[Louis Foxwell]

I have lived in Sarasota for about 15 years. I detest its politics and its culture. It is profoundly corrupted by wealth and phones, plastic culture. The political, social and religious leadership of Sarasota is more attuned to maintaining an image of sophistication than seeking the good of its citizens.
Newtown, the black community on Sarasota's north side is encroached daily by an astounding gentrification. This is the solution to the problem of poverty in Sarasota: push it into Manatee county.
Sarasota is shallow, supercilious, balkanized and disdainful. Not a nice place to live. Why am I here? I thrive on tilting at windmills.

[FormerLib]

I thrive on tilting at windmills.

Any conservative living in Democratic county knows exactly what you mean.

[Louis Foxwell]

phones = phony (hic)

[dukeman]

The political, social and religious leadership of Sarasota is more attuned to maintaining an image of sophistication than seeking the good of its citizens.

I grew up in Sarasota and, except for attending college, have spent about 47 years here. Yes, there are big social and economic separations, but (believe it or not) I've seen improvement. I can't argue with your underlying premise. I just wouldn't have stated it as strongly as you. I'll bet you're a real hoot at city commission meetings! :-)