Wharton County residents living outside El Campo, Wharton and East Bernard will be allowed to launch fireworks this holiday season, thanks to safe drought levels. County Judge Phillip Spenrath said the county’s drought index is low enough to permit aerial fireworks, but he urged everyone to be extremely careful. Local fire chiefs reminded families to … Read more
Louise Junior High students brought their robotics skills to Texas City last weekend, giving kids a hands-on taste of high-tech competition. Three Louise teams took part in the VEX IQ Stingmas event, where student-built robots raced to stack colored pegs for points. The Hornets placed mid-pack, but coaches said the real win was the experience … Read more
Wharton ISD will hold a public hearing tonight to address two major issues: its failing state finance rating and a recent cybersecurity breach. The district scored an “F,” the only district in Wharton County to miss an “A,” and board members want to hear from taxpayers before voting on a new financial advisor. Trustees are … Read more
El Campo Memorial Hospital has officially dropped its plan for a new $46 million, three-story facility and will instead focus on upgrading its existing building on Avenue F. Hospital leaders say rising construction costs and strict federal loan rules made the original plan unrealistic for a rural community. The hospital now plans phased renovations and … Read more
Linnie Roberts Elementary celebrated another year of strong community support after raising 1,600 dollars for breast cancer awareness in Matagorda County. The school spent October rallying students, parents, and staff through weekly dollar fundraisers and “Fill the Boot” collections in the morning car line. Local families also donated items for students to buy. Teachers Jennifer … Read more
The African Children’s Choir is bringing its holiday tour to Needville this Thursday night. The free concert starts at 7 at Creekside Christian Fellowship on Highway 36. You will hear Christmas music mixed with African rhythms, colorful Ugandan costumes, and lively dancing. The group travels the country to raise support for children in need, helping … Read more
Bay City police have confirmed they’ve located 48-year-old Marcy Levorice Eaton, the suspect tied to a serious crash that injured an elderly resident back in September. Officers had asked the community for help after Eaton was wanted for leaving the scene of an accident with major injuries. The update brings relief to families who were … Read more
Boaters from across the Gulf Coast teamed up again this December for the annual Freeport-to-Port O’Connor Toy Run, a 72-mile trip that brings Christmas to local kids in need. Organizers thanked everyone who donated toys, helped transport them, or supported the group’s summer fundraiser. Last year’s run delivered gifts to more than 2,000 children through … Read more
The Tidehaven community is rallying around the family of former Tiger Ricky Rubio, whose passing over Thanksgiving has left a deep hole in Matagorda County. Friends, coworkers, and former coaches are sharing memories of his upbeat spirit while also stepping in to help his loved ones. Nearly fifteen thousand dollars has already been raised to … Read more
The East Bernard Chamber of Commerce says time ran out to join this year’s Christmas parade. The deadline to register was Friday, and so far only 16 entries are signed up, with no floats yet. Locals are encouraged to help make the evening memorable. This year’s theme is “Deck the Decades.” The parade rolls out … Read more