Jackson Expose’ FEATURING
DR. CEDRICK
GRAY
Superintendent Of Jackson Public Schools
January 2016 Special Edition
Sharing His Vision for JPS Turks & Caicos inside
CONTENT
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F R O M T H E
E D I TO R
4. SUPERINTENDENT Cedrick Gray of Jackson Public Schools
08. PASTOR TYRON HANKS
Evangelist Temple
O N T H E
CO V E R
Superintendent Dr. Cedrick Gray Of Jackson Public Schools
10. KIMBERLY NAILOR Attorney at Law
11. PHOTOGRAPHER Jert-Rutha Crawford
12. WHO’S WHO in Jackson Expose’
14. BUSINESS DIRECTORY Brilliant Brands
16. TURKS & CAICOS Island Adventure!
Jackson Expose’ Magazine is honored to present “Superintendent of Year” Dr. Cedrick Gray, Lead Teacher for Jackson Public Schools! Also featured inside is Attorney Kimberly Nailor, a talented attorney in Jackson who addresses students at Alcorn State Univeristy. Photographer Jert-Rutha Crawford is also featured. See her gallery inside! And check out Who’s Who in Jackson Expose’! As well as our Brilliant Brands Business Directory. And a new recipe from “Cooking with Honey and Friends”.
24. COOKING WITH HONEY and Friends
T E R R I
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Editor Publisher.
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EDUCATION
SUPERINTENDENT CEDRICK GRAY The Lead Teacher For Jackson Public Schools.
T
ell us a little about where you were raised and where you attended school?
I was raised in Millington, TN (small town north of Memphis) and Memphis, TN. I could go back to elementary school and walk you through my glorious elementary and secondary school experience. I will, for the sake of space however, mention that I was guided by a few spectacular teachers who seemed to take a special interest in me. Each of the three teachers impacted me in very unique ways. They seemed to be placed by God, like angels, to provide the support I needed at very 2015 JOSEPH E. HILL special times. Overall, I attended 2 elementary schools (E A Harrold and Sheffield), one middle school (Wooddale Middle) and one high school (Wooddale High). At each school, the expectations were high from both my Mom and my teachers. Post-secondary education included Bachelor and Master’s degrees from The University of Memphis and Education Specialist and Doctoral degrees from Union University (Jackson, TN).
SUPERINTENDENT OF THE YEAR
This initiative involves placing one device (tablet or laptop) in the hands of every scholar for instructional use in the classroom and at home. 21st Century Learning is no longer a faraway concept. The use of the internet and digital devices is currently changing the way scholars and teachers Can you tell us about the Jackson Public both learn and solve problems. We are meeting the scholars where they School’s Digital Learning Initiative? are so that we can make learning 4
relevant and meaningful to them. Tell us about Alignment Jackson. This is a powerful process of achieving the strategic goals of the District by involving the community, the City and business and educational professionals in the solution process. Members of Alignment Jackson look at the strategic goal of student achievement and
PHOTO CREDITS: JACKSON PUBLIC SCHOOLS
create a tactical plan to meet that goal. From that tactical plan, a specific set of strategies are created. Members of the greater community are asked to provide resources to perform those strategies. This is the way that everyone involved can play a part. You mentioned during the 2015-2016 Convocation Address that Jackson Public Schools is an “A District”, can you expound upon that? This is about the expectation that I have for our District. We have some of the top schools in our state in this District. Our teaching cadre and leadership perform at distinguished levels. We are capable of being officially rated “A” as a District. We are operating in our classrooms and departments at “A” levels. The last and most important step is to reflect our expectation on our next state exam so that our attitude of “A” is shown in our accountability rating. Our state’s accountability
ABOVE Superintendent Dr. Cedrick Gray greets a high school student on the first day of school.
BELOW Dr. Cedrick Gray leads a professional development workshop for JPS principals and administrators.
system rates school districts based upon that district’s scores on the state exam. The latest accountability rating places us at a “D” as a district. We have, however, many schools in the district that perform well above that rating but not enough. I believe that we can and will raise the level of all of our schools to one that will elevate the entire district.
How were you able to achieve free lunches for all students in JPS regardless of their income? This was the brainchild of our award-winning Executive Director of Food Services, Ms. Mary Hill. She was attending a meeting in which this federal program was presented as an option for districts with a certain percentage of families that already qualified for free or reduced meals. She applied for the option and recommended that we participate. It has saved thousands of our families’ time and money while providing a nutritious meal twice per day.
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EDUCATION Business
ABOVE: Dr. Cedrick Gray delivers an inspirational speech to over 4000 JPS employees during the Convocation ceremony.
The 2015 Joseph E. Hill Superintendent of the Year Award was bestowed upon you by the National Alliance of Black School Educators (NABSE), tell us all about that exciting distinguishment. The 2015 Joseph E. Hill Superintendent of the Year Award is given to the superintendent that exhibits a high degree of leadership under somewhat trying circumstances. It is given in the spirit of service demonstrated by Dr. Joseph E. Hill. While I am grateful for the award, it really reflects the work and dedication of our tremendous team of educators that have continued to provide an awesome environment for our scholars and families. For
me, it is an indicator that we are on the right track and will achieve our very aggressive goals. It serves as a constant reminder that the team makes the difference. As a dear friend of education once told me, “The strength of the wolf is in the pack and the strength of the pack is in the wolf.”
The National Association of Superintendents reported that under your leadership, our district’s state and national accreditation status has been restored to “accredited” and “in good standing”, what would you attribute to such tremendous success?
ABOVE: Superintendent Gray wearing an “A” cap during the 2015-2016 Convocation ceremony.
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Business
This success is contributed solely to the team. Our team consists of internal members and external support. Accreditation is difficult to achieve and equally difficult to maintain. It requires constant review of process and practice with an objective eye open for improvements. Our team evaluates practices for improvement and doesn’t mind being held accountable. Your contract for Superintendent for Jackson Public Schools was extended for another four years by the School Board. What is your vision for the Jackson Public School District?
Simply that our district be officially rated an “A” before I leave as superintendent. What tips would you like to give to parents in order for their children to achieve academic success during the 2016 school semester? It is important to create space for your child to do homework for an hour uninterrupted and to communicate with the teacher at least once per month. The most important tip to take is to stay involved in your child’s life, in and out of school. Monitor their friends, their activities and especially their social media, if applicable.
“The strength of the wolf is in the pack and the strength of the pack is in the wolf.”
BELOW: Superintendent Dr. Cedrick Gray and JPS Administrators are recognized by the Mississippi Department of Education for Casey Elementary School being named a Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department
of Education.
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RELIGION: PASTOR TYRON HANKS
PASTOR TYRON HANKS UNITING CHRISTIANS ACROSS CULTURES AND RACES
Pastor Hanks, where are you from and where did you attend school? I’m a native of Port Arthur Texas, now residing in the greater metro Jackson area. My academic matriculation includes, but is not limited to, the completion of studies in Social Services at Tyler Junior College and Texas College in Tyler, TX. Bachelors in Theology and Religious Education from Kingdom Builders Bible Seminary Houston, TX. College of Pastoral Supervision and Psychotherapy Jackson, MS. Currently I’m working towards my Masters in Divinity. What motivated you to go into the ministry and how long have you been a Pastor? I’ve been in ministry for twenty-seven years, twelve years as a pastor. I would have to say that my motivation involves a burning desire in my heart to impact the lives of others. I believe you are “called” into ministry. That “calling” is what motivates you. It gives me passion, instincts, discernment and sensitivity for people who 8
are hurting by racial and cultural barriers. Also, clarity of vision promoting racial and cultural harmony.
I see that you have an event coming up on December 31st, can you tell us a little about that?
Tell us about your church, Evangelist Temple Jackson, and your mission.
I am truly excited about the coalition of pastors coming together for the event on December 31st to be hosted at our church. It is truly amazing to have all these pastors, putting aside their own interests and coming together to promote the message of the Kingdom of God, which is far greater than our individual denominations and ideologies. The theme of this gathering is called “Old Year’s Night.” which represents stepping into the New Year with the Hope and Faith for a new beginning. We will truly be leaving the old behind, and embracing the new.
Evangelist Temple House of Refuge for All Nations (COGIC) is a ministry full of rich tradition and legacy. A Spirit-filled church affectionately known for its choir, great musicians, friendly atmosphere, prophetic preaching and teaching. The church was founded in 1951, by the late Bishop S. R. Chambers in a store front on J R Lynch Street before moving to its present location 704 University Blvd. Being the first pastor ever installed from outside of the church, I feel it is important that I continue to carry the vision of its founder and former leadership. Our mission is to be a source of strength—a House of Refuge—for all people, regardless of race, nationality, or demographic, in furtherance of the Kingdom mandate.
I understand that you are Conference Host at an international event, Kingdom Culture that convenes in the Island of Trinidad and Tobago in February of 2016, can you tell the readers all about this exciting adventure?
Kingdom Culture is a vision given to me by the Lord in 2008 after Hurricane Rita. While I was pastoring in Groves, Texas the hurricane left our city devastated in many areas, and I felt the need to mobilize our city to make a difference in helping those that were affected. It was truly a blessing as whites, blacks, Hispanics, Jews, and many other ethnicities came to together to meet the needs of so many people. The Lord spoke to me and said, if we come together in a crisis, then come together in the Kingdom of God.
Trinidad and Tobago are the main islands this year. However, annually, this conference will be moved from different regions throughout the seven continents. As we learn from and about each other while spreading the massage of the gospel, we will develop an appreciation for different cultures, becoming wellrounded believers with a sensitivity to the unique qualities of others.
It is my belief that the culture of the Kingdom of God transcends personal cultures, and the body of Christ can achieve transcultural worship. Many have asked me, how can this be achieved? I’m not suggesting we abandon our own identities, but the concept of diversity will add a greater pool of resources and gifts to the body of Christ. For this cause we should embrace our cultural differences and similarities. My passion is to eradicate those racial and culture stereotypes that still exist that keep us divided by demonstrating the power of love, hope and faith.
There are several ways a person can get involved with this vision. The first way is to go to our website at www. kcgon.net and learn more about our vision and our mission. A second way to get involved is through volunteering their gifts and their talents—musicians, singers, praise dancers, choir directors, etc.—will have a platform to participate in ongoing Kingdom Culture events. A third way is through partnership and sponsorship. If you’d like to be a part of our coalition team going forth, then partnership is the area for you. Although it is my desire for as many people as possible to attend our events, sometimes it’s not possible for the individual. And this is where sponsorship plays a valuable role. One of the main sponsorship campaigns is our project 30K.
Will you be going to more than one Island in the Caribbean as part of the event, if so tell us more.
How can someone get involved with the upcoming Kingdom Culture event in Trinidad and Tobago ?
Our goal is to solicit 300 people to give 30+ dollars. These contributions will go to support the Malabar transition of hope housing: three homes with the capacity of housing approximately 50 individuals on a full time basis. I encourage everyone interested to visit the Kingdom Culture website and click on the sponsorship page for more details. As a supporter of Kingdom Culture, it means that we can impact the needs of the people in our domestic and international communities. Pastor Hanks, what is your vision for Evangelist Temple Jackson going forward? My vision going forward is to build a great city for all people through a gospel movement that brings personal conversion, brings people to Jesus and membership in his family. Building community formations, social justice and cultural renewal to Jackson MS and, through it, to the world. Where is your Church location and how can readers contact you regarding your church and ministry? We are located at 704 University Blvd. Jackson MS, in the heart of the city. Our service are Sunday’s Christian Education 9:45 AM Morning Worship 11:30AM & 7:30PM Midweek Wednesday’s 7PM. We can be reach via telephone 601-373-8866 or email EvangelistTemple@yahoo.com .
Pastor Hanks with his lovely wife Lady Jennifer Hanks and children. They and are the proud parents of four children with one soon to arrive.
Photo Credit: J. C. Penny
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LEGAL NEWS:
ATTORNEY KIMBERLY NAILOR
ATTORNEY
KIMBERLY NAILOR
ABOVE: Attorney Kimberly Nailor poses with Alcorn State students.
Attroney Nailor Speaks to a Group of Students at Alcorn University regarding Social Workers being advocates and superheroes in protecting abused and neglected children in Mississippi.
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imberly Nailor, Esq. recently spoke to a group of students at her alma mater, Alcorn State University where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science Degree in 2003 with an emphasis in Pre-Law. She graduated Summa Cum Laude. Kimberly earned her Juris Doctorate Degree from the University of Mississippi School of Law in December of 2006. Due to her academic performance,
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she was inducted into the International Legal Honor Society of Phi Delta Phi. She also received the American Jurisprudence in Pre-trial Practice. Kimberly remains committed to public service and volunteers her time by serving on the Boards for the Child and Parent Center of Vicksburg, Mississippi and the Randy Naylor Memorial Foundation. She also provides legal services at a reduced rate to clients with lower incomes. She has been inducted into the
Mississippi Business Journal 50 Leading Business Women in 2014 as well as MBJ’s 40 Leading Attorneys in Mississippi and she was selected as one of the Vicksburg Post’s 20 under the age of 40 Community Leaders. Attorney Nailor is a much sought after speaker and regularly speaks on family law issues in Warren County, Mississippi at various churches and other events. Her most prized accomplishments to date are that she is the proud mother of two young sons, Cameron and Brandon.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Business
JERT-RUTHA CRAWFORD
CRAWFORD Productions Jert-Rutha Crawford is one of the most talented Photographers in the Metro Jackson area
J
ert-Rutha Crawford of Crawford Production says that she strives to capture special and precious moments for a lifetime of memories. Providing professional and quality services to her clients on multiple levels. “My passion for photography and graphic design is my biggest motivation for
starting my business. Also, I’m ready to leap forward and see what opportunities lay ahead for my business.” She provides Portrait, Commercial Photography and Design. “We love to help parents, grandparents, couples, families, etc., preserve their most precious moments to be treasured as a lifelong memories. We would enjoy the opportu-
nity to provide your business with images that showcase the very best of your business or organization. We would enjoy the opportunity to create unique designs for any of your special occasions or events you would like to have commemorated.” Website: www.crawfordproductionsllc.com (pending) Phone: 601-906-2792
Pictures are pretty, but an Image can preserve the moment!!! BELOW Ms. Crawford also does Photo Restoration as seen in the example below.
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Who’s Who in Jackson Expose’
Dr. Terrance Ware
Tracey Neyland
Terrance Smith
Owner/Operator of Terrance Ware, DDS, PLLC
HumbleWay OutReach Co-Founder
Co-Owner of Creative Depot
MISSION: Serving God Through Serving Others
MISSION: Bringing Your Ideas To Life
FAVORITE Food: Calamari
FAVORITE FOOD: Shrimp and Chicken Alfredo
MISSION: To be better each day than I was the day before. FAVORITE FOOD: Salmon FAVORITE TV SHOW: The Cosby Show PET PEEVE: Biggest pet peeve is willful ignorance. CONTACT: 769-251-5909
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FAVORITE TV SHOW: The Haves and the Have Nots PET PEEVE: Disingenuous People CONTACT: 601-946-6328
FAVORITE TV SHOW: Shark Tank PET PEEVE: Dis-Loyalty CONTACT: 769-2438097
Who’s Who in Jackson Expose’
Candace Lott
Charles Lewis
Owner/Operator of Family Works Cleaning Service
Basketball skills trainer and Life skills coach
MISSION: Our mission at Family Works Cleaning Service is to provide exceptional customer service and quality work. Above all, we strive to succeed in today’s rapidly evolving economy.
MISSION: Developing youth and young adults through the sport of basketball.
FAVORITE FOOD: Supreme Pizza
FAVORITE FOOD: Baked Tilapia FAVORITE TV SHOW: Sports Center
FAVORITE TV SHOW: House Hunters
PET PEEVE: A person who lacks drive and ambition.
PET PEEVE: Lazy people
CONTACT: 601-906-0338
CONTACT: 601.519.7712
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“There are so many beaches and Islands to Visit”
PHOTO CREDITS TURKSANDCAICOSTOURISM.COM
Turks and Caicos Turks and Caicos is a beautiful group of Islands located in the Carribean. It consit of 40 Islands. However, only about eight of them are frequesntly visited by tourist.
The official language for Turks and Caicos is English. The official dollar for the Islands is U. S. Currency. The history of the Isands consist mostly of slaves who were brought there to work the crops on the Islands. 17
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food Turks& Caicos Style!
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here is a variety of foods to be found in Turks and Caicos. You will find a variety of fresh seafood dishes.
Many of the seafood dishes will be made from fresh catches of the day. Not only seafood, but you will find many fancy fruit dishes that are served in a variety of ways!
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PHOTO CREDITS TURKSANDCAICOSTOURISM.COM
by Jessi Black White 21
beachlife There are a variety of Islands and a variety of beaches to choose from in Turks and Caicos.
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PHOTO CREDITS TURKSANDCAICOSTOURISM.COM 23
COOKING WITH HONEY “ After all, there’s good then THERE’S MISSISSIPPI GOOD!”
RUM & ORANGE CAKE
The secret to this yummy cake is the glaze and it’s beautiful flowered orange candied crown! Using your favorite homemade recipe or a yellow box cake mix, bake a 10” cake. Once your cake is done, refrigerate for up to 30 minutes. While your cake is cooling. prepare your orange slices and glaze CANDIED ORANGE SLICES • Thinly sliced 3 navel oranges * Add 1 cup granulated sugar in a large bowl. Place oranges in the bowl and cover oranges completely with sugar on both sides, Arrange orange slices on a baking sheet covered with parchment paper. Bake for 40-50 minutes at 350°.
Remove your oranges from the oven and allow them to cool. They should be beautiful rustic color slightly sticky and firm to the touch THE GLAZE • 5 tablespoons butter • 1 -1/4 cups powdered sugar • 1/4 cup orange juice • 1/4 cup heavy cream • 1/2 cup of Premium RUM Melts your 5 tablespoons of butter in a sauce pan. Add orange juice. Bring to a light boil and remove from heat. While still warm, add RUM and powdered sugar. Stir together quickly. Stir in your heavy cream. Using a skewer, punch several holes throughout the top of your cake. Pour 1/2 of your glaze allowing the cake to soak up the glaze. Once the glaze has settled, pour the the second 1/2. Now you are ready to serve!!!!
Please join me on Facebook / Instagram /Youtube/LinkedIn/Local98/ Monday mornings @ 9 a.m. on MPB 91.3 Think Radio for DEEP SOUTH DINING .
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