When I moved to Selma eight months ago, I wasn’t sure what I was getting myself into. I was scared but I didn’t realize how lucky I was. It was the first time I moved to a city where I had no prior connection but Selma welcomed me home as if I had lived here my entire life.

My first trip to Selma was for the 50th anniversary of Bloody Sunday. Until I moved almost a year later, I only knew this town for the 1965 movements. It’s a significant part of this town’s history but I’m glad I’ve had the opportunity to learn more about its past and to make memories of my own.

Earlier this year, the District Attorney’s office invited me along for my first ride along with its organized task force. While there were several arrests made, the most memorable part of the night for me was hopping into the back of a patrol car and finding a bundle of, what looked like, collard greens and listening to the officers sing along to music in between destination points.

Later I had the pleasure of attending the Battle of Selma’s Grand Military Ball. This meant me attempting to shimmy a hoop skirt under my dress on the side of the road and not falling flat on my face while wearing a dress that was slightly too long.

With those are many more memories that I will have for a lifetime.

I am thankful for all of the people that I have been able to meet along the way and who have made my time here a wonderful experience. I would especially like to thank the Selma Police Department’s Lt. Sam Miller, Chief John Brock, investigators and others for putting up with me on a weekly basis and for being willing to work with me.

Although exploring the Queen City during the day has contributed to a good portion of my experience here, my time spent with my coworkers will be some of my fondest memories in Selma.

I couldn’t have asked to work with a better group of journalists and I’m very appreciative of the guidance Justin Averette, Daniel Evans and Justin Fedich have given me along the way.

Selma might not be perfect, but I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect place to start.

Next week, I will be moving to Hammond, Louisiana.

I’m excited for the opportunity to be closer to family and can only hope Hammond will be as welcoming and as full of adventures and characters like Selma.