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Southern International News Network | Južna Međunarodni Vijesti Mreža
Topic Started: 29th August 2014 - 06:46 PM (6,641 Views)
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News Coverage You Can Count on.


Todays Headlines:


Enterprise to be commissioned
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Enterprise in the Matthews Sound, expected to be completed later this year.

MATTHEWS SOUTHERN YARDS - The SHS Enterprise, the 2nd ship in the line of the new Elizabeth line of Aircraft Carriers, was released from drydock today to be tugged down the bay where it will finish being built. It is expected to be commissioned later this year.

The Elizabeth line of carriers will replace the Forward line of carriers, which began service in 1965. This is part of a "Navy2020" plan announced in 2002, the plan of which involved phasing out the current line of Greenock frigates with Independence class frigates, the aforementioned Elizabeth class of carriers, and a DDX program, of which has remained highly classified.

The Elizabeth class of carriers, although about the same size as Forward, can carry about 20 more aircraft, (90 from the 70 max abourd Forward class carriers), this is due to a lot of systems previously requiring crew being automated, bringing the crew complement down from 5,000 on a Forward class carrier to under 3,000 aboard a Elizabeth class carrier.


South Hills has over 60 surface combat vessels, and 7 carriers, 3 of those are ready to be 'fast deployed' as the navy coined it, being deployed within 2 weeks of a major event happening, 1 (Pittsburgh) is currently deployed, and 3 are under some form of repair or overhaul.

Edited by hobbes, 10th December 2015 - 05:37 AM.
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An Exploration of the 'Mothball' fleets
By Thomas Goodweather

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Pictured: Four decommissioned 'Madison' class Aircraft Carriers, built in the 50's and the last decommissioned in 2003, sit in what is called 'Mothball' in Matthews Sound.

The mysterious 'Mothball Fleets' - a place where retired ships and planes go to die...or just to sit around for a while, creating a rather ugly eyesour in the process. Many assume this is due to a budget problem, or simple layness that hasnt had these ships and planes removed yet, but after speaking to Admiral Catherine Liu, a vulpine rear admiral, they're there for a reason.

"The idea is, in case of whatever world catastrophy or war to occur, god forbid, we're ready." She continued, "These ships and planes, although looking in rather poor shape, could be pressed back into service within months of a conflict starting, bringing our fleet to 13 carriers, adding an additional 40 combat ships and submarines, and almost doubling our air force. The motto of our armed forces is Always Ready, Always there, and we plan on meeting up with that if the situation calls for it."

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Pictured: Mothballed F-34 Jackson fighters at Monroe Air Force Base, McKeesport.

"The idea isnt that these will be needed for a quick burst of action, the idea is to support a longer, more deadly war, if needed." she continued.

When asked if these ships and planes would be up to modern technology, she replied "Obviously they won't be as advanced as our modern ships and planes, but they did the job they where requested and are capable of continueing that duty if a war where to occur."

South Hills has the following current combat naval numbers;
22 Frigates (Greenock Class)
41 Destroyers (Buena Vista Class)
17 Coast Guard Cutters (Homeland Class)
13 Cruisers (Todd McCloud Class)
5 Littoral Combat Frigates (Independence Class)
7 Aircraft Carriers (6 Forward, 1 Elizabeth)
-4 of those are capable of active service, 1 is deployed, 2 are in overhaul of some form.
14 Submarines of various forms.

Currently in reserve:
15 Frigates
23 Destroyers
13 Cruisers
4 Aircraft Carriers
10 Submarines of various forms.

Edited by hobbes, 29th August 2014 - 08:10 PM.
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ONGOING: Senator Taylor fillibusters Senate over education reform

SENATE PLAZA - Senator Jim Taylor is raising eyebrows today after he began to officially fillibuster the Senate vote of education reform, something the Senator says was "rushed through Congress, wasnt properly done, and will lead to poorer schools".

"I'm down with education reform" the seantor said, when asked by reports mid fillibuster, "But maybe we should put more thought into the process instead of rushing it through Congress in hopes of votes."

The senator has been going for 2 hours, and has told media he plans on going for 'at least 12 more.'

A fillibuster is accomplished when the Floor is relinquished to a senator or representative, they are entitled to speak as long as they want under law, as a result, 'Fillibustering' occurs when they intentionally hold the floor for extended periods of time to bring a issue to the masses.

This is the 22nd time a fillibuster has occured in South Hills' history, the last one being in 2002.
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Breaking: URS begins attack of Meche - Carrier Strike Group 3 activated
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Pictured: SHS Alameda (DDG-93) departs port in Matthews Sound to join Carrier Strike Group 3

NAVAL BASE MATTHEWS - Vice Admiral James Princeton confirmed just minutes ago that Carrier Strike Group 3 had been activated, lead by the SHS East Miffilin.

Citing 'recent developments in regional security', he refused to elaborate more in the name of Operational Security. He also confirmed the possibility of extending Carrier Strike Group 2's deployment, the group was expected to be disbanded following the completion of Fleet Week 2014 last week, and the possibility of 'extended deployment' for Carrier Strike Group 1 and Cruiser Destroyer Squadron 1, in the Kyne and Krimeon seas respectively.

Sources indicate the move was made in response to the Union of Socialist republics invasion of Meche, although it can't be confirmed.
Edited by hobbes, 11th September 2014 - 10:32 PM.
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Navy announces 'Joint Strike Force' deployment to Illumic Channel
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Pictured: Carrier Stike Groups 1 through 3 formed today in the Sea of Kyne, forming 'Joint Strike Force 1'

S.H.S Elizabeth - Carrier Strike Groups 1, 2, and 3 formed today in the Sea of Kyne, the largest gathering of SH ships in years.

Admiral Catherine Rusnak was announced head of the task force, Destination: The Illuminic Channel.

The move comes after the invasion of Meche by United Soviet Russia, a move condemned by the international community on mass.

Admiral Rusnak would not clarify on logistics or the mission of the task force, citing OPSEC or Operational Security.

Cruiser Destroyer Squadron 1, in the Krimeon Sea at the time of the attack, has already been rerouted and will enter the channel this weekend.
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Buena Vista Flight III - Tommorows Destroyer
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Pictured: Artist rendition of the as of now unnamed DDG-124, the first in the line of Buena Vista Flight III's, the first contract expected to be announced later this year.

Office of Naval Intelligence - The Office of Naval Intelligence released a sketch today of the Flight III concept for the Buena Vista line of destroyers, with plans to build a additiona 20 to replace the retiring Todd McCloud cruisers, the Buena Vista line of ships will be the biggest line of ships in South Hills' history.

The Flight III concept includes new stealth coating, the implementation of highly-classified Railgun technology, and a overhauled AEGIS defense system among others, Although we likely won't be seeing it in action into the late 2010's or early 2020's, the statement clarified that 'Tommorows destroyer will be ready for the world Tommorow brings.'

Coast Guard Port Security Unit deployed to Toshikawa
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Pictured: A Coast Guardsmen checks a port worker for ID at a established checkpoint

Gowu Harbor - Members of the South Hills Coast Guard have been deployed to the Gowu Harbor in Toshikawa following a terrorist attack on the nation.

The move was announced yesterday, and advanced elements of the unit have already been deployed in the area. The move comes amid rising tensions in the area, the possibility of civil war, and terrorist attacks throughout the Illumic area.

Captain James Kerney, commander of PSU312, commented that the goal of the units deployment was to 'Make Gowu Harbor as safe as possible for its occupants.'
Edited by hobbes, 12th September 2014 - 11:31 PM.
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Hunter: South Hills 'will not stand by' as Meche 'steamrolled'
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Pictured: President Hunter delivers a fiery speech infront of Congress, calling for 'immediate action' against United Soviet Russias' invasion of Meche

ELIZABETH CITY, CAPITAL HILL - President Hunter delivered a fiery speech infront of congress just hours ago, calling for 'immediate action' against United Soviet Russia for its invasion of Meche, if the nation did not withdraw its troops. The action was followed immediatly by calling up reserveists and cancelling leave in the armed forces.

The move comes just hours after the Rokkenjiman government issued a 72 hour ultimation to the Soviet Republic, when asked if their governments had met on the issue and issued it as a joint statement, Mr. Hunters press secretary refused to comment.

The speech comes after shows-of-force world wide, including the deployment of 3 carrier groups by South Hills and two Destroyer Squadrons.
Edited by hobbes, 13th September 2014 - 03:58 AM.
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Congress passes act enabling President to act against USR Invasion of Meche
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CAPITAL HILL - A act permitting the President to deploy troops and engage with USR forces in a goal of getting the Soviet republic's troops out of Meche just a few hours ago.

Of the 430 congressman, only 20 voted against. Rep. Taylor (N), of Matthews, said the move 'was needed to ensure this aggression does not continue', continueing that 'President Hunter has this countries full backing to get the USR the hell out of meche.'

Although not a official declaration of war, the law permits the President to engage USR forces, as a pre-text to a declaration of war if the Soviet republic does not withdraw its troops.
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UFO's over Matthews confirmed to be military stealth drone
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Pictured: Photographers get a surprise shot of a SD-343 Stealth Drone landing at Jackson AFB, Matthews

JACKSON AIR FORCE BASE - Multiple calls to 911 of a small, unmanned aircraft where confirmed to be a re-appearance of the Air Force & Navies elusive SD-343 Project, a stealth drone shaped like a Stealth Bomber designed around radar evasion. The drone is wrapped in secrecy, but sources indicate a payload bay capable of multiple laser guided or heat seeking missiles. The drone was last heard of officially roughly 1 year ago when the Navy landed and took it off from the SHS Elizabeth for the press.

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Pictured: Photograph from last years public takeoff & landing exercisve of the SD-343 one year ago


Channel 11 Defense Analyist, James McDouglas, ex-Office of Naval Intelligence official, speculates the drone has already been deployed aboard the Carrier groups enroute to Meche.

"Particularly given the aging status of the Soviet air-defense system, this is the kind of system that you can sneak in, hit a target, and sneak out before the enemy has any idea you where there." He continued, "And the Navy and Air Force are obviously going to use such a advantage if they havn't already."

Both the Department of Navy and the Air Force have refused to comment on the vehicles possible deployments in the Meche theater.

Edited by hobbes, 16th September 2014 - 05:54 AM.
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Marines come ashore in Gowu - Relieve Coast Guardsmen]
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Pictured: Marines of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) come ashore in Gowu

GOWU, TOSHIKAWA - Marines hit the beach yesterday as the city of Gowu, Toshikawa, where 1,500 Coast Guardsmen are stationed, is attacked by rebel forces.

The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, attached to Cruiser Destroyer Squadron 1, was originally meant to head to Meche, but, as the situation in Toshikawa spirals out of control, was redirected along with CRUDESRON 1.

The deployment, goaled at relieving the besieged Coast Guardsmen who where deployed there 2 weeks ago, questions further the readyness of South Hills to get involved in the Meche conflict, after becoming increasingly bogged down in the Toshikawan civil war; Carrier Strike Groups 1 and 2 will be within striking distance of Meche within a few days, and it makes the SHACOG strategy rather clear; Shock and Awe, theres no way that the military could compete with Soviet numbers this far from home.

That does, however, enable deployment of potentially thousands of troops to Toshikawa, as the civil war leads the nation to further instability, further sparked by the ritual execution of 10 POW's from Transvaal.

Edited by hobbes, 22nd September 2014 - 02:59 AM.
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Enterprise Commissioned - To begin sea trials
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NAVAL BASE MATTHEWS - The Enterprise, second ship of the line for the Elizabeth line of Aircraft Carriers, was commissioned today.

The ship, which will be the 9th South Hills carrier currently in service, will enter Sea Trials with it's formed battlegroup of Carrier Strike Group 4, It has not been declared if the ship will be deployed after completing sea trials.
Edited by hobbes, 26th September 2014 - 09:13 PM.
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ALLEGHENY MTN RANGE, PITTSBURGH - The peaceful community of Brunsville was disrupted today by a series of gunshots, when a individual opened fire on a Pittsburgh State Trooper when the trooper attempted to pull him over just a few hundred feet from the towns Elementary school, School was not in session at the time of the shooting

"At 6:20PM Local time, a State Trooper attempted to stop a brown sedan, the vehicle slowed, then fired through the back window with what we believe to be a semi-automatic assault rifle. The trooper returned fire through his windshield and was not injured during the shooting, neither, we believe, was the suspect." said Major Calil Wilson, head of the Allegheny area troop of the PSP.

"At this time we do not have a name but are working as fast as possible to apprehend the suspect. Please call in any tips to 576-PSP"

Channel 11 will continue updating throughout the night as this story develops.
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BREAKING: Attempt on President's life in Pittsburgh conference
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Pictured: Crowds scramble as two gunmen rain fire upon the Presidential Motorcade

DAVID CLARK CONVENTION CENTER, PITTSBURGH

BREAKING: Unconfirmed reports indicate that 2 gunman have just attempted to assassinate President Hunter. It is unconfirmed of his condition at this time. Initial reports have it at 2 dead, the two gunmen, and at least 7 injured. The gunmen used a fourth story window overlooking Independence Boulevard, where the Motorcade was awaiting President Hunters return from a speech, the gunmen opened fire with semi-automatic assault rifles once the President & staff began to enter vehicles.

More on this story as it develops.
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UPDATE: President OK, 4 injured, 2 dead in assassination attempt. Suspect confirmed to be indiviudal from earlier shooting.

Pittsburgh Memorial Hospital - 2 civilians, a Pittsburgh State Trooper, and a Secret Service agent are currently in hospital as a direct result of the assassination attempt just a few hours ago. President Hunter is uninjured. All injured are expected to make a full recovery.

The suspects, James Mayweather and Jackson Colburn, where confirmed to be the earlier suspects from a shooting in upstate Pittsburgh earlier today. State Police and Brunsville Police raided the house of Mayweather earlier, and found chemical ingredients used to make explosives, as well as detailed internet search records into the Presidential Houses defenses, along with various searches into the residences of David III, Kind of East Moreland. Police also mentioned 'extensive' research into Boreland, a unrecognized island territory in the Mkorish sea, which is believed to be involved in the Toshikawan Civil war, on the opposite side of South Hills. Police also found a diary but have not revealed what his motive may of been as of yet.

The weapons had there serial numbers scratched off, which is making tracking down how they where acquired difficult.
Edited by hobbes, 27th September 2014 - 03:40 AM.
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Source: Enterprise Carrier Battle group to move to Zachachevania
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Pictured: The Enterprise Carrier Battle group transiting the Rokkenjiman sea

A unconfirmed navy source has indicated the Enterprise Carrier Battle Group will be moving closer to Zachachevania, as a method of South Hills testing the states response.

The navy has thus far refused to comment.
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Calls to intervene in Thomradian conflict

ELIZABETH CITY - Several key figures have called for a South Hills intervention in the Thomradian uprising recently, a state proclaiming to be Dyfedia has risen up and made claims on 4 of 6 states owned by Thomradia.

"We can have airstrikes over Thomradia in 45 minutes" said Rep. (N) Taylor, of Matthews, "And so my question for Mr. Taylor is - Why aren't we supporting a democratic movement of people in a oppressed regime?"

South Hills has a Carrier Battle Group and Cruiser-Destroyer squadron in the Gulf of Auraxis as part of a campaign against the United Soviet Russia for the invasion of Meche - South Hills has not engaged with the USR yet.

President Hunters spokesperson advised caution. "I think right now it's best we advise caution in how we proceed with this situation."

He may be right in calling for caution; South Hills has previously had good diplomatic relations with Thomradia, and the state refused to be involved in the USR's invasion of Meche, a internationally condemned activity.
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Basketball Carrier - SHS Madison to holds benefit Basketball Game
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Matthews Sound - The SHS Madison, a decommissioned Madison Class Aircraft Carrier, saw a new breath of life yesterday when college teams Matthews State and Elizabeth City played off on the deck of the carrier, a charity event for over 50 South Hills Veterans Benefit Associations.

President Hunter, the First Lady, and other VIP's where in attendance, viewing from the comms tower of the Aircraft Carrier. The game raised over 1,000,000$ for the charities, 25% more than expected.
Edited by hobbes, 5th October 2014 - 12:19 PM.
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Breaking: Missile-defense destroyers redeployed to Strait of Aramum

Elizabeth City - A anonymous DoN source has indicated two missile-defense capable destroyer squadrons are being redeployed to the Straight of Aramum today, following reports of the Verovan Army turning on its now-former CIS allies in Soviet Safraen.

Admiral Preston Cole refused to comment outside of a simple statement, 'Any deployment to the Strait of Aramum is made in the interest of national defense.'
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South Hills to join 'Drone Carrier' club - Reveals Halsey DDC

Department of the Navy, Elizabeth City - The DoN revealed the planned line of 'Drone Carriers' for South Hills' navy today, to be named the Halsey Class.

Admiral Nickerson, head of the Research Division, explained, "The Halsey Class is built around the already tried and tested Miles Prower and Buena Vista hulls, more closely being related to the Miles Prower. However, the Halsey line will be our next-generation line of strike carriers, Fast, Reliable, and dependable. The Halsey class will be fittable with 'Strike Packages' - a Helicopter fleet for a amphibious assault, a Drone based bay, or a mixture, easilly fittable through strike packages.

The ship will, however, continue to be a destroyer at heart; Two VLS launchers, and a naval gun will protect the ship along with the usual CIWS equipment. It will keep its land and sea strike capability ontop of its aircraft capacity."

The DoN refused to comment on numbers involving how many drones/helicopters can be equipped.

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Edited by hobbes, 7th October 2014 - 04:41 AM.
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Army Navy Game underway
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Matthews - The Annual Army Navy Football Game is underway, with the teams from the Army Leadership Academy and The Naval Institute participating. The proceeds all go to various South Hills veterans benefits association. There also was a ad-hoc 'drum battle' in the garage between the Army and Navy bands. This marks the 77th Army-Navy game, and the location annually cycles between the Naval Institute in Matthews and the Army Leadership Academy in McKeesport.

Edited by hobbes, 14th October 2014 - 09:23 PM.
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Navy beats army 21-27
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MATTHEWS - The Navy Institute beat the Army Leadership Academy last night in the 77th Army-Navy Football Game, 21-27. Last year, the Army beat the Navy 31-34 with a last minute field goal. Although it was close up into the end, the Navy drove its win home with a 50 yard run by Ensign Matthew Venturas (WR), with only 30 seconds left on the clock.

Over 500,000$ was raised for various veterans benefits associations.
Edited by hobbes, 15th October 2014 - 03:07 PM.
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GDP Growth of over 3.5% following Transvaal Fiasco

Pittsburgh Stock Exchange - South Hills saw a nominal growth of 3.5% the last quarter following a new wall of sanctions centered around Transvaal following the detainment of 50 Rokkenjiman citizens. C11 Economics anchor Chuck Webb explains.

"It's quite simple really - When the trade walls go up, people go around them. That'd be us. We are not partaking in any of the sanctions, and as one of the bigger markets in Mundus, We are benefiting from that."


Coincidentally, It is believed based on early reports that Transvaalian, Rokkenjiman, Tytorian, Dartfordian, and Mechaen economies have all taken at least minor hits, with Transvaal suffering the brunt as the majority of sanctions are directed at them.

The Talking Heads: Selling destroyers to Toshikawa 'maybe not the best of ideas'
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"Y'know, I was thinking, Bill, Maybe, Just maybe, selling 800 billion dollar destroyers to a nation that hands out its trust like *that* is maybe sumthin' we shouldn't be doing."

"It's not so much the whaling thing as the alliance with Transvaal thing".

"Agreed. I'm pretty hesitant on giving Toshikawa jack after that whole shindig."

"I have some stats. 56 different independent defense analyst would put the Miles Prower Heavy Destroyer as 'the best' in Destroyer platforms right now, and the AEGIS system ontop of that would be a pretty good contender for best radar system in the world right now."

"The Sea Guardian Incident in no way affects our relationship with Toshikawa." was played over the radio, a recording of President Hunter.

"That's fine and dandy, but y'know, Transvaal isnt exactly a friend of anyones right now. As much as we appreciate Mr. Biden's "peacekeeping" in the Illumic, IT AINT WORKIN SHERLOCK!"

"And, again, we ask you, the listener, if you want his hardware being handed out to whoever asks for it and claims to be our friend. Next caller."
Edited by hobbes, 16th October 2014 - 12:57 PM.
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Hunter will not seek third term
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Presidential House, Elizabeth City - President Hunter announced today that he would not seek a third Presidential term, amid reports of his failing health and a attempt on his life a few months ago.

"The job has been very rewarding yet very taxing, and, although I have done my service to my country, it is time, as with every 4 years, the democratic process that many nations around this world wish to experience takes over and elects our next Chief Executive."

President Hunter has served two 4 year terms since his election in 2006, the second term being plagued by his diagnosis of severe Arthritis and Diabetes.

Elections will take place in January, with many prospective candidates already starting their campaign trails, Primaries for the two major parties, the Republican-Democrats and the Nationalist parties, will take place later this month.

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Developing: Raging wild fire in Mint Hill.
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Pictured: Blume County Volunteer Fire Co. #47 near a section of the developing brush fire

BLUME COUNTY, MINT HILL - A raging wild fire that started a few hours ago is causing thousands to be evacuated in northern Mint Hill State.

High tempatures, low humidity, and a south-southeast breeze have all contributed to the inferno, which was believed to be caused by a lightning strike this morning.

About 25,000 residents in the Blume County area are being evacuated, Blume County Fire spokesperson Jim Ursela said.

Of all the states in South Hills, Mint Hill has the highest percentage of rural farmland, often being called the 'Heartland' of the states. Of the 900 registered Fire Departments in Mint Hill, 750 are either full or partly volunteer staffed.


"We have people putting in 12 hour days for 0 pay." Ursela commented.

Mint Hill governor Ethan Ziegler has declared a state of emergency for Blume County, and is 'mobilizing every level of support possible from the state level.'

We'll keep you updated as the story develops.


Edited by hobbes, 23rd October 2014 - 11:45 PM.
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Mint Hill wild fire threatens to cross into Rokkenjima

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Pictured: A Mint Hill Fire Service (MHFS) helicopter about to dump water on a section of the fire

Northern Mint Hill - A raging wild fire continues to spread, threatening to cross into Rokkenjima.

Fire crews have stemmed its growth to the south, which was threatening the city of Machester, a city of 250,000. Despite this, the fire continues to grow to the north and threatens to straggle the Rokkenjiman border, officials said.

"We have been working with CBP closely and expect to begin closing ports of entry threatened by the blaze should the safety concern arise." MHFS spokeswoman Charlotte Gardner said.

No comment has been derived from the Rokkenjiman authorities.
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WAR: South Hills Naval Forces engaged with Aeternumese Destroyers

Sea of Kyne - Navy sources confirm a armed engagement has taken place between the South Hills Navy and Aeternumese forces.

Early tallies have it at 4 Aeternumese destroyers confirmed sunk, and 1 South Hills Frigate has been damaged. Aeternumese records indicate a task force led by the RALN Elegy was in the area, but no news of the Elegy has come. Carrier Strike Group 4, led by the SHS Enterprise is disengaging to Rokkenjima, with Destroyer Squadron 1 staying in the area.

The Department of the Navy has refused to comment.
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Mounted Police - A jurisdictional nightmare for State Sovereignty
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Pictured: Mounted police salute at the funeral of a Marine killed in Toshikawa 2 months ago

The newest target of the objective to "Shrink the government" is the Federal Mounted Police, the main federal law enforcement agency.

The role of the Mounted Police was originally to enforce federal law over the then-territories of Pittsburgh, Mint Hill, Duquesne, and McKeesport, as these joined on fully as States in the early 1800's, the role of the FMP was greatly reduced as they established there own Highway Patrol/State Police agencies.

Today, they are mostly seen on the borders of the states (as a law enforcement officer from Pittsburgh technically has no authority in McKeesport, and so on so forth), and in the capital city of Elizabeth City, as a federal city, the FMP is the main law enforcement agency.

A proposal in the House right now would eliminate the current Mounted Police agency, merging the barrack's with their local state policy agency (I.e, FMP troopers stationed in Mint Hill would automatically be transferred to the Mint Hill Highway Patrol), and would establish a seperate Capital Police agency to hold the troopers in the city.

It has met opposition though, with many saying that the FMP is needed to enforce laws across state boundries and also has a much-larger role in the 'national identity' of south hills, often serving the honor guard at many events.

Edited by hobbes, 1st November 2014 - 05:38 PM.
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Congress repeals current Toshikawa treaty

Congress - A motion to repeal the current Toshikawa Defense Treaty, signed earlier this year, has passed almost unamimously in a joint session of congress amid a believed coup de'tat of the current government.

CSG 1 & 2 Recalled to Naval Base Ellis

NAVAL STATION ELLIS - Carrier Strike Groups 1 and 2, currently on deployment to Meche, are being recalled to Toshikawa. The Department of Navy refused to comment.

In addition, army/marine forces stationed at Ellis are being increased to 25,000 from 15,000, a spokesperson said.
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The people decide: Elections in full swing

The elections for the next President of South Hills are now in full swing, with both parties having nominated appropriate candidates:

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Republican-Democratic ticket: Jimmy Street

A 45 year old House Representative from Allegheny, Pittsburgh, Street was definetly the wildcard of the R-D primaries, yet coming up ontop of seemingly more qualified candidates. He's running on a platform of more involved foreign policy, better health care, and stricter gun control laws.

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Nationalist Ticket: Jax Vanardane
Brother of Ethan Vanardane, Governor of Mint Hill, the Mint Hill multiple-term Senator was a sure fire candidate for this election. Running on a more moderate model for the Nationalist party, Jax is calling for stricter border control, a stronger defense, and more projection of the nations power.

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Independent Ticket: Andrea Wilkins

The definitive left-flank of this election, Andrea is running on a independent ballot after not being chosen for the R-D ticket. Calling for more national infastructure in the fields of health care, defense, transportation, and, most of all, education, She represents the more liberal views of all the candidates.

Edited by hobbes, 7th November 2014 - 10:23 PM.
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Satellite shoot-down test successful amid rising tensions in Illumic.

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Illumic Channel - The Department of the Navy confirmed it had successfully shot down a aging South-hills satellite(SH198) in a test of existing missile systems aboard the SHS Miles Prower (DDH-95)

The test comes amid rising tensions in the Illumic, and, though the DoN insists the test was previously planned, many military analysists agree the test was likely to show 'South hills still has a interest in the region, and won't be pushed around'.

The test was first indirectly announced with a general advisory to vessels in the Illumic and nearby nations of a planned missile test, and the missile was launched around 8:30PM. It was indicated the night-launch could be seen from hundreds of miles away, indicated by the blue area on the infographic below.

At 10:43PM Toshikawa time (the time established for South Hills naval assets in the area, as many are stationed in Gowu, Toshikawa), it was confirmed that SH193 had re-entered atmosphere and broke up over Mundus's north pole. The DoN has called the test a 'resounding success'.

South Hills is among the only nations on Mundus to have satellite shoot-down capability, let alone from ship-mounted platforms. It is believed the test was directed at Transvaal, which is believed to operate a spy satellite network, as South Hills prepares to possibly enter the conflict amid obligations by the Ardian Entente.

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Edited by hobbes, 21st November 2014 - 12:38 AM.
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Civilian flight intercepted over Rokkenjiman sea after man claims to have bomb on board - 1 injured


Matthews International Airport - A man is in custody and injured after he was shot by a Air Marshall on Ardian Air flight 499, a 787 Dreamliner, from Ellis to Matthews, sources confirm.

The man indicated he had a bomb when the flight was leaving Rokkenjiman airspace over the Rokkenjiman sea, and demanded the plane divert to another location. Though it has not officially been confirmed by authorities, witnesses on the plane report either Verover of Dartfordia.

The man was met by a armed Air Marshal, who had the man at gunpoint for a tense 23 minutes, while, as per protocol, Air Force F-357 Ligers were scrambled from MacDowell airforce base in Duquesne, burning at super-sonic speeds over the Rokkenjiman sea to meet the airliner.

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Pictured: A passengers phone captured this photo of two F-357 ligers escorting the jet to Matthews International.


As the plane neared South Hills, witnesses indicated he reached for what appeared to be a detonator, and he was shot once in the chest by the Air Marshall, incapacitating him. He was then detained by the Marshal with the assistance of several passengers. The plane made a emergency landing at Matthews International and the man was taken into custody. It is not clear at this time if the bomb was real, however, witnesses on the flight indicate he had "something that looked like a plastic explosive"
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Pictured: Matthews Police & Federal Agents stormed the plane armed and in tactical gear, as captured by cell phone cameras.


The South Hills Marshal Service (SHMS), the agency responsible for international air-marshal duties to South Hills, refused to name the Air Marshal as the incident was on-going, however, a spokesman indicated that "The marshal's actions avoided a situation where a long-drawn out crisis could occur." - When asked if a simular marshal program was used by U.N.P Authorities on Flight 520, the recently hijacked and on-going hostage crisis in Dartfordia, officials refused to comment.

The suspect, identified as 45 year old DeShawn Morrow of Mint Hill, is in stable condition at Matthews Regional Medical Center.
Edited by hobbes, 14th December 2014 - 08:30 AM.
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Todd McCloud cruisers face incrased decommission cycle - Expected to leave fleet by mid 2015

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Pictured: The SHS Ghent (CG-49) before its decommission ceremony last week


Matthews Sound - Todd McCloud class cruisers were announced to undergo a increased decommission cycle, the Department of the Navy confirmed.

The ships, considered 'obsolete' by the navy since the 2004 inception of the Miles Prower Heavy Destroyer have remained in service due to the lack of numbers of the Heavy Destroyers, though the navy feels the ships are now in vast enough quantity to expand plans to decommission the Todd McCloud cruisers.

The Todd McCloud line of cruisers is revolutionary as the first on Mundus to employ a AEGIS combat system, and (then) revolutionary SPY-2 radar in its inception in the late 1970's. It has been continuously upgraded with the last major service haulout in 2007.

It is unknown if the ships being decommissioned will be sold to other nations, scrapped, or placed in 'strategic reserve' - the navy term for a reserve fleet of carriers, cruisers, destroyers, and frigates that are outdated but still operable in event of a major conflict.

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Ballistic Missile Defense ship announced by DoN
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The Department of the Navy has confirmed the plans to build, and released the specs on, a sub-class of the planned Miles Prower Flight II Heavy Destoryers - Ballistic Missile Defense vessels.

The line of ships, at first glance, are Miles Prowers with a gutted superstructure to make room for, indeed, four separate VLS sections for, indeed, a potential of 288 separate interceptors(or other VLS capable missile platforms, such as Tomahawks) - with potential to carry much more. That's the VLS capabilites of four Buena Vista destroyers and about three conventional Miles Prowers, and two and a half times a comparable 'Arsenal Ship', the Sturgeon class of Quinntoppia/Rokkenjima.

Using upgraded SPY-2 radar systems with enhanced 21st century AEGIS systems upgraded from the original line of Miles Prowers, these ships will (according to the navy), be able to control a entire theater of battle, with potential for aircraft, satellite, and missile defense at extremely long ranges.

The ships, as will the main line of Miles Prower Flight II's to be announced at a later date, will also feature the Surface Warfare Advanced Gun (SWAG), a 155mm cannon capable of dumb-fire rounds and over-the-horizon guided munitions. The navy has also confirmed that the BMD (as with Miles Prower Flight II) will be able to support the upcoming Naval Railgun System (NRS)

They will, however, come with a hefty pricetag: BMD's will be the third most expensive ship in the navy at 3.2 Billion SHD$ per ship, only falling behind the Elizabeth line of carriers, and the Pleasington class attack submarine in cost. As such, it is believe the Navy will have less then ten of these vessels, however, it is argued it won't need a lot; "A single BMD in say, the Illumic could control that entire theater of battle."

The Navy is expected to release the normal Miles Prower Flight II (Without BMD expansion) and Buena Vista Flight III designs later this month or early in the new year.


Edited by hobbes, 26th December 2014 - 01:55 PM.
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Space Shuttle Reboot - DSM-141 to launch tomorrow
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Pictured: Shuttle 'Destiny' on the launchpad at Brevard Space Center against the night sky Tuesday night


Brevard Space Center - The South Hills Space Shuttle program, following a two year break for a modernization project, is now ready to resume active flights, Brevard Space Center director Jackie MacKenzie says.

The shuttle program, active since 1987, is the oldest continuous program within South Hills' 59 year old space program. Concerns have been raised over the safety of the project, however, the fleet has continously been modernized over the years, MacKenzie says.

The flight is scheduled for a mid-afternoon launch tomorrow at 5PM Mainland time. The flight plan will use Mundus's rotation for a assist, while powering itself at a 47 degree northern incline towards the Mundus Equator, entering space around the Krimeon sea.

DSM-141 (Dedicated Shuttle Mission) is designed primarily as a test flight for the new systems onboard, and, as a result, has a lower then usual 4 person crew (The shuttle has the capacity for 7).

Crew:
Ashley Barnes - Commander
Jerome Lyons - Pilot
Benny Andrews - Mission Specialist
Terrance Rowe - Mission Specialist
Edited by hobbes, 13th January 2015 - 05:57 AM.
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DSM-141 Away - 'Flawless' takeoff.
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Pictured: Amateur Photographer Jack O'Neil and his wife took time to capture a motion-blur shot of the Shuttle heading out towards the Rokkenjiman Sea.



BSC - Dedicated Shuttle Mission 141, the first since the service haulout that started in 2012, is away, and had a "flawless" takeoff according to South Hills Air and Space Administration officials. The view of the sunset launch was spectacular to viewers not only at the launch site, but along its launch pad across the Rokkenjiman sea and over the Ardian continent.

Attached is the audio from T minus 5 to MECO, Main Engine Cut Off when the vehicle was in orbit.

ANNOUNCER: 5
ANNOUNCER: 4
ANNOUNCER: 3
ANNOUNCER: Main engine ignition
ANNOUNCER: 2
ANNOUNCER: Booster ignition
ANNOUNCER: 1
ANNOUNCER: Liftoff of the Shuttle Destiny, on a mission to pave progress and prosperity for future missions of the Shuttle program and beyond!

DESTINY: Roll program, Phoenix.

CAPCOM: Roger roll.

CAPCOM: Phoenix, Destiny, throttle down.

DESTINY: Destiny, Phoenix, copy, throttle down.

ANNOUNCER: Crew being directed to throttle down as the shuttle crosses the point of max stress on the airframe around the sound barrier.

CAPCOM: Phoenix, Destiny, you are go for throttle up.

DESTINY: Destiny, Phoenix, go for throttle up.

CAPCOM: Destiny, ignore APU warning, faulty indicator.

DESTINY: Roger, ignore APU.

ANNOUNCER: Destiny now 16 miles in altitude, 17 miles downrange from space center, pending booster separation.

CAPCOM: Booster separation.

DESTINY: Booster seperation acknowledged.

CAPCOM: Destiny, negative return.

DESTINY: Roger negative return.

ANNOUNCER: Ground control indicating Destiny is no longer able to return to Brevard in event of engine failure, as of now all 3 engines are good.

CAPCOM: Destiny, two engine Ellis.

ANNOUNCER: Ground control announcing shuttle can now make a secondary airstrip in event of a engine failure, all 3 engines going strong.

DESTINY: Two engine Ellis.

CAPCOM: Destiny, perform upright roll for external tank seperation.

DESTINY: Upright roll for external tank seperation.

CAPCOM: Destiny, minimum ATO, tank seperation.

DESTINY: All copy.

CAPCOM: Destiny, Main engine cutoff.

DESTINY: Roger MECO.

Edited by hobbes, 13th January 2015 - 10:47 PM.
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President Hunter Hospitalized

Walter Reece Medical Center - In a official statement from the Presidential Office, President Hunter has been hospitalized amid a pronounced Multiple sclerosis episode. No other official statement has been made.


Candidates for President, Governor Jax Vanardane (N) and Rep. Jimmy Street (D) have both issued separate messages of well-wishing. More information will be released as it becomes available.
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President Hunter released, reports indicate bed-ridden

Presidential House - President Hunter has been released, though reports indicate he is currently bed ridden in his residence at Presidential House. A crippling Multiple sclerosis episode left him hospitalized for weeks, though the Hunter adminsitration re-assures he is 'ready to perform his duties.

Though elections are just a week away, with Jax Vanardane polling ahead, it is unsure if Congress will make any actions if they deem President Hunter unable to perform in his duties.


DEFCON Conference: Strategy of 'Armed Deterrence' not working

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J. Clarke Convention center - Blake Imahara, defense analyst with the Central Security Agency, is raising questions pertaining the strategy of South Hills, and many other nations on Mundus.

At the eighteenth Defense Condition Conference (DEFCON), a assembly of national (and international) defense contractors, analysts, hackers, ecetera, Imahara gained international spotlight when he questioned the entire strategy of a majority of nations on Mundus.

"When the strategy is 'carry the biggest stick' for a good chunk of people on this planet, the second someone appears to have a bigger stick then you, you have to match, or, preferably, go higher. And what you get is a irreversable, unstoppable, free-for-all arms race"

Imahara compared a text-book example of this to current South Hills-Rokkenjima relations: "Here you have two allies, at peace with eachother for decades, and yet the second one announces something the other lacks, there is a immediate rush to get something not just of match, but better, then the other." He cited the recent 'Missile Defense' naval vessels as a prime example of this. "South Hills announces a variant of the Miles Prower with a railgun and 288 missiles, less then a week later, Rokkenjima announces a Kashiwa variant with the same purpose. Again, it's not because we hate eachother or find one another threatening, it's because, in such a defense minded world, a President or Empress can't look at his or her people and say 'Someone else has something that we don't.' - And, what you get children, at no fault to anyone involved, is a full blown arms race."

He cut off into a local talk, laying blame on the modern system in South Hills "And the reason we have among the largest - if not the largest, defense budget in Mundus is because of this principle. President Hunter can't walk up here and say 'We're not the best militarily' because he'd be impeached the next day. It's the society that we live in, and every nation has the same problem in one form or another in today's world. Do we need a 680 billion defense budget? No. Will it get lower? No. Because of the reasons just mentioned: Politics."

Though the talk layed blame pretty evenly, Imahara did particularly put a blame on 'weapons sharing' alliances, such as the Cross-Straits Treaty Organization "Now, not only when you have the Akatsuki with 160 missiles to counter the Miles Prower BMD, but you share it with five other nations already showing strain of political difference, you not only weaken your defense overall but encourage the whole cycle."

When asked what he meant by "weaken your defense overall", Imahara countered "I sincerely hope the current Rokkenjima-Seaforth situation doesn't spill over into a war, because Seaforth would only need to look at its own 'shared' ship designs to make the entire Rokkenjiman naval budget irrelevant, and vice versa"
Edited by hobbes, 15th February 2015 - 07:50 AM.
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Polls open across nation to decide next President
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Polls are open across the nation today to decide the next President of South Hills, along with a variety of congressional offices.

Per federal law, voting centers will be unable to report results to the media into voting officially closes at 9pm, as a result, it will be mostly speculation on exit polls, and, although Jax Vanardane (N) of Mint Hill currently leads in gallup polling, it's being called the 'closest race in years' by many political analysts within South Hills.

Though most local voting offices open at 6am this morning, the town of Dewey in Mint Hill has a tradition of opening voting at 12AM sharp, and, as a result, the 127 residents of the small town are always the first to vote in federal elections. Though locally it is seeming to swing for Jax Vanardane (Dewey being in his home state), the race is still anyones game.

Many political analyst see the resurgence of Jax, originally predicted to loose to his opponet Jimmy Street (D) as a result of a 'average citizen backlash' following the rapid liberalization of both South Hills and neighboring nations. The Nationalist party, running on a mostly conservative platform, is certainly taking advantage of this says Channel 11 political analyst Doug Roberts.


The office of Rob Hunter issued a statement wishing both candidates good luck in the upcoming election.

National AeroSpace Progream releases plans for new space station
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A concept photo released by NASP


The National AeroSpace Program released plans earlier today for a new - large, space station that would orbit in low mundus orbit (LMO). The program would use the newly-refounded capability of the Shuttle launcher system to build the station in segments, eventually building a station able to fit 6-8 crewmembers.

NASP said that they were 'open to international cooperation' on the project, should they decide to pursue it.

Edited by hobbes, 18th February 2015 - 06:08 AM.
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Polls close: 'Too close to call'


Polls have closed across South Hills, with a official winner being announced tomorrow afternoon for presidential and congressional positions.

Exit polls showed a last minute resurgance of Democrat Jimmy Street, who was expected to loose to his nationalist counterpart Jax Vanardane, with most labelling the election 'too close to call', it seems the official announcement will be the first onset of the true winner.


Hunter makes last minute trip to Villarrico for Coronation

Late president Rob Hunter has made a last minute trip to Villarrico for some final foreign policy work. Press Secretary Clara Craig told reporters "President Hunter is excersing his duty in foreign policy and forging bonds with other nations, and will do so if there is 4 years left on his term of a week."

She confirmed he will be back in country in time for the inaguration of his successor.

Carrier Shakeup: Decommissioning of 'Forward' confirmed as third Elizabeth class carrier leaves drydock
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Pictured: The Amadeus Prower (CVN-82) leaves drydock to finish fitting, to be commissioned later this year

Matthews Shipbuilding - The Department of the Navy confirmed today that, following the 3rd Elizabeth class carrier, the Amadeus Prower (CVN-82), named after revolutionary war general and first President being formally commissioned, the Forward, first in the line of aging Forward-Class aircraft carriers, will be decommissioned.

Though the navy hasn't officially indicated what it plans to do with the carrier, a conservation group named '#SaveTheForward' has already collected over $250,000 in crowdfunding that would be dedicated to finding the ship a permament home as a museum ship.

The ship is expected to be formally decommissioned in March or April of this year, following the commission of the Amadeus Prower. The fourth ship of the Elizabeth class, the Rokkenjiman Sea was formally struck earlier this month and is expected to be completed this summer. It is expected that the Rokkenjiman Sea will replace the Pittsburgh Aircraft carrier currently in commission.

The navy practices a 'staggered' commission/decommission cycle as it has been congressionally bound to have at least 8 active carriers at a time since 1994. The names of the four other confirmed Elizabeth class carriers have yet been determined.
Edited by hobbes, 19th February 2015 - 04:10 AM.
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Hacker group leaks details to spy satellite

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Pictured: A military surveillance satellite is deployed from the Space Shuttle into geosynchronous transfer orbit, Taken froma external mechanical arm on the Shuttle Erebus yesterday


A hacker group identifying itself as '(Un)Sec' has released internal memos between the National AeroSpace Program (NASP) and South Hills Air Force (SHAF) over a recent deployment of a spy satellite into geosynchronous orbit overlooking the Ardia region.

The hacker group, in what many are dubbing a 'publicity stunt damaging to national security' leaked hundreds of pages of internal memos between the agencies; the National AeroSpace Program had been tasked with launching the satellite into orbit, It is one of many "Blacked Out" launches as they are called, so called because the mission payload details are blacked out from the public as the contents are used by the military, usually for reconnaissance.

The most "stunning" of the leaks, as the Hacker group says, is a memo from a Air Force general to speed up deployment of the device.

Quote:
 


Mr. (REDACTED),

The importance of this deployment needs to be accelerated. The situation in Zachachevania grows worse by the day; the Rokkenjimans have deployed an action group. Our current limited airborne intelligence in the area is not sufficent; We are formally requesting this deployment take priority, as a interest to national security.

Regards,

(REDACTED)



This would explain as the 'blacked out' flight of the satellite was bumped up, replacing a plan to deploy a commercial GPS satellite on this mission, however, analysis of the leaked data indicates nothing truly damaging to any government agency, though, the communications issued from the Hacking group link them to be pro-Zachachevenian.

Channel 10's computer/hacking chief editor, Frank Timber, stated that it appeared to be 'nothing but a fancy publicity stunt, with no real damage outside of upsetting a certain dictatorship that doesn't quite like us anyways'.

The (Un)Sec group however, issued a statement shortly after the leaks indicating this was a 'shot across the bow' to nations threatening "rightful, peaceful small nations" such as Zachachevania, naming South Hills, Rokkenjima, Ndambia, and Dartfordia as being on the "hit list."

The Air Force has issued a brief statement acknowledging the compromise of servers containing the memos, however insisted that any issues have been "quickly and swiftly" resolved.
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De'Santos elected 45th President
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In an incredibly close race, officials announced Carlos De'Santos, of the Republican Democratic ticket, as the next President of South Hills. The ballots counted as followed:


  • De'Santos, Carlos - 51,523,233
  • Vanardane, Jax - 48,184,342


Though officially in office, and his cabinet being selected, De'Santos will have a official swearing in (Despite, under South Hills law, he is already President by definition) later this month. Government officials as well as several foreign delegations will be welcomed to attend.


De'Santos is the first President to be elected of ispanic Afro-Nueva Ardian descent, his parents having immigrated during the 1930's, he was born of South Hills citizenry in 1960.

His cabinet is expected to be announced later this week, though he is already making executive decisions.


First move of De'Santos - Deploy to the Ardian Gulf
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Presidential House - Hours after being elected, De'Santos announced his first action as President would be to deploy ships to the Ardian Gulf, after the situation there continued to destabilize into the end of President Hunter's term.

In a short statement, President De'Santos stated that the security of the Ardian gulf region was "essential not only to our security but that of our close allies." He didin't comment on if South Hills would participate in the Rokkenjiman led operation 'Carrier Pigeon'.

Though (now former) President Rob Hunter avoided sending troops to the area in the final weeks of his term - he did personally authorize the deployment of further intelligence in the area - as indicated by the leaks of satellite information dedicated to the area by a hacker group confirms.

Many would indicate President Hunters lack of action as a attempt to avoid "Presidential Hangover", a situation where a outgoing President enters a situation then leaves the incoming president to pick up the tab.

Carrier Strike Group 2, already on ready-alert in the area, is deploying to the area, and consists of the following:


  • SHS Pittsburgh (Forward Class Aircraft Carrier)
  • SHS Tiger Gulf (McCloud Class Cruiser)
  • SHS Miles Prower (Miles Prower Class Heavy Destroyer)
  • SHS SayMyName (Buena Vista Class Destroyer)
  • SHS Freedom (Buena Vista Class Destroyer)
  • SHS Titan(Buena Vista Class Destroyer)
  • SHS Democracy (Greenock Class Frigate)
  • SHS Babiana (Replenishment Class Fleet Oiler)



Edited by hobbes, 9th March 2015 - 08:57 PM.
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Breaking: Hunter administration official leaks existence of militarized space shuttle/other programs
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ELIZABETH - A yet unknown official from the outgoing Hunter administration leaked the existence of a derivative of South Hills' Space Shuttle, but militarized with the capability of weapons.

The leak contained thousands of memos from the DoD's Defense Enhanced Research Project's Administration (DERP-A) which discussed the feasibility and even how to build such a craft, including detailed plans from manufacturers competing for such a bid. The leaks only date up to June 2008 so it's unknown if such a project was ever undertaken.

Former President Hunter, speaking on behalf of the Hunter Presidential Foundation, stated he was "utterly shocked" by such leaks and would "co-operate fully with federal officials to find the source". Political analyst Jessica Simmons commented "While the content of this leak is particularly not welcoming, leaks from former administrations, while uncommon, do happen from time to time. They had access to this data when they held power and now it's time to 'clean out their moral/poltical closets'. As De'Santos and Hunter are of the same party, I imagine it was a moral decision by the individual if anything."

While there is no international treaty explicitly banning it, a majority of Mundus nations, including 67% of citizens of South Hills, are against weaponizing space.

The Department of Defense has refused to comment.
Edited by hobbes, 19th April 2015 - 07:19 AM.
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'Bulkhead' prepares to launch - Flight III of Buena Vista Destroyers on way
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The Bulkhead nears completion in McKeesport Yard


MCKEESPORT - McDonald Arthur Shipbuilding today announced that the Bulkhead (DDG-113) was nearing completion. The ship is the first in the line of the new Flight III line of Buena Vista Destroyers. The new ships will be more stealthy than their previous counterparts and will have a sufficient powerplant to run a electromagnetic railgun.

The improvements also listed a 'spire' configuration of the ships AN/SPY-3 radar (a new brand of the SPY-1 series of radars equipped in Miles Prower and Elizabeth class vessels, specialized in anti-ballistic missile and anti-air high-volume search capabilities), previously seen in the design of Miles Prower Heavy Destroyers.

There are currently 61 Buena Vista class destroyers in service with the South Hills Navy, marking it as the largest Destroyer class in any navy on Mundus, and reflecting Navy policy when it was designed.

"We switched from being a navy with many ships performing many different specialties to one platform; the Buena Vista, that could perform all of these roles, thus leading us to be able to eliminate the BB (Battleship) and CG (Cruiser) designations from our service. This enables us to be a more effective yet large and respectable Navy, while accomplishing the goals of a peace and war time navy in a larger scale. We are happy to work with McDonald Arthur to continue this lasting and beneficial relationship for all citizens." noted Rear Admiral Jessica Thompson, spokesman for the Department of Navy.

Some, however, question that role; "The Buena Vista has never been able to live up to the "one-ship-fits-all" designation it promsied. Thus the need for the Miles Prower line of ships as a up-gunned and more versatile alternative, albeit a more expensive one." noted Naval Historian Michael Lonely.


A complete list of Buena Vista class destroyers, current and future, is available Here
Edited by hobbes, 23rd April 2015 - 12:18 AM.
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A New Lease on Life: Guided Shell Cruisers
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A blueprint of the proposed SWAG McCloud line of Cruisers


Advanced Dynamics today announced a bid to a solution to the fate of the Todd McCloud line of cruisers; A refit as big-gunned support vessels.

The cruiser refit would boast three 155mm cannons, officially named Surface Warfare Advanced Gun, or SWAG; a system built, from the ground-up, with guided munitions and over-the-horizon firing in mind. Though the official range of the weapon remains classified, it is rumored to be over a hundred nautical miles. The gun system boasts a high rate of fire; 10 rounds per minute, a average Battleship configuration boasts two rounds per minute - The refit involves removing the vessels helicopter pad, replacing it with a system, it also replaces both the forward and aft cannons with a SWAG battery. This brings the total of three systems with a combined rate of fire of 30 rounds a minute, or a round every two seconds. The refit is also rumored to improve modernizations to the ships radar and stealth systems.

The refit would be a "cheap, cost effective solution" to extend the lifespan of the aging Cruisers and a answer to other navies developing similar systems, quotes Advanced Dynamics CEO Chad Finnigan. Mr. Finnigan believed that such vessels "could be useful in a fleet-support and ground-support role, as well as in naval engagements.". Finnigan also noted that the design "Keeps in line with a modern, fast navy", comparing the Cruiser to the equivelent of a 'pocket battleship' - the firepower, yet considerably faster and more maneuverable then its larger counterparts.

The Surface Warfare Advanced Gun was first seen on the Miles Prower Ballistic Missile Defense variant, and is also seeing service on the Buena Vista Flight III and Miles Prower Generation 2. It is believed the Todd McCloud line of cruisers is the only cruiser-and below sized ship capable of mounting such a system as is, as the other, smaller ships, lack hull space without modifications to their designs pre-production.

Naval Base Matilda set to open
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The South Hills Coast Guard Cutter 'Campbell' on exercise in the Matilda Canals several months ago, during the Thomradian Oilspill Crisis


MATILDA ISLAND - It was recently announced that South Hills would be constructing a base on Matilda Island, center island of the Matilda Canals, the base, named simply 'Naval Base Matilda', is slated to be a major naval facility in the Matilda Canals.

Rear Admiral Avery Johnston, announced as head of the new base, said: "This base will greatly increase our presence in the region, combating Piracy in the Kyne as well as representing South Hills interest. We are glad to be working with our Neuva Ardian allies on such a project." She would not comment on exact deployments, but noted "Plans are currently for support of one to two Carrier Strike Groups, other destroyers/cruisers, and a multitude of Coast Guard Cutters who will be providing maritime law enforcement and support with their Neuva Ardian counterparts in the canal."

Coast Guard spokesperson Commandore Grace Hoppy announced that the Cutter Campbell had already been directed at the Matilda Canal, and a more 'formal deployment list' was to follow in the coming weeks.

The Department of Navy would not comment on the specifics of the Neuva Ardian base in Tiger Bay, on the Strait of Shaw. The Strait of Shaw base, regardless of specifications listing it only has a small military capacity, has sparked controversy both home and abroad.

"Now the commies - or whatever the hell they call 'em now - socialists, have a base in our back yard?" said Duquesne resident Billy Hall, who lives on the bay.

"I mean, I suppose a small base in the middle of nowhere is a good trade for a base on the Matilda Canal, right?" said resident Allison Henderson.

The Neuva Ardian base has been strongly criticized by the Rokkenjiman press; relations have been stale between the two nations ever since controversy among Neuva Ardians Mundus Convention of Universal Rights (MCUR) status broke out several months ago.

The Matilda Canals process roughly 78% of the worlds shipping yearly, and act as a major chokepoint for international sea commerce; the South Hills Navy has been interested in a more strong presence in the region for years.



Edited by hobbes, 26th April 2015 - 05:49 AM.
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South Hills to participate in naval exercise
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Pictured: Servicemembers of the various branches participating line up for a speech


It was recently announced South Hills would be the main player in the REDFOR (Red Force) in a naval exercise with Vendosia and Nueva Ardia. South Hills will be playing the simulated role of a invader, "invading" the port town of Lucanda on the island of Matilda; the center island of the Matilda Canals.

Nueva Ardia and Vendosia (with a small ground Vendosian detachment assisting South Hills as REDFOR) will be playing BLUFOR (Blue Force) - the force defending the island.

The exercise will test both the defensive capabilities of the Vendosian and Nueva Ardian militaries as well as the offensive capability of South Hills, said Navy Spokeswoman Rachel Walker. "It will be a great learning experience for all parties as well as a good exercise to test a real scenario for these nations." She went on to make a Firefly reference once the press conference concluded, noting "Shiny, Let's be bad guys." before leaving the podium.
Edited by hobbes, 27th April 2015 - 09:42 PM.
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"This is what Democracy looks like" - Protests erupt amid democracy conference.
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Pictured: Riot police guard the historic eighteenth century Pittsburgh Town Hall


Protestors have gathered in seventeen major cities in direct protest to the 'Democracy Conference' in McKeesport State, while the conference itself has continued without direct protests, minor and occasional medium sized protests have erupted in Pittsburgh, Elizabeth, Matthews, McKeesport, Blaine, Mt. Vernon, Central, and other major cities.

The band of protestors uses the '@ThisIsWhatDemocracyLooksLike' hashtag on Twitter and other social media, which it uses to coordinate. While riot police are out, confrontation between police and protestors has been minimal. "They're properly exercising their right to protest and confrontation with police has been minimal" noted Pittsburgh Chief of Police Justin Almeida.

The protestors cite the current direction in South Hills policy as the main cause for concern. "Our country was founded upon the ideals of freedom to expression, trade, religion, and, above all, a open and fair democratic system. 'President' is not a inherited position and its equivalent shouldn't be in any system" said TIWDLL spokeswoman Charlotte Jones. "Yet here we are actively supporting not only these systems but systems much, much worse then that".

The National Association of Catholicism (NAC) particularly condemned the current lease to Nueva Ardia of a naval station in Tiger Bay, after the nation had riots and "brutally oppressed" members of the Church. Other political action groups supporting the movement include the Grand Army of the Republic - a veterans association of 'lifetime servicemen', and the 'South Hills First' group, a political action group dedicated to placing national concerns before international and foreign affairs.

The protests have remained mostly respectful to law enforcement and low-scale, with each assembly being less then 1,000 people, only the Pittsburgh protest outside of the historic Town Hall; the location founding members of the Council of Governments signed the Articles of Constitution in 1767 met; have reached above that and are in the 5,000 range.

Chester Soviet jokes video goes viral


A video uploaded by a YouTube user of former President Charlie Chester (President from 1991-1999) telling jokes he'd heard about the (now former) United Soviet Russia, has gone viral, reaching over 10 million views in two weeks.

The user who uploaded the video, in a email with Channel 11, noted he had "saw one of his jokes listening to a speech for a College university project and a compilation video was inevitable after that." - He did, however, note that he was surprised by its reception.

President Chester was famous for bringing a new, humorous, light to the arms race between the WARSAW pact and 'Western' nations, but many of his jokes were lost to history. 'It's a shame people didin't know about how great this man was' noted Chester Presidential Library spokesman Levi Shamson.

President De'Santos also got in on the fad, noting that it probably had no views in the Russian country as "The videos watch you".
Edited by hobbes, 30th April 2015 - 05:13 AM.
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Testing of 'power armor' slated to begin
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Pictured: A mock of the TYPE-23 Revision B Modulated Power Armor

Tests are to commence on a proposed plated armor mechanized suit by the Matthews Institute of Technology. Part of a multi-year research project funded by the Defense Enhanced Research Project Administration (DERP-A) of the Department of Defense, the armor is expected to be a prototype by the university to prove such a concept is feasible. The press release by MIT lists the following fields to benefit from such a device:


  • Military
  • Police - High Risk Situations
  • Firefighters
  • Radiological/biological warfare cleanup - air scrubbing is possible, as well as radiation shielding.
  • Explosive Ordnance Disposal - a 'EOD' variant is planned, which models estimate to be 129.3% more effective than a traditional Advanced Bomb Suit at stopping high explosive blasts, concussion and shrapnel.


The move is not without criticism however, with some noting that it 'takes the humanity out of warfare'. '(The TYPE-23) enforces the modern video-game and movie "reality" that war is good and no one gets hurt - That's not the case" noted lobbyist Virginia Mayweather.

Naval Base Matilda opens amid rising tensions in Nueva Ardia
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Naval Base Matilda has officially opened for full combat operations, though its fate remains as part of a ongoing destabilizing situation within Nueva Ardia; The state has been destabilizing rapidly since riots ruined the capitol several weeks ago, and since then a Principality, led by Prince Abran, who, after being exiled from Nueva Ardia, was in South Hills under poltiical asylum for several years, before returning to his home country; events after this, however, are distorted, with many calling it a 'illegal, opportunistic seizure of power' and others calling it a 'rightful return to a peaceful government.'

The Department of Defense refused to comment on the political situation and relations with Nueva Ardia, though a spokesman noted that 'as of now it has no effect on our base in the Matilda Canals or El Shaw within South Hills'. Reporters, however, have noticed a increased South Hills military presence by the El Shaw base, though the same spokesman noted such rumors were 'baseless', outside of 'routine military drills' in the area.

A gallup poll among South Hills citizens found 44% in favor of the Abran government, with 22% undecided and 34% opposed.

Power outage disrupts Baseball game; two injured.
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PITTSBURGH - Two people are injured following a panic when the lights went out at a Pittsburgh Power baseball game last night. The power faded when a transformer in the basement of the park blew; There was a small fire, but while it was extinguished by the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire within 9 minutes, the sensors in the boiler room automatically tripped the baseball parks fire alarm, resulting in a darkened panic to evacuate the stadium.

Two people, identified as Jannet Lilson and Todd Taylor, are in medical treatment at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Facility due to trampling. Both are expected to make a full recovery, but the incident raises concerns about the safety at large events; The park was packed with 54,343 people, 99.7% of the stadiums capacity.

"We will absolutely need to re-evaluate our security and safety procedures in such a event" noted stadium spokeswoman Charlotte DeLuke. She continued, "While the injuries were tragic and not needed, otherwise the stadiums evacuation procedure went off well given the circumstances".

The stadium had power restored within a half hour, and the game continued; the Central Natives team won 9-4.


"Don't see why we should care" - Press secretary starts controversy around East Moreland execution

President De'Santos's Press Secretary, Allison Monroe, is in some hot water following a question by Mint Hill Tribune reporter Charlie Beckerson.

The reporter asked her for the President's opinion on the controversy surrounding East Morelands decision to execute Rebekah Barren, convicted of Terrorism by the nations courts, and the international response. Ms. Monroe responded with "Frankly, I don't see why it's our business to care how other nations prosecute their criminals."

The response has harkened both positive and negative responses, with Neil Jackson of the Central Paper noting that "It's nice to see we're taking a turn away from the 'carry a big ass stick and use it whenever possible' mentality.", while Ms. Kelly Book of the BanDeath organization shot back at the President, remarking "I believe we have every right to care when a state, our own included, kills a person."


Within South Hills, however, the Death Penalty has been a state issue. Four of six states (Mint Hill, Elizabeth, Duquense, and McKeesport) permit it and actively use it, while the two more left leaning (and more populus states) of Pittsburgh and Matthews have banned the death penalty.
Edited by hobbes, 18th May 2015 - 06:05 AM.
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South Hills 'willing to act as Intermediary' in Nya Åland whaling incident.
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The South Hills Coast Guard today, in a press conference announced its willingness to participate as a 'intermediary' between the whalers and protestors in the developing Nya Åland whaling incident.

The crisis, which began with Nya Åland granting a 'whaling permit' to a local community, has since escalated into a international incident when a East Moreland flagged research vessel was seized, While both East Moreland and Nya Åland's news sources confirm the seizing of the vessel, reports widely very around the circumstances of the event.

Commander Jack Foster noted that the Coast Guard could serve as a 'buffer' service, much like police between two opposing sides in a protest. The South Hills Oceanic and Atmospheric administration would also have ships in the area in a observatory role, should the offer be accepted.

Commander Foster also noted the ability of escort for foreign dignataries participating in the protest, as he noted, "The fact the governments protesting brought, and given the rightful protection of their dignataries, had to bring, warships into the area escalates the situation, albeit unintentionally".

When asked why the Navy would not be participating, Commander Foster noted that the President felt that it would 'further escalate' the situation versus a Coast Guard and SHOAA presence, and, additionally, that the Coast Guard has statutory law enforcement powers which the Navy lacks.

Commander Foster made explicit note that if the offer was refused, the operation would not continue, as such a move would 'only serve to further destabilize the situation'

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First cutter to arrive in Nya Åland, Coast Guard confirms

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Pictured: The SHCGC 'Valor' on exercise with the SHS Central a year ago during Fleet Week 2014.


The Coast Guard has confirmed the first cutter has been diverted to the Nya Ålandese whaling situation, following the Nya Åland government accepting a invitation to have the Coast Guard observe a 10 kilometer zone around Nya Åland's Exclusive Economic zone to keep separation between protestors, backed by the Wild Mundus Organization and the Nya Åland backed whaling fleet.

While it was not made clear if the Coast Guard had been given the authority to properly enforce a Exclusion zone by the Nya Åland government, Commandore Barker of the Coast Guard confirmed that they would exist in a 'third party state to assist all parties involved and to ensure that the protest remains peaceful as it has the right to be, both from aggression by the Whaling fleet and the whaling fleet from aggression by the protestors'.

The first ship, the SHCGC Valor, a Heavy Endurance Cutter, was on pre-existing deployment in the Sea of Alucard and as a result is arriving 'as fast as humanly possible', however Commandore Barker confirmed that to reach the preferred strength of five Cutters would take some time, as a vast majority are based within South Hills, unlike the Navy which functions in more of a roaming role.

Commandore Barker likened the role to more of a 'friendly neighborhood policeman', noting that the cutters would be behaving as non-interventionist as possible. RHIB patrol boats launched by the cutters will be regularly checking on both sides of the protest to ensure the peace is being kept and 'everyone is safe and happy.'


However, reports have already circulated that the deployment will have a more militaristic role; with the hunt being on for a 'narc sub' being responsible for the bombing of a Rokkenjiman yacht several days ago. Barker would not comment on the SONAR capabilities or intentions of the deployment in this regard due to 'national security reasons', He did however note that 'Obviously attempting to engage a warship with a speedboat jerryrigged into a submarine isn't going to go well for the "submarine". Our forces are trained and capable should the situation arise again'. The response came with a notification asking all ships in the area to report suspicious sightings.

Edited by hobbes, 21st May 2015 - 05:02 AM.
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Coast Guard: Darfordian advancements 'only serving to escalate the situation'
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Pictured: A Dartfordian-flagged Greenpeace inflatable boat passes near the SHCGC Valor during a confrontation between a Greenpeace vessel and a Nya Åland naval vessel on the edge of the EEZ, the sign reads 'STOP SLAUGHTERING WHALES' in Nordic.


NYA ÅLAND - Greenpeace initiatives 'only serving to escalate the situation', the Coast Guard has remarked in a press conference today. The Greenpeace organization, a Dartfordia based group, has announced and pursued a newer policy of aggressive protesting - sometimes getting within meters of the EEZ line. There has already been a few showdowns between the Greenpeace vessels and Nya Ålandic ships waiting just within the EEZ, presumably to arrest the ship should it enter, and a South Hills Coast Guard vessel waiting nearby.

The Coast Guard has been in the area to maintain a 10 kilometer 'separation zone' between protestors and whalers, that extending from 10km out of the EEZ of Nya Åland, while the Coast Guard has, in its own word, 'no way to enforce' such a zone, it was established to keep the peace and prevent accidental drifting into the EEZ, much like, or so is claimed, happened to the UNP registered Investigator, which was seized last week for similar operations.

The Dartfordian government has come out strongly in favor of Greenpeace operations, with it being noted by the government that Dartfordia has 'naval assets in the area'. It is also rumored the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy has capital-ship sized assets in the area, as well.

Ensign Judy Phelps noted that these developments 'only serve to further escalate what is otherwise a peaceful protest'.

'Dancing in the Dark' hits SH Billboard #1

'Dancing in the Dark' live last month at Matthews Alive! 2015

The latest Bryce Springsteen hit, 'Dancing in the Dark' has hit SH Billboard #1 with over 5 million sales and downloads, and is trending globally on twitter. A single released earlier this month, the record has broke multiple records and rapidly shot to #1 on the SH Billboard 'Trending 100' list, removing 'Damn it feels good to be a Gangsta' by Getto Boiz, which was originally released in, the bands words, 'as a joke', but quickly shot up to the top list due to its humor and satire of the 80's 'rapper style'.


Edited by hobbes, 24th May 2015 - 05:38 AM.
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Airliner stalls: slams into runway at Buena Vista international, 5 dead.
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BUENA VISTA - Five are dead and fifty-five injured after a Oceania Airlines triple-seven stalled and slammed into the runway on final approach at Buena Vista International Airport. The plane, en route from Floodwater, Tytor, is believed to have stalled due to navigational or pilot error. The Transportation Safety Board of South Hills (TSBSH) is investigating the accident.

The Buena Vista Airport Authority has not released the names of the deceased at this time, due to ongoing attempts to contact next-of-kin.

Security council resolution reaches momentum on Nya Aland whale hunt

A security council resolution to reach resolution to the ongoing Nya Aland whale incident is reaching a conclusion, sources say. Current drafts of the resolution indicate the South Hills Coast Guard will remain as a buffer between protestors and whalers. It is not known if voting has commenced.

South Hills volunteered to act as a neutral force between the parties several weeks ago, and has overall already reduced violence in the region.

Bill to limit 'government monopolies' within South Hills proposed
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Senator Bernard Jones (I) of Mint Hill has proposed a bill in the Senate that would put higher tariffs on the retail and operations of 'government endorsed monopolies', the senator naming Riviere Corp. of Achkaerin as a primary suspect.

"To allow government endorsed and often funded monopolies to compete in our market unopposed puts local and other international firms at a inherit and unfair disadvantage" noted the Senator in a press conference. When asked of the Mundus Trade Organization, the Senator noted that "While monopoly trust-busting measures are certainly something we wish to pursue within the like-minded and economically sound members of the MTO, Achkaerin, or any other guilty party, is not a party to such organization."

While it was noted that, indeed, Riviere's presence in South Hills is mininal, the senator rebutted that it is best to be proactive versus reactive.
Edited by hobbes, 27th May 2015 - 05:32 AM.
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Lawsuit brought by inmates of PCI cite 'appalling' conditions

A lawsuit brought against the State of Pittsburgh by several inmate of the Pittsburgh Correctional Institution cite 'appaling' conditions in the institution, a ongoing case in the 2nd Federal District Court revealed. Jack Houston, head of the legal team for the plaintiffs, noted to reports that conditions included 'A crumbling infastructure, including a inmate being severely injured by a partial roof collapse last year, a appalling rodent and insect infestation, and unsanitary conditions'.

Last year alone, said Mr. Houston, there were 'Twenty-three separate cases of inmates being hospitalized due to chemicals within the institution causing, sometimes permanent, lung conditions.'

Warden Alisha Jeck of the Pittsburgh Correctional Institute agrees that 'The institution is in dire need of a refurbishment, or even the building of a entirely new one, but the question is where would the money come from.'

The Pittsburgh State Bureau of Corrections operates 37 prison facilities, 7 of which, including Pittsburgh Correctional, are reported as being in 'dire disrepair' according to a independent report from 2012. Pittsburgh Correctional was built during the 1820's and originaly served as a P.O.W camp for separatist forces during the Civil War of 1830-1839. It then served as the Brighthouse Prison (named after the town it resides in) from 1841-1910, it was closed from 1910-1965, but was refurbished in the 60's to serve as a modern correctional facility. The facility has last had a major refurbishment in 1988.

U.N Me, a satirical musical take on the Commonwealth Treaty Organization by the group Animaniacs has over 27 million views on UTube.


Vice President Wilkins is in talks with Rokkenjima, rumored to pertain to the long term relations between both nations and recent 'disruptions' in that relationship. No announcements have been made yet on the products of these talks.


Content Delivery Service 'CDNDeliveryTruck' reported a massive Denial of Service attack late last night, against anti-spamming site DoxShare. The attack lasted two hours and peaked at over 300 gigabytes/second, the largest attack on record in Mundus. The attack was believed to have happened using a Domain Name Service (DNS) propagation method, though it is unknown as of now where the attack originated from and who launched it, CDNDeliveryTruck CEO Chuck Ulysses noted, however, that it 'certainly was a game changing event for the industry.'


The band Gorillaz has announced a second 'Plastic Beach' world tour, as a 'warm up' for 'something cool'. Stops will include Rokkenjima, Dartfordia, Nueva Ardia, East Moreland, Seaforth, and others. The band even stated it was considering Zachachevania, stating 'Because why the hell not, man?'
Edited by hobbes, 12th June 2015 - 12:39 PM.
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BREAKING >>>: CAR BOMB DETONATES NEAR MUNDUS TRADE CENTER COMPLEX
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MATTHEWS: A car bomb has just detonated on Greenwhich street, several news outlets report. Lower Matthews Square has been cordoned off by police, with bridges and tunnels being closed. The carbomber reportedly got through the Liberty street checkpoint, but was stopped halfway up Greenwhich street by police, where he reportedly panicked and detonated the bomb. One police officer is dead, the other is wounded, and 8 are dead including the carbomber. 37 others remain in local hospitals, critical condition or otherwise.

The Sorority of Materna has already released a video claiming responsibility for the attack. Matthews officials have confirmed that the structual integrity of the Trade Center complex is 'sound', yet concede that 'severe damage could of been possible had the bomber reached his intended destination', presumably a parking garage underneith one of the complexes buildings, where a bomb-incited collapse could have occured. The Sorority video released (though, at the request of Matthews officials it will not be shown) noted that the reason for the attack was to 'root out one of the cores of evil in this world' - the Mundus Trade Center being one of the economic hubs of the world, home to over 500 firms from over a dozen countries. The facility was closed for the day, but announced that it will reopen tomorrow for normal operations.

More on this story as it develops.
Edited by hobbes, 16th June 2015 - 11:21 PM.
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President enters Festival of Sail with a fail: Limousine bottoms out.
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Pictured: South Hills security agents and Portworth police awkwardly puzzle what to do next after President's limousine bottoms out entering festival.

PORTWORTH, EAST MORELAND - The President of South Hills was forced to walk the final couple hundred feet entering the Festival of Sail as his limousine bottomed out entering the complex. The President, after a awkward few moments with onlookers and reporters present, exited the safety of the armored limousine to walk the last couple hundred of feet to the hotel where they would be staying into the commencement ceremony of the East Moreland Festival of Sail.

The President had flown in that morning to Portworth International Airport and arrived at the Festival of Sail complex at 8:37am. "The area was sufficiently secured by us and Portworth Police for the president's walk into the building. However, a investigation will be conducted into why the preliminary team did not notice that the President's Limousine could not clear the embankment onto the street." remarked the head of the Presidential Security Detail, Jerrick Creason.

The vehicle's marooning reportedly forced other foreign delegations to use a alternate route to the hotel, and was finally removed by a tow truck hours after the incident. The 'Bear' as it's called reportedly weighs as much as 20,000 ponds, and while the specifications are strictly classified, is rumored to be able to absorb .50 caliber bullets and improvised explosive devices.


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Edited by hobbes, 16th July 2015 - 11:58 AM.
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Tornado rips through Matthews town.

A tornado classified as a F5 ripped through the small Matthews town of Thompson, several reports and eye-witnesses report.

Local affiliate KDKL-7 reports that the town, home of 5,700, was 'completely decimated' by the storm. Jacks' County Sheriff's officials report that at least 230 are dead, with roughly 800 still missing. The storm is already the deadliest in the counties history, and the 3rd deadliest in Matthews.

Matthews Governor Jax Vanardane has declared a state of emergency and national guard units have been mobilized to the site. Governor Vanardane and Vice President Wilkins (President Santos currently being in East Moreland) are expected to tour the site tomorrow morning.

"(The tornado) was absolutely decimating to us and our community, and we thank the rest of our fine State and Country for their quick support, as well as ask everyone keeps us in their prayers" remarked Acting Mayor Chelsea Ritz, the town's mayor, Steven Thames, is among the missing.

Doppler radar in nearby South Versailles reports that the tornado reached speeds of ~300 miles per hour, ranking it at the upper end of the Fujita scale's sytem - 318mph being the fastest ever recorded.

We'll keep you updated as this story develops.



CEO of Reddit, Inc., Ellen Pao has stepped down after a petition for her resignation reached 200,00 signatures.


Federal Mounted Police have made several arrests after hackers breached the Duqeusne Hill company Twitter's (TWTR) servers, reportedly to hack 'Reddit' related accounts. No names have been released as the suspects arrested are under the age of 18.

'The suspects successfully breached several layers of security in about 15 minutes and injected their code into the database required - Had they not been charged with felonies I probably would've considered hiring them myself' joked Twitter CEO Charles Young


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The Department of Defense has initiated its process to close the El Shaw base in Duquesnes. The President's Press Office remarked that the process had been initiated at the request of the DoD and, while they where 'continually confident in their Neuva Ardian friends, the situation at hand mandates the closure'.

Many have criticized President Santos as being 'too friendly' with the Neuva Ardians as a descendent, his grandparents having immigrated to South Hills in 1908.
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Joint session of congress votes to enter Materna intervention
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A joint session of Congress has just voted with a 56% Majority to enter the Materna CTOMM intervention. President Santos announced a large, 3 division expeditionary force to be activated to be deployed. President Santos addressed the session after passing the vote:

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The voice of this nation has spoken, and this nation wishes to be apart of the coalition that will bring a hasty and just end to the organization known as the Sorority, within the nation known as Marseille. While I have no doubt this is the correct course of action in the eyes of this nation and its people, we can not make the mistake of imagining this as anything other than what it really is - War. We may be calling it a 'police action', but, from this night into the forseeable future, this nation is now at war. I share all of our concerns for our boys we are going to be sending over there, but they, the finest men and women of this country, will be going with the full support of this nation and its people. With the advice of my Military Advisors, I am announcing three divisions, for 45,000 men, will be activated for immediate deployment. The 3rd Carrier Strike Group, lead by the East Miffilin will be continuing operations in the area, with combat operations starting shortly.

I am aware this commitment is large, but it is required to bring a swift end to this conflict and get our soldiers home as soon as possible. The Defense Department will offer more advanced briefings, Thank you all.





The Department of Defense has released the divisions being deployed, who will compose the newly formed XXV Corps.


  • 2nd Armored Division
  • 66th Mountain Division
  • 7th Infantry Division


The DoD report indicates this would compose of about 45,000 men, The defense department did not make clear on additional deployments for logistics, though additional announcements are expected to be made with a expected tooth-to-tail ratio of 2 to 1 or possibly 3 to 1. They did however comment on the need for such a large deployment; noting that 'Only sending a battalion or so per nation seems to be doing the problem a lot of justice as is; We need to get serious with the issue and troop numbers will reflect that."

Defense Department spokesman Chelsea Jackson noted that the DoD "Needed to work with their international partners in CTOMM" before announcing formal deployments and operations.
Edited by hobbes, 22nd July 2015 - 01:56 PM.
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"I was operating under duress" - Dr. Manaudou at first Political Asylum hearing.

Dr. Patrice Manaudou has taken several shots at Mairseilles and the Sorority as a whole during his preliminary hearing for political asylum today.

"I was operating under duress, often under threat of death, by the sorority. I am willing to cooperate fully with authorities to share all information I know." the Doctor said to a panel of judges today at his preliminary hearing. He was granted temporary political asylum pending further investigation, as a result through South Hills law, any foreign government would need to argue its case for extradition directly to a South Hills court for extradition to be possible.

Federal Mounted Police officials remarked that Dr. Manaudou has been 'fully cooperative with both us and other agencies'. Dr. Manoaudou is being held at the low-security Stockholm prison facility in Duquesne. Both federal and international agencies are "lining up" to interview the Doctor as a anonymous South Hills Bureau of Prisons official reports. Channel 11 and other outlets are trying to secure a interview with the Doctor.

Some, however, are questioning why the Doctor, the Duchess, and Richard Cameron where not processed 'per CTOMM protocol' - A Department of Defense spokeman noted that "The newer platform of tiltroter aircraft - a special stealth coated and modified version of the M-24 Blackbird - has not yet been cleared for seaborne operations - in large part due to a ongoing issue with seawater ingestion into the modified engines - I however can not go into further detail as the specifics of this project are obviously highly classified"

It should be noted that, had protocol been followed and Manoaudou taken to the processing ship, REMS King Robert, he would not of been able to declare any form of asylum as he would not have been on any sovereign soil.
Edited by hobbes, 12th August 2015 - 05:36 PM.
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BREAKING: Thousands of leaked documents indicate MTC attack was inside-job

Thousands of documents just released to WikiLeaks indicate that the attack on the Mundus Trade Center complex by 'sorority-based terrorists' may of been, at least somewhat, a inside job to generate public support for the conflict.

An unidentified Office of Naval Intelligence contractor, identified online as '420BlazeDaIntel' has leaked thousands of heavily classified intelligence documents pertaining to the incident. These documents imply, at the least, that ONI and other agencies knew about the attack and chose to ignore the signs to 'generate a public support base for the conflict in Marseilles'. This story will be updated as more breaks.

11:38AM SHET - Office of Naval Intelligence director Sctt Munley has claimed the leak to be a 'major threat to national security' and while he confirms the leak is 'legitimate' they do not know at this time who the real source was. They are working feaverishly with law enforcement to find the source.
Edited by hobbes, 15th August 2015 - 08:31 PM.
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DEVELOPING: PROTESTS ERUPT AFTER LEAK PAINTS INTELLIGENCE AGENCIES AS INVOLVED WITH MTC BOMBING
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Pictured: Protesters in Prower Park, Matthews, the scene of the bombing several months ago.


MATTHEWS - Over 7,500 protesters have gathered at the scene of the MTC bombing several months ago to protest possible involvement by South Hills intelligence agencies - notably the Office of Naval Intelligence. A Office of Naval Intelligence building nearby, the Matthews Regional Headquarters, has been under increased harassment by protesters, leading police to worry of possible violence.

Protesters are using social media to coordinate, and police are asking people in the Lower Downtown area of Matthews to avoid travel if at all possible. Police reserves have been mobilized, the Matthews State Governor, John Brooks, has not clarified if he plans on declaring a emergency and or sending in the Matthews National Guard.

More on this story as it develops.
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DEVELOPING: MORE DETAILS EMERGE ON LEAKS - PROTESTS SPRING UP ACROSS THE COUNTRY
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Police face off with protesters in Tucson, Butler. Hundreds of other protests have sprung up in cities and towns across South Hills.

Hundreds of protests have sprung up across South Hills as further details on the leak of classified Office of Naval Intelligence documents emerge. The documents allegedly paint ONI and other intelligence agencies with possible involvement, or, at least, a 'ignorance of the warning signs' to generate public support for the campaign in Mairseilles. The Office of Naval Intelligence has been tight-lipped and refusing to comment which is only fueling the fire.

President Santos has called for "Democracy to have its way, but in a peaceful, productive manor." Not all have been listening, however, as already 3 have been injured by trampling in Pittsburgh and riot police arrested 20 in Matthews when a small group began throwing rocks and bricks at police.

Federal officials have still not identified the source of the leak, though state that it is likely the suspect has already fled the country.





Op-Ed: Chain of corruption may extend all the way to the top
Op-Ed by Senior Political Correspondent Sarah Kinter

The 'chain of corruption' as it is being called by many indicated by the recently leaked documents, it seems, may extend to the very top of our executive government. 'Operation Sleeping Bear' as it was indicated, the goal being to 'Prepare public opinion for a possible intervention in Marseille' has the signature of ONI Director Scott Munley and President Santos. ONI and other intelligence agencies have direct presidential access, as written into the Intelligence Act of 1937, when the operation is 'best kept known to as few people as possible' - The documents leaked indicate that this provision was used and the normal Department of Defense command chain was bypassed by Munley, who took the plan straight to the President for signature.

The plan the President signed, however, did not detail exactly how ONI planned to swing public opinion. Indeed, plans like these are typically left as vague as possible intentionally, so - into more of the thousands of leaked documents are studied, it remains unknown how deep ONI's involvement is specifically in the carbombing incident at the MTC complex.

Regardless, the fact that the President would even approve a plan deliberately made to swing public opinion is shocking to many - and it should certainly worry every citizen of South Hills how this develops.
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DEVELOPING: SANTOS DISMISSES ONI DIRECTOR MUNLEY, CONGRESSIONAL HEARINGS BEGIN

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Former ONI Director Scott Munley before a congressional testimony today.

President Santos, as a start of 'broad reform' has dismissed ONI Director Munley and 'welcomed' a congressional investigation into the incident. The President said that he "Can not put into words how ashamed he is of the agencies actions" and that he "would never approve a operation to these likings". The Senate has already taken him up on the offer, with the first subpoena directed at Director Munley being served yesterday. Hearings are closed-door and limited in press coverage but we will continue to update as the story develops.

Protesters cheered as the Director was dismissed; since his dismissal many protests have calmed down across the country, with the only major ones remaining in Pittsburgh, Matthews, and the Elizabeth Federal District outside of the Congressional hearings.

We'll keep you updated as this story develops.


State Department issues travel advisory for Rokkenjima for the first time since Civil War in 2013


The State Department has issued a travel advisory for Rokkenjima for the first time since the Rokkenjiman Civil War in 2013. The advisory was directed at animal caretakers and zoologists, who now potentially face prosecution if they ever held whales, dolphins, or elephants in captivity.

"We do not wish to get involved in another nations national politics, however the scope of this law is too broad to ignore." noted State Department spokeswoman Alyssa Keyes, "The scope of the law implies a broad jurisdiction on both a international and domestic level. Into clarification is made, we can not gaurentee the safe travel of people who work in this field from unjust prosecution."

South Hills was not the first to raise concerns with this issue; East Moreland's News Agency made clear that Queen Matilda of East Moreland can be prosecuted under the broad scope of the new law.

The full list of August 2015 travel advisories can be found Here
Edited by hobbes, 16th August 2015 - 06:23 PM.
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Legislation calls to disband Federal Mounted Police, shrink federal power in Law Enforcement.
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Pictured: Federal Mounted Police troopers assist at the Mundus Trade Conference in Pittsburgh last year.

Elizabeth - Senator Calvin Takahashi (I-Jackson) and Rep. Robert Ketcham (RN-Franklin) have proposed legislation to remove the Federal Mounted Police agency and establish more centralized law enforcement authority for the states.

"The FMP was formed to enforce the northern frontier during the early 1800's. Now that it's been established that "the northern frontier" is now seven states in our republic of twenty seven, It's time we come to the conclusion the agency has long outlived its purpose. The states should have the power reserved to conduct primary law enforcement in their sovereign territory."

The legislation calls for current FMP Troopers to be transferred to the relevant State Police agency based on the troopers state of residence. With most of the Republican National party voting for the legislation, as well as Independents, several Republican Democrats have spoken out against it, though most analysts suggest the law will pass short of a Presidential veto.

Asides, most citizens support States' Rights in the issue of law enforcement, with 54% viewing the Mounted Police as 'unneeded', 16% viewing it as "a overextension of the Federal Government", Only 21% see the agency as "Needed", with 9% undecided.
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Independent-Republican Nationalist coalition propose bill to withdraw from Ardian Entente
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Pictured: Protestors clashed with police during the national 'Stop Entente' week last weekend.


CAPITOL HILL - The coalition now known as the 'Independent-Republican Natioanlist coalition', a powerful group of Republican Nationalists and about half of the Independents in Congress has, after formalizing the disbanding of the Federal Mounted Police last month, proposed powerful new legislation to withdraw South Hills from the Ardian Entente.

Though it is expected liberals will fight against it, the coalition has enough votes to pass the legislation.

A spokesman for the RNC stated "This is the last remaining obstacle to us choosing our own destiny - Tangled alliances like this force us into conflicts we don't want or need like the one in Mairseilles."

Santos approval ratings dip below 30% as former Chief of Staff called to testify before Congress

CAPITOL HILL - Former Santos Administration Chief of Staff Charlie Garrison was called to testify before Congress today as to his knowledge of the covert bombing on the Mundus Trade Center several months ago.

Garrison has pleaded against self incrimination several times in the trial, and the session ended in recess today as it is reported a plea deal may be reached, which, if so, will jeopardize the Santos administration if Garrison says anything incriminating of the President.

Fleet Week 2015 to kick off in San Fierro next weekend
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Pictured:The 'Pittsburgh' task force, Carrier Strike Group 3, returns home from the Mairseille campaign to Fleet Week celebrations


SAN FIERRO - The location for Fleet Week 2015 has been formalized as San Fierro, the annual celebration will take place this year the weekend of October 16th-18th. The following nations have been invited by the Congressional Committee on Naval Diplomacy to partake in a formal role in the fleet exercises:


  • Rokkenjima
  • East Moreland
  • Toshikawa
  • Seaforth
  • Aeternum
  • Dartfordia


The Congressional Committee on Naval Diplomacy noted that 'While most, if not all nations are free to send participating vessels, the exercises themselves have been and always will be reserved to South Hills' closest diplomatic allies.

The Board noted that if any nation wishes to partake in the exercises, they could petition the board as to why they should participate.
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Editorial: Massive ICBM stockpile more of a threat than deterrence
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By Jessica Wilkins

I recently entered a abandoned First Responder III missile silo in western Bartlett. The experience was truly eye opening on just how much disrepair has gone into our strategic weapons. There are currently over 900 active ICBM silos in the more rural areas (mostly northern) South Hills. That number used to be 1500 at the height of the Cold War with the Union of Soviet Republics, but it is still total overkill given the current enemies the nation faces.

It is also widely known South Hills has perfected MIRV - Multiple Independent Reentry Vehicle - technology, the only nation to have based its primary strategy upon the use of MIRVs. A average First Responder missile has up to 12 warheads and a Kingpin missile (the First Responders 'bigger brother') can have up to 20. This effectively multiplies the effective ratio from 900 warheads to over 10,000. Following the ICBM modernization program of the 1990's, over 80% of these weapons are thermobaric in nature - able to reasonably level a small city or military base per warhead.

Ever since the budget cuts following the cooling of relations and eventual total collapse of the USR, securing over 900 independent sites has been..difficult... to say the least for the Air Force. A investigative reporter for affiliate station KDKL in North Columbia was able to walk into a ballistic missile complex and into the above-ground command post before being stopped by Security Forces personell.

And that doesn't account for the over 400 abandoned silos - that now sit empty in rural South Hills - the largest nation on Mundus by land area - that now are acting for some as luxorious homes for the rich, or as criminal hideouts or shantytowns for the homeless.

While such a arsenal was - frankly - still overkill even against the USR and her WARSAW allies, it should be accounted that the nature of any enemy has changed - "Just a tenth of a arsenal this size could wipe a average nation on Mundus off the map in terms of population centers and military installations. With a lot of nations on the planet now running rapidly into overpopulation issues, with Rokkenjima and Dijel being prime examples of overpopulation, the implications of a full blown ICBM interchange would be simply devastating to any nation with a larger population density." noted Channel 5 Defense Analyst Charlie Chaplain.

Chaplain further explained that South Hills' development of MIRVs was out of necessity - "With the development of anti-ballistic missile technology, that we and several other nations possess, the only real logical next step for missile development was more missiles - Even the most advanced systems out there simply could not cope with a ballistic missile attack involving thousands of incoming warheads - The numbers for successful intercepts go down dramatically with numbers." When asked if other nations possess such a capability and could use it against South Hills, he noted "If anyone else has such a full-blown capability, they aren't saying anything about it - which is probably the smarter thing to do given the topic at hand."

Air Force spokeswoman Leslie Hampton said in a statement that the purpose of the arsenal was to maintain strategic parity with any potential adversary, and, above all else, maintain deterrence. However, we as a nation should re-evaluate at what cost we would like to maintain that parity.
Edited by hobbes, 17th October 2015 - 06:14 AM.
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DMC Reveals Electric DeLorean on 'Back to the Future Day'

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JACKSON - The DeLorean Motor Company today revealed in cooperation with Bartlett University that it had developed and is planning to market a fully electric DeLorean. The company, which has only existed for the last 30 years to refurbish and keep parts of the original (now collector's) DeLorean fleet, revealed that it had been developing the technology for the last 4 years.

"When you think of a electric car - what more of a fitting platform could you ask for than a DeLorean?" asked DMC CEO Jack Marbury.

Marbury noted that there would be multiple options - a fully original, 1983 specced DeLorean with no changes outside of the electric motor or a "new, next-generation" model that would feature enhanced systems and technology, including GPS and Satellite radio support, enhanced AC, and a fully redesigned interior.

The company plans to market the car as a 2016 model year, meaning it will hit exotic dealers worldwide before this year ends.

Navy to participate in Illumic exercises
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The Department of the Navy confirmed today that Carrier Strike Group 2, led by Pittsburgh would be conducting joint exercises with Seaforth and East Moreland in the Illumic Channel. The Pittsburgh battlegroup will work on joint-exercises with both Seaforth and East Moreland out of Camp Redfern in the Illumic East complex.

Navy spokeswoman Jane Matthews noted that such practices have been 'planned months in advance and have no relation to current world events'

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South Hills Air Force installation rumored to being built at EMAF Ostlake

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A radio array simular to the one rumored to be built at Ostlake


EAST MORELAND - Sources have confirmed a South Hills Air Force installation is being built at the Royal East Moreland Air Force Ostlake complex. The Department of Defense has refused to comment on the installations purpose, though analysis by experts and online users alike have indicated it is a new station within South Hills' High Frequency Global Communications System network. The system is used to maintain global constant contact with ships at sea and planes in the air, particularly when satellite communication is unavailable.

Sources from within the Air Force and Navy indicated that coverage in the Northern Sea and Illumic was 'spotty, at best' and that the natural next step would be acquiring a HFGCS station within a Illumic or Northern nation.

It is unclear if any other details have been forged in a agreement with East Moreland, though Channel 11 can report with near certainty that the installation is being constructed by and will be staffed by South Hills military personel.

The Department of Defense and East Moreland Ministry of Defense have both refused to comment.

Update: Channel 11 confused the naming of the Ostlake military complex and the Royal East Moreland Air Force. A correction has been issued and we apologize for any confusion caused.
Edited by hobbes, 26th November 2015 - 10:32 PM.
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Amadeus O'Donnell emerges as Republican Nationalist frontrunner
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As the election season starts to heat up, of the five confirmed Republican-Nationalist candidates for President, one name has stuck out; Amadeus O'Donnel. The multi-billionare real estate giant announced his official candidacy for President with the goal to "Make South Hills Amazing Again.".

O'Donnels ideas immediately emerged as unorthodox to many liberals; saying that owning a gun was "the patriotic duty of every citizen". He further went on to demand "A wall be built to separate us from our communist neighbors to our east" and that South Hills should have a more active involvement on the world stage.

While these methods and ideas alienate most liberals, it has rallied the Republican-Nationalist base. Current polls have O'Donnell with over 60% of the R-N vote, the other five candidates each averaging 10 percent or less.

Meanwhile on the Democratic primaries, President Santos has not officially confirmed he will seek a second term. Many experts are saying that he wont, with one expert remarking "After the [MTC bombings] scandal, Santos seeking a second term would likely be political suicide."

Channel 11 will keep you updated as more information develops.
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>>> BREAKING <<< - AIR CRASH SURVIVORS TRAPPED IN REACH BATTLEGROUND
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PICTURED: The city of Reach burns into the night, with over 200 South Hills and East Moreland citizens trapped inside the city


REACH, SUPREME SOVEREIGNTY - Air Ardia Flight 434 was downed last night over Supreme Sovreignty. Initial reports by the pilots indicated a 'explosion'. It was not clear of the plane was brought down by a bomb or a missile, though all sides of the ongoing Enlightenment War decline bringing the plane down.


Thanks to the (some are already calling heroic) flying of pilots Jack Johannes and Michelle Wilkinson, the plane crash landed south of Reach. Surprisingly, however, no search and rescue party was ever sent from coalition forces, It was in fact, Enlightenment forces that secured the crash site and transported survivors (Numbers are hazy at the moment, but at the moment we can confirm over 200 of the 275 passengers and crew, including the captain and first officer, have survived). The South Hills Navy had a single ship in the area, the Bainbridge, and her captain quickly decided that he was unable to risk his own crew to fly deep into a conflict zone to pull survivors. Coalition forces appear to have ignored the mayday calls of the crew, however Enlightenment forces responded, secured the area, and exfiltrated survivors to Reach for treatment.

More horrendously, however, later that same night Coalition forces began bombing Reach, possibly in preperation for a ground assault. Unconfirmed reports indicate four survivors died at the Reach airport when it was bombed as a strategic target, though in the fog of the conflict these reports are yet to be confirmed.

A spokesman of the State Department reiterated that South Hills is exploring "all possible diplomatic avenues" to ensure a safe withdrawal of the survivors from the city. "These people have no idea where they are, no feasible way of evacuating a city they've never been in before in their lives, and do not deserve to be killed in a war for surviving a plane crash." The State Department would not comment on how the plane was brought down.

Melissa Jacobs, mother of a passenger on the plane: "It's absolutely horrendous! I have no way of knowing if he's alive...or dead...because it's simply hell down there. Just tell me if he's dead or not! I can't stand just...not knowing!" She further went on to criticize the Coalition for not doing enough for survivors, instead relying on the Enlightenment, however the explicit language of this portion of the interview prohibits us from sharing the exact wording online.

Another spokesman of the Defense Department confirmed that the second Carrier Strike Group, led by the Pittsurgh, had arrived in the area of operations and a military operation "is a possibility, but not one we should pursue lest diplomacy fails"
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Split declares state of emergency following four foot snow fall
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Snowfall in much of the state of Split totalled over four feet int he last two days, seven times the state yearly average.


This article is available in English and Croatian

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Diplomatic solution reached on Matilda, task force immediately diverted to Illumic Channel
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A diplomatic solution has been reached with Toshikawa on the occupation of Matilda island. The island would be given to South Hills, however, Toshikawan authorities would be permitted to hunt down and extradite suspected members of the terrorist group responsible for attacks against Toshikawa and other nations.

It was immediately after revealed that the strike force mustered to defend Matilda was being diverted; three Carrier Battle Groups and two Cruiser-Destroyer squadrons (3 carriers, 27 destroyers, 4 frigates, 7 logistics ships) would be diverted to the ongoing crisis in the Illumic channel over the issue of Borland sovereignty.

Of South Hills Citizens, 64% polled AGAINST Borland being recognized as a nation, with only 24% FOR sovereignty and 12% undecided.

A Defense Department spokesperson said the order was made "To ensure the interests of South Hills and her allies, most notably East Moreland, are represented and that we show a strong resolve in regards to our opinion on the situation"

Critics note that the deployment was made to 'directly size-up' the current Ackaerin naval force deployed, the main nation visibly supporting Borlander independence in the field. Critics further noted that the deployment would only serve to 'far escalate the situation'.

It is important to note that this does not represent a 'single fleet', says DoD spokesman Tom Lee, however, that 'five seperate and independently operating naval commands will be working in the area with the goals of achieving a properly functioning naval force with our allies in the region.'


When asked if the deployment was overkill, Lee responded, "Well someone should've asked Achkaerin that before they sent multiple aircraft carriers. We need to size up." Lee would not confirm the presence of submarines in the Illumic.

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DoD & NASP: 'No indications to confirm' Ishtar landing.

After getting bombarded for hours with press inquiries to the validity of a Achkaerinese landing on Ishtar, something that the Toshikawans immediately blew the whistle on as being a 'elaborate hoax', the Department of Defense and National Aerospace Program issued a joint press statement today:

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Folllowing a painstaking inquiry and studying of data from the Near-Mundus tracking system, which has been tracking spacecraft and space junk since 1985, as well as from tracking satellites, we have no indication to confirm there was in-fact, a landing on Ishtar at this time.


Professor Alec McDewell, Physicist for Matthews University, stated that "landing on Ishtar(venus) given today's technology is simply unachievable, let alone walking on the surface in nothing more than a pressure suit."
Edited by hobbes, 27th January 2016 - 03:34 PM.
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Cutter Impala confirmed sunk, fate of crew remains unknown
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UNION OF NORDIC PEOPLES - A Coast Guards spokesperson confirmed that the Cutter Impala, a Medium Endurance cutter, was among the casualties of the meteor strike on the Union of Nordic Peoples several hours ago.

The ship, which was just 23 miles from the coastline, had 'virtually no way of averting the disaster'. The ad-hoc tsunami created by the meteor strike measured waves up to 100 feet. The small cutter was rated to withstand seas up to 25 feet.

It is unclear who, if any, of the ships 98 crewmembers survived. The South Hills Coast Guard and navy confirmed they where searching for survivors, but none had been found as of yet.

The rear quarter of the ship was found broken "like a twig" according to one journalist, but as of yet the main portion (if it survived) of the ship has yet to been found, or if it has sunk to the bottom of the ocean.

Given the sudden nature of the event, it is very much unlikely crew below decks had time to abandon ship.

The South Hills Coast Guard and Navy have maintained a limited presence in the area since the Nya Aland Whaling Crisis of last year.
Edited by hobbes, 28th February 2016 - 04:43 AM.
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Libertarian party resurges, set to take Presidential election

In a astonishing resurgance since the parties dismal 17% vote last election cycle, the last tracking poll officially has the Libertarian Party of South Hills candidate Thomas Mayweather in the lead against Republican-National candidate Amadeus O'Donnell and President Santos of the Liberal Party.

The party, which promises to "get the government out of the lives of the people" promises to scale down the federal government, including cutting a lot of federal health care programs and encouraging inter-state competition for healthcare providers. The party is also a avid supporter of the right to bear arms, while distancing itself from evangelicals by supporting gay marriage. "The government should have no play in who you choose to marry" noted Presidential candidate Mayweather.

Southerners go to the polls this month (May) to pick the next President, as well as half of Congress.

State department floats possibility of deal with Dartfordia pending CSU withdrawal

A state department document leaked to reporters Sunday indicates the department was "floating" the prospect of approaching Dartfordia for greater trade ties should the nation withdraw from the Cross Straits Union, though the nature of the document could not be identified. State department officials refused to comment on the matter, calling it a "unfounded rumor".


UNP Aid fund passes despite fierce resistance

A bill authorizing billions in aid for the Union of Nordic Peoples passed despite facing resistance from both the House and the Senate, It passed 52-48 in the Senate and 272-238 in the House, with conservatives still opposing the bill. "We have plenty at problems at home - it is not our responsibility to play the world's first responder for problems abroad" noted a Congressional spokesperson.

The aid is expected to take the form of care packages as well as assistance from the South Hills Armed Forces should the UNP request it.

The main proponents of the bill, a group known as the "Impala Care Fund', named after the sunk Coast Guard Cutter in the disaster, noted that the aid bill passing was a "Major victory for humanity, and the first step to helping rebuild the Union of Nordic Peoples".
Edited by hobbes, 9th May 2016 - 03:04 PM.
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O'DONNELL ON TOSHINDAI: INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY DROPPED THE BALL
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Speaking from a charity golf event, presidential hopeful Amadeus O'Donnell dropped a bomb after President Koken of the Rennyo state of Toshindai said that she would seek "to remove South Hills' presence from the Ardian peninsula" with the other Toshindai states. O'Donnell stated "You know, it's a real shame that we dropped the ball on this. They shouldn't be three different states, the international community handled it terribly. You got a okay place surrounded by communists and social justice warriors. It's a real shame. Ya know, we don't win anymore in international politics, we make terrible deals, and end up with situations like Toshindai. We don't win anymore, Rokkenjima doesn't win anymore, the international community as a whole simply doesn't win anymore and you end up with situations like Toshindai. Too many damn communists and too many losses. We're going to start winning again and it's going to be great."


The state department briefly told reporters that Mr. O'Donnell's opinions do not represent official state department policy or operations unless he is elected.


FINAL POLL BEFORE RUN-OFF ELECTION: SANTOS 50.5% O'DONNELL 49.5%!

The final poll before the run-off election following the elimination of libertatarian Thomas Mayweather has incumbent Santos and O'Donnell in a very tight race. Though Santos is technically "Winning" as of this poll, it is important to remember there is a 2% margin of error so the race could go either way.

Polls open tomorrow morning.
Edited by hobbes, 13th May 2016 - 04:34 PM.
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SANTOS NARROWLY WINS RE-ELECTION: LIBERTARIANS STORM SENATE, HOUSE IN DROVES
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President Matthew Santos has narrowly won re-election by 239,000 votes

ELECTION RESULTS - FIRST ROUND
Santos: 33,342,233 (33.4%)
O'Donnell: 32,232,213 (32.4%)
Mayweather: 29,988,722 (31.2%)

ELECTION RESULTS - SECOND ROUND
Santos: 52,342,344 (51.2%)
O'Donnell: 49,122,123 (48.8%)
Mayweather: ELIMINATED (0%)

The Santos campaign stated it as "Honored by the choice of the People in this election, and Mr. Santos hoped to serve his second three-year term with honor and dignity to the nation."

A O'Donnell spokesperson stated that "We've received a lot of reports of suspicion in the voting process, and we'll evaluate all legal options before proceeding."

LIBERTARIANS UPSET SENATE/HOUSE BALANCE

With the newfound popularity of the Libertarian party as a 3rd party, many Republican Nationalists and Liberal Democrats have been kicked out of office by a resurgance of Libertarians, taking 55 seats in the House and a whopping 24 in the senate. While the balance of power in the House is relatively small, the Libertarian resurgance has dethroned the R-N majority, now with no party having a direct majority in the senate. It remains unclear how this will affect progress in the future.

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30 Years into "Top Gun Day", let's remember the plane that started it all.
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30 Years after the release of "Top Gun" the craze is still real - But let's recognize the plane behind it all - the Thompson F-21 Bobcat - is still a powerful workhorse of the South Hills military.

Indeed, the plane has proved to be such a workhorse that the 'Super Bobcat', designed and manufactured in the 90's, is still in wide service with the Air Force and limited service with the Navy.

"The Bobcat is still among the fastest fighter aircraft in the world - if not the fastest, and it still has a nearly unmatched ceiling. We'd be fools to give that up" noted Captain Grace Kelly, a commander of a Air Force F-21 Squadron.

The Air Force and Navy project to continue having Super Bobcat variants, last produced in 2008, in service past 2020.
Edited by hobbes, 17th May 2016 - 04:33 AM.
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Protests erupt against Cross Straits Union after Free Mundus Network connects CSU to Andean Genocide
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Protests have erupted on campuses around South Hills after a Free Mundus Network article connected Rokkenjima and the Cross Straits Union to the Andean genocide peprated by the previous government of Toshindai.


Protesters were met by Police on several campuses around the country, the most brutal of which being at the University of Pittsburgh, where students who recently returned from a foreign exchange trip burned a estimated $50,000 worth of Rokkenjiman Ducat's in protest.

While much of the protest was against Rokkenjima itself, the Libertarian Students Union organized a protest against "The CSU and organizations like it, which strip national sovereignty in the shale of globalism creating events like this".

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Duquesne State University students burn approximately $1,500 worth of Rokkenjiman Ducats in protest. The largest "Money burning" protest was visible at the University of Pittsburgh where a estimated $50,000 was burned.

Police officials have claimed that while protesters occasionally got "Fiesty", for the most part protests have been nonviolent and peaceful.
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BREAKING: JUDGE ORDERS SPECIAL ELECTION DUE TO INCONCLUSIVE RESULTS
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In a shocking turn of events, a federal judge has ruled that a Special Election between Amadeus O'Donnnell and Matthew Santos is to occur within 7 days due to a "Wildly inconclusive result ripe with voter fraud and inconsistencies shifting the electoral process". O'Donnell is already rallying his supporters, speaking from Pittsburgh International Airport:

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The fact is, folks, the establishment doesn't like me. They'll rig ballots and the process to prevent you, the people, getting your say in government over the shills in Elizabeth and the Santos political hacks. They can't STAND you standing up for your values and your rights. And we're going to kick them to the curb next week and take our country back. Thank you.


When asked of his stint with the Secretary General position of the CTO, O'Donnell noted "It was kind of a joke at first, y'know, but the fact they'd literally pick a teenager over me just shows my supporter how much the establishment doesn't like being uprooted. Votes in the CTO are bought and sold for internal deals and that ship needs fixed as well. But we need to make our country great again before we focus on the world at large."

A Santos campaign spokesperson only said "We beat him once, we'll beat 'em again" when asked about the O'Donnell resurgance.
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O'Donnell cedes election, noting 'He had made his point' without seeking to further destabilize nation

Amadeos O'Donnell has ceded the runoff election to Matthew Santos, citing that he had made his point about national politics and that his goal was to unite the nation, not further divide it.

Polling was mixed, predicting a 51-49 win for Santos or a result the other way around. The federal judge has scratched the runoff election following the concession.

It is not sure how this will play into the future Santos administration, which many fear is now without mandate.

New CTO Ambassador: We will have the Secretary General's or Achkaerin's resignation. - Asks congress to withdraw from CTO Command

The newly appointed CTO Ambassador, Jayne Mayweather, immediately blasted the body and its leadership pertaining to the establishment of permanent security council members in a statement before Congress, which had recently appointed her.

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Gentlemen and ladies of this body, which has so humbly appointed me to this position.

I come before you today as our new ambassador to the Commonwealth Treaty Organization. I did not ask you all to put me here because it would be easy, but because it would be hard. What this very congress approved, some years ago, does not represent what the organization has come; one of deceit, mistrust, and misinformation.

I speak, of course, of the recent Permanent Security Council Members amendment. While the context of such a amendment seems good on paper, it is important we note who has gained such seats and why. Serenity Azurewind, current Secretary General, cites a willingness to participate in CTO missions as her reasoning, and overall participation. While I concede, under the previous ambassador our willingness to involve ourselves in the CTO was minimal - it is important to note one thing - We have contributed to all major CTO military missions and operations.

While Mrs Azurewind so boldly proclaims to Ackaerinese television that only three countries - East Moreland, Achkaerin and Dijel - are presently contributing to CTO's Ground Forces, our boys still are on the ground in the Union of Nordic Peoples - She then goes on a rant against Rokkenjima, but, again, forgets to mention our involvement at all.

*Boos would be heard from the crowd of Senators and Congressmen, before dieing down*

We contributed three times as many forces in Mairselles as Achkaerin - yet we are not even worthy of mention as Mrs Azurewind attacks Rokkenjima and praises her own nation and her allies. Our sons and daughters died in a faraway land in the name of the CTO, and yet the Secretary General does not even mention our contribution which was higher than that of her own nation. We stepped in to stop confrontation between Nya Aland and a protest crowd, with CTO backing, and we aren't even mentioned once in the entire speech.

She then has the audacity to go on and name two prominent allied nations - Dartfordia and East Moreland, who we both share close ties with, and she then goes on to name her own country - Of whom she is still a commissioned officer in its navy - as a 3rd candidate. It should be obvious at this point this is not about who would be best suited for the position - but rather who is worthy of diplomatic kickbacks from Achkaerin. Mr. O'Donnell contested her appointment, so of course we are off the list, and the long string of diplomatic minefield between Rokkenjima and Ackhaerin has of course knocked them off the goodie list as well.

*The crowd erupts in boos and jeering, calming down momentarily*

If such conflict of interest had ocurred in these hallowed halls, we'd kick the person out who did it then fix the loophole. This should be no exemption. I will ask Achkaerin either resign its Security Council seat, or Serenity Azurewind resign as Secretary General due to this abrupt conflict of interest in the appointment. Should this not occur, my first resolution proposed as this nations Ambassador shall be invoking Article 62 of the Commonwealth Treaty for Serenity Azurewind's impeachment.

*The crowd erupts in applause, from both sides of the isle, stopping momentarily*

And should she so choose to ignore our contributions to this body - we shant make any further. I am proposing before this body that South Hills withdraws from the CTO Military Command immediately. We shall continue to assist our Nordic friends but not under a system that chooses to ignore us.

*The crowd again, erupts in applause. Mrs. Mayweather bows off of her podium and leaves the chamber*


Edited by hobbes, 29th June 2016 - 04:28 PM.
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Judge rules that Federal Television Committee can not oversee Mundovision proceedings.

In a surprising ruling, a federal judge has barred the Federal Television Committee on overseeing South Hills' entry into Mundovision 2016, stating that the Committee had "no bounds to negotiate on the broadcasting communities behalf" after a lawsuit by fifteen major service providers was filed after last years Mundovision.

It is unknown what effect this will have on South Hills' participation in the event or if it will even be broadcasted in South Hills, several states have already hinted at entering the contest unilaterally.
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War Department rejects plans for women in combat units
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Women are currently allowed to serve in 'non-combatant' rates in the South Hills Armed Forces, and it looks to stay that way.

Some are questioning the War Department's decision to, after months of review, deny Women the right to enter combat units. Others are saying it is 'simply biology'. The decision was made after the Marine Corps held a study, comparing two Company sized elements; one all male, one with a proportionate amount of females. The study found that "The mixed unit had roughly half the efficiency and combat ability of the all-male unit in long term operational studies."

The National Association for the Enhancement of Women's Rights strongly detested the situation, noting that "Individual performance of each women should be assessed, not the units". The Marine Corps stressed that team based efficiency is the key to any military operation, and thus was the key of their study.

Women are currently allowed in all 'non-front line' roles, including most roles available to the Navy, Coast Guard, and Air Force, but a majority of non-logistical roles in the Army and Marines remain restricted to women, and seemingly will continue to be so for the forseeable future.

The NAAEWP had previously called upon Congress to address the issue, who, allegedly to dodge the decision, passed a bill explicitly leaving the issue to the War Department.
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