Jobin Panicker

Plano

Emmy Award winning WFAA-ABC Reporter in Dallas. Wife, two boys, and a girl. Love the Lakers, Gonzaga, and the show The Office. Views are my own.

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Articles

Residents, attorney continue fight over temple vote

1 week ago | wfaa.com | Jobin Panicker

FAIRVIEW, Texas — After more than a year of deliberation, the Town of Fairview approved plans for a temple by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Now, that 5-2 vote is under scrutiny. The temple’s proposed spire height was reduced from 174 feet to 120 feet before the town’s approval. However, Attorney Mark Johnson, representing nearby homeowners, argues the vote should have required a supermajority.
New drone program aims to slash emergency response times in Prosper

2 weeks ago | wfaa.com | Jobin Panicker

PROSPER, Texas — The City of Prosper, Texas, is trying to redefine first response with the launch of a drone program in partnership with Flock Safety. Officials say the initiative could cut emergency response times anywhere from five to six minutes down to 90 seconds or two minutes. "It will set a new standard for public safety not just in our town but our entire state," Prosper Mayor David Bristol said.
Frisco’s Main Street Construction Enters Next Phase, Local Businesses Feel the Strain

3 weeks ago | wfaa.com | Jobin Panicker

FRISCO, Texas — After a full year of work, the first half of Main Street in Frisco is finally complete. Now, the second phase begins. “It’s part of the city’s reinvestment in the Rail District,” said Jason Brodigan, Director of Engineering Services. The $70 million project is aimed at transforming Main Street into a more walkable destination—especially with the World Cup coming to the region in 2026. The upgraded design includes larger sidewalks and the removal of on-street parking.
Princeton Texas in Collin County is America's fastest-growing city

3 weeks ago | wfaa.com | Jobin Panicker

PRINCETON, Texas — Durrie Lee "DL" Caldwell knows the city of Princeton better than just about anyone else. He first moved to the area in 1961 when it had a population of 800. Since that time, he has been buying and selling just about everything you can think of. But for decades, he’s really been selling one thing: his hometown. "Princeton is home for me," Caldwell said. "We go from nothing to what it is now," DL said.
South Asians in Public Office: A growing voice in Texas

3 weeks ago | wfaa.com | Jobin Panicker

DALLAS — We sat down with three South Asians who hold elected positions in different North Texas cities. Each of them represents the fastest-growing minority group in the state, yet one that’s often politically underrepresented. Saji George is now in his fifth term as mayor of Sunnyvale, with 15 years in public service. Elizabeth Abraham joined the Murphy town council in 2019. Tony Singh is starting his third term on the city council of Little Elm. All three are of Indian descent.
Chicago natives now living in North Texas revel in connection to the new Pope

4 weeks ago | wfaa.com | Jobin Panicker

GRAPEVINE, Texas — In Grapevine, Texas, two Irish Catholic friends are celebrating a moment they never saw coming—and debating it like only South Side Chicago natives could. Dan Weinberger of Weinberger's Deli in Grapevine runs a sandwich shop in Texas that first started in the heart of Chicago decades ago. “We’re a sandwich shop with a Chicago flair to it,” Dan says proudly. Jerry Howe has also put down roots in North Texas.
Sweet success: Ruthie's journey from Christmas fudge to North Texas bakery owner

4 weeks ago | wfaa.com | Jobin Panicker

BURLESON, Texas — Ruthie Murry knew her calling by seventh grade — it began with making Christmas fudge alongside her dad. “I started as the timer setter for when it has to boil and then I graduated to add the chocolate chips,” she recalled. Though she once considered medical school, pastry school — and a dream of owning her own bakery — won out. Today, Murry runs Murry Bakery in her hometown of Burleson, Texas.
North Texans heading to Rome to witness papal history

4 weeks ago | tspantx.com | Jobin Panicker

Jimmy Hademenos, a Roman Catholic and a UNT student, is traveling to Rome for the installation of Pope Leo XIV. DENTON, Texas — Jimmy Hademenos speaks with a wisdom and confidence beyond his years — qualities deeply rooted in his faith. “This will be another life moment, yes!” the 19-year-old said.
North Texans heading to Rome to witness papal history

4 weeks ago | wfaa.com | Jobin Panicker

DENTON, Texas — Jimmy Hademenos speaks with a wisdom and confidence beyond his years — qualities deeply rooted in his faith. “This will be another life moment, yes!” the 19-year-old said. A devout Roman Catholic and student at the University of North Texas, Jimmy leads choirs across North Texas and has been closely following the recent changes in the Catholic Church: the passing of a pope and the election of a new one.
'Disgusting and sad' | Frisco candidate responds to AI-generated cartoon of her on campaign poster

1 month ago | wfaa.com | Jobin Panicker

FRISCO, Texas — A controversial AI-generated cartoon is drawing backlash in Frisco after appearing on a campaign poster outside Fire Station 8, a polling site during Saturday's city-wide election. The image, which resembles Place 4 city council candidate Sangita Datta, features distinct elements she’s known for — a pearl necklace, bracelets and a yellow dress. Datta, who is Indian, says the depiction felt personal and offensive. “Surprised. Shocked.