Jackson Free Press

Ben Allen and Mike Peters are on the radio right now at WLEZ-FM (103.7 FM)( talking about the potential of downtown development RIGHT NOW. Streams live at http://www.wlezfm.com.

Previous Comments

ID

97364

Comment

Ironically, Mike Peters (Fondren developer) is talking right now about how perception is more important than reality. Funny how that intelligent thought was the same thing used against the last mayor and police chief, who warned the public and the media that a perception that crime was out of control was bad for the city. Deja vu all over again.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-28T17:12:17-06:00

ID

97365

Comment

It is good to hear Ben on a radio show that is not sensationalizing crime like the old Ben & Larry Show did—it was a big part of the problem back in the day.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-28T17:12:53-06:00

ID

97366

Comment

Ben Allen is a joke at best.....but is there really a perception of crime in downtown Jackson? When I think of crime, my mind does not race towards downtown..this is a smokescreen for DJP..and the millions of dollars that are on the table. Ben is just a smokescreen as is McMillin.....

Author

blkokc

Date

2007-11-28T17:28:36-06:00

ID

97367

Comment

really a perception of crime in downtown Jackson? Sure, there is. Many people don't want to go out in downtown Jackson (which includes Farish) because they fear crime, even as downtown is one of the safest areas. I'm not following the "smokescreen" accusation. Can you explain further?

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-28T17:30:56-06:00

ID

97368

Comment

Farish, is so out of the loop when the "White Power Structure" considers downtown. Ben spoke at a luncheon on Monday (that I attended) and gave that same spill..no one in the room really believed that crime was an issue downtown.....if it is a problem, then it is not really being reported....Every weekend and even some during the week as you know Hal &Mal's is filled, The Mayflower is doing exceptionally well..and other venues.....I always feel safe downtown. Smokescreen: Development going on downtown.....crime is out of control..we need the media to help us tell the positive stories and stop focusing on crime...so that we can get these developments completed...all these multi-million dollar developers see is green ($$$$)...that's why we are glad McMillin is on board..to help restore the image.... That was Ben's spill on Monday

Author

blkokc

Date

2007-11-28T17:39:57-06:00

ID

97369

Comment

Allen just mentioned that the last mayor and chief were blasted for the "perception" word. He then said that they were right, but said it with a "smirk on their face." Wrong. I was there when Moore was trying to talk to the media, and other groups, about the problem with "perception." They weren't saying it with a "smirks." The smirks were coming from places like the Ben & Larry Show where they were sending out e-mails looking for people with crime stories to come on there and share. So I'm glad that Allen has figured out the problem with "perception" and crime sensationalism, but he shouldn't be too superior about the past attacks by him and others on the people who actually knew what they were talking about, when he and others did their part to get them turned out and someone like Melton in there.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-28T17:40:46-06:00

ID

97370

Comment

Ben must be reading this as he's talking. He's talking about "wallowing over bad decisions" and "moving on." Trying to get the city to get its damn head of the sand and making breezy decisions without proper discussion is not "wallowing," Mr. Allen.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-28T17:42:13-06:00

ID

97371

Comment

blkokc, I believe that. I think Ben is trying to mend some problems from the past when it comes to crime sensationalism. That needs to happen in many ways, even though he ought to own up to the role publicly that he played in spreading those myths. It is ironic that now that Melton is mayor, Ben wants the media to stop talking about crime. Where was he four years ago when we were talking about the need for the media (including radio talkers) to stop sensationalizing and overblowing crime? Of course, then it was politically correct in order to get Harvey Johnson ousted. Of course, they elected someone who had no idea how to fight crime, and is in the middle of spats between young criminals who are fighting over him as much as anything else. Nice. So, yes, we have to look backward, because we don't need the attitude of not learning anything from our damn past. And simply confirming McMillin and moving on is not the answer. A deep community discussion is in order about the past, present and the future. Easy PR isn't going to remake Jackson. And that is said by the editor of the paper who has done more to call for downtown investment and re-development than any other media.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-28T17:47:59-06:00

ID

97372

Comment

Also in another thread here...you can sense what Pops is saying...I wonder who that (Pops) really is.....It gives more credit to what I'm saying..... the thread about Mac being confirmed today (by the way that didn't happen)..... This deal is only good for the "WPS"

Author

blkokc

Date

2007-11-28T17:48:36-06:00

ID

97373

Comment

blkokc, it's not going to help to turn this into "rich white people" versus the black community—although I know there is *some* truth to it. Just don't make it simplistic, black-vs.-white, because you're not going to get the discussion very far that way.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-28T17:50:47-06:00

ID

97374

Comment

I will also say, blkokc, that a lot of Melton's supporters have done whatever they can to block development on Farish Street just as they did with the King Edward (there is an incredible back story to that that will be fully told at some point, but I can't yet).

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-28T17:52:52-06:00

ID

97375

Comment

I think the Mac decision is fine and dandy for the moment, and I agree with Pops on another thread that the next mayor may hire someone new, so let's give this a chance. But, I cannot sit and listen to Ben and Mike say we should support Melton for making 'out of the box' decisions. This wasn't Melton's idea, and I ain't buying what your selling. Ben and Mike, as do many of their cohorts, don't realize that everyone here can't afford to live in Jackson if we keep having to pay for Melton's nightmare. Not one thing going on in Jackson wouldn't be going on if Melton wasn't Mayor. Now get Dunn Lampton off his ass, and take care of this problem. Until then, every move the City makes, rightfully, deserves extra scrutiny and criticism if necessary. It ain't about positive people vs negative people.

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-11-28T17:53:47-06:00

ID

97376

Comment

It ain't about positive people vs negative people. Of course it's not. But Ben likes to turn it into that—except when he's in the mood to complain about something himself. But let someone else "complain," then he starts singing "Don't worry, be happy." Ha.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-28T17:56:07-06:00

ID

97377

Comment

Donna I agree....it makes me mad as hell that Ben thinks we have forgotten his role in the crime perception problem....now that he's this new cheerleader for downtown. Believe me, I want a vibrant downtown...but not at the expense of tax paying citizensd who may or may not reap any real benefits. Ben admitted MOnday that he didn't need to know anything as a council..but now that he has this position he has to do homework, know numbers and figures and really do research..so now all of a sudden crime in downtown Jackson isn't as bad as the media presents it???? Ben is a joke at best!!!

Author

blkokc

Date

2007-11-28T17:57:07-06:00

ID

97378

Comment

I think "joke" is too strong. I think he's complex, and he is trying to evolve his thinking. And I think we need to allow for that, and encourage it. However, that doesn't mean he should not be called out for his personal hypocrisy, and when he does this little pat-people-on-the-head be-positive thing when the rest of us try to talk about how a man like Melton got elected, it drives me crazy. In other words, he should not condescend to intelligent people. It won't work.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-28T18:00:24-06:00

ID

97379

Comment

Donna you are right it isn't as simple as black and white..but it is as simple as have vs have nots......And it is as simple of the WPS wanting total control. They tried to get Dennis Sweet to move his office from downtown and he refused..Ben said that with much attitude on MOnday...and now they are planning to build around him. I'm glad Dennis decided to stay put!!! I know the story of Farish Street...I know how the city strong-armed Performa.. I know the real story..and hopefully I can help you tell it. I tried to tell Kaze....I have documents....

Author

blkokc

Date

2007-11-28T18:03:08-06:00

ID

97380

Comment

I'll stick with my term of a joke. Joke adequately describes a person that is trying to deceive tax payers. JOKE: The media should stop reporting the crime problems "downtown.' JOKE: Asking a city that is going through a budget crunch (of which he helped to create) to float an $8 million dollar bond deal JOKE: I didn't have to know a thing to be council..now I do.... I'll continue to use that term for Ben Allen.

Author

blkokc

Date

2007-11-28T18:07:52-06:00

ID

97381

Comment

Hey, use it as you will. It's your word. And I love documents. Dump them into the proverbial brown envelope and heave 'em over. Or just come by and see us. ;-)

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-28T18:11:19-06:00

ID

97382

Comment

So what yall are saying is, The wps wants to control farish street and dont want performa to do it so they are stonewalling them and holding up farish street redevelopment

Author

NewJackson

Date

2007-11-28T18:13:17-06:00

ID

97383

Comment

I'm not saying anything like that. We're trying to figure out what is really going on. I don't think it's as simple as anyone is presenting it, frankly.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-28T18:15:25-06:00

ID

97384

Comment

I'm not saying that either....like Donna, there is just a "heck of alot more" to this story than what meets the eye.....

Author

blkokc

Date

2007-11-28T18:19:34-06:00

ID

97385

Comment

If farish street was in Madison it would have been finished why is this holdup allowed in jackson, why who is responsible and they need to be drugg out and brought before the people, this is sad and ridiculous.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2007-11-28T18:20:07-06:00

ID

97386

Comment

Donna, that you continue to make the point that you didn't exactly care for the "Ben and Larry" show is no surprise. But continue to remind us all you want. Meanwhile, we did not "sensationalize" crime. Funny, but the majority of Jacksonians and the surrounding area citizens continue to say that crime is #1. I don't see the parallel with your claim of our sensationalizing. But then, you are indeed entitled to your opinion. Remember that I invited you on more than one occasion to join us on a show. Each time, you declined. Put your pen down and visit the streets with me some evening. We'll see if our comments are anything other than the truth. We both have the right to our opinions. But being on the streets of Jackson provides a clear view as to whether or not our stories were true. And as for searching for people with crime experiences, we never had to travel very far. The stories seem to come to us, for people wanted an outlet to vent their frustration. Perception? There's always perception. But then, there's also reality. So continue to bash me. I respect your right to do that. But please do not assume the crime is not real. And that any of the stories are a fabrication. You do a disservice to the community when you downplay the significance. Larry Nesbit

Author

Larry Nesbit

Date

2007-11-28T18:31:38-06:00

ID

97387

Comment

blkokc Othor]... You asked for an appointment to meet with me for a discussion on your issues...I changed our appointment twice to fit your schedule. You did not call me to decline OR reschedule. You simply did not show up. I would love to debate you front and center on live radio next week. Challenge your issues with me face to face. Wednesday WLEZ 5 p.m. Can't wait.

Author

Ben Allen

Date

2007-11-28T18:37:34-06:00

ID

97388

Comment

Yes, that's me!!!! You did change your schedule...I told you what happened Monday and at the luncheon you barely spoke to me..nor had time to reschedule. I understood that at the time. Hey, if someone stood me up then maybe they are not interested.....but I tried to talk to you on Monday, after your pitiful presentation and you couldn't even look at me "eye to eye." It isn't a matter of a debate..but an understanding as to the why now do you want to blow smoke in taxpayer's faces.... So, yes, I'll ask my questions live on the radio Wednesday..and yes, I'll present my side of the stroy that African Americans are being systematically locked out of downtown.....yes I'll present your contradications of a tax-break vs floating bonds....see you Wednesday!

Author

blkokc

Date

2007-11-28T18:45:39-06:00

ID

97389

Comment

Oh, BTW, let's take it to my audience as well....Friday night 8 p.m. live on WMPR 90.1 FM...100,000 watts....if memory serves me correctly WLEZ mainly serves...guess where...DOWNTOWN!!!!! I have the old Charles Tisdale slot..who was adamantly opposed to CCI/DJP..and now I clearly understand why.....

Author

blkokc

Date

2007-11-28T18:54:12-06:00

ID

97390

Comment

Ben, congrats on your new appointment. and to think I was just about to log off the computer. With your new position, now is definitely the time to show that you are going to be a champion for the Farish St. area. In fact my column this issue(and posted now) speaks those issues. You better be moving (and pdq) on Farish or the people will speak LOUDLY. Everytime I hear the cheerleading for downtown there is no mention of Farish(or an off-hand comment). Don't give us lip service anymore. The masses are being organized as we speak and now we're going to commit to action and start asking for some folks to remove themselves from any positions that have to with downtown development. and blkokc if have said "documents" then I hope to see you Monday 2:30pm with them in hand. the city AND performa are strongarming the PEOPLE. And they and JRA need to go post haste and Ben sir, you as well if downtown's "facelift" continues without one new structure or business on Farish. (and incidentally Ben you're invited too Monday 2:30. Your input would be greatly appreciated.) Click on and email me if you need more info. The streets have spoken!

Author

Kamikaze

Date

2007-11-28T18:54:51-06:00

ID

97391

Comment

and oh no NewJackson..they WANT Performa on the job thats why theyve allowed to miss EVERY(not nearly) but EVERY deadline that they have set. They have breached the c oontract on more than one occasion but just as JRA chairman Brent Alexander said a week ago, they're still think they can get the job done. You dont have to be a rocket scientist out that someone wants Elkington to finish that job but not before someone else's projects are built downtown. Ya see, THAT person and elkington are fast friends. Big money friends. Oh..they want Performa to finsh all right! It keeps the plan on schedule..Can we say again...gentrification...Let the blight in, let the buildings crumble, let apathy and despair set in, let the black folks squabble over what needs to stay up, and all the while it gets cheaper, and cheaper, and cheaper to move in. And once "THEY" move out "WE" move in get the buildings and THEN we finish Farish st. That way these few folks OWN downtown!

Author

Kamikaze

Date

2007-11-28T19:05:50-06:00

ID

97392

Comment

Kaze hit me with an email with details about MOnday...my vista program will not allow me to click on your link and go directly to your email.... [email][email protected][/email] I can tell you this..Ben mentioned Farish Styreet only as an after thought and almost under his breathe...."Don't worry it's going to happen...we've got to get somethings done..make somethings happen and then." Those were his words!!!!

Author

blkokc

Date

2007-11-28T19:06:46-06:00

ID

97393

Comment

..And thirdly Larry, Donna, Othor, and whoever..as someone who is IN the streets probably a lot more than some of us in this debate. No, crime is not as bad as folks want to make it. Its exaggerated. There are some areas, as with anywhere, where you have to "know" someone to be there after dark. There are areas where common sense should dictate you dont go. And yes, things happen. Bad things. But its not n out-of control rampant problem. I recall speaking to a group of students at Millsaps and remember them saying that in orientation folks were telling their parents that kids should not EVER venture off campus or out of those gates AT ALL after dark because they would surely be robbed or raped if they stepped one foot on state or west st. Parents left scared out of their minds. If you notice now Millsaps students rarely mix outside of those gates. Now THAT'S ridiculous.. However, Crime IS still a problem Donna and it does do a disservce to not inform folks that they SHOULD be careful regardless. 'Cause it CAN happen. Incidentally Farish St. is one of the quietest areas in Jackson after hours save for a few crack heads and your run-of-the-mill prostitutes but you DO have to stay on your toes. As a person that works in the entertainment industry. Even if it IS safe. If folks dont FEEL safe THAT is their reality. Like it or not. So unfortunately Larry has point.

Author

Kamikaze

Date

2007-11-28T19:16:02-06:00

ID

97394

Comment

Larry, you and others you had on your show, like Alan Lange, flat out said that JPD, under Chief Moore, was cooking the books which was why crime was down. Yet, you only trotted out one officer, a friend of yours, to back it up. As an officer yourself, you could have taken these issues to Sheriff Mac, Peterson, the AG, and the FBI; but, you guys never delivered the smoking gun nor even tried! But, you gladly perpetuated that myth. You even went as far as to claim we would see a small spike in the crime stats due to the correction of reporting the "true crime stats" once Melton was Mayor. Go to the tapes! I guess the rash of old people being victimized after Melton took office was part of the correction? Or the correction in Precinct 4 where certain crimes increased almost 100%? Please, tell us more about these corrections. Crime may be the number one issue; yet, after all these years of you fear mongering it what has changed? Your daily rhetoric isn't helping solve the crime problem, putting people in jail, or even offering tips to prevent crime. Whatever good you do at night as a deputy is negated by morning when you spit your vitriol at the citizens of Jackson. Of course, if doctoring crime stats were so true, and you really wanted to stop it you would have; but you had nothing. The table was set once Melton was elected; but y'all were wrong about the stats or we would have heard about it by now. Oh wait, it is your group SafeCity that sat (is sitting) on its collective hands while Melton yanked COMSTAT away, and the citizens were left to guess where crime was happening. Regardless, of what your group promised to replace COMSTAT with, it hasn't worked because even you can't get the updated reports from JPD. You may do the talking on the radio, but we do the listening. And, you are a cancer to this City the way you talk about the citizens who are not just like you and your friends. That is the difference between you and Ben. And to think, we may have a healthy young woman with us today if DA Smith's new bodyguard would have pursued the arrest of GBIII instead of dropping the aggravated assault (attempted murder) charge to a misdemeanor! Oh, that's right, you'd rather bitch about 'Burl' and the "Bozos" trying to protect the taxpayer's dollars over these stupid promotions - that even you should know were stupid! A rank and file lackey to Asst. Chief! Come'on Larry!?! I don't care how many millions of tax dollars we will start getting when D'town is on-line. That doesn't mean we should mortgage the future away on Melton's stupid antics. BTW: Appreciate the fingerprint kits though. Thanks BankPlus and SafeCity. I believe someone on this board tried to tell me it wasn't SafeCity's job to buy fingerprint kits. It's not... but I'm glad they did! Again, why don't you Meltonites pool your money together, and pay for all the budget problems, bad contracts (Ben see SORE), and raises he's made out of your pockets instead of ours. Your friends are the same ones that can pony up millions to buy and keep coaches at UM or MSU - how about shouldering the burden you put the rest of us in?

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-11-28T19:44:19-06:00

ID

97395

Comment

..."I can tell you this..Ben mentioned Farish Styreet only as an after thought and almost under his breathe...."Don't worry it's going to happen...we've got to get somethings done..make somethings happen and then." You're right..only passing mentions. But the good thing is now there is some light being shined brightly on their incompetence. and once the public gets wind of it..its over for them. there's been more Farish talk in the last 3 weeks than there has been in the last 3 years and thats doesnt bode too well for those who counted on our ignorance and apathy to get away with their master plan.

Author

Kamikaze

Date

2007-11-28T19:45:55-06:00

ID

97396

Comment

Kam and Cain.. I will not stand you up...tell me where to be and I am there, concerning ANY issue you have about our city. Would love to air it out. I will not hide behind any anonymous "blog" but will go live. Just tell me when and where and I am there. I WILL show up. Kam, I don't really know you, but from my experience following you, I find your straitforward approach a breath of fresh air. No agendas [how refreshing]. I look forward to meeting with you and your group. Let's get it done.

Author

Ben Allen

Date

2007-11-28T20:43:09-06:00

ID

97397

Comment

Larry, don't misquote me. I never said crime isn't real (just like Chief Moore never said what he was ragged incessantly for saying.) We are reporting on the crime issues that your mayor is residing over, including the ones in his own home. I said that it was irresponsible to sensationalize crime as you did on your radio show, and that that helped create the mess we're in now.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-28T22:11:50-06:00

ID

97398

Comment

Ben you should know all about agends as you are the newest cheerleader for DJP!!! How refreshing is it that the real Ben Allen has stepped forward. A bunch of bull when you say anonymous blog.... get over yourself.....

Author

blkokc

Date

2007-11-28T23:37:09-06:00

ID

97399

Comment

I'm glad to hear that more information/revelations are about to be revealed about the stalled Farish St redevelopment. It has been 3 years since the last brick paver was laid and the last segment of new water line was installed on Farish Street and absolutely nothing has appeared to happen with the new businesses that were promoted as coming to the area. WE WANT ANSWERS! Heads need to roll for the ridiculous lack of progress on this.

Author

Jeff Lucas

Date

2007-11-29T07:07:51-06:00

ID

97400

Comment

Ben: Congrats on your new position. Jackson's resurgence must begin Downtown. That's how Atlanta did it......oddly enough with an entertainment district called "Underground".....and then the "Omni" hotel and convention center...Deja Vu...indeed Donna! If it worked here it'll work the "J"....and as for "Black Power" Structures or "White Power" Structures....regardless of ideologies.....It takes Structures as in Buildings......and that's what DJP is really about...... This is great thread....it's going somewhere

Author

ATLExile

Date

2007-11-29T09:15:46-06:00

ID

97401

Comment

I'm with Jeff and the others. I want to see progress, regardless of who is stalling it. It is important to remember, guys, that Melton thinks he owns Farish Street because he has taught so many little boys to swim down there and has "buried" so many others from the area (as he has said publicly numerous times). So he has and is going to be a major block to progress if he thinks he is being left out in some way. However, that fact should not stop people like Allen et al from demanding that Farish move forward, as they did with the King Edward when he tried to block that development. We need to see the same kind of fervor put into making Farish happen despite Meltonian sillness, just as went into the King Ed.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-29T09:15:58-06:00

ID

97402

Comment

This is great thread....it's going somewhere Agreed. And cheers to Ben for alerting me to listen to his show. My live-blogging might not have been exactly what he expected, but to his credit, he seldom shies away from controversy (other than the occasional head-patting, bee-positive schtick toward people who disagree with him that he oughta just let go). A lot of voices are at this table, and that's good.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-29T09:27:01-06:00

ID

97403

Comment

As for WPS and BPS ... one of the biggest problems this town has is that we do have both (not that they are equal, mind you), and they occasionally form weird coalitions to keep their respective power and divisions (can we say ELECTING MELTON). I believe strongly that a huge problem on Farish Street is that the BPS doesn't want it to happen if white people or the "brown society" are involved, and the powers-that-be don't care enough to build multicoalitions that don't blindly allow those divisions. Now Melton is trying to take advantage of the real and deserved frustration of black Jacksonians like Kaze (not Kam) and Othor to sow more division (and maybe score brownie points for himself) because he has long played people against each other. This won't help Farish Street, or downtown, or the city in general. What's needed are all these different people at the same table listening to each other respectfully. That means you, Ben. It also means you, Othor. And you, Kaze. And everyone else who wants to see the multiracial "brown society" get together and help this city. Oh, and no condescension or head-patting allowed. (Ben.) And leave the ponpoms in the frat house.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-29T09:33:30-06:00

ID

97404

Comment

I have to disagree on one point Donna. and this IS a good discussion. But, its not Meltoian silliness or melton himself that has bogged this issue. Although I know you like to try to lead all roads back to him and his supporters, this isnt one of those issues. This problem is stemmed in something that neither his nor Johnson's administration could avoid without pissing off the "wps" everyone speaks of. Melton or no one else can take advantage of me as you well know. The folks we need to be at the table with we WILL be at the table with. Those who are responsible for the hold-up must go, JRA or anyone else that we discover is involved. Period. Ben, Othor and I HAVE been in contact and we are going to discuss this issue next week(Wednesday) and beyond. So something good is going to happen. We ha ve pledged to try and work together for the greater good. The streets have spoken!

Author

Kamikaze

Date

2007-11-29T10:37:28-06:00

ID

97405

Comment

Wow, this is the JUICIEST thread I have read in some time. I've enjoyed reading the dialogue, and I would love to hear discussions on the radio about it if I could get a reminder of some kind.

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2007-11-29T10:50:01-06:00

ID

97406

Comment

"As for WPS and BPS" ........ Oh my God......did you just throw the "reality brick" through the pretty glass window screen or what......!!!!! atta girl..........

Author

ATLExile

Date

2007-11-29T11:44:35-06:00

ID

97407

Comment

The "streets" spoke during the last election which served as the GERM for the problem this community is facing. Trying to save melton from the wrong he has done and the whites who aided him is ludicrous! This is not beating a dead horse. The horse is alive, well and still functioning in the Jackson TRICK department. Hopefully, this community will become better stewarts of our assets; our hopes and dreams of actually becomming THE BEST OF THE NEW SOUTH. At the table for progress, there must sit honest people: Those who are void of tricks, games and self-serving purposes. We can do better. Any movement made based on the tricks, games and just down right lies will not live. Just remember George Bush and the other lying liars who helped him tell them and the conseques All americans are now facing. I watched Ben Allen as a Councilman. He was a melton supporter and did everything he could to help with the overthrow of the Johnson Administration. By the way Mr. Allen, you told this community that you resigned from the Council because of health reasons and requiring more rest and relaxation. Is it THIS or is it THAT?

Author

justjess

Date

2007-11-29T11:54:59-06:00

ID

97408

Comment

Kaze, just a clarification: I did not say that Melton is the only thing that has bogged down Farish development. But he is part of it. We know that directly from some horse's mouths. Not all roads lead back to him, but many do in one way or another, and it would be counter-productive not to realize that and avoid those same traps in the future. And I know you have your head screwed on straight; don't worry.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-29T14:23:53-06:00

ID

97409

Comment

WOW! This really is a great discussion. I am excited about the opportunity to have open and honest dialogue....I'm tired of people taking advantage of the tax paying citizens in this city. I'm tired of people hiding behind there desks....The WPS is at full play here..and in some instances the BPS is to blame for not being alert. Melton and Ben are part of what is wrong in this city...yet they are not the only ones. Kaze and I will appear on Ben's show next Wednesday (WLEZ) and Ben will appear on my show next Friday (WMPR 90.1 FM 8 p.m.) I have started a thread and if you have questions for Ben that you would like to ask you can share them here: http://www.othorcainreport.com/b2/?p=118

Author

blkokc

Date

2007-11-30T00:07:03-06:00

ID

97410

Comment

Ok. So Ben and Othor will go back and forth. I get it. Ain't nothin' wrong with discussion. In fact, I think words are real cute - I'm a big fan of 'em - use 'em most every day. But after the sand box sand settles, what is going to be done about the Farish Street situation? And who's responsibility is it to see that action takes place? What's the answer? I do hope that these radio shows focus on action and answers rather than posturing. Gents, please don't bore me by telling me how right you are and how wrong they are. And please keep the WPS/BPS talk realistic and fact-based... I'm not interested in attending a radio rally for either group. Here's an idea: Give us your thoughts on how John Q. Citizen can affect change regarding Farish Street/downtown revitalization/reducing crime, etc. I think we have all heard enough bellyaching - I am damn ready for some action. I've written letters, made phone calls, but what else can I do? Who else can I call? Where do I sign up, where do I show up, and what's everybody wearin'? As someone in a business that brings lots and lots of folks into this city and dumps them at various hotels and other businesses on a daily basis, I can assure you that downtown crime, even to visitors, is most definitely a perception. Those visiting this city have heard about it, ask us about it, want to know the "safe" areas, etc... So if this is the perception of visitors, imagine the perception of so many locals. So downtown development is crucial, and this includes new buildings and so much more, and it also includes immediate action to develop Farish Street - we have visitors ask us all the time if Jackson has an entertainment district. Accordingly, Jackson MUST become a "destination city" - we must become a place with a big ole definite reason for folks to visit (think Memphis Beale Street, and like Exile said, Atlanta Underground, or Greenville Avenue in Dallas, and Magazine Street in NOLA, etc.)... and there will be nothing better than a vibrant, bustling Farish Street to make us a kick-arse destination city. Heck, even Miskelly's touts themselves as the "destination furniture store", with arcades, merry go round, food and drink, and who knows what else is slung up in there... a firing range... i dunno. But those brothers obviously get it. They've grown their business by embracing the "destination" model, and we can grow Jackson by doing the same thing. So I hope that those of us who care enough will start raising our voices concerning the absolute need to turn Jackson into a destination city by developing Farish Street NOW - it will absolutely be the catalyst to turn this city into everything it can be. Note to self: don't turn on computer at 3:30 in the morning when going to the bathroom. damn that third glass of iced tea. ;)

Author

bryanms

Date

2007-11-30T03:57:14-06:00

ID

97411

Comment

bryanms, I accept the challenge!!!!

Author

blkokc

Date

2007-11-30T07:22:19-06:00

ID

97412

Comment

bryanns, you have my vote as spokesperson for the mission. I got goose bumps reading your post. This could really become a reality for Jackson and something that all citizens can be proud of.

Author

justjess

Date

2007-11-30T09:58:12-06:00

ID

97413

Comment

Kaze and I will appear on Ben's show next Wednesday (WLEZ) and Ben will appear on my show next Friday (WMPR 90.1 FM 8 p.m.) Any of y'all want to come to Radio JFP on Friday, Dec. 7? I mean, while we're trading off radio shows. ;-) And I third the kudos to Bryanms. (We need to put you in a house ad—"Gotta go in the middle of the night? Don't forget to sign onto JFP Online for the latest!")

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-30T10:06:39-06:00

ID

97414

Comment

My sentiments exactly..Nothing wrong with a little discussion but too much pontificating will only bring the same old same old..Action is my thing. What we've done in this town for too long is point fingers and talk..Wait for someone else to do something. Ive said all along, ultimately it is the apathy of good men that will cause our demise downtown. So now Ive chosen one of those voices to me, Othor appears to have made that stand and hopefully Ben will as well. You obviously have, and hence let me extend a hand to you to come sit at the table with those of us who want action and are equally concerned. Your words ring true. If you wish to finally get "in" on the upcoming action give me an email [email][email protected][/email] and you can come by our weekly meetings. In fact, anyone reading this, shoot me an email if you wish to come by. Shoot me an email if ya wish to bounce around ideas etc. In other words JFP friends, on this issue, lead, follow, or get the hell out of our way! For my part(or at least "part" of my part) Im organizing students at JSU and Tougaloo and high school students as we speak. Any revolution, any movement in our history has started with our young folk. Its time to ressurect that and join hands with everyone young and old who is concerned for the greater good. We have some dynamic, energetic, passionate folks that have joined us. Will you? Your sentiments mirror mine in that we must make Farish a place where people simply MUST go if they are in the know. and this dialougue I think for once will help facilitate something. Im excited.

Author

Kamikaze

Date

2007-11-30T16:40:49-06:00

ID

97415

Comment

Donna, Im gonna be gigging in Nebraska next weekend so I wont make Radio JFP and Im gonna miss being on Othor's show that Friday but I think perhaps you should go by in my stead. couldnt hurt. :-) I WILL be on Wednesday though

Author

Kamikaze

Date

2007-11-30T16:43:28-06:00

ID

97416

Comment

I'm rather big on action myself. ;-) However, "action" without talking or thinking gets one, well, really bad mayors. Not to harp. I think I could do the show that night if Othor wants me. I need to get through all the paperwork on my desk that has piled up to see what the obligations are!

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-30T18:47:04-06:00