Budget discussions at August 12, 2024, City Council meeting (bonus episode)

What do Plano firefighters really do all day — and how much of it actually involves fighting fires? Plano Fire-Rescue Firefighter and Public Information Officer Allison Smith and Firefighter/EMT Clint Foster join hosts Amanda McNew and Shannah Hayley to separate firefighter fact from fiction. They tackle everything from fire poles, grocery store runs, recliners and mustaches to the calls firefighters respond to, the hardest and most rewarding parts of the job, and the safety habits that follow them home. The conversation also gets serious with a discussion of the Texas Safe Haven Law, commonly known as the Baby Moses Law, preventable emergency calls and what it takes to build a career with Plano Fire-Rescue. It's a behind-the-scenes look at the people and the reality behind one of Plano's most visible public safety services.

What makes a great neighborhood? It's more than well-kept homes and attractive streets. Strong neighborhoods are places where people know one another, feel connected and take pride in where they live. In this episode of Inside Plano, hosts Amanda McNew and Shannah Hayley sit down with Housing and Community Services Manager Sandra Ottinger and Neighborhood Engagement Manager Stephanie Peacock to explore the programs and resources available through Plano Neighborhood Services. Learn how Love Where You Live brings residents, volunteers and City staff together to transform neighborhoods; what it takes to become a BEST Neighborhood; and how neighborhood grants can help turn community ideas into reality. The conversation also explores resources for individual homeowners, including the Great Update Rebate, housing rehabilitation and emergency repair assistance. Plus, hear why improving one home can create a ripple effect across an entire block — and why simply knowing your neighbors can make your community stronger. Hosts & Guests Hosts: Amanda McNew and Shannah Hayley Guests: Sandra Ottinger, Housing and Community Services Manager; Stephanie Peacock, Neighborhood Engagement Manager Episode Highlights What Neighborhood Services does and how it supports Plano residents

From colorful downtown landmarks to hidden artistic gems, murals are changing the way people experience Plano. Hosts Amanda McNew and Shannah Hayley sit down with Downtown Plano Manager Michelle Hawkins to talk about how Plano's mural movement began, why art in public spaces matters and how murals have become gathering places for photos, events and community connection. The conversation explores the stories behind some of Plano's most recognizable murals, the role local artists play in shaping public spaces, and how art can transform an everyday wall into something memorable. Listeners will also discover where to find some of Plano's most unique murals. Hosts & Guests Hosts: Amanda McNew and Shannah Hayley Guest: Michelle Hawkins, Downtown Plano Manager Resources & Links Learn more: plano.gov Subscribe: insideplano.com About Inside Plano Inside Plano is the official City of Plano podcast that connects you to the people, places and projects that make our city a great place to live, work and play. New episodes drop regularly on major podcast platforms.

A Plano family's journey through a serious health condition brought an outpouring of community support and a life-changing outcome. Hosts Amanda McNew and Shannah Hayley talk with Kevin Rosser and his mom, Angelina, about Kevin's diagnosis with POTS and how the Plano community came together to raise $14,000 for his medical alert dog, Oreo. From navigating daily challenges to the moment Oreo joined their family, this episode highlights the power of community and the difference a service dog can make. Listeners will hear how support, connection and asking for help can change lives, and how one Plano family found hope through it all. Hosts & Guests Hosts: Amanda McNew and Shannah Hayley Guest: Kevin Rosser Guest: Angelina Rosser Guest: Oreo Resources & Links Learn more: plano.gov Subscribe: insideplano.com Follow Plano: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube About Inside Plano Inside Plano is the official City of Plano podcast that connects you to the people, places and projects that make our city a great place to live, work and play. New episodes drop regularly on major podcast platforms.

A scam targeting her own grandfather pushed Plano resident Tejasvi Manoj to take action and ultimately earn recognition as TIME Kid of the Year. Hosts Amanda McNew and Shannah Hayley talk with Tejasvi and Plano Police Officer Minton about senior scams, how they happen, and how families can protect older adults from fraud. From common warning signs to the emotional toll on victims, this episode explains why scams continue to target seniors and what makes them so effective. Listeners will learn simple, practical steps for scam prevention, how to respond if fraud occurs, and how to help loved ones stay safe and confident.