Known since its start in the 1970s as general aviation airport TKI, the facility will now be known to passengers as DTX, said Ken Carley, aviation director.

“TKI is still our FAA [Federal Aviation Administration] three-letter code,” Carley said. “The IATA [International Air Transport Association] assigned DTX as the code after Avelo applied.”

Houston-based Avelo, which already serves Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), said it will begin service to McKinney with Boeing Next-Generation 737-800 aircraft flying nonstop to Las Vegas (LAS) and four cities in Florida: Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Fort Myers (RSW), Orlando (MCO) and Tampa (TPA).

In announcing its schedule, budget carrier Avelo [rhymes with yellow] said certain introductory one-way tickets purchased before the end of Friday, July 31, would be priced at $99 and each passenger would be allowed one free checked bag.

The discount fare applies only to specific travel dates and fees will be charged for additional checked luggage, the airline said.

Avelo’s flights from DFW and Houston’s two airports, Hobby (HOU) and George Bush Intercontinental (IAH), connect to more than 30 other destinations through its hub in New Haven, Connecticut (HVN).

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Sachse residents will have a chance to kick off their celebrations early as the city’s annual Red, White and Blue Blast returns to Heritage Park on Friday, July 3. The event is one of several Fourth of July festivities planned locally, offering fireworks, live entertainment and family-friendly activities throughout the holiday weekend.

The Red, White and Blue Blast will take place from 6 to 10 p.m. at Heritage Park, 4408 Hudson Drive. The celebration features live musical performances by Kendall Shaw and Party Machine, along with stage games, a petting zoo, a Ninja Nation obstacle course, booth and food vendors, yard games, spirit awards and a splashdown hosted by Sachse F-R.

The evening concludes with a fireworks display scheduled for 9:30 p.m.

In Wylie, Founders Park, 851 Hensley Lane, will host the city’s annual fireworks celebration beginning at 6:30 p.m. Friday, July 3. Attendees can enjoy live music by Midnight Traveler, food trucks, eight bounce houses and a Wylie Fire Rescue water spray zone. The 17-minute fireworks display, launched from the Birmingham Agricultural Center adjacent to Founders Park, is scheduled to begin at 9:45 p.m. and will feature fireworks reaching heights of 250 to 500 feet.

Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs. Parking will be available at Founders Park, Wylie High School, Cooper Junior High and Draper Intermediate. The event is hosted by the city of Wylie, Wylie Parks and Recreation and Wylie Fire Rescue.

Earlier in the day, the Brown House, 301 N. Ballard Ave., will host “The Party Starts at the Brown House,” an America 250 community celebration from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Activities include yard games, refreshments, a costume contest and trivia honoring the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary.

Rockwall’s annual Fourth of July Celebration also returns July 4, beginning with a downtown parade at 11 a.m. Activities continue at Harry Myers Park from 5 to 9 p.m. with food vendors, live entertainment and a fireworks show to cap off the evening.

For a patriotic event with a different twist, In-Sync Exotics in Wylie will host its annual Watermelon Toss on Sunday, July 5. The event gives visitors a chance to watch rescued big cats enjoy watermelon treats while supporting the nonprofit sanctuary’s ongoing rescue and care efforts.

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What began as an effort to tell a story about one cadet’s struggle to find his place has evolved into a student-produced short film that is drawing praise from educators, military instructors and viewers across the region.

Recent Wylie High School graduate Tuan Nguyen and fellow student filmmaker Phaolo Le teamed up to create “New Beginnings,” a short film highlighting opportunities for students to experience growth, leadership and success through the school’s Air Force Junior ROTC program.

The project was entirely student-led and produced with limited resources, relying on school equipment, faculty guidance and the dedication of students balancing filming schedules with academic and extracurricular commitments.

Nguyen, who served on the AFJROTC Public Affairs team throughout high school, said the idea grew from a desire to help others better understand the program.

“Recognizing this and remembering that I did not fully understand what JROTC was when I first signed up, I dedicated myself to this project in hopes of helping others succeed as I did and understand that JROTC is more than a class,” Nguyen said.

The film follows cadets as they navigate uncertainty, pressure and personal obstacles, emphasizing the mentorship and support available within the program. While many people associate JROTC primarily with military preparation, Nguyen said the film was designed to showcase its broader impact.

“There are many misconceptions about JROTC, so one of our goals was to show what the program truly represents and its positive impact,” he said. “JROTC is meant to help students develop leadership skills, confidence, character and a sense of purpose within a supportive environment that encourages growth.”

The film’s lead role is played by Wylie High graduate Miles Whitmire, whose own experience in AFJROTC inspired much of the story.

According to Nguyen, Whitmire considered leaving the program during his freshman year because he did not see its value. Instead of accepting his decision, an instructor encouraged him to stay and become more involved.

The conversation changed the course of Whitmire’s high school experience. He remained in the program for four years, eventually serving in two of its highest leadership positions. He also enlisted in the Army National Guard, attending basic training in his junior year and is currently completing Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia, as part of his training as an indirect fire infantryman.

“If it wasn’t for the instructor to recognize his potential, he wouldn’t likely be where he is today,” Nguyen said. Le, an Audio Visual student at Wylie High, helped bring the story to life through film. Nguyen said he was impressed after seeing one of Le’s earlier projects and invited him to join the production.

Together, they worked to create a film that would resonate with both cadets and those unfamiliar with the program.

Producing the film presented several challenges.

Most filming took place within a single week as cadets prepared for the year’s final drill competition. Weather also created obstacles, with strong winds affecting audio quality and changing lighting conditions forcing the crew to work quickly.

“We used our bodies to shield the microphones from the wind and attempted to get all of the shots before sunset,” Nguyen said.

To create authentic scenes, the filmmakers coordinated with drill team leaders and filmed portions of practices while minimizing disruptions.

The finished product debuted May 1 during the AFJROTC annual awards banquet, where it was viewed by more than 200 cadets, family members and guests.

Nguyen said the reaction exceeded expectations.

“The response has been overwhelmingly positive,” he said. “Many teachers approached our actors, director and instructor to tell them how much they loved the short film. Some even shared that they became emotional while watching it.”

Senior Aerospace Science Instructor Lt. Col. Darren James praised both the film and the students who created it.

“The cadets that created this video have taken our PA program to new heights, and the thought-provoking concepts of those in the short film emulate what we hope any cadet can realize about the confidence they need to go out into this world,” James said. “Reflection is a powerful tool for success, and the family atmosphere that our corps continues to maintain each year is emulated within this story.”

The film’s reach has since extended beyond Wylie.

After being shared with an AFJROTC regional director, “New Beginnings” was distributed to instructors across the region. Nguyen said several instructors have expressed interest in showing the film to incoming cadets as an example of how the program can influence students’ lives.

For Nguyen, that impact is exactly what he hoped the project would achieve.

“Some characters are portrayed as pursuing the military path, while others pursue a more normal [traditional] career path,” he said. “No matter their desired destination, they can all benefit from the mentorship, friendships and leadership opportunities the program provides.”

Editor’s note: Nguyen will be attending Texas A&M this fall as a communications major and joining the Corps of Cadets in August.

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In-Sync Exotics Wildlife Rescue and Educational Center will host The Great Catsby: ROARing ’20s Casino Night Saturday, June 27, at the Cotton Mill in McKinney. The fundraiser will transform the historic venue into a 1920s-inspired speakeasy featuring casino-style gaming, live entertainment, auctions and other interactive experiences.

Guests can enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres served throughout the evening, a premium open bar and opportunities to win prizes while supporting the sanctuary’s mission. The event will also feature curated silent and live auction items, along with surprises designed to capture the spirit of the Roaring Twenties.

Based in Wylie, In-Sync Exotics is a nationally recognized sanctuary that provides a permanent home for rescued lions, tigers, cougars, bobcats, servals and other exotic felines. Many of the animals arrive from situations involving neglect, abandonment or unsafe living conditions.

Through rehabilitation, specialized care and educational programs, the organization works to provide a safe environment where the animals can live out their lives with dignity.

The fundraiser plays an important role in helping the nonprofit meet its annual operating budget of nearly $2 million. In-Sync Exotics relies on donations, grants, corporate sponsorships and fundraising events to support the care, feeding and medical needs of its residents.

Organizers say every ticket purchased, auction bid placed and donation made directly supports the sanctuary and the animals in its care.

For tickets and additional information, visit In-Sync Exotics’ event page. To learn more about the sanctuary, or make a donation, visit www.insyncexotics.org.

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The exams measure student performance in Algebra I, English I, English II, Biology and U.S. History.

Districtwide, 65% of Garland ISD students met grade-level standards in English I, up 4 percentage points from 2025. English II scores improved 1 point to 67%, Biology rose 3 points to 91% and Algebra I increased 4 points to 85%. The district’s only decline came in U.S. History, which slipped 2 points but still recorded a 92% passing rate.

At Sachse High School, students improved in three of the five tested subjects. Biology scores climbed 5 percentage points to 95%, Algebra I increased 4 points to 88% and English I improved 1 point to 75%. English II declined 4 points to 72%, while U.S. History fell 4 points to 93%.

Garland High School also posted gains in several subject areas. English I improved 8 percentage points to 61%, while Biology and Algebra I each rose 6 points to 92% and 77%, respectively. English II declined 2 points to 61%, and U.S. History increased 1 point to 94%.

Among middle school students taking Algebra I, Hudson Middle School posted a 99% passing rate, an improvement of 1 percentage point from last year.

In Wylie ISD, students posted gains in four of five tested subjects. Districtwide, Algebra I scores increased 3 percentage points to 96%, Biology rose 1 point to 98%, English I improved 2 points to 88% and English II increased 1 point to 88%. U.S. History declined 1 point but still recorded a 97% passing rate.

At Wylie High School, Algebra I scores improved 3 points to 94%, while English I remained unchanged at 88%. Biology and U.S. History each slipped 1 point to 97%, and English II declined 1 point to 89%.

Wylie East High School recorded gains across most tested areas, including 4-point increases in English I, English II and Algebra I. Biology improved 1 point to 98%, while U.S. History declined 1 point to 97%.

Statewide, the Texas Education Agency reported improvements in every end-of-course subject area compared with 2025.

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Community members will be invited to take part in the Path of Remembrance: A White Carnation Tribute, a new feature created in recognition of America 250 and those who have served the nation. A limited number of 250 white carnations will be available for participants to place at Freedom Plaza on Saturday, creating a collective memorial honoring veterans and fallen service members.

Audie Murphy Day commemorates the legacy of Farmersville native and World War II hero Audie Murphy while recognizing veterans from all branches of the military. The annual event traces its roots to Murphy’s hometown homecoming celebration in June 1945.

The weekend begins Friday, June 19, with special exhibits at the Farmersville Heritage Museum, where visitors can view a newly unveiled display featuring a custom-made suit Audie Murphy wore in the 1958 film “The Quiet American.” The suit was recently donated by the Murphy family, according to Audie Murphy Day co-chair Misty Wiebold. Additional Audie Murphy artifacts and memorabilia will be on display. A World War II living history encampment also will be open to visitors across from the museum.

Saturday’s activities begin with a veteran’s breakfast from 7:30 to 9 a.m., followed by a 9:30 a.m. ceremony in downtown Farmersville. Boy Scout Troop 310 will raise the flag, continuing a connection to Murphy’s original homecoming celebration when local Scouts participated in the festivities. Members of First Baptist Church’s choir will provide patriotic music.

Following the carnation tribute, members of the Fort Hood Sergeant Audie Murphy Club will present a ceremonial wreath at Freedom Plaza in honor of Murphy and local men and women who gave their lives in military service. Retired Army First Sergeant Hud Roberts will also present the Riderless Horse, a military tradition honoring fallen service members, before the parade begins.

After the parade, veterans and guests are invited to the Veterans Ceremony at the Historic Onion Shed. Tommy Moore, mayor of Gainesville and president of the Medal of Honor Host City Program, will present a program titled “The Meaning of the Medal of Honor.”

The ceremony will also include a Quilts of Valor presentation, during which three veterans will receive handmade quilts as a symbol of comfort, healing and appreciation for their service.

Additional exhibits will be available Saturday at the museum and the Bain-Honaker House.

“Audie Murphy Day is a time for our community to come together in remembrance, gratitude and pride as we honor the enduring legacy of hometown hero Audie Murphy and all who have served,” Audie Murphy Day co-chairs Bryon and Misty Wiebold said in a statement. “We hope families, friends and veterans will join us for this meaningful tradition that began in 1945 and experience the new Path of Remembrance: A White Carnation Tribute, a special moment of reflection that reminds us how important it is to honor sacrifice and keep these stories alive for future generations.”

Registered veterans will receive complimentary breakfast and lunch during the event. More information, including veteran registration, is available at audiemurphyday.org.

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Finance Director David Baldwin said the city plans to present portions of the budget as they are developed, rather than unveiling a nearly completed document later in the process.

Baldwin said property taxes are expected to account for 61% of the fiscal year 2027 budget. Sales tax revenue is projected to provide 11%, while franchise taxes are expected to contribute about 8%. 

For the rest of the story, see the June 18 e-Edition. Support your local community newspaper — subscribe to The Sachse News.

The America@250 special section is scheduled for publication in The Sachse News on July 2 and will highlight the nation’s semiquincentennial celebration ahead of Independence Day on July 4, 2026. The section will feature content focused on American history, patriotism, trivia, activities and educational features designed for readers of all ages.

The publication aims to recognize the nation’s founding and the spirit of community as the country marks 250 years since the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. Businesses, organizations and community partners have the opportunity to participate through sponsorships and advertising packages available in both print and digital formats.

Advertising options range from full-page placements to smaller display advertisements. 

The deadline to reserve advertising space and submit copy is June 19. The special section will be published July 2.

For additional information or to reserve advertising space, interested participants may call 972-442-5515 x22 or email [email protected].

Legh-Page received 1,211 votes, or 53.63%, while Gurvinder Singh received 1,047 votes, or 46.37%, giving Legh-Page a 164-vote margin of victory. The results remain unofficial until they are canvassed by the Sachse City Council at its June 23 meeting. Legh-Page is scheduled to be sworn into office June 24.

The runoff was required after no candidate secured more than 50% of the vote in the May 3 general election. Singh led the four-candidate field with 45.91% of the vote, while Legh-Page received 36.67%.

Final unofficial returns showed Legh-Page winning both portions of the city divided between Collin and Dallas counties.

In Collin County, Legh-Page received 497 votes, or 58.4%, compared to 354 votes, or 41.6%, for Singh.

In Dallas County, Legh-Page received 714 votes, or 50.75%, while Singh received 693 votes, or 49.25%.

Combined totals from both counties gave Legh-Page 1,211 votes and Singh 1,047 votes out of 2,258 ballots cast.

With the runoff victory, Legh-Page will succeed Place 4 Councilmember Chance Lindsey, who did not seek reelection.

The results will become official following certification by the council later this month.

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Participating museums include the Welcome Center at Brown House in Wylie. Brown House visitors can tour the home and complete at least one activity to earn a patch embroidered with the home’s iconic turret and an American flag. Trying a handicraft, using the interactive Declaration of Independence and watching a Schoolhouse Rock video are among the activity choices.  

“Our tour guides will be happy to show the young and the young-at-heart how to earn a patch,” Tracy Lawson, Brown House curator, said.

Patch-seekers at the Farmersville Heritage Museum will make their way through a Farmersville history scavenger hunt. All answers will be found in the museum. Successful visitors will leave with a patch and knowledge of the people, places and stories that made Farmersville the community it is today. 

The patch features the museum and its outdoor Blackland Prairie Landscape exhibit. 

“For the Farmersville Heritage Museum, participating in the America 250 Museum Patch Quest is about more than collecting keepsakes,” Misty Wiebold, museum chair, said. “It is an opportunity to connect people of all ages with the local stories that help tell America’s story.”

The Interurban Railway Museum, operated by the Plano Conservancy for Historic Preservation, will also participate in the countywide quest. The exhibits and interactive elements convey the history of the Texas Electric Railway. 

“To earn a limited-edition sticker at our location, participants only need to ask one of our friendly tour guides,” Executive Director Kim Hils said. “We also offer a scavenger hunt within the Interurban Railway Museum for a chance to receive another free takeaway.”

Additionally, the Allen Heritage Museum, the Military Heritage Collection of North Texas in Nevada and four locations in McKinney are participating in the America 250 Museum Patch Quest. For a full list, visit the Welcome Center at Brown House Facebook page. 

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