Back-to-School Expo

El Campo families gathered at the local library Monday for the Wharton County Back-to-School Expo, where free mesh backpacks, student planners, and school supplies were handed out to help prepare kids for the new school year. Hosted by Prairie View A&M AgriLife Extension, the event promoted student wellness, offering tips on staying healthy during the … Read more

Free Senior Fitness Programs

Bay City Parks and Recreation, in partnership with the Area Agency on Aging, is launching two free wellness programs for residents 55 and older. Starting next Monday, Tai Chi for Health and Bingocize will be held Mondays and Thursdays at the USO Building on Avenue M. Tai Chi uses gentle movements to improve balance and … Read more

El Campo to Honor Noah Carmical

A tragic crash claimed the life of 21-year-old Noah Carmical of El Campo along Highway 71 near CR 405. Authorities say his Chevy Nova left the road and struck a tree. He was ejected and died at the scene despite EMS efforts. The vehicle’s safety system alerted first responders. DPS believes speed played a role … Read more

Counterfeit Cash, Meth Found

A Conroe man caused a police chase in Bay City after trying to use a counterfeit bill at a business on 7th Street on July 21st. Officers found 40-year-old Robert Gruber nearby, but he took off on foot. After a chase involving multiple officers, Gruber resisted arrest, injuring two officers during the struggle. He was … Read more

Developer Clarifies Project

In El Campo, developer Joseph Bramante assured City Council that Creekside Ranch will be a high-end apartment and townhome project, not low-income housing. A public notice last month caused confusion by mentioning a federal program, but Bramante clarified average rents will be around $1,478. He apologized for the scare and emphasized the project targets above-average … Read more

City Bids Farewell to Longtime Fire Chief

Bay City is honoring the life of longtime Fire Chief Randy Frontz, who passed away at 68 after 45 years of service. Frontz spent three decades leading the Bay City Volunteer Fire Department, known for securing vital equipment and protecting the community. A funeral procession through town drew residents waving flags in tribute. City offices … Read more

Babysitter Faces Trial

In El Campo, a heartbreaking tragedy has led to a high-stakes trial. Angel Nicole Castro, a 30-year-old babysitter, is charged with the ’21 death of 19-month-old Roselynn Coates, a Louisiana toddler who fell from kitchen cabinets while under Castro’s care. After hitting her head on a toy, the child suffered fatal internal injuries. Castro, with … Read more

Schools Tackle New Statewide Device Ban

In Wharton County, a new state law bans students from using phones, smartwatches, and tablets during school hours to curb distractions and cyberbullying. Local schools are adapting differently. El Campo ISD requires devices stay off and in backpacks, with confiscation for violations. Louise ISD uses warnings, detention, and suspension for repeated offenses. Boling ISD adds … Read more

Head-On Crash Injures Two

In East Bernard, a serious crash on Highway 60 near FM 2919 left two drivers hurt Thursday morning. A Kendleton man driving a Jeep tried passing another car but slammed head-on into a Ford F-350 driven by a local. The Jeep driver was airlifted to Houston’s Memorial Hermann Hospital with severe injuries. The East Bernard … Read more

Traffic Stop Turns into Drug Bust

Last Thursday morning, a routine traffic stop in Bay City took a surprising turn. Fire Marshal Daniel Shook, working as a patrol officer, stopped 48-year-old local Rossana White on Avenue F for a traffic violation. White bolted from her car into a nearby store, but Shook quickly caught her. A search revealed illegal drugs in … Read more