News Staff Texas lawmakers missed the deadline to replace the STAAR test this session, leaving it in place for now. House Bill 4, which proposed scrapping STAAR for three shorter tests throughout the year, died when legislators couldn’t agree on a new testing system or how to grade schools. Lawmakers agreed the current test stresses students and … Read more
In Victoria, Kodye Pogue is healing after a violent attack by her boyfriend that turned a normal day at the pool into a nightmare. She was assaulted with a gun and run over by his car, suffering broken bones and serious injuries. After escaping and calling 911, Pogue spent days in the hospital and now … Read more
Bay City has entered the risky summer driving season known as the “100 Deadliest Days,” when accidents spike statewide, especially among teen drivers. The Bay City Police urge everyone to drive safely—slow down, wear seat belts, avoid distractions, and never drink and drive. They warn parents against allowing unlicensed teens to drive, as it’s illegal … Read more
Bay City Council has officially rejected all bids submitted under its previous request for disaster debris monitoring services. Instead, the city chose to join forces with Matagorda County, which awarded a contract to DebrisTech last fall. By aligning with the county’s contract, Bay City avoids duplicate efforts while securing FEMA-approved disaster oversight. City staff participated … Read more
El Campo soccer had a standout year, landing top district and state honors. Junior Orinson Artica earned District 22 Offensive MVP after scoring 30 goals. Four Ricebirds made first-team all-district, including standout defenders Andre Martinez and Daniel Mendez. Martinez was named Class 4A Defensive Player of the Year. Sophomore Alexander Maya and junior Landon Smith … Read more
Matagorda County farmers and landowners can join the Lone Star Healthy Streams workshop on Friday at Bay City Service Center. The event will cover ways to protect local waters by managing feral hogs, improving pond care, and using better livestock grazing methods. Hosted by the Matagorda Soil and Water Conservation District with Texas A&M AgriLife … Read more
A Wharton man may have uncovered proof of a giant ground sloth that once roamed the county. Johnny Valdez found a fossilized claw while walking the Colorado River near Wharton. He says the massive claw, several inches wide, belonged to a sloth species from the Ice Age. Valdez, a water plant manager at Pierce Ranch, … Read more
El Campo could soon see new sidewalks along North Wharton Street—without spending local money. The city is applying for a $4.9 million state grant that would fully cover the project. Plans include ADA-compliant sidewalks, curbs, gutters, and covered drainage to improve school traffic and safety. Utility work is already in progress, and mowing hazards will … Read more
A 41-year-old Lake Jackson man is in custody after a deadly domestic dispute Saturday in the Lake Jackson Farms area. Curtis Gunter is accused of murder, kidnapping, and assault after allegedly forcing one person to the scene at gunpoint, then fatally shooting a relative. The victim later died at a Houston hospital. Gunter turned himself … Read more
Van Vleck ISD recently honored three longtime employees retiring after decades of service. Shirley Martinez, known for her work as an instructional assistant and registrar, was praised for her strong impact across campuses. Teresa Bolton, an instructional assistant at both Van Vleck Elementary and Junior High, was recognized for her steady support and kindness toward … Read more