Indianola was once a booming Gulf Coast port near Matagorda Bay, founded in the 1840s as a landing site for German immigrants. It became a military hub, welcomed U.S. Army camels, and served as Texas’ second-largest port. But in 1875, a hurricane nearly destroyed it. Locals rebuilt, only for another powerful storm and fire in … Read more
El Campo’s $14.8 million Tres Palacios Creek drainage project is one step closer to construction. The City Council approved National Appraisal Partners to handle appraisals needed to secure 52 easements, with costs capped at $119,600. City Manager Courtney Sladek says about 20 properties must be appraised due to their value, while others may be appraised … Read more
A Manvel family is pleading for help to find 15-year-old Yahira Ramirez, missing since July 2nd. She left home late that night and hasn’t been seen since. Relatives fear she was talking to a man on Snapchat and may have left to meet him. A missing persons report is filed with the Brazoria County Sheriff’s … Read more
Strong winds tore through southern Wharton late last week, leaving at least 20 homes damaged near Evergreen Cemetery. On Everett Lane, a Stafford family’s weekend cottage was blown off its foundation. Nearby, residents lost garages, roofs, and trees, with some homes nearly demolished. Volunteers and neighbors stepped up to help as emergency crews responded. No … Read more
A Wharton woman is in jail after a violent hatchet attack at El Campo’s Jackson Inn back in April. Police say 25-year-old Brittany Shae Vasquez assaulted her ex-boyfriend with a small hatchet, bit him on the back, and stole his phone during an argument. The man was injured but survived. Vasquez was arrested June 29th … Read more
The Bay City Tribune has donated $10,000 to the Economic Action Committee of the Gulf Coast, a nonprofit serving Matagorda and Wharton counties since 1965. The gift supports programs for seniors, low-income families, and those needing utility help. So far this year the group has delivered over 10,000 meals and helped hundreds avoid utility shutoffs. … Read more
Wharton ISD is saying goodbye to a familiar face, as longtime board member Sherrell Speer resigned effective from June 27th. Speer was more than a trustee—his voice echoed through Friday night football games, and his constant presence brought energy to school halls and events. The district thanked him for years of dedication, calling his support … Read more
Bay City seniors are invited to Riverside Park on Wednesday, from 10 to noon for the next Senior Fish event. Held monthly, this free gathering welcomes residents 55 and older for a relaxing morning of fishing and fellowship. No gear? No problem—rods and tackle are available on-site thanks to Texas Parks and Wildlife. Assistant Ranger … Read more
El Campo police say 32-year-old Brandon Dwayne Stephens has been arrested for the June 29th shooting death of 37-year-old Nikko Ray Deases at a Palacios Street gas station. Officers captured Stephens during a Monday traffic stop in Brazoria. A handgun believed to be the murder weapon was recovered. Investigators say the shooting followed a brief … Read more
In the heart of Blessing, the 119-year-old Hotel Blessing is getting a fresh start after suffering over $120,000 in storm damage last summer. Thanks to local donations and support, emergency repairs are done, and more restoration is underway. Run by the Blessing Historical Foundation, the hotel still welcomes guests, serves up home-style meals daily, and … Read more