El Campo, TX

PDF of print edition Marijuana possession arrests to continue Local law enforcers say they won't be using ticket option By BRENDA SOMMER bsommer@leader-news.com       Following a statewide trend, those arrested for misdemeanor marijuana possession in Wharton County are still being jailed despite a new state law allowing police to issue a citation instead of making an arrest. More ... No charges filed against driver after cyclist hit CAUTION URGED: In the past five years, seven pedestrians or cyclists have died on Wharton County roadways following collisions with motor vehicles. By SHANNON CRABTREE scrabtree@leader-news.com       No charges will be filed against an El Campo woman whose pickup struck a cyclist on New Year's Eve, according to the El Campo Police Department. Driver inattention, however, did play a factor in the 2 p.m. More ... Twist & Shout City places new slide at Friendship By SHANNON CRABTREE scrabtree@leader-news.com       The joyous shouts of small children at play are anticipated with the city's decision to add almost $10,000 in playground equipment to Friendship Park. A 12-foot tall spiral slide has already been set up at the North Wharton Street park and another swing set is on the way. More ... Burn ban debate starts despite rains By BENJAMIN SHARP news@leader-news.com       Though a state drought index indicates Wharton County has plenty of moisture, area emergency management officials are considering instituting a burn ban. An accumulation of dead undergrowth - the result of recent winter weather - has made for a dangerous situation, officials said. More ... Cardell Cabinets fighting to keep plant open STILL OPEN: This week Cardell Cabinets had 140 workers at its El Campo facility. Although they are averaging less then 40 hours a week, each still receives health benefits. Cardell By BRENDA SOMMER bsommer@leader-news.com       Cardell Cabinetry received its first job incentive check this week, holding fast to its desire to stay in place as a major El Campo employer. Cardell was set to shut down operations here last April, after a January 2007 announcement saying it planned to mothball the El Campo facility in response ... More ...