authority choose their own representative on the WHA. This is a positive development.
Massachusetts had tornados on Wednesday, with loss of life and huge dislocation and destruction of property. Imagine Missouri or Iowa or Indiana or Tennessee where this sort of thing happens regularly.
Meriden is working on the reimbursement issues for Platt and Maloney renovations. It’s always kind of under the gun, with everyone having to hurry to keep up with some deadline or some funding imperative.
If local residents get up in arms because their local hospital – which is part of a network as MidState is with Hartford/Southington/New Britain, etc. – has closed maternity operations, which would seem to be a reasonable business decision or arguably so, why are we not talking about public ownership of all the state’s hospitals? Then we could regulate them as we wish.
We hope the union membership approves the budget deal worked out with Governor Malloy. We also hope that Connecticut's fearmongers and the firebrands, of whatever stripe, don’t mess up this deal with misleading or inflammatory allegations that the agreement is something it’s not.
National Trails Day as observed locally, with wildlife and pond critters to meet at Panthorn Park, Southington, the official opening of Phase II in Southington, and with information events on Phase II for the Gorge/Quinnipiac Trail in Meriden.
Summer sidewalk sale in Wallingford, beginning July 14, which will excitingly include live music. There’s something to look forward to.
The upcoming Southington Education Foundation’s adult spelling bee, scheduled for June 16 at the high school. It’s generally cool to see adults cope with what their children must struggle with (and vice versa, of course), particularly to raise money.
Massachusetts had tornados on Wednesday, with loss of life and huge dislocation and destruction of property. Imagine Missouri or Iowa or Indiana or Tennessee where this sort of thing happens regularly.
Meriden is working on the reimbursement issues for Platt and Maloney renovations. It’s always kind of under the gun, with everyone having to hurry to keep up with some deadline or some funding imperative.
If local residents get up in arms because their local hospital – which is part of a network as MidState is with Hartford/Southington/New Britain, etc. – has closed maternity operations, which would seem to be a reasonable business decision or arguably so, why are we not talking about public ownership of all the state’s hospitals? Then we could regulate them as we wish.
We hope the union membership approves the budget deal worked out with Governor Malloy. We also hope that Connecticut's fearmongers and the firebrands, of whatever stripe, don’t mess up this deal with misleading or inflammatory allegations that the agreement is something it’s not.
National Trails Day as observed locally, with wildlife and pond critters to meet at Panthorn Park, Southington, the official opening of Phase II in Southington, and with information events on Phase II for the Gorge/Quinnipiac Trail in Meriden.
Summer sidewalk sale in Wallingford, beginning July 14, which will excitingly include live music. There’s something to look forward to.
The upcoming Southington Education Foundation’s adult spelling bee, scheduled for June 16 at the high school. It’s generally cool to see adults cope with what their children must struggle with (and vice versa, of course), particularly to raise money.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Thur., June 2, 2011
It seems a done deal: Southington will not try to combine an artificial playing field project with the middle schools project in a referendum this fall. It’s a safer but less exciting choice.
Why does it seem that so many decisions made at the Wallingford Housing authority are so easy to disagree with? The latest issue – nothing against the attorney involved – are legal bills (hardly surprising given the political atmosphere) which are headed for a bidding process in the future.
Connecticut Senate’s decision to approve a bill calling for consolidation of several state agencies, including Freedom of Information, Ethics and Elections. This is a terrible choice and will cost the state dearly over the years if it becomes law.
Congratulations to Wallingford high school juniors from Lyman Hall, Sheehan and Choate Rosemary honored by Rotary Club for service above self. These are going to be good folks to have around as adults.
Why does it seem that so many decisions made at the Wallingford Housing authority are so easy to disagree with? The latest issue – nothing against the attorney involved – are legal bills (hardly surprising given the political atmosphere) which are headed for a bidding process in the future.
Connecticut Senate’s decision to approve a bill calling for consolidation of several state agencies, including Freedom of Information, Ethics and Elections. This is a terrible choice and will cost the state dearly over the years if it becomes law.
Congratulations to Wallingford high school juniors from Lyman Hall, Sheehan and Choate Rosemary honored by Rotary Club for service above self. These are going to be good folks to have around as adults.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
The Editor's Notepod, Wed., June 1, 2011
Wallingford fifth graders are learning CPR, termed “the most important life skill” by teachers. Regardless of how it’s defined, it’s a useful set of skills for anyone to acquire.
Project Lead the Way Senior Night in Southington High School this week, where the seniors in this program, which begins in 8th grade, showed solutions to the year’s assignment, “Don’t you hate it when . . .”
Minor fallout (unless it’s your town) from Connecticut’s budget issues comes from reduction in reimbursement for costs of resident state troopers, used by 56 towns. By transferring salary and benefits full expense to towns (up from 70 percent), the state saves $840,000, but of course towns will have to ante up an extra $15,000.
Congratulations to the Zakrzewskis, mother and son, both Meriden residents and both graduating from Charter Oak State College in ceremonies this Sunday.
Wallingford’s Town Council and Board of Education are taking a positive route to the necessity of reroofing all 11 schools, five in 2012 and six in 2013. It is a question of “pay me now or pay me later,” but of course, there’s a factor of which payment is more.
Project Lead the Way Senior Night in Southington High School this week, where the seniors in this program, which begins in 8th grade, showed solutions to the year’s assignment, “Don’t you hate it when . . .”
Minor fallout (unless it’s your town) from Connecticut’s budget issues comes from reduction in reimbursement for costs of resident state troopers, used by 56 towns. By transferring salary and benefits full expense to towns (up from 70 percent), the state saves $840,000, but of course towns will have to ante up an extra $15,000.
Congratulations to the Zakrzewskis, mother and son, both Meriden residents and both graduating from Charter Oak State College in ceremonies this Sunday.
Wallingford’s Town Council and Board of Education are taking a positive route to the necessity of reroofing all 11 schools, five in 2012 and six in 2013. It is a question of “pay me now or pay me later,” but of course, there’s a factor of which payment is more.
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