The Jeltronian Bulletin [News Thread]

[Jeltronia]

[Jeltronia]

October 19, 2016

Stephen Group to intensify foreign acquisitions

Royally-affiliated conglomerate, Stephen Prime Holdings Corporation (SPHC), will be increasing its investments in and acquisitions of companies abroad, in a bid to further diversify its portfolio and sustain the positive performance of all its business units.

In a special press briefing, SPHC Chief Investment Officer Miss Ji Soo Yi announced that the company will be earmarking 14 billion estedos next year to secure both majority and minority stakes in 'aligned' businesses, particularly in countries where SPHC has a sizable presence. To sustain its growth trajectory, the conglomerate will be prioritizing projects in the hospitality, land, mining, and manufacturing industries.

“The Stephen Group is encouraged by the strong performance across its business units as they reap the benefits of the aggressive growth strategies started a few years back. In turn, we have also been able to optimize earnings and value at the parent level as we continued to rebalance our portfolio and expand at home and abroad." Miss Yi said.

The announcement follows record profits by the conglomerate, bolstered by the expansion of its automotive subsidiary, Stephen Motors Corporation, and the income generated by Stephen Mining's acquisition of foreign projects. Stephen Retail had also reported a strong showing during the first and second quarters of this year.

[Jeltronia]

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[Jeltronia]

October 30, 2016

Kingdom prepares for Halloween

Neighborhoods all over the Kingdom of Jeltronia are busy preparing for one of the most popular and waited holidays in the country, Halloween. Homes are busy setting up their Skeletons, scarecrows and spooky designs, while students are busy finishing their costumes. Meanwhile, grocery stores are being lined up by those doing last minute shopping for candies and chocolates, while others stock alcohol for parties.

The streets are so packed with children the neighborhood now routinely hires off duty deputies to close the roads, observed Will Canal, Chief of the Maplecourt Police Office. "So many kids there's no way to have all those cars in here. They get to park over at the high school and then just walk over."

The local police office says keeping cars off the roads keeps the kids safe. A lot of the added Halloween foot traffic they see comes from people living outside the neighborhood. "So many trick or treats and churches doing their own thing there's not too many neighborhoods you can go to these days that are participating in trick-or treating." added Canal.

The national police has raised the alert level a day before the awaited date and deployed additional personnel in major urban centers, where thousands of children accompanied by their parents and friends, go knocking house-to-house to ask for sweet treats, while dressed in costumes. For smaller neighborhoods, the local police are being supported by local volunteers and paid security by homeowners associations, from dues collected from their members.

But people don't mind the influx of costumed children knocking on their doors. "Getting to see all the little faces and all the different costumes and the kids smiling."

[Jeltronia]

November 01, 2016

Jeltronians mark Holy Spirits Day

Various cemeteries all over the Kingdom where abuzz with activity, as thousands of Jeltronians flocked to visit the tombs of their dearly departed dead. Authorities expect a smaller crowd compared to last year's celebration, as Ruedepar Hall did not declare a holiday for All Souls Day, celebrated the day after, and which is essentially the proper date for mourning the dead. Because of this, many families have already decided to visit the graves for their dead days during the weekend.

This notwithstanding, security was still on a high alert, with thousands of police officers deployed in major cemeteries to maintain order as the citizens remember and pray for their dead. Airports and other transport terminals have also beefed up security presence to assist the huge flow of people expected for the annual holiday. Special traffic regulations have also been put in force on the streets and lanes leading to the cemeteries.

Ruedepar Hall earlier called for a clean and crime-free celebration. A spokesperson for the palace, Marin Boyle reminded the public to observe discipline. "Let us not bring weapons, liquors, loud speakers,and see to it that cemeteries before, during, and after the observance of Holy Spirits Day and All Souls Day are clean, orderly, and crime-free,” he added.

Boyle also reminded the public about keeping their homes secure and ensuring travel safety.

Holy Spirits Day is a Nabetseican festival celebrated to honor all deceased Nabetseican Emperors. It is celebrated on November 1, and precedes All Souls Day.

[Jeltronia]

January 20, 2017

Jeltronians mark National and Holy Day

Festivities all around the Kingdom were held today, as the country celebrated its National Day and the Feast of Saint John, the patron saint of the Kingdom. The traditionally Twin Holiday is one of the biggest and busiest in the national calendar, all the more as this year's celebration fell on a Friday, allowing Jeltronians a three-day weekend break.

The festivities started with the Royal Mass sponsored by His Majesty, King Jotham II and the rest of the Jeltronian Royal Family. After, His Majesty, together with the Queen, hosted the members of the government headed by His Prime Minister Charles Navarr, Speaker of the House David Krauthammer and Chief Justice Laurel Merrick. Members of the country's nobility and the Jeltronian diplomatic corps were also ended. The King then gave the traditional Vin d'honneur in the Ruedepar Hall State Ballroom, where He wished the Kingdom a "year exceedingly blessed by Lord Bram."

The long weekend is expected to boost domestic tourism spending, as families will be going out of the cities to go on camping, spend time at the beach, go on a road trip, have barbecue with friends and neighbors and watch the fireworks. Outside of Ruedepar Hall, the King and Queen will be opening the garden to the public, for some barbecue and a concert. Fireworks have also been a constant feature of National day celebrations, drawing thousands of crowds.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Homeland Security ordered the deployment of an additional 5,000 police and counterterrorism units in the capital alone, to help bolster law enforcement operations. Minister of Homeland Security George Mason, said that while no credible threat has been reported, would like to ensure the safety of the citizens, including those traveling for the long weekend.

[Jeltronia]

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[Jeltronia]

April 12, 2017

Jeltronians celebrate 'Holiest Day'

Jeltronians join other Nabetseicans around the world in celebrating the greatest and holiest day in the Nabetseican Church calendar, Lord Bram's Day. Nabetseican tradition dedicates Semana Santa, or the Holy Week to commemorate the birth, life and ministry of the All Father, which culminates today, the day of Lord Bram's birth.

For Jeltronians, the Semana Santa is one of the most important religious celebrations of the country, and is spent retreating for reflection, prayer and worship. As it is a Holiday of Obligation, Nabetseicans are enjoined to attend the High Masses. The celebrations include processions, plays representing the life of The Lord Bram and, on a lighter note – people getting together to mark the coming of spring and spending time with family. Lord Bram's Day is therefore marked in its religious aspect, but also in a social one.

The Semana Santa represents one of the most awaited holiday, and the longest. The long weekend gives an opportunity for Jeltronians to spend time with family and friends.

In Bascav, the capital city, King Jotham II and the rest of the Royal Family led the national celebrations with a High Mass at the Mother of Mercy Royal Cathedral at 8:00am. They were joined by Prime Minister Charles Navarro, members of His Majesty's Government, Speaker of the House of Representatives David Krauthammer and Chief Justice Laurel Merricks.

Some 175,000 pilgrims flocked to the royal cathedral, one of the largest crowds in recent history. Visitors faced tight security checks on their way in to Cathedral and the area around it, with police officers carrying out bag and body searches at a number of check points. Security sources said police and SWAT reinforcements were deployed to augment the capital police ahead of the event.

After the High Mass, the Royal Family greeted the crowds and then were escorted back to the Ruedepar Hall. There, the King delivered His annual Lord Bram's Day message. Speaking to the millions of his subjects in a televised address from the central balcony of the Palace, His Majesty said: “hear once again the comforting words of the Lord: ‘Take courage; I have conquered the world!’”

His Majesty also urged those present to pray for the grace "to follow Lord Bram faithfully, not in words but in deeds."

He also encouraged them to pray for the patience "to carry our own cross, not to refuse it or set it aside, but rather, in looking to him, to take it up and to carry it daily."

[Jeltronia]

April 16, 2017

Jeltronian household income posts record surge in 2017, poverty falls

Jeltronian household income posted a record increase in 2017 after 2 years of stagnation, suggesting the recovery from the 2014-2016 was finally lifting ordinary citizens who had been largely left behind.

The recent data shows that that median household income surged 3.8 percent in the first quarter of 2017, in large part due to solid employment gains, and a much-needed boost after 2 years of statistically insignificant changes.

Gertrude Brunswick from the National Economic Council, said on a conference call with reporters that it was striking that median household income rose across the board. "It's up for almost every age group of household heads. It's up for almost every racial group," she said. Notably, lower-income households saw the largest income gains in percentage terms. Brunswick also said that she expected incomes to continue to gain ground through 2017 with higher employment and modest inflation.

Prime Minister Charles Navarro hailed the report as evidence that his administration's economic policies were paying off, but said more needed to be done to put unemployed Jeltronians back to work. A spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office said that "Economic recovery was again felt for millions of Jeltronian families over the past year. We should make sure the economy is nurtured going forward, and not subverted by bad policy decisions."

[Jeltronia]

July 4, 2017

King Jotham II makes key appointments, reshuffles cabinet


L-Sterling, M-Robert, R-Mason

His Majesty has reshuffled the Council of Ministers, the largest shakeup of the senior leadership of the government under the Navarro premiership. The prime minister was retained by the King and will continue to help lead his government, but some of his fellow ministers who were first appointed with him in 2013 will be leaving the government.

The Ministry for Homeland Security will be merged with the Home Office. Deputy Prime Minister Amanda Sterling has been appointed as the new Minister for the Home Office, replacing Minister Rommel Hann and will be inheriting the duties of Minister George Mason from the Homeland Security department. Minister Mason will be taking over the Ministry for Defense from Minister Gerard Morgan. Minister Morgan retires after serving for close to a decade of service with the Ministry for Defense, being appointed in 2010.

The reorganization of the Home Office is expected to streamline security and counter-terrorism efforts as well as the apprehension of illegal drugs. Minister Sterling will continue to function as Deputy Prime Minister, but this time hold a cabinet department in her own right.

Meanwhile, the King has appointed Peer representative Carl Robert, Baron of Ceswican as the new Minister for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs. The Viscount Rickman had earlier asked His Majesty to resign from his post due to health reasons, and a desire to spend more time with his family. Lord Ceswican had served as the Chairman of the House of Representative's Armed Forces Committee, and previously sat on the Intelligence committee as well. Lord Ceswican earned his bachelor's degree in philosophy and was taking his Juris Doctor's degree from Leer-Ravier University when he signed up for the Jeltronian Royal Army. His last commission was a Lieutenant-Colonel, before being elected to the House of Representatives in 1997.

In a statement released by Ruedepar Hall, the King thanked Ministers Rickman, Morgan and Hann for their "unwavering dedication to serve Jeltronia" and have said that their efforts through their years of service with the government have been instrumental in ensuring that success of the government for the people. They are expected to be given honors per tradition.

[Jeltronia]

July 09, 2017

King Jotham II to host King Xavier II of Hundredstar

The Ministry for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs announced a historic visit by the King of Hundredstar to Jeltronia. King Xavier II will be hosted by and meet with King Jotham II in a summit billed as a testament of developing relations between the two countries.

"This is the first visit by the King of Hundredstar to the Kingdom of Jeltronia since relations were established last year." Foreign and Commonwealth Minister Carl Robert, Lord Ceswican, said in the press conference called to announce the visit. "It will be a perfect opportunity for our leaders to come together and discuss opportunities for closer cooperation between Jeltronia and Hundredstar" he added.

The state visit was arranged by His Majesty, King Jotham himself, tasking the Ministry for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs to relay His Majesty's invitation to King Xavier and his government.

The Jeltronian and Hundredstar governments will also be signing a number of important agreements, including a non-aggression agreement, intelligence, security and military cooperation as well promotion of cultural, educational and scientific exchanges and partnerships.

The Ministry has also said that they are exploring ways of making Hundredstar the protecting power Jeltronian interests in Hundredstar's region. Jeltronia retains official diplomatic relations with a handful of nations there, namely Keralia, Semolia, Dou Boux and Fracels. If the deal will push through, Hundredstar will be providing consular support for countries and territories which do not support a Jeltronian embassy or consular office.

Prime Minister Harris Baygents and other senior ministers from Hundredstar have also been invited to meet with Prime Minister Charles Navarro and the other members of the Council of Ministers. The ministers are expected to conduct parallel meetings, including the signing of bilateral agreements.

The state visit will take place from July 20 to 22 in the capital city of Jeltronia, Bascav.

[Jeltronia]

July 13, 2017

New Environment ministry created

Following a major reshuffle of the Council of Ministers more than a week ago, His Majesty, Jotham II, King of Jeltronia once again made a significant change to the composition of the royal cabinet with the creation of the Ministry for the Environment and Natural Resources.

Previously, state policy and programs related to the environment had been handled by the Ministry for Agriculture and Natural Resources. However, with an increasing emphasis on the King's desire to turn Jeltronia into one of the world's most eco-friendly countries, it was decided that the environment portfolio had to have its own separate department in the cabinet.

The move also comes with the continued growth of the Environmental Conservation Organization, an international organization working for the protection and conservation of nature and the sustainable use of natural resources by member-states. ECO was founded upon the initiative of King Jotham II in October of last year. ECO has recently admitted the Joaquin States as the 13th state to ratify the Jobe Protocol.

"The Ministry for Environment and Natural Resources will be the primary government arm looking after His Majesty's Government's commitment to environmentally sound and conscious policies and projects." Ruedepar Hall said in a statement. "It is a testament to Jeltronia's resolve to look after and take care of Mother Nature, and the natural resources we have been blessed with. Not just for our enjoyment, but more so, for future generations of Jeltronians."

The King has appointed Miss Lizzy Greason as the inaugural Minister for Environment and Natural Resources. Minister Greason is a season environmental lawyer, having completed a doctorate degree in environmental law at the University of New Montana. She has more than 20 years of experience campaigning for the protection and conservation of nature, having served as Convener of the Commonwealth Conservation Congress of 2016. She has been a member of various technical teams of the Jeltronian government in negotiating international agreements concerning the environment and natural resources. She is a member of the Green Party.

"Minister Greason has extensive background in environment and sustainable development. She will be central to the government's ongoing ambition of placing nature at the forefront of the national and global development agenda.” the Palace said.

[Jeltronia]

August 16, 2017

Prime Minister Navarro announces he will step down

In a stunning announcement, Charles Navarro today said he will step down as Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Jeltronia after four years of serving the Crown and the country. He said that on August 28, he will relinquish the leadership of the Council of Ministers and that a new Prime Minister would be sworn in thereafter, although giving no information as to who that potentially might be.

Speaking in front of journalists outside the prime ministerial residence, Navarro spoke in a common rehearsed and distant manner. No emotional goodbye, nor chance for reporters to question him. He said that the he was happy with what the government has achieved for the past few years, especially in weathering the financial crisis the scared the markets two years ago, but that it was time to have new leadership.

The Prime Minister gave no clear explanation as to his sudden decision to let go of the premiership, an announcement which caught even his closest staff members off guard. His Majesty, the King, was said to have been consulted by the Prime Minister in reaching the decision, and was informed beforehand that Mr. Navarro will be addressing the country today. Apparently, the timetable for his departure was also cleared with Stephen Palace.

"This was something kept in secret, only by a handful of people which included His Majesty, my wife Karen." he said.

While the news shocked the political establishment, inside sources however point to the major personnel changes that occurred a month earlier as a signal that King Jotham II was bent on reforming the people leading his government. Despite a generally successful administration, the King wanted more to be done, particularly with the economy which has grown slowly under Navarro's premiership.

The Palace issued a short statement a few hours after the prime minister's announcement, paying tribute to Navarro's service as prime minister and his achievements, noting his record on the Jeltronian economy and international affairs. The Crown is expected to thank Navarro more formally as he steps down two weeks from now.

Mr. Navarro has not indicated his next career plans, other than a potential global consulting business which he may launch next year. He thanked the King, his party and Jeltronians for letting him serve and asked for their prayers “as I bid farewell and prepare for the next chapter in my life.”

Analysts have started to predict who will replace Navarro as prime minister. As the Nationalists Party is in power, it is likely the prime minister's replacement will also be coming from his party, although this a guaranteed eventuality. Political Science Professor Francis Brooke of the University of Sotherland said that it is unlikely the the King will be appointing someone outside of the 'political establishment'. He speculates either Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for the Home Office Amanda Sterling or the Speaker of the House of Representatives David Krauthammer will become the next prime minister.

Minister Sterling was given the reformed Home Office, which absorbed the Ministry for Homeland Security following changes made by the King early last month. "Being chosen to lead the new Home Office, with a stronger mandate to protect the domestic security of the Kingdom, and her continued designation as Deputy Prime Minister indicates the continued confidence of the King."

Krauthammer, on the other hand, was a natural choice according to Professor Brooke, considering that he is the leader of the House of Representatives. "The King may want to have another veteran politician with experience balancing different view points." Another possible lawmaker who can replace Navarro is Charles Darling II, the Duke of Templeton, current Chairman of the Nationalists Party, Majority Leader of the House of Representatives and founder of the Templeton wine brand. The professor said that the Duke of Templeton is one of NP's more popular members and has been instrumental in lobbying for the NP agenda. "Given his long years at the House, his leadership stints in the NP, and his good relations with the King, he is also a leading contender for the post."

[Jeltronia]

August 20, 2017

Pool of potential PM widens

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Just as everybody thought King Jotham II was wrapping up his interview of potential prime ministers after three days of back to back meetings with the leading choices for the job, another name surfaced. Sir Richard Cross, the press baron from Bolden with ties to the ruling Nationalists Party, and a known confidant of the King, was summoned to Ruedepar Hall to meet with His Majesty today, a representative from his public relations team said.

"Sir Cross received a message from Ruedepar Hall yesterday, Saturday morning, asking him if he could go over to Bascav as His Majesty would want to meet with him and discuss some matters. Whie we have not been informed of the reason, Sir Cross, as a loyal servant of His Majesty naturally obliged. They are scheduled to meet in the afternoon after the King's Sunday service".

On Thursday, His Majesty met with Deputy Prime Minister for the Home Office Amanda Sterling. The day after, the King met with the Speaker of the House of Representatives David Krauthammer. And just yesterday, Saturday, Charles Darling II, the Duke of Templeton, the Majority Leader was summoned to Ruedepar Hall. Sources who spoke on a condition of anonymity said that while they the King was confident that anyone of the three thus far interviewed would do well as Prime Minister, His Majesty was still not ready to make up His mind and wanted to consider other choices.

The businessman, with interests in media, entertainment and shipping is also a member of the House of Representatives, and currently the Chairman of the House Committee on Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs. He was one of the choices to replace the Viscount Rickman for the position of Minister for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, a position which eventually went to Carl Roberts, the Baron of Ceswican.

Described as stoic, short-spoken and sometimes cold, Sir Cross is a man who came from humble beginnings but soon made a fortune by building and expanding his media empire. Richard Cross was born on June 18, 1961 to Rupert Cross and Sir Cross attended the Marisol Grammar School, where he was associate editor of the school organ, the Quill. He attended Bolden University where he studied politics and philosophy.

Following his father being paralyzed, he returned home to manage the family owned Bolden News, which he soon turned into a huge financial asset for the family. After his success with the Bolden News, he began to direct his attention to acquisition and expansion, acquiring troubled suburban and newspapers in Bolden and nearby provinces. He has been called the "inventor of the contemporary Jeltronian tabloid", as he developed a pattern for his newspapers, increasing sports and scandal coverage and adopting eye-catching headlines.

First elected to the House in 2011, he became the Chairman of the Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs committee in 2015. He has been especially involved in policy regarding the colonies, intelligence and security and works on issues such as human rights, counterfeiting of Jeltronian currency, piracy and terrorism. He won a second consecutive term in 2016.

For his services to the Kingdom, he was knighted by the King during the Birthday Honors in 2011.

[Jeltronia]

August 29, 2017

Sir Richard Cross to become next Prime Minister!

Nationalist congressman Sir Richard Cross, 56, has been selected to serve as King Jotham II's next prime minister.

In a special press conference held at Ruedepar Hall on monday, His Majesty named Sir Cross as the successor of Charles Navarro, who announced almost two weeks ago that he intends to resign the premiership. Sir Cross is set to take on the mantle as the King's top adviser and the de facto leader of his government.

the King, flanked by Sir Cross and Prime Minister Navarro, said that "Richard is a proud Jeltronian who is exceedingly qualified to lead the royal government."

"He is defined by great wisdom, thoughtfulness and balance, traits which are ideal for any successful leader. I am confident, that just as the man he will soon be taking over from, he will discharge the great responsibility of the premiership with grace and effectiveness."

The King meanwhile, also used the occasion to pay tribute to his outgoing prime minister,saying that Mr. Navarro had been a "great, modern prime minister". Mr. Navarro has been credited for keeping a strong government in place to face and counter the recession which has threatened the Jeltronian economy in 2015.

Sir Cross spoke briefly and said he was humbled to have been trusted by the King and that he will discharge the duties of the office to the best of his abilities. He also praised Mr. Navarro for the past four years of serving as the Jeltronian PM, saying, "his commitment to lead a one nation Government is one that I will continue -- and I thank him for everything he has done for the Nationalists Party and the country. I wish him and his family well for the future."

Mr. Navarro, for his part, again thanked the King for the immense honor and opportunity to serve the Kingdom, and endorsed his would be successor. "Sir Cross is known for having a strong, proven leadership, the ability to unite the country and a positive vision for Jeltronia's future.

Sir Cross will be formally given his royal commission on September 8, the same day Prime Minister Navarro relinquishes his post. Sir Cross is expected to continue to hold his seat in the House of Representatives, but will resign as Chair of the House Committee on Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs. Mr. Navarro has not given any categorical answer, but is expected to stay on at least for the year and hold on his seat in the House.

[Jeltronia]

September 09, 2017

Richard Cross becomes Prime Minister,
New ministers appointed

Sir Richard Cross is now officially the Prime Minister of Jeltronia.

Sir Cross accepted the King's invitation to form a new government shortly before 9.30am and minutes later spoke to the country outside the prime minister's residence. His predecessor, Charles Navarro, earlier formally offered his resignation to His Majesty. The King thanked him and awarded him with a knighthood, witnessed by close family and friends in a private ceremony at Ruedepar Hall, minutes before Sir Cross arrived.

He began by paying tribute to Sir Navarro, who was earlier knighted His Majesty, just a few minutes before Sir Cross himself arrived at Ruedepar Hall. the Prime Minister thanked his predecessor's "long record of dedicated service".

"This is going to be hard and difficult work," he said, adding that the next few months "will throw up all sorts of challenges. But together, I believe we can help provide the strong and stable government our King and country needs."

He said he wanted to end a culture of "entitlement" in Jeltronia and promote one of responsibility instead, but promised: "those who can, should, but those who can't we will always help."

A short while after the new premier's address, Palace Spokesperson Cristina Faber announced another round of major reshuffling in the Council of Ministers. House of Representatives Committee on Financial Services Chair Jenna Welbig is the new Treasury Minister, replacing Maria Bello. Frank Prall, former Chief of Staff of Minister George Mason at the Ministry for Homeland Security is the new Minister for the Cabinet Office, replacing Anthony Baron.

Three new Ministries have been created as well. The social development portfolio was separated from the Ministry for Health. and given its new independent department, the Ministry for Families, Children and Social Welfare headed by Representative Rabbani Sath. Meanwhile, the Ministry for Trade and Commerce has been dissolved to form two new ministries, the Ministry for Industry and Economic Development and Ministry for International Trade. Minister John Obel was assigned to International Trade, with Manuel Aguilera being named as Industry and Economic Development Minister, his former energy portfolio being transferred to the Ministry for Environment and Natural Resources.

The telecommunications portfolio was separated from the Transportation ministry, now the Ministry for Transport, and merged with the Science and Technology, thus establishing the Ministry for Science, Technology and Communications. The Ministry for Public Works has been renamed the Ministry for Infrastructure; the Ministry for Labor will now be called the Ministry for Employment, Workforce and Labor and the Ministry for Defense added one word to become the Ministry for National Defense.

Other than the appointments of Ministers Welbig, Sathi and Prall, the rest of the cabinet still include the appointees of the Crown at from the Navarro premiership. Political commentators note, however, that with a new Prime Minister, the King may also decide to revamp the other offices and name new ministers to compliment Sir Cross. Welbig and Sathi are known to have worked with Sir Cross in the past. They share friendly relations back at the House of Representatives. Meanwhile, Prall was also appointed on the recommendation of Sir Cross, who have worked with the former while he was still working at the then Ministry for Homeland Security.

The King is expected to conduct a full cabinet meeting, the first with Sir Cross as Prime Minister, on Saturday at Ruedepar Hall.

[Jeltronia]

October 31, 2017

It's Halloween 2017!

JELTRONIANS beware — thousands of kids are taking over the streets for Halloween and they won’t stop until they’ve had enough trick or treating.

As each year goes by, the annual festival gets bigger and bigger across Jeltronia.

Traditionally, the most popular outfits are skeletons, fairies and witches. But one creative mind this year hilariously dressed up as Prime Minister Sir Richard Cross.

In the capital, King Jotham II is celebrating Halloween with children from the Bascav area as well as kids of military families.

The tradition was once part of the ancient Celtic religion in Britain, which eventually found its way to the Kingdom as an influence of Nabetseica. It is one of the more popular celebrations in the country.

[Jeltronia]

December 25, 2017

Free feasts for homeless, families in need

As families around Jeltronia gather to celebrate the Feast of Families today, the Montana Dream Center and Hearts for the Homeless Foundation have been busy organizing volunteers and suppliers to provide free dinners for homeless individuals and families in need on Sunday and Monday in the organization's headquarters in New Montana.

The dinner features a three course meal beginning at 5 p.m and will be preceded by music, dance and a dramatic performance.

The dinner is expected to attract 300 to 400 people. About 150 volunteers from churches, businesses and organizations will help serve the meal.

“We have all worked hard for the entire month of December,” the Rev. George Bryce, Director of the Montana Dream Center, said in a statement. “We have been wrapping gifts and packing thousands of boxes of food. This meal is a great way to end our Boxes of Love campaign. This is what the Feast of Families is all about – serving our fellow Jeltronians. We are all one big family after all.”

During the campaign, Montana Dream Center and other New Montana organizations helped 2,500 families with food and toys for holiday. Boxes of Love held distributions in the nearby provinces of Bolden and Patriz as well, and attracted 800 volunteers to make the effort possible.

[Jeltronia]

January 01, 2018

Jeltronians welcome 2018

Despite the cold, Jeltronians ventured out in temperatures that felt like –30 C, one of the coldest in history, to usher in the new year.

Although events were cancelled in several cities due to the weather, organizers in the capital of Bascav forged ahead with celebrations at despite the cold warning. Celebrations were punctuated by fireworks at the stroke of midnight and light show which illuminated the sky of Queen's Harbor.

In Arkam - undaunted by temperatures that felt like - 24 C — locals gathered at main public square, where revellers enjoyed a Live DJ set by performer SJ Mane beginning at 11:30 p.m.

The event was shortened from its usual two-hour long revelry to a half-hour celebration by the city in anticipation of bone-chilling temperatures.

King Jotham, who skipped the traditional December retreat to Bolden to remain in Jobe, in a statement released Sunday, reflected on the country's accomplishments in the past year, but added "we still have a lot of hard work left to do."

"In 2018, let's continue to celebrate the values that unite us – openness, compassion, equality, and inclusion," he said.

"Let's move forward together, put those values into practice, and work to build a better future for all of us."

Earlier, Ruedepar Hall had released the New Year Honor's List, where more than a thousand people have been recognized for their services to the Kingdom. Recipients include sports stars, celebs, and politicians, as well as hundreds of community champions recognized for the work they do in their local area. Among the notable faces include Andreso's Defense Minister Juan Kazmr, who will be created a Companion of the Order of Fraternity.

The investiture of those named in the list will take place on January 20, when the Kingdom celebrates the Twin Feasts of National Day and the Feast of Saint John.

[Jeltronia]

January 18, 2018

Preparations for National Day celebrations are underway

Preparations to celebrate the twin holidays of John's Day and the founding anniversary of Jeltronia as an independent Kingdom on January 20 in a befitting manner are in full swing in cities across the country.

In the province of Orozette, local government departments are engaged in giving practical shape to the functions to be organized on the Day.

Rina Thompson, the provincial tourism officer and a member of the provincial committee for the National Day celebrations told T h e J e l t r o n i a n B u l l e t i n that speech and writing contests, sports events and seminars would be held all over the province in various levels to highlight importance of the day.

She said that January 20 is the most prestigious day in the history of Jeltronia. On the day the whole nation pays homage to our past leaders, our shared history and the is also a holy day of obligation under Nabetseism.

Some of the official line up of activities include the singing of the national anthem, national flag hoisting, competitions of paintings and national songs, poetry at different cities would be held where heroes of Jeltronia would be paid glowing tributes.

The local government councils, civil organizations, business groups and other volunteers have been invited to prepare their own floats for the main parade scheduled for the morning of January 20. Showing love for Jeltronian history, traditions and culture. Units from 10th Division of the Jeltronian Army, currently based in JFB Pendance, will also feature in the celebrations.

[Jeltronia]

January 20, 2018

Jeltronia marks John's Day and National Day

The country will switch to full celebration mode as the Kingdom marks Saturday the twin holidays of John’s Day and the National Day.

January 20 is traditionally one of the biggest and grandest of days in the country, which marks John Day's, a holy day of obligation in the Nabetseican religion and the elevation of Jeltronia as a separate and independent Kingdom. This year, the anniversary falls on a Saturday with major celebrations across the country including concerts, parades and firework displays.

In the capital, the King will lead the official functions by attending High Mass with the Queen. He will then host the members of the government, the ambassadorial corps and leaders of the civic and business communities in the traditional Vin d'honneur. The reception will be held inside the Ruedepar Hall State Ballroom. Prime Minister Sir Richard Cross, Speaker of the House David Krauthammer and Chief Justice Laurel Merrick will also be in attendance.

Before the offcial reception at the Palace, the awarding ceremony of the 2017 Honors List will be held. Andreso’s Defense Minister Juan Kazmr will lead the foreign honorees, being named a Companion of the Order of Fraternity for his role in helping secure closer defense ties between Jeltronia and Andreso. The Minister will also have an occasion to meet with his counterpart, Defense Minister George Mason, minutes before the formal awarding ceremonies. The two will follow up on bilateral agreements as well as other topics involving the global security environment.

The day-long celebrations will build to a spectacular climax with a 20-minute "pyromusical" fireworks show at 11 p.m that promises to be the largest ever presented in the entire nation for the Twin Holidays celebration. Massive crowds are expected to gather later tonight, especially along Queen's Bay.

[Jeltronia]

April 12, 2018

Nabetseican world ushers in Lord Bram's Day

The Kingdom of Jeltronia joined other countries in celebrating the most important day in the Nabetseican world, Lord Bram's Day. April 12 commemorates the birth of the Lord of all Nabetseicans and the life He dedicated for them. In Bascav, the official schedule began at 8:00am with the King delivering his annual Lord Bram's greetings to the country. He then left with the Royal Family to celebrate High Mass, where Prime Minister Sir Richard Cross and other senior officials of government also attended. Meanwhile, the message of the Nabetseican Emperor was broadcast infront of Ruedepar Hall and the House of Representatives, where hundreds of thousands of people have gathered to hear the Nabetseican leader. The rest of the day was marked by thousands of people lining the street for public parties, bazaars, the Grand Military Parade and a Fireworks display that even out did the spectacle during the Twin Festival in January.

"This is one of the biggest days, if not the biggest in our calendar!" remarked Lou Atinson, an event coordinator in Bolden. "This is what ties us with our other Nabetseican brothers and sisters, our heritage from Lord Bram. We have to treasure that, be proud of it and celebrate it every single day!"

The public holiday is also popular for families who schedule quick long camping trips, a visit to the beach or going on picnics. For the younger generation, the public concerts are definitely the events to look forward to, especially those held in Jobe and in Bolden.

In Arkam, the fish market swelled with close to 110,000 people braving the long waiting lines and the waves of people to buy popular seafoods such as crabs, shrimp, squid and mussels. Military police from JFB Arkam were deployed to help local police patrol and secure the area.

[Jeltronia]

January 20, 2020

2020's Twin Festivals draw big crowds

2020 is appearing to be quite the special number, and Jeltronia's back to back holidays are getting in on the action.

In the capital of Bascav, police estimate a record number of a million visitors flocking to the city to partake in what is popularly known as the Twin Festivals. January 20 is annually celebrated to mark John's Day, the birthday of Jeltronia's patron and National Day, the official date when the Kingdom was made into a fully independent Nabetseican state.

The official activities begun at 8:00am, with King Jotham II, the Queen, members of the royal family, Prime Minister Sir Richard Cross, Speaker of the House David Krauthammer and Chief Justice Laurel Merrick and other senior officials of the royal government attending high mass presided by Cardinal Simon Longueuil, Archbishop of Bascav. His Majesty then returned to Ruedepar Hall where he and the other royals greeted a hundred thousand well-wishers, as the Royal Air Force made a flypast. The King then delivered his national address, which was simultaneously broadcast nationally, before returning inside to join dignitaries for the state luncheon.

The King then released the National Day honors list in the afternoon. This year's awardees include Rosemary Alta, former Minister for Agriculture and Natural Resources and current Director-General of the Environmental Conservation Organization for her role in growing the organization and helping spread the landmark Jobe environmental protocol and Ferdinand Hank, President of the Council of Airport Authorities for helping turn the CAA into the largest association of airport authorities in the world.

In the evening, the King and the Queen hosted senior ministers, the ambassadorial corps and leading businessmen for the traditional Vin d'honneur, while outside Ruedepar Hall leading Jeltronian artists serenaded the crowd until the much awaited "pyromusical" fireworks display which run for a good twenty (20) minutes while officers from the Royal Artillery rendered a 21-gun salute.

All over the Nabetseican Kingdom, citizens took advantage of the long weekend to vacation with family and friends.

In Bolden, the annual national day concert was slightly delayed, but it did not stop a young girl from climbing the stage to entertain the waiting crowd. Laurie Kent, five years old slipped past her mother and found her way on the stage where she laughed and made noises. The crowd took notice and cheered her on, leading the toddler to continue making noises and laughing before her mother and some security personnel whisked her away, but not without making a bow.

In Patriz, patients and personnel of the Royal Patriz Hospital where given a surprise visit by the King's sister in the afternoon and treated to a special dinner. Members of the local community where also invited and everyone shared in hearty meals.

The national mood has been noted to be relatively peaceful and generally celebratory, with Jeltronians rallying behind an improving economy. While no threats have been reported by the Interior Minister, authorities had bolstered police and security personnel since Friday, having anticipated a larger number of people celebrating the first twin festivals of the new decade.

[Jeltronia]

April 12, 2020

Jeltronians mark Lord Briam's Day 2020

Today, Jeltronians join Nabetseicans all over the world in celebrating Lord Briam's day.

However, this year's celebrations are quite unlike the huge and festive ones held annually. The corona virus pandemic has disrupted every day living and forced governments to adopt strong measures implementing strict social distancing and restricting travel in the hopes of containing and preventing the further spread of the virus. This has affected important religious feasts slated for this month, including the celebration of Lord Briam's birth, the holiest day in the Nabetseican world.

In the capital of Bascav, the royal government doubled down on reminding Jeltronians to stick to the nation-wide social distancing guidelines. While the country has no recorded covid19 infections, Prime Minister Sir Richard Cross cautioned the people from letting their guard down and reiterated that people without facemasks will not be cleared in check points and will be escorted back in their homes. Earlier last month, the government announced a temporary ban on mass gatherings, including church visits forcing the Nabesteican church in the country to come up with ways to comply with state directives without sacrificing their ministerial mission. The ban was reinforced this weekend, with churches being forced to close their doors momentarily for the faithful to discourage non-essential travel.

This has not prevented Church leaders from urging the faithful to mark the most important time in the Nabetseican world's calendar from the safety of their homes. Masses have been televised and streamed online since March, with some priests even coming up with door to door visits to listen to confession and anoint the sick.

The association of Jeltronian bishops on Sunday ordered all churches in the country to ring their bells for 12 minutes at 10:00 in the morning. In the evening, they invited the faithful to light a candle inside their homes and pray for the world in turmoil and fear. The Holy Emperor's traditional address will be aired, as tradition, nationwide, and will be carried in all television, radio and cable stations and will also be streamed online. A spokesperson noted that the measures, "are small but significant and symbolic gestures of hope in this historical and dramatic moment in which millions of people all over the world are affected by great suffering and uncertainty caused by Covid-19 pandemic.”

"Truly, it is only through Lord Briam's message of hope, do we derive strength to hold on. Better days are surely ahead".

[Jeltronia]

March 05, 2021

King launches Animal Rescue Fund

"Every city in the world should have an animal rescue center."

Thus were the words of His Majesty the King, when he unveiled Friday the Animal Rescue Fund (ARF) a two billion Jeltronian Estedo grant to establish animal rescue shelters in every city in Jeltronia and across the world.

The King, a known champion of the environment, has stepped up his advocacy for animal welfare and rights. Through various royal foundations, the monarch has given millions last year to several national and international animal shelters and advocacy organizations.

The ARF will give funding, technical support and networking opportunities to both governmental and non-governmental entities that work for the protection of animal rights, including those involved in the rescue of animals from illegal trade as well as abusive owners. In addition, resources will be spent for lobbying and launch of information and educational campaigns geared towards creating awareness for the fight against animal cruelty in countries all over the world.

ARF Director Mary Sherbrooke said that "in addition to [the King's] continued patronage of the Environmental Conservation Organization (ECO), the King is pursuing the promotion of the ethical and compassionate treatment of animals all over the country and the world. Ms. Sherbrooke, former Deputy Minister for International Development, added that the ARF would be the King's "arm" in this initiative, and will help "like-minded individuals and partners access resources and collaborate on projects that look after the welfare and rights of animals".

The establishment of the fund comes after the celebration of the World Wildlife Day, and after a recent study by the Jeltronian Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (JSPCA) that citizens of ECO member countries hardest-hit by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic have stepped up to foster and adopt animals, keeping them out of shelters. Every single organization contacted by the group observed an outpouring of community support that got animals out of shelters and into loving foster and adoptive homes.

However, the report by JSPCA also disclosed that shelter directors worry that the economic impact of the pandemic, which hit some ECO countries at the start of peak breeding season, may cause an influx of homeless pets in the coming months. Some of the shelter directors said that they worry it will be difficult to find homes for the surge in newborn animals they expect to see, and that already-adopted pets may be surrendered by families that can no longer afford to care for them.

"That is why we are excited for the King's ARF". Scott Bershadker, President of JSPCA said shortly after the King's palace speech concluded. "The idea behind this is to provide the critical resources to animal shelters so that they can responsibly keep and care for the animals in there care and be more proactive in implementing animal rights and welfare laws or regulations in their respective communities".