Memphis : an opportunity delayed or worse yet, MIS
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7/15/2007
I've lived all over the US. I did tow tours of duty in the Memphis MSA, in two different decades. I found that nothing really changes in Memphis. It is one of the most culturally repressive MSA's in the nation.
It has immense potential however, but it is mired in anti-Semitism and racism, and bifurcation of popluations. Parochialism seems to rule the day....also a false pride.
Memphis is one of the most xenohobic places imaginable. The locals acutally expect a tranferee or newcomer to 'leave their tastes, experiences, exposure, etc at the city limits'. I have never experienced so much resentment of outside thought, demand, style, and exposure in my entire professional career in banking....never.
The town (and I do mean TOWN) is a classic example of what not to do in city and regional planning....it suffers from classic, MINDLESS 'white flight' across state lines to northern MISSISSIPPI, and even further east-bound flight. Memphis is running away from itself....sooner or later Memphis will be in Jackson TN (the next city eastbound on I-40). These people think they can actually run away from dealing with non-whites.....Amazing and sad stuff.
Oh yes, the place has lousy food...well except barbecued PIG.
I would never advise any professional to waste too much time in the Memphis MSA. Do your time, and get out...there are too many good choices in the South.....like even Huntsville, AL
sheky | Germantown, TN