news Pentium News Agency - Lone Glory

[Pentium]

Pentium News Agency is Pentium's premier news network, an independent news organization dating back to a century after the formation of the nation. Broadcasting stories from all parts of Pentium, from War, Innovation, and Business topics. PNA covers it all, diligently and quickly, to provide up-to-date information to the general public and to outdo its rival news agencies from within the nation. Regulated by the newly founded government, and its board of directors that moderate what gets put in front of the public. Most stories are unfiltered and raw, as Pentium should be.

A recent story hitting headlines was a piece on the single remaining battleship in service, a storied life, and service to Pentium.

“A dozen were produced and sent to sea against the navies of the enemies during the long wars, attrition, and losses caused great loss on Pentium's Naval Command. Eleven of the twelve ships commissioned were sunk across the depths of the Cetan Sea, Geltic Sea, and Argic Oceans, with the final ship only limping home to nearly be scuttled on the shores near Saltbrook Channel after the climatic battle of the Cetan Sea leaving the invader's landing and navies crushed, but at a great cost in assets to Pentium's Naval Command. However, it did grant dominance of the seas, but the costs of rebuilding more of the classes were not viable financially, and thus the ship was named it's last and dubbed “Last Glory” in honor of its status as the only remaining Callahan Class Battleship”

“She sports three, twin-barreled 16in (406 mm) Main Turrets and Two, twin-barreled 12in (304 mm) auxiliary guns, smaller 4in (101 mm) Guns, and AA machine guns, some modernization efforts have kept it away from the scrapyard, but in these last few years, its become harder and harder to justify its persistence beyond its reputation and historical value. However, with the falling out of the old government and the reinstatement of a newer and less… business-only mindset. The future of the venerable behemoth has become far less clear over the course of a few days. The President's family name graced the ship's class, and perhaps that will have some sway on his decision to retain the ship, though whether out of a vainglorious attempt at enhancing the family name, or out of genuine care for the history and legacy the warship represents is unclear.”

“As the pride of the fleet, and flagship of the entirety of Pentium's Navy. Its recent actions have been mostly sitting in port during these last years of peace, only to be disturbed in defense of the capital city. Ensuring the safe passage of marine transports, and other elements of the navy. Which played a critical role in the recapturing of the city, as well as providing long-ranged bombardment from the main batteries to support the marine elements flanking the enemy camp. The concussion of the shells landing and guns firing could be heard and felt for quite a while, and had not been felt on Pentium's soil for decades.”

Commodore Travaux, commented during an interview after the end of the Siege of Whedon's Row, saying “Our old vessel performed admirably, no major complaints about the skills of our gunnery or the steel of our marines. Some small improvements could be made to her, which we intend to pursue in the future as funding frees up in various areas. While our Admirals may have been besieged within the city, the men and women of the navy did not falter in their pursuit of an overwhelming victory in the face of our foes. For that, I must commend them for their efforts and courage in the field and on the seas. As well as mourn the loss of some of the best our nation has to offer in defiance of the treachery faced by our leadership and citizens. Rest assured, we stand ready.”

“That's all we have for you tonight on recent and past events, I'm Johnathan Blythe, and we hope you all have a pleasant eventing and a good night.”

End

[Pentium]

Hisera-Pentian Trade Agreement

Good evening Pentium, I'm your host Roz Anastos anchor of Late Nights in Blemish broadcasting from the walls of the fortress.  Late last night, the President signed a deal with a nearby nation just across the pond of the Geltic.  I'll review a few main points from the deal, and how it will affect our people and economy.  While we do typically have a variety of topics that didn't make front-page news, we have the unique privilege of bringing you the front-page news.

To begin, Pentium will send vast quantities of funds to Hisera to assist in rebuilding, modernizing and building new infrastructure, cities, rail and highway connections between cities.  We have been given some exclusive rights for advertisement, as well as ownership in the new assets that are being created.  In addition, our construction companies are moving over to Hisera to assist in building the infrastructure itself.  Personally, it's expensive and will not sit well with some parts of the country and people. Still, it does give a great amount of opportunity for moving products into Hisera and promoting our business inside another market.  So, hopefully, our investments there will have returns.



Additionally, some exciting news for our agriworkers and professors.  Hiseran students will be access to our Agricultural Institute, right here in Blemish.  Some of our big boys in the industry as well are going to be heading over to advise our new partners in the fields physically and on a technical level.  While the tuition will likely be higher for them due to lessened substitutes, the information we teach at the Institute is invaluable in keeping our nation's bellies full and our fields productive.  Additionally, one of their mineral extraction conglomerates will be entering our mineral deposits to help extract the resources we desperately need for our economy to keep recovering and growing, which we can keep some of the savings from export costs to offset the expenses of new extractions and the costs of the aforementioned investments being made into Hisera.  Ideally, of course, we will need to foot the costs of expansion and development but once it is all said and done, we will see how the books balance out.

The President certainly seems to be happy about the deal, and Pentian Economists are overall happy about the size and expanse of the deal itself but balk a bit at the costs of the deal overall.  However, this is a good strong show from the new administration in international and economic policy for the future of the nation.  Not only to mention the deepening of the relationship between the two nations as trade partners in the local region.  Which may come in handy in future for more trade deals, and potentially greater alliances should the need arise.  

This is all future talk though, and we have yet to see the true costs and benefits of the agreement as a whole.  I've been Roz Anastos, and we wish you all a very comfortable evening.

Edited June 4 by Pentium (see edit history)

[Pentium]

Saltbrook Channel — Port Authority 

“Good afternoon Pentium, I'm Johnathan Blythe with PNA.  Today's top story is from Saltbrook Channel, the Port Authority of the channel has put out a statement about the lack of adequate space for the current operations after the deal with Hisera was passed by parliament.  While Saltbrook Channel has a large and robust port, which has been capable of maintaining sea based trade, the influx of new products, materials, and manpower has been overwhelming for the current staff and resources on hand, which has caused a slowing of operations.”

“The disruption has been causing delays in some industries, and development of new projects around Pentium.  While critical operations have been earmarked for rapid entry into the country, business owners have begun lodging formal complaints about the quality and speed of the service.  A local shop owner, Henry Clarkson.  Who operates ‘Outside Hobbyist Emporium’ said this:”

“The delays are costing me and my family hundreds, if not thousands of dollars in potential revenue.  The loss of business and confidence from our customers has been a nightmare to contend with and work through.  I know I'm not the only one suffering through the delays.”

“In response to the delays, we have with us the Minister of Trade and Economic Development Marius Bradford, here to talk about what steps the federal government is taking to solve the backlog, Marius?”

“Thanks for having me on, Johnathan.  Our commitment to the wellbeing of the economy, and the smooth flow of commerce, is at the forefront of our minds as we work towards a solution for the downturn in shipping and transportation.  It's no secret that since the end of the long war, that swathes of the harbor have been inactive and that previous administrations have reduced the amount of port workers.  This was in response to the loss of trade and lowered manpower that we had available to us during the restoration efforts of the nation, seeing as now is the perfect time to reinstate much of the facilities and workers that we had initially removed from play.”

“The unfortunate reality that pushes us onward now, is the lack of trained dockworkers and the poor state of the old sections of dock that have been neglected, while restoration efforts have already been put underway by the city of Saltbrook Channel, it will take time for efforts to bear fruit and work in tandem with the main segments of dock.  I assure you, that work is being completed as quick as we can manage it.  I can't give you an estimation on how long it will take.”

Johnathan smiles, and nods as the Minister's face leaves the frame.  “Thanks Marius.”

“That's all we have for now folks, thank you for tuning into PNA once again.  I wish you all a good afternoon, and pleasant evening.”

[Pentium]

Whedon's Row — Deployment of Troops to Velaheria

“Good afternoon Pentium, I'm Johnathan Blythe with PNA.  Today we have a few developing stories coming up in just a few short minutes, today our parliament has finally resolved the deadlock in its halls.  A process that has taken far too long, passing resolution C-47 to fulfil our commitment to the AN to send troops and humanitarian aid to the embattled nation of Velaheria.  Despite protests from opposition parties and independent MPs, the motion passed with a slim majority today, and was approved by the president just hours later.”

“To that end, over five thousand troops from the 3rd Field Army will be transferred to the AN Command within Velaheria.  The 7th Pentian Light Motorized Brigade was placed under the field command of Colonial Markus Dentz, best known for securing the town of Blemish from internal security threats during the Civil War.  However, overall command of the operation falls to the AN Commander, Major General Julia Rondtyk.  Humanitarian supplies were sent as well, as dozens of crates of canned goods from local Pentian industries were loaded onto cargo aircraft for rapid transportation.  The troops, however, will be arriving by sea with a small escort, they are scheduled to arrive in Velaheria in roughly two weeks.”

“In other news, port restoration has begun to show fruit in its efforts.  While slow-going, we do have reports from the mayor of Saltbrook Channel, to quote the mayor.”

“Efforts to restore the port are well underway, though some parts are worse off than the more recently abandoned areas, several parts of the port have been successfully reactivated, and new staff is already working to integrate them into our systems.  There is much more work to be done, and we are focusing all effort we can into fixing the supply issue in our ports.  Sadly, the easy part of our work has finished and restoration of the more decayed parts of the port must now undergo modernization and safety procedures must be enforced.  Bear with us a little bit longer, friends, we are almost finished.”

Johnathan took a breath, smiling at the camera again.

“In other news, the Blemish Agricultural Institute has seen a moderate increase in student numbers.  Mostly due to the new programs offered to Hiseran foreign students, this has allowed the campus administration to invest further in internal systems and infrastructure for its students and faculty members.  On the subject of Hisera, new electronics have started rolling into business in Pentium.  A major part of the deal between the two nations was the investment of new industries in Pentium for development in Hisera, the new products are affordable and available for Pentians.”

“That's all we have for you this afternoon, thank you for tuning into PNA.  I've been your host, Johnathan Blythe.”

Edited June 18 by Pentium
2 Weeks, not 2 days (see edit history)

[Pentium]

Whedon's Row — Troops to Arrive in Velaheria, Civil War Anniversary Speech, Upcoming Q2 Statement

“Good afternoon Pentium, I'm Johnathan Blythe with PNA, today has been packed with new stories and announcements.  So let's not waste any time and get down to business.  Welcome to the afternoon news, today's top story revolves around two major developments from abroad and within."

"Around two hours ago, we received confirmation that our military contribution to the Velaherian peacekeeping mission have arrived just outside the territorial waters of Velaheria.  We are likely to see the unloading of men and material either later today or tomorrow, depending on which port they begin unloading at.  Its all still moving parts and reliable information is difficult to verify as we are yet to get reporters on the ground or information trickling in from our sources.  We will update you of course as soon as we gather more information on the topic."

"In other news, within Pentium itself, there are a few important developments that you should be aware of.  Firstly, the government is expected to release information about the state of the economy and what we can expect.  There has been some buzz about the release of the 2nd Quarter statement, while these were fairly predictable over the last few years, especially under the previous regimes, much has changed within the halls of power, and in the agreements that we share with other nations.  Primarily, the new trade deal and investment plan with Hisera.  Some parts of these deals have had impacts already on our lives.  New electronics, students and the infamous port issues in Saltbrook Channel.  However, we will be seeing how much of an effect this is predicted to have in the next few years."

"Additionally, the office of the president has announced a televised broadcast across the nation on the anniversary of the civil war.  It will be joined with the unveiling of a monument commemorating the victory, those who gave their lives for our freedom and their sacrifice.  Callahan is expected to give a speech in addition to the unveiling."

"That's all we have for you this afternoon, thank you for tuning into PNA.  I've been your host, Johnathan Blythe."

[Pentium]

Whedon's Row — 2024 Budget, PNA Special Report.

"Good evening Pentium, I'm your host Roz Anastos anchor of Late Nights in Blemish broadcasting from the walls of the fortress.  While typically my segment of PNA is far later in the evening, I've been asked to report on a very interesting development within Whedon's Row.  While typically the budget of Pentium comes in as a footnote of our Republic, the budget for 2024 has come as a surprise.  So, I'll be breaking down the main points, and filtering out the political talk for your viewing Convenience."

"So, starting from the top.  There have been several increases in spending across the board, with a focus on investing into the economy, research and development.  Specifically in the mining, transportation and construction industries that have begun to boom lately with the help of Hisera's WielkWykopil group.  Civilian innovation and military innovation have also seen a bump in funding, mostly in the fields of developing technologies to put Pentium into a better position economically."

Roz shuffled his notes, and took a sip of water from a glass on the desk.  There was a lot more to get through.

"Military spending also saw a bump in funding allotment, while we can't be exactly sure on where that money will go.  We suspect that much of the new funding will be moving towards properly funding the airforce in order to modernize it properly.  Though I will admit, the blackhole that is military spending isn't the largest item on the new budget.  We have also seen small boosts in immigration and veterans affairs."

"Finally, the question that was on my mind while I was reading the document.  We went into debt in 2023 after the civil war in order to finance the war, modernization efforts, and the Hisera deal.  Concerned as I was, I felt a wave of relief seeing the ending statement and balance sheet on the document.  The new taxes raised from tariffs, new products and a higher production has seen a larger available budget to the government.  Which has been able to pay off the debt we owed."

"Generally folks, I have very little to complain about in this budget.  Of course, year after year there are increased payments to the regions and people, which is reflected in the 80 Billion dollars spent on transfer payments overall.  The transfer payments have been steadily increasing over the years of course, as more people retire and the population grows.  As I said though, there is very little that I have to complain about here.  That'll be all for the PNA special report however, thank you all for tuning into the special report."

"I've been Roz Anastos anchor of Late Nights in Blemish for the PNA 2024 Budget Special Report.  Good Afternoon Pentium!"

[Pentium]

Whedon's Row — Presidential Speech, Stedoria Invades Velaheria.

 WDC Peacekeeper observes a field

“Good afternoon Pentium, I'm Johnathan Blythe with PNA, today is full of important developments.  So let's not waste any time and get down to business.  Welcome to the afternoon news, today's top story revolves around two major stories involving the Republic.  Our main story today is the President's speech commemorating the civil war, and the Siege of Whedon's Row.  We will play the President's speech in full here.”  Johnathan paused, and the screen faded to black, and then to a video.

The President stood in front of the destroyed Flood MK.1, the previous “battle tank” that Pentium operated.  It had been destroyed during the siege itself, and had been cleaned of its superficial damages, dust and blood that had caked the tracks and lower armour.  However, the rest of the damage, absorbed shells, deflections, bullet gouges and the penetrating shot that brought the beast down, were all still visible.  It was meant to stand as a reminder of the price that was paid by many soldiers and civilian militia that manned the walls and defended the city.  

The city, was quiet with a sense of revelry and calm for this moment as the president began to speak.

“People of this Republic, a year ago today.  One of the most adverse and terrible periods of our history came to call, armed mercenaries came to lay siege to our homes.  Like a bad memory from our history, a trend that has continued since the days of our time as an independent city and as the defender of this peninsula under the banner of the old Federation.  Another terrible, yet passing memory that we have endured as a nation.” Callahan took a pause, taking a quick breath before continuing. “Once again, our finest and our bravest people defended this city without a second though, with courage unmatched, and we took up arms against those who would batter down our gates, and take what we have now and cast it into the darkness of the past.”

“And today, we have just begun to reap the rewards of our determination.  A safe home for our people, a nation united and stronger than ever in our past.  Today, the Republic of Pentium stands on the wurld stage as an equal in foreign affairs.  Our negotiations with foreign powers and states have secured jobs, economic prosperity and higher accessibility to modern luxuries and appliances.  This government is still committed to delivering on this, and more, as we continue to seat ourselves on the Wurld.”

“Our nation's military, has seen the first positive budgetary growth in a decade and is expanding its capabilities to keep us safe, and to protect others around the Wurld. Our social services, research, and payments to citizens have also seen positive growth as we reinvest the fruits of our success back into you, the people who make this country all it can be.”

“Lastly, for today, I want to thank our people for their sacrifices.  Behind me, is one of the casualties of our fight in this very city. Angus Edbury was a young officer whom I had spoken to, and mentored, several times during my lifetime.  I served with his grandfather during the war with the Southern Union.  It was a conflict in which he would give his life for, and much like his grandfather.  Angus would meet the same fate, more than sixty years later.  Due to the enduring sacrifice of the Edbury family, this… reminder of one of our darkest hour.  I dedicate this monument, to their enduring legacy.”

Callahan turned around, and gestured to the tank.  Applause rang out for a time, it was not loud or overwhelming.  Callahan raised his hand as he retook his podium and shuffled his notes.

“Thank you all for listening today, Courage in Every Heart, Unity in Every Hand!”

The screen went to black again, and returned to Johnathan Blythe in the newsroom.  “Onto our next major piece of news.  We have received confirmation of a Stedorian invasion of Velaheria, to recap the current situation.  After an Orinese backed coup that ousted the Starinburg regime within the nation of Velaheria, the Assembled Nations Security Council authorized a peacekeeping operation within the nation.  Pentium, which is part of the temporary security council, has deployed a brigade sized unit to assist in restoring order to that country.  While we are unaware of their exact positions, Colonel Markus Dentz has led these troops and their support elements in the endeavour of restoring order.”

“What we know, at the moment, is that the AN is already within Vertia.  We are unsure of how far the Stedorians are planning to advance into Velaheria, but considering their defensive justification for this attack, we suspect they will attempt a takeover of the northern Velaherian provinces.  The Pojacki government was quick to condemn the action, President Andrej Petrović stated in a press release that this invasion is a ‘threat to the peace and stability of post-totalitarian Velaheria.’ and ‘The Stedorian government shows precisely why far left governments cannot be trusted.’  This invasion is nothing more than an effort to destabilize the country and cast it back into the darkness of totalitarian oppression.  The Stedorian government, like all far left governments, knows only oppression and control, stifling the free will of the people of this planet.  This is yet another example of the cancer that communism has wrought upon our planet.”

“Our President was also quick to condemn the actions of the Stedorian invasion, stating that ‘additional WDC peacekeepers are being put on standby.’  This is what we know of the situation at the moment, but we will keep you informed.”

“That's all we have for you this afternoon, thank you for tuning into PNA.  I've been your host, Johnathan Blythe.”

[Pentium]

Whedon's Row — Presidential Firearm Order Expired, Saltbrook Channel Port Completed.

 

“Good afternoon Pentium, I'm Johnathan Blythe with PNA, it's been relatively slow for news in the last few days.  However, as always, there is something to discuss.  So, let's get right into it.”

“The first major thing to discuss, the long await refurbishment of Saltbrook Channel's port, has been completed finally.  Much to the praise of the local communities.  You may remember that several months ago, with the increased imports and exports that we've been seeing since the government expansions of our trade efforts.  After several complaints towards slow-downs and delays to the port, the Mayor of Saltbrook channel worked closely with the federal government to refurbish and make older, unused parts of the port functional again.”

“As of today, this refurbishment has been completed.  Several new hires have also begun working at the port, helping to provide more jobs in the local communities around the port.  Despite the refurbishment taking a bit longer than planned, the additional time allowed for greater safety features and modern systems.  Overall, the mayor and minister of public works have praised the quick government response and are happy with the changes.”

“In other news, looking back towards the civil war, the President signed an executive order that allowed citizens to bear arms to assist against the defense alongside the rest of the armed forces.  This order allowed citizens to present themselves at designated points to receive firearms and munitions, today the order has expired early by the president.  Now, as we return to old law, the office of the president has made it clear that you may retain your issued firearm if you wish.”

“If you do want to get rid of it, however, the government has issued a buyback program if you wish to return the firearm.  There are no questions asked, and the hand-in reward is P$1000.  So long as your weapon is in usable condition, of course, this extends to any firearms that were not issued during the war that you may wish to hand off to the government.  Keep an eye out on our website for where your return area will be.  The cut-off date is the 4th September.”

“That's all we have for you tonight, thank you for tuning into PNA.  I've been your host, Johnathan Blythe.”