From the Inbox: A City of Fences, Provocation and Brain Damage

A City of Fences

I’m a newcomer, too, which is why I can relate so well to what you’ve written. However, I’ve lived here long enough to know that it’s not what you’ve said but how you’ve said it that will raise eyebrows and ruffle feathers. It’s been my observation that Jacksonville is the “City of Fences,” and I could write an entire story from that perspective. It is a city that draws people away from, not to, the urban center.

The “movement” happening all over that is not happening here is an interesting point; however, you can’t fix what no one feels is broken. I’ve lived in six states — North, Midwest and South — prior to relocating here one year ago. Folks here are just doing their own thing, and every now and then they accidentally bump into each other with their cars. I agree that the driving etiquette is the worst I’ve seen. I’ve never lived anywhere where the respect for one’s fellow man was so minimized. Most of all, I’ve never seen so many fearful white middle-aged males gathered in one state.
I believe that Jacksonville has a rich history and tradition, like any other city, but that has been overshadowed by an influx of people from the rest of Florida, Georgia and the upper 48 who brought too much baggage. A city of fences indeed.

— Marieh, via folioweekly.com

Refreshing and Provocative

I am a transplant from the Northeast, living much of my life in Boston (180-degree difference in views, with a real semblance of identity to a city). With that said, I never could put my finger firmly down on why Jacksonville, and the Downtown area more specifically, stays so far behind in attitude for change.

I found your article stimulating and mind-opening, and believe you are a refreshing and provocative voice for change. I look forward to reading more of your articles to come. Hopefully your articles will factor into mobilizing people to act for change within a city that could offer so much. 

— Michael Sussman

Brain Damage?

Jimmy Smith is toast, Justin Blackmon is a hash brownie, Brad Meester is not white bread but cornbread, and Jeremy Mincey would oversleep because of too much beer bread. As for the author’s racist theory, it’s apparent that he’s dealing with half a loaf and that it’s half-baked. Has he forgotten the average length of an NFL career and that the Meester played for 14 years? Perhaps Mr. Gancarski played contact sports and is suffering from chronic traumatic encephalopathy.

— David J. Gross