The Western Isles News

[Mitjevalia]

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[Covonant]

June 5, 2016
Covonantian Broadcasting Commission
Coventry, Covonant

COULD COVONANT HAVE FIXED TERM FOR PRIME MINISTERS?

(Inside the Consul)

In the Covonantian Charter of Rights, the Office of the Prime Minister has no fixed term limit, but all of that could change with an amendment that is set for debate in the Consul starting Tuesday. It is believed that the debate could last for a week and voting commence as early as next week. Political Analyst Steph Holln believes this is the right step for the Union in ensuring new thinking at the highest political office in the country.

"It is long overdue I think. This is a good step for Covonant, and those in the Consul should see it a reality. It is kinda ridiculous that a country like Covonant has not been progressive politically, other states in the region have fixed term limits and so should Covonant."

The CBC will bring updates from the debate in the Consul on the Term Limit bill.

NAVAL BASE TO BE BUILT ON SENOICA, COVONANT




A post on the Ministry of Security and Defense website has confirmed that the government as approved the establishing of a naval base on the island of Senoica in the zone of Marlonicis. Senoica is an island that is mostly uninhabited with only Gaslet as a city on the island that is a tourist centre. Senoica is also a resource island where Uranium is deposited on the south of the island. Most of the island is undeveloped and used for mining purposes.

The Ministry website announced that the reason for a base being established on Senoica is as a result of the island's terrain and low population density making it suitable for mock naval battles and ground troops training, the Ministry also outlined building a hanger for storing military planes that will be used in training. When contact was made to the Minister of Defense, it went unanswered. The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry Cyntia Griers commented on the base being established.

"The Ministry following the mandate of the government saw it necessary to have a naval base that could provide the requisite terrain, and environment needed to achieve first class training for Covonantian troops. Its a base that will be use for deployment of troops as well, but the focus is mostly on training and housing military equipment. We are also looking to establish a military aircraft boneyard where we may replace parts from time to time to cut on spending."

It is understood the base will be known as Naval Base Critical Point (NBCP).

[Dashgrinaar]

June 5, 2016
D3N
Port Haven, Dália

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Pura Foods Inc. Nears Monumental Expansion

Pura Foods Inc. (PURA) has made preparations for it's next move in the food production and distribution industry. The corporate supergiant released plans in May 2015 to open up a select number of high-end grocery stores around Dália and one in Xrevaro. After fanning in the immediate success of them consecutive to a December 2015 release, the company has announced that it has began construction of Pura Markets around the Isles. Mentioned locations in the report included various cities in Viroaux and Xrevaro as part of the July 2016 push, and mentioned that other nations would be expanded to in September 2016, November 2016, and January 2017 additions. The company celebrated the release by publishing a revamped website and holding celebrations at current Markets.

Campaign Banner for Pura Markets

This comes as the latest phase, Phase 3, of Pura's plan to integrate the full public into it's system, as well as continuing to supply large grocery chains and other companies. Along with the Market expansion in July, Pura is introducing it's HomeMarket service, which allows people to order groceries online and have them delivered at set times, or pay an extra fee for an immediate delivery by one of the many workers that have been employed through this expansion. Phase 1 and 2 of the integration plan included the intimate building of the markets and expansion of research facilities.

In accordance with the Market expansion and integration plan, Pura has invested in outside companies and began to build facilities in other countries outside of the core nations of Dália, Xrevaro, and Vioraux.

Access the latest version of the website here: http://www.nationstates.net/page=dispatch/id=644364

[Grand Illon]

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__________________________________________________________

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Elizabeth Harryson, the newly appointed member of the Governing body of LNAN and current Chief Director of RSIS

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Arkhindopolis, June 6, 2016- The King of Grand Illon Marion Wallace has recently appointed RSIS Chief Director Elizabeth Harryson to serve as the country's representative in the governing seat of LNAN or the League of Non-Aligned Nations after Grand Illon was given a seat in the council. This is because of the recent resignation of the former Leisterian representative, which provided a leeway for Grand Illon.

King Marion appointed Chief Director Elizabeth Harryson after a series of meetings to discuss who shall take the role of being a member of the governing body of LNAN. She was chosen because of her long experience with diplomacy and already well establised connections in Mitjevalia and other member countries.

[Carpestan]

This is a special op-ed piece for the political magazine Times and Trials, written by award-winning journalist Anna Kashnikov.

The Cross and The Frontier
The Rise of Christian Nationalism In The Northwest

Ferris Mines, one of Gottfried County's oldest coal mines

When entering Gottfried County around dusk time, immediately one notices the long line of coal miners coming in the opposite direction of the main road that enters the small town of Gottfried, laughing and telling jokes as a means of relief after a strenuous day of back-breaking labor in the mines. Although Gottfried County does not regiment the schedule of its townspeople, the working day of all of Gottfried seems to start and end at around the same time. The coal companies that provide the bulk of Gottfried's labor source all open at around 6 am and close the day around 7 pm. As the mostly male group of coal miners proceed to their houses, they are joined by others closing their businesses or retiring for the day, from doctors to teachers to shopkeepers, also all laughing and cracking jokes on their way back.

It's the time shortly after election season, though, and the mirth seems to have turned to a sense of discontent from the population of Gottfried. The great and deep religiosity of the men and women of Gottfried County has come to light and can be understood by hearing even sentence fragments from their conversation pieces. "He's a great man." some say, "His faith is strong and it's something that could be used."

Others are more zealous. "The pigs in Parliament would sell their own mothers for a buck or two! They'd have us murderin' our fellow believers! We need to stop the madness of this government come next election cycle and I think he's the one to do it."

Surprisingly, these men and women are not talking about MP Garry Friedman, Gottfried County's representative for the past 15 years who won re-election with 49% of the vote. Rather, they seem to be talking about the independent candidate that shook up Friedman's consecutive landslide victories in Gottfried County, a political firebrand with a deep sense of piety and justice. They're talking about the independent candidate whose growing popularity could launch a dynamic political movement that could transform the entire northwest of Carpestan.

They're talking about William O. Gore.

William O. Gore (1973-) stood as an independent candidate in this year's election and walked away with 46% of the vote, despite having been lampooned by liberals and libertarians alike. Gore, raised by Jewish parents and trained as a mechanical engineer from the prestigious Center of al-Boravia, nonetheless converted to Christianity at the age of 19 and was very active in conservative politics from his early 20s, having described himself since his early activist days as a "Christian nationalist". He founded the political group Carpestanis For Christ (CFC) back in 1996, although it is not an official political party.

William O. Gore, photographed here as a young political organizer in 1998

Carpestan's most recent election cycle saw President Rubinstein and the CSP win their narrowest election cycle victory yet. Unsurprisingly, the CSP performed very poorly in the historically pro-SEP northwest, with the highest percentage of votes for the CSP in that area going for White County candidate Roman Hingsbilder with 42% of the vote. Despite that, a recent survey conducted found that among lifelong SEP voters in the northwest, only 41% approved of the direction the party was going in, the lowest number since 1936. The primary reason cited was that the SEP right now was "not doing enough for Carpestan's economy" and instead was pursuing an "immoral direction of globalization". This might explain to the increased popularity of Gore's platform in his home county since he first ran for MP back in 2006, when he won just 14% of the vote.

Gore's platform primarily consists of protecting domestic industry via 75% tariff rates, instituting prayer into public schools, and introducing Carpestan's first standardized education curriculum, one that would place an emphasis on theology and the contributions of Christianity to Carpestan. "There has been," Gore asserted in a speech on the campaign trail, "an alarming trend in this country. Christians, who have provided so much of Carpestan's cultural heritage, despite representing a fraction of the population, are being mocked and ridiculed at every single corner." His relative electoral success has inspired 7 other candidates in the northwestern mining and manufacturing region to run on a similar platform come next election cycle on the ticket of the newly formed party The National Cross (TNC).

Link to list of TNC candidates: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1BDj ... sp=sharing

If the current trend continues, The National Cross has the potential to move northwestern Carpestan's politics in a new faith-based direction, something which many cultural critics in the northwest have called "alarming". Libertarian journalist and practicing Christian Edwin Ziegfried has called it "an affront to true religious freedom", while historian Mary Deepak has called it "a thinly veiled theocratic movement peddling revisionist nonsense". Yet, whether it is for economic purposes or a deep spiritual dissatisfaction at the state of the nation, the people of Gottfried County and most of northwestern Carpestan are slowly catching on enthusiastically to this new brand of Christian nationalism that could come to define and ultimately, transform, the entire politics of their region.

[Bhikkustan]

The Samadhi Sun
Presenting News Now
30/5/16

Local News

News Briefs:
Cost of Vesak
Revealed
The cost of the recent
Vesak celebrations have
been released to the public
today, in an act of
transparency by the
Bhikkustani government.
The total cost reached
30,000,000 USD.

Welfare System update
Khan Surevi has recently
updated the welfare system
of Bhikkustan, adding to the
minimum wage and adding
a minimum food ration.
This has been hailed as a
victory for the people, as
it gives security to our most
vulnerable.

Concert Success
Utzorig Vaanchig has returned
from his Western Isles Tour,
arriving in Sringapor International
Airport yesterday. The concerts
were a huge success.

War on Drugs Executions Begin


The First round of executions following the government crackdown of drugs are set to begin today. In total, 300 men and women are currently on death row for this despicable crime, including several foreigners. 10 are from Vioraux, which could complicate international relations negatively after recent events. Khan Surevi has made it clear that no special privileges will be granted to international people who break our laws, stating that "our sovereignty guarantees that we are given the right to determine our own laws."

The Samadhi Sun agrees with his statements wholeheartedly.

New Banknotes Released

Click the links to View the new Notes:
http://imgur.com/IExUZOK.jpg
http://imgur.com/Fm6aUdu.jpg

Last week the Khan unveiled the new banknotes from the Reserve Bank of Bhikkustan. These notes have replaced the old 500 and 1000 Dask notes, which were remnants from the Atnaian empire. The new notes are reflective of our nation, using national symbolism and eye catching design. The old notes will still be able to be used, but slowly phased out. The other notes will be replaced at a later, unannounced date.

World News

News Briefs
Flights Grounded
After the recent terror attack
on a Vayupaantha flight, the
entire fleet was grounded for
three days to stop the danger
of another attack. The fleet
is now back up and running
with better security at the
airports of Bhikkustan.

Condemnation of Dechen
The government of Dechen
have been condemned after
their construction of a naval
base with Eutristan. The
government argued that such
rampant militarism could
only be bad for peace on
North Argus, where some
nations have been close to
war lately.

Anger at Vancouvia
Sanctions have been levied
towards Vancouvia after
violence between Xrevaro
and them occurred. Secretary
of State Pruek Jiinkong raised
that it was the right of a nation
to decide what happened inside
its borders and to expel foreign
influence. Khan Surevi took the
accusations further, labelling
Vancouvia as a minor Satan and
Pawn of Vioraux.

Bhikkustan ready to honour the International Sangha Defensive Pact



Minister of Foreign Affairs Pruek Jiinkong has declared that Bhikkustan is "completely prepared" to deploy military aid to To Quoc Duc in case of war against Jahe Davmwoem, citing the International Sangha Defensive Pact. "We are completely prepared to support our fellow Buddhists to defend the sangha in the case of war against this rouge nation," he released in a press statement on Saturday. The release raises several questions about the current foreign policy of Bhikkustan, which has been labeled by critics as "radical" and "unfair". Bhikkustani officials have also offered Joint Military exercises to To Quoc Duc so that we can both strengthen our bonds and our military prowess.

Bhikkustan slams Vienne aggression



Khan Surevi has labeled the recent travel warnings for the western isles as "rascist allegations." He stated that "the warning for air travel is a rascist slur in our direction. Not all Bhikkustanis are terrorists. It is a small minority which we attempt to stop, but accidents happen."

He has imposed visa restrictions on all Vienne citizens wishing to enter our great nation, but also issued a scathing criticism of the Dauphine Victoire, Mara herself. "It is typical of Mara to act like this, leaving her country while a crisis hits. Also, the only compensation offered is the flight tickets and hotel fees. No support for the families who have lost so much. I pray for Vioraux in this tough time, and that they will soon see the light and ditch their leader who cares so little for them.

[Atnaia]

Duke Bastien Adenbury Found Dead
Quorum Member and Former Minister of Treasury Passes Away at Age 53

Duke Bastien Adenbury in 2007

PORT GRAY, ATNA, ATNAIA - Member of the Hegemonic Quorum and former Minister of the Treasury Duke Bastien Adenbury was found dead this morning in his townhouse in Port Gray. The duke, who had served in various government positions for twenty-three years, had just returned from a series of diplomatic visits around the world. Adenbury, who had been diagnosed with diabetes in his early thirties and who had been connected to a new model of insulin pump, appears to have overdosed on insulin as a result of an error with the new device. The pump, which could connect to wi-fi and update Adenbury's doctor in real time as to the Duke's blood sugar levels and insulin requirements, appears to have administered a deadly dose of insulin in the middle of the night, leading to immediate death. While foul play is not suspected, investigators assure the public that they will delve both into the possibility of a targeted attack and into the safety of the new device meant for the treatment of diabetes.

Adenbury was born in 1963 and attended the world-renowned Prince Arthur Law School, as well as receiving a Master's Degree in Manufacturing Economics. He was actively involved in several charities related to disease research, particularly diabetes research. He married his wife of thirty years, Katherine, in 1986, and his titles stand to be inherited by his only son, Jack Dominic Adenbury.

The model of pump Adenbury was using has been the object of some research in the past few years regarding the ability of black hat hackers being able to tamper with dosages wirelessly from up to half-a-mile away. While this remains a possibility, experts argue that such an attack remains such a remote event that it is extremely unlikely that it was the case in this particular death. White hat organizations disagree, claiming that such an attack would actually be extremely easy to pull off, and unlikely to be tracked.

The Quorum asks that members of the public who use the pump remain calm, and assure the nation that government operations will continue as normal. An election is to be held as soon as possible to replace Adenbury in the Quorum. ANN will keep you updated on this ongoing story.

[Jahe Davmwoem]

June 7, 2016
Imperial Government News Organization
Jahe Davmwoem

Man claims to be a Veldmate!


The Crest of the Veldmate family, a very influential family of Jahe Davmwoem's past


Martijn, who claims to be a descendant of a branch of the Veldmate family that never fled

Martijn claims to be a descendant of a branch of the Veldmates that never fled at the rise of the dictatorship of Lev Bezcitný, rather they hid, sheltered by friends. According to Martijn, this branch, extending down from brother of Kliem, Floris-Jan, refused to leave, and he claims that the part that did leave is invalidated, and so therefore as the oldest living member the wealth of the Veldmate vault belongs to him.

A quote from Martijn.

"The wealth does not belong to Katherine or her daughter. Even if Johnathan was a Veldmate, he never married. In the old will of Wilm, which is still legally binding, a descendant must be Veldmate both in blood and in name to receive the wealth. Katherine never married him, so neither her or her daughter, who kept the Karma name, are eligible for it. I ask that it be given back to where it belongs."

Dr. Walle, who will be doing the DNA testing to confirm if Martijn is actually a Veldmate


In a suprise move, he agreed with Migual Štorch that the majority of the wealth should go to the Imperial People. They have agreed to work together to get the vault, and they will split up the wealth accordingly to this.

• 25% to the people
• 45% to Martijn
• 30% to the Government

Migual Štorch, who has stated "I agree wholeheartedly with this plan. Even if not all, the people will get enough to justify what was taken.



Piet Pondes has congratulated the two on their patriotism for deciding to give some to the Government, which he says "Will surly put the wealth to great use in social programs."

[Carpestan]

The Carpestan Hill

8 June 2016

Parliament Suspends Lt. Liu's Hearing

In a resolution passed 27-11 today, Parliament voted to suspend Lt. Liu's hearing for Defense Minister amidst allegations of corruption and nepotistic ties with the President. Interestingly enough, among the 11 who voted against the resolution, 8 of them were senior CSP officials, including Party Secretary and MP of Ustinov County Jack Hanford. Hanford justified his vote in the middle of debate by saying, "In midst of our tense diplomatic situation, it is absolutely vital that our President be supported with a Defense Minister, regardless of his or her shortcomings. Lt. Liu, however, is not only, I believe, a competent man for the job, but also an honorable veteran who has served his country well and is thus, an easy target for political games."

President Rubinstein also expressed similar sentiments and was quick to express his disapproval at the resolution, calling it "an unfair and cruel act of political gesturing".

MP Gregory Hoboken, however, praised the vote, calling it "a true act of patriotism from anyone who wants to usher in an age of political purity".

MP Jack Hanford (left) defends Lt. Omar Liu (right) in a press conference

Nonetheless, investigations on Lt. Liu will continue so as to affirm his competency and eligiblity for the post of Defense Minister by ensuring that he has no blemishes on his past.

[Atnaia]

Quintech Reveals First Wave of Law Enforcement Drones
Port Gray to Implement Limited Testing of Quintech Drones in Bastion Network Architecture

Quintech Drone Prototype Test, April 2016

PORT GRAY, ATNA, ATNAIA - After months of successful small scale testing, the Port Gray City Council has announced approval for civil testing of Quintech's law enforcement drone prototypes in conjunction with the city's Bastion network. Quintech publicly unveiled it's new drone models yesterday, claiming that these drones are designed for specific use within an urban setting, with tighter flight pathing and greater resistance to high winds caused by urban funneling. The drones, which are to be equipped with both thermal and more traditional surveillance cameras, will be used for remote surveillance. Quintech claims that it's newest level of "swarm architecture programming" will enable the drones to operate with some level of autonomy in small groups. Eventual plans for more expansive autonomy are already being developed by the Hegemonic Office of Design, Innovation and Development and the Stone Wall Special Projects Division.

While the initial implementation of these drones in a civil capacity will be extremely limited, Quintech has high hopes for their drones and the artificial intelligence programs they are working on for them, and representatives of the company hope to see a much broader release within the next few years, especially as Bastion networks are being designed and developed in other major Atnaian cities. Military representatives are also watching development closely, hoping that Quintech's unique AI systems and the further developments being proposed by HODID and Stone Wall SPD could be implemented for scouting and battlespace recognition in possible war zones.

"Imagine how a more extensive use of drones like these could help in our efforts on Merrit Isle," one military representative said. "These drones have the capability of assessing behaviour on the ground using object and movement recognition to determine possible suspicious behaviour or threats. If that technology could be rewritten to instead identify survivors in a disaster zone, drones could be used in a situation like Merrit Isle to tag the locations of survivors for specific, swift action by relief workers. Not only would this save lives, but it would save hundreds of thousands of dollars in time and resources as relief worker sweeps could be reduced or even eliminated in lieu of more specific action."

The drones are equipped with basic object and behavioural analysis algorithms that allow them to possibly identify threats or suspicious behaviour at a distance, but this technology is still being developed. Until greater autonomy is granted, this technology is still in testing phases.

[Covonant]

June 8, 2016
Covonantian Broadcast Commission
Coventry, Covonant

HEATED ARGUMENT IN CONSUL OVER TERM LIMITS



The debates in the Consul (Parliament of Covonant) commenced yesterday but was not short of any commotion causing Speaker of the House Lucretia Lucii to end the debate and move a motion to vote.

Parliamentarians on both sides of the house yesterday were indifferent on whether Covonant should adopt term limits for its head of government or continue the way without it. Spokesperson on House Business Amanda Coldwater, believes it is a necessary for there to be term limits as it allows for new thinking and new leadership and provides that no individual stays in Palatine Manor in perpetuity.

"Madam Speaker, like many on the opposition side of the house we believe it a necessary that to ensure renewal, and creative new ideas come to our political scene, it can only be secured if we make it constitutional that the head of government serve no more than two terms."

Minister of Foreign Affairs Tilonius Vesa did not see it a necessary as he believes that once the people have made their choice on what party should serve as the government, the party is capable of selecting the individual who will serve as head of government.

"Madam Speaker, I along with other government members do not see what need we may have for term limits, the opposition calls for renewal and new ideas but I wonder if they fail to see that the Prime Minister cannot act with the approval from the Consul. I believe this is an attempt by the opposition to debate on an issue that is of no importance to the governing of Covonant"

It was at this point the debate turned heated in the Consul.

Opposition Spokesperson on House Business Amanda Coldwater viewed Minister Vesa remarks as brutish, illogical and presitigous.

"Madam Speaker I am appalled that a government minister would move to make foolish commentaries in favour of protecting his friend the Prime Minister. The Minister sits in a seat of prestige and his remarks shows just that. But I for one will not support a draconian principle by a draconian minister."-Amanda Coldwater (Spokesperson on House Business)

"Madame Speaker, I apologise in advance but never had I once said that the Opposition Member was incompetent and inept of carrying out government duties. She is not one to talk of draconian she has never walked in a shoes of a real parliamentarian"-Tilonius Vesa (Minister of Foreign Affairs)

The Consul at this time erupted in loud chatter which the speaker of the house aggressively trying to regain control.

"Order in the Consul, Order in the Consul. I remind you all that you are all under oath. Order in the Consul."

After a one hour break, the Consul resumed session where the Speaker of the House moved a motion to commence the voting. The voting on the amendment will be done next week tuesday.

The CBC will bring updates and the final results.

POLITICAL ANALYST AND MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WEIGH IN ON THE TERM LIMIT DEBATE



Political Analyst from the Center of Political Affairs Marc Beverly believes that Covonant should have term limits for head of government. He however believes that based on the debate the government may vote against it.

"I believe that having term limits does provide for renewal and new thinking. I don't agree in the concept of one person having power for a long extended period of time. Based on the debate I don't see where we will achieve that."

The CBC went to the streets of Coventry to gather the views of ordinary Covonantians on whether we should have term limits or not.

"I believe we should have term limits, it allows the individual to know that they can't always have power and it gives hope to others who may want a try at the leadership position" -Greg Stenk (Businessman)

"I am all for term limits, I don't think you should have someone serving as Prime Minister for 30 years. Last time I checked we were a democracy not a monarchy." -Abigail Reid (Primary School Teacher)

"I really don't care. At the end of the day our government will do what they feel like. I sometimes worry for this country. I might migrate to a smaller country that is not messed up and has a clue of what they are doing."- Malcolm Granger {Clerical Worker)


UPDATE ON PALATINE MANOR SHOOTING



(Crixus Stallone)

Over the weekend the official residence of the Prime Minister was on high security alert following a shooting incident where gunshots were found inside the premises. Praetorian Guards captured the individual and took him in for questioning. It was reported that the individual may have been a part of a terrorist organisation but later investigations revealed that he was a drug addict that frequent the surrounding areas. The Man identified as Crixus Stallone has been charged with illegal possession of a fire arm, trespassing on government property and vandalising government property. If convicted Mr. Stallone can expect to spend close to 15 years in prison with parole granted after 8 years.

COVONANT TO ESTABLISH MILITARY BASE IN KEOMORA-DEVELOPING STORY

(Military base prototype. NOT ACTUAL IMAGE)

The government of the Union of Covonant and the Empire of Keomora has agreed to the Union establishing a military base in Keomora. Making it the first overseas base for the Union.

Both government strengthening the defense pact agreed are looking to establish a joint military base. According to the Minister of Defense Batiatus Sula, the base will be used mostly for training troops and deployment of Covonantian troops to states in the north of the isle especially those of the C6.

"The Union and Keomora saw it necessary for a base to be jointly built that could see Covonantian troops stationed in Keomora providing needed assistance and also provides Covonant with a deployment base in the north that could respond to incidents that are of concern to the Union. It is still a working progress so all have not been finalised as yet, but once finalised I will be sure to ensure that the CBC receives it."

The building of the military base in Keomora comes about at a time when there is political instability in countries surrounding Keomora with reference particularly to Jahe Davmwoem.

[Carpestan]

The Carpestan Hill

8 July 2016

Burglar Set Up, Burglar in MP Rodgers' Apartment Claims

The burglar caught in MP Nicole Rodgers' apartment in Potestas last week appeared before a court today. In a startling turn of events, the burglar, John Mendez, asserted, after nearly 3 hours of intense interrogation from the prosecution, that he was a hitman hired to assassinate Nicole Rodgers after planting drugs in her apartment so as to make her death seem like an accident and thus, disgrace her. Mendez claims that he was hired by MP Jack Hanford, one of the CSP's most prominent leaders, so as to eliminate political opposition. He also asserted that he had evidence to support this claim, which he refused to disclose for security purposes. Mendez has been transferred to a high-security federal prison in an undisclosed location.

John Mendez (left) claimed to have been hired by MP Jack Hanford (right)

[Atnaia]

Wireless City Opens With A Bang
Port Gray City-Wide Wireless System Opens to Full Public Use With Public Release Party

The Wireless City Project will offer unprecedented
connection around the capital.

PORT GRAY, ATNA, ATNAIA - Since its official announcement in January, the Wireless City Project by Heron Technologies has been on the forefront of many minds in Port Gray. With beta-testing concluded in April following set-backs caused by the Crisis, some wondered if the project would ever get off the ground. Last night, the project finally kicked off for public use with a massive release party outside the Heron Building in downtown Port Gray. A free Char concert was presented, leading up to the activation of the network city-wide at midnight.

Initial usage numbers have been massive. Existing Heron users were offered a one-month free trial of the network before having to permanently sign-up for the subscription service. New subscriptions to the network exploded in the initial hours after release, and expectations are for a massive wave of new joiners in the next few days.

The system allows access to a city-wide WiFi network offering internet anywhere within the capital while avoiding the exorbitant data fees of cellular companies and without the limiting bandwidth caps of traditional wireless platforms. In addition, alongside Flock Cloud Storage by Heron, the network allows for unrivalled access to personal files across platforms anywhere in the city.

Some critics of the system have pointed to it's potential lack of stability in areas of high usage, it's high potential upkeep and maintenance costs, and it's vulnerability to malicious attacks by hackers. Hacktivist group The Rood has already claimed that they will attempt to attack the system to reveal its vulnerabilities and the potential for large-scale personal information loss. Heron has claimed that it's state-of-the-art security systems, which it will continue to dedicate extensive time and resources towards, are more than capable of keeping up with and defeating attacks. City and government officials, especially within Stone Wall-Bastion, have already expressed interest in partnering with Heron for integration of the network into other city infrastructure.

"This is a new age of infrastructure," said Heron CEO Killian Masque. "Where once the development of roads, or sewers, or telephone networks defined the modern city, today it will be connectivity that dictates modernity. Port Gray has taken control, and will be a world forerunner in the race to the future."

Wireless City subscriptions are available now through Heron Technologies.

[Bloody Yellow Stars]

June 9, 2016
BYS News Broadcast
New Starsia, Bloody Yellow Stars

The "Pierrot Killings" Reach Their Conclusion? A Suspect is Found

Since initial investigation, there have been 300 cases of murdered prostitutes around the city of New Starsia. Since then, security all around the nation has been heightened and authorities remain on the lookout for any suspicious activity.

A possible suspect was taken into custody today morning. Authorities identified the suspect as a male child of about 12 years of age, who was found on the grounds of the Grand Star Hotel walking about holding a knife and a tarot card matching the ones found at the scenes of the murders.

Despite having already reached national news, Père Noël has not made a statement regarding the suspect or claiming responsibility for the child. Action has not yet been taken, but some have spoken about the development.

"There's still work to do," Detective David Harvey told interviewers. "Although it is good that we have found a suspect, we still need to confirm that this is indeed the murderer and make wise decisions as to what to do from here."

[Mitjevalia]

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[Carpestan]

The Carpestan Hill

9 June 2016

BREAKING: JACK HANFORD RESIGNS! SCANDAL LOOMS!



In a press conference today, MP Jack Hanford, one of the senior-most CSP party members and MPs today, announced today made what may go down as one of the most shocking turn of events in Carpestan's history:

Ladies and gentlemen, friends of Ulranov County, people of Carpestan:

I first stood for election in 1976, when Omar al-Frances, one of the greatest men to walk this Earth, stood as our leader before his untimely assassination two years later. I was an idealistic young man, eager to carry on and push for reforms to ensure the greatness and glory of Carpestan. Even as I remained in fear and hiding in a rural basement when my family home was seized during the black Hinojosa years of the 1980s, that idealism remained strong within me.

But, as the old saying goes, "The litmus test of a man's character is how he handles power." For 20 years, I have been part of a system that was meant to introduce the financial hegemony of a few banks onto this country. This was a system that was deliberately orchestrated by President Rubinstein and Lt. Omar Liu via means of influence, charisma, bribery, and extortion to help institute the hegemony of a few banking institutions over our great country. Omar Liu comes from a family of wealthy miners in the northwest, while President Rubinstein worked for 10 years at the investment bank Fosseck Gallup before entering office as a 35-year old MP from Rubin County in 1996, quickly rising to influence within the party for calling for the rather slippery term of "total trade liberalization". Both Omar Liu and Rubinstein worked to create an oligarchy of a few, a scheme which also involved 7 CSP MPs besides myself and half of his Cabinet. He manipulated our national polling service into thinking that his reforms were popular so that he could keep a plastic image in TWI and the rest of the world, when just the opposite was true.

I did this out of desperation, because I was cowardly enough to choose power over principle, to choose security over solidity. I allowed myself to say glib things and be a victim of this system of extortion and corruption. It is for these reasons that I resign from this position and turn myself over, with a light and relieved heart, to the full extent of the law.

[Atnaia]

Candidate List Released for Upcoming Replacement Election
Short-List of Candidates to Replace Bastien Adenbury Released by Quorum

Nominee, Ptolemy Wu

PORT GRAY, ATNA, ATNAIA - The Hegemonic Quorum of Atnaia has officially released it's short-list of nominees for the upcoming nomination to replace Duke Bastien Adenbury following his unfortunate passing earlier this week. Weaning down the original presented list of nearly a hundred and fifty possible candidates suggested by local administrations, the Quorum has selected five nominees to run for the role. As expected by Atnaian political analysts, former Atnaian Army captain and military analyst for The Gresian magazine, Ptolemy Wu, sits on that list. Despite some criticism of the man, analysts expected Wu to be nominated since he originally expressed interest during the original elections earlier this year. He did not run in the first Quorum elections, however, due to his mother's illness at the time keeping him at home. His unwillingness to run due to family conflict has been both lauded and condemned by the political community.

Also on the list is cultural anthropologist Quentin Brockstone, former head of the Atnaian human rights organization Globeaid International, which comes as something of a surprise due to Brockstone's past outspoken criticism of the new constitution's lack of protections for what he calls "basic human rights and freedoms". Despite this, the Quorum has claimed that the list was chosen due to the various nominee's expertise on a variety of topics and important issues.

The nominees selected are:

• Quentin Brockstone, MAnt, former head of Globeaid International
• Caroline Dormer, Head of the Royal Health Service
• Lord Ferdinand Windsome, former MP HoN for Loch Donnelly
• Ptolemy Wu, Atnaian Army Captain and Military Analyst for the Gresian
• Rheya York, Chairman of the Atnaian Coalition for Shipping and Trading

The date for the election has not yet been set, but the campaign is believed to begin soon. The nominees are already speaking about their stances on various issues, and interviews are beginning with various news organizations this week.

[Covonant]

June 10, 2016
Covonantian Broadcast Commission
Coventry, Covonant

BREAKING NEWS: FORMER PRESIDENT OF THE UNION MATTHEW ROBERTS HAS DIED



Former President of the Union of Covonant, Matthew Roberts has died. He was 72. Mr. Roberts died early this morning around 1:30 am after experiencing a heart attack. He was rushed to the Coventry Memorial Hospital where he was later pronounced dead. He is survived by his wife Elaine Roberts, his two daughter (Margaret and Regina) and his son (Matthew Jr), grandchildren, brothers, nieces and nephews and other relatives.

Matthew Roberts was born in 1944 in Malvern Alstaer, Sharoni. At the age of 17 after gaining a government scholarship he went on to pursue Economics and Political Science at the University of Coventry. After attaining his degree, he went on to join the Union Navy where he served for 22 years. In 2006 Mr. Roberts was appointed President of the Union, a post he served in until 2014.

COVONANTIANS SENDS CONDOLENCES FOLLOWING DEATH OF FORMER PRESIDENT

Many Covonantians have been quick to send out condolences to the families and friends of the late former president Matthew Roberts.

Prime Minister of Covonant Imperatus Marl released a statement from the Palatine Manor expressing shock and grief at the passing of Mr. Roberts

(Image)
It is with the greatest level of sadness and grief I speak on the passing of not only a great statesman and patriot but a wonderful friend and confidant. President Roberts served well when he was president during the early years of me being Prime Minister and it comes as a shock after receiving word that he has passed. My condolences to his wife and children and to assure them that the entire country weeps with them and they are forever in our prayers

President of the Union Seneca Gaius has also expressed sadness at the passing with a statement released a few moment ago from the Presidential Palace.

(Image)
I express shock and sadness to hear of the passing of a noble Covonantian who has represented and served his country well. My thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the former president. Covonant has truly lost a son of the soil.

PREPARATIONS FOR STATE FUNERAL

At this time the Union is preparing to stage a state funeral for the late former president. A statement released from the Consul as expressed that in three days time the body of the late former president will lay in state in the great hall of the Consul. All flags are expected to fly at half-mast during the period of mourning until 6pm after the funeral. The date for the state funeral will be announced momentarily.

The CBC will carry live coverage of the lay in state ceremony.

Reporter Likalia Reid.

[Miklania]

MCI News
Kecskemet
6-10-16

Photos Emerge of Secret Aircraft At Kecskemet AFB

With the war raging on for several months and troops being prepared for deployment to Doppler, the Miklanian Air Force appears to be stepping up the testing of a new combat aircraft. Rumors of an advanced fighter, possibly a "fifth generation" aircraft with stealth and advanced sensors have been circulating in the aviation community ever since the cancellation of the AF-X program in the mid nineties. The AF-X, or Advanced Fighter Experimental program was launched in 1987 with the goal of replacing the Air Force's aging F-4 Archangel II fighters. The program was cancelled in 1997 in favor of the smaller and less expensive F-21 Seraphim program. According to the Air Force, General Miklanian, and Nolan-Garrett, no prototypes of any aircraft were ever built. However, many conspiracy theorists have suggested that Nolan-Garrett, losing all Air Force contracts to General Miklanian's F-21, continued to develop their AF-X aircraft in secret.

Artist's concept of the AF-X from 1994.

It seemed unlikely that this was the case given Nolan-Garrett's financial situation after the failed competition drained resources that were never recapitalized with the naval F-41D Shark, but continued funding through the Air Force's Black Budget could have made it possible to continue development over the next decade and a half. For many years, it has seemed as if these claims were unsupportable, the product of the paranoid conspiracy theory groups that claim UFO sightings and leaked information of Doomsday weapons. But since 2012 when a plane watcher looking over Kesckemet Air Force Base's secretive flight test range spotted a fighter sized aircraft at high altitude making two contrails, the argument over the possibility of a new aircraft has entered the mainstream aviation media. Sightings have increased steadily over the past several months, and three days ago, this photo (at top) was taken, shattering the Air Force's claims that the pictures taken since 2012 were older F-15s. It is likely that the new fighter's test program, if it is still in testing, has been accelerated to send it into the war as soon as possible. The Air Force is still denying the existence of secret aircraft, citing a DOW transparency law passed in 1981. Nolan-Garrett declined to comment.

[The Pacific Peace Union]

---

[Jahe Davmwoem]

June 10, 2016
Imperial Government News Organization
Jahe Davmwoem

Martijn is a confirmed Veldmate!


Martijn Veldmate

DNA testing has confirmed that Martijn is a Veldmate. He has not made any comments on this, which leads many to believe he is searching for the vault now that he is entitled to it.

New Composition from Pondes Sparks Fire in Nationalists!



The piece, entitled Variations on Imperial Folk Tunes has sparked the newly growing Nationalist Faction of Jahe. Many haled it as a "masterpiece". One anonymous person wrote "This shows to me why we should be in control, a point of sophistication that no one else shows."


The Concert Hall of Faas Cathedral


The piece was played by the Imperial Symphonic Orchestra

500 more collaborators of the Legion Executed

500 more legion members/collaborators were executed this morning, again by firing squad, but that is all that was told by the ministry of truth. 83% support it, while the top reason against it in the other 17% was "Too much power granted to a shadow ministry".

[Vioraux]

June 10th 2016
Versailles Post
Vioraux

[Dashgrinaar]

June 10th, 2016
Port Haven News Post
Port Haven, Dália

Antoinette-Empyr Foundation Donates Massive Ammounts Following V&G Swimwear Announcement

Earlier today, the Versailles Post released the first model shoots of V&G Swimwear to the press. V&G Swimwear features cousins Grace Empyr-Antoinette and Victoire Antoinette, both powerful political women, the former being Directress of State of Dália and the latter being the Dauphine of Vioraux. The cousins partnered with Chardonn Fashion to create swimwear lineup, and in a statement published, Empyr has confirmed that 100% of the profits made will be going towards the A'Limitepportuné Foundation, a charitable organization that promotes innovation, self-expression, and self-respect. The name of the Foundation itself is a portmanteau of the Voscé word for limitless and the French word for opportunities.

Speech by Grace Empyr-Antoinette at V&G Opening

The new V&G Swimwear lineup by Chardonn, Victoire Antoinette, and myself is the newest fashion innovation in the Isles. All of us, during development, ensured that this innovation wouldn't go to waste. Therefore, Victoire and I pledged to donate 100% of profits to the A'Limitepportuné Foundation because we want to empower kids and teens across the Isles to be themselves, no matter how other people think.

To the kids of the Isles, we were once kids too. Victoire and I once ran around the streets after school, and had to do numerous amounts of homework. And we've seen how people everyday can empower you, and make your lives better. Empowerment. Self-courage and respect. Be yourself. Express yourself. That is something that we both want everyone to do. If you do this, than you can do anything. You just have to believe in yourself. Break the norm, do something different. That is how you succeed.

If Victoire and I had stuck to the norm, neither of us would be here, nor would you, at least in this building, opening this swimwear line. If we had stuck to the norm, we would be sitting at a desk, or at a meeting, or working with others, wearing a suit or a ankle-length dress. But if you are ordinary, you can't be extraordinary. People will think what Victoire and I are doing is not appropriate for women of our station, and they are entitled to their opinion, and I completely respect them. But once you break the norm, go a different direction than another, then you unlock countless possibilities. Limitless Opportunities.

So I leave you with these words: Change the world by doing something different, by being yourself, by challenging what's thought to be right. Make the world a better place, and you will have limitless opportunities laid out for you.

The Antoinette-Empyr has also released a statement that says it will be donating $2.5 million to the A'Limitepportuné Foundation, as well as another $2.5 million to other assorted charities across the Isles.

[Carpestan]

The Carpestan Hill

10 June 2016

2 MORE MPs RESIGN FROM OFFICE

After Jack Hanford's resignation yesterday, two more CSP MPs followed suit this morning in what seems to be the verge of an explosive scandal. MPs Horace Grey and Jai Vashist announced their resignations at separate locations this morning; Grey in a press conference in Parliament Park and Vashist in a press conference outside his Potestas home.

Horace Grey issues his resignation

Horace Grey's statement:

My fellow Carpestanis,
In solidarity with my colleague Jack Hanford, I too, announce my resignation today. For too long, I have been a spineless opportunist who deceived the people he swore to represent. I was threatened by President Rubinstein and Lt. Omar Liu into actively pushing for them so that they may usurp all the power in Carpestan by allowing a few select financial institutions to dominate this nation under the guise of "trade liberalization". I was too power-hungry, angst-ridden, and security-seeking to do otherwise. But, I am fed up with this disgusting system that has turned me into a coward. Which is why today, I resign and I urge every single honest citizen of Carpestan to DEMAND and PROTEST for the immediate resignation of President Rubinstein and the corrupt half of his cabinet.

Jai Vashist issues his resignation as MP, waving the media goodbye

Jai Vashist's statement:

Ladies and gentlemen,
In light of the recent events of yesterday, I must confess to you that I am no angel. I was in part willing to go along with President Rubinstein and Lt. Liu's plan for this country in exchange for money from Fosseck Gallup so that I may secure for myself a comfortable life. Perhaps this is the curse of growing up in the slums. I feel that President Rubinstein and Lt. Liu have gone too far and have only now come to realize the immense harm and suffering so many Carpestanis are being put through via bad, corrupt, malicious investments. I cannot tolerate this anymore and following my resignation, effective now, I turn myself over to the full hand of the law.

[To Quoc Duc]

Soldiers of the recently activated reserve 19th Infantry Brigade stand in formation before moving to the border

President Ngô to the Jahe Empire: "We Are Ready!"

11/6/16
Cộng Hòa Hàng Ngày (Daily Republic)
Bảo Đốc, Tổ Quốc Đức



Recent news from Jahe has stated the Empire's willingness to fight and corresponding preparations to defend its own borders against the C6 Coalition and their Tổ Quốçi partners. In response, President Dương Văn Ngô stated in a press conference that 'Tổ Quốc Đức will not stand for belligerence in the Western Isles, and particular the shameful practice of state sponsorship of terrorism.' When asked how the Tổ Quốçi military was prepared to deal with this threat, the president stated simply, 'We are ready!'

An additional infantry brigade has been mobilized from the reserves, bringing the total forces along the Jahe border to 40,000 troops. Given the significant strength of the developing coalition, led by Keomora, so far the Tổ Quốçi government has shown considerable restraint in calling up its reserves. Only five brigades, or approximately 20,000 men, have been activated. The remaining 20,000 come from five active duty brigades. These brigades have spread into predetermined sectors along the two border provinces, preparing defenses against a potential preemptive strike against Tổ Quốc Đức. While the situation has thus far not seen any border skirmishing, the Tổ Quốçi forces are prepared to conduct offensive operations and move across the border immediately should hostilities commence.

Tổ Quốçi Naval Forces as well have begun patrols in international waters, just outside of Jahe's exclusionary zone. Two carrier battlegroups are ready to initiate strikes against Imperial military targets and land Tổ Quốçi Marines if need be. A Tổ Quốçi Navy Public Affairs spokesperson issued a release statement that 'the Navy is prepared to conduct its duty with the highest degree of professionalism and courage possible. The Navy hopes that the presence of our battlegroups will serve as a deterrent to armed conflict, but stands ready to engage Imperial fleets and in land targets to bring about a rapid conclusion to any hostilities should they arise.'

Tổ Quốçi troops are in good spirits, confident in their ability to quickly overtake their adversaries in the event that hostilities begin. Sergeant Đăng Văn Hiếu, a reserve squad leader from the 231st Infantry Battalion, 19th Infantry Brigade, said that 'My men and myself are in good spirits. By day we conduct our duties with professionalism and discipline, as well as by night. Though the situation has allowed for some campfires, singing and telling stories as soldiers do. It is good to be able to relieve tension through building camaraderie, and makes the men more effective.' Sergeant Đăng added later that he 'agree[s] totally with the President. If war comes, we are ready. Ready to fight, ready to win, and ready to do our duty for our country.'