Kalistan

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Lady Nicole Catalina Ananto-Bjorksdattir to visit Egelion
Business trip includes meeting with King on behalf of House Ananto
Altea, Egelion
May 30, 5623


Lady Nichole Ananto-Bjorksdattir in Kaliburg this Spring

Lady Nicole Catalina Ananto-Bjorksdattir travelled to Altea, capital of Egelion to meet with members of the Egelian banking sector to discuss additional investments in both the finance sector and defense sector on behalf of House Ananto this month.  The 27-year old architect, who is the youngest daughter of Her Excellency Lady Dana Ananto-Alvarez, Viceroy of Gaduridos, was also introduced to His Majesty, King Romulo I of Egelion during the visit, and it was noted, spent some time discussing Anantonse affairs with the new Monarch in the northern Kingdom.

"We believe the two discussed a little more than business as they met," said Crown Watcher Francesca Casablanca.  "The Princess' itinerary was altered significantly during the trip to allow several meetings between the young Ananto and the new King, and it is possible that something more personal may develop between them."  Casablanca noted that Lady Nicole was a guest of the King on at least one evening at a dinner and then took in a ballet in Altea.  "The King is known to be an eligible bachelor and Lady Nicole may well be the most eligible bachelorette in the region.  A match between the two houses would bode well for Anantonese relations."

Lady Nicole does not possess titles, unlike Lady Dana.  She is however, considered a close member of the Royal Family and already holds the title of Royal Lady Companion in the Ancient Order of the Gray Smoke, the elite chivalric order of the Anantonese Empire.  Lady Nicole currently lives and works in Ciudad Gaduri, where she is a partner in the prestigious Estudio de Arquitectura Gaduri (EdAG) which has designed some of the most modern and energy efficient buildings in the burgeoning Ciudad Gaduri skyline.  She has lived her entire life in Marlingantos, first at her parents' home in Vespiano Marlingantos, and then, after national service, in Ciudad de Gaduri.  She speaks Egelian as a first language, and identifies as a Gaduri National.

"The Princess is a very innovative architect," said Casablanca, "but she also enjoys participating in theater, and like her Great-Great Grandmother and namesake, the Empress Nicolette I The Great, is an avid bowler.  She also plays Go and loves all kinds of music."  The Princess also owns a penthouse in Ciudad de Gaduri and is fond of nightlife and outdoor sports.  Like most other Anantos, Lady Nicole is a member of the Brethrenist Faith, attending the Reunión Mensual de los Hermanoistos de la Ciudad de Gaduri.  In the Princess' direct lineage is the entire line of Ananto Monarchs up until Emperor Fredrick the II (she is related to His Imperial Majesty Emperor Fredrick  III by way of adoption of Empress Carolina) of the "Gaduri Line" dating back to the first Ananto Emperor, but also the various members of the ancient Bjorksdattir family, dating back to President of the Republic Elga Bjorksdattir, who was one of the founders of Brethrenism in Kalistan in the 40th Century, as well the person for which Port Elga in Sulari is named.  "Her pedigree is not only impeccable, but also impressive," said Casablanca.

"Being a member of House Ananto, Lady Nicole is, herself, independently wealthy," said Casablancas.  "Her net worth is estimated to be ₭78 Million Imperial Rubles, most of it in stocks and securities in Miramar, as well as property in Marlingantos and Cuernatecas Gaduridos."  She also receives a ₭1.2 million Imperial Ruble pension per annum from House Ananto, most of which she donates to charity.  If she were to marry into the Egelion Royal Family, the pension would be cut, but she would likely keep her own wealth, rather than divesting.  "Lady Nicole would of course be allowed to retain citizenship in Gaduridos and in the Empire as long as she liked, even if she were to become a citizen in Egelion as well."

All this marriage talk is rumor at this point, but discussion of a royal wedding tends to excite people.  Lady Nicole would be the first Ananto to marry a foreign noble, if it were to happen, and relations between Ananto and Egelion would most certainly improve.  "There is no doubt that His Imperial Majesty would welcome the marriage were it to happen," said Casablanca.  "We can assume that Lady Dana would also welcome the union."

@LaModa

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Dolgavan Queen visits Kalistan
Empress Consort and Northern Monarch bond over Surfing
Luxon, Grand Duchy of Ananto
July 1, 5623


Her Majesty, Queen Jaanika with Her Highness, Empress Consort Monica Ananto-DeLaurentis in Luxon

Her Majesty, Queen Jaanika of Dolgava visited Kalistan last week to further strengthen ties between Kalistan and Dolgava.  The visit is in response to a previous visit by the Anantonese Monarchs to Dolgava where His Imperial Majesty, the Emperor and Her Highness, the Empress Consort were introduced to the then Crown Princess.  The visit was partially for business, but the Queen's itinerary left plenty of time for recreation and sight seeing in Ananto, mostly with the Empress Consort.

Upon her arrival in Kaliburg, Her Majesty the Queen was given a formal audience with His Imperial Majesty, Emperor Fredrick III Ananto and Chancellor of the Empire Sir David Levine.  His Imperial Majesty's sign language interpreter and spokeswoman, who spoke for the Emperor in the Audience, Allison Stuart was also in attendance.  Chancellor Levine later reported that during the formal audience, formalities were exchanged, and the Queen emphasized her nation's vision for Anantonese cooperation and security.  "His Imperial Majesty was very receptive to the proposals of Her Majesty the Queen, and there are several excellent opportunities for cooperation and comity between our two Nations," said Chancellor Levine.

Several of the topics discussed included joint patrols in the Karzon Strait with Lodamun, Kalistan and Dolgava; Kalistan helping Dolgava restore its passive sonar net in the Strait for the purpose of tracking surface and subsurface naval traffic in and through the region; initiatives to work to restore marine habitats for wildlife, which is a pet issue of Her Highness, Princess Michelle Ananto, as well as restoring and potentially building new reefs in and around Kalistan and Dolgava, sustainable energy production using tidal and deepsea geothermal energy; seismic monitoring in both nations which have a history of devastating seismic and volcanic events, and increasing trade flows over the Northern Anantonese Ocean.  

"His Imperial Majesty also welcomed Her Majesty into the Ancient Order of the Gray Smoke, as a Stranger Lady Companion," said Chancellor Levine.  "She will be added to the roster, and will be able to utilize the special privileges afforded to members hence forth as she desires.  This is a lifetime role, but the induction ceremony was quick and was accepted."  Knights and Ladies Companion may always speak directly with the Emperor in everything but formal audiences, and  are considered to be close and trusted advisors and confidantes of His Imperial Majesty.  The "Stranger Knight/Lady Companion" ranks are reserved specifically for Foreign Royalty, spouses of Anantonese Royalty and current and former Imperial Viceroys and act as supernumeraries who do not count toward the 20 Companions limit.  "The Queen's induction into the Ancient Order is a very significant honor, and represents a bond and commitment between Kalistan and Dolgava that goes beyond simple diplomacy."

Following the business meetings, His Imperial Majesty invited Her Majesty to tea, where they were joined by Her Highness, the Empress Consort and several members of the Kalistani Foreign Service and Business community, who all wished to greet and welcome the Queen to Kalistan.  "All made it known to Her Majesty that she is always welcomed in Kalistan and they look forward to long and friendly association between our two nations," said the Chancellor.  "Teas, which are informal audiences, also gives the Emperor the opportunity to speak with his guests in a less formal setting, which is governed by few rules of the House Protocol," said the Chancellor.  "I was not required there, but Ms. Stuart was in attendance with the Royal Party and spoke on behalf of the Emperor."

Reportedly the Queen and the Empress Consort renewed their friendship which began nine years ago in Aikums, and has continued since then through informal visits and correspondence. After the Tea, Her Majesty the Queen was invited, along with her retinue to stay at Cliff House with the Royal Family. There she was greeted by the Minor Princesses Mary Natalia Ananto-DeLaurentis and Margaret Nicolette Ananto-DeLaurentis. Over the next few days, the Queen toured Ananto, taking in fine dining in Dulnerstaad, music concerts in Downtown Kaliburg, history and culture in Eveari, where she also met Her Highness, Princess of the Empire Carolina Ananto and Prince William Ananto-Sandoval, both well into retirement and played a round of golf, and then travelling to the Summer retreat in Luxon, where the Queen got the opportunity to go surfing with the Empress Consort on the beautiful Southwest Coast.

"Overall, it is reported that the Queen is an excellent surfer and even gave the Empress Consort some tips," said Chancellor of the Empire Levine. "The Empress Consort is in her mid-30s now, but picked up surfing while she and the Emperor, then Crown Prince, lived in Luxon. She was grateful for the pointers, and was reportedly thrilled to have someone to surf with."

After seven days in Ananto, the Royal Family saw the Queen off from Kaliburg International. Surely there will be many more such visits between the two monarchs in the near future.

@TheRepublic

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The Empress at Home
Princess of the Empire recalls her Life in Kalistan in wide ranging La Moda interview
Everai, Grand Duchy of Ananto
July 20, 5623


Prince William Ananto-Sandoval and Princess of the Empire Carolina Ananto at Ananto Estate in Eveari

It has been a dozen years since Her Highness, the Princess of the Empire Lady Carolina Ananto-Hulanevek retired from public life.  Since then she has seen the Empire she governed for more than thirty years descend to an inevitable war with the land of her birth, and once more find some peace.  She left office just as tensions between Kalistan and Kundrati were about to hit their nadir, and has since had a lot of time to reflect on her own Reign, and how the events that preceded her during her mother's reign were resolved during her son's ongoing reign.  And now she sits down with me, John Henderson, reporter for La Moda to offer a post script on what turned out to be one of the most consequential and tumultuous periods in Kalistani History.  I let her guide the often meandering discussion--I figured that as a Kalistani, I owed her that at the very least, but also know I and so many million Kalistanis owe her so much more.

"First, I want to say thank you for coming to see me here in Eveari," she started and smiled lightly.  When I told her it was an honor to meet and speak with her, I also asked why she was smiling.  "Do you know, Mr. Henderson, how long I was Empress of this nation?"  I answered that I knew her reign lasted just under 33 years.  "In all that time, whenever I spoke to youngsters like you in the press, I could never call myself I.  Do you know how good it feels each time to just have that little bit of my personality back?  I am very happy."

The Empress has grown very old in the dozen years since then.  "I started as a young woman," said Princess Carolina, who is now free to dispense with a lot of the other little formalities associated with her high office.  "I started before I was crowned, you know:  My mother was declining by the time I even entered college, and she stayed in her office maybe longer than she should have, so she could help me as long as she could.  But by the time I was named Empress, I had already been doing the job for more than a year.  Its been a very long time, and all that time seemed to catch up to me.  I am 76 years old now.  76...  that means my mother met my father seventy years ago, in Kundrati."

I asked her if she remembers when her mother met her father.  "Oh, well, I wasn't there," she said with a smile.  "I think I must have been in a hotel room somewhere, in Clovisport, if you can believe it.  The Likatonian government had a very different outlook on the world at that time.  It seems so long ago, but it is true.  They were more, shall we say, Seleyan oriented.  The President of that nation put my mother and father together at the same table.  He didn't ask either of them what they thought of that.  But:  I think he thought he was doing Fredrick a favor by introducing him to my mother.  And you might say, the magic happened."

"Would you say it was love at first sight?" I asked.

"Well, if not, it was something like that," said the Princess.  "My mother always said my father liked her because she was so smart and because she always knew what she wanted, and I think my mother loved my father's sense of humor, his kindness and his honesty.  These are admirable characteristics in anyone taken by themselves.  But for them to be grouped together in such quantity in two people who only accidentally met one another, well, I think was what you might call complete serendipity.  They were a perfect match for one another, and during their whole time together, those were some of my happiest memories in my early life.  I've had a lot of other happy times together, but none come close to that.  And then it was all over."  The smile fades from her face, but after a moment quickly returns, as if the Princess had suddenly become away that her mind was drifting.

"You know, my mother was really a very tragic figure," continued the Princess.

"I have heard this about Pavlina," I answered.

"Yeah.  She really tried hard to keep things together after my father was taken from us.  Much of the Kalistan you see today really found fruition under her Reign.  Kalistan may very well be one of the more powerful nations in the world.  It wasn't like that even under Nicolette The Great.  But it all seemed to get so much bigger during the time my Mother was Empress; All that work led to a massive bounty of power and influence in the world.  And she sat at the top of all that.  She had everything she could ever imagine.  And yet after my mother lost my father, she was never happy ever again.  My father's loss killed part of her, a very vital part of her.  Living with her was very soon unbearable:  She would weep for hours.  There was one time we found a bird that had fallen out of a tree, just outside this window, actually.  It was right there in the grass," Carolina said as she motioned out the window.  "My mother saw that, and went outside to check on it, as I watched from the window.  She saw that the bird was suffering, and I will never forget her face when she looked up at me with tears in her eyes, and yelled at me to get away from the window.  I was scared of her at that moment, so I ran up to my room.  She came back in five minutes later, and I didn't see her for a day.  See, she had to put the bird out of its misery.  She had to kill it to show it compassion, and it affected her seriously.  She was always on the edge of an emotional collapse."

"How did her emotional state affect you as you grew up?" I asked.

"Well, I tried to be this little miss Sunshine.  I started doing drugs in my teen years, partly to kind of tune her out, but also because it helped me feel better about life.  I was drinking a bit and smoking a lot of weed, you know...  taking acid and mushrooms and everything.  My views about the world were opened a little bit, and I think they kind of saved me, you know.  My friends turned me on to some good music, and I met some different people.  I was a kind of a wild child.  And my mother, I was pretty sure she knew about all of it, but didn't really come down hard on me for it.  She was suffering too, but had to keep it together for everyone else, you know.  So she didn't have the chance to escape the way I did.  When I went into National Service, and got to be outside all the time, doing real work, I think I realized there was more to life than living in this place which at that time was kind of like a crypt.  And then college was a lot of fun, and going to work on the Metro, all of that fortified my understanding that the problem my mother was facing didn't have to be mine.  And when I became Empress, and moved to Kaliburg, I think I had the distance from my mom to make sure I could also help care for her, while also doing the job.  I think the experience may have hardened me, but it also taught me a form of compassion for others too.  No matter how hard my life was on my worst day, it was always better than my mother's day on her best day.  It helped me be a better Empress in a way."

"In what way?"  I asked.

"I was born in a pretty lousy situation in Kundrati," said the Princess, "but I don't remember that.  My mother took me in when I was a baby.  So I have never known how hard some people have it.  I moved into an Imperial Palace and was treated like a princess by literally everyone around me.  Like very VERY powerful people were afraid to look me in the eye, and were not even allowed to call me by my first name.  Keeping my mother's situation in my mind helped me remember that there are many who suffer in this Empire, and I don't know if I would have even thought of that if I didn't have my mother there to teach me that lesson, daily, firsthand.  I think it made me a more compassionate person.  At the end, we, William and I had to make the compassionate decision for my mother like she made for that bird.  But for me, there were no tears when I finally signed the paperwork for compassionate end of life care.  My mother, the woman I had loved my entire life, wasn't there anymore.  Dementia had taken her away from me long before then.  I had already done my grieving.  The only thing there was left to do was to say good bye to her.  But her life helped me make peace with that, and realize that the kindest thing I could do for my mother was to let her go."

"Do you think your relationship with your mother affected how you raised your own children?"

"Certainly," Carolina answered with a smile.  "You all know Fredrick well.  He was a bit of a hell raiser.  Such a practical joker--sometimes I needed him to be serious, but it was exactly then that he decided that it was time to climb up a book shelf and damn near kill himself.  He was never serious about anything.  The exact opposite of my mother, who was dead serious about everything.  He was maybe closer to what I remember my father as.  And little Michelle, well, she's not so little anymore, she was different too:  She cares for everything.  She is so kind and gentle and vibrant and passionate.  Both of my children are very special to me.  But I always also wanted to prevent my kids from ever feeling that they had to take care of me, or worry about me at all.  The job I did for three decades was one I knew my own son was destined to do if he didn't tip a bookshelf over on himself or run out into the street and get killed by a car or something.  So I tried to shield him from that as long as I could.  I worked as long as he would let me, to get him ready for this hellish job.  But Michelle, I could indulge her as much as she wanted.  She has never known sorrow or suffering, and I think it has given her the freedom to care about the things that need caring about.  She reads to children.  She really feels strongly about otters and manatees and seals.  Both of my children are good.  Nobody will ever call Fred "the Black Emperor", even with this war, and all the bad stuff they did during that war.  And that is as much their character as my mother's legacy."

"Are you happy, Madame?" I asked.

Carolina smiled softly.  I know she is in her mid seventies now, but for a moment, I could see, in her face, the first photo that was published of her when she was 12.  She still has soft features despite her deep wrinkles, and radiant green eyes that can captivate, and I can say that she is still remarkably beautiful.  "I am.  William keeps me company most days.  And I will say I have more freedom now that I have ever had, really, since I first set foot in Kalistan and became a Princess.  We can walk to the Bay and watch the sea birds fish.  Or we can go play golf with Queens of foreign Countries at the country club.  We can sit in Meeting and not worry about being interrupted while we are listening for the still small voice of God.  I am even surprised that they let me into the Senior Center:  They have cribbage tournaments there each Thursday and I have won it so many times, that I only get to play non-contest rounds now to give other people a chance."  She laughs.  "How's that?!  What more can a girl ask for?"

"Do you ever travel to Kaliburg?"

"There's not much for me in that town anymore," said the Princess.  "We have to do stuff with the Order a few times a year, but many of the things I remember from when I lived there are either gone or changed.  I almost have to hire a tour guide these days like I'm some kind of tourist in my own town!  Fredrick and Monica and the girls usually come to Eveari to visit, and you know they lived up here for so long when he lost Wilson House.  Maybe Kaliburg is way busier than it used to be, maybe I'm just older and slower."

"You're still young, Madame," I declared, almost involuntarily, to try to cut off her attempt at self-deprecation.  Later I wondered why I did that, but I suppose it has something to do with the fact that for the first half of my life, this woman who is objectively old, was Kalistan's Civic Goddess of Beauty, Wisdom and Justice.  We had the Empress' coronation portrait framed and mounted in our home, right near our bookshelf in the living room, for all to see.  Her veneration was not required:  My parents, and the parents of millions of my peers did it out of respect.  Seeing her as an old, physically diminished, and very obviously mortal human, woman might have deflated that image, and I still don't think I am quite ready to let that image of her go just yet.

But:  then without missing a beat, she instantly and effortlessly re-deified herself to me.  "Haha, correct answer, young man," she said wryly.  "I do get to Dulnerstaad when I can.  Michelle and her family always take me out to see the good work she is doing at the aquarium.  She is very busy too, but the work she is doing is very good work.  Both she and Fred make me very proud."

I asked her about her plans for the future.  She smiled, and confidently said "You are looking at it kid.  You can come back every day and interview me every day if you want.  But until then, I want to keep doing what I am doing.  I am retired.  My future is a lot shorter than yours is.  So I don't really have to plan for the future anymore.  Everyday above ground with William is a blessing to me.  We read to one another, you know?" 

"I did not know that," I answered.

"We read Bennots very often.  I should have been a socialist," the former Absolute Sovereign of the Empire of Ananto and Kalistan and the Empress of the Anantonese Empire said with a laugh.  "My daughter gave me this book, Ethical Socialism for my birthday last year.  William is, I guess a little more sympathetic to that communist's ideas than I am, but the more I read them, the more they make sense.  Couse, he's Kalistani.  That populist mantra is more in his blood than mine.  I only saw the value of popular participation in Government when I was no longer in charge of it."

"Would you recommend it to His Imperial Majesty?"

The Princess looked at me as if I just asked the most absurd question imaginable.  "Absolutely not!"  She laughed heartily at the irony of the question.  "Besides, Michelle has probably already given him a copy.  I have no doubt it is buried on his desk under a mountain of far more important reading.  Like flow reports from the Nevaran dams.  But me, I can read it and not have to worry about how it will ruin this nation."

We spent another half hour talking while I finished a refreshing glass of lime punch.  We were ultimately rejoined by the former Prince Consort, His Highness Prince William Ananto-Sandoval, and the two elderly Kalistanis posed for a picture for my magazine before I bid them both farewell.

"Thank you, so much for coming by," said Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Carolina I Ananto, one final time.  "I really enjoyed talking with you today."

@LaModa

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Kalistan News in Brief:  Lady Nicole Ananto calls Egelian Trip a "Success"
10 Years of Ceasefire observed in Kaliburg; Government demands investigation on Warcrimes
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
November 1, 5623


Lady Nicole Ananto-Bjorksdattir speaks with Claudia Marques in Gaduridos

Lady Nicole Ananto-Bjorksdattir calls Egelian Trip a "Success"
Widely reported in the Egelian newspaper over the summer was the the visit of Lady Nicole Catalina Ananto-Bjorksdattir, youngest daughter of Her Excellency Lady Dana Ananto-Alvarez, Viceroy of Gaduridos and former Kalistani FM Sir Christopher Bjorksdattir.  Last week, Lady Nicole gave an interview to Gaduri TV, where she called the trip a resounding success and intends to return next month.  

"Los asuntos de negocios que tenía en Egelion se resolvieron con bastante rapidez," said Lady Nicole.  "La Casa Ananto hizo varias inversiones nuevas en el Banco Santamar y en la industria turística de Norterra, pero tras la resolución de esos asuntos, también me invitaron a reunirme con el rey. Diría que nos llevamos muy bien. Desafortunadamente, tuve que regresar a Gaduridos porque tengo un par de reuniones en la Ciudad de Gaduri a las que asistir este mes, pero a principios de diciembre regresaré a Egelion por invitación personal del Rey Rómulo."

Crown watchers are abuzz, noting the personal gifts that the King presented to Lady Nicole during her visit, including a pair of earings and a silver tiara which she wore when they spotted in public one evening.  Asked directly by the Gaduri reporter who was interviewing her what she thought of King Romulo, she answered "Por supuesto, el rey es muy encantador y su acento es muy... tal vez podría decir suave. El egeliano de Gaduridos es más directo, pero escuchar el acento hablado en Egelion es muy diferente. Uno pensaría que sonaría más como el Suldanorano, como hablan en Kalistan, pero no, todos en Egelion hablan como oficiales de policía o funcionarios del gobierno. Es muy formal. Será divertido acostumbrarse."

It sure sounds like she aims to try.

10 Year anniversary of the End of the Likatonian War is Observed in Kaliburg
In what has long been seen as a draw in Kalistan, the 10 year anniversary of the end of the Likatonian War and Kalistan's return to peace was observed last week in Kaliburg.  "Tens of thousands were lost in the international fight against Fascism," said Chancellor of the Empire, Sir David Levinie, who is himself a war veteran.  "The Artanian Sea War will be forever etched into the collective cultural memory of this nation, both in terms of the horrors of war, and as a constant reminder of the threats of international fascism."  The Chancellor called the war a catastrophe that could not be avoided, and joined with the gathered crowd of 5500 on the National Mall to commemorate the lost.

"Kalistan suffered far more than any other nation in this war," said the Chancellor.  "Not only did our war dead far exceed the casualties lost on the other side, or in any of the allied nations, if we include the chemical attacks, but our capital City and two of our major Kalistani Cities were also severely damaged in those same chemical attacks.  And the rotten ideology that led to the war in the first place remains in place where it was before the war began."  The Chancellor did note a positive outcome of the war, however:  "We may not have overthrown Fascism, but we at least cleared Seleya of its curse.  Our partners in Lodamun have contributed to the rehabilitation of Likatonia, which has been guaranteed peace now for a decade by an international peace keeping force.  If we accomplished nothing else in the war, this alone would be enough."

The Chancellor asked the crowd to observe a minute of silence for Kalistan's war dead and wounded, and then reiterated that pensions will continue to be paid to spouses and children who lost one or both parents in the war.  "In addition, the National Health Service will also be working with the Ministry of Defense to open Veterans' Hospitals which will offer services exclusively to veterans, which will include mental health services for those who still suffer mentally and emotionally from their experiences in the trauma of the Artanian Sea War."  He added that even ten years of peace cannot erase the scars of two years of war for many.  "Most wounds suffered by our soldiers and sailors can't be seen by someone who was not there.  Many of my comrades at arms carry their scars on the inside."

Government responds to accusations of War Crimes in Likatonia
As the Chancellor was commemorating the 10th Anniversary of the end of the War, several Institutional Deputies took to the floor to demand an investigation of the growing allegations of warcrimes in several battles in the Likatonians War.

"I have in my hands here affidavit after affidavit that alleges horrific behavior on the part of the Kalistani Armed Forces of I Corps under Lodamese command in North Bend, St Jackson and Delores," said Deputy Julie Ann Zimmerman, who represents the Constituency of Luxon.  "These are sworn statements and testimonies of not only Likatonian Civilians who were victims of inhumane acts by Kalistani Regulars, but also more than 50 Regulars who say they themselves were commanded to commit depredations against civilians and surrendered foreign fighters."

The accusation drew cries of foul from several of the rump Nationalist Caucus in the House, who have been in the minority since the old Government was thrown off in the 5614 elections.  "Would you force our soldiers to fight with one hand tied behind their back?" asked Mark Webber, who represents the Port Swedes Constituency, and whose family was lost in the attacks on the town.  "Surely you can't suggest that our men and women have to concern themselves with fairness when they are fighting against fascists!"

Ultimately the National Assembly voted to begin an investigation of allegations of abuse of civilians and disarmed foreign fighters, as well as wanton destruction of civilian and peaceful infrastructure.  Chancellor Levine cast a yes vote by proxy, a sign that His Imperial Majesty was also supportive of an investigation, and the vote passed by a comfortable majority on caucus lines.  "If there were no war crimes, as our Nationalist collogues claim," said Greg Hollin of Sulari, "then the investigation will clear Kalistani Regulars.  But we have to conduct the investigation to find out if there is any evidence to corroborate these very serious, and very credible allegations, some of which were made by our own veterans.  So let us get to the truth of this."

Nationalists spoke to the press following the contentious vote.  "These people are bent on undermining the integrity and credibility of the Kalistani deterrent," said Deputy Webber to reporters.  "What's next?  Rubber bullets?  We were in a war.  Sure, there will be some collateral damage, but war crimes?  Hardly."  Webber said Nationalist Caucus members would not be cooperating with the investigations.  "No, in fact, we'll do whatever we can to undermine them," said Webber, "rather than let these hippies tarnish the spotless reputation of our fighting men and women who came back home as heroes, not war criminals."

@TheRepublic

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Kalistani News in Brief:  Chancellor Levine Formally Launches Truth Commission
Travel Advisory Issued for Valruzia; 4th Fleet finishes Redeployment
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
February 3, 5624


Chancellor of the Empire Sir David Levine speaking in National Assembly

Chancellor Levine Formally Launches Truth Commission about War Crimes in Likatonia
The Chancellor of the Empire, Sir David Levine, read a written statement from His Imperial Majesty, Emperor Fredrick III Ananto, formally endorsing the vote taken last year concerning a new Commission aimed at investigating allegations of Kalistani War Crimes related to combat operations in Likatonia in 5613.  The Order read:

"This Assembly will comply with all efforts of the newly inaugurated War Crimes Truth Commission, to include full funding and support for the efforts of the independent investigators.  The Imperial Mandate of the Commission is to independently investigate allegations of war crimes in Likatonia during the period of time from 12 January 5613 until the last Kalistani Troops were withdrawn from Likatonian Soil on the afternoon of 30 September 5613.  War Crimes undermine the ethical standing of those who commit them, they diminish the morale of the fighting men and women of the Armed Forces, and they undermine the mission of the Kalistani Regular Forces.  If there is credible evidence that suggests that war crimes or other illegal depredations have been committed, those responsible will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, and at that point we shall take steps to try to correct any wrongs done, and inoculate the Regular Forces from the temptation to ever do anything like this again."

The fiat looked like it would have smooth sailing through the National Assembly when it was read aloud in Session, but a member of the Nationalist Caucus rose to object.  The Chancellor moved to end debate, but the parliamentarian stepped in and permitted the Deputy,  Mark Webber to speak against the motion.  When the Chancellor reminded Deputy Webber that the Assembly did not have the authority to countermand an Imperial Command, the Deputy proposed an amendment that would insulate the Emperor from any responsibility for the actions of the Regular Forces.  The motion nearly passed by a vote of 38-41, before the Chancellor was able to call the question, and his original motion authorizing the creation of the independent commission and mandating it to fully investigate all accusations of war crimes and depredations passed by a vote of 65-14.  The Commission has two years to file charges, and will be overseen by an independent body of representatives of several Gaduri human rights civil society organizations.

Travel Advisory Issued for Valruzia
Kalistani Consular Staff began processing visas for those wishing to leave Valruzia in light of fresh civil disorder and the Foreign Ministry has issued a travel advisory for the Western Seleyan State.  "Can we not have a generation of peace on this blasted continent?" asked Michael Wachovski, a Kalistani National doing business in Valruzia.

The violence has erupted in response to the killing of a college student who was protesting the Valruzian Dictatorship which has been in place for more than 30 years. Since he was killed, there have been several bloody protests and at least one bombing in the nation, which raises the spector of yet another civil war, this one closer to home.  "It feels like Terra is spasming," said Foreign Ministry undersecretary for Northern Seleyan Affairs Bill Talbot.  "However, our obligation is to not intervene, but to get our people out of harm's way, and make sure our consular staff are alright in the process." 

The Foreign Ministry has said that the travel advisory is both temporary and voluntary, and Kalistanis in the country are advised to contact the Consulate in Nowogard and let them know both about their location as well as their plans to evacuate should the need arise, as soon as possible.  The Foreign Ministry also said Kalistan would be open to accepting civilians from the nation who are seeking to flee from the violence, and house them for the medium term safely in Kalistan.

Reconstructed 4th Fleet finally finishes redeployment in Karzon Strait
The last Ontiveros Class Submarine of the reconstructed 4th Fleet was launched last week and is making its way toward Port Swedes where it will be armed and receive its permanent crew.  This marks the end of the rebuilding effort for the 4th Fleet, which has received all new vessels and has restored its traditional compliment. 

Regular Navy Chief spokeswoman Commander Imelda Blanca said "The rebuilding of the IV Fleet took us a decade, and is now fully deployed into the Karzon Strait between Lodamun and Dolgava, where is it quickly returning to its primary mission of vanguard recon and observation.  In addition, IV Fleet has been tasked to ensure that peaceful international traffic comes to no harm during its transit in and out of the Anantonese Ocean, and that the sea lanes remain clear."  This mission is different from its prewar posture where it served as the forward Blue Water Force for the Anantonese Empire in the Mad Dog.  In its new mission, the main body of surface ships will remain in the Strait, while the two submarine detachments will deploy forward and patrol the entrances to both the Karzon Strait and the Hodari Straits.  "The subsurface detachments will be assisted by overflights from magnetic misplacement detecting rotary wing and AWACS so IV Fleet Commanders will always know what is coming for them well in advance."

There is currently no prohibition on sailing foreign military craft in the international waters of the Anantonese Ocean, so IV Fleet is charged to detect, identify and track, but not engage.  "There are a handful of nations that possess a blue water fleet and may end up in the Anantonese Ocean," said Commander Blanca.  "But it is also important for Kalistan to have eyes on those naval units at all times, to the extent it is possible, so we know what they are up to.  Some nations like to send ships through with the explicit aim of provoking Kalistan:  this has historically been the case.  But we are more provoked by the fact that they aim to try to surprise us, just to show us they can.  Our aim is to deny them that surprise, whether they like it or not, even if we can't stop them."  The Strategic mission of the Regular Navy is to "Man the Gates" according to the Commander.

The 4th Fleet, based at Port Swedes Vrassa, is supported by the 1st Fleet, which is based at Bozo River CAGTC, who primarily patrols the Northern Limit.  The Second Fleet, based at Yoshimi Station patrols the Central Anantonese and the Southern Limit, and the 3rd Fleet, based at Bentasur Gaduridos, patrols the Gulf of Aldegar and the Vorona Sea north of Inrdrala.

@TheRepublic

[Doc]

Kalistani News in Brief: Empire meets with Etxean Reps
Official Condolences to Queen Jaanika sent; Maxwell Ellis to star in new Adventure Mystery Series
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
April 15, 5624


Veteran Character Actor Maxwell Ellis to star in New Adventure/Mystery Series on KRTVN

Empire Meets with Etxean Reps
The Empire of Ananto and Kalistan received official representatives from the island nation of Etxea today and signed a formal recognition of the Government of Etxea as the Official Government of the Kundrati Union.  The signing ceremony was held at Cliff House, where the representatives of the Government of Kundrati Union were hosted for dinner with the Royal Family.  In attendance from Kalistan were His Imperial Majesty, Emperor Fredrick III Ananto, Her Highness Empress Consort Monica Ananto-DeLaurentis, Chancellor of the Empire Sir David Levine, and His Imperial Majesty's Foreign Minister Lady Anya Waltrip.  Also in attendance were Her Highness Lady Michelle Ananto-Sandoval, Head of House Ananto and Director of Miramar, representatives of His Imperial Majesty's Finance Ministry and representatives of the KaliFor/In Bank.

The recognition comes on the heels of several months of behind the scenes negotiations with the breakaway Republic.  It paves the way for Kalistan to release all frozen Kundrati Assets in Kalistan and transfer of those assets out of the Nation.  This includes the money Miramar invested in Kundrati's Space TeleCom corporation ArtSat which has been hosted operated here in Kalistan for forty years at Spencer Space and Test Center in Suldanor.  It is expected that the current Kundrati Managers, who have lived in Kalistan in exile will seek the return of full control of the Corporation, and Lady Michelle Ananto-Sandoval has indicated that Miramar will not seek to profit from the sale of the stock back to its original owners in anyway.  "Our intention was only ever to hold the stock in trust for a day when freedom can be restored to the Kundrati People," said Lady Ananto after the meeting.  "Etxea has spent the last decade providing security for those Kundratis who long for freedom.  They have worked to rebuild Etxea following the horrific war, and shine a light for all those lost in the dark territory to their north.  Returning property at cost to the Legitimate Government of Kundrati in Etxea is the best way we can help them get on their feet and bring prosperity for the first post war generation to come."

The unfreezing of Kundrati Assets held in Kalistani Banks amounts to the release of some ₭65 Billion Imperial Rubles, including the controlling interest in ArtSat which itself was worth close to ₭40 Billion.  The Stock will be returned to ArtSat's acting board of directors at the price it was purchased for in 5584, adjusting for inflation, and then ArtSat's Corporate HQ and operations center in Spencer will be closed down over the next six months.  The remaining ₭25 billion represents frozen assets from other Kundrati Investors which were captured as Sanctions were placed on Kundrati following the beginning of the Blockade.  "This will not affect Kalistan's economy," said Finance Minister Tanya Ontiveros.  "Those assets were indeed frozen in place.  They were completely segregated from the rest of Kalistan's monetary supply and did not circulate.  But the Government of Kalistan is transferring them to the Government of Kundrati Union to dispose of, and all investors should make claims on those funds to the authorities in Etxea."

Official Condolences sent to Queen Jaanika of Dolgava
The Royal Family sent a personal letter of Condolence to Queen Jaanika of Dolgava following the tragic loss of her husband, the Prince Consort Verner.  "Our personal sorrow for your loss can never match your own," said the personal letter penned by Her Highness the Empress Consort Monica Ananto-DeLaurentis.  "Your family was so welcoming to mine when we visited, and your grief is felt by my husband and myself.  While we know this is a hard time for you, we want to extend the hand of fraternal welcome to you and your expected child any time you wish for distraction or solace.  You are welcomed to come stay with us in Kaliburg any time, and Fredrick and I will do all we can lighten your spirits and cheer your soul.  You may consider yourself part of our family."

The Letter, of which only this excerpt was released, was significantly longer, and reportedly reminded the Queen to remember the good times she shared with her husband, and assured her that the people of Kalistan stand with her in this time of personal suffering and loss.  Relatedly, House Ananto has made a sizeable donation to several  undisclosed children's' charity in Dolgava.  Lady Michelle would neither disclose the size of the donation, nor the name of the Charity, but did say that those organizations would never have to worry about having to raise operating funds again and could focus on helping children across the Kingdom.

Maxwell Ellis to star in New Adventure/Mystery series for KRTVN
In an effort to broaden entertainment options for Kalistani viewers, KRTVN has announced that it has green lit a new pilot for a scripted adventure/mystery series about 14 stranded castaways on a mysterious tropical island.  The show's main star, Maxwell Ellis was fairly tightlipped about the production, but said it involved shooting in Marlingantos, and covered the first few months of more than a dozen individuals who were involved in a ship sinking ,who washed ashore.

"The people very quickly get the sense that the Island is not as deserted as it appears," said Ellis, who is a veteran stage and small screen character actor, most recently seen in the Kaliburg Theater Production of Home which wrapped its two and a half year run in December.  "There are some pretty mysterious things that start happening from the jump.  And it is up to our cast to figure out not only who the other castaways are, both on the island and also from before they got there, but to figure out how to get everyone to work together to address the weird stuff that starts happening."

Ellis said that he plays a sort of a man who has a very grandiose sense of himself in this environment.  "Over the season, you will see him become the man he has always seen himself as.  But you also find out that that rubs some of the other people the wrong way, so, there's gonna be conflict."  The show's cast is reportedly a multi-national cast made up mostly of unknown actors, but one actor who is confirmed is the actress Katherine Jennings, from Hutori, who plays a rather secretive young woman with some major secrets to hide.

The Show, tentatively called "Stranded" is beginning production in three months, will shoot on set for about 8 weeks, and will begin airing in January.

@TheRepublic

[Doc]

Davostag's Wanderlust return Sophistipop to the Charts
Makon transplants mix pop, jazz and bittersweet lyrics for potent pop mix
Sulari, Duchy of Suldanor
May 19, 5624


Wanderlust's Debut Time and Again hits the top 10 this week

In one of the best traditions of the Kalistani music scene, the Empire is very welcoming to foreign bands who bring their sound into Kalistan, and influence the sound of Kalistani music in the process.  Several bands from other nations have made big hits in Kalsitan over the years:  most of the foreign bands have come from either Gaduridos or Hutori to record in Kalsitan.  But other notable senders of musicians have been Luthori, Mordusia, and Dolgava and even Valruzia, whose Szary Beat sound and the record company associated with it both formalized the Kalistani Music Scene and formed the nucleus of the single greatest and long lasting recording industry in Terra.  

Now Davostag joins the list of foreign bands who have moved to Kalsitan specifically to record in the Kalistani music industry.  This band, known as Wanderlust, follows the Luthori band The Republic into the field of Sophistipop, which had a brief moment of popularity during the 5580s.  The Republic demonstrated there was a market for pop that was intelligent, made for urbane listeners, employing lush production, more orchestration, and less of a focus on dance and club culture, and more emphasis on the listening experience for mature audiences.  Wanderlust is much more of a rock band than The Republic was, but their tracks on their debut record Time and Again demonstrate their excellent musicality and commitment to creating quality, sophisticated, and highbrow music which is also approachable.

The band of Kivonian musicians, who performs songs exclusively in Vrassan, though they speak primarily Kivonian, is led by Elga Nilsson, who is the band's primary lyricist.  A beautiful petite blonde with a buttery smooth, gentle soprano voice that lures you in, she is the visual focal point.  But as Nilsson says herself, "You come for the girl, and you stay for the boys."  The "Boys" she refers to are primary composer/songwriter Peer Markinsson, who plays guitar, Lars Olafson, who plays keyboards, Tomas Lindberg, who is on bass and Magnus Gustafsson, who plays drums.  "They are really so talented, and bring this sort of natural technique and finesse to their playing," said Nilsson.

The melodies are sweet and well arranged, and travel the spectrum from lounge music to indie rock to jazz pop.  Besides guitars and keyboards, the band uses string instruments like violins and cellos, as well as brass instruments for light flourishes, percussion instruments like marimbas, and drum brushes, chimes and vibraphones.  "We have always tended toward this juxtaposition of really upbeat, sunny melodies, and rather rainy, almost morose lyrics," said Nilsson.  "The band said my voice delivers the medicine coated in sugar."  Nilsson's voice is the sugar of course.  Her sickly sweet voice is so gentle, even as she sings of lost love, anomie and heart break over a flugelhorn and brass arrangement.

"We wanted to move to Kalistan to record this music," said Nilsson, "because there is not a lot of infrastructure for making records in Davostag.  Nothing against Davostag of course:  But most of the modern music we get comes from Kalistan anyway.  Otherwise there is a lot of folk music.  We felt that to record the kind of music we were interested in, we needed to move to the place where not only we can be accepted for this music, but also, we can make the records of this high quality and make a real living at doing it."

And Kalistan has not only welcomed the move, but has generously rewarded it.  This week, Wanderlust's Time and Again cracked the top 10 on KRTVN-1's flagship Hot 100 Albums' Chart:  It was the 9th most widely purchased, downloaded and streamed album in the poll, achieving that position after only 10 weeks on the chart.  "I really love Wanderlust," said Thom Montenegro, 26, from Yoshimi, who purchased the album.  "They sound so different from other things on the radio.  I am a fan of The Republic too, and own their entire collection.  So this kind of fits that flavor.  Its not dance music, which I don't really care for.  And I like that it comes down more on the rock side of sophistipop.  It may be halfway between alternative and the jazz and soul of The Republic, so it really really appeals to me, and my friends too."

The record, which was produced by Artists' Recording Collective in Sulari, has already sold out of its first three pressings across Kalistan, and another 25,000 copies have been ordered by records stores in Ananto and Kalistan.  "It would be amazing to sell 100,000 copies of our first record," said Nilsson with a huge smile and a thick Kivonian accent.  "All of our dreams as a band would come true.  We'll be real Kalistani Musicians then."

You can stream Wanderlust's Time and Again from ARC on your favorite streaming service and watch their lead single "I want the Sun to be Down" right here.

[Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rpaA163XaQA]

@KalistaniRawkMonthly

[Doc]

Kalistani News in Brief:  Several allegations substantiated in War Crimes Investigation
Prince William Sandoval dies in Eveari; Wanderlust's second Single goes to Number 1
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
October 8, 5624


Institutional Deputy Oscar Martinez, (Sulari) lays out case for charges in War Crimes Inquest

Several Allegations substantiated in War Crimes Investigation
The Independent Truth Commission authorized last year by the National Assembly to investigate war crimes and other depredations in the Likatonian Invasion has returned its preliminary report which stated in no uncertain terms that there is significant credible evidence to support at least a few of the allegations of war crimes and depredations against enemy combatants and civilians in Likatonia.

"This report was issued to us from the Independent Truth Commission," said Deputy Oscar Martinez, who represents Southern Sulari Free City in the National Assembly.  "That Commission was given two years to complete their work and issue a final report, but after only half that time, they have returned a report that says there is a raft of credible evidence of more than...  2,365 individual actions which would be considered against Kalistani Law if they happened to our people.  These allegations include horrifying cases of inhumane treatment of surrendered soldiers, (more than 1,200 separate allegations so far) as well as reprisals against civilians who were not operating under arms (at least 630), and countless acts of wanton destruction of civilian infrastructure, to include churches, schools, hospitals and clinics, food supplies, water supplies, roads and rail lines, communications lines and power stations and etc, as well as against private homes and businesses by uniformed Kalistani Regulars in three separate engagements.  These would be considered atrocities if they happened to Kalistan:  We propose holding ourselves to the same standard that we insist that others follow."

The Government delayed a motion to begin forming a Tribunal to issue and then try charges of war crimes until the final report is issued within a year.  "It is at this time premature to begin forming a tribunal, while the final, and definitive report has not yet been issued by the Commission," said Chancellor of the Empire Sir David Levine.  "We would reassure those who are outraged by these allegations that there will be a robust and independent tribunal which exists separately from this government.  But the Truth Commission, which released this preliminary report, is partly overseen by the Justice Ministry, and if they are signaling that they don't even have the investigation completed yet, I would like to ask our Members to have faith that the full report will be accurate and complete, and that the Ministry is actually interested in justice for victims and also for those who can be convicted of committing them.  When the Justice Ministry is ready to file and then try charges, if any, then we will fully support it here as well."

One member, Deputy Diane Fredrickson, from Eshar rose to speak out against the process, saying that the Deputies don't know what the people in her constituency suffered and defending the Regular Army.  "This was total war:  That decision was made by the other side, not us.  We cannot and should not fault our own side from practicing it as well:  Were the shoe on the other foot, the other side would have attacked us in our homes, while we slept and were defenseless.  And they would have killed every one of us.  Trying our troops for winning by whatever means necessary is simply unpatriotic, and hamstrings future military actions."  She was supported by more than a dozen other Deputies, who want nothing to do with the Truth Commission.

Prince William Sandoval Dies in Eveari
Prince Consort William Ananto-Sandoval has died.  The husband of Princess of the Empire Carolina Ananto and father of His Imperial Majesty Emperor Fredrick III Ananto and Her Highness, Lady Michelle Ananto-Sandoval was 81.  Local authorities believed that his death was the result of congestive heart failure which he has been suffering from for the last 15 years.  The Prince Consort, who was the long serving Director of the Ananto Growers' Syndicate, and who received a PhD in Agronomy during his lifetime, was a prolific tobacco smoker, and though he exercised regular into his mid 70s, his health had been suffering from the effects of prolong smoking.

"It is with great regret that I must announce the passing of my beloved husband, William, in the night of October 5th of this year," said Princess of the Empire, Carolina Ananto.  "Bill was a very sweet person and a wonderful partner through my entire life.  He was a doting father and grand father.  He was a dedicated worker, and always took in the interests of those he represented at the Growers' Syndicate, both the owners and the workers, and always fought for their well being, even sometimes at the expense of his own.  He was an avid card player, and played Cribbage far better than any other person I have seen.  This is only a sliver of what this man was, and now exists only as a memory."  A teary Princess Consort asked for privacy for the family while they lay Prince William Sandoval to rest in the Ananto Mosoleum in Eveari following a Brethrenist Meeting for Worship with the attention to Consolation for the family.

Wanderlust's Second Single reaches Number 1
The second released single from Davostag transplants Wanderlust has reached Number 1 on the KRTVN Radio 1's Top 40 Singles Chart. The song "Nebulous Firmament" is the sixth track on their debut album, ARC's Time and Again, and has spent about 17 weeks on the charts before bubbling up and becoming the most popular song in the Nation.

"I really dig this song," said fan Michelle King of Kaliburg. "It feels like it almost wants to be a rock song, and there are plenty of guitars. But the lead instrument is a cello. It's so strange and pretty and soft. I am really loving the whole album, actually."

The record has sold a unit-shifted equivalent of more than 48,000 singles either sold or downloaded this week alone. "I prefer physical media, personally," said King. "So I buy these singles on 7 inches You get the A Side and usually a song that didn't even make the album on the B-Side, so it's like you get, you know, 12 songs or whatever on the Album, and then if they release 5 album tracks you will end up with a total of 17 songs per release. It totally makes spending an extra couple Rubles every 6 or so weeks for a new single worth it." Most people stream their music however, and the streaming of this particular song wound it up in number one on Singles Chart.

You can listen to "Nebulous Firmament" by Wanderlust right here. This is their second single from their Debut Album, Time and Again, released on ARC.

[Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b18VUOlv6f0]

@TheRepublic

[Doc]

Radio Kaliburg launches on KalSat
Signs on as "Terra's Only Alternative"
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
November 12, 5624


Radio Kaliburg's new Studios in Lolla, Kaliburg

Radio Kaliburg has officially begun broadcasting internationally over Kalistan's Radio and Television Satellite network KalSat.  The satellites, which have been launching on a regular basis since Kalistan achieved geosynchronous orbit 15 years ago, have been broadcasting KRTVN radio and television programming globally.  And now, Radio Kaliburg, which airs citizen produced programming and has been primarily internet based internationally, now joins KRTVN programming in live broadcasting to the global market.

"This is a very exciting time for intependent radio," said General Manager Kelly Marques, speaking from Radio Kaliburg studios in downtown Kaliburg.  "Our original studio was one of the buildings destroyed in the fires (in 5612).  But since we've moved into the new Studio in Lolla, its been fantastic.  First we got the transmitter going so we could send out terrestrial signal here in the Empire, and now that we are on satellite, the world can receive the transmission.  We have moved from being Seleya's only Alternative to Terra's only Alternative."

Radio Kaliburg's format has also changed somewhat since it relaunched as an internet platform.  "We found that the podcast shows gradually evolved from primarily talk only to about half talk, half music programming," said Marques.  "The flagship stations themselves retain their excellent quality and specialization, but Radio Kaliburg has also risen to that level of quality as well for its citizen produced shows.  We have a mix of current events and public affairs commentary, public debate, and music of all sorts of genres.  We play a lot of international music and underground music, stuff you won't usually hear on KRTVN.  It's a real addition to the cultural programming available for listeners."

Radio Kaliburg has also taken on the role of the defacto Public Square.  "There are a lot of various views expressed on Radio Kaliburg that don't necessarily line up with the viewpoint from the Government," said Marques.  "Generally even the free press reports news that is not necessarily overly critical of the Monarchy or the Government.  We take pride in the variety of viewpoints that are freely expressed on Radio Kaliburg, and not all of those follow the government line."  Marques took pride in the fact that the earliest allegations of War Crimes from the Likatonian conflict were first aired on Radio Kaliburg.  "In the interest of justice, Radio Kaliburg is freer to take the lead in reporting out stories that are not fully vetted like the Likatonian Story and the Martin Drewery corruption scandal in 5593.  Both of those stories originated from citizen journalism on Radio Kaliburg, and ended in forcing government reform and action."

Now that Radio Kaliburg broadcasts internationally, Kalistani Broadcasters can begin getting messages out to the rest of the world.  "Not only can Kalistanis utilize the platform locally to enhance civil society, but they can also share information about Kalistan with the rest of the world.  Our music, our viewpoints, our history and our opinions now broadcast globally 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to all who seek to receive them."  Radio Kaliburg is also still available on shortwave radio in Makon, Artania, Majatra and Dovani, as well as FM radio through the entire Anantonese Empire and AM radio through all of Northern Seleya, west central Dovani and Southern Keris.  "Our signal now reaches more than three hundred million people directly, and hundreds of millions more via satellite radio," said Marques.  "Each voice could reach the ears of 1 billion families world wide, which would be an absolutely mind blowing possibility."

Radio Kaliburg's terrestrial broadcasts are primarily in Vrassan and Egelian.  "But with the expansion of the satellite service, we've also added news reports in Dundorfic, Indralan, Kyo, Majatran, Kuragic, Skitian, Rajutti, Istalian, Yeudi, Dolgavan, Aldegarian, Rodshayan, Tukarik, and Canrillais.  This dramatically increases Radio Kaliburg's news coverage to a full 10 hours a day on international frequencies, and covers much of the world's population.  In this way, nations around the world can hear news reports independent of State control, and international in its scope.  This creates real value to the world's population, and offers a different take on news and current events which might not be presented locally."

Radio Kaliburg is available on all satellite radio services world wide.  It is a station that is offered free of charge, and KalSat satellite receivers capable of receiving Radio Kaliburg, and all KRTVN channels internationally can be ordered at radiokaliburg.ks.  "KRTVN is picking up the cost of production to all nations of the world, and we ship the KalSat receivers free of charge to specific nations who themselves bar the free press.  If these pieces of technology help to undermine the grip of totalitarian regimes internationally, it is more than worth the cost."  Radio Kaliburg's website also includes specs and plans for creating radio translators and signal boosters for those who wish to re-broadcast into nations who themselves would prefer to not receive Radio Kaliburg transmissions.  "With a free satellite receiver and an inexpensive transmitter, everyone can do a small part to fight fascist control over media," said Marques.

@KalistaniRawkMonthly

[Doc]

General Martin Guerra (Ret, RAFK) surrenders to authorities in Eshar
Former General sought for questioning ahead of expected indictments
Eshar, Duchy of Odufaray
April 19, 5625


Former General Martin Guerra is expected to be indicted in association with war crimes allegations in Likatonia

Retired Major General Martin Guerra, who was the commander of Kalistani Regular Forces during the invasion of Likatonia more than ten years ago, surrendered voluntarily to authorities in Eshar Free City, where General Guerra lives yesterday.  The General turned himself in ahead of what is expected to be multiple indictments stemming from the conduct of war in Likatonia.

"General Guerra arrived at the Eshar Department of Public Safety," said police Chief Bradley Reynolds.  "The General has not formally been charged with any crime, and is currently free on his own recognizance, but he was finally responding to a formal Assembly summons to testify about his involvement in certain alleged activities during the Likatonian War.  The Subpoena was issued three times over the past four months, and Eshar authorities were then presented with an arrest warrant issued by the Duchy Government to find the General and compel his testimony.  General Guerra has not yet been convicted of any crime and retains his rights."

The General was immediately taken into custody long enough to process him.  He was held in custody overnight for ignoring a National subpoena before an arraignment hearing could be held.  As a condition of being released on his own recognizance, he was required to surrender his passport and remain in Eshar City until he could be escorted to Kaliburg to answer questions before the Independent Truth Commission, which has the cooperation of the National Assembly.

A statement from General Guerra's lawyer proclaimed his innocence.  "The Retired General is a private citizen, and has not been charged with any crimes," his lawyer, Connie Dyer, said.  "As such, the presumption is that he is innocent of the allegations against him.  However, he has done nothing wrong in ignoring a command from an independent commission, which does not carry the authority of State, but is in fact, just a fishing expedition to appease the consciences of liberals.  This whole exercise smacks of authoritarian police state tactics, and it is certain that my client will be cleared of all allegations leveled against him, after which he is considering civil action."  When asked why he surrendered to the police then, if he has been not charged with any crime, Dyer said, "He was responding to an arrest warrant.  He was complying with the instructions of competent state authority.  And he has been released from custody, without bond."  Dyer said he will travel to Kaliburg to answer the Commission's questions "of his own free will" in May.

The General is the highest ranking Kalistani Regular Officer to be sought for questioning in association with the war in Likatonia.  More than 1300 former service members have either testified or filed affidavits concerning conduct during the war, but the contents of those testimonies have not yet been released.  

Meanwhile, upon surrendering to authorities, several police officers, who later identified themselves as war veterans, in the Eshar DPS stood and gave the general an ovation.  "Clearly there are many men and women here who served with the General, who are proud of their service, and who are still serving the Empire to this day," said Guerra's attorney.  "The General said he felt honored to be greeted by his former comrades in such a fashion."

@TheRepublic