Conservatives Target Wellington Governor's Race

New polls show tight race between NAT incumbent, CNS challenger

STARKSMIN, Wellington--Just eight days before the midterm elections, the Conservative Governors' Association (CGA) is investing major resources in a race it once counted out.

The CGA is targeting the Wellington governor's race between incumbent Nationalist Pierre Carten and CNS challenger Craig Thoyer.

First elected in 2008 in a special election, Carten (pronounced "Car-tain"), 32, was widely popular. A moderate, the youthful Carten was viewed as one of the few Nationalists in the state that could bring compromise and civility to the often divisive political climate in Wellington.

Carten easily defeated Conservative businessman Bill Santoya in the 2008 election. Now the governor, and his lieutenant, former Rep. Joe Carlin, are facing an unexpectedly close race for re-election.

Thoyer (pronounced "Toy-er"), and his running mate Liz McKinn (C-Hollam) were not expected to present a strong challenge to the once-popular Carten/Carlin ticket. But recent polls suggest the businessman and state senator team are edging closer.

A Prairie Stats poll released last Thursday shows Thoyer and McKinn with 45% to 47% for Carten and Carlin. A NationVoice poll released Monday shows Thoyer trailing Carten by three points.

Those close poll numbers have emboldened Conservative Party leaders, who previously brushed off a Thoyer victory as impossible. The party is now taking a second look and has already dropped $300,000 of additional money into the race, with an another money bomb of $450,000 to $500,000 possible.

It's all apart of the party's strategy to maintain its majority of governors' seats.

"The race in Wellington is crucial to us and we need to do everything we can to ensure that a victory comes out of the prairie state," Gov. Donna Almone (C-POG), head of the CGA, told the National Press Federation (NPF).

But Nationalists are scrambling to defend Carten, whose popularity has plummeted largely due to Wellington's poor economy and high unemployment rate.

The party has allocated an extra $480,000 to help defend Carten, and has dispatched East Deschire Gov. Lynn DeMont and Trinton Gov. Mark De Auonne to campaign for the beleaguered incumbent in the final week of the election.

The two candidates themselves seem confident.

Last week at a press conference at a sandwich bistro in Lunden Plains, Carten told supporters Conservatives "cannot take away the progress we've made," and warned of a possible over-confidence within the Thoyer campaign.

"These guys are so desperate to be elected, I think they're really over-selling themselves and maybe a little too confident," Carten said.

Unsurprisingly, Thoyer's campaign sees it differently.

"All the polls show this race tightening, with Pierre Carten falling out of the lead and Craig Thoyer headed to victory," campaign spokesman Jay Donahue said. "Election day will tell the final chapter in this race."

Both candidates are tirelessly hitting the campaign trail, with the governor targeting the western and southern parts of the state in the final days. Thoyer will be focusing his attention on the suburbs of Starksmin, the state's largest city, and in the eastern part of the state.

Almone Will Not Seek Second Term As Chair of Governors' Board

POG gov. says she wants to spend more time in her home state

LANSDALE, Province of Grassadellia--Regardless of which party wins a majority of governorships after the December 4 elections, there will be a new Chair of the Governors' Board.

Current chair, Gov. Donna Almone (C-POG), announced Tuesday she will not seek a second term as chair if the Conservative Party maintains its majority of governorships.

Almone said she will be stepping down regardless of the outcome of the elections because she wants to spend more time in her state.

"It has been an honor to serve as chair, but it's a huge responsibility and a huge time commitment," Almone said at a press conference at the capitol. "[Over] the last two years, I have spent a great deal of time outside of POG tending to national matters in my capacity as chair, and I feel that, for my second term, if I am re-elected [as governor of POG], I would like to spend more time here in POG."

Almone added that the recent loss of her husband of 31 years, Bill, played a part in her decision.

"I've been through a lot in my professional life and in my personal life lately, and I think it would be best for me to re-focus my attention solely to the state of POG," she said. "I want to stay here where I'm surrounded by friends and family as opposed to a busy traveling schedule."

Almone's announcement set off a buzz Tuesday, as political analysts speculated about possible successors. The most-mentioned names on the Conservative side are Damoign Gov. Sid Hoffa and Armana Gov. Dale Fulbright.

Several names have been thrown out for the NAT, including current chair of the Nationalist Governors' Association (NATGA) Gov. Lynn DeMont (E. Deschire), as well as Ceona Gov. Christine Gabler, Trinton Gov. Mark De Auonne and Veroche Gov. Linda Van Auhn.

The Chair of the Governors' Board, often simply called the "Governor General," is chosen based on which party holds a majority of the nation's 19 governorships. Then, the governors of the majority party elect their leader.

If both parties evenly split the number of governorships, the majority is given to the party which holds the majority in the Federal Senate.

Currently, there are nine Nationalist and nine Conservative governors. Because the Conservative Party holds a one-seat majority in the Senate, a CNS governor was chosen to serve as Governor General.

There are only 18 governorships in the current session because the newly-created state of Ansleigha is not factored in. In the 2010 session, Ansleigha's addition will mean a 19-member governors' board, making an outright tie between the parties impossible, unless a third party candidate wins, in which case the balance of power would once again fall to which party has the majority in the Senate.

Donna Almone has served as Governor General since January 2008. She is the first female Governor General in Grassadellian history.

Administration Eyes Uninhabited Island For Future Immigration Detention Site

Menuhaeo administration sees Gerber Island as detention site

MAVOCKE--A small island off the coast of Damoign may be a viable location for an immigration detention center, according to National Security Secretary Michelle Gates.

Gerber Island, a Grassadellian territory about 130 miles northwest of Harvannah and about 210 miles off the mainland coast, is being seen as a prospective location for an immigration detention facility. If built, the facility would temporarily house "dangerous persons seeking to enter the country," many of whom are on the federal government's "no-fly" list, until they are deported back to their home countries.

Gates told the NPF Tuesday the island would house only people who are "extremely dangerous," and are actively trying to "smuggle their way into the country."

"The people that will be housed at this facility, if it is built, are people that are extremely dangerous and threaten the security and safety of our country," Gates said. "These are individuals who have known terrorist connections, or who have a history of violent or widespread crime in Grassadellia and surrounding allied nations."

The island is currently uninhabitated, although government activity has been ongoing on the island for decades.

The federal government has been seeking to construct an immigration detention center for years, but has lacked a location and at times, support in Congress.

If the facility is given the go-ahead by Congress and President Brenton Menuhaeo, it would house approximately 50 to 100 detainees, with the possibility of adding on to the facility if conditions merit additional room.

"Gerber Island is a suitable location geologically, because it is a stable island and sits on solid ground as opposed to wetlands or marsh," Environmental Affairs Secretary Steven McIntosh told the NPF.

Gates said the island is ideal because located within Grassadellian waters, and is large enough to house the facility, staff housing, and a water port and air strip.

But critics warn the island could become the next Guantanamo Bay, and could be used by the government as a prison used for illegal detention of immigrants and other persons.

Sen. Dick Ammons (C-HVN) told the GBC he is skeptical the island will be used simply as a detention site for legitimate persons of reasonable suspicion.

"What I'm concerned about is possible abuses of this system," Ammons said. "This could really be an open door to corruption and abuse of prisoners and illegal detentions."

Sen. Victoria Albright (C-CEA), who chairs the Senate National Security Committee, said she cautiously supports the proposal, but wants to have further inquiries done before bringing it up for a vote in the committee.

"I, personally, support the construction of a site, because we need something to deal with these sorts of people who are seeking entry into the country," Albright told GNN. "But we need to have more hearings, more expert testimony, and we need some form of strict oversight that will help keep the light shined on this program."

The Grassadellian Human Rights Council (GHRC) has already protested the proposal, and says it will mobilize its supporters to oppose the project as well.

"This will rapidly turn into an outright abuse and denial of basic human rights," said Martha Ann Calloway, president of the GHRC. "The notion that the Grassadellian government will build something that is basically equivalent to Guantanamo Bay in Cuba is outrageous."

Sen. Grace Kemp (N-TRI), who is up for re-election this year, is adamantly opposed to the project.

"Are we really going to let our government detain people and hold them in a prison cell just like George Bush did with Guantanamo? If our government does this, we are going to lose all respect in the international community," Kemp said in a recent appearance on GNN's Talking Points cable program.

Immigration groups are split on the issue. The Beacon Foundation, which supports less restricted immigration, has condemned the idea of a detention site, calling the project "offensive even in the proposal stages."

But the National Center for Responsible Immigration Policies (NCRIP), a group that advocates more restricted immigration, has called the idea "good," but cautions more information is needed before a decision can be reached.

"We feel very strongly that our country needs a facility where dangerous immigrants that threaten national security can reside temporarily," says Beth Iandman, a spokeswoman for NCRIP. "But there are a lot of things that need to be ironed out before this project gets our OK."

Public Lands Secretary Tom Etheridge and Attorney General John Huuvanna are working jointly with Secretaries Gates and McIntosh on the proposal. It's unclear, as of now, who any co-sponsors in the bodies may be.

Rep. Clay Aioki (C-DES), who chairs the National Assembly's Immigration and Entry Committee, says his committee will hold hearings on the matter in the next two weeks.

Corbev Staves Off Doonan In Close Senate Primary

Incumbent senator eeks out a victory over far-right challenger


HEYDWORTH, MONOMI--Incumbent Conservative Sen. Anna Corbev narrowly staved off a strong challenge from ultra-conservative Rep. Pete Doonan (C-Teedra) during Tuesday night's primary election.

Corbev, who had the backing of former Vice President Liz Martinez and retiring Sen. Debra York (C-MON), was long considered safe for re-election, until a few weeks ago, when Doonan surged in the polls, bringing the race to a dead heat.

But the latest tally from the Monomi Secretary of State's office shows Corbev leading Doonan 51.10% to 49%, with only a few thousand ballots left to be counted. That means Corbev will almost certainly come out ahead when the final count is certified on November 17.

The usually mellow Corbev claimed victory on election night in a passionate speech, asking supporters to give her six more years in the Senate.

"Let me tell you something," Corbev said. "I have never stopped advocating for you in the Senate, and if you give me the honor of returning to Mavocke, I will continue the fight, day in, day out."

Doonan refused to concede on election night.

"The outcome is probably very unlikely to be known tonight or for the next couple days," Doonan said at a press conference in Teedra.

The congressman finally conceded Friday morning, though he declined to endorse the incumbent.

Corbev will go on to face Nationalist Brad Fiordora in the general election.

In Monomi's other Senate race, Conservative Congresswoman Cathy De Beers (Monomi City) defeated Heydworth Congressman and former Senate nominee Rill Stevens for a shot at retiring Senator York's seat.

Secretary of State Sharon Dimaggio said the latest count shows De Beers beating Stevens by a margin of about 54%-45%.

Stevens and De Beers made an agreement last month to endorse the winner.

De Beers will face NAT Rep. Debbie Azano in the general election.

Senator Corbev Fights For Political Life In Monomi Primary Race

Contentious primary battle pits moderates against hard-liners


HEYDWORTH, MONOMI--In just eight days, Monomi Conservatives will go to the polls to nominate their candidate for the Federal Senate. Next Tuesday will bring the end to a bitter primary race between incumbent Sen. Anna Corbev and the more conservative Rep. Pete Doonan (Teedra).

The close race is dividing Monomi's once-unified Conservative Party. Three months ago, the race was not even thought to be close. But now, with multiple polls showing Corbev and Doonan running even, the expected outcome is even more uncertain.

The most recent poll by Insiders shows Corbev leading Doonan 46% to 45 per cent, with the remaining 9 per cent undecided.

That's very similar to polls commissioned by the campaigns. A Lotus poll, conducted for the Corbev campaign, shows Corbev leading 48% to Doonan's 46%. A poll conducted for Doonan's campaign by Mercury Polling Firm shows Corbev leading 42% to 41% with 17% uncommitted.

The close nature of the race has only worsened the divide between the candidates, their supporters, and other prominent members of the CNS who are taking sides.

Corbev, who has exhibited a more moderate voting record in recent months, is endorsed by former Vice President and Monomi governor Elizabeth Martinez. She also has the blessing of her close friend in the Senate, out-going Sen. Debra York.

Doonan, who previously ran for the Senate in 2008 but ultimately lost to Nathan Lister (NAT), has the support of more hard-line Conservatives, including Devanough Mayor Sharon Osmorda and Secretary of State Sharon Dimaggio.

All members of Monomi's delegation to the National Assembly have declined to endorse either candidate, with most saying they refuse to take sides.

"When [the Conservative Party] has an opportunity like this, to take back the governor's mansion and take control of Monomi's Senate seats, why are we attacking each other?" Rep. Brooke Burnstein (Heydworth) told GNN News.

Monomi's other Senate primary race, between Reps. Cathy De Beers and Rill Stevens, is also becoming increasingly contentious. However, De Beers and Stevens seem to be more friendly toward one another.

"Rill and I disagree on the issues, but we respect one another and we recognize that we both have our dignity and that's something that should stay in the race," De Beers told the NPF.

But the Corbev-Doonan race has become downright nasty, with Doonan accusing Corbev of "selling out" to liberals after she voted for the bipartisan economic stimulus bill and voted to confirm Olivia Lisbet, President Menuhaeo's controversial nominee for Deputy Secretary of Defense.

Doonan also hit Corbev for voting to confirm Eric Alnon, a former deputy superintendent of Treeton Public Schools, who was nominated by the president to serve as Deputy Secretary of the Department of Education. Many Conservatives--including Ceona Sen. Megan Sellious, a former Secretary of Education--viewed Alnon as inexperienced for the job.

"Anna Corbev voted for Eric Alnon purely for political reasons. She thought voting for a native son would win her points with the voters back home," Doonan told the Treeton Sun. "And it probably did make people's opinions of her go higher. But the man wasn't qualified for the job, plain and simple. You don't just vote for someone because they happen to be from your home state."

Corbev dismisses the criticism, telling the NPF she voted to confirm Alnon because she felt having a native Monomian in the President's Cabinet would benefit the state.

"Any time you have the President come knocking on your door, wanting to pick someone from your own backyard, that's a big deal," the senator said. "Monomi now has a strong advocate for our state's kids at the table in the President's conference room."

"That was so long ago, I'm not even sure why he's bringing it up," Corbev added.

The Senator also touts her accomplishments, including her co-sponsorship of a bill that increased wheat subsidies for Monomi farmers, a bill that prohibits Grassadellian companies from doing business with the Iranian government or blacklisted Iranian companies, and an appropriation for additional funding for government-sponsored television ads that promote positive parenting.

Doonan downplays the Senator's self-proclaimed "achievements."

"If all she can accomplish in six years is a few farm subsidies, then that's pretty sad," the congressman told reporters in Teedra Sunday.

Corbev accuses Doonan of ignoring her accomplishments and focusing on her perceived failures.

"What he's doing is he's selectively berry-picking these pieces of legislation that I've supported, the presidential nominees I've voted for, and he's trying to write my legislative biography with those very selectively-chosen votes," Corbev told the NPF.

For Corbev supporters, seeing the Senator's record nit-picked is frustrating.

"Anna Corbev has stood up for Monomi and has been one of the loudest voices for change and reform in the Senate," State Rep. Claya Diacrosse (C-East Hanlenberg) told the Sun. "To see her face so much artillery fire, especially from other Conservatives, that's extremely disappointing."

The harsh rhetoric is proof the race is not just uncivil, but also uncertain. With the candidates running neck-and-neck going into the final stretch of the primary campaign, both sides are jam-packing the candidates' schedules with campaign rallies with prominent supporters.

Former Vice President Martinez and Senator York are both scheduled to appear at separate rallies for Corbev next week. Doonan will hold a rally with leaders from the Grassadellian Rifle Club, the nation's largest pro-gun rights group.

The primary election is set for next Tuesday, October 26th.

Duschowitz, Bartholomew Locked In Dead-Heat Race For BIE Governor

Biereland is the pivotal state to watch in this year's elections

BROOKINGS, BIERELAND--Incumbent Governor Jenny Duschowitz (CNS) is facing an increasingly uphill battle against an insurgent NAT opponent in the state's gubernatorial race.

Duschowitz, who succeeded former Gov. Peter Kosevich (CNS) in 2008 in a special election, is still lagging in the polls against Nationalist San Bartholomew, a former Otterbein County Commissioner. The latest poll from Insiders showed Duschowitz trailing Bartholomew 49% to 51 per cent, a statistical dead-heat.

The governor, who onced enjoyed high approval ratings, has lost support in part because of the struggling economy in Biereland. She also took a hit in approval when she engaged in a bureaucratic battle with the Federal Bureau of Transportation Safety (FBTS) and the Biereland Transportation Department (BTD) over an investigation into the safety of the Brookings-Sebotnee Rail system, also known as "Bro-Seb".

But Duschowitz is beloved by conservatives for her hard-line position against tax increases and her staunch commitment to fixing the state budget. She was widely praised by her fellow Conservatives for refusing to attend the climate talks in Copenhagen, Denmark back in December 2009, because she said the state could not afford to send her on an expensive trip in the midst of a budget crisis.

"My husband Todd and I, every month, we sit down at the kitchen table and look at our family budget and see if we can go on a trip or a vacation. If we can afford it, we do. If we can't, then we stay home. I take that same approach as governor to the state budget. Our budget is in shambles. The state can't afford to send me to Copenhagen, so I'm not going. I'm staying right here," Duschowitz was quoted as saying at a press conference.

Bartholomew and other Nationalists criticized Duschowitz's decision to skip the climate change conference, saying she used the budget problem as an excuse to skip the event.

"I would think our planet's imperiled future would be worth investing in, but not when you're Jenny Duschowitz and you're trying to appeal to the conservative, climate change skeptic crowd," Bartholomew told the Liberal-Union newspaper of Welhausen.

Bartholomew's rise has been attributed to Duschowitz's dismal approval ratings as well as the "anti-incumbent" sentiment that is sweeping the nation, including Biereland. The 2010 elections may bring a first for Biereland: a Nationalist governor, lieutenant governor, and an NAT majority in the state's Senate delegation simultaneously, says Dr. Hans Anders, a political science professor at the University of Biereland--Brookings.

"Bierelanders are very much so in a mood for change, and that may mean the state could turn blue this election for the first time," Anders said.

Anders also points to Bartholomew's strong support from the environmental community, which may help boost his chances.

"Biereland is a beautiful, pristine state. The people here love their state and love the woodlands and mountains and the valleys and all the natural, untamed land. They want to protect their resources, and San Bartholomew really has the edge on environmental issues," Anders said.

Bartholomew supporters also believe Duschowitz's failure to fix the budget--the state legislature is at a standstill over the proposed cuts--will hurt the incumbent.

"Jenny Duschowitz has been in for two years. And what has happened? The budget has gone from bad to worse," Bartholomew campaign manager Tom Murann told the NPF.

But Duschowitz's campaign is pushing back, telling the GBC the budget stand-off is close to an end, and legislators are working on a compromise. However, the governor will not raise taxes to fix the budget, her office said.

"Governor Duschowitz is committed to fixing the budget...but she will not raise taxes to do so," spokeswoman Mary Todd told the NPF.

Duschowitz's admirers acknowledge that cuts to the state budget may be necessary, but the governor will at least have brought the budget back into the black.

"Governor Duschowitz inherited a mess, and that was the Brenton Menuhaeo-Shay Robertson economy. She was put in a difficult position, but she will keep us out of the red," Don Dollimer, a spokesperson for the Biereland Conservative Party told STAR News.

The Duschowitz campaign is also trying to paint Bartholomew as an extreme liberal unfit to be governor.

"San Bartholomew is a liberal masquerading as a moderate," campaign spokesman Jared Moiner told GNN. "If he's elected, we'll see taxes, taxes, taxes, and radical environmental legislation that will take away property owners' rights, and even radical social experiments, such as legalizing marijuana. That's not the kind of person Biereland needs."

While polls show a neck-and-neck race, poll results also indicate voters are not sold on either candidate.

"What I'm seeing in most of my polling is that voters don't really approve of Jenny Duschowitz and the way things are going right now. But they also aren't enchanted with the idea of San Bartholomew being governor either," said Scott Tipeo, the pollster who conducted the Insiders poll.

The polls also show that most voters like Duschowitz personally, while Bartholomew is not viewed as favorably. Respondents also incidated a distaste for the negative campaign ads that have been airing non-stop in the state since the race began.

For both parties, the ugly nature of the campaigns is a reality: Biereland is an important state. Why? Because whichever party wins the governorship in Biereland will likely win a majority of seats on the Governors' Board, which both parties are striving for.

"Biereland is a prime pick-up opportunity for our party and we are going to go after it with everything we've got," Gov. Lynn DeMont (N-East Deschire), head of the Nationalist Governors' Association (NATGA), told the NPF.

DeMont's CNS counterpart, POG Gov. Donna Almone, who is taking an indefinite amount of time off following her husband's death, told the GBC last week that the Conservative Party will "fight with every ounce of strength we've got" to hold on to the governor's seat in Biereland.

Almone is the current Chair of the Governors' Board, and concurrently serves as head of the Conservative Governor's Association (CGA).
Campaign records show Duschowitz has raised $6.4 million for her campaign, while Bartholomew has brought in $6.8 million.

Governor's Husand Loses Battle With Multiple Sclerosis

Bill Almone died just weeks before his wife's re-election bid

NEW DUBLIN, POG--The husband of POG Governor Donna Almone has died, a family spokesperson said Saturday.

William Cohen Almone died at the couple's farm house in central Province of Grassadellia after a long battle with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). He was 62 years old.

Governor Almone was at the farm house at the time of her husband's death, but has since flown back to the governor's mansion in Lansdale, according to spokeswoman Ann Croft.

Diagnosed with MS at the age of 29, Almone's health had been declining for months, and in recent weeks, he had been staying at the couple's farm house permanently, with a full-time staff of nurses attending to him while his wife stayed on the campaign trail.

The couple had no children, but extended family members were staying with Mr. Almone during his final weeks. The governor also regularly flew back to the farm house to be with her ailing husband, Croft said.

"The past few weeks have been very difficult for Governor Almone and her family. She has tried to balance a busy campaign schedule and her responsibilities as governor with spending time with her husband. She feels exhausted and emotionally drained. The family seeks privacy during this difficult time," Croft told reporters.

Almone met his wife, then-Donna Bratson, when he was just 26 years old, working as an engineer at an airplane factory in Jacquae. Bratson also worked as an engineer there and later moved into management before entering politics. The two were married on April 7, 1974 in Perrins.

In 1976, the couple moved to the town of Jansen, southwest of Knoxbury. Donna Almone then ran for mayor of Jansen, and later the state House and Senate. In 1994, Donna Almone ran for Attorney General and won, serving two terms. She then went into the private sector until 2006, when she ran for governor and won.

During that time, Bill Almone worked a variety of jobs, mostly at engineering and architecture firms.

With just eight weeks to go before the December 4 election, Almone and her Lt. Gov. Beth Lanman-Trau are facing an increasingly difficult challenge from Nationalist candidates June Vivarte of Kingham and Jean Kane of Lansdale.

Spokeswoman Ann Croft said the governor will take several days off from the campaign trail, but did not specify exactly how many days.

Croft confirmed Lanman-Trau will likely take Almone's place at some campaign events over the coming days.

The campaign of June Vivarte and Jean Kane released a written statement Saturday, calling Bill Almone "a shining emblem of citizenship" and a "true example of what it means to be a Province of Grassadellian."

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the governor and her family. This comes at a difficult time and we sincerely wish the governor well during this tough time," the statement read.

King Backs Jandon Over Kinsley In NAT Primary

Recalled governor says refusal to endorse Kinsley is 'nothing personal'

TREETON--Former Gov. Scott King Jr. (NAT) will not back his former lieutenant governor, Erica Kinsley, in the NAT primary election.

King announced Friday he is supporting Kinsley's opponent, businessman Dave Jandon (pronounced "YAN-den"), and called his former deputy "a mistake."

"Electing Erica Kinsley to a full term would be a mistake Monomi cannot afford," King said at a press conference in Treeton. "It's nothing personal, but Erica Kinsley is taking our state in the wrong direction.

"We need a new leader who will stand up for Monomi and build a stronger Monomi. That leader is Dave Jandon," King said.

The 45-year-old Jandon jumped into the race after Kinsley, who previously served as lieutenant governor until King was recalled by Monomi voters in April, assumed the governorship. Kinsley was widely criticized for her swift calls for King's resignation following allegations of corruption, which failed to produce indictments in both a federal investigation and an investigation by state Attorney General Ed Casey.

Kinsley, 35, has defended her actions, and told the Treeton Sun newspaper she "had no other alternative but to call for [King's] resignation."

Critics allege that Kinsley quickly called for King's resignation--and subsequently campaign for his removal from office--because she wanted to be governor and felt King's scandal would damage her political aspirations. Kinsley calls those allegations "unfounded."

"I did what was right for Scott King, what was right for me and the people of Monomi," she told the Sun. "I saw a governor that had lost all credibility; lost all trust, and I knew he needed to go. He wouldn't go willingly so we had to force him out.

"It was ugly, but I did what I had to do," Kinsley said.

Jandon argues it's Kinsley that has lost credibility.

"Erica Kinsley used the circumstances surrounding Scott King to her own advantage. She didn't want Scott King to ruin her chances at winning the governorship, so she figured the best and quickest way to get rid of Scott and his problems was for him to resign. And when he didn't resign, then she started siding with hard-line Conservatives and campaigned for him to be recalled.

"That shows how bad she wanted to be governor. She wanted it so bad, she was willing to throw her boss under the bus," Jandon told the Sun on Wednesday.

The race for governor seems to be centered around Kinsley's actions starting from the onset of allegations of corruption against Scott King up until the moment he was recalled. However, for Jandon, the race is about much more than the scandal that has engulfed the state's leadership for over a year.

"This isn't just about Scott King or Erica Kinsley. This race is about jobs, and putting people back to work, and getting our economy moving again. Erica Kinsley has no credibility. People don't trust her. They don't trust her as a leader. They don't trust her to bring jobs back to our state or to fix our economic climate. I'm a businessman. I have experience doing that. I know how to create jobs and how to protect them and how to foster a positive atmosphere for small businesses. I'm the only candidate in this race that can say that," Jandon told reporters outside a campaign stop in Monomi City Wednesday.

Kinsley told the GBC Thursday that Jandon is "using Scott King's misfortunes and this state's saga of unfortunate events" for his own gain.

"When bad things happen, and there's an unpleasant change of power in leadership, lots of people are lined up out the door to take your spot," Kinsley told the GBC. "They're ready to take your job and they say they can do a better job and they would have handled it differently. But they don't know what they'd do until they're in my shoes.

"Dave Jandon says he would have acted differently. He says he wouldn't have disavowed Scott King and that he would have supported the governor through this whole ordeal. But I wonder, if he was in my shoes, I wonder if he would really say that. I'm not sure he would have followed through with that. It's a lot easier to talk about what you'd do in a certain situation, until you're in that situation. You can say 'I'd do this' or 'I'd do that' but I think Dave Jandon probably would have done the same thing I did if he were in my situation," Kinsley said.

For Conservative candidate Rep. John Densy of Treeton, the bitter bickering on the NAT side is welcomed news, and is a frequent criticism of the two NAT candidates by Mr. Densy.

"While John Densy is working tirelessly to bring jobs to Monomi and fix our broken economy, Erica Kinsley and Dave Jandon are fighting with each other over the soap opera that played out in the previous administration. It's clear John Densy is actually focused on Monomi while the two Nationalist candidates are focused on their egos," spokeswoman Mary Patterson of the Densy campaign told the NPF.

Regardless of which Nationalist candidate wins the primary election, either Jandon or Kinsley will face an uphill battle against Densy. The six-term congressman from Treeton's northern suburbs leads handily in polls against both NAT candidates.

Both Jandon and Kinsley believe they can defy the polls and hold back Densy from winning. Jandon's counting on his history as a businessman, as well as the fact this is his first campaign for public office, to boost him over the longtime politician Densy.

Kinsley isn't afraid of Densy either.

"My message to the voters is that we have moved on from the Scott King nightmare that dogged our state for several months. We are now focused on bringing jobs back here to Monomi, fixing our education system, helping our environment, securing healthcare for seniors, and protecting our borders," Kinsley said

Then the newly-minted governor had one final word for Conservative opponent Densy:

"To John Densy, I say 'bring it on.'"

Prosecutor Gunned Down On His Own Door Step

Police seek tips from neighbors, witnesses

BURROWSDALE, ARMANA--Residents of the Maine City suburb of Burrowsdale are on edge following the early morning assassination of a federal prosecutor in a quiet, affluent residential neighborhood.

Charlie M. O'Fallon, an assistant federal prosecuting attorney for the southern district of Armana, was gunned down this morning on the front porch of his home.

According to police, the 43-year-old O'Fallon was getting ready for work when he opened the front door to retrieve his newspaper. That's when he was struck by a single gun shot to the head, killing him instantly.

The victim's wife heard the shot, and immediately went to attend to her husband. She reportedly heard tires squealing as a vehicle fled the scene, but was unable to get a look at the get-away car.

The couple's three children were sleeping upstairs at the time of the attack and were not injured in the shooting, police said.

Emergency crews responded within minutes. Police secured the scene and began going door-to-door, asking neighbors if they'd seen anything.

One neighbor across the street from the O'Fallon home told police she saw a silver sedan with tinted windows parked outside the home but could not give a make or model for the vehicle.

Authorities say they have little information to go off of, and acknowledge that, as a prosecuting attorney trying several cases involving violent criminals, O'Fallon may have had many enemies.

"There's no doubt that Mr. O'Fallon certainly made a lot of enemies in his role as a prosecutor. This was not just a random drive-by shooting. This was an execution," Burrowsdale Police Chief Dave Sallentano told reporters.

"What makes this case even more frightening is that the victim was a public official. And the fact that this happened in broad daylight and in a relatively safe and close-knit neighborhood is particularly troubling," Sallentano said.

At the Justice Department's office in Maine City, colleagues grieved the loss of their beloved coworker and friend.

"I think I speak on behalf of this entire community of the Justice Department and the legal system here in the Maine City area when I say that Charlie O'Fallon was a good man with a passion for justice and a passion for the people he served," Federal Attorney Allan Whailer, O'Fallon's boss, told the NPF. "He loved nothing more than discovering the truth and bringing those responsible to justice."

Armana Governor Dale Fulbright's office released a statement Friday, saying it was "saddened and stunned" at the attack, and pledged the state "will not cease until those responsible are found."

"By all accounts, Charlie O'Fallon was a good and honorable man that served his state well. Whoever has done this has robbed not only the legal community of a seasoned professional, but they have robbed a wife of a husband, children of their father, and a community of a wonderful leader."

"Such violent attacks on members of the legal system will not be tolerated in this state," Fulbright's statement went on to say.

Police are still investigating. Meanwhile, added security have been assigned to the O'Fallon home.

Owen-Wilson To Debate Challengers In Nationally-Televised Debate

Veteran senator to debate CNS, D-R challengers on STAR Network

REMMINGTON CITY, REMMINGTON--Incumbent Senator James Owen-Wilson (N-REM) has agreed to a nationally-televised debate between himself, Conservative challenger Mark Eisinger, and Democratic-Reformist candidate Jude Weimer.

The Owen-Wilson campaign made the announcement Monday afternoon. The Eisinger and Weimer campaigns confirmed a deal has been reached between all three campaigns.

While an official date has not been set, Jan Gerfan, spokeswoman for the Owen-Wilson campaign, told the Remmington Star newspaper the debate will likely be sometime in early November. It will be held live in Remmington City at the STAR Network's headquarters in front of 300 guests, divided evenly among the candidates.

STAR will be airing the debate live nationwide, and the Remmington Star, which is owned by Seville-Gelman, the parent company of the STAR broadcast network, will be webcasting the debate on its website.

5 Killed In Deadly Road Rage Shooting

Man shot victims during traffic jam on busy freeway


WHITE CROSSING, ARMANA--Five people are dead after what police are calling the "most incredible act of violence and road rage" they've ever seen.

Armana State Police say 47-year-old Robert Marsstaff of Churchtown, Ansleigha was traveling southbound on the Shoreview Freeway in northern Armana Wednesday evening when he was forced to stop due to an accident blocking traffic a mile and a half down the road.

Cars were backed up for miles on the busy freeway while emergency crews responded to the accident scene. In the meantime, Marsstaff, who was alone in his car, became violently angry at the delay caused by the accident.

Witnesses say Marsstaff, who is 6'3" and weighs about 240 pounds, got out of his car and began screaming at passengers and drivers in adjacent cars, telling them to "move the f**k out of the way" so he could drive through the traffic jam. He also reportedly began striking vehicles and knocking out car windows with a baseball bat retrieved from his car.

Two male motorists got out of their vehicles to calm the hysterical Marsstaff, when he suddenly pulled out a gun and fired, killing the two men, a married couple in a car next to his, and a woman in another vehicle.

The shooter then fled and ran into some trees on the west side of the road, while people in other vehicles hid behind their cars for safety. Many panic-stricken motorists called 911 on their cell phones and ran to the other side of the interstate, waiting for police to arrive, who were on the scene in minutes.

A search by the Armana State Police helicopter unit ensued, with two helicopters combing the rural, heavily-wooded area Marsstaff fled into. After an hour of searching in complete darkness, police located Marsstaff, hiding in dense shrubbery. After almost three hours of negotiating, the suspect surrendered to police and was taken into custody around 11 pm Eastern time.

A 15 mile stretch of the freeway was closed while law enforcement tried to locate the suspect. Police believe the suspect suffers from severe mental illness and may have not been taking medication at the time of the violent attack.

"We don't know a lot of things at this point but what is clear is that Mr. Marsstaff is a very troubled individual possibly influenced significantly by severe mental illness that may have contributed to this alleged violent action," Bellendale County Sheriff Roy Montagne told the NPF.

Montagne went on to say the road rage attack was the worst he's seen in his 26 years in law enforcement.

"Obviously, this is a horrendous attack on the victims and on the innocence and safety of our community," he said. "I've never, ever, in my 26 years, seen anything as violent and horrible as this. And to think this all happened randomly, without any provocation. I mean, these people were innocent and they just happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. It's tremendously sad," Montagne said.

Marrstaff did not make an initial court appearance today, as medical staff tried to detox his system after finding high-strength prescription drugs in his system. He will face an arraignment in the next week, the sheriff's department said.

The victims' names have not been released yet pending notification of kin. The freeway is back open, while a large make-shift memorial lies at the scene of the gruesome shooting.

Contentious Primaries Threaten To Crumble Conservative Edge In Monomi

CNS now faces tough primaries in Senate races

TREETON, MONOMI--The once massive tidal wave of anti-Nationalist sentiment strongly favored the Conservative Party in Monomi--a state that is known as a battle ground between the two major parties--and the CNS appeared guaranteed strong victories in the Original State this December.

But now, victory is far from guaranteed. Incumbent Senator Anna Corbev, who enjoyed relatively high popularity ratings until recent months, is now facing a formidable primary challenge from the more conservative Rep. Pete Doonan, who formerly ran for the federal Senate in 2008, losing to Nationalist Nathan Lister.

And the state's open Senate seat, being vacated by retiring Sen. Debra York (CNS), is also now a tense battle for the Conservatives. Nationalist candidate Rep. Debbie Azano of Treeton is running unopposed, while Rep. Rylee "Rill" Stevens (C-Heydworth) and Rep. Cathy De Beers (C-Monomi City) are running in a contested Conservative primary.

Stevens, who is one of two openly gay members of Congress and is the first and to date only openly gay Conservative elected to federal office, has a moderate voting record, and previously ran for the Senate against incumbent Hanna Gorbachy (NAT) in 2008. De Beers is the decidedly more conservative candidate, and is beloved by the conservative base of the party.

Azano is undoubtedly favored in that race, which is pitting the competing moderate and deeply conservative sides of the CNS against each other.

Prior to the contentious Senate primaries, Monomi was considered a bright spot for the CNS, as anti-Nationalist sentiment heightened following the scandal and subsequent recall of former Gov. Scott King Jr.

Polls consistently show a sizeable advantage for Conservative gubernatorial candidate Rep. John Densy over incumbent Erica Kinsley (NAT), who took over following King's departure.

Kinsley herself is facing a primary from wealthy businessman Dave Jandon (pronounced "YAN-den") of Kie Outs. The latest average of polls shows Densy leading both Kinsley and Jandon, with the latter faring slightly better against the Conservative congressman than the incumbent.

Conservatives may still have the edge in the state's governor's race, but the Corbev-Doonan race as well as the Stevens-De Beers match up threaten the party's strength in the Senate contests.

Corbev was already facing a stiff challenge from Nationalist businessman Brad Fiordora.

Polling shows both Corbev and Doonan earning about the same amount of support when matched against the political newcomer Fiordora.

Barrett Beats Rochey In Close New Portsmouth Gubernatorial Primary

Young state senator beats back former governor for NAT nod

YANCEYBURG, NEW PORTSMOUTH--The hotly contested gubernatorial primary race in New Portsmouth came to a close finish tonight, with a young state senator narrowly trumping a former governor.

State Sen. Michael Barrett (N-Bayler) slightly edged former Gov. Dale Rochey, who was seeking a rematch against incumbent Conservative Gov. Jacqueline Bosseau.

Rochey narrowly beat Bosseau in a 2007 special election, Bosseau then turned around and barely defeated Rochey in 2008. Now, her first full term as governor is up, and Bosseau will face the young state senator in the December general election.

New Portsmouth Secretary of State Richard Crux reported Barrett with almost 36% of the vote to Rochey's 34 per cent, with businessman Kyle Reeser of Lamsford coming in third with just over 30 per cent.

Around 10:00 pm Tuesday night, Rochey conceded to Barrett, and pledged his support.

"Michael Barrett is an up and coming star in the New Portsmouth Nationalist Party, and I look forward to working with him through the December election to beat Jacqueline Bosseau and restore Nationalist values in the governor's mansion," Rochey said at his campaign gathering in Yanceyburg.

Barrett, at his celebration in the town of Bayler, about 20 miles southwest of Yanceyburg, thanked Rochey for his gracious concession speech.

"I appreciate Governor Rochey's attitude and his devotion to the people of this state. I look forward to his insight and his help in this campaign that lies ahead," Barrett said.

Barrett, who is not well known outside of his home district, was expected to finish second after Rochey, who has high statewide name recognition and is perceived as the more viable candidate. A recent poll conducted by the Grantham Institute shows Bosseau leading Barrett 55%-45%, while similar polls have shown Bosseau and Rochey virtually tied.

Hafen, Coke Capture Senate Nominations In POG Run-Off Election

Front-runners win both CNS and NAT run-off elections

LANSDALE, POG--After a long, arduous battle within both parties for their respective nominations for the state's open Senate seat, the primary race is finally over, with the front-runner candidates winning for both the CNS and NAT.

On the Conservative side, Rep. Bobby Hafen of Elridge handily surpassed his colleague, Rep. Julie Dennings (C-Westmont), by a margin of 54.72% to 45.28%, respectively.

The NAT race was even more decisive. Congresswoman Diane Coke of Wyneok soundly defeated former Lieutenant Governor George Mercott 55.72% to 44.28%, respectively.

Late Tuesday night, Dennings conceded at her victory rally in Lansdale, telling supporters "the long road is over," and wishing her opponent, Bobby Hafen, well in the general election.

"Now we must focus on the general election. We must band together to defeat Diane Coke and the liberal agenda," Dennings said.

Her concession, which was welcomed by Hafen, marked a relieving end to a bitter primary race.

"Tonight, we thank Julie Dennings for a well-fought race and a spirited campaign, and we are thankful for her full support as we look to December and the tough fight against Diane Coke that is ahead," Hafen told supporters in the suburb of North Candeho, just outside Lansdale.

Coke was also celebrating her victory in the Quad Cities, telling supporters she was "extraordinarily grateful" for the opportunity to represent the party. She also thanked Mercott for his concession.

"George Mercott is a good man who has honorably served this state for the past three decades," Coke said. "And I thank him for his integrity throughout this race, and for his commitment to our campaign for the general election."

Mercott didn't say much at his campaign party at The Blue Pelican club on Lansdale's southeast side. But he did thank supporters for their hard work and told the NPF he fully supports Coke in the general election.

"I wish her well," he said as he walked to his car outside the club.

Tuesday's results mean the general election will feature a showdown between Hafen, Coke, Democratic-Reformist businessman Dale Rochenchae, and Independent candidate Mike Indano, also a businessman.

Neither Rochenchae or Indano was available for comment on their new general election opponents.

POG Secretary of State Max Kiesling estimated voter turnout to be around 23% for Conservatives and 17% for Nationalists.

Sweeten Wins NAT Nod, Conservatives Face Run-Off In East Deschire Senate Primary

NAT race finalized, CNS still hashing it out

BRIDGEWORTH, EAST DESCHIRE--Secretary of State Allison Sweeten (NAT) cruised to a victory last night in East Deschire's primary election, easily defeating her primary opponent, Hansboro businessman John Blackman by a margin of 55%-45%, respectively, in the state's open Senate race.

The Conservative side was more complicated. Businessman Mike Aventhalle of Haysworth led the pack of four contenders, garnering 26.91%, followed by Rep. Sam Pyatt (Ridgeview), who came in with 25.93 per cent. Right behind Pyatt was Jim Reebis with 25.87% and State Senate Majority Leader Gerald Ivenroe (Waverly) with 21.29 per cent.

In East Deschire, candidates must attain at least 40 per cent of the vote to advance as the party's nominee. That means Sweeten, who was favored to win the two-way race on the NAT side, will advance to the general election as the Nationalist Party's nominee.

Meanwhile, the Conservatives will head to a run-off, with front-runner Aventhalle and runner-up Pyatt facing each other in a special election two weeks from now on September 16. The winner of that contest will advance to the general election to face Sweeten.

Aventhalle is predicted to have the edge in the run-off, with many younger and independent-leaning voters supporting his candidacy. Pyatt has an advantage with older and more conservative voters, but his lengthy tenure in state and federal politics could be a turn-off to voters in an anti-establishment year.

Speaking inside a large barn on his farm in Haysworth where he resides, Mr. Aventhalle claimed victory Thursday night at his campaign party, and told supporters the fight "is only beginning."

"We had our hands full in this primary, and we still do with a run-off looming now," he said. "But come December, we will face the biggest battle: Allison Sweeten.

"And we're not afraid, are we?" Aventhalle said to a cheering crowd.

Mr. Aventhalle also brushed off criticism from fellow Conservatives, who felt he had not campaigned hard enough.

"You know, some people said we weren't working hard enough, that our hearts weren't in it and we didn't want it that bad. But I think tonight disproves that whole argument. We worked hard and we will continue working hard until we are guaranteed a seat in Mavocke," he said.

Across the state in Ridgeview, Congressman Pyatt reminded his opponent the primary race is not yet resolved.

"He seems to be claiming victory already and moving on to the general election. Well, the race is not over. You need to focus on the present, not what's way down the road," Pyatt told reporters at his campaign celebration at a downtown Ridgeview hotel.

The other two Conservatives in the race, who were eliminated in last night's primary, did not say much to the media, only thanking supporters and wishing their fellow Conservatives well in what is shaping up to be a difficult general election.

After results came in on primary night, Sen. Ivenroe immediately endorsed Pyatt. Reebis, a CPA and financial advisor from Clawfield, declined to endorse either of the two remaining candidates. However, a source close to the candidate says he is likely to back Aventhalle.

On the NAT side, John Blackman graciously conceded defeat to Allison Sweeten, and pledged his support.

"We have to focus on December now, because we have a real chance of winning a majority of East Deschire's Senate seats for the first time in history," Blackman said at his campaign party in Hansboro. "And though I wanted to win, I know Allison Sweeten is a dedicated Nationalist who loves her state and loves this country, and she will be a visionary in the Senate if she is elected, and I plan to do all I can to get her elected."

Sweeten also returned compliments to Blackman, calling him a "shining example of Nationalist values," and thanked him for his support.

"We welcome John Blackman's support and that of his supporters, because we are going to need every bit of support we can get in this race," Sweeten said to a cheering crowd at her election party in Bridgeworth.

Joining Sweeten at her party, which was held at a friend's home in Bridgeworth's swank Moss Hill neighborhood, was fellow Senate candidate Portia McLendon, who ran unopposed for the NAT nomination to challenge incumbent Sen. Roger Gzarno (CNS). Mr. Gzarno also ran unopposed in the primary.

In the state's gubernatorial race, incumbents Gov. Lynn DeMont and Lt. Gov. Laurel McEdery (NAT) ran unopposed, as did their Conservative opponents, Ken Nuenneth and Lisa Nolander.

Gilcrest Falls To O'Neil In Veroche Senate Primary

Gilcrest becomes second incumbent senator to lose a primary this season


TWIN LAKES, VEROCHE--Incumbent Senator Niles Gilcrest (Conservative) has lost his party's nomination for re-election to his more conservative opponent Talley O'Neil.

With 98% of precincts reporting, Gilcrest was trailing O'Neil 53%-46%, according to Veroche Secretary of State Bridger Beckham. Some military and absentee ballots still need to be counted, but Beckham estimated only about 40,000 more, making it almost impossible for Gilcrest to surpass O'Neil's vote total.

That means Sen. Gilcrest is the second senator this election season to lose his party's nomination for re-election. Last week, Michael Kreighorn lost the NAT nomination in Biereland, and is now running as an independent. Gilcrest is considering an independent run, according to campaign staff, but has not made a final decision.

"That's something we're looking at and something the senator might want to do but it really comes down to what he wants and what his family wants," campaign spokeswoman Mary Ann Rice said.

For months, O'Neil led the much more moderate Gilcrest in polls. Teaming up with Veroche's Conservative lion, Sen. Evelynn Blankenship, who is also up for re-election this year, O'Neil attempted to oust Gilcrest and other moderate members and replace them with "true Conservatives."

In recent weeks however, Gilcrest, who has touted his moderate voting record as proof of independence, closed the gap between he and O'Neil, and political pundits were unsure what would result from Tuesday's primary election.

At around 10:00 pm Tuesday night, O'Neil claimed victory at her celebration in Lavington in east Veroche. Calling the result "close but decisive," she praised her supporters for their "strong effort" and claimed her primary win is "proof the voters of Veroche want a Conservative who will stand up for them."

Further south in Twin Lakes, the state's second-largest city, Gilcrest conceded O'Neil would likely win, but told his supporters "this is not over."

"We're not throwing in the towel just yet because we know this fight is not over," Gilcrest told his disappointed but hopeful supporters.

In Veroche's other senate election, which received less attention from the media because it was less combative, fiery incumbent Evelynn Blankenship fended off the moderate former mayor of Lake City, Richard Scholinger. With 97% of precincts reporting Tuesday night, Blankenship had 54% to Scholinger's 45 per cent.

"We're delighted and deeply humbled the people of Veroche have renominated me for a second term. I feel very blessed," a beaming Blankenship told the media outside her campaign celebration in north Lake City.

A spokesman for the Scholinger campaign said the mayor is also considering a potential independent bid in the general election, but would not comment on specifics. Veroche is one of seven states that allow candidates to file as independents if they lose the primary election.

Blankenship will now go on to face Nationalist David Acade in the general election, while O'Neil will face Neal Neeley (NAT). The Nationalists are heavily favored to win both races.

Kreighorn To Run As Independent

Incumbent senator loses primary, will run as independent


AUBURNE, BIERELAND--Senator Michael Kreighorn (NAT), who narrowly lost to former Brookings Mayor Steve Pottomeaux in last week's senate primary election, will now run as an independent in the general election.

The tense primary election ended last Tuesday, when Pottomeaux narrowly beat the incumbent Kreighorn by a margin of 52%-47%, respectively. Pottomeaux, who had the backing of more liberal Nationalists, was expected to win the race against the much more moderate Kreighorn.

On Monday, Kreighorn announced at his home near Auburne he will run as an independent in the December general election. That means he will now face Pottomeaux (NAT) and Conservative candidate Robert Browning.

The three-way race, which many Nationalists fear will split the NAT vote, does not seem to worry Kreighorn.

"I believe the people of Biereland will vote for the best candidate, plain and simple," he told reporters outside his home. "That's why I'm running as an independent, because my party doesn't support me, but the voters do. I've got Nationalists, Conservatives, Democratic-Reformists, Independents...all are supporting me. People from all political parties and backgrounds are supporting my candidacy. That proves that our campaign is truly independent."

Reacting to the news, Pottomeaux did not specifically call on Kreighorn to withdraw from the race, but said, "a two-way race between me and Robert Browning would be best for the party," and added, "typically the unsuccessful candidate acknowledges the will of the people and withdraws his or herself from the race. That's just a sort of courtesy."

Not surprisingly, the Browning campaign welcomed Kreighorn's newly-independent candidacy.

"We believe that all credible candidates should be welcomed at the table, and if Senator Kreighorn feels he belongs in this race, then he should be allowed to run," Browning campaign spokesman Kyle Englehardt told the Greene Mountain Press. "Robert Browning is looking forward to debating Steve Pottomeaux and Michael Kreighorn."

Biereland Secretary of State Steven Yang confirmed to GNN that Kreighorn did file the necessary paperwork to run as an independent. Biereland is one of seven states that allow candidates to run as an independent candidate after losing a primary election.

The most recent senator who lost a primary election and then subsequently ran as an independent was Lee Schefsky, a Conservative from Carova, who lost the Conservative nomination in 2008 to then-state senator Tyler Dodd. Schefsky then filed as an independent, and the two went on to the general election to face Nationalist Ann Kocheni, who ended up winning.

A similar situation unfolded in December 2008 in Biereland's special senate election in which incumbent David Parker (NAT) was running for re-election. Parker was opposed by Conservative Driscoll Sherber and Democratic-Reformist Julie Grendhau, and while Grendhau won the first round of voting, she did not reach the necessary 45% to win. A run-off ensued between Grendhau and the underdog Sherber, and resulted in a narrow victory for Sherber.

It appears the Kreighorn-Pottomeaux-Browning race could head to a run-off like in 2008's special election. Biereland's other senate race, a rematch between Sherber and Grendhau, also is a three-way race, with the addition of D-R candidate Lylan Wyler. Many believe both races could end up in tight run-offs between the top two candidates, something both major parties want to avoid.

Thieves Nab Paintings Worth $105 Million In Grassadellia City Art Heist

Metro Police and forensics looking for clues in overnight heist

GRASSADELLIA CITY--Investigators are trying to determine how a group of art thieves stole more than $105 million dollars worth of paintings from the Gallagher Art Museum in downtown Grassadellia City overnight.

The heist occurred around 2:00 am early Saturday morning at the Gallagher, which is in the heart of downtown Grassadellia City. Museum officials noticed the missing art after arriving early Saturday morning for work. Security camera footage from the museum shows four men dressed in all-black. One man was armed with an automatic assault rifle, police said.

"We do know that four men robbed the museum last night, taking five paintings in all," Chief Barry Whitemore, of the Grassadellia City Metropolitan Police (GCMP) told the media Saturday morning. "At this time we have no leads, no witnesses. This appears to have been a very well-organized, well-thought-out crime."

Museum officials have released information about the stolen works. They include: "Mailenne de la Covine" by the famed Spaniard Pablo Picasso, "The Old English Townne" by 17th century English artist William Rumbleham, "A Walk on Lake Shalemore" by the early 19th century Grassadellian artist William Covely, "Dance at the Sycamore Tree" by Bedroqueian artist Anna Fable, and "Mi Resoncita" by 1800s Spanish painter Elian Corozano. The works totaled a combined worth of more than $105 million.

"We are devastated at this huge loss," Dr. Jeffrey Zidall, director of the Gallagher said at a press conference Saturday morning. "These thieves have not only stolen priceless pieces of artwork, they have also stolen a huge piece of the culture that defines our nation."

Grassadellia City Mayor Kellan Kastol called the heist a "brazen robbery of culture and intellect," and vowed to catch the suspects.

"Let those who did this know: our city will not tolerate the theft of art that is precious to our history and our culture. You will not go unpunished," Kastol said.

The Art Association of Grassadellia (AAG) has already posted a $1.25 million reward for anyone who leads police to the suspects.

The Gallagher Museum is closed indefinitely while forensics teams comb the property for clues.

POG Senate Candidates Headed For Run-Off Elections

No candidate from either party won majority in delegate race


OWENS PARK, POG--The race for Province of Grassadellia's open Senate seat is far from finalized, after no candidates from either party failed to reach a 50 per cent majority in the delegate race needed to avoid a run-off.

Tuesday marked the end of the state's delegate race, an election system that involves smaller elections in all of the state's 122 counties. If a candidate can attain 50% of the delegates up for grabs, they automatically become the nominee. But because candidates from neither side were able to reach the 50% threshold, both sides will now head to a run-off election scheduled for almost three weeks from now on September 7.

Advancing on the Conservative side are Rep. Bobby Hafen Jr. of the 19th Congressional District in central POG, and Rep. Julie Dennings of the 7th District, which covers the western suburbs of Lansdale.

The Nationalist run-off will pit Congresswoman Diane Coke of the 6th District against former Lieutenant Governor George Mercott, who slightly edged Rep. Deacon Busby (10th District) in the delegate race Tuesday night, securing the second spot in the run-off.

Only the top two candidates advance to the run-off elections.

Election night saw the candidates celebrating and reflecting on the race.

Gathered at a 'victory rally' in the town of Riggens in southeast POG, Hafen proclaimed 'momentum is on our side,' and warned supporters to 'dig in to the trenches' for the run-off.

"Julie Dennings is a formidable opponent and we need to spend the next three weeks pointing out the differences on policy and leadership styles, and the good voters of POG will decide who the best representative for our state will be," Hafen said in his victory speech.

Across town, Dennings tried to rally her troops.

"Part one is over. Now on to part two," she told a crowd of about 800 people. "Bobby Hafen and many other prominent Conservatives want you to believe he is the chosen candidate, and the decision has already been made final. It hasn't been made final yet. The voters will have their say in three weeks and until then we will keep reminding people that this race is not over. Bobby Hafen has not been annointed to represent our party. He has not been crowned the nominee yet," Dennings said.

On the other side of the state, where the three Nationalist candidates gathered in Owens Park to watch election night returns, the debate seemed more civil.

"This is a long, long race, but a very rewarding one," Coke told supporters at the La Creme Restaurant in downtown Owens Park. "Over the next three weeks, we will continue to share our message of responsibility in government, accountability, and leadership."

George Mercott thanked supporters for delivering a last-minute victory over Deacon Busby, which he attributed to his big margins of victory in western POG.

"We couldn't have won this race without the strong support we received in the western part of the state, and I thank each and every one of you for voting for me," he said. "You could have stayed home and not participated but you choice to get involved and boy, did you make a difference."

The Busby campaign tried to put a positive spin on the evening's disappointing results.

Speaking to reporters on Owens Park's northeast side, Busby acknowledged the delegate race was a 'nail biter' between he and Mercott, but expressed relief at the quality of the two remaining NAT candidates.

"Diane Coke and George Mercott are two very strong candidates, and I know that either one of them could take this seat for us and put [the NAT] on the road to a super majority in Congress," Busby told a local reporter.

After speaking to reporters, Busby declined to endorse either of his former rivals. However, anonymous sources within the campaign told the NPF Wednesday the congressman is expected to throw his support to Coke later this week.

All four candidates are now clamoring for last-minute endorsement from party figures.

Hafen has already been endorsed by 11 of POG's 15 Conservative members of Congress, including former rivals such as 1st District Rep. Fran Habries (C-Canton), Rep. Tanner Zannie (26th District), and Rep. Reuben Stykes (25th District).

Only freshman Rep. Nancy Garblake (15th District) has endorsed Dennings. Congressman Mark Rolen and businessman Terry Silvi, who both previously opposed Hafen and Dennings in the delegate race, have declined to endorse either remaining candidate.

On the NAT side, the endorsements are more evenly distributed, with Coke gaining the support of former primary opponents Reps. Paula Tulane (16th District) and Maria Adebos (4th District), and Mercott landing an endorsement from Rep. Jim Mahenas (8th District).

Congresswoman Jill Yateri, the party's Senate nominee in 2008, has yet to endorse, but friends close to her say she may possibly endorse Mercott due to a bitter disagreement with Coke during the primary battle. Her endorsement could lend liberal support to the much more moderate Mercott.

POG Secretary of State Max Kiesling (NAT) said he expects voter turn-out for the run-off elections to be around 30 per cent.

Biereland Senate Primary Turns Nasty

Biereland Nationalists deeply divided over increasingly bitter primary


BROOKINGS, BIERELAND--The deeply divisive Nationalist senate primary in Biereland is putting one senator on the attack and another on the defensive.

Incumbent Sen. Michael Kreighorn, who won a special election in December 2008, is facing a primary challenge from former Brookings Mayor Steve Pottomeaux. Now Kreighorn, a moderate, is accusing a fellow Biereland senator, Conservative-turned-Nationalist Steve Kolotano, of secretly recruiting the more liberal Pottomeaux to challenge him in the primary election.

In a debate Tursday night in Cedarie, Kreighorn accused Kolotano, who is also head of the Nationalist Senate Campaign Organization (NSCO), which is in charge of the party's Senate election strategy, of going behind his back and recruiting Pottomeaux.

"I'd like to say to Steve Kolotano: if you're not happy with me and my voting record, then talk to me in person. Don't go behind my back and secretly recruit someone to run against me. And especially don't lie about it afterwards and say you had nothing to do with it," Kreighorn said.

Pottomeaux responded, saying he made the decision to run on his own will.

"The decision to run for the Senate was my decision, Mr. Kreighorn, and I made that decision because I see a lack of leadership on your part. Steve Kolotano had nothing to do with this," Pottomeaux said.

Tuesday's debate was not the first time Kreighorn accused Kolotano and Pottomeaux of back-room deal-making. Throughout the campaign, the incumbent senator has dropped accusations.

"They don't like me. They're not happy with my voting record because they think I'm too moderate. So Steve Kolotano and some other Nationalist leaders went out and met with Steve Pottomeaux and asked him, begged him, to run against me and knock me out of the race," Kreighorn told a crowd at a campaign rally in March.

From the beginning, Kolotano has denied the accusations, saying he and Pottomeaux never met to discuss the race.

However, less than two weeks ago, the Kreighorn campaign presented leaked phone records from Kolotano's office, showing the senator had 17 calls to and from Steve Pottomeaux's home and office.

Documents made public by the Biereland Nationalist Party also show Kolotano met with Pottomeaux seven times over a period of four months, before Pottomeaux announced his candidacy.

Last Friday, Kolotano justified the calls and visits as "a friendship thing."

"Steve Pottomeaux and I are friends, and we talk regularly and meet regularly to discuss our personal lives and politics in general," Kolotano told the Greene Mountain Press. "Not once did I specifically ask him to run against Michael Kreighorn, or assure him he would have the party's support. I would never turn on a fellow Nationalist and I would never lie about that," Kolotano said while walking out of his Brookings office.

Regarding the accusations from Kreighorn, Kolotano called them "completely false" and "a misunderstanding."

"I think this is an emotional race, and Senator Kreighorn, who I consider a friend, is misinterpreting the facts. He's convinced that some sinister deal took place and the fact is it just didn't happen. And I hope that he accepts that and that this race can continue to take place in a cordial, respectful manner," Kolotano told the GMP.

Both campaigns followed up Thursday. Steve Pottomeaux's campaign released the following statement:

"Michael Kreighorn's vicious accusations and attacks on Steve Pottomeaux and Senator Kolotano are completely false and untrue, and have no place in this campaign. Michael Kreighorn should apologize to both Steve Pottomeaux and Senator Kolotano and publicly denounce his campaign's tactics."

The Kreighorn campaign refused to apologize and released this statement in response:

"As each day goes by, it becomes more apparent that Steve Kolotano recruited Steve Pottomeaux to challenge Senator Kreighorn in the primary election. What's worse is the evidence continues to point to a back room, secret deal made behind the back of Senator Kreighorn, and the many lies that were made to cover it up. Fortunately, the good people of Biereland will see what is going on in the Pottomeaux campaign, and will reject his kind of dirty politics. The people of Biereland want an honest senator, not someone who plots behind a fellow Nationalist's back."

The Nationalist Senate Campaign Organization (NSCO) office had no comment on the matter.

Almone Privately Asked King To Resign

POG governor asked Scott King Jr. to step down as Monomi governor at the height of the scandal


TREETON--Before he was recalled by the voters of Monomi, former Governor Scott King Jr. was asked to step down by his colleague, POG Governor Donna Almone, Chairwoman of the Governors' Board, King told the GBC Wednesday.

On Thursday, Almone confirmed to the NPF that she did ask King to resign at the onset of the scandal.

"I flew to Treeton to meet with Scott, and I was very blunt with him. I told him it would be in his own interest and in the best interest of the people of Monomi if he stepped down," Almone said.

But King refused to accept Almone's recommendation, she said.

"He told me he appreciated my concern and he knew that there was a lot going on and it could be damaging, but he wanted to stay in office. He felt that he was being ushered out by Erica Kinsley and other Nationalists who were trying to get rid of the scandal quickly during an election year, and he believed, he truly believed he was innocent," Almone said.

"I think he really thought he could ride this out and survive," she said.

King, who is boycotting local media out of anger for their coverage of his scandal and ousting, would only speak to the GBC Thursday in response to Almone's comments. He corroborated Almone's version of events, telling the GBC he refused to step down "because I was innocent, am innocent, always will be innocent."

Sources close to King's successor in the Governor's mansion, Erica Kinsley, told the Mavocke Capitol newspaper that Lt. Gov. Tom Cozier (C-CEA), Chairman of the Lieutenant Governors' Board, also made a visit to Treeton to meet with then-lieutenant governor Kinsley. The sources, who asked not to be named because they're not permitted to speak publicly, allege Cozier asked Kinsley to resign also.

A spokesperson from Kinsley's office would not comment Thursday. Cozier's office also did not return a call from GNN.

Despite being recalled back in April, Scott King is still very much in the media spotlight. He has filed a lawsuit against the state of Monomi, seeking monetary damages of $2.7 million and an overturning of state law for what he calls a "wrongful removal from office."

King says he is only suing for the amount of money the recall process cost him, and will donate all the proceeds to charity if he wins.

The former governor is also writing a book about his fall from power, and is reportedly in talks with the GBC about a possible TV show.

The GBC declined to comment, saying that all deals with the network are private until "finalized."

Curro Found Dead In Mattinow Hotel Room

Few details released in rock singer's mysterious death

MATTINOW, DAMOIGN--The body of famed rock singer Charles J. Coulin, better known as "Rocky Curro," has been found in a Mattinow hotel room, according to local police.

Curro, who for years was the lead singer and guitarist of the group Yellow Fever, was found dead in his Mattinow hotel room Saturday morning. The cause of death has not been released by police, who were notified by hotel staff around 7:00 am.

"We received a call from the staff that a male had been found deceased in his hotel room, and that individual was confirmed as Mr. Curro," Police Sgt. Dave Erickson told the NPF.

Curro, who has toured by himself for the past 12 years since Yellow Fever disbanded in 1994, was in Mattinow for a concert Saturday night.

Police are releasing few details but say the singer's body was discovered by hotel staff.

Curro's manager, Phil Tomlin, declined to talk to the media.

A spokesman for Curro's record label, StraightArrow Records, told the NPF the company was "shocked and saddened" by Curro's loss.

Jerry Lynkin, president of the Grassadellian Rock and Roll Association, said in a statement the GRRA was "deeply saddened by the death of this rock and roll legend."

Curro's family has also not addressed his death yet. The singer is not married and has no children.

The singer reportedly made his home in the Madagen area, though he also owned a loft apartment in Grassadellia City and a beach house in southeastern Damoign. There is no word on if and when police may search the residences.

Curro was a member of Yellow Fever for 12 years, ever since the band was first formed in 1982. During that time, the group toured the world and played with such groups as Led Zeppelin and The Rolling Stones.

When the group disbanded in 1994, Curro and the four other members went into virtual obscurity. Friends say Curro started touring solo because of financial problems.

Mr. Curro has also reportedly had problems with drug and alcohol abuse in the past. In 2002, he checked into a rehab center in Remmington for a heroine addiction. And as recently as 2007, he was back at rehabilitation center in Damoign for an alcohol and cocaine addiction.

Police have refused to say if his death is related to drugs or alcohol. A medical examiner will determine the exact cause of death on Monday.

NATGA, CGA Dole Out Money To Gubernatorial Candidates

Governors associations raise cash for gubernatorial prospects


DEROSA, EAST DESCHIRE--December may seem far away, but with the clock ticking until election day, political parties are ramping up their fundraising for important races.

And few have worked as tirelessly as East Deschire Governor Lynn DeMont (NAT), who is heading up the Nationalist Governors Association's (NATGA) campaign effort.

"We've got several candidates in several states that are really going to strike a chord with voters this election year," DeMont told STAR News.

And there are many strong Nationalist candidates this year. Half of all state governors' seats are up for election this year, and among those nine contests, the NAT is strongly favored to win three, and likely to win two more. The election of 2010 could be an opportunity for the NAT to re-gain a majority on the Governors' Board, which would overturn Conservative control for the past nine years.

That's why NATGA and similar organizations are doling out the campaign cash to gubernatorial hopefuls.

"There is just too much at stake here," DeMont said. "This is a battle, when you really break it down that's what it comes down to. And you have to be well-prepared for battle, strategically and monetarily."

So who are the fortunate recipients of NATGA's campaign cash? The list includes first-time candidates, such as San Bartholomew in Biereland, who is challenging first-term incumbent Jenny Duschowitz (CNS), and June Vivarte in POG, who is facing an uphill fight against popular Conservative incumbent and Chairwoman of the Governors' Board Donna Almone.

Bartholomew received almost $1 million from NATGA, while Vivarte recieved $465,000.

Other recipients include Karen DeSalle in Kalnier ($1.4 million) and Todd Pergich in Lial ($500,000).

Incumbent Wellington Governor Pierre Carten also will receive $1.6 million later this month, according to NATGA's financial records.

DeMont, who himself is up for re-election, is also taking in about $640,000, the records show.

Losing out in the money race are candidates who are unlikely to win, including Carova Governor Dan McCrae, who received a measly $140,000 from NATGA for his re-election bid, which has him pitted against Senator Sam Byelle, the former president's older brother.

Candidates in states that have not yet held their primaries, including Monomi and New Portsmouth, have also not received any money yet, although sources within NATGA say the organization is unlikely to invest much in the Monomi race, since Conservatives are likely to take over the governorship in the wake of former Governor Scott King's recall from office.

NATGA's Conservative counterpart, the Conservative Governors Association (CGA), says it has invested similarly in many races nationwide.

Almone, who concurrently holds both the chairmanship of the Governors' Board and heads up the fundraising for her party's campaign effort, told the NPF the organization will invest heavily in close races such as those in Biereland, Kalnier, and Wellington.

Records show Duschowitz, in Biereland, has received $1.4 million from the CGA, while Kalnier Governor Joe Gramma has received $680,000. Craig Thoyer, who is challenging Wellington Governor Pierre Carten, has received $456,000 to date, with more on the way, Almone said.

"These are races where we believe we can win and we will do everything we can to help our candidates there," Almone said.

The governor declined to discuss her own race against Ms. Vivarte, but added that Conservatives are hoping for pick-ups in Carova and Monomi.

Third quarter fundraising reports are not due until the end of August. Candidates must continue reporting fundraising to the Grassadellian Electoral Commission (GEC), though they do not have to make their reports public until the quarter terminates.

Wainwright Lands Big Endorsement

Carova AG is locked in dead-heat Senate race


CAROVA CITY, CAROVA--Attorney General Dan Wainwright (CNS) has landed a big endorsement in his campaign for the Senate.

On Thursday, Wainwright received an endorsement from Carova's senior senator, Sam Byelle, who is vacating his Senate seat to run for governor.

Appearing at a rally in Carova City, Byelle praised Wainwright for his "exceptional leadership in the Attorney General's office," and called him a "Conservative through and through."

"Dan Wainwright is a man of conviction, honor, and integrity. He is a man of principles. And he knows that what Mavocke needs now more than ever is strong, conservative leadership that puts the people first and the politicians second," Byelle told Wainwright's supporters.

Wainwright is locked in a dead-heat race for the Senate against attorney Dan McGregor (N-Bitterman). The 38-year-old McGregor is the son of former Senator Bob McGregor, who also briefly considered running for his old seat but ultimately decided against a return to politics.

A recent poll commissioned by the Carova Statesman newspaper showed Wainwright leading 46% to McGregor's 45%, with 9% undecided. Another poll conducted for Wainwright's campaign showed him leading McGregor 42% to 38%, with a margin of error of plus or minus 4 points.

"One thing is clear: this race is going to be really close, more than likely," Political Science Professor Dr. Mark Emery of Heathfield University in Gladchestershire told GNN. "You've got a Conservative state office holder running against a Nationalist candidate that has never held a statewide office, but has name recognition through his father, and all this happening in a generally conservative state in an overwhelmingly nationalist year. It should be interesting."

In a sit-down interview with the Lorenzi Hill newspaper, Wainwright acknowledged the tough fight ahead of him.

"I know this is going to be a difficult campaign. I knew that when I jumped in, and I know it's not going to be a walk through the park," he said. "But I'm confident that when voters put my record up against Dan McGregor's, and they put my position on the issues up against his, they will put their trust and their confidence in me."

McGregor's campaign also is aware of the close nature of the contest, and told the GBC that McGregor's "numbers are only going to climb" until election day.

"These recent poll numbers prove that the same old Conservative agenda is failing in Carova, and Nationalists like Dan McGregor are going to succeed this December," spokesman Barry Lakamatee said.

Byelle's endorsement of Wainwright is big, however, considering the state's senior senator remains popular statewide. Byelle and his running mate, Dave Emser, are also favored in the gubernatorial race, consistently leading NAT incumbents Gov. Dan McCrae and Lt. Gov. Carson Latzo in the polls.

Following Byelle's glowing endorsement, Wainwright thanked the senator for his "fine stewardship" in the Senate, and hailed him as "the answer to our prayers" for a new governor.

Rep. Jim Calisto (CNS), who is running for the state's other open Senate seat, was not at the rally in Carova City. A spokeswoman said he was campaigning in eastern Carova.

Congressman's Mistress Tells All In Revealing Magazine Interview

Jane Kay says Wilder knew he was risking career, reputation


GRASSADELLIA CITY--The mistress of Rep. Ron Wilder (C-DMG) spared few details of her affair with the Damoign congressman in a tell-all article for the news and culture magazine Reflection.

Jane Kay told Reflection reporter Kristin Griffith that Wilder, a 16-term congressman from the southern suburbs of Grassadellia City, "knew he was risking it all," and that he liked the risk involved.

"He knew there was a huge risk to his career and his family, but he kind of liked that risk," Kay said. "It was more fun that way, more of a high-stakes game."

The 39-year-old real estate broker from Grassadellia City also told the magazine she knew the 62-year-old Wilder was married to his wife of 38 years, Cherrie, but felt "trapped."

"I knew after I started to get to know him that he was married, and I suspected it from the beginning. But, I felt trapped and felt like, 'there is no way I can get out of this relationship safely without causing some pain,'" Kay said.

Wilder also said he didn't care about his wife Cherrie anymore, according to Kay.

"He said, 'you know, [Cherrie] is boring, she's angry, we fight all the time, we don't love each other anymore, and I just don't care about her anymore, I'm moving on with my life," Kay said.

Ms. Kay was equally open about her sex encounters with the congressman, which she described as "exhilarating;" telling reporter Kristin Griffith the couple had sex "at least 15 times" over a period of 18 months.

On one occasion at a posh hotel in Grassadellia City, they got caught in the act, Kay said.

"We were making love and all of a sudden, the door to the hotel room opens and this maid comes in, and she was speaking a different language, and Ron yelled at her and told her to get out and she did. Fortunately she probably didn't know who he was and she couldn't speak English so we were safe for the time being," she said.

The affair became public in April when Kay called the Grassadellia City Times; something she did, she says, because she wanted people to know the truth.

"It was obvious to me that Ron Wilder was a very different man when he was in Mavocke and putting on the congressman show than when he was with me or with his family," Kay said. "In public, he's the 'good guy' type and the nice politician. In private, he's the selfish, greedy, angry man that's hiding behind that suit and tie.

"I saw the way he treated his wife and his kids and me and I thought, 'this has got to stop," Kay said.

Kay originally told the Times Wilder verbally abused her regularly, and tried to choke her on one occasion. She has since backed away from the physical abuse claim, saying it was instead "an aggressive sexual act that was consentual."

Wilder acknowledged the affair with Ms. Kay, but has denied Kay's allegations of verbal and physical abuse, calling them "made up."

"I admit to being unfaithful to my spouse, but I don't admit to being an abuser or a wife hater," Wilder told the Damoign Union-Assembly newspaper.

Three days later, in a written statement, Wilder said:

"I love Cherrie and always have and always will. We are going through a difficult time in our relationship and are trying to find a solution. I have not been the kind of husband and father I should be. My actions have been hurtful and disruptive to my family, friends, and supporters, and I deeply apologize for my behavior, and ask for understanding and grace during this difficult time. I also ask Jane Kay to cease the parade of media interviews she's been engaging in. The rumors, gossip, and outright lies she has been propagating on television and in the print media are only inflaming the pain my family and I are going through. This is a difficult time for our family, and Cherrie and I both ask for our privacy to be respected."

Wilder's lawyers declined to comment on Ms. Kay's latest media appearance in Reflection.

So far, the congressman says he plans to run for re-election, despite calls from within his own party for him to resign or retire.

Rep. Wilder is the second Conservative politician to be rocked by an extramarital affair in recent months. Senator Driscoll Sherber of Biereland admitted in June 2009 to having an affair with a Senate staffer. He is also up for re-election this December. 

Deadly Dust Storms Move Across West Plains

Clean up continues after ravaging dust storms


DEROSA, EAST DESCHIRE--Citizens and businesses in central East Deschire are cleaning up after a round of dust and wind storms battered the region Wednesday.

Reports of uprooted trees, downed power lines, and roofs being blown off homes have been confirmed, according to the National Weather Observancy Center.

WDER-TV, a GNN affiliate, was also reporting a city bus had been tipped over by the strong winds, which reached gusts of 85 mph, according to the NWOC.

The East Deschire Department of Transportation confirmed to the NPF that National Route 15, between Derosa and Freelan, had been shut down due to poor visibility, as had NR-4, between Derosa and Bridgeworth.

One man was killed when a tree fell on his house. An elderly woman was also killed walking down a street when a power line fell.

Captain Chuck Dearsey of the Derosa City Fire Department told the NPF the department extinguished seven fires within the city over a span of two hours. At least another 11 fires resulted in nearby areas due to the intense heat and wind.

Derosa, the state capitol, appeared to have been hit hardest by the violent storms, and Mayor Sara Fraser declared a state of emergency. She also asked Governor Lynn DeMont to declare Derosa and surrounding areas a disaster area, which would free up federal funding for clean-up.

A spokesman for DeMont said the governor will tour the damaged counties this week and then make a final decision.

The storms moved quickly, crossing central East Deschire into western Ceona, where they lost a significant amount of strength upon hitting the Skokie Mountains.

Reports of a tornado about 70 miles south of Derosa have not been confirmed by the NWOC, but are being investigated.

Six Arrested In Deadly Veroche Concert Shooting

Six suspects in custody in gang-related incident


VENDIGO, VEROCHE--Police in Veroche have arrested six men who they say were involved in a deadly shooting at a concert last week in suburban Twin Lakes. The shooting left three people dead and 16 others injured.

Three of the suspects, Tyrell K. Jackson, 21;  Justin Lattonden, 22;  and Luis Opuir; 27, have been charged with 1st degree murder. Two other suspects, Jamahl B. Efferen, 24, and Michael Ellsworth, 20, were charged with 3rd degree assault and 2nd degree aiding a criminal activity. The sixth suspect, a 17-year-old who has not been identified because he is a minor, was charged with 1st degree aiding a criminal activity and felony obstruction of justice.

All suspects face additional assault, public intimidation, and property damage charges as well.

Police are now calling the shooting gang-related, and believe the shooting was an act of revenge against a rival gang member.

The shooting happened around 10:40 pm at the Roadway Rock Hall in the suburb of Vendigo, just west of Twin Lakes. According to police, five men, each armed with semi-automatic hand guns, went to the concert after discovering a rival gang member was in attendance.

Police say the five men went into the concert hall, got into a verbal altercation with the victim and his friends, which spilled into the parking lot outside, when the gunmen opened fire.

Tyrone Wells, 24, was killed immediately by the gunfire, as were two of his friends, 17-year-old Justina Kyree and 21-year-old Shanria Ames.

At least five other spectators, who were leaving the concert at the time of the shooting, were injured by straying gunfire. Three other victims suffered broken bones after being pushed out of the way by the fleeing suspects.

Police say another eight spectators were injured trying to flee the shooting scene.

"This shooting caused panic and chaos for hundreds of people," Lt. Craig Vitteran of the Goldocca County Sheriff's Department told local affiliate WTLK-TV. "A shooting outside a busy concert venue is going to cause panic and stampede-like conditions for spectators."

Mark Caal, owner of the Roadway Rock Hall, told WTLK a shooting has never occurred at his establishment before.

"This is the first time I've ever seen anything like this," Caal said. "And it's scary. Scary for us and for the customers and performers; scary for the community. We want this to stop. And we want these people to know they're not welcome here."

The suspects are expected to face a magistrate on Friday for initial court hearings.