Priority registration began Oct. 26 and was determined by the number of completed Collin College credit hours. Students registered for classes through Workday, which was accessible through CougarWeb at www.cougarweb.collin.edu.

The college offered a variety of course formats, including in-person, online and hybrid classes, giving students options to accommodate their academic goals and schedules. Students could review available courses and class schedules at www.collin.edu/academics/class_schedule.

The early registration payment deadline for Wintermester 2026 and Spring 2027 classes was Dec. 9. Students were encouraged to register early to secure their preferred courses and meet payment requirements by the deadline.

Additional information about registration procedures and important academic dates was available at www.collin.edu/register/registration#dates.

Collin College served approximately 60,000 credit and continuing education students annually and offered more than 200 degrees and certificates. Its academic programs included a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, a Bachelor of Applied Technology in Cybersecurity, a Bachelor of Applied Science in Construction Management and a Bachelor of Applied Science in Clinical Operations Management. The college also offered a Bachelor of Applied Technology in Software Development.

Based in Collin County, Collin College was the county’s only public college. It partnered with businesses, government agencies and industry organizations to provide customized training and workforce development opportunities.

For more information about the college and its academic programs, visit www.collin.edu.

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The county held a public meeting Oct. 27 at Leland Edge Middle School in Nevada and made a virtual presentation available online for the Collin County Outer Loop-Southeast project. 

The project covers Segments 2 and 4, extending approximately 14 miles from County Road 656 northeast of Farmersville to the Collin-Rockwall County line northwest of Royse City.

The project team is finalizing the schematic design and Local Environmental Document for the preferred alignment. The environmental document will then go to the Collin County Commissioners Court for consideration and final approval. 

The current study, which began in summer 2024, is expected to conclude in late 2026 or early 2027.

The county has already identified an updated preferred route for the entire project. The alignment is based on what the county calls the previous Technically Preferred Alignment, which was identified through studies completed in 2009 for Segment 2, from U.S. 380 to FM 6, and in 2010 for Segment 4, from FM 6 to the Rockwall County line.

The latest study revisited that route to account for development and other constraints that have emerged since the earlier studies. 

After evaluating several variations and considering public and stakeholder input, the county selected what it calls the Pink Alignment, including a western shift through the middle portion of the study area.

Although a preferred alignment has been identified, its precise location and property requirements could still be refined as engineering work continues. The proposed freeway would use a right of way approximately 500 feet wide, and the county said the alignment could shift slightly as the schematic design is completed.

The schematic design will establish more than the roadway’s location. Engineers will determine preliminary lane configurations, ramp locations and interchange designs, drainage requirements and the amount of land needed for the project.

At the same time, the Local Environmental Document will examine potential effects on the human and natural environment. 

The review includes residences and businesses as well as archaeological, historical, cultural and biological resources and community facilities. 

Collin County is working with the North Central Texas Council of Governments on the environmental document and coordinating with local governments and other agencies.

Once the Commissioners Court approves the environmental document, the county plans to move into final detailed design and begin acquiring property needed for the corridor. The county expects right-of-way acquisition to take several years.

The county said it intends to acquire enough right of way for the ultimate freeway rather than only the land needed for the first construction phase. That would allow the corridor to be protected from additional development while the roadway is built over time.

No date has been set for construction of the full freeway, and construction will depend on funding and traffic demand. The current plan calls for the roadway to be developed in phases, initially with one two-lane frontage road carrying traffic in both directions once funding for that phase is secured.

The county could instead build both frontage roads at the same time if traffic needs and funding justify doing so. 

Officials have not determined which frontage road would be built first. Freeway main lanes in the center of the corridor would be added later as population, development and travel demand increase and money becomes available.

Current plans call for the frontage roads to be designed for 45 mph and the freeway main lanes for 70 mph, although those design speeds could change as engineering progresses. 

Drainage plans call for runoff to be directed away from nearby neighborhoods and the roadway through engineered grassy roadside ditches or channels and appropriately sized culverts based on drainage analysis. 

Decisions about roadway lighting, including the size and spacing of lights, have not yet been made.

The 14-mile project would eventually form part of a much larger transportation corridor. The proposed Collin County Outer Loop would extend approximately 55 miles from the Denton County line through areas including Celina, Weston, Anna, Melissa, Farmersville, Josephine and Royse City. It would connect with a proposed regional outer-loop system extending through Denton, Collin, Rockwall and Kaufman counties and potentially Ellis County.

Collin County also has separate projects underway to advance planning and design for Segments 1 and 5 of the Outer Loop and is studying the feasibility of another north-south freeway between Princeton and State Highway 121.

Residents and property owners can continue to follow the project and view updated alignment maps at CCOL-SE.com. The county said maps will be updated as the project progresses and the right-of-way requirements become more precise.

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The action clears the way for the district to advertise the properties for sale, receive and evaluate proposals and eventually bring potential sales back to the Board of Trustees for approval.

The properties are two condominium suites in the Pebble Creek Professional Building at 5804 Coit Road and an undeveloped  nearly-10-acre tract near the northeast corner of Coit and Frankford roads.

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While spring is often seen as peak planting season, experts say cooler weather and autumn rains provide ideal conditions for seedlings to retain moisture and establish their root systems gradually before winter dormancy, improving their future ability to adjust to summer heat and drier conditions.

According to the Arbor Day Foundation, planting trees offers many benefits for the planet, wildlife and humans alike. From an environmental perspective, they help filter air and water, remove pollutants from the soil, slow storm surge and nurture biodiversity. Plus, access to nature can reduce stress and increase opportunities for outdoor recreation, improving overall health and well-being in your community.

This autumn, use these expert tips from Eric North, program manager of urban forestry and ISA-certified arborist at the Arbor Day Foundation, to plan your fall tree planting and add a few new hues to your local landscapes.

Choose the Right Tree

Setting your trees up for success starts with choosing the right species. Before ordering seedlings, take time to identify species that are well-suited to your local climate, soil conditions and planting site. Also consider the tree’s mature height and how far the canopy will spread – it won’t stay small forever, so make sure you can give it space to grow.

Think About Timing

Although you can technically plant trees until the soil is too frozen to dig a hole, it’s best to schedule your fall tree planting at least six weeks before the ground freezes so the seedlings have time to adapt before winter. If you’re unable to plant your trees immediately after getting them, you can store them in a cool, dry place, making sure the roots stay damp, for up to five days before putting them in the ground.

Don’t Dig Too Deep

A tree planted too deep may develop root and trunk problems that can affect its long-term health. Instead of digging deep, go wide to encourage roots to spread outward. Dig a hole roughly 3-4 times wider than the root system but no deeper than the root itself. When you put the tree in the hole, the root flare (where the trunk meets the roots) should sit level with the soil or slightly above it.

Mulch with Care

Adding 2-3 inches of mulch in a layer around the base of the tree can help insulate the soil and roots, retain moisture and suppress weeds. However, be careful to keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk itself so you don’t create a “mulch volcano” that traps moisture against the bark.

Water Frequently

Cozy autumn rainstorms might share some of the workload here, but when the forecast looks clear, it’s up to you to water your newly planted seedlings. Keeping the soil consistently moist allows a young tree’s roots to stay hydrated and continue growing. Precise care instructions will depend on the type of tree and your location but expect to thoroughly water your trees about once a week until the ground freezes.

Protect Against Wildlife

Small trees are vulnerable to damage from local wildlife like deer and rabbits, who may chew on bark or snap fragile branches. Installing a protective fence or breathable tree guard can help safeguard trees until they’re older and more capable of withstanding scavenging from hungry critters.

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All those results can be slightly overwhelming, how-ever. Rather than having a go at it alone, rely on the professionals to guide you toward looks that are all the rage and fit a variety of budgets. Consider these on-trend design ideas from the kitchen and bathroom experts at Wellborn Cabinet, whose whole-home solutions double as functional and beautiful.

Kitchen Trends

Let it Flow: Open concepts have become quite common as it allows the kitchen to feel like one large room where loved ones and guests can intermingle as opposed to an enclosed space. This flowing openness lends continuous visibility to the area ranging from the (seemingly) always active kitchen to gathering spaces in the dining and living rooms. An open floor plan also helps connect design aesthetics from each room to the next.

Opt for Concealed Storage: Pots, pans, knives and all your favorite kitchen gadgets need hidden somewhere. Rather than taking up valuable pantry space, turn to a stylish storage solution from Wellborn Cabinet’s line of pullout cabinets that give you the room you need. With options ranging from pullout peg boards to sleek tray dividers, these clever contraptions can help you stay organized while making functionality beautiful.

Incorporate Smart Tech: Trends aren’t exclusively about aesthetics – practicality via technology is equally important for those looking to update their kitchens to the 21st century. Devices like smart refrigerators that allow you to take inventory from an app, smart lighting that brightens and dims to save on electricity and voice assistants that help you keep track of recipes are all trendy paths toward a top-of-the-line kitchen.

Bring in Organic Touches: Organic modern is in, which means adding organic touches using natural materials like stone and wood in your cabinets, countertops, flooring and more. Achieve a warm vibe with these organic elements paired with a neutral color palette (soft whites and earthy tones) and natural light.

Bathroom Trends

Add Accents that Pop: Obvious accents like bold pops of color and unique patterns come to mind, but you can also make your bathroom stand out by experimenting with materials, accessories and shapes. Think eye-catching cabinet hardware, fun mirror shapes and open-shelf decor that grabs attention without overdoing it.

how Off Wood Vanities: As an impor-tant area you’ll use to get ready for each day, vanities should be purposeful and practical but can also brandish your personal style. Types and sizes may vary but one look seeing an upward trend, according to Wellborn Cabinet’s design experts, is the use of natural tones and textures like woodgrain to complement the rise in popularity of warm colors in recent years.

Go for Decorative Lighting: The same tired light fixtures in bathrooms can feel drab and dreary. Evaluate the amount of natural light available (often at a premium in bathrooms) and decide if you can go more subdued or need to effectively and efficiently illuminate the area. Bell-shaped, wall-mounted sconces next to mirrors are in vogue, as are glass globes to complement ample natural light. For a true touch of modern flair, consider dramatic accent lighting like underlights on a floating vanity that do double duty as a convenient nightlight.

Make it Spa-Like: Lavish luxury is the goal with a spa-like bathroom in the comfort of home. Organic materials, natural light, traditional decor and, maybe most importantly, an oversized soaking tub are at the core of this look. While it may sound counterintuitive, you can actually create your own oasis with some simple, budget-friendly aesthetics. The first step for many is to incorporate more storage using sleek cabinets, shelves and wall-mounted hooks to achieve a decluttered look. Next, simply replace your old showerhead and faucet with spa lookalikes and stock up on plush, fluffy towels for that luxurious appearance without a complete remodel.

Find more design inspiration by visiting Wellborn.com.

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It’s a tale as old as treadmills: You buy a new exercise machine with the best of intentions, only for it to become an expensive laundry rack that makes you feel guilty every time you glance over at it. When it comes to making lifestyle changes, the key is not to overhaul your whole routine at once, but to figure out what habits match your lifestyle, personality and passions.

Use these tips to create a home workout space you’ll keep using after the novelty wears off.

Figure Out What Exercises You Enjoy

Before you commit to a big equipment purchase, think about what kinds of exercise feel natural and enjoyable (and which ones make you groan).

If you love running, a treadmill may be worth the space it takes up. However, a rack of dumbbells might just wind up collecting dust if you hate lifting weights. Yoga or dance enthusiasts may prefer to design a more studio-like home gym, while bodyweight strength trainers could be happy with a pull-up bar in the doorway and a mat to do planks on. Consider joining a workout class or gym for a month or two to try different kinds of exercises and machines so you’ll have a better idea of what’s worth investing in permanently.

Evaluate the Space You Have

A good home workout area needs to work around the physical realities of your house or apartment. If you have a whole room or finished basement to dedicate to the cause, this won’t constrain you too much. If you’re working with a corner of your home office, bedroom or garage, saving space becomes a more critical factor.

In these cases, it all comes down to priorities. If you only have room for one piece of bigger equipment, get the one you know you’ll actually use, whether that’s an elliptical, strength machine, standing bicycle or rowing machine. Then build out your collection with other items that can be easily moved and stored, like resistance bands and small weights or dumbbells.

Start Small and Expand as Needed

Don’t fall into the trap of thinking you need to have everything before you can get started. It’s often better to build out your workout space slowly – get a few things at a time, see what you use regularly and figure out what you might be missing along the way. Maybe you realize you enjoy lifting weights and keep wishing you had heavier ones, signaling a need to upgrade.

Add Some Atmosphere

Dark, dismal home gyms are more likely to make your workout feel like a punishment instead of a part of your day worth looking forward to. Creating a space you enjoy being in is just as important as choosing a workout you enjoy doing.

For you, that might look like choosing an area of the home with plenty of natural lighting to make you feel more awake – or adding string lights and color-changing wall sconces for a relaxing yoga session. Maybe it means adding art on the walls or a floor-to-ceiling mirror so you can check your form. A large rubber floormat with a cheerful design, a sound system to play your favorite hype songs or a daily calendar of motivational quotes could be the magic ingredient to get you into the right mindset so you can crush your workout. As long as it works for you, anything goes.

For more tips on home design that fits your life, visit eLivingtoday.com.

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By Allison LaBrot

Northplace Church has a goal to serve local neighborhoods and the nations. A group of young adults from the church put that mission into action during a 10-day mission trip to Ireland in July. A 27-member team partnered with missionaries to host a week of science camps and events for youth and young adults.

Since 2021, Northplace Young Adults (NPYA) has met weekly in Wylie, and the community of 18 to 25-year-olds took its first mission trip during the summer of 2025. Northplace Youth, the church’s teen ministry, sent a group of 16 to serve in Ireland the same summer. The group worked with Randal and Kendra Baird, missionaries to Ennis, Ireland, and Hope Church Ennis to organize camps, outings and services for young people in the area.

Northplace decided to continue building the partnership with the Bairds and Hope Church through the Young Adults mission trip for 2026.

Read the full story in the August 27th edition. Stay informed — subscribe to Murphy Monitor.

For more than 30 years, the annual rodeo has been a community tradition, with the Wylie Area Chamber of Commerce partnering with Wylie ISD for the past 20 years to host the event at the F.O. Birmingham Agricultural Facility and Rodeo Arena.

Earlier this year, Wylie ISD began renovations to the facility as part of improvements intended to better serve students. In response, the Chamber and the City of Wylie spent several months exploring alternative locations for this year’s rodeo.

According to the Chamber, none of the sites considered could provide the space, infrastructure and safety needed to host the event while remaining logistically and financially feasible.

Read the full story in the August 13th edition. Stay informed — subscribe to Murphy Monitor.

Trustees of Collin College have called for a November bond election to raise $600 million for expansion including three new facilities.

The board voted unanimously to place Proposition A on the Tuesday, Nov. 3, general election ballot.

The proposition would authorize $600 million for workforce and academic expansions at the McKinney Campus, the Technical Campus located in Allen, the Frisco Campus, the Wylie Campus, the Farmersville Campus and the Courtyard Center located in Plano. 

The proposition also includes funding for new facilities, including an Aviation Academy in McKinney, a new campus in Anna and a new campus in Royse City.

“Based on current financial projections, the college does not anticipate an increase in the tax rate if voters approve the bond proposition,” the college said in a release on Friday, Aug. 7.

“The Board of Trustees has always believed in planning for the future while honoring the commitments we’ve made to our community,” said Jay Saad, chair of the Board of Trustees. “The projects completed through our previous bond program have strengthened the economic impact of our region, while providing accessible and affordable pathways for our students.”

The release said the proposed bond package is the next step in implementing Destination 2030, the college’s long-range master plan designed to expand educational access, strengthen workforce training and modernize facilities to serve one of the nation’s fastest-growing regions.

The college said credit enrollment over has increased by more than 31% over the past decade, and the pace of growth is expected to continue. As enrollment and workforce demand continue to rise, the college developed Destination 2030 as a three-phase roadmap to expand capacity to address this growth.

Phase I prioritized projects addressing near-term enrollment growth, workforce shortages and aging learning spaces. Most Phase I projects are complete, with the remaining work scheduled for completion in 2027. 

Phases II and III focus on expanding educational opportunities in the county’s fastest-growing communities, increasing capacity in high-demand workforce and academic programs and modernizing existing facilities.

Collin College said it serves more than 62,000 credit and continuing education students annually and offers more than 200 degrees and certificates.

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Qualifying items can be purchased tax free from a Texas store or from an online or catalog seller doing business in Texas. 

The three-day sales tax holiday begins Friday, Aug. 7, and runs through midnight Sunday, Aug. 9.

The comptroller’s office says the sales tax exemption applies only to qualifying items bought during the period. Items purchased before or after the sales tax holiday do not qualify for exemption, and there is no tax refund available.

The exemption applies to each eligible item sold for less than $100, and there is no limit to the number of qualifying items you can buy.

Computers, software and textbooks are not included. Jewelry, handbags, purses, briefcases, luggage, umbrellas, wallets, watches and other accessories are also not exempt.

However, delivery, shipping, handling and transportation charges by the seller are part of the item’s sales price. If the delivery charge is a flat rate per package, and the amount charged is the same regardless of how many items are included in the package, the total charge can be attributed to any one of the items in the package.

A complete list of school supplies covered by the tax holiday is available at: https://bit.ly/3RkCnpL.

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