Here is Ms. Carney's write up in the Standard Times. She is quoted as saying "Yes, we have problems in this city. I want to say, 'How can I help?'".
Ah, Ms. Carney, I have a suggestion. Try returning your constituents phone calls. I do believe that would be a good first step, see we are the ones you serve and we are the ones who vote you OUT of office when you ignore us.
I'm sure you are all wondering why I am having this little, uh, umm, tirade? Well, I called Ms. Carney during her one term in office and she couldn't be bothered to call me back. Never, ever returned the phone call. I waited on the edge of my seat for days for her phone call. It never came. Good thing I didn't hold my breath.
While deciding not to vote for someone on a one-time ignored phone call may seem petty to some people, I contend it is one of the best reasons NOT to vote for someone. See, I do not particularly care for Brian Gomes or his political views, but he will get my vote time and time again. WHY? because I know he returns all his phone calls, he listens to the people of the City, even if he disagrees with them, and often he gets things done. He makes himself available for the people. He encourages dialogue. I can respect that.
I simply cannot respect a candidate who closes down communication. For this City to move forward it is imperative that all parties communicate and listen to the people of the City, who are a wealth of ideas and energy.
Sorry, Ms. Carney, you will not be getting my vote.
- SouthCoast Blogger
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Farewell, Mr. Pimental
I've lived in the South End for 12 years now and I had the absolute pleasure of speaking with Mr. Pimental numerous times, any time the fancy stuck me really. During my time in the City, I have called upon three city Council members, Brian Gomes, Naomi Carney, and Leo Pimental.
Naomi Carney never bothered to return my call, which means she'll never get my vote. Brian Gomes returned my phone call, listened to me intently, but was then off chasing another big story in order to get his name in the paper (again, usually foolishly, like when he wanted to paint all the BB guns orange, I still can't believe he presented that to the State House, must have been a good joke for days) but, I digress.
And of course, I have called Mr. Pimental. I've called to express my concerns over the failing school system that has led me to put my children in private school. I've called to express my disbelief at the 1:00 Friday dismissal at Taylor school that is completely unorganized and chaotic. Surely someday a death will occur. I've called to complain about the falling apart fixtures at Hazelwood Park, and on and on ... Each time Mr. Pimental listened to me, sometimes agreeing with a point and sometimes disagreeing, but always promising to find a solution or at the very least express *MY* (not his) opinion where necessary.
And do you know he did and he would follow up with you, sometimes weeks later when you have completely forgotten about the issue or at least calmed down.I'll never forget the day Mr. Pimental called me back and said "Hi Mrs. Sylvia, I just wanted to let you know that I expressed your opinions to Mr. Longo yesterday". WHAT? You really did? Needless to say I was not only shocked, but very, very impressed.
This went on time and time again and there are many of us down here that can tell you the same story over and over. That's what type of counselor Mr. Pimental was. He truly cared and truly loved his job.The South End will never be the same without it him and it will be impossible to fill "that fat kid from the South End" shoes.
- SouthCoast Blogger
Naomi Carney never bothered to return my call, which means she'll never get my vote. Brian Gomes returned my phone call, listened to me intently, but was then off chasing another big story in order to get his name in the paper (again, usually foolishly, like when he wanted to paint all the BB guns orange, I still can't believe he presented that to the State House, must have been a good joke for days) but, I digress.
And of course, I have called Mr. Pimental. I've called to express my concerns over the failing school system that has led me to put my children in private school. I've called to express my disbelief at the 1:00 Friday dismissal at Taylor school that is completely unorganized and chaotic. Surely someday a death will occur. I've called to complain about the falling apart fixtures at Hazelwood Park, and on and on ... Each time Mr. Pimental listened to me, sometimes agreeing with a point and sometimes disagreeing, but always promising to find a solution or at the very least express *MY* (not his) opinion where necessary.
And do you know he did and he would follow up with you, sometimes weeks later when you have completely forgotten about the issue or at least calmed down.I'll never forget the day Mr. Pimental called me back and said "Hi Mrs. Sylvia, I just wanted to let you know that I expressed your opinions to Mr. Longo yesterday". WHAT? You really did? Needless to say I was not only shocked, but very, very impressed.
This went on time and time again and there are many of us down here that can tell you the same story over and over. That's what type of counselor Mr. Pimental was. He truly cared and truly loved his job.The South End will never be the same without it him and it will be impossible to fill "that fat kid from the South End" shoes.
- SouthCoast Blogger
Thursday, September 13, 2007
History at the airport
So whatever. My son is obsessed with all things "Army". His great-grandfather served in WWII and has told many a tale to my little one. When I learned that three WWII bombers would be coming to the New Bedford airport I knew my son would love it and it would be a great learning experience for him. After school, we arrived at the airport to an already large crowd of onlookers. I paid $20 for myself and my two children to be able to go and see the planes. The children were able to climb up and walk through each place, each step a world of fascination and exclamation. I heard things like "OMG! That's where the gunners sat", "Look that's where they kept the parachutes", and "Mom, look here's where the bombs are".
We met WWII veterans who were thrilled to see such excitement in the little ones and they were quick to explain things about the planes and tell us of their service to our Country. Each story a great tale of bravery and hero ship. My son was amazed to learn that real live "army soldiers" lived among us.
After touring each plane (twice LOL!) we made our way up to the observation deck to get another view. Here the kids were amazed at the size of the planes and were beyond thrilled to watch a few Cape Air planes land and take off. A true adventure, indeed.
As we walked back to the car, my son grabbed my hand and said "Mom thank-you for taking me there. It was so cool". Ah, the best moments of motherhood.
I totally recommend taking your family to see the planes and talk with veterans. It is a great experience.
- Southcoast Blogger
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
I applaud Debra Trahan
SouthCoast Blogger would like to stand up and applaud Debra Trahan!
***stands up and applauds loudly***
Today SouthCoastToday.com ran THIS article about Mrs. Trahan. Oddly enough SouthCoastBlogger has had her own website since 2001. I developed an online business in order to stay home and raise my children. My little business has made national news and my products are an actual brand on Amazon.com (how stinking cool is that?).
Over the years I have become increasingly frustrated that the City and Chamber of Commerce do not recognize what I like to call "the silent workforce", or all those people wo have embraced the internet and carved out a strong, stable, and profitable business.
In June I called Mayor Lang's office. I told his secretary that I would like to speak with the Mayor about some of the very real problems online entreprenuers on the SouthCoast are facing. The secretary told me that the Mayor just "doesn't take random phone calls" from the public, but she would be happy to schedule and appointment for me. More than 3 months later I am still waiting for her to schedule that meeting. I won't hold my breath.
Next I set my eyes on the Chamber of Commerce. I spoke with Mr. Nascimento himself. Total kudos for taking my call (Mr. Lang you may want to take notes on that). I explained that I was frustrated no one on the SouthCoast is here to support online businesses. I explained that there are some very real issues facing us, such as the Remote Sales Tax that could put me out of business overnight. I explained that the Chamber is so "Brick & Mortar" oriented. They do nothing to court or support the hundreds of online businesses that reside on the SouthCoast.
Mr. Nascimento was very kind and listened to all of my concerns and agreed the Chamber needs to move forward and somehow embrace the growing online community. It is after all the future.
Again, I'm not holding my breath.
So imagine my excitment when I read how Mrs. Trahan has carved out a little online business purchasing and re-selling domain names! Her creativity and entreprenuerial spirit is a shining example of the online businesses that exist on the SouthCoast today.
I personally make clothing, boutique hairbows, boutique toys, and nursery art. The guy down the street from me makes custom guitars. I know others who make decor from fish netting, others who make pottery and on and on .
Those upset with Mrs. Trahan are stuck in the stone ages. Don't worry, you are not alone. Mr. Lang and the Chamber of Commerce are there with you!
- SouthCoast Blogger
***stands up and applauds loudly***
Today SouthCoastToday.com ran THIS article about Mrs. Trahan. Oddly enough SouthCoastBlogger has had her own website since 2001. I developed an online business in order to stay home and raise my children. My little business has made national news and my products are an actual brand on Amazon.com (how stinking cool is that?).
Over the years I have become increasingly frustrated that the City and Chamber of Commerce do not recognize what I like to call "the silent workforce", or all those people wo have embraced the internet and carved out a strong, stable, and profitable business.
In June I called Mayor Lang's office. I told his secretary that I would like to speak with the Mayor about some of the very real problems online entreprenuers on the SouthCoast are facing. The secretary told me that the Mayor just "doesn't take random phone calls" from the public, but she would be happy to schedule and appointment for me. More than 3 months later I am still waiting for her to schedule that meeting. I won't hold my breath.
Next I set my eyes on the Chamber of Commerce. I spoke with Mr. Nascimento himself. Total kudos for taking my call (Mr. Lang you may want to take notes on that). I explained that I was frustrated no one on the SouthCoast is here to support online businesses. I explained that there are some very real issues facing us, such as the Remote Sales Tax that could put me out of business overnight. I explained that the Chamber is so "Brick & Mortar" oriented. They do nothing to court or support the hundreds of online businesses that reside on the SouthCoast.
Mr. Nascimento was very kind and listened to all of my concerns and agreed the Chamber needs to move forward and somehow embrace the growing online community. It is after all the future.
Again, I'm not holding my breath.
So imagine my excitment when I read how Mrs. Trahan has carved out a little online business purchasing and re-selling domain names! Her creativity and entreprenuerial spirit is a shining example of the online businesses that exist on the SouthCoast today.
I personally make clothing, boutique hairbows, boutique toys, and nursery art. The guy down the street from me makes custom guitars. I know others who make decor from fish netting, others who make pottery and on and on .
Those upset with Mrs. Trahan are stuck in the stone ages. Don't worry, you are not alone. Mr. Lang and the Chamber of Commerce are there with you!
- SouthCoast Blogger
Thursday, September 6, 2007
Dartmout Schools and Snobbery
So whatever. I've been reading all the articles on the "Dartmouth Budget Crisis" and I can't help but gloat a little. Perfect little Dartmouth, perfect little South Dartmouth is in trouble.
I grew up in Dartmouth, my parents grew up in Dartmouth. I worked for the recreation Department during the summer all through high school and a couple of years in college. I still love many, many things about Darmouth.
I could send my children to Dartmouth schools, but instead I choose to give them a better quality education at Holy Family Holy Name in New Bedford (you know that City with a budget surplus that Dartmouth residents snub their noses at?).
I made a conscious descision to keep my children FAR away from Dartmouth Schools, not because of a lack of education, or the very predictable buget crisis, but because of the SNOBBY attitude.
I remember what it was like growing up in the midst of the SNOBBY attitude. It is North Dartmouth v. South Dartmouth and who has what. You were only "cool" if you were preppy and had the latest Espirit bag or Bennetton sweatshirt.
Who gives a flying you know what! Life is not about things, popularity is completely overrated.
I was lucky enough to have parents to who taught me better and growing up I had friends from all walks of life, but I remember. I remember being taunted because I was friends with someone from *gasp* Cross Roads. I remember being looked down upon by my seventh grade science teacher, Mrs Bailey (BTW, Mrs. Bailey you are the reason I hated science from that point on, I almost failed science in high school because of your snobby better-than-thou-attitude).
I remember the kids who thought they were better than everyone else bacause they had more or better stuff. Some of those idiots can now be found at Miller's Homeport any saturday night, taking up space talking about the "glory days" of high school. That big house your parents lived in got your far, huh?
So there you have it, Dartmouth Snobbery, which believe me is alive and well,is the reason my children do not attend Dartmouth Schools. Dartmouth is all about appearances, all about who has what, who lives where. There is very little substance.
BTW, Dartmouth, take a look at THIS article and please keep your major drug dealers and crime lords out of my City, thank-you very much!
-SouthCoast Blogger
I grew up in Dartmouth, my parents grew up in Dartmouth. I worked for the recreation Department during the summer all through high school and a couple of years in college. I still love many, many things about Darmouth.
I could send my children to Dartmouth schools, but instead I choose to give them a better quality education at Holy Family Holy Name in New Bedford (you know that City with a budget surplus that Dartmouth residents snub their noses at?).
I made a conscious descision to keep my children FAR away from Dartmouth Schools, not because of a lack of education, or the very predictable buget crisis, but because of the SNOBBY attitude.
I remember what it was like growing up in the midst of the SNOBBY attitude. It is North Dartmouth v. South Dartmouth and who has what. You were only "cool" if you were preppy and had the latest Espirit bag or Bennetton sweatshirt.
Who gives a flying you know what! Life is not about things, popularity is completely overrated.
I was lucky enough to have parents to who taught me better and growing up I had friends from all walks of life, but I remember. I remember being taunted because I was friends with someone from *gasp* Cross Roads. I remember being looked down upon by my seventh grade science teacher, Mrs Bailey (BTW, Mrs. Bailey you are the reason I hated science from that point on, I almost failed science in high school because of your snobby better-than-thou-attitude).
I remember the kids who thought they were better than everyone else bacause they had more or better stuff. Some of those idiots can now be found at Miller's Homeport any saturday night, taking up space talking about the "glory days" of high school. That big house your parents lived in got your far, huh?
So there you have it, Dartmouth Snobbery, which believe me is alive and well,is the reason my children do not attend Dartmouth Schools. Dartmouth is all about appearances, all about who has what, who lives where. There is very little substance.
BTW, Dartmouth, take a look at THIS article and please keep your major drug dealers and crime lords out of my City, thank-you very much!
-SouthCoast Blogger
Monday, September 3, 2007
Jane Gonsalves sums up New Bedford's Failures
So whatever. I just read an article on SouthCoastToday which states City Council is considering putting a one year delay for demolition permits on any building the Historical Commission deems, well historical.
SouthCoastToday quotes Jane as saying:
Are you freaking kidding me Jane? A solution OTHER than demolition. Yep that pretty much sums up how New Bedford acquiesces to defeat before they even begin. I mean, God Forbid we actually move this City forward. God Forbid we actually tear down some mills and build a profitable waterfront, like oh Newport did. God Forbid New Bedford lift itself out of the Whaling period. God Forbid New Bedford become successful.
Let's keep all those "Historical" sites so we can all look at them fall apart and crumble. I'm sure that will totally bring the City revenue and tourist.
There is a reason New Bedford is the dumping ground for the rest of the State ... it's not it's location, or crime rate, or poverty level, or working town past. It's the dumping ground because of it's ATTITUDE and people like Jane Gonsalves who do nothing to change that attitude. Instead they perpetuate the status quo by refusing to moving this City forward.
Jane Gonsalves should be ashamed of herself, but she need not worry there are plenty of others like her in City Hall. They can all be ashamed together.
-SouthCoast Blogger
SouthCoastToday quotes Jane as saying:
The proposed ordinance "is an important tool to aid preservation," said Ward 5 Councilor Jane L. Gonsalves. "In other towns where the demolition delay ordinance is in place, oftentimes, a solution other than demolition is found."
Are you freaking kidding me Jane? A solution OTHER than demolition. Yep that pretty much sums up how New Bedford acquiesces to defeat before they even begin. I mean, God Forbid we actually move this City forward. God Forbid we actually tear down some mills and build a profitable waterfront, like oh Newport did. God Forbid New Bedford lift itself out of the Whaling period. God Forbid New Bedford become successful.
Let's keep all those "Historical" sites so we can all look at them fall apart and crumble. I'm sure that will totally bring the City revenue and tourist.
There is a reason New Bedford is the dumping ground for the rest of the State ... it's not it's location, or crime rate, or poverty level, or working town past. It's the dumping ground because of it's ATTITUDE and people like Jane Gonsalves who do nothing to change that attitude. Instead they perpetuate the status quo by refusing to moving this City forward.
Jane Gonsalves should be ashamed of herself, but she need not worry there are plenty of others like her in City Hall. They can all be ashamed together.
-SouthCoast Blogger
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Dartmouth turns off the lights?
So whatever. As we all know Dartmouth has no money and they now have to tighten up the purse strings in order to make ends meet.
The latest hairbrain idea is to turn off between 1,100 and 1,200 streetlights in order to save $85,000. *ruh-roh*
You can read the article from SouthCoastToday Here.
Does this make sense to anyone? I mean the streetlights were put there for a reason, mainly, umm SAFETY. I grew up in Dartmouth and I know all too well how narrow and winding some of those roads are. Even with the streetlights on navigating some of those back roads after dark is quite the chore.
Once Fall rolls in, it gets dark between 4PM and 5PM, otherwise known as rush hour. Kids and parents are on the roads getting home from school, work, or events. Now, they will take their lives into their own hands praying that all other Dartmouth citizens slow the fuck down and drive safely. What are the chances of that happening?
How many lives are worth $85,000? I know I will think twice about driving into Dartmouth after dark.
*note to self - tell Mom Christmas Eve is at my house, where we have streetlights*
Before I go, I have an idea. Why don't Dartmouth officials stop coming up with these petty, punishing ideas (because that's really what this is - punishment for the override failure), and do some real work to cut costs. Such as bidding out the health care, you know something you haven't done in 10 years. Or getting rid of the archaic pensions and move to 401K's like every other responsible entity on the planet has.
Oh, and the best way to save money would be to stop creating cushy jobs within the school department for your family and friends. Move out of the way, the gravy train has run out of steam.
- SouthCoast blogger
The latest hairbrain idea is to turn off between 1,100 and 1,200 streetlights in order to save $85,000. *ruh-roh*
You can read the article from SouthCoastToday Here.
Does this make sense to anyone? I mean the streetlights were put there for a reason, mainly, umm SAFETY. I grew up in Dartmouth and I know all too well how narrow and winding some of those roads are. Even with the streetlights on navigating some of those back roads after dark is quite the chore.
Once Fall rolls in, it gets dark between 4PM and 5PM, otherwise known as rush hour. Kids and parents are on the roads getting home from school, work, or events. Now, they will take their lives into their own hands praying that all other Dartmouth citizens slow the fuck down and drive safely. What are the chances of that happening?
How many lives are worth $85,000? I know I will think twice about driving into Dartmouth after dark.
*note to self - tell Mom Christmas Eve is at my house, where we have streetlights*
Before I go, I have an idea. Why don't Dartmouth officials stop coming up with these petty, punishing ideas (because that's really what this is - punishment for the override failure), and do some real work to cut costs. Such as bidding out the health care, you know something you haven't done in 10 years. Or getting rid of the archaic pensions and move to 401K's like every other responsible entity on the planet has.
Oh, and the best way to save money would be to stop creating cushy jobs within the school department for your family and friends. Move out of the way, the gravy train has run out of steam.
- SouthCoast blogger
Dyer Maker Studio - I would have liked to have known you.
So whatever. I've lived in New Bedford for about 12 years now and know very, very little about the City. Today I decided to change that. I went to SouthCoastToday's calendar to see what was going. I was impressed with the number of Galleries and exhibits downtown and figured that would be a good place to begin.
I selected the Dyer Maker Studio, which promised "... natural, hand-dyed fibers and other works by dyer maker/artisan/instructor Rhonda Fazio and friends." Oooh, sounds fascinating. What is a "dyer maker"? I must know!
With my Map Quest directions in hand, I set off for my first adventure. I excitedly made my way through the maze of one way streets and detours due to road work and within a few minutes was on Williams Street with the Dyer Maker Studio within my sight. Yee-Haw!
Now where to park? I spent 10 minutes circling the block looking for a parking spot. None was to be found. Instead I saw alot of "No Parking from here to the corner" signs or signs like this:
I also saw alot of these:
I selected the Dyer Maker Studio, which promised "... natural, hand-dyed fibers and other works by dyer maker/artisan/instructor Rhonda Fazio and friends." Oooh, sounds fascinating. What is a "dyer maker"? I must know!
With my Map Quest directions in hand, I set off for my first adventure. I excitedly made my way through the maze of one way streets and detours due to road work and within a few minutes was on Williams Street with the Dyer Maker Studio within my sight. Yee-Haw!
Now where to park? I spent 10 minutes circling the block looking for a parking spot. None was to be found. Instead I saw alot of "No Parking from here to the corner" signs or signs like this:
I also saw alot of these:
Not only could I not find a parking spot due to no parking zones or unloading zones, but I didn't have any quarters for those turn of the century parking meters. Now, I ask you, who on earth in the year 2007 carries cash, let alone quarters?
In case the City hasn't realized this yet, it is a plastic world. Everything I do is done with my debit card. From paying bills, to grocery shopping, to even the $1.51 it costs to get my Dunkin Donuts fix each morning. Quarters? You have got to be kidding me!
Frustrated and not wanting to risk a ticket due to an expired parking meter, I left downtown without visiting the Dyer Maker Studio and with the feeling that the City does not really care about re-vitalizing Downtown. I mean how can you re-vitalize a once popular shopping area with outdated and archaic parking meters? Don't even get me started on the alternative, the Elm Street parking garage, with it's broken elevator and pee filled stairwell. I think you can get herpes just by breathing the air in that parking garage. Disgusting, with a capital "D"
My first adventure didn't turn out so well, perhaps if I avoid Downtown tomorrow will be a better day.
If anyone knows what a "dyer maker" is, please feel free to let me know.
-SouthCoast Blogger
In case the City hasn't realized this yet, it is a plastic world. Everything I do is done with my debit card. From paying bills, to grocery shopping, to even the $1.51 it costs to get my Dunkin Donuts fix each morning. Quarters? You have got to be kidding me!
Frustrated and not wanting to risk a ticket due to an expired parking meter, I left downtown without visiting the Dyer Maker Studio and with the feeling that the City does not really care about re-vitalizing Downtown. I mean how can you re-vitalize a once popular shopping area with outdated and archaic parking meters? Don't even get me started on the alternative, the Elm Street parking garage, with it's broken elevator and pee filled stairwell. I think you can get herpes just by breathing the air in that parking garage. Disgusting, with a capital "D"
My first adventure didn't turn out so well, perhaps if I avoid Downtown tomorrow will be a better day.
If anyone knows what a "dyer maker" is, please feel free to let me know.
-SouthCoast Blogger
Let's get this blog rolling ...
So whatever. I live on the SouthCoast, specifically in the South End of New Bedford. I enjoy living here, with the beaches and ocean breeze. The sound of seagulls waking me in the morning, or gun shots, same difference, right? ... and of course the bizarre political scene that influences all things SouthCoast.
For an area that constantly complains they are the "dumping ground" for those on Capitol Hill, it amazes me that nothing changes year after year, except the faces of course, and if truth be told, even some of those don't change, like Tony Cabral for example. Why on earth does he get re-elected year after year? So people have something to complain about? Well, I guess it's working then. Carry on.
The SouthCoast acquiesces to defeat before it even begins. Really people, the "whaling days" are over and they are not coming back. I know that might be shocking to some, but it's true. So put your harpoons away. There is no need for them.
I am here to blog daily about all things SouthCoast, to celebrate the rich culture and art scene, to give my point of view on local politics and happenings, and of course to point out all the inane things that happen around here, and there are alot of them.
-SouthCoast Blogger
For an area that constantly complains they are the "dumping ground" for those on Capitol Hill, it amazes me that nothing changes year after year, except the faces of course, and if truth be told, even some of those don't change, like Tony Cabral for example. Why on earth does he get re-elected year after year? So people have something to complain about? Well, I guess it's working then. Carry on.
The SouthCoast acquiesces to defeat before it even begins. Really people, the "whaling days" are over and they are not coming back. I know that might be shocking to some, but it's true. So put your harpoons away. There is no need for them.
I am here to blog daily about all things SouthCoast, to celebrate the rich culture and art scene, to give my point of view on local politics and happenings, and of course to point out all the inane things that happen around here, and there are alot of them.
-SouthCoast Blogger
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