El Campo, TX

PDF of print edition Middle school moving to new campus Monday "We're moving this weekend," - Principal Rodney Montello By BRENDA SOMMER bsommer@leader-news.com       As planned, students will hold their first day of classes at the new El Campo Middle School on Monday. "We're moving this weekend," ECMS Principal Rodney Montello said. "The moving process started weeks ago, moving items we didn't need to conduct class, such as football equipment and extra textbo... More ... CR 418 replacement bridge nears completion Foundation Rises By SHANNON CRABTREE scrabtree@leader-news.com       A dirt road shortcut destroyed in an October 2007 arson attack could reopen before the end of the month as construction of a new bridge nears completion. Wakefield Bridge of Wharton anticipates two to three weeks more work is needed on the replacement CR 418 bridge. More ... Law enforcers cracking down on animal abuse cases By BRENDA SOMMER bsommer@leader-news.com       Two people were jailed on animal cruelty charges last week, arrests in line with recent changes in pet-related state laws. According to El Campo Police Lt. Terry Stanphill, two people were leaving a convenience store on Jan. 28 when from the road they saw two dogs, each around 30 pounds., tied up... More ... Troopers seize $200K in cocaine in traffic stop Third Major Bust Of The Year By BRENDA SOMMER bsommer@leader-news.com       Troopers at the Pierce Department of Public Safety office made their third major drug-related seizure of the year Saturday when they found cocaine hidden in a secret compartment underneath a sedan. On Saturday, Feb. 2, at a little before 8 p.m., Trooper Jose Mena pulled over a 2000 Ford Taurus fo... More ...