Chicken Fried Steak Fundraiser

Residents in Wharton and Matagorda counties can enjoy a tasty chicken fried steak dinner while helping survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse. The Crisis Center hosts its 18th annual fundraiser on Friday, January 16th, at the Bay City Civic Center. Drive-thru pickup starts at 4 p.m., with dine-in doors opening at 5 … Read more

Renewed State Disaster Declarations

State disaster declarations quietly remain in place for Matagorda County as Texas heads into the new year. Governor Greg Abbott has renewed long-standing emergency orders tied to border security and ongoing drought, keeping the county on both lists. The renewals allow faster state response for wildfire risk, water needs, and law enforcement support, even though … Read more

Wharton Mourns Former ISD Trustee

Wharton is remembering longtime community advocate Steven Leon Roberts, who died December 23rd at the age of 59 after suffering two strokes. Roberts served two terms on the Wharton ISD school board from ’16 to ’21, including two years as vice president, and later ran for Wharton mayor. Family members say he was deeply committed … Read more

Teens Arrested After Gunpoint Robbery

El Campo police say two teenagers accused of a gunpoint robbery on China Street are now in custody, bringing quick closure to a rare crime in the neighborhood. The robbery happened near Hutchins Elementary School, where three juveniles were confronted and two cellphones were taken. No one was hurt. Officers recovered a handgun during a … Read more

Tips for a Safe New Year’s Eve

It’s New Year’s Eve and Bay City police are urging residents to stay safe while ringing in the new year. They recommend locking homes and cars, leaving lights on when away, and always watching your drink at parties. Stick with friends, never accept rides from strangers, and plan sober transportation like Uber or a designated … Read more

ACCIONA Energía Donates Big

In Wharton County, ACCIONA Energía has stepped up big for the local Crisis Center, donating more than $50,000 to help families escaping abuse. The money funded fresh paint and flooring in eleven shelter rooms to make them feel like home, a cozier medical waiting area and family-friendly kitchen, a hidden parking spot to keep clients’ … Read more

Board to Review Superintendent’s Evaluation

In El Campo, the school board is holding a special meeting on Wednesday, January 7th at 5:30 p.m. to evaluate Superintendent Bob Callaghan’s performance behind closed doors. Callaghan’s current contract runs until June of ’28, but after discussing required team-building training with lawyers, the board will return to open session to vote on extending his … Read more

Bulldogs Earn District Honors

Despite a challenging 2–8 season, the Boling Bulldogs finished strong where it mattered most, earning major recognition in District 14-3A Division II. Boling landed four players on the all-district first team and filled eight second-team spots. Senior Jayden Salinas led the way as the district’s top rusher, while Oscar Gonzalez anchored a powerful run-heavy offense. … Read more

Middle School Theater Students Shine

El Campo Middle School students are proving big talent can come from small stages. The school’s theater program earned an “Excellent” rating at the UIL One Act Play contest in Vanderbilt after performing the comedy “Suite Surrender.” The fully student-run production was led by first-year teacher Julia Kovar and featured seventh- and eighth-graders handling acting, … Read more

Trahan to Coach East Texas All-Stars

A former Bay City High School football star is coming home to coach in a big all-star game. Beau Trahan, who grew up playing under his dad, legendary coach Warren “Bull” Trahan, will lead the East Texas all-stars in the Bayou Bowl. The game pits top recent high school grads from East Texas against Greater … Read more