Rahman and Rivi Vataix

Subspace relay network disruption leaves billions cut off from wider Federation By T'Vas Stardate 239211.07 Aging infrastructure such as subspace relay stations badly in need of repairs and upgrades was blamed for yesterday's outage. MONASH SECTOR - Several worlds and outposts across the Monash sector were cut off from the Federation subspace relay network temporarily before communications were quickly restored. "There was a short outage in the network due to a faulty subspace relay station that led to a cascade failure, but the problem has been resolved," said Iris Kena, general manager of sector operations, to reporters outside the Federation Civic Center on Ramsol III. Residents first noticed the disruption at 07:41 FST yesterday, when com signal errors began logging across several media networks. "I'm trying to catch up on the Olympic hockey qualifier when the whole transmission cuts off just as Pascoe is about to score!" complained Theriss Min, a chemist and resident of Daltan II. "Don't tell me who won! I heard they're going to replay it tonight." Though there have been occasional disruptions in the network over the past few years, yesterday's outage was the largest yet. Communications network officials blame outdated equipment and poorly maintained subspace relay stations. Reinvesting in aging infrastructure has been a priority for the outgoing Bacco administration. Legislation to upgrade communications and transportation systems across the Federation was passed by the Federation Council last year, but the much needed supplies and workers were delayed during the Federation Transport Union strike. "With the strike over, they can get started working again in full upgrading the system," said Frajaan, director for Global 7, the largest media network on Ramsol III, "but the truth is we needed those upgrades long before the strike." "The problem is so do the sectors around us," he added. Starfleet Command assured reporters that no Starfleet operations were affected by the outage, which lasted approximately three hours. FNS Home FNS Data Feed FNS on FB

Dear Ops, Thanks for making your FNS stories fun to read. Sincerely, Rich

Congrats and welcome to the fleet!

Here's another article speculating about the possibilities of TV vs movies for Trek, with this amusing graph:

Television lends itself to a different kind of storytelling than summer blockbuster movies, though, with more time allowed for character development/exploration, world building, and (assuming it follows current TV trends) season(s)-long story arcs and threads. If one judged prime Trek from just the first ten movies (and especially the TNG films), you wouldn't necessarily think they were from the same franchise that gave us stories like "The City on the Edge of Forever" or "The Measure of a Man."

Hmmm, the fact that they go out of their way though to mention this in the press release: makes me think they might actually be interested in going back to the morality plays of the previous series. In contrast, I don't remember any of the new JJ-era films every being advertised as anything more than action and nostalgia and some brief lip service to Star Trek's "optimistic view of the future."

Another from Alt!Rosh as simmed by Tony: XD I might have to steal that someday for the prime Rosh to use...

One on one with candidate Narala By Vian Nova Stardate 239210.17 Nimbus III Chief Administrator Narala on Deep Space 9, Bajor Sector. Narala is known as "the crusader" in her run for the presidency. Much of her publicity has boasted of her ability to take action when it comes to politics. Yet while her record fighting corruption and transforming Nimbus III from a failed colony to a prosperous, galactic hotspot is impressive, she remains unfamiliar to many across the rest of the Federation. She was also the only candidate who did not attend the Berengaria Caucus - a move many political commentators believe may have cost her the presidency. I was able to get a hold of an interview with Chief Administrator Narala whilst she held a meet and greet on Deep Space 9. Despite being a candidate, it is surprisingly difficult to get a one-on-one interview with her. I was lucky to get this rare opportunity. There's been a lot of controversies whilst you've been in the running - I'd like to go over them with you. The first one is that your eligibility to run has come into question numerous times throughout the campaign. Has it hindered you in any way? "No more than it being an awfully common question. I am a Federation citizen - Nimbus III was a joint effort involving the Federation. I know they've run investigations into my eligibility, but there's no question about it - I'm a legitimate candidate for this election." There's been a few questions about how you came to power on Nimbus III, namely about how quickly you came to power after the arrest of Chief Administrator Ventimago Weil. "It was a fluke. I had nothing to do with the rallies that were run. I'd certainly never considered being Chief Administrator before then, too. But when the opportunity arose, and I was urged to run for office, I took it. I ran legitimately there, too. A lot of those rumors you're talking about mention some backdoor dealing, but there was nothing like it. It was a proper campaign, the people voted, and I was put into office." The Prometheus Incident was quite the debacle. Do you stand by your comments about the investigation being led by someone not affiliated with Starfleet? "Of course. I stand by those comments 100%. Starfleet does a lot of things for the Federation, but when a mistake of that magnitude occurs, I believe it's best that an independent party comes in to investigate what exactly happened." Moving forward to more recent events - Vivian Voreic, Orion crime lord, on Nimbus III. Did you push forward with your appeal? "The people of both Nimbus and the Federation are rightfully concerned about Voreic. I can say that the case has been appealed, and it's currently under review by a secondary prosecutor as per the Nimbus Security Regulation Act." READ PREVIOUS STORY: "Candidate Narala faces questions about crime lord's sudden acquittal" - SD 239206.10 There was a report released recently about Bajoran voters. Have you seen it? "I have." What are your comments on that report? "I think that the Federation has lost its way by focusing more on a select group of planets than not of the entire Federation itself. The United Federation of Planets doesn't feel very united right now - it seems that the planets have been categorized in a "level of importance", and I don't stand for that. That is something that must be changed. The figures and comments from Bajor seem to indicate that the Bajoran people no longer feel important." Do you think there should be a Bajoran candidate? "I think every planet should have a candidate. Every planet's needs should be represented, the Bajorans included. I pledge myself to represent the needs of those who feel unheard. Every voice is important, not just a select few." Do you plan to go to Bajor? "It's my next shuttle ride." True to her word, Narala departed Deep Space 9 shortly after our interview to head to Bajor. Whether she'll be headed to Paris at the end of this year to take the oath of office remains to be seen. Read More: Exclusive Election 2392 Coverage FNS Home • FNS Data Feed • FNS on FB This story was written by the writer for Lt. Cmdr. Tristam Core. Submit your own news stories to the FNS!

It's not easy when your mom is/was a starship engineer... Hmm, for some reason now, I picture a Cardassian interrogator: "How many decks do you see?"There. Are. Four. Decks! Or maybe not...

Congrats, and good work, ensigns.

Congrats and welcome!

Here's one example of a game session:

This is what I thought the Star Trek: TNG Interactive Technical Manual was going to be when I saw those screenshots on the back of the box way back in the 90s! The future is finally here!

Bajoran author Pela Zhor speaks at opening of Berengaria Caucus By Deyvani Chandur Stardate 239209.02 This year's Berengaria Caucus features a star-studded list of guests and speakers as the Federation elections loom near. BERENGARIA VII — The Berengaria VII Caucus began today in the capital city of Urraca, with all major (and even many minor) candidates in this year's presidential race present. Joining them are such Federation luminaries as Siraan of Vulcan, Cardinal Maria Santiago, Dr. Ven Tell, and many, many more, including many FNS contributors. "The Value of Open and Free Discussion" Noted author Pela Zhor of Bajor gave the opening address, reflecting on the changes in the galaxy since the last time he opened the Caucus in 2320, most notably the transformation of his homeworld of Bajor and what value and place Federation ideals have in an increasingly factious and unstable galaxy. "We look to the Federation Charter not as the haughty values of yesterday's idealists but as the culmination of hundreds—thousands of political movements over just as many years and ten times as many worlds. Over the Federation's existence, these ideas have been challenged, from within and without, and there have been temptations to call our ideals 'superior' to those we would call 'barbarous' and 'backward'. But that's not what the Federation stands for." "The Federation is not a haughty, shining city on the hill; it is an organization that seeks to turn fists into open palms, by extending one of its own. Our ideals make no claim to completeness, to absolute truth. Rather, our ideals believe most of all in the value of open and free discussion. We do not let differences simmer and shatter the peace we have all so hard worked for. We acknowledge them and the validity of our opponent's opinion." A Historic Forum The Berengaria Document, signed by Vulcan, Andoria, Tellar, and Earth, was a statement of common values and ideals among the assembled worlds when the Federation proper was still a nascent idea. It outlined comprehensive concepts of citizenship, sovereignty and interstellar law that would eventually give rise to the Federation Charter. In the late 22nd century, the Berengaria Caucus was started by T'Shar of Vulcan and her New Federation movement to serve as a free and open intellectual arena, in the spirit of the Document. While the New Federation Movement quickly declined, the Caucus continued and came under the direction of the Berengaria VII government, which has organized it annually ever since. Everything one can think of is discussed in the Caucus, and many regard it as the high point of interstellar discourse. So called "dangerous ideas" and unpopular opinions are never shunned, and the only rule is that the decorum of the Caucus be maintained and that speakers discuss and debate in a respectful manner. As Governor Ingrid Stellstrom reminded the audience, "This isn't Chaya VII". Indeed, very few of the workshops ever turn heated, and the Berengaria Caucus is known for its sincere and calm exploration and discussion of ideas. Much like a classroom, the point of the Caucus is to explore ideas, not to declare a winner in an intellectual battle or determine the moral superiority of one view over another. Discussions on Policy The first workshop of the Caucus was devoted to a discussion of Federation foreign policy, with special attention given to the new alliances of the Menthar Corridor. Ambassador and presidential candidate Lily Ventu joined the discussion as one of the experts, alongside noted Detapa Council member Natima Lang and Federation Foreign Minster Shelaen Varea. By all accounts Ambassador Ventu did well and was deemed by attendee Lirisha as "poised, confident and eminently quotable" in her discussion points. Other candidates are lined up to speak at various individual workshops, while the main event of the Berengaria Election Forum will be held at the end of the week, with an open invitation to all declared candidates to join. Other hot topics on the board include the Prometheus Incident and a discussion on Starfleet oversight and scientific ethics in the wake of the disaster. It's also standing room only in the discussion on the Prime Directive as it relates to the Romulan Republic and whether the Federation should recognize the nascent liberal Romulan state. Read More: Exclusive Election 2392 Coverage FNS Home • FNS Data Feed • FNS on FB This article was written by Erin aka Anen Sonbef, FNS Team Facilitator.

There's a distinction between local jurisdiction and Federation law. The Federation penal settlement is for those who broke the latter, such as the Maquis or Bashir's father when he violated the ban on genetic enhancement for his son. It's akin to a US federal prison, whereas the local planetary prisons within the Federation would be akin to a county jail or a state penitentiary.

Hmm, that boy definitely has a type...

Congrats and welcome to the fleet!

President Bacco accepts invitation to visit new Romulan capital By T'Vas Stardate 239208.02 After the destruction of Romulus (pictured) and Remus in 2387 by the Hobus supernova and years of infighting, Rator III has emerged as the new capital of the Romulan Star Empire. PARIS, EARTH — The Palais de la Concorde announced that President Bacco has accepted an invitation to visit the new Romulan capital of Rihan on Rator III later this year. The new Imperial Senate of the Romulan Star Empire had extended the invitation to the Federation President earlier this year in a move widely seen by foreign affairs analysts as an attempt by the new Senate to secure its legitimacy as the rightful successor to the original Imperial Senate that was destroyed on Romulus by the Hobus supernova in 2387. President Bacco's trip will be the first visit to the Romulan Star Empire by a sitting Federation president in nearly a century. Some Federation Council members are opposed to the visit, citing the Romulan Star Empire's current conflict with the Romulan Republic, the breakaway democratic nation whose sovereignty is not recognized by the Empire. "How can President Bacco accept the invitation to dine with the same people who are butchering those Romulans who simply want a free and democratic government?" asked Councilor Mara Kell of Betazed. Others however see the potential for a rekindling of amicable Federation-Romulan relations, which first began in earnest during the Dominion War alliance and then were renewed again after Starfleet assisted the Romulan military in defeating Praetor Shinzon following his coup d'état in 2379. Relations between the two powers had cooled somewhat during the 2380s, but Romulan affairs experts agree that the Federation's post-Hobus relief efforts have gone a long way in strengthening the historically tenuous relationship. "If anything, this is a chance for the Federation to reestablish strong diplomatic relations with our former Dominion War ally," said Dr. Keahvon of the Cerberus Group, a San Francisco think tank. "In the aftermath of Hobus, Federation generosity was given to numerous Romulan refugees at a time when many other powers, including the Klingons, chose to take advantage of their weakened state. The Romulan people have long memories, and they have certainly not forgotten that." READ PREVIOUS STORY: "Romulans extend invitation to Federation President Bacco for state visit" - SD 239203.18 FNS Home • FNS Data Feed • FNS on FB

President Bacco announces deal to end Transport Union strike By Reza Kardgar Stardate 239208.15 Federation President Nan Bacco's deal with the Federation Transport Union calls for increased security for transport convoys, with private contractors supplementing Starfleet's anti-piracy efforts. PARIS, EARTH — As she promised at her State of the Federation address, President Bacco and the Federation Transport Union have come to an agreement, bringing an end to the strike that began nearly eight months ago. "This is a day of celebration across the Federation and beyond," said Bacco from her office at the Palais de la Concorde in Paris, Earth, as Transport Union leaders stood next to her, along with business tycoon Tyson Holt. Holt, CEO of Holt New Alliance, whom insiders have said was crucial in swaying the Transport Union to agree to the deal, made some additional remarks. "Thanks to the President's leadership, today marks the moment when the Federation economy returns to warp speed," he said. "I know I for one am looking forward to getting my convoys running again." Transport Union official Akilah Kalu agreed, thanking both Bacco and Holt. "This has always been about saving lives," she said. "Our members want to get back to work, but they want to know they'll come home to see their families. That they don't have to worry about piracy and other attacks on their livelihood." New Arrangement The agreement marks an experiment in Federation policy as it calls for private contractors such as New Alliance Defense, a division of Holt New Alliance, to supplement existing Starfleet efforts that provide protection along trade routes such as Operation Safe Harbor, an anti-piracy effort begun by Starfleet last year. New Alliance Defense will be providing security for transport convoys along major routes as a deterrent against attacks. Joining Bacco at the announcement was Holt New Alliance CEO Tyson Holt, whose company will be among the private contractors escorting the convoys. However, some have expressed doubts about the new plan, including those in the Colonial Coalition that have been most affected by both increased piracy and the Transport Union strike. "I'll believe it when I see it," said Yaline Troa, a shopkeeper on a trade station near Avaris IV. "We've heard these kind of promises from Bacco and the Federation Council before. Just look at Operation Safe Harbor. I certainly don't feel any safer." Contentious Vote Ahead The deal still must be voted on by the Federation Council, and though President Bacco has many allies on the council, other council members have expressed their concerns, including Terra Novan councilman and presidential candidate Kevin Steiner. "The key to a strong defense is not outsourcing our obligations but on rebuilding a stronger Starfleet," said Steiner to cheers from his supporters while making a campaign stop on Trillius Prime. "Don't be fooled by this president's love for theatrics. This is nothing more than a band aid for a crisis her policies have brought us." Terra Novan Councilor Kevin Steiner continued his criticism of the president's foreign policy, stating that it was Bacco's lack of renewal in an expanded Starfleet that has led to the brazen attacks on freighters in recent years. Another member of the Federation Council was concerned about oversight for New Alliance Defense and other private contractors. "Starfleet operations are strictly governed by protocols set forth by this council," said Antasa Dros of Peliar Zel II. "Furthermore, Starfleet officers undergo rigorous training to become the professionals they are. Will these private operators be following a similar structure? I'd like to think so, but I don't know because the president hasn't given any specifics." FNS commentator Lixa Dansha, who has called for convoys to answer the threat of piracy, echoed those concerns. "While I am relieved to see Starfleet Command and the Federation take this seriously, I hope the oversight is robust," he said. Still, most political analysts expect the vote to pass given the devastating effect the Transport Union strike has had on the economies of many council members' worlds. For those hit hardest by the strike, the news of the agreement was met if not with cheers then at least sighs of relief. "Finally, something's being done," said Jaev'i, a farmer on Niwa IV whose farm had been shut down by the Niwa Department of Agriculture since stardate 239202. "First the strike, then the drought. It's been a tough year for us." He sighed, looking at his fields for a moment. "I want to work." HAVE YOUR SAY: Do you support Bacco's deal to end the Transport Union strike? Reporting for the Federation News Service from the FNS Paris Bureau, with additional reporting from Sol Sector FNS correspondent T'Vas. FNS Home • FNS Data Feed • FNS on FB • FNS Team

HAVE YOUR SAY: Bacco's Deal to End the Transport Union Strike The Issue The Federation Transport Union, citing continued Nausicaan pirate attacks and Klingon raids that have killed dozens of transport crews, has been on strike for nearly eight months, with all shipping and transit runs suspended, including those of 812 major shipping carriers. The strike has been an economic crisis throughout the Federation and beyond, devastating the economies of numerous member and allied worlds. The agreement announced by President Bacco calls for existing Starfleet anti-piracy operations—stretched thin and cited by many colonists to be ineffective—to be supplemented by private contractors who will escort transport convoys along major trade routes to provide additional protection against pirates and raiders. Read more about the strike, piracy, and the agreement: President Bacco announces deal to end Transport Union strikeEditorial: Pirates: A Persistent ThreatEditorial: Maronida Shiir gives her take on Transport Union strikePresident Nan Bacco assures colonists relief aid as Transport Union strike continuesAs with all FNS stories, your comments on the current situation are welcome below. FNS Home • FNS Data Feed • FNS on FB

Odo is basically the T-1000. When there was a changeling infiltrator that pretended to be Dr. Bashir, it managed to steal a runabout after killing the entire crew. If Odo really wanted to, he could be terrifyingly unstoppable.

It's on our wiki: http://wiki.starbase118.net/wiki/index.php/Featured_Bio_Contest/Easy_Starter_Bio

Hmm, somehow my TrekCore link didn't go through. Here's the article with the mock ups.

Never thought this day would actually come... another article on TrekCore with some mock ups of the book's layout from its publisher. The Okudas noted on facebook it won't just be 300 new pages tacked onto the back of the old version and that the first two JJ Abrams films will be interspersed in the main section of the text like "any other alternate timeline" that was featured on Trek before. Unfortunately, so far they're saying info from the third nuTrek film Star Trek Beyond won't be available in time to make their publication date (come on! Surely they can find a way!). But anyway... new illustrations! Maybe some new background info! ALL of prime Trek in two volumes! Yay 2016!