A Bay City church is shutting down its childcare center after a tragic ’22 incident where an infant died, leading to an insurance drop. First Baptist Church Pastor Mike Zimmerman confirmed that the daycare, which cared for 85 children, can no longer afford liability insurance after the lawsuit over the infant’s death. Families now have … Read more
Wharton County is facing rising wildfire risks due to persistent drought, with only 0.86 inches of rain in El Campo and 1.28 inches in Wharton over the last month. High pressure over Texas is keeping tropical storms away but preventing needed rain. There’s just a 3% chance of showers today, far short of the five … Read more
El Campo ISD and architectural firm Parkhill met with local leaders, educators, and parents to discuss much-needed facility improvements at El Campo High School and its three elementary schools. The meeting, held at the high school, focused on safety and security issues, including outdated buildings and fire protection systems. Attendees voiced support for consolidating elementary … Read more
El Campo’s Prairie Days festival returns to Alamo Park this Saturday, focusing on family fun with expanded children’s activities. The event kicks off with a colorful 5K run and features food, crafts, and live music, including performances from Rick Evans and Rewind Texas. Families can enjoy a petting zoo, bounce houses, and a dunking booth … Read more
Saturday at 4 p.m., Vanderbilt Baptist Church will host Coffi Sianthe, who will share his personal story about the impact of receiving an Operation Christmas Child shoebox. As a child growing up in poverty in West Africa, the shoebox represented more than gifts—it offered hope and joy during difficult times. Sianthe will explain how this … Read more
Bay City’s National Night Out ’24 was a huge success, with police officers and staff joining watch parties across local neighborhoods. Officers enjoyed connecting with residents and shared meals while discussing ways to keep the city safe. The event highlighted the importance of community partnerships in maintaining safety. Special thanks to the Bay City Public … Read more
On Wednesday, a 12-year-old boy at Patti Welder Middle School in Victoria was arrested after a false school shooting threat. A student reported that another student made threatening remarks and gestures, leading staff to alert the school resource deputy. An investigation by the Victoria County Sheriff’s Office determined the threat was unfounded, but the boy … Read more
A family dispute in El Campo turned violent on Sue Street, resulting in the stabbing of Raymond Allen Rodriguez Jr. by a teenager. The altercation, which took place around 6 a.m. on Sept. 24, was captured on video and shared on social media. Rodriguez, 51, who was out on bond for multiple family violence charges, … Read more
In Matagorda County, Halloween has adapted to tough times, from its ancient Celtic roots to challenges like candy tampering and COVID-19. Despite setbacks, locals have embraced new traditions, blending church events with fun activities for kids. Halloween, once rooted in religious observance and pagan lore, now thrives as a community celebration. Children still dress up, … Read more
The Wharton County Sheriff’s Office has become an official contract training provider through the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement, marking a two-year effort. This allows Wharton County and nearby law enforcement agencies to receive training locally, reducing travel costs and keeping officers near their families. With 13 certified instructors on staff, the sheriff’s office can … Read more