Why did nobody notice the purse?

(Year 233, Spring) Lately this blog has been flooded by Noldus the Clown observations. Most readers are probably either curious, or they can't wait to move on when this mystery has been solved and is out of the way. There was no new observation last night, but the interest is still building online and today an observant young man shared a new detail!

Two observations ago, Noldus the Clown was seen in Britechester. He was dancing a stupid dance, and the group of fans grew seriously. However, back then, nobody noticed that the clown carried a small, black purse.

Updates on the Amalia Hoffstar situation

(Year 233, Spring) We heard that she is rather unfriendly towards the little nectar making family staying in a shed outside Villa Vigna. We also know that she was observed meeting with her cousin Elsa Gobelin (69) in San Myshuno not long ago. And today there are news regarding Amalia Hoffstar (32), who is actually the half sister of HRM King Tarriot.

King Tarriot was involved previously, traveling to Tartosa to check on the rumours of Amalia treatening the in-house nectar making family badly. The Laurent family used to live alone as caretakers of the actual villa, but when Amalia moved in, they were told to move to a caravan sized shed instead. The same shed that was used for the nectar making. Not only was the King raising Amalia as part of the royal family (her father was late Prince Consort Clempus and his second wife), but Villa Vigna is owned by the Crown, used by Amalia's family until one of the royal children moves in.

Another Noldus the Clown Observation last night!

(Year 233, Spring) It has become a repeating pattern lately. The mystical clown named Noldus keeps appearing at new locations, and nobody knows his true identity. For each observation the interests grows, and on SimMe the debates have been flying high the past day. Because, last night he was observed at Port Promise in Evergreen Harbor, Region Gloom.

This time the groups of fans and curious residents had met up in four regions where he did not yet show, with a hope of seeing him. Fans were ready in region Gloom, too, but in Newcrest and not Evergreen Harbor. Only one person observed him this time, Jane Opticom (29).

Artists Guild: Focus on Talent Agencies

(Year 233, Spring) Yesterday Vince Remeréz (75), painting artist and leader of the Artists Guild core group, met the press at Casbah Gallery in his home hood, Arts Quarter of San Myshuno. The occasion was that the Artists Guild worked closely with Talent Agencies last year in order to improve routines involving performing and creative artists - a work that is now about to close.

- This time we chose to look into the conditions for Actors, Models and TV-personalities. It turned out that the many talent agencies were too restrictive with what information they give out. New and hopeful performing artists will hardly get a contract and the system appeared as closed to anyone outside the right network. 

This had to be dealt with and new webpages are on their way.

Noldus the Clown was observed again!

(Year 233, Spring) Fans who had gathered in Chestnut Ridge, where a member of the online group had suspected Noldus the Clown to show up, were disappointed. Because the mystery clown showed up quite far away, namely in Britechester, Rossie district.

He was observed walking slowly through the picturesque quarters of University of Britechester, wearing his usual blue and yellow outfit and red nose.

This time he was photographes by young Emma Tixer, a student on her way back home from the Commons:

Moon Books - Grand Opening! (and a release surprise)

(Year 233, Spring) Last year global star Octavia Moon (52) surprised everyone stepping out as the new owner of popular lounge Orchid A Go Go in Del Sol Valley. She announced that her new book publisher company Moon Books, Inc. will now occupy a fair share of the building, but that the feel of the existing lounge would be preserved like everyone knows and loves it. Go Go has been closed for a month during building reconstructions, and yesterday was finally opening night with a chance for us all to check out the result! And to everyone's surprise, opening day also included a release of a new book secretly written by Octavia Moon!

Olivia Clump was ready to sign her new biography «Olivia», written by Octavia Moon.

That's right, it looks like internationally celebrated jazz legend, Olivia Clump ready to promote the new book! Before we check out the new bookstore, let's rewind one hour to see the official re-opening, at the entrance!

Mysterious Clown appears in San Myshuno!

(Year 233, Spring) He was observed in Windenburg and Tartosa, and still nobody knows who he is or where he comes from. Last night he was observed at Prome, San Myshuno.

A clown fronting national politics?

Donald Gibbs was closing the bar where he serves, and walked by Council House in Magnolia Promenade. Then he jumped when he suddenly saw the sad clown standing there in front of the entrance!

- It was too late for a normal clown for kids, you know! I think it was a bit after 1 AM, because we close at 1 AM. He just stood there and said nothing. Totally mute! And did not move at all! It was rather scary!

Gibbs quickly took a couple pictures of the clown, and decided to share them on SimMe.

Nobility Calendar of Year 233

Following the Regional Reform Y233 there are now only 8 high nobility houses in Mazaloom. They equal to the members of the High order of the Baltazar - one from each region. This means that our annual calendar will no longer include House de Gould, House of Thebe, House von Kaching and House of Sax-Donnersmalt. It's now Year 233!

The Royal House will of course still attend various events nation wide as well as abroad. In addition there will be a few events hosted by them, and there will normally be some stately guests.

Traditionally each House will rarely accept more than two events per season, the royals a bit more. On top of this there are quite some representation involving patronages. High nobility houses rarely take on community engagements outside their home region, unless being urged by the RPO (Royal Palace Office).

Summer, known as <i>Social Season</i>, is packed with smaller or ad-hoc events with less formality and shorter notice, leading up to the Grand Ball at the royal palace. However; did you know there are no formal events on Mondays?

Mystery Clown was observed again!

(Year 233, Spring) Only two nights after the mysterious clown was observed in Windenburg, he has been seen again! This time in Tartosa in region Tredony! That is pretty much the other end of our nation! What is the point?

Once again the blue and yellow clown appeared in the harbor area. And like last time, he was seen after midnight.

Free Download: 7 new Toy Blocks designs

Let's talk about the Toddlers' toy Blocks! Now that Grim Reaper will befriend us all and playgrounds will be populated by ghosts - do you want a slightly more edgy version of the toyblocks? We probably all plunk down this toy in the nursery for our hopeful toddler to build Thinking/Motor skills. The 3 color versions allow for a little variety, but the symbols on the 8 cubes are the same. So I thought, why not make this a little more personal? Allow those alien parents to gift their toddler toyblocks that includes an alien motif! How about witches? Grim Reaper and the Dead?

I actually started with a few versions probably not making much sense unless you are inside my head and my game. Monarchs and celebrities from my Mazaloom might not have a great appeal to toddlers in your game... But maybe you like the variety nevertheless?

Mysterious Clown

(Year 233, Spring) Last night a mysterious figure appeared at Lykke hood in Windenburg. A colorful clown was observed at the harbor, and nobody knows for sure what this was all about!

A local resident who approached the sad that he walked over to ask if everything was fine, but the response surprised him.

It's Tax Day!

(Year 233, Spring) This 1st day of Spring is Tax Day, and like every other Tax Day the extra taxes got plenty of attention. Mazaloom kingdom's system of extra tax and tax relief is nothing new. This comes on top of regular bills, which already include the general community taxes. Extra Taxes are meant to be a way for the dominating political parties to create financial consequences reflecting their political agenda.

Mrs. Silverbone supports the Extra Tax.

A typical example is the old pool-tax, which charged households with a swimming pool extra tax. It made sense to most because poor households were not affected, while those with a pool in their garden are normally able to pay a little extra without much trouble. On the upcoming Tax Day there is no Pool tax, but many other taxes and reliefs. Each extra tax is §1,000 while each relief gives a discount of §1,000. The extra taxes are not the same in all regions either, depending on what party won the previous election.

The good thing is that most households ends up with no extra tax at all.

Advorton Zoo

(Year 233, Spring) At Plaza Mariposa in Ciudad Enamorada there is a Zoo! Well, it used to be a bit more exclusive, but it is still worth a visit. Because it is no longer accepted to keep wild animals in a cage, you will see neither tigers and elephants from Tomarang, nor apes and snakes from Selvadorada. Only a couple very rare species are kept in the name of science. Instead, Advorton Zoo offers visitors to meet with a large number of creatures, big and small. Families spend hours here - especially children find so much to enjoy.

Advorton Zoo has been around for a couple generations. Let's take a look at what they offer! But first - a few worlds about the zoo keepers: The López family.

Mazaloom News - Year 232

Year 232 has closed, and Mazaloom NEWS is here with the highlights! The format has changed and the main focus i sno longer on just one region, but the entire kingdom, and even covering a few news from other nations like Empire of Snorthia and Sea kingdom. This time there is a new Sports section, too! Six minutes video with news, job openings and family notes, presented by Simmerville Studio's news anchor, Paulo Caliente.

President Wilder's New Year's Greeting, Year 233

(Year 232, Winter) Tonight Mazaloom's residents could watch the broadcasted President's New Year's Greeing. President Rob Wilder took to the screen on the year's very last day, while King Tarriot will give his TV speech the following morning. Traditionally President's Greeing sums up the year that is about to close, while the Monarch will be welcoming the year that waits for us.

This time President Wilder had chosen several topics spreading widely; The Landlord bugs, the ongoing conflict with the Empire of Snorthia, and the recent Flock People discoveries. But he also took some time to explain how People Chambers works to guarantee a better community to us all. Here are some excerpts.

Our kids deserve better Toy stores!

(Year 232, Winter) What if you could visit a good toy store to buy toys and skill items for your child? Well, in Mazaloom this seems rather complicated at the moment. In fact, you will hardly find any stores aimed towards babies or children at all. Baby expert Heidi L. Wooblershield (52) had enough!

- This is nothing but sad! They used to have a decent corner here at the Old Salt House in San Myshuno, but look at it now! It looks like an abandoned storage room that you entered by mistake!

Heidi knows how important toys are to a child growing up, as she raised 4 of them.

Baron Bud of Gloom is Dead

(Year 232, Winter) In a press release the House von Kaching informs that Baron Bud of Glom passed away last night, aged 84. His health was good until last few days, and he died surrounded by his family. He died as a high nobility Peer, only 2 days before losing the Gloom District Order, which according to the Regional Reform will reduce the Gloom barony to regular nobility. Therefor, he will always be remembered as a baron of high nobility.

Family photo Fall Y232: Seated are Baroness Rose and Baron Bud. Standing are their son, the Honorable Edward von Kaching and his wife Lady Merielle from the House de Cavalier, and their 3 daughters, Rosine, Cathrise and Blancheflor.

Bud von Kaching held the Gloom barony for 49 years. His father, Esmond Ching, achieved nothing more than a Mester title (Mester Mugger), but a distant relative and baron died with no male heirs. Bud demonstratively ignored his origin by changing his name from Ching to von Kaching. His ancestors came from the Ching family of Simerinia in the Empire of Snorthia, generations ago. He inherited both the Gloom barony and the less prominent Gibbs barony, and settled at the old Brixerwood House at Upperton, Gloomville.

Royal Chamber: Tax Day to affect All

(Year 232, Winter) Today a quick press meet-up took place at the Council House at Magnolia Promenade, San Myshuno. HRM King Tarriot had an announcement that was received with applause by all attendees.

Mazaloom kingdom has a system of extra taxes and tax reliefs, all to be summed up and charged on Tax Day. Tax Day occurs on 1st day of Spring every 5 years, 3 years after the election. Previously the royal family and the high nobility households were not affected by these extra taxes, but things are changing!

Breaking: Flock body Found!

(Year 232, Winter) One hour ago Landgraab Science Lab, Inc. made a special announcement regarding their Flock People project. Tonight a Flock body was discovered in a secret location, by Scientist Alexander Goth. It sure is a breakthrough, but unfortunately the more than hundred years old body is dying.

The green skinned elderly specie was hardly breathing when examined, and the team just about managed to secure his life with top notch medical equipment. Landgraab Science Lab, Inc. is known for investigating on various life forms, but in this case, Scientist Goth is not very optimistic.

Winner announced: Mazaloom Achievement Award Year 232

(Year 232, Winter) For the second time the Mazaloom Achievement Award was given to a resident who reached the top level of a skill. Last year jazz singer Olivia Clump was the very first to be honored. Speculations have been flying all over this year, because there are so many candidates. Media has been assuming that certain criteria would not repeat two following years, especially not this early in the routine. So, it was expected that this year's honoree would not be female, not from Newcrest, and not being awarded for Cooking, Painting or Singing skills.

Crown Princess Emireza and Count Vladislaus IV Straud met at the graveyard.

Yesterday, in the very early morning hour, HRH Crown Princess Emireza met up at the Henford-on-Bagley graveyard - location and hour picked by the winner, to hand out this year's award. And, the press was there, too!

Adoption at Retirement Home

(Year 232, Winter) What? A child adopted to live at a retirement home? Well, perhaps the story is less weird than you might think. It was not an elderly lodger who adopted the child, but the live-in Manager. And, the adoption is now pushing the Manager to quit her job.

Tammy Oaksdale comes from Gloomville, and will now return to the family nest at Willow Field.

Tammy Oaksdale (44) has been working at the Bon Voyage Retirement Home at Upperton in Gloomville, ever since the retirement home opened its doors a decade ago. She has her own little apartment there, and her job is to cook for the lodgers and to make sure the place is tended to. She used to be in a relation, but they sort of split when her boyfriend moved to run a small farm in Henford-on-Bagley. The idea was that Tammy should follow him, but instead she got the manager job in Gloomville, the district where they both grew up.

A pledge from the Butler Academy

(Year 232, Winter) The Butler Academy, located at Mirage Park in Del Sol Valley, is the most successful of our many private high schools. Founded in Year 136 this boarding school is clearly the oldest, but it is also winning both ranks: Most A graduatees and Most popular. The school still offers classes that were requested by Aristocracy generations ago, but with a few extras. Students no longer become butlers, cooks, maids and governesses, alone. Bartenders and Nectar makers might study here as well. Culinary chefs aiming for restaurants are welcomed, too.

Principal Abraham Golden in his office at the Butler Academy.

Not every student aims to serve a higher ranked House. No, these days even some studies there to prepare themselves for administrating the House they some day will be the Head of. However, times are changing, and the school's Principal Mr. Abraham Golden can tell us more.

Royal Palace Office Announcement

(Year 232, Winter) Early this week Royal Palace Office (RPO) called for an important press announcement in three days. Speculations have been going all over the place. Someone even suggested that an early engagement involving HRH Crown Princess Emireza could be the issue. But no, it turned out to be about the ongoing cultural conflict between Mazaloom kingdom and Empire of Snorthia.

HRM King Tarriot and Royal Chief Attendant Ms Maiden in the King's office.

HRM King Tarriot (64) and Royal Chief Attendant Miss Patrica Maiden (51) met the press. Maiden opened by giving a brief introduction to the well known conflict. Talking about the innocent event where she was seeing the exhibited painting "Moon Liza", just to reveal that the portrayed woman was indeed Miss Maiden's own late mother, Limia (Oceanus) Maiden. Emperor Orchor of Snorthia got furious as the painting was their very old heirloom seen as a national treasure, now exposed to be only one generation old. He claimed that the entire empire was deeply offended. It did not help much that Limia turned out to be a Princess of Sea, actually sister of their current King. At young age she broke with her royal family to rather dedicate her life to acting.

- My mother was a very shy actress not wanting any attention to her own person, and she died from embarrasment when papparazzis noticed her, drowning her with their blitz rain. Unfortunately, she dragged even more unwanted attention to herself by falling to the ground right on Judith Ward's fame brick at Starlight Boulevard.

Miss Maiden then introduced King Tarriot. He explained that Grand Marshal Robert Calves, President Rob Wilder and himself have been searching a peaceful end to the two years long splitting conflict. The King has reached out to Emperor Orchor of Snorthia on multiple occasions, and now there has finally been some response!

The Wealthiest Man and his Heirs

(Year 232, Winter) The wealthiest man of Mazaloom kingdom is not the King, and not even of high nobility. It is of course Mr Malcolm Landgraab Lord Cacti (79) who is not getting any younger by the years. He will have to pass on his wealth eventually, and unless he decides to involve specific heirs according to a not yet known testament, his 3 sons, twins Buffrey and Geophold (13) and Ruperty (8) will share the extreme fortune of more than §8,000,000. Although Landgraab Science Lab is known for experimenting with and modifying lifeforms, there is probably no way yet to add years to an old man's life - not even if he can pay generously.

With a testament, there can be one favored heir getting up to 50% of the value, meaning one son might get half of the fortune before the other half is shared equally between the 3 of them. But, who would be the favored one? One son is naturally the oldest, but because the two oldest are twins they might be seen as equally old. Perhaps their efforts in school will decide?

Gossips #14

(Year 232, Winter) I'm back with he 14th issue of my wonderful gossips column! Welcome!

This time I tried to restrict myself, but you get a lengthy read anyway! Rest assured there are juicy stuff waiting - including the nude photo of a mature princess! You might notice that I will no longer use each district name for the heading graphics, instead we'll just have one graphic for each region. And - if you are like me, you are quite fed up with those eight regional numbers, so in the future I'll just stick with the regions' names. This issue will be the last where those numbers are included in the text - we got so much more important stuff to focus on than numbers, right!

Cavalier dukedom: Heir birth announced

(Year 232, Winter) The Cavalier dukedom, located in Brindleton Bay, Region 8 (formerly Region 12), has announced the birth of their heir! The little boy was born last week, and will be named Lord Merquess Bendel Leophold de Cavalier.

Few years ago the proud parents, Duke Charlopold and Duchess Luna de Cavalier had a daughter, Lady Cloudetta, but dukedoms can only be succeeded by sons. The family resides at Chateau Cavalier, at Cavalier Cove. They have been very restrictive not showing the face of their children, but as they grow a bit older it might get harder to avoid at least some regional exposure.

Artists Guild: Painters and Photographers

(Year 232, Winter) The five guilds have been around for decades, and one important duty is to oversee the many Produce Deeds. A deed can be bought if you like to sell your produce via the time saving drag-and-drop function. Your deed's value will increase over time, and can be passed on as heirloom to next generation. Holding a deed involves a minimum activity, though.

Each guild has a board normally counting their 3 oldest deed holders. Last week the Artists Guild issued several new deeds involving Painters and Photographers. Core group is lead by well known Painter, Vince Remeréz (74).

- These deeds were actually issued in Year 197, but with just one exception, they were never claimed. We have now done a little marketing to build more interest, and the result is 4 new deed holders. I am just as guilty as anyone else, today I bought my very first Painter Portrait Deed!

Region 12 Mazaloom becomes Region 8 Gloom

(Year 232, Winter) The Regional Reform Y233 was already completed and takes effect on 1st day of Spring Year 233, which is now only a few days ahead. The Mazaloom kingdom will still have eight regions, and while a few regional borders were adjusted, many areas were not much affected. Some new region numbers will appear, though. With the administrative implementation, a few more details are brought to the table.

The biggest changes regard the area formerly know as Region 12 Mazaloom.

Old Penelope Military School

(Year 232, Winter) Couple years ago, Year 230, a new private high school opened at StrangerVille Plaza, Old Penelope Military School. The lot is owned by Mazaloom Military Forces and serves as Operational Quarter including the office of Grand Marshal and more. The boarding school offer is in addition to other daily matters, and only a limited number of students are permitted.

On a rainy day of Fall a new term started, and a new student showed up: Bincky Tocker (18) from Chestnut Ridge. He did not need to travel far, but brought some belongings as this will be his new home for the coming 6 years.

At first, you might think of a Military School as a place where rather few chose to spend years of their lives. In the past, we recall students doing very poorly at school was sent off to military school. But, Old Penelope is different. This is a popular offer among teenagers who like to focus more on sports and work out than academic books. The disciplinary aspects of such a school will be a reasonable cost to most.

Free Download: Eyelashes recolors BG

While black and dark brown are common eyelash colors that will go fine with most styles, it's always fun to be able to create a few exceptions. Being the erratic cat lady with blue hair and pink eyelashes, or simply wanting to add a paler version with your sim's sleepwear - in case they remove the mascara for the night. In Real Life blond hair will not necessarily mean blond eyelashes, but it happens. Red haired people might have red-ish lashes. Old age might bring slightly paler lashes, too, but not always.

With this free download you can mix and match as desired.

Adjustments to Nectar deeds

(Year 232, Winter) Merchants Guild has today announced that several adjustments will affect most current Produce Deeds regarding nectar making. There are two reasons for these changes. The most obvious is the switch from an old (CC) production system to a new routine based on Advorton traditions. The second reason is that the old system offered a total of 19 unique deeds, while the new system narrows this down to 9.

Claudia Tangerin Mester Shine met the press at Oasis Spring's nectar store.

A Produce Deed is required only if you intend to sell your produce via the nifty drag-n-drop system or via retail stores. Deeds are not needed if you sell from ie street tables or at a market square. Also, producing for own private consume is available to everyone regardless of deed.

New website: The Royal Palace Office

(Year 232, Winter) Just a quick note that Royal Palace Office (RPO) has gone public with their new site!

RPO serves the Royal Palace Chateau Peak, the Royal Family, and the constitutional Royal Chamber. They host weekly press meeting at the palace, which is located at The Pinnacles in Del Sol Valley, Region 3 Tredony.

On the site you can find news and schedules involving the royals, listing of all members of the Royal Family, a quick illustrated tour of the Royal Palace Chateau Peak, list of all major estates owned by Mazaloom Royal Trust, list of most Palace employees, and more!

Link: here!

Mazaloom kingdom: Maps - Transport net

(Year 232, Winter) We focused on the Regional Reform Y233 already, but the Mazaloom map contains so much more information than the regional borders. In a mini series we will check out where to find the Parishes and Churches, the many Schools, where the High Nobility houses are located, and not the least: How to travel within Mazaloom kingdom? Along the road there is also a touch of national history.

Today, let's check out the transport net! What are the alternative transport options, and where do we find them? What districts are the busy network points, and what areas are secluded? The well established transport network includes roads, boats, railway and 3 airports.

The national transport plan sorts under Health & Welfare dept., and Minister Rebekah Starks (MIDDLE Party) will fill in as there are numerous ways to get about.

Investiture Day Year 232

(Year 232, Winter) It's Investiture Day, aka Royal Court, which is the annual event taking place at the royal palace on 1st day of Winter. Half a year earlier the Monarch announced this year's investitures and new knights. The list has to be made public in advance, because anyone protesting must have enough time to react. Protests were more common a century ago, and is mainly interesting for new peers anyway. This year there were no new Peer, but a few prominent residents were knighted for some of the high orders. The 12 district orders are paused this year due to the Regional Reform Y233, and the fact that 4 of the orders will not see any future new knights.

Left to right: Grand Marshal Robert Calves, Mila Munch, and High Priest Ansgar Profedius.

The Royal Court attracts members of the aristocracy, and of course family of those awarded or knighted. And the following residents got awarded by King Tarriot:

Flock People Memorial Day

(Year 232, Fall) Imagine a group of green skinned gnomes, just slightly shorter than a sim, living their happy lives in the Willow forest. Then, the local timber industry cuts down the forest, turning the field into farm land, and these green creatures have nowhere to hide. Where could they escape?

This took place at Willow Field in Gloomville exactly 100 years ago. The mythical Flock People, also referred to as Glee, were chased from their natural habitat.

This year the Flock People Memorial Day is celebrated for the 100th time, and a festival takes place at Willow Field. Although the day is hosted annual by a group of local enthusiasts, a greater event finds place only every 25th year.

Simmerville Show - #7 (with a touch of Lovestruck)

(Year 232, Fall) Hey ho! Fritz Mervil is back with the 7th edition of The Simmerville Show, and this time all three guests are female. One with a memory from Ciudad Enamorada! Also, learn about the Flock People, and meet a fresh Knight!

The focus of the show in general is how I play my game, and all sims involved - including guests as well as the live audience - are actual sims from my game.

Mazaloom Basketball Cup Year 232

(Year 232, Fall) The popular Mazaloom Basketball Club arranges a club Cup every other year in Fall. The club has many members, but - as for many sports organizations - only the so-called elite members can enter the Mazaloom Basketball Cup. Contestants are aged 20-50, and Elite members have minimum 5 Fitness skills and 2 Handiness skills. The higher skills, the better chance to win anything, being this national contest or something international like the Simlympics, that is only every 6th year.

This year's national arrangement was a great event with perfect weather and a good cheering crowd. These cups are played outdoor, so bad weather will make it harder to everyone involved. Two years ago it was all cancelled - first delayed one week, but the rainstorm continued.

Current Head of the club is Stig Pratt-Anderson, and he says they really hope for a modern indoor arena soon.

Cut Ruby Donation for the Similius Cathedral

(Year 232, Fall) You might know that Church of Similius dedicates most of their belief to the green and red bars. One can not exist without the other, and we don't need to fill the green to stay happy - avoiding the red would be enough. A philosophy that transfers well to the modern ECO lifestyle - avoid consumption beyond what is strictly needed.

But did you also know that each of the 5 churches have a system of crystals, namely a red ruby and green emerald, that serves as a help to a new priest? When a Priest starts his mission, he will most often come directly from the Monastery, with empty pockets except maybe the Nestor of the Monastery offered him a couple eggs and some vegetables for him to eat or grow. When he starts his new life as a Priest, the ruby and emerald will be waiting for him. Selling those two gems makes for a better initial period.

Then - he will make sure to find new gems for those two displays in support of his successor.

It's been nearly 3 decades since Ansgar Profedius entered the top position of the High Priest. He serves the Windenburg parish, which includes the largest church, the Similius Cathedral. For 27 years the gem displays of the cathedral have been empty! But last night, right before the midnight mass, a beautiful plumbob cut red ruby could again be admired!

Orchid A Go Go - New Owner

(Year 232, Fall) Earlier this year the popular hot spot at Starlight Boulevard in Del Sol Valley was sold. Celebrities and fans alike have flocked to the lounge Orchid A Go Go for years, and perhaps a new ownership sounds scary to the regulars? Well, fear not, because the hot spot won't change ... a lot, uhm... not quite yet!

Octavia Moon is the new owner of Orchid A Go Go in Del Sol Valley.

And who is the new owner? It's the global star Octavia Moon! She has not frequented Go-go Orchid as much as her husband and also a global star, Thorne Bailey, but she qualifies as a true insider anyway. She knows what the place offers and why it is so popular. And now she wants to add more!

Windenburg Fox Battle

(Year 232, Fall) We were thrilled when we learned that Crown Princess Emireza would somehow contribute to the bi-annual dancing contest Windenburg Fox Battle this Fall! Some thought she would participate as contender, which could actually both make a sensation and sense, as she is currently residing at boarding school in Windenburg and we know she practices ballet dancing at school. However, it turned out she attended to open the contest!

And let's just agree that she won the opening! Despite this being her first bigger solo appearance, she seemed confident and happy. No sign of nerves at all. She even revealed a few dance relevant memories from her own childhood, where her father, His Royal Majesty King Tarriot, was the one who taught her to enjoy moving to music. She explained that they normally danced without music, though, because a session could take place quite unexpectedly and practically anywhere. She also shared an amusing memory when she aged 4, snuck into the Throne Room to dance - this time not joined by the King, but witnessed and cheered by the cleaning palace maids.

Baroness Amalia doing business with Cousin?

(Year 232, Fall) One of them lives at Porto Luminosa in Tartosa, the other one up north at Old Crest in Newcrest. The other day an observant journalist noticed the two cousins' little get together on a public bench in San Myshuno's Fashion District. The two women, Baronesse Amalia de Vert (31) and Miss Elsa Gobelin (68), both belong to the outer circles of Mazaloom's aristocracy. But that's pretty much all they got in common.

While Amalia (left) is known as the royal palace's trouble child who grew up, married and got herself a peerage created just for her, by her older half-brother, HRM King Tarriot, Elsa comes from a hard working family who over several generations built up a fashion house in Windenburg. Amalia still did not work a single day in her life, while Elsa is majority owner of Gobelin Fashion, Inc. While Amalia is Head of her new House of Hoffstar, Elsa is head of the much older House of Gobelin.

Rewind: Queen Evez Coronation

(Year 232, Fall) It's time for another rewind! This is a photo taken in Year 179 at Queen Evez' coronation. That is 53 years ago and mainly the children are still alive. The photo is currently on the wall in the Throne Room at the Royal Palace.

Let's see who were present, and also look for fun facts regarding their lives and connections, like two of the children are actually married today.

From the Throne Room at the Royal Palace Chateau Peak. Click image for a bigger version.

When Queen Evez got crowned, she had already married Lord Clempus Ross of House of Ross, son of the Duke of Rossie. They had two sons, Tarriot and Blaise. All four are centered on this photo. Crown Prince Tarriot got the Crown when Queen Evez died suddenly in Year 198.

Lovestruck in Ciudad Enamorada - Flowers!

The trailer for the new The Sims 4 expansion pack "Lovestruck" is here!

Most new features relate to romancing, naturally, but my eyes rather decided to search for new flower arrangements - and there seems to be plenty of them :). One is definitely flowers gifted to a date, and I just hope they can be displaced in a vase afterwards. But there are so many new bouquets in a vase that I'm eager to find out whether sims can give various arrangements to a date? What if they all are gifted from one sim to another? Some of my sims could get very busy siimply to collect all those flowers - ditch the date, but keep the gift :)

Let's start with what looks like a kiosk to buy the flowers that you intend to gift your date. It can hopefully also be used to buy the same bouquets for yourself, or your spouse, but it might come with a too romantic flaire to gift your mother-in-law.

Jubilee Lunch

(Year 232, Fall) True to tradition, the Royal Palace Office (RPO) has released a couple pitures covering this year's Jubilee Lunch. Every year in Fall HRM King Tarriot will host a lunch where a few selected members of community are guests of honor. This is a way to acknowledge anniversaries and other community matters worthy of a royal nod.

The five guests of honor. HRM King Tarriot to the right.

This year's photo was taken on one of the two passages leading to King's Tea Salon, where the lunch usually takes place. This is actually a rare location for photos because of a rather limited floor space, but this time they probably figured out that it works well with a tele-objective shot from the other passage on the opposite side of Grand Mazaloom Hall. The picture allows us to admire two pieces of the large royal collection, seemingly from the Empire of Snorthia. Is that random, or did they place the items on display deliberately, trying to calm down the ongoing culture conflict with Snorthia? RPO informs that it is HRH Queen Venezia who organizes these minor displays at the palace, but they normally change only once a year. On the wall we get a glimpse of two old tapestries, which asfar as we know are not replaced annually, King Rupert Tapestry and King Courtis Tapestry. These kings were both monarchs of Mazaloom back in the Medieval era.

Paula Ching (86) Engaged!

(Year 232, Fall) A surprise engagement is talk of the kingdom these days! If you are one of those who never will let your age stop you, you might applaud a bit more loudly than the two respective families do. Paula Ching Mester Mugger is 86, and she just got engaged to the 8 years older Baron Floyd of Emp. They both belong to nobility's outer circles, but still their romance seems to be stirring up things - and not necessarily in a good way!

Paula Ching Mester Mugger (86) and Baron Floyd of Emp (94).

The wedding will be a small ceremony, and they won't give the normal one year ahead notice - no, more like three weeks! The couple released their engagement photo, announcing the date to be late Fall. They claim to be fully aware that they won't live forever, and therefore see no point in waiting. When Floyd Altham recently moved into Bon Voyage Retirement Home at Gloomville's Upperton hood, where also Paula Ching resides, sweet music played as they found a common interest in nectars. He as the maker, she as the consumer.

But there are already objections to an engagement like this!

Church of Similius Announcement: New Priest

(Year 232, Fall) It has been known for a while that current Priest of Tredony parish, Christoph de Buttercups (78), will retire end of this year. Church of Similius' board has now agreed on his successor, who will serve the parish from 1st day of Year 233.

Region 3's fifth Priest will is named Benjamin Rosa, of House of Rosa in Ciudad Enamorada, Region 7. He moved to Windenburg 3 decades ago to serve the Monastery.

Monk Benjamin with High Priest Ansgar (left) and Nestor Wallort (right).

Priest Benjaminus will have his investiture late Spring, but will start the year by moving into the new Vicarage located at Terra Amorosa in  Tartosa, just a short walk from Tartosa Chapel, where he will work.

Flock People - Sensational Discovery

(Year 232, Fall) It's late evening and the lab facilities at Dusty Turf in Oasis Springs are pretty quiet. Scientists left their working space - all except Mr. Alexander Goth. He welcomes a few selected journalists to share exciting news.

For some time, scientists have worked hard on capturing as much history as possible involving the long gone Flock People. The green skinned forest people disappeared exactly 100 years ago when their willow forest at Willow Field of Gloomville was cut down by timber industry. This Fall there will be some presentations at the Flock Memorial Day, and Goth and his staff was optimistically gathering information to be presented, thinking their project was nearly completed. Then the totally unexpected happened!

Mr. Alexander Goth works at Landgraab Science Lab, Inc.

- Old myths suggested that the last Flock escaped to hide in a secluded area called Glade. So, we placed wild cameras there. They were known as good at hiding, so nobody knew for sure if he was still around. He would be perhaps 150 years old, which is another myth we wanted to explore - could those forest beings actually live for 200 years, like we hear in the well known children's song? Or was that just a fantasy?

«Flee, flee, from the Glee.

Home to the wood, willow hood.

Was that a Flock, behind a rock?

Was that a knee, up in a tree?

Two hundred candles on a cake,

Flee flee, for Glee's sake!» 

Olivia Clump - No more Singing

(Year 232, Fall) It's been quiet from our legend jazz singer Olivia Clump. Not only is her absent noticeable in the glossy magazines, but her voice has left her. Literally.

- I'm still dying my hair, admits Olivia Clump (79).

The popular singer has reached the age of 79, and it's been a while since her super popular jazz recordings. She had a come back few years ago, but it was mostly about the release of her last greatest hits album, with a fan greeting and a mini concert in her home district, Newcrest. Since then, her voice left her!

Unique Display: Fragments of the Achilles Set

(Year 232, Fall) Earlier this year HRM King Tarriot brought home a couple pieces of the ancient Achilles set, from a royal expedition into the Selvadoradian jungle. The items have now been cleansed and this week the Royal Palace exposed them in the Mazaloom Grand Hall, that is open to public most days of the year.

Archaeologist were ecstatic when learning that these items had been discovered by the royal expedition, as the Achilles set has been seen as a long gone treasure. Now a nectar pitch and a cup can be admired at the palace by everyone, until the items will visit at least two galleries elsewhere in the nation, organized by the National Museum. A third item was gifted to King Salomar of Sea, as a thank you for hosting the expedition.

Regional Reform Y233 Completed

(Year 232, Fall) It's been a long journey, but this week we got the final regional structure. Everyone affected can now take notice to adjust whatever is calling for adjustments. The new regional borders will have big impact on political parties because they need to mobilize candidates in each of the 8 regions. With new borders, their candidate focus might need a change. But also the regional spread of community services as well as the location of each region's community center might be affected, High Nobility will be heavily affected, too, at least a few barons dropping in rank. Most important - the long wait is finally over!

Changes are now official and will have full effect from 1st day of Spring Year 233. However, in some areas changes are already being implemented. The website (both community pages and residents registry) has already been adjusted according to changes, but there will be a few more adjustments addressed shortly.

The new map shows that most changes will regard the old Region 12 Mazaloom. Up to now the People Chamber, the Royal Palace and the High Court were all located in this huge region, but next year all of them will be switching regions. Region 12 was the largest region by far, but will now hand over land to Region 3 Tredony, Region 7 Advorton and the new Region 5 San Myshuno. That's correct, our largest city will now form its very own region!

Bowling Tournament *Winner*

(Year 232, Fall) It's been a while since the announcement of a new bowling tournament, «Mazaloom Super Bowler», and now it's time to make the list of contestants public. When Bill Loffertop founded the Mazaloom Bowling Club the plans for an annual contest was already sketched. Since then  the club did grow, and fact is that more persons than the tournament restriction of 8 did sign up for the club's very first contest.

Bill Loffertop leads Mazaloom Bowling Club. He is also a Politician with a seat at People Chamber.

So, the most of the tournament takes place during 2nd weekend of this Fall, then the bronze-final and the grand finale will be arranged the following weekend. It all takes place at the bowling venue in Gloomville's commercial area (basement of the gym). Eleven persons signed up, but only eight of those are admitted to the tournament. Because of the great interest, and the fact that there are already bowling arenas in several regions, the location might alternate in the future.

New University Term at Mossy Lane

(Year 232, Fall) Fall means the start of another term for university students, and in Britechester, both dorms and public spaces become busy these days! At the private dorm, Mossy Lane Dorm, a group of 5 young adults prepares for the new term. The current group includes a Baron and a Lady, but all 5 are actually children of Aristocracy.

From left: Mr Zaviar Jupiter (Physics), Dr. Valeria Phlum (Biology), Lady Corva Saxor (Biology),
Baron Rainert of Myshuno (History), and Mr John Phlum (Drama). 

Located at Gibbs Hill (Region 2 Rossie), the dorm serves both Britechester University (U-Brite) and Foxbury Institute (Fox). There are two nicer suits intended for students from top of society, meaning children of the 5 dukedoms, or even of the counties and baronies if vacant. Those suites are rented for the double cost, which will normally sum up to §8,000 for all 4 terms - and that is not including school fees!