Jackson Free Press

May 31, 2006

Editor's Note: The following column about Gannett's effort control independent media is also running in the June issue of Metro Christian Living (formerly Jackson Christian Family).

My mission in creating a Christian magazine has everything to do with our citizenship in heaven and promoting a hopeful population explosion therein.

However, prior to my arrival at the Pearly Gates, I will spend my human lifetime striving to be a responsible citizen on planet earth. I do hold my own opinions on most everything from Mayor Frank Melton to President George W. Bush. Most of you readers could safely assume exactly where I stand on the social issues of the day.

In terms of magazine policy, though, I have always chosen to avoid political controversy. I am sure that if I've misinterpreted my mission, God will reveal to me my stupid thinking at the appropriate time.

With all of that said, I want my readers to know, I have recently become an activist of sorts. If you have been keeping up with the controversy between the independent publishers in the metro area and the Goliath tactics of the Gannett Corp., you know there is a plan underway that will impose considerable financial hardship on us "little people." It seems The Clarion-Ledger, owned by Gannett, wants exclusive distribution rights in all the locations where you usually pick up your complimentary publications. Oh … they will gladly open their arms to the rest of us … for a fee, of course.

In response, we mavericks of the local publishing scene have formed an alliance. As an unlikely assortment of people, we are working well together as the Mississippi Independent Publishers Alliance.

In my wildest dreams, I would never have seen myself sitting across the table from Donna Ladd and Todd Stauffer of the Jackson Free Press, working on a common cause, and finding out that I liked them both very much. I had never had the opportunity to meet Parents and Kids' Gretchen Cook, Chris Blake of The Showcase of Homes, Mike Rowell of The Apartment Guide or Beverly Smith of American Classifieds. Angie Cone of The Real Estate Book and Jimmy Kitchens of Home and Land Magazine rounded out the group at our first gathering.

We aren't talking political philosophies, social issues or world views here. But we are talking about a group of tax-paying, community-minded people who believe in the American dream—who believe that you can work hard, be creative, be responsible and passionately pursue your calling. And if you choose to operate with honor and integrity, when all is said and done, then things tend to fall into place.

Looking around the table at our first meeting, I realized two distinct things that set us apart from the big guys. We all love what we do, and we all really care about the relationships we have with those we serve. For us, it's about more than the numbers at the bottom of the financial statement. Furthermore, it is certainly not now, nor will it ever be, about seeking to tear each other down for the sake of monopolizing the area's advertising base. There is a niche in the marketplace for every one of us.

I am probably writing to thousands who, like me, want to smile and be liked by everybody. Sometimes, however, you just have to stand up and fight for something you believe in.

We forget that Jesus himself ruffled a few feathers along the way.

I am tired of the way we do things in a culture that has become too focused on "What's in it for me?"—no matter who gets hurt.

If this message resonates with you at all, will you write a letter, speak to a store manager, or make the effort to let your favorite businesses know you like picking up your favorite publications in their locations?

It would be a shame to have only one voice and no choice … it's just not right.

One more thing. … We independent publishers probably disagree on a myriad of topics, but if we can meet together, respect each other, and work for the good of each other, what lessons might we have to teach the world?

Marilyn Smith is the former publisher and editor of Jackson Christian Family and the present publisher and editor of Metro Christian Living. She is a native of Indianola, a Jackson resident and a mother and grandmother.

To read more about this David vs. Goliath battle, visit http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/goliath.php

Previous Comments

ID

170572

Comment

He did get mad at the moneychangers in the temple, didn't he. Nice article.

Author

Ironghost

Date

2006-06-01T08:57:44-06:00

ID

170573

Comment

We forget that Jesus himself ruffled a few feathers along the way. I love this line.

Author

Izzy

Date

2006-06-01T10:06:15-06:00

ID

170574

Comment

Me, too. I love this column. And Marilyn from what I know about her so far. I'm proud to working with her for the same noble cause of free enterprise.

Author

ladd

Date

2006-06-01T10:09:58-06:00

ID

170575

Comment

Bless you, Ms. Smith. HDMatthias, MD

Author

HDMatthias, MD

Date

2006-06-03T21:47:43-06:00

ID

170576

Comment

I believe it was best said in the movie- You've Got Mail Tom Hanks instructing Meg Ryan on her fight against the big bad bargain book store as he says, "Go to the mattresses." Meaning- Fight! Fight! Fight! This is a battle we should not loose. I don't know what they are talking about when discussing ‘clutter'. Everything has always seemed professional looking to me. I like choices! I have to say if I see my favorite stores complying. I will choose to no longer spend my money in their establishments. Fight! Fight! Fight!

Author

The Godfather

Date

2006-06-07T11:33:45-06:00

ID

170577

Comment

Being a native Mississippian, born in Jackson, I have found that if one dares to step outside the boudaries or standards set by this city's elite and standard setters, a process that I have entitled the "Mississippi Shuffle" begins. This process is a lesson given by the our elitist involving strong arming, and breaking down to size those who are bold enough to advocate change... to set goals... break tradition... or suggest new methods. Jackson Free Press... you have stepped out of those boudaries, but that only means that you are doing a great job... a job that is polished and competitive. Do not step down. You're dancing the Shuffle courageously with graceful integrity and coordination.

Author

Phyllis Swinnie Brocks

Date

2006-06-13T08:30:55-06:00