George Edwin Waring, Jr. [365] not altogether displeased by the publicity he had created for himself. A consistent source of public attention was provided by Waring's running battles with the comptroller over appropriations and related budgetary matters. He went out of his way to publicize these difficulties, even to the extent of suspending street cleaning for a few days in protest over a ruling by the comptroller.24 Occasionally ill-advised, Waring's actions nevertheless succeeded in calling attention to himself and thereby to the operations of his Department. These controversies, however, were commonly a source of exasperation to Mayor Strong, who lamented the fact that they often frustrated his efforts to bring unity to the ranks of the reformers. Waring also engaged in more constructive efforts, notably those aimed at gaining the attention and cooperation of New York's many civic organizations. As a department commissioner, he recognized the importance of these groups as a source of ideas and support; as a reformer, he appreciated the impact that cordial relations between officials and the people would have on the development of civic pride and an enlightened citizenry. Securing public assistance was not difficult; the reform victory in 1894 activated many civic groups who were anxious to cooperate with the government. For example, early in 1895 the Committee of Seventy, the Good Government Clubs, the City Improvement Society, the Ladies Health Protection Association, the University Settlement, and the College Settlement considered ways 2* Times, October 25,1896. Tammany street cleaning. The same street photographed by Riis in 1893. MUSEUM OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK.