The Third Decade

No burritos for the people...yet

It's always great when businesses get back to you with a personal response.

Earlier this week I sent an email to Boloco asking them to open a shop in Dudley Square. Well, actually, I wrote "Bring burritos to the people. Please open a store in Dudley Square." I never really thought about whether I'd get a response, but I figured it wouldn't hurt to send the suggestion.

To my surprise, I received an email from their marketing guy today. Unfortunately they have no immediate plans to come to Dudley, but they say it's on their "list with about a thousand other places in and around the city of Boston."

So maybe Roxbury Crossing or Jackson Square then?

Hooray for Healthcare

If I wasn't already a believer in health insurance for everyone, I would become one now.

My bill for visiting the travel clinic just came in. I don't understand why a one hour visit and consultation would cost $745, but after my plan kicked in, my payment is just under $7. Wow! Before my visit, neither the clinic nor the insurance agent I spoke to could inform me of what would and wouldn't be covered. I steeled myself for a nasty surprise that might be at least 10 times what I'm being charged, so this is quite pleasant. I almost wish I had another tropical vacation coming up so I could make use of my insurance again.

So why is it that people in other states are resisting coverage for everyone? If my low budget Massachusetts plan is a model, seems like it would be a great thing for the masses. The affordability is great, but so is the peace of mind.

Citizens Bank, get with the program.

Dear Citizens Bank,

We've been together for about 10 years. I started off with your parent, the Royal Bank of Scotland, and then joined you when I moved back to Boston. Things were good and I've enjoyed the relationship all these years. But why are you getting sloppy on me all of a sudden. All those years we worked and traveled together, but now you've decided to give me the cold shoulder? I called more than 24 hours in advance to say that I would be traveling and to tell you where. So why can't I use my card?! Luckily I have a backup, but you were my buddy all these years. I even sent an email through your customer service line to report a problem, but still haven't heard back. Although I'm writing this with humor, this truly sucks. Please have someone in customer service contact me using either the email or the phone number I sent...or just release the funds.

Wish you were here.