The Editor's Notepod, Fri., Dec. 2, 2011

Meriden’s financial picture has improved steadily for several years, and the latest report is positive and helpful. Prudent fiscal management isn’t the only factor in the good life, but it’s a good place from which to improve other aspects of city management: Kendzior and the council deserve praise from citizens.

Wallingford Public Housing Authority seems to be moving ahead, seeking how and when to replace the former executive director. It is good to consider all the alternatives.

Cost estimates for the Platt High “do-over” has come down a little for Meriden, but at a total of $212 million for both schools, that’s a drop in the bucket, as is a further suggested reduction to reflect a slight shrinkage of enrollment. This will be schools for many decades and it makes sense to do it well and stick to a plan.

There’s a Connecticut legal case involving a woman who was sexually abused and about which warrant details were released with victims names blacked out – something one victim claims does not go far enough under a constitutional provision protecting them. This will be a case to watch for open records supporters.

Meriden schools’ ratings in Connecticut Coalition for Achievement Now have risen from 109th of 162 to 62nd, a significant increase, and potentially much more telling than the statistics produced by standardized testing. Congratulations to Superintendent Benigni and to each school and principal.

Unified Theater presenting in Southington High School, bringing a diverse group, including a number of special students together to offer a Disney-themed show. This is a good and healthy community opportunity to build solid bridges.

Sheehan and Lyman Hall (Wallingford)are both working on new band uniform drives, with fund drives to get the process jump-started. Priorities are what they are, and it’s too bad, but character-building, that this is necessary.

Congratulations to Ronald Perry and Madelon Baranosk, both Meriden residents and both named to the Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame this year. Both served during the Vietnam War and both have been active in the years since.

Exchange program with Spanish high school students who are about to visit Southington. The 15-day visit for 10 youngsters will be returned by a visit of Southington students to Madrid in February.