The Rose Window

[Fravina]

The Rose Window is the largest news organization of Fravina. Founded in 1886 by Bernadette Rose, it was originally used as a propaganda arm of the socialists, especially during the 1939-1948 Civil War. It continued to be owned and operated by the Fravi government until 1991, when President Marie Boche decided it was against government interests to keep funding the organization. Currently, the Rose Window is a highly prestigious news organization, with print, radio, television, and online branches delivering the news to Fravi citizens quickly and effectively. While not overtly a socialist organization anymore, it still retains some socialist biases.

Edited November 15, 2021 by Fravina (see edit history)

[Fravina]

THOUSANDS MOURN AT FUNERAL OF FORMER PRESIDENT MARIE BOCHE

Today, the nation mourns the loss of former president Marie Boche. A visionary and a pragmatist, she led Fravina into a modern era of growth and prosperity.

Thousands lined the streets of Port de Sang today, and even more gathered in Fort d'Olivier, her home city, for the state funeral. Everyone in the city, it seems, fell upon Revolution Square to attend the funeral of the much beloved president. Politicians from all across Fravina also attended the ceremony. Every member of the People's Council, as well as all the presidents and vice presidents managed to attend.

Former president Pierre Blanchet, a close friend and confidante of the late president, delivered the first eulogy of the 3-hour service. Followed by former vice president Emile Couture, who delivered an emotional speech about the hope and majesty Bouche brought to Fravina. 

Next, close friend Rémi Moreau gave a lighter and less heavy reflection as he told an fun anecdote of the former president. Augustin Boche, her oldest child, spoke next. Delivering a short but sweet eulogy, he spoke about the love his mother had for Fravina and most especially the love she had for him.

The final eulogy of the service was given by Marie Boche's wife, Aveline Boche. Mrs. Boche delivered an emotionally devastating speech, reminding the whole nation of the figure we had just lost. Originally scheduled to speak for 35-minutes, she had to stop short after breaking down in tears on the podium, expressing the grief that all of Fravina is feeling right now.

All of Fravina is mounring to an extent unknown to the nation before. From her death a month ago to now, it seems that every waking minute is consumed by grief for the former president. Fravina only now realizes how great a leader President Boche was. From leading us out of the financial crisis of 1991 into an economic boom in the late 90s, she helped reform our nation to its greatest state. Boche helped reform the country's numerous issues. From the education system to the modern infrastructure, her impact as president can be felt on every part of Fravi daily life.

Marie Boche's socialist spirit will forever live on within us. And as the year's pass, she will always be remembered as one of Fravina's greatest leaders, greatest minds, and certainly one of our greatest reformers.

[Fravina]

PORT DE SANG TRAINS WILL NOT BE FIXED UNTIL AT LEAST SATURDAY, SAYS TRANSPORTATION MINISTER

On Sunday, it was announced that a glitch was discovered in the software running the Port de Sang rail system. Yesterday, it was announced that train service would temporarily stop in the city as they repaired the system. Earlier today, it was announced that it would take until at least Saturday for the vital transport to be fixed, but may take longer.

In a press conference this afternoon, Transport Minister Louis Rivière announced that the government will compensate workers who relied on the trains, whether train workers or commuters. This will include an extra ration ticket and regular wages provided to all those affected by the shutdown.

[Fravina]

RIOTS BREAK OUT IN BELLEVILLE OVER MAYORAL ELECTION

BELLEVILLE - The reelection of Liberal Mayor Gabrielle Renaud proves to be deeply controversial in Belleville. Riots broke out early last night through into the morning, with protestors burning flags, automobiles, and commercial buildings.

Oddly enough, the rioters were composed of people that have wildly opposed political beliefs. As expected, members of the far-right National People's Party are rioting in full force, but so did members of the Socialist and Social-Worker's Parties. It seems that both the left and the right have it out for Mayor Renaud.

Counter-protestors from the Liberal and Conservative parties also came out. Brawls between the counter-protestors and the rioters led to 19 injured and 4 dead. Among the dead included city councilman Michael Westerling and his 12 year-old daughter, Helene Westerling.

Renaud's former 2-year term as mayor was highly divisive in Belleville. Both the left and the right opposed her "maintain the status quo" agenda, as the status quo of Belleville was often corrupt and fraught with unemployment.

The riots only let up early this morning after Bernard Beaumont ordered the Fravi Civilian Army into the city. The fourth riot in the city this year, let's hope that violence and arson does not become the status quo in Belleville.

[Fravina]

FIGHT BREAKS OUT ON LEGISLATIVE FLOOR, HUGO AND WOLFF HOSPITALIZED

As vigorous debate rages on over proposed tax reforms, legislators in every seat of the circle are tired and frustrated as debate on the taxes reached 50 hours last night.

The proposed tax reforms would raise taxes for the first time in decades. The increase would be felt hardest on the few independently run businesses in Fravina, especially the owners of these establishments. As it stands, the tax increase is supported by the National People's Party, Communist Party, and roughly half of the Social Labour Party. Opposed by the Liberal Party, Conservative Party, Capitalist Party, and the other half of the Social Labour, the Council is hung on the issue.

Breaking the tradition of civil behavior in the People’s Council, brawling broke out Friday evening during debate. Legislators, tired and frustrated from the longest debate in Fravi history, took out their anger on their fellow members. The fight, which left 58 injured, was the largest piece of legislative violence ever experienced in Fravina.

The melee left National People’s leader Claude Hugo and Capitalist Party leader Vincent Wolff hospitalized. Both were attacked by Vice President Louise Rochefort, wielding a fire extinguisher. Rochefort was herself attacked by Nicolas Bellamy, an aide for Wolff, using a chair which knocked her out for over half an hour.

The fight, which lasted 43 minutes, was eventually broken up when police stormed the chamber. Many legislators and aides were quickly admitted to local hospitals, and the consequences to be faced by those involved are still being considered.

[Fravina]

Seventh Amendment finally approved, prevents repeat of disastrous 2010 Election

Ten years after its proposal in June 2011, the Seventh Amendment to the Constitution has finally been ratified and put into effect. This vital act will reform Fravi elections to prevent deadlocks and repeats of the 2010 Election.

Over a decade ago, the 2010 Election led to a deadlock in the People’s Council, with no coalitions holding a majority in either the Wing of Legislation or the Wing of Examination. Without a majority in either wing, a government could not form until  2016, following the 2015 Election. While holding a second election was proposed, it was struck down by the Supreme Court as unconstitutional.

The Seventh Amendment adds a clause to the Constitution that allows for repeat legislative elections 3 months after a government fails to form. However, it does not provide a solution to the decade's long stalemate in the Wing of Examiners.

Passing the Wing of Legislation in 2012, the Wing of Examiners in 2014, it took 7 years until the required approval of 5 provinces was met. Both Orléans and Barbier approved the amendment in early 2015. Mont de Mercy gave its approval in mid 2016, and Romarin in late 2017. Prétredy finally gave their approval on May 4, 2021. After its approval by Prétredy, a referendum was held, netting 81% approval from voters. Finally, the Vice Presidential Council passed it unanimously late last night, and President Beaumont signed the amendment at 7:43 A.M. this morning, ensuring the Seventh Amendment’s passing. 

Hopefully, the nation will not have to experience another 2010. But if we do, at least we will have a safety net on the other side.

[Fravina]

VICE PRESIDENT JEAN MARTIN, FAMILY INJURED IN DEVASTATING CAR CRASH

(Pictured above: Vice President Jean Martin and Second Lady Asami Takahashi)

Early this morning, long-time Vice President Jean Martin was driving along OR-44 in Orléans between Port de Sang and Beaufort. With him in the car were his wife, Asami Takahashi, his 5 children, including internet star Paul-Henri Martin, and his 2 year-old granddaughter, Danielle Martin.

The vice president, who has served since 2003, was allegedly driving to Beuafort for a get-together of the Martin family. Recently released traffic footage show that a red truck swerved and crashed into the front of the Martins' car. This occurred just before 7 A.M. this morning.

At 2 P.M. this afternoon, President Bernard Beaumont announced news of the crash, stating that the family had just arrived at the capital for treatment. "I wish my best to the vice president, and hope he and his family soon recover."

Besides this statement from Beaumont, not much else is known about everybody's conditions, nor the condition of the truck driver.

Jean Martin, a member of the storied Martin Family and grandson of Grand Admiral and President Nicolas Martin, has long been regarded as an honorable and noble man. His strong, stable presence has long been a part of Fravi politics, and his family's presence moreso.

Vice President Martin - we wish you and your family a safe recovery.

[Fravina]

VICE PRESIDENT JEAN MARTIN, AGED 56, ANNOUNCED DEAD FOLLOWING TRAGIC CAR CRASH

 

Jean Emmanuel Martin has long held a special place in this era of Fravi politics. Now, this era has come to an end as the vice president has sadly passed away.

As Vice President, Martin had been a key decision maker for the last two decades. He was a vital member of President Beaumont’s administration, and was a key figure within both the Garnier and Blanchet administrations. 

Jean Martin ascended to the vice presidency in 2003, following a reshuffle of Garnier’s Secretariat. During the following three years, he held very little influence upon the policies of President Garnier. But as Jean-Michel Garnier became president, he appointed Martin to Secretary of Transport.

As Secretary of Transport, he helped expand the Orléans rail system, and led the effort for the construction of new highways in the north. But a rift began to grow between the two, and Garnier deposed Martin from Transport, replacing him in favor of Marie Dennel.

Then the election of 2010 occurred, which saw a tie inside both wings of the People’s Council, preventing a government from forming. During this time, he was made Chief Examiner of the Wing of Examination. Martin led the 210 Examiners as they took on the duties that would normally be performed by the executive branch. With his leadership, Fravina continued to prosper even without a president.

The election of 2015 came, and Jean Martin was once again instated as vice president. Having a close friendship with President Bernard Beaumont, he was made Secretary of Justice and Secretary of Industry in this term. Both were led admirably by Martin. As Secretary of Justice, he led the investigation into corruption at every level of the Liberal Coalition, weeding traitors from the People’s Council. As Secretary of Industry, he reformed Fravi enterprise, keeping a closer eye on the worker cooperatives that encompass the nation.

A man who had been in the highest echelons of power for 18½ years, Jean Martin helped lead Fravina into its current prosperity. Martin had always been the moderate, whose popularity went unchallenged from all sides of the aisle. He had forever fought for the common man, no matter the politics of the fight.

A member of the famed Martin family, his relations spanned far and wide. Jean Martin was descended from former Grand Admiral and President Nicolas Martin, as well as former Vice President Louis Martin. His first cousins are Grand General Lucien Martin of the Air Force and Josephine Martin, the current Secretary of Equality and Equity. Jean Martin's own son, Paul-Henri Martin, is a nationally famous internet personality.

His own close family were all in the car on the day of the crash. This consisted of his wife, Asami Takahasi, and his five children - Louis Martin, René Martin, Paul-Henri Martin, Cecilé Martin, and Martin Martin - as well as his 2 year-old granddaughter, Danielle Martin.

In a statement released by the Executive Manor this afternoon,  only Paul-Henri Martin, Cecilé Martin, and Danielle Martin are currently alive. This tragic loss of life coming from Fravina's most powerful family has come as a shock to all across Fravina.

"He truly was a political titan," remembers President Beaumont, "The vice president was the flagbearer of political moderation, and the people will forever be indebted to him for it." A close friend and confidante of Jean Martin, Beaumont expressed his terrible grief over his death.

"The Martin Family were among the kindest souls I've ever met," said Vice President Adelie Grasse, "My condolences go to those living, and to their friends and family."

108 year-old former President Nicolas Martin was most affected by the news. "The deep sadness I felt at hearing the news is unimaginable. The knowledge that an entire branch of your family tree has fallen weighs heavy on my soul."

Jean Martin, the Second Lady, and all their deceased children are to be given state funerals on the 29th of August, commemorating the 73rd Anniversary of the end of the Second Civil War.

Edited August 11, 2021 by Fravina (see edit history)

[Fravina]

CECILÉ MARTIN, DAUGHTER OF LATE VICE PRESIDENT JEAN MARTIN, FOUND DEAD, AGED 18

Just a week after the rest of her family passed away, Cecilé Martin was found dead in her bedroom. Martin was one of the few survivors of last week's crash, along with brother Paul-Henri Martin and niece Danielle Martin. A law major attending the Augustin Barbier National Academy in Naufrage, Romarin, she had a bright future ahead of her.

Born on 17 July 2003, Cecilé Martin was less than a month over the age of 18 when she was found dead on 11 August 2021. According to a statement released by the Executive Manor this morning, she passed away from suicide. Her funeral will be held alongside those of her family on the 29th of August, commemorating the 73rd Anniversary of the end of the Second Civil War.

[Fravina]

OOC: This is backdated a bit because I forgot to actually write this article. Oopsie.

A NATION IN MOURNING COMES TOGETHER TO REMEMBER MARTIN FAMILY

 

The nation came together to mourn as one today. This day marked the funeral of Vice President Jean Martin and his family, who were among the most important and most beloved people across Fravina.

Their funeral was held in the halls of the People's Council. Eulogies were delivered from a wide range of people, from President Beaumont, to Paul-Henri Martin, and other close friends, family, and government officials. The final and most moving eulogy was given by 108 year-old former president Nicolas Martin. They then proceeded to head to the cemetery.

Crowds gathered as the procession travelled across Port de Sang. Ahead of the caskets was a horse, ridden by Grand Marshal Lucien Martin, a first cousin of Vice President Martin. Behind the caskets were a number of black cars. The first four cars contained the remaining family, such as Paul-Henri Martin and the young Danielle Martin.

Following the four cars were Lieutenant Colonel Amélie Martin and Vice Commodore Lionel Martin on horseback. Behind them followed the rest of the attendees. From government officials, to former presidents, to other friends and family, and even a few foreign dignitaries. At the back of the procession were Grand General Wilhelm Noyer and Grand Admiral Marine Pêcheur, also on horseback, leading a group of marching soldiers.

As the procession made its way to the cemetery, hundreds of thousands of people gathered to grieve. The family was buried beside Jean Martin's father, the late Louis Martin, in Oaktree Cemetery.

The procession then made its way back across the city, towards the Executive Manor, where the reception was being held for friends and family to mourn together privately.

As the reception was being held privately, the annual military parade was beginning. The 750,000 strong military marched across Port de Sang to continue this yearly tradition, commenting 73 years since the conclusion of the Second Civil War. 

Edited September 2, 2021 by Fravina (see edit history)

[Fravina]

14 PERFORMERS INJURED AFTER FREAK ACCIDENT AT RED APPLE CIRCUS

PORT DE BARBIER - A freak accident during rehearsals last Friday has left 15 performers injured at Fravina's largest and oldest circus.

According to David Larue, Commissioner of the Red Apple Circus Board, the accident was the result of faulty pyrotechnics and a badly designed safety net. The accident involved 2 magicians and 12 trapeze artists, all of whom were left seriously injured.

Allegedly, the injured magicians were brother and sister duo Blanc and Noire Enfer, whose real names are Léonard and Élodie Babineaux. The Babineaux twins, aged 32, have been performing at the Red Apple Circus since 2008, and have made a name for themselves with their impressive work with fire and pyrotechnics.

In response to the accident, the Bureau of Circuses is seeking to update safety guidelines and regulations about the use of fire in magic acts. The Agency of Trapeze and Acrobatics is also imploring the Bureau to update its policies regarding the production and quality of safety nets used in circuses.

Edited October 24, 2021 by Fravina (see edit history)

[Fravina]

"COAT OF MAURICE" CO-STARS CLEMENT AZÉMA AND ELIE MALET ANNOUNCE ENGAGEMENT

 

Clement Azéma, aged 32, and Elia Malet, aged 28, are finally getting engaged after a 6-year relationship. The two actors, who are currently co-starring in the murder-mystery series Coat of Maurice, announced the news while their two characters got engaged on screen.

The two have been inseparable ever since they worked together on The Serpent on the Court, a 2015 murder-mystery sports film. The two officially began dating midway through the film's production, and have worked together on virtually every project since then. Both Azéma and Malet have had successful careers in the industry, and are currently the most popular actors in Fravi film and television.

Clement Azéma began acting as a child, starring as Arthur Aubert, the mischievous middle child on the murder-mystery sitcom Family Investigations. While the show ended in 2004, his acting career certainly has not.

Elie Malet began her acting career on the stage, playing the eponymous character in the murder-mystery musical Tourmaline from 2011 to 2014. Her tenure in the stage production earned her high praise and renown, which allowed her to land the lead role in The Serpent on the Court.

Currently, the two co-star in the murder-myster period drama series Coat of Maurice. The show, which takes place in 1788 Lysian Columbia, follows Azéma's Det. Constantin Savatier and Malet's Det. Fleuretta Langlois as they investigate the mysterious murder of Maurice Leclerc. The show's latest episode was about Det. Savatier's proposal and engagement to Det. Langlois, paralleling the real-wurld announcement of Azéma and Malet's engagement.

Already, many fans have congratulated the couple on their engagement. Among these fans are President Bernard Beaumont and Vice Presidents Adelie Grasse and Glacier Homard, who are well-known fans of the show. A statement from the Executive Manor read, "We congratulate the young couple, and thank them for all the years of murder-mystery themed entertainment they have provided the nation."

While their press offices have confirmed the engagement, neither star has yet to speak about it. However, the pair will have an exclusive joint interview together airing at 10 P.M. tonight on The Rose Window. Allegedly, the interview will be murder-mystery themed.