ABN News, Capital City, Isla de Mariyah, Las Gracias, Local Government

Many citizens are shocked and outraged at Mayor Cornelius Johnson’s latest announcement. For months, environmental activists have protested and picketed against the proposed drilling project on Isla de Mariyah. This tiny island lies just southwest of the Las Gracias shore. Occupied primarily by natives, this small chunk of land hasn’t received too much interest. Only a few developers have tried to build on the beautiful beaches, but negotiations with the natives have constantly fallen through. Now it seems as though one royal family, in conjunction with the New Sienna Royal Government, has set their sights on a rare element called Protonium. Most people have never heard of the stuff, but these bigwigs are making one big deal over its discovery. It seems the last time surveyors found a source of Protonium this plentiful, was almost over 15 years ago. Back during the Keyoshian War, The VOND Corp discovered a bounty of the element that proved to be highly lucrative. But, like most excavations for natural resources, the well eventually ran dry. This left the corporation scrambling to find another well. Now, only last year, VOND Corp officials set their eyes on Isla de Mariyah. Their efforts have been hit with much resistance. However, Mayor Johnson’s speech may be bringing that all to an end. He addressed the anxious crowd at a press conference this morning. “I understand the concerns of our tree-hugging friends who have made their voices heard down at City Hall. I also understand the needs of our biggest corporations, who, by the way, help keep our fine city running with their jobs, investments, and taxes. “My panel of scientific experts has assured me that this drilling project will cause no significant damage to the environment. And let me tell you, I believe my experts. The benefits of drilling, in our opinion, far outweigh the trivial concerns these activists are raising. Would you believe that just a minute amount of this substance could fuel all the homes and businesses in Capital City, for a month?!“I see nothing but good things coming from this excavation. That being said, with the backing of some of the world’s brightest minds, I stand behind the drilling on Isla de Mariyah. The VOND Corp, and all related parties, have the official support of Capital City in this matter.”It is uncertain if the mayor received the response he was hoping for. His announcement was met with jeers and boos from the crowd. In closing, Mayor Johnson simply smiled, waved, and thanked everyone for their time and votes. When we contacted The VOND Corp reps regarding the planned start date for the drilling, they had no comment. Though the corporation is silent now, we have a feeling this won’t be the last we hear about this issue.