Jael Ortega, 17, suffered severe head and chest injuries in an auto collision on Friday, 26 February. Despite the best efforts of medical professionals at the highly regarded hospital, Mr Ortega slipped into a coma a week ago from which he never awoke.

Staff and students at Port Arthur’s Memorial High School gathered yesterday evening to pay tribute to the popular honors student. Senior Counselor Darla Shirley said, “I just can’t believe it. He was a kid with such a bright future, and we were desperate for him to pull through. It’s a tragedy.”

In related news, police will not press serious charges against the three students who were questioned on DUI charges after the collision. Officer David Beran of the Port Arthur police said, “Although two of the minors had clearly been drinking, it seems that the driver was sober. Two students have been charged with consumption of alcohol by a minor, and fined. We sympathise with the family of Mr Ortega, but it seems clear that this was a terrible accident and not the result of drunk driving.”

We spoke with a member of a guerrilla gardening group who wished to remain anonymous. “We’ve petitioned the city council to address the issues of local pollution, public eyesores and general neglect to no effect, so we’re taking matters into our own hands,” they said. “We know that what we’re doing is illegal, but we’re hoping that the police will realise that all we’re doing is giving our own time and resources to make our city cleaner and prettier for all its residents.”

A police spokesman said, “While we have some sympathy with the aim of improving the local environment, illegal action isn’t the way to go about it.”

Please direct any downtime queries and actions to Robin Cannon, VST Requiem.

Three other students of Memorial High School are being questioned by police on DUI charges after the two car collision.

Ortega was ranked #2 in his year and was well known in the local community for his volunteer work. Senior Counselor Darla Shirley said, “It’s terrible. Jael was a real asset to the school and the community, and has a bright future ahead of him. We’re all praying for his recovery.”

“We want to provide a truly exceptional health and fitness experience to our clients,” said manager Joyce Radley. “We have best facilities possible, 24-hour secure access, personal training and personal attention.

Please direct any queries or downtime actions to Robin Cannon, VST Requiem.

First Stage Of Hotel Beaumont Development Complete

Lionza Holdings, owners of Hotel Beaumont, have announced the completion of the first stage of the redevelopment of Hotel Beaumont. “Bar Kun”, a Japanese themed bar, is due to open on 8 December after work was completed this week. Redevelopment project manager Alessia Lombardo said, “it’s just the first part of a large scale redevelopment, and there’s a lot of work still to be done. But we’re delighted that the first part of the development is complete and we’re going to be letting customers in to enjoy the first part of an exciting new aspect to Beaumont’s nightlife”. Bar Kun will be hosting an invite only opening party on 7 December, and opening its doors to the public the day after.

Local Billionaire Returns Home

Tom Hicks has returned to his home in Port Arthur for the first time since the recent arson attack on his property. Police have made no arrests following the attack on several buildings on Mr Hicks’ estate, stating that they believe it was an isolated incident with no deeper motivations. Mr Hick’s spokesman said, “Mr Hicks is delighted that the property is repaired. Port Arthur is his home, and he intends for it to remain so. He’s disappointed that no arrests have been made, but he has no intention of reducing his involvement in the local area, a place where he grew up and is proud to come from.”

Council Discusses Urban Clearance Plans

Beaumont City Council has been discussing what has been described as an “aggressive urban clearance plan”. Councilman Audwin M Samuel of Ward 3 proposed that the Council address the increasing number of long term derelict properties in the city, either through redevelopment or dereliction. The Council is still in the early stages of discussion, but Councilman Samuel made a statement to the press, “The recent moves to address environmental concerns in the Gulf should bring home more local concerns. Derelict buildings are both environmental dangers and a haven for crime. We should move to promote redevelopment plans such as the Hotel Beaumont and, in the absence of that, look to clear buildings that show no potential for redevelopment or purchase.”

D’Vine Wine Seeks Expansion

Local winery merchant D’Vine Winery of Beaumont is seeking to expand its location. The franchise of D’Vine Winery, based on Phelan Avenue, has announced that it wishes to expand into local wine production rather than merely import/export. Owner Dale Moreno said, “We’ve got a good customer base and a great selection of wines. But we genuinely think that there’s the potential for developing a local wine industry that’s not dependent on imports from elsewhere. If California can become a world wine producing centre, why not Texas?”

Please direct all in-character queries and downtime actions to Robin Cannon, VST Requiem.

Three Killed In Bizarre Abandoned School Blaze

The bodies of three men have been discovered in the remains of Vincent Elementary School, which burned to the ground last night. The abandoned school, which has been marked for demolition, burned after a bizarre incident which saw a flatbed truck drive into the main entrance door around 2am Saturday. Police investigators have said they believe the school was being used by a local gang, and that the crash and subsequent blaze may have been an attack by a rival gang.

High School Football Star Cleared

PNG High School football team running back Darrell Mason has been cleared by police of criminal activity, following his arrest last month on suspicion of drug possession. All charges were dropped after it was accepted that Mr Mason was subjected to an unwarranted search by police. PNG High School Athletic Director Brandon Faircloth said, “We stood by Darrell, and we’re pleased that this unsavory incident is behind us. Darrell and the team are having a great season, and we fully expect that continue despite this distraction.”

Damaged Oil Rig Saved

Local environmental groups have expressed relief at the recent purchase and apparent salvage of an oil rig which they had feared would break apart. The rig, Neptune Discovery, was built in 1977 and was badly damaged by Hurricane Ike last year. Environmental groups had feared that the bankruptcy of the owners this January would mean the rig being allowed to collapse, causing severe environmental damage and pollution to the local coastal area. No details have been released of the purchasing parties, but reports suggest that vital repair work necessary to avoid immediate disintegration of the rig structure is already underway.

Gas Station Attacks Cease

Port Arthur police have expressed relief at the apparent end of a local crime spree which saw several individuals accosted at local gas stations. After several attacks in the space of a week, no further crimes have been reported in the past few weeks. Local police stated, “we believe that this was probably the work of a single individual, of no fixed abode, who has now moved on from the area.”

Please direct all in-character queries and downtime actions to Robin Cannon, ADST Requiem.

Historians Dismayed Over Theft

Members of the SouthEast Texas Genealogical & Historical Society have said they are “shocked and saddened” at the apparent theft of recently discovered historical documents. The documents, a draft copy of the 1837 agreement which led to the formation of Beaumont, had recently come to light after an anonymous donation. Soon after news of their discovery was made public, the offices of the Historical Society were broken into and the documents taken. No other items were reported stolen, and police are working on the basis that the documents were stolen “to order”. Historical Society Chairman Daniel B. Churchwell said “We’re shocked. I don’t know what monetary value someone thinks the documents will have, they were of historical interest only. To have had them for such a brief time and then had them taken away is devastating.”

Police Release Professor, Students From Protective Custody

Police have released several Lamar University students and a Professor who had been taken into protective custody following several homicides on the Lamar University campus. It has now been more two months since the last attack and, with no further incidences of violence connected with the case, police believe the individuals are no longer in direct danger. Lt. Frederica Barron explained, “We believe that the killer has been scared off by the intense police pressure. We’ll continue our search of course, and fully expect to bring the fugitive to justice, but we’re confident that the individuals concerned are no longer at immininent risk of attack.” No arrests have been made in connection with the murders of several Lamar University MBA students in August and September.

Star Running Back Arrested

PNG High School Football team running back Darrell Mason has been released on bail after an arrest for drug possession. The senior was arrested last Wednesday evening at 10pm after his car was observed “driving wildly”. The arresting officer reported smelling marijuana smoke when he approached the vehicle, and conducted a search on that basis. An undisclosed amount of marijuana was apparently found on Mr Mason, and he was arrested and taken into custody. PNG High School Athletic Director, Brandon Faircloth, has said that Mason, who is on course for the most successful yardage gained by an Indians’ running back since 1983, will continue to be available for the team. “We believe in ‘innocent until proven guilty’,” he said. Many parents, however, have contacted the school expressing their concerns at the example set by such a prominent senior role model.

Late Arrival, Early Departure Angers Fans

Fans of Grammy award winning artist Trey Songz expressed “anger and frustration” after the star’s appearance last week at Beaumont’s Club Essence. The club had remained open to host the singer’s appearance despite cancelling all other events after the death of manager Charles Jordan a few days earlier. Fans waited some 90 minutes from the scheduled start time of Trey Songz’s performance before the singer appeared, and were enraged when he left the stage after only three numbers. LaTrixia Hightower, who had travelled from Orange to see the show, said “I thought it was a joke at first. We didn’t mind him being late, all stars do that. But he was only on stage for no more than 10 minutes, and then he was gone! Everyone was hanging out at first, thinking he was going to come back, but then they started shoving and complaining.” Club Essence waitress, Clara Harris, said “We worked really hard to keep the club open for this performance, despite the tragedy we suffered, because we knew how many people were excited to see the show. Then Trey Songz was only here for a little while and he walked off. He wouldn’t talk to anyone, just kept saying something about ‘bad vibes’ and then he left.”

Police Concerned At Gas Station Attacks

Port Arthur police have expressed “increasing concern” at a number of late night attacks at local gas stations. Four attacks have occurred in the past week, with victims accosted as they returned to their cars after purchasing items. Though no serious injuries were suffered, police are advising extreme vigilance to anyone using a gas station between the hours of 1am and 5am in the Port Arthur area. “We believe we’re looking for a blond, bearded man in his late thirties or early forties. The public should be extremely wary of any stranger approaching them at local gast stations.”

Please direct all in-character queries and downtime actions to Robin Cannon, ADST Requiem.

Council Approves Rave Group Security Measures

Beaumont City Council and local police have expressed satisfaction with “rapid and effective” measures taken by a local rave group to improve event security. The future of the events had been in doubt after violence broke out at a recent party, leading to a re-examination of safety and security considerations. Event manager Teresa Kelly announced the retention of Pinkerton Consulting & Investigations, part of the international Securitas Security Services group, to provide security for the events. John Speegle or Beaumont City Council said, “It’s impossible to deny Pinkerton’s reputation for highly effective security. We’re confident that having taken such significant steps to safeguard event attendees that future events will pass off peacefully.”

Club Manager Found Dead

The manager of Club Essence in Beaumont has been found dead. The body of Charles Jordan, 38, was found at the Orleans Street venue when cleaning staff arrived on Tuesday morning. Beaumont Police have stated that they are treating the death as “suspicious” and are awaiting full autopsy results. Mr Jordan had been manager of the club for two years. Club staff expressed shock at the news. Said one employee, “Chuck was a good guy, and a good boss. He’d really turned the club around and we enjoyed working with him. It’s just terrible.” Fans of Grammy Award winning R&B singer Trey Songz will still be able to attend his appearance at the club on Monday, but other events in the next week have been cancelled.

Excitement Over Draft Charter Discovery

Local historians have expressed their excitement and surprise at the recent discovery of historial documents related to the formation of the town of Beaumont. A draft copy of an 1837 agreement between J.P. Pulsifer & Co, Joseph Grigsby and Nancy Tevis over land contributions was donated anonymously to the SouthEast Texas Genealogical & Historical Society. The Chairman of the Society, Daniel B. Churchwell, said “It’s a fabulous find. We didn’t even know such a document existed, and it’s fascinating to see the differences between the draft document and the final agreement that led to the formation of Beaumont.”

Questions Over Ames’ Involvement In Chamber Improvements

Local community activist George Colbert has filed suit in District Court for the release of documents pertaining to the recent renovations of Beaumont City Council chambers. Colbert suggests that the $600,000 renovations were not only unnecessary, but that Mayor of Beaumont Becky Ames received political donations in return for awarding the renovation contract. The recently completed work included soundproofing and changes to the seating in the chamber. Ames’ office will contest the suit, due to be heard on 15 October.

PNG Indians Running Back Attacked

PNG Indians High School Football team’s star running back, senior Darrell Mason, was attacked last night following his team’s 23-7 victory over the Nederland Bulldogs. Mason was walking to his car after the game when he was set upon by three men who he claims were wearing Bulldogs’ related sportswear. The teenager, who ran for 101 yards and a touchdown in the victory, suffered slight facial injuries but was able to flee his attackers. Police have said that they are also investigating two reports of vandalism to Indians’ players’ cars in the aftermath of their victory.

Please direct all in-character queries and downtime actions to Robin Cannon, ADST Plot.

Narcotics Sting Case Collapses

Jefferson County Narcotics Officers expressed “extreme disappointment” after the case against four men charged with illegal gun possession and drug trafficking charges collapsed. The Prosecuting Attorney abandoned the case following the escape of a fifth man from custody immediately after the initial arrests. Jason Roberts, 23, escaped with assistance from two individuals impersonating police officers and remains at large. Lt. Rodney Monroe said to local press, “It’s a real setback. A great deal of work from a great many dedicated people has been undermined. We’ll continue the search for Mr Roberts, and while this is a setback we’ll still succeed in stamping out this illegal trade.”

Redevelopment Plans Move Forward Quickly

Local business owners in Beaumont city centre have expressed surprise at the speed at which planning approval has been granted for the redevelopment of Hotel Beaumont. One nightclub owner, who wished to remain anonymous, said “these things usually get stuck in committee for months, but these plans were only submitted a few weeks ago and already they’ve got the go ahead. I don’t see how the authorities can really have made a proper evaluation.” Alessia Lombardo, project manager of the redevelopment for owners Lionza Holdings, said “we’re delighted that local government has seen the benefits of financial investment in this difficult economic time. Our regeneration is going to create jobs and benefit the city as a whole.”

Violence Targets Local Rave Group

A local group which organises not-for-profit raves and parties in the Jefferson County area saw a violent end to a recent event. Linda Delatorre, a bartender at the event, said “It was horrible. We’ve been running these events for ages, and it’s always a great and friendly atmosphere. Then these guys turned up and started pushing over equipment and beating up some of the party goers.” Local police have expressed concerns and said that permission for such events is based on considerations such as security arrangements. “If an event like this can’t be held peacefully then we’d definitely have to reevaluate their right to hold more in future,” said John Speegle of Beaumont City Council.

High Speed Crash Kills One

An explosion initially thought to be a gas refinery accident was proven to be a high speed auto crash. Local investigators said that the driver of a top of the range Lamborghini Gallardo “supercar” lost control at over 200 mph. “It’s crazy,” said traffic officer Simon Woodson, “I’ve never seen a crash at these kind of speeds. Not only was it a $200,000 car, but it had a nitrous oxide injection too. The driver must have had a death wish.” While the explosion occurred near a gas refinery, no other damage was caused. The police identified the driver as the car’s registered owner, Anthony Martino, 36.

Arsonist Targets Port Arthur Billionaire’s Home

Port Arthur police reported that the Port Arthur home of billionaire Tom Hicks was the subject of an arson attack which caused significant damage to several outbuildings. Hicks, owner of the Texas Rangers, Dallas Stars and 50% sharehold in English soccer club Liverpool FC, was not present at the time. A spokesman for Hicks Holding LLC said, “Mr Hicks is appalled at this attack, and is just grateful that nobody was hurt.” Police said they have identified no motive for the attack, but investigations are continuing.

Please direct all in-character queries and downtime actions to Robin Cannon, ADST Plot.

Tyrell Park Staff Mourn Loss Of Rare Orchid

Staff members at the Tyrell Park Botanical Gardens have expressed sadness over the death of one of the park’s primary attractions. A white flowered vanda coerulea forma luwangba, one of only a handful found outside the Manipur region of India, died an apparent replanting failed. Volunteer Beatrice Tanzi said “there was no replanting scheduled, so it looks like someone’s made a terrible mistake. It’s a real shame, it was a beautiful and rare flower.’

Police Believe Body To Be Missing Student

Beaumont Police say that they believe a body discovered this week in the Hillbrandt Bayou may be that of missing Lamar University student Thomas Chen. Lt Detective Frank Tomlinson, the lead crime scene investigator, released a statement; “We’re still waiting to confirm identification, but we know that we’re looking at a young man of Asian descent, who died of a single stab wound. The body appears to have been submerged for several weeks at least.”

Sting Operation Pays Dividends

Five men are expected to be charged with illegal gun possession and drug trafficking charges after their arrest in a drug sting on Tuesday. Jefferson County Narcotics officers caught the men participating in a multi-county drug deal as part of a long term surveillance operation. The men were in possession of several thousand dollars worth of heroin, and will be charged with intent to distribute. Lt. Rodney Monroe said to press, “This is not only a victory in the war on drugs, we also believe these arrests will impact on local gang related activity and organized crime.”

“No Leads” In Church Vandalisms, Despite Sighting

An attempted break-in at Starlight Missionary Baptist Church was foiled last night when local parishioners surprised three men, who fled when discovered. The parishioners were patrolling the area in response to the spate of vandalism over the past two months and surprised the vandals at around 2am. One of the patrol group, Dorothy Baney, said “We’ve been keeping an eye on the church because we don’t want to see it fall foul of these vandals. We heard some glass break and shouted at the three men, who ran off while we called the police.” Police have said the vandals had fled the area before they arrived, and while understanding the desire of parishioners to protect their places of worship have advised them to exercise caution.

Hotel Beaumont Redevelopment “To Include Restaurant, Nightclub”

The newly purchased Hotel Beaumont is to be redeveloped into “Beaumont’s premier evening entertainment and social venue” according to Alessia Lombardo of Lionza Holdings. Ms Lombardo, who was recently announced as Project Manager of the redevelopment, said that the venue will feature an exclusive nightclub, bar and cocktail lounge, and a high quality restaurant. “We’re confident that the Hotel Beaumont project will stand out as the best entertainment facility Beaumont has to offer.” The city planning office had no comment on any redevelopment plans submitted since the hotel’s purchase.