You're not Watkins' lawyer, are you, msnative? Just checking ... ;-)

I'm not trying to be funny, js. Everything I said is true.

Scott, I don't have a lot of time to respond right now due to meeting and deadlines, but I will respond to this sentence alone for the moment because it is a false characterization of what I have said, as is what follows it:

*I find your writing and your obsession to perceive any body who relocates to a place that is nicer and has a better school system as being racist very amusing.*

Patently untrue. I have never said that "anybody" who relocates to find a "better" school system is racist. That is some of the worst reading comprehension I've ever witnessed (and ironic considering your apparent request for better education for your kids).

White flight was a very real thing, Scott. It was a systemic and dramatic problem that means that thousands of Jackson white families fled the public schools (and much of Jackson) immediately after the public schools were forced to integrate. Up until the integration battle, few had issues with the public schools, as long as their kids didn't have to go to school with children of color. That is fact.

It is also exactly what led to the problems in much of Jackson. That is also fact.

These may be uncomfortable truths for you, but that in no way makes them false. Understanding this well-known and well-documented (and freakin' obvious) history will help us do something about it. Denying is just makes you part of the problem. And attacking me for saying it out loud just make you sound silly and naive.

Despite our history, there is a different way, which is what this column is about. Hell no, don't move the zoo. We need to reinvest our time, resources and energy into bringing our neighborhoods back, regardless of where you choose to live now. You can live in the burbs and still support the zoo. Be part of the solution.

With due respect.

And, for the record, I fear for my life far more in any suburban strip-shopping area where people barrel toward me in huge SUVS while talking on cell phones or texting. And, in fact, driving-associated dangers are greater.

I've also heard people say the same thing, speedydude, about Belhaven and Fondren. It's bullshit perceptions that are self-exacerbating.

Right. It's supposed to chase suburbanites like malls have done, leaving shells of zoos behind it.

No, there is a better way. It's time to tend the white-flight mentality (even with non-whites who have adopted it). Just say no.

I drive around the entire city constantly. I've been on two or three streets that scared me because they were so closed in. You don't drive in any area like that to get to the zoo.

There is a reason for the lack of attendance, js. Don't be naive. And it's been a long process.

It's up to all of us to change it.

Finally, we agree, JS. I hate all trendy diets.

A dollar per page is unconscionable for public records.

Here's Todd's idea map for Jackson:

http://jacksonfreepress.com/users/photo…