Author name: Arthur Shaw

On the evening of the 1st December, the Los Santos Police Department received reports of a male stood on a bridge on South Lancaster Avenue. Upon arrival at the scene, a male was stood on the top of the bridge structure, threatening to jump off. He was showing signs of mental health concerns, wanting to end his life. As the police arrived on the scene, the male was shouting remarks of people not caring out him, and not wanting to help. The clock began to tick, for the male to come down from the bridge. Clock Was Ticking As the police arrived on the scene, so did Priest Ramirez from the Jefferson Church. Instantly, the Priest began to scale the bridge in order to assist the male. Ignoring instructions from the officers and detectives, he proceeded to negotiate with the male, hoping that he came down without injury. Officers also called for an ambulance to the scene, incase the worse happened. However, the male was clearly suffering with mental health concerns, which this city has needed help with, for a while. While on the scene, we overheard detectives shouting through the radio for an ambulance. As the clock continued ticking, so did the risk of this male jumping. The surface of the bridge structure was slippery following the snow, which further increased the risk. We watched as the male repeatedly shouted about wanting to be alone. However, both the officers and the Priest knew that time was vital. They continued to negotiate with the male. He also kept referring to himself as done, and not cared about. Lack Of Response From The Fire Department Officers and detectives on the scene, attempted to contact the Fire Department on several occasions. However, they didn’t arrive on the scene. Likewise with the Interstate Vehicle Fire, they have further failed to meet the needs of our people. Our office has launched an investigation into the Fire Department following this incident. The response time is getting worse and the needs of our people following closely. Watching By, Hoping For The Best As Priest Ramirez continued to edge forward towards the male, a crowd of officers and detectives watched over. The Priest managed to get closer to the male, extending his hand to offer some help. However, the male couldn’t reach and remained on top of the bridge. A few moments later, the priest managed to reach the male, and guide him down the bridge. The male was promptly on the ground and safe, following the work of the Priest. Overall, a fantastic result. The Priest is really working to make a difference in this city and this has been shown in the events tonight. Without the priest, we are unsure as to what would have happened. 5 0

In our recent article on the 1st Of December, we covered the arrival of the Coca-Cola truck into Los Santos. However, through some further investigation, it seems our new Coca-Cola truck has a guest! Santa has officially arrived in Los Santos, and he has gifts for everyone. Located just off Redondo Street, the Coca-Cola truck is parked with the large Christmas Tree. Through the month of December, Santa will be sharing fresh Coca-Cola along with a variety of other gifts and presents. Each bottle of Coca-Cola from Santa will also have a chance to present you a scratch card under the label. With scratched, this will offer you a prize. He will also be giving out items, Ranging from Christmas Food Items to Cash and much more! He will remain in his sleeper cab, and stand next to the truck randomly, ready to distribute Coca-Cola and gifts to those who come to visit! While visiting the truck, we also managed to get a statement from Santa. He said; “Ho Ho Ho! Merry Christmas to everybody in Los Santos. I have stationed my truck in Idlewood, full of gifts for all the good boys and girls. Come on down and see what I’ve got for you! I hope to see each and every citizen in this fantastic city. Spreading the festive feeling and giving all of you hard working people something to enjoy this Christmas!” Items include; Where Can You Find Santa? The Coca-Cola Truck with Santa inside is located in Idlewood. 2 0

Following the rise in crime within Los Santos, people have felt testing in their religion. Also, Los Santos has lacked a place of worship for some time, with people struggling to follow and understand the story of God. Our Reporter, Sarah Shaw visited the Jefferson Street Church of Worship to find out more about the Sunday Prayer Sessions and to bring some awareness to the public. She met with Priest Ramirez at the church, to follow along and report on the session. He welcomed her with open arms, as a child of god, into the church. The Sunday Religious Session As people began to enter the church, Priest Ramirez welcomed each and every person with open arms. “Take a seat my child, and welcome to the house of god. How are you my son?” He took an interest into each person who came into the church, helping them to feel connected with god and their religion. Something that Los Santos has been lacking for a long time, especially for those who feel strongly about their religion and belief into god. One male had come to the session, expressing his love to pray. It seems this session was very much needed in the city of Los Santos, and something we hope to see continue. Session Begins Once the priest had welcomed those that attended, he began the session. He started the session with “In the name of the father and the son and the holy spirit.” “Beloved in Christ, Prayer is the lifeline of the soul, lifting us to God and drawing. His grace into our hearts. It is not merely words but a humble offering of our hearts in faith and love. Saint John Chrysostom calls prayer “the light of the soul,” and so it is. Without it, we are like a ship adrift. Through prayer, we seek God’s mercy, offer thanksgiving, and align ourselves with His holy will. Let us pray always, with humility and trust, knowing that God hears and answers in His perfect wisdom. Amen.” The room quickly filled with people repeating “Amen” following the speech from the priest. “When we pray, let us remember the words of our Lord: “When you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you Matthew 6 on 6 Prayer is not for display… but for intimacy with God, where the soul speaks to its Creator with honesty and love. Let us also pray with perseverance, trusting in God’s timing. As Saint Paul exhorts us, Pray without ceasing.” The priest continued to read several verses from the bible, reciting them all from memory. Showing his knowledge as a true follower of God and the religion. The room had a spiritual atmosphere around it, with people connecting with one and other. Connecting With God, Celebrating Religion Los Santos is a place with a lot of crime. However, we often have to celebrate the positive parts of Los Santos too. People came together this evening to share their religion and to follow the journey of god. This is something that people have needed for a long time. The church will offer a lot to the community of Los Santos and a place for people to follow. Overall, a fantastic community session held, and one that needs to continue into the future. 3 0

We have finally reached December. The time of festive celebrations, the end of another year and a Special Election here in Los Santos. December is action-packed in Los Santos, with Santa visiting and a new mayor due to take office on the 19th of December, it’s an exciting time for all. In this article, we have covered everything you need to know so far, about December and what to expect. Special Election A new mayor is due to take office this month, following a special election from Governor Blackwood. He released a statement following the resignation of Emma Nilsen, stating that he has called an election under “extraordinary circumstances”. The key dates to make note of include; We are currently in the Registration Period. You can register your intention to run for the position of mayor by contacting the Governor’s office. ((Message Barry Martin On Discord)) Santa Has Come To Visit Alongside the election, Santa has come to visit Los Santos. Over the last few days, we have seen preparation take place in Idlewood. With a large Christmas tree being delivered and a Coca-Cola Truck parked on an open piece of land next to Piston Playground. We speculate that Santa may be working with Coca-Cola to provide some gifts for the citizens of Los Santos. As we know more, we will keep you informed! Ps. What’s that? A scratch card? Festivities Of course, December is the month of Christmas! Many local businesses are beginning to make an effort for the festive period, putting up lights and advertisements on special offers. The Los Santos Police Department are also working around the clock to make sure the city remains safe during this great time of the year. However, Christmas is also a time of criminal activity. Homes and businesses are targeted for presents and other high-value items. Make sure your property is secure and make any preparations for your items early to avoid disappointment. 2 0

On the evening of November 30th, the Los Santos Police Department got reports of a gate break-in on Maccer Street, Willowfield. Upon arriving at the address, the lock on the gate had been damaged and the gate had been forced open. The land contained two vehicles, registered to a member of the Gvardia Family. Upon further inspection, the owner has relations with the neighbouring garage, Fix N Tune, with it being owned by other members of the Gvardia Family. However, a few weeks ago, Los Santos Traffic Services had issued a warrant on this same piece of land for illegal parking. It was confirmed that those parking were from the same family, using the land for their own vehicles as bulk storage. As a result, the owner of the land had a gate installed, to prevent further parking. However, it seems the criminals responsible for the gate break-in, didn’t find it much trouble to break the lock. Illegal Parking On The Rise Since Los Santos Traffic Services was suspended from duty, the amount of Illegal Parking in the city has risen dramatically. People are parking across sidewalks, on private driveways and much more. This follows the suspension of Towing Operations after a recent court case into unfair parking enforcement in the city. However, this has had a detrimental effect on our streets. People are now resulting into criminal damage in order to park their vehicles, which is unacceptable. We have written to the Los Santos Traffic Services Director, Cletus Taylor, for comment. 3 3

As we close on November, and December begins, Christmas is only a few weeks away. The city of Los Santos has began to prepare for the festive period, with Christmas Trees being delivered across the city and festive lights showing. Christmas is a key time for the city, with the spending of money increased, and also crime. The Los Santos Police Department is looking to increase their officers on active patrol over the festive period, which is great to see. However, you should also look to keep your property safe too. As a homeowner or renter, check over your door locks and also look at the range of additional security measures available through retailers. It is important that you keep your property and items safe “The Holidays Are Coming” Alongside the new Christmas trees, we have also seen a Coca-Cola truck appear in Idlewood. An icon sign at Christmas time, this is a sure indication as to the fact that Christmas is on the way. Some speculation would indicate some key events here during the month of December. However, as we know more, we will look to confirm. Overall, Christmas is a fantastic time of year. However, it is also one to be cautious of. Make sure you continue to look after yourself and loved ones during the cold weather. 2 0

Starting and running a business in Los Santos is expensive. The outgoings required for a business can quickly spend your starting budget, leaving you struggling for growth. Also, getting the initial startup funds that are required can be it’s own challenge. However, the Los Santos Government have a funding scheme in place, allowing you to request funding and loans for your business. In this article, we have covered the Business Funding Information from the Los Santos Government. How Can Business Funding Help? Business funding can be the difference between opening a business and not. Some of the startup costs required for a business include; The business funding available can help with this. Remaining financially afloat during the early stages will allow you to overcome the financial challenges and also allow for you to work towards long-term success. How To Access Business Funding To access business funding with the Los Santos Government, you need to visit the website. However, you need to prepare some information first. View Business Funding Here The layout for your application includes; “Business Name: [Insert Business Name]Contact Person: [Insert Full Name]Phone Number: [Insert Phone Number]Email Address: [Insert Email Address]Loan Amount Requested: $[Insert Amount] Reason for Loan Request:Provide a detailed explanation for the loan request, including the purpose, goals, and expected outcomes. Current Financial Situation:Provide an overview of the business’s current financial situation, including revenue, expenses, and how the loan will be utilized. Category – Tick all that applyThis loan request is for:Business ExpansionEquipment PurchaseCapital ImprovementsOperational FundingOtherSpecify, if other: N/A” The primary fields that you need to ensure you are prepared for is the reason for your loan, and your current financial situation within the business. The finance office need to understand why you require the funding, and what you are spending it on within your business. Also, make sure you include the correct information about your business. Start Your Business Today With funding available, there is nothing stopping you from opening your first business. Using the funding will allow you to start and grow your business without the financial worries that can often prevent the launch. Shaw News also offers advertisement packages, further helping your business to grow in Los Santos. 7 0

Following the announcement of the Special Election, Governor Blackwood held an informational session outside the city hall on the 30th November. This session was an opportunity for the public to understand key dates around the Election, ask any questions and also register their intention to run for the position of Mayor. Following this session, we have liaised with Governor Blackwood to release an official statement with the key information you require. “Dear Citizens of Los Santos, As we approach the upcoming election season, I want to take a moment to inform you about the key dates and processes involved in the upcoming election cycle. This election is an important opportunity for all residents to shape the future of our great city, and we are committed to ensuring a transparent and organized process for all involved. To kick off the election period, the Week of Registration will run from December 1st through 7th. During this week, prospective candidates will be able to formally register and begin the process of running for office. Following registration, we will enter Campaigning Week, which will span from December 8th through 15th. During this time, candidates will have the opportunity to engage with the community through various outlets. ((forums, in-game events, and news outlets)). This is your chance to learn more about the candidates and their vision for the future of Los Santos. The Election Days will take place on December 15th and 16th. On these days, all eligible voters will be able to cast their ballots and choose the candidate they feel will best serve the city. Finally, the Results Day will occur on December 18th, when the official election results will be announced. The newly elected Mayor will take office on December 19th. We look forward to a successful election and to welcoming our new Mayor in December. Best regards,Governor Thaddeus BlackwoodOffice of the GovernorState Capitol Building” Registration Now Open If you are interested in running for the position of Mayor or District Council, the registrations are now open. Please note, you require; Mayoral Candidates: City Council Candidates: (( OOC Requirements: To declare your intention to run, you must contact the Office Of The Governor. ((Message Barry Martin on Discord)) Best of luck. 5 0

On the evening of the 29th November, several 911 calls were made, reporting a vehicle on fire at the side of the interstate. The vehicle was in a large blaze, with gas, oil and car parts surrounding the sidewalk. Upon arrival at the scene, the vehicle was burning with a male inside. Shaw News were the first on the scene, attempting to fight the fire with a fire extinguisher, part of the duty fleet. However, the blaze continued to grow. Shortly afterwards, a police officer arrived. However, the Fire Department didn’t respond to the call for at least 10 minutes after. The Fire Department Finally Responds After a long ten minutes or so of the vehicle burning, the fire department responded to the call and arrived on the scene. The firefighter attempted to open the vehicle door with a crowbar, but was unsuccessful in her first attempt. The debris on the sidewalk was stunning. With oil, gas and car parts littering the sidewalk like general rubbish, the vehicle continued to burn. The fuel from the vehicle also managed to catch fire, further fueling the blaze. Once the male was out of the vehicle, the firefighter continued to fight the blaze. While the fire was attended to, the police officer assessed the male. The male was found to contain signs of a head injury, along with some internal bleeding. He continued to lay on the ground, with a weak pulse. Quickly after the initial assessment, the male showed signs of breathing struggles. The officer continued to use a BVM, in order to provide oxygen to the male. However, the male didn’t respond, with his heart rate low and falling. It was confirmed that his heart rate was 35 BPM and falling, while also bleeding from his cuts and burns. The firefighter began to assist once the fire was out. The firefighter along with the officer from the LSPD continued to work on the male. We overheard the officer request an ambulance, however it was mentioned that no ambulances were available within the department. As the team continued to assess and treat the male, it was quickly uncovered that he had a range of second and third degree burns from the fire. Around 8 minutes after the conversation about ambulances, one arrived on the scene to assist with the male. The police officer had also assessed the male’s pupils to find indication of a brain injury. The team from the ambulance got a stretcher from the ambulance, rushing over to the male. Within a few minutes, the male was placed on a board, then onto the stretcher for transport. The driver of the vehicle was then transported to a nearby hospital. 9 0

As the snow continues to fall in Los Santos, it seems some drivers are still experiencing issues on the roads. On the evening of November 29th, the Los Santos Police Department received reports of a vehicle accident in El Pecado. A vehicle had come off the road and crashed into a tree. The vehicle was showing signs of steam coming from under the hood. The driver was also injured as a result of the accident, with clear cuts and wounds. As we watched over the incident, a police officer along with Brian Allen from the Los Santos Fire Department tended to the male in the vehicle, while being off-duty. We also heard the police officer inform the driver of her intention to suspend his drivers license as a result. The impact had deployed the airbags within the vehicle, indicating that the accident was quite severe. LSPD Covering The Fire Department Following the vehicle accident, the driver was injured and had several cuts, wounds and internal injuries. Typically, this would require an ambulance to transport the male. However, it seems the claimed response times for the Fire Department are not as accurate as we would like to believe. We witnessed a police officer from the LSPD, lay thermal blankets across the rear seats of her vehicle, in order to transport the male to the local hospital. While this is fantastic to see, this is the job that taxpayers contribute towards the Fire Department for. During the time of the incident, not a single ambulance arrived on the scene. Therefore causing officers to transport patients using police vehicles. Snow Continues To Risk Lives The snow continues to risk lives of drivers on our roads. The blanket of snow on our roads means less traction, and more accidents. While most drivers follow the guidance and advice, it seems the select few are still learning how snow on the roads works. While the snow continues to fall, the risk continues to grow. If you are driving on our roads, apply caution. Drive slowly and brake early. 3 0