Today's Boston Sunday Globe takes a look at the way complaints are handled when people call City Hall's Office of Neighborhood Services. It seems that Boston is behind other cities in tracking and responding to such calls, and the excuses -- being that we're talking about a few hundred calls a day and not three million -- seem pretty lame.An informal Globe survey showed that about half of the people who had called the city got a reasonable response to their request, while half didn't. Most calls are basic health, safety and quality of life issues: broken streetlights or stoplights, potholes, debris on public or private property, abandoned cars, graffiti, animal control, snow removal, etc.
The fact that one of the issues seems to be that our city government is having difficulty tracking the calls, tabulating the statistics and following up to find out if anything was done about the calls -- in a major city like Boston in the year 2008 -- is almost absurd. How hard can it be to set up a computer program/network that does that? Seriously, it's been almost 40 years since we landed on the moon!
I might have called the number listed in the article -- 617.635.4500 -- but I know I've called Neighborhood Services a few times -- 617.635.3485 -- and my experience has been that it takes several calls to get any some action. I call the complaint number and speak with the person that answers, but I also call whatever departments I think might be of help, and then I call each a few times. It may be that the Neighborhood Services staff relays requests quickly, but that the logjam is at the various departments. I'm not sure.
Once, recently, after a barrage of calls, the city responded that afternoon to a trash problem outside my mother's house. On the other hand, my cousin once called to have a tree on Havre Street trimmed and it took more than a year to get it done. One instance where I got a bit perturbed with Neighborhood Services was when the city employee responded to my complaint by giving me the phone number of the department to call. I said, "Excuse me?" and he repeated himself. Then I said, "If I wanted the number to that department I could have looked it up online in about ten seconds. What is the purpose of Neighborhood Services if all you do is give me another number to call? I expect you to get this information to the relevant departments." He backpedaled at that point.
Update: The mayor quickly appoints someone to make the system work more efficiently.
67 comments:
Neighborhood Services is not the same as the Mayor's 24 hour hotline, which is 4500. I work for Neighborhood services and can tell you that we do our job. Just a clarification.
Thank you,
Johnny Forbes
Jim, for the record you should get your fact straight if you want to put out a blog and bash the government. First of all the article that ran on the front page of today's Globe was speaking about the City 24-hour hotline, and not Neighborhood services as you so eloquently wrote about in your useless blog. Before you write something can you please try to do some research. I'm sorry you are too busy writing about maple syrup and the fate of the Maverick Gate. Neighborhood Services is the department where our liason to the neighborhood works. For your information the Mayor has a liason in each neighborhood of the city. Besides taking complaints, attending night meetings and community events, these people respond to neighborhood emergencies. From water main breaks to neighborhood fires these folks are called upon at all hours of the night and day. I applaud the Mayor and his office for continuing to better our neighborhood. Name any politician whose staff has to perform these kinds of duties.
I did adjust the article to reflect my errors. Johnny Forbes is one of the classiest people I know -- a product of one of our community's finest families -- and I didn't mean to imply that he was doing anything other than an excellent job.
Is there a reason why there are two separate phone numbers for residents to call? Do they do different things?
Jimbo,
I actually remember the incedent that you are talking about. You approached me at the Italia Unita festival and told me about your mothers situation. I then told you that I would take care of it when I got back to work, but my second daughter was born that week. So unfortunately I didn't return to work. When you called you were just talking to a secretary leaving messages for me for when I returned.
Prior to that incedent I recieved a hand written message, from the office secretary, that described in detail your moms situation. I quickly sent an e-mail to the housing inspector to take a look at the situation. It was probably my fault that I didn't follow through with whether the inspector went out and sited the property or not.
As far as your cousins situation, that sounds like he spoke to 4500 because I know your cousin and I looked into a matter for him that involved a construction project going on near his home.
Thank you
Johnny
We appreciate your help, John. My mom has some neighbors who put their trash in front of my her house and in her alley. (My aunt owns the house.) Just today I took two more bags of trash out of the alley and put it on the neighbor's property.
Interestingly, the house I speak of -- 132 Chelsea Street -- is apparently owned by Eltex Investment Corporation, which is a subsidiary of Clear Channel Communications, the media giant that apparently bought the building because of the billboard in the back yard. Clear Channel bought that building a couple years ago for -- I kid you not -- $1 million.
Jimbo,
That is interesting and nice to know becuase I know some people who would like nothing better than to stick it to Clear Channel. Thanks for the info.
Johnny
Yeah, who do I see at Clear Channel when we have issues with their tenants? Although there seems to be a guy -- Armando Petruzziello -- who bought the building itself from Clear Channel, but not the land that the billboard sits on. I dug up a number for him on the South Shore and left a message, but he didn't call me back.
Jimbo,
Or Mr. Correale, as I called you in a past life, give me the info that you have so that I can add to the list we are putting together for a problem property task force. Sal and I along with the Eagle Hill Civic Association are starting a sub-committee that will deal specifically with absentee landlords just like this. We are having the meeting on April 14th at the Library, it may or may not be that day but I can get back to you. We plan on having represetation from ISD at the meeting so we can discuss the steps in doing battle with properties like this. As far as contacts with Clear Channel, I will have to check with my friend tommorow. So send me the information to: john.forbes@cityofboston.gov or come to the meeting and join in on the effort. Actually, you're at school so we will save you a place at the table untill you return.
Thank you,
Johnny
Jim, Clear Channel is made up of good people. I hope you are not going to bash them. Please don't they employ my whole family.
Mr Forbes - help us out. When should a resident call the mayor's hotline and when should we call Neighborhood Services. I imagine that each of them serve a different purpose. It might help alleviate any frustration people have if they call the wrong number.
Here is the info in the Warren Group for the owner of 132 Chelsea St. It didn't show up as an absentee owner because his address is the same as 132. Interesting that Clear Channel bought the property for $1M and sold for only $110K to this person:
Address: 132 Chelsea St, East Boston, MA 02128-1762
Map Ref.: W:01 P:06288 S:000 Owner 1: Armando Petruzziello
Owner 2:
Owner Address: 132 Chelsea St,East Boston, MA 02128-1762
Johnny,
What is the difference between the 4500 hotline and the Neighborhood Services number? For which issues should we call the 4500 number vs. your Neighborhood services line? This would be helpful to know.
Also, is there a general email we should use for hotline issues or just email directly to you?
Thanks,
Jim
Good people can work for companies that do bad things...
I think this blog is misinformed. Why is 132 Chelsea a problem? Is it trash? If clear channel doesn't own it how is this their problem? Just because they are a corporation doesn't mean they are inherently bad? What the hell does the 1 million dollar price tag have to do with trash issues? Jim it is amazing what you print. I wonder if it is clear channel's shady dealings that is responsible for driving up the costs of maple syrup?
Hello
Wow this is a great topic.
First the article only talks about the 617-635-4500 line.That line is supposed to cover citizens complaints "AFTER "normal City hours when the departments are closed.
As someone who has used it,I can say the people that take your information are very kind.
However the problem is with the people they in turn pass the complaint on to,such as Inspectional Services ,or the Health Dept,Cde enforcement etc. Not following up.
What never gets logged in are complaints filed directly "During 8-4" that are called in directly to these departments when City Hall is open.
I am not a betting person,but I know the survey numbers would be 80% to 20 % ,with 80% not being satisfied.
So lets not be fooled to think that the average citizen gets actual results from the Mayor.It takes you having to know an insider,or your problem will get done when they see fit.
My neighbor was cited on Chelsea Street for an Illegal basement apartment,less than 400 square feet,and with only one way in,and out.
THE CASE WENT BEFORE THE BOARD OF APPEALS NOVEMBER 2ND 2001.Keep this date fresh in your mind.
He also admitted to digging up 120 feet of City side walk to make an illegal pay for fee parking lot driveway next door to him.
On November 2nd 2001 the Board DENIED HIM THE USE OF THE ILLEGAL BASEMENT APARTMENT,AND THE ILLEGAL "DRIVEWAY".
Today is April 8th,2008 and YES,YES the Illegal basement apartment is still there,and still occupied by the same family,and so is the Illegal driveway.
Numerous complaints since then were filed to A- get the dangerous apt shut down,and B-to give us back our parking by putting back the curbs.
This is a case that proves ,without question that the people who can make a difference simply don't.
Maria G.
Jim did not blame Clear Channel for syrup prices. That's not even a funny joke. He wrote an interesting post about syrup and I can't understand why it would upset people as it has (or at least one person).
Then he wrote an interesting post about city services and Clear Channel came up. Rightly so, it sounds like to me. Buying a building for a million dollars seems fairly suspicious. And selling for 1/10 the price is too if that's what happened (although when you have a monopoly like they do and have so much money it probably isn't a big deal to them).
And I don't think anyone claimed that they are inherently bad because they are a corporation, although a quick google search will turn up a number of specific things the company has done that many people would find inherently bad.
132 chelsea st with the bill boards in the back yard has gotten an extreme makeover on the exterior last summer new siding,that property would be an ideal place for an Italian resturaunt, on the 1st floor.How about up the street at the corner of paris and visconti rd another property that seems vacant on the inside with a billboard or trying to get a bigger billboard on the roof, without approval.I guess these homes around the highway and tunnel are money makers, clear channel or arnold can pay these homeowners up to $15,000 grand a month , but look at the homeowner with the billboard or the cell phone towers on thir roofs look how much they are paying in annual city taxes.
Clear Channel Communications sold the building.... not the billboard in the back yard... do you think they are stupid? they could care less about the building, thats why the sold it or should i say gave it away.
To Maria G. I think it is completely unfair to label the Mayor or his staff as nonresponsive because of one incident. We do not know all the facts. First of all there is something called the court system which puts a stop to ISD and the zoning process from working. If an applicant is denied at the zoning board, that does not mean it is automatically torn down or repaired. The denial can be with or without prejudice. With prejudice means it cannot come back-these are hard to find because the Court system frowns upon it. So most applicants can reapply delaying the process for a year. Second even if you are denied you can appeal to Suffolk Superior Court. maybe this is what is going on in your case Maria. Then the Mayor's hands are tied it can take years being tied up in court. Also the case can be reversed. The Mayor and the ZBA are not the final say. They are in intermediate Board. It is ultimately up to the Courts. It is part of our democracy of checks and balances. It is not the Mayor's fault. However, maybe you are too lazy to check this out. Have you spoke to ISD?
I am still very concerned about the cost of maple syrup. I haven't had pancakes in weeks. Jim will strawberries and whipped cream act as a sufficient replacement. I used to drink maple syrup from the bottle. God save us Jim if the prices keep rising. I would rather forgo gas or heating oil than give up my love for the sticky syrup. Thanks Jim. Keep fighting these important causes.
Hello
In regards to the post about the 15,000 rent any Bill Board owner gets,thats on the low side.A,K,Media on the Tri Folds get 20,000 per side ,up to 60 k a month.
Public records show that the City of Boston is in the BillBoard industry as well.
Before I go on?Why no response about the Illegal apt,and driveway?
When leaving the Airport ,and going by the back of the Memorial Stadium there is a HUGE double sided Billboard.
Itis owned by the City of Boston,and is in a City of Boston Park.IN direct violation of numerous "City of Boston "ordanices.
I found it on www.eastboston.com Zoning Board link where he posts the cases,and the results.
Just click open the E.BZoning Link and scrool down to October 25,2005
case #26607 approved reads "City of Boston,raise ht from 55 -96 ft,ad double side.
The City of Boston struck a deal for a percentage of the rent that came to 125,000.00 dollars,and was to be put in a trust for the East Boston Parks improvements/repairs.
The contract was signed ,approved at the Board of appeals,and a Check for 125 k was delivered to the Mayor,and Mrs. Pollack Com of the Parks Department.
Now you know this has to have a "However" in it.
Not to long after the Community peole who were supposed to form,and get an evaluation of each park ,and suggest who needs what.
When they asked ,they were told that the B.R.A. had taken control ,and had used the money (all of it) to buy those Planters you see along Bennington Street Empty. At a cost of 4800.00 per unit.
Zero left for the Parks.
This Bilboard in its current location is Illegal,but what happened to the $$$$$$is worse.
So good Luck to whoever is getting the rent.If its O.K for the City,then why not a citizen.
Thanks
M.g
O.K
First if you wan't to rant Mr. Anon,it will be in vain.
As a person with first hand knoledge,and many communications,I will say this.
1- I never blamed the Mayor
2- In order for the violator/property owner to start any of the APPEAL process you spoke about ,he MUST file an appeal of the Zoning Boards DENIAL within 20 days in either Land Court,or Suffolk Superior Court.
Depending on the size of the lot/not buiding.
3-If the violator 'AS IN THIS CASE"
FAILS to do so the Denial becomes a final resolution.
4- The next step is for as you appear not to know is that ,The City of Boston's Law Department is supposed to use every ounce of energy to A-Get the tenant out by court order(remember there is no appeal )B- To repair the Criminally destroyed side walk,and put in the curbs,giving back precious needed parking(no court order need ,its the Citys property).
THERE IS A CASE CITING THESE STEPS IN TODAYS HEARALD.
Please remember ,the ultimate enforcer of the Citys varoius boards are the Legal Eagles.The buck stops with them.
I hope this clears things up for you.
M.G.
Can you let us know the address of the chelsea street zoning case? I am curious to know who Maria G actually talked to?
Actually, I do understand the zoning process. What I said is that the applicant had the option of appealing, also they can refile at ZBA if it was not denied with prjudice. Since you care so much about billboards I will give you an example to tie it in to your "zoning expertise." There is an illegal billboard that was erected on Porter street. No permits no zoning board. The Mayor himself called ISD and they cited the owner. He applied for a hearing (which is his right), he was denied without prejudice. He reapplied and was denied again (over 1 year went by). He then brought a case in superior court (got 4 continuances) three years later. He is still in court and still collecting rent from the Billboard. Many would believe the city did nothing. I know for a fact as a neighbor that the Mayor, Neighborhood Coordinator, Commisoner of Inspect Serv and neighbors fought this. So see things aren't that cut and dry. Who did you talk to in the Mayor's Office, who did you talk to in ISD and what is the address. Also Billboard's aren't illegal in East boston. The zoning board is hesitant to approve new one's. Since in the case you are talking about the board was preexisting and owned by the taxpayers, I think they did the right thing. I suppose you want to see new billboards all over eastie by private owners?
O.K.,and for the last time.
Again you are wrong.
The Porter Street billboard was a pre existing BillBoard.
The violation written was due to the fact that the owner pulled a permit to "REPAIR EXISTING BILLBOARD",instead he tripled the size.Then I.S.D cited him.
It was NEVER a Board of Appeals case,and theferore was never DENIED,it was cited for working out of the scope of the permit.
You sound like you work for City Hall,and continue to bring in a defense of the Mayor,when my posts do not blame him ,or talk bad about him.
Now to your off the chart comments about Bill Boards being allowed in East Boston.
Again WRONG article 53 - 8 states the use is a "Forbidden Use "in East Boston.
ASK VINNY LOMBARDO,OR GO BACK TO WWW.EASTBOSTON.COM ,AND SEE HIS APPLICATION DENIED 2 TIMES UNDER 53-8 FOR A BILLBOARD ON THAT UGLY STEEL FRAMR AS YOU GO IN THE TUNNEL.
Now to your off the charts accusation that I would like them all over East Boston.
Again Wrong,I think they are an ugly eyesore,and they should never be allowed.
Whats interesting in your defense of his Honor is you find nothing wrong with 125 thousand dollars ,that was supposed to help improve Eastie Parks being used for those ugly planters.
I guess you feel its O.K. to see our parks in deplorable condition,and kids playing on defective equipment.
I feel bad for you because you seem to have a lot of resentment in you ,if anyone calls attention to things the City does wrong,or not at all.
Inclosing I ask who are you,and why are you afraid to sign your name or open an account?
For the record Mr. ??????? you can call 617-635-4775 (office of the board of appeals) ,and ask for the information about the Chelsea Street property .Its 159 Chelsea Street,and the 3 lots to his left.
But in order for you to get the documents you will have to show an I.D.,and fill out a records request form as I and my neighbors have done.But wait that will reveal your identity.OOPS
Good Luck ,but man you are to wound up.You act as if I have attacked you,or as if you are related to the Mayor.Lighten up ,its a blog ,not a court room.
M.G.
the billboard next to the bremen st park adjacent to 156 porter street has been there since the 1950's or longer,these billboards should be abolished by city politicos,these billboards are in neighborhoods like southie dorchester rozzie hyde park fenway but only one neighborhood the back bay if you can find a billboard in the back bay Ill give you $1,0000 - drive through winchester or chestnut hill you do not see a single billboard even along rt 9, Medford erected 4 giant billboards last year along rt 93 because they needed the revenue the city was in dire straits,East Boston has to many billboards in low traffic areas such as the sumner tunnel, oppose to pre bigdig years,and the aforementioned porter st bremen st park area,I think billboards should be close to shopping districts like liberty markets, not on top of resturaunts in day sq. it looks tacky, the 50's are over.
Amazing Jimbo. Who is Maria G. I love how this is considered giving a name. Maria, why do I have to work for City Hall to support the Mayor. Maria do you have a last name? What address do you live at? It's nice to see someone supporting the Lombardo's Billboard, which all the neighbors including Joe Mason opposed. You are in the tank.
Maria, you sound like someone who is pushing for more billboard? Defending them. I suppose you supported the Porter Street billboard at the zoning board?
Hey Maria Billboards are awesome. I hope they put one next to your house.
O.K. ,AND WOW
To the blog owner.
I was hesitant on posting on your blog after reading so many negative attacks by the Anonymous posters on every single subject you put up,but said wel if I post in a responsible way,and do not attack anyone ,there should be no reason to be attacked.
However your blog appears to be like the Wild West,and is in my opinion out of control.
What part of me saying how much I do not like Bill Boards doesn't this Anon person get?????????????.
Ignorance is not a substitution for the truth.
I think all the anon posting is from one person who seems to think everyone hates the Mayor.
I have never met him in person,and have never attacked him on your blog,so why all the anger.
I thank you for allowing me to post but after this post I will no longer be posting,and allow UNCREDIBLE people who are afraid to sign thier rants attack me as a person who has no bad feelings about anyone.
I have posted twice on the other blog www.theeastbostonian.blogspot.com
and was not attacked. But there is a fundamental difference between your blogs. On the eastbostonian you can not post anonymous,and they give a stern warning about not leetting people do whats been done to me.
Maybee you won't post this because I speak about that blog,or the fact that they have eliminated the Anonymous link,as you can do.
Well I tried,and am proud of how respectful I was on your blog,but to me if you want people to have a decent conversation,the attack stuff is a cancer.
Once again Thanks,and for the record,every single word I posted about Chelsea street is based on living the nightmare.But I am done.
God Bless
M.G.
Well, MG, I do agree that you have been treated disrespectfully (as many others here have) and that there are a number of posters here who seem to be hateful and immature.
Not allowing anonymous post, though, does not ensure that you know who you are talking to. As far as we know you aren't MG, maybe you are actually Joe Mason, or Jim himself, trying to stir up controversy on his own post. There is no way to know since you can make up a google (or whatever) account under a false name. You could make two and post under two identities. That is just the reality of the electonic world.
I do wish people would not post anonymously--I think that would eliminate most of the irresponsible posts, but as you can see, I don't have the guts to do it. And from the looks of the small number of posters at the eastbostonian blog (I'm sure it will take time to build up a readership), it doesn't seem like a lot of other people feel comfortable with it either...
Hey, I try to avoid controversy on here, not stir it up!
But I did want to say that I do not post anonymously on here. Of course, readers have no way of verifying that, but the best I can do is assure you that my words are always attached to my name.
Same anon here (5:35). I hope you know I was poking fun to make a point, Jim. I certainly don't think you post anonymously or try to stir up controversy.
Maria G, we have one of the most expensive and impressive parks in the city. Around airport station and the new stadium filed is beautiful. I live at 156 porter street I should know. Lombardo's is to blame for the steel structure and no one else. He didn't have the money to build the building without a billboard? Are you serious. Ask Mason he even opposed it. Lombardo got the right to build the building but he needed more. Stop blaming the Mayor who always has this community in mind. You sound like you have a personal vendetta. Research the issues.
Anon at 5:35 is right that even if you have a Google/Blogger identity that does not guarantee we know who the author is. In fact, having an identity does not even guarantee you will use it.
I checked out the eastbostonianblog after having received another harassing email by Joe Mason. One interesting fact: because of my security protocols (I don't accept unnecessary tracking cookies), I was not able to even see the site. Some bloggers set those kinds of things up.
When I was at the school's computer lab I went to check it out a second time out of simple curiosity. I was mainly interested in why I received the warning that the contents may be considered offensive. Here's where I learned a more interesting fact: the owner of eastbostonianblog, which has been publicly identified as Joe Mason, has had a Blogger account since the Fall of 2007 (if I remember correctly, it was either September or November). And yet on this blog, he refused to sign in using his blogger identity. It is possible that someone else set up this identity at that time and is allowing Mr Mason to use it. Otherwise, it would be very hypocritical for him to criticize anonymous posters and not use his own blogging identity.
So, there you go. Perhaps the best thing to do is to ignore the folks that post unnecessarily negative things. I will admit that I am fully in the court of those who would encourage Jimbo to simply delete those comments. But he believes in free speech, and unfortunately, unless it is a certain type of oppressive speech or inciting people to violence, even angry and hurtful comments are considered free speech.
To N-starluna. Why do you constantly lecture us about every topic. We all know how "intelligent" you really are. Why do you have to tell us what kind of speech is constitutionally protected and what isn't. We are not three years old. You are the most obnoxious person.
To Anon 6:38:
n.starluna was not lecturing. I don't really see her doing that. I also don't see her attacking people. I do see her voicing her opinion and I ususally find it interesting. If you don't can you please find a more mature way to respond?
I like this blog. I learn a lot about Eastie from Jim and many of the people who reply to his blog. Unlike some people for whom it seems to make them inexplicably crazy, I also happen to enjoy Jim's posts that aren't related to East Boston (maple syrup...).
But every time I read a post like yours (and there seem to be a lot of them) I come that much closer to deciding it isn't worth it for me to come to this site. I don't need to waste my time reading hateful, immature posts.
And yes, you can call this post a lecture if you want! : )
And PS, to Jim:
Allowing posts like this one is not trying to avoid controversy, just my opinion...
Jim, the purpose of a blog is to disagree on different issues. Why is everyone so sensitive? If you can't handle criticism then leave. I love being lectured, then being chastised on top of it. If I think N-starluna write's an obnoxious post I should tell everyone that. What else is the purpose of the blog. No one has a problem with criticizing our elected officials. And what's wrong with posting anonymous. Like Maria G is your real name.
NUFF SAID.
I participate in other forums where flaming, such as seen often on this blog, is grounds for removal. There are some very heated discussions among people who have very passionate differences of opinions. But personal attacks are not allowed. In these forums, you can criticize another person's ideas, but not them personally. If you cannot behave properly, you are kicked out.
So, Mr Mason or his look-alike brings up a very good point. It's worth thinking through what the purpose of blog is. Jimbo, when you've figured that out, let us know. It might help set some criteria for which comments are allowed and which are not. I think there is a danger in losing the participation of people hoping to have reasonable discussions when hostile, insulting, and non-constructive comments that do nothing to clarify or persuade anyone are allowed to be posted.
Kudo's to Johnny Forbes and Neighborhood Services!!!
I have been observing this conversation from a distance because I didn't necessarily feel that I had anything more to add, but I have to give this guy a pat on the back.
Last week in passing - Johnny Forbes overheard me discussing an issue with trash dumping just off of Chelsea St. He immediately offered to handle it. I just received a phone call from the person on the other end of the conversation thanking me for helping to get rid of the trash.
I thought I should give credit where credit is due. Thanks again Johnny for taking immediate and unsolicited action!
While I'm on the topic of Johnny Forbes, I have to give the guy another plug.
I have only just met Johnny within the last 10 months or so, but I have to say, he truly is a great guy. I have seen him drop everything to roll up his sleeves to help out on community projects, I have seen him leave his family and home on a weekend night to tend to fire victims and really just jump in wherever he feels that he can help out. East Boston is a very big place and we are fortunate to have people like Johnny Forbes and all of our elected officials that are just out there around the clock working for all of us.
N-starluna is critical of everyone and we cannot be critical of her? Is this a joke. What's good for the goose. I wasn't being hateful, just simply telling you I feel you lecture people. If you can't handle it then get off the blog and go join Mason.
Joe Mason gives me meaning in my life. He responded with a ward committee blog Jimbo at least he listens. You are such a fool jimbo your blog is falling all around you. Mason wins again. Joe you should write a book.
If anon 6:38 is also anon 5:19, go back and read your post!
You didn't "simply tell" her you feel she lectures people, you said she "constantly lecture(s) us about every topic". Then you questioned her "intelligence". THEN you called her the "most obnoxious person." C'mon, that sounds pretty hateful to me.
And she seems to be able to handle it. It's other anon people and MG who are saying they will leave the blog.
What do you mean Mason wins again? He has a total of 7 posts to his blog...
Welcome back Eastie girl and I hope you will be fair Jim in posting this. After all she gives Johnny Forbes praises and we should also be able to criticize when called for.
I'm sure Johnny is a decent guy but I again I will say"I" called him at least 10 times about a thrash problem on Chelsea St. and he never and I will repeat"never" called me back.
The only negative thing I will say is that he better never want to run for a position because I will work tiredlessly against him.
Jimbo, thank you for allowing me to vent.
P.S. Eastie Girl, again we are on the opposite ends of the broom stick.You jump on issues when it suites you! Enough Said
With all due respect are we really going to waste blog time debating whose blog is more worthwhile? Jimbo Vs. Eastbostonian?? Everyone on Jimbos' blog knows who wins this battle hands down so lets not waste time debating it. Have a great day everyone.
Anon @ 1:28
That was a rather chilly welcome. "Once again we are on opposite ends of the broomstick"?
I'm not sure what the whole 'broomstick' metapor is about but don't think we are adversaries. It's unfortunate that we have had different experiences with Mr. Forbes. Most folks I know that share his acquaintance think him quite a gentleman and the model of a community servant.
I certainly would not hesitate to back any of his endeavors in the public or private sector.
As for jumping on subjects only when it suits me - um, why would I engage in a discussion where I A) do not add value or B) lack interest?
All My Best E.G.
To Anon 1:28,
Touche
Hello Everyone
PLEASE do not pit Jimbos blog against the EastBostonian,as we are NOT in competition.
Jimbo does his best,and I am very new to bloging in General.
I did not create a blog to go against Jimbo .I created a blog with a totaly different reason. To give people a chance to talk about the Good,and Bad about Eastie ONLY as it states.
With all due respect I did not win anything over Jimbo ,or anyone else,and am not trying to.
I am just as curious about the Ward Committee as all of you,so I decided (after being called out on this blog,and seeing my friend attacked by Anon's)
To 1-Put up the post,and 2- to let people know my feelings as an individual about Edward Deveau ,and Anthonys staff.They are all class acts.
No one should be attacking Jimbo,or comparing our blogs under any circumstances.
I just chose to eliminate the Anonymous link,so the actual topic is all thats discussed on each Blog Post.
Anyone who works for Neighborhood services should be given a Medal because its a Thankless job.
Your damed if you do ,and damed if you do not.
I have worked with 3 different people since being with L.U.C. Peter Nagle ,Jeff Drago,and now John Forbes. They will all agree with my point.
So those who want to pit me against Jimbo,again ,it gives meaning as to why I eliminated the Anon link.
Jimbo best of Luck.
One last thing ,Maria G. is a woman I met a long time ago,and the 159 Chelsea street nightmare she puts up with is 100% real. Today I went by,and now they are recycling Refrigerators,and A.C's in the lot to get the copper,and draining the fluids in the ground.
Remember 11-02-01 declared Illegal Basememnt apt.,and Illegal digging up of City curbs to make an Illegal pay for fee parking lot.
I hope no one on here thinks not ending that is the fault,or responsibility of any Neighborhood Services rep.?Its the City Legal Departments job.
Thank You Jimbo
Joe M.
AKA
theeastbostonian
A very gentlemanly post, Mr. Mason, good luck with the blog. I look forward to checking in there.
To Jimbo:again your not be fair, you post what you decide is Jimbo's view! Why don'y you just name this blog Jimbo's Blog?
That is why Joe Mason's blog will over take your's by the summer
Fret nothing Jimbo(As I'm Sure You Won't)! Best Blog Going! 2 Thumbs Up!
The biggest difference between the two blogs is that Jimbo posts ONLY what he wants and Mason gives you a fair shot! Liberalism at its best
Has anyone dined at the new cadillac cafe and Italian resturaunt yet, It's listed in the yellow pages 170 marion st East Bosto how are the reviews, have.nt been there yet
With All Due respect to those of you who seem to not want to listen.
TheEastBostonian was not created to compete with TheHubster.
Case In point;I was called out on this blog to put up a Post about the East Boston Democratic Ward Committee,yet not a single person who has been blasting Edward Deveau has put a post on my blog.
No one including a certain person who knows everything in the Universe has made a comment.
Besides letting Jimbos blog know I have also sent out a 500 person E-Mail tree asking for any information,as well as to the chair of the State Democratic Party.No Reply since Monday!
So far since the day the post went up .No information from anyone !
That leads me to think,no one knows,or cares.
So Please STOP.
One final note for anyone such as Star to say she couldn't access my blog because of Cookies,and the Terms of Service link,all I have to say is that If you want to use the Internet ,99.9% of all sites require you to accept cookies,and the Terms link is nothing to be afraid of,its simply a disclaimer that you agree to not do certain things.
Ah wait a minute ! Let me do a presemtive strike. YES ,ALL of the Elected Officials were on the E-Mail tree.
So since over 100 people have stopped to check us out,WHY NOT POST? Everyone on here yells at me to open an account,so open one on my blog,or use your current one.
You will never be able to post AS an ANON.
Joe M.
aka
theeastbostonian
Jimbo, once again Joe Mason uses this blog to be a sounding board for him. He comes on this blog to be critical of everyone and everything.
Why don't you just stick to yours Joe? Jimbo doesn't go onto yours to be critical but yet he welcomes any comments including yours!
I suggest that you take a different approach when asking people to post on your blog because your way isn't working.
stay well
To the last Anon;
I am not attacking anyone,and am ulike you not afraid to sign my name.
Now to Jimbo
You know why I posted here.
The imfanous Anons called me out sayinh,IN MORE THAN ONE post subject to do a Ward Committee post on th Eastbostonian.
So I did,and I expected many people to send comments,or links to provide up to date,and accurate information about said Ward Committee.
With the exception of two hits NO ONE has sent any info.
So my question is this Mr. Anon?
Do you know?If you do then post in cloak as an Anon,and educate us.
All I said was its been a lesson in futility.
Jimbo ,and most other people know the to blogs are 100% different,and set up for with different missions.
So again I will say the only people lacking credibility,are those who attack under the Anon link.
A LINK I DECIDED TO ELIMINATE ON MY BLOG.
Have a good week Jimbo.
Joe M.
Aproud EastBostonian who is even more proder of his name!!!
To Joe Mason: you just proved my point again by attacking. You make no sense what's so ever.
Jimbo allows a forum of real discussion where you want to pick and choose what you want to be said. All I said is that no one goes on your blog because of your outlandish stances.
Joe, your a decent guy but your ways are absolutely insane. Have a great weekend to all
Jimbo keep up the good work
O.K.
I think my point was proven again.
Jimbo runs a good blog about a whole host of topics,and thats his choice.
I
just decided to concentrate on just East Boston's topics.
I fail to see how you can not understand that.
But maybe if you sign your post ,or at the very least e-mail me,you can vent directly to me.
Another similar analogy is the way you chose to post ,and the way I chose to post.
Dont you think thats a fair comparison?
Many people have much to say,but for some strange reason,GOOD,or BAD they chose to not identify who they are.
Thats not a bad reflection on Jimbos blog,or mine,its a reflection of the Anon poster.
JOE M.
www.theeastbostonian.blogspot.com
To Joe Mason, I'm not going to go back and forth with you. Again I will say that you just enjoy to be arguementive. You get involved in situations like the Lombardo"s project when its none of your business. You are not a lawyer but yet you try to portray yourself as one.
I'm sorry Jimbo but enough is enough with this guy who hates progression. Joe you aren't East Boston and I know that you don't speak for many of us. So please Joe end it and try to make people want to engage for the right reasons and don't push just your agenda's.
Again, I'm sorry Jimbo and thanks for letting me vent.
To the Anon who is not reading with understanding.
I have re-read my last few posts,and do not see anything that you are speaking about.
Now as far as the Lombardos project goes,it is my business to hold absentee landlords accountable for TRASHING EAST BOSTON.
He has vowed to leave that eyesore steel frame next to the tunnel as is until it rots ,because the city DENIED him a Billboard two times. He has permits in hand to build 6 condos,and office,and a store for 3 1/2 years,and will not build.
So for you to bring that subject up,it clearly shows a difference between me ,and you that I am glad exists.
So once again good luck in your quest to paint me as a person who is not trying his best to help Eastie.
But if you are a true East Boston person?How could you possibly defend Mr. Vincent Lombardo?
God Bless East Boston
Joe M.
As said before "A Proud Eastbostonian,who is Proud of his name.
F Y I My Mom was part of the Baby Carrige brigade that stopped people going in the tunnel to stop Massport from further destroying Eastie.
I come from very dedicated Eastie roots.
Peace Jimbo
To Joe Mason, this is really the last time that I will respond!
It's my job to hold people accountable? You made you judge and jury? Who pays you that you claim its your job? You don't have any power over anything or anyone!
I'm not defending Mr. Lombardo although he has done more for this community than you, but instead of you always attacking someone why don't you point to the good of someone?
Lombardo's fed hundreds of elderly every Thanksgiving, have you?
Where you there to even serve the elderly?
Stop attacking for crying out loud!
My opinion is that you like to cause rifts between people.
Someone or Jimbo can you weigh in and point this out? Or is it just me? I need someone to step in here.
P.S. Most of us are proud of Eastie your not the only one Joe.
Good night Jimbo and thanks for having the only real blog here in Eastie
O.K
PLEASE POINT OUT TO ME,WHERE I SAID I WAS THE ONLY ONE WHO IS PROUD OF EAST BOSTON. PLEASE,PLEASE,PLEASE!!!!!!!.
INSTEAD OF SPINNING HATE,TRY IDENTIFYING YOURSELF.
I DON'T THINK ANYONE WILL BE UPSET WITH YOU FOR THAT.NOT EVEN ME.
I THINK YOU JUST ENJOY THE COMFORT OF TWISTING,AND SPINNING ME,MY WORDS,AND MY PASSION FOR YOUR OWN PERSONAL NEEDS/ENJOYMENT.
GOOD LUCK.
A PROUD EAST BOSTONIAN,AND SON OF A PROUD MOM.
Joe Mason,and your name is
_ _ _ _ _ _
TO Joe Masom: I take no pleasure of attacking you(which I'm noy), I'm just pointing the obvious. You like to cause waves in my opinion and you seem to thrive off that!
What's wrong in engaing in a smart, intellectual conversation? Instead you like attacking people, again this is my opinion.
Answer me this Joe, Lombardo's fed the elderly every year at Thanksgiving. I'd just like to know what do you give back to this community out of your own pocket?
Ill give you a detailed list,IF you give me your name,and address,as well as a detailed list of what you have given.
To me that seems fair!!!
Just email me in private at www.theeastbostonian.blogspot.com
Do we have a deal Mr.Anon?
P.S.My Mom gave not only financial help,but 30 yeras of service to Eastie.
A proud son,of a Proud Mom,and a Proud Eastbostonian.
Joe M.
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