Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Top Stories Vol. 3
And finally
THE A-FRAME SIGN FIGHT: You know, in retrospect, this thing received far too much ink already. Pass.
THE BOOTHS AT 10 CENTER ST: This too, this one-man campaign--my own--to restore the comfy booths at a high end restaurant seems insignificant nowadays. Pass.
PLUM ISLAND'S WASHING AWAY: This would be my pick for top story. You've got mismanagement and neglect by the federal government; the potential impact of global warming; the wrath of mother nature; greed; jealousy; cats and dogs sleeping together and, oh yeah, people are starting to lose their homes.
I extended the voting deadline into next week for those who need a little more time to consider. But I'm casting my vote today.
Retailers Reeling
No mention of The Port, but still plenty of depressing news from the folks at Womens Wear Daily. Was it really just this year when folks were worried about our downtown becoming dominated by chain stores?
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
The Answer (?)
City Councilor James Shanley got in touch with the mayor and secured an answer to our question posted here: To paraphrase, just how is the city going to stash $400,000 away to offset any differences between market rates for electricity and what the city would be paying through any solar deal?
Apparently, the mayor will put the money--which will be left over from a $1.6 bmillion rebate coming from the state--into an Alternative Energy Stabilization Account, which is the proper vehicle to carry money from year-to-year. Any expenditures from the account would have to be approved by the City Council, so the any dipping into the fund would get a full public airing.
If untouched, the money also would be available to purchase the solar panels in the future if we sought to do so.
As Shanley notes, this gives the council a degree of oversight in the deal, some thing which seemed to be missing in the first go around (as an anonymous poster offered in the linked post.) Shanley, in a comment on that same post, correctly points out that the council really has no jurisdiction over the mayor's negotiation of the solar deal so it was in no position to oversee anything.
He's right, of course. But as a voter I'd enjoy seeing the council butt into the mayor's office a little more often. Councilors generally have kept quiet about a few of the larger controversies this year including the Clamshack and the Solar Deal. Of course, when a councilor does step in--like Larry McCavitt--they're piled upon on by anonymous commenters telling them to mind their own business.
No one said councilors had an easy job.
But as Shanley hints at in his comment, the answer might lie in a change in the city's charter.
I've always been a proponent of having an elected mayor run the city. But the invisible wall between the City Council and Mayor's office has me wondering if the city would fare better under a city manager system. At least that way the council--who I think answer more directly to voters because they're more likely to get voted out of office--would have a much larger stake in the performance of the person managing the city's affairs. Seems to me that would focus more eyeballs on the operations of the city.
I'm still undecided, but I'm clearly off on a tangent. More on the Charter Review later.
Thanks to Councillor Shanley and the Mayor Moak for providing an answer.
Comments Update
Hi Folks,
Just wanted to let you know Blogger seems to be keeping my comments from me until there are four or five in the que. That's why I haven't been seeing them.
They are apparently working on the problem, but feel free to post a "test" message after your initial comment. It probably would speed the posting.
I wouldn't publish the test.
It's a screwy solution, I know, but blogger hasn't been able to fix the problem. And I'd like to post comments as quickly as possible.
Just wanted to let you know Blogger seems to be keeping my comments from me until there are four or five in the que. That's why I haven't been seeing them.
They are apparently working on the problem, but feel free to post a "test" message after your initial comment. It probably would speed the posting.
I wouldn't publish the test.
It's a screwy solution, I know, but blogger hasn't been able to fix the problem. And I'd like to post comments as quickly as possible.
Top Stories-Vol. 2
Continued and in order of appearance in the poll.
BATTLE AT CROW'S LANE: Well, this story has everything. Victims. Villains. Reports of sick residents, including children. Promises of state investigations. A very public meeting with Deval Patrick. It goes on and on and on, and potentially will do the same through 2009. This is a problem with no clear fix, but I think Mayor Moak and the council have held up pretty well in this fight against New Ventures. It's anybody's guess as to how this thing will turn out, but the issue is scheduled to have its date in court come this spring.
THE SOLAR PANEL DEAL:
Charlie Brown, you're the only person I know who can take a wonderful season like Christmas and turn it into a problem.
-Linus Van Pelt
This quote from the Charlie Brown Christmas special sums up my feelings about the mayor's push to get solar panels atop the Nock Middle School. How can a seemingly wonderful thing like Solar Panel get twisted into a problem? Well, it appears to be one-part rushing into a deal with vendor the city knew little about with a dash of having a guy who might benefit from the deal serve as the city's advisor. Just not a good combination for the sake of appearances and, clearly, performance.
The city finally moved on from the vendor, EyeOn, after the company lost its backers. According to the most recent report from the Daily News, the city was supposed to have received new bids yesterday from several interested--and economically viable--vendors. Here's hoping the terms are a little more favorable given the current climate.
The mayor's haste is due mostly to his desire to score $1.6 million in rebates from the state. It's hard to argue with the pursuit of free (i know, it's not really free) money, but the rush didn't serve us too well the first time.
BATTLE AT CROW'S LANE: Well, this story has everything. Victims. Villains. Reports of sick residents, including children. Promises of state investigations. A very public meeting with Deval Patrick. It goes on and on and on, and potentially will do the same through 2009. This is a problem with no clear fix, but I think Mayor Moak and the council have held up pretty well in this fight against New Ventures. It's anybody's guess as to how this thing will turn out, but the issue is scheduled to have its date in court come this spring.
THE SOLAR PANEL DEAL:
Charlie Brown, you're the only person I know who can take a wonderful season like Christmas and turn it into a problem.
-Linus Van Pelt
This quote from the Charlie Brown Christmas special sums up my feelings about the mayor's push to get solar panels atop the Nock Middle School. How can a seemingly wonderful thing like Solar Panel get twisted into a problem? Well, it appears to be one-part rushing into a deal with vendor the city knew little about with a dash of having a guy who might benefit from the deal serve as the city's advisor. Just not a good combination for the sake of appearances and, clearly, performance.
The city finally moved on from the vendor, EyeOn, after the company lost its backers. According to the most recent report from the Daily News, the city was supposed to have received new bids yesterday from several interested--and economically viable--vendors. Here's hoping the terms are a little more favorable given the current climate.
The mayor's haste is due mostly to his desire to score $1.6 million in rebates from the state. It's hard to argue with the pursuit of free (i know, it's not really free) money, but the rush didn't serve us too well the first time.
BTW, we got an answer to the question we posed in our earlier post. See "The Answer."
SENIOR CENTER FINDS A HOME: Not much else to say.
SENIOR CENTER FINDS A HOME: Not much else to say.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Top Stories-Vol. I
Last week was filled with last minute shopping, shoveling, wrapping, cleaning and, finally, celebrating. I hope every one of you enjoyed whatever holiday you celebrate. I'm a Christmas guy, and we had a mostly excellent day.
I did manage to post the Top story poll to the right. It's a cliche question, I know, but one I thought was worth tossing out there.
I haven't voted yet. I'll save it for the last few days, but if I had to vote today I admit it'd be a tough call to make.
It's interesting how the year played out. I'll review the many issues over the next few posts.
STEVE KARP COMES TO TOWN: I'd say Steve Karp was clearly the story of the year in the first four or five months of 2008. The speculation and worry drove everyone a bit bonkers. Hell, even the Daily News kicked in some dough to buy Stephen Tait a ferry ticket to Nantucket.
The March meeting was THE single biggest event of the year, forget about Yankee Homecoming. But he grew largely irrelevant as the year passed and the economy sag. He's still out there, no doubt, but I'm sure he'll be sitting on the money making enterprises along the waterfront for the next few years.
DEBT EXCLUSION FALLS SHORT: This was clearly the biggest story that wasn't. In this blogger's humble opinion the mayor's campaign for the override was feeble. At several times I asked no on in particular--and sometimes people in particular--if he really wanted the thing to pass.
His retail sale approach made sense if it was done in concert with a larger, more headline driven campaign. But that never happened. Instead, the front pages of the paper were filled with headlines about squabbles over city contracts and solar deals.
Still, the damn thing almost passed. I might be wrong but I firmly think it would have passed if the mayor helped create a larger political movement. And I'm sorry I have no patience for blaming the state because the required wording on the ballot was so confusing. The ballot requirements have been in place for years and should have been part of the entire equation.
Oh, and I won't be voting for it if the city seeks and received special permission to send out "informational" fliers on the city's dime. I don't think that's proper use of city funds.
CLAM SHACK: Okay, this one isn't a winner but I thought it was worth a mention. At least it gives me the opportunity to ask a few questions, again:
1. Does some or all of the Clamshack sit on city land?
2. If yes,how is this legal?
Personally, I don't care if the fellow lives there or not. But if that is city property I'd like to see either a) him buy the land he needs from the city at some price or b) an explanation from the city as to how we can allow a privately owned structure to rest on city land. That just seems like an immensely dangerous precedent, particularly after reading about all the small scale land takings by residents along the city's rail trail in a recent Liberator.
I did manage to post the Top story poll to the right. It's a cliche question, I know, but one I thought was worth tossing out there.
I haven't voted yet. I'll save it for the last few days, but if I had to vote today I admit it'd be a tough call to make.
It's interesting how the year played out. I'll review the many issues over the next few posts.
STEVE KARP COMES TO TOWN: I'd say Steve Karp was clearly the story of the year in the first four or five months of 2008. The speculation and worry drove everyone a bit bonkers. Hell, even the Daily News kicked in some dough to buy Stephen Tait a ferry ticket to Nantucket.
The March meeting was THE single biggest event of the year, forget about Yankee Homecoming. But he grew largely irrelevant as the year passed and the economy sag. He's still out there, no doubt, but I'm sure he'll be sitting on the money making enterprises along the waterfront for the next few years.
DEBT EXCLUSION FALLS SHORT: This was clearly the biggest story that wasn't. In this blogger's humble opinion the mayor's campaign for the override was feeble. At several times I asked no on in particular--and sometimes people in particular--if he really wanted the thing to pass.
His retail sale approach made sense if it was done in concert with a larger, more headline driven campaign. But that never happened. Instead, the front pages of the paper were filled with headlines about squabbles over city contracts and solar deals.
Still, the damn thing almost passed. I might be wrong but I firmly think it would have passed if the mayor helped create a larger political movement. And I'm sorry I have no patience for blaming the state because the required wording on the ballot was so confusing. The ballot requirements have been in place for years and should have been part of the entire equation.
Oh, and I won't be voting for it if the city seeks and received special permission to send out "informational" fliers on the city's dime. I don't think that's proper use of city funds.
CLAM SHACK: Okay, this one isn't a winner but I thought it was worth a mention. At least it gives me the opportunity to ask a few questions, again:
1. Does some or all of the Clamshack sit on city land?
2. If yes,how is this legal?
Personally, I don't care if the fellow lives there or not. But if that is city property I'd like to see either a) him buy the land he needs from the city at some price or b) an explanation from the city as to how we can allow a privately owned structure to rest on city land. That just seems like an immensely dangerous precedent, particularly after reading about all the small scale land takings by residents along the city's rail trail in a recent Liberator.
Friday, December 26, 2008
Beverly's Black Cow Draws Boooos
Get it, instead of Mooooooos?
The Black Cow restaurant planned for Beverly's waterfront is drawing some complaints from abuttors, who don't like the scope of the project, according to an article in the Salem News.
The Black Cow restaurant planned for Beverly's waterfront is drawing some complaints from abuttors, who don't like the scope of the project, according to an article in the Salem News.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
AJ losing Market Share?
Judging from the coverage in the Daily News, the AJ seems to be in tip-top financial health. But a review by the Boston-based Partners group suggests a weakness.
From the lengthy Globe article today on Partners' move into the burbs:
I'm not sure how market share is measured. Perhaps its a measure of where people in a certain area receive their care, but whether it indicates the AG is losing percentage points to those other facilities or actual procedure numbers, I just don't konw.
But working with the assumption that more folks from Boston and Greater Boston have moved to Port, I guess it's reasonable to assume that they might feel tighter bonds to physicians and facilities with which they're familiar.
Personally, I like the AJ. I've been fortunate enough not to require any serious care, but the care I have received has been great.
From the lengthy Globe article today on Partners' move into the burbs:
Partners' executives provided an analysis showing that 20 of 39 non-Partners community hospitals lost market share in their primary service area in that period, while 19 hospitals held steady or gained. Anna Jaques Hospital lost market share in four of its top five communities - Newburyport, Amesbury, Merrimac, and West Newbury, while Mass. General, Lahey Clinic, and the Brigham picked up patients in those communities.
I'm not sure how market share is measured. Perhaps its a measure of where people in a certain area receive their care, but whether it indicates the AG is losing percentage points to those other facilities or actual procedure numbers, I just don't konw.
But working with the assumption that more folks from Boston and Greater Boston have moved to Port, I guess it's reasonable to assume that they might feel tighter bonds to physicians and facilities with which they're familiar.
Personally, I like the AJ. I've been fortunate enough not to require any serious care, but the care I have received has been great.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Newspaper Errors
Note: I wrote this piece a week ago and managed not to post it. Bad Blogger.
Wow, the Daily News got plunked from afar. Check out this blog from Westwood.
I've never been a fan of sniping at the News or newspapers in general for obvious editing errors and typos.
I guess my reluctance stems partly from the fact I still write for a living and wrote for newspapers at one time. I've made a few mistakes in my day. I still do from time-to-time so I just don't think it's good karma to be holding up a shining light to someone else's silly mistake (which I guess I just did by posting to the blog up above.)
I'm far less tolerant of mistakes that might actually have a negative impact. Say, for instance, an article or headline suggests a business is closing rather than opening a new location.
I also think editorial judgment is fair game, such as why did the Daily News run an article on Karp holding off when I swear it ran the same article a few months ago (although I can't find it on the archives. Am I crazy for remembering this?)
I understand some of this "ha-ha, look at the dumb newspaper" is a bit of backlash, since it's the job of newspapers to report on everyone else's foibles, failures, mistakes and tragedies. (For the record, newspapers also report on successes, victories, achievements and heart-warming stories as well.)
Clearly, reporters having to take pokes for silly mistake is just part of the territory. Bloggers have to take the same, I suppose. But I sometimes wonder if folks--both reporters and their subjects--would behave differently if they spent some real time on the other side of the newsprint.
Anyway, I'll add the Westwood blog to the blog roll.
Wow, the Daily News got plunked from afar. Check out this blog from Westwood.
I've never been a fan of sniping at the News or newspapers in general for obvious editing errors and typos.
I guess my reluctance stems partly from the fact I still write for a living and wrote for newspapers at one time. I've made a few mistakes in my day. I still do from time-to-time so I just don't think it's good karma to be holding up a shining light to someone else's silly mistake (which I guess I just did by posting to the blog up above.)
I'm far less tolerant of mistakes that might actually have a negative impact. Say, for instance, an article or headline suggests a business is closing rather than opening a new location.
I also think editorial judgment is fair game, such as why did the Daily News run an article on Karp holding off when I swear it ran the same article a few months ago (although I can't find it on the archives. Am I crazy for remembering this?)
I understand some of this "ha-ha, look at the dumb newspaper" is a bit of backlash, since it's the job of newspapers to report on everyone else's foibles, failures, mistakes and tragedies. (For the record, newspapers also report on successes, victories, achievements and heart-warming stories as well.)
Clearly, reporters having to take pokes for silly mistake is just part of the territory. Bloggers have to take the same, I suppose. But I sometimes wonder if folks--both reporters and their subjects--would behave differently if they spent some real time on the other side of the newsprint.
Anyway, I'll add the Westwood blog to the blog roll.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Speaking of
I'm not sure when it was installed, but the store directory is standing tall in Market Square.
I stared at it for a minute. Contemplated taking a picture but realized I still don't quite know how to pull photos off my camera phone so I walked away.
I'm not sure if I like it or not. Scratch that. I don't NOT like it. But I'm not sure if I do like it.
I stared at it for a minute. Contemplated taking a picture but realized I still don't quite know how to pull photos off my camera phone so I walked away.
I'm not sure if I like it or not. Scratch that. I don't NOT like it. But I'm not sure if I do like it.
But Are The Newburyport Posts?
The Salem News has an article reporting that the city of Peabody will give us 43 old street lights. Apparently, Peabody got the coin to replace their own while ours have fallen into a bit of disrepair.
Just see the photo above.
Nice pick up by Mayor Moak. This is a nice bit of recycling.
Just see the photo above.
Nice pick up by Mayor Moak. This is a nice bit of recycling.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Feeling is Mutual, Lady
This is a letter to the Gloucester times.
Actually, I like Gloucester just fine. There's just no need to be snippy.
Letter to the editor: Why did city officials all shun harbor forum?
To the editor:
On Monday, Dec. 8, my husband and I attended the community forum regarding Gloucester Harbor.
We are not affiliated with Citizens for Gloucester Harbor, but as responsible citizens in our community we wanted to gather information regarding the views of the use of our harbor. My husband and his family have lived in Gloucester for generations and still to this day several of his brothers work on the waterfront.
On arriving, we sat down as the mayor, City Council and School Committee were finishing up a meeting. My husband and I were both astounded by the fact that all of the City Council members and the mayor left before this informational forum began.
The forum had a packed house with many community leaders in attendance. Why our elected representatives believed that they did not need to listen to both presenters and audience on this important issue is beyond my understanding. Who does not feel that Peter Anastas or Angela Sanfilippo, after their lifetime commitment to this community, haven't earned the right to have their voices heard by those that we, the people, have chosen to represent us?
My husband and I were given this great opportunity to listen to people who have spent their lives committed to our fishing industry and our harbor and understand the multifaceted importance of the many different uses of our harbor. These speakers were talking about the future — maintaining and improving our working waterfront with many progressive ideas such as marine technologies and green energy opportunities. These speakers were also talking about the past, the great history of our harbor and how it is so much a part of who we are.
When I met my husband and was deciding to move to Gloucester 10 years ago, I drove him and two of his brothers down to the harbor in the wee hours of the morning to unload fish off a boat. As I watched them walk toward the boat in their orange slickers, I realized how much they love their work and their harbor and how much this is a part of who they are.
There is a difference between Gloucester Harbor and other harbor towns and cities. Do we want Gloucester to be another Newburyport? I think most of us here in Gloucester do not.
These are difficult times we face, no doubt. We should all be listening with an open mind right now, remembering who we are and where we came from.
We need to proceed very carefully and considerately as we develop our plans around the harbor. We do not need to act out of fear.
JANET MULLEN
Pine Road, West Gloucester
Actually, I like Gloucester just fine. There's just no need to be snippy.
Letter to the editor: Why did city officials all shun harbor forum?
To the editor:
On Monday, Dec. 8, my husband and I attended the community forum regarding Gloucester Harbor.
We are not affiliated with Citizens for Gloucester Harbor, but as responsible citizens in our community we wanted to gather information regarding the views of the use of our harbor. My husband and his family have lived in Gloucester for generations and still to this day several of his brothers work on the waterfront.
On arriving, we sat down as the mayor, City Council and School Committee were finishing up a meeting. My husband and I were both astounded by the fact that all of the City Council members and the mayor left before this informational forum began.
The forum had a packed house with many community leaders in attendance. Why our elected representatives believed that they did not need to listen to both presenters and audience on this important issue is beyond my understanding. Who does not feel that Peter Anastas or Angela Sanfilippo, after their lifetime commitment to this community, haven't earned the right to have their voices heard by those that we, the people, have chosen to represent us?
My husband and I were given this great opportunity to listen to people who have spent their lives committed to our fishing industry and our harbor and understand the multifaceted importance of the many different uses of our harbor. These speakers were talking about the future — maintaining and improving our working waterfront with many progressive ideas such as marine technologies and green energy opportunities. These speakers were also talking about the past, the great history of our harbor and how it is so much a part of who we are.
When I met my husband and was deciding to move to Gloucester 10 years ago, I drove him and two of his brothers down to the harbor in the wee hours of the morning to unload fish off a boat. As I watched them walk toward the boat in their orange slickers, I realized how much they love their work and their harbor and how much this is a part of who they are.
There is a difference between Gloucester Harbor and other harbor towns and cities. Do we want Gloucester to be another Newburyport? I think most of us here in Gloucester do not.
These are difficult times we face, no doubt. We should all be listening with an open mind right now, remembering who we are and where we came from.
We need to proceed very carefully and considerately as we develop our plans around the harbor. We do not need to act out of fear.
JANET MULLEN
Pine Road, West Gloucester
I'd like to know
who is this poor bastard in Newbury.
From the Daily News' Prattle....er "Heard Around Town."
Powerful news
The end is in sight for powerless
Electricity is expected to be back to normal by today, power companies reported. As of last night, the following numbers were reported by National Grid for Massachusetts and Unitil for New Hampshire customers:
Amesbury — 101
Newburyport — 7
Salisbury — 5
Newbury — 1
West Newbury — 8
Seabrook — 900
From the Daily News' Prattle....er "Heard Around Town."
Powerful news
The end is in sight for powerless
Electricity is expected to be back to normal by today, power companies reported. As of last night, the following numbers were reported by National Grid for Massachusetts and Unitil for New Hampshire customers:
Amesbury — 101
Newburyport — 7
Salisbury — 5
Newbury — 1
West Newbury — 8
Seabrook — 900
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Food Pantry in Need
Sad story in the News today about Our Neighbors' Table losing over 50 pounds of meat and cheese when a faulty generator failed to keep the food frozen. More than 400 were counting on that food for holiday dinner.
They're taking steps to restock. I'm sure they wouldn't mind some help or donations. I don't have any details on how to do that, but here is their Web site.
UPDATE: Apparently nobody went without, if I'm reading the Daily News article correctly. Congrats to call.
They're taking steps to restock. I'm sure they wouldn't mind some help or donations. I don't have any details on how to do that, but here is their Web site.
UPDATE: Apparently nobody went without, if I'm reading the Daily News article correctly. Congrats to call.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Yes
I just learned that Newburyport Posts is ranked 999,245 by Technorati.
I have no idea what that means or what Technorati really is. But thanks to all of you for helping us get under the one million mark!!
I love you all.
I have no idea what that means or what Technorati really is. But thanks to all of you for helping us get under the one million mark!!
I love you all.
An Increase in Solar Interest
Ah, I love the smell of free market competition in the morning. It will be interesting to see what kind of deal the city lands from a new solar panel/energy provider, nine of whom are interested in doing business with the city, according to the Daily News.
Given the current economic climate, I could see the terms only getting better as I'm sure there are fewer entities out there--corporate or government--willing to fork over serious dough for a larger capital project. But perhaps I'm misjudging the market.
If I were the mayor, however, I'd be reluctant to sign any deal that didn't at least match what Eyeon, the former provider who apparently lost its investor, was offering. Unless the Eyeon deal was just too good to be true, but other firms contacted by the Daily News at the time of the exclusive Eyeon talks seemed to indicate they might match or exceed the terms.
I do have one question. From the Daily News Article:
How exactly does this work? Does the city keep $400,000 in an account that it will dip into whenever energy prices climb? I didn't think municipal entities could carry accounts over year- to-year.
If we can't, than is this going to be a $400,000 budget line item added into future budgets? If that is the case I can easily envision a scenario where that money is treated as a sudden windfall by this or a future mayor and diverted to cover more immediate budget costs. Then we'd be stuck with the higher energy prices with no means of covering our increased cost.
Any thoughts out there?
Given the current economic climate, I could see the terms only getting better as I'm sure there are fewer entities out there--corporate or government--willing to fork over serious dough for a larger capital project. But perhaps I'm misjudging the market.
If I were the mayor, however, I'd be reluctant to sign any deal that didn't at least match what Eyeon, the former provider who apparently lost its investor, was offering. Unless the Eyeon deal was just too good to be true, but other firms contacted by the Daily News at the time of the exclusive Eyeon talks seemed to indicate they might match or exceed the terms.
I do have one question. From the Daily News Article:
Most important for prospective bidders, Moak and Wootan told the group the city wants to keep the $400,000 in MTC rebates it negotiated into its contract with EyeOn. That would allow the city to offset unforeseen expenses and to compensate for potential energy price dips that might make Newburyport regret locking in at higher energy costs down the road.
How exactly does this work? Does the city keep $400,000 in an account that it will dip into whenever energy prices climb? I didn't think municipal entities could carry accounts over year- to-year.
If we can't, than is this going to be a $400,000 budget line item added into future budgets? If that is the case I can easily envision a scenario where that money is treated as a sudden windfall by this or a future mayor and diverted to cover more immediate budget costs. Then we'd be stuck with the higher energy prices with no means of covering our increased cost.
Any thoughts out there?
Did They Rate on a Curve?
I want to give a hearty set of kudos to the mayor for last week's news that Standard & Poor's upgraded our bond rating. But do these credit houses have any credibility after the mortgage backed securities fiasco--where piles of garbage received "AAA" ratings?
That isn't a criticism of the rated, just the raters. Oh, how the mighty have fallen.
Good news for the city.
That isn't a criticism of the rated, just the raters. Oh, how the mighty have fallen.
Good news for the city.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Don't Cross the Streams
No Waste Here
We're rabid recyclers in our house. We routinely fill three for four bins with every possible piece of plastic, paper and cardboard.
I do my best to sort, but I'd be lying if I told you I never mixed my recyclables.
There, I said it. Phew, I feel better.
So the word that I can now toss all my non-trash items into a single bin just makes me feel whole again. I once again can be a (semi) functional and law-abiding member of society.
Since I'm being open and honest here, I do have to wonder. How is this possible? What happens after the guys in the truck toss my mix of cans, plastics and newspapers into a single truck? Is it sorted later on?
The cynic in me says we'll someday learn an ugly truth about mixed use recycling. Just as Homer Simpson learned that Duff, Duff Light and Lady Duff all came from the same beer vat, we will someday discover that our recycling has gone unmixed, unsorted and worse unused.
But for now, who cares? It's damn convenient. Woo Hoo!
Now, I have two questions. Are our old recycling bins recyclable? And will the new ones be made from recycled material?
I do my best to sort, but I'd be lying if I told you I never mixed my recyclables.
There, I said it. Phew, I feel better.
So the word that I can now toss all my non-trash items into a single bin just makes me feel whole again. I once again can be a (semi) functional and law-abiding member of society.
Since I'm being open and honest here, I do have to wonder. How is this possible? What happens after the guys in the truck toss my mix of cans, plastics and newspapers into a single truck? Is it sorted later on?
The cynic in me says we'll someday learn an ugly truth about mixed use recycling. Just as Homer Simpson learned that Duff, Duff Light and Lady Duff all came from the same beer vat, we will someday discover that our recycling has gone unmixed, unsorted and worse unused.
But for now, who cares? It's damn convenient. Woo Hoo!
Now, I have two questions. Are our old recycling bins recyclable? And will the new ones be made from recycled material?
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Phew
I went to bed Thursday night thinking we'd walk up on Friday with no power. The trees were covered with ice. But when I got up all was free and clear.
I'm quite thankful. I didn't realize how bad things were just a mile or two away. I hope everyone is getting back on their feet.
The video is from the Daily News.
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UPDATE: Meanwhile, our friends at Shrewsburied.com seem to be having a heck of a time.
I'm quite thankful. I didn't realize how bad things were just a mile or two away. I hope everyone is getting back on their feet.
The video is from the Daily News.
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UPDATE: Meanwhile, our friends at Shrewsburied.com seem to be having a heck of a time.
Dog Poo
I found myself in the rare instance of having taken the dog for a walk without a plastic bag in pocket.
Of course I needed the bag.
So thanks to whatever person or entity is responsible for installing the plastic bag dispenser at Cashman Park.
Of course I needed the bag.
So thanks to whatever person or entity is responsible for installing the plastic bag dispenser at Cashman Park.
For what it's worth
I'm willing to drive to Amesbury to drop off some leaves and such. I'm not all that fussy.
Just gives me another reason to visit the Barking Dog.
Also, doesn't it make a great deal of sense to have the compost center at a farm? That way the farm can use the compost.
Or maybe there is some reason why leave compost isn't suitable for farming?
Just gives me another reason to visit the Barking Dog.
Also, doesn't it make a great deal of sense to have the compost center at a farm? That way the farm can use the compost.
Or maybe there is some reason why leave compost isn't suitable for farming?
Friday, December 12, 2008
2008 Top Stories
I'm assembling a series of posts to review this year's top stories. Feel free to submit some suggestions and let me know if you'd like to post an item.
Change in the Air
This idea from Councilor Donna Holaday makes a great deal of sense. Nine committees certainly sound like too many, almost one per councilor.
The only question I have is how will councilors do with five fewer chairman seats to have divvied among them. I'm guessing this won't be a problem.
Of course the larger question is whether or not we need 11 councilors in the first place. I'm not sure what changes will come from the proposed charter commission, but I'm sure the size of the city council--in addition to the duties and very existence of the mayor--will be one of the many things explored.
Next year should be interesting.
The only question I have is how will councilors do with five fewer chairman seats to have divvied among them. I'm guessing this won't be a problem.
Of course the larger question is whether or not we need 11 councilors in the first place. I'm not sure what changes will come from the proposed charter commission, but I'm sure the size of the city council--in addition to the duties and very existence of the mayor--will be one of the many things explored.
Next year should be interesting.
No News in the News
I was a bit surprised by the prominence given to this article about Karp holding back his plans. This has been widely reported for months--and stated right here at the start of the year--by many, including the Daily News itself.
And I guess we have closure on the the solar deal. We'd heard weeks ago that it had died, but I guess the mayor didn't want to pull the plug.
Time to come up with another, "What's Up With" feature. Any suggestions?
And I guess we have closure on the the solar deal. We'd heard weeks ago that it had died, but I guess the mayor didn't want to pull the plug.
Time to come up with another, "What's Up With" feature. Any suggestions?
Thursday, December 11, 2008
New Planning Director
A hearty Newburyport Posts welcome to Sean Sullivan, the city's new planning director.
After the fuss and fury that followed the firing of Nick Cracknell and preceded the hiring of Nancy Colbert, this hiring seemed ridiculously low key. The mayor apparently interviewed a few folks, picked his favorite, brought him before the council and got their approval.
How dull.
But, the new guy seems to check out. Read Katie Farrell's piece here in the Daily News. Our own Lowell source gave a positive review, so we don't see a single red flag. The only potential problem will be the time he wastes telling folks, "No, no relation to those Sullivans." (At least I assume that's the case.)
Here's hoping he hits the ground running next year.
After the fuss and fury that followed the firing of Nick Cracknell and preceded the hiring of Nancy Colbert, this hiring seemed ridiculously low key. The mayor apparently interviewed a few folks, picked his favorite, brought him before the council and got their approval.
How dull.
But, the new guy seems to check out. Read Katie Farrell's piece here in the Daily News. Our own Lowell source gave a positive review, so we don't see a single red flag. The only potential problem will be the time he wastes telling folks, "No, no relation to those Sullivans." (At least I assume that's the case.)
Here's hoping he hits the ground running next year.
Downtown Filling Up
Well, we certainly spent enough time fretting about the closing of Mary Jane's or the defection of Ashley & Barnes to Amesbury. So it's worth noting that both spaces are now filled.
As far as I can tell, the only two significant vacancies downtown are the two small shops on Inn Street next to the Barber Shop and, of course, the future/former site of Chico's. UPDATE:Forgot about the always empty space next to the screening room. Senior Center anyone?
I suppose that's not too shabby in this crummy economy.
As far as I can tell, the only two significant vacancies downtown are the two small shops on Inn Street next to the Barber Shop and, of course, the future/former site of Chico's. UPDATE:Forgot about the always empty space next to the screening room. Senior Center anyone?
I suppose that's not too shabby in this crummy economy.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Crank-on-Crank Crime
Personally I find the crowing of potential layoffs of city employees to be distasteful. I'll never understand how people extract pleasure from the misery of others (unless those others happen to be Yankee fans.)
So I was actually heartened to see that only a couple of dingbats commented on today's Daily News article of potential layoffs.Either people are kinder than I thought or those folks with private sector jobs were too busy to comment on the article.
Still, it only took a few comments to draw an anonymous reply (directed at two of the cranks) from someone who claims to work for the city. Who knows if this is the case, but we'll assume it is since a) why would they make the claim if it weren't true and b) it leads to a few points.
First, this poster--going by the name Hellbent--isn't going to win friends or influence people with the tone or content of the message. But nice guys finish last and usually don't post anonymously.
But looking past the slams on the people supposedly paying his or her salary is a claim that the city has never formally presented the GIC and Blue Cross health plans to the union employees. If that's the case, I'm not quite sure how they're supposed to vote on whether or not to accept the new plan. I wonder if that's true.
So I was actually heartened to see that only a couple of dingbats commented on today's Daily News article of potential layoffs.Either people are kinder than I thought or those folks with private sector jobs were too busy to comment on the article.
Still, it only took a few comments to draw an anonymous reply (directed at two of the cranks) from someone who claims to work for the city. Who knows if this is the case, but we'll assume it is since a) why would they make the claim if it weren't true and b) it leads to a few points.
First, this poster--going by the name Hellbent--isn't going to win friends or influence people with the tone or content of the message. But nice guys finish last and usually don't post anonymously.
formerlyT,
You are complete whackjob. "Living Large". You MUST be from Nbbt, because you are so disconnected from reality..its almost laughable (if it wasnt so sad). Nobody has approached the city workers with a comprehensive plan. We are not about to have some plan shoved down our throat that has not even been brought before us and explained in detail. AFSCME is willing to look at some other plans. What we will not be, is bullied or threatened into some third rate health plan. Benefits are the only reason to be employed by a municipality. It sure as hell isnt the pay..or having to deal with dingbats such as yourself. I truely pray that your company/employer lays your butt off.
"old Salt" No idea what the hell you are trying to prove here. NH plates? Its a crime to live in NH and work for Nbpt?? Just so you know, not many city workers can afford to live in Nbpt. (or would WANT to) So cheaper living in NH it is. You people are nuts. Complete NUTS.
But looking past the slams on the people supposedly paying his or her salary is a claim that the city has never formally presented the GIC and Blue Cross health plans to the union employees. If that's the case, I'm not quite sure how they're supposed to vote on whether or not to accept the new plan. I wonder if that's true.
Speaking of the News
Here's the paper of record's report on the pub opening up at Rosie's. Sounds like a nice fit to me, and I'm excited at the notion.
Insider media note: Electronic media folks offer tips of the cap to other bloggers and such who break a story, as we did last week. Note, I did get the name wrong.
Brick, mortar and news inks do not offer the same consideration. They pretend the previous report never existed.
I used to favor the old school way, but I recognize and appreciate the congeniality of the new protocol.
Hmm, that sounded a little more catty than I intended. Not a big deal really, just making mention.
Insider media note: Electronic media folks offer tips of the cap to other bloggers and such who break a story, as we did last week. Note, I did get the name wrong.
Brick, mortar and news inks do not offer the same consideration. They pretend the previous report never existed.
I used to favor the old school way, but I recognize and appreciate the congeniality of the new protocol.
Hmm, that sounded a little more catty than I intended. Not a big deal really, just making mention.
No Deal
Here is the article from the Daily News. I agree with the commenters (here and on the News site): Why didn't this run in Tuesday's paper.
Strikes me as a bit of complacency that comes with being the only daily in town.
Strikes me as a bit of complacency that comes with being the only daily in town.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Deal or No Deal
Gillian Swart reported today that the mayor withdrew the amended landfill agreement from the council's consideration. Perhaps we'll get the fight we want ... and the one we don'tdidn't.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Shoveling Some Good Will
I'm a huge fan of this program to help seniors clear their sidewalks.
Congrats to whoever is responsible. As I posted year or so ago, this is considerably more preferable than ticketing seniors who can't shovel their walk.
Congrats to whoever is responsible. As I posted year or so ago, this is considerably more preferable than ticketing seniors who can't shovel their walk.
Landfill Questions
Tonight, the City Council takes a longer look at the proposed amendment to the landfill agreement tonight, according to the Daily News.
Without having read the original, the first amendment and the second one, I can't offer any insights beyond what I read in the papers. (Just being honest here.) But I still have some real questions.
Without having read the original, the first amendment and the second one, I can't offer any insights beyond what I read in the papers. (Just being honest here.) But I still have some real questions.
A past article in the Daily News suggested the new provision would provide the following protections. The agreement presented tonight might be slightly different than the one outlined in the article, since the mayor has still been negotiating with New Ventures, but I suspect the two are close enough.
My questions follow in italics.
The city would have a full release from 21E regulations by New Ventures. Is this really full release? Is there anything preventing a third party--say a shadow company set up by New Ventures or even the state--from going after the city?
New Ventures will maintain the landfill for one year after closure. I'm not quite clear on how this could be enforced. Since we don't have the appetite for lawsuits, I don't see how we'd have any leverage to ensure this happens if NV decides it doesn't want to comply. At that point, NV will have already dumped everything it's wanted to dump.
Then the city would undertake all post-closure activities at the landfill for 30 years, including mowing, maintenance and monitoring. The mayor said estimates for that work are about $10,000 a year. This sounds low. And we'll be maintaining private property? The city still won't own the landfill, correct?
New Ventures will be responsible for paying the inspector retained by the city to inspect the truckloads during the closing.Is NV hiring the inspector directly or reimbursing the city. I hope the latter.
New Ventures may transport up to 35 trucks per day, with the approval of the mayor, in addition to the current 35 trucks per day that are now allowed under the host agreement.So NV is getting the 70 trucks it wanted initially.
New Ventures will allow the city to install a pad or platform on the landfill where the city can build a cell tower or wind turbine and will pay $50,000 toward the design and construction of the pad or platform. To what end? Wouldn't a cell phone company normally pay for the construction of the platform? As for the turbine, where would the power go to? Will it be connected to a school building?
This isn't an easy matter. I know the landfill needs to be closed sooner rather than later, and the city doesn't have the funds available for a prolonged court fight.
I don't know how much faith to put into the Attorney General's sudden interest in New Ventures, it may amount to nothing but perhaps we should give the legal wheels some time to spin. I worry that accepting this new agreement would stop the spinning.
What would make me feel better? Perhaps a little upfront money from New Ventures--in the form of a bond--to cover the costs of closing the landfill or at least pay for that first year of post-closure maintenance.
My questions follow in italics.
The city would have a full release from 21E regulations by New Ventures. Is this really full release? Is there anything preventing a third party--say a shadow company set up by New Ventures or even the state--from going after the city?
New Ventures will maintain the landfill for one year after closure. I'm not quite clear on how this could be enforced. Since we don't have the appetite for lawsuits, I don't see how we'd have any leverage to ensure this happens if NV decides it doesn't want to comply. At that point, NV will have already dumped everything it's wanted to dump.
Then the city would undertake all post-closure activities at the landfill for 30 years, including mowing, maintenance and monitoring. The mayor said estimates for that work are about $10,000 a year. This sounds low. And we'll be maintaining private property? The city still won't own the landfill, correct?
New Ventures will be responsible for paying the inspector retained by the city to inspect the truckloads during the closing.Is NV hiring the inspector directly or reimbursing the city. I hope the latter.
New Ventures may transport up to 35 trucks per day, with the approval of the mayor, in addition to the current 35 trucks per day that are now allowed under the host agreement.So NV is getting the 70 trucks it wanted initially.
New Ventures will allow the city to install a pad or platform on the landfill where the city can build a cell tower or wind turbine and will pay $50,000 toward the design and construction of the pad or platform. To what end? Wouldn't a cell phone company normally pay for the construction of the platform? As for the turbine, where would the power go to? Will it be connected to a school building?
This isn't an easy matter. I know the landfill needs to be closed sooner rather than later, and the city doesn't have the funds available for a prolonged court fight.
I don't know how much faith to put into the Attorney General's sudden interest in New Ventures, it may amount to nothing but perhaps we should give the legal wheels some time to spin. I worry that accepting this new agreement would stop the spinning.
What would make me feel better? Perhaps a little upfront money from New Ventures--in the form of a bond--to cover the costs of closing the landfill or at least pay for that first year of post-closure maintenance.
Yeah, I know, good luck with that.
Friday, December 5, 2008
Nick's Delivers
Good for Nick's Pizza for stepping up its game and introducing delivery. Is this the first time Nick's can be delivered at your doorstep?
Invitation Night
Had the opportunity to enjoy our first Invitation Night. I know you natives hate the tourists and visitors, but man I thought it was a nice time.
UPDATE: I received an email from an out of towner who wanted to know the details on Invitation Night. I admittedly have bad habit of not describing local events. I write with the assumption that every reader knows what I'm talking about. I'll try to remedy that.
Invitiation Nights, dear readers, are lively evenings in downtown Newburport. Every shop owner opens their doors wide for visitors and shoppers. Some offer sales. Some offer punch or candy canes (as The Boy can attest.) They're generally held on the first and second Fridays of December (I think).
I used to think they were glorified Chamber of Commerce events, but they're really a lot of fun with an abundance of music and festive cheer.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Rosie's Rebirth
I'm told that an Irish Bar is returning to Newburyport.
Our friendly source says a new pub is moving into the former Rosie O'Shea's site. The new joint will sport the name Port Pub Tavern and target an older, more mature clientele.
Since I'm turning 40 next year I fall squarely into that demographic, so I'm quite excited.
I just walked by and witnessed some exterior work myself. So something is indeed afoot.
This news follows last month's report in the Daily News that the building has a new owner.
So welcome Port Pub.
Monday, December 1, 2008
State of the Posts
Gentle Reader(s?),
As you may have noticed, posting volume has been way down as of late. To be frank, I've been dealing with a lot of shittake lately, so something had to give. And that something was this blog.
But I do not intend to allow this magical joyride on the InterWeb to end. But we may be taking a detour.
Blogger, the program upon which this blog is based, is disappointing me. For a time, the comments to my posts--the very thing that make this thing fun--have been coming in sporadically. Now, they're not coming in at all, not even the ones I've posted as tests.
Without comments, this is a lonely exercise. So I intend to move this operation to a different location with a different address that I hope will be more reliable. (I feel Google's strength is in innovation, but it lacks in support and upkeep.)
I have something in the works, but I'm not ready for an unveiling yet. But please stay in touch.
I hope you all enjoyed your Thanksgivings and look forward to a peaceful and happy holiday season.
-Tom
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