News Staff Mike Wilkinson has come full circle, returning to Wharton County Junior College as its new Chief of Staff. The Bay City native and former WCJC student will lead strategic planning, accreditation, grants, and community partnerships. He brings years of student-focused leadership from universities in Texas and Alabama. Wilkinson says community colleges change lives, and he’s … Read more
East Bernard pulled off a stunning upset Friday night, knocking off undefeated Tidehaven 34-31. A month after losing 59-6, the Brahmas flipped the script with two touchdowns in the final three minutes. Quarterback Dan Bartlett threw for 412 yards, including the go-ahead score moments after East Bernard recovered an onside kick. A late interception sealed … Read more
El Campo City Council will meet tonight with two big items. Members will consider renaming the Willie Bell Park pavilion after Gloria Harris, the first Black woman to serve on the council and a District 2 leader for 30 years. They will also review stricter Civic Center rules banning confetti, fireworks, fog machines and anything … Read more
Cold wind chills didn’t stop families from filling downtown El Campo Thursday night as more than 70 brightly-lit floats rolled through the Christmas parade. Crowds bundled up along the streets for the “Santa’s Southern Stop” celebration, cheering dancers, classic cars, and school bands. Kids raved about the Grinch floats, fire trucks, and a visit from … Read more
Wharton’s Monterey Square Business Association is planning a snow-filled holiday night downtown from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 19t. The group expects food trucks, vendors, face painting, Christmas music, Santa, and real snow. City Council will be asked this evening to close South Fulton, waive fees, and provide cleanup supplies. Council will also … Read more
The East Bernard Brahmas are back in the regional finals for the first time since’19, and the entire town is buzzing. Standing in their way is top-ranked Tidehaven, the same squad that crushed East Bernard a month ago. But the Brahmas say they’ve been waiting for this rematch and expect a battle tonight at Freedom … Read more
Wharton County residents can once again burn brush and debris after officials lifted the countywide burn ban that had been in place since September 18th. Recent rainfall improved conditions enough to ease restrictions, but officials stress that residents should still use caution, especially on windy days. Wharton County wasn’t alone, as nearby Victoria, Goliad, and … Read more
Downtown Edna will kick off the holidays Saturday with its Miracle on Main Festival, filling Main Street with lights, music, food and family fun. The day starts at 9 a.m. with the free Jingle Jog hosted by Resolve Pilates and Edna Police, who will collect toy donations. By 2 p.m., the courthouse lawn turns into … Read more
Last weekend Wharton County deputies made three arrests during routine traffic stops, but reported no major incidents. Late Friday night on Ogden Street, a driver was pulled over and arrested for DWI, and deputies seized a handgun. Saturday night on FM 102, another driver was taken to jail after deputies found THC in a vape … Read more
Bay City police are urging residents to take an active role in protecting local children by reporting any signs of abuse or neglect. Officials say Texas law requires anyone who suspects mistreatment to contact law enforcement or the state’s child abuse hotline, not just tell a school or neighbor. Reports made in good faith are … Read more