We chose Memphis — you can, too
My husband and I, who have lived all over the country and abroad, recently moved to Memphis. We have been perplexed by the reactions we’ve gotten from fellow residents, about coming to Memphis (gasp) on purpose.
Having left the Army, my husband and I agreed that the job offer he really wanted was the one in Memphis. As a foreign language teacher, and despite the current district climate, I looked forward to Memphis’ foreign language initiatives that are making progressive waves around the country. (Did you know Whitehaven High offers six languages?)
Our criteria were simple. We wanted to be in a diverse demographic, centrally located and near an airport, have professional and college sporting events nearby, live close to historical landmarks, see art galleries and music venues, experience unique food, wine and overall culinary expertise, be close to a well-reputed hospital, and own an affordable home. Done, done and done.
Women and African-Americans own upward of 60 percent of Memphis businesses, and the numbers of foreign-born and multilingual homes are higher than the state average. Grizzlies games are a blast. The University of Memphis puts on great events and offers several renowned programs. The Cotton Museum, National Civil Rights Museum, Mud Island River Park (and much more) are incredible. There are art and cultural events like “Black, White, and Beauty” Downtown to enjoy for free. Food Truck Fridays at the Dixon and restaurants like Interim, Iris and Seasons 52 rival meals we’ve had in Boston, New York and Paris. Our new home costs the same as our previous home north of Nashville with an added 1,300 square feet, a half-acre yard and fantastic location.
So, remind me again why I’ve been convincing people who shouldn’t need convincing.
Outsiders who cite crime rates don’t realize the detailed reporting Memphis does, and the truth is that Memphis remains one of the poorest cities in the country. We know this; yet, where is the civic pride? Perhaps that pride is the first step to the New Memphis that organizations like Choose901 implore you to get involved in, and improve and enjoy — where young and hardworking people such as my husband and myself are actively choosing to grow their careers and make a difference. “A Thousand Words” is a pictorial commentary on events in Greater Memphis and around the world. Today’s “A Thousand Words” was written by Nikki Boertman, a photographer for The Commercial Appeal. Fax to: (901) 529- 6445 Mail to: Letters to the Editor, The Commercial Appeal, P.O. Box 334, Memphis, TN 38101 Online: Click on the “Submit a Letter” link on the Opinion page at commercialappeal.com. All letters are subject to editing for length and clarity. We suggest a maximum length of 200 words. We will consider publishing only one letter per writer every 30 days. We do not publish letters addressed to third parties, those that are sent to other publications or those that are not original material.