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.

Runaways

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

Today the best known runaways 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 ofSax-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.

People Chamber: Ministry of Science & Education

(Year 234, Spring) This is the final part of the brief introductions to the 5 ministries of People Chamber, following the Election Y230 results. The ministries cover Law & Justice, Trades & Taxes, Culture & Entertainment, Health & Welfare, and finally Science & Education. With 5 ministries and each electional period being 5 years, we have introduced one ministry per year on this blog. This is not a random thing, because each of those 5 years one ministry will have a bigger focus, and in Year 234 People Chamber will focus a little extra on community matters within Science and Education. It's a good thing not needing to cover all fields constantly, but whatever needs attention will of course be given focus by People Chamber, no matter of focus of the year.

So, here is the current members of Ministry of Science & Education!

Left to right: Emma R. Golden (Minister), Knox Greenburg,
Bianca Sterner, and Jurton Summerton Mester Foxbury.

The ongoing electional period did already have some focus on education by establishing the Old Penelope Military School (a boarding high school focusing on fitness and disciplin, located in StrangerVille), but that also involved Ministry of Law & Justice, where military naturally sorts. With a well working existing system of boarding schools on high school level, and both University of Britechester and Foxbury Institute running just fine, education might get less attention this year. Instead, science seems to hold numerous subjects for debate and possibly actions. But then something suddenly changed.

Baby Expert: Trust Your Neighbors

(Year 234, Spring) - The worst mistake I see in Parenting is taking your children for granted, says baby expert Heidi L. Wooblershield. She claims that babies are a blessing, but not being blessed with them is not the same as being cursed.

- Some of us won't have our own children, but then we might become the greatest resource to someone else's child instead. Raising a new generation is just as much a community matter and that is where we are all equally important!

Royal Estates Speculations

(Year 234, Spring) In Mazaloom kingdom there are eight royal estates, one for each of the nation's eight regions. According to recent strategies the total number of royal estates was reduced as a direct result of smaller budgets. Maintenance comes with a bill, and the size of the current royal family would probably not justify more than eight estates, anyway. Thanks to the recent regional reform, the Crown owns no estate in today's region 5 San Myshuno, but in former days this area included Del Sol Valley, where we find the royal palace. So, in a way region San Myshuno is well represented.

Top left to bottom right (numbers refer to region): 3 Royal palace Chateau Peak in Del Sol Valley, 1 Hafen Herrenhaus in Nordhaven, 2 Wyvern Hall in Britechester, 3 Villa Vigna in Tartosa, 4 Chateau Marigold in Ravenwood, 6 Sunneva Challet in San Sequoia, 7 Casa de Cha-cha in Ciudad Enamorada, 8 Queen's Stables in Newcrest.

All estates are listed with some details on the Royal Palace Office's webpage (RPO). Occasionally royals spend holidays away from the royal palace, or they might move for a couple weeks according to bigger events where they tend to engagements over numerous days. The additional estates can also be used for social events or accommodate stately guests. Basically each estate is operated by a live-in Tenant who might also work as the estate's butler, but for bigger occasions staff members might be borrowed from the royal palace.

Pepperstones splitting?

(Year 234, Spring) There are rumors that the Pepperstone couple is divorcing, or are they just splitting up strategically? Mr Laurent Pepperstone was our previous Prime Minister for one period, and he has announced that he wants to run again. His wife, Aronica, who used to work in his shadow supporting her husband's candidature, now wants a front row position for their party, too.

Aronica (de Porportoza) Pepperstone moves to Ciudad Enamorada?

The couple was married since long, and their marriage was always seen as a solid one where their only challenge was that they never managed to have children. Perhaps that is the reason they both like to focus more on politics, which can easily take a lot of time and efforts.

Mazaloom/Snorthia Conflict Solved?

(Year 234, Spring) The culture conflict between Mazaloom kingdom and Empire of Snorthia has been ongoing for a couple years. It all started by Miss Patricia Maiden revealing that the Snorthian historical painting and cultural national treassure, in fact was a portrait of Miss Maiden's mother, the long gone actress Limia (Oceanus) Maiden. In other words the motif was not as old as Snorthia claimed. The Emperor accused Mazaloom to have offended Snorthia deeply, and from there it all escaled. One example is that the Snorthian borders were closed to foreigners, and Mazaloomian atheletes were not allowed to enter the Snorthian Winter Games. We also saw that Patricia Maiden was taken hostage by Snorthia.

This week an international meeting took place in Mt. Komorebi, Snorthia.

Prime Minister Wilder and Grand Marshal Calves in front of the Council building in Mt. Comorebi.

Both Prime Minister Rob Wilder (73) and Grand Marshal Robert Calves (64) attended as the Mazaloom kingdom's representatives. While the conflict was not completely solved, the meeting helped descaling the negative impacts, and most important to many residents - the border is again open.

Nestor Wallort is dead

(Year 234, Spring) Yesterday the Nestor of Church of Similius' monastery at Windenburg Isle died, aged 96. Wallort Rose grew up in Ciudad Enamorada, but lived most of his life at the Monastery. Aged 39 he became a Monk, and 19 years later he got the Nestor position, which is the highest position within the monastery.

The monastery normally is home to 4-6 monks, they are focusing on Wellness, Thanatology and Singing, while being prepared for a position as a future Priest. One Monk will have the title Aspiring Nestor, preparing to replace the Nestor, eventually.

Call for New Botanical Garden

(Year 234, Spring) Ministry of Science & Education has announced that Mazaloom would benefit from a stronger botanical focus. We currently have two private venues focusing on plants, but neither of them are committed to the Ministry. At Gilbert Gardens in San Sequoia (region Aarbyville) there is a lovely and grand herbarium, but only the outdoors are open to the public. The location is a popular stop for a family picnic, but there is hardly any educational aspects.

In the secluded Glimmerbrook (now region Crafthole) we find Brook Herbarium, another fine indoor greenery. This one is accessible to anyone, but they mainly focus on local tradition and less on national garden history.

Minister Emma R. Golden (64, RIGHT) is now calling for initiatives to build a new national botanical garden.

Plumbob Pictures Celebrations

(Year 234, Spring) Every year in Spring, Plumbob Pictures celebrates their latest productions with a huge gathering at their lounge in Del Sol Valley. Many celebrities will attend, ongoing productions will be confirmed, and new productions that are not yet casted will be announced, and finally - the ticket sales for the previous year will finally go official including the important Top 10! And - not to forget - the many stars that will pose before the event begins!

Judith Ward was only one of the many well known guests this weekend. She normally gets her fair share of attention, and this time she even had the lead in last year's biggest production, «Lemonade». Did her fame help that film reaching Top 1?

Agnes Crumplebottom's Testament

(Year 234, Spring) Mrs Agnes Crumplebottom aged 100 has finally written a testament! Turning 100 might be a bit late to share your properties among those beloved relations, but the old woman is with great health. Last year she celebrated her big anniversary with a full day program, and she was not seen moaning once - at least not for being sleepy or tired. However, the following couple days nobody observed her outside of her cousin Agatha's house. 

Agnes happens to be among the wealthiest residens of the entire kingdom. According to previous tax records, she is today good for more than 1,4 million simoleons! On her birthday she did announce that she intended to transfer half of her shares to her son with no delay - a son who was questioned by many because he has a female voice and he was never seen offended by nearby flirting. That transaction went official last year, as Angus Crumplebottom received 7% of Landgraab Industries, Inc. worthy more than 1 million simoleons! Agnes still owns 8%, plus she also own shares in Tredony Trades, Inc and cousin Agathe's gardening shop. So the testament will still be of great interest to many!

People Chamber: Seats per Region Confirmed

(Year 234, Spring) Yesterday the details that everyone has been waiting for were confirmed by High Court. In one year the Year 235 election takes place, and the 21 electable seats of People Chamber were shared between our 8 regions, based on latest population numbers.

The changes after the Year 230 election are significant thanks to the regional reform where several districts switched regions. There will also be some minor adjustments involving the election routine.

High Judge Mrs Anita Ferny held a quick press conference at People Chamber.

Nobility Calendar of Year 234

 Royal Palace Office (RPO) has released the calendar for the Year 234. The royals attend various events nation wide as well as abroad. In addition there will be a few events hosted by them, and during a normal year there will be some stately guests, too.

Also the 8 high nobility houses in Mazaloom are included in this calendar. They equal to the knights of the High Order of the Baltazar - one from each region. They are less active in representation, but serves as a network that can step in when needed.

Traditionally each House will rarely accept more than two invitations per season, the royals a bit more, including patronages. High nobility Houses rarely take on community engagements outside their home region, unless being urged to by the RPO. It's Year 234!

Nordhaven is blooming!

(Year 234, Spring) This blog was contacted by Adriana Hyde, a local of Nordhaven, region Windenburg. In the past they were administrated by Windenburg, but now that Norhaven got district status, they will elect their very first Mayor. This happens a little less than a year ahead, meaning the political parties had a deadline for Nordhaven candidates on this Nomination Day. Just like all the other districts.

List of candidates are normally not made public untill Fall, but Adriana Hyde (59) obviously could not wait that long. It's early days. Her candidature is not official yet, neither is it confirmed by her party.

- I had to let everyone know that I will be the favored candidate of the RIGHT party, she announced. - I am fully aware that they need to confirm these things, but I really don't see how they should not support me all the way. I should be their number one pick!

Interview: Prime Minister Rob Wilder

(Year 234, Spring) Mr Rob Wilder has served as our Prime Minister since Year 230, and for the first time he allowed the press to meet his family at Uptown in San Myshuno.

Married twelve years ago: Mrs Holly Alto and Mr Rob Wilder.

No photos taken in the huge 3 stories apartment, but the session took place at the terrace.

While the Nomination Day candidates from his RIGHT party won't go public until Fall this year, we know for sure that Mr Rob Wilder (73) won't run again for the the upcoming election. Is he fine with that?

Royal Teens got Hobbies

(Year 234, Spring) Did you ever wonder what are the main hobbies of the four royal teenagers? Let's check with three of them, all students at the same boarding school in Windenburg.

In the yard in front of Summerfield High, an old herrenhaus in Windenburg's countryside, the three students agreed to meet with us. HRH Crown princess Emireza (23), HRH Prince Bazillimus (21) and HRH Prince Cecil (19) are all students at the same high school, a topic that stirred up some critical reactions few years ago.