Kalistan

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Parent Groups protest new Video for "Losin It"
Demand M7 remove depiction of dangerous driving
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
January 15, 5634


Elga Nilsson and Magnus Gustafsson being interviewed on M7 about Controversy

Wanderlust are in hot water over the video for their newest single from their fourth studio album experiment 8.  The video in question for the single "Losin It" has made the group targets of parents groups who say the video promotes reckless driving, disregard for safety and suicidal ideation and have signed a petition to M7 to remove the video from regular rotation.  The video depicts lead singer Elga Nilsson placing a heavy stone on the accelerator of a distressed convertible and speeding down a stretch of I2, between Temmon and Frontera in Suldanor.  ARC, the label who produced the record and the video, said the road was a closed road, and all drivers were professional drivers, most of them professional stunt drivers.  Nobody was injured in any of the accidents depicted, and all crashes were under very carefully controlled conditions that were filmed dramatically to make them look far more serious than they actually were.

Melissa Avery, head of Suldaoran Parents Against Degenerate Media, a new Parents Group who says their goal is to remove "dangerous, subversive and lascivious content from KRTVN airwaves," said her group's petition with more than 10,000 names on it shows the level of opposition to what they call "decreasing standards of content" on the National Radio and Television Network.  "Those airwaves are ours," said Avery.  "And that ombudsman works for us.  And so we demand that he do his job and monitor the content of that channel with the demands of the common people in Kalistan in mind.  We don't need our children getting any ideas about driving around without full control of their cars, running people off the road and then dying by high speed suicide.  This band (Wanderlust) ought to be ashamed of themselves, and M7 ought to be ashamed of itself."

Elga Nilsson and Magnus Gustafsson, singer and drummer respectively of Wanderlust, the band under scrutiny recently gave an interview to M7, where they dismissed the complaints.  "This country shows, like, basically, pornography on its channels," said Nilsson, "and you don't hear us complaining about it.  Why would these uppity parents now all of a sudden, find something to be outraged by in our videos?  There are better things to be upset with than our artistic expression."

Gustafsson, who was the co-writer of the song "Losin It" had a much less nuanced message for the SPADM:  "Grow up.  Get off the internet and go touch some grass once in a while.  We aren't pulling the video."

M7 reported that their programming team did meet with the Ombudsman who, they said, conveyed the concerns of the parent groups to the channel.  "KRTVN doesn't typically censor things," said an official statement.  "We are confident that parents are capable of monitoring their childrens' viewing habits, and at any rate, based on our judgement, our conversations with the artists, the record company who is responsible for the video, and the television station, we have determined that this video does not advocate or glamorize dangerous behavior.  It merely depicts it, the same way any war movie would not be considered an advocation of war, but merely a depiction.  Therefore, we find no grounds to remove the video or require Channel 7 to change its programming schedule to accommodate a small minority of protestors.  We encourage the two sides to continue their conversations about the video and video content in general in an effort to clarify community standards of decency on our national airwaves."

The SPADM said they intend to boycott M7 and encourage other concerned parents across the country to join the boycott until the video is removed.

You can judge for yourself if the video is as dangerous as the Parents Against Degenerate Media claim.  Warning:  this video contains depictions of reckless driving, callous disregard for road safety and a depiction of a high speed suicide attempt.  Here's "Losin It" by Wanderlust, their second single off their recent ARC LP experiment 8.

[Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u9WgtlgGAgs]

@KalistaniRawkMonthly

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Del Valle takes aim at Eastern Fashion Markets
Maria Olivia debuts new Couture Collection
Sulari, Duchy of Suldanor
January 25, 5634


Sulari Fashion week Kicks off with the Olivia Couture Collection from Del Valle

Couture fashion in Kalistan is usually produced by foreign fashion houses.  As a result, couture fashion is frequently outside of the price range of most Kalistani citizens, who have adapted their tastes to local fashions and trends.  However, following the widely hailed triumph of the work of Del Valle designer Maria Olivia, who is based in Yoshimi and who designed the Empress' Coronation Dress in 5632, Del Valle has set its sights on making a run for the Seleyan Couture consumer base.

"We've seen great work come from places like Lourenne and Egelion," said Olivia, in a recent interview with La Moda.  "They have set the standard for high fashion, and they have a lot of experience making very pretty clothing.  But I think we can compete locally.  Designing fashion is often about giving people what they say they want, well, giving it to the right people, so others can decide that they want that too.  While we do have to give props to Egelion for their work, I don't think they have asked Kalistani women what they want.  So Del Valle is here to do that."

Olivia's Spring Collection was premiered in Sulari last week at the very start of Fashion week in the southern Capital.  Her collection, which consisted primarily of high fashion day and evening wear, was sleek, form fitting, flattering, and interesting.  "We paired high contrasting lines on our designs to make a woman wearing our clothes to really stand out in a crowd," said Olivia.  "Much of the work is meant to be dramatic, but not distracting, so that a woman wearing our dresses can easily go into a setting and be the talk of the entire social scene."

Olivia said she had the Empress in mind when she was designing her pieces.  "I think back on what the Empress would look like at say, a cocktail Party, and while Her Imperial Majesty does have a style that is all her own, I really think if she were to ever put one of these dresses on, she would simultaneously turn heads, and at the same time people would say, 'Oh yeah, that's what an Empress would wear to this event.'  Most of my models also have close to her measurements, so she could theoretically step into any one of these dresses without needing to tailor them, and go to any event she needed to."

The fabrics that Olivia chose for her fabrics are at least a 75-25 Linen Cotton blend, with silk accents, and even some cashmere on a few pieces.  "I stayed more on the lighter side given that we are coming into Spring, and temps will be going up," said Olivia.  "But I also wanted to stay on the natural fiber side as well.  We could have had some synthetics in this, but this is Couture, baby.  We go with the best."  She said her pieces are machine sewn but several accents are hand sewn by expert craftsmen and women.  "If you can't tell the difference, we've done our job," Olivia said.

She said the new line will be in boutiques in Sulari and Kaliburg by April.  "Just in time for the Ladies to get out to the galas and strut their stuff," Olivia said with a smile.  Her entire line was well received by both critics and buyers who admired her craftsmanship, the durability of her designs and her fittings.  She said she intends to get to work on the fall collection immediately following fashion week, and can't wait to see what Del Valle does in Summer.  A successful Spring Season will set Del Valle up really well going into the summer months, and will allow Maria Olivia to continue her quest to become a household name.

@LaModa

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Breaking News:  Empress Signals Willingness to end Sanctions
Regime began under Pavlina has "outlived Usefulness" said Empress
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
May 17, 5634


Empress shocks some international observers and Deputies from the Floor of the National Assembly

Her Imperial Majesty Empress Mary I Ananto dropped a bombshell on the international media this afternoon.  "We have sent a message to members of the Kundrati Legion indicating terms under which we would be willing to begin negotiating a settlement between the Anantonese Empire and Mainland Kundrati."  Apparently this news came as not a shock to Deputies on the floor for the speech, including Lady Anya Waltrip, who politely applauded the announcement.

"These trade sanctions have been in place since the reign of my Great Grandmother, and it is time they end," said Her Imperial Majesty.  "We are for peace and we will have it one way or another.  And the opinions of others notwithstanding, Ananto and Kalistan must do what is in our own best interest first."

Her Imperial Majesty publicly announced the conditions for opening up negotiating for ending the sanctions regime against the Kundrati Legion.  "We have told their representative, who we met with last month in Athosia, on neutral ground, that our conditions for negotiating were good faith efforts to fully disclose the secret activities of the Legion to public scruitiny, to end their Weapons of Mass Destruction programs for good, and to make a good faith effort to begin settlement talks with the Government of the Kundrati Union in Etxea.  We made it clear to the reps from the Legion that these were our minimum points, that we would need to see from them to demonstrate their desire and willingness to continue talking.  When we presented the terms for discussion, we were expecting a straight up rejection of the terms, but to our surprise, the representatives agree to take our terms back to their High Command to consider."

Whether the Kundrati Legion will carry through on their part of the offer remains to be seen.  "We will know that they are interested by their actions," said the Empress.  "We are justifiably skeptical, but our terms were phrased in such a manner that both Kalistan and the Kundrati Legion can keep their dignity in the process as we work toward a truce.  Their efforts to disclose these practices that we would consider to be horrific, including what we believe to be death camps, human scientific experimentation, and chemical and biological weapons manufacture, and their good faith effort to at least try to offer peace terms to their neighbors so that people can stop getting blasted with chemical weapons would allow us to justify an end to the embargo which Kalistan has put massive resources toward maintaining and which have not produced results in decades."

"These are our terms.  If they can do that, we will tentatively raise Kalistan's embargo against the Kundrati Legion, and stop our own interference in their trade with their neighbors," said Her Imperial Majesty.  "And if we are ever able to negotiate a permanent settlement to the Anantonese-Legionary conflict, Ananto will be out of Artanian affairs for good, and hopefully for ever--  This was a dream of my Grandmother, my Father, and now me, and we stand ready to take steps to negotiate the end to the conflict for good."

Most Deputies applauded Her Imperial Majesty's speech, but after she departed the floor, the Chancellor of the Empire Michael Koenig was peppered with questions by Deputies.  He was asked why this meeting was carried out in secret, what the Legionaries demanded for the talks, and what advice Her Imperial Majesty took to arrive at this decision that now was the time to attempt this detente.  "My god, Mike," said William Robert Martin, Deputy from Vrassa City.  "Were you not in the room with the girl when she chose to do this?  How could you let her?"

The Chancellor shot back, "Mr. Martin, 'the girl' as you term her, is your Empress, and her word is the law.  So she doesn't need me to 'let' her do a thing.  And as for me, I am Chancellor Koenig, or Sir Koenig, or His Excellency Chancellor Koenig, if you like.  I am not Mike on the floor of the National Assembly.  I would advise you, Her Imperial Majesty is covered by the Protocol and so am I.  And so are you.  I'd advise you to watch your tone."

The Chancellor's haughty answers upset some, but they were quickly shouted down by Orthodox loyalists who not only represent the Majority in the National Assembly, but support the Empress' Nationalist tack.  "I for one think its about time," said Deputy Marian Gomez, representing Springfield.  "Kalistan has been carrying the burden as the world has been defecting.  If they want the regime, let them pick it up, but it is time that Her Imperial Majesty took our nation out of that conversation, and brought the focus back to where it belongs, which is the Anantonese Ocean."

Others demanded National Assembly oversight over the negotiations, but the Chancellor did not back down.  "Lady Anya Waltrip, Her Imperial Majesty's Foreign Minister, has been tasked with this overture.  She has Her Imperial Majesty's complete confidence, and will serve our Empress as she is expected to.  At no point does the National Assembly need to be a part of this.  When Lady Anya has completed talks you will be asked to move the policy into law.  And that is the extent of your concern for the matter.  This is not the Assembly of State.

Response among the Peerage was predictably muted.  Grand Duchess Emily Suldanor issued a statement:  "The Peerage Council endorses Her Imperial Majesty, and we have full faith that her actions will produce the best outcome from our Empire.  We encourage all those who oppose the talks to let them play out, and we trust that Her Imperial Majesty's will shall be carried out by the National Assembly in all matters pertaining to matters of governance."  The Peerage, which is perhaps the most conservative institution in Kalistan, only rarely dissents with the Crown, and then only in private.

Details of the talks, including where they will be held, when and what topics will be covered are still forthcoming.  "We have a long time before they start," said Chancellor Koenig.  "The Legion still has to make several credible gestures before we go into negotiations.  But at least they didn't flat out tell our side no, which can be said to be progress in and of itself."

@TheRepublic

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Kalistani News in Brief:  Princess Margaret takes Leave to Luxon
New Country/Rock Music Label to start in Nevaras; Empire agrees to Humanitarian Aid for Kundrati Mainland
Luxon, Grand Duchy of Ananto
July 14, 5634


Her Highness Princess Margaret Ananto-DeLaurentis on Leave in Luxon

Princess Margaret takes Leave in Luxon
Her Highness Princess Margaret Ananto-DeLaurentis, 20, has nearly completed her second full year in the National Service Program.  She has opted to take her annual leave in Luxon, where she is staying in her parents' Beach house for a month.  "I'm just going to kick back, smoke some reefer, enjoy the waves and relax," said the sister of the Empress.

Princess Margaret, who takes after her mother in her love of surfing, has surfed most of her life.  Beginning at the age of six, when her mother and father, the late Emperor Fredrick III Ananto bought her her first surfboard, the young Royal has been very adept surfing on the Luxon Swell.  "I would surf a little ways up the coast," said the Princess, "But those waves can get pretty big, and I am looking for a more chill experience."  She said her normal surfing schedule when she is on break has her waking up about 5:30 am just before sunrise, drinking a smoothie or protein shake, and then surfing for a couple hours, and then coming back in for some breakfast right around the time when other members of the family wake up.  She'll surf again later in the afternoon.  "I'm adding some Dah to my regimen these days, especially when I'm just waiting for some swells to come in.  It's good meditation to just sit out there on the water and learn patience and center."

The Princess said she intends to enter in the Luxon Open tournament in early August.  "I don't know if I'll win it, but I would like to try it out, and this is the first year that I'm down here where I'm old enough, so I may as well."  She said she will also take in the Global Music Hall of Fame museum while she's in town before reporting back to the Ananto Corps in Kaliburg in late August.

New Country and Rock Label to be founded in Nevaras City
Country/Rock musician Hank Nestor of the band West Wall has announced his intention to launch a new label that records country, blues, and rock.  Tentatively called Plateau Records, the label aims to begin more widely promoting acts that tend to be eclipsed by Alternative and Hip Hop.  "We've had a few country songs creep up into the charts," said Nestor.  "But I think their labels didn't really take them seriously.  And if you are an independent in these days, how can you expect to be able to compete to get your music heard by people who may like it, but never will hear it, because the airwaves are so crowded with alternative music?  The only way to do it, is to do it ourselves."

West Wall has struggled for several years to get noticed, despite being widely hailed as some of the most accomplished country/Rock artists in the nation.  Their reach is generally limited to Nevaras and adjacent areas of Vrassa.  "I mean, the biggest shows we've played are in Vrassa to a crowd of 2500 people.  That's awesome, but when our manager goes to book us shows, the promoters are all like 'Nobody wants to hear that hillbilly bulls--t.' so we're kinda stuck playing where we are, and I would like that to change."

Plateau Records will start by developing a stable of recording artists.  "Once we have some talent here, we can start recruiting producers, engineers, and studio musicians," said Nestor.  "There are wonderful, talented staff who work for the other studios who may be interested in making a move, and once we have something in hand that we can show them, it will be easier for them."  He said until they get a house producer, they will be willing to work with independent producers, and he himself will work as an engineer.  "I came from a sound engineering background," said Nestor.  "I know how to set up a studio, do all the mics, run the boards, and master the tapes.  Music is my life, and the technical aspects of it come easy for me."  The label, he said is a joint venture between him and a small group of Neveras City investors who would like to add country music to the Kalistani repertoire.  Nestor said West Wall's next album will be produced and distributed by Plateau Records and should be out early next year.

Empire Agrees to Humanitarian Aid to Kundrati Legion
The International Politics of the Empire are shifting once more, as representatives from the Empire of Ananto and Kalistan and the administration of Mainland Kundrati have agreed to continue the suspension of trade sanctions, and committed to begin talking.  At a low profile meeting in Hutori, Lady Anya Waltrip said the Empire has agreed to opening the valve on humanitarian aid.

"We have agreed to start the aid with about 1 Billion Imperial Rubles in medical, food and basic humanitarian aid for the people of Mainland Kundrati," Lady Anya Waltrip, Her Imperial Majesty's Foreign Minister said.  "The Legion has committed to meeting Her Imperial Majesty's terms for discussion, and subsequently, we have offered to continue to suspend the trade sanctions, and to provide humanitarian relief to help the people of Mainland Kundrati avoid a famine."  Lady Waltrip said the agreement, which is limited in scope, at least opens the door for future discussions on additional aid and support, while providing a path way for dismantlement of the Legion's WMD program and a potential settlement between Etxea and the Legion.

"We are not sure what fruit the settlement talks will yield," said Lady Waltrip.  "The outcome of those talks will be between the two of them.  Our aim was to provide a push to get them started, whereas before, there was no inclination that they would ever begin.  One of the most important concessions we got was a commitment to end the Legion's WMD program.  Whatever the outcome of the other things are, this will be a major improvement in the security of Artania and the world if they do complete the dismantlement of those weapons and the end of the program."

Lady Waltrip said her Imperial Majesty's government has additionally received official government documentation that she believes discusses Legion programs which Kalistan finds objectionable.  "We will be vetting the documents and confirming the details with what we know of the the Legion's prison programs, their medical experimentation programs, and their labor programs, and intend to release a summary of these documents publicly.  These documents were provided by high members of the the Legion itself in a show of good faith, and we have no reason to doubt their authenticity.  The Legion knows of our plans for these documents, and provided them anyway."

Lady Anya said that the meeting with the Legion was not tense.  The two adversaries have simply taken their first two steps back from the abyss.  "Hopefully, success builds on success," said Lady Waltrip.  She also noted that the aid program is expected to be administered by Davostag, who has the trust of both the Legion and Kalistan, and who will independently verify that the aid is provided to the population as a whole.  The first shipments of medicines and tade credits to purchase food aid on the Global market are reportedly already underway.

@TheRepublic

[Doc]

Kalistani News in Brief:  First Aid Shipment leaves for Davostag
Kalistan to participate in Hutorian Naval Exercises in Mad Dog; Del Valle unveils Winter Collection
Port Swedes, Duchy of Vrassa
September 8, 5634


Approximately ₭1 Bn in Humanitarian Relief heads to Davostag

First Aid Shipment leaves for Davostag
A mix of Kalistani guaranteed credits to purchase food on the International Market and Humanitarian supplies, including anti-biotics, anti-inflammatory medication, analgesics, and antiseptics, water filtration systems, portable sanitation systems, water treatment supplies and equipment, and temporary shelter supplies totaling more than ₭1 Billion Imperial Rubles is currently being transferred to Davostag.  The physical supplies and pharmaceuticals have been loaded on the cargo ship KCS Santa Helena, registered at Port Swedes, and flying Imperial Colors.  The cargo ship will arrive in Davostag within three weeks, after which time Davostag will begin transferring the relief aid to Kundrati Mainland as part of an agreement between Her Imperial Majesty's Government and the Kundrati Legion to provide relief aid to the people of Mainland Kundrati.

"Her Imperial Majesty has earmarked this first shipment as an initial dispatch to Davostag, for the purposes of assisting their friends in the Kundrati Mainland," said Kalistani Program Manager Robert Conyers.  "We don't have any official relations with the Kundrati Legion, but Her Imperial Majesty is clearly concerned about the condition of the people of the Kundrati Mainland, and Davostag has agreed to administer our aid to the people of that country and ensure it is delivered humanely, neutrally, impartially and independently."  The food credits, totaling more than ₭600 million alone will allow Davostag to procure food closer to the place where it will be provided, and Kalistan is placing no restrictions on sourcing for the food."  The credits themselves will be funded by the Kalistani National Government via the International Aid budget.

This represents the first significant interaction between Kalistan and Artania in two decades, since the end of the war.  "The Program is also earmarking a 4% administration overage to the Davostag Government to ensure that say thank you for their willingness to administer the program."  Conyers believes that aid will continue to flow from Kalistan and Davostag, destined for the Kundrati Mainland, for the next few years.  "That nation is severely damaged, and a lot will be needed to ensure that it has a chance to reach sustainability once more.  But it is a small price to pay for peace in the region.  We sincerely hope that the Mainland uses this opportunity to begin mending bridges with its neighbors.  And we encourage other Artanian nations to make similar efforts to foster peace in the region."

Kalistan to Participate in Hutorian Naval Exercised in the Mad Dog
Elements of the Kalistani Fourth Regular Fleet, who maintain their position west of the Karzon Strait, have been invited to participate in the Hutorian Naval exercises known as Leviathan Tide in the Mad Dog ocean.  Details of the exercise are under wraps at the moment, but the Ministry of Defense has issued the notice stating that elements of IVa and a Destroyer group from the main IV Regular Fleet will cooperate with the northern Kingdom in the Exercises.

"We are in the process of discussing naval procurement at the moment, and the idea to cooperate in exercises was brought up," said Naval spokesman Lt. Eric Rogers.  "This will be an excellent opportunity to observe not only Hutorian Naval equipment in action, but Hutorian tactics.  The more opportunities we have to learn from our colleagues in the Kingdom of Hutori the more fit our own Navy will be in any number of situations.  We never know how well our own tactics will do in combat unless we also have a chance to practice them."

Kalistan's Navy is one of the few navies that actually still lists combat veterans in its ranks.  Most of those who participated in Artanian Sea campaign are preparing to retire now, but this will give those few who are still on front line duty the opportunity to see combat, even if this time it is simulated against a close friend.  "I am sure we will see some friendly rivalry between services," said Lt. Rogers.  "It builds esprit de corps and comradery, and leads to much more convivial fraternization during liberty."  The Regular Navy is reportedly contacting Lodamun to make a port call after the exercises at Newport NGS.  "To give our retiring vets one last chance to see their old home port," added Rogers.

Del Valle unveils Winter Collection in Kaliburg
Del Valle continues its rise to dominance in the Kalistani Markets.  Its three collections so far this year have been excellent successes, and have even encouraged similar trends in several upstart labels in Sulari.  "Del Valle has actually seen the rise of several casitas in Sulari which are imitating Del Valle's lines, silhouettes, and aesthetic," said Del Valle spokeswoman Donna Moran.  "But, of course, Del Valle still leads in couture, and we welcome the role of trendsetter in Kalistani Fashion.  The competition encourages our own innovation, and we will continue to stay in the vanguard."

To this end, Del Valle has unveiled its Winter collection.  This collection, once more designed primarily by Del Valle's wonder woman Maria Olivia, features her trademark form fitting look.  "We take a sleek, conservative look, with flat colors that will not highly contrast in Kalistan's kinda dreary winters, and we pair them with sheer legging and matching jackets, to ensure that there is some function to our fashion," said Moran.  "Maria has a good eye for a beautiful line on a woman, and her clothes flatter all figures, whether they be curvy or petite, statuesque or dainty.  And we brought models of all different kinds of figures in to show off her beautiful work."

Del Valle's Winter Collection was shown in Kaliburg last week, and was widely praised by fashion critics.  "Maria Olivia never fails to impress.  She had looks that were both quite professional and quite sexy," said writer Yolanda Berg.  "And her craftsmanship is second to none.  She is very exacting in her construction, and tends to really stress quality.  Even though she has really only been a big name for a few years, she is the one to beat in Kalistani fashion now:  the casitas can make fast fashion knock offs for the masses, but the difference is obvious the first time you check a seam." 

Her Imperial Majesty was already seen this week in Kaliburg wearing part of Olivia's fall collection which is just about to hit stores.  The designer was reportedly thrilled to know that Her Imperial Majesty was wearing the custom piece before it is more widely available.  "As Del Valle is a trendsetter in Fashion Houses in Kalistan, Her Imperial Majesty is the ultimate trendsetter for the social set in Kaliburg," said Moran.  "Del Valle received 5,000 orders following the publication of one picture of the Empress in Maria's design.  It is thrilling."

@TheRepublic

[Doc]

West Wall releases Country Western Album on Plateau Records
Debut LP is also first major Release for new Label
Nevaras City, Duchy of Nevaras
October 25, 5634


West Wall, the quintet from Nevaras City focuses mainly on Country and Rock

"Well, we'd do straight country if we thought it would sell records," said West Wall singer and primary song writer Hank Nestor about his band's debut LP Mountain Song. "As it is we included some folk and some straight rock too, to give Kalistani audiences something to bite into whatever their tastes." The album, which is the first major release from the new Nevaras based label Plateau Records, represents a fairly eclectic mix of music that not only refers to a much older, more fundamental sound in terms of recording techniques and styles, but also adopts a number of what is more often called a "western sound" that borrows from Nevaran and Vrassan musical traditions more than Suldanoran or Anantan styles.

"A lot of this stuff is closer to blues rock and folk rock in some ways than it is to alternative," said West Wall drummer and second vocalist Keith Jackson. "Mickey (bassist Mickey Hewitt) and Ben (Lead guitarist and back up vocalist Benjamin Daniel Green) are from over in Baltusia, and they bring a different element into the band than we would have gotten if we had stuck with just Kalistani musicians, and our kind of music isn't really heard on Kalistani radios a lot, so we hope we can change that and introduce people to that."

The album has already received positive early reviews from critics who praise the analog production, the tightness of the sound, and the different musical styles found on the record. "This stuff hearkens back to a pre-industry period of Kalistani Music," said Jan Watts, reviewer for KRM. "We don't often hear a lot of albums where the studio tricks aren't transparent. Maybe our ears just aren't tuned into the ones this band is doing for this record, but maybe they really are just this good. Either rate, the record is refreshing, fun and really reflects the things they have been doing in Nevaras for a long time."

Nestor laughed when he heard the suggestion that the band was being innovative with their analog sounds. "Ah, well, you know, we're kind of a start up. We have an 8 track board. There's not a lot we can do about that analog sound: if we want to get better gear, we gotta make some more money."

Most of the people who have heard it say they like it, and praise it as "mellow" even in places where it rocks. Some, however have returned mixed reviews. "Well, I don't really know if I can fully get into it," said Brad Francis, music editor for the Dana Record Review. "There's a couple stand outs, like the single 'Standin on the Ground', but there is also a lot of music that is just too far out for my palate. There is obviously a market for this out west, but West Wall might need a little more refinement before they become the huge recording artists they want to become."

The Album, Mountain Sound is receiving major promotional pushes to radio and Television, but so far, in its first two weeks, sales have been modest, with much of the activity centered on the first single, "Standin on the Ground" which is a country folk tune about a the serenity Nestor finds in a very down to earth, realistic relationship. "There are a lot of alt-folk fans in Vrassa and Nevaras," said Francis. "This record will do great out there, and if they can get international distribution, they will probably do really well in Baltusia and Likatonia. Who knows: maybe Ananto is in the mood for a change. But I think until this Label scores a major hit album, it will still remain in the class of independent labels, and its pretense as a major will remain in question."

"Ah, you know, its alright if we don't hit it huge with the first album," said Nestor. "This is just the start, you know, and if we can do this, and even have a little bit of success, first of all, that's more than we've done so far, and second, it will put us on the map and let other artists know to come and check us out. If you ever got turned down at one of the big labels, maybe send your demo to Plateau, and we'll put your stuff out."

You can get Mountain Song at any local album store, and check out the video for "Standin on the Ground" right here.

[Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PPYYfYAWoj8]

@KalistaniRawkMonthly

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Empress Purchases home in Odufaray's Dragon Hills
Rustic Hideaway is first Royal Property on Mainland
Eshar County, Duchy of Odufaray
November 1, 5634


Her Imperial Majesty stands before the newly christened Wood House on the North Slope of the Dragon Hills

Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Mary I Ananto, has ordered the purchase of her first property on the Seleyan Mainland.  The property, a Redwood Lodge that has been christened Wood House, is a spacious 4500 square foot five bedroom, four bathroom cottage deep in the Dragon Woods.  It is serviced by a National Service Forest Road which runs adjacent to the property at the end of a quarter mile long drive.  The home is supplied by solar power with back up wind generation and is warmed by heat pump.  It will serve Her Imperial Majesty as a year round retreat, as well as a summer home and office for the Empress.

"This cottage is very deep in the woods," said Crown Watcher Martina Albertson.  "It was built several years for a wealthy family of Odufaray planters, but was considered too remote for the planter's family.  It was then transferred to several different owners, none of whom developed the property beyond what was there until Eshar developer Vic Jodi remodeled the land, updated the infrastructure to include all modern conveniences, and turned the home into a home fit for the wealthy."  The Empress, who has been in the market for a home on the Mainland for some time, was introduced to the property, and promptly purchased it after visiting it.

The property also has a creek head and a natural artesian spring near the home which serves the home with fresh water, and has both satellite internet and television service from KalSat, and quest and servants quarters on the property.  "It is believed that there will be year round staff at Wood House, as there is at Ananto Estate.  The Empress is expected to employ a staff of about 15 to maintain the home, as well as a chef, several maids and a home management staff.  All told at any time, there will be not less than 2 dozen people permanently living at Wood House, whether the Empress is in residence or not."

The Empress spent a week last month opening the home and her sitting with her personal secretary, Lady Marian Southern, as she interviewed staff to be employed.  Her Imperial Majesty is not expected to return to the home this winter, but a head of House, Mr. Brian Crane, has been hired to begin operations and make all improvements and repairs to prepare for the arrival of Her Imperial Majesty late next Spring.

@LaModa

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Kalistanis Give Government Positive Marks
Majority Approves of Empire's Orthodox Shifts
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
December 8, 5634


Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Mary I Ananto and Chancellor of the Empire Sir Michael Koenig in Eveari

Majorities in Kalistan have given Her Imperial Majesty's Government positive marks for their handling of International and Domsetic Policy.  This poll comes as the Empress celebrates two years since she was crowned in Kaliburg.  Large Majorities also said that the Empress makes them "proud to be Kalistani", and most qualitative responses encouraged Her Imperial Majesty to direct the Government to work closely with the National Assembly to move popular ideas into law.

The Poll was conducted between October 17 and November 10, of this year, and took responses from more than 8,000 respondents nation wide, at a 99.7% confidence level with a +/-1.65% margin of error.  Surveys went to all Duchies, and all Free Cities, and focused largely on civic organizations, educational institutions, and labor organizations.

"The responses we saw were sort of unexpected, given the populations we ended up surveying," said Dr. Thomas Dore of Kaliburg Imperial University, who led the survey team.  "Especially in the Free Cities, you might expect to see more support for liberalization, as those populations are more inured to the notion of self governance.  Similarly with civic organizations, which are the primary organizations of civil society.  But instead of seeing more support for limited government, there was across the board support for both the Government and especially the Empress."

Her Imperial Majesty's Government received a 73% approval rating (either "Strongly Approve" or "Approve"), while the Empress herself had approval ratings in the mid 80s.  "We expect strong historical support for the Monarchy, due to the nature of Kalistani society and its heavy socialization, but support for the Monarch tends to be less.  It seems, however, that most Kalistanis identify with this Empress in degrees we haven't seen since Nicolette I, and that is surprising:  Most say she makes them Proud to be Kalistani, which certainly supports her implicit role as the avatar of the Nation."

Specific policies that are most supported is the effort to end hostility with the Legion in Mainland Kundrati (65% support, 24% neutral), expansion of consumer electronics and auto manufacturing with strong government support (72% approve, 12% neutral), Improvement of relations with both Hutori and Dolgava (68% and 76% support respectively), Improvement in relations with Valruzia (73% support), The Government's increased support for the Environment (76% support), and increase in House Ananto's support for the Arts (62% support).  Respondents also gave Lady Michelle Ananto-Sandoval's regency high marks as well, with 82% saying they supported her even now that she has been out of office for more than two years.

"Her Imperial Majesty has spent the last two years strengthening and beautifying our Empire," wrote one survey taker.  "She makes us feel like one nation.  She cares about the environment, she cares about peace, she cares about humanity."  Others echoed this sentiment, and said Empress Mary's confidence was an overwhelmingly positive characteristic of the Empress.  "She's just a kid," wrote another survey respondent.  "But she don't play.  She says it like it is, and she doesn't let anyone push her around.  If she is a little arrogant, she has already earned that right.  I say let her be more arrogant if she wants."

The Government's lowest scores came in the public's estimation of their role.  More than 40% said they are not sure what the National Assembly actually does.  About 15% of respondents said that they were concerned that there may be corruption in the National Government, and another 30% said they believed that if the National Assembly was disbanded, it would make "no difference."

"The National Assembly does what the Empress tells them, right?" asked one respondent.  "I wish they would have a more active role in setting policies.  I can write to my Deputy until I am blue in the face about the need to tax businesses, and yet, each time all I ever get is some canned response, and a packet of information about corporate tax being a back door sales tax.  Like what does that even mean?"  Another respondent said "I have a lot more luck in City Government seeing the things my neighbors talk about acted upon:  the National Assembly seems to just be followers of the Chancellor, who just does what the Empress tells him to do."  Yet, only a minority of the population (about 15%) actually called for more democratization and liberalization of the government, a number that is at a 25 year low.

When asked if Her Imperial Majesty was too extravagant with her spending, 67% said "Strong No" or "No" with another 18 percent saying "I don't know".  The question was raised with regard to Her Imperial Majesty's lavish clothing budget, as well as her purchases of a new home, and her maintenance of three other mansions in Ananto.  "I don't get it," said one woman from Luxon.  "Those places are hers.  That's her money.  Just because previous Emperors and Empresses were thrifty doesn't mean she is spending a single Ruble of the General Fund.  Let the girl beautify her Empire."  Another pointed out that as a CPA, he does audits for corporations each year.  "Miramar is the single most transparent corporate entity in Ananto and Kalistan.  They release their audit report into the public record each year.  They pay every ruble of tax that they owe.  They give regular public shareholders reports, and pay quarterly dividends that are publicly announced.  And more importantly, Miramar lists all property of House Ananto, including, surprisingly, the inventoried contents of the House Ananto Jewel Vault.  You don't find other corporations, not in Kalistan and not in the world, who go through such meticulous detail with all their assets and liabilities, and then make all that info public and freely available, every year."

Several respondents said they hoped to see more input from Deputies in the making of National Policy.  "Like, I know the Chancellor is more or less the guy who gets stuff done in the Government," said one Sulari respondent.  "But it would be nice if the National Assembly were a little more independent, and the Deputies had more input into the bills.  That would take care of the politics thing, and make our government more responsive via our chosen reps.  Its a win-win."

The survey is positive news for the new Chancellor's government, which aligns with Her Imperial Majesty's strongly Nationalist perspective, and is composed almost entirely of Orthodox faction members.  "The Institutionalists are going into an election next year, and given these results, it seems that the Chancellor's Orthodox faction will increase their margin," said Dore, who noted that the Internationalist faction is already below 30 members.  "Maintaining the status quo is good for Kalistani business and investors, it is good for the stability of the currency, it is good for continuity of policy, and it is good primarily for Chancellor Koenig, who could easily coast into a full term in office starting next summer."  As Kalistanis are willing to indulge their Empress, so too are they willing to reward her servant, the Chancellor for loyally carrying out Her Fiat.  

"It's good for us all, and probably for the world too," said Dore.

@TheRepublic

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Kalistani News in Brief:  Capatain Bonaventure answers questions about Hutorian Joint Exercises
IBSI offers Egelion Assistance in Counter Terrorism; Addisjah Hip Hop Group Breakers 3 to fly to Xsampa
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
May 12, 5635


Minister of Defense Captain Oscar Buenaventure on base in Port Swedes

Capt. Oscar Buenaventure Answers Questions about Hutorian Joint Exercises
Her Imperial Majesty's Minister of Defense was on hand in Port Swedes today to debrief Naval Chiefs about recent Kalistani Regular Naval participation in the Kingdom of Hutori's recent Leviathan Tide exercises.  The large scale exercises between the two nations took place earlier this year in the Eastern Mad Dog Ocean, and involved elements of the 4th Regular Fleet running drills and combat scenarios against Hutorian detachments.

"These exercises highlighted our continuing needs for ASW technology," said Minister of Defense Buenaventure.  "We did quite well on the surface, as expected:  Kalistan has one of the only fleets with active combat veterans, and now, twenty ish years on, many of them are in command positions, so it is natural that we will have the edge there.  But submarines still seem to be a problem, and outside of our passive sonar net in the Anantonese, our mobile assets still perform far less than where we would like them."

The exercises not only highlighted the need to continue to develop on ship and rotary wing ASW technology capable of locating and targetting especially nuclear submarines, but the spaces for cooperation between Kalistan and Hutori.  "We are in the process of developing new systems capable to bringing that detection level up a bit.  We certainly want to focus our efforts on this, because while Hutori is out in the Mad Dog, we can remain relatively confident that they will be on top of the incoming threats, but in our zone of responsibility in that ocean, we too want to have the advantages of denying adversaries the cover they hope to exploit to hit Anantonese Nations.  We learned a lot during these exercises, and we also know we still have miles to go before we get to where we want to be with our submarine interdiction program."  The Defense Minister also pointed out Kalistan's disadvantages in air operations, noting that this leaves Kalistan at a tactical disadvantage outside the range of the Naval Air Station in Port Swedes.  

In all, though the Minister gave the Navy high marks.  "In all, I am proud of the conduct of our naval units during the operations.  Both surface and subsurface components preformed well, given the parameters.  We have work to do but the Kalistani Regular Navy remains a premier fighting force of extraordinary magnitude.  Hutori has our gratitude."

IBSI Offers Egelion Assistance in Counter Terrorism
The Kalistani Imperial Bureau of Security Intelligence (IBSI) officially offered the Kingdom of Egelion assistance in counter-terrorism efforts as the Kingdom responds to an attack that injured both the Queen and the Prince of Amateria Artemio.  Romulo Rey was not in attendance at the performance of the opera where the bomb exploded.  Nicole Reina is distantly related to Empress Mary by adoption and both she and Romulo Rey are considered family in Kaliburg.

"We found out about the horrific attacks in Altea before the account was printed in the Egelian Newspaper," said George Won, Director of IBSI's Public Information Section in Reynoldia.  "The Bureau phoned both the Chancellor and the Empress to inform them that a bombing had occurred in a theater and the condition of the victims which included the King and Queen both was unknown.  The Empress directed to the Chancellor to make our services specifically available to Egelion, as they investigate the attack, as well as any additional support they may need, including assisting the Kingdom in developing a security intelligence bureau capable of identifying and addressing threats before they become an attack."

Director Won stated that IBSI stands by to offer any assistance Egelion should need in ascertaining the identities of the attackers, and in ferreting out the nature of the group who launched the attack.  "The Empire of Ananto and Kalistan is very attuned to the destructive effects of domestic and international terrorism," said Direct Won.  "Her Imperial Majesty's Great Grandfather was killed by a terrorist, and we can't stress enough the seriousness of the threat.  Terrorists have manifestos:  they don't just strike randomly.  And unless those grievances are not addressed, it is likely that whoever did this will strike again."

Director Won also confirmed that Her Imperial Majesty is committed to ensuring the safety of her cousins in Egelion and to bringing the culprits to justice.  "Whoever they are," said Director Won.

Addisjah Hip Hop group Breakers 3 to fly to Xsampa
The underground hip hop crew from Addisjah known as Breakers 3 has said they wanted to fly to Xsampa to collaborate.  "I just think its time for a change," said group leader RCA, stage name of Addisjah MC Randy Sweeney.  "I just think their musicians will kind of offer us the sort of next step we're looking for, and I would really like to learn about the Xsampan way of Life while I am there."  Sweeney is a converted Xsampan Daenist, and converted when he did a study abroad program in college ten years ago.

"We really support our brother in his quest," said MC and the band's drummer Mark C (Mark Carruthers).  "And we've been in a more experimental phase, where we want to try out different sounds in our music, to kind of branch out in stuff we do.  If we can collaborate with some local musicians there and record some music, that would be completely awesome."

The band is expected to be in Xsampa for about six month.  "Soaking in the culture," said RCA.  "It's gonna be a lot different I think.  We'll get our heads turned around for sure.  Our first two albums were about drinking and partying, but then for these last couple, we've been going for a more concrete, amalgamated sound, filled with samples, live instruments and like jazz influences.  Its natural now that we would reach out abroad and try to introduce folks to sounds of a completely different nation.  I think this band can do it and still remain true to ourselves, our sound and our fans, and I look forward to see if anything has changed by the time we get back."

@TheRepublic

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Her Imperial Majesty Prepares to Welcome Nicole Reina at Order Day Function
Denies Haven to so called "Republican" Terrorists
Eveari, Grand Duchy of Ananto
June 1, 5635


Her Imperial Majesty at Order Day Function in Eveari

May 29th was this year's Order Day Function for the Ancient Order of the Gray Smoke.  Most members were present during the Conclave which lasted about 45 minutes and occurs in complete secrecy, and then following was the Social and then Dinner.  The Social was a time for people to meet with one another, renew old bonds, make new ones and meet invited guests.  Dinner is a time for speeches, including several toasts, and the key note speech which was given by Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Mary I Ananto, serving her function as Grand Mistress of the Order.  As Knights and Ladies Companion ate their various courses, Her Imperial Majesty delivered a speech which was typical of those given during Order Day events.  She has permitted transcription of the speech by the press who was covering the event.

"Knights and Ladies Companion, and Invited Guests.  One of the best things about Order Day is that the Protocol is traditionally waived.  I have been on the throne for somewhat more than 2 and a half years now, and I never tire of using the first person singular to refer to myself.  And it is also refreshing for people to ask me questions directly, or speak to me instead of to Mr Koenig all the time. (laughter)  So thank you for indulging me during this event.  Even if it for a limited time, it helps me keep my sanity to be able to say I me and my.  And I plan to use them as often as I can for the remainder of the evening. (laughter and applause)

Our world is beset by many troubles, as all of you are well aware.  There are many prestigious individuals in this room:  movers and shakers.  This room is an elite club, and not even every monarch is represented here today.  The combined power, wealth and privilege in this room here at my home is astonishing, and here decisions and agreements are made that can and will affect tens and hundreds of millions of people.  It is both humbling and indeed stupefying to be standing in this room with such great people as have taken the pledge and joined this Order as my companions.

I will say this:  While I prepare to welcome my cousin to Ananto, to stay at her Baronetcy here in my County...  well, first, let me say that she is welcomed here for as long as she wants to stay.  She, her charming husband, and her son will find peace, comfort and a warm and friendly smile wherever they turn as long as they are with us.  They will also find security and tranquility here, and healing, yes healing.  I can only imagine what my cousins have had to endure.  The terror of an explosion during an opera of all things.  Have these terrorists no shame?  Opera is meant to lift people up, as my mother will certainly tell you.  And in the middle of it, an explosion that jeopardizes not only the life of my dear cousin, but also her child.  It is unconscionable!  It's simply unbelievable.  The temerity of those violent extremists.  It is almost too much to imagine.

I had originally intended to make a speech on the utter irresponsibility and unredeemable stupidity contained in the ideology of republicanism.  I had intended to make the point that asking for people to elect their leaders is like handing your toddler a loaded pistol.  I was going to argue that elevating a political illiterate who also happens to be a megalomaniacal sociopath to any position of authority was a good way for a society to commit suicide.  I was going to point out my utter contempt for the notion of democracy and republicanism on any level, because it gives people inordinate desires and allows them to imagine that indeed they are like us in any meaningful way.  But Mr. Koenig advised me that this might put some of you off your dinner.  So I will not say anymore about that.

The fact is we don't know if these so called Republicanos are actually republicans, or if they are just calling themselves that for some reason.  In fact, IBSI has not heard of them, except what they read in the papers.  But I would like to say that I have directed our state security bureau to keep Her Majesty La Reina safe, as well as all members of their family for as long as they stay here.  And they will be welcomed to remain here in Ananto and Kalistan for as long as they wish and are free to come and go as they feel safe to do so.

I intend to spend time with my cousin and invite my mother and aunt over.  I will also welcome Lady Dana up from Gaduridos to visit her daughter, and possibly her grand son.  I believe she can still travel.  I invite the Queen to rest assured that there can be no such repeats of those types of attacks here.  As someone whose family knows full well about the tragedy of assassinations, I can commiserate with the Queen. 

With that, I will stop talking.  This is the only time you all don't have to listen to me if you don't like, and I see my sister has already started on her chicken (laughter)...  What a wolf, Maggie...  Anyhow, Thank you for attending our Order Day Function this year, and I hope you all enjoy the dinner.  After dinner, over drinks we will do awards.  And yeah,  Happy Order Day, and I'll probably speak with most of you again before the night is over."

Following the speech, we attempted to approach Her Imperial Majesty for comment on several news items, but was intercepted by Sir Michael Koenig, who reminded us that the Press was still governed by protocol and was not entitled to speak to the Empress directly.  Meanwhile, Her Imperial Majesty went to speak with her invited guest, Dame Elga Nilsson of the band Wanderlust, whom she awarded the Excellent Order of the Anantonese Empire last Spring for her band's contribution to Kalistani Music.

Such was Order Day 5635. 

@TheRepublic