Snow Starts War Of Words Between Neighborhoods

A December 19, 2007 post on The Boston Globe's blog about parking in the City of Boston and surrounding communities after a snow storm resulted in some interesting comments between "neighbors."

The post discusses the use of markers, i.e., lawn chairs, etc., to reserve spaces residents have shoveled on the street after a snow storm.

One commenter said the following:

"I think it's interesting that certain parts of the city have been mentioned as areas where spot markers are used. Let's see: South Boston, Charlestown, Dorchester, and East Boston. Notice a pattern? These are the neighborhoods where "townies" live. In other words, the inconsiderate Boston locals that give this city a reputation for being the rudest in the country."

He also commented as follows:

"So for all of you people defending this practice, fine. But just understand that as long as that attitude prevails, your neighborhoods will continue to be thought of as backwards."

Actually, I think it is those types of comments that would give a city a reputation of being rude.

Personally, having lived in East Boston during college and law school, I understand why residents (myself included at the time) use the markers. My experience has been that it was not an issue after just a few inches of snow, but after about six or more inches have fallen shoveling out your car after the plows have come by is quite a job.

It never really seemed like a big deal when I lived there in the late 80s and early 90s. The vast majority of people seemed to respect the idea that someone who did the work deserved the spot for a few days. It's a bit difficult to explain unless you've lived on such a street.

Did some people take it to the extreme? Certainly, but that's life.

My comment is number 9.

The bottom line: Why should someone who barrels out of their parking space in the morning to go to work without laying a finger on a shovel come home later in the day and take a nicely shoveled spot someone spent a couple of hours (or even 45 minutes) working on?

The Boston Herald reported December 27, 2007 that Boston residents are defying a city rule to remove markers within 48 hours.