True News Inc.

[True Democrat]

BREAKING NEWS!!!

SAM News Corp. Collapses

April 24, 2006

Lois Lane

It was a rocky day on Wall Street for most stocks, but in particular SAM News Corp.  Ever since the break-up of the Daily Planet months ago, SAM has dominated the news industry in Atlasia, with only HNN and PNN as rivals during election time.  But now, that's all gone in a flash.

At 9:30 AM, Sam Spade, CEO of SAM News Corp., rang the opening bell for the New York Stock Exchange, where SAM is traded.  Shortly after ringing the bell, the CEO made an announcement that shocked the world.  Sam Spade announced that he was resigning as CEO of Sam News Corp., saying "It's been fun.  I only hope that the next person does a much better job than I did."  He then went on to make a lengthy list of complaints against the company, including accusing the CFO's office of fraud.

It was all over from here.  Before opening, SAM News Corp. was trading at a record high $70.13 per share.  However, throughout the course of the day, the stock plummetted to only $2.43.  It this seems as though Wall Street was harsh on the company.

With the soon absence of SAM News Corp from the news world, only company decided to step in to solve the problem.  True News Inc. was created to house SAM News Corp. and financed by billionaires around Atlasia.  In the course of only six hours, True News was created and became the largest news company in Atlasia.  At 4:22 PM, shortly before the stock market closed, True News Inc. agreed to buyout SAM News Corp. for an undisclosed amount.

So for my final thought, I leave you with a few questions:
What is the future of news in Atlasia?
Will True News Inc. last?
Will I still have my job tomorrow?

That's it from here on Wall Street.  Signing off, Lois Lane, Business Correspondent, SAM News Corp. True News Inc.

[True Democrat]

Puerto Rico News Update

April 24, 2006

Jimmy Olsen

It's official, Puerto Rico is now a state.  After two recounts, the vote has been certified with 51.8% in favor of statehood and 48.2% opposed.  The raw data shows that with 92.6% turnout, 1,174,598 Puerto Ricans voted for statehood, and 1,092,966 against, a margin of 81,632.  New appointed Governor Manuel Sanchez, who assumed the office after True Democrat's resignation, announced the results in front a pro-statehood rally in San Juan.

In related news, in Charlotte Amalie, Christiansted, and dozens of other towns across the US Virgin Islands, citizens demanded statehood, though it is still unclear whether the islands would like to become a separate state from Puerto Rico or create a join Carribbean state.

[True Democrat]

Distress in the Pacific

April 25, 2006

Jimmy Olsen

In the capital of Hagåtña, and other places around Guam, violent riots have broken out.  The rioters, denounced by the Atlasian military installations in Guam, are demanding statehood, like Puerto Rico and the possibility of the Virgin Islands.  After learning of President Ebowed',s veto of the Pacifican Statehood Act of 2006, many rioters have begun to call the President a denier of democracy.  At this time, the administration of Guam has not condoned or condemned the protests.  The protesters are demanding statehood, like the Virgin Islands, but what makes these protests different is that they are violent.  In the last two days, it is estimated about 120 people have died.  Most major media outlets have vacated the island, as the rioters are turning violent against anything with Atlasian affiliation.  At the moment, over 40,000 people (23.7% of the population) are currently marching towards Anderson Air Force Base, in the far north of the island.

[True Democrat]

Changes Announced at True News Inc.

April 25, 2006

Editor True Democrat

It gives me distinct pleasure to announce staff changes at the newly created True News Inc.  Although we have retained some people from SAM News Corp, others we are letting go.

Business Correspondent: We are retaining Lois Lane.

Foreign: We are sad to announce the death of Jimmy Olsen, who just minutes after filing our last report, was killed in the riots in Guam.  He is the first Atlasian to die in the recent riots.  We send our best wishes to his family.  To replace him, we have asked esteemed journalist Carmen Isabela Sandiego, who has recently travelled around the world.  We were lucky to find her.

National: Clark Kent has resigned, saying that he wishes to pursue other activities.  Many wonder why he would resign when he got a brand new office made of the unbreakable kryptonite.  Very weird.  Anyway, we have replaced him with Lex Luther.  Luther, a business mogul, lost most of his money in the SAM News Corp. crash, and he has to make money somehow.

All the other reporters we fired to save money, and we don't even feel bad about it. 

Anyway, I'll be the editor, and we will of course have special guests.  If you wish to write an editorial, feel free to PM at any time.

[True Democrat]

China: Growing Like Wildfire

April 25, 2006

Lois Lane

Atlasia has a new rival, and this time it comes from the far East.  The People's Republic of China has been growing at record pace for the past couple years, and many estimate that the GDP of China could overtake Atlasia in the near future.

It is reported that in 2005, China's economy grew at a pace of 9.8%, but those are only numbers put out by the government.  Some economists say that the growth could be as high as 15%.  Meanwhile, the Atlasian economy grew at a pace far less than that.  However, one of the biggest sticking points for China has been that most of the population is being left out of the "industrial revolution" of sorts.  But this is all chaning.

Estimates as high as 250 million people could move into Chinese cities in the next 20 years.  What Europe did in 200 years, China could do in 30.

Some of the biggest points of contention between Atlasia and China is not as one might have guessed Taiwan, but the trade deficit.  In 2005, Atlasian recorded a record 201.6258 trade deficit with China.  This is a huge part of the overall Atlasian deficit.

In President Hu Jintao's visit to the White House next week, the deficit, along with international property rights, Taiwan, North Korea, Iran, and other issues, will be sure to come up.

[True Democrat]

Update on the Situation in Guam

April 26, 2006

Carmen Sandiego

Hagåtña- Following massive riots, President Ebowed has recently ordered 80,000 troops be sent to Guam, and they arrived at record speed this afternoon.  As expected, they were not greeted warmly.  Already home to thousands of US air forcemen, the Guamian citizens were not happy with the addition of an additional 80,000 troops.  As riots grew, so did clashes with US military personell.  In total, another 54 Guamians died today,  bring the total to 176.  No US military members were hurt, though a few were lightly injured.

At this time, all foreigners (mainly Japanese tourists) have been evacuated from the island by the US military and commercial flights  Meanwhile, public support for either statehood or independence has grown considerably.  All public operations, include schools, have been suspended for the time being, with the number of rioters growing to 75,000 (44.5% of the population).  It seems that US troops will not be able to get the situation under control unless they crack down, which could in turn lead to further riots.  The President and the Senate must act quickly to get the situation under control.

[True Democrat]

Markets Update

April 26, 2006

Lois Lane

New York- Just a quick checkup of the markets today:

Dow Jones Industrial Average:
11,187.46 (up 731.45 since March 31st)
The markets have risen recently as Secretary of the Treasury Bono has indicated that the increase of interest rates may soon stop.

Oil:
$67.89 (up $3.90 since March 31st)

Oil prices have been up recently over concern about the situation in Iran.

[True Democrat]

Breaking News in Nepal

April 26, 2006

Carmen Sandiego

Kathmandu- It is now reported that the King has been killed, though no group has taken credit yet.  It is thought the Maoist rebels are involved, but this is only speculation at this point.  As of now, there is a struggle to take control of the government.  With no heir, supporters of King Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev will probably not be able to retake the government.  Right now, the military, Maoist rebels, and members of the seven party coalition are vying control of the government.  More information will be provided once more is learned.  As of now, the Atlasian has had no comment on the situation.  One possible motive for the assassination of the King has been that he has not given up power.  Although in a televised address to the nation on April 24th, he promised to return power to the parliament, the King had refused to step down.

[True Democrat]

Update from Nepal Nepal

April 27, 2006

Carmen Sandiego

Kathmandu- After the King's assassination yesterday, Nepal was governmentless, though only for a short time.  Mid-morning it was announced that the seven party coalition had not only taken control of the government, but also the military.  However, at this time it is unclear if the Maoist rebels will stop their hostilities.  The announcement was made from the King's palace, the the coalition asked for global recognition, especially from Atlasia.  So far there is no word from the State Department.

Tensions in Iran

April 27, 2006

Carmen Sandiego

Tehran- Irani President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad announced today that his country has successfully enriched uranium for its so-called "peaceful" nuclear program.  The announcement was made after months of tensions between Iran and the world community on its possible development of nuclear weapons.  UN Secretary General Kofi Annan said the IAEA would look into the matter further and encouraged the SC to stop Iran from developing nuclear weapons.  The Irani President has also threatened to jack up oil prices and possibly reduce production if the international community attempts to stop Iran.  Again, so far the State Department or the President has not spoken on the matter.

Oil Prices Up

April 27, 2006

Lois Lane

Just another check of the oil market.  With the announcement that Iran has enriched uranium, oil prices made incredible leaps today, closing at $73.10 (up $5.21 for the day).  Although in the past many would have thought the price of oil could not go up this much in one day, it has finally happened.  This is a new record for the price of oil

[True Democrat]

Update on the Situation in Guam

April 27, 2006

Carmen Sandiego

Hagåtña- All 80,000 Atlasian military forces have arrived in Guam, and the situation is beginning to be under control.  Only an additional 12 citizens died yesterday, bringing the total to 188.  At the same time, protests have gotten much smaller.  It is now estimated that only 35,000 people are still protesting (21% of the population).  However, many protesters have now moved away from violent protests and into peaceful protest.  Many activists are now blocking military vehicles.  Furthermore, a new group, called Guamians United for Statehood (a completely nonviolent entity), has organized a boycott of all American goods (which are nearly all goods).  It is estimated that 70% of the people are participating in this boycott.  All of this comes as the Senate decides to reconsider the Pacifican Statehood Act.

[True Democrat]

Guam Cools Down

April 29, 2006

Carmen Sandiego

Hagåtña- Over the last two days, most violent protests in Guam have ceased and no additional citizens have died.  However, the amount of nonviolent protests have only increased, from 35,000 on Thursday to about 42,000 today.  Additionally, those taking part in the boycott of all U.S. goods has risen from 70% of the population to 85%.  At this time, neither the State Department, nor the Guamian government has commented on the protests.  Many find this unusual that the administration in Guam has not condemned the protests, as the government has close connections with the federal government in Nyman.

[True Democrat]

Nepalese Coalition Pleads for Help

April 29, 2006

Carmen Sandiego

Kathmandu- Late last night, a deal between the Maoist rebels and the seven party coalition ruling Nepal failed.  The rebels have said that they will continue to fight, causing widespread panic throughout the nation.  At this time, the government of Nepal has asked for peacekeeping troops from the outside world, however, Secretary of State Al has stated, "This isn't our war, hope for a peaceful outcome."  With no Atlasian support, the UN is unlikely to get involved.  However, at this time, the EU is still considering sending some support to the seven party coalition, whether financial or in the form of strategic support.  European Commission President    José Manuel Durão Barroso has stated that "unfortunately, the EU is likely to get involved without US support, though we may aid the seven party coalition financially."  So at this time, without outside support, unrest may return to Nepal.

[True Democrat]

Race for President Begins

April 29, 2006

Lex Luther

Nyman- Recently, Senator Yates has declared his intention to form an exploratory committee in order to determine if he should run for President.  Senator Yates, one of the most popular and active members of the Senate, is seen as one of the clear frontrunners in this race.  Although Yates is a member of the Independent Liberal Party, he is seen as a bit of a maverick, as is evidence by his independent look at every issue and his committment to respect the views of his citizens.

In the latest polls, Yates is leading even the President.  In Governor Afleitch's latest poll, Senator Yates attracts 60.3% of the support in the final round, while the President gets only 39.7%.  If one thing can be said about this poll, it's that at this time the Independent Liberal Party may just be unstoppable in this election.

[True Democrat]

Protests in Nyman Over Sudan

April 29, 2006

Lex Luther

Nyman- Today in Nyman, about 20,000 protesters marched in front of the capitol, led by celebrities such as George Clooney.  The protesters were asking President Ebowed to increase the size of the foce in Sudan to stop the genocide of the janjaweed, allegedly backed by the Sudanese government.  The protestors also demanded that the President to back the UN with more money to aid refugees.  So far, over 150,000 people have been killed, and there are millions of refugees, some of which are spilling into neighboring Chad.  At this time, neither the President nor the Secretary of State have commented on this issue.

[True Democrat]

April Economic Numbers

April 30, 2006

Lois Lane

The April economic numbers are in, and here they are:

GDP: +1.9% (up 1.825% for the year)

Unemployment: 5.4% (-0.4 % since last month, down 0.3% for the year)

Inflation: +2.875% for the year

DOW Start (April 1st): 10,456.01

DOW End (April 28th): 11,201.54 (up 745.53 since last month)

Consumer Spending: +0.3% (+0.4% for the year)

Oil Prices: $76.82 (up $12.83 since last month)

This is my first time, so be nice.

[True Democrat]

Pumping Up

May 1, 2006

Lois Lane

Gas prices are at a nearly record high prices across the country, here's some major cities:

Highest: San Bernadino: $3.410

Lowest: Tulsa: $2.619

Other Major Cities:

New York: $3.223

Los Angeles: $3.350

Philadelphia: $3.081

Miami: $3.001

Atlanta: $2.921

Houston: $2.932

Chicago: $2.987

[True Democrat]

Guam Looks Hopeful

May 3, 2006

Carmen Sandiego

Hagåtña- Since my last report, the situation in Guam has been stable though one violent protest took place yesterday in which five Guamians were seriously wounded.  On the boybott that is now sweeping the island, 95% of the population is now participating, in an effort to exert some political power for the ultimate goal of statehood.  As the Senate takes on the Pacifican Statehood bill again, the Guamian has officially declared its intention for statehood.  This is a landmark turning point in the quest for statehood, as now the Atlasian backed government is calling for statehood.  Most analysts believe this action was taken due 95% for the boycott.  Furthermore, the Guamian government is sending representatives to meet privately with Senators in order to secure the passage of the Pacifican Statehood Act.

[True Democrat]

Midgard News Wire Service

Temporary Cease Fire Announced In Nepal

May 4, 2006

A temporary cease fire has been announced in Nepal between the seven party coalition and the Maoist rebels.  The agreement has come under intense negotiation for the past couple days and diplomatic pressure from the European Union.  More details will be provided later.

[True Democrat]

The New Triple Entente

May 4, 2006

Carmen Sandiego

Havana - Fidel Castro, Hugo Chavez, and now Eva Morales have all agreed to reject any Atlasian attempt for further free trade in the Western Hemisphere.  In the agreement, all three men promised to lead their nations against Atlasian influence in Latin America.  Furthermore, the pact contained much left-leaning rhetoric.  This is now the second version of the Bolivarian Alternatives for the Americas, as Bolivia has been added this time around.  All three leaders met in Havana, where Fidel Castro offered them a warm welcome.

It seems though that not all of Latin America is happy this agreement.  Recently, Peru recalled its ambassador to Venezuela.  Furthermore, an emergency meeting has been called among the leaders of Bolivia, Brazil, Argentina, and Venezuela to discuss the most recent natural gas crisis in which President Morales has attemped to nationalize Bolivia's entire natural gas industry.  Many leaders, such as Silva of Brazil, have expressed concerns about this plan.

On the issue of free trade, the conflict between Atlasia and the members of the Bolivarian Alternative for the Americas will only get worse.  In light of the recently passed CAFTA, a possible free trade agreement with Colombia, and the Senate debate currently focused on a revision of NAFTA that would ensure true free trade, it seems unlikely that this crisis will diffuse quickly.  Not only has policy opposition plagued the two sides, but also rhetoric.  In his campaign for President of Bolivia, Eva Morales used the slogan "Long live coca, Death to the Yankees!"  Hugo Chavez has continually spoken out against Atlasia and wishes to equip citizens of Venezuela for a possible Atlasian invasion.  With Castro, I think we all know what the story is.  In conclusion, the clash between Atlasia and the leftist leaders of Latin America isn't going away any time soon.

[True Democrat]

Market Update

May 8, 2006

Lois Lane

In light of the signing and close passage of the Energy Policy Reform Act, Wall Street has responded accordingly with one of the largest single day increases in years:

Dow Jones (note these numbers are Friday's increases):
April 28th: 11,201.54
May 4th: 11,298.78 (+97.24)
May 5th: 11,810.88 (+512.10)

In addition, the price of oil dropped dramatically by going below $70:
April 28th: $76.82
May 4th: $74.11 (-$2.71)
May 5th: $68.56 (-$5.55)

[True Democrat]

Midgard News Wire Service

Oil Prices Have Large Drop for Second Straight Day

May 8, 2006

With the Iranian President's letter to President Ebowed about using diplomatic means to solve the nuclear situation in Iran, the price of oil dropped $2.38/barrel to end at $66.18.  In addition, the DJIA gained 187.86 points to end at 11998.74, the highest close in the history of the DJIA (the old high was on Friday with 11,810.88, and before that, the high was 11,722.98 on January 14, 2000.)

[True Democrat]

New Demands From Guam

May 9, 2006

Carmen Sandiego

Hagåtña- With great opposition to the reintroduction of the Pacifican Statehood Act and its probable failure, the representatives of Guam's territorial government have now reduced their demands from statehood to commonwealth status.  Commonwealth status is what Puerto enjoyed and is currently in effect in the Northern Mariana Islands.  Guamian Governor Felix Perez Camacho spoke today about how "commonwealth status will be the step on a long, peaceful road to statehood."

[True Democrat]

This is a personal announcement:

I am very very sorry to regret that I am resigning from the position of GM.  I know this is coming extremely early, but this job just isn't for me.  I want to participate in politics, not make up scenarios.  If I were to stay GM, I know I would become extremely inactive and uneffective, which I don't want to happen.   I want to Atlasia to have the best GM possible, and unfortunately I cannot do that.  Once again, I am extremely sorry to the people of Atlasia and most of all President Ebowed, to whom I promised to serve as GM.