Newly-elected Precinct 6 Constable Bill Orton says he can’t start his job because he doesn’t have access to patrol vehicles, a Polaris, or a boat. The equipment is locked in the Precinct 2 County Barn while Commissioner Mike Estlinbaum is on vacation until Monday. Orton said he contacted HR in December about the transfer, but … Read more
Valerie Callaway, a lifelong Edna resident, is now the City of Edna’s Finance Director. With years of experience at Farquhar Financial Services and Victoria Electric Co-Op, she brings strong financial expertise to the role. Known for founding Jackson County Relay for Life and serving on the Youth Fair Board, Callaway has deep ties to the … Read more
The El Campo Elks Lodge is hosting its annual Hoop Shoot for kids aged 8 to 13 on January 11th at Ricebird Gym. Young hoopers from Wharton County and nearby areas can join this free event starting at 8:30 a.m. The competition will test free throw skills, with winners advancing to district, state, regional, and … Read more
Bay City’s Russell family couldn’t believe it when America’s Funniest Home Videos picked their clip. At a birthday party in March, twin sisters Crawford and Ellison were about to blow out their candles when sibling Monroe got too close. Crawford’s hilarious “It’s not your birthday!” shout, captured on video, won national attention. Jessica Russell submitted … Read more
El Campo will enhance its resilience with a $1 million federal grant, covering 90% of the cost to install permanent generators. The funding, awarded due to severe weather and power outages caused by Hurricane Beryl in July, will equip water plants on Wilson Street, Kentucky Avenue, and Avenue F. This move ensures essential utilities continue … Read more
El Campo is rolling out a beautification initiative aimed at improving local businesses. Through a new grant program, stores along Jackson, Mechanic, West Loop, and Wharton streets can get up to $500 or 50% of their project costs for updates like murals, landscaping, or exterior paint. The city hopes these small-scale upgrades, which address existing … Read more
Bay City Council approved a fifth reinvestment zone to revitalize blighted areas without raising taxes. This tool redirects future tax revenue to fund infrastructure and attract private developers. Consultant David Petit said the zone reduces financial barriers for projects like water line upgrades and building demolitions. Key areas include Highway 35, land near Matagorda Regional … Read more
In El Campo, Korean War veteran and renowned photographer Grady Allen passed away at 93. Born in 1931, Allen was educated locally and served in the Navy during the Korean Conflict. Post-military, he was a champion calf roper and a self-taught photographer, known for his work in major publications like National Geographic. Allen spent his … Read more
In Bay City, the council has approved the annexation of new land to accommodate a new apartment complex and convenience store. The expansion will provide essential services to these developments. The apartment complex faces challenges, including the need for a new wastewater system. However, economic incentives have been offered to help with the costs. The … Read more
Mary Johnson from Tidehaven announced her commitment to Angelo State University on December 4th, in front of friends and family at the Tidehaven High School gymnasium. This comes after a standout volleyball season where Angelo State made it to the Division II Final Four for the first time. Johnson’s move to Angelo State, located about … Read more