Kalistan

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Luthori-Kalistani Duo The Republic releases Neo-Soul album



Luthorian Expats The Republic release a Neo-Soul Album
New Soul for an Old World joins other neo-Soul Artists in backlash of Noise
Sulari, Duchy of Ananto
July 8, 5567

A new smooth music movement seems to be taking hold as a slew of singles and albums that incorporate jazz and soul into pop seems poised to replace Noise Alternative on Kalistani Radio. The movement is being led by two artists, the Luthori expatriates who call themselves The Republic and Kalistan's psychedelic rock FOMAT XXX entrant Marcus Carrangus Jr. While The Republic leans a little heavier on what critics are calling "sophistipop" that feels a bit more jazz influenced, while Carrangus' music is certainly more blues and rock based, the influence of Soul on both artists is undeniable.

The Republic's lead singer Kathy White, who speaks with an incredibly thick Luthorian accent, but whose alto singing voice comes off in perfectly clear Vrassan, and her co-composer and primary instrumentalist of the duo, Connor Overstreet both have a long history in avant garde pop music. "We moved to Sulari from Luthori nearly a decade ago," said White, "and we immediately immersed ourselves in the Sulari music scene. We felt that we could certainly bring a different sound to Sulari, given our outside perspective, and we pleased with how well we were welcomed in Sulari and across Suldanor." White said she and Overstreet began recording with various studio musicians and session players, "but we ultimately decided to stay a duo, because I think Connor and I have a unique vision, and its easier to play with journeymen that are excellent technicians in the Studio than to have a bunch of other people who are trying to really kind of change our sound with a bunch of extraneous ideas."

The Republic, Left and Marcus Carrangus Jr. are bringing a new lush sound to Kalistani Radio

One thing that both The Republic and Carrangus are bringing out in music is a strong orchestration that includes strings and brass, as well as electronic and analog music. "I think there is a thing that funk does which I think is real cool," said Carrangus. "They have these really bent kind of sounds that I have been exploring, but the funk and soul musicians are the ones who have these really lush kind of arrangements that are really groovy and really thick. Its the opposite of the LoFi, I think. It's almost baroque in its kind of flourishy sounds."

Carrangus himself is in the process of recording a studio album, but is on hiatus while he travels to Kanjor to represent the Empire at FOMAT. Both he and The Republic have released new singles, both on ARC that signify this new lush sound that Carrangus referred to. "The music I'm listening to right now has this, uh, kind of funk that is almost reminiscent of another era," said Carrangus. "It still is solidly based in rock, of course, but the funk and soul on it is highlighted, and in many places, that big band sound which is really cutting edge right now in Kalistan is featured on a lot of the stuff I am working on. You also hear that in other artists around Sulari right now, uh, you know like The Republic and some of these other guys. Its this really rich sound that a bunch of us are really keying in on."

"Yeah, we're really big fans of what Mr. Carrangus is doing here in Sulari," said White. "When we first came to Sulari, we worked with him a little while. Connor played keyboards during one of his jam sessions at ARC, and we saw him play several times last year. Our paths have crossed many times, and I think we are moving in the same direction musically." Overstreet added, "ARC is really pretty great, actually. We can meet these artists who are making music with integrity, and we ourselves have the freedom to produce the kind of music we want."

Both The Republic's Single "Listen, Baby" and Carrangus' new single "Still Together" have debuted in the Hot 100 Singles in the top 20, with The Republic scoring the Number 12 spot in its first week and Carrangus debuting at number 7. "This is very exciting," said White. "We had some excellent pre-release press, and ARC really spent a lot of money promoting advance copies to radio, and I am just so thrilled that fans have embraced our sound and our vision." Carrangus, for his part was also pretty happy. "Number 7 debut for something that sounds nothing like the Top 6 songs is really pretty awesome. It shows that people like what I'm doing, and it is a good feeling going into Kanjor next month for FOMAT.

You can check out The Republic's new Album New Soul for an Old World on ARC right here and watch the videos for both "Listen Baby" by The Republic and "Still Together" by Marcus Carrangus Jr. below.

[Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8bIFadXgDO0]
The Republic's "Listen Baby" mixes jazz, funk, soul and pop in a lush, languid single

[Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TmENMZFUU_0]
Marcus Carrangus, who will represent Kalistan at FOMAT XXX in Kanjor's new single "Still Together"

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Her Imperial Majesty Empress Pavlina I Ananto meets with The Republic



Empress Pavlina I Ananto sits with The Republic
State of Empire is Stronger than ever before
Eveari, Grand Duchy of Ananto
December 14, 5567

The Republic has been granted an exclusive interview with Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Pavlina I Ananto.  Her Imperial Majesty has waived the restriction on addressing her directly.  Below is the Transcript:

(The Republic's) D(onna) M(axwell):  Greetings to Her Imperial Majesty, the Empress Pavlina I Ananto, and I'd like to thank you for speaking with us today.  I am obligated to note that Her Imperial Majesty has generously waived the restriction of speaking directly to her during this informal meeting.

(Her Imperial Majesty, Empress) P(avlina I) A(nanto):  Thank you Madame Maxwell for speaking with us.  How is tea?  Is house special.

DM:  I really enjoy it.  What is in it?

PA:  Is jasmine and opium tea.  Is very calming as you may imagine.

DM:  Indeed:  I do taste the opium there.  It's flowery.

PA:  Is served daily in informal audience.  But you are here to ask questions.  If you would like more, we will happily pour you some.

PA:  Thank you;  I shall take Her Imperial Majesty up on that soon.  Now, first question:  Would Her Imperial Majesty begin by telling our readers how she is doing?

PA:  We are well.  Empire is on even keel.  We have recently held notable state visit with Emperor of Lourenne, Maximilien Five, and that will yield benefits with regards to increased security in both Anantonese and Mad Dog Ocean.  We look forward to meeting with Emperor again as soon as he concludes nuptials ceremony.

DM:  Did Her Imperial Majesty float a candidate in that marriage suit?

PA:  Was not our intention to put forth candidate of Anantos to Lourenne Crown.  While it would be within our rights to do, there would be no suitable candidate among House Ananto:  They are either too young or are already married.

DM:  What about the Crown Princess Carolina?

PA:  Our Chancellor informed us that Nationalists in National Assembly would not tolerate anything like that.  While we had our difficulties at beginning, which are thankfully subsided now, Nationalist have adopted Carolina as like own child, and we believe that she shares sympathy along Nationalist lines.  We did not even ask daughter because we are certain of response.  Besides her proclivities for Ananto and Kalistan, she still works in National Service and then intends to attend Polytechnic to continue study in civil engineering.  We expect to be close to 60 years old by her graduation.  She would prefer to remain here to prepare to perform her greatest duty to State and People, and we would prefer that for her also.

DM:  Moving on then, would Her Imperial Majesty be willing to comment on the various international conferences such as the new Artanian Conference or the Socialist International?

PA:  On Artanian Conference, no additional comment.  Continent sadly looks to be banning foreign bases.  We are not concerned, as we are not currently pursuing foreign bases, or influence whatsoever in Artania.  We aim to neutralize Artanian influence in Seleya.  We hope to make them feel as unwelcomed on our shores as they insist we are on theirs.  Fair is fair. 

As for SocIntern, we state emphatically that socialist, communist, and revolutionary are as unwelcomed in Kalistan as Luthorians.  For much same reasons.  Socialists fill people's heads with radical notion of equality and bottom up power.  We have been taught, in very costly way, by people of Kalistan that if you give people inch, they will go after head, and those sorts of impulses must be strangled in cradle before they have chance to fester and metastasize in population--that is lesson that is at stark odds with our own former affinity for liberal, democracy, and free market, which we have since found naïve and shortsighted.  Instead is our solemn duty to protect institution of Crown from dangerous and radical elements that are, at least to degree represented by revolutionary socialist parties who are attend convention and are coddled by nations like Baltusia, Xsampa, Ikradon, Zardugal and Istalia.  We encourage sane elements in those nations to put end to their dangerous tolerance of revolutionary internationalist organizations.

DM:  Perhaps Her Imperial Majesty will recall that not too long ago, we did a story on the recent Theory conference where the keynote speaker, Dr. Henry Hughes, called Kalistan's socio-economic system at least the descendant of a long socialist history, and advised that Kalistan would do better to reach out to socialist Nations.

PA:  Doctor does not represent our views but his own.  Kalistan economy is ethical dual national economy, whatever Dr. Hughes wish to classify it as. 

DM:  Would Her Imperial Majesty care to comment on Kalistan's Space Program?

PA:  Yes, we have welcomed scientists back from Beiteynu, and they have brought us some improved diagram for rocket engine that we expect to have some success with in spring.  Rocket test from this spring and summer, called Luthori II and III were complete failure again.  Luthori Two flew 50 feet in air, and then explode, and Luthori Three oxygen line failed after launch, killing engine prematurely.  But ISCA brief notes significant difference between original Kalistani Design and Beiteynese system, and ISCA believe they have identified issues which cause rocket explosion.  We try once more in Spring.  Each Failure is step toward success.

DM:  Why does Her Imperial Majesty think ISCA calls the rockets Luthori?

PA:  Joke, perhaps.  Rocket is actually Spear Rocket, and engine has long number, BLFE-XX.  ISCA name failures "Luthori" only after fail.  Scientists have sense of humor, but we have tacitly endorsed their comedy by not encouraging them to name rocket something else.  With new engine, and possibly successful test flight, rocket will get to keep name, and not get demoted to "Luthori".

DM:  Could Her Imperial Majesty give us some clues about Kalistan's relations with Lourenne and Lodamun?

PA:  Lodamun has continued to welcome our 4th Regular Navy in Newport.  Their government seems satisfied that Kalistan is obeying their law and is not using base lease to perform nefarious mission in Mad Dog Ocean.  We believe we will still work together in near future to strengthen ties, and we look forward to continuing work Dame DuMont has competently begun with Lodamun Commonwealth. 

In Lourenne, as we said, we have had constructive visit with Emperor and Chancellor as well as several dignitaries.  We will look forward to announcement of His Highness' marriage, and will make effort to attend and bring he and future wife many one of a kind gift from Ananto.  We also wish to continue conversation we begun when Emperor Maximilien Five visited us about increasing security, technology cooperation and commercial relations with Lourenne. 

Part of security cooperation will include new exercises and patrol schedules in Anantonese Ocean, to check incursion of Artanian powers in Anantonese Ocean.  Defense in Depth include partners like Lourenne, as well as Lodamun and Wrnuke who remain in Port Swedes to enhance Ocean Security.  Wrnuke recently have been aggrandized by several Beiteynese ships, making Jelbic presence in Northern Anantonese truly astounding.  People of Port Swedes are becoming accustomed to Jelbic Beef, broccoli and rice and flavors and music of Majatra:  We applaud cultural diffusion of Wrnukean Sailors bringing some things from their home to Kalistan and in exchange, try some of Kalistani culture too.  Cultural exchange like this strengthens bond between people and allows all to live more full life.

DM:  Last question:  Would Her Imperial Majesty comment on the Crown Princess Carolina?  What is her overall program once she finishes her National Service in about a half a year?

PA:  Has been almost four years already?  How time flies.  Carolina is our own joy, she is good kid, very smart.  We are so proud of her and her commitment to Empire so far, and we tell her all days, every time we get chance, that we love her and will support her in all choices.  She will enroll in Kaliburg Polytechnic in Fall next year, and wants to study civil engineering.  Her work crew built major road through mountain to Five Sisters River region of Ananto, and she worked on Bridges 17  and 18 in Green County. Road will connect Bozo and Eveari to Dahriel someday, and she did so much work with her crew to cut path over mountain and then clear and place bridge.  She said she may be interested in study GIS in school:  She will gain master surveyor certification out of NSP, and wants to make maps of data from survey.

During study at Polytechnic, we also will prepare for her to become Head of Anantonese Empire.  We have so much to teach her, and so little time.  We are 52 now, and will be close to 60 when she finish school, and who knows when she will have to take over and be Empress now.  Plus, marriage, and we hope she has kid of own, maybe kids.  She is our only daughter, but it would be great to have grandchildren running around and singing and all these activities.  Maybe too soon.  But she will be busy, and also will need time to do all she need to do to become next Empress.  So... so little time...  Excuse us:  We always get misty thinking about what amazing woman she has become, and all she had to go through in life as such young age.  We only hope she can be as happy and confident as adult as she was as little girl.

DM:  I will give Her Imperial Majesty a moment.

PA:  It is fine.  We are composed.  Sometimes it is hard to appear happy for public, but we are very happy about Carolina.  And very proud of her too.

DM:  I believe that concludes all the questions I have for Her Imperial Majesty. 

PA:  Thank you for speaking with us today.  And your cup is now empty.  We shall warm both cups up before you depart.

DM:  I thank Her Imperial Majesty.

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More than 560 homes are transferred to Public Housing in Sulari alone



Grand Duke Gets Green Light to begin Housing Stock Rehab
A policy which has started and stopped for decades finally to move forward
Sulari, Duchy of Suldanor
January 2, 5568

The Grand Duke of Kalistan, Duke Mark Ananto-Orleans, has finally received the go ahead to begin upgrading the nation's Housing Stock. The efforts will take place all throughout Kalistan Proper, and will result in an expected 25 million units in the nation's housing stock, all owned and operated by a new agency, the National Housing Authority (NHA).

"We have spent the last five years conducting a national housing survey of the four Duchies in Kalistan," said Grand Duke Mark Ananto-Orleans. "In each city, town, municipality and unincorporated settlement across Kalistan Proper, we graded houses on a five point scale, using an exhaustive set of criteria. Those who scored a 2 or 3 are set for rehabilitation and those scoring a 0 or 1 are set to be demolished and new houses that are energy efficient, compact and will house multiple families will be built in their place." The move to replace more than 7 million single family homes with either townhome blocks, duplexes or triplexes is generally supported by most communities across Kalistan.

"We have a lot of these dilapidated houses in my neighborhood," said Blake Hanson, of Sulari. "They are dens for squatters and junkies, and if the State coming in an providing quality housing for two or three families means we clear out that riff raff, so be it. My kids can feel safe playing in the park in the evening, if we don't have a bunch of folks going around asking for a quarter from everyone under the sun."

The total price tag for the nation's housing update will be close to ₭400 billion over ten years. "We have included the cost of the National Housing Agency buying out the houses that scored in the 2-3 range, as well as the abandoned property, and calculated what it would cost to rehabilitate the ones we can save, and rebuild ones we cannot. We are fortunate in that we have a national workforce that can be tasked with this project to save us on a lot of the labor costs we would otherwise incur, and we can source nearly all of our building supplies right here in Kalistan. And a lot of the cost will be offset by Annual occupancy fees as tenants move in."

The National Housing Authority, which it is formally constituted, will be Kalistan's largest landlord, and one of the first public landlords in the history of Kalistan. "We currently have the law which states that the Nation owns all housing." said Grand Duke Mark Ananto-Orleans But the Empire has not moved until just recently to begin enforcing the law, due to concerns for private property. But the situation with these old, inefficient and often just plain unlivable homes across the Mainland is just untenable, and we have spent the last five years patiently making the case for reform, talking with home owners, city and municipal councils, the barons, counts and Dukes, who have all been so helpful in this process, slowly moving the needle until I think we were able to craft a policy that gives us widespread public support and allows us to actually address the needs of Kalistan's Citizens."

The homelessness rate in Kalistan Proper went to more than 2.5% last year, and shelters have been noting difficulty providing beds, supportive housing and case management. "I am proud to say, today, help is on the way," said the Grand Duke. "I want to take a moment to acknowledge the support of this program from Her Imperial Majesty, who first became aware of the situation of Kalistan's housing stock when she was helping to rebuild Eshar after the Rebellion. She has supported our efforts during the last five years."

The National Assembly will formally move the National Housing Act in the Assembly by June by command of Her Imperial Majesty. More than 560 homes in Sulari alone have been formally transferred, as of January 1, to the City of Sulari Public Housing Authority, a branch of the incoming National Housing Authority.

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Spear 1 successfully lifts off in Spencer



ISCA successfully launches first rocket
Rocket reaches 65.27 Miles in altitude before returning to Anantonese Ocean
Spencer Space and Test Center, Duchy of Suldanor
June 6, 5568

The first successful flight of the Spear Rocket was conducted today from the test pad of Spencer Space and Test Center in Spencer, Suldanor. The Chancellor of the Empire was on hand to observe the test, which featured a new engine design from Beiteynu that solved many of the issues with previous Kalistani designs.

"The rocket, known as Spear 1, flew about 106 km (65.8 mi) to the edge of space before descending back to earth," said Spencer Center director Dena Alonzo. "Spear 1 was a single stage liquid fuel rocket, and burned straight and clean for about 3 minutes before running out of fuel. On re-entry, much of the rocket was burned up, however, we were able to retrieve debris from the Anantonese Ocean and study it to make our future rockets better."

The success of the Spear rocket, about 8 years into Kalistan's space program, vindicates the effort and time that the Imperial Space and Communications Administration has put into the program. "This successful test flight is the next step in a long journey to begin placing Kalistani communications satellites, and perhaps weather satellites into orbit," said Alonzo. "Those satellites are still years away: We need to now focus on more powerful rocket engines capable of lifting objects into orbit, which poses rather different challenges than merely launching a rocket into low orbit and letting it fall back to the surface."

The Propulsion design center is already working on building new designs based on the Beiteynese design that was used in the Spear 1. "We will need to be able to burn longer, and will need to include guidance systems to ensure that the rocket rolls correctly to achieve low terra orbit," said Alonzo. "Plus we need to get the speed of the rocket up to something like 20 times the speed of sound so that it will stay in orbit. So we still have work to do."

Alonzo said ISCA has two more launches of test rockets scheduled for the remainder of the year. "Each launch, we hope to push the height of our flight further and further, said Alonzo. "We hope to include a camera on our next flight to take video of the flight and broadcast it back here to Spencer." Alonzo is optimistic about the progress. "The view should be amazing."

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Crown Princess Carolina Ananto-Hulanevek completes National Service



Crown Princess Talks National Service, College, and Music
Her Highness Crown Princess Carolina Ananto-Hulanevek prepares for Future
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
July 22, 5568

Her Highness, Crown Princess Carolina Ananto-Hulanevek, 22 has completed her term of National Service, and is preparing to begin coursework at Kaliburg Polytechnic in Kaliburg in September.  As she is welcomed back to civilian life, Her Grace has granted La Moda an exclusive interview where she discusses her preparations for her future.

(La Moda's) D(iane) C(urtis):  Hello Your Grace.  It is a pleasure to meet you today.

(Her Highness, Crown Princess) C(arolina) A(nanto-Hulanevek):  Ms. Curtis, I am glad to speak with you today.  And welcome to Wilson House.

DC:  This home is beautiful.  It is full of light.

CA:  Yes, there are so many windows, its quite impressive. 

DC:  Your Grace, can you tell me a little about the history of Wilson House?

CA:  Well, Wilson house was originally a mansion for some wealthy family.  It was part of kind of this private, gated neighborhood that was on Wilson Hill that was full of summer homes belonging to wealthy citizens of Kaliburg.  But in 5535, Prince Bjorn, my dad's father, and my Uncle Mark Ananto-Orleans, decided to buy the neighborhood out to give the Anantos a place outside of downtown, where Prince Bjorn and Empress Nicolette used to own a townhome.  So they bought all this land, and got rid of a bunch of houses up here on the hill, so that its more of a park now than a neighborhood.  Wilson House was the main house that the Anantos wanted to keep, because it has such a beautiful view and has access to Davon Bay and everything.  Wilson House was always intended to be the family's home.  And we always lived between here and Eveari, but after my father's death, my mother, I think preferred Eveari, which is where I spent most of my time as a kid, and we only came up to Kaliburg when my mother was needed at the Imperial Seat, or when we had guests.  And now that I am done with national service, my mother has suggested I take Wilson House as my residence so she can stay in Eveari more.  She'll still come into town often and will stay with me at Wilson House, but she will take informal audiences in Eveari from now on.

DC:  So this whole house is yours?

CA:  The whole peninsula, really.  It's an estate.  I want to allow people to take recreation here.  We have excellent beaches on the other side of the peninsula, and there is no reason that the people of Kaliburg can't enjoy the parkland too.  Perhaps I can get the National Assembly to declare the peninsula, outside the immediate grounds of the House here, to be a national park.  Though my mother is set against that, so that may have to wait.  She would be worried about my safety if I did that.

DC:  So Your Grace, would you care to comment on your time in the National Service?

CA:  Certainly.  First let me say, that National Service was so good for me, and I am so incredibly proud to have had the opportunity to serve my Nation in this way.  My mother and father always told me about how important National Service was, and I am happy to report that they are right.  Corps after Corps, generation after generation, we build this Empire, so that every man, woman, and child who is born in Kalistan can know that they truly own this nation.  It is ours.  We built it, and we own it, and we will never let anyone take it from us.  These values are inculcated into the Conscripts from day one, and you won't find a single Kalistani Citizen, I think, who disagrees with that idea.

DC:  I have done National Service myself, and I can agree with that sentiment, though perhaps a bit less fervently than you.  For me, it was something I had to do, and something I did and I was proud of it.  But Your Grace speaks like a zealot.  And that is doubly interesting given that you moved to Kalistan when you were six.

CA:  So much more so then.  As an immigrant, I was particularly lucky in that I wasn't just any immigrant, but my mother married an Emperor. (laughs).  My father gave us both a great life, and while it is sad that I didn't get to know him longer before that terrorist took him from us, he nonetheless set an example that I am proud to follow.  I have embraced Kalistan as my home since I was a little girl, and I will live the rest of my life a proud citizen of Kalistan.

DC:  You grew up speaking Lurrian, from Kundrati.  And yet, I wouldn't be able to tell just from listening to Your Grace speak today.

CA:  Thank you.  In fact, when my mother and father fell in love, I had just started school in Kundrati.  I think I was in my first, kindergarten year, so I didn't even learn to read in Lurrian--I learned to read Vrassan and Egelian.  My mother barely spoke Vrassan and went to language classes for several years.  She can speak several languages, but Vrassan, or in Kundrati, Luthorian, was not one she used often.  So at first, she always said she felt more comfortable speaking Canrillais to my father than Vrassan.  But my mother insisted that I learn Vrassan.  I went through a very intensive Vrassan language course to catch me up when I was six or so, and by the time I was seven, I had mostly mastered Vrassan, so I wouldn't stand out in my classes to my peers.

DC:  For your language, I am guessing, Your Grace.

CA:  (laughs)  yes, for my language.  I couldn't do much about... you know, the other thing.  (laughs again)  But my mother was still working on learning Vrassan to speak with my father and she really worked very hard, and my father was so patient with her, and I think she got enough of it after a couple years to speak confidently in Vrassan as well though, as you know, she still has an accent and has to speak slowly so she can translate from Lurrian into Canrillaise and then into Vrassan.  And she also relied on me to help her too.  And when we lost my father, and had to move to Gaduridos for a while, and my Uncle spoke basically Egelian and Vrassan, my mother told him that if she didn't speak Vrassan she would feel so isolated.  I think she still practices, but she more or less never spoke in Lurrian around our house, so I have lost most of that.  I still can pick up parts of it, and may take classes just to try to remember it, but that was 16 years ago, where I have only spoken Vrassan, Egelian, and Canrillais, and so going back to Lurrian might be kind of difficult now, especially since I learned grammar as a Vrassan speaker.  It's way different than Lurrian.

DC:  Speaking of learning, Your Grace is enrolled at Kaliburg Polytechnic for the fall.  What will you be studying?

CA:  I think I really found my calling in National Service.  Civil Engineering is my passion.  I think I can be of great service to this Empire as a civil engineer.  Building bridges and surveying land, and applying load coefficients is all pretty exciting to me:  You can really see how the math works in a very practical sense in civil engineering.  While I remain Crown Princess and am in school, I have been given the opportunity to do an apprenticeship here in Kaliburg, where we are going to re-survey much of the city.  In some places, it was discovered to be about 16 feet off from the original plat, due to a lot of things, like earthquakes, and things like this, and they want to get accurate property lines and so forth.  So I will be working with Markson and Gamble and Associates, the engineering firm here in the Capital as a survey station operator while I am in school.  My mother has agreed that I can do this, something I really enjoy, while I am in school, and kind of ease into administrative training part time.

DC:  Does Your Grace mean training to become Empress?

CA:  Yes, the State has developed an actual training course for Government Administration.  I think it was initially developed for Nicolette II when she was Crown Princess.  As you know, Kalistan has a strange government.  The Empress is clothed in immense power, and she has to know how all the levers of Government operate so she can pull the right ones when she needs to.  My mother is kind of a one-woman show.  The National Assembly exists to put her pronouncements into effect, so she needs to know how to develop policy priorities, and manage the different factions of government and stakeholders in society.  It is really a very intensive job, and they want to make sure I am as ready as I can be, so Kalistan can have competent Government that is bent on justice and serves the National Interest.  She also didn't get to take any courses, because she only became Empress in response to a number of protests in the country.  So, she knows how important it is to prepare me to take over for her when she is finally ready to retire.

DC:  How would Your Grace rate Her Imperial Majesty as an administrator?

CA:  Oh, please be careful Ms. Curtis.  That can be a loaded question, and can get both of us into some trouble.  There are lines that even I don't cross, if you follow.

DC:  Respectfully, Your Grace, you would know better than anyone.  And Her Imperial Majesty, the Empress is sometimes a little difficult to get a read on.  So, perhaps, I can rephrase the question:  What are some successes and some... challenges... faced by Her Imperial Majesty as she leads the nation, and would you do anything differently?

CA:  Well, I think I could answer that.  Let's see.  My mother and father shared a vision of the Empire at the forefront of the conversation in Seleya, and I think both she and my father, posthumously, have achieved this.  The World seldom talks about Seleya without also sparing a few words for Kalistan.  We have expanded our position in Terra, and my mother has been the primary driver behind this.  Maybe my mother can be...  she can be touchy sometimes, maybe that's a good way to say it, and she has said as much.  I think she went through a lot in Kalistan, and there are some security things here, but she cannot tolerate, and really I can't either, other nations running Kalistan down.  It feels like an insult to the memory of my Father, and I think she takes that very very seriously.  She doesn't forget, and rarely forgives, especially those who do not treat Kalistan with the respect she thinks it deserves, and I certainly agree with that attitude as well.  This country has meant so much for so many people, most of all my mother and I, and it is unconscionable that anyone would ever say a bad word about it anywhere.  As for what I would do differently, I think we can stand to mend some bridges someday.  Some people who have slighted my mom will have to be forgiven someday.  That might have to wait until she retires and can let it go.

DC:  Is Luthori on that list?

CA:  Haha.  How did I know you would say that?

DC:  It is an obvious question, Your Grace.

CA:  No it is not on any list.  The grievances Kalistan has with Luthori are myriad, most of them preceding my mother's reign.  Including Luthori's insistence that they have a role in our Continent.  I wish to be emphatic, and my mother has also been unequivocal about this too.  Luthori has no legitimate place on Seleyan soil.  This is not going to change.  If Luthori wishes to improve relations, they could do one thing today.  Their Empress could abandon her misguided commonwealth, and treat with those states as fully independent and sovereign nations, as Kalistan does.  Short of that, Kalistan and Luthori have nothing to talk about.  It is a non-negotiable for Kalistan.  I don't think I am violating any state secrets by saying that.

DC:  What about other countries, such as those that are choosing to participate in the SocIntern.

CA:  I will be honest:  I don't feel qualified to speak about that.  I can just refer you to the Empress' recent statements, and tell you that her word is Kalistani Policy on all matters.  Will it be forever?  Obviously not, because someday my word will be policy.  Until then, Kalistan has one Sovereign, and her name is Empress Pavlina I Ananto, and so that's who speaks for Kalistan on all matters of State.

DC:  Fair enough, your Grace.  Moving on to questions of culture.  Who are you listening to these days?

CA:  Music wise, I am really loving that band The Republic.  It's really chill music.  Kinda jazzy, kinda soulful.  I really like it.

DC:  So you've left Noise behind?

CA:  Not really behind, but I think my tastes are expanding.  The Republic's album is like rainy day music.  The kind you just stay inside for, drinking warm coffee, maybe with some gold burning.  Its got psychedelic moments, it has nature sounds, and her voice is so interesting and moody.  Its a whole vibe, you know?  Noise is good for when you want to jump up and down and wake up, but I think as I get older, the mellow stuff is also very attractive to me too.

DC:  Do you often see live music?

CA:  Well, I've only been out of the Service for about a month.  I have been able to take in a couple shows.  I did see Marcus Carrangus in Luxon this month.  He's quite excellent, very enjoyable, really funky.  But you know what I would really like to see?

DC:  What's that, Your Grace?

CA:  I'd like to go to a Ganjam.  I wonder if anyone is working to put one of those together.  My father's mom went to one and I think its time they did another one.

DC:  I think if anyone can make that happen, It would be Your Grace.

CA:  I think so.

DC:  Well, I want to say I appreciate your willingness to speak so candidly, and your willingness to speak with us today.

CA:  It's completely my pleasure.  We should get these interviews in because I think when they make me the Empress, I won't be able to speak so informally anymore.  This whole thing would be illegal if I was my mom.

DA:  Indeed.  I think that may be a good thing, that separation.

CA:  So I am told.  But anyway, I really enjoyed speaking with you.

DA:  Thank you Your Grace.

CA:  It was a lot of fun.  Thank you for talking with me.

[Doc]

Sunrise over Kalistan from Spear IV Rocket



Spear IV Rocket reaches 200 Miles
Dramatic increases in Range accompany increased fuel capacity
Spencer, Duchy of Suldanor
January 10, 5569

ISCA has announced that the Spear IV rocket, launched this week from Spencer Space and Test Center in Spencer, has hit the 200 mile mark, and is on the verge of reaching the range of Terran Orbit.  "The Spear Rocket has been modified over the last 6 months to increase fuel capacity to allow for a longer burn," said Dr. Deena Alonzo, director of ISCA.  "In addition, we have able to somewhat lighten the airframe to make the fuel we can take more efficient.  The result is a rocket which has far surpassed previous distances of any ISCA designed rocket.

In addition to the distance covered by the Spear IV, Alonzo said that the rocket included the Empire's first payload, a camera completely enclosed in heat resistant insulation that was attached to a parachute.  "The camera recorded the flight and with the addition to a rudimentary guidance system, we were able to maneuver the rocket into a position where the camera was able to capture a stunning image of the Anantonese Ocean," said Alonzo.  "We were also able to remotely fire a separation switch that allowed the payload to return safely to the Anantonese Ocean where the camera was recovered in tact.  Like our other flights over the past half year, this flight was yet another giant leap forward."

Dr. Alonzo said that actually putting a Kalistani made object into orbit is still several years away.  "These rockets can barely be called guided," said the Program Chief.  "There is a gyroscope driven guidance system which is nothing like the guidance rockets that more advanced programs utilize.  We will eventually begin employing those, but for now, distance is the priority.  Our goal is to reach 350 miles.  if we are able to reach this height, we can begin working on getting the payload to speed at that average height to put a satellite into stable Terra Orbit."

Kalistani scientists are continuing to study telemetry in Lourenne, along with satellite technology which they can return to Kalistan to help ISCA build its first satellites.  "Space possesses a number of challenges that will affect durability of our satellites," said Alonzo.  "We will need to be able to withstand solar radiation, as well as dust and debris in orbit, and still be able to produce a signal that can be received on the surface.  This is no simple task, but we have our best and brightest on it, and are receiving valuable technical assistance from our partners in Thiers-sur-Noel.  They are giving us the theory, and it will be to us to put it into practice."

In addition to the fourth successful launch, the Spencer Center Visitor's museum has also opened to the public, and the first civilian observers were present on site to cheer the rocket into space.

[Doc]

Crown Princess Carolina opens 1st Annual ODEN Smokeout in Dana



ODEN-K holds first Annual "Smokeout" in Eveari
Aims to restart outdoor festivals on a smaller scale
Dana, Duchy of Suldanor
October 25, 5569

On an unseasonably warm mid autumn day in Suldanor, ODEN-K held their first annual "Kalistani Smokeout", a concert showcase meant to bring ODEN back into live music and return regular live music to Kalistani audiences.  The festival was held at Dana's Rio de Oro County Park and drew more than 27,500 attendees.

"We wanted to kinda relaunch the Kalistani festival scene with a small, one day event that would feature some popular music and would allow fans to get together and party," said ODEN-K Director Margret Henderson.  "We worked together with ARC, LCR and VDR to bring together artists from around Kalistan, and the inaugural Smokeout has been a tremendous success."

Henderson said the primary impetus for the event was none other than Her Highness, the Crown Princess Carolina Ananto-Hulanevek, who reportedly approached ODEN-K officials in May to ask about organizing a new GanJam.  "Her Highness has long been interested in live music," said Henderson, "and started writing to us last Spring to ask when or if we were planning a new GanJam.  After we told her that there weren't any plans to hold a new festival at the current moment, she asked for a meeting, and we couldn't say no to the Princess."  Henderson said the Crown Princess met with ODEN-K officials with four different alternative proposals for a full summer festival series, and over the months, Carolina worked with ODEN-K representatives to pare down the proposals into a fall Showcase which ODEN has called the Smokeout.

"Naturally, the National Product was available at the Smokeout," said Director Henderson.  "We weren't initially too sure if the 'full' experience was what Her Grace had in mind, but she enthusiastically welcomed ODEN to go full in on the event.  She wouldn't have had it any other way."  The Crown Princess even secured more than ₭1 million from House Ananto to help ODEN-K with the event.  "Due to Her Grace's personal contribution to the event, we were able to charge only a nominal amount for tickets, less than ₭5 per participant, and all the marijuana at the event was free."  Over the day, more than 1,500 pounds of Dah Gold and other varieties was distributed to more than 19,000 concert attendees.  "We had the full compliment of ODEN products on hand as well, but by far, the concert was a stoner fest."

Her Highness, Crown Princess Carolina opened the show with a short speech about the importance of live music to her experience in Kalistan, and thanked the audience for enthusiastically attending the concert that ODEN-K had worked so hard to put on.  "If there is one thing that stands out about Kalistan its that we know how to have a festival!  Even if this one is only one day long, I would like to thank all of you for coming out and supporting both ODEN and this live music that you will hear today.  I know that being able to go to shows, even if I had to stay pretty much out of sight when I was a kid, that formed the core of some of my best childhood memories, and I hope to continue to enjoy concerts like this one well into the future.  But what's a show without an audience?  Right?  You all make this happen too!"  With that, the Princess Carolina officially opened the Smoke out and introduced the first band, Vrassa's Noise Alternative band Deth in Senvias.

Unlike a standard GanJam, the Smokeout, which is billed as GanJam's Little Sister, was primarily about music.  "One of the biggest expenses of a full GanJam, besides the logistics of taking care of tens of thousands of people for four days, is the art pavilions," said Henderson.  "The Smokeout featured only the music, and we had only 10 acts on the bill."  Henderson said the Smokeout saw the return of Sulari Noise Artists Smoke, who broke up last year over creative differences, as well as show openers Deth in Senvias, both of whom were warmly welcomed by a rowdy crowd.  Other artists like folks artist Tola Bronwyn, and the funk quintet The Northerners ensured that the sound remained eclectic.  "We didn't have any RF on the bill today," said Henderson.  "But we did have Hip Hop out here, with Python's Souljahs.  This was their first big show, and they were fantastic!"

The Republic's Kathy White closes the show out with crowd favorite "Listen Baby"

The Smokeout's headliners were The Republic, whose new album Geometry is currently climbing the charts along with their newest single, the moody, atmospheric "Forget the Way I Feel".  "The Republic have opted to remain in Kalistan indefinitely and continue to make music here," said Henderson.  "I think they were very honored to be personally requested to be part of the show by Princess Carolina, who has been a fan of the band for years now."  The Luthori-born Kalistani sophistipop duo performed a full set of jazz and soul pop along with their permanent touring band, The Sunhats (from Sulari), to close the show out, and after their set, The Princess requested to meet the Band.  The Republic dutifully complied with the summons, only to meet a young royal who was over the moon to meet her favorite musical artists.

"Her Grace, the Crown Princess was all smiles and giggles talking with [The Republic's singer] Kathy White, who herself was a little taken aback by the Crown Princess' enthusiasm," said Henderson.  "It was really very sweet:  Someone like the Crown Princess becomes just a college student and a fan of a band right before your eyes.  The exchange was one where a very proper and professional artist, who was trying to observe official protocol was completely undermined in that effort by an excited, and perhaps more than a little intoxicated, 23 year old girl.  The role reversal was unexpected and disarming for Ms. White."

The festival was, over all a success, and points at potentially restarting the GanJam series.  "I know that thousands of people would attend a GanJam," said Henderson.  "But ODEN-K has slowly shifted out of the entertainment sector so we could put more emphasis on genetics, cultivation and distribution, or basically, doing what a drug cartel is supposed to do."  Would there ever be a GanJam again?  "I mean:  there's obviously interest in live music festivals," said Henderson.  "Never say never."  A prospect that seemed to delight the Crown Princess, apparently, who is reportedly going to launch a petition drive at Kaliburg Polytechnic in the spring to lobby ODEN-K for a new GanJam.  "At any rate, we plan to return next year with the Second Annual Smokeout, and every year after that," said Henderson.

[Doc]

Kalistan News in Brief:  Foreign Minister DuMont to Pontesi
The Republic plays ODEN Smokeout 5570 in Hutori, New Thiers Class AAS deployed to 4th Fleet
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
November 17, 5570


The Republic Plays the ODEN Smokeout in Hutori

Foreign Minister DuMont travels to Pontesi
In what is deemed a "friendly visit" the Foreign Minister, Dame Jacqueline DuMont, has accepted an invitation from the Government of the Majatran nation and member of the Jelbic Empire, Pontesi to discuss trade and construction.  The Foreign Minister gave brief statements to the Kalistani press before departing for a week long trip to Pontesi.  "We look forward to good relations with the Jelbic States of course, including our partners in Wrnuke.  Pontesi has asked us to consider increasing our purchases from their nation, including in Silicon, which we need a regular supply of for the purposes of creating new integrated circuits and solid state storage capacity.  We are also looking into phosphorus stocks.  While we have some limited supplies those usually go into agriculture.  Pontesi, for its part can be a reliable source of industrial and military grade phosphorous, which will be vital in our weapons industry.  In exchange, they would like to increase purchases of Aluminum, pharmaceuticals, and wine and rum from ODEN, and we believe that we can certainly oblige."  It is likely that Pontesi will put in another order for several tanker ships for their expanding petroleum industry.

On the question of joining Pontesi's embargo on Istalia, Dame DuMont nixed the idea.  "Her Imperial Majesty detests the communist scum in Istalia, but doesn't feel that sanctions or embargos are the right way to win an ideological war.  Fanatics just feed on people's opposition to their ideas, and she has argued that the best way to win the battle of ideologies is with our example, which is obviously superior to the communism that is spreading from blighted states like Istalia."  Kalistan already has a virtual embargo on Istalia at any rate.  "We don't recognize the illegal communist government of Istalia, and we have no reason to trade with them:  They have nothing we can not obtain cheaper closer to home."  With that Dame DuMont stepped onto a plane and headed west toward Pontesi.

The Republic Plays ODEN Smokeout 5570 in Hutori
In an effort to bring the Smokeout to new audiences, Kalistan-Based Sophistipop impresarios The Republic took their show on the road, and played the 5570 Smokeout.  "We felt that this made us kind of ambassadors for Kalistan to Hutori," said Kathy White of The Republic.  "Of course we've been to Hutori back when we lived in Luthori, but this time we represent ODEN K and the Kalistani Music Industry.  It was fun to be approached by a whole new audience, and while we're previewing new music, no less!"  The Republic brought a new experimental song, a slow funky, jazzy masterpiece called "Stop Before You Start". 

"It's perfect for the Smokeout," said White.  "I'm not sure how much of our music has made it into Hutori, because a lot of what goes overseas is bootlegs, but when we played our set, which includes a lot of our hits, as well as some  of this new stuff, we found that a lot of the audience really dug it."  The Republic was joined in Hutori by Marcus Carrangus Jr. who missed the 5569 Smokeout because of laryngitis.  The two Kalistani bands joined the showcase of Hutorian bands this year and played the one day event to more than 23,000 in the Axeminster Civic Auditorium, nicknamed "The Hotbox" for the day.  Hutorian Whiskey was consumed generously by all Kalistanis present.

Thiers Class Platform Ship takes position with 4th Fleet after stopping in Port Swedes
A newly completed Thiers-Class Amphibious Assault Ship, fabricated by the Lourennais firm Noriega-Hamado has been completed in Lourenne and has been launched.  After a stopping in Port Swedes for a month for arming and supplying, including being loaded with 35 NH-64 ASW helicopters, it has since taken its position with the 4th Fleet in the Mad Dog Ocean, where it will deploy to various green water zones and begin conducting sweeps for foreign Subs attempting to enter the Anantonese Ocean.  "This ship is one of three that we will take receipt of," said Naval Spokeswoman Natalie Alarcon.  "The ASW capabilities will give us eyes and ears beneath the surface of the Mad Dog, to compliment our surface detection capabilities.  Defense in Depth is greatly enhanced by the possession of these ships."

While the Thiers Class is technically an amphibious assault ship, Kalistan has no intention of using it for foreign invasions.  "We essentially need floating platforms to deploy our rotary wing assets from in a forward posture," said Alarcon.  "Land based rotary wing has obvious limitations.  We can easily fly, for example, from the Mainland to Ananto one way, but our helicopters can only go so far away from the coast into the Ocean before they have to turn back.  The Thiers Class AAS will allow us to put those helicopters where will be of greatest use, and deny other nations the ability to move about the ocean with impunity."  Two more ships will be launched in the coming years from Noriega-Hamado:  One will join the 1st Fleet at Bozo River, and the second will join the 3rd Fleet at Yoshimi Station, greatly enhancing Kalistan's ASW capabilities in all theaters.

[GreekIdiot]

Beiteynu
Jelbic Empire reinstates Zaar Fleets under Vanukean command with deployment in Port Swedes
February 5571
https://forum.prtcy.com/thread-3-post-1996.html#pid1996

[Doc]

Chancellor of the Empire Ames Issues Embargo Proclamation against Luthori
"Hands off Seleya," Chancellor Announces
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
June 19, 5571


Chancellor of the Empire Ames reads proclamation concerning new Luthori Encroachment into Seleya

Chancellor of the Empire, Sir Bertram Ames-Ananto read the proclamation of new Kalistani Policy today aimed at curtailing additional Luthorian advancement into Seleya and kneecapping the Artainian Nation's efforts to strengthen its so called "commonwealth."  "Her Imperial Majesty has had enough of Luthori's constant provocations against the Empire of Ananto and Kalistan, and we today reiterate our constant refrain when we say 'Hands off Seleya!'"

The transcript of Sir Bertram Ames-Ananto's speech, where he read Her Imperial Majesty's Proclamation regarding Luthori is printed below.  The text of this bill shall be floated through the National Assembly this week to enshrine it as Kalistani Policy.

"Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Pavlina I Ananto has decreed that the Empire of Ananto and Kalistan no longer recognizes the Government of Luthori, nor the Government of Mordusia, who is in that state's thrall, and is fully supine in their orientation toward Luthori, as legitimate.  Kalistan will support any efforts by the people of those two nations to establish legitimate government by whatever means they have at hand.  To Wit:

1.  There shall be no additional official reference to Luthori as an empire or a commonwealth.  Luthori may be described only as a "state in Artania."  Kalistan will immediately cut all trade and diplomatic relations with Luthori.  All diplomatic staff that remain in Luthori will be recalled immediately, and all Kalistani citizens living and doing business in Luthori are advised to return to the Empire before Luthori is able to commit and depredations reprisals against Kalsitani citizens.

2.  The Empire of Ananto and Kalistan shall establish a new sanctions regime aimed at weakening external support for the illegitimate Government in Luthori.  This policy is a "zero tolerance" policy aimed at encouraging Seleyan nations to distance themselves from Luthori.  As of July 1st of this year, The Empire of Ananto and Kalistan will:
a)  expel all diplomatic personnel from all Seleyan signatories of the Luthorian Commonwealth Treaty.  Currently this consists only of Mordusia.
b) review whether or not Likatonia is in fact a member of the Luthorian arrangement, as it does not appear that there is any active treaty of commonwealth, neither free trade, nor military cooperation between Luthori and Likatonia at this time, but if Likatonia insists that it is a member of Luthori's arrangement, the terms of these sanctions will be applied to them too.
c) expel all diplomatic personnel from any other Seleyan Nation that assists Luthori in the promotion and advancement of any of its instruments of empire, either military, economic, or diplomatic.

3.  Kalistan will remove its OTH radar base from Likatonia and end all semblance of security and intelligence cooperation with that Government.

4.  No Luthorian Flagged Vessel will be welcomed in a Kalistani Port, and if they attempt to make port in Kalistan or Ananto in any other than an emergency situation, they will be boarded and impounded, and their cargo will be seized by Kalistani Authorities as contraband.  Luthorian Commerce will not be harassed on the High Seas, but Luthorian Flagged civilian craft will find no safe harbor anywhere in Kalistan.

5.  Kalistan will nationalize all Luthorian investments and assets in Kalistan, wherever they should be found.

6.  Kalistan will not permit any ship to port in any Kalistani Port who carries Luthorian Goods, even if they were purchased in a third Nation.  All ships carrying Luthorian Goods will be turned back to sea.  This applies to all nations, without regard to any other arrangement or treaty that Kalistan is a party to including the AESA specifically.  Nor will Kalistan permit shipment of Luthorian goods through its national territory via road or rail, and any Luthorian Goods that arrive by air for any other reason than an identified emergency shall be seized and impounded.

7.  Kalistan will offer generous resettlement grants for all civilian refugees from Luthori, without regard to skill or occupation.  We will accept all political asylum seekers from Luthori, except those who have been adjudicated by the Luthori Courts as criminals, and all those who wish will be eligible for immediate naturalization in Kalistan, on condition that they fully and public renounce their Luthorian Citizenship.

8.  Kalistan shall offer generous investment and diplomatic support to any Seleyan Nation that openly and explicitly rejects diplomatic, economic and military relationships with Luthori.

It is so commanded, By the Voice of Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Pavlina I Ananto, enacted by the hand of His Excellency, Chancellor of the Empire, Sir Bertram Ames-Ananto in the National Assembly of Deputies, The Empire of Ananto and Kalistan, This Day, the Eighteenth of June, 5561, and shall be endorsed by the Same National Assembly."

The Chancellor did not remain for questions, but went to his office to begin whipping votes on the bill he was about to bring to the floor.