Holiday Movie Magic Parade

Wharton is gearing up for a festive night as the 45th Annual Holiday Parade brings “Holiday Movie Magic” to downtown this evening. More than 65 floats will roll out at 7 p.m. from the Wharton County Courthouse Annex and make their way toward Monterey Square. Retired Wharton ISD trustee Sherrell Speer will serve as parade … Read more

Shop Hop Boosts Local Holiday Shopping

El Campo’s downtown will stay busy today as 21 local shops take part in the Chamber’s Hometown Holiday Shop Hop. Stores will stay open until 8 p.m., giving residents a full day to browse Christmas gifts, grab deals, and enter giveaways. Anyone who spends $25 or more at participating businesses can enter to win over … Read more

Wharton ISD Weighs New Financial Advisor

Wharton ISD is taking another step to fix its troubled finances by considering a new financial advisor. A representative from Live Oak Public Finance, a firm that works with districts across South Texas, outlined how the company could help manage debt and long-term planning. The board will vote later, but leaders signaled support. The district … Read more

Man Gets Probation in Pedestrian-Ramming Case

An El Campo man will avoid prison time after admitting he deliberately hit a pedestrian nearly four years ago. Robert Abel Johnson, 23, pleaded guilty in Wharton County’s District Court and received eight years of deferred adjudication probation. Judge Randy Clapp also ordered community service, a $500 fine, drug and alcohol evaluation, and anger management. … Read more

New Roof Restores Louise Rice Mill

The historic Louise rice mill is getting a major upgrade that will help bring year-round community events back to the site. Local leaders secured a nearly $16,000 grant from the Lower Colorado River Authority, along with matching funds from the Louise-Hillje Chamber of Commerce, to install a new metal roof on the landmark building. The … Read more

Jury Selection Set

Jury selection begins today in Wharton County as a local man faces charges for allegedly threatening a Wharton ISD police officer. Prosecutors say the incident happened on February 1st, of ’24, leading to a retaliation charge against 41-year-old Jealous Jones Mayberry of Correll Street. Judge John Maher will oversee the case in the 23rd District … Read more

Police Probe Targeted Late-Night Shooting

El Campo police are investigating a late-night shooting that targeted a family’s vehicles on East Third Street a week ago Sunday. Officers say someone walked up a backyard driveway just before midnight and fired at least 10 shots into a pickup and two sedans. No homes were hit, and the shooter took off on foot. … Read more

Bus Driver Pushes for Answers

A Fort Bend ISD bus driver is calling for full accountability after a violent attack that happened right in front of local students. Driver Denny John says two parents boarded his bus in the Caldwell Ranch area earlier this fall and beat him after he followed district policy during a route glitch. One suspect has … Read more

Tough Regional Semifinal Test

East Bernard heads into today’s regional semifinal with renewed confidence after reaching the third round for the first time since ’19. The Brahmas face a 10-1-1 Lexington team that shut out George West and leans heavily on a strong passing attack. East Bernard knows the challenge well, with Lexington leading the all-time series. Coach Jeremy … Read more

New Jackson Street Development

El Campo officials have signed off on a major boost to East Jackson Street, following earlier plans for a new convenience store. City leaders approved both a job-creation incentive and major infrastructure upgrades to support the $3 million project. Work is expected to begin before year’s end. The store is projected to add up to … Read more