Hurricane Beryl

The powerful Hurricane Beryl, now a Category 4 storm, is heading towards Jamaica and is expected to hit today. After Jamaica, it will cross the Caribbean, brush past the Yucatan Peninsula, and reach the southwestern Gulf of Mexico by the weekend. It’s likely to weaken gradually. Southeast Texas could face wind, rain, and storm surges … Read more

Edna ISD Success

Edna ISD’s recent test results show students surpassing regional and state averages in most categories. The district’s shift to a more challenging curriculum has led to better preparation and performance on state assessments. Edna’s focus on higher standards and quality teaching materials has contributed to consistent academic growth over the past five years.

National Night Out

The Bay City Police Department announced that National Night Out will be celebrated on the first Tuesday in October. This event promotes community safety and positive police-neighbor relationships. Bay City neighborhoods will host block parties, festivals, cookouts, and other events with safety demos and youth activities. For more information on hosting an event, contact Sgt. … Read more

Egg Smuggler Nabbed

Jennifer Mayo, a 46-year-old from Aransas Pass, surrendered to authorities for smuggling Dong Tao Chicken eggs and hatchlings into the U.S. This act violates import laws due to disease risks in poultry. If convicted, she could face 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The seized chickens had to be euthanized for health reasons. … Read more

Flood Prevention Rules

Victoria County has updated its flood prevention rules for the first time since 1998. The new order, effective July 17th, includes updated floodplain maps and definitions, like ‘industrialized building’ and ‘job shack,’ to better match current FEMA standards. Homes not up to code must upgrade if damaged by floods. The county can now appoint a … Read more

Food Assistance

Every third Friday, Wharton residents in need receive food from Just Do It Now and the Food Bank of the Golden Crescent. This partnership, since 2013, serves about 350 families monthly with fresh produce and more. For food assistance, residents can contact the Food Bank. The next distribution is set for July 19th at Just … Read more

All-Stars Shine

At the Greater Houston Baseball Coaches Association All-Star games, four standout El Campo players made their mark. Seniors Dean Poenitzsch, Drake Resendez, and Mason Bystek, along with junior James Dorotik, showcased their skills. The seniors hit well and Poenitzsch pitched a no-hit inning, while Dorotik added two RBIs. These players were the only ones from … Read more

City Council Doings

El Campo City Council decided to extend utilities on Earl Street for new homes and approved a business incentive. Developer Frank Marek will sell home lots and provide materials. The city will spend about $21,240 for water and sewer lines, costing Marek around $18,700. Without this deal, the lots wouldn’t have utilities. Councilman Steve Ward … Read more

Insurance Costs Increase

Wharton County’s health and dental insurance costs are set to rise without increasing deductibles or employee contributions. The county approved a 2.3% increase in medical and 3.5% in dental rates, effective October 1. This decision, while keeping benefits steady, adds an unexpected $80,000 to the budget, already strained by a valuation error.

Kayak Rescue Drama

A family and their rescuers, totaling seven people, were caught in a dangerous situation at Matagorda Beach Sunday. Deputy Mario Lerma and two brave locals attempted a rescue after the family was spotted 250 yards offshore. Chaos ensued as kayaks capsized, but thankfully, everyone returned to shore safely. The Coast Guard and Texas Game Wardens … Read more