Sheriff Rudolph Passes

Wharton County is mourning the loss of former Sheriff Rudolph “Rudy” Machala. With a remarkable 47-year career in law enforcement, Rudy led the county’s sheriff’s office from 1980 to ’92 and was a dedicated Texas DPS Trooper before that. Known for guiding new officers, Rudy’s leadership and commitment were evident. His legacy will be honored … Read more

New Flood Plan

In Texas, over 5 million people, about one in six, live or work where flooding is a threat. A new flood plan aims to protect them by suggesting ways to make Texas safer from floods and sea level rise. This plan is required by a law passed after Hurricane Harvey in 2019. Nearly 1.3 million … Read more

School District will Expand

Starting next school year, Nursery’s award-winning school district will expand to include sixth grade. Parents can sign up their kids on the district’s website by July 19th. The superintendent is proud to extend their top-notch education to middle school, promising small classes and personal care with fine arts and electives. It’s a big step forward … Read more

Jesus Thirsts – The Miracle of the Eucharist

Victoria’s Cinemark 12 will show “Jesus Thirsts: The Miracle of the Eucharist” on June 4-6. This film takes viewers on a worldwide quest to explore the Eucharist’s life-changing impact, featuring insights from Catholic leaders and stories of faith. It’s getting thumbs up from Catholic leaders for its clear, faith-affirming message.

The Empress 2816 Visit

The Empress 2816, a rare steam engine, chugged through Wharton County on Monday. People watched as it rolled through El Campo on its trip from Calgary to Mexico City. It’s the first steam train here since 1953, when two non-working engines were towed through by diesel. Excitement’s high as it plans to return in June.

BMX Bike Park Opens

Get ready to ride! Bay City’s brand-new BMX Bike Park is gearing up for its grand opening tomorrow at 10:30 a.m. Located at City Field, this park has a .27 mile dirt track filled with jumps and challenges. Beginners can start on a learner’s loop, while parents can walk the perimeter track. Thanks to the … Read more

Trauma Care Award

The SouthEast Texas Regional Advisory Council awarded Matagorda Regional Medical Center the CEO Excellence in Trauma Care Award. On March 22nd, the ER team successfully stabilized multiple critically injured patients after a major incident. As a Level IV Trauma Center, they quickly transferred the patients to Houston, showcasing their exceptional emergency care.

Tragic Incident

In a tragic incident early Friday on U.S. 59 near CR 454, a car driven in the wrong direction by Karina Moore, a 29-year-old from Houston, collided head-on with Frank Johnson’s truck. Johnson, a 66-year-old from Baton Rouge, was on his way home from work. Both drivers died at the scene. The highway was closed … Read more

Summer Reading Program

The Bay City Public Library’s annual Summer Reading Program, “Adventure Begins at the Library,” starts June 1st. It encourages readers of all ages to explore adventures through books and activities. Library Director Samantha Denbow promises a fun-filled summer with exciting events starting the week of June 10th at Bay City and Sargent branches. Registration is … Read more

Ban on Fireworks Possible

Matagorda County is nearing a drought level that could lead to a ban on fireworks sales this summer. The drought index is at 417, close to the 500 mark that triggers a burn ban. County Judge Phillip Spenrath mentioned the potential ban could affect fireworks sales, which are set to begin in June. Officials will … Read more