Wharton’s Plaza Theatre honored dedication and friendship at its annual Lamplighter Gala, held recently at the Civic Center. The night’s highlights included a posthumous award for longtime volunteers Sandy Wilkins and Regena Bass, who were celebrated for their lasting impact. Debbie Cenko was named Lamplighter of the Year for her work both on and off … Read more
Matagorda County United Way’s 15th Annual Day of Caring is set for Friday, May 23rd. Volunteers will tackle minor home repairs for elderly and disabled residents at no cost. Applications are now available at the United Way office on Avenue G and the Economic Action Committee Senior Center on Whitson Street. Forms must be submitted … Read more
Two young basketball players from Wharton County gave it their best shot at the annual Elks State Hoop Shoot but fell short of regionals this season. Aaliyah Tutson and Rylie Martinez represented El Campo Elks Lodge 1749 after winning the Gulf Coast district title in February. At state, Tutson finished 8th, making 5 of 25 … Read more
A Jackson County jury acquitted Edna resident Charles Lester Callis Jr. on March 11th, ruling the State failed to prove he intentionally or recklessly injured his ex-girlfriend. Callis faced a felony assault charge that carried up to 10 years in prison. The case centered on claims he threw keys at Mickalla Ashley, causing injuries, and … Read more
Matagorda County officials praised the success of beach mats installed at a narrow beach entrance. Funded by over $130,000 in grants from the Texas General Land Office, the mats aim to ease traffic flow and provide clear exits for first responders. According to Precinct 2 Commissioner Mike Estlinbaum, no vehicles were stuck at the entrance … Read more
El Campo soccer is set for a playoff double-header today at Blackcat Stadium. The Ladybirds face Sweeny at 5:30 p.m., followed by the Ricebirds against Stafford. Both teams secured the district’s top Division II seeds despite finishing second in standings. The Ladybirds dominated defensively, shutting out opponents in 10 games and allowing no goals in … Read more
The El Campo City Council voted 5-1 to restore full funding to the Chamber of Commerce, approving $54,000 in hotel/motel tax funds for this fiscal year. The money, collected from visitor stays, must support tourism. The chamber must limit operations spending to 35%, maintain financial transparency, and provide an annual audit. Funding was halted last … Read more
Bay City’s 6th Annual Riverside Smoke-Off on March 28th & 29th promises smoky barbecue and big prizes at Riverside Park. Open to ages five and up, it features brisket, pork ribs, chicken, and creative categories like Best Smoked Weenie. Kids can compete in ribeye steak or pork ribs with a $20 entry. Parks Manager Kelley … Read more
The Palacios Police Department is excited to announce the Junior Police Academy for kids ages 9-12, taking place from June 9th thru 13th, at the Educational Pavilion. Activities include riding in a police car, speaking on the radio, crime scene investigation, and fingerprinting. Applications can be picked up at 315 Henderson Ave, in Palacios and … Read more
El Campo is hosting KidFish ’25 at Legacy Pond on Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon. This free event invites kids ages 2-15 to enjoy a day of fishing, fun, and outdoor memories. Families can come out and watch young anglers cast their lines and reel in their catches. For those interested in volunteering or … Read more