The Global Standard (APSIA Only/IC)

[Elitoskovia]

WAR IN EUROPE OVER, ELITOSKOVIA FASCIST REGIME ENDED!

September 29th, 2007

After a few months of bloody conflict, Elitoskovia has ceased all hostilities on the Flemish-Elitos front. Casualties on the Elitoskovian side remains unknown, but official reports will be publicized once numbers are confirmed. The Elitoskovian Fascist government has been disbanded, in favour of the Bisingen Military government in place. The Elitoskovian Advisory Board (Elitobeirat) has been formed to advise the government on matters for Elitoskovia populace. Reconsctruction efforts are in place thanks to Tensai support in Elitoskovia and Bisingen. With peace within the nation once more, many Pro Elitos are unhappy by the new changes to their government, more importantly no one 'ruler' over the nation. Rumors have sparked that a secret group of fascist supporters have set up splinter groups, like wise with pro Democratic rebels from the civil war. There have been some civil unrest, but both Elitoskovian Law Enforcers and Bisingen Peacekeepers will do their best to keep the peace.
Ashlia Kanto and her Government officials are being trialed for crimes during the war. Though under Bisingen jurisdiction. They will be given a fair and unbiased trial.


Machein Korp has been under 'investigation' as well due to suspicion that the Lead Director of the company is a fascist, as well as many of the workers. While the Lead Director denies these allegations, Elitoskovian private investigators will be delving into these claims, and with Bisingen police forces if they wish to partake. Elitos-5 personnel are also under investigation due to their extremist views, and may be forced to be disbanded. However, to prevent any implications, the Elitos-5 unit will remain in service as Peacekeepers, until Elitoskovia can recover from the devastation of the war.

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[Toluca-]

October 22nd, 2007




Peace in Europe holds firm • Sterling George shot in California • 82-year-old female rapist sentenced to life imprisonment

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OPINION: Virginia's attitude towards the Legionists are only galvanising the movement - Riley Harper
I'm a home grown Virginian. I grew up under thick, leafy magnolia trees on the outskirts of Fairfax. Being a Virginian is pretty special, especially in the case of the Union. We're the only former Gettysburger state that wasn't incorporated into one of the wider regions introduced in 1994, which broke down the numerous, smaller states that once existed on the Eastern Coast. The same state system was used in Texas.

Even though I moved away from my home, I still hold very strong feelings for my home. That said, nobody can deny what is happening in the Old Dominion is shaping up to be one of the most disgusting crises in the united Union's young history. Let's break it down.

Virginia's attitude to the rising Legionist movement has been the most harsh in the Union; Virginia banned all Legionary clubs in schools and high schools in March and has been attempting a blanket ban on all Legionary gatherings, much to the chagrin of Vice-President Dean. Around the same dame, Niagara's democratic movement has risen locally in Virginia, thanks to the efforts of Governor Jordan. While many joke about her capabilities (and her appearance) there can be no doubt Jordan has kick started the Democratic movement in Niagara, with Virginia at the helm.

But this rise of the democratic movement has had an unforeseen consequence that has the potential to spiral into armed conflict: the rapid dawn of militant groups, both Democrat and Legionist.

Let's rewind to September. The Arms of Liberty declares themselves a thing. They strap guns around their backs and start walking through the streets of Roanoke, cheering about democracy and berating Legionists. Law enforcement attempts to stop them, but many officers actually join in, or at least allow it. Now, Virginia's police force is pretty heavily democrat, which is obvious. This stokes the ire of Virginia's legionists, who already feel persecuted. So, they make their own group: Ares' Own, and they did the same thing on a smaller scale earlier this week. Police arrive, but this time they threaten arrest, and the Legionists scatter.

All over Virginia, there's been unarmed fights between Democrats and Legionists, but its not hard to see where its going. If both of these groups arm up and militarise, a gunfight, or something worse, is bound to break out. Despite this rather obvious possibility, both the Regional and Federal government has not taken any action, and for some reason is just allowing these literal paramilitary groups to roam our country.

Another dangerous side effect of this is the creation of a trend that your own little political faction forming an army is completely okay. It's not gonna be long before we see these kind of groups pop up all over the Union. We need to stamp out this problem before it happens.

But hey, what do I know, I'm just Riley fucking Harper








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In other news...
• Hutchinson has announced the 'Pacific Protocol Stage II.' Nobody knows what this means.

[Panjal]

The Gorbachad Vault October 27th, 2007 Internal Dispatch - Extensive Inventory Check Gorbachad Vault Administrative Board has finished an extensive inventory check. Gorbachad Vault Financial (GVF) holdings: Bonds, Bank Account Codes, and other assets-- Primarily from old Z-Tech holdings -- totalling: $5.5Bn $9Bn from the sale of Mostotrest to the joint bid of the Alician government and Jahn Arbockle $14Bn from the sale of Metalloinvest to the joint bid of the Yahelian government, Osama bin Brahmin, and Diego Angeles $12Bn from the sale of Shoahburg & Sons Bank to the Bank of Hong Kong $50Bn received from Shinra Pacific Holdings Totalling: $90.5Bn in cumulative liquid funds. Gorbachad Vault Repository (GVR) holdings: The papers detailing the rights to the game 'Goat Fucker 3D' One copy of GF3D, signed by Paul Benis A counterfeit copy of GF2D The Crown of Ganku the Plagued Three Songjiang Terrecotta soldiers, dating to the first Qin Emperor 12 caskets of French Wine A bejeweled hookah An authentic Escher Cube Building instructions and materials for a set of Penrose Stairs Taxidermied Bull testicles A 3-panel comic, created and signed by PM-Pope O'jibu A copy of the 'Bekronomicon' A sample of bacteria that can only grow in hand sanitizer The 'Nordic Straw'; 45 meters long, made of hair, utterly useless, yet respawns every 30 years if destroyed A mirror, which portrays the user as black A framed image of Mikhail Gorbachad's birthmark An islamic comic on the sin of homosexuality A mug that contains a seemingly infinite amount of Allegra Bottle that contains endless amount of Rakija A watermelon whose seeds are capable of surviving and growing within a stomach A golf cart previously owned by Paul Benis A Red Wife-Beater Tank top A Confiscated Breach Point Documents detailing the existence of an ancient subterranean "Borby Vault". A Lunar-matter Nokia Cellphone Gorby Vault Containment Facility (GVCF) holdings: Jall Hamal's Cousin Hump The Omani Goat Man A squash, that when broken open, spews an unending swarm of bees for 12 hours, then repairs itself A Common Yaheli Rat A baby of non-human origin Ant Apple Little 8 inch figure who does not like being in photos Sheepskin rug (and its activation phrase) The Nejd Dune Strider The Beef Squeezer Crimbo The Omani Meat Monster He Who Craves The Melanin Warlock The Cajun Homunculus Dave the Helmandi Three (3) Gillmen Sietskman juice, otherwise known as Sietsksauce Indian Man An inchworm that makes accordion sounds when moving A crab with guns instead of claws A banjo made of human parts that screams the played notes An accountant that can be disassembled like lego A crucified hispanic man who can answer any yes or no question pertaining to fast food with 100% accuracy A sentient artificial intelligence that can only make funk music Hoobastank The Jelqer Late Night Talk Show Host, Johnny Carson (Preserved) A Skeleton With a Gun

[Nomiconia]

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Lezgi Gazet


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Dec 16, 2007

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​​Pavlovski soldiers help Zhovkvan Settlements as an act of friendship



Troops preforming a garbage sweep


In order to show friendship to the Zhovkvan people after recent turmoil the Pavlovski government have deployed small groups of troops to clean and modernize rural villages in Zhovkva. Unarmed troops entered towns in trucks bringing food, tools, new farming equipment, and large quantities of asphalt, which would all be either donated to townfolk or used to pave new roads and replace old pieces of public infrastructure. The move was initially met with skepticism by a lot of Zhovkvan villagers, however it wasnt longed before more were pleased at the kindness and generosity of the government and military.

This move by the government has been seen as largely successful, improving the standing of many Zhovkvan villages with Pavlovsk. The majority of criticism comes from Chekhov citizens and other large cities in the Pavlovsk region, where inhabitants disliked the spending of tax money on outsiders. No official statement on the price of this operation was disclosed by the National Peoples Congress.

[Toluca-]

December 20th, 2007




17 year old killed in Roanoke ideological brawl • Hutchinson approval: "68%" • Niagarans love HLR

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BREAKING: UPPER COMMITTEE DECLARES WAR ON VAZIMBIA
Just months after peace in Europe, Niagara returns to war as the Upper Committee issues a formal declaration of war on Vazimbia. According to Secretary of Defence, Declan Porter, "Niagaran forces have arrived off the shores of Toliara, or whatever those sick and vile bastards call it."

President Hutchinson held a press conference about the declaration earlier today:


For decades the world has been blind to the crimes of Vazimbia. It wasn't until the 90s when the true extent of their duplicity was revealed. Their foriegn policy, the way their minorities are treated, the gross actions of their ruling class. This simply cannot stand anymore. We will liberate the natives and strip the isle of it's false, oppressive name "Vazimbia" and replace it with Crystumbo.


Hutchinson reaffirmed multiple times that the war was about the liberation of the native Malagasy people. The Upper Committee has confirmed upong "inevitable victory" they will completely dissolve the current Vazimbian state.







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In other news...
• The Union has proposed a substantial economic agreement with Santana, Arica, Micronesia and Mindanao known as the Pacific Market. The Pacific Market will seek to harmonise the market of these nations as well as establishing the free movement of people and capital throughout.

[Entoria]

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26th December 2007

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The Tensions between the Senate and the Government increase

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December 2007, marks the day where the peak of tensions between the Senate and the Government increased. Ever since 1999, when the First Constitutional Crisis happened, which led to the arrest of Dicoletian's political enemies, the Senate has begun to lose influence. Despite being kept under Dicoletian's thumb, the Senate has recently begun to struggle against the Government, claiming that a Second Constitutional Crisis is bound to happen, one which Dicoletian Clodius cannot stop, as the one during 1999.The Entorian Autocrat announced that the "hyenas governing over the Senate attract vicious political influence" and that he blames them for "treason against the National Front" and for "political devalorification of the executive body".
Diocletian Clodius, unlike his predecessor, attempted to build his cult of personality. While generally pleasing with the population, including the recuperation of Piedmonte, he's seen as a new Caesar for the lower and middle class. Recently, the Senate attempted to push his younger brother, Iulian Clodius to take power in an attempt to overthrow Diocletian, who attempted to subminate the Senate's influence in Entoria, attempting to pass the State Powers Protocol and the Wealth Tax Laws. The situation has increased in tension when Diocletian threatened to dissolve the Senate and to expel the current members from National Front for their attempt in working against the "National Front's doctrine" and "treason against the people and nation". While these accusations were taken highly by the Senate, their motivation remains the same. An attempt to keep their influence in Entorian politics.

In a speech in Saint Peter's Square, the Entorian autocrat said that the Senate shall respect the Executive Authority and that if they are to go against it "an army of brave men ready to defend their nation against the expansion of the political hyenas" will destroy the Senate, "once and for eternity" and all their attempts to take total power.
The Head of Staff and the Minister for Military Affairs have sworn loyalty for the Government saying that "The military is withstanding alongside our great Leader, Diocletian Clodius. We will defend the Republic"

During the recent days, the Senate has lost much of its influence with the government working against. Much of the Senate is constituted of northern italians and germans, mostly of both catholic and orthodox faiths.Diocletian Clodius attempting to pass the Protocol of Powers in the Republic would have given more representation to the underrepresented southern region, in an attempt to fully mend the situation in Entoria.The protocols, however, would increase the Government and the Consul (Head of State) its powers, overshadowing the Senate, which will become a mere legislative body in Entoria. If the protocol is passed through Presidential Decree, it would mean that Clodius will become an autocrat.With him already threatening to dissolve the Senate, in concordance with the Constitution, it's only a matter of time before Clodius claims complete control of the power. However, the Senate has the power to elect its new leader every 5 years and with the current mandate ending soon for Clodius, rumors suggest that Clodius' move will happen soon.The Senate has favored his young brother, Iulius Victor Clodius to take power, striking hard within the Clodius family.With Christmas passing by, the situation has not detensioned and political analysts suggest that a Constitutional Crisis, or even a Civil War is bound to happen extremely soon.

With that in mind, Comunita Popolare has managed to extract a small biography of the Clodius family, for public release abroad.The Clodius family is of somewhat shady origins. Some say that they were of german descent, some claim descent all the way from the late days of the Roman Empire.The Clodius family's history, while still mostly a secret, began to be publicly known around the 18th century, as an enriched noble Northern family that was fled to the South during Napoleon's campaign in Italy.August Clodius, the head of family at that time, did support Napoleon, in local politics. While living in the South, he began loving the region and converted to the Orthodox faith, predominant in the South. While in North, slavery was later abolished, the South still depended largely on slaves until the late 19th century.Despite that, the Clodius Family was known for not using slavery that much, however several documents extracted from the National Archive in Rome, reveal that the Clodius family supported several southern organization including the Southern Coalition, known for their support for slavery.Clodius family begun to be exponentially larger and was one of the main protagonists in mending the ties between the South and the North.During the Second World War, the Clodius family supported the fascist regime, as Marcus Clodius, Diocletian's father, was a member of the fascist party and a sympathizant of the NSDAP cause.After the Second World War, they begun to lose their influence and their wealth, visibly during the 1955-1961 Civil War. However after the victory of the National Front, the Clodius family became one of the most influential families, owning businesses and leading industrial sectors, following the increased relations with Emanuel "Augustus" Berglotti. After Berglotti's death in 1990, Diocletian Clodius who was only 35, was voted in by the Senate to become head of state and at the 29th National Front State Congress, he was given the role of Head of the National Front and its umbrella's organization.

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[Panjal]

Department of Records December 27th, 2007 The Guilds of Pavaib - The Maritime Traders' Guild Founded in 1760, the Maritime Traders' Guild is second oldest Guild of Pavaib, but the longest running guild on the island (seeing as the Merchant Adventurers' Guild was founded in Qatar). The MTG traces its beginnings back to the first commercial ships to sail through Pavaib. The founding members were made up of about a dozen trade ship captains, who founded the guild with the intention of acting as a professional association, lobbying the local government for more favorable trade laws. At it's height in the early-mid 19th century, the MTG boasted over 400 Captains and their ships as members. In the modern day, the MTG still acts at the governing authority for ships flying a Pavaiban Flag of Convenience, and has governing authority over all ports and harbors in Pavaib. The MTG also has authority over all regulations and laws regarding the international trade within Pavaib, including not only naval trade, but also any trade done by land or through the air. The MTG holds authority over the Merchant Navy of Pavaib: all Pavaiban sailors are registered MTG members, and all Pavaiban Naval assets fly the MTG's ensign. The Merchant Navy of Pavaib is considerably sized, with a total of 6 frigates, 3 corvettes, 8 patrol vessels, one amphibious transport dock, and 3 submarines as of 2007.

[Entoria]

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5th January 2008

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THE SECOND CONSTITUTIONAL CRISIS

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On 2nd January 2008, with the ultimatum not met, the Senate has called out the invalidation of Diocletian Clodius while at the same time Diocletian Clodius dissolved the Senate, causing the Second Constitutional Crisis. The Senate doesn't recognize Diocletian Clodius as Head of State but instead they've voted in for his brother, Iulius Victor Clodius. The Government, led by Diocletian Clodius does not recognize The Senate, as it was dissolved, but instead it recognizes a provisional legislative body. Despite that, The Senate formed the National Salvation Army composed of army personnel and various pro-Senate militias. These militias include fundamentalist catholic organizations such as the Catholic Union and far-left radicals such as National Emancipation Organization.First, anti-Government demonstrations begun on 2nd and 3rd of January. As the demonstrations turned violent with street clashes between Lancers and demonstrators, police was overrun and soon various cities fell under control of the demonstrators who begun using the name National Salvation Army, thus accepting the Senate's imposed government. While having small militarized pockets, the majority are formed by protesters who managed to overrun police. Most of their members are unarmed and those carrying, do not have military grade weapons. The only militarized enclaves are the ones in East Milano and Vicenzia.

The East Milano has seen the first 'battles' as minor skirmishes happened. Around 5 Government Forces personnel were killed and NSA suffered 50 casualties. Reports indicate that NSA deserted their position as they found themselves to be outnumbered and begun fleeing the battle. National Salvation Army, even managed to use a tank. The crewmen that survived were executed. East Milano was quickly overrun by Government Forces, which managed to liberate East Milan in 10 hours. National Front loyalists begun rallying death squads for the purpose of hunting down NSA members on the streets of Milano

This caused mass panic from the National Salvation Army, being formed mostly from untrained and segregated groups that have a major political difference and are common political enemies. Infighting between NSA started as the fundamentalist Catholic Youth League begin attacking National Emancipation Organization in street clashes in Brescia. Using melee weapons and small arms, 73 NSA members were killed from inner fighting. National Salvation Army is crumbling.National Front paramilitaries behind armored riot policemen from Brescia rally up and begin liberating the town as the NSA forces choose to bail out or surrender. Some NSA members are reportedly fleeing from Brescia towards Vicenzia. National Front death squads supposedly begun to fire on the violent demonstrators in Brescia /size]

50,000 Policemen, Militarized policemen and Soldiers formed a Joint Task Force in combating the violent protests. In just a few hours, using swift brute force and armored riot vehicles they dispersed the violent demonstrators. Supposed reports from the NSA show that National Front has used lethal violence on protesters, reportedly 10 NSA demonstrators were put against a wall and shot.Despite that, police used non-lethal methods. Despite that, they used swift and brutal violence, putting protesters in check. Our great nation will be once more at peace

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Police used excessive violence apprehending protesters, who acted violently, occupying buildings, looting stores and using improvised incendiary projectiles. The Joint Task for combating the protests swiped through the streets muscling down everyone who attempted to stand against them.

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[The Britons and Gaels]

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January 26, 2008

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The Government of the Lords and Yeomen of Albion. Press Release for Immediate Publication.

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The Government of the Lords and Yeomen of Albion express their sympathies for the innocents killed in the recent bombing in Dublin. The Government however does support the wish for independence that the Ostmen Republican Army and remaining Gaels have. This Government would also like to make clear that we believe violence to be ineffective in all but the most dire of circumstances. And would further support actions to stop the violence between the Ostmen and Gaels, and the Government of Svalbard.[size]

As such, we would like to make open an offer of diplomacy, for the Governments of Svalbard and the ORA to meet on the Isle of Mann and discuss a way for the violence to stop, and a peaceful settlement to be reached.

The Government of the Lords and Yeomen of Albion, Diplomatic Office.

Signed Alan MacDonald. Chief of Foreign Affairs and Diplomacy.

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[Toluca-]

Government Memo February 9th, 2008 Education Reformation Act (2008) ​ Preword The Niagaran education system, in its current state, is mired with issues and problems. Student apathy, youth rebelliousness, falling graduation rates and a lack of a technical presence in the class room. The Education Reformaction Act seeks to strengthen the Niagaran education system and bring it to a world class standard on how to handle a massive youth population effectively. Part 1 - Private Schools and their role in the system Niagaran private schools are comparatively restrictive compared to a lot of other countries, which is mainly due to leftover legislation from the Chadstrong Era. The Education Reformation Act will seek to de-regulate and empower private schools to make them more appealing for parents and life the strain off the bloated public system. The restrictions on private school curriculum, as outlined in the Education Act (1993), dictate that what is taught in private schools is unable to stray from that of the public curriculum whatsoever. Additionally, private schools were entitled to no government funding. Moreover, private schools had restrictions on campus limits, costs and student body sizes. This will no longer be the case. The Education Reformation Act: Let private institutions dictate more of the curriculum. Private schools will be able to add whatever they wish to the Niagaran school curriculum, should the core subjects of Math, Science, English and Physical Education are adhered to. However, Private schools must offer up at least two of the following as additional subjects for 11th Grade and 12th Grade students: French, German, Dutch, Economics, Modern History, Geography, Legal Studies, Drama, Visual Art and Music. Large schools that offer all fo the subjects will be entitled to a minor tax break per subject offered. Private institutions will be entitled to some degrees of government funding. This funding will be far lower than that offered to public institutions, but will seek to take off some of the 'ordinary' costs of running a private facility and allow for private schools to use funding to increase the quality of their education, through more skilled teachers, more equipment or more comprehensive facilities. All restrictions on size, cost and student body size have been removed. Private schools are free to be as small or as big as they wish. The aim of these reforms is to make private schools more appealing for parents, which will lift some of the strain off the public system. This will have a positive impact on both private and public school students. Part 2 - Teacher Quality and Quantity Niagaran teachers are some of the lowest paid in the Western world. This is a serious issue that has led to not only a lack of teachers (studies show having more students per teacher leads to greater levels of student apathy) but worse teachers as well. Teachers who are unqualified may become teachers out of necessity. The solution to this problem is to making teaching a more attractive career. The Education Reformation Act will: Set a minimum yearly wage for a teacher at $50,000 Niagaran dollars for public institutions and $70,000 for private institutions. Formalise and enforce legal mechanisms for teacher quality that dictate teacher pay Entitle teachers to various benefits, such as retirement funds and healthcare Following these reforms, teaching should become far more attractive as a career, leading to much higher numbers of teachers and an influx of talent into the field. Part 3 - The Student and the Classroom Niagaran students are suffering from a pandemic of apathy. More and more Niagaran students are reporting a lack of care for their future, contempt for their teachers and higher and higher rates of mental illness. Additionally, Niagaran students are some of the worst performing in the developed world. This is unacceptable. The Education Reformation Act will: Introduce a $10bn scheme to roll out greater technology into schools, such as computers and smartboards. Aim for a 1:25 student:teacher ratio Mandate adequate counselling at school Roll out the Future Training Plan program to all schools, to inspire students to work for a better future. Encourage students to read more often. Massively encourage students to get involved with clubs at school. Ernest Hutchinson President of the Union

[Makassara]

Provisional Republic of Kayanesia Public Dispatch February 15th, 2008. Manifesto For the Future of The Kayanesian State Introduction February 13th, 2008 is a day to be celebrated. It is the day that the old fashioned and worn out system of one man controlling the entire nation is over. Starting now, all Kayanesians will now have the power to choose their own leaders and by proxy, their destiny. No longer will one man take advantage and use government funds to fund their decadent and irresponsible parties. Kayanesian citizens will enjoy more freedom, democracy, and regional autonomy. Organization of the States Following the Provisional Republic will be the Kayanesian Federation, a federation of states based upon ethnic lines to provide the citizens of Kayanesia regional autonomy. States will be established later in 2008, the process will begin with Provisional Officials drawing up a map of state boundaries, that map will then be put up to a vote by the public, the map that receives the majority vote will be put into effect. If petitioned, autonomous regions will be established for the requesting ethnic group. Constitution The Constitution of the Kayanesian Federation will be authored and ratified following the creation of the states. When the time comes a national committee will be established with the authority of creating a constitution that preserves the rights and liberties of all Kayanesians. The committee will be composed of 2 representatives from every state and autonomous region to ensure it meets the needs of all citizens. Provisional Government The Provisional Government will be a temporary transition government until the Federation can be established. The government will be headed by the Provisional President Salahuddin Omar until elections can take place, legislation will be filled in by the soon to be establish Provisional Congress, who will be filled in first by NIDF members until elections take place. The Provisional Government is expected to be disbanded in mid to late 2008. Military Military operations will be handled by the newly established Republican Armed Forces, the more organized and official version of the NIDF Fighting Arm mixed with former Royal Army and Navy troops. As soon as the Federation is established the Republican Armed Forces will be transitioned into the Federal Armed Forces. Provisional President Salahuddin Omar

[Panjal]

Department of Records March 6th, 2008 The Guilds of Pavaib - The Merchant Adventurers' Guild Originally founded in 1714, the Merchant Adventurers' Guild is the oldest Guild in Pavaib. The MAG actually finds it's roots in Qatar, Yahel; founded by Boongi Goongo, a rich bazaar trader. The Guild initially acted as a way to incentivize traders to finding new, more profitable trade routes. As such, the Guild initially functioned primarily as a Bank, providing loans and grants to traders in exchange for profit-sharing contracts. The MAG has only grown over time, with its current member count totaling around 18,000 members. The Guild moved it's headquarters to Pavaib in 1768 as a way to remain close to the trade route hubs of Arabian trade, as enterprising traders began to make the island colony into their base of operations, and trade routes into the Yahelian mainland became more regulated and standardized. As Pavaib had no real central banking authority in the late 18th century, the MAG diversified itself into the realm of generalized banking, providing all manner of loans to the citizens of Pavaib. After independence was declared in 1811, the MAG was established as the Treasury branch of the Pavaiban government, being put in charge of the central bank (the Merchant Adventurers' Bank), along with monetary, financial, and domestic taxation policy. The MAG also became the de facto Foreign Ministry of Pavaib, using it's members to be sent as diplomatic envoys to nations around the world. In the modern day, the role of the MAG has largely stayed the same: it is still in charge of the Merchant Adventurers' Bank, all monetary/financial/tax policy, and still acts as the Foreign Ministry. Guildmaster Mohammad Sgon of the MAG, an indirect descendant of Boongi Goongo, acts as Pavaib's equivalent to a Foreign Secretary, handling external relation and diplomatic meetings. With it's diversity of roles, so comes a diversity of membership: of members of the MAG range from bankers to businessmen to diplomats, with some members abroad not even being citizens of Pavaib.

[Shiandor]

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March 10, 2008

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Sakai Jin Fund raises $2Mn in individual donations • Construction of Pepsi, Co. bottling plant started • Incel inspired by recent Songjiang Death Cult attack failed attempting to attack Bangkok subway with sarin gas, sniffed it on the car ride.

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Protests over arrest of Bangkok Governor set global record as more than 2.5Mn Lasiri's take to the streets; President Nixon to address the nation

Bangkok - The streets of Bangkok are chaos following the arrest of Bangkok Governor Noi Chansiri for releasing information outlining the suppression of free speech and inhumane detainment of government critics. Police were beaten back and small squads of locally assigned military were left to defend the government buildings. Following an incident where a guardsman panicked and accidentally fired upon the crowd, leading the rest of his squad to follow, eight were killed and twenty more injured. Protestors across the city have militarized significantly since the shooting, with assault rifles, Kevlar vests, and even RPGs becoming a common appearance amongst the avenues. Multiple protests have sprung up in other metropolitan areas across the country, including Phnom Penh, Chiang Mai, Vientiane, Yangon, and Luang Prabang. President Nixon took to the podium today to address the nation about the current crisis and the government's response.

Here are the key take-aways from his fifteen-minute speech:
-The Governor of Bangkok is hereby pardoned by the President of the Federal Republic of Lasir, and will immediately return to service as the Governor.
-An investigation will be conducted by the Assembly Judiciary Committee to look into the claims put forth by the documents (hereby referred to as the March Dossier) Governor Chansiri released. Additionally, the Ministry of Justice will undergo a federal audit to increase transparency and figure out why such a situation was allowed to develop.
-Individuals mentioned in the March Dossier will be tried before a federal court individually on counts related to their participation and crimes.
-Attourney General Ali-Shir Yasin, head of the DoJ, will resign following the gross incompetence shown during his time in office.
-Families of the deceased in the Phamsreechit Plaza Shooting will receive a state-sponsored pension for life, extending to their childrens' lifetimes. Families of the wounded will receive a smaller pension.
-The soldier who initiated the shooting, now identified as Mokkhavesa Parnthong, will be tried before a federal court on three counts of first degree murder. Additionally, all squad members who followed suit and fired upon the crowd will be tried individually on counts that will be decided case-by-case.
-Protestors who are still armed and are actively engaging in protests are reminded that while armed protest may be legal in Lasir, so is the appropriate response in military action. With all grievances counted for, protestors are politely asked to return to peaceful gatherings lest the military be mobilized.
-Armed and unarmed protestors who engaged in the beating of policemen or other public officials are to be detained and tried before federal court on a case-by-case basis.

President Nixon assured the nation that steps would be taken to ensure acts like those detailed in the March Dossier would never be repeated, and publicly requested the National Assembly draft and vote on legislation detailing civil rights and government transparancy.

[Makassara]

Kayanesian Federation Public Dispatch March 15th, 2008. Official Declaration of the Kayanesian Federation Starting now, the Provisional Republic ceases to exist to make way for the permanent solution, The Kayanesian Federation. Following deliberation by the Constitutional Council and ratification by all 13 state leaders, the Constitution of the Kayanesian Federation officially goes into effect and authorizes the following: Federal Legislature Legislation at the federal level will be handled by the National Congress, divided between the National Senate and the House of Representatives, each manned by elected officials from all 13 states. States will be permitted to create their own legislation system. Elections for Representatives and Senators are planned to take place August 15th, 2008. Office of the President The President of the Federation will be both the head of state and the head of government, they will serve 5 year terms with no limit on the number of terms they may serve. Elections will be held to determine the official President for the next 5 years on August 15th, 2008. Salahuddin Omar will serve as Acting President until then. The States of the Federation The 13 states of the Federation are as follows by island: Borneo: Sarawak, Sabah, Madura, Banjarah, and Dayaka Sulawesi: Gorontalo, Morowali, and Tana Toraja Papua: Nabire, Yalima, and Asmat Misc.: Maluku, and the Melanesian Autonomous Region The State Boundaries are as shown: Acting President Salahuddin Omar

[Yustrait]

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March 25th, 2008

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Following Abdication of H.I.H. the Emperor Nicholas XII, H.S.H. the Crown Prince, Karl Konstantin Inaugurated as H.I.H. the Emperor, Wilhelm VI as Landersvich Accepts DSABP-L Ultimatum, Ratifies New Constitution

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On the 25th of March, 2008, His Imperial Highness the Emperor, Nicholas XII, abdicated from the throne in favour of his son, the heir apparent, His Serene Highness the Crown Prince, Karl Konstantin. Following a modest, private and quiet coronation ceremony held in St. Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna, the doors to the temple were opened to the public and the Crown Prince was inaugurated as the Emperor of Landersvich. His new full title is His Imperial Highness, Wilhelm VI, by the Grace of God and Will of the People, Emperor of Landersvich, King of Kychova, King of Slovenia, Archduke of Niederlandersvich, Duke of Istria, Count Palatine of Wien and Count Palatine of Prag. Royal Secretary Tommy Poland explained to the press that His Imperial Highness chose the ruling name Wilhelm VI in honour of Emperor Wilhelm IV, who reigned from 1927 to 1953 and is best known for ratifying the 1934 Constitution. As his first official act, Emperor Wilhelm VI ratified the Constitution of the Empire of Landersvich, which has introduced groundbreaking changes to the Landersvichian political landscape.

The abdication of Emperor Nicholas XII and the ratification of the new constitution by Emperor Wilhelm VI comes after the German Socialist Workers' and Farmers' Party of Landersvich held a referendum five days earlier, which made the following propositions; Emperor Nicholas XII was to abdicate in favour of his son, local nobility below the rank of Herzog were to lose their special privileges, the Landersvischer Herzöge were to remain ceremonial figureheads of their respective Bundesländer, with their executive powers being handed over to democratically elected governors, and a new assembly elected according to proportional representation was to be established. The assembly was to have exclusive authority over matters related to foreign policy, war, the establishment of social welfare programs and the formation, operation and regulation of armed forces. With an overwhelming majority of Landersvichian citizens aged 18 or above voting in favour of all proposals, they were delivered as an ultimatum to the Empire of Landersvich by the DSABP-L.

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The Constitution of the Empire of Landersvich passed unanimously by the Reichsrat and ratified by Emperor Wilhelm VI states that the Empire of Landersvich is the realm of His Imperial Highness the Emperor, who rules via the federal government made by his subjects and for his subjects. It is administratively divided into thirty Herzogtümer and one Königreich. Aside from basic 21st century provisions visa vie human rights, the constitution guarantees the right to the voluntary use, disposal, sale and acquisition of private property, the right to keep and bear arms without government regulation and intervention, the right to form and maintain citizen militias on both a non-profit and commercial basis without government regulation and intervention (this includes taxation) and the freedom from self-incrimination. The constitution also places an absolute and unconditional ban on nationalisation, seizure and forfeiture of any kind. These new rights, which are uncommon in most places in the world, must be upheld and protected at all times; the federal government may only infringe on them if the principle of non-aggression is violated.

Decisions related to foreign policy, war, the establishment of social welfare programs and the formation, operation and regulation of armed forces are to be made exclusively by the Bundesrat, a 310-seat unicameral legislative body, the composure of which is to be established via democratic elections held in 310 electoral districts, on the basis of proportional representation. The tenure of the Mitglieder des Bundesrates (MPs) is four years, with the next elections to be held as soon as this year. The Emperor may not under any circumstances obstruct, undermine or dissolve the Bundesrat; if a piece of legislation passed by the Bundesrat is not ratified by the Emperor, it is instead signed into law by the Präsident des Bundesrates. All other legislative authority, including taxation, regulation, domestic policy etc., has been vested in the Reichsrat, a bicameral legislative body comprised of the Abgeordnetenhaus, the lower house, and the Herrenhaus, the upper house. The Abgeordnetenhaus has 155 seats and is elected by all Landersvichian citizens above the age of 18, on the basis of proportional representation. 155 Reichswahlkreise are to be formed for the purpose of the elections. The tenure of the Abgeordneten is five years. The Herrenhaus, on the other hand, has 31 seats. The Herren are, in essence, special delegates sent to the federal government by the 31 Bundesländer. They are elected by landowners in each of the respective Bundesländer.

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Legislation passed by the Reichsrat must be ratified by the Emperor, whose effective veto cannot be overturned. His Imperial Highness also reserves the right to dissolve the Reichsrat; he may not, however, dismiss individual Reichsräte. The Imperial Cabinet is formed by the Chancellor, who is appointed by the Emperor upon their nomination by the Reichsrat. The Chancellor is responsible for forming and overseeing His Imperial Highness' Government, comprised of the Imperial Ministry of Internal Affairs, Imperial Ministry of Finance, Imperial Ministry of the Treasury, Imperial Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Imperial Minister of War and the Imperial Minister of Social Affairs. The composure of His Imperial Highness' Government must be approved by the Reichsrat through an absolute majority. Should the Reichsrat vote against the Chancellor's proposed cabinet, the Emperor may issue a veto that can be overturned by the Reichsrat through a 65% majority. The Imperial Bank is not a government institution; rather, it is a foundation that the constitution deems a legal monopoly; it is subject to the oversight of the Financial Markets Authority, and its Director General is appointed by the Chancellor upon the Emperor's approval.

The Supreme Court is led by 10 Justices that serve until their voluntary resignation or death. 5 Justices are elected via popular vote, and 5 Justices are appointed by the Emperor. The Supreme Court is tasked with identifying whether or not each piece of legislation or ordinance that is passed violates the principles or guidelines set out by the Constitution of the Empire of Landersvich. The Supreme Court reserves the right to strike down any piece of legislation or ordinance on the grounds that it is unconstitutional - including that of the Emperor. Each of the 31 Bundesländer have the right to draft and ratify their own constitution. However, they must at least maintain a 100-seat democratically elected Landtag, which is to have exclusive legislative authority over its respective Bundesland. In conclusion, the Constitution of the Empire of Landersvich will likely be seen as a landmark similar to the 1934 Constitution. It marks the first steps that Landersvich has taken towards democracy, popular rule and - according to some of its critics - collectivism. Its ratification, or at least the ratification of a similar document, was likely inevitable, given the social, political, financial and economic pressures that Landersvich has faced, most of which has been applied by the SCO, whose alignment with Landersvich is being seriously questioned by known and respected members of the Landersvichian political establishment.

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[Toluca-]

[

April 25th, 2008




Hundreds of Asian-Niagarans disappear in Canton • Alician Embassy under siege • Police put out reward for information pertaining to serial killer

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BREAKING: HUTCHINSON ANNOUNCES POSSIBLE SUCCESSORS
The question on everybody's mind for the past six years, since Hutchinson executed his brilliant coup against the tyrannical Chadstrong, is who would succeed him.

Under the old Niagaran system, the method for choosing a successor was simply an election by the People's Congress. However, with the People's Congress becoming defunct even before Hutchinson's ascension, the Union currently has no legal framework to deal with the changing of hands of power of the presidency. However, in 2006, Hutchinson announced he himself, or perhaps the Upper Committee, would be choosing a successor. The method of this choice was unclear, both now and then.

In the same year, Hutchinson made Director of Security, Roman Dean, the Vice-President of the Union. Many assumed at the time that this was an informal appointment of Dean as his sucessor. In fact, the general attitude around the Union, to those not clued up in the affairs and the matters of the Upper Committee, considered Dean to be Hutchinson's successor even to this day.


Roman Dean, 2008



However, in a press conference this morning, President Hutchinson has finally announced two candidates he is considering to take his place as his sucessor: Secretary of Commerce and Finance, Lucia Moruga and Governor of Hudson Region, Carter Barrera.

Moruga was a member of Hutchinson's private army between 1999 and 2002, where she became a member of the Upper Committee at just age 22, the youngest in the history of Niagara and Gettysburg. She's well known for her towering intellect and impressive competency, especially for her age. Her detractors note she has had zero experience in governance until this year.

Barrera, often called 'touched by Midas', has been the Governor of Hudson for twelve years. Under his steady hand, the region has grown into the most prosperous in Niagara, and many acredit New York's status as a global finance hub to him. That said, Barrera has a reputation for being socially incompetent, such as last week when he rubbed an African-Niagaran's head and said "What's up my n****?"

Hutchinson has said these two are his candiates for the next president. He is deliberating between the two and will have his decision made by the middle of 2009.



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In other news...
• A massive Entorian festival occured in New York City, as a collaboration between the Entorian and Niagaran governments. It was a good time and party haha

[Yustrait]

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June 10th, 2008

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HLR AG CFO Georg Hartstein & COO Hans Mann Strike LDM 370 Billion Deal with Landersvichian Imperial Bank, Niagara Union Federal Reserve, Central Bank of Sarwanusa, Reserve Bank of Woerden Amidst HLR Credit Crunch, Arrange LDM 115 Billion Preferred Stock Sale to Creditors

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Erma Baier, Secretary of the Board of Management at Handel, Lutz & Roechmeyer AG, has issued a statement today, revealing that the Landersvichian financial services conglomerate has struck several deals with governments and third parties, including the Landersvichian Imperial Bank, Niagara Union Federal Reserve System, Central Bank of Sarwanusa and the Reserve Bank of Woerden collectively worth LDM 370 billion, within less than 72 hours. Mrs. Baier has further stated that in addition to arranging a LDM 115 billion preferred stock sale to creditors, the firm credits HLR AG COO Hans Mann and CFO Georg Hartstein with coming up with solution to the LDM 485 billion credit crunch, following an inconclusive 11-hour emergency meeting of the Board of Management convened by HLR AG CEO Thomas Leitner.

This announcement comes after McKennedy Group plc, Reverdin Holdings S.A., Edward & Marsh Ltd., Bank of Albion plc, Weinburg-Sveen Trust RG, New Horizons Ltd., Yaheli Oil Ltd., InvesCo. Inc., Mbale Oil & Gas Co. N.V., TK Whampoa Financial Co. Ltd. and Ricardo Brothers Ltd. called in LDM 485 billion's worth of liabilities owed by Handel, Lutz & Roechmeyer AG on the 29th of May, citing political instability and regime uncertainty in Landersvich following its transformation into a constitutional monarchy and the rising popularity of DSABP-L, as well as the alleged weaponisation and politicisation HRL's of assets by foreign states. This left shareholders, the press and Landersvichian regulators concerned about the bank's liquidity and solvency, and many feared that HLR AG would be forced to default on its loans, causing a worldwide financial panic.

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According to Mrs. Baier, Hans Mann, Chief Operations Officer of Handel, Lutz & Roechmeyer AG and Chief Executive Officer of Handel, Strauss & Partners LLP, HLR AG's North American business segment, called Lucia Moruga, Secretary of Finance and Commerce of the Niagara Union, on the 31st of May, who then notified the Federal Reserve Board of the situation in Vienna. Following a brief exchange of memoranda and phone calls, the Federal Reserve Board agreed to purchase 1.7 billion HLR AG ILE 4% APY Class B shares for LDM 85 billion and waive the right to convert the shares to Class A shares - HLR's common stock. In exchange, HLR Asset Management GmbH is expected to re-allocate LDM 25 billion in non-proprietary capital and other assets to Weinburg-Sveen Capital Management (North America) LP to be actively managed within the Niagara Union.

On the 1st of June, Georg Hartstein, Chief Financial Officer of Handel, Lutz & Roechmeyer AG called Diek Pound, Governor of the Reserve Bank of Woerden, and warned him of the effect a financial meltdown in Landersvich would have on the global economy and key players in Woerden's mining industry, such as New Horizons Ltd., one of HLR's most important clients and creditors, and advised him on effective mitigation tactics. Mr. Pound then agreed to authorise the purchase of 1.7 billion HLR AG ILE 4% APY Class B shares for LDM 85 billion. Mr. Hartstein also agreed to authorise the re-allocation of LDM 15 billion in non-proprietary capital and other assets managed by HLR Asset Management GmbH and HLR Fondsvertrieb Händleren GmbH to HLR Woerden N.V. and its capital markets and private equity segments, so that it can be injected into the LDM 636 billion Woerdener economy.

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Shortly afterwards on the same day, Georg Hartstein dialed the number to Boediono, Governor of the Central Bank of Sarwanusa, similarly warning him of the impending crisis and advising him on how Sarwanusa's monetary authority could mitigate or prevent it. The Central Bank of Sarwanusa then purchased 500 million HLR AG ILE 4% APY Class B shares for LDM 25 billion. HLR Asia-Pacific then shifted LDM 5 billion to HLR Sarwanusa Ltd., and had its Sarwanusan retail segment launch a new "Komodo Savings' product, the second time HLR Asia-Pacific has catered to the Republic of Sarwanusa with H.SH. Prince Philip Ferdinand von Landersvich as its CEO. Mr. Hartstein then contacted the Imperial Landersvichian Bank, which agreed to buy 2 billion HLR AG ILE 4% APY Class B shares for LDM 100 billion, and purchase a LDM 75 billion bond, which HLR has dubbed the Contingency Debt Instrument, or CDI.

This allowed Handel, Lutz & Roechmeyer AG to clear LDM 370 billion in liabilities, leaving it with LDM 115 billion to pay off. As such, Georg Hartstein and Hans Mann met with creditors yesterday, and struck a deal whereby they would be compensated with 2.3 billion HLR AG ILE 4% APY Class B shares, worth LDM 115 billion. Mr. Mann informed the press that the Board of Management is working with the Board of Directors to draft a plan that would be implemented should HLR's former creditors seek the conversion of their preferred stock to common shares. "I think we've done an excellent job," Mr. Hartstein said, "by taking initiative and leveraging the relationships we have with our external stakeholders, we averted a catastrophic event and cleared 410 billion marks in liabilities in just over a week... I think that with the right leadership, we're going to see HLR's market capitalisation double within less than two years."

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[Bisingen]

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July 27, 2008

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Landervich Election Results Indicate Great Change to Come

A few weeks ago on the 11th of July, Landersvich was rocked by a major election, decisively deciding the country's near future. As a recap: the election was held for the Bundestag, Reichstag, and Supreme Court with the German-Socialist Workers-and-Farmers-Party of Landersvich, Rykovian Party of Landersvich, and Liberal Democratic Party competing against each other in all three areas.

In the Bundestag, out of the total 310 seats, the results were 187 seats won by the DSABP-L, 91 seats won by the Liberal Democratic Party, and 32 seats won by the Rykovian Party. This secures for the DSABP-L around 60% of the Bundestag, which gives them a majority. In the Reichstag’s Abgeordnetenhaus, the Liberal Democratic Party won 78 seats, barely retaining a majority by only one seat. The remaining 77 seats were all won by the DSABP-L, with the Rykovian Party winning none. In the Reichstag’s Herrenhaus, 21 seats were won by the Liberal Democratic Party while 10 seats were won by the DSABP-L giving the Liberal Democratic Party a 64% majority. As one of its first moves, the Reichstag nominated Ernst Finn Römheld of the Liberal Democratic Party (pictured) as Chancellor, who was approved by his Imperial Highness. Lastly, in the Supreme Court, all 5 justices elected were members of the DSABP-L. The remaining 5 were appointed by the emperor, all holding relatively conservative views. Some have become concerned that the 5-5 split between socialists and conservatives could lead to conflicts in the future, but that has yet to be seen.

[Toluca-]

September 12th, 2008




Upper Committee announces "major economic reform bill pending" • Hutchinson considers forcing companies to revoke Svallbjarder production licenses • "The Edmonton Scourge" claims new victims - total equals 34

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Miami proclaims statehood, major tourism-focused legislation
Leader of the Miami Freedom Movement, as well as CEO of Florida Fruit Co. Doria Semprún, has announced that the Greater Miami Area has succeeded from the state of Florida and answers directly to the Upper Committee. Semprún, a half-Tolucan half-Niagaran, has thanked all foreign benefactors and local supporters for their time and resources to achieve the dream of an Miami state.

Following this, the Upper Committee announced it would be granting the new state of Miami several immense and unprecedented liberties to create a "free city." The Department of Culture has also announced a $15bn investment into Miami's tourism industry.

Semprún, the new state's governor, made a statement today regarding her and the MFM's dream for Miami:


Miami is to be the civil rights capital of the Union - a true free city, a bastion of tourism, a place where all people are free to do as they please. Immediately on the agenda is the deregulation of corporate activity, legalisation of certain controlled substances, lowering the state tax rate and the development of the city to be more appealing to tourists, both international and domestic.



The new Miami State Assembly has announced a motion to decriminalise marijuana in the state will be discussed in the Assembly's first sitting.



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In other news...
• Ernest Hutchinson made a formal denunciation of Svallbjard earlier today. The President claimed that Svallbjard had, "defiled the good will shown to them by the Union." Hutchinson is considering incentives to make Niagaran arms and ship companies revoke Svallbjard production licenses of Niagaran ships and arms.

[Yustrait]

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September 20th, 2008

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Handel, Lutz & Roechmeyer AG to Issue 10 Billion New Shares Ahead of LDM 74.415 Billion Common Stock Deal with Wells Fargo Corporation, InvesCo. Inc., Landersvich Family Foundation Stiftung to Receive 1.5 Billion Shares, Retain 15% Stake

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Handel, Lutz & Roechmeyer AG COO Hans Mann issued a statement earlier today, revealing to shareholders and the press that the Landersvichian banking conglomerate will be issuing 10 billion HLR AG ILE 2.5% APY Class A shares through the Imperial Landersvichian Exchange, following a LDM 74.415 common stock sale deal that the firm has made with Wells Fargo Corporation and InvesCo. Inc., the two largest financial institutions in the Niagara Union. Mr. Mann explained that the deal does not stipulate a stock split, but the Board of Management has made arrangements with its largest shareholders so as to ensure that their rights are protected and that they have adequate representation within the firm. This comes after HLR's market capitalisation fell to a relatively low-priced LDM 901 billion, following a brief period of political instability in Landersvich that led to an exodus of some of the firm's clients, shareholders and creditors.

According to Mr. Mann, Handel, Lutz & Roechmeyer AG will be issuing 10 billion HLR AG ILE 2.5% APY Class A shares through the Imperial Landersvichian Exchange, decreasing the firm's price per share to 45 marks and 5 pfennigs, compared to yesterday's closing price of 90 marks and 10 pfennigs. Mr. Mann stated that 1.5 billion shares will be issued free of charge to the Landersvich Family Foundation Stiftung, the primary asset management and private banking vehicle of the House of Landersvich, so that it may retain its somewhat controversial 15% stake in the firm, which makes up the bulk of LFF Stiftung's assets under management and the Imperial Family's wealth. 800 million shares will also be assigned to the Yaheli Federal Government to protect its ownership of 8% of the firm's common shares. This arrangement will leave the public with 7.7 billion shares, which together represent 38.5% of ownership of the company, valued at LDM 346.885 billion.

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In his statement, Hans Mann explained to shareholders and the press that InvesCo. Inc., the largest financial institution in the Niagara Union, valued at NU$195 billion on the New York Stock Exchange, has agreed to purchase 650 million HLR AG ILE 2.5% APY Class A shares at a price of 45 marks and 10 pfennigs per share, making the acquisition worth LDM 29.315 billion. Wells Fargo Corporation, the second largest financial institution in North America, with a market capitalisation of NU$145 billion, has closed a similar deal with HLR AG, whereby it is to purchase 1 billion HLR AG ILE 2.5% APY Class A shares at a price of 45 marks and 10 pfennigs per share, bringing the value of the transaction to LDM 45.1 billion. Given the size of the deal, both financial concerns have agreed to fulfil its contractual obligation over the course of no more than ten years. Mr. Mann then went on to add that both firms are legally bound to do everything they can to expedite the payments, without disrupting their day-to-day operations and strategic direction.

Handel, Lutz & Roechmeyer AG has certainly had it tough this year, with its market capitalisation dropping from well over LDM 1.3 trillion to a somewhat disappointing LDM 901 billion. All things considered, the bear case is pretty solid - Landersvich's political future is uncertain, Landersvich has only started to recover from its recession, Europe itself finds itself in an unenviable geopolitical and economic position, and HLR Africa N.V. has lost 9% of its clientele. HLR AG will have to diversify sooner and better from the African continent, and its presence in North America can place it at odds with the SCO. "This year has been difficult, but HLR's balance sheet is far more than intact," HLR AG CEO Thomas Leitner points out, "our financials are strong, we've made some very meaningful and impactful acquisitions and other deals, and we continue to forge new partnerships with important external stakeholders... HLR is healthier than it ever was before - the fundementals back it; it's not going to be long before the bears will retreat and the smart, institutional money will rush in as people reconsider the sensibility of their investment decisions."

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[Entoria]

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6th October 2008

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Extract from the Official Gazette of the Entorian Senate

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"Entoria is making every effort in reconciling the apparently conflicting social interests which threaten the integral unity of the Entorian Nation, to give her people the happiness of a community held together in brotherly fashion; to assist those in poorer circumstances and to further all good and healthy instincts for the material and personal well-being of the people as a whole."
-Iulius Victor Clodius, Caesar of the Entorian Nation and Protector of the Entorian People




The Entorian People have went through struggle and through harsh times, since the democratic election of the National Front, followed by the bloodly civil war, in which the National Front prevailed. Our Caesar, truly in his eternal and infinite wisdom, has decided to set reforms at a large scale as the Entorian People to continue its struggle on the path of glory. The reforms known as "Enlist, Educate, Labor" will suffice, as the Entorian People's paths will be more linear.

There is, indeed, evidence to show that something was wrong with education. In the first place, the high level of popular enlightenment had failed to protect the Entorian people against the poisonous effects of Marxist teaching and other false doctrines. Large masses of people had fallen victims to them, whilst other sections - more especially those of higher education - had been unable to take up an effective stand against the spread of the poison. succeeding period of national disintegration and deterioration would have been prevented.

The education will focus on nationalist and ethnical values of the Entorian People, as well as for the Entorian students to give up on their individuals and to think as of a collective - as of a community of an united people. Education will strive to educate children with moral values and a healthy lifestyle, on top of the classic studies. The primary education will focus on literacy and the collective mind of the children. While later on, they begin shifting for their careers. While some might choose to join the National Front Youth League in order to prepare for the military lifestyle and begin military-like drills and education, following a military high-school some may choose to follow the most popular theoretic highschool which will prepare students for an intellectual life, teaching theoretic sciences on different profiles, allowing students to emphasize on whatever suits their knowledge and preference. The attainment of high intellectual standards will certainly continue to be urged upon the young people; but they will be taught at the same time that their achievements must be of benefit to the national community, thus, people that cannot follow a military or an intellectual lifestyle may choose to follow a professional highschool in which they are taught the hardness of labor, to become future workers of Entoria working in harmony with all classes. All these alternatives will also promote a healthy lifestyle, by obligatory sportive classes and nationalist education. Asocial deviancy will not be tolerated and will be thoroughly sanctioned and monitor. For such, there will be a total non-discutable ban on any material promoting an asocial lifestyle - including promotion of vices, illegal and deliquent behavior, poisonous ideologies, pacifism, cosmopolitanism, exaggerated materialism or any kind of asocial deviancy that may endanger the future generation of Entoria. Laziness will be punished while hard work and devotion will be rewarded, for the students to learn the correct way in life.
As for the Enlistment, the ones that chose to devote their life for the protection of the State and the People, they will sworn loyalty to the State and to the Caesar. The military personnel will not be allowed to join the National Front, as the Armed Forces and Municipal Police Forces remain apolitical. Members of the National Militia Guard (known as the 'blueshirts', National Front's paramilitaries) and members of the Praetorian Guard and its de-jure and de-facto branches will have to be members of the National Front and swear loyalty to the State, the People, the Party and the Caesar and to entrust the Caesar and his infinite wisdom and to never doubt or refuse to carry orders.Military training will be extended as the army becomes more professional, modern tactics and doctrines will be taught and military programs will extend to make enlistment more appealing. Military veterans will have more facilities as well as more privileges, being allowed to live rent-free in one of the state facilited homes and will be supported by National Front's Organization for Veterans. The military, paramilitary and police personnel will be desensibilized in order to carry even the harshest of the orders, taught extreme and exacerbated nationalism and taught about the Caesar Principle, in which their highest moral and military authority, whose order and loyalty cannot be broken is the Caesar. The military will have to stand behind him and any betrayal of the State or of the Caesar is considered an act of betrayal to the military attire, the worst betrayal to the military attire.

Intellectuals that make it to the first rows of the intellectual class, may be invited to the Entorian National Academy which requires National Front membership. Intellectuals that are not part of the National Academy are not subject to any related prize nomination from the Entorian National Academy or any association it relates to.

As for labor, the Entorian National Labor Service within the Ministry of Labor will relocate the professional highschool graduates to a respective job they are trained to, or they will be sent to professional higher education to become engineers or be trained in different more professional domains. While unpleasant to hear, labor will be highly rewarded, as the men working day and night to make the State self-sufficient. When a person has the adequate training, the Entorian National Labor Service will allocate a job for him. He may refuse the first 3 offers, however refusing the 4th would cause the said person to be excluded from the Entorian National Labor Service. All body-able and working-age Entorians that are not enlisted (excluding the reservists) are mandated to join the Entorian National Labor Service. Unwillingness to co-operate with the local authorities and the central ones will result in loss of privileges such as free healthcare and state subsides and welfare.
The Entorian National Labor Service will fully cooperate with private businesses and will pool the adequate manpower for each demand from private businesses that ensure the self-sufficient economy of Entoria.

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[Meiji]

10/14/2008 Luna is the most popular dog name On Saturday, dog owners celebrate World Dog Day with their four-legged friends.There are currently 2,424 dogs living in Jeff's parlors and courtyards. Since January there have been 75 loyal companions in Jeff. The Jeff and Rhone have not yet agreed on a favorite breed; by far, half-breeds top the list of the most popular breeds.Around a quarter of the registered four-legged friends are not purebred. After that, Chihuahuas, Labrador Retrievers, Yorkshire Terriers, and French Bulldogs are most commonly seen walking. Schaan is currently the community with the largest number of dogs in Jeff, with 411 dogs living there. The proportion of males and females is almost balanced; with only about one percent, the female dog is in the slight majority. If the male is called Rocky, Lucky or Max and the female is Luna, Kira or Bella, there could be confusion at the dog park.Because when it comes to originality in naming, there is still a lack of local animal lovers, because these names have been among the most common for years. (js) “Achievement, friendship and respect” - the Olympic values, which are the basis for fair sport around the world, also describe the people behind Jeff's deputy prime minister and sports minister. Sport is also very important to him in his free time. And as in sports, Risch attaches great importance to good preparation, teamwork and the achievement of ambitious goals. “Christmas and Beethoven” The fourth and last stamp issue of Philately Jeff this year is to a large extent dedicated to maintaining traditions. Accordingly, at the end of the year, it will once again be offering a new Christmas stamp and a new special stamp on the topic of “Chinese Zodiac Signs”. It will be available from November 16. The self-adhesive Christmas stamps, which are available in denominations of CHF 0.85, CHF 1.00, CHF 1.50 and CHF 2.00, are adorned with four works by the Jeff's artist Annett Höland. The motifs flickering snow, glittering night, candlelight and tinsel rain impress with their reduction to the essentials and at the same time with a liveliness and multicolor, which is "achieved through foil embossing with holographic patterns", as the philately writes. All the colors that appear to the beholder's eye have clear references to Christmas. In addition, the zeros of the digits, which indicate the nominal value of the stamps, are shown as Christmas balls. current population 31,140

[Toluca-]

December 9th, 2008




Continental drug ring thwarted • Niagaran test scores improve • Santa Rosan television increases in popularity

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Increased restrictions on social programs, privatisation trend
Secretary of Finance and Commerce Lucia Moruga released a slew of new federal legislation which would empower Niagaran insurance companies to operate with more freedom, in conjuction with the Secretary of Health and Human Service Sergey Moscow's release about the Union's more restictive social schemes.

Arguably the most notable change to the availability of Federal social schemes is the tightening of the criteria to be eligible for the national healthcare aid system, Hutchcare. Hutchcare is now open to a significantly lower number of Niagarans, by a score of several millions. Hutchcare is now only open to some of Niagara's more destitute citizens. Secretary Moscow has implored middle class Niagarans to switch to a private healthcare provider, citing that it will be far cheaper than previous due in part to new regulation. This will also increase competitiveness in the healthcare market, leading to a better consumer experience.

Furthermore, the Finance Department's new legislation has markedly cut down on the restrictions and regulations of Niagaran insurance providers. Insurance providers now have slightly lower taxes, and are not bound by what some have called "excessive" bureacracy and restrictions.

The two bills passed through the Upper Committee and are intended to work in tandem with each other to lower government spending without hampering the quality of life for Niagarans.



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In other news...
• Fortune Street enters another controversey as a recent episode depicted what some have called a racist version of a Tolucan stereotype. The producers have backed their decision saying that they, "base the show off of real life."

[Yustrait]

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December 28th, 2008

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Handel, Lutz & Roechmeyer AG Reaches LDM 7.813 Trillion Sovereign Debt Deal with Bisingen Department of Finance, Niagara Union Treasury Ahead of Q4 Earnings Report

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Handel, Lutz & Roechmeyer AG COO Hans Mann issued a statement earlier today, revealing to shareholders and the press that the Alpine boutique investment bank has struck a LDM 5.880 trillion sovereign debt deal with the Department of Finance of the Ministry of Economy of the Kingdom of Bisingen, and a similar LDM 1.933 trillion agreement with the Department of the Treasury of the Niagara Union. According to Mr. Mann, HLR AG is contractually bound to purchase LDM 5.880 trillion in Bisingener 30-Year 6.50% APY Government Bonds over a period of 5 years. The Bisingener Department of Finance, the issuer of these bonds, will then use the money to pay off its current creditors, thus consolidating its public debt under HLR AG. Pursuant to its agreement with the Niagara Union, the firm will also acquire LDM 1.933 in Niagara Union 30-Year 7% Treasury Bonds, money that the Department of the Treasury will then use to consolidate LDM 1.933 trillion of the Union's LDM 5.960 trillion public debt. Mr. Mann further stated that HLR AG will be using non-proprietary capital to finance the deal.

Its size aside, the most notable feature of the deal between Handel, Lutz & Roechmeyer AG and the Bisingener government is the fact that the firm has agreed to acquire the aforementioned government securities at an annual percentage yield 6.50% - that's 50 basis points lower than the bond's current yield. Worth LDM 5.880 trillion, the deal tantamount to widely criticised "quantitative easing" measures pioneered by the Bank of Tensai in late 2005, the aim of which is to artificially lower interest rates, expand the availability of credit and increase private investment. As such, HLR AG Chief Economist Erhard Metternich went out to publish a post on Libra, suggesting that the deal could be a serious driver of economic growth in Bisingen, and enhance the country's disappointing recovery from the Flemish War, which stands at 1.75% in GDP growth for the year 2008. "The scale of HLR's 5.880 trillion-mark bond purchase alone makes it one of the largest liquidity and capital injections in Bisingen's history," Mr. Metternich said, "and a non-government 25 basis point rate cut like that could be a serious stimulant for the economy."

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In a transaction similar to that closed with the Bisingener government, Handel, Lutz & Roechmeyer AG and Handel, Strauss & Partners LLP have agreed to make a LDM 1.933 trillion allocation to the acquisition of several hundred million Niagara Union 30-Year 7% Treasury Bonds over a period of 10 years - at an annual percentage yield 50 basis points lower than the security's current yield. Given the volume of a transaction, it's effectively the first rate cut in Niagara Union's post-communist history, as well as a meaningful bullish market signal that's expected to cause a bonds rally. However, somewhat peculiarly, greater availability of credit in the Union is also likely to cause an unprecedented increase in private investment, an early indicator of an imminent market rally. "It's likely that we're going to see the Niagaran economy perform not too worse than it did in 2007," Eugene Fama, Senior Partner and Chief Investment Strategist at Handel, Strauss & Partners LLP, told WirtschaftsBlatt, "I think that the toll lower rates can take on banks' balance sheets will be offset by the performance of the market - if they manage to properly navigate through the momentum."

Handel, Lutz & Roechmeyer AG Chief Accounting Officer Andreas Schulz told WirtschaftsBlatt and the Shenzhen Insider that the firm will be valuing the two deals at LDM 7.813 trillion in its 2008 Q4 Quarterly Earnings Report, in spite of the potential criticism that the firm might face for such an accounting gimmick. "Just as any deal or transaction, we'll write it down as an asset on a mark-to-market basis," Mr. Schulz said, "and we won't be marking several billion marks off as an adjustment for the risk of default. The Niagara Union and the Kingdom of Bisingen are both highly reputable and respectable borrowers, and their respective governments would sit down with HLR and work out a comfortable arrangement, if they're to ever unable to carry out proper fiscal rebalancing. The deal is virtually risk-free." Several other prominent HLR staffers have also come out to suggest that the deal is also a good, low-risk investment for the firm's long-term clients. Currently valued at LDM 901 billion on the Imperial Landersvichian Exchange, writing down a LDM 7.813 trillion transaction as an asset in its next earnings report has a chance of prompting investors to revisit their position in the firm's shares.

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[Toluca-]

January 29th, 2009




die • die • die

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Businesses big and small celebrate
The Upper Committee has announced new tax breaks for small businesses to ridiculously low rates. Small businesses owners will have their tax rate lowered to 20%, and a new wave of small business grants have been announced for Niagaran citizens.idk if anyone reads the thread anymore but uhh hi. apsia is futile. Additionally, a much more minor change, the Upper Committee announced a lowered tax rate for corporations to just 30%. The tech tax break from 2006 is still in effect, which could lower the rate anymore.

The government is "remaning committed to the continued growth of Niagara's economy," says Secretary of Finance and Commerce Lucia Moruga.



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In other news...
• Who gives a shit?