Kalistan

[Doc]

The Rise of the Kalistani Supermodel
New Faces becoming more famous than their Brands
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
December 18, 5644


Supermodels like House Del Valle's Ryan (Left) and Reed Jeweler's Skowronek Become Household names

High-end Kalistani brands are investing a lot of money in their spokesmodels.  This concept would seem odd under normal circumstances, but these are not normal circumstances.  It is all of a sudden the fashionable thing to promote a product by associating it with a beautiful person.  In recent Kalistani advertising campaigns, the subject is the person, not the product.

Recently, The Republic ran a story about Addisjah based model Kelsey Ryan, 20, who signed with Del Valle earlier this year becoming the highest paid model in the Empire.  But she is not alone at the top of highly sought after faces.  This fall, it was announced that Valruzian-born Antonia Skowronek, 24, who now lives and works in Kalibrug, has signed an exclusive 3 year modelling contract with Kaliburg's Reed Jeweler for an estimated ₭1.9 Million Rubles.  These women, who can sell a product just by appearing in an advertisement with the company's logo on it are part of a growing profession in the Kalistani Fashion industry that is being called "the Supermodel."

"Kelsey Ryan was at the Kaliburg Black Bear's season opener this fall," said Kaliburg based fashion columnist Marques Jackson, "and she was literally more famous than the team.  When they showed her on the Stadium cam, a huge cheer went up among her fans.  This is really the first time that we are seeing these young women having such fame for their looks."  The trend is even attracting foreign models like Skowronek, who said she emigrated from Valruzia at the age of 15 because she felt that there were excellent modelling opportunities in Kalistan.

"It took a long time to learn Vrassan," she said to reporters who were interviewing her about her contract with Reed.  "But good thing is, eh, models are not need to speak much.  Agent does most talking."  Skowronek said she signed with another new development around the fashion industry, a modelling agency, who helped her get modelling jobs when she turned 18, and also helped her land the Reed Contract.  "I am represented, is word, represented by Cauffman Model Agency.  They took time to go over contract and provide me lawyer, and help to invest money.  All for a meager tithe," she said with a laugh, meaning that the Agency takes a tenth of her earnings in exchange for her representation.  Ryan has also signed with Cauffman.

While these suddenly hyper famous faces are on the rise across Kalistani fashion and advertising, some criticize the industry.  "We're seeing a number of young women either delay or forego National Service all together," said industry analyst Brad Wainwright.  "National Service is mandatory, and so at some point these ladies are going to have to do it.  It's customary that service is begun directly after Secondary school is completed, but the law states that a person may muster in at some point before their 23rd birthday.  Ryan's Contract will be up after she turns 23, so it is kind of difficult to figure out when she intends to do her National Service.  A lot of these young women fall into this same situation, and while they get fabulously wealthy from their looks alone, they still owe service to the people of this Empire."

That point aside, it looks like the super model trend is not about to go away:  The faces themselves may just belong to women in their 20s rather than in their late teens.  One such person, supermodel Cathy Ruiz of Eshar, who completed her National Service last fall and returned to modelling, recently premiered a new show on M7 that highlights and reports on fashion in Kalistan.  The show, a weekly fashion and lifestyle showcase, is called "M7's House of Fashion", and runs for 60 minutes every Friday Night at 7PM in Kaliburg.

Eshar supermodel Cathy Ruiz, host of the new M7 Fashion Showcase "House of Fashion"

"We like to talk about what's hot in fashion," said Ruiz.  "It was kind of an idea I floated to M7, who wanted to do kind of a show about touring nightspots across Kalistan.  So since I was a model, I also suggested we cover fashion, since what do you wear to the trendy night spots but the latest fashions.  It's a way to highlight these trendy places and these hot fashions and these gorgeous women which are suddenly all over the place."

The premier episode had an interview with Ryan, and covered Del Valle's eagerly awaited Spring collection which is already starting to make its appearance at Sulari and Kaliburg fashion buyers shows.  She also covered a new club in Sulari, took a tour of the local gastropub scene in Dana, and interviewed R&B Singer Lil Joan Armstrong. 

"It's kind of all over the place," said Ruiz, whose magnetic personality and erudite demeanor is as much of a draw as her physical beauty.  "It's very beautiful chaos.  I think this show is probably a feature of our times.  We basically have a super model for an Empress.  Kalistan produces way more than our share of good looking people, I think its all just reached a critical mass where high fashion, jewelry, fragrance, accessories, you name it.  It's all here, and there is so much overlap between fashion and popular culture.  We truly are becoming a Glittering Empire."

For now, Kalistan seems silly with supermodels.  It is estimated that 1 in every thirty searches on Kalistani internet is a search for a supermodel.  "Guys want to be with us, Women want to be us," said Ryan.  "It's flattering, of course, because we couldn't look like this without like hundreds of people whose job it is to make us look great.  One thing I will say.  Those handful of us who are being called supermodels, I mean, these ladies are some of my best friends.  They are the nicest ladies, and everyone is so supportive, and everyone calls everyone out on their s--t.  Which is something I know I need...  It's easy to lose perspective when your face is on 1300 billboards in one city and you are instantly recognized where ever you go.  I'll never forget where I came from:  my mother still works at the MoCo factory in Addisjah.  But She's also proud of me.  I quite literally hit the life lottery.  Remembering this helps me stay grounded."

You can check out an upcoming “M7 House of Fashion” episode right here, which takes hose Cathy Ruiz to Cayo Tortuga in Gaduridos, right here. The episode will also air on M7 this coming Friday.

[Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e2B7xSnYmaM]

And La Moda, of course is also proud of these young ladies.  Of course we will continue to follow their careers with great interest.

@LaModa

[Doc]

Princess Michelle Ananto-DeLaurentis Praises Lodamun's efforts
"Restoring Aquatic Wildlife is the cause of a Lifetime," said Lady Michelle
Dulnerstaad, Grand Duchy of Ananto
June 30, 5645


Lady Michelle Ananto outside the Dulnerstaad National Aquarium

Her Highness Princess Michelle Ananto-DeLaurentis, Aunt of Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Mary I Ananto issued a statement of praise today upon learning of the Commonwealth of Lodamun's commitment to restoring its fishing stocks through the creation of protected Exclusive zones.

"Restoring aquatic wildlife populations has been the cause of my lifetime," said the Princess. "Ever since I was a girl, I have been committed to aquatic species, and it is very encouraging to me to read that Lodamun is also taking steps along those lines." She said the Northeastern coast of Seleya used to be teeming with fish, whales, porpoises and aquatic species of all sorts. But overfishing by multiple nations who are external to the area as well as nearly constant use of international sea lanes has driven many species away, or caused them to disappear completely from the North West Anantonese Ocean.

"This catastrophic wasting of species due to several other nations, mostly in Artania and Dovani, who saw our Ocean as their property to exploit and despoil has led to a once veritable garden of wildlife being turned into an aquatic semi-arid zone," said Lady Michelle. "Despite the best efforts of certain countries to stave off the destruction, it wasn't enough because countries would travel thousands of miles to fish our waters after they shortsightedly wasted their own waters, and it has led to the obliteration of sustainable and traditional industry that Lodamun talks about, as well as migration of the remaining wildlife to waters which are unsuitable for its health and well being."

She said she agreed with the steps Lodamun is taking to help rebuild hospitable environments for the return of fish and maritime species. "I can tell you this: Dulnerstaad Aquarium, the premier maritime wildlife research center in Kalistan, actively supports reintroduction of species in our waters. To date we have reintroduced several species into the Northern Strait, and with few predators in the area, except man himself, these species are thriving and rapidly returning to wild. Perhaps with the cooperation of Lodamun, we will be able to reintroduce, and also more importantly protect these species as they regain their self-perpetuation numbers, and move out of danger of extinction."

Lady Michelle's efforts to reintroduce maritime species to the coastal waters and the Straits parallel Her Imperial Majesty's efforts to plant new redwood trees along the northern coasts of Ananto and the slopes of the Dragon Hills and eastern Vrassan Plateau in Kalistan. "To date Her Imperial Majesty has arranged the planting of more than 10 million trees as part of her effort," said the Princess. "She is showing us that it can be done, through diligent and dedicated effort. Here at the National Aquarium, we aim to do the same sort of thing at sea, and reintroduce species which have long been thought lost in our region. I may not live to see it, but I am confident that within two or three generations, by the time my great grandchildren are born, we definitely see orcas, seals, walruses, dolphins and all manner of fish thriving in these waters just off my home. Lodamun clearly wants to see this too, and we'd like to work together on the effort."

Lady Michelle has asked to travel to Lodamun along with Her Imperial Majesty's Minister of Environment and Tourism, Dr. Joseph Zearing to study the Lodamese Fishieries Board. "Mostly we want to see if something like this would work in the Empire," said Lady Michelle. "This may be an approach we can adopt as well, especially if it doesn't undermine our broader efforts at reintroduction in both Dulnerstaad and Sulari." It is likely that Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Mary I Ananto will grant the request to allow Lady Michelle and Dr. Zearing to travel in an official capacity to study the Lodamese efforts.

@TheRepublic

[Aethan]

Valruzia proposes North-Seleyan Games

[Doc]

Kalistani News in Brief: Empress to have Second Baby
Kalistan will join Northern Seleyan Games; Carrie Hill releases Sophomore Album
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
March 1, 5646


Carrie Hill's sophomore offering "Nevaran Sunset" is declared "Acid Country"

Empress to have Second Baby
Her Imperial Majesty's official spokeswoman, Lady Marian Southern has issued a statement declaring that Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Mary I Ananto and His Highness, Emperor-Consort Martin Collins-Ananto are expecting their second child. "Her Imperial Majesty's second pregnancy was confirmed by her personal physician earlier this week," said Lady Southern. "She informed her family, all of whom are quite happy for her, and interested members of her Government. Her Imperial Majesty is in excellent health and spirits, and baby is reportedly progressing just fine."

Lady Southern said Her Imperial Majesty intends to take maternal leave in mid August so she and the Emperor Consort may prepare Cliff House for the new Arrival. "Princess Monica Ananto-DeLaurentis has expressed her intention to move back to Kaliburg along with her husband, Baron Calvin Morrison of Xanadu and take a townhouse in Kaliburg in August. She wishes to be more present in her grandchildren's lives and help the Empress with anything she needs help with. She can also stay close to her philanthropic activities." She said she has received lots of supportive letters from the Royal Family, as well as the peerage.

"Hopefully these next few months won't be too eventful for Her Imperial Majesty or for Kalistan," said Lady Southern. She said Her Imperial Majesty plans to relocate to the Summer residence at Wood House in Eshar County, Odufaray in April and will stay there until Mid August. Meanwhile, Cliff House will undergo new remodeling to make one of the bedrooms into a new nursery adjacent to her and the Consort's bedroom. It is something she wished she had for the Minor Prince Fredrick when he was an infant.

Kalistan will Join the Northern Seleyan Games
Kalistan has become the first nation to officially accept the invitation to join the Northern Seleyan Games in Valruzia. The games, which are set for summer 5650, will include both academic and cerebral contests that will test national teams against one another for glory and national renown. Kalistan has already formed a NSG coordinating Committee, led by Janis Delgado of Sulari.

"Right off the bat," said Delgado, "I can see us competing in Track and field events, rugby 7s, beach volleyball, fencing, Precision firearms events, road cycling and BMX, the Go competition, orienteering, and horse racing. We may be able to enter teams for other events, but these are events we excel at. We wish they would have skateboarding and surfing of course, and Football (northern Seleyan rules) but rugby 7s gets close to that, and we have lots of events we can participate in successfully even without a surfing event."

The Kalistani Committee will work close with the central Valruzian committee to ensure that Kalistanis are completely supported and have the opportunity to show off the skills of Kalistan's athletic community. Kalistan was also a very strong supporter of the Aldegarian Olympics decades ago, and has always enthusiastically participated in international sporting events. This is definitely something that we have been looking forward to: the opportunity to compete internationally. It's kind of like FOMAT: We like the opportunity to compete and are glad we can get the chance.

Carrie Hill releases Sophomore Album
Alt-Country star Carrie Hill who scored a major hit four years ago with her debut album The Love Letter on Plateau Records has finally released her sophomore album also on Plateau. This album, Nevaran Sunset, takes a less conventional, softer and more melodic approach to country and alt-folk than she took on her breakout album. "We aimed at painting a vivid tapestry of vibrant pastels, but in music," said Hill in a recent interview. She noted that during the interim between the last album and this, she was on a tour, a relentless radio interview schedule, and various other promotional events. She also took the time to experience LSD for the first time, leading critics to refer to the music on the album as "acid Country".

"It kind of changed the way I wanted to take my career," said Hill. "At one point I saw this as the thing I was going to do for a living, and everything like this. But after dosing a few times, I realize that my music is my art. I have enough money to not have to chase it anymore: Its really not worth it to work that hard. Instead, what I'd like to do is make art that makes me happy, and makes those I love proud of me, and I really like to make people smile and just be at peace."

The album features a number of very luxuriant, almost atmospheric tracks that are accessible for even people who aren't fully into country music. "I borrowed a lot of the vibrant tones you might find in indie music for this album," said Hill. "It's definitely not your rabble rousing, s--t kicker sort of country. It's more like a 'put the record on and sit down with a mug of warm coffee and cocoa, and just relax and feel it,' type of record, you know?"

You can stream the entire album here, Nevaran Sunset, recorded at and distributed by Plateau Records, and meanwhile, check out a live performance of the album's first single, "Burn it down if it takes all night" which sets the stage for the rest of the album.

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

@TheRepublic

[Doc]

Kelsey Ryan talks about Kalistani Fashion Breakout
"Life has been great for me," said Kalistan's Top Supermodel
Sulari, Duchy of Suldanor
June 30, 5646


Del Valle's Kelsey Ryan modeling Del Valle's Fall Casual Line

21 year old Supermodel, Kelsey Ryan is proud of her role as part of the vanguard of the return of high style in Kalistan, and in Kalistan's role in the world of fashion. "For a long time," Ryan said, "We saw a lot of function in our clothing, and that's still what you will see for the most part on the streets of Kalistan. Kalistani fashion was pretty much dictated by Brethrenism and their promotion of frugality and simplicity. Locally sourced fabrics and simple weaves. It was great for what it was for, but its alright to have some beauty in our life."

This was the situation Del Valle stepped into, and a role she now plays for the fashion industry. "When the Empress was crowned, Del Valle had just gone through this pretty big change, and over 14 years they moved away from creating fun, fast fashion and more toward a higher end style," said Ryan. "I started working for them when I was 16, and they were looking for someone to help them get to that next level of world renown for their Haute Couture. And ever since then, life has been great for me!" Ryan now leads a whole plethora of models who deliver four major shows a year, and several smaller ones in Sulari, Eshar and Kaliburg.

"It's actually a fantastic thing to watch Kalistan bring life back to the global fashion industry," said Ryan. "We are seeing other countries now talking about reviving their couture scenes too. And now with Casa Gran Cultura opening in Sulari now, we're gonna see this thing totally blow up." Casa Gran Cultura, which was recently founded by several designers who had been promoting independent fashion, looks to offer both popular style and high fashion. "We want to see a lot of designers across the Empire, and a lot of designers across the world. I want to see a beautiful world."

Ryan discussed her plans for the next couple years. "I still have a couple years left on the Del Valle Contract. And then of course I will be going into National Service. My mom and dad, who moved here from Hutori before I was born, always told me how important the NSP is. It's my hope that I can continue to model while I am in the National Service program--wouldn't that be something? NSP Spring line: Khaki Linen and Green Hemp trousers? When I get out we'll be in a whole new world, fashion-wise!"

For the meanwhile, Kelsey Ryan was on hand with several other models, including Antonia Skowronek, Gran Cultura's Dannielle Warren, and M7's Cathy Ruiz to help inaugurate the new Sulari School of Fashion and Industrial Design, which aims to teach students about the business part of the fashion industry with the aim of fostering new designers. The school is supported by both public and private rubles and is considered an art and technical college. It also will sponsor internships within both Del Valle and Gran Cultura for promising students.

"Training designers for the next generation is how we institutionalize this industry," said the new Director of the School, Marcia Feliz-Drummond. "Designing fashion is only a part of it. We also want to focus on the philosophy of aesthetics, as well as introducing students to fashion, business practices and ethics, and craftsmanship. We aim to prepare Kalistanis to not only design fashion but to actually work in the industry. We want to train the next generation of Maria Olivias."

@LaModa

[Doc]

Empress is back at work
Pregnancy was more complicated that we would have liked, said Consort
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
February 1, 5647


Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Mary I Ananto and His Highness Emperor Consort Martin Collins-Ananto at Cliff House

His Highness, Emperor-Consort Martin Collins-Ananto gave an update on Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Mary I Ananto's health following a scare last summer during the birth of the couple's second Child, Her Highness, the Minor Princess Nicolette-Carolina Elizabeth Ananto-Collins. 

"Though the pregnancy was more complicated than we would have liked, The Minor Princess was born on September 12 of last year," said the Consort.  "During the last trimester, the Empress developed a bleeding disorder which required her to go onto bed rest for the last month of the pregnancy.  This affected my wife's labor and it was advised that she deliver the baby by cesarian in an emergency procedure.  It was just a very scary few months.  My daughter was born a little small, and the OB said it was due to the disorder, but otherwise she was healthy.  But the Empress was required to remain in the hospital for about a month under care, before she could be released.  She has remained at home and on light duty since then, but was cleared to begin working again in late January.  The docs are fairly confident that she is in the clear."

The disorder that the Empress acquired during her pregnancy is known as preeclampsia.  It is a fairly common, and often deadly disorder that is associated with bleeding, extraordinarily high blood pressure and occasionally organ failure in mom and/or baby.  "It was important that she rest, remain on a host of medications to try to lower her blood pressure, and more or less just do nothing," said the Emperor Consort.  "The Empress was under constant observation during the end of her pregnancy, and was taken very well care of during the episodes.  The symptoms generally abated after our daughter was born, but they wanted to make sure she had the opportunity to spend as much time in a safe environment after our daughter was born, so she was kept in the hospital while she recovered."

Collins said that the future crown prince, His Highness, the Minor Prince Fredrick-Martin David Ananto-Collins remained at home with the Emperor Consort.  "I was lucky that Mary's mother, the Princess Monica was around to help us take care of Fred while the Empress recovered.  Her willingness to step in and take our boy places when I needed to be with my wife in the hospital was invaluable.  I am so lucky to have married into a family that is so close and can be relied upon."  Her Highness Princess, (and the current Crown Princess) Margaret Ananto-DeLaurentis served as Regent in several occasions while Her Imperial Majesty was in the hospital and then on maternity leave.  "Princess Margaret oversaw the passage of the Oceanic Accords, signed last summer with Egelion, through the National Assembly, and delivered Her Imperial Majesty's traditional New Year's Proclamation this year," said Collins.

With Her Imperial Majesty back at work, The Empire can say it remains on steady footing.  "Her Imperial Majesty is looking forward to a number of things this year, and wants to spend a lot of time continuing to promote her ecology priorities and foreign policy goals.  We also hope we get to see her at home from time to time," said the Emperor Consort with a smile.  "It's been nice to have her all to ourselves for a few months."

@TheRepublic

[Doc]

Supermodel Kelsey Ryan prepares to enter National Service
Kaliburg-based model Gabrielle Montgomery takes the reins at Del Valle
Sulari, Duchy of Suldanor
May 8, 5647


Changing of the Guard: As Ryan preps for National Service, Kaliburg's Gabrielle Montgomery steps up

The first Supermodel Era is coming to a close at Del Valle, as the Fashion house's first Spokesmodel, Kelsey Ryan prepares to leave the Couture designer to enlist in mandatory National Service. She will officially be let out of her contract three months early so she can meet the deadline for enlistment required of her by law. Ryan said she is enthusiastic about joining the service, and said she hopes to end up in the media corps doing a job which allows her to leverage her skills and talents.

"I know its kind of a long shot, but I know NSP needs promotional materials too," said Ryan, as she was headed to her last major photoshoot for Del Valle, before mustering in in early July. "I mean: I have been modeling since I was 16, and these last four years or so I was doing this at a pretty elite level. It's really what I know how to do." Whether that plan works out or not, Ryan says she has already signed an exclusive one year contract with Del Valle when she completes her National Service. "After that, I am a free agent, and can try new things," she said. "I always thought I'd really like to try everything from tv, magazines, and also the runway. And maybe travel more. But I will have those choices when I get done and I will still be in my 20s."

Ryan also noted that Del Valle is in great hands. "The next class is stepping up," she said. "I recommended that they get Gabby (Kaliburg's Gabrielle Montgomery, who herself has just completed her National Service obligation.) "She's the perfect age to take this over, and we knew each other from when we modeled teen fashions. She would write me from Ananto to tell me how things were going- We kept up our friendship through letters, and I made sure that Del Valle considered her for this job. And sure enough, they just inked the contract last week. I am so excited for Gabby. She's so beautiful, and will really take Del Valle to the next level."

Montgomery, who just turned 22, is a native of Kaliburg. Her parents work in showbusiness, and started her in fashion at 14. "Gabby has even done some designing," said Ryan. "I mean, she's the whole package. She's very savvy and knows what she wants in life. I have nothing but respect and admiration for her." For the last four years, Montgomery has been working in the Ananto Corps of the NSP as a nurse practitioner at the Mainside Base Clinic. "Oh yeah, she's a smart one too," said Ryan.

Montgomery will take the month of June off and will begin modelling for Del Valle in July. "Last February, when she took leave, we visited her agent and had them renegotiate her management contract, so she actually gets what she's worth. I also took her to this photographer I know in Sulari, Jessica Bradford, who took some amazing headshots for her portfolio," said Ryan. "We shopped those around when she was still working on getting this contract, and got a lot of interest from different designers who really wanted to work with her. But of course, Del Valle beat them all to the punch. She's gonna hit the ground running when she's ready to go."

For her part Ryan said she intends to remain in contact with Montgomery while she does her own service. "Yeah, we're basically sisters by now," she said. "I love her so much and really want the best for her. It's a little bittersweet, but I am so happy that Del Valle has their heads screwed on properly and picked the right girl. That kinda makes up for me having to take a few years off. So I'll come and visit her when its my turn to take leave and we'll go out and party it up!"

@LaModa

[Doc]

Rally for Democracy held in Eshar
Protest was "peaceful and orderly" says police
Eshar, Duchy of Odufaray
August 10, 5647


About 300 turn out to Rally for Democracy, held by Democratic Club of Eshar

The "First Annual Rally for Democracy" was held in downtown Eshar this week. The event was sponsored by the non-partisan civil society organization who calls themselves The Democratic Club of Eshar, and was attended by about 300 people. The event obtained appropriate permits and was observed by law enforcement officers of Eshar Free City. The Chief of the City Police called the event "peaceful and orderly," and said the attendees were respectful and compliant with all instructions provided them by the police.

"About 300 people attended the event in downtown Eshar today," said event organizer Tom Schmidt, of the Democratic Club of Eshar. "We were happy to see our members there, but the vast majority of those attending were not members of our club. All in all, this information session went off without a hitch, and the Free City authorities were very cooperative with what we were trying to do, which was to inform the population about how Kalistan could possibly enhance its system to allow for greater popular representation and a larger role for the people, without diminishing the Monarchy."

More than 25 speakers were invited to speak at the all day-event, which also included food vendors and several information tables from local and national civil society organizations, including several voter information groups, ecology groups and global economic justice groups. "We welcomed everyone to attend the event, and maybe this year, we drew 300 people, but maybe next year its 3000. Who knows," said Schmidt. "What we are trying to do here is to get our people to think of ways to improve and streamline our system of government, so some of the really great innovations that we get in our Free Cities, like the ability to select our own representatives without regard to party affiliation, for example, could possibly find their way into the National Assembly. There is a lot of room for a diversity of viewpoint without undermining the stability that the Monarchy ensures, and its the Eshar Democratic Club's goal to start getting people to begin thinking about things like this."

Schmidt was explicit that this Rally for Democracy was not a call to action of any sort. "We tread a fine line in this country," said Schmidt. "Anything that looks like partisan organizing is definitely off the table. But civil society activity is certainly tolerated, but I'd say, almost encouraged. Both the City Government and the National Government encourage people to think about things not in an 'individual interest' sort of way but in a 'how can I help this society be better' sort of way. And this is the essence of all of our discussions within the Eshar Democratic Club, just because we want to contribute to the betterment of Odufaray and Kalistan and we think that the people's voice can contribute to that. We aren't here to criticize the Monarchy. We are looking for ways to get more people involved in the system to help to strengthen the Monarchy."

As Schmidt said, the National Government has been tacitly encouraging the development of these sort of civil society organizations for about a decade now. Vic Yeager, who is the spokesman for the Chancellor of the Empire, said that the regime promotes Free Cities as the pressure valve for the democratic impulse and the laboratory for people-led innovation in administration. "Her Imperial Majesty's government certainly encourages people to organize and lead citizen initiatives within the Free Cities, to make life for themselves and their neighbors better" said Yeager. "And the benefit of this is, the vast majority of the population lives within our seven free cities, which are by and large self governing, and are as responsive to the demands of the citizens who live there as they can be made under the current system. This allows people to have direct input into the actions of the government that is closest to them: where they know their aldermen and councilmen personally, and can propose, and then organize around issues that affect them directly. Her Imperial Majesty's Government pays attention to what these Cities are doing and if there is a program that can then be expanded to the whole Duchy or the whole Empire, they most often start in the Cities, with the people."

The Democratic Club of Eshar is one of a dozen civil society groups to hold information rallies this summer. "Yes, we talk to one another," said Schmidt. "It would be kind of ridiculous if we didn't coordinate, but I wouldn't really call us a national movement. There is stronger or weaker support for political liberalization across the country, depending on where you go. The Sulari Democratic Club may be calling for revision of the Single Party Law. The Kaliburg Club talks about democracy in philosophic terms, but you could say those people are about as pro-monarchy as you are going to find. We're sort of in between. But a movement for more democratization in the Empire should take on all flavors--that just makes sense if we are trying to empower all the people. What unites us all is a desire to see the desires of the people expressed more directly in our government at all levels, and I think as long as we are finding that our Cities are responsive to us, we have a lot of space to grow and build and show that people-power isn't such a bad thing."

Schmidt said this fall, his group would like to travel to local democratic states, including Lodamun, Valruzia and Baltusia, to see how democracy works there, and to think of how it can possibly work again in Kalistan.

@TheRepublic

[Doc]

Empress celebrates 25 Millionth Redwood Planted
"Program is a phenomenal success," says Her Imperial Majesty
Davon Mountains, Grand Duchy of Ananto
September 30, 5647


Her Imperial Majesty stands with a grove of two year old Redwoods in the North Slope of the Davons

The vast reforestation program begun almost 15 years ago has just celebrated a milestone as the 25 Millionth Kalistani Redwood was planted in a grove on the Northern Slope of the Davon Mountains. Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Mary I Ananto was on hand to celebrate the planting, but she left the honors to Dulnerstaad native Kimberly DeLessops, 13, who was not even born when the Redwood Program began in 5733.

"We are here to mark this occasion and to say Thank You to all the Kalistani Citizens, members of the NSP Forestry Corps in Ananto, Odufaray and Vrassa, and the vast number of donors to this program who have seen us through to this day. With your help, the Kalistani Redwood, which once covered the Northern Slopes of our Island and our mainland has been reintroduced and saved, and within a decade, passing vessels will see trees hundreds of feet tall gracing our land as they once did. You, our people, have saved this mighty and prolific species from extinction and for this, we are so grateful."

A crowd gathered for the event including DeLessops' 8th Grade Class, several National Conservationists, and members of the Duchy Government. DeLessops was specifically chosen to plant the 25 millionth tree because she won an Essay Contest that was open to all children in Ananto. Her essay, titled "The History of the Kalistani Redwood," was selected by a panel of educators for both its thoroughness and its narration. At the event, DeLessops was invited to read her essay to the Empress in Informal Audience. Following the reading, DeLessops received her seedling from the Empress herself, and then planted it in the ground, along with water and a small handful of fertilizer.

One of the last old growth Redwood groves north of Eveari, where many of the initial seedlings were obtained

The seedling was the 25 millionth seedling in the Empress' decade and a half old Forestry Initiative, but it is estimated that since the program began, there have been somewhere between 3 and 5 million additional trees planted in Vrassa through a Duchy led incentive program. "Our goal was to restore the forest," said Her Imperial Majesty. "The Kalistani Redwood is such a beneficial tree, and through conservation and careful management of our forests, we can both have a reliable source of excellent lumber and building materials, as well as enjoy the natural solitude and beauty that our redwood forests can provide us. The North Coast of Ananto and Kalistan and the Dragon Hills can be restored to what they once were, and though we will likely never see those days, it is our hope that our children and grandchildren gain the benefit of all of our labor on their behalf to bring this majestic tree back from near complete loss."

The Forestry Initiative planted its first ten million trees in its first five years, and has been going strong ever since. Kalistanis often join work crews for a week or two every summer, digging holes and planting trees, and the Empress herself joins as often as her schedule (and more recently, her health) permits. It is seen as a good opportunity to not only do something fantastic for the environment and for the Empire, but also to meet with the Empress on an informal basis, though of course, rules of protocol are still maintained even while actively working side by side with Her Imperial Majesty.

"Our intention is to continue planting trees as long as we have space to do so," said Her Imperial Majesty. "Next season, we would like to move on to Ananto's West Coast, and focus on Davon and Luxon Counties." Apparently, 25 million trees is not enough for the Empress. "Ecology is the passion of our lifetime," she said. "We are all making a difference."

@TheRepublic

[Doc]

Gabrielle Montgomery Hits Kaliburg Runway
Del Valle's Winter Couture Collection anchored by new Spokesmodel
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
September 30, 5647


Gabrielle Montgomery, Del Valle's new Lead Model, shows off Couture Collection

The new face of House Del Valle, Ms. Gabrielle Montgomery, hit the runways at Kaliburg's Fall Show to the delight of buyers and tastemakers in the Nation's Capital. She was the anchor for Del Valle's Winter Show, which featured elegant couture designs, primarily put together by Designer Michele Martinique of Dulnerstaad. Sleek lines, asymmetric accents and fine fabrics were definitely the mode for the longstanding Kalistani Fashion House this season.

Despite her long history of runway and magazine modeling, the Winter Fashion Show this year marked Montgomery's formal debut in her role as Del Valle's primary Spokesmodel. She led a bevy of both female and male models as they showed off the catalog of Del Valle's options for the Winter Season. "I think people are really taking to Montgomery," said fashion reporter Dale Popper. "She has a natural leadership about her. Her aura is seriousness, and it's something quite different from what we saw under Kelsey Ryan's reign."

According to Popper, where Ryan was daring and playful, Montgomery is refined and arrogant. "Ryan definitely kept her youthfulness and almost kind of an anarchic attitude toward fashion. I mean: we all remember the notorious 4645 summer show where Kelsey more or less disrobed on the runway as the show switched from beach to swimwear. Kelsey just didn't care and she did what she wanted. Just knowing Gabby, I think those wild days are kind of over--You will never see that sort of delightfully scandalous behavior from someone like Gabby. Kelsey was like cocaine compared to Gabby's Merlot. Gabby is very reserved, very conservative, and very professional."

Designer Martinique said that Montgomery is a little more difficult to dress than her predecessor, but this challenge forced her to think about how the clothes would fit women of different sizes. "Kelsey was your classic model size. She was almost waifish in a lot of ways, kind of boyish, and I don't mean that in a negative way. She fit Del Valle's clothes really well, because you could say they were made for her, or for people her size. But Gabby is a little taller, a little curvier, especially in her hips. Plus she's still pretty strong from PT in the NSP. She certainly isn't a model's model, if you follow. So we have to give her a little more slack than we are used to, and it got me thinking how these clothes would fit women of different body shapes and sizes. It's a blessing in that way to have to return to my fundamentals of silhouettes and lines."

Martinique said she focused mostly on expensive natural fibers for her clothing. "I wanted something that looked great, but also was functional enough that someone could wear it out even in a night that is a bit chillier." She said she focused on a cotton and wool blend that is smooth in appearance like cotton, but is a little heavier than you would find in a cotton blouse or in a synthetic skirt. "These clothes are meant to fit you well and be comfortable to wear. Nothing too silly."

Martinique also said she went for simplicity of colors. "Gabby is one of the Brethren, and she further challenged me that she didn't want anything too crazy color wise. I took the challenge seriously, and stuck to light colors, to bring some levity to the season. We don't see a lot of snow outside of Vrassan and Nevaras, so the white itself was not too much. She loved it: we went with light ivory as the main color in the palate, and employed colors only for accents, if any. No blacks, no reds, no purples. When we did have colored fabrics they were pastels, blues, oranges, greens. And flat colors too, no prints."

In all the collection was a hit, and received rave reviews from across the fashion world. Meanwhile, Casa Gran Cultura will be debuting their own Winter Fashion line next week in Sulari and will feature designs by Yoshimi's Jenny Ann Douglas. It will be anchored by Danielle Warren. "Gran Cultura is more focused on more populist fashion this winter," said Popper. "I am eager to see what they bring to Sulari's show. They have a way of offering very modern and interesting designs that are meant for more general consumption. As such, they are rapidly filling that niche that Del Valle more or less surrendered when they put their money behind Kelsey Ryan and went for the refined high end markets. It's exciting how both firms offer competing takes on Kalistani Fashion."

Del Valle's Collection will be on racks in Kaliburg and Sulari by the end of November.

@LaModa