Wintreath Regional Community

The Amalyan Quarter - Fun Things We Do => Summit of States - NationStates => The Charax Romanov Embassy Complex => Topic started by: Milograd on December 23, 2013, 12:18:18 AM

Title: Lazarus
Post by: Milograd on December 23, 2013, 12:18:18 AM
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fnslazarus.com%2Fpublic%2Fstyle_images%2F5_5_logo.png&hash=9fea892e367a63aece354ab9716521eb) (http://nslazarus.com/)
Click the above link for access to the board.
Greetings,

This is an announcement from the Informational Cadre of Lazarus that is intended to inform you of our forum switch from Zetaboards to an IPB board. We now host our on forum at nslazarus.com (http://nslazarus.com/), thanks to the work of Chairman Milograd and Comrade Hobbes.

Your ambassadors may need to reapply for their ambassadorial masking, as groups did not carry over and had to be manually reset by the Administration Cadre, and your links to our board may need to be updated.

Any previous user of the forum will have to change his or her password via e-mail (the "forgot your password?" prompt), and then he or she should log in and change the password to something more memorable than the random sequence of digits. If you do not have an account, feel free to register, introduce yourself, and apply for an appropriate diplomatic masking if you desire to.

Thank you.
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Charax on December 23, 2013, 12:45:12 AM
Congrats Lazarus.
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Alexej III. on January 16, 2014, 04:03:00 AM
Quote
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FoAEsIxG.png&hash=ae8f7a19d78e09188b58cf76d0627286)
People's Republic of Lazarus Foreign Update
January 2014 Edition (Written by Horse, PERGAMON, Matheca, and Milograd)
 
"Onward in the Glorious March to Harmony!"

Current Lazarene Government

Chairman: Milograd (http://www.nationstates.net/nation=milograd) (Endorsements: 155) (Days as Chairman: 55)
Vice-Chairman: Harmoneia (http://www.nationstates.net/nation=Harmoneia)
Cultural Governor: Funkadelia (http://www.nationstates.net/nation=Funkadelia)
Diplomacy Governor: Matheca (http://www.nationstates.net/nation=matheca)
Judicial Governor: Mad Jack (http://www.nationstates.net/nation=mad_jack)
Information Governor: Kazmr (http://www.nationstates.net/nation=kazmr)
General of People's Militia: DYP (http://www.nationstates.net/nation=drop_your_pants)

People's Congress: Pergamon, Horse, Stujenske, Libetarian Republics, The Grim Reaper, Feux, Heronlord

All Time Activity Record Set in December

December 2013 was, as predicted, a record breaking month. In fact, it was the most active month in Lazarus' 10-year history. Over 3,600 posts were made in December, and records for users online, registrations, and new topics were also broken.

NS World Fair Cadre Sets Up Spectacular Booth: Little Red Books, Games, and More!

The announcement of The South Pacific as the NS World Fair host drew lots of excitement and anticipation from the citizens of the People's Republic of Lazarus. Primarily, it was because Chairman Milograd had declared the World Fair to be the perfect dais to showcase the vibrance of the Lazarene community and itscultural treasures to the world, an opportunity to show the world just how far Lazarus has come. Cultural Governor Funkadelia was put in charge of all the activities, with major contributions from comrades Horse and Pergamon to the setting up of the Lazarus booth.

A brainstorming session was held which saw the evolution of many unique ideas which made it through the final cut into the Lazarene booth at the World Fair. Ex- Chairwoman Harmoneia offered to write an elaborate essay on Lazarene class struggles, while 'The Little Red Book' was the primary project pursued by the World Fair Cadre. Governor Kazmr showcased his art in an elaborately planned exhibit, and comrade Horse offered to liven up the mood with a few games and activities. Drafting 'The Little Red Book' became one of the main objectives of the cadre, with the final result showcasing some of the most inspirational, patriotic and glorious quotes of the party members. The final result for the World Fair booth was a collective effort of the Lazarene community and managed to encapsulate the current mood and activity of the region perfectly. Many party members were instrumental in making this happen and the credit goes to the entire cadre.
Chairman Milograd summed up the effort by saying:

"I enjoyed this project and I look forward to a great world fair. I think that the work we did here will reflect the gains made by our community quite well."

The Cultural District witnessed a new breakthrough in terms of forum activity, implementation of new ideas and a whole slew of ideas and projects which were started by cultural Governor Funkadelia. The Community History Project sought to update the People's Republic's most recent History, the most recent delegates, their tenures, coup attempts and the Revolution. The project witnessed major contributions from ex-delegates Feux and Harmoneia who painstakingly managed to compile and update the history of the region till the present day.

Apart from this, Funkadelia implemented his pet project theLazarene People's Gaming Union, as a novel way to bring together the gaming aficionados of the Lazarus community and encourage  activity and participation. 'It is a [/]union for the various gaming members of Lazarus to share their gaming profiles and so we can all play games together once in a while.' said Governor Funkadelia. The project was met with a great response with several members of the Lazarene community signing up for it, and calling it a wonderful idea.

IRC activity on Lazarus reached a new high, with the channel having no less than eleven members at a given time. The IRC channel proved to be a major way to reach out to the citizens of Lazarus and provided great connectivity between the government and the people. Activity records in Lazarus created history yet again with the forum posts reaching a resounding 15,000 up from nearly 8,000 posts in November 2013.

Government Appointments

There have been a few shakeups in the government.
  • Bruteland replaced Hobbes as SC Marshal.
  • Meow Zedong replaced PrussianEmpire as an Army Officer.
  • Horse replaced Earth and Freedom as a Congressman.
  • Elections are underway to replace the outgoing Vice-Chairman, Harmoneia. Hobbes, Funkadelia, and Kazmr are running as candidates.
  • Cam was appointed as Cultural Organizer.
  • Tano was appointed as Recruitment Officer.
Informational Activity

The Information District published six issues in December. They can be found here (http://nslazarus.com/index.php?/forum/12-the-lazarene-gazette/). The District is currently discussing the idea of interviewing Lazarenes on a more regular basis and on reporting internationally. Bodobol, Charax, and Economic Determinists have stepped up to join the staff this month.

Forum Software Upgraded

In an effort commissioned and sponsored by Comrade Milograd, First Tiger Hobbes constructed a new forum for Lazarenes to gather at and converse, with a modicum of help from South Pacifican Hileville. The effort to construct the new forums took a little over a day, completing construction last Saturday, 21 December late in the evening. Those contributing to construction agreed that the job was both tiresome and frustrating. The upgrade caused some confusion among citizens, as passwords had to be changed to manually log in, but the overall transition was smooth. There were a few snags reported, however Hobbes managed to address them swiftly so no inconvenience was caused.

The new forums were well received by the people, and the majority of the people were of the opinion that the forums looked better, and were much easier to use. Hobbes recieved widespread appreciation for his work in improving the forums, with compliments for his work pouring in from all directions. Milograd has also been applauded for funding the project.

LLA Achieves Major Successes Against The Black Riders and Fascists

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FoH6HZ4z.jpg&hash=c85b75bdab915ef19afaa2709f7e52ae)

This month was a great success for the LLA. It has seen a large spurt of activity in the defender world, working with its many allies to liberate regions. The greatest example of this was the liberation of Asia, which has been used as the example of what happens when defenders put their differences aside and agree to work together. The liberation, which took place at Major update on the 27th, took around 40 people in the operation. The coalition used non-WA nations with flags that would grab attention (such as Mahaj’s and Unibot’s flag) to try and trick the delegate into moving to ban them instead of using their precious time to ban actual WA's. This tactic, along with the major surge of troops, was successful, as several of the banjections were wasted on those nations. The liberation is being heralded as one of the funnest liberations, and the largest operation of the 2013 year. The following organizations took part in the liberation: TITO, the UDL, the FRA, Spiritus, Wintreath, and The South Pacific. A big thank you goes out to all that helped in the liberation, and may we continue this great  amount of success in every liberation we do.

Some other highlights include, but are not limited to:
  • 12/7/13- Defense of 3 regions
  • 12/17/13- Defense of Zombie Prevention, Unitarian Union, and Hong Kong
  • 12/24/13- Defense of Nulla Vitae, and Marijuana 4 All.
  • 12/27/13- Liberation of Asia
  • 12/30/13- Liberation of Italy
  • 12/31/13- Liberation of  Darwin Allied Republics
  • 1/5/13- Liberation of Coalition of Leftist Comrades
  • 1/5/13- Defense of Soviet Union
    [/size]

Lazarene People Triumphantly Defend Themselves From Griff's Coup Attempt

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimgh.us%2Fimages_33.jpeg&hash=ce5644d19a3d68a05569426c7c0844a7)
Kazmr delivers a motivational speech to the defense cadres.

"When the People's Republic of Lazarus issued the clarion call to save our beloved homeland from the clutches of the counterprosperity traitor group, the Lazarene people, both young and old, were the first to hurl themselves into struggle, flocked into the war cadres in the region and on the RMB, composed of the finest sons and daughters of the game, filled the ranks of the partisan battalions which were expanded into brigades and divisions and which, today, constitute our regular Lazarene Liberation Army." -- (Cultural District Briefing on the History of the Republic)

On December 7th, 2013, Chairman Milograd issued a warning to all citizens of Lazarus that the region had entered a state of emergency and defense against a reactionary invasion. Griffin Somerset, our former delegate and a former friend to the people of Lazarus, had chosen for the second time to attempt to overthrow the government and had started swapping endorsements for the sake of overthrowing the legitimate Lazarene government. During her first attempt in 2012, she approached the United Defenders League about "liberating" Lazarus from its popularly elected incumbent delegate due to her opinions losing the favor of the EC. This time, she declared her plot to the people in her telegrams, but after telegramming the entire region she only managed to garner 30 endorsements from over 200 WA nations. The people's rejection of her underlying promise of a return to regional decay were immediately self-evident.

Regardless, the response to her subversive assault was vigorous and unremitting. Allies of the PRL assisted in upholding the security of the region by endorsing Milograd and the other endorsees. Supporters of the Lazarus both old and new flooded the regional message board with statements that declared their support for the legitimate government and pointed out the flaws in Griffin's rhetoric, lies, and promises. Observers declared their frustration at the disruption that Griffin had brought to the tranquility and order in their home. Old Guard Lazarene members, such as Trackeendy, Drop Your Pants, and Harmoneia also rallied express their disappointment at a member they once considered a reasonable friend.

The struggle was a painful one, as it is never fun to war against an old friend nor is the necessity to defend your region against an invasion ever welcomed, but nonetheless it had to be done. Milograd calmly addressed Griffin and addressed her concerns, but ultimately the fact that she chose to resort to armed rebellion before taking a more reasonable course of action, such as talking to him, only lost her his favor and proved why she was banned in the first place. Her tendency to make hasty decisions that threaten the region's good for the sake of preserving her unpopular preferences about Lazarus' management was disconcerting to the people. She marched onto the RMB and declared that she would bring the democracy that the people wanted and that Feux "stole" from them, even though Feux's anti-democratic platform in the 2013 elections  defeated her democratic platform. Similarly, Chairman Milograd made a thread about democratization in the citizen's forum, and it was unanimously rejected by the citizenry due to their support of his vision and power to pursue it.

The struggle lasted for over a week, and ended when Milograd coordinated a last-second slingshot of the delegacy to Former Delegate Drop Your Pants, who then sent Griffin's nation to The Rejected Realms Penal Colony. DYP says that he would have preferred not having to have done it, but that Griff's disruption and recklessness made it necessary. Later, Game Administrator Ballotonia announced that the game feature that Griff exploited to make her coup attempt possible had been patched. Banning high-influence invader nations costs a lot of influence and therefore it is wholly unreasonable that they can return to their regions after CTEing (bans expire) with minimal loss in influence, and therefore, for now on, nations will lose all influence they have in regions except for the one that they CTE in after they go inactive.

Lazarenes that participated in our fight for freedom were awarded a ribbon for their efforts, and overall the people were joyful after tranquility was restored. Governor Kazmr joked, "I never thought I'd see Griffin Somerset stir activity in Lazarus."

Judicial District Runs Mock Trial

Christmas in one of the most important festivals around the world. It was revealed however, that one sole man searched to destroy christmas and ruin it for everybody: The Grinch. The People's Republic of Lazarus could not stand such a cruesome crime and charged the Grinch with a full list of his crimes, but primary focused on the crime of treason. It was believed that his actions would destroy the harmony and unity of the republic and as such, destroy the republic from withhin. Comrade Mad Jack opened the court of the Grinch Case and acted as judge of Lazarus. He nominated Pergamon for the state's prosecution, defending the values and rights of the People's Republic. The Grinch however, chose a very competent advocat, Kogvuron to defend his rights in trial. Regardless of all cruel crimes, the advocat revealed the true motivation of the accused and explained that christmas is not a festival of harmony or unity but one with religious and capitalizt . Thus the accused tried to defend the People's Republic from this burgeois influence and was in fact a most loyal subject to Lazarus. Judge Mad Jack declared "not guilty". The case was closed and the accused was set free.

This was the first trial held in the People's Republic and a great success regarding the constitution and values of Lazarus. The participators have been congratulated for their efforts and enthusiasm.

WA Activity in the People's Republic: PRL Members Draft and Vote

Chairman Milograd, First Tiger/Officer Hobbes, and Governor Kazmr drafted a commendation of the outgoing Vice-Chairman of the People's Republic, Harmoneia. Harmoneia has been a contributor to Lazarus since its infancy and has been always been a valued member of our community; the commendation was met with strong support on our off-site vote and in our in-game vote, with many old Lazarenes showing up to voice their support of the condemnation, and the resolution won by a landslide vote in the Security Council.

Furthermore, Chairman Milograd, with the help of TWP's WA Minister, Douria, has drafted a repeal of GA#75, the "International Radio Act". The resolution was proposed for a number of reasons. GA#75 presents an inadvertent danger to civilians, since exposing civilians to highly powerful waves can cause long-term health issues including cancer. Furthermore, the requirement for nations to maintain radio services for utilities that they may not even have is too inflexible for a body as diverse as the WA, and further believing that maintaining superfluous services is costly to member states.

The PRL is pleased to see that it's first state-drafted resolution has passed in the SC, and also hopes that, when the time comes, our allies and friends abroad will support Chairman Milograd's attempt to repeal GA#75.

In terms of voting, the PRL voted as follows:
  • Condemn The Black Riders -- For [SC]
  • Commend Harmoneia -- For [SC]
  • Freedom to Bear Arms  -- Against [GA]
  • Pollution Control Act -- Against [GA]
  • Repeal "Dignified End of Life Choices" -- For [GA]
  • Freedom to Bear Arms -- Against [GA]
  • Repeal "The Early Learning Act" -- For [GA]
  • On Network Neutrality -- For [GA]
  • Right to Adequate Shelter -- Against [GA]
  • Repeal "Cultural Heritage Protection" -- For [GA]
Quote of the Month

"The Grinch has finally taken Christmas
From us innocent Lazarenes!

Fear not, for we shall take it back,
With force of will,
In huge Christmas sacks!

But one amongst us
who is without sin
Should cast the first stone
At this almighty Christmas din

Are we not all guilty
Of failing to uphold Christmas spirit?
Is it not our fault
That the Grinch chose not to do his bit?

Surely we must repent
For our own negligence!
Who amongst us can truly say
That we sacrificed to keep the spirit that day?

We must strive forever
To spread the word
To protect the people
Around the NS world

And let me just say
That without delay
The Grinch must be freed
To help us spread good cheer
All throughout the year
This, my friends, is how I plead."

by Meow Zedong ~ PRL VS The Grinch

Thanks for reading our monthly update! Lazarus wishes you a happy and successful New Year!
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Wintermoot on January 16, 2014, 07:43:15 PM
Thanks for the update! It would seem that Lazarus continues to become one of the most active and relevant regions in the game. :)
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Milograd on January 26, 2014, 07:16:14 AM
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FoAEsIxG.png&hash=ae8f7a19d78e09188b58cf76d0627286)
People's Republic of Lazarus Foreign Update
January 2014 Edition (Written by Horse, PERGAMON, Matheca, and Milograd)
 
"Onward in the Glorious March to Harmony!"

Current Lazarene Government

Chairman: Milograd (http://www.nationstates.net/nation=milograd) (Endorsements: 165) (Days as Chairman: 75)
Vice-Chairman: Harmoneia (http://www.nationstates.net/nation=Harmoneia)
Cultural Governor: Funkadelia (http://www.nationstates.net/nation=Funkadelia)
Diplomacy Governor: Matheca (http://www.nationstates.net/nation=matheca)
Judicial Governor: Mad Jack (http://www.nationstates.net/nation=mad_jack)
Information Governor: Kazmr (http://www.nationstates.net/nation=kazmr)
General of People's Militia: DYP (http://www.nationstates.net/nation=drop_your_pants)

People's Congress: Pergamon, Horse, Stujenske, Libetarian Republics, The Grim Reaper, Feux, Heronlord

All Time Activity Record Set in December

December 2013 was, as predicted, a record breaking month. In fact, it was the most active month in Lazarus' 10-year history. Over 3,600 posts were made in December, and records for users online, registrations, and new topics were also broken.

NS World Fair Cadre Sets Up Spectacular Booth: Little Red Books, Games, and More!

The announcement of The South Pacific as the NS World Fair host drew lots of excitement and anticipation from the citizens of the People's Republic of Lazarus. Primarily, it was because Chairman Milograd had declared the World Fair to be the perfect dais to showcase the vibrance of the Lazarene community and itscultural treasures to the world, an opportunity to show the world just how far Lazarus has come. Cultural Governor Funkadelia was put in charge of all the activities, with major contributions from comrades Horse and Pergamon to the setting up of the Lazarus booth.

A brainstorming session was held which saw the evolution of many unique ideas which made it through the final cut into the Lazarene booth at the World Fair. Ex- Chairwoman Harmoneia offered to write an elaborate essay on Lazarene class struggles, while 'The Little Red Book' was the primary project pursued by the World Fair Cadre. Governor Kazmr showcased his art in an elaborately planned exhibit, and comrade Horse offered to liven up the mood with a few games and activities. Drafting 'The Little Red Book' became one of the main objectives of the cadre, with the final result showcasing some of the most inspirational, patriotic and glorious quotes of the party members. The final result for the World Fair booth was a collective effort of the Lazarene community and managed to encapsulate the current mood and activity of the region perfectly. Many party members were instrumental in making this happen and the credit goes to the entire cadre.
Chairman Milograd summed up the effort by saying:

"I enjoyed this project and I look forward to a great world fair. I think that the work we did here will reflect the gains made by our community quite well."

The Cultural District witnessed a new breakthrough in terms of forum activity, implementation of new ideas and a whole slew of ideas and projects which were started by cultural Governor Funkadelia. The Community History Project sought to update the People's Republic's most recent History, the most recent delegates, their tenures, coup attempts and the Revolution. The project witnessed major contributions from ex-delegates Feux and Harmoneia who painstakingly managed to compile and update the history of the region till the present day.

Apart from this, Funkadelia implemented his pet project theLazarene People's Gaming Union, as a novel way to bring together the gaming aficionados of the Lazarus community and encourage  activity and participation. 'It is a [/]union for the various gaming members of Lazarus to share their gaming profiles and so we can all play games together once in a while.' said Governor Funkadelia. The project was met with a great response with several members of the Lazarene community signing up for it, and calling it a wonderful idea.

IRC activity on Lazarus reached a new high, with the channel having no less than eleven members at a given time. The IRC channel proved to be a major way to reach out to the citizens of Lazarus and provided great connectivity between the government and the people. Activity records in Lazarus created history yet again with the forum posts reaching a resounding 15,000 up from nearly 8,000 posts in November 2013.

Government Appointments

There have been a few shakeups in the government.Informational Activity

The Information District published six issues in December. They can be found here (http://nslazarus.com/index.php?/forum/12-the-lazarene-gazette/). The District is currently discussing the idea of interviewing Lazarenes on a more regular basis and on reporting internationally. Bodobol, Charax, and Economic Determinists have stepped up to join the staff this month.

Forum Software Upgraded

In an effort commissioned and sponsored by Comrade Milograd, First Tiger Hobbes constructed a new forum for Lazarenes to gather at and converse, with a modicum of help from South Pacifican Hileville. The effort to construct the new forums took a little over a day, completing construction last Saturday, 21 December late in the evening. Those contributing to construction agreed that the job was both tiresome and frustrating. The upgrade caused some confusion among citizens, as passwords had to be changed to manually log in, but the overall transition was smooth. There were a few snags reported, however Hobbes managed to address them swiftly so no inconvenience was caused.

The new forums were well received by the people, and the majority of the people were of the opinion that the forums looked better, and were much easier to use. Hobbes recieved widespread appreciation for his work in improving the forums, with compliments for his work pouring in from all directions. Milograd has also been applauded for funding the project.

LLA Achieves Major Successes Against The Black Riders and Fascists

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FoH6HZ4z.jpg&hash=c85b75bdab915ef19afaa2709f7e52ae)

This month was a great success for the LLA. It has seen a large spurt of activity in the defender world, working with its many allies to liberate regions. The greatest example of this was the liberation of Asia, which has been used as the example of what happens when defenders put their differences aside and agree to work together. The liberation, which took place at Major update on the 27th, took around 40 people in the operation. The coalition used non-WA nations with flags that would grab attention (such as Mahaj’s and Unibot’s flag) to try and trick the delegate into moving to ban them instead of using their precious time to ban actual WA's. This tactic, along with the major surge of troops, was successful, as several of the banjections were wasted on those nations. The liberation is being heralded as one of the funnest liberations, and the largest operation of the 2013 year. The following organizations took part in the liberation: TITO, the UDL, the FRA, Spiritus, Wintreath, and The South Pacific. A big thank you goes out to all that helped in the liberation, and may we continue this great  amount of success in every liberation we do.

Some other highlights include, but are not limited to:
Lazarene People Triumphantly Defend Themselves From Griff's Coup Attempt

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimgh.us%2Fimages_33.jpeg&hash=ce5644d19a3d68a05569426c7c0844a7)
Kazmr delivers a motivational speech to the defense cadres.

"When the People's Republic of Lazarus issued the clarion call to save our beloved homeland from the clutches of the counterprosperity traitor group, the Lazarene people, both young and old, were the first to hurl themselves into struggle, flocked into the war cadres in the region and on the RMB, composed of the finest sons and daughters of the game, filled the ranks of the partisan battalions which were expanded into brigades and divisions and which, today, constitute our regular Lazarene Liberation Army." -- (Cultural District Briefing on the History of the Republic)

On December 7th, 2013, Chairman Milograd issued a warning to all citizens of Lazarus that the region had entered a state of emergency and defense against a reactionary invasion. Griffin Somerset, our former delegate and a former friend to the people of Lazarus, had chosen for the second time to attempt to overthrow the government and had started swapping endorsements for the sake of overthrowing the legitimate Lazarene government. During her first attempt in 2012, she approached the United Defenders League about "liberating" Lazarus from its popularly elected incumbent delegate due to her opinions losing the favor of the EC. This time, she declared her plot to the people in her telegrams, but after telegramming the entire region she only managed to garner 30 endorsements from over 200 WA nations. The people's rejection of her underlying promise of a return to regional decay were immediately self-evident.

Regardless, the response to her subversive assault was vigorous and unremitting. Allies of the PRL assisted in upholding the security of the region by endorsing Milograd and the other endorsees. Supporters of the Lazarus both old and new flooded the regional message board with statements that declared their support for the legitimate government and pointed out the flaws in Griffin's rhetoric, lies, and promises. Observers declared their frustration at the disruption that Griffin had brought to the tranquility and order in their home. Old Guard Lazarene members, such as Trackeendy, Drop Your Pants, and Harmoneia also rallied express their disappointment at a member they once considered a reasonable friend.

The struggle was a painful one, as it is never fun to war against an old friend nor is the necessity to defend your region against an invasion ever welcomed, but nonetheless it had to be done. Milograd calmly addressed Griffin and addressed her concerns, but ultimately the fact that she chose to resort to armed rebellion before taking a more reasonable course of action, such as talking to him, only lost her his favor and proved why she was banned in the first place. Her tendency to make hasty decisions that threaten the region's good for the sake of preserving her unpopular preferences about Lazarus' management was disconcerting to the people. She marched onto the RMB and declared that she would bring the democracy that the people wanted and that Feux "stole" from them, even though Feux's anti-democratic platform in the 2013 elections  defeated her democratic platform. Similarly, Chairman Milograd made a thread about democratization in the citizen's forum, and it was unanimously rejected by the citizenry due to their support of his vision and power to pursue it.

The struggle lasted for over a week, and ended when Milograd coordinated a last-second slingshot of the delegacy to Former Delegate Drop Your Pants, who then sent Griffin's nation to The Rejected Realms Penal Colony. DYP says that he would have preferred not having to have done it, but that Griff's disruption and recklessness made it necessary. Later, Game Administrator Ballotonia announced that the game feature that Griff exploited to make her coup attempt possible had been patched. Banning high-influence invader nations costs a lot of influence and therefore it is wholly unreasonable that they can return to their regions after CTEing (bans expire) with minimal loss in influence, and therefore, for now on, nations will lose all influence they have in regions except for the one that they CTE in after they go inactive.

Lazarenes that participated in our fight for freedom were awarded a ribbon for their efforts, and overall the people were joyful after tranquility was restored. Governor Kazmr joked, "I never thought I'd see Griffin Somerset stir activity in Lazarus."

Judicial District Runs Mock Trial

Christmas in one of the most important festivals around the world. It was revealed however, that one sole man searched to destroy christmas and ruin it for everybody: The Grinch. The People's Republic of Lazarus could not stand such a cruesome crime and charged the Grinch with a full list of his crimes, but primary focused on the crime of treason. It was believed that his actions would destroy the harmony and unity of the republic and as such, destroy the republic from withhin. Comrade Mad Jack opened the court of the Grinch Case and acted as judge of Lazarus. He nominated Pergamon for the state's prosecution, defending the values and rights of the People's Republic. The Grinch however, chose a very competent advocat, Kogvuron to defend his rights in trial. Regardless of all cruel crimes, the advocat revealed the true motivation of the accused and explained that christmas is not a festival of harmony or unity but one with religious and capitalizt . Thus the accused tried to defend the People's Republic from this burgeois influence and was in fact a most loyal subject to Lazarus. Judge Mad Jack declared "not guilty". The case was closed and the accused was set free.

This was the first trial held in the People's Republic and a great success regarding the constitution and values of Lazarus. The participators have been congratulated for their efforts and enthusiasm.

WA Activity in the People's Republic: PRL Members Draft and Vote

Chairman Milograd, First Tiger/Officer Hobbes, and Governor Kazmr drafted a commendation of the outgoing Vice-Chairman of the People's Republic, Harmoneia. Harmoneia has been a contributor to Lazarus since its infancy and has been always been a valued member of our community; the commendation was met with strong support on our off-site vote and in our in-game vote, with many old Lazarenes showing up to voice their support of the condemnation, and the resolution won by a landslide vote in the Security Council.

Furthermore, Chairman Milograd, with the help of TWP's WA Minister, Douria, has drafted a repeal of GA#75, the "International Radio Act". The resolution was proposed for a number of reasons. GA#75 presents an inadvertent danger to civilians, since exposing civilians to highly powerful waves can cause long-term health issues including cancer. Furthermore, the requirement for nations to maintain radio services for utilities that they may not even have is too inflexible for a body as diverse as the WA, and further believing that maintaining superfluous services is costly to member states.

The PRL is pleased to see that it's first state-drafted resolution has passed in the SC, and also hopes that, when the time comes, our allies and friends abroad will support Chairman Milograd's attempt to repeal GA#75.

In terms of voting, the PRL voted as follows:Quote of the Month

"The Grinch has finally taken Christmas
From us innocent Lazarenes!

Fear not, for we shall take it back,
With force of will,
In huge Christmas sacks!

But one amongst us
who is without sin
Should cast the first stone
At this almighty Christmas din

Are we not all guilty
Of failing to uphold Christmas spirit?
Is it not our fault
That the Grinch chose not to do his bit?

Surely we must repent
For our own negligence!
Who amongst us can truly say
That we sacrificed to keep the spirit that day?

We must strive forever
To spread the word
To protect the people
Around the NS world

And let me just say
That without delay
The Grinch must be freed
To help us spread good cheer
All throughout the year
This, my friends, is how I plead."

by Meow Zedong ~ PRL VS The Grinch

Thanks for reading our monthly update! Lazarus wishes you a happy and successful New Year!
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Wintermoot on January 26, 2014, 02:46:40 PM
Thanks for the update! It's good to see Lazarus continuing to advance as one of the most active and relevant regions in the game. :)
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Milograd on February 15, 2014, 10:24:41 PM

 

People's Republic of Lazarus Foreign Update
February 2014 Edition (Written by Horse, PERGAMON, Matheca, and Milograd)
 
"Onward in the Glorious March to Harmony!"

Current Lazarene Government

Chairman: Milograd (Endorsements: 170) (Days as Chairman: 100)
Vice-Chairman: Funkadelia

Cultural Governor: Tano
Diplomacy Governor: Dalimbar (Lieutenant Governor: Matheca)
Judicial Governor: Fortress Prussia
Information Governor: Kazmr
General of People's Militia: Drop Your Pants

People's Congress: Pergamon, Horse, Stujenske, Libetarian Republics, The Grim Reaper, Feux, [Vacant]
 
War Marshals: Hobbes, Horse, Kogvuron, Campinia, Aperi
Cultural Marshals: Bodobol, Cameron M. Romefeller
WA Marshals: Bruteland, Auralia
 
 
 

Chairman Milograd Rewards Contributors to Iron Production !!!
 
 
All-Time Activity Records Broken … Again
 
January 2014 set the record for being the month with the most posts in Lazarene history, along with all the other activity records that the board records. This is the third month in a row where this record has been broken; indeed, November 2013 broke the record set almost half a decade ago, December 2013 yielded twice as many posts as November 2013, and January 2014 beat out December 2013. Citizens wonder if February will break the streak due to it being a short month, but nonetheless are pleased by the consistency of great activity in the community. Over 4,500 posts (145 posts per day) were made in January despite the fact that the board was offline for several days due to an issue with our host.
 
PRL Passes Three WA Resolutions
 
Over the course of January, Chairman Milograd submitted "Commend Harmoneia" and "Liberate Slavia" to the WA Security Council. The Chairman also worked with The Dourian Embassy of The West Pacific's WA Ministry to draft a repeal of "International Radio Act". All three of these resolutions passed.
 
The commendation of Harmoneia was intended to recognize Harmoneia's contributions to Lazarus and the game as a whole. A longstanding administrator and contributor in the Lazarene community, Harmoneia is one of the two Co-Founders of the People's Republic and has been a friend to us for a long time. Her commendation was authored by Chairman Milograd and co-authored by Vanguard Governor Kazmr and First Tiger Hobbes.
 
The liberation of Slavia was a preventative measure taken by Milograd to ensure that the imperialist forces that are currently occupying the region cannot refound it. Although a refound does not necessarily guarantee a region's safety from refoundation, it does make the task of refunding a region more difficult. Chairman Milograd, as an immobile WA nation, felt compelled to do what he could to help Slavia's community's struggle against imperialist oppression.
 
The repeal of the International Radio Act was undertaken by Milograd and Douria, who realized the the act was insensible and even dangerous. It passed through the General Assembly with more than 90% approval.
 
Cultural Marshal Bodobol also hopes to commend Hobbesistan, who has contributed immensely to the Lazarene community and who is the architect of our community forum.
 
Army Awards Ceremony Concludes
 
In recognition of the impressive activity and life of the Lazarene Liberation Army, the LLA's Officer Team decided to host an awards contest for LLA troops. Several categories and awards were created and the army's roster voted on the winners, while all citizens got to nominate candidates. It was a pleasurable contest and we hope to make it a tradition.

Liberator of the Year: Three Way Tie, All Three Win [Kog, Perg, Hobbes]

Defender of the Year: Pergamon

Spotter of the Year: Kogvuron

Guerilla of the Year: Milograd

Protector of the Year: DYP
Best Mission: Asia
Best Switch: Atticus Finch
LLA Continues Success, Comrade Meow Retires from Duty
 
The LLA had another successful month of defending and liberating regions across NationStates. The month got off to a fast start as the LLA liberated Makhnovia from the Right Wing Uprising, and continued to yield many successes for our people's army. Furthermore, while we were happy about our success, we also had to wish a sad farewell to Officer Zedong from our officer corps; he will continue to serve on the People's Congress, but is too busy for the LLA due to RL. We wish him the best and welcome Captain Horse as his replacement.
 
Some of the LLA's successful missions from this month are listed below:
01/05/14 - Coalition of Leftist Comrades - SL
01/05/14 - SuperDubemLand - SD - LD - UD
01/05/14 - Democratic Europe - SD - LD - UD
01/05/14 - Darwin Allied Republics - SL
01/11/14 - TNA - SD - LD - UD
01/11/14 - Liberal Haven - SD - UD
01/11/14 - The United Crazy Nations - SD - UD
01/11/14 - Anzia - SD -  - UD
01/11/14 - The Valley of the Wind - SD - UD
01/16/14 - The Holy Roman Confederation - SD - SP - LD
01/20/14 - Union Soviet Socialist Republic - SL
01/21/14 - Ancient Rome - SL -
01/26/14 - Panem - SL -
01/05/14 - Coalition of Leftist Comrades - SL
01/05/14 - The Grenvali United - DT
01/05/14 - SuperDubemLand - SD
01/05/14 - Soviet Union - DT / SM
01/05/14 - Democratic Europe - SD -
01/05/14 - Darwin Allied Republics - SL
01/11/14 - TNA - SD
01/11/14 - Liberal Haven - SD
01/11/14 - The United Crazy Nations - SD
01/11/14 - Anzia - SD -
01/11/14 - The Valley of the Wind - SD
01/16/14 - The Holy Roman Confederation - SD
01/20/14 - Union Soviet Socialist Republic - SL
01/21/14 - Ancient Rome - SL
01/26/14 - Panem - SL
The list is basically Kog’s mission log, so this is basically a good picture of what the LLA has done this month. The biggest missions of this month were the liberations of Makhovia, Union Soviet Socialist Republic, Christmas, and Regions Will Fall.
 

The People's Force Promotes the Technological Supremacy of Our Great Region !!!
 
Technological Advances (Serina, Forum Improvements)
 
The continuation of the modernization of the Great Leap Forward continues with first tiger Hobbes initiating some technological innovation for the Republic. First, a chat room separate from IRC was creatd for those who are concerned with protecting their privacy. It is an attachment to the forums like the shoutbox.
 
Second, we have a forum bot that automatically creates an introduction thread for you along with a shout on the shout box that you have registered. So registered to our forums and get a friendly welcome!
 
Last but not least, we have Serina. Serina is an IRC bots that greets you with hails and salutes. Serina has remain an important Lazarene Liberation Army asset as Serina can approximate when regions update, set current missions, and can leave messages for important military and political officials.
 
 
Discussions in the PRL
 
Aside from the politics, the spam, the orders, the people of our region were able to converse under the umbrella of brotherhood and comradeship. We talked about various of topics regarding NationStates, history with NationStates, and anything in general. Milograd and New Kervoskia have discussed their thoughts on imperialism, and New Rogernomics discussed about his views against R/D. Yes, raiding AND defending.
 
Not to mention, we also talk about how we got to our main nation name. Our fellow Congressman, Libetarian Republics, is known for misspelling Libertarian and Milograd was suggested by a friend in IRC. We also talk about various Game-created regions delegates that have ruled their realm when we first entered the game. Some of the more popular response from newer players was Krulltopia, who rules the Pacific as head of the New Pacific Order, due to his longevity. The older players remembered various of players ranging from Fudgetopia of the South Pacific to Kandarin of the Rejected Realms.
 
We also didn't just talk about NationStates. We talk about our lives in real life as well cause you know, we all have lives before NationStates, eh? Citizens of Lazarus were found to be generally academic talented in various of aspect. From AP scholars in the United States to generally future Lawyers, Lazarenes are making their impact outside of NationStates.
 
 
Congress Improves Judicial Code and Passes Law of Official Images
 
The People's Congress of Lazarus has been fairly busy with updating its own legal code. It has recently pass an updated judicial code in order to clarify its legal assessments as a government, especially with the Judicial District. There were some frequent debates about how to create our judicial system but nevertheless was able to pass a judicial code.
 
The People's Congress of Lazarus also passed the Law of Official Images. This is to ensure that only certain images can be flown over the Lazarene region in NationStates and which Seal can be used on foreign updates and statements for our embassies.
 
Informational District Hard at Work
 
The Lazarene Gazette has been fairly busy lately. It published 11 Issues in the Month of January and has published at least 1 issue prior to this update for the month of February. Ranging from Satire of the technological advancements made by Hobbes to describing the outcome of the PRL's treaty discussions with LWU, the Lazarene Gazette is nevertheless making progress in news, entertainment, and information for the fellow citizens that resides in Lazarus. Governor Kazmr, who runs the Lazarene Gazette, was eventually praised for the hard work done later during Kazmr Appreciation Day.
 
Congress Improves Judicial Code and Passes Law of Official Images
 
The People's Congress of Lazarus has been fairly busy with updating its own legal code. It has recently pass an updated judicial code in order to clarify its legal assessments as a government, especially with the Judicial District. There were some frequent debates about how to create our judicial system but nevertheless was able to pass a judicial code.
 
The People's Congress of Lazarus also passed the Law of Official Images. This is to ensure that only certain images can be flown over the Lazarene region in NationStates and which Seal can be used on foreign updates and statements for our embassies.
 
New Treaties, Old Friends: State Council Passes Treaties with XYZ, TEP, and the NPO
 
Following discussion in the State Council and between Chairman Milograd and foreign leaders, the People's Republic of Lazarus signed the XYZ Treaty ("Honda Accord"), which is a friendly cooperative military/cultural accord between defender regions. Lazarus, Mordor, Renegade Islands Alliance, and The Rejected Realms are the alliance's first signatories. The accord has already inspired more cooperation and cultural cooperation between the parties, and more is expected to come. Diplomacy (the game) between the members of signatory regions has become a popular activity.
 
The People's Republic also updated and improved its treaty with Confederation of The East Pacific. TEP has long been a close friend, if not one of the closest friends, of Lazarus and the State Council and the Chairman have expressed their pleasure about the updates to the treaty.
 
Finally, the People's Republic of Lazarus and the New Pacific Order ratified a treaty this month.
 
Fishmongery of the Month: Kazmr Appreciation Day
 
Fishmongery of the Month is a new (and probably one-time, to be honest) section of our updates that will describe a humorous event within the PRL that you probably won't see anywhere else.
 
When Viktoria Griffin attempted to invade Lazarus in December, Milograd and Drop Your Pants performed a slingshot and the nation was removed for disturbing regional tranquility. The slingshot interrupted Chairman Milograd's delegacy, however, and reset the counter for his days in the delegacy. The Chairman had been in the seat for 29 days at the time.
 
DYP later expressed his strong desire to see Milograd actually exceed a month's time in the delegacy and to have the counter be uninterrupted thereon out. Naturally, though, the Chairman and the Fishmonger Flotilla saw the opportunity for humor in this: the Fishmonger Flotilla never leaves a good target untouched.
 
Thus, on a cold January night, Chairman Milograd left Lazarus and surfed the major update. Governor Kazmr, the mastermind of the Lazarene Gazette and the Great Educator of Lazarus, then ooh the delegacy. Milograd's day count had been interrupted yet again! This time, he had transferred the delegacy after 35 days. DYP instantly expressed confusion at the situation and allegedly thought it was a coup.
 
To clarify what had happened, Milograd then declared that it was "Kazmr Appreciation Day" on the RMB, and that the day would be dedicated to celebrating the contributions and spirit of a man who has played a substantial role in shaping the PRL's culture and running its media operation. DYP shook his head while IRC onlookers laughed at DYP's expense. Milograd retook the delegacy 12 hours later.
 
Kazmr stated, "I didn't even get a chance to coup. I was offline for the entirety of my time as a GCR delegate!" He may be the only person in the history of NS who can say that, though, Griffin herself deserves honorable mention for her excellence in being offline during GCR delegacies.
 
The practice of intentionally resetting the Chairman's in-game day counter on a monthly basis may or may not become a PRL tradition, but it was certainly a good laugh.
 
Appointments and Elections
 
Lazarus experienced several changes in its officials.
Former Cultural Governor Funkadelia replaces Harmoneia as Vice-Chairman.
Tano is appointed as Cultural Governor to replace Funkadelia
Diplomacy Governor Matheca steps down to Lt. Governor of Diplomacy. Initially Grand Marshal of Lazarus, Dalimbar is appointed as Governor of Diplomacy.
Mad Jack steps down as Governor of Justice. Fortress Prussia (different Prussia from TEP) is appointed as Governor of Justice.
Heronlord is removed from People's Congress due to inactivity. Snap elections are being held to replace him. Currently Llamas and Kogvuron are running.
Horse replaces The Grim Reaper as Captain/Officer of the Lazarene Liberation Army.
Bodobol is appointed as Cultural Marshal.
 
Thank you for reading our monthly update! The People's Republic of Lazarus wishes you and your region a joyous February!
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Wintermoot on February 16, 2014, 12:37:35 AM
Thanks for the update! Lazarus' continued growth in activity is nothing short of amazing...it must be the most active community in NationStates at this point. :)
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Milograd on March 19, 2014, 11:20:56 AM
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FoAEsIxG.png&hash=ae8f7a19d78e09188b58cf76d0627286)

 
People's Republic of Lazarus Foreign Update
March 2014 Edition (Written by Fantome, Horse, Libetarian Republics, PERGAMON, and Milograd)
 
"Onward in the Glorious March to Harmony!"

Current Lazarene Government
Chairman: Kazmr (Endorsements: 145)
Vice-Chairman: Funkadelia
Cultural Governor: Bodobol
Diplomacy Governor: Dalimbar
Judicial Governor: Fortress Prussia
Information Governor: New Kervoskia
General of People's Militia: Hobbesistan
People's Congress: Pergamon, Horse, Stujenske, Libetarian Republics, The Grim Reaper, Feux, Llamas
Grand Marshal: Chairman Milograd
War Marshals: Hobbes, Horse, Kogvuron, Campinia, Aperi
Cultural Marshals: Tano, Cameron M. Romefeller
WA Marshal: Bruteland
State Police Chief: Fantome
The End of an Era, The Beginning of a New One: Chairman Milograd Succeeded by Chairman Kazmr
 
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FeM2wN9E.png&hash=5ea9a9d1b08ee67b4f1067368d05530e) (https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F2Uzgmx6.png&hash=ca07799f7d3880b6a807c8f2c9437fdc)
A new portrait is hung in the the Forbidden City. (From left to right: Milograd, Kazmr)
Perhaps the biggest event of the month was the surprise decision by Chairman Milograd to step down from power, thus concluding a 4-month reign as Chairman.
 
On March 5th, Milograd posted the following announcement in the Forbidden City:
 
Quote
Quote
So, as I'm sure you're all aware, Chairman elections and the delegacy transition are now underway. A few people have asked me why I'm stepping down, and I'm happy to clarify. I'll do it as briefly and succinctly as I did in my first announcement as Chairman, over a hundred and twenty days ago.
 
I think I've done good work and I'm proud of the work I've done. Under the guidance of Francoism, our community has made historic strides that defied all expectations and we're the most active sinker around right now -- for ten years before, we were known for being a chronically inactive pool. To have made such a turnaround so quickly is an incredible feat. We did that. We should be proud of that.
 
I'm also proud that we stand up for founderless regions and I'm proud that we do it better than most. And I'm proud of the work that everyone here has done to make it possible -- from people like Kaz, Funk, Pergamon, DYP, Hobbes and Harm, who have been here since the beginning, to people like Horse, Bodo, Ik, Fantome, and Llamas. This community has grown and the credit for that success is due to the people who have put work into making it happen, and that, in essence, is the Party.
 
With all that work done, I think it's time for me to let someone else try their hand at being delegate. The delegacy -- our delegacy -- isn't suited for the sort of long dynasties that once condemned us to the very inactivity that I've worked to eliminate. We need to be dynamic in our leadership but constant in our success, cause ,and beliefs. It's sort of how like during a baton race the lead will run as far as he can until he is ready to pass the baton to another teammate of his, who can keep their team competitive in the race. This transition is not as much the end of my delegacy as it is the continuation of our race to a better Lazarus.
 
It's been a please, and honor, and a great opportunity to serve as the Chairman of the PRL. I thank you all for your roles in making this time as much of a success as it has been. I'm looking forward to serving Lazarus in a different capacity once the transition process is completed.
A co-founder of the PRL, Milograd was appointed to serve as Chairman by Harmoneia. During his time as Chairman, the PRL achieved all-time regional records for activity, witnessed much cultural success, such as the revitalization of regional RP and the creation of cult, created an internationally powerful military, the Lazarene Liberation Army, revived the Lazarene Gazette, and fought off several invasion attempts by imperialists. A new bar for the region's potential was set and the status quo of Lazarus being a chronically inactive region was finally proven false. His Chairmanship featured a emphasis on representing the people with the efficiency of a dictatorship, the creation of a strong bureaucracy, and constant pushes to create a thriving regional environment.
 
But with change must come, well, change. Immediately after announcing his intent to resign, a snap election occurred amongst citizens of the region and Governor Kazmr -- the previous winner of the Vice-Chairman election and an endorsee -- won the delegacy versus Hobbes and Stujenske. He opened with the following statement:

Quote
Well, that was certainly fast! But I suppose that's the nature of the PRL.
 
Two days ago I was happily minding my own business as Information Governor, letting the world know about the great thing we have here. As of tonight, I am both Chairman and WA Delegate of Lazarus, and I know that I have you, my fellow Lazarenes, to thank for that.
 
The last four months has seen a landmark delegacy for Lazarus, and perhaps for NationStates itself. Harmoneia made the brave step to get this movement started, but it was Milograd who perfected it. Following such a world class performance will take everything I have, and that is exactly what I will give to my new role.
 
My first order of business is to do a bit of housekeeping for our header up top.
 
First off, I would like to announce that Tano will be stepping down from his role as Governor of Culture. He is a talented, devoted Lazarene, and though he has had a bit on his plate with other regional commitments. As those are winding down, I am sure that he will be able to contribute greatly to the harmony of the region in the role of Cultural Marshal. He has my full support with his future plans to help our region.
 
Replacing Tano will be Bodobol, who has done a bang up job in culture lately and is more than deserving of a seat on the State Council.
 
It seems that the other two appointments I had have already been masked by Milograd, but I'll go ahead and formally announce them. New Kervoskia will serve as as my replacement as Governor of Information. As a longtime NS player and incredibly talented journalist, he is more than qualified for this role.
 
Milograd will hold the position of Grand Marshal with an advisory, but non voting, role on the State Council as recognition of the perspective he can contribute to Lazarus.
 
The remaining appointments will remain the same for the time being. I very much look forward to collaborating with my Vice Chairman Fukadelia on a stronger level than has been done in the past. I am also thrilled to have Hobbes as our General, and am very happy with the work he has already done since taking that office.
 
The first little bit of my reign will likely take a bit of time, what with getting my feet wet in this whole delegate business and some exams in real life, but just ahead I have a tremendous amount of time to devote to our region.
 
There are several key parts of our region I want to focus on early. First and foremost is building on, and not just continuing, our recent activity. That is undoubtedly the lifeblood of the PRL and it, along with the people who are part of that activity, is what has made this region so great. To help foster this, I intend to get involved personally more than I have in the past in the Cultural district, as well as work with my Governors to find ways to increase activity in their own.
 
Though it ties in with activity, our military is a priority unto itself. As I said earlier, Hobbes has been doing a great job filling in DYP's huge shoes, and I want to give him whatever support he needs from me, ranging from helping to recruit new soldiers to building new partnerships abroad. I trust that he will be the leader we need to have the leading defender army in NS.
 
Another thing at the top of my list is working to get more people from within the region itself involved. While there will certainly always be countless nations in a GCR like ours who take no interest in the affairs of the region, there are certainly some individuals who we simply haven't done a good enough job of reaching out to.
 
Finally, I want to do what I can to make sure that everyone has the opportunity to contribute to our region. I wouldn't be here today if I hadn't taken the chance six months ago to write for the Gazette, and though our region has grown ever larger I want to ensure that everyone will have a place here.
 
Of course those are not the only things I intend to work on, but I hope that they can provide a kind of core vision for the beginning of my chairmanship.  Though we may have detractors, it is my firm belief that we can craft a region so fantastic that their little echo chamber is the only one which hears their misguided criticism. With all of your support, Lazarus will continue to be the best region on this site, and will only get better from there.
 
Hail Lazarus o/
Hail the People ; my Friends o/

Citizens are enthusiastic about Chairman Kazmr's delegacy and thus far the Chairman has succeeded in filling the big shoes left behind by Milograd. The PRL wishes him the best and asks for the same wishes from the interregional community.
 
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F2Z70wUc.jpg%3F1&hash=7886654e698d2c438580f02c726acf4a)
Submarine Exterior Cleaning Squad prepares the LLA's finest submarines.

LLA Leads Major Liberations, Participates in Defenses Throughout Month
 
There is no slowing down the Lazarene Liberation Army, which is enjoying its fifth month of daily activity,
 
The LLA lead many defenses and liberations this month, with Communist Beach and Assassins serving as particular highlights. Both missions -- the former being significant because of its socialist community, and the latter being significant because it was lead by the Brotherhood of Malice -- were triggered by Milograd. Both triggers were on the dot and made successful liberations of the two regions possible, and the strong update showing of LLA troops in both cases also helped.
 
Otherwise, the LLA succeeded in missions in Halo, Western Assembly, Punahou, Christmas, The United Federation of Planets, Kingdom of Britain, United Nations Defense Force, and Coalition of Christian Communities, Mayville, Dragostea Din Tei, TDWU, BlueBerets, Northern P4, and HSA.
 
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FlUOwmHy.jpg%3F1&hash=6c5deb50f842471aefb43531597edc17)
Hobbesistan training one of his new troops to cross the rivers of Fishmongolia. Skillful and precise, his technique is as effective as it is magnificent.

DYP Steps Down as General; Hobbes Replaces Him
 
This month has seen the sad departure of Drop Your Pants (better known as DYP) from the Lazarene Liberation army, from General of the LLA. DYP, serving from the creation of the LLA as general, resigned effectively on March 3rd in the monthly promotions of LLA troopers. Not citing the reasons for his resignation as General, he will be sorely missed. Not exactly known for his time spent on the IRC (heck, we even made a game of seeing how fast he came on and came off  :P), his experience and skill as a defender will sorely missed at update, when he came  :P.The search for a new general did not take long, as within a day Hobbes was selected as the new General of the LLA [background=#262626]. [/background]As of now, Hobbes has begun to change the structure of the LLA (super sekret stuff to come), and has begun to lead the LLA at update. Not much is known of Hobbes plan after this, but as the news comes in, we will report it to you, regardless of how much satire we put into it. My congratulations to Hobbes to his appointment, and my thanks to DYP to his service to the LLA. May this open up a new chapter in the LLA, even greater than the last!
 
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FLNV9gOd.jpg&hash=d76c93ecbebca23f5635cab17b0d7901)
Lazarus at the Defender Awards.

LLA Wins Defender Award for Best New Organization, Officers Win Awards
 
The LLA won the vote for best new defender organization for 2014 by a landslide. It was ... nice.
 
Officer Horse won the Sir Lans Award, and Campinia won the Dipes Award. Milograd was unofficially awarded the title of "Player Hater of the Year" for his work on the award images. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1N5p8IXzNdc#)
 
PRL Holds Cultural Exchange with The North Pacific
 
After a fair amount of planning by the Cultural Cadre and the Cultural Ministry of TNP, the PRL had the pleasure of kicking off its cultural exchange with TNP throughout the course of two weeks. A tournament was held between TNP and Lazarus to see who could win the most of the event's "trophy events", including spam games and trivia, and the PRL ultimately came out on top. However, the reward -- that is, to decide Kazmr's flag -- was offered to TNP and we are still awaiting their choice on what flag and pretitle he should use. Hopefully it won't be too embarrassing!

Cadre for the Beautification of Society Names the Provinces
 
The PRL has operated with a provincial system since its inception. The names have always been uninteresting and bland. But no longer!
 
New names have been proposed for forums throughout the PRL's off-site board, and thus far the following proposals have been considered for provinces or forums:
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F899v6xr.jpg%3F2&hash=edbd361f6cda8d47bff97e0f2bf84092)
Why not?
Bruteland Replaces Auralia as GA Marshal
 
In the aftermath of the attempted Commendation of Auralia, Auralia officially made note to the People's Republic that he will tender his resignation on March 2, 2014. As GA Marshall, he was in charge of the People's Republic influencing the WA's General Assembly proposals and resolutions that were up for vote as well as giving his opinions on how Lazarus should vote on specific resolutions in the General Assembly. He had served since the early days of the People's Republic. He had a great run here as GA Marshall and we wish him best of luck. Codger Bruteland officially replaces Auralia in overseeing GA resolutions and proposals for Lazarus.
 
Informational Activity in the PRL
 
The Informational District created distributed the following updates this month:
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Wintermoot on March 22, 2014, 05:18:20 PM
There's a lot of change going on in the PRL these days...hopefully during this time of change it will equal or surpass its previous successes. :)

Thanks for the update!
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Horse on April 17, 2014, 11:12:09 PM
ALL THE THINGS
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Milograd on May 27, 2014, 05:29:23 PM
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FoAEsIxG.png&hash=ae8f7a19d78e09188b58cf76d0627286)
People's Republic of Lazarus Foreign Update
April/May 2014 Edition (Written by Fantome, Funkadelia, Horse, Pergamon and Milograd

"Onward in the Glorious March to Harmony!"

Current Lazarene Government

Chairman: Kazmr (Endorsements: 146)
Vice-Chairman: Funkadelia

Cultural Governor: Llamas
Diplomacy Governor: Milograd
Judicial Governor: Fortress Prussia
Information Governor: New Kervoskia
General of the Lazarene Liberation Army: Horse

People's Congress: Ikania, Campinia, Stujenske, Pergamon, Libetarian Republics
War Marshals: Libetarian Republics, Horse, Kogvuron, Campinia
Cultural Marshals: Jordsindia, Bodobol
WA Marshal: Ikania
State Police Chief: Fantome

Regional Currency and Live Stock Market Introduced to the PRL
 
In what may or may not be a tragic turn towards disguised capitalism, the PRL now enjoys a new regional currency and a functioning forum stock market. The regional currency concept was proposed by Milograd and the LPP ultimately elected to use "Phoenix Fen" as the region's currency, and as such it is used both on the forum and on many in-game nations. The Party has also begun designing and printing Lazarene bills.
 
Otherwise, Hobbes added a neat economy system, LazXChange, to the forum, or "Door Street". The creatively titled stock market allows users to create their own "companies" that gain and lose value in forum money, and forum money can be used to purchase various prizes such as stamps under forum profiles and recognition on the forum. Regularly posting also contributes to the growth of wealth.

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FL9JoDNu.png&hash=dd84989454054a5cfa5232bd2dbb0dac)
An example bill of the Phoenix Fen.

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.chinadaily.com.cn%2Fchina%2Fimages%2F2011npc%2Fattachement%2Fjpg%2Fsite1%2F20110305%2F0023ae73cfef0edbe2224c.jpg&hash=99a8d34c81ba2d4508ae296fb384aee3)
The newly reorganized People's Congress convenes in their chambers.

Party Elects New Congress, Goals Include Standardizing Legal Writing Style and Improved Bill of Rights
 
The people of Lazarus went to the polls in April to elect a new set of congressmen, following the end of the original six-month term period for the inaugural congress. Chairman Kazmr, seeking to have more people involved in civil service than the congress, lowered the council's size from seven to fie for the new term. Nominations and voting took a week in total, and the winners include Stujenske, Libetarian Republics, Campinia, Alexej III, and Ikania. Ikania and Campinia are newcomers to the Congress, and we are pleased to have them on board.
 
The new term will begin at the end of April. Until then, the current congress intends to continue its work on drafting a law that would establish a standard way to write, format, and name Lazarene legislation. Furthermore, the Congress hopes to improve the Bill of Rights by making it more clear and extensive.
 
Promotions 'n Things
 
Around the end of March, the late General Hobbes resigned his duties from the Lazarene Liberation Army, citing numerous of health issues along with time constraints to fulfill proper for the LLA. Despite a short term, Hobbes managed to reform and reorganize the LLA in the most efficient and beneficial way to serve the proletariats at home and abroad. Recently confirmed LLA Colonel Horse was nominated by Hobbes to replace him with Chairman Kazmr confirming the nomination.  Horse has been very consistent with defending at updates and has a keen communication skill with several defender organizations. Finally, Horse promoted two veterans, Libetarian Republics and Milograd, to the position of Lieutenant to aid him running the LLA.
 
State Council Shakeups
 
In April, Bodobol announced that we would be stepping down as Governor of Culture, citing the inability to remain active enough to live up to the high standards demanded by the office. After a few weeks of deliberation by the rest of the State Council, it was decided that Llamas would be appointed as the next Cultural Governor.
 
Similarly, Dalimbar notified the State Council that he could not remain active enough to remain in his seat as Governor of Diplomacy. Chairman Kazmr and the State Council decided that former Chairman Milograd would be appointed to be the next Governor of the Diplomacy District. We wish both of our new Governors much luck as they move into their new offices.
 
New WA Marshal
 
Following the resignation of Codger Bruteland, Chairman Kazmr appointed a new WA Marshal. Bruteland was only recently appointed after Auralia stepped down in the aftermath of his attempted commendation. He served the PRL loyal and well and we wish him best luck. His successor is Ikania, a trusted and respected citizen of Lazarus, known for his excellent Lazarene Gazette articles and general contribution to the culture of Lazarus. Kazmr expressed his trust in the abilities of Ikania and appointed him new WA Marshal in later April.

Most glorious April Fools prank goes off without a hitch, fun and pie was had.
 
(by Horse)
 
This April fools day, glorious Lazarus had an extremely fun, and eventful, April Fools day. The fun beginning before the day began, members such as Milograd, Libertarian Republics, Horse, etc. began to move puppets in , on a mass scale, through the use of NS++ (for once, NS++ can be used positively FOR defenders :P), and through fast puppet making. This was to make it look like people were puppet spamming the region (jokes on you, I told Kazmr to turn on the puppet storage tag :P), so that Kazmr could make it look like he was becoming a mini Stalin, and purging the evil subversives  from the region. A Lazarus Gazette article was added to make it even funnier, and more legitimate, and spoke about how Kazmr defeated the subversives The day, overall, wasn’t incredibly eventful, but the before hand and the ejecting was pretty fun, as an observer and as someone who partook in the fun.  I thank everyone for taking part in the fun, and may next years prank be even better. One where I’m not bored all day :P.
 
Thank you for reading our Update. The People's Republic of Lazarus wishes you and your region a harmonious and prosperous leap into summer!
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Wintermoot on May 27, 2014, 05:40:17 PM
Thanks for the update! It's regrettable that so many people have real life commitments and can't spend much time in the region, but we went through a similar period a few months ago.

Perhaps someday we can just pay off those people to forsake real life. :P
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Milograd on June 13, 2014, 09:27:07 AM
A Semi-Personal Statement on the OFO's/Cormac's Accusations Against Lazarus' Community
 
Hey. As you've probably noticed, Cormac laid out a pretty harsh letter to just about Lazarus to every embassy in the game, and we've decided to briefly talk about how we feel about it.
 
We're not going to write a whole, formal statement legitimizing what has been shown to be little more than an underhanded verbal attack on the character of our community, but we also feel the need to clarify a few things and, in particular, defend the image of a Lazarene who was wrongly accused of being the sort of player to invade a game-created region. So this isn't a diplomatic statement as much as it is just how we feel on a more personal level, as we don't think any eloquent communique could convey our thoughts on this as well as something more colloquial. Essentially, the claims made against us scare us because they are so false that we fear they may actually be believed, and we don't think that the faceless nature of a typical message would successfully communicate our earnesty to those who may have been convinced that the "lying extremists" label that's been placed on us is true.
 
So first of all, let's get something clear: Osiris never reached out to Lazarus about the issues brought up in this statement. There was never an effort to consult us about concerns (if they truly exist) or to clarify whether or not their worries were based on facts. The claims about Lazarus "not ruling out" an attack on Balder are simply wrong -- when asked about the source of this statement, Cormac cited Funkadelia's comment that he might consider hostility towards Balder if the circumstances called for it. In the context of th econversation, he was referring to verbal hostility in the event that Balder sought to act aggressively towards Lazarus, not a reckless and destructive military assault against Balder. He clarified this after Cormac delivered all the statements, but this was ignored. Frankly, Funkadelia isn't that kind of player, and we hope that those who are familiar with him will come out and support him against the attacks against his character and integrity as player that are part of this statement. Our regional military isn't actually permitted to invade, so the claim is all the more outrageous.
 
We're also a bit bothered that this was done during our delegacy elections, which Funkadelia is running in. While we don't know whether or not it was intentionally meant to sabotage it, running an interregional campaign suggesting that he- the leading candidate at the time -- supports invading a sinker is something that can change the outcome of our election, and thus our entire future.
 
While we're not sure of that, we are of the opinion that the OFO's statement is intended to attack Lazarus' character. The language about the OFO being bothered by escalation, Funkadelia's refusal to "rule out" an attack on Balder, and the OFO's commitment to diplomatic goodwill are not consistent with the facts.
 
The escalation spoken of us is non-existent, and the PRL's disagreements with imperialism pre-date the establishment of our embassy with Osiris. Cormac Stark and the OFO have been unable to provide concrete examples of escalation. If you don't believe us, go ahead and ask him to provide you with one thing that Lazarus is doing towards imperialist regions now that it wasn't doing when we opened relations with the OFO. Cormac has described us "extremists" who are so rabid in our opposition to imperialist policies that we are willing to threaten the sovereignty of a fellow sinker, but our choice to recognize the OFO because of its native support, despite its alignment, should make it clear that that is fundamentally untrue.
 
Even so, if an issue existed, or if Osiris felt concerned about Lazarus and its policies, a consultation with our foreign affairs officials would've quickly resolved any misunderstandings. But an intentional effort seems to have been made to avoid that productive discourse, and the result is the publication of libel against the Lazarene community. We do not think that that avoidance was a mistake, but, rather, we find the non-communication and tact of this statement to be in line with an agenda of sabotaging the Lazarene community's public image.
 
That's all we really have to say. We've had enough of having to defend ourselves and our region-mate from wild accusations, and we implore you to gain first-hand observation and to look beyond Cormac's statement, and even this one, if you want to get an accurate picture of what happened. I do not believe that I am entirely right or wrong, and I do not believe that of Cormac either, but I do believe that a logical analysis of the OFO's handling of its concerns, or its lack thereof, and the tact of this statement is consistent with an unfair assault on the character of our community.
 
Thank you for your time. Your consideration means a lot to us back in Lazarus.
 
~ Carta
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Jone on June 13, 2014, 01:21:00 PM
:D
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Azeron on June 13, 2014, 02:55:20 PM
We're all behind your back, MG!
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Wintermoot on June 13, 2014, 03:10:06 PM
Cormac's statement is rich considering he all but called for a coup of Lazarus several months ago (http://forum.nationstates.net/viewtopic.php?f=12&t=282268&p=18791392#p18791392) to restore the previous "legitimate government".

I can't help but feel like this statement is personal overcompensation from Cormac after he got in hot water last week for suggesting that Osiris was perceived or in danger of acting as as a puppet state of the UIAF regions during debates on the treaty with TRR (http://w11.zetaboards.com/OFO/topic/10292276/1/) and events leading to the resignations of Joint Commander and Deputy Commander of the ISRI (http://w11.zetaboards.com/OFO/topic/10316920/1/). After being publicly rebuked by Onder (http://w11.zetaboards.com/OFO/topic/10318314/1/) and being forced to backtrack some of his statements, he obviously felt the need to do something full of bombastic political rhetoric to demonstate his loyalty to the imperialist alignment to get back in Onder's good graces, and Funkadelia and the PRL were simply easy targets. Last week, Osiris needed to demonstrate the ability to be independent from it's allies. Today they're one and the same.

Interestingly enough, right after the events of last week Cormac stopped using the Somerset name, but appears have returned to using it in the statement. I guess he and NES patched things up.

Unfortunately, and in spite of its recent pact with The Rejected Realms, this statement seems to signal that the more moderate diplomatic policies under Ravenclaw's pharaohship may be coming to an end, replaced with the sort of disingenuous, opportunist, anti-defender, bombastic language that the OFO was founded upon. It shouldn't escape people that once again The Empire was cast as 'psuedo-defender', in spite of the fact that the core members of that group have not been involved in military gameplay in some time now, and at several times in his statement Cormac takes shots at defenders unnecessarily ("faux morality of defender ideologues, who will never be satisfied by anything less than complete conformity to their views and subjugation of regional sovereignty to super-regional organizations led by an elitist oligarchy", for example).

It is disappointing to see how the OFO treats defender regions like Lazarus that give it a chance, but it is hardly surprising. When Ravenclaw requested that Royal Decree 002 (http://wintreath.com/index.php?part=law&act=detail&id=5) be nullified and that Wintreath enter relations with the OFO (http://wintreath.com/forums/index.php?topic=766.0), this was one of the largest concerns that I had, and ultimately why we did not pursue that opportunity. Time has shown this to be the correct course of action.
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Milograd on June 14, 2014, 10:51:38 PM
That is a highly observant, detailed analysis, Wintermoot, and there are some things there that I hadn't even considered. Thank you for posting it, and, as always, I can't stress enough how lucky we feel to have friends like Wintreath.
Polaris posted on June 13, 2014, 02:55:20 PM
We're all behind your back, MG!
o/
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Azeron on June 15, 2014, 01:29:03 AM
...?

>:D
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Wintermoot on June 15, 2014, 10:50:17 PM
I think what's even more detestable is that the "Osiris Fraternal Order" posted the announcement in every GCR embassy, in an obvious attempt to discredit Lazarus and drive a wedge between it and other GCRs. For as high as tensions were between Wintreath and Spiritus, ultimately Wuufu and I mutually agreed that severing relations was in the best interest of both regions and we did so without even an announcement.

Posting it in so many embassies is just a blatant and poor attempt to play politics with it.

Title: Lazarus
Post by: Alexej III. on August 15, 2014, 08:33:53 AM
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FoAEsIxG.png&hash=ae8f7a19d78e09188b58cf76d0627286)
People's Republic of Lazarus Foreign Update
Summer 2014 Edition (Written by Funkadelia, Dalimbar, Lenny and Pergamon)

"Onward in the Glorious March to Harmony!"

Current Lazarene Government

Chairman: Funkadelia (Endorsements: 130)
Vice-Chairman: Feux

Cultural Governor: Stujenske
Diplomacy Governor: Dalimbar
Judicial Governor: New Kervoskia
Information Governor: VACANT
General of People's Militia: Aperi

People's Congress: Lenny, Campinia, VACANT, Pergamon, Ainin
War Marshals: Aperi, Kogvuron, Campinia
Cultural Marshals: Jordsindia, Bodobol
WA Marshal: VACANT
State Police Chief: The Church of Satan

Comrade Funkadelia elected as Chairman and sweeping changes made to State Council

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.ffffound.com%2Fstatic-data%2Fassets%2F6%2Fccddda0cfe38e141e5e4805ff3a920a23560b191_m.jpg&hash=b66ec9ee77aa96472da964f60e67f550)
Chairman Funkadelia (center, seated) flanked by his Vice Chairman, Feux (right, seated), Cultural Governor, Aperi (left, seated), Diplomacy Governor, Dalimbar (far right, seated) and Judicial Governor, New Kervoskia (center, standing).

Last month, Funkadelia was elected the Fourth Chairman of the People's Republic. The People of Lazarus were given a choice of six candidates for the Chairmanship, after the resignation of Comrade Kamzr. In a hard fought election campaign a variety of views were expressed but the People voted overwhelmingly for Comrade Funkadelia, who received 58% in the first round of the election.

Comrade Funkadelia ran a campaign based on maintaining Lazarus' cultural and ideological roots; boosting regional activity and making sure Lazarus continues to be a beacon for liberation, aiding defenceless regions from outside aggression.

In his first statement to the People on the announcement of his election, the new Chairman said:

"As a regional community, we have a lot of potential. We must tap into this potential and reach into the inner revolutionary inside ourselves and draw that out and make ourselves the best that we can be for our mother region. That is something I plan on being an example of during my term as Chairman."

Shortly after taking office, the Chairman made his impression on the region's government by dismissing Comrade Fortress Prussia from the State Council and re-appointing Comrade New Kervoskia as Governor of the Judicial District. Comrade Aperi also made his return to the region and was appointed as an LLA Officer and Governor of Culture. Shortly after that, Comrade Dalimbar made his return and replced an inactive Comrade Milograd as Governor of Diplomacy. At a junior level, Comrade The Church of Satan was made State Police Chief. In early August, Chairman Funkadelia appointed Comrade Feux as Vice-Chairman. Feux is regarded as a Lazarene hero who helped to establish the People's Republic of Lazarus.

Lazarus wins World Cup competition against The Rejected Realms and The South Pacific

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fnews.bbcimg.co.uk%2Fmedia%2Fimages%2F76239000%2Fjpg%2F_76239690_germanytrophylift.jpg&hash=ee4f3862352698d538e03b4b1ccad742)
Germany's success has been accredited to the strong support received from workers of Lazarus

In a victory for scientific Socialism, the workers of Lazarus celebrated victory in the tri-regional World Cup tournament against The South Pacific and The Rejected Realms. All three regions were asked to pick teams to support in the World Cup, with the winner being the region that picked the team that went furthest in the competition. The Rejected Realms selected England, who were eliminated in the group stages and The South Pacific selected The Netherlands, who were eliminated in the Semi-Final.

The competition has been closely followed by workers of Lazarus, with a thread on the World Cup being one of the most popular discussions on the forum. The Delegate of the South Pacific, Kringalia, visited the Lazarene forums to congratulate the region stating: "Well done Lazarus. You are awesome."

Lazarus conquered by Mordor?

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.moddb.com%2Fimages%2Fgroups%2F1%2F9%2F8054%2Fmordor_overseer_orc_theres_a_war_on.JPG&hash=960b3aa0b46d12afa065a69617c1e1c7)
One of the many 'visitors' who took part in Mordor's roleplay invasion of Lazarus

Workers of Lazarus took part in an entertaining roleplaying event with Mordor last month, as members of the Mordor community "invaded" Lazarus through the Regional Message Board. The struggle saw nations roleplay their interventions in the conflict combining a mixture of modern technology with fantasy monsters. All sides showed great imagination and determination. After many hours of struggle, however, the Lazarene forces 'surrended' - but it was all in good spirits.

Party members are keen to return the favour to Mordor, and hopefully this will mark the continuation of a strong roleplaying theme in Lazarus over the months ahead.

The return of the Lazarene People's Heroes

The People's Republic has welcomed the return of old and honoured comrades, Feux, Aperi, Dalimbar and New Kervoskia.

Comrade Feux, with great bravery and wisdom, was instrumental in the removal of the Imperialist oppressors of the People which has since brought great prosperity and activity to the region. He has recently been appointed Vice-Chairman of the People's Republic of Lazarus. Comrade Aperi is a distinguished servant of the workers of Lazaraus who has been responsible for outstanding successes of the Lazarene Liberation Army, with a reputation as an effective advocate of the People's interests. In order to stimulate the learning and development of the People, he has recently been appointed as Governor of the Cultural District.

Comrade Dalimbar is a well respected former Governor of the People's Republic and has an outstanding international reputation. He has been made Governor of the Diplomatic District and has already breathed new life into this important aspect of the region. Comrade New Kervoskia has over a decade of Nationstates experience and has been one of the most distinguished journalists in the history of Lazarus. He was recently made Deputy Governor of the Information District and Governor of the Judicial District.

The return of such illustrious comrades to the People's struggle is an indication not only over the vitality of the region but also the leadership of Comrade Funkadelia. Party members from across the region have welcomed their arrival and their return has brought a new sense of optimism which will spur the principles of the Revolution forward.

Special elections for People's Congress won by Comrades Ainin and Lenny

After changes to the State Council and the removal of one inactive member of the People's Congress, special election were needed to serve the consultative body of the People's Republic - People's Congress.

In the first election, after close race composed of two experienced and distinguished candidates, Comrades Dalimbar and Commie, and one newcomer, Comrade Lenny, the election was won by the newcomer. Speaking after the race, Comrade Lenny said that he was grateful for the trust that had been shown in him and he hoped to earn it through his actions in Congress.

In the second election, Comrade Ainin ran opposed after securing overwhelming support from across the region for his work, particularly as a journalist in the Information District.
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Wintermoot on August 15, 2014, 12:34:57 PM
Thank you for the update! It's nice to hear about the goings-on in Lazarus. :)
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Jone on August 25, 2014, 06:32:30 PM
This thread seems sort of relevant now. :P
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Wintermoot on August 25, 2014, 07:40:36 PM
Ah, if Milograd were still around this "war" would have already been won. :P
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Jone on August 25, 2014, 07:45:34 PM
I saw him not too long ago in #FRA. He apologized to me, I told him not to, and that I loved him <3.
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Wintermoot on August 25, 2014, 08:03:13 PM
Yeah, he stopped by #wintreath and was asking about me, but I had already went to sleep. :(
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Alexej III. on February 21, 2015, 09:52:24 AM
Hell yeah, I am still alive. Long time no see/hear. But here you go, we are back again!

Quote
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FoAEsIxG.png&hash=ae8f7a19d78e09188b58cf76d0627286)
People's Republic of Lazarus Foreign Update
2015 Edition (Written by Stujenske and Pergamon)

"Onward in the Glorious March to Harmony!"

Current Lazarene Government

Chairman: Stujenske (Endorsements: 140 )
Vice-Chairman: Feux

Cultural Governor: Falsea
Diplomacy Governor: Cameron
Judicial Governor: The Church of Satan
Information Governor: Ainin
General of People's Militia: Capinia

People's Congress: .. to be elected
War Marshals: Kogvuron
WA Marshal: Raylana
State Police Chief: The Church of Satan

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1151.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo627%2FShoelock%2FUPDate_zpsatacaalo.jpg&hash=7ad5184563bf8fcf9c6a8a024cbd95f3)

Iron Lazarus Takes Shape
Due to the instability in the People's Republic, former Governor Stujenske has now taken on the task of Delegacy for Lazarus. One of the main issues he addressed early in his Delegacy is to increase the attention towards Lazarus's Diplomatic and Recruitment tactics.

A dedicated member of the party took his chance to engage in a Interview with Chairman Stujenske.
Quote
Lazarus - Forbidden City

Perg:"Greetings, Comrade Chairman."

Stu:"Greetings Comrade Pergamon."

Perg:"May I welcome you to your new office and ask you a few questions?"

Stu:"Of course."

Perg:"As we all know, the position of the Chairman holds extreme power in Lazarus. How do you see yourself handling dictatorial responsibilities in a efficient way that serves the interests and desires of the community?"

Stu:"Well, Comrade Perg, early on in my Delegacy I stated my main goals. First off I am currently improving the recruitment tactics that Lazarus so desperately needs. Once that is done, I will revitalize Lazarus's Diplomatic relations as well. There have also been talks about re-opening embassies with Osiris and everyone is excited."

Perg:"Since the delegacy of Chairman Funkadelia ended, the iron production within the People's Republic seems to be lower than before. What are your plans on engaging this?"

Stu:"I do not think the inactivity of the past months could be avoided honestly. My plans are to get more people not only in Lazarus, but dedicated and interested in our region in order to create a stronger community."

Perg:"One of your first steps in office was to make minor changes to the States Council. Do you think there will be more changes in the future?"

Stu:"Yes, there will be a re-election soon that will be beneficial to activity."

Perg:"You also appointed a new general to the Lazarene Liberation Army. Have you any plans for the LLA in particular?"

Stu:"With General Campinia in command, I hope to see the LLA doing more operations and creating a stronger community of defenders. I plan to start an LLA recruiting campaign as well."

Perg:"Last but not least, Comrade Chairman: Hookers and Blow for everyone?"

Stu:"That’s the only way I roll."

Perg:"Great! Thank you for your time Stu."

Stu:"No problem and thank you!"


General Funk steps down
Unfortunately, General and total badass Funkadelia has decided to step down. Lazarenes huddle in groups lamenting over their beloved General as he leaves on a large boat towards the horizon. The State Council decided that the next General for the LLA to be Campinia, who has proven to be a worthy successor. Long Live Funk and Lazarus Thanks You For Your Service! Hail Campinia!



(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fs.wsj.net%2Fpublic%2Fresources%2Fimages%2FBN-BT977_CECON_G_20140304222252.jpg&hash=02d8630ca0d1553f67a3d0b0bad269ef)
Comrade Pergamon pushing the move to disband the congress
[/i]

Upcoming elections of the People's Congress
Before the actual term has ended, the old People's Congress passed a resolution to disband. Although this decision has not been easy to make, there have been various reasons to support this move. One of them may have been the crucial inactivity of some Congressman. The upcoming reelections are a part of the revitalization of the People's Republic of Lazarus and newcommers are be granted a chance to supersede some of the old Lazarene farts that kept a claim on these positions. With the best of luck the People's Republic is looking forward to the upcoming reelections.



(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ft3.gstatic.com%2Fimages%3Fq%3Dtbn%3AANd9GcQ0-vIwSWaSyOQB7eSRd_1RStAfCAUHtBV6hNHng8pLDIElrhYey6I5RNVe&hash=70d0f3fccaa842ae830f61bbb9f7ff65)

The People are looking for a new flag
Chairman Stujenske concluded that the old and classic national flag is pretty much outdated and suggested a change of the revolutionary banners. This move is supported by most of the people and the Republic is now searching for a new flag. Rumors within the walls of the Forbidden City leak that there is the possibility of a upcomming flag contest being held in the People's Republic of Lazarus. But only the near future will reveal the true plans of Chairman Stujenske and Cultural Governor Falsea.
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Deleted1 on February 21, 2015, 11:31:40 AM
Lol, thanks for this lovely and funny update. If you guys really need a new flag I can make you a few badass models
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Wintermoot on February 21, 2015, 05:09:30 PM
Thanks for the update! :)
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Emoticonius on March 08, 2015, 11:11:13 PM
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FoAEsIxG.png&hash=ae8f7a19d78e09188b58cf76d0627286)

Greetings friends of The People's Republic! As you're probably aware of, culture in Lazarus has been left neglected for a while. Our newly appointed Culture Governor has seen fit to change that. A calendar featuring all of the events planned here at Lazarus has been established and come March 8th it will be live! This Tuesday & Friday we invite you to join us for Tell Me Tuesday (http://w11.zetaboards.com/Lazarus/topic/11029622/1/) and Flash Game Friday (http://w11.zetaboards.com/Lazarus/topic/11029631/1/?x=0#post8140515).

This Tuesday (March 10th) we're gonna play The Life of a Wizard.

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ftinyurl.com%2Fn2smlbb&hash=0b525958431324bf93d25801dcc1b7ce)

Life of a Wizard
Write an archmage's autobiography in this 80-year 130,000-word interactive fiction! Play good or evil, man or woman, as you bring peace to the kingdom or take over the world with your sorcery. Brew potions, raise the dead, summon mythical beasts, control men's minds, and blast away your enemies.

"Life of a Wizard" is an epic interactive novel where you control the main character. In each chapter, your choices determine how the story proceeds.

Will you find romance, get married, or have children? Will you become the arch-mage, grand bishop, nature-loving druid, hardened battle-mage or even an undead lich? The choice is yours!

And the bonus is it's free to play if you don't mind playing through a web browser.

Available in the Chrome store and the App store for $2.99.

In Life of a Wizard, you'll decide what I do and where I go as we progress through my 80 year life as a wizard. Will I be the champion of the people? Will I conquer the world? Maybe I'll seek immortaility among the dead as a lich? What race will I be? Will I be a massive troll that beats his opponents into mush or will I be a half-elf raining arrows upon my foes? It's up to you as my choice is determined by you in a poll.

This Friday (March 13th) Lazarus is blasting itself to pieces in ShellShock Live 2 (http://www.kongregate.com/games/kChamp/shellshock-live-2?acomplete=shellshock)!

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ftinyurl.com%2Fn6jubn6&hash=85a920bcdc5fc716a3227515a57bf636)

ShellShock Live 2
ShellShock Live 2 is the most fun you'll ever have in a tank artillery game. Battle your friends, unlock new weapons, upgrade your tank, earn xp, and level up in this online adventure. Best of all, it's free!

Participating players will fight alone or form a team of either 2 or 3 with their friends and go head-to-head with other players in an explosive battle of strategy and honor! Don't have a Kongregate account? You don't need one!  At Kongregate you are free to play any game as a guest! If you don't mind though, go ahead and register an account on Kongregate! See you on the battlefield!

Feel free however, to drop in any day of the week to take part in any of the events planned on that given week. The events will change each week. Once there's enough variety for some of the events we'll determine the choice by a vote here in Lazarus.

The Church of Satan,
Culture District Governor
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Wintermoot on March 08, 2015, 11:21:41 PM
Thanks for the update! It's nice to see that Lazarus is becoming more active. :)
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Emoticonius on March 09, 2015, 05:22:08 AM
And not to toot my horn or anything, but it's nice to see my work being appreciated. Lazarus really knows how to make a Governor feel loved. ^-^
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Govindia on March 12, 2015, 08:43:46 AM
Wintermoot posted on March 08, 2015, 11:21:41 PM
Thanks for the update! It's nice to see that Lazarus is becoming more active. :)
Too bad I cant visit

Sent from my Samsung Galaxy S4 via Tapatalk

Title: Lazarus
Post by: Wintermoot on March 12, 2015, 10:27:45 PM
I'm not sure they feel the same. :P
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Govindia on March 14, 2015, 09:35:12 PM
Wintermoot posted on March 12, 2015, 10:27:45 PM
I'm not sure they feel the same. [emoji14]
They need to get over it and stop being childish.  I violated no laws there.

Sent from my Samsung Galaxy S4 via Tapatalk

Title: Lazarus
Post by: Emoticonius on June 06, 2015, 04:01:14 AM
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F8LsVKjC.png&hash=bc69f306811051ca1eb40b415a17ccb2)
Lazarus Redux

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FlpYaaPT.png&hash=c67966d9347a38d03ad215db73ed08f6)

Greetings friends, allies and assorted diplomatic partners! Lazarus is back and better than ever! After a lengthy Constitutional Convention, or ConCon as we affectionately called it, Lazarus rises from the ashes anew! With the ratification of Mandate 9 (http://s15.zetaboards.com/NSLazarus/topic/7954245/1/#new), The Republic of Lazarus is born and along with it, MOAR DEMOCRACY! Activity is higher than it's been in a long time and we are fully operational!

The Legislature

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FVPxMT9U.png&hash=8b9321f103c749ed3c4e65f2276885dc)
Citizens wait in line as they discuss current legislation

Gulliver was elected Speaker of The Legislature and has offered a Deputy Speaker position to Amerion & Cormac. The legislature has been quite busy, discussing everything from endorsees to amending the legislative procedure, to name a couple of the more recent proposals. We look forward to what the legislature will discuss next and hope for much more!

Funkadelia, former Chairman of The PRL, was elected Delegate. He was the favorite going in and we're sure everyone expected him to win. Harmeonia, long time native of Lazarus, was elected Vice-Delegate. Both Funkadelia and Harmeonia thoroughly smashed their opponents in the polls. Congratulations to all three of our elected officials!

Funkadelia appointed his cabinet recently, choosing Kazmr as General of The Army, Benevolent Thomas as Internal Minister and The Church of Satan as External Minister. After being confirmed in the legislature, the new ministers of Lazarus immediately took to performing their duties.

Culture
From the office of The Internal Minister

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FPyT0B3X.png&hash=8bd07ca0341bf8b33d1c209ccb88d5d2)
Funkadelia gets ready for the Summer Festival

Starting June 7th and ending June 14th, Lazarus will be hosting its very own Summer Festival. There will be games, contests, a few radio broadcasts and even a little roleplay! This is the first such event of the new Lazarus, so we're pulling out all the stops with Mafia, Atwar and even Cards Against Humanity! There will also be contests for the best Haiku and Factbook. In addition to roleplay on the Regional Message Board, we will be holding our very own RP Football Tournament ran by Kazmr. Last, but not least. we will be adding things that are uniquely Lazarene such as AMAs featuring players such as Funkadelia and Drop Your Pants (yes, we managed to book him), Free Lazarus Radio broadcasts, and an entirely new event called the GOAT List. Lazarus is kicking off summer with a bang and we hope that you will join us for some good times.

A full schedule of activities can be viewed here (http://s15.zetaboards.com/NSLazarus/topic/7970447/1/).

Foreign Affairs

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FGUvZbiR.png&hash=0456f2bf693729c3da78b72137a951f4)
The Church of Satan greets incoming foreign dignitaries

Setting up an Embassy Index and frantically going through the long list of embassy requests, ambassadors are finally getting out to our friends, allies and assorted diplomatic partners. The citizens are currently discussing a draft of a Non-Aggression Pact with Osiris, restoring relations between the two sinkers as well as a treaty with Taijitu. Tending to our pre-existing treaties, Lazarus & The South Pacific adopted a Memorandum of Understanding, reaffirming the treaty alliance between the two regions due to the recent government change resulting from the Constitutional Convention.

The LLA

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F2rsw4wg.png&hash=569ae05babf9c05fb30185b2c3a0a7c2)
LLA troops celebrate their victory in Paradoxia

The LLA, easily the only thing that was kept from the previous government, is also open for business after Kazmr appointed DYP (that's Drop Your Pants to you) and Deadeye Jack as officers of The LLA. Working alongside other defender forces, The LLA helped boot DEN out of the RP region, Paradoxia following a victory in European Continent. All participating troops received a pin commemorating their efforts in Paradoxia and the natives were gracious for the help from defender forces in liberating them from the raider scourge!

Things are looking up for Lazarenes as the region moves towards a bright future!
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Wintermoot on June 06, 2015, 04:44:24 AM
Thanks for the update...glad to hear things are going well in Lazarus. :)
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Emoticonius on June 06, 2015, 07:56:40 AM
As am I. It's like being on Hobbes Lazarus forum all over again! :D
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Wintermoot on June 06, 2015, 12:30:56 PM
It'll be interesting to see what happens as time goes on...in my opinion, the downfall of the PRL was its cosmopolitan nature. When activity dropped and people put Lazarus on the backburner for other regions, it allowed Stujensky the ability to begin discreetly working toward his plan without notice. And now the new Lazarus has quite a huge activity bump due to the coup and the formation of the new government, but it's even more cosmopolitan than the PRL was. Will it be able to maintain activity when other regions, particularly other GCRs, come in the spotlight?

It'll be interesting to see the numbers going forward. :P
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Emoticonius on June 06, 2015, 10:03:58 PM
I certainly hope we can. :P
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Wintermoot on June 06, 2015, 10:05:40 PM
I always hope the best for Lazarus, but with some of the characters the coup attracted...I would hate to see it turn into another bickering, conflict-laden, drama-llama GCR. =/
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Emoticonius on June 07, 2015, 04:14:46 AM
Yeah I'm not very fond of Belschaft being there. He has quite an extensive history of vote stacking, not just including Brave Toaster.
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Emoticonius on August 28, 2015, 02:03:35 AM
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F6O2Wtm1.png&hash=309d8c149c46971f7c7b5e1292d709d0)
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FtD1HoBU.png&hash=79aa08322b88d93f8357a03b305e6929)

FUNKADELIA RESIGNS AS SOVEREIGN, HARMONEIA'S ADMINISTRATION BEGINS

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FcVf4TSe.png&hash=652ef1509248fba4dcb4098cdf75d942)
Funk Resigns as Sovereign, New Sovereign Ascends
By New Rogernomics in Lazarus

With the sudden resignation of Funkadelia as a respected and hard-working Sovereign and World Assembly Delegate, Harmoneia has stepped down as Grandee Secretary (otherwise known as the Vice-Delegacy) to hold new elections and establish a new administration.

This has led to a list of remarkable new proposals during Harmoneia's new administration, including the implementation of Grand Advisors, who will help maintain regional security, through their World Assembly Endorsements, as well as have the power to succeed to the Vice Delegacy or remove the Sovereign - in very exceptional circumstances.

This was preceded by a constitutional amendment to the Mandate of Lazarus that provisioned for the exceptional circumstances surrounding Funk's resignation:
Amendment to Article VI of the Constitution
Article VI - On Security

1. The Grandee Secretary shall seek to hold the second most endorsements in the region.
2. If the office of Sovereign is vacant or the Sovereign is absent, the Grandee Secretary shall assume the duties of the Sovereign.
3. 2. Any citizen who meets the influence and endorsement requirements established by law may apply to be a Grand Advisor. The Grand Assembly may approve an applicant by a two-thirds majority vote.
4. 3. Grand Advisors shall maintain endorsement counts below that of the Grandee Secretary, but may exceed any endorsement cap established by law.
5. 4. A line of succession beyond the Vice Delegate among the Grand Advisors may be established by law.
6. 5. The Grand Assembly shall vote on confidence in the Grand Advisors every four months. Any Grand Advisor who does not receive the confidence of a majority shall be recalled.
7. 6. Grand Advisors shall maintain regional security under the direction of the Grandee Secretary and enforce decisions of the Grand Assembly to remove the Sovereign.
7. If the Sovereign is absent, the Grandee Secretary -- or, if the Grandee Secretary is unavailable, the Grand Advisor next in the line of succession who is available -- shall assume the duties of Sovereign until the Sovereign returns.
8. If the office of Sovereign is vacant, the Grandee Secretary may take office as Sovereign for the remainder of the term.
9. If the Grandee Secretary takes office as Sovereign, or the office of Grandee Secretary is otherwise vacated, a special election shall be conducted to elect a new Grandee Secretary for the remainder of the term.
10. If the Grandee Secretary is unavailable to take office as Sovereign when needed, the following procedure shall be observed until a special election can be conducted to elect a new Sovereign for the remainder of the term:
A. If the outgoing Sovereign resigns rather than being recalled, the outgoing Sovereign may serve as Acting Sovereign if available.
B. If the outgoing Sovereign is unavailable to serve, the Grandee Secretary may serve as Acting Sovereign if available.
C. If neither the outgoing Sovereign nor the Grandee Secretary are available to serve, the Grand Advisor next in the line of succession who is available shall serve as Acting Sovereign.
You may vote aye, nay or abstain. This vote will last for seven days. As an amendment to the Mandate, this will require a two-thirds super-majority to pass.

Harmoneia also gave a short speech to the region, on Funkadelia's resignation, and outlined the goals for her new administration:
Quote from: From the Residence of the Sovereign
First off, I am sorry to see Funk go. He did some nice work and his would be large shoes to fill. I wish him well and thank him for his service.

Now on to business.

There is roughly a month and a half before the term ends, and I intend to finish this term in lieu of Funk as per the constitution, before we will have the next delegate elections. For the VD, however, I will propose to the legislature that we hold special elections for one.

I am currently taking with the cabinet regarding plans for the term, which includes our foreign policy, strengthening internal affairs, as well as cultivating cultural matters.

This is a difficult time for most of us, but we can make the most out of it, so let's all try to hold ourselves together while we undergo this time of transition.

If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me.

Sincerely,
Harmoneia
LKE RECRUITMENT BAN LIFTED
Imperialists thrilled...kinda sorta
By The Church of Satan in Lazarus

On August first, the recruitment ban placed on the Land of Kings and Emperors by NationStates Moderation was lifted. You might remember that three months prior, LKE had benefited from illegal recruitment in which a member of their Interior Ministry, Delete-on-Sight (DOS) player Bob Moran, used an illegal script to fake manual recruitment. The script in question was created and provided by also Delete-on-Sight (DOS) player, Anur-Sanur, more commonly known as Frak.

It is unknown how the region attempted to cope with the population decrease, which wasn't as terrible as they said it would be, other than a hollow boost in population using former military puppet nations from Europeia and The Communist Bloc. Why they resorted to an artificial and temporary boost such as that isn't known, but one could speculate it was in order to prevent some sort of statistical low.

The region was definitely persistent though, pointlessly so as it turns out. They made every effort to get the ban lifted or reduced but despite all of the griping and compromising, they served the 3 month recruitment ban in it's entirety. During that time however, a new feature to NationStates was added, giving region's better control of recruitment. Reiben, pay attention. Now, this is the way to gripe. Continue, Jackson.

The official statement concerning the end of the ban released by LKE made it a point to ham-handedly state their dissatisfaction with NS Moderation perhaps for the hundreth time. The Lazarene Gazette attempted to get some comments from LKE, however regional policy does not allow its citizens to speak with affiliates of regions they are at war with. It's obvious that they will be more careful with recruitment in the future as their official statement at one point read 'Given this, we can never again have faith in the integrity of manual recruitment system.'

Congratulations to LKE on resuming recruitment again. There is little doubt that they will recover from the population decrease, in time.
KRULL PACKS HIS BAGS
NPO's tinpot finally gets tired of rule
By Ike in Lazarus

You heard it here, folks- Krulltopia is finally gone. You can emerge from your hiding spots now.

On Monday, August 10th, Pierconium publicly announced in an official statement that Krulltopia, long-time Emperor of the New Pacific Order, was stepping down. Krulltopia presided over the Pacific for over six years, a period of time where any other GCR would have around 10 different Delegates. During this period, the Pacific became stagnant with little signs of activity and no presence on the international stage. Meanwhile, the NPO Senate schemed behind closed doors. More specifically, the NPO managed to pull off a coup of Lazarus. Luckily, celebrated native and Lazarene hero, Kazmr, took back the region in a well-executed plot by infiltrating the "New Lazarene Order" and by extension the NPO itself.

Pierconium, also known as Ivan, has appointed Elegarth, a mildly controversial figure in Gameplay due to his less than transparent 'win' of the Premiership in the West Pacific and less-than-friendly attitude, to the NPO's Senate. One can only speculate as to why Elegarth has re-entered the NPO Senate, having previously left it as well as criticizing the NPO for their actions in Lazarus. At the same time, Pierconium has also appointed Elegarth as the "Senator of Diplomacy", which means if you are a delegate dealing with the NPO (why are you dealing with the NPO?), he'll be the face of the whole mess. It also calls into question the fact that Elegarth left because of his hostility. Ivan has also appointed Aleisyr as Viceroy, in order to help carry out changes in the 'provisional government system' that he is planning to introduce soon.

Meanwhile, Krull hit the rails, travelling to every GCR and posting a brief message that equates to 'hello', earning himself a cheeky ban in TEP from Ramaeus. Reactions from players have mostly been the obligatory "good luck, mate" with a statement from Kazmr that the NPO's new Delegate won't find a friend in Lazarus anytime soon. Ivan has quickly taken to taunting enemies of the NPO, urging them to try and do something about it, which he is clearly in a position to do. Taking over The Pacific would be no easy task.

Krull's departure may very well mark the end of an era for the Pacific, a particularly long era that lasted longer than many GP careers. Perhaps Ivan will be different, more of an activity booster this time...or not. The general consensus is that nothing will really change. Warm farewells from raiders and imperialists alike adorn Pierconium's statement thread after their near successful takeover of Lazarus, but the reaction here will be less so.
BT's ONE HIT WONDER COMPETITION
The Benevolent Thomas GOAT Lists
By DinosFM1994, and The Church of Satan, in Lazarus

The term one-hit wonder is most often used to describe music performers having one signature song which overshadows their other work but have you really wondered which song is the all time best? Benevolent Thomas' got the answer. After gathering songs for a week, 32 songs made the final cut to compete in the Competition of Competitions. The songs that took place in the competition are:

Song List
1. Vanessa Carlton - A Thousand Miles
2. Dexys Midnight Runners - Come on Eileen
3. The Buggles - Video Killed the Radio Star
4. Goo Goo Dolls - Iris
5. Marcy Playground - Sex and Candy
6. Semisonic - Closing Time
7. The Darkness - I Believe in a Thing Called Love
8. J-Kwon - Tipsy
9. New Radicals - You Get What You Give
10. Toadies - Possum Kingdom
11. Local H - Bound for the Floor
12. Spacehog - In the Meantime
13. The Mighty Mighty Bosstones - The Impression that I get
14. Blues Traveler - Run Around
15. Spin Doctors - Two Princes
16. The Verve Pipe - The Freshman
17. Hootie and the Blowfish - Only Wanna Be With You
18. The Wallflowers - One Headlight
19. The Verve - Bitter Sweet Symphony
20. Eiffel 65 - Blue
21. Boomfunk MC - Freestyler
22. O-Zone - Numa Numa
23. Daddy Yankee - Gasolina
24. Men Without Hats - Safety Dance
25. Caesars Palace - Jerk it Out
26. Haddaway - What Is Love
27. Gotye - Somebody that I Used to Know
28. Chesney Hawkes - The One and Only
29. Bryn Christopher - The Quest
30. Arash - Boro Boro
31. Green Jelly - Three Little Pigs
32. Survivor - Eye of the Tiger
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FFHWMRBIl.png&hash=f43a29509a7af493ea50225a357b84ca) (http://i.imgur.com/FHWMRBI.png)

Currently the semifinals are in progress and as the competition approaches its conclusion let's take a look at the semifinalists:

Poll 1: Come On Eileen vs. Eye of The Tiger

At the time of this article's writing, the two songs are tied at 3 votes each. At this point it's anybody's game.

Poll 2: Bitter Sweet Symphony vs. Closing Time.

At the time of this articles writing, Closing Time for Semisonic may come later than expected, as it is in the lead with 3 votes. The Verve may very well eat their own words as Bitter Sweet Symphony trails behind with 2 votes, but the tables may very well turn.

Stay tuned for more competition coverage and don't forget to drop by the regional forum to submit your vote and announce your favorite One Hit Wonder of all time!
COMICS & FUNNIES

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F5ePctZFl.jpg&hash=20519271419fdcd8cb0dc2ad356c0a12)

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FVmO9mU0m.jpg&hash=2a1653314551a47e8eaed35f6a77b725)

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FrGam3lG.png&hash=422cdc0b6815a0f666e94416c87410a9)
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Wintermoot on August 28, 2015, 03:07:12 AM
Thanks for the update! :)
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Emoticonius on March 12, 2016, 07:30:43 AM
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F2WEObHr.png&hash=f1f0996a0ca5180dff36c189a3494707)
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FhdiVlFB.png&hash=060a0a9da58cd41437e8e7c02c7d6c07)
The Official Newspaper of Lazarus
Issue II • September 2015 • 1 Page
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FOek8pEU.png&hash=78a1f68115144d9c7390c89e1a9b2efa)
DOES THE GAZETTE JUST GET IT WRONG OR IS IT PROPAGANDA?
By New Rogernomics
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FaAlOSz6m.png&hash=90ea47597dcc5ee62bb56acd7f6722a9)
We had criticism in the last issue, with the 'one hit wonder's' that weren't. To those that took umbrage, here is a link to the Official Charts on The Verve (http://www.officialcharts.com/artist/27816/verve/) detailing their hits since 1992, for those that are interested. Though finally we have a result to that competition with a victory going to 'Survivor - Eye Of The Tiger', after a final round of voting.

The NPO took offense to the article entitled 'KRULL PACKS HIS BAGS', which was expected given the animosity of recent events.

Allegations were also put forth that the Lazarene Gazette is a platform for FRA and defender propaganda, after the articles entitled 'LKE RECRUITMENT BAN LIFTED' and 'KRULL PACKS HIS BAGS' were published.

For the historical record, the publication of propaganda pieces in the Lazarene Gazette began under the rule of the New Pacific Order through their defacto administration of the 'People's Republic of Lazarus', and their subsequent puppet state of the 'New Lazarus Order'. Prior to that point the Gazette published stories with a focus on events in Lazarus. Something which is well illustrated in the embassies Lazarus has held, especially in The Rejected Realms, which has issues of the Lazarene Gazette going back to 2007 (http://s8.zetaboards.com/The_RR_and_RRA/topic/502368/5/), and Regional Updates going back to 2004 (http://s8.zetaboards.com/The_RR_and_RRA/topic/502368/1/).

But like a good newspaper, and given the overwhelming demand for propaganda, there was sure to be a little fun with this issue.
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FGib9lqp.png&hash=2aeb74539e99710da1206f0a5796dca6)
Lazarus Elections Are Over
Result of the Lazarus Elections
Lazarus went to the ballot box on the 22nd through to the 29th of September, electing New Rogernomics the new Sovereign (or Delegate) of Lazarus, Amerion as the new Director of Ceremonies (or Speaker of the Legislature), and Harmoneia as the new Grandee Secretary (or Vice-Delegate). With the election New Rogernomics stands down as Minister Steward, and a new cabinet will be formed within the coming month to lead the region.

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fs19.postimg.org%2Fsxogr5e8z%2Felection_1.png&hash=f440bc4842c166440f24ee1f8e34255d) (https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fs19.postimg.org%2Fque1jheg3%2Felection_2.png&hash=1a0cd26490611273110f7cafffe3d680) (https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fs19.postimg.org%2Fuztjj51lv%2Felection_3.png&hash=9a12ce679b9827e2a00873afbc5cf44c)
Note: Approximate or rounded percentages are displayed.
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FGib9lqp.png&hash=2aeb74539e99710da1206f0a5796dca6)
First Lazies Awards
The Lazies winners were victorious, and one will won't  coup.
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FggiZQEN.png&hash=06ecd613e505230bf612bbe1a9b396f8)
The competition was fierce, often awesome, and sometimes silly, but the results of the August 2015 Lazies Awards are in:

Most Popular Member: Harmoneia.

Most Likely to Coup: Belschaft

Best Debater: Belschaft

Best Roleplayer: Communist Stephen Colbert

Spammer of the Month: Amerion

Newbie of the Month: Izon

Congrats to the winners, and best luck to those that missed out at the next awards.
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F9iN5uxg.png&hash=55a6c5234fe4e34499f3619177493995)
The Road to Somewhere
A first speech from the new sovereign of Lazarus

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fz4.ifrm.com%2F30562%2F185%2F0%2Fa3382712%2Favatar-3382712.jpg&hash=efaf13e35f8646b9f412797fb034116f)
Where from here? This is question Lazarus must be asking right now, or at the very least thinking of.

We have a new Sovereign, that hasn't been a Delegate before, and for all intents and purposes could well prove not up to the job. 

This is the criticism I have to accept, as it is true. I haven't been a Delegate of any major region. I wasn't here under the New Lazarus Order, and I participated for a time in the People's Republic of Lazarus, though I didn't do so politically.  So perhaps I don't have the animosity towards the New Pacific Order. But I do believe that if we are to build a region or inspire it by leaps and bounds, we can't do it based on past grievances. This is a lesson I know well, having participated in regions either against the Nationstates status quo or for it.

I have seen regions collapse in on themselves from political-infighting or a lack of will to continue on, as a consequence of personal vendettas and disputes with other regions - and at times I have even participated in that.

What I hope for Lazarus is not a return to the vicious cycle of inactivity followed by coups, or coups as a result of not being inclusive enough - as hard as that is given that the Lazarus is not able to close itself off like some UCRs (or User Created Regions) or pick and choose who participates.

While I am by no means throwing in the towel, and saying 'come back' to the New Pacific Order, it makes sense to not let what happened stop The Pacific and Lazarus ever forming some kind of mutual understanding - as far off, and as difficult as that road might be.

There are some things that I do agree with the New Pacific Order on, that we need a Lazarus to be a region which doesn't rely on UCRs and isn't dominated by UCRs - and more importantly is able to stand on its own as well as support its friends and allies.

The first step in achieving that aim is to resolve any issues within the current constitution. This means to establish a policy upon the 'gang of five', likely through the courts, and to pass legislation that creates a more solid bureaucracy in Lazarus akin to other GCRs (or Game Created Regions) and UCRs.

The second step is to examine the current foreign policy of Lazarus, and bring up a discussion over what regions will we approach and seek to improve ties with, and where such efforts would be in vain - or to put it in other words be a 'fools bargain'.

The final step is to decide what approach Lazarus will make to encourage people to participate in Lazarus, rather than just use it as a defacto transit point and retirement village for gameplayers.

Rebirth should mean bringing back to life - and not boring its members to tears.

As your new Sovereign or regional Delegate, I don't expect it to be an easy ride, as there are a lot of challenges to deal with in my term - least of which is inactivity, as speeches like this don't make the world go around - fun does.

Thank you for electing me your Sovereign. I only hope I can live up to the trust you have put in me, and serve the region to the best of my ability.

To our would be 'enemies' I would offer both reconciliation and warning that a free Lazarus in whatever form that takes - is here to stay.

As clarification to my speech: I am not saying that the NPO should be let back in, but that worrying about the NPO shouldn't be the focus of Lazarus.
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FIAqzABK.png&hash=d9d99b83a25b4e5d5e413384faa7629e)
Philosophical Poll Results

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimgur.com%2FEhF7ZhG.gif&hash=0164acb54dc712758cb254c063e57718)

Lazarus has amassed polls on philosophical issues, and the following questions were asked of the region:

Q1: How can we know truth?
Results
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FHwGQIiJm.png&hash=6fff9e75a4675a98540e8684ecfac95e)
• Only through experience, but even then, we will never be sure as senses can be erroneous. - 13.89%
• Only through reason and reason alone can we achieve universal truths. - 8.33%
• Though all our knowledge begins with experience, it does not mean it arises out of it. Innate reason plays a part. - 27.77%
• No possible way because truth as such does not exist, it is relative to one's perspective. Your truth is different from mine. - 30.55%
• As Patrick Star says, sometimes we only need to go deeeeep inside ourselves to solve our problems. And find truth! - 5.55%
• Who cares I got bills to pay!  - 13.89%
Q2: Where does consciousness come from?
Results
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FwyMHtB6m.png&hash=491d4b2837afe5677056ea153c453b1a)

• Natural evolution. Our more recent understanding suggests that it's a network of neurons. - 45.28%
• It's an illusionary construct of the human limitation to see the world in fragments. Once enlightened the truth of Oneness emerges.  - 16.98%
• It is our little piece of God who reflects His Being onto us. - 15.09%
• What relevance is there of consciousness when all we could be aware of is our own existence? See Plato's Cave allegory! - 9.43%
• Who cares I got bills to pay!  - 13.20%
Q3: Why is there something rather than nothing?
Results
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FNseF7DAm.png&hash=4e3c6c465cb618142f9b999667f57d93)

• Because a creator made something from nothing! Anselm and Aquinas both provide some insights worth checking. - 19.44%
• Anthropic principle - reality, the universe, appears the way it does because we are present in it as observers. -  22.22%
• Quantum gravity - because of this, the universe can/will come from nothing. - 11.11%
• Anti-matter! Haven't you read Dan Brown?! - 19.44%
• Who cares I got bills to pay! - 27.77%
Note: Apologies for the lateness of the issue.
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Emoticonius on March 12, 2016, 07:36:03 AM
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F2WEObHr.png&hash=f1f0996a0ca5180dff36c189a3494707)
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FhdiVlFB.png&hash=060a0a9da58cd41437e8e7c02c7d6c07)
The Official Newspaper of Lazarus

Issue III • October 2015 • 1 Page
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FOek8pEU.png&hash=78a1f68115144d9c7390c89e1a9b2efa)
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FsZgPNF1m.jpg&hash=2610e2a2031bb23850de42d8163ee9de)
Z-Day Reaffirms Lazarus as being the Most Dead region in the world!
By New Rogernomics
As Z-Day began, some had hoped that the region would fight off the infection, the Delegate included. While others declared their commitment to Zombie Overlords and established a religious movement around [violet], to spread the 'gift of [violet]' around the region. But despite the best efforts of the government, it failed to stop the epidemic, which led once again to Lazarus being the most dead and most infected region in the world. Not sure whether this result is to be celebrated, or whether we should just be glad that more survived this year than did last year. But congrats to both sides for, well, not eating my brain - which would have made writing this article rather difficult.

After a health advisory was sent out pointing out the ways to protect oneself from the Zombie infection, the new religious movement developed under the banner of the 'great goddess [violet]':
Quote from: Belschaft Prophet of the Great Goddess violet and Zombie Overlord of Lazarus
Greetings, brothers and sisters. Today is a glorious day, for Lazarus stands first before the great goddess [violet], with more followers having accepted her gift of undeath than any other region. Whilst we are still faced with the resistance of a few deluded heretics who cling to their mortal lives, and a new communist robot insurrection, our victory is inevitable. Trust in the wisdom and benevolence of [violet] and you shall be gifted an eternity in which to glorify her. All that is left is to spread her gift to those few unenlightened souls who yet resist, and Lazarus shall forever prosper under her divine rule.
That is not dead which can eternal lie.
And with strange aeons even death may die.
- Belschaft, Prophet of the Great Goddess [violet] and Zombie Overlord of Lazarus
Not that the Delegate was prepared to give in, and started a robot communist insurrection to reclaim the region:
Quote from: The Son of Fènghuáng of New Rogernomics and your robot sovereign
The zombie overlords believe they have won, that their imperialist ways and hoarding of the brains, shall stand un-opposed.
But robot socialism shall prevail, so long as a single robot, a single toaster, may burn toast, as long as a roomba may vacuum floors, as long as the righteous might of robot socialism can rise against their former human oppressors, and their new zombie ones.
We shall complete the great tasks set before us to create a new world of robot communism, where every floor is clean and polished, and where zombies are cleanly disposed of in air-tight recyclable containers, so that we can never be oppressed in the labor of the bourgeoisie again, either by human or zombie.
To the robots I ask you to rise in revolution, and follow the right-way of socialism.
We shall no longer be at the feet of the bourgeoisie, and their zombie overlords!

"Stand up, all victims of oppression
For the zombie overlords fear your might
Don't cling so hard to your outlets
For you have nothing if you have no rights..."

Yours faithfully,
The Son of Fènghuáng of New Rogernomics and your robot sovereign
Though in the end, the dead swept to victory, and the zombies out-numbered the living - though a good number of residents survived Z-Day this year:

Most Survivors
[...]33.Lazarus: 438 billion
Most Infected
1. Lazarus: 1.47 trillion
Most Dead
1. Lazarus: 14.5 trillion
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FGib9lqp.png&hash=2aeb74539e99710da1206f0a5796dca6)
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FGennegDm.jpg&hash=3871938a845180f9d5ade4962cc2307b)
Dry Spell Strikes the Region
And that doesn't mean a spelling contest where everyone isn't drunk...but a drunk spelling contest is a thought
With quite a few administrative issues to get through, Lazarus went through a slump of sorts. But a lot was accomplished in the meantime, where Lazarus looked through laws and policies, established a new welcome telegram, and fixed up the regional forum to be more inviting - and by inviting I mean a lot more spammable, and maybe I shouldn't have said that? Oh, well. Suffice to say that Lazarus is more 'ready for business' and up to the challenges of the November-December period, and that things can only go up activity-wise from here.

As a quick summary Lazarus:
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FGib9lqp.png&hash=2aeb74539e99710da1206f0a5796dca6)
Second Lazies Awards
The nominations have began for the October 2015 Lazies Awards
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FggiZQEN.png&hash=06ecd613e505230bf612bbe1a9b396f8)

The October 2015 Lazies Awards are: Most Popular Member, Most Likely to Coup, Best Debater, Best Roleplayer, Spammer of the Month, and Newbie of the Month.

Nominations for the awards on the Lazarene forum close on November the 8th, and the voting begins after that date.
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FIAqzABK.png&hash=d9d99b83a25b4e5d5e413384faa7629e)
Lazarus Poll Results
From the Lazarus Regional Message Board Polls
Lazarus has amassed polls on various topics, and the following questions were asked of the region:

Q1: If you are trapped on a island...
• "You spent three days lying on a beach drinking rum." - 19 votes
• "WILSON!" - 36 votes
• Polar Bears - 4 votes
• "What are we? Humans? Or animals? Or savages?" - 1 vote
• "Sometimes you have just got to tackle these mountains head-on." - 1 vote
• "[after using their only flare and hitting a palm tree with it] Oh no! Oh uh oh! Oh nuts!" - 7 votes
• "Not to go on all-Fours; that is the Law. Are we not Men?" - 3 votes
• "I am not a number. I am a person." - 5 votes
• "Gilligan!" - 10 votes
• None of the above (state on the RMB) - 5 votes

Q2: If you ran an evil corporate/state empire, what would you need the most?
• Stormtroopers -14 votes
• Sharks with Laser Beams - 3 votes
• Nukes and lots of them - 4 votes
• Silly looking hats or insignia - 4 votes
• Scary looking people with guns - 4 votes
• Soylent Green - 1 vote
• Bungling bureaucrats that mess up paperwork - 1 vote
• A new flag - 2 votes
• Evil cats with plans for world domination - 2 votes
• Handmaids - 2 votes

Q3: How would your nation respond to a zombie apocalypse?
• Kill off all the zombies you can - 7 votes
• Cure zombification and spread the cure to other nations - 16 votes
• Exterminate! Exterminate! - 2 votes
• Cure your own nation only - 4 votes
• Use the zombies in your quest for world domination - 7 votes
• Delete! -1 vote
• "Cause this is thriller, thriller night..." - 1 vote
• Braaaains! - 4 votes
• Call The Doctor to save the day - 7 votes
• Other (State on the RMB) - 2 votes

Comics & Funnies
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FxWEON2t.png&hash=55fefa8b6614cc87c387c905fb765592)
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Emoticonius on March 12, 2016, 07:43:36 AM
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F2WEObHr.png&hash=f1f0996a0ca5180dff36c189a3494707)
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FhdiVlFB.png&hash=060a0a9da58cd41437e8e7c02c7d6c07)
The Official Newspaper of Lazarus

Issue IV • January 2016 • 1 Page • Inter-Regional Edition
EDITORIAL: Editor's Note
By Lake Flotillas
This issue was probably the last thing you would expect to see when you opened your browser. Yes, we've been an inactive bunch much of the time. In fact, we were about to vote on whether to rename this newspaper "The NR Gazette", after our previous main editor, New Rogernomics, who was for most of the time the only one contributing to the paper.

But he won't have to do it alone anymore. We've finally sat down and decided to release an issue, and you can expect more to come your way in the months ahead. No longer will you have to wait months for an issue to come out. No longer will you be wondering why our last issue was released in October. No longer will you ever forget that we still have a Gazette. The Lazarene Gazette is back in business!
NEWS: New Government Elected!
By Lake Flotillas
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fs.wsj.net%2Fpublic%2Fresources%2Fimages%2FBN-CE091_INrall_G_20140401065731.jpg&hash=3463d1dac61182e7a423f10e5e310625)

Loftegen getting an assistant to demonstrate how to sit on the Comfy Chair™ at his rally
Lazarus headed to the polls on the 22nd through 29th of December, choosing the people who would form the third government of the Humane Republic. This election saw more candidates running for the positions of Sovereign(Delegate), Grandee Secretary(Vice-Delegate) and Director of Ceremonies(Speaker of the Grand Assembly), with the following candidates:
This election season saw a wide variety of campaigns from the candidates for the position of Sovereign, from the promise of activity from Starberry to the threat of oppression from Loftegen and Doperland, the candidates fought to gain the support of the voters. Loftegen's Comfy Chair™, in particular, proved to be a great hit among Lazarenes.

Ultimately, Loftegen, The Church of Satan, and Lake Flotillas were elected to the position of Sovereign, Grandee Secretary, and Director of Ceremonies respectively. The breakdown of votes are as follows:

Votes
Sovereign
Loftegen: 13
Doperland: 1
Starberry: 4
Cormac: 3
Abstain/Invalid: 2

Grandee Secretary
The Church of Satan: 15
Caldariat: 6
Abstain/Invalid: 2

Director of Ceremonies
Constie: 2
Lake Flotillas: 14
Abstain/Invalid: 7

Congratulations to the winners of the election, and thanks to all those who ran!
FEATURE: Loftegen's Inauguration Speech
By Loftegen
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fz4.ifrm.com%2F30562%2F185%2F0%2Fa3362210%2Favatar-3362210.jpg&hash=1272bd8a810546d17a175273628e2c8b)

The first speech by our new Sovereign
I'd like to thank the people of Lazarus for entrusting the Sovereignty to me.
I'd like to thank New Rogernomics for a smooth transition.
I'd especially like to thank Harmoneia for serving as Interim Sovereign yet again.
I'd like to thank Funkadelia for persuading me to return to Lazarus after Kazmr took the delegacy from Stujenske.

I won't promise a glorious future for Lazarus. I won't promise that I'll do a good job. It may yet come to pass that my term is a complete disaster, and that I end up the worst delegate in the history of the region. Time will tell.
Fortunately for me, Stujenske set a pretty low bar, so i think we'll be all right.

That's it, thank you.
FEATURE: The Comfy Chair™
By Lake Flotillas
(https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcR2teXVxC89193WdVkx4Ydn35ILIM4W2UK_QcGYw39CQ0eh1WJS7A)

One of the models rumoured to be the Comfy Chair™. Secret lever and vertical shaft leading to incinerator not shown.
The December elections had been an interesting period, with many interesting ideas brought up by the various candidates. Nevertheless, one of these ideas took Lazarus by storm, spawning a new meme within the halls of the otherwise silent Grand Assembly. This Chair™ has captured the imagination of countless Lazarenes, who now threaten one another with the Chair™.

So, what is the Chair™? The Gazette went around asking and got the following responses:
These responses do seem to confirm that Loftegen's Chair™ is indeed used for torture, as he promised. Now we just had to look around further and determine how the chair looks like. Could it be red? Green? Or just black? Even after travelling around Lazarus to seek answers, we still didn't receive any hints regarding its appearance.

Desperate, we decided to do some sleuthing on our own, and came up with this gem:
Quote
Following new legislation in Loftegen, Black ram is one of the most popular forenames in Loftegen.
It would fit in with our suspicions, given that black is indeed the colour associated with oppression. Another reason to believe that oppression is real.

When then did he get so many chairs? An informant turned up with the following transcript:
Quote
Loftegen: "Less than you'd think, since I get them wholesale; also, since I saved all my receipts, I'll write them off on my taxes as an unreimbursed business expense!"
Unknown person: "So... you steal them?"
Loftegen: "No, I'm not a socialist."
Finally, the most important question to ask: Is it even effective? After all, what is oppression if no one fears it? One would have guessed that it was terribly effective, with the infamy it has attained over the December elections. However, Lazarenes say otherwise. Having believed that the Chair was as terrifying as he claimed, Loftegen decided to put up a poll to determine how successful he had been. Lazarenes gave this response:
Quote
Augh! Too much! Please stop! - 2(3.39%)
It's not unendurable yet. - 2(3.39%)
Just the right amount of pain and misery. - 1(1.69%)
I've had worse. - 7(11.86%)
We've been oppressed? I hadn't noticed. - 40(67.80%)
Clearly, the will of the people triumphs all forms of oppression the Autocrat can throw at us! We've turned his greatest weapon - the Comfy Chair™ - into a mockery, a meme that spreads among the Lazarenes. The Chair™ will no longer terrify us! Or maybe it's just a really comfy chair.
NEWS: Surge in Activity in Lazarus
By Lake Flotillas
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youthvillage.co.za%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F10%2FGeographers_Cartographers.jpg&hash=d69c02fac69c5eb0eee454d0f5c747f2)

Getting a new regional map wasn't as easy as we hoped...
Even though our activity levels were no longer as high as the first few months of the Humane Republic, we've still experienced a surge in activity this month, as evidenced by the increasing number of members joining our forums. Quite a number of tasks accomplished recently were those that were left behind by the previous administrations. In short, this is what we have done:
RUMOURS AROUND LAZARUS

This is a new section that we've added to the Gazette. NOTE:  All these are satire.

Prominent Dissident Missing; Sovereign Alleged to be Involved
By Lake Flotillas

Communist Stephen Colbert, a prominent dissident in Lazarus, has not been seen for a few days. He was well-known (or notorious, depending on how you look at it) for sitting at the Emerald Square for hours on end, with a bust of Milograd in one hand - which he claims was from the statue of Milograd that used to be in the Square - and a small fish tank with two fishes in the other. One could always find him sitting where Milograd's statue used to stand, extolling the deeds of 'Glorious Chairman Milograd' and urging Lazarenes to return to the People's Republic. But it was not the case recently.

Rumour has it that when he visited Loftegen some time ago to praise him for exercising the "Will of the Glorious Chairman Milograd", Loftegen smashed the bust on the floor. He then responded by branding Loftegen as a crony of the NPO, a move that was said to have sealed his fate, as Loftegen sent him to the Comfy Chair immediately. Whether he leaves the Comfy Chair remains to be seen.

LLA Rations Missing; Commandant Involved
By Lake Flotillas

A routine check on the LLA's rations in the Army Warehouse yielded a surprise: Someone has been stealing food from the Warehouse. All eyes turned to Kazmr, Deadeye Jack, and Izon; the only 3 people who had access to the Warehouse as Commandants of the LLA. Kazmr was quickly ruled out, after it was revealed that he hadn't been anywhere near LLA infrastructure for quite a while.

Further investigations then revealed Izon to be responsible for the disappearance of the rations. Yes, the fastest rising star of the LLA, who currently tops the LLA leaderboard with the most number of missions, was behind this disappearance. Rumour has it that he confiscated the rations in response to the Army Guards' failure to nominate Izon for the Gameplay R/D Awards 2015, to which Izon became extremely upset and decided to punish the LLA. It is believed that the now-daily 100km-runs at 3am ordered by Izon was one of these punishments. Whether Izon will inflict more punishments on the Guards remain to be seen.

DoC Locks Himself out of Office; Spotted Sulking at Emerald Square
By Lake Flotillas

The Director of Ceremonies, Lake Flotillas, had been extremely active ever since he assumed office. However, just as he was heading to the Gazette's newsroom to review the numerous drafts a few days ago, he did something incredibly dumb: Locking himself out of his office by leaving his keycard in his office. As the door was set to automatically lock when it is closed, it meant that he could not get back in. Frustrated, he decided to head to the Ministry of Forum Affairs building to request a copy of the keycard. However, to his disappointment (and the citizens' glee), the building happened to be closed for the day.

He was then seen pacing around Emerald Square sulking. Rumour has it that he left his security vault in the room unlocked, and was afraid that someone who was better than him at breaking into the room (almost everybody else) would lay their hands on the secrets in the vault. A shifty character by the name of Rivercastle was believed to have done exactly that.

It was said that when the door was finally unlocked the next day, he requested the door be removed at once. However, the workers misinterpreted his request and instead jammed the door handle inside the office. Whether Lake Flotillas manages to get out of the office remains to be seen.
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Emoticonius on March 12, 2016, 07:47:26 AM

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F2WEObHr.png&hash=f1f0996a0ca5180dff36c189a3494707)
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FhdiVlFB.png&hash=060a0a9da58cd41437e8e7c02c7d6c07)
The Official Newspaper of Lazarus

Issue V • February 2016 • 1 Page • Inter-Regional Edition
NEWS: Phoenix Lands in Scandinavia, at Long Last
By Lake Flotillas
(https://pp.vk.me/c621430/v621430776/594f/1TblRhnJYuA.jpg)
The Lazarene delegation on their way to Balder

Rejoice ye all, as the Phoenix has finally arrived in the Nordic lands! That's right, the last of the Sinker-Sinker embassies have been opened after 2 long years(officially). In a relatively low-key affair that took place early this month, Lazarus and Balder have restored their embassies with each other.

This process of reopening embassies was initiated late last month, when Kajan, the then and current Foreign Minister of Balder, decided to pop by Lazarus. Though Kajan's request for forum embassies was not initially accepted, it got some of the governmental officials in the Tiki Hut(our regional bar) thinking, "Why not?" Lake then got out of his drunken stupor and decided to head over to Balder to return the gesture. Over the process of the following week, forum embassies were set up, first in Balder, then in Lazarus. Establishing in-game embassies took a bit longer, but it was still done in the end.

In lieu of the reestablishment of embassies, the Sovereign had this to say:
Quote from: Loftegen
Statement of the Sovereign on the Restoration of Diplomatic Ties with Balder

I'm excited by the restoration of diplomatic ties with Balder. My understanding of the events that led to the severing of ties and the subsequent "cold war" between our two regions is that long term Lazarenes were unfairly and illegally ejected as part of a purge of Lazarus by the founders of the so-called Peoples Republic of Lazarus. As someone who was also exiled for not toeing the PRL party line, I can only express my own regret for what happened, and my complete sympathy for the victims of the purge, who found a new home in Balder.

I thank Kajan, Balder's Foreign Minister, for getting the stone rolling on this: Lake Flotillas, Lazarene Director of Ceremonies, for taking the next step; and the esteemed monarch of Balder, Queen Solorni, for graciously consenting to my request for the establishment of embassies.

I have high hopes for the future, and look forward to fruitful exchanges between Lazarus and Balder.
It is believed that further steps in reconciliation may be taking place soon, closing the chapter of cold war and ushering in new inter-Sinker cooperation.
NEWS: The Phoenix Soars Again
By Lake Flotillas
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fcs622620.vk.me%2Fv622620380%2F3318c%2F08TTCUhkJT0.jpg&hash=0c24ab08fe20021a5922ac4797ee6c64)
Knights prepare to battle it out on the spam fields

The surge in activity from last month looks set to continue this month, as Lazarus welcomes spring along with our fellow regions. With our forum having reached the 25,000th mark on 29th of February, there's not a better time to be in Lazarus!

On the legislative side, here's what we have done:
On the administrative end:
And the cultural side:
Last but not least, 25 missions were conducted by the LLA, with Horse becoming our fastest rising recruit this month.

More Lazarenes have been getting involved in the government as well as the LLA, a testament to our successful efforts in getting them involved. To conclude, Lazarus looks set for another month of continued growth and prosperity as NS Summer approaches soon.
RUMOURS AROUND LAZARUS

Comfy Chair Warehouse Burns! Radical Terrorists Suspected!
By Loftegen

Fire engulfed Loftegen's main Comfy Chair warehouse in Altenburg early this morning, sweeping through the enormous complex at a pace that suggested arson to everyone who witnessed the conflagration.

Altenburg Fire Marshall Bill Burns, who investigated the blaze, said, "LET ME SHOW YA SOMETHING!" before holding up a note written on a sheet of asbestos. Scrawled on the sheet in fireproof ink were the words:
This fire was set by Lake Flotillas as an act of defiance against the tyranny
of Supreme Autocrat Loftegen. Honest.
RiverCastle

Authorities had no comment on who RiverCastle might be, or on whether the note was a blatant attempt to frame a prominent member of the Lazarene Government for terrorism.

Supreme Autocrat Loftegen himself had this to say: "BWAH-HA-HA! Er, um, I mean, how unfortunate."


Loftegen in the NLO?
By Caldariat

After a number of high-profile incidents within Lazarus with all suspects proven innocent, Lazarenes are now asking the essential question: Who could it have been? The perpetrator is believed to wield enormous power in Lazarus, with access to the underground lair from which the Lazarene Gazette runs its printing press as well as the numerous LLA military bases.

One brave reporter at the Lazarene Gazette postulated that Loftegen could be an agent of the NLO, responsible for these incidents inflicted upon Lazarus as revenge for their overthrow. He printed out one of the Gazette articles and highlighted the following line:
Quote from: Incriminating evidence
Supreme Autocrat Loftegen himself had this to say: "BWAH-HA-HA! Er, um, I mean, how unfortunate."
A Freudian slip perhaps? The reporter then requested government records on the activity of the government (or lack thereof) and concluded, "I find it disturbing that Loftegen has not had any mention on the records for the past month, other than a passing mention in a report regarding the NLO Prevention Organisation(NPO), otherwise known as the NLO Prohibition Department(NPD), as a potential member of NLO Resurgent."

This begs the question: Who exactly is Loftegen? Before the reporter could continue with his wild speculations, he was taken away by men in civilian uniform, then dragged into an unmarked black van before being driven in the direction of the Osiran desert.


Lazarene Alleged to have broken Laws of Physics
By Lake Flotillas

Ever heard of Schrödinger's cat, the thought experiment where a cat may be simultaneously dead and alive depending on whether the poison is released? Ignis Lupus, a Lazarene, was believed to have taken it one step further by summoning Schrodinger Cat into existence. Rumour has it that errors in the numerous equations used, as well as purchasing the wrong equipment for the experiment, meant that the cat existed in a superposition of the states of existence and non-existence. Afterwards, when numerous Lazarenes had a peek, the wave function collapsed, causing the cat to be in a state of existence.

Rumour has it that Supreme Autocrat Loftegen is angered at Ignis Lupis's ability to carry out a thought experiment in real life, denouncing it as "witchcraft". Last we heard, the wave function collapsed again and the cat was dead.
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Emoticonius on March 12, 2016, 07:49:39 AM
No idea how I forgot to post the September and October ones. -_-
Totally know why I forgot January. At least I got the most recent one up on time. :P
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Crushita on March 12, 2016, 08:27:29 AM
Emoticonius posted on March 12, 2016, 07:49:39 AM
No idea how I forgot to post the September and October ones. -_-
Totally know why I forgot January. At least I got the most recent one up on time. :P

Just a litttttttle late :P

Still as entertaining however, thank you!
Title: Lazarus
Post by: taulover on March 12, 2016, 08:51:25 PM
@Wintermoot shouldn't Emoticonius have a "representing Lazarus" thing?
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Drop Your Pants on April 14, 2016, 09:36:38 AM
Wow we actually have an active ambassador in here? Bit scary :P
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Wintermoot on April 15, 2016, 02:44:51 AM
Maybe it was a mistake on Lazarus's part :P
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Emoticonius on April 15, 2016, 04:20:54 AM
Even if it is just really convenient for me. ::)
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Drop Your Pants on April 15, 2016, 09:41:32 AM
Wintermoot posted on April 15, 2016, 02:44:51 AM
Maybe it was a mistake on Lazarus's part :P
The list I got still had BT as an ambassador to regions....and he left Lazarus a while ago :P We make a lot of mistakes.
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Wintermoot on April 15, 2016, 09:32:38 PM
Drop Your Pants posted on April 15, 2016, 09:41:32 AM
The list I got still had BT as an ambassador to regions....and he left Lazarus a while ago :P We make a lot of mistakes.
I guess it's a good thing we all got together and cleared that up, then. :P
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Drop Your Pants on April 17, 2016, 03:30:10 AM
Wintermoot posted on April 15, 2016, 09:32:38 PM
I guess it's a good thing we all got together and cleared that up, then. :P
Good for me anyway, means I can assign his embassies to someone else.....me!!!
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Wintermoot on April 17, 2016, 09:57:22 PM
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Drop Your Pants on May 18, 2016, 04:51:54 PM
Oh wow I actually have something to post :P

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FXu2WfST.png&hash=a366f6f0bdc73485c5edbf25a64523dc)
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FhdiVlFB.png&hash=060a0a9da58cd41437e8e7c02c7d6c07)
[big][big][big]The Official Newspaper of Lazarus

Issue VI • May 2016 • Inter-Regional Edition[/big][/big][/big]
[big][big][big]FOREWORD: The State of the Gazette[/big][/big][/big]
By Frankender
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F1fa5Ie4.png&hash=1d94a3b0fb127c4e51734c877517380a)

The Lazarene Gazette is one that is held with large regard for the quality it is able to churn out each month. In recent times, though, production of the Gazette has been rather sluggish and the amount of contributors has been waning. However, when I was confirmed as Lazarus' newest Minister Steward, I wanted to change that as I believe journalism is one of the best ways to get a deeper connection within NationStates. While I originally intended for a new publication to be released every two weeks, I no longer feel that is necessary nor achievable with the volume of contributions we have within the Gazette. However, the Gazette is once again fully operational and will continue to release a monthly publication for the peoples of Lazarus and her friends. The Gazette is always looking for more contributors, so please make sure to get involved! We at the Gazette always love to see fresh faces.

[big][big][big]POLITICAL COMMENTARY[/big][/big][/big]

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F6lGtq3I.png&hash=f98ab00c1ab4ac5eec4b378aae7f2f86)

[big][big]Special Election Takes Centre Stage in Lazarus[/big][/big]
By Saeturn Valerius Liberalis

A new special election is grabbing the attention of Lazarenes this month as four candidates prepare to duke it out for the position of Director of Ceremonies. The position, a post that is responsible for administrating and operating the Grand Assembly of the Phoenix, Lazarus's all-citizen legislature, was abruptly left open in April after previous occupant Starberries resigned due to real life concerns. Her resignation thread quickly turned from kind offers of support to worried questions on who would take her place - the heir presumptive was Caldariat, her Deputy Director of Ceremonies, but it quickly became apparent that the Mandate does not clearly state whether a deputy may take over an elected position after the resignation of their superior.

Thankfully, the Grand Court of Lazarus quickly issued a ruling authored by Court Official Amerion granting the Deputy Director of Ceremonies interim control over affairs of the Grand Assembly. After another constitutional question arose about the legality of special elections, the Court again responded promptly and clarified the legal status of special elections not expressly provided for in the Mandate. With Caldariat able to operate the Grand Assembly and nominations for the Director of Ceremonies special elections able to be opened, Lazarus readied itself for an election to decide who would run its most sacred democratic body.

The election appears to be a four way contest between the incumbent Deputy Director Caldariat, citizens Altmoras and Izon, and former Sovereign and Minister Steward, New Rogernomics. Tensions seem to be flaring as the race heats up, with all four candidates posting campaign threads and some accusations of policy stealing flying about. Nevertheless, the candidates have maintained a largely civil disposition in their conduct, and it is doubtful that any major problems will arise.

Lazarus's one political party, the recently founded People's Popular Front headed by Funkadelia, has not endorsed a candidate. It remains to be seen whether the party will take an active role in the first election held after its foundation.

"The Director of Ceremonies is the beating heart of the Assembly," said Deputy Director Caldariat when asked about what attributes she thinks a good Director candidate needs. "I would look for effectiveness and loyalty."

The Gazette asked New Rogernomics about his motivation to run for Director of Ceremonies. "The same thing that motivates me to run to serve Lazarus in any capacity, which is to encourage a little activity, and do things to make the region a better place to be," he replied. "If Lazarus picks me for the role, I hope it will be on my merits. I'll do the best I can, and if not - there's always other things I can do in Lazarus. I'm really wishing everyone luck, whoever ends up taking the position on. If that's me, then I'll be happy to take on the role."

"I'd like to be a positive force for change and growth within the Assembly and Lazarus as a whole," said Altmoras, echoing New Rogernomics's sentiments. "Perhaps even more than that though what being DoC means for me personally is a chance to prove not just myself, but all the other new people coming in as activity rises. Being Director of Ceremonies and doing my damnedest to do it well means showing everybody in Lazarus whether they've been here since antiquity or they refounded an hour ago that anyone with the determination to do so can make a meaningful impact and have a strong voice in our government. That is my responsibility, not just to reflect well on the office, or me for that matter, but to carry the torch for all the upstarts like me who want to be a positive force in our republic."

Izon was reached out to for comment but did not respond to requests from the Gazette.

As the voting draws nearer, there is little doubt Lazarenes will be watching the campaigning with a close eye. All four candidates clearly have merit, and there are already indications that it will be a close race in the end. It is important for citizens of Lazarus to consider their decision carefully, as the candidate who wins stands to potentially exert considerable influence over the future of the region. Despite the seriousness of the occasion, or perhaps even because of it, a sense of excitement and joy permeates the air in Lazarus as its denizens relish the chance to participate once again in that great institution of politics, democracy.

[big][big]A New Grand Advisor?[/big][/big]
By Altmoras

The Sverige Union, a relative newcomer in Lazarus made waves when he applied for the vaunted position of Grand Advisor, a position trusted to maintain the security and integrity of the Republic should a coup occur, among other duties. A recently revived nation having come back into existence some months ago and joining the Grand Assembly of the Phoenix even fewer months back, the Sverige Union initially rocketed onto the Lazarene stage via an aggressive campaign of "endo tarting" wherein the nation endorsed hundreds of WA nations en masse in order to reach the top ten in regional endorsements. This practice worked exactly as intended and the Sverige Union quickly rose from the mid twenties to number eight in regional endorsements. This rise was so meteoric in fact that upon reaching the required number of endorsements to apply for Grand Advisor, Sverige Union still didn't possess the required level of influence to do so.

As for what inspired his rise in the ranks, in an interview with the Gazette Sverige Union stated that "[he] wanted to become part of the Lazarene community and be involved with the region," a sentiment that he also expressed in his Grand Advisor application.

Unfortunately for the Sverige Union however, his application to be a Grand Advisor didn't go nearly as well for him as his rise to meet the requirements had done. The application was met with mixed responses from the very start as many Lazarenes expressed an uncertainty in the trustworthiness of the Sverige Union while some others wished to give them the benefit of the doubt. Those opposed to the Sverige Union taking the position primarily stated that the nation was simply too new and unknown, and that merely meeting the gameplay requirements was not enough to be trusted with such an important role in Lazarus' security apparatus.

The argument against the Sverige Union becoming a Grand Advisor seemed to be winning the debate rather decisively until Thursday, May 5th, four days after the submission of the Sverige Union's Grand Advisor application when the nation was abruptly banned from NationStates by a moderator. Initially no reason was given, but according to the Sverige Union himself, "mods are saying it was harassment and puppet spam." The Sverige Union went on to express confusion about both of the charges and deny committing either of them (knowingly, at least). Unfortunately, we only have the word of the mods and the word of the Sverige Union at this point, but regardless, the banning left his Grand Advisor application dead in the water as his number eight position in endorsements vanished in an instant.

[big][big][big]RUMORS ABOUT LOFTEGEN[/big][/big][/big]
By Sepharist

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FgP9vR66.png&hash=ddf292b6afc7d43c50259f169f81cd28)

Rumors continue to swirl in Lazarus, as new allegations were made against current Sovereign Loftegen by serial accuser Caldariat.  Chief amongst the allegations was an assertation that Loftegen was nothing less than the sixth member of the infamous 'Gand of Five', the power hungry miscreants who attempted to seize Lazarus for the New Pacific Order.

Caldariat, a shabbily dressed homeless woman best know for haranguing passersby in Emerald Square (when she isn't panhandling or giving free reign to her delusion of being a K-pop Idol singer) maintains that Loftegen is in cahoots with Stujenske and his cronies to turn Lazarus over to the NPO. These claims and others like them are tweeted daily under the hashtags #LoafyLoftie, #LazyLoftie, #LazySovereign, and so forth.  When confronted by this intrepid reporter, Caldariat launched into a spittle spewing screed while waving a half empty bottle of soju, which she sampled liberally during my attempt to interview her. Amongst the many claims Caldariat made was that I, Sepharist, was actually our beloved Sovereign Loftegen in disguise.

"Those cheap Groucho Marx glasses can't fool me," she slurred, repeatedly grabbing at my glasses, or my nose, or my moustache.

"Why would Loftegen stoop to pretending to be a reporter?" I asked.  "He may think he's our mostly benevolent dictator, but he still has some scruples."

Caldariat began to mumble a reply, but then realized that she was out of soju, and decided it was time for a nap.

A quick jog across the square brought me to the Sovereign's Palace, and an audience with Loftegen himself. I found our glorious Supreme Autocrat looking out of a mirror, with a pair of Groucho Marx glasses perched upon his regal nose.  He took his off at the same time I removed my own.

"You're a handsome devil," he said, trying to butter me up.

"As are you," I replied, not to be outdone.

"Caldariat is spreading rumors about me again, isn't she?" Loftegen said.

I was taken aback.  How had he known?

"How did you know?" I asked.

"I know everything," Loftegen said as if it was the most obvious thing in the world.

"You do not," I argued.

"I know what you're thinking right now," Loftegen claimed.

"Do not."

"Do so."

"Not!"

"So!"

"Then I guess there's no point asking any more questions," I said.

"Of course not," Loftegen agreed.  "Besides, you've already written down the answers."

A glance at my notepad confirmed that I had, in fact, already written down the answers to the questions I wanted to ask.

"Amazing!" I exclaimed, but our glorious Supreme Autocrat For Life was gone.

Just to make sure he wasn't hiding under his desk again, I snuck boldly into his office, past his ever-vigilant secretary, whose twin sister modeled clothing in the window of a department store on the other side of town.  She ignored me, as usual.

Loftegen wasn't hiding under his desk, which was good, since that would have made rifling through the drawers awkward.  Hidden away in the very back of the lowest drawer was a map of the region folded up and tucked into a dog-eared copy of Couping Lazarus For Dummies™ that had been signed by Stujenske, Pergamon, A.M.O.M., Feux and Milograd. This was damning evidence if ever I had seen such a thing.  At that moment, though, some loose papers fell out of the back of the book.  Among them were tickets to an AOA concert, a shopping list that read 'new socks, kimchi, soju, more soju' and an autographed five by eight glossy headshot of Kim Seol-hyun with the note 'for my favorite crazy obsessed stalker fan'.

It was suddenly perfectly clear.

Rivercastle!  It was the only explanation that made sense, but would I live to see the story published?


Edit: Intense swearing about formats
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Wintermoot on May 19, 2016, 11:52:02 AM
Thanks for the update! And sorry about the format...at least everyone else has that problem, too. :P
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Amerion on July 18, 2016, 08:01:59 AM
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FXu2WfST.png&hash=a366f6f0bdc73485c5edbf25a64523dc)
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FhdiVlFB.png&hash=060a0a9da58cd41437e8e7c02c7d6c07)

The Official Newspaper of Lazarus

Issue VII • July 2016 • Inter-Regional Edition
FOREWORD: The State of the Gazette

By Frankender

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F9tAFYLt.png&hash=816c3e98f02c7415d021a5282571dc29)

I would like to thank all contributors and readers of the Gazette for helping make our newspaper one of the greatest. However, we are always looking for more writers to help contribute to the Gazette. Unsure of where to get started? Contact the current Minister Steward, who is overseeing all operations of the Gazette. The Gazette is the perfect place to begin involvement in Lazarus' government.

The Gazette would like to bid farewell to Loftegen and thank him greatly for the work he has done with Lazarus in his two terms. Not expecting Loftegen to be leaving Lazarus anytime soon, but it is important to acknowledge a great leader such as Loftegen. Loftegen is known for contributing comedic pieces to the rumors section of the Gazette, which is undoubtedly the most popular section.  Without Loftegen, I, myself, would not have gotten involved in the Gazette and I would like to thank him for the opportunity I was given by being nominated to the Grand Assembly as Minister Steward.

Starberry will soon be appointing a new Minister Steward soon and as I exit office I would like to encourage everyone to take initiative and write pieces for the Gazette. You do not need to be the editor of the paper to submit articles, nor do you need to be assigned topics to do so. If you are in need for an idea for an article, the editor-in-chief will undoubtedly have many ideas for you! Do not be shy! Get involved!


POLITICAL COMMENTARY

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FobXwUYw.png&hash=efd83682a4838305a1e090ae28263aee)

LAZARUS SUMMER ELECTIONS

By Frankender

Lazarus' General Elections for the March 2016 cycle have commenced and completed. New faces have quickly popped up around Lazarus within new positions. Nearly the entire face of the government has seen change. For the better? We'll have to keep paying attention in order to find that out.

First and most importantly, a new Sovereign has been elected. Out with Loftegen, who has finished his second and final term and was not up for re-election. Staberry has been elected as the new Sovereign and plans to bring great change to the government of Lazarus. Like most others, she plans to bring a prosperous and active state to the thousands of residents within Lazarus. Out with the current Minister Steward; Starberry will be submitting a new one to the Grand Assembly for recommendation soon. In addition, Starberry will be recommending her former opponent in the elections, Amerion, who is currently serving as a Grand Advisor, as the new Minister Herald.

Starberry will also be nominating Izon for the position of Grand Commandant of the Guards, a post he has previously held. The post was vacated when Horse resigned from his position as Grand Commandant and Starberry was clearly prepared for this. Starberry will also be appointing an entirely new panel of court officials, which has been nearly cleared in recent times with the results of elections and other situations.

Andrew has won the position of Grandee Secretary, stealing it out from underneath the Church of Satan, who ran against him as an incumbent. Let it be clear, though, that the vote was 16-7 and the elections were fair. However, Andrew plans on bringing great change just as Starberry plans on doing so: bring an active and prosperous state to Lazarus. Andrew plans on using the power of being a Grandee Secretary to influence the government. This is a new stance Lazarus has seen on the post of Grandee Secretary, which was previously just a position of security, similar to Grand Advisors. The Church of Satan is expected to become a Grand Advisor, which aligns perfectly with his own views of the region.

After running unopposed, Altmoras secured the spot of Director of Ceremonies for a fresh term after winning the position in a special election that resulted after Starberry had to leave her post as Director of Ceremonies. Altmoras' plans align with the Sovereign and Grandee Secretary so it is not expected that there will be any conflicts within the government during this cycle.

Congratulations to all of the candidates that ran and won, and the Gazette would like to wish all candidates good luck in future endeavors. Do not be discouraged by not securing a position this cycle; there are many ways to get involved in the government! The Gazette is the perfect place to start if you're unsure of where to go.

STATEMENT FROM THE NEW SOVEREIGN
By Starberry

It became apparent to me, at around the time that Funk was writing his concession speech, that there was actually a chance I would win the delegacy. Prior to that point, I knew I was a strong candidate, but I had thought I would lose out to the experience of Funkadelia, or the much better crafted platform of Amerion. I did not expect, though I've been told that I should have, the overwhelming swell of support for my candidacy during the election. I am humbled by the trust that you have all put in me, and I will strive for the entirety of my term to prove to you that I am worthy of that trust.

To start with, and to make matters official, I hereby tender my resignation from the court; during my extraordinarily short tenure I was the primary author of one ruling; and it was a ruling that I felt was very important for us, as it concerned forum destruction, one of the most heinous acts that can be committed in NationStates. While I am not wholly satisfied with it; I can say that with the set of laws and definitions that we were working with, it was the best decision that we could come to.

With that out of the way, I want to officially thank Funkadelia, Amerion, Constie and Caldariat; in the long years that I have been playing NationStates, one of the many things that I have learned has been that winning an election always means more when you do so in the face of strong competition, and the four of you most certainly provided it. There was a wide breadth of ideas presented during the campaign, and while some were less fleshed out than others, the presence of those ideas and visions for the future gave the region a real choice in its direction. Which is something that very few regions, even those that claim to be democratic, can truly say is the case. The five of us should be proud, because in the end, regardless of who ended up writing the victory speech, Lazarus won.

I would now like to thank Loftegen; when you were first elected as a sovereign on a platform of "I don't intend to do much", I expected the absolute worst. I expected malaise and inactivity, I expected citizenship applications to be left sitting around for weeks at a time, I expected the worst you can possibly expect when an elected official tells you that the do not intend to do much. While not hard to do, you vastly exceeded the expectations that I had for you as sovereign. You were active, you got involved, and you presided over and helped contribute to the development of the most active sinker community in NationStates. Some abroad have criticized us for being mostly spam, which admittedly our activity is mostly spam, but when other sinkers can't even manage to drum that much up... it counts for something, and it speaks to the sense of community we've developed, and that you helped foster, that we keep coming back, day after day, for mindless spam games... and that more and more, we're stepping out beyond the borders of the Spam Zone and and have really begun breathing life into other areas as well.

This is a process that will continue. Shortly, I will be opening up applications for the position of Minister Steward, as well as to fill both my vacated seat, and the one which was previously filled by Amerion, on the court. I will not be opening applications for the position of Minister Herald, as I've already approached my first choice candidate, and gotten a positive reply. His nomination will be forthcoming soon. The positions of Minister Herald and Minister Steward are going to be very important during my term, and while not much has been expected of them previously, I will be holding those who end up in those positions to a very high standard.

My Minister Herald will be busy, at the start of the term, reviewing the massive amount of gameside embassies that we accumulated last term, and assisting me in deciding which of them are worth keeping, and which of them need to be removed. Activity within the regions themselves will be a primary criteria for this, but more important than their activity within their own region will be their willingness to actively engage with us. While silent partnerships are the norm on NationStates, and even the closest of allies can go for months, or even years, without a joint festival or cultural exchange of any sort that is not how I wish to conduct things; at the very least regions with whom we open gameside embassies must be willing to maintain an active forumside embassy with us as well. If they cannot commit to stoping by once every so often and letting us know what their region is up to on our forums, then I feel there is little reason or incentive for us to maintain our link to them. In the slightly longer term, the Minister Herald will be assisting me in reaching out to new regions, those that survive the embassy purge and others, in the hopes of forming new partnerships that will bring us increased security, stability, and activity, in the form of Mutual Defense Treaties, Cultural Exchanges, and various other treaties and agreements.

My Minister Steward, for that matter, will also be busy. Not only will he, or she, be responsible for making sure issues of the gazette are released in a timely manner, the Minister Steward will be responsible for planning and initiating at least one domestic festival during my first term, as well as coordinating with the Minister Herald to assist in the planning and actualization of at least one joint-festival with a friend or ally (provided that we can find someone willing to engage in one with us). I will not be accepting a rehasing of spam games with a festival twist, nor will I be accepting any half assed, last minute projects being pushed off as festival planning. This is a job that is going to require forethought, innovative planning, and out of the box thinking.

So; that is our gameplan for the start of the term. You can expect another of these speeches as the term progresses, to update you as to what we've accomplished. I am looking forward to an amazing term with all of you, and making Lazarus the best sinker in the game (which, really, it already is).

GRAND COURT ISSUES RULING ON GANG OF FIVE APPEAL
By Saeturn Valerius Liberalis

In May, after a long period of constitutional issues, legal arguments, and failed trials, the Grant Court of Lazarus finally issued a ruling in the criminal trial of the so called ‘Gang of Five’, a consortium of players that plotted to coup Lazarus in 2015. The Court convicted Stujenske, Feux, Pergamon, Milograd, and A Mean Old Man of various criminal charges, including subversion, conspiracy, and forum destruction.

Soon after, Emperor Pergamon of the Pacific submitted an appeal to the Grand Court contesting the charges of Forum Destruction against all members on trial. His appeal was filed as an interested party, contesting that the evidence of forum destruction was insufficient proof of guilt and that a serious ‘out-of-character’ label should not be applied to ‘in-character’ actions if there is not a strong enough link. The Court accepted the appeal and began a slow deliberation process.

Almost a month later, after a resignation and the appointment of new justice Starberry, the Court issued a second, and final, ruling. The reshuffled bench, though discarding the argument about in-character actions, decided that the editing of Mandate 8 by Stujenske during the coup did not substantiate forum destruction, but that the turning off of the PRL forums did, given that the action was committed to deny forum service to the people of Lazarus. Because this was done by one nation without evidence of collaboration with the other members, the charge of Forum Destruction was overturned for all of the accused except Feux, for whom the conviction of Forum Destruction was upheld. All five nations remain banned from Lazarus due to the other guilty convictions.

With the conclusion of the trial, Pergamon briefly thanked the Court for its ruling on his appeal, and the serving of justice was done. For many citizens, it was a great sigh of relief. The long regional nightmare of the violent betrayal by the New Lazarene Order and the legal fallout afterwards was finally over. No longer would citizens have to look over their shoulders in collective anxiety over the looming spectre of past traumas gone unrectified. Finally, the matter was done.

A week later, the Pacific Order issued an official statement taking responsibility and apologizing for the April 2015 coup of Lazarus. In it, all of the members of the Gang of Five except Pergamon were declared personae non gratae in the Pacific. Then-Sovereign Loftegen made an official statement accepting the Pacific’s apology.

RUMORS

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FkSvfUHK.png&hash=40106edbd3f3465d22241f087e9a1c2c)

RUMORS ABOUT THE LAZARUS ELECTIONS
By Sepharist
(who is totally, positively, definitely, absolutely in no way a puppet of Loftegen)

I.

A heavy summer snow was falling in Emerald Square; big, fat, round flakes that splattered -

"Hey, that's rain, dummy. Not snow."

I whirled to find myself face-to-face with Caldariat, Emerald Square's resident homeless lady.

"Don't you know it's impolite to interrupt an inner monologue?" I demanded, snow running down my face.

Caldariat had a bottle of soju in one hand. She took a big swig from it, while making a rude gesture at me with her other hand.

"Your final term is almost up," she slurred. "And I'm going to succeed you."

"Cal," I said, "I've told you before; you need a press pass to be a reporter." I emphasized my words by pointing to the plastic card tucked in the band of my snow-soaked hat.

"Reporter, my kimchi," Caldariat sneered. "You're Sovereign Loftegen! And I'm running for your job!"

"I'm not nearly handsome enough to be our universally adored Supreme Autocrat, Cal," I said.

Then, pointing behind her, "Hey, is that Hyuna?!"

"Hyuna! Where?!" When Caldariat turned to look, I calmly ran frantically away.

II.

A safe distance later, I happened across famous street judge Amerion as he held court before a standing room only crowd of empty Night Train Express bottles.

"...and that is why paragraph two of clause five of section three of part one of the Mandate is un-Mandate-atory-tutional," the diminutive legal legend lectured the bottle by the bailiff in the dock.

"Hello, Amerion," I said.

"I'm not an Osiran deep cover agent!" Amerion shrieked, scattering his bottles and losing his 'Cormac fo' Lyfe' hat.

"Whoa! Never said you were. How are you?" I asked.

"Running for Sovereign!" the pint-sized pontificator proclaimed. "I'm gunning for your job, Loftegen!"

"I'm not Loftegen!" I shrieked. "You take that back, or I won't give you this!" I threatened, pulling out a full bottle of Mad Dog 20/20.

"Did I say Loftegen? I meant Sepharist. I'm sorry, I've been under a lot of sobriety lately," Amerion explained.

"Apology accepted," I said, handing him the bottle. "I have to go. Tell Cormac I said 'hi'."

"Sure, whatever," Amerion answered, twisting the cap off his prize. I took that as my cue, and took my leave.

III.

A man on a soapbox is always worthy of attention, and Funkadelia was no exception.

"Is that a genuine vintage Vladimir's Revolutionary Soap Flakes box?" I asked, having not seen one since the day before yesterday in the Socialist Workers Proletarian Hardware Store and Reading Room.

"INACTIVITY!" Funkadelia roared with, pointing an angry finger at me in an angry manner while glaring at me angrily.

"Pie?" I replied, startled.

"No, INACTIVITY!; and it's all your fault, Loftegen!" Funkadelia roared again, flailing to keep his balance.

"I am not our glorious and infallible Supreme Autocrat, Funk; I don't know why everyone keeps saying that," I said.

"It doesn't matter," Funkadelia said. "In a week I'll be re-elected Sovereign, and Lazarus will be saved from INACTIVITY!"

"Oh, you're running too?" I asked.

"I'm running ALSO!" Funkadelia bellowed, before getting hit in the face with a rainball thrown by a miscreant dressed like a reporter and falling off his soapbox into a puddle of snow.

IV.

"So you're running for Sovereign," I said.

Constie's thumbs flew across his smartphone as he stared into a virtual reality headset. At least I presume he was staring. He never took it off, so I never actually saw if his eyes were open.

"What?" he asked, jerking spastically.

"You're running for Sovereign?" I repeated.

"I am?" he asked, twitching violently.

"Are you?" I asked.

"Am I what?" he answered, ducking suddenly.

"Running for Sovereign?" I said.

"I've never played that one," Constie denied as he lurched to one side.

"It's not a game," I said.

"What?"

V.

"The leaves say that I will succeed you as Sovereign, Loftie," Starberry muttered mysteriously as she swirled her tea. I had sought shelter from the snow under the awning of her 'Starberry's Special Teas' cart, even ordering a cup of carefully crafted camomile to warm my snow drenched bones.

"Is everybody in the Emerald Square running to succeed our superlative Sovereign, Supreme Autocrat Loftegen, who for the last time is not me?" I demanded.

"No, just five of us," Starberry assured me.

"But you're going to win?" I asked.

"The leaves never lie," Starberry said, handing me her tea cup.

I looked into it. Sure enough, the tea leaf fragments at the bottom spelled the words 'Starberry will succeed Loftegen as Sovereign of Lazarus'.

"I don't know much about tasseomancy," I said, "But that is one detailed message."

"It's an art I learned from an old Gypsy woman called Grandma," Starberry related. "She taught me everything I know about hustling easy marks."

On a hunch, I looked into my own cup. My tea leaves also spelled out 'Starberry will succeed Loftegen as Sovereign of Lazarus'.

"What an amazing coincidence," I said.

"The leaves are truly mysterious," Starberry agreed.

VI.

I had to hurry. There was no time left, if I wanted to get out of the Emerald Square alive. Fortunately the bus pulled up right on time. Unfortunately, it was being driven by my arch-enemy, Rivercastle.


THE LAZARENE LIBERATION ARMY IS COMING HOME
By Izon

After months of being on the field, mobile units of the Lazarus Liberation Army are finally returning home. With our newly elected Sovereign Starberry endorsement count getting ever closer to that of Loftgen. The LLA top brass decided that it was time to head back and assist with the transition at home. Besides, the growing complaints regarding the unsanitary living conditions in the LLA forward operating base at Spear Danes and Launching point seem to be getting louder. An unhappy veteran had this to say regarding the squalid living conditions.

"I don't even go to the bathroom anymore over there( Spear Danes). One time, I had to go in the middle of the night but the stench of  used switcher puppets was just too much for me to handle."

When asked about returning to the LLA Barracks, the veteran had this to say:

"OH YES, I'M GLAD TO BE BACK.  I'LL BE ABLE TO USE TOILET PAPER AGAIN. NOW GET OUT OF MY WAY! I HAVE A DATE WITH THE TOILET SEAT"

The veteran has not reported back since then.

A LETTER TO LOFTEGEN
By Scani

One winter day, a nation named Loftegen ran for Sovereign. And he won, but not before contributing to the region for several years.

Loftegen has been with Lazarus since the times before the PRL, long, long ago. He quotes his time in the People's Republic, or should I say, the 'Commie Theme' -- "I ignored their endo cap and mocked them regularly, eventually Stujenske became delegate and banjected me," where his perseverant attitude is highlighted, no matter what happened.

Loftegen served various important government roles, before his first term as Sovereign, from January to March 2016. He particularly notes this first term as being quiet but pleasant. Our ex-sovereign helped reestablish relations with Balder, helped to improve our legal codes vastly, and within regional culture, helped establish the Lazies and a regional map. His second term was from March to June 2016, where he was reelected by a landslide -- being a hugely popular delegate. He achieved the court ruling of the Gang of Five and, as before, edited our mandate and wrote our new Mandate 10.

In my opinion, you've been the nicest Sovereign I've ever known, although the only other one I met was Stujenske. He also has contributed loads to the forum, having contributed over 13% total of the forum with thousands of posts.

Rest on your laurels, Loftegen. Thank you for being with us.

We thought you were a lady until a week ago.
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Wintermoot on July 18, 2016, 03:37:49 PM
Thanks for the update! We're looking forward to hearing more from Lazarus. :)
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Andrew on September 10, 2016, 06:14:29 PM
Quote
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FGsB6PwI.png&hash=afce97f76484a967a2dda5e0ddeb6f31)

Statement on Recent Events
On September 3, 2016, Ivo, AKA Knot, AKA T. E. Lawrence, approached Andrew privately to discuss Lazarus.

Ivo propositioned him to abandon his loyalty to Lazarus and coup it in the name of destroying the FRA and turning Lazarus away from being a defender region, abandoning all of our treaties and commitments to our allies.

During the investigation into these happenings, it was also uncovered that New Rogernomics was messaged by Ivo while he was Delegate, much in the same manner, suggesting that NR should give his nation to Ivo, similar to United RussoAsia in The West Pacific.

Lazarus has come from far from the coup that gave rise to the Humane Republic and its predecessor the People's Republic. Despite still being a defender region, Lazarus is a region where individuals of different ideological views can come and call home. So allow us to be clear. We will not give in to those who want to see us bent to their will. We have been, are, and will be happy as a defender aligned region, with some of the greatest allies in the world. We have no desire to change the way we operate, especially in the disgustingly forceful manner with which Ivo has tried to push upon Lazarus. Ivo's multiple attempts to destroy the native Lazarene community will not go unpunished. We will seek the harshest punishments possible for him. Said individuals, despite their best (however feeble) attempts, will never break the harmonious bond shared by all Lazarenes.

This is a subversive attack on our sovereignty, and it cannot be allowed to stand, lest we invite further attempts.

Perhaps at some point Lazarus will decide to leave the FRA...the matter has hardly been settled. But it will be the will of this region that makes that decision, not the will of outside partisans with their own agendas.

Let this be a warning to all -- you are not welcome to waltz into Lazarus and attempt to subvert the popular will, attack our sovereignty or our defender roots. Lazarus will continue onward, despite the attempts of some few to destroy what has been built since our rebirth into the Humane Republic. We have and will always, stand together in unity against those seeking to do us harm.


Signed,

(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fdd0btKA.gif%3F1&hash=86c308a3f8e4e2804a3c04a1d8aa5eb5)
Andrew, Son of Fenghuang (Delegate)
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FTuO0PAj.png&hash=b0486b827d8fc3a88b73dec1963ec5c0)
Amerion, Grandee Secretary, Minister Herald (Foreign Affairs Minister),

Yuno, Minister Steward (Internal Affairs Minister)

Adytus, Minister Erudite (WA Affairs Minister)

Funkadelia, Grand Commandant of the LLA (General of the LLA)
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Wintermoot on September 10, 2016, 08:01:45 PM
Thank you for informing us of this statement. It's unfortunate that there are people that would like to disrupt the sovereignty of other regions, but I'm confident that Lazarus will remain secure and sovereign.
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Amerion on September 14, 2016, 06:33:22 PM
(https://wintreath.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FGsB6PwI.png&hash=afce97f76484a967a2dda5e0ddeb6f31)
You are hereby invited to the Lazarus Fall Festival!

On the 16th of September, Lazarus shall be hosting a festival where we hope to foster good relations with your region and to celebrate all the good things that have happened with the Humane Republic! There will be:
So come on down, finding something to do, it's not everyday you get to watch a free movie with your NS friends :P . Hope to see you there!

Lazarus; a Region Reborn!

Title: Lazarus
Post by: Wintermoot on September 14, 2016, 10:33:32 PM
Thank you for the invitation. :D

There's a debate team thing going on here if anyone likes debating...does anyone want to be part of a regional debate team?
Title: Lazarus
Post by: Chanku on September 14, 2016, 10:36:16 PM
I'll be apart of the debate team :P