Matagorda County’s brightest talents took center stage Sunday at the Van Vleck ISD Auxiliary Gym for the annual Talent Show & Public Speaking Contest. In a historic first, Hayden Joins and Emma Kubecka tied for first in Junior Public Speaking. Scollie Saha, fresh off a Rodeo Queen Contest runner-up finish, won Senior Public Speaking. Taelynn … Read more
Wharton County hired an architectural firm to address its overcrowded jail problem. The firm will guide the county on whether to build a new jail or expand the current one. Commissioners approved a $50,000 study for costs, location, and standards. Sheriff Srubar emphasized the need for future planning. The current jail, with 144 beds, often … Read more
Authorities are investigating after a 75-year-old Alvin man was found dead in the Intracoastal Canal near the FM 457 bridge in Matagorda County. Gerald Porter’s SUV went off the road, crashed through wooden barriers, and sank Friday afternoon. Boaters discovered his body nearby hours later. Crews recovered his vehicle Saturday morning. DPS, the U.S. Coast … Read more
Captain Jason Scates is celebrating 30 years in law enforcement, with over four years serving Matagorda County in key investigative roles. He began his career as a patrolman, later advancing to patrol sergeant before taking on the role of investigator in the Criminal Investigation Division. In January, he earned a promotion to captain of the … Read more
Riverside Park in Bay City is hosting “Go Wild!” events throughout March, offering hands-on outdoor fun. On March 1st at 10 a.m., visitors can craft unique clam shell necklaces using freshwater shells from the Colorado River. On March 8th at 10 a.m., Fishing 101 will teach beginners everything from casting techniques to fish identification. Seniors … Read more
Bay City Police Department is hiring officers with a starting salary of $70,000, including benefits. Perks include on-duty workouts, 12-hour shifts, and extensive training. Officers get a $5,000 sign-on bonus, 14 holidays plus one floating holiday after a year, and $75/month for bilingual pay. Certification incentives range from $100 to $300 monthly. Those interested can … Read more
Scammers are targeting Texas drivers with fake texts claiming to be from TxTag, warning them of overdue toll balances. The Texas Department of Transportation says these phishing scams have surged, tricking people into clicking fraudulent links. TxTag does not send texts about final payments or overdue bills—official messages come from 22498. Customers should avoid clicking … Read more
Wharton celebrated the opening of the FM 1301 extension with local officials and residents attending the event last week. This project, decades in the making, finally began construction in ’22. Mayor Tim Barker highlighted the road’s benefits for improved infrastructure and transportation. Former City Manager Andreas Garza, who contributed significantly to the project, expressed his … Read more
The 45th Annual Seafood Dinner and Auction, hosted by the El Campo Rotary Club, will take place March 6 at the El Campo Civic Center. The fundraiser, honoring late Rotarian John Petty, will feature a $20 per plate dinner and exciting live and silent auctions. A highlight this year is a chance to win nine … Read more
Bay City High School hosted a Career Fair last week to help students explore local career opportunities. The event, organized by the school’s counselors, featured a variety of businesses and organizations, from chemical plants to law firms, offering insight into possible careers within Matagorda County. The fair provided students with valuable information, handouts, and even … Read more