I Am Jackson: Darlette Samuels

I Am Jackson: Darlette Samuels

I AM JACKSON because… 

I AM JACKSON because the majority of my adult life has been in this city. I have enjoyed working with and celebrating the students at Lane College. I enjoy the people, culture, and atmosphere which has been the place for me to marry, raise a family, and see the fruits of my labor while residing in Jackson. I AM JACKSON because I am committed to the community. Jackson has allowed me to serve on several boards, assist with pageants, and be gainfully employed. I believe in Jackson because Jackson first believed in me.

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I Am Jackson: Jenna King

I Am Jackson: Jenna King

I AM JACKSON because… 

I am passionate about philanthropy, scholarship, and giving back to the community that has supported me. Jackson is loving, kind, generous, and caring. The people of Jackson give their time, their God-given talents, resources, money, and love. They pray for others, not only for personal friends, but for complete strangers. Jacksonians are always lending a helping hand. They encourage our youth by saying yes when they are asked to support their schools, their sports teams, their educational trips, and their fundraisers. I know of no other town Jackson’s size that has as many fundraisers going on simultaneously as my town does.  

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Not-So-Secret Family Recipes & Holiday Hosting

Not-So-Secret Family Recipes & Holiday Hosting

We have enjoyed sharing our family recipes with you over the past few months, but December brings another layer. This time of year is full of events to attend and host, and the latter can be a bit overwhelming if you don't take it in stride. Let us help you! Greg and Allycin are excellent hosts, and do so often. I would trust any tips they have to give, and they recently hosted a Christmas dinner for some of their closest friends and let us take you along virtually. Get your markers ready to circle and note all of the things you'll want to try out at your own holiday soirée! We can't wait to hear how your dishes turn out and we'd love to know if you discover tips of your own! Share them with us on instagram @vipjacksonmagazine.

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I Am Jackson: Brad Little

I Am Jackson: Brad Little

I AM JACKSON because… 

I was born here, raised here, and am provided for here. I have been immersed in the fabric of this community and am in a unique position to have my finger on the pulse of our city’s heartbeat simply by listening, participating, and serving. I have a vested interest in seeing Jackson thrive, not only for my fellow Jacksonians, but for my employees, my friends, and my children. 

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No Place Like Home: Song of Change

No Place Like Home: Song of Change

Sunlight struggled to peek through the towering old oak trees, creating a soft dappled light over the most famous lady of Downtown. She’s lived many lives, and since I’ve known of her, I’ve been most curious and eager to make her acquaintance. She’s intriguing and mysterious. Playful yet strong. She’s the pink lady of Union Avenue – The Captain H.P. Farrar House. 

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VIProfile: Joe Barker

VIProfile: Joe Barker

Joe Barker currently serves as Executive Director of Southwest Tennessee Development District (SWTDD), an eight-county regional planning and economic development organization located in Jackson. He has a diverse background in public service in both state and local government. Barker has served as both Mayor of the City of Savannah and of Hardin County.

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VIProfile: Kyle Spurgeon.

VIProfile: Kyle Spurgeon.

Kyle Spurgeon is president/CEO of the Jackson Chamber, Jackson, TN. The organization represents over 1000 business members in Jackson-Madison County and parts of West Tennessee.Before joining the Chamber, Spurgeon was vice-president, corporate relations for Jackson Energy Authority. He has also served as marketing director for the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development. He has helped facilitate project locations representing more than $2.5 billion in capital investment.

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VIProfile: Jennifer Graves, Ed.D.

VIProfile: Jennifer Graves, Ed.D.

Jennifer Graves is a native of Goodlettsville, Tennessee. She married her husband, Jimmy, in 1989, and they have two adult children—Joshua and Elizabeth. Jennifer spent the first portion of her career at Briarcrest Christian School in Memphis where she was asked to develop a program for middle school students with learning disabilities, and soon thereafter high school students. Jennifer served in various roles such as director of the program, middle school counselor, and high school counselor. In 2015, Jennifer answered the call to move to Jackson, TN to start Union University’s EDGE program, an inclusive post-secondary program for young adults with intellectual disabilities. She served at Union until moving to the STAR Center Inc. in June 2022.

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The Good Life: Knoxville

The Good Life: Knoxville

In this one unique location, mountains meet music…art meets adventure...culture meets cuisine…and no one meets a stranger. The walkability of downtown allows people to explore and discover vibrant murals, local music, historic sites, art museums, parks, greenways and more. With its sophisticated mix of culture and cuisine, experience a destination served up with genuine hospitality.

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