Heart of Melissa

Season 3, Episode 15: Published author Jake Evans now calls Melissa, Texas, home. He loves this community, but it's his communities within the community that are starting to create impactful ripple effects - whether that's at his church, in his neighborhood or in his book club. On this episode of The Front Porch, we'll discuss Rise of the Oceanborn, Jake's book ... we'll talk about how he ended up in Melissa ... and he'll share his heart for this community.  #frontporchLinks:Rise of the Oceanborn: AmazonRise of the Oceanborn: AudiblePodcast: Melissa Farmer's Market: Listen NowCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 3, Episode 14: The Melissa Farmer's Market is alive again - and it's thriving! That is thanks to the love and passion of Caitlin Trahan and Britney West. These two stay-at-home moms wanted to restart the farmer's market, and it has grown into so much more. These two sisters have built a community within a community. How did they do it? Again ... love and passion for small businesses in this community! Want to experience Melissa Farmer's Market for yourself? First, listen to this episode of The Front Porch. Then, make your way to City Hall from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. this Saturday (or next Saturday ... or the Saturday after that).  #frontporchLinks:Melissa Farmers Market: FacebookMelissa Farmers Market: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 3, Episode 13: When Rachel and Lance Buckley moved to Melissa, Texas, in 2019, they found exactly what they were looking for. But there is more to the story, because Lance Buckley - now a member of the Melissa Police Department - initially had his doubts. But in his defense, he was napping when his wife took intentional action to find a house in this unfamiliar community and start writing the next chapter in their family's journey. It's a heartwarming story that evolves into the best decision this family ever made. Now, Rachel and Lance have a heart for Melissa, and it's shining through in everything they do. #frontporchLinks:The Red Feather: WebsiteRachel Buckley Podcast: Listen NowMelissa Police Department: Website City of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 3, Episode 12: When Marcial Marichalar put on his shorty shorts, boots and cowboy hat to run through the snowy streets of Melissa in 2019, he never imagined the impact it would have on his community. He just wanted to make people smile. That's really all Marcial wants to do in every aspect of his life. During our sitdown conversation, he even said: "I want to bring the energy and make people smile." On this episode of The Front Porch, we find out why this is so important to Marcial. This is a heartfelt and inspiring episode.  #frontporchLinks:Marcial Marichalar on IG: FollowCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 3, Episode 11: It's ironic that Jennifer Nehls has an incredible story, because for the last nine years she has worked at the Melissa Public Library. Her plan going into college was to be a marine geoscientist. Now, she's the Library Director in Melissa. After sitting down and visiting with her, it's kind of hard to imagine her doing anything else, because Jennifer has a genuine heart for library services. She understands that it's more than books on a shelf. She'll quickly tell you that a library is a community within a community, and it's her mission to get the Melissa Public Library outside its walls. This is an engaging conversation with a woman who loves her job and the community she serves. #frontporchLinks:Melissa Public Library: WebsiteCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 3, Episode 10: Jennifer Clark moved to Melissa, Texas, in 2019. She instantly fell in love with her new community. It didn't take her long to become very curious, too. So, she decided to scratch that curiosity itch by getting involved. It started with a tenure on Melissa's City Council, where Jennifer embraced opportunities to connect with fellow residents and contribute to the community she loves. #frontporchLinks:City of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.comshow less

Season 3, Episode 9: Amy Mathews has a pretty intimidating title. She is the Development Services Director for the City of Melissa. But don't be scared by her position with the city. This is an engaging episode that really captures how Melissa is growing - from the new grocery stores to the new downtown area. The Development Services Director plays a vital role in that process. Amy Mathews is new to Melissa, but she brings years of experience from other North Texas communities, and she already has a heart for Melissa, Texas. #thefrontporch Podcast - Tyler Brewer: Listen NowPodcast - Terrell Smith (Asst. City Manager): Listen NowCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 3, Episode 8: Terrell Smith has only been on the job in Melissa, Texas, for a few months, but the new assistant city manager already has a heart for this community. On this episode of The Front Porch, Terrell Smith shares his story, talks about how he ended up in Melissa and he explains what an Assistant City Manager actually does. He also shares his perspective and experience in other communities, and how the City of Melissa can use that as an asset as it continues to grow. #thefrontporch City of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 3, Episode 7: Growing up in different metropolitan cities, Katy Vendetti never planted roots. After moving to Texas and becoming a mom ... that's all she wanted to do. Spoiler Alert: She quickly made that happen in Melissa, Texas. How did she do it? It all began at McKillop Elementary. She started out volunteering as a room mom, and now she's on the board for the school's PTO, co-chairing the organization's one-and-only fundraising event. The best part of Katy Vendetti's story ... she is absolutely loving it and those roots are firmly planted.  #thefrontporch McKillop PTO: WebsiteMelissa ISD: WebsiteCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 3, Episode 6: Meals on Wheels of Collin County is creating ripple effects in Melissa, Texas (not to mention the other 26 cities across the county.) On this episode of The Front Porch, we sat down with two Meals on Wheels rock stars - Queen Ellison and Shannon Revels. Both of these amazing women have a heart for giving back, especially giving back to the elderly across the county. Think you know about Meals on Wheels? I bet you learn a few powerful things about the organization just listening to this episode, including the fact the local agency distributes 2,200 meals a day!  #thefrontporch Meals on Wheels - Collin County: WebsiteWant to Volunteer? Get InvolvedNeed Assistance? Get Help City of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 3, Episode 5: If you live in Melissa, Texas, you might not know the name Judy Lewis Smith, but I promise you know exactly who she is. You just know her as "Braum's Granny," and she has probably put a smile on your face with her heart-felt and genuine Facebook posts. Maybe she was sharing a creative recipe using Braum's jalapeno dip, or giving her two cents about orange yogurt. Regardless, there is no doubt that she's provided a little light, hope and kindness in this sometimes dark world. Why does Judy - Braum's Granny - start doing this? Listen to this episode to find out.  #thefrontporch We Are Melissa: Facebook PageCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 3, Episode 4: It's all about community and giving back for Steve Zeigler, owner of Mountain Mike's Pizza in Melissa, Texas. That's why he opened his very first Jersey Mike's. That's why he opened five more locations of the popular sandwich shop in North Texas. And that's why he jumped into the world of pizza and opened a restaurant in Melissa. Along with his son, Steve is leaving a mark on Melissa - providing yummy pizza in a family-friendly environment and creating ripple effects with his giving heart. On this episode of The Front Porch, Steve Zeigler shares his story, including the profound advice from his father that changed his life. #thefrontporch Mountain Mike's Pizza: WebsiteMountain Mike's on Facebook: FacebookCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 3, Episode 3: Sebastien Leitz wants to put Melissa, Texas, on the map, and he wants to do it one young athlete at a time. This former collegiate tennis player, who is co-owner of The Athlete Group, is helping turn up the knob on youth sports and training in this community. The approach at TAG is develop the athlete and then provide the best coaching in the world, based on their sport of choice. On this episode of The Front Porch, Sebastien tells his story, talks about his vision for youth sports in Melissa and he shares his heart for this community. #thefrontporch The Athlete Group: WebsiteMelissa Sports: WebsitePodcast - Doug Zadow: Listen NowPodcast - Z-Plex: Listen NowCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 3, Episode 2: On this episode of The Front Porch, we share a conversation between Mayor Jay Northcut and community advocate Doug Zadow. Both of these gentlemen have been on the podcast before, but this particular episode will highlight their sit-down conversation about the Z-Plex. They discuss the misconceptions surrounding the state-of-the-art complex and the vision of the world-class facility.  #thefrontporch Complete Conversation: Watch VideoMelissa Sports: WebsitePodcast - Lynn Vanlandingham (Five Tool Baseball): Listen NowPodcast - Mike Demsky (Doug Out Sports Grill): Listen NowPodcast - Doug Zadow: Listen NowPodcast - Mayor Jay Northcut: Listen NowCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 3, Episode 1: Incredible ripple effects are being felt across Melissa, Texas, and the local Rotary Club is the catalyst behind a lot of it. On this episode of The Front Porch, we'll focus on a this impactful organization. We'll tell the Rotary Club's story through the stories of three dedicated Rotarians. On this episode, we'll hear from John Cave, past president of the Melissa Rotary Club … Ken Truax, who joined the Rotary Club in 2022 … and Mary Grubbs, the current chapter president. #thefrontporch Melissa Rotary Club: WebsiteMelissa Rotary Club: Facebook PageCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 2, Episode 24: John Duscio, assistant police chief in Melissa, doesn't live in the community he serves, and he hasn't worked here very long. That doesn't matter. This long-time public servant already has a heart for Melissa, Texas. He also has an excitement for this community as it really starts to grow. Assistant Chief Duscio is excited because he's lived through this before in McKinney and Wylie. On this episode of The Front Porch, he shares his advice on growing the right way. (His passion for public service is also showcased.) #thefrontporch Melissa Police Department: WebsiteChief Stokes Podcast: Listen NowCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 2, Episode 23: Coach Ashley Pruitt loves her family, and that is more than just her husband and two kiddos. That is also every volleyball player at Melissa High School. Coach Pruitt has instilled a family-first mindset in the volleyball program, and it's her mission as the head varsity volleyball coach to "develop great humans." She said that the school district and the community demands excellence, but in her eyes that is more than just winning volleyball games #thefrontporch Melissa High School: WebsiteMelissa Varsity Volleyballl: WebsiteCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 2, Episode 22: Potential has always intrigued Brian Masters, president of Hope Coffee. That is why he started his inspirational brand and why he wanted to bring his company to Melissa, Texas. Brian Masters firmly believes in this community, and he's proud to be a cornerstone of the new Gateway Village development in Downtown Melissa. This is Hope Coffee's third location and it's creating ripple effects in each of its communities. The crazy part to this story: Before starting this inspiring brand ... Brian Masters didn't even drink coffee.  #thefrontporch Hope Coffee Melissa: WebsiteGateway Village: WebsiteDeric Salser Podcast: Listen NowAllen Ellen Podcast: Listen NowCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 2, Episode 21: Coach Matt Nally wants to win football games, but over the last few years he's realized that's not why he does what he does. In the midst of his success on the football field, his philosophy on coaching has evolved. Instead of focusing on the wins and losses, the leader of the Melissa Cardinals Football Team wants to pour into his players and coaches. He wants to help them be strong men, good citizens, loving husbands and engaged fathers. For Coach Nally, it's not about winning football games ... it's about winning life. #thefrontporch Melissa High School: WebsiteCardinal Football: WebsiteCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 2, Episode 20: Alan Ellen has been fighting for his dream for a long time. Now that lifelong dream is becoming a reality in Melissa, Texas. Alan is the Chief of Instruction at Pro Black Belt Academy, the new martial arts facility in Melissa. His passion for his sport, and his love for his adopted community, really come out on this episode of The Front Porch. Talking to small business owners in this community provide a completely different perspective to the heart of Melissa. #frontporchLINKS:Pro Black Belt Academy: WebsiteDeric Salsar & Gateway Village Podcast: Listen NowCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 2, Episode 19: Mila Figg is an all-star. She is a published author. She is a mechanical engineer. She is a small business owner. On this episode of The Front Porch, we give Mila the opportunity to share her inspiring story, because she now proudly calls Melissa, Texas, home. Orginally from Kenya, Mila wanted to live the "American dream." Once she arrived in the United States to start college, she realized it wasn't exactly what she was expecting. (There was no limousine waiting for her at the airport with a suitcase of money in the trunk.) But that didn't deter this head-strong woman. She rolled up her sleeves and generated her own "milk and honey" in America. This is a story of strength and resilience. #frontporchLINKS:Mila Inspired: WebsiteMila Inspired: FacebookThe Little Elephant's Big Adventure: AmazonCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 2, Episode 18: This conversation with Judge David Moore exemplifies our mission for this community podcast. His spirit and passion for Melissa, Texas, is contagious. His dedication to serving and giving back to this community is inspiring. Judge Moore is the "Iron Man" of Municipal Courts - not missing a court date in 32 years while serving Melissa (he's never banged his gavel either). This is a wonderfully great episode of The Front Porch, highlighted by Judge Moore's sense of humor and love for Melissa, Texas. #frontporchLinks:Melissa Municipal Court: WebsiteCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 2, Episode 17: Chris Thatcher was destined to work in city government. From his father to his brothers, public service has become a calling, and Chris Thatcher takes his role as Utility Billing Director in Melissa, Texas, very seriously. For many residents, his department is the primary source of contact with the City of Melissa. He totally recognizes that and understands the importance of that role. Chris Thatcher's No. 1 goal is to provide exceptional customer service to every resident of this community.  #frontporchLinks:Utility Billing: WebsiteCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 2, Episode 16: Andrew Lowery served our country for 34 years in the Army Reserves. When he got out, he made it his mission to give back and embrace the community that supported him and his family for so long. Melissa, Texas, has benefitted from his selfless spirit. One of the main giving back initiatives that Andrew Lowery supports is Wreaths Across America, which honors our fallen service men and women. #frontporchLinks:Wreaths Across America - Melissa: FacebookWreaths Across America: WebsiteCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 2, Episode 15: Nolan Harvey, the contracted city engineer in Melissa, brings a completely different perspective to this episode of The Front Porch. He has worked for the City of Melissa for almost 9 years, and he has been at the forefront of the growth and development. With every decision that is made, Nolan and his staff have the "good and growth of the community in mind."  #frontporchLinks:City of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 2, Episode 14: Alyssa Chaney grew up in Melissa, Texas. She left to attend college in Stephenville, Texas, but as soon as she graduated from Tarleton State University, she came straight back home. Now, she is getting the amazing opportunity to celebrate anything and everything for Melissa Schools. Her role as Communications Specialist for Melissa ISD gives her the opportunity to tell the story of a school district - and a community - that she whole-heartedly loves. #frontporchLinks:Melissa ISD: WebsiteMelissa Schools on IG: FollowTarleton State: WebsiteCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 2, Episode 13: Melissa's Fire Chief does not live in the community that he serves, but his love and passion for Melissa, Texas, runs deep. That love and passion - along with his heart for his fire family - is what inspires Carl Nix to spend two and half hours a day commuting from Sulphur Springs, Texas. On this episode of The Front Porch, we get the chance to hear Chief Nix story, discuss his leadership philosophy and find out where his servent heart comes from.  #frontporchLinks:City of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 2, Episode 12: On this podcast, we tell the story of Melissa, Texas, by sharing the stories of the people who live and work here. This episode of The Front Porch is a little different. Our featured guest, Don Dykstra - owner of Bloomfield Homes, doesn't live in Melissa or have an office in Melissa. But his company is building high-end houses in this community, and he does have a huge heart for Melissa, Texas. Along with his story, Don Dykstra shares his affection for Melissa. He also talks about starting Bloomfield Homes and his thoughts on this community's tremendous growth.  #frontporchLinks:Bloomfield Homes: Website City of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 2, Episode 11: Coming out grad school, Tyler Brewer's first "real" job was with the City of Melissa. Ten years later, he's never left. On this episode of The Front Porch, the executive director of development explains what he loves about Melissa, Texas, and why he's so proud to work here. Since he's also oversite for some many different departments within the community, he has some profound insight on how Melissa is growing. #frontporchLinks:City Manager Jason Little Podcast: Listen NowCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.comread less

Season 2, Episode 10: Before jumping into commercial construction and owning/operating a local restaruant, Joseph Armstrong was a former youth pastor. During that season of his life, he learned the importance of focusing on other people. That life lesson continues to have ripple effects across his life, including with his role on Melissa's City Council. On this episode of The Front Porch, we hear Joseph's story, we talk about why he wanted to serve his community and he shares his hopes for Melissa, Texas. #frontporchLinks:Mayor Northcut Podcast: Listen NowCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 2, Episode 9: Tammy Davis is a longtime resident of Melissa, Texas. She also has a huge heart for giving back. It's safe to say that Tammy Davis is selfless, and you'll quickly find out in our conversation where her kind heart comes from. On this episode of The Front Porch, we'll get to know this Godly woman who has a heart for serving others and positively impacting her community. #frontporchLinks:25 Project: WebsiteDirection 613: WebsiteKent Jones Davis Podcast: Listen NowMayor Northcut Podcast: Listen NowCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 2, Episode 8: It didn't take Bridget Saxton long to fall in love with Melissa, Texas. As the new communications manager for the city, Bridget has grown fond of this community in a very short amount of time. On this episode of The Front Porch, we'll discuss Bridget's passion for Melissa, and we'll discover how she ended up here. She also discusses some of the challenges facing Melissa, and she talks about her support staff in the industry. #frontporchMelissa Communications Department: WebsiteCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 2, Episode 7: Dana Conklin will be quick to tell you that she is a "victim of her raisin'. " She is definitely a servant leader, and she points to her upbringing for establishing that foundation of giving back. From serving on the Melissa City Council to her involvment with Rotary, Dana is creating ripple effects throughout her community. On this episode of The Front Porch, we get to know this amazing woman with a giving heart. We talk about her love for Melissa, challenges facing this community and the heart of the people who call Melissa home. Melissa Rotary Club: WebsiteCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 2, Episode 6: I bet you didn't know that Mayor Jay Northcut has run 20 marathons. I bet you also didn't know that he loves comic books. On this episode of The Front Porch, we pull back the curtain and really get to know the elected leader of Melissa, Texas. Besides revealing his hobbies on this episode, Mayor Northcut also shares his story, and he talks about how much Melissa has changed since he moved here almost 23 years ago. His heart for this community really comes out on this episode, too. It was his love for this community that sparked a desire to get involved and start giving back - and ultimately inspired him to run for mayor. #thefrontporch Mayor Reed Greer: Listen HereDeric Salser Podcast: Listen HereJason Little Podcast: Listen HereCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 2, Episode 5: There is nothing like a good comeback story - a story highlighted by resilience, love and selflessness. This is one of those stories! Our featured guest on this episode of The Front Porch is Courtney Willis. Courtney and her husband founded Mission Regan after the blessing-riddled adoption of their youngest son. They were barreling towards rock bottom, but their faith forced them to surrender and their lives have not been the same since. Courtney Willis and Mission Regan are creating ripple effects across the world, and it's all starting in Melissa, Texas. #thefrontporch Mission Regan: https://www.missionregan.orgCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 2, Episode 4: Preston Taylor and his young family now call Melissa, Texas, home. When he's not blazing a trail in commercial real estate, he is the chairman of Melissa's Planning and Zoning Comission. On this episode of The Front Porch, we will share Preston's impressive story. Spoiler Alert: This guy is an all-star - a real go-getter. But the coolest part of his story revolves around the love he's already established for Melissa, Texas. #thefrontporch Planning & Zoning: City WebsiteCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 2, Episode 3: Deric Salser and the Salser Development Group are leaving a profound impact on Melissa, Texas. On this episode of The Front Porch, Deric Salser shares the vision and story and expectations of Gateway Village, which is starting to take shape downtown. Maybe you have seen the progress or heard whispers about the project, but Deric Salser tells the story behind this signature development and paints a beautiful picture of what Melissa, Texas, can expect when it's done. #thefrontporch Gateway Village Project: https://www.gatewaymelissa.comGateway Village Video: On YouTubeCity of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 2, Episode 2: Kelton Brewer drowned when he was two years old. Based on accounts from the incident, Kelton said he actually died. But thanks to a neighbor, and Plano Fire and Rescue, he was revived and survived the near-tragic accident. Since that moment, the Melissa High School graduate has wanted to pay it forward. And that's exactly what he's doing as a firefighter and paramedic in Melissa. His journey, which carried him away from Melissa for a short stint, has been lined with countless blessings. Now, Kelton Brewer's goal is to leave this community better than he found it. #thefrontporch City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Season 2, Episode 1: Eric Stokes hasn't been the Police Chief in Melissa, Texas, for very long. But he already has a heart for this community – and according to him, it starts with the people. After a long tenure – and working up the ranks – in Farmer's Branch, Chief Stokes finally got the opportunity to put his policing philosophy and his leadership skills to the test. After listening to this one-on-one conversation, you'll see why the City of Melissa hired him as its new Police Chief. #thefrontporch City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Episode 30: Mike Demsky has started a new chapter in his life. After spending many years in the golf industry – working at some of the best courses and clubs in North Texas – he decided it was time for a new adventure. That's when this 11-year resident of Melissa, Texas, was handed the keys to the Doug Out Sports Grill. Not only is he the general manager of Melissa's newest restaurant and lounge, he is playing a major role in the newest phase of the Z-Plex. Doug Out Sports Grill : https://dougoutsportsgrill.comCity of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Episode 29: The importance of relationships in Melissa, Texas, keeps coming up on this podcast. Symmetry Sports Construction, which has played a significant role in almost every sports facility in Melissa, wholeheartedly believes in that philosophy. On the company website it says: "We believe in the relationships we cultivate and the synergy it creates." That is why Wayne Poage, director of sales for Symmetry, was recommended as a guest for "Heart of Melissa." On this episode, we discuss Wayne's story and how Symmetry continues to leave its mark on this community. #powerofcommunitySymmetry Sports Construction : https://www.symmetrysports.comCity of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Episode 28: Lynn Vanlandingham, owner of Five Tool Baseball, has a passion for baseball. The cool part of his story is that fact that he has partnered with a community – Melissa, Texas – that has a passion for the game as well. On this episode of "Heart of Melissa," Lynn shares how that partnership was formed, but more importantly how it has grown into something special. He also talks about what drives him every day. #powerofcommunityFive Tool Baseball: https://fivetool.orgCity of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Episode 27: Kent Jones Davis has called Melissa, Texas, home for more than 14 years. He has a heart for this community, but we wanted to bring him on the podcast to talk about the amazing ripples he's generating across the world with The 25 Project. Kent, the executive director for the global ministry, has a heart for Jesus, and his organization is spreading that love to underprivileged children in countries like the Dominican Republic, Sierra Leone and India. The 25 Project: https://www.25project.org/overview-mco/City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Episode 26: Dena Norton has a servants heart for Melissa, Texas. She is the Director of Community Outreach, which runs the food pantry in Melissa. When Dena talks about the food pantry, and the amazing people they serve, she lights up. It was very fitting that we recorded this episode of "Heart of Melissa" at the place where her and her volunteers are changing lives. Also on this episode: We discuss Melissa Schools ... what it's like raising twin daughters ... and what's next since she and her husband are now empty-nesters.The 25 Project: https://www.25project.org/overview-mco/City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Episode 25: Teenagers provide a completely different perspective about community. On this episode of "Heart of Melissa," we got the chance to visit with Carson Ross and Kadyn King, seniors in the Class of 2021 at Melissa High School. They discussed what they love about their hometown and what they're going to miss the most when they leave for college. #powerofcommunityMelissa ISD: https://www.melissaisd.org/City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Episode 24: A series of powerful events led Marcus Eckert to Melissa, Texas. It started with a high school football game ... next came a hug from Duke Sparks ... then an answered prayer in the form of bird that landed on his back fence. That bird was a cardinal, and when Marcus Eckert saw it, he knew his life was about to change. Now, Marcus is the principal at Melissa Middle School. Just like everyone who works for Melissa Schools, he is passionate about his job, the kids he gets the opportunity to impact every single day and the community itself. #powerofcommunityMelissa ISD: https://www.melissaisd.org/City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/ Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Episode 23: Stacey Piyakhun doesn't mix her words. She has a heart for the people in Melissa, Texas, and she does a beautiful job expressing that love and admiration. On this episode of "Heart of Melissa," Rev. Piyakhun – lead pastor at Melissa United Methodist Church – she puts on several different hats to explain her passion for her community. Spoiler alert: She has a handful of drop-the-microphone moments. #powerofcommunity Melissa United Methodist Church: https://melissaumc.comCity of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Episode 22: Trey Graham wears a lot of different hats. He's the lead pastor at First Melissa ... he does the radio play-by-play for Melissa football ... he's an author ... and he hosts two radio shows. (That's not even counting being a dad and husband.) Pastor Graham has called Melissa home for almost 20 years, and he has developed a special place in his heart for the people in Melissa and the surrounding communities. #powerofcommunityFirst Melissa: https://firstmelissa.com/Trey Graham website: http://www.treygraham.com/City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Episode 21: Melissa City Manager Jason Little has his finger on the pulse of this community. He has served in his current role for 15 years, and he has a servant's heart for Melissa, Texas. On this episode we discuss the community's expectations of excellence, how Jason got to Melissa and some cool things on the horizon.City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Episode 20: George James has called Melissa, Texas, home for a long time. Thirty-five years to be exact. He's seen a lot of changes in his community, especially in regards to Melissa Schools. James has been on the school board for 19 years. He was right there when Melissa High School opened, and he'll be right there as the district continues to grow and change. He couldn't be more excited. #powerofcommunityGeorge James Real Estate: https://www.georgejames79.com/Melissa Schools: https://www.melissaisd.org/City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Episode 19: Ryan Ross, pastor at City Church Melissa, has a huge heart for this community. The vision of his church captures that beautifully: "We are a community of people living for the glory of God and the good of the city." On this episode of Heart of Melissa, he shares how God has blessed him and how God continues to bless City Church. #powerofcommunityCity Church Melissa: https://citychurchmelissa.com/City of Melissa: https://www.cityofmelissa.com/Music: https://www.purple-planet.com