El Paso Hispanic Center Important Locally & Nationally + More Local News

El Paso Hispanic Center Important Locally & Nationally

A California congressman says El Paso's proposed Hispanic cultural center is important nationally as well as locally. Congressman Xavier Becerra says the successful completion of the Hispanic center could spur other communities to follow suit, and would increase the positive perception of Hispanic contribution to American history. Becerra spoke Monday at a reception at the Chamizal National Memorial. The congressman has actively supported establishment of a national museum for American Latinos in Washington, D.C.

Sunland Park Continues Move To Annex Land

The city of Sunland Park is continuing its move to annex land from Santa Teresa that would be used for a housing development. The city approved a petition to annex 229 acres of land on which a developer plans to build 800 homes. Those who spoke against the plan yesterday say the council does not have a final map in place showing exactly what will be included in the annexation. The petition will now be reviewed by the Dona Ana County Board of Commissioners Committee.

El Paso Lawmaker To Lead State Transportation Transparency Panel

An El Paso lawmaker who champions transparency in government will lead a committee that aims to review the way Texas deals with transportation needs. State Representative Joe Pickett was picked to head the House Select Committee on Transportation Planning last week. Pickett, who already chairs the House Transportation Committee, is a champion of channeling more funds into state transportation projects. But he says the government needs to make sure the public knows exactly how that money is being used. His committee is expected to make recommendations to the Legislature late next year.

Police Investigate Collision That Ejected Child From Car

El Paso Police continue to investigate a collision that left a child injured. Officers say Nathally Hernandez failed to properly yield to oncoming traffic while trying to make a left turn onto Trans Mountain Road yesterday. She was hit by another car, and the impact threw the 4 year old out of Hernandez's SUV. Investigators say the child was not properly belted into a car seat. The child was treated at a local hospital and is expected to recover from her injuries. No charges have been placed while police continue their investigation.

Police Arrest Suicidal Man After Long Standoff

A man who demanded El Paso Police shoot him during an hours-long standoff is now being evaluated at a local hospital. Investigators say the man was armed with knives when he barricaded himself inside a home on Robert Street near Maxwell Avenue yesterday afternoon around 3 p.m. It took nearly four hours for police to coax him out of the home, taking him into custody and to a hospital for a mental evaluation. No one was hurt during the standoff.