Scammers

Scammers are targeting Bay City residents with fake donation calls. A caller, pretending to represent local law enforcement, is asking for money on behalf of the Bay City Police Department. Officials confirm they never solicit donations over the phone, especially from outside the area. Residents should not share personal or financial information with these callers. … Read more

Yellow Rose of Texas

Wharton County Junior College’s Gloria Mahavier Crockett has been honored with the Yellow Rose of Texas award for her dedication to preserving state history. The recognition, given by the Texas governor, highlights her 15 years of work in Texas history events across the Gulf Coast. She has participated in re-enactments, Alamo events, and Davy Crockett … Read more

Quick-thinking Bus Driver

During Wharton County Day in Austin, a quick-thinking bus driver saved 53 passengers from a near-tragic accident. Departing from El Campo Civic Center, the bus encountered thick fog on Hwy. 71. A gravel truck turned in front of the bus, giving driver Eboni Holmes little time to react. An 18-wheeler was also approaching in the … Read more

That Mexican OT

Bay City rapper Virgil Gazca, known as “That Mexican OT,” was honored by the city council last week for his impact on hip-hop and dedication to his hometown. Mayor Pro Tem Becca Sitz declared February 25th, as “That Mexican OT Day.” Gazca, 26, gained fame with his ’23 hit “Johnny Dang,” which led to a … Read more

Arrested for Money Laundering

A Brownsville man was arrested in Wharton on last Wednesday after officers found a large amount of hidden cash during a traffic stop. Fayette County Sgt. Randy Thumann, working with Wharton Police Sgt. Justin Pannell, stopped Raul Melendez, 48, near U.S. 59 and FM 102. A joint investigation led to Melendez being charged with second-degree … Read more

Dotson Steps Down

Wharton ISD will begin its next football season under fresh leadership as Athletic Director Alvin Dotson II steps down after three years. Dotson, who revitalized the Tigers’ program following two winless seasons, cites family as his reason for leaving. During his tenure, Wharton ended a 22-game losing streak and nearly reached the playoffs last season. … Read more

Birding Capital of Texas

Matagorda County is vying for the title of “Birding Capital of Texas,” a designation now under review by the state legislature. Approved by county commissioners, the proposal celebrates the county’s 26,000 acres of bird habitats, including renowned refuges like Big Boggy and Mad Island. With 150 bird species visiting annually, local birding has bolstered tourism … Read more

Measles Outbreak

Texas is facing its worst measles outbreak in decades, with cases soaring from two to 146 in a month. One child has died, 20 are hospitalized, and experts warn it could get worse due to falling vaccination rates. While health officials set up vaccine clinics, state leaders, including Gov. Greg Abbott, have remained silent. Unlike … Read more

Proposed Charter Amendments

Bay City voters will decide on three proposed Charter amendments in a special election set for May 3rd. The measures aim to improve city governance. The first proposal seeks to stagger City Council elections so that two positions are up each year, improving stability. The second measure would reduce mandatory Council meetings to one per … Read more

Police Looking for Two Men

El Campo police are searching for two men who robbed a Wharton resident at gunpoint Saturday night on Thrift Street. The suspects took a small amount of cash, a cellphone, and the victim’s car keys but did not steal the vehicle. Police believe the incident was isolated and say there is no ongoing threat. Authorities … Read more