James Scardami, a retired Marine, has been leading Matagorda County’s Toys for Tots drive for seven years, bringing Christmas cheer to local children in need. This year, over 1,100 kids are signed up for gifts, with more expected, making it the busiest season yet. Scardami launched the program after noticing a gap in the area’s … Read more
Matagorda County officials plan to seek new emergency medical service options after deciding to end an automatic renewal with current provider Allegiance Mobile Health. The decision follows public complaints about slow response times and outdated procedures. Allegiance defended its service, citing $2 million in recent investments and no rate increases in nearly a decade. County … Read more
Texas officials are preparing for a colder-than-usual winter, as the state’s power grid operator, ERCOT, warned of an increased risk of outages during extreme cold events. At a board meeting, ERCOT emphasized that recent grid upgrades and new power generation have reduced the likelihood of widespread blackouts. While meteorologists predict overall warmer temperatures, there’s still … Read more
El Campo senior Adeline Hundl capped off her high school volleyball career with a standout season, earning District 29’s Overall MVP title. Known for her versatility, Hundl contributed across the court with 302 kills, 87 digs, 44 aces, and more. She expressed pride in achieving this goal, calling it the perfect way to end her … Read more
Bay City will begin charging a 3.5% credit card processing fee starting January to offset rising costs, a decision approved in November by the City Council. Historically, the city absorbed these fees, which have surged to $220,000 annually. Residents can avoid the surcharge by using cash, checks, money orders, or bank drafts. The city will … Read more
Tidehaven’s football team grabbed a 35-21 win over Lexington, advancing to the state semifinals for the second straight year. Coach David Lucio credited their tough offseason, reflected in standout plays by brothers T.J. and Boogie Galvan, who combined for touchdowns and three interceptions. The Tigers’ late-game power sealed the victory. Now 12-2, Tidehaven will face … Read more
El Campo’s City Council will review a $50,000 incentive proposal tonight to support Rasmussen Distillery, a farm-to-glass vodka business creating local jobs. Located on U.S. 59, the distillery offers food, drinks, and part-time job opportunities. The council, meeting at 6 p.m. will also consider a Keep El Campo Beautiful grant, a tire shop permit, and … Read more
In Bay City, a Christmas tree adorned with golden angel ornaments has become a powerful tradition to honor victims of violent crimes. The “Tree of Angels” ceremony, held annually at the police department since ’19, commemorates lives lost and brings comfort to grieving families. Police Chief Christella Rodriguez emphasized the event symbolizes remembrance, unity, and … Read more
Bill Wallace, former publisher of Wharton County’s Journal-Spectator and East Bernard Express, is being remembered for his contributions to the community. Wallace, 72, passed away Thursday due to medical complications. Known for his kindness, humor, and passion for storytelling, Wallace served as publisher from ’09 to ’23 before retiring to Beaumont with his wife, Karen. … Read more
Bay City police arrested a 44-year-old man at a local hotel on multiple felony and misdemeanor warrants, alleging he was involved in drug activity. Officers, acting on a tip, confronted Calvin Williams in his hotel room on Avenue F, where they found methamphetamines and a stolen grocery basket. Williams initially gave a false name and … Read more