Faces of GRAND Prairie, A Community Podcast

The COPE Initiative Sep 01, 2021

On this episode, we talk about COPE, an initiative through the Grand Prairie Police Department that stands for “Community Outreach Partnership and Education.” I talk with City Councilman Jeff Copeland, Supervisor Of the Crisis Support Unit Courtney Runnels, and Officer Greg New about how this unique initiative came to be. This innovative information-sharing program allows first responders to have immediate access to helpful information when encountering those in a mental health crisis. To learn more about this program or to sign up yourself or a family member, go to https://www.grandprairiepolice.org/services/cope-program

Mentors Care - Dena Petty and Crystal Gaither Aug 02, 2021

Today, my guests are Dena Petty and Crystal Gaither with Mentors Care. Mentors Care is a 501C3 organization whose mission is to connect high school students who are at risk of not graduating with mentors, tools, and resources to help lead them toward graduation and purposeful, fulfilling lives. Mentors Care works with school districts that are historically underserved to enlist, train and equip adult volunteer mentors who care about and believe in the kids they serve. Crystal and Dena discuss how Mentors Care came to be and how it works within each school. We discuss the success stories from the organization and how mentors are trained throughout the process, how this differs from other mentorship programs and how it can greatly fill a need as students return back to school after the pandemic. Groups like this need you and other citizens who want to help students through this time and this episode will encourage and inspire you to do just that! I will have links to Mentor’s Care on the episode details so you can learn more about how to get involved. And now, here’s Crystal and Dena.

To find out more about Mentors Care, go to https://mentors.care.

Esmerelda Rodriguez, District Director of the Grand Prairie Host Lions Club Jul 28, 2021

Today my guest is Esmerelda Rodriguez. Esmerelda retired recently from the Grand Prairie Independent School District as the Parent Involvement Facilitator. Today we talk about her job responsibilities within the district and how she would help parents be involved with their children's education, as well as helping them discover resources when they needed them. We also discuss how she came to participate in the Grand Prairie Host Lions Club and how she came to be the district governor. She shares her story of how she would watch her parents stay involved in the community, even as they traveled the country as migrant workers, and how important purpose and community services is. Esmerelda is delightful and as a community member who watches her hard work and dedication to the city, she's truly inspirational and I'm honored to have her on the podcast. For more information about the Grand Prairie Host Lions Club, go to https://gphostlionsclub.com/index.html

Grand Prairie Mayor Pro Tem and Council Member Mike Del Bosque Jul 11, 2021

Today my guest is Grand Prairie Mayor Pro Tem and Councilman Mike Del Bosque. Council Member Del Bosque was elected to represent District 3 in May 2017. We talk about mentorship and how community members like Ms. Ruthe Jackson came along and encouraged him to get involved more in his local community and in politics. We also discuss the new Mi Familia playground, the different features it will offer the community and how it was designed to encourage meeting more neighbors. Enjoy!
To watch this interview via YouTube, visit the Faces of Grand Prairie on YouTube.

VanDella L. Menifee Jul 05, 2021

Today my guest is Vandella Menifee. Vandella is retired from a career in the Department of Justice, first starting in the Atlanta Penitentiary System then eventually transferring to the Grand Prairie Office Complex in 2005. Vandella has become a professional volunteer in her retirement, working locally in Grand Prairie and Arlington with local elected officials, nonprofits and citizens to connect people to one another. She works hard at being a community advocate and on the day of our recording, she had received a proclamation from Jeff Williams, the Mayor of Arlington. Vandella talks to me about her journey to Grand Prairie and her first job as a community advocate – as an elementary school student fighting to keep her elementary school open! Vandella is a breath of fresh air and I can’t wait to speak with her again soon!

Shebra Hackett Jul 02, 2021

My guest today is Shebra Hackett. Among many things she is involved in, Shebra owns an Allstate Insurance Agency in Grand Prairie and we talk today about how she got into the insurance industry and then came to own her own office. We discuss the great things that come from owning your own business and some of the challenges that come from balancing family and community priorities with running a successful business. Shebra is also involved in several local community advocacy and networking groups such as the Soroptimist International of Grand Prairie and the Grand Prairie Metro Rotary Club, where today she’ll be installed as the 2021-2022 President. Shebra is always so delightful to talk to and I’m so glad to have had her on to share some of her experiences as a business owner, a mom and a volunteer in her community.
To find Shebra Hackett's business information, click here.

CIVICS SERIES: The Declaration of Independence May 31, 2021

In this mini-episode, Jenna reads aloud the Declaration of Independence.
https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs/declaration-transcript

Candidate Interviews, Grand Prairie June 5, 2021 Runoff Election District 6 May 24, 2021

Incumbent Jeff Wooldridge answers interview questions for the upcoming run-off election for District 6 in Grand Prairie's City Council Election. Challenger Kurt Johnson declined to participate in the interview.
To learn more about Jeff Wooldridge: https://www.facebook.com/Jeff-Wooldridge-for-City-Council-District-6-206384646167158
To learn more about Kurt Johnson: https://www.facebook.com/KurtForGPCouncil

Martin Cabellero, President and CEO, Bon Air Service Co. Inc. May 18, 2021

Today, I talk to Martin Cabellero, President and CEO of Bon Air Service Co. Inc. I caught up with Martin after he was named "Citizen of the Year" for 2020 from the Grand Prairie Chamber of Commerce. Martin took ownership of Bon Air after his mentor Cal Brundrett, retired. We talk today about mentorship and the importance of taking young people under our wings to help them find their place in our community and in the world, as well as how Martin got into the air conditioning business to begin with. Martin is just one of the nicest people to speak with and I was fortunate to have had this time with him!
To learn more about Bon Air, go to http://www.bonairservice.com/
To learn more about the Grand Prairie Chamber of Commerce, go here: https://www.grandprairiechamber.org/

Candidate Interviews, Grand Prairie June 5, 2021 Runoff Election District 8 May 16, 2021

Incumbent Greg Giessner and Challenger Junior Ezeono answer questions in an interview to help voters know about them prior to the June 5, 2021 City Council Election for District 8.
To learn more from Greg Giessner, go to his Facebook campaign page: www.facebook.com/greggiessnerG
To learn more from Junior Ezeono, go to his Facebook campaign page: https://www.facebook.com/JuniorEzeonu

Scott Jeffries, Director of the Library, Dallas Baptist University May 12, 2021

My guest today is Scott Jeffries. He’s the Director of the Library at Dallas Baptist University. Today, Scott and I talk about the job of a librarian at a university and some of the day to day help they give students. We talk about how to think critically about what you read in the news and discuss the obstacles students face in the current online landscape, as well as helping young people understand original source material and point of view. Being a literary and news junkie myself, I found this conversation especially enlightening and I greatly enjoyed discussing the nuances of the university library system and hearing how students are being helped to research within in it! To Support the podcast, go to paypal.me/facesofGP

Why Should Local News Matter? May 08, 2021

Why should local news and local community matter? Jenna talks about why the podcast is GP focused. If you like what I am doing and want to support more of my local interviews with interesting residents and officials click here https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/facesofGP! https://youtu.be/M2AgIPXpNDc

Julie Harding, How We Can Create Intentional Relationships with our Neighbors May 06, 2021

My guest today is Julie Harding. Julie and I were friends at a very young age, when we met as across the street neighbors in Grand Prairie as young kids. We talk today about being neighborly and what we feel are some of the reasons that neighbors in communities have gotten away from getting to know one another. We discuss the negative impact it has on the older and younger generations when we don't intentionally foster relationships with those who live on the same street as we do and how fostering those relationships creates positive outcomes for the mental health and well-being for all, especially teenagers who need the mentorship of the older generation. We also discuss how to create a neighborhood event that's lowkey and low stress, especially as we are moving forward from the pandemic. It was so good to spend some time catching up with a lifelong friend and I think you'll enjoy being a fly on the wall of our conversation.

CIVICS SERIES: Duane Strawn, Director of the Parks, Arts and Recreation Department of Grand Prairie Apr 30, 2021

Today my guest is Duane Strawn, director of the Parks, Arts, and Recreation department of Grand Prairie. Duane talks to me today about his background as a landscape architect and how that fits into planning for a city. We talk about the unique vision of the grand prairie parks and recreation department compared to other cities and the city’s innovative attitude towards progress. We also discuss some of the things in the works and how people can get more involved to have a voice in their local government. It was a pleasure getting to know him better during this conversation! The sound on this one was kind of quiet, so I apologize for having to turn it up louder than normal!
Find out more about Parks, Arts, and Recreation here

What is my goal with this podcast? Apr 29, 2021

You might be asking yourself, “where is she going with this podcast? What’s the goal?” They are good questions and I want to answer them. I also discuss my mission of keeping the podcast positive and uplifting and how I would love to teach others to record interviews as well.

Monica Gonzales, Executive Director of the Pregnancy Resource Center of Grand Prairie Apr 28, 2021

Today my guest is Monica Gonzales. She’s the new executive director of the Pregnancy Resource Center of Grand Prairie. Monica and I sat down at the center to discuss what this nonprofit does for our community. We discuss the center’s mission of helping women make informed decisions when facing an unplanned pregnancy. We discuss the center’s partnerships with local churches and why that’s important, why it’s important to partner with a charity you are passionate about, and how we can encourage and mentor young people to become more involved citizens in their communities. I had such a welcoming and uplifting visit with everyone at the center and my spirit was truly encouraged with this interview. Make sure to check out the podcast description for contact information if you are interested in learning more about the center.
To learn more about the PRC of GP website here

For Tickets to the Laugh for Life Fundraising Event Friday, April 30, click here
To contact the center regarding volunteer opportunities, the bottle fundraising drive for your church, or the upcoming Applauding Life Banquet, contact the center at 972.642.3877

Matthew Loh, Owner of Asia Times Square Apr 24, 2021

Today my guest is Matthew Loh, owner of Asia Times Square. Asia Times Square at Pioneer and Great Southwest has been in Grand Prairie for about 13 years with Matthew leading its’ vision and mission. Matthew and I talk about his background before his family opened Asia Times Square, the value in overcoming adversity and being passionate about your purpose. We talk about how much he values his relationships within Grand Prairie, within the city, the business community and the police and how impactful cultivating those relationships are when starting a business. He also talks about some of the upcoming events and some of his future expansion projects. Matthew was delightful and I really enjoyed our conversation and I know you will as well. https://asiatimessquare.com/ https://www.thelohfoundation.org/

CIVICS SERIES: Linda Ellis, Superintendent for Grand Prairie Independent School District Apr 24, 2021

My guest today is Linda Ellis, superintendent of Grand Prairie Independent School District. She talks with me today about her background in business and education before becoming the superintendent for GPISD. We discuss coming into leadership during times of crisis and how the district handled unexpectedly losing its’ leader and the pandemic within an 8 month period and why Linda felt led to help during such a pivotal time. We talk about mentorship, what the position of a superintendent entails and how the district will move forward into the 2021-2022 school year. I want to thank Linda for such a welcoming conversation!

Jenna Answers the Question: "Why Are You Doing This Podcast?" Apr 24, 2021

To find out more about the podcast, visit www.facesofgrandprairie.com!

CIVICS SERIES: Candidate Endorsements and Why They Matter Apr 16, 2021

In this mini-episode, I explain political action committees and why they matter in local candidate endorsements. I give 3 questions to consider when researching the endorsements a candidate receives before voting. I also explain why I wasn't able to interview local candidates this year but why I hope to do so moving forward in future elections.
Guide to the May 1, 2021 Grand Prairie Ballot: https://www.gptx.org/city-government/city-secretary/elections

CIVICS SERIES: Emily Liles, GPISD Trustee Place 6 Apr 12, 2021

Today my guest is Emily Liles. Emily is a Grand Prairie School Board trustee for Place 6. Emily and I talk about a wide variety of topics today including the role of a school board trustee and how she came to run for a seat, the evolution of GPISD over the last decade and the importance of districts to keep up with the needs of the community to graduate educated and trained students for tomorrow. We also discuss many of the options for students in GPISD and how the campuses have grown and changed to adapt. If it’s been a while since you’ve graduated or have had kids in the district, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at some of the incredible things this district is doing!

CIVICS SERIES: Greg Giessner, Grand Prairie City Councilman At-Large Apr 03, 2021

My guest today is Grand Prairie City Councilman Greg Giessner. Councilman Giessner holds one of the at-large positions which serves the entire city. Recently, he initiated the new Government 101 section on the city of Grand Prairie’s website, a space that allows citizens to learn more about the basics of their city government. We talk today about the importance of learning more about how government works and about some of the obstacles a city goes through to initiate change. We also talk about growing up in the city of Grand Prairie, having mentors who encourage us to get involved and what it’s like to now be a councilman amongst constituents who raised you. Councilman Giessner is always delightful to talk with and he was so excited to have an opportunity to teach me more about how the city of Grand Prairie runs and I know you will get a lot out of our conversation!

Derrick Kinney, Host of the Podcast Good Money with Derrick Kinney Mar 27, 2021

My guest today is Derrick Kinney, host of the podcast Good Money with Derrick Kinney. Derrick is a financial advisor and author, and he talks with me today about his goal of changing people's mindsets about money. He is focused on helping people change their attitudes about money, by encouraging people to not only like making it but also to see it as necessary for helping others. In our conversation, we talk about the benefits of giving our money a purpose, which helps us to be more intentional about making a lot more of it and giving a lot more of it. Derrick interviews the world's top professionals, authors, influencers and business leaders for their practical money and business advice. I thoroughly enjoyed our conversation and I'm confident you'll gain a lot of useful information from it, as well.
Find Derrick's podcast on iTunes or wherever you listen to your podcasts: Good Money with Derrick Kinney

You can find Derrick on Facebook Here

You can find Derrick on Instagram Here

CIVICS SERIES: Savannah Ware, Chief City Planner for Grand Prairie Mar 12, 2021

Today I'm talking with Savannah Ware, Chief City Planner for the city of Grand Prairie. Savannah talks with me today about a variety of topics, including zoning, long term planning, and moratoriums. She does a great job of explaining what these things mean to give us a deeper understanding as citizens about how this part of our city government functions. I appreciate her taking the time to speak with me, it was a very informative hour and I hope you all get great takeaways from it! This is the first interview in a new series I'm hoping to continue about the interworkings of local city government. Leave a comment on the Facebook page and tell me what department you'd like to learn about next!

Monica Saldivar, Nominee for Best New Female Artist - 2020 Tejano Music Awards Dec 10, 2020

Today my guest is Monica Saldivar. Monica grew up and lives in Grand Prairie and is a graduate of Dallas Baptist University. She is currently a nominee for Best New Female Artist at the Tejano Music Awards on December 19, 2020 at 7 pm. Monica is also a piano teacher and a singing coach. We talked today about how her life changed by going to a performing arts high school, as well as how she’s helping her students express some of the emotional ups and downs of this year through music expression. We talk about how she got into Tejano music and the journey of her career so far. Her self-titled Album is available on iTunes, Amazon Music, YouTube, or any major streaming service. Monica was truly delightful, and is a bright rising star and I really enjoyed our conversation. Cole Humphreys from the Hot N Cole podcast co-hosted with me today, where he graciously allowed us to record with his studio.

Find Monica on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/monicasaldivarmusic/?ref=page_internal

Find Monica online Here: http://www.monicasaldivar.com/

Watch the 40th Annual Tejano Music Awards here: https://www.tejanomusicawards.com/

Terry Brooks and Charles Luckert Nov 28, 2020

My guests today are Terry Brooks and Charles Luckert. Terry Brooks is the trustee for Place 1 of the Grand Prairie Independent School District. Charles Luckert is the founder of the Grand Prairie At a Glance Facebook groups. Terry and Charles graduated from South Grand Prairie High School in 1974 and are lifelong Grand Prairians. I talk with them today about their high school experience and becoming citizens involved in community service and hometown pride. My friend Cole Humphreys with the HotnCole podcast was kind enough to let us use his recording studio and his voice also pops up every once in a while in our episode. Without further ado here are my friends, Terry Brooks and Charles Luckert. *The episode picture is Terry and Charles in high school and was taken at the State Fair of Texas. I loved it so much I asked if I could use it for this episode! Find Terry at GPISD School Board Find Charles at https://www.facebook.com/charles.luckert.7 On Facebook search "Grand Prairie at a Glance" to find the groups you'd be most interested in. Find the HotNCole Podcast on YouTube at HotNCole

CIVIS SERIES: Bryan Parra, Grand Prairie ISD School Board Trustee Sep 05, 2020

My guest today is Bryan Parra. Bryan is a current Grand Prairie ISD School Board Trustee representing Place 2 and an elementary assistant principal in DISD. Bryan grew up on the East Coast but moved to Texas in 2003, graduation from South Grand Prairie in 2005. He went on to get his bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M and his masters in educational leadership from DBU. Bryan is a very involved community leader and volunteer – he works closely with The League of United Latin American Citizens, he is a member of the Grand Prairie Host Lyons Club, and the North Texas Region Omega Delta Phi Alumni Association, among others. Today, Bryan and I talk about not only being a school board trustee but also an administrator during the COVID-19 pandemic. We discuss the importance of kids getting back into school and the obstacles some of these students in our district are facing during online learning, including those in our hispanic community. Bryan is always such a nice person to talk to and I’m glad that even though he’s right in the thick of getting ready for the school year, he had time to talk to me!

Find Bryan on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/Bryan4GPISD/

Gold Medal Olympian Jennifer McFalls, Head Softball Coach at University of Kansas Aug 30, 2020

Today my guest is Jennifer McFalls. Jennifer is a South Grand Prairie High school alumni and one of it’s most accomplished athletes. She was a softball player who went on to play for Texas A&M University She then played for the USA Olympic Softball Team as an alternate in 1996, then won the gold medal in the 2000 games in Sydney, Australia. She is now the head softball coach at the University of Kansas. Jennifer talks to me today about how she got into the sport of softball and how it changed the course of her life. She also talks with me about some of the struggles college athletes are going through during this pandemic and how she’s handling keeping a college sports team in the time of COVID-19. This conversation was taped earlier in the quarantine and even though this pandemic has slowed her schedule down for coaching softball, I’m so very grateful it allowed me the opportunity to get some time to talk with her. Jennifer is just one of the nicest, most humble people and I’m so appreciative she took the time so without further ado, here’s Jennifer McFalls.

https://www.teamusa.org/usa-softball/athletes/Jennifer-McFalls

CIVICS SERIES: Rodney Anderson, Former Texas Representative Jul 30, 2020

Today my guest is Rodney Anderson. Rodney is a life-long Grand Prairian who graduated from Grand Prairie High School in 1986, and received his Bachelor’s Degree in Real Estate from UTA in 1990. In 2010, he decided to serve his city and was elected to serve in the Texas House of Representatives. During his time in office, he fought for the private property rights of citizens of the state, and was recognized named to the 2011 Legislative Honor Roll by the Texas Association of Realtors. In 2019, he was elected as the Chairman of the Dallas County Republican Party. He talks to me about how bills become laws, how citizens of this state can change legislation through their elected officials and how to have an effective voice in their state of Texas.

Carson Kidd, Co-founder and Co-owner of Moravian Coffee May 07, 2020

We are continuing our Entrepreneur Week with a discussion no entrepreneur can live without – coffee! Today, I welcome Carson Kidd, Cofounder and CoOwner of Moravian Coffee. Carson and two of his childhood friends and fellow graduates of Oklahoma University started a coffee roasting company right out of college and decided to open up shop right here in Grand Prairie. We talk today about the decision to make coffee their business, what it is like working with friends, and the challenges of being a new business owner and handling something like COVID-19 right out of the gate. He also gives me an educational lesson in coffee beans and the process of learning how to roast them. Enjoy!

You can order packages of their coffee flavors online at https://www.moraviancoffee.com/

Find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/MoravianCoffee/

Watch this episode via video on YouTube at https://youtu.be/Wl7UDJ8liX4

Sophia Whitehead, Owner of Local Bunny Farm, "Dallas Bunny Love" May 05, 2020

Hello listeners and welcome to Entrepreneur Week! My guest today is Sophia Whitehead. Sophia has a dear place in my heart – she is my daughter Avery’s sister...I met her when she was 4 and since the day I’ve met her, she has loved animals! She’s always talked about raising animals and recently, she’s been raising and breeding rabbits. Today, we talk about caring for bunnies and rabbits, some different types of breeds she’s had and what she is learning about running a business. I’m so proud of her and the work she’s putting into caring for her rabbits and I am so glad she came on to talk with me today. You can find her website on the links to this episode if you are interested in purchasing a bunny, and also can find this episode on our YouTube channel if you would like to see the bunnies we are talking about in the episode. Enjoy!

You can find Sophia's bunnies here: https://dallasbunnylove.com/

You can find this episode on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0L4q_GIx1QaHDtXa5gUarA

Todd Mayo, Financial Advisor with Farmers Insurance Apr 30, 2020

Todd Mayo has a history of working with the community of Grand Prairie in the financial planning industry. Todd talks to me today about a variety of financial topics, including estate planning, investing, how to read headlines relating to financial information and how to have perspective about the things going on currently with the economy. We look at a document together that discusses what keeps us up at night regarding financial matters and how we can talk about it with the people who help us overcome the stresses. My daughter even makes it into the video for a few seconds. I was going to edit it out, but thought, "Nope. This is all our lives right now - interruptions!" Enjoy!!

You can find Todd online at: https://www.facebook.com/todd.mayo.79

Find the Faces of Grand Prairie Podcast here: https://anchor.fm/facesofgrandprairie

Tiffany and Nathan Ross, SiteGuard Inspection Services Apr 28, 2020

Today, I'm talking with Tiffany and Nathan Ross, owners of Siteguard Inspection Services in Grand Prairie. Nathan was able to join us at the end after he was finished with an inspection. Tiffany and I talk about running a business, starting a business from scratch online, juggling running a business with your spouse as your business partner, and creating boundaries when working from home. We also discuss what an inspector's job is and how they can help anyone, even those who might be looking to sell their home in the future, and want to see how to get it "list ready." Enjoy!

Find SiteGuard Inspection Services online at https://www.sginspectionservices.com/

Find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/SGInspections/

Find us on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0L4q_GIx1QaHDtXa5gUarA/

Christian Pryor, SGPHS Class of 2020! Apr 17, 2020

Today on the podcast I welcome Christian Pryor. Christian is a senior at South Grand Prairie High School. He's spent his high school career in a number of activities, from Theater, to DECA, National Honor Society and more. He talks with us today about his plans after graduation, his interests while he's been in school, and how he's been keeping himself busy while sheltering at home. Christian was such a delight to talk to and I'm so glad he was willing! Enjoy!

Find us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0L4q_GIx1QaHDtXa5gUarA

Find us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/facesofgrandprairie/

Support the podcast with a donation here: paypal.me/facesofgrandprairie

Coltrane Lins, GPHS Senior Class of 2020! Apr 14, 2020

Welcome back to GPISD Seniors Week on the podcast! Today, I’m welcoming Coltrane Lins. Coltrane is a Senior at Grand Prairie High School. He’s a member of Show Choir and has been involved in Scouting since he was little. He talks to me today about what he’s missing the most during this shelter in place and what he and his friends have been doing to keep busy and keep connected while being at home. Enjoy!!

Find us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0L4q_GIx1QaHDtXa5gUarA

Find us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/facesofgrandprairie/

Support the podcast with a donation here: paypal.me/facesofgrandprairie

Samantha Vargas, SGPHS Senior Class of 2020! Apr 13, 2020

Welcome to GPISD Seniors Week on the podcast! Today, I’m welcoming South Grand Prairie High School senior Samantha Vargas. Samantha is Senior Lieutenant for the Cheyennes, a member of the National Honor Society, and was a BETA Club member for the for SGP Early College High School. Not only is Samantha graduating this year as a Warrior, but she is also graduating with her Associates of Science degree from Mountain View College at the same time! She was such a delight to talk to, and I know there are big things in the works for this hard-working young lady! I had a video of our interview and unfortunately, the video file was corrupted from Zoom as it downloaded, so I only have audio of our interview....I was so sad because she did the interview in front of all her mums! but I was able to find a picture of her and her mum for homecoming that I’m putting on the video for YouTube because we do talk about it in the interview, and I certainly want you to see it because it’s a sight to see! Without further ado, here’s Samantha Vargas!

Find us on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0L4q_GIx1QaHDtXa5gUarA

Support the podcast financially with a much appreciated Paypal donation! paypal.me/facesofgrandprairie

Randy Jennings, Sports Writer for the Dallas Morning News and Alumni of GPHS Apr 10, 2020

Before we were social distancing, Randy Jennings and I sat down on a beautiful day outside the Summit to talk about his long career as a sports writer and journalist. He worked for The Grand Prairie Daily News after graduating from Grand Prairie High School, until it closed in the 2000's. Since then, he's contributed to publications such ESPN Online and is currently a Sports Writer for the Dallas Morning News. Randy talks with me about how journalism has changed over the decades from a written to the online medium, what it's like to work for a local newspaper and some of his favorite moments in reporting. Please excuse some of the background noise - it was one of the first pretty days of Spring so we just had to sit outside!

Find Randy online at https://www.linkedin.com/in/randy-jennings-216429a/

And https://www.dallasnews.com/author/randy-jennings/

Jonathan Richards, SGP Alum and Emmy Winning Event Cameraman Apr 09, 2020

Today, I'm joined by long-time friend Jonathan Richards. Jonathan and I have known each other from when we were youth at Inglewood Baptist Church. Jonathan has been in television production and camera work for quite some time, recording sports games for the Mavs, Stars and Rangers, television events such as the George Bush Memorial Service, and has even won a Sports Emmy for his work for the Olympics. Jonathan is a super great guy and I'm happy he had time to sit down with me!

#facesofgrandprairie

Find the podcast at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0L4q_GIx1QaHDtXa5gUarA

Find Jonathan at https://www.facebook.com/Jonathan.David.Richards

Find host Jenna Pecor at www.jennapecor.com

Dr. Bill Skaar, Pastor at First Baptist Church Grand Prairie Apr 07, 2020

Today, I talk with Dr. Skaar, the pastor of First Baptist Church in Grand Prairie. Dr. Skaar has been with FBCGP for many years and has a deep connection to this city. He and I talk about how COVID-19 has changed the landscape of attending church services, including participating in the Lord's Supper and Easter Sunday. We discuss how we should reach out to God with our feelings and process things happening around us, and talk about how reading the Bible reminds us that we've been through times like this in history many times over - and that God is in control and He can still use times like this for His glory.

Find First Baptist here: https://fbcgp.org/

Watch past sermons and live telecasts here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdw0...

Find First Baptist on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/firstbaptistgp/

Cleve Doyen, Managing Partner of Brothers Transport, LLC Mar 29, 2020

Today, we have a special episode starting our third season, an interview with Cleve Doyen, co-owner and Managing Partner of Brothers Transport. Cleve is a graduate of South Grand Prairie High School, he is a veteran of the US Marines, and an entrepreneur and businessman who has now put his expertise into logistics. Cleve and I spoke over the phone about the challenges, and ins and outs of being in the trucking industry, as well as how we can all think more like an entrepreneur in tough times like these. He also gave me some great reminders of how we as the general public can better share the road with our truckdrivers, who are at the heart of making sure everyone has what we need right now. I really enjoyed talking with Cleve and I hope you enjoy listening!

Find Cleve at https://www.linkedin.com/in/clevedoyen/

And https://www.facebook.com/cleve.doyen.3

Best of Seasons 1 and 2 Mar 26, 2020

We are nearing almost 1,000 downloads - it's so very exciting! As I get ready to start Season 3, I wanted to go back through the episodes and find my favorite parts of the interviews. I want to thank you for being such loyal listeners and I hope you keep coming back for more!

Mini-Episode: Spring Preview! Mar 02, 2020

Join me today in a mini-episode where I talk about things coming up in the city of Grand Prairie over the next few weeks!

Robin Brown, GPHS Alum and Owner of JFK Custom Tours in Dallas, TX Feb 29, 2020

Today, I welcome my guest, Robin Brown. Robin is a proud 1972 Graduate of Grand Prairie High School, and has a long history with the city of Grand Prairie. His family were the first morticians in the city, and he followed in their footsteps by becoming a funeral home director himself over 40 years ago. Robin also has an interesting hobby, he runs JFK Custom Tours in Dallas, TX, where he gives tours of the Kennedy Assassination in a restored Lincoln Contentinental convertible that resembles the one JFK rode in on that fateful day. You can find more about his story on the Netflix travel series “Dark Tourist,” it’s episode 3 if you’d like to check it out, it’s a really fun spot to watch. Mr. Brown talks about so many interesting topics with us today, including some history into Grand Prairie’s funeral homes, a history into some sports stats of Grand Prairie High School and a look into the strong women of GP who were instrumental in its’ founding and growth. My mom Debbie Pecor joins me today in this episode that I thoroughly enjoyed with Mr. Robin Brown. Happy listening!

JFK Custom Tours: https://www.jfkcustomtours.com/

Scentsy Link to Support Grand Prairie Homeless Outreach Organization: https://anitapotts.Scentsy.us/party/11871327/ScentSational

Grand Prairie Tourist Information Center And Trunk Stop Gift Shop: https://www.visitgrandprairietx.com/about-grand-prairie/tourist-information-center-and-gift-shop#ad-image-3

Out of Town Guest Mike Geer, Manager of the Aransas County Airport in Rockport, TX Feb 25, 2020

On today's episode we have a special out of town guest, Mr. Mike Geer. Mike is the manager of the Arasas County Airport in Rockport, TX, as well as a veteran of the United States Airforce, and was the one of the key point people in Hurricane Harvey, and in the cleanup and rebuilding of the city after. He talks with me about how he got into a career in aviation and air traffic control, what it was like to be in the midst of a Category 4 hurricane. how he handled getting a visit from the Vice-President of the United States just a few days after the storm, and his feelings of love and appreciation for his fellow Texans as they came together to help the city of Rockport recover. Mike is a dear friend of mine and I'm so grateful he agreed to talk to me! To learn more about the airport - https://www.aransascountyairport.com/ To see the amazing things happening in Rockport and to plan a trip - www.cityofrockport.com To learn more about CareFlite - www.careflite.com To learn more about the Pathways at Dubiski - https://www.gpisd.org/Page/42261

Albert Sanchez, Co-Owner of Betos Mexican Restaurant Feb 22, 2020

My guest today is Albert Sanchez. Albert is a co-owner and founder of Betos Mexican Restaurant, a lifelong Grand Prairie resident and graduate of South Grand Prairie High School. Today, Albert talks to me about how Betos started and the growing pains along the way. He also talks about lessons he learned as a very young entrepreneur and business owner and the transitions you go through throughout life as you are growing a business and how starting and having a family changes your priorities. He also talks about what it was like growing up in Grand Prairie and how that's helped him be the person he is today.

Recorded at Betos - https://www.eatatbetos.com/

Supported by Grand Prairie at a Glance - https://www.facebook.com/groups/692900874411610/

Non-profit Spotlight - https://www.gpunitycoalition.com/

Support this podcast - https://www.paypal.me/facesofgrandprairie

Mike Medrano, Managing Partner of the Texas Roadhouse in Grand Prairie Feb 20, 2020

Today, my guest is Managing Partner of the Texas Roadhouse in Grand Prairie, Mr. Mike Medrano. Mike has been the managing partner of the GP Roadhouse for the past 19 years - and as a sidenote, he was the first person to give me my first grown-up job with a salary when he promoted me to be his Service Manager in 2002. Mike and I go back a long time, so when I saw Grand Prairie was getting a new and improved Texas Roadhouse building, I had to come over and say hello. Mike talks to me about how he came to work at Roadhouse, the culture of the restaurant, why it was important to get a new building at all, and why he's still going strong after a 40 year career in the restaurant industry.

https://www.texasroadhouse.com/locations/texas/grand-prairie

https://www.facebook.com/txrhGrandPrairieTX

Bonnie Cockrum, President-Elect of the Grand Prairie Historical Organization Feb 18, 2020

Today, I am talking with Bonnie Cockrum, a long-time volunteer and President-Elect of the Grand Prairie Historical Organization. Recorded at the new GPHO Museum, we talk about the recently renovated building and the goals of the organization. Bonnie tells us about the importance of digitizing documents and how they set-up their digitizing room, as well as the ongoing effort to always fill in the gaps in history with first-hand accounts of stories from citizens. As a history buff myself, I found this interview incredibly informative and discovered a new-found respect for the history of our town, and I hope you will too!

Find more information about the GPHO on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/GPHistorical/

Find out more information about the GPHO Museum at http://gphistorical.com/

Information on the events mentioned in this episode are as follows:

General Meeting of the GPHO, February 2o, 11:30 - 1 with guest speaker Angela Luckey - 1516 W Main Street.

Prairie Days Celebration - March 21, 10-2, Free to the public - 1516 W. Main Street.

The Big Event in Grand Prairie - https://www.gptx.org/about-us/community-calendar/special-events/big-event

Support the Podcast - https://www.paypal.me/facesofgrandprairie

Rick Herold, Retired Director of GP Parks and Recreation Feb 14, 2020

Today, my guest is the very interesting and entertaining man, Rick Herold. Rick is the retired Director of the Grand Prairie Parks and Recreation Department, and has been instrumental in creating facilities like the Epic, Epic Waters and The Summit, and events like Prairie Lights. He talks with us about graduating for North Texas and his career in parks and recreation, and also gives us some very inspirational lessons he's learned in Act 1 of his life that he's taking with him into Act 2. Join me and my co-host for the day David Pecor in this delightful interview with Mr. Rick Herold. Learn more about GP Parks and Rec: https://www.gptx.org/city-government/city-departments/parks-arts-recreation Learn more from our sponsor Cynthia Gossett at Bancorp South: https://www.bancorpsouth.com/mortgage/lenders/cynthia-gossett Learn more abour our non-profit spotlight, The Nicklas Foundation: https://nicklasfoundation.org/

Steve Pryor, Former GPISD School Board Trustee and 1310 The Ticket Alum Feb 12, 2020

Today, I am interviewing Steve Pryor. Steve is a Grand Prairie resident, an original employee of the Ticket radio station and a former GPISD School Board Trustee. He talks to us today about how he got into the radio industry and how the forum of radio has changed over the years, as well as what it is like, day to day, to be an elected official in his city. He tells us how we can get more involved to make a difference in local government and how to be a responsible voter in your community. Steve is always a delight to talk to and I’m fortunate he happily agreed to be a guest on the podcast, I think he brings some great and positive ways we can all be involved community members of Grand Prairie. Filmed at the offices of the Ticket in downtown Dallas, heres Steve Pryor. Enjoy!

Lana Kluge, SGPHS Alum Feb 10, 2020

On today’s episode, I invited Lana Kluge to talk about being an active and involved alum, as well as her super-cool job as a travel agent specializing in Disney Destinations. This episode is spotlighting our alumni associations, specifically the newly organized South Grand Prairie High School Alumni Association!
Find Lana at https://www.facebook.com/lklugefamilyfuntravels/
Find the SGPHS Alumni Association at https://www.facebook.com/SGPHSalumni/

Suzana Delgado-Gray, Executive Director, Grand Prairie YMCA Feb 07, 2020

Today, my guest is Suzana Delgado-Gray, she is the Vice President of Operations and Executive Director of the Grand Prairie YMCA. Suzana has been with the YMCA for 10 years and came to our branch within the last year. She really has a pulse on our city and the needs of our families, and has some innovative and wonderful programs and initiatives she's started. I can't wait to hear what some of those things are. I had a great time visiting with her at the GP Branch and I know you'll love listening! Find more about the Grand Prairie YMCA at https://www.facebook.com/GrandPrairieYMCA/ FInd out more about our sponsor, Higher Lawn Care and Lighting at https://highergroundlm.com/

Face of the Past Mose Jordan, The First Black Grand Prairian Feb 06, 2020

Mose Jordan was not only the first Black Grand Prairian, he was also the first freed slave to own land in Grand Prairie. In this episode, we discuss what we know about his life after he settled here. A big thank you to Angela Luckey for spending a couple of hours talking to me and shedding some light on some of the African-American histories of our town. For more information on the Grand Prairie Chapter of the NAACP, please go to https://www.facebook.com/Grand-Prairie-NAACP-160748477314545/

CIVICS SERIES: Grand Prairie Chief of Police Daniel Scesney Feb 03, 2020

Today I am speaking with Chief Daniel Scesney of the Grand Prairie Police Department. Though Chief Scesney has only officially been chief for about two weeks, he's been an officer with the GPPD for 19 years. He tells us about his service as a police officer in the marines, about his career in Grand Prairie and about why he thinks Grand Prairie is truly a special place to be in law enforcement. I am so glad Chief Scesney agreed to sit down with me, he was a pleasure to meet and talk to, and I hope you listen to find out more about our new Chief of Police. Recorded in the Police Station off George Bush in Grand Prairie, here is Chief Daniel Scesney.

https://www.grandprairiepolice.org/home-police

https://www.childrenfirstinc.org/

Mini-Episode - Announcements and Shout-Outs! Jan 31, 2020

On this mini-episode, I am bringing you announcements and giving you some homework - the good kind I promise! We discuss our upcoming episodes, new methods to listen to the podcast, we listen to our very first Non-Profit Spotlight on Lifeline Shelters voiced by SGP Senior Christian Pryor, we talk about how you can be an advertiser on the program and I have a very special shout-out to my biggest support, Charles Luckert, who is the admin for the various “Grand Prairie at a Glance” Facebook groups. To go to our brand new website — www.facesofGRANDprairie.net. To leave a voice message for the podcast, click www.anchor.fm/facesofgrandprairie/message. To view upcoming episodes, go to the website and click “Upcoming Episodes.” To become an advertiser, go to the website and learn more by clicking “Media Kit,” and click on “Contact us” to get started. To be a guest on the show or suggest a guest, also click on the “Contact Us” link. To support the show as a donor, go the website and click “Support the Podcast.” To listen tot previous episodes, go to the website and click “Listen to the Podcast.” To email Jenna, it’s jenna@jennapecor.com. Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE!!!

Dr. Rhonda Brown-Crowder Jan 27, 2020

Today I’m bringing you an interview with a business owner, a PhD, a wife and a mother, Dr. Rhonda Brown-Crowder. You can find her on Facebook by searching Dr. Rho on the Go! And boy, is she ever! I became Facebook friends with her a few years ago and was struck by her immense positivity and smile and loved watching her adventures as a city volunteer and parent of a special needs child in the Grand Prairie School District. Dr. Rho is an everyday woman who lives in our city and I loved being able to talk to her about her path towards earning her PhD, her civic involvement and why it’s important to be an active member of her community, and her parenting journey in raising a beautiful son with autism. Talking with her lifted my spirits and I know it will do the same for you!

https://www.facebook.com/drrhoonthego/

Tammy Chan, Coordinator and Case Manager for the Grand Prairie Homeless Outreach Organization Jan 23, 2020

Welcome to this special episode of the podcast where I talk to a woman I’ve greatly admired from afar, Tammy Chan. She’s the founder, coordinator and Case Manager of the Grand Prairie Homeless Outreach Organization, a 501C3 she formed in the last 18 months. Tammy worked with the city for many years doing special projects that included Keep Grand Prairie Beautiful, Street Beautification and Job Training for ex-offenders, and out of that experience saw a need within her community to help women get out of the cycle of prostitution and homelessness. From that experience, she received a call from God to start a homeless outreach program for all people in Grand Prairie in the cycle of homelessness. She spends countless hours educating her community leaders and police force on what homelessness looks like and giving a face and identity to those who are struggling. She is working to think of a better way for her city to face the concerns and handle it in a new and better way. I can’t say enough about this woman and her tireless commitment and drive towards the cause God has placed on her heart. I am airing this episode today because tomorrow on January 23, 2020, there is an opportunity for all of us to get involved and I am hoping that by listening to her interview, you will be moved towards action to help your city of Grand Prairie tackle this issue with her. There will be links in this episode’s notes that direct you towards how you can get involved with this amazing and innovative initiative she’s started. I want to thank you for your listening and caring about your community and I hope your heart is changed by this episode.

https://www.facebook.com/gphoo81/

Dr. Vern Alexander, Deputy Superintendent of Student Services for GPISD Jan 20, 2020

Today, I’m bringing you an interview with Dr. Vern Alexander. Dr. Alexander is a long-time educator and leader within GPISD who I was honored to get the opportunity to sit down and talk with. He talks with me about receiving his three degrees, including his Doctorate in Education, his experience serving in the Vietnam War and the many mentors and influencers along his life’s journey. Among these influencers in his life, he speaks of being a young man who was inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King at a time when society was changing and how great men have inspired him towards a life-long journey towards always aspiring to be a better man, himself. City Councilman Cole Humphreys guests-hosts with me on this wonderful episode of the Faces of Grand Prairie podcast with Dr. Vern Alexander.

Happy Holidays from us at the Faces of Grand Prairie Podcast! Dec 24, 2019

Listen to this great editorial comment from the Grand Prairie Daily News from December 19, 1976. Happy holidays!! See you in 2020!

Face From the Past - Alexander MacRae Dechman, Founder of Grand Prairie Dec 18, 2019

Learn a little about our founder, A.M. Dechman, on this mini-episode of faces from the past!

Mini-Episode: Christmas Events in Grand Prairie Over The Years Dec 05, 2019

In this short segment, I talk about some of the Christmas events I found in our newspapers over the years. Leave us a voice message about what Christmas traditions you remember in Grand Prairie and I will put them in a podcast! If you have a Christmas tradition you'd like me to research and talk about this season, leave those recommendations too!

What Is This Podcast? And Upcoming Holiday Events in GP Dec 02, 2019

Who am I and why am I doing this show? What is this podcast about? Who will be guests on this podcast? Here is a chance to hear why I started this and what I hope to discuss on this show - and YOU can be a part of it!! Find out how you can contribute to the content on this show and be one of my guests! I also go over some local holiday events you might be interested in around Grand Prairie for the 2019 Season!! You can contact Jenna at jenna@jennapecor.com Or at our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/facesofgrandprairie/ Leave a voice message for me at https://anchor.fm/facesofgrandprairie

CIVICS SERIES: Jeff Copeland, City Councilman At-Large and Mayor Pro Tem Jun 08, 2019

I am so excited to welcome my guest and friend, Mayor Pro Tem Jeff Copeland! Jeff is a native Grand Prairian and graduate of South Grand Prairie High School. Jeff has worked in the title industry for his career, until a surprising turn of events led him into the world of charity auctioneering! Join me as we listen to the always colorful, always lively Jeff Copeland, recorded in the newly renovated bridal suite of the Ruthe Jackson Center!

You can find Jeff on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/jeff.copeland.79

Or on his website at http://jeffcopelandauctions.com/

For more information on booking a wedding or event at the Ruthe Jackson Center, visit https://ruthejacksoncenter.com/weddings/

You can reach Jenna at https://www.facebook.com/pecorwhitehead

Michelle Madden, President of the GP Chamber of Commerce May 03, 2019

Michelle Madden is an active community leader and former business owner who decided she could make a positive impact by becoming the President of the Grand Prairie Chamber of Commerce. Michelle talks to me about her business background as a graduate of Texas A&M with a Construction Science degree, transitioning from being a Realtor to working for the Chamber, how she balances being a mom with a career in an often time-demanding industry and what she's doing to encourage community interacting and networking within the community of business leaders in Grand Prairie. She also shares ways the public can take advantage of the Chamber of Commerce, including events the public can attend they might not have known about otherwise!

You can contact Michelle in the following ways:

On Facebook on her personal page at https://www.facebook.com/michelle.madden.3958

On Facebook on the GP Chamber of Commerce page at https://www.facebook.com/grandprairiechamber/?eid=ARDewrBC_VlRSdX_Tzp3DzmGWzju8Zjvmk9A6oW308wR_Dhw6Hr6q_Y6SgwWc9NYgnoxVSx_ZH_zwMzk

Via Email at michelle@grandprairiechamber.org

Support the Podcast - https://www.paypal.me/facesofgrandprairie

CIVICS SERIES: Grand Prairie Mayor Ron Jensen May 03, 2019

Listen to Grand Prairie Mayor Ron Jensen as he tells us a bit about his background, both in business and as a youth who grew up in this town. We learn about how he decided to become Mayor, what a Mayor's job is, how he runs his daily schedule of commitments and why he is so passionate about the city of Grand Prairie. Recorded in the beautiful recording studio at the Epic, this podcast with Mayor Jensen was lovely, as are all my interactions with this very cool mayor!

You can find Mayor Jensen at the following links:

On Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ron.jensen.5

On the City of Grand Prairie Website at https://www.gptx.org/city-government/mayor-and-city-council/mayor-ron-jensen

Via email at mayorronjensen@gptx.org

Support the Podcast - https://www.paypal.me/facesofgrandprairie

We would love to hear your comments or questions to this episode!

Faces of GRAND Prairie, A Community Podcast (Trailer) May 02, 2019