[tcostell]

As for the schools: The situation is that NYC (and Washington) has an elite worker class, served by minorities...

do you mean to tell me that you really believe the problem with the New York City schools is that there are no opportunities in New York?! Why then do you have all of those out of towners heading to New York City, for the view of Brooklyn?

Honestly, I've never heard a more ridiculous statement in my life.

[firebrand]

I am afraid you are the one who is ridiculous. Read what I said. NYC draws the best and the brightest, and the most achievement-oriented. They pour into this place like the screaming mobs in a Japanese monster movie and proceed to compete ferociously for everything--from places in line to the most desirable jobs. You cannot even talk about anything within the earshot of strangers without their trying to one-up you, loudly, in their conversation. It is, in fact, what many non-New Yorkers hate about New York. You should try living here for a few decades, as I have. And if you don't believe me, read E. B. White. The average high school or city college graduate from our schools doesn't have a prayer against these wolves.