News Staff Nine juniors from Wharton High School recently wrapped up a week-long trip to Washington, D.C., sponsored by local foundations, where they learned about government, voting, and respectful debate. The students visited the Capitol, Supreme Court, and met with Rep. Troy Nehls’ staff. They explored complex issues like education and healthcare while practicing conversations with diverse … Read more
Matagorda County Precinct 2 Commissioner Mike Estlinbaum recently completed the first session of the Commissioners Court Leadership Academy, a prestigious Texas A&M program for county leaders. This two-year academy helps local officials sharpen skills in government, communication, and leadership to better serve their communities. Estlinbaum’s participation shows his commitment to improving Matagorda County’s future. The … Read more
El Campo is aiming to expand pedestrian safety by adding new sidewalks along West Jackson, Hoskins, Broadway, and Webb. City Council unanimously voted to apply for a state transportation grant that could cover most of the cost. The project, called “El Campo Safe Routes,” would improve access to downtown, schools, and parks. If awarded, the … Read more
Wharton’s first annual Juneteenth Soul Food and R&B Community Feast kicks off Saturday at Guadalupe Park. The event will feature food vendors, R&B music, and family-friendly activities. Organizer Beth Evans says the goal is to build a strong local tradition, similar to Wharton’s past downtown celebrations. Juneteenth marks June 19, 1865—the day Union troops enforced … Read more
Boling ISD School Board President Jerry Svatek Jr. was arrested on a child pornography charge involving a victim under 10. Homeland Security made the arrest with help from local authorities. Boling ISD Superintendent Keith Jedlicka confirmed no complaints have been filed by students or parents. The district says Svatek’s access to students will be restricted … Read more
Wharton County’s jail was recently praised as one of Texas’s best after a surprise state inspection. Officials said it excels in safety, cleanliness, and procedures. Sheriff Shannon Srubar praised Jail Captain Janis Gusman and staff for their hard work. Meanwhile, county leaders approved a $50,000 study to explore expanding or replacing the 168-bed jail. The … Read more
Bay City is making steady progress on major upgrades across the city’s infrastructure and services. Public Works Assistant Director Krystal Mason updated City Council on new residential permits, ongoing wastewater plant improvements, and water system upgrades. Residential building permits remain strong, with over 200 issued so far this year, while commercial projects like Take 5 … Read more
Bay City Police are warning local businesses about a phone scam targeting employees. Scammers pose as owners or managers, claiming there’s an emergency, then instruct staff to take cash from the register and deposit it into a nearby Bitcoin ATM. The scammers often sound urgent and demand secrecy, making it hard for employees to verify … Read more
In Bay City, police are raising the alarm after a rise in vehicle burglaries during June, mainly linked to cars left unlocked. Authorities stress the importance of locking your vehicle doors and hiding valuables to reduce the risk of theft. The Bay City Police Department’s Detective Division is actively investigating these break-ins and asking the … Read more
Last week a chemical vapor leak at the Celanese plant in Bay City sparked a quick emergency response. Around 3:30 a.m., vinyl acetate vapor was detected from a railcar, but plant safety systems worked well, and no injuries occurred. The affected railcar was continuously cooled with water, even as heavy rain fell, preventing any danger … Read more