El Campo, TX

PDF of print edition Lawsuit seeks annexation vote or hold on city election By SHANNON CRABTREE scrabtree@leader-news.com       An appeals court plea filed Monday requests either an expedited hearing on El Campo annexation petitions or for justices to stop the upcoming City Council election. And the city has until next Monday to respond. More ... Cornerstone True and Trusty       Masons and school officials turned out Saturday morning for a cornerstone leveling ceremony at the new El Campo Middle School. The ceremony traces its history back some 300 years in the U.S. More ... Opening arguments start in DWI murder case Prosecutors say Guillermo Paniagua admitted to drinking before driving. His vehicle collided with that of Needville ISD Police Chief Ernie Mendoza. But the defense said it will prove both drivers were at fault in the head-on collision. By BARRY HALVORSON news@leader-news.com       Opening statements by both the prosecution and defense were short and to the point as testimony in the felony murder trial of Guillermo Paniagua Paniagua started in district court Tuesday morning. More ... KCS announces plans for Kendleton $300M switchyard "Its growth will come slowly and over time," - Michael M. Mullen, CEO CenterPoint Properties BY DON MUNSCH dmunsch@fbherald.com       Kansas City Southern Railway last week announced construction plans for a large distribution park and rail facility that will bring up to 2,000 jobs and spark significant economic development in far west Fort Bend County. Eastern Wharton County could benefit from the project as well. More ... Louise prom rolls out red carpet without any drunken stumbles "No one tripped up on their breathing," - Superintendent Andy Peters By BRENDA SOMMER bsommer@leader-news.com       Louise High School prom attendees passed a unique test with flying colors before they entered their "Red Carpet Evening" Saturday night. For the first time, students attending the prom were required to pass an alcohol breath test before entering the formal dance. More ...