Trusts Restructured

(Year 234, Winter) This Fall People Chamber debated new restrictions to private trusts, iniated by Ministry of Trades & Taxes. Existing trust owners involve the royal House of Luxe-Hamper, as well as quite a few noble Houses. According to the revised restrictions, some of the latter will now lose their right to organize their possessions in a Trust.

Minister Fanny Silverbone, Ministry of Trades & Taxes. Here from the LEFT party's office at Council House.

Most trusts are very old and were originally introduced to serve a heritage mission: It was a logical way to secure that the new Head of House would keep the essential possessions without needing to buy out siblings and other heirs. To many main heirs this could only be done by taking up big loans or splitting up ownership. Trusts were originally invented by the royal House and before Year 50 it was common with the wealthiest Houses of aristocracy. Each trust functions like a small company with a Board of 3 persons, lead by Head of House with a double vote. The two other core members normally represent other family branches in order to protect the values on behalf of future generations.

Duchess Ribra Lynn turns 70

(Year 234, Winter) This year Duchess Ribra Lynn of Rossie celebrates a new life stage. She turned 70, which is traditionally the magic number for becoming an elder. She celebrated with a gala dinner at Rossie Palace in Henford-on-Bagley, joined by family and friends.

Duchess Ribra Lynn turns 70.

Ribra Lynn is consort to the Duke of Rossie, whom she married at 36. They have been a steady couple for three decades, resulting in five handsome young men aged 4 to 32. But she was also the daughter to secure the House of her late father, Robert Thebe, Baron of Myshuno. This made a special twist to her life and is still a mission, as it stopped her from becoming a central member of her husband's Huse of Ross.

She accepted a short birthday interview, few hours before the gala event.

Election - Predictions

(Year 234, Winter) As soon as the 4 political parties released their candidates, the predictions started to flood the media and online communities. Mazaloom's election routine, with its later adjustments, makes it possible to see some possible patterns. But can we predict the result? Not at all!

Sabrina Grossing has co-hosted several Election TV Specials for Simmerville Studio over the years.

SabrinaGrossing (84) is better qualified than most predictors. She is now retired, but previously she co-hosted many TV-reports covering our 5 years elections.

The missing Pegasus Music Box found!

(Year 234, Winter) When the testament reading of late Mrs Paula (Ching) Altham took place this week, a big surprise was revealed. Not that the deceased woman was good for hundreds of thousads of simoleons, and not that the recently changed testament favored her widower with as much as legally possible according to heritage laws - 50%. No, the surprise was a very old music box!

Paula C. Altham possessed the Pegasus Music Box, which has been missing for more than 225 years! In fact, it was written off as forever lost a couple centuries ago. It was a dear item to Queen Coldine, who was the consort to King Baltazar II. It's been said she enjoyed its music every night before going to bed, and daily for the princes and princesses while they were infants and toddlers. Then, one day it was gone.

The former King Courtis was accused for having stolen the queen's music box, but he was never arrested as the box or other evidences were lacking. By then the former monarch had been degraded to a village Bard, and he now wrote a verse praising the missing Pegasus Music Box, still known as the «Queen's Mourn of the Pegasus».

Grand Opening at new «Club High-Ho»

(Year 234, Fall) Last night there was a huge celebration in Newcrest, as the «Club High-Ho» reopened. The club's status as the nation's most important jazz arena goes a long way back when it was just a tiny stage at a simple bar, but wgere a jazz legend like Olivia Clump built her career. The new club was greatly upscaled, and arised as a multi purpose culture house.

Olivia Clump with brother August Clump.

The house was full for the grand opening party, and several celebrities were naturally invited. Such as the since long retired Olivia (81), pictured above. She arrived with her older brother, August Clump (83), visiting from Gloomville. He lead a Musician career as well back in the days, but chose Country music over jazz. Olivia did not reveal whether she would have a role during this opening night.

Royal Palace Staff - Adjustments and Job openings

(Year 234, Fall) Royal Palace Office (RPO) announces adjustments to their key staff. This happens regularly, but this time several job titles were modified. A chart showing the key functions was printed to decorate central spots in the staff sections of all royal estates. Palace Chief Attendant Ms Maiden said on this week's Monday press meeting, that RPO could not be prouder of their staff. Although some key functions rank higher due to level of responsibility and skill requirement, the daily efforts depend on every single employee.

The big news is that RPO will hire 2 more members of their staff, a 2nd Private Maid, who will work closely with the Crown Princess (23) - a position that might eventually qualify for the future Monarch's Private Attendant if you stay around long enough. The other position might seem less glamorous, but comes with plenty of possibilities for future prmotions; 2nd Cook at the palace.

Polly Peters honored by region San Myshuno

(Year 234, Fall) Last week Polly Peters (59) received the Mazaloom Medal of Honor. At a small ceremony at the Council House in Magnolia Promenade she got the medal for years of engagement on behalf of the industry workers nation wide.

It was Myshuno Mayor and LEFT Politician Anaya Jang who represented the regional Council. She is not the San Myshuno Councilor, but she is the Mayor of the Myshuno district (Spice Market and Arts Quarter) where Peters resides.

The SIMMERVILLE Show - #8

(Year 234, Fall) Finally, «the Simmerville Show» is back! With new editing software and loads to learn, it took like forever to produce this 8th edition of the show, so it feels extremely satisfying finally releasing it. Result turned out okay-ish, but I would normally spent even more time on details and editing. The new software is way more advanced - there's sill a lot to learn... phew.

The show was uploaded to the Youtube channel:

Go here for all 8 shows released.

This Winter two brand new series will be produced. I'll need a little more training before starting those trains, but I'm more or less ready to go. Although there might be a delay and I might need to accept a slightly rougher edit due to lack of skills, there will definitely be something :)

Paula C. Altham is dead

(Year 234, Fall) House von Kaching, residing in Gloomville, region Gloom, has today announced that their relative, Paula (Ching) Altham, Baroness of Emp, is dead at 88. She leaves behind widower, Baron Floyd of Emp (96).

Most of her adult life she was known as Paula Ching Mester Mugger, residing in Sim City (SimNation). Later she returned to Gloomville and only two years ago she married to Baron Floyd of Emp, of House of Altham.

The couple settled at Bon Voyage Retirement Home in Gloomville and shocked relatives on both sides when writing new testaments benefiting the other part at the cost of their existing family. It meant that those already seeing themselves as main heirs would lose up to 50% to the new spouse.

Royals visiting Sea kingdom

(Year 234, Fall) King Tarriot and Queen Venezia are currently spending a few days in Sea kingdom, visiting King Salomar and Queen Medaka. The stay is planned for four days, which should also allow for his majesty to take a few steps into the Selvadoradian jungle.

HRM King Tarrior and HRH Queen Venezia posing by the water body inside the Lily Palace.

The journey is recorded as official, but purpose is not stated by the Royal Palace Office (RPO), like they normally do. It is not the first time the two royal couples meet, so we'll just assume it is a mix of business and pleasure. They are staying at the royal Lily Palace, which is the traditional royal seat down there.

Book Release: Raven's Feathers

(Year 234, Fall) This week book readers flocked to the bookstore at Orchid A-Go in Del Sol Valley to attend the anticipated release of «Raven's Feathers - Shadows of Ravenwood» by Author Shadius Tapper (27). He resides in Copperdale, but grew up in Ravenwood. This book is his first big release.

According to the publisher, Moon Books, this is «a guide to a very old secret society of Ravenwood. Secrets that they don't want you to know.» The book, which is non-fiction, already stirred up some conflicts back when it was in the planning (article Sprng of Year 233).

PM Candidates - Their Campaigns and Origin

(Year 234, Fall) The upcoming election will give us a new Prime Minister, for sure; Mr Wilder is too old for re-election. None of the four candidates were in such a high position previously, and some of you might like a little more information on their campaign and diverse origin. Some come from working class, while others descend from aristocracy - kings, even. Let's have a closer look!

Will our next Prime Minister be a Dougham, Jang, Starks or Mistfield? Only one of them can win.

While most experts would say there are only two true candidates, Mr Charloman C. Dougham (RIGHT party) and Anaya L. Jang (LEFT party), we'll check the background of the top candidate from all four political parties. This will be quite briefly, as anyone desire more can easily learn more by browsing the online residents index.

Mr. Landgraab warns about Painting Artist

(Year 234, Fall) Mr Malcolm Landgraab Mester Cacti wants to warn anyone who plan ordering the portrait services from well known Painter, Vince Remeréz. He recently paid the well known artist a visit, but today he regret it all.

Mr Malcolm Landgraab (81) in front of some past family heroes.

- I visited Remeréz' studio at Kasbah Gallery in San Myshuno. I spent a full day, but it turns out that it was a complete waste of my time!

House of Sax-Donnersmalt losing Verde Barony!

(Year 234, Fall) Breaking: In a fresh press release, Duke Victus of Meadows has confirmed that he will accept the Verde barony! Speculations had it that he considered leaving the peerage to his halfbrother in order to help his late father's House of Sax-Donnersmalt, but now he states that he is 1st in line to Verde barony and that he has no intention of breaking those old heritage rules.

Duke Victus of Meadows in his office.

Verde barony is part of the very complex heritage from late Baron Auphor of Verde. Victus Saxor (60) is his oldest son, but because old Auphor remarried, founded a new House and had 3 more children, there was big media interest in Duke Victus' final decision. The testament reading took place half a year ago.

Premiering night for Ravenwood Movie

(Year 234, Fall) This Saturday was the premiere night for Plumbob Pictures' latest movie "My Late Sister in Ravenwood". The event took place at PBP Studio in Del Sol Valley, and both press an fans gathered by the entrance to get a glimpse of the moviestars.

This movie is a thriller drama involving afterlife. It is the official comback of actress Fedibeth Tapper, who was not seen in a leading role for 16 years. Also Chaos Kessler (yes, the Noldus the Clown actor) has his very first lead in this production.

Maz Bank is coming

(Year 234, Fall) Kingdom of Mazaloom now gets its first national bank: Maz Bank. In the past, Sim City First Trust Bank (SimNation) operated our nation, with offices in most regions. But now their organization covering Mazaloom has been separated from the main consern, renamed and sold. Maz Bank is reality!

This means that changes are coming to residents having a bank account with Sim City First Trust Bank, but also those owning shares in the Sim City bank. Both bank accounts and ownership will be transferred to the new bank, Maz Bank. All affected were already informed and must take action to avoid the move.

Mr Robert Sutton (59) has been the CEO of Sim City First Trust Bank's affairs in Mazaloom up to now. He served the Magnolia Promenade office for two decades, but will now be CEO of Maz Bank instead. The office will be renamed, but most customers will not notice many changes beyond the new logo.

Who were the Best Payed Artists?

(Year 234, Fall) Now that we finally got a national Top 10 list for music albums, in addition to similar lists for film & TV and books, we might wonder what celebrity made the better bonus last year? The lists have multiple purposes. Yes, they list the most suiccessful releases of Year 233, but they are also used to pay out bonuses to those involved with the productions.

Pay checques are not always sparkling in the entertainment industry, but being involved with a successful production might assure a little exra. And it turns out that some celebrities actually got a lot of that little extra!

Royal Palace Office Reacts to new Romance Service

(Year 234, Fall) Today the Royal Palace Office (RPO) reacts to a web service that was released recently. Two residents working as Relationship consultant and Matchmaker published their services, including a complete list of all residents nation wide, who are single per date. They claim that all information is already public in the official residents registry.

- We can not tolerate that Her Royal Highness Crown Princess Emireza is listed as single on a web service obviously intended for match making, it says in a fresh press release from RPO.

The two residents responsible for the new webpage claim they have no intention of matching residents with the Crown Princess.

Mazaloom Media

(Year 234, Fall) Some residents are more into marketing than others. While most of us are happy with as little publicity as possible, most Movie stars, Musicians and Authors want their face on the wall to sell their name and perhaps also their latest product. So where do they go to arrange this extra marketing?

A company named Mazaloom Media has moved into the 2nd story of Gallery Ex-Po in Newcrest. There their Manager, Mrs Cassandra G. Mux-Raisser, has her office, a creative lab, and not to forget the show rooms where customers can explore already created designs, as well as find some inspiration.

Cassandra is rather new in her job, but she already enjoys her new role. She likes the challenge of matching the different celebrities with the different products and designs. Judith Ward is a costumer, and so is singer Olla Jones. But there are many more, including the Royal Palace Office.

Penny Pizzazz and Leon Roxenfox surprised Fans

(Year 234, Fall) Yesterday there was a special show at the Recreation Center in Ciudad Enamorada. Included was the movie «Love You all the Way to Ciudad Enamorada», a film with a local approach and that naurally sold very well at ticket offices all over region Advorton. Guests had bought tickets to the event in advance, but they had no idea that two special guests would attend! 

Yes, that is right, the lead roles actors surprised everyone who had attended! It surely became a film night they will not forget anytime soon. Penny Pizzazz (56) and Leon Roxenfox (39) took the time to talk with their fans, sharing some not-yet-known facts from the production, and of course signing autographs.

Prime Minister Candidates and Political Programs

(Year 234, Fall) It's getting closer to the Year 235 election (1st day of Spring), and yesterday all 4 political parties reveiled their candidates and program to be voted on. Each party has a set of N.A.P.s and exra taxes/tax reliefs, and on 1st day of Fall prior to any election all this info go public.

It means that all candidates are known, and the waiting and speculations are over. The list shows each party's candidates for the 21 district Mayors, which is now the most local level involved with the election (the old Hood Contacts are no longer elected). In addition, the top candidates are running for 

Prime Minister, and top 6 will be likely for the Minister posts. Let the election campaigns begin!

Else Cracrow honored

(Year 234, Summer) Yesterday was a big day for elderly Else Cracrow (75). She was given the Crafthole Medal of Honor for her tireless work for and deep engagement with the 4 crows of Ravenwood.

Else Cracrow with her new medal. District Mayor, Mr Shiftoplh Heighwood
on the right, and Elsa's husband Mortimer Goth to the left.

There was a local ceremony at the Town Hall where Else and her recent husband, Mortimer, were treated with tea and sandwiches.

Butterflies and Moths

(Year 234, Summer) Entomology is gaining more attention these days, and Simmerville community pages now provides a list of the most actual butterflies and moths. Landgraab Science Lab has focused on insects for decades, and is now hiring a Scientist Entomologist. This big focus on our tiny bewinged friends is nothing new, it just gained recent popularity.

But first, let's take a quick look to Empire of Snorthia where butterflies have been a big deal for several centuries!

Archery - Old Activity now Trending

(Year 234, Summer) These days Archery is trending all over the kingdom of Mazaloom. This sport, or in most cases perhaps better defined as a hobby, helps young and old to learn to focus, and is a good activity combining consentration with fresh air. But in certain areas the archery represents so much more!

Archery is currently trending, but it is among our oldest sports.

We need to look back to the Medieval age for the origin, because this activity is much older than your filthy old shoes. It is based on the old hunting communities, where you would simply not survive unless you knew how to hunt or fish with a bow. In some cases it would also help to know someone skilled enough to provide for your food and protection.

Today this old tradition stands strong in a few areas, but is practically forgotten in others. Thanks to the Archery Rivalery Fest taking place annually in Gibbi Point, in certain circles the young family members work hard to build their skill. And yes, nobility is very much involved.

Getaways

(Year 234, Summer) This Spring, our Ministery of Science & Education has debated how to implement getaways with the national educational program. But that is not all, our politicians also suggests ways to better encourage the establishing of local custom venues all over Mazaloom. Below there is a list of the 8 unique getaways that will now get stately support.

Today the best known getaways are located in the south. Gibbi Point is well known for their venues.  With the new political initiative, this will now change. Minister of Science & Education, Emma R. Golden (64, RIGHT party), explains why and how this is done.

Do You Descend from King Baltazar II? (Part 5 of 5 - Abroad)

Mazaloom kingdom is the oldest nation in our part of the SimGlobe. 234 years of documented history show that we were a functional civilized community decades before our neighbors, Empire of Snorthia and Sea kingdom. Naturally, the leading houses swapped daughters, during one period in particular, meaning we can  trace King Baltazar II's descendants in both those nations.

Today the Empire of Snorthia is ruled by the Sloth Family, while House of Oceanus rules Sea kingdom. So, here is the 5th and final part of this series, the bonus chapter focusing on descandents abroad.

Let's start with a nation familar to all; SimNation!

Historical Society with new Project

(Year 234, Summer) One of our oldest organizations, the Historical Society, never seems to rest. Their members are idealists digging into our past to make all those old events accessible to more residents. This time they have made a deal with The Royal Chamber to create a database of the chamber's early history.

Historical Society's board of 3 includes Quatore Virton and Mila Munch (leader).

Previously the Historical Society has given us the online family trees, just to mention one of their completed projects. The organization has one big challenge, though, the age of their most eager members!

Social Season

(Year 234, Summer) It's Social Season! Summer is the time of year when nobility and other members of aristocracy will step aside from their everyday formality, and enjoy a series of more relaxed gatherings, often on a much shorter notice than these residents are used to. Some events are small excuses for that extra glass of nectar, or they are bigger traditional gala events which are the perfect excuse for bringing out your tiara.

Garden Stroll with the Queen
The Queen's Garden Party is one of those traditional events, and surprisingly much less formal than it sounds. To most, hanging with the Queen might sound like a serious affauir, but mind you that normally only members of high nobility get invited. And, as tradition says, only females are welcome!

Left to right: Duchess Gloria of Meadows, Lady Corva Saxor, HRH Crown Princess Emireza, Duchess Luna de Cavalier, HRH Queen Venezia, Duchess Prudence de Aarbyville, Duchess Riba Lynn of Rossie, and Countess Elisabeh of Ticktop.

The Garden Party is more like a club for the same old gang. No press, no expensive jewellery. The Summer lunch normally takes place on the huge palace terrace, but not without a stroll through the garden.

Imaginary Friends are back!

I'm away from my game for 3 weeks. On top of that my internet connection is poor. So, I'll just posting a hey-ho to welcome back the Imaginary Friend!

They are released with the new Adventure Awaits EP to be released this Fall. 4 versions, with each their personallity. Lots more info available on EA's TS4 blog and forums.

Painter Vince Remeréz

(Year 234, Summer) He lead an impressive career, painting portraits east and west. Vince Remeréz (76) can't remember working with anything else but his canvas. And this Winter he will lead a new TV series where we'll get to see real old national treasures - painted portraits with an interesting story.

Most days of the week Vince can be found in his atelier on top floor at Casbah Gallery in San Myshuno. There he had his base for decades. The old man might need to slow down a bit due to age, but there exists no such plan quite yet.

Do You Descend from King Baltazar II? (Part 4 of 5 - Advorton and Gloom)

Mazaloom kingdom is nearly 235 years old. The many monarchs left a wide set of descendants, located all over the kingdom. In this series we're learning what current residents do descend from the greatest king of them all; King Baltazar II, reigning Y2-Y48.

Back in the Medieval era his household resided at Heighwood Castle (Britechester), but his children and grandchildren spread widely, mostly through the well established aristocracy.

This is the last chapter, covering regions that include districts like Ciudad Enamorada, Chestnut Ridge, Oasis Springs, StrangerVille, Gloomville, Newcrest, Brindleton Bay and Evergreen Harbor. Only one more chapter remains, the abroad descendants.

More Jungle by Duchess Mandy

(Year 234, Summer) Social season is here! All over the kingdom members of aristocracy seem to mingle at smaller and bigger events. Some of these happenings drag focus to social charity, while others seem so be little more than another excuse for a glass of bubble nectar. The common thing is that all events, with a couple exceptions, are quite spontanious.

Duchess Mandy von Windenburg's sudden popup exhibition might be an attempt to get rid of the remaining jungle painting from the duchess' period in the Selvadoradian jungle some years back. There was a successful exhibition at the Kasbah Gallery in San Myshuno, but not all works were sold. Now she decided to empty her storage of paintings once and for all, arranging a pop-up sales day at Hotel Lykke in Windenburg.

Simmerville Studio: Upcoming TV-Productions

(Year 2034, Summer) At a quick press meeting yesterday at Simmerville Syudio in Gloomville, two brand new TV-series to premiere this Fall/Winter were annonced. None of them are fictional, but they might both cover interesting stories. CEO Fritz Mervil, known from the popular Simmerville Show, introduced the two hosts.

Left to right: Khloe A. Mervil (29), CEO Fritz Mervil (42), and Painter Vince Remeréz (76).

Khloe A. Merlin is known from leading the Bagged Talent show a few years ago, but we heard little from her since then. Yes, she married Fritz Mervil, and yes - they had a baby, so she was probably busy at home. Now she returns to TV!

Vince Remeréz is the other host, brand new on TV, but quite famous already from his life long career as a successful Painter.

Verde barony: Testament reading

(Year 234, Summer) Testament readings are not regular on this blog, as it is normally reserved royals and the eight top nobility peers - if the testament gets complex. Because the late Auphor Sax-Donnersmalt, Baron  of Verde, was of high nobility until recent couple years, his passing leaves a very complex package of heirlooms, titles and heirs. His testament will affect multiple Houses and an exception had to be made.

House of Sax-Donnersmalt and House of Saxor gathered. Left to right: The Hon. Vitorina Cordenza Sax-Donnersmalt (9), The Hon. Dominus Juan Sax-Donnersmalt (8, currently in boarding school), Dowager Baroness Morgan of Verde (41), Duke Victus of Meadows (60), Lady Corva Saxor (28) and Duchess Gloria of Meadows (78). Only the youngest (4) life heir of diceased was not present. Standing is Judge Alberthin Druemann.

The testament reading took place yesterday at Yuma Heights at Verde, Oasis Springs. All invited were either excited or a bit worried, because several points were not initially sorted out. The widow certainly had hopes for her own children not needing to leave Yuma Heights, but everyone knew that nothing could be taken for granted. Details of the heritage would interfer with each other, deceased's oldest child is not even a member of deceased's House, and peerages and some heirlooms even comes with their own rules. In these circles also strategy will come into play. And we are talking big money.

Do You Descend from King Baltazar II? (Part 3 of 5 - San Myshuno and Aarbyville)

Mazaloom kingdom is nearly 235 years old. In this series we're taking a closer look at the numerous descendants of the most important king to many, King Baltazar II. He reigned Y2-Y48.

Today residents all over the nation can trace their roots back to him. Well, almost all over the nation, because in one of the eight regions we found none! More about that further down.

Fame and Children

(Year 234, Summer) Recently there was made a report to explore how famous Mazaloom's residents actually are. A total of 22,2% of the population have a certain fame, but 81,3% of them are newcomers. So, is our community focusing too much on becoming famous? And why do most of us only know a handful names, when they are obviously so many?

Minister Anaya Jang (LEFT) is currently focusing on fame and venues.

The report was ordered by the Ministry of Culture & Entertainment as they are currently looking into how cultural venues are spread geographically. The idea seems to be that the more famous residents, the more larger venues we will need.

Flock People Request

(Year 234, Summer) Landgraab Science Lab had great success in the past with the project where they want to rescue the DNA of the mythical Flock People. An old and dying specie was found, and through science and the help from a volunteering female, it was possible to recreate the old man by favoring most of his DNA. The project is now facing step two. 

Some Scientists at Landgraab Science Lab, left to right: Meteorologist Caspar Jupiter,
Geologist Hugo Bootwig, Biologist Alexander Goth, and Zoologist Sam Ferny.

Mr. Alexander Goth (41) is leading the group of scientists working on the Flock People project.

Do you descend from King Baltazar II? (Part 2 of 5 - Tredony and Crafthole)

(Year 234, Summer) Mazaloom kingdom's most important king back in the Medieval era was King Baltazar II, who reigned for 46 years. He has plenty of descendants all over the nation, and abroad, and in this series of 5 articles we'll reveal what residents that carry the DNA from this monarch.

In the first article the focus was regions Windenburg (Windenburg and Nordhaven) and Rossie (Britechester and Henford-on-Bagley). This time we'll take a look at regions Tredony (Del Sol Valley, Tredony and Tartosa) and Crafthole (Ravenwood, Copperdale, Glimmerbrook and Moonwood). So, this 2nd article covers today's royal House of Luxe-Hamper: Do they connect to King Baltazar II?

Count and Countess of Ticktop on Cruise

(Year 234, Summer) It's still work in progress, but I enjoyed testing my new cruising ship, so why not share some pictures?

Count Helfert (50) and Countess Elisabeth (55) of Ticktop, on a normal day located in Glimmerbrook of my Crafthole region, went on a cruise! It was the countess' gift for her husband's 50th birthday. And perhaps also meant to get his thoughts off the fact that he is no longer seen as of high nobility, now that the Ticktop county's District Order was paused. It means a huge downgrade within Aristocracy, but not much they can do about. Or should I say - do a boat?

«The Admiral» is obviously not completed yet, I've added more windowes along the side, and some of the rooms need way more attention, too. The ship is operated by a company owning several ships, but this one offers the most popular cruises. They decided to join the cruise in Sulani, quite the trip, but let's just say other options did not fit well with the count's schedule.

Do you descend from King Baltazar II? (Part 1 of 5 - Windenburg and Rossie)

(Year 234, Summer) Mazaloom kingdom is nearly 235 years old. There were numerous monarchs during all those years, but historians agree that the most important of them all - to this date - was King Baltazar II. With 46 years on the Throne, he is still the nation's longest reigning monarch. Current King Tarriot has already reigned for 36 years, but is atm only 3rd.

Baltazar II was our monarch Years 2-48, replaced by his son Rupert, and later by grandson Wizar (who reigned for 37 years). During his reign, King Baltazar established the foundation of many community structures that we still benefit from today. After the Great Revolution (Year 118) the monarchy was ditched, but later reestablished with House de Luxe-Hamper in Year 150.

Today there still live many descendants of King Baltazar II. With a few exceptions, they are all found within aristocracy. We'll track them all in this mini series of 5 articles.

New graves index

(Year 234, Summer) Church of Similius cordinates all of Mazaloom's graveyards, and today they made their grave index public to all. Wonder what funerals you missed recently? Or did you forget what graveyard to visit to tend your greatgranduncles grave?

A funeral service for Eleanor Elderberry, Britechester, took place this week.

The public index is still in beta, but except from a few images not showing and some text details that might be moved or adjusted in other ways, the index is fully operational. It is used by the five Undertakes to keep track on new graves and what temporary grave deco that needs attention.

Gossips #17

(Year 234, Summer) Hello again! I'm ready with the 17th issue of my gossips column! Upcoming social season must wait until next issue, because there is so much in the line-up. Are you ready, too? Let's go!

As usual, we'll start with the royals.

Baron Auphor of Verde is dead

(Year 234, Summer) What baron would deserve a long necrolog, if not Lord Verde? His history is quite unique, even for aristocratic standards. And his life was pretty long, passing at 93. Although he struggled after the death of his first wife, often referred to as «the love of my life», he had a pretty high life satisfaction in his later years.

Auphor Juan Humphor (Saxor) Sax-Donnersmalt, Year 141-234.

Auphor Juan Humphor did not only have a complex firstname, he also changed his lastname ten years ago. Aged 83 he started a new life, founding a brand new House of the aristocracy, involving remarrying and moving to Oasis Springs. So, this little article written to honor this private man with such a pristine reputation, will actually cover both the House of Saxor and the House of Sax-Donnersmalt.

Political Parties had their Spring Meetings

(Year 234, Summer) On 1st day of Fall the four political parties will release lists of candidates and political program for the upcoming Year 235 election (1st day of Spring). Spring this year they all had their annual Spring meetings, extra important this year because of the 5 years cycle. We can't wait to learn who their top candidates for the Prime Minister job will be. Everything seems open.

Prime Minister Rob Wilder at Hotel Roadstead, Magnolia Promenade.

We know that RIGHT party and LEFT party normally have a close race, and MIDDLE party might be expected to still be a rather small party. But this upcoming election wuill be different, not the least because the new WORLD party will join the mix. A new party is not likely to get the PM, though, but they can get some impact on the final result - like will they steal votes mainly from RIGHT? We are definitely facing an interesting election!

Queen's Brother and Princess Splitting Up?

(Year 234, Summer) Are the rumors true? Is a divorce upcoming for Baron Sacariaz of Tartosa? Will he divorce from Princess Aleccandra? Any baron's divorce would go public with speculations, but in this case it's not just a regular baron, Sacariaz happens to be the brother of Queen Venezia.

We know nothing regarding what takes place behind closed doors, but there are numerous indicstors feeding such a rumor. Baron Sacariaz and Princess Aleccandra can not reproduce, at least not together. If it is the Baron himself to blame, a divorce would not help, but if it is Princess Aleccandra who is inferile, he might see finding another spouse as the only way to bring his peerage forward. This peerage was held by House de Mandrake for nearly 200 years, requiring a male heir, even. His sister, Queen Venezia, gave birth to no less than four children, so it makes it less likely that Sacariaz is the infertile part.

Baron Sacariaz and Princess Aleccandra used to be the ultimate celebrity couple, he being the Head of a House with the need for a son, and she being the jetzet princess, who, together with her scandal sister Princess Hortenzia, were stripped from their Highness style by the previous monarch, Queen Evez. The couple was often seen out and about, they were often photographed, and they were also a press favorite thanks to their relaxed, tad eccentric style.

Estate von Haunt 75 Years Anniversary

(Year 234, Spring) This year it's 75 years since the old Estate von Haunt opened its doors as a museum, after a thorough renovation following the Year 98 fire. The building, worthy of a royal, did serve as the Lord von Haunt's estate for nearly a century, but is today owned by Mazaloom Historical Museum.

The day is packed with local events, and because this place holds a strong position in most Windenburgers' hearts, the large crowds are expected. Before the official opening a few prominant persons gathered for some photos, a private tour and a few last minute adjustments. They are not worried about the weather, come rain or sun!

National Top 10 Bestselling Books Year 233

(Year 234, Spring) It's that time of year again, and this time we are more excited than ever: What books sold best last year? Publisher and Author Octavia Moon (53) met the press in San Sequoia this week, as the brand new Top 10 was released.

Octavia did not only get last year's release on the list, and she did not only get 3 titles squeezed into the Top 10, but she also reached the top: Her bestselling biography «Olivia», covering jazz legend Olivia Clump's life, did reach the very top as #1.

Judith Ward celebrates 70!

(Year 234, Spring) Global Actress Judith Ward turns 70! Although she would have preferred staying at 69 for a few more years, she went for the big announcement, that a huge party is. In the formal invitation she made it clear that she wanted to check how it is to not limit your friends to the fame level right under your own! Perhaps it was a hint that she has passed the peak of her career, but there were certainly some suggesting that she is still afraid that all the guests would believe she wants their friendship after he party... This was obviously meant as a one night only.

Well, the guest list was long, but they all had some connection to either Judith personally, or to her long film career. The party can begin!

Free download: 5 Framed Fairy Pictures

It's been a while since I added anything to my downloads page. Now I plan creating something for the many secret locations in my game, to cause discussions in my sims' homes about what that place on the old picture could be, and who in our family did bring this framed picture - have we seen it before?

If you don't plan to play any fairy related discovery story in the near future, some of these framed pictures might still be good as plain decoratives in a cottage, or even in a young girl's bedroom? Or in that chaotic room in the attic or basement. All 5 motives come with two frame alternatives - green or brown - to praise the Nature theme :).

Advorton Zoo goes Small Business

(Year 234, Spring) Mazaloom's only Zoo is located at Plaza Mariposa in Ciudad Enamorada. Mónica Lopéz is the manager, and she is assisted by her young adult son and teen daughter. Together they form a solid team tendiong to the animals, but also improving and changing the features of the zoo.

- It is important to us that repeat guests will both recognize the place and discover something new every year. With a mix of ages, preferred animals and not to mention unforseen events, it is quite a puzzle to make everyone happy - including the animals. Last year we got the Crow Advardo, but this year we ran into so many challenges that we desided that upgrading the zoo to Small Business would be enough.

Mónica welcomes us at the entrance. §29 per guest, please!

- In the past we had a couple sales tables, that one of us needed to tend during the opening hours. With the Small Business deal we just make sure to stock the goods before opening hours, and the one who used to tend the sales is now free to do something else. And believe me, at any zoo the chores never ends.

Agatha Crumplebottom Honored

(Year 234, Spring) Yesterday there was a small ceremony at region Rossie's recreation center, located at Gibbs Hill in Britechester. The main guest came from Henford-on-Bagley, to receive the Rossie medal of honor; Agatha Crumplebottom. The honor is only given to residents with a positive reputation, and they must have contributed to the community in a way that stands out a bit, positively.

Proud honoree: Agatha Crumplebottom (95).

Agatha Crumplebottom (95) was honored for founding and idealistically running her garden shop at Finchwick for decades. Most of those many years she ran the stall alone, but the recent years she was assisted by her cousin, Agnes.