News for Kindred Game, 1/8/99
Weather
Weather continues to be a problem in Austin. The unseasonable
cold weather has resulted in lower than normal Christmas sales. Businesses
also suffer from other problems as transportation interferes with shipping
and transportation. Workers find themselves unable to find transportation
to work as temperatures continue to drop. Normally Austin is a mecca
for homeless, but many have died. They are pushing the resources
of many charities. Many churches have set themselves up as emergency
shelters.
Terrorism
The multi-task force is still investigating the bombings in Austin
on the 21st of November. Currently several federal agencies
along with state and local authorities are trying to work together.
The authorities refuse to speculate if the bombing of the Capital Building,
the UT tower, Elizabeth Ney Museum, 2 exclusive small clubs, an empty lot,
are related. Retired Federal Charles Lester has come out of retirement
to head this multi force. Judge Lester was picked for his prior experience
with reactionary movements in the early 70's. Current investigations are
said to be focused on the Republic of Texas militia movement.
Legal
The Legislature passed two bills, which libertarians applaud as a
movement for freedom. The first is
· HR 739 - a bill to repeal antiquated laws regarding
sexual conduct between consenting adults. Basically no form of sexual
conduct is now illegal between adults.
· HR 2323 - decriminalization of therapeutic amounts of
formerly restricted drugs. The basics of the law will be to
decriminalize the possession of certain drugs that are currently
illegal. Possession of 2 oz of Marijuana, 1 oz of Opium Derivatives and
1 oz of Meth amphetamines will no longer be a crime. Police will
no longer make arrests for possession of these amount of substances, instead
the possessor will be ticketed and fined.
OOC>Note this is for Austin, I don't think this has been approved by the RST)
Religion
Church Authorities are working with local police to solve the vandalism
that has occurred in several Austin churches. Vandals defaced statues
of Jesus and some saints by fitting them with top hats and denim vests.
The words "It's only a only a social convention" was spray painted
on the walls. "Its very bizarre", said Catholic spokesman Cardinal
Raul Esteban, "the top hat is associated with certain voodoo cults, so
we can't help but wonder." Local police refused to comment other
to say that they are investigating.
Crime
A group of juveniles in custody, part of a "boot camp" style discipline
program are currently in Austin. With the purpose of fighting
crime by training young offenders with military style discipline, the program
has had very good results. The mission of the newly arrived group is to
perform public service in such areas as parks and public owned buildings.
"No the cold weather isn't stopping us, builds character, Ma'am!", said
a newly shaved teenager standing at attention.
Candi Cabaniss, 9704-049