Three Men Arrested for Human Smuggling

Three men, Juan Antonio Vasquez (24), Andres Reyes (28), and Elias Hernandez (29), were arrested in Victoria County for suspected human smuggling during a traffic stop on U.S. Highway 59 on Sunday. They were driving a stolen GMC pickup truck and had eight migrants from Mexico, El Salvador, Honduras, and Guatemala onboard. The trafficking victims … Read more

Child Care Investigation Underway

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services’ Child Care Investigations Division is looking into an incident at Bright Start Learning Academy’s second center on Friday in Victoria. Their goal is to assess if there was potential abuse, neglect, or violations of state standards. Fortunately, the injured child is now stable after being taken to … Read more

Online Tax Sales Website

Matagorda County Tax Assessor Collector, Becky Barrett Cook, is thrilled to introduce the new Online Tax Sales platform, offering free, 24/7 access for Matagorda County property owners. Powered by Realauction, this cost-free service is a game-changer. It allows users to research and bid on properties from anywhere, with easy-to-use tools. The first online tax sale … Read more

Storm Damage Cancels School

The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Monday that classes at Edna Independent School District were canceled due to extensive storm damage. Sunday night’s storms wreaked havoc in Edna, causing downed powerlines, fallen trees, and debris-filled streets. Emergency crews are working hard to restore power. Residents are urged to be extremely cautious in these hazardous conditions, … Read more

Drought and Arbuckle Reservoir

The Lower Colorado River Authority’s General Manager, Phil Wilson, addressed the Bay City Chamber Luncheon about Arbuckle Reservoir and the ongoing drought in south Texas. Arbuckle Reservoir, a 90,000-acre project in Wharton County, is nearly complete, set to be operational by December. It will provide more capacity for firm water customers, reducing pressure on the … Read more

Board Member Residency Concerns

During a recent Wharton Independent School District board meeting, attorney Rachel Rust accused board member Ann Witt of misrepresenting her residence. Rust presented evidence that Witt had claimed her home in Houston as her homestead while serving on the board, which may violate the district’s residency requirements. . Witt’s term began in May 2022, overlapping … Read more

Charity Ball Sponsorships Still Open

Sponsors are backing the Bay City Junior Service League’s annual Charity Ball on February 3rd. This event is a vital fundraiser for the league, benefiting worthy organizations in Matagorda County. Thanks to corporate sponsors like 7J Ranch, Bay City Abstract and Title Co., and others, the league can make a significant impact in their community. … Read more

Homecoming Royalty Announcements

El Campo High School’s pep rally on Friday morning was filled with excitement as senior Drake Resendez clinched the coveted title of 2023 homecoming king. Despite suffering an injury earlier this football season, Resendez, who played for the Ricebirds, received this prestigious honor. His proud parents are Adam Resendez and La’chelle Yount. Adding to the … Read more

Ricebirds’ Impressive Turnaround

In the first two games, the Ricebirds struggled, going 0-2 with just 14 points. But since star senior Oliver Miles returned, they’re on fire, beating C.C. Veterans Memorial, Wharton, and Navasota. Miles, a Texas Tech commit, shines with a 61% completion rate and 128 rushing yards per game, including a 70-yard rush. Ja’Kwaun Hudlin adds … Read more

Unity Event with Police

The Bay City Police Department and Bay City Public Library are partnering for National Night Out, fostering camaraderie between the public and law enforcement. Starting at 5 p.m. on October 3rd at the library, the event will feature family-friendly activities, including chalk art, games, and booths from local organizations. A highlight is the Great Silly … Read more