Kalistani Major History

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Selucia threatens to leave NAM meeting
The decision comes after the treatment given to the previous foreign minister, Megara Kondou, by the Kalistani government


New Selucian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nadia Galvius, explaining the Selucian position

After the words of Megara Kondou, former Minister of Foreign Affairs until today, in the Kalistani chamber, and the reaction of the SPoK, the central government of Selucia has decided to take action on the matter.

In conversations between the Kalistani Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Caesar de Selucia, it was announced that Mrs. Kondou immediately resigned after the controversy to her position as minister of Selucia, in order to avoid harming anyone in the coming days, justifying her resignation under the maxim that "ignorance does not exempt the fulfillment of the law".

The former minister would have broken the law of Kalistan by speaking in its parliament without prior permission, in a debate related to the support of this nation to the candidate countries to the World Congress, among whose points it was debated to withdraw support for Selucia. The Minister intervened in the session, showing her disagreement with these actions and asking her NAM partners for collaboration, in order to get a neutral nation placed in one of the largest world organizations. Words that did not sit well with the SPoK, which immediately requested the enforcement of the espionage law to deport the Minister to Selucia, given that she was in Kalistan to negotiate the terms of the NAM.

Selucia's government has reacted immediately, announcing the return to Selucia and the voluntary resignation of Megara Kondou as Selucia's representative "so as not to damage the image of the nation" and appointing Nadia Galvius as the new minister. It was she who made the following statements from the parliament of Selucia:

"We understand that Kalistan wants to enforce its law, and that as Minister Kondou has said in her resignation, ignorance of the law does not exempt her from compliance." However, why was the minister not stopped before entering the parliament? In the first place, and secondly, can we really be considered as a nation that practices espionage? Are these the bases on which we are going to settle the Movement of Non-Aligned Nations? It does not make sense to continue, if such accusations and similar measures are to be launched on allied and friendly nations. Although we understand that the Kalistani law prevents any external representative from speaking on its camera - something that we are not going to value, even if we are in disagreement - there are ways and means of doing things, although Minister Kondou had to be duly informed of how to carry out her actions, she did it with the best intention in the world, to continue defending the NAM as the best way she knew, to prevent Selucia's candidacy from falling down. And we find this unpleasant situation between our two nations. For this reason, and in protest, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Selucia will not appear in Kalistan to continue the talks. Instead, they will remain until further notice or new elections, Consul Opis and Caesar Nerva, which will be in their legitimate right to take the actions that are appropriate. "

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"Kalistan will be respected"
Leader of the Socialist Party of Kalistan takes a hard line on disrespect for Kalistani Institutions
Kaliburg, Ananto
July 8 3344


Leader of the Socialist Party Maria Reina-Rodriguez speaks at Symposium on Kalistani Politics in June

Just over a year following the "Clerical Election" of March 4433, which led to the dramatic downfall of Socialist Party and the rising turbulence that followed as the ancient Party struggles to deal with its unexpected position in the Minority, the former Premier of the Republic, Maria Reina-Rodriguez now takes an uncompromising stance for Kalistani Socialists and for Kalistani Sovereignty.

"Just because the Socialists are not in power," Reina began, "this does not mean that people can now feel free to walk all over Kalistan.  This goes for foreign powers, friend and foe alike, as well as domestic actors.  Kalistan will be respected, and if nobody else wants to look to it, it will be our job to do so."

The former Premier of the Republic delivered this strong statement during a June symposium on the state of Kalistani Politics under Rightist rule.  "Yes, of course we have confidence in the Government.  We have not called for new elections, and we voted against the Government Bill last year, it was because we were not included." But Reina had more strong words for the Government: 

"What some do not realize yet is that Kalistan is a socialist Republic which merely tolerates capitalism.  The more they push Kalistan to the right and towards vampire capitalism, the stronger the response will be when they finally leave office.  And they will, eventually.  They will get tired of bouncing their heads off the Mountain that is Institutionalized Kalistan.  The history of the Socialist Party of Kalistan, and for the most part the history of Modern Kalistan, is the history of revisionist Parties making ephemeral changes, only to either conform to Kalistani reality, or to lose their constituency and fade into oblivion.  This was the lesson the Socialist Party learned in 2591, and it has been the lesson countless Parties have learned since then.  Some have been successful.  We think of our friends and Legislative Partners, the old Revolutionary Freedom Party, and the Labour Party of Kalistan more recently, who learned that there is plenty of room for improvement all the time, but the Institutions of Kalistan triumph over attempts to liquidate them.  Our institutions are what make Kalistan strong.  The Parties which make it into Kalistan's History books are the ones which conform to the Institutional State, rather than ones who attempt to radically alter it."

The former Premier was circumspect about the recent comments from Selucia: 

"The comments from the Selucian Foreign Minister were unfortunate.  It was not the intention of myself or my Party to see Kondou resign.  Nor was it our intention to end Selucia's participation in the conference of the NAM.  Pero Coño!  Where else in the world is attempting to interfere with a Legislature's deliberative process tolerated?  Would Selucia accept a foreign National bursting on the floor of their Senate to interject on one of their bills?  Where else is something like that acceptable?  The fact that Comrade Kondou thought that this action was in anyway acceptable is just so beyond me, and the fact that our Foreign Minister was prepared to do nothing just floored me.  The Selucian Foreign Minister's actions showed a complete disregard for our Legislature, and demonstrated what she really thought of Kalistan.  She says expulsion for violating our national law was not how friendly nations treat one another, but her violation of our national law and disregard for the sanctity and integrity of our legislative process, and her successor's remorseless comments on the affair really show us what Selucia thinks of Kalistani Sovereignty.  I wonder precisely what Selucia thinks they will get out of the NAM.  Do they think Kalistan will become their colony?  Because they sure treat us as something less than their equal by blaming us for the departure of Selucia from the talks.  No tengo palabras.  Es típico, por desgracia of how other nations have long treated our Republic.  I just wish our Government would have the spine to stand up for our Republic."

The Leader of the Opposition vowed to remain in the defiant but loyal Opposition, and agreed that the Party would work with the Government, where the Government proposed Socialist policies.

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GanJam 4434 reflects a more sober sound
Music is more complex and introspective compared to previous years
Kluptoon, Odufaray
September 5, 4434

This year's Ganjam, held at at Kluptoon Pavillion in Odufaray, was a modest success, reported concert organizer Phillip Shankar.  "The lineup reflected an alternative mood which seems to hold sway in Kalistan's music scene this year.  As we scouted for bands, the sort of raucous acts which have graced our stages over the past few decades were either on hiatus or had split up.  It seems that the Valruzian invasion and Szarybeat bands are all things of the past as well.  So we returned this year to fundamentals.  The result was a festival with more complex and introspective music provided by bands designed for mature audiences.  I suppose the kids got the message and stayed home, which depressed sales.  So we finished in the black, but barely."  More than 95,000 fans attended the show during the 4 day festival , which is a lower attendance than usual.

Day 1 Highlights

The 4434 Ganjam was the first Jam in a while to not have an International Music day as Day 1 for the Show.  Instead, international acts were featured throughout the program.  Day 1 of this Jam also brought the artistic installations into focus.  As music played throughout the day from local and international bands, festival goers were also treated to dance exhibitions, modern art installations, and demonstrations of creative art performance.  An entire pavilion adjacent to the festival grounds allowed people to view the artistic works of Kalistani artists without getting too far from the music.  Featured in the pavilion was the recently formed Kaliburg Ballet, who performed the classic piece "The Walnut Suite" from notable Trigunian composer Vladovich.  The Troupe repeated the performance on Day 2.


Revolution Road, the top band on Kalistan's Alternative charts right now, headlined Night 1 of the Jam

At the Music Festival Day 1 featured music of an alternative flair.  The lineup included Kalistani alternative newcomers Revolution Road, who closed the night with their mix of hard rock and complex harmonies.  The foursome from Vrassa City had recently scored a number 1 on the Triple A charts in Kalistan, and because they were already booked, they were moved back in the Night's lineup to close the night out.  Leader singer Delores Butterfield said, "Wow, it is a real honor to play the Jam this year.  We tried to really kick out our rocking tunes, but had to also kinda keep it mellow.  It was a pretty neat balance to keep these Heads entertained.  But it was a great experience, and it really illuminated some ways we can grow as artists in the coming years."  Butterfield added, "I've never been asked out on so many dates.  Haha.  Sorry guys, and ladies:  I'm married to the band."

Day 2 Highlights


Individual Messiah brings alt-electronica back to the stage at this year's GanJam

Night 2 returned to normal form as the Legacy acts took the stage.  Acts which had not been heard of in 15 or 20 years made their way back to the stage.  Many of the bands were underground hits while the Szarybeat phenomenon was sweeping Kalistan and the rest of Seleya.  The night's concert was headlined by Alorian electronic rockers "Individual Messiah", who last toured Kalistan in 4416 and were just wrapping up a comeback tour of Seleya and Keris.  Lead singer Zeke Featherworth said, "It's always enjoyable to play Kalistan.  Most countries are not so liberal with their-- ahem--drug laws.  We try to come back here as often as we can, even if it's just as tourists.  But yeah, man, we'd love to play Kalistan more too, you know, if you know any booking agents.  When we come back, we'll do the rest of the cocaine...  hahaha..."

An older, and wiser Syndicate plays one final set for the Fans on Night 2 of the Jam

Night 2 was closed by Kalistani pop legends "The Syndicate" who reformed specifically for the Jam.  The Syndicate was the first Kalistani response to Szarybeat and broke the Valruzian monopoly over the Kalistani charts in 4419.  They haven't been active since 4423, when music tastes had left their sound behind, but lead singer Timmy Grafton said:  "When the Organizers of the Jam asked us to Headline this year, we jumped at the chance.  Most of us stayed in music, though we broke up in 23.  Bobby, Chip, and Walt have all become producers with 14 gold albums between them. I moved on to movie scores, and Donny and Futterman both put out a couple of solo records in the late  20s."  The only original member who was not able to join the band on stage was founding member William Torqelson.  "Willy, well, I mean, I guess its public news so I can repeat it, but, he...  When we broke up, he sort of lost his mind.  He went into prostitution, and in 4430, he murdered 14 cops while he was dusted to the eyeballs.  He's at King's Rock now.  I visited him a couple years ago and he's working the grounds.  He has no intention of leaving.  So, its just us six now."  The Syndicate drew audience appreciation and critical acclaim for their performance at the Jam. "Will we be getting back together?  I doubt it.  This was fun, but playing this show reminded us all why we split up.  I'm glad we could get back together for the fans." Grafton said following the set.

Day 3 Highlights

L-Night continued a recent trajectory of less elaborate stage performances, and quieter softer music.  This year's L-Night featured atmospheric music throughout the day, with alternative acid bands like Club Hits, Bison Rider and Friendship.  Many bands playing Day 3 adopted political protest messages throughout the day, with Steven Olaf of Bison Rider stopping one of the songs and saying "Hold up, hold up.  Man, goddamn, I gotta say, man.  What the hell were we thinking, putting these rightists into power?  I can't, nah, hold it brother, I just can't...  you know...  I can't believe that..."  As Olaf stepped away from the mic, the band picked the song up where it was left off and Olaf finished the set.  A visibly distraught Olaf was interviewed after the set:  "Yeah, the acid got a hold of me there." he said of the interruption.  "What a f--kin bummer, man.  This whole year has just been a real bummer..."  He continued walking on without another word.


L-Night Headliner Donald Horowitz continues playing with a broken guitar during one of the many Highlights of the evening

L-Night was headlined by Acid Rocker Donald Horowitz who took the stage at 10:03 pm, and played for two hours.  Most of his music was new, and consisted of complex instrumentation that in many ways reached out to RF styles.  Horowitz actually broke his guitar half way through the set, but when it began making a feedback sound, he messed with dials and pedals until he was able to modulate the guitar and improvised a solo that lasted 3 and a half minutes.  Most of the fans were completely unaware that anything unintended had happened during the song, and gave Horowitz a standing ovation.  Horowitz now holds the record for most songs played in a single set at the Ganjam:  Over the course of his set this year, Horowitz played 62 distinct songs, ranging from alternative to acid rock, to blues, with some acid soul thrown in for good measure. With this performance, Horowitz has solidified his position in the top 20 for the foreseeable future.

Day 4 Highlights


Sweater Set (formerly known as "Assflayer") closes the Jam on Night 4 and receives a standing ovation

The Show was closed on Day 4 with a broad mix of Kalistani and foreign acts.  Bands from Valruzia, Lourenne, Sekowo, and Egelion all appeared on stage with Kalistani bands interspersed throughtout the day. The Night closed with the biggest Alternative Rock band in Kalistan right now, rock candy veterans Sweater Set.  he Headliners performed a mix of their older music and newer stuff, all to the delight of the crowd.  Said lead singer Bette Svingson:  "We try to keep it sweet, but the lyrics themselves are actually more bittersweet.  There is a lot of songs about lost love.  Some of our poppiest songs are about domestic violence, if you listen to the lyrics.  Most people don't get past the saccharine of my voice though.  They think it is all about flowers and butterflies and sh-t like that."  Svingson said with a laugh.  "Most people don't know that Paco's [the lead guitarist and primary songwriter of the group] influence is speed metal and death metal.  When we were teenagers, Paco and I were in a death metal band called Assflayer.  That clearly didn't go anywhere."  The band had a great time closing the Jam this year, and the crowd loved the live set. 

Overall the Jam was enjoyed by all and marks anther success in the Festival's long history.

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Zandra Arnold InterviewArnold defends performance in Government, understanding of Socialist attitude
Kaliburg, Ananto
December 1, 4434


Deputy Premier Arnold spoke to the Republic directly for the first time

Speaking to the Republic directly in an interview for the first time, Deputy Premier and Leader of the New Liberal Alliance Zandra Arnold defended the NLA's performance in a coalition government with the Southwark Movement. "Our parties are working together harmoniously, managing the finances and defending our place in the world's markets, we did everything we said we'd do when the coalition agreement was signed," Arnold told the Republic, "What was more important to me however was that this was a template, a 3 year test run of a coalition of like-minded free market liberals, and I think the voters will judge it to be a success."

Asked about the Socialists, Arnold was understanding of the attitude of the opposition. "I think Kalistan's political climate and system is changing, it's no longer shared government and cushy ministerial jobs. The Socialists just have to realise this, and use opposition as a process to refine their message, like we did. We didn't refuse coalitions with the Socialists out of disrespect, but out of a need to provide an opposition and work out what we wanted to do in government." Arnold was not worried about the comments made by Socialist leaders after the coalition had been formed. "I said they were arrogant at the time, but it was coming from a party used to 20 years of almost unchallenged power. The al-Khali scandal humbled them, as did our decision not to work with them in government. They'll recover."

Arnold declined to talk about the 4436 election, stating it was "too early". Arnold however did comment on rumours conservative leader Sunitha Medina-Rue would run for the Presidency. "What makes President Maslow such a good President is that he's NLA through and through but he treats all parties on equal footing. Can a person who thinks the opposition party will lead Kalistan to ruin be trusted to hand them the keys to power if they win them? That's the question she needs to ask herself."

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Talliaferro-Bennots named new ODEN-K HeadTass retires after successful ODEN career
Kaliburg, Ananto
June 1, 4435


Jack Talliaferro-Bennots of Kaliburg set to replace Georgia Tass at ODEN-Kalistan

ODEN-Kalistan Chief Georgia Tass retired from her long time job as Director of ODEN-Kalistan at the end of May.  Tass began her tenure at the Kalistani subsidiary branch of ODEN in 4421, and her first mission was Lourenne, in an attempt to negotiate an opportunity for Lourenne to host the GanJam.  A trade war, a dramatic extension of ODEN, and several steps deemed controversial by foreign governments, and now Tass has decided to retire. 

She will be replaced by Anantonese chemist and Superion Pharma representative Jack Talliafero-Bennots.  The 45 year old Talliaferro has set as his agenda further expansion of ODEN, as well a legitimizing of ODEN in the world.  "We totally welcome the developments of a new, non addictive cocaine substitute in Telamon, first of all.  Enercaine represents a great advancement in the recreational drug field, and also provides a great opportunity for pain medication advances.  The possibilities are endless."

Talliaferro signaled a new direction for ODEN.  "Look:  I'm on the same page as Tass.  The policy of ODEN in Kalistan is the same regardless of who is in charge.  But I think new blood in ODEN and new ideas will also help ODEN continue to grow.  I mean:  I'm a pharmaceuticals guy.  I know pills.  I know therapy and I know about addiction.  I'm not going to go out and promote drug addiction.  I don't think my predecessor did either.  But she is unfortunately associated with some policy decisions that even some of our friends don't like, and so I'm going to bring a new perspective on this."

Talliaferro declared an end to preferential pricing from ODEN-Kalistan stocks to Lourenne smugglers.  "No:  there's no reason why our producers, and the whole Cartel for that matter, needs to take a hit to try to hurt Lourenne.  We should be trying to make friends with them.  There is a market for ODEN products that even Lourenne can import without needing to flood their country with stuff that they declared illegal.  We have plenty of pharmaceuticals that have therapeutic purposes which are not recreational drugs, and I think many of my predecessors focused on the recreational side, and not so much on the fact that therapeutic drugs are made by ODEN which can actually also help people."

Talliaferro stated that ODEN countries have been shut completely out of many places in the world, and it should not be this way.  "When they [countries like Louernne] completely cut out ODEN, it not only hurts Kalistan, but all ODEN members.  And several of them have at least some focus in medicine.  We note that Vanuku expressly told us that they did not want drugs which they saw as deleterious to human health and well being.  This is fine.  Let's have ODEN export drugs that countries around the world want.  They don't have to take everything:  why not just focus on the things they want?  ODEN is in an excellent position to supply most of the world's pharmaceutical demands as well, and we invite pharmaceutical producing countries to consider joining ODEN because cooperation is better in many ways than competition."

Talliaferro had a message for those countries who had completely blocked ODEN.  "Look:  the best way to control drug imports from ODEN is to join ODEN.  We, as member states, are forbidden from competing with your own local industries.  If you want to keep out ODEN products, join us and set drug policy with ODEN at your side, rather than behind your back.  There are 20 nations that are eligible to join.  Let's work together."

Talliaferro's rise signals a potential shift in direction for the Cartel, and it is hoped that these first steps represent a new coordinated effort to legitimize the Cartel abroad.  Talliaferro stated that he hopes to consult with ODEN Nations soon to develop a new export strategy for the Cartel.  Talliaferro's first act of ending the dumping policy toward Lourenne was followed by the policy of ODEN purchasing the therapeutic pharmaceutical stocks of several major companies in Kalistan, including Talliaferro's previous employer, Supereon Pharma, in Eshar.  "There is no conflict of interest.  I'm fully divested, and do not stand to gain materially from these purchases.  And besides:  We've bought everyone out, not just Supereon."  Talliaferro expects to complete a new Drug Survey for Kalistan by the end of the year.

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Non-Aligned Movement Treaty moves to Ratification
Kalistan brings bill to Floor of Assembly
Kaliburg Ananto
June 26, 4435


Kalistani Deputies prepare to vote on the long awaited Non-Alignment Movement Treaty

Despite a diplomatic gaffe at the end of the Conferences, delegations from the Founding Member States left Kalistan this year and the Treaty moved one more step towards becoming a reality.  The Treaty's handler, Socialist Felix Li, Deputy from Yoshimi, cleared the draft for ratification, and the bill was moved to a vote by Foreign Minister Luis Vasquez of the Southwark Movement.  Southwark and Socialist deputies quickly signed on, but it is unclear if the NLA will come in for a vote, or if they do, how they will vote on the Treaty.

Said Li: 

"I find it unfortunate that the conference ended the way it did.  I wonder if there could have been more written into the Treaty, but for what it is, the Treaty is a significant document.  This will develop the first movement of states that reject the politics of the great powers and the great alliances.  The NAM is not an alliance.  It is not a dead-enders or a dictator's club.  Nor is it just another iteration of a generic human rights or free trade organization.  Instead, what the NAM represents is a commitment to sovereignty, anti-imperialism, and self-determination.  The impulse was to build an association aimed at denying great powers allies and puppet states for their own machinations.  The NAM stands apart and we have each other's back in the resistance to that sort of attitude which is sadly too prevalent in the world.  Could it have been better?  Sure.  More input from more nations, whatever.  But the fact is, we have a treaty and it is agreed upon by all representatives to the Conferences, so let's put it in and improve it once it is passed."

Li's speech earned a standing ovation from the members of the SP, who all voted for the passage of the treaty.  If the Presidential Party returns and votes for the Treaty, it has a chance at passage, but a no vote or an abstention from the NLA will just barely postpone the passage of the Treaty for a couple years until a different Assembly can be elected which put more seats in the hands of the Treaty's supporters.

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Harrison Vasquez steps down as RLU leader following a no-confidence vote
The libertarian party tipped for government kingmakers are facing division among their members
Kaliburg, Ananto
September 13th, 4435



Yesterday evening, senior spokesman of the Black Star anarchist group, and main supporter of the Radical Liberty Party denounced the leadership in a stunning betrayal. RLU leader Harrison Vasquez is known for consolidating the party platform to a broad libertarian base, controversially inviting anarchist and nationalist militias to what was formally a strictly right-leaning party. In addition to this, he made the decision to democratize the party platform, a move that has lead to the party drifting towards the centre-left of the political spectrum.

After the denouncement, several primary supporters launched no-confidence vote. In an exclusive interview, Marco Tindall, a senior right-wing party member, told the Republic: "We don't feel as though this party represents the views it originally had. It's fragmented, it's chaotic, and it's all due to the choices Mr. Vasquez made"

Harrison Vasquez resigned shortly after the no-confidence vote was called. He was not available to comment. Leadership elections will take place in a few days. But with only a few months left until the 4436 elections, can the RLU present a combined electoral force? Only time will tell.

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reprinted from
IZQUIERDA-  The Voice of the Kalistani Left

Al-Khali launches bid for Kalistani PresidencyControversial Prime Minister declares "Time to sh-t or get off the Pot."
Kaliburg, Ananto
November 12, 4435


Former Premier of the Republic and notorious cussword artist Abdulaziz Al-Khali is nominated by the Socialist Party

With no charges forthcoming from the Justice Ministry in more than 3 years of house arrest, former Premier of the Republic Abdulaziz Al-Khali declared his intention to run for President of the Republic.

"Yall mother f--kers thought you seen the last of Al-Khali!" the controversial Socialist politician said in Kaliburg last week as he began addressing the SP's annual convention.  "Those d--kbrains who forced me to resign got another thing coming.  Say it with me now:  no charges filed and statute of limitations expired!  Now its time to sh-t or get off the pot:  I'm running for President!"  With that, Al-Khali nominated himself to become the Party's candidate for President.

Party leader Maria Reina-Rodriguez spoke against Al-Khali's nomination. "The Premier embarrassed the Party something fierce.  And had we not been kicked out of Government, the Justice Ministry would certainly have filed charges against the Premier.  It would be a mistake of marginal significance to nominate him to become President of the Republic." 

But Al-Khali's primary supporter, veteran politician and former President of the Republic, Blythe Bennots, who left office in 4417, declared that Al-Khali would be the best man for the job.  "Kalistan needs strong leadership at this time, because we are in danger of slipping back into oblivion.  Al-Khali is probably the most highly qualified individual in Kalistan to take on the role of Head of State, and name recognition is through the roof."

Al-Khali for his part said he would represent the Republic with dignity.  "Look:  You all know I talk a lot of sh-t.  But when I was Premier, the sky was the limit.  I won't bring disgrace to the Republic.  Come to think of it, I didn't bring disgrace to the Republic before.  Let's keep up the policies of the good years, and move forward."

Al-Khali was nominated by a vote of 385 to 115, with Party Leader Reina ultimately voting for the old Premier.  Al-Khali will contest in next March's elections and will likely run against two competitors.  "Look:  who ever endorses me, I'll form a coalition with them.  Those snakes the NLA have deactivated, so we start with a clean slate."

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Terrence Saint Rouge, R&B and Soul Artist, dead at age 26
Plane crash also claims lives of band and pilot
Vrassa City, Vrassa
December 10, 4435


Terrence Saint Rouge, of Python Vrassa, recording the classic record The Crystal Guitar in 4428/9

Terrence St. Rouge, the Vrassan R&B and Soul singer and song writer died in a tragic plane crash yesterday outside of Vrassa City.  The crash, preliminarily judged to be the result of icing on the wings and subsequent loss of aerodynamics, occured just after takeoff from Vrassa City, where St. Rouge and his band had just finished playing to a sold out crowd at Vrassa City's largest venue, the 5th Street Lounge.  Fans and music critics alike were struck dumb by the loss of this musician, who had finally achieved mainstream success after more than 10 years of playing tiny shows to a small core of fans.  Also dead in the crash were Eddie Hernandez, 29, who was St. Rouge's drummer, Dianne Phillips, 23, bass player, Biff Taylor, 32, who played Lead guitar, Leroy Carrangus-Jelson, 27, who played rhythm guitar, Fredricka Donnatello, 18, who played the Trumpet, Janet Donnatello, 21, who played trombone, George Blokus, 42, who played sax, Eduardo "Boots" Telstar, 33, who played Keyboards, and pilot Charles Gross, age 47.

Terrence St. Rouge was the only child of Lourennaise Brethrenist immigrants, who moved to Kalistan in 4408.  St. Rouge was born in Python Vrassa, October 1, 4410, and showed natural gifts for song writing at an early age.  He recorded his first songs on a four track that his mother bought him, and put together a demo by the time he was 16 years old.  But the mood in the mid 4420s was geared more toward Rock and psychedelia than R&B and soul, which were the genres that St. Rouge worked in.  Consequently, St. Rouge began playing small venues, and building a very loyal following in the late 20s.  St. Rouge produced three records before he was 20 years old, all of which sold modestly.  His third record, The Crystal Guitar demonstrated his virtuoso guitar work, and his expert song craft, but unfortunately only charted on the R&B and Soul charts.  This record, re-reviewed this year, was anachronistically called "The last classic record of the 20s" and a "Must Have" for all music enthusiasts, which led to the record selling 32 times in 4436 what it sold on its first run in 4430.

Beginning the 30s, St. Rouge married and his wife had two kids.  Though St. Rouge spent much of his time on the road playing shows, he was known as a dedicated family man, and usually took his family with him on tour.

"I mean, it is what it is, you know, Brother?" St. Rouge said of his seeming inability to break out.  "I'm just happy to share my music with the fans.  I don't have to be a millionaire or million seller.  I play the music I write, I live clean and I have a family who I love very much and who loves me.  I'm just glad that I've been blessed with the gift of making music." 

St. Rouge was not a millionaire.  He barely recouped costs of his first three albums, and quickly released the final two records of his contract in 4431 and 32 before being released from his contract.  "It's a real shame, he didn't take off the way he should have," said his manager Bernie Kohler.  "It was the record label.  They kept telling him that they can't promote R&B and Soul in Kalistan.  They didn't even try.  I wonder if they even listened to the records.  So we got out of that deal as soon as we could, and started producing our own records."

In 4433, St. Rouge made the decision to replace his rhythm section and bring in a brass trio composed of the teenaged Donnatello Sisters and Blockus.  This allowed St. Rouge to record with a new sort of energy that is uncommon in R&B and Soul. "He never strayed from his roots, for sure," said Kohler in 4435.  "But [his self-produced 4435 release] Time Will Tell really showed off his range and attracted a host of new fans."  Time Will Tell earned him a spot at 4435's GanJam during Day 1, and with it, exposure to close to a hundred thousand music fanatics.  St. Rouge played a standard set and finished with a new arrangement of 4427's single "You Gotta Love Her" which brought down the house.  The song, which is widely known now, started off slow and almost a little maudlin.  But halfway through the song, a doubletime backbeat kicked in on the drums, and by the crescendo of the song a long 2 minutes later, the tempo had doubled again, with St. Rouge dancing and singing as sweat rolled down his face.  The crowd went wild, and insisted on three encores, which pushed the entire program back a half hour.

The GanJam propelled St. Rouge onto a massive Kalistani tour during the fall of 4435 and through 4436.  One show in Luxor Ananto, on March 12, 4436 was recorded.  Audience members at the Luxor event regularly described the show as one of the highest energy shows they ever attended.  "We always thought that R&B was kinda generic music, but man, were we wrong.  Live?  Forget about it..."  said one concertgoer, who described himself as a "fan of hardcore punk."  The show sold out two minutes after tickets went on sale.


Terrence St. Rouge sings at Luxor, during the historical show in 4436

As St. Rouge was putting the finishing touches on the album recorded at the Luxor show, called St. Rouge at Luxor he continued touring Kalistan.  In October, the album was released, and immediately went to Number 1 on Kalistani R&B, Soul, and Pop charts, and several crossover singles scored hits on Adult Contemporary, Alternative and Electronica charts.  Record sales of St. Rouge at Luxor exceeded anyone's wildest expectations.  "Well," St. Rouge said in November.  "It's almost like all the success I didn't have all these years finally caught up to me.  I just love my job.  Where else can a person make a living at doing what they just absolutely love to do.  I am incredibly lucky and incredibly grateful that Kalistanis have finally heard in my music what I hear every day.  And more importantly, they are rewarding me and my band handsomely for it.  What more could a man ask for?"

St. Rouge was known to live austerely on the Road.  His family didn't seem to mind.  "We are glad we get to be with Terry," said his Sarah Greene-St. Rouge, during harder times.  "Touring saves us in not having a mortgage anyway."  When St. Rouge finally began to sell records, Sarah Greene said, "Yes, it appears that music is going to pan out for us.  We have been giving most of what we make to the band.  We take care of them because Terry's name is on the front of the record, but he can't do what he does without the band."

St. Rouge was in Vrassa City, and was headed home following the 5th Street concert.  He had recently bought his parent's home, the one he grew up in, and his Wife and kids had gone on ahead of him because his youngest had gotten sick on the road.  He played his final show, and then boarded the plane, which tragically crashed less than 20 minutes after take off.  St. Rouge is survived by his wife Sarah Greene-St. Rouge, his two small children Tamika and William, and his mother Emile and his father Yves-Michel.

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AL-Khali Promoted to President of the RepublicKalistan becomes virtual one Party state again
High Bong, Neveras
June 8, 4436

Last January 1, Abdulaziz Al-Khali was overwhelmingly elected President of the Republic.  Claiming a 99.7% mandate from nearly 80% of the electorate, Al-Khali put pay to the notion that Kalistan wanted to punish the Socialists for the scandal around the former Premier. 

"What is more likely," Al-Khali declared following his inauguration, "was that Kalistanis were sick and tired of this constant stream of unstable and ephemeral Rightist, small government do nothing Parties that have blessed our country with their wretched presence as of late.  One right after another, they stick around a few years, sponsor bills from outside the Assembly, and then fade into the aether as soon as they arrived.  We don't understand it:  Where are they coming from?  As our last election results show, there is only a VERY limited support for small government types in Kalistan.  I suppose they must be foreign agents meddling with our elections.  Its the only way I can even get a handle on it."

Al-Khali's first act was to acknowledge the passage of the Non Aligned Movement.  Kalistan became the first nation to do so, and was followed very quickly by Dankuk.  Other founding member states have not moved the bill to ratification.  "I'm proud of our country, moving that bill through its phases, getting it written and getting it to the point where we can pass it.  We need to advertise it now.  We got to get these other countries on board."

President Al-Khali said that he attempted to form a government with the next largest Party, who clearly have shown no interest whatsoever in joining the Government.  "We got another NLA situation here.  The Party tried to have a coalition with them.  And they stuck us the first chance they got.  We won't be making that mistake again.  I named a government made entirely up of Socialist Ministers.  We won't have over power so easy.  So much for cooperation and civility.  As far as I am concerned, the Right doesn't believe in the principle of separated Government, so we will honor their wishes and govern by ourselves.  And the Right can just expect that if they ever become the Government, we won't help them either.  I don't even care."  Al-Khali acquiesced to Party leaders and named Maria Reina-Rodriguez to the Premiership, as well as a whole slate of new Ministers.  The only hold over is Abe Hashimoto, who was responsible for overseeing the NAM's drafting.

Al-Khali said his goals for his first term will be to build up Kalistan's businesses within the boundaries of the Dual Economy.  "There's a few startups that we'd like to look into.  Kalistan is officially a 'tourist destination' and resorts in both the mainland and on Ananto can be expanded.  I'd like to see more foreign investment come into Kalistan, to benefit both Kalistani investors and foreign investors.  I'd like to finally accomplish peace with Lourenne:  Any time they want to visit us here in Ananto, I say it'd be about time.  We need to keep up with the socialist policies which  have brought our country so much prosperity, and continue to defend the social safeguards in place from the Right, who are probing constantly, looking for cracks to exploit."

Al-Khali's administration may be the start of a new direction for Socialist Politics in Kalistan.  There are rumors swirling that Al-Khali is looking at ways to dispense with constant omnibuses by neophyte Parties.  Reina, for her part, has said that she would have no problem with dispensing with competitive elections all together, since they seem to encourage meddling by the Right.  We'll stay tuned for more information on that.  At Press time, the Premier sponsored a Bill, without comment that targetted ephemeral Parties by limiting the number of proposals that could be made in a year and the number of proposals a Party could obtain in a month at three and 5 respectively, making it virtually impossible for new Parties to destabilize Kalistani politics and then deorganize themselves.  The Premier commented:  "Yeah, the days of that nonsense are over.  Its time to ensure that Kalistani Politics are stabilized."  The bill will pass, as the SP holds nearly 75% of all seats in the Assembly.