News Staff The 6th Annual Riverside Smoke Off brought 22 teams and 145 participants to compete in 11 categories, plus eight kids in the Kid’s Cook contest. Despite the pressure, teams kept the event lively. Turning Point, a group of church members blending Texas barbecue with Mexican flavors, won the Chef’s Choice award after offering samples on … Read more
El Campo is cracking down on makeshift car lots with a new ordinance now in effect. The City Council unanimously approved the measure to curb vehicle sales in public and commercial areas. Parking a car for sale in shopping centers, public streets, or even private driveways without approval is now a Class C misdemeanor. Businesses … Read more
Wharton County Junior College is preparing for a leadership change after nearly 25 years. President Betty A. McCrohan announced her retirement at the March 25th board meeting, effective Aug. 31st. McCrohan has been with WCJC since 1989 and became president in ’01. Under her leadership, the college expanded with new campuses in Matagorda and Fort … Read more
The Taylor-Steves Furniture store in Bay City is closing its doors after 116 years, marking the end of a family-run legacy. One longtime employee says the store has been a cornerstone of the community, and its absence will be deeply felt. Owner Mary Frances Steves-Hatchett, part of the fourth generation to run the business, says … Read more
The City of Bay City will hold two Town Hall meetings to discuss proposed changes to the City Charter. These will take place on April 15th and April 21st at 6:00 p.m. at the USO Building, 2105 Ave M. City officials will explain the proposed amendments, how they could impact the community, and answer residents’ … Read more
Landon Peikert from El Campo FFA recently received a $6,000 scholarship from the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo’s Calf Scramble program. As part of the ’24 program, Peikert raised a Jersey heifer sponsored by Bonds Ranch. After catching a calf at the rodeo, participants had to submit reports, care for their calf, and exhibit … Read more
The Wharton County Junior College Pioneer rodeo team recently claimed victory at the Texas A&M University Rodeo in Brazos County. Boling’s Carson Sonnier and Chase Sandstrom of SWTC won the Team Roping (Heeler) title with a combined time of 15.7 seconds. Sheridan’s Braxton Baranowski and Yoakum’s Dane Knocke placed sixth overall. Baranowski also finished sixth … Read more
The Wharton County Youth Fair in Crescent is in full swing with rodeo action, carnival thrills, and hometown fun. Today is “Salute to Veterans” day, offering free entry for service members and “Buddy Night” for two-for-one rides. Livestock shows kick off at 10 a.m., with family-friendly Ag Adventures and carnival rides starting at 5 p.m. … Read more
The Bay City Police Department is urging residents to follow the 9PM Routine to prevent crime. Each night at 9 PM, make sure to lock your car doors, remove valuables, secure your home, turn on outside lights, and activate alarms. Criminals often target unlocked cars, so locking doors and taking keys inside can make a … Read more
El Campo ISD is set to adopt the Texas Education Agency’s Bluebonnet Learning curriculum for K-5 students, aiming to boost reading test scores. While the curriculum faces criticism for integrating Christian themes, ECISD plans to remove controversial content before implementation in the 2025-26 school year. Educators will review and revise lessons, ensuring they focus on … Read more