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Correct to 30th March, 2014 - Post 693

January 1, 2014: The world celebrates the new year; meanwhile in Russia, an impromptu protest begins against Vladimir Putin's government in Moscow. Beginning in the early hours of the morning, the “New Years Day Protest” is curtailed only a few hours after it begins, with the authorities dispersing the protesters just after sundown.

January 2, 2014: Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych brashly decides to send the military over to clear Kiev's Independence Square of Euromaidan protesters. The resulting brutal military crackdown kill some 76 people and 247 others, though the protesters stand their ground. It also angers millions of Ukrainians, who turn up to protest the crackdown.

January 3, 2014: The UN releases a statement decrying the continued lack of support for the latest fundraising campaign for the Syrian civil war, despite acknowledging unrelenting American and British humanitarian assistance despite the recent Islamic Front . The statement also places the number of deaths at 185,241 people. The sharp rise in the last month is attributed to sporadic but fierce Islamic Front and Free Syrian Army conflicts at FSA occupied bases, in addition to a renewed regime assault on the deadlocked areas of the country such as Aleppo. President Obama releases a statement denouncing the Islamic Front's continued occupation of FSA bases on the Jordanian border. In addition, the statement notes that large amounts of humanitarian aid from the US and UK amongst other countries is unaccounted for after delivery to UN refugee camps along the border near to IF-occupied bases.

January 16, 2014: Canadian Cabinet Minister Jason Kenney in a interview with 660 News in Calgary, Kenney says that he thinks the Conservative Party is in need of a “reboot”. This causes some commentators speculate that Kenney is moving to replace Stephen Harper as Leader of the Conservative Party and Prime Minister, but Kenney flat out denies this.

January 19, 2014: In a surprise decision, President Yanukovych unilaterally decides to opt for full membership into the Eurasian Union and Russia-led Customs Union, angering western Ukrainians even more.

January 24, 2014: Michigan governor Rick Snyder (R) signed the Michigan Driverless Automobiles Act, allowing Michigan to become the fourth state to legalize Autonomous Cars.

February 2, 2014: Super Bowl XLVIII - 10 years and 1 day after their loss in Super Bowl XXXVIII, the Carolina Panthers defeat Tom Brady and the New England Patriots 20-10.

February 6, 2014: The Ukrainian crisis reaches a boiling point, when armed thugs (later revealed to be hired by the government) beat opposition politician Yulia Tymoshenko to death while she is in prison. The act would be condemned by the international community and especially the EU, which now call for Yanukovych to resign (which he adamantly refuses to).

February 9, 2014: Actor Sean Connery passes away at age 83.

March 3, 2014: In a surprise address to the crowds, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani calls for a “steady process of reforms that will give more rights to the people while keeping true to the ideals of the Islamic Republic”. His first act since the address is the release of more political prisoners and the easing of Internet censorship.

March 3, 2014: The WHO announce that the 'Bird Flu' virus has been seen transmitting between humans in China but appeal for calm as this new strain 'H10N8' has a much lower death rate than first feared.

March 4, 2014: Disney and Toei Animation jointly announce a planned Phineas and Ferb-Pretty Cure crossover to air around 2015.

March 7, 2014: In a stunning decree, President Yanukovych bans the 3 largest opposition parties (Batkivshchyna, UDAR, and Svoboda) and bans their politicians from running for office for the rest of their lives. This is seriously condemned by most politicians, and begins to rupture the ruling Party of Regions, as some MPs begin to join the protesters.

March 7, 2014: 300: Rise of an Empire opens to lacklustre reviews and performs below expectations at the box office.

March 8, 2014: Greece receives its newest influx of financial aid from the European Union and the International Monetary Fund amidst successes in creditor negotiations, a sign of the nation's improving economic health as it has also posited a budgetary surplus for 2014. With the early satisfaction of term conditions, further relief is set to make way for the Mediterranean country with the new disbursements - setting Greece on the road to paying back its 240 billion euros in loans. Prime Minister Antonis Samaras allayed concerns for any future austerity measures, saying “[we] will conclude 2014 as promised - with the termination of [Greece's] bailout programme.” Nevertheless, concerns and suggestions in financial media raised the possibility of writing off much of Greek debt to ease the recuperation process. With today's announcement comes a slackening in government frustration, as Athens ponders lifting its 18-hour ban on protests.

March 12, 2014: A new nuclear deal is signed between the Iranian government and the Western powers is signed. Among the terms are restrictions of enriching uranium to around 4%-5% (with the dilution of all uranium stocks above that level), increased UN inspections at all nuclear facilities, and the closure of the Arak facility, in exchange for increased (yet reversible, should Iran violate the deal) sanctions relief.

The deal is hailed in both Iran and the Western world, with the notable exception of Israel, which PM Benjamin Netanyahu called “the greatest act of appeasement since the Munich Conference of 1938”.

March 14, 2014: The climax of the Ukrainian crisis. Chief of the General Staff Volodymyr Zamana issues an ultimatum to President Yanukovych to either rescind the ban (which he denounced as unconstitutional) within 72 hours or be forced out of office. Yanukovych refuses to comply. Meanwhile, the colonel general orders the military to refuse to obey the President's orders.

March 15, 2014: The RCAF announces that it is purchasing twelve Airbus A330 MRTT transports, seven A310 MRTT (three of which are built as medevac aircraft), 21 A400M Atlas tactical transports (equipped with Pratt & Whitney Canada PW180 turboprops instead of the SNECMA M138A2 turboprops), four Boeing C-17 Globemaster III strategic airlifters, and five Lockheed Martin C-130J-30 Super Hercules airlifters.

March 17, 2014: President Viktor Yanukovych is finally ousted in a military coup d'état after the ultimatum expires. Col. Gen. Zamana later appoints Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada Volodymyr Rybak as Interim President until elections scheduled in 15 June.

March 19, 2014: The Canadian government announces that it is separating the F-35 purchase from the CF-18 Replacement program. The CF-18 Replacement will replace the CF-18 Hornet with 160 new fighters and be an open competition between the Boeing Advanced Super Hornet, Dassault Rafale, Eurofighter Typhoon Tranche 3, Lockheed Martin F-16CA Arctic Falcon, and Saab Gripen E/F.

March 20, 2014: The British government announces that it will increase the number of Eurofighter Typhoons it's purchasing back to the original 250 aircraft.

March 25, 2014: President Salva Kiir of South Sudan is killed when tensions escalate into a violent battle in the capital city. While Kiir's death is confirmed, his cause of death remains unknown - and no faction takes responsibility.

March 25, 2014: Ukraine tells the Russian government to “Go To Hell” in response to the announcement that they owe the Russian government the money that Russia paid to lease the black sea navel base back.

March 26, 2014: Moscow and Beijing hammer out a deal on natural gas supply in a visit by Vladimir Putin to the Chinese capital. Also playing on reducing public anger surrounding air pollution, President Xi Jinping inks the agreement under the lobbying of Gazprom - all part of state's current plans to substitute the country's coal-fire energy plants in a bid to reduce choking emissions. After wrangling over years of pricing disagreements, the contracts signed call for 38 billion cubic meters per year to be transferred by pipelines for $10.40 per million British thermal units, supplanting Russian desires to buttress its European markets. The first shipments in 2018 are scheduled for entry by 4 thoroughfares: In the Russian Far East's Blagoveshchensk, Dalnerechensk, and Vladivostok - and Western Siberia's Gorno-Altaisk into Xinjiang. Today's breakthrough ends over 15 years in negotiations.

March 30, 2014: Major protests erupt in Eastern Ukraine between pro Russian and Anti Russian factors. The protest turn violent and are eventually broken up with the use of Military force. Their are many injuries and some deaths.

March 31, 2014: At 1 am Russian tanks roll into Eastern and Southern Ukraine. Unlike in Crimea their is intense fighting by the Ukrainian Military.

March 31, 2014: At 9 AM Vladimir Putin gives a speech on international television. He tells that world that the Ukrainian government was quickly loosing control of the situation between the pro and anti Russian factions, and he could no longer stand by while Russian nationals continued to be put in harms way.

March 31, 2014: At noon President Obama goes on national television to address the crisis. Condemning Putin he says that Putin's autocratic actions continue to escalate tension in the region and that all Russians will have to pay the price. He announces new sanctions against dozens of people in Russian government and several banks and major oil companies.

April 7, 2014: Canadian government increases its purchase of F-35s to 96 aircraft for 9.6 billion USD.

April 7, 2014: Despite fighting valiantly after only a week the Ukrainian forces are pushed back to Kiev. The world anxiously watches to see how far Putin will go.

April 10, 2014: After returning from a trip from Europe President Obama announces that the U.S. will send several squadrons of F16's, several tank battalions and several battalions of troops to the Poland and the Baltic States. Warns Putin that the U.S. will stand by it's Nato allies in the event of an attack.

April 12, 2014: In response to President Obama sending troops to the region Putin orders troops to the Borders of the Baltic States for “ Military Exercises”

April 12, 2014: The U.S. Military goes to DEFCON 3 upon hearing the news about troops massing along the border in the Baltic States. President Obama gives an emergency speech on the White House Lawn. He denounces Putin as the most dangerous world leader since Hitler and reassures that the U.S. will stand by their NATO allies if attacked. He ends the speech by saying “Not since the day's leading up to WW2 has the world been in such turmoil.” Citizens and governments alike nervously await to see what the Russian leader will do.

April 13, 2014: The Italian government increases it Eurofighter Typhoon and F-35 orders back to the originally planned 165 Typhoons and 131 F-35s.

April 14, 2014: Amazon begins preliminary limited testing of remotely-piloted drone deliveries in select areas of California.

April 18, 2014: The 2014 New York International Auto Show opens in New York City. Many of the vehicles debuting this year continue the trend of ever greater fuel efficiency, with more electric and hybrid vehicles set to hit dealerships this year at more affordable prices. Analysts also note the prominence autonomous driving systems were granted this year, with most of the major carmakers debuting either road-ready systems in luxury models set for release later this year or prototypes of models expected to hit the market in 2015.

April 19, 2014: Musician Chris Brown is arrested after a violent incident where he allegedly fired a pistol into the ground and stole $500 from a hotel employee in Orlando, Florida. Fellow musician Sevyn Streeter is arrested for driving Brown away afterwards.

April 19, 2014: A bill to legalize autonomous cars was rejected by the Pennsylvania Senate Transportation Committee, the biggest setback for automakers pushing for legalization since Colorado rejected a similar bill in February 2013.

April 25, 2014: The Spanish government increases it Eurofighter Typhoon orders up to 100 aircraft.

May 10, 2014: Malta wins the Eurovision Song Contest in Copenhagen, with the song I Will Love You Forever performed by Beangrowers. Ireland are 2nd thanks to Johnny Logan. Due to lack of suitable venue, TVM asks RTE to host the 50th contest the following year.

May 11, 2014: The German government increases its Eurofighter Typhoon order back to the originally planned 250 fighters.

May 14, 2014: Chris Brown pleas guilty to robbery charges over the Orlando robbery. He is sentenced to four years in prison

May 16, 2014: The film “Godzilla” from Legendary Pictures and Warner Brothers is released. It is the highest grossing film this weekend, raking in a total $78.1 Million in the United States.

May 17, 2014: Sevyn Streeter goes to trial over the Chris Brown robbery case, and pleas innocent.

May 18, 2014: Israel increases its F-35 purchase to 75 aircraft.

May 26, 2014: Moscow and Beijing hammer out a deal on natural gas supply in a visit by Vladimir Putin to the Chinese capital. Also playing on reducing public anger surrounding air pollution, President Xi Jinping inks the agreement under the lobbying of Gazprom - all part of state's current plans to substitute the country's coal-fire energy plants in a bid to reduce choking emissions. After wrangling over years of pricing disagreements, the contracts signed call for 38 billion cubic meters per year to be transferred by pipelines for $10.40 per million British thermal units, supplanting Russian desires to buttress its European markets. The first shipments in 2018 are scheduled for entry by 4 thoroughfares: In the Russian Far East's Blagoveshchensk, Dalnerechensk, and Vladivostok - and Western Siberia's Gorno-Altaisk into Xinjiang. Today's breakthrough ends over 15 years in negotiations.

May 28, 2014: Despite what many pundits predict, Sevyn Streeter is found not guilty on all charges. Three hours after the verdict, a previous unreleased single entitled “Free” is released by her record label causing controversy. The song debuts at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

June 3, 2014: The Reverend Ian Paisley passes away, aged 88. Similar to the passing of Margaret Thatcher the previous year, his death reveals strong disagreement about his legacy.

June 3, 2014: 2014 Stanley Cup The Boston Bruins win the Stanley Cup on home ice at TD Gardens in the sixth of the 2014 Stanley Cup Finals against the San Jose Sharks. Bruins Defenceman Zdeno Chára scores the game winning goal five minutes into the third period, for a final score of 3-2. The win marks the teams seventh Stanley Cup in their history, and their second in three years, as well as their third trip to the Finals after last year's defeat to the Chicago Blackhawks. The Conn Smythe Trophy for Most Valuable Player of the Playoffs goes to Joe Thornton, who racked up 21 points during the post-season. Thornton, a former Bruin himself, got a standing ovation from the crowd when accepting the award.

June 3, 2014: The Canadian government cancels the Single Class Surface Combatant Project and replaces it with the Canadian Destroyer eXperimental Project and the Future Frigate Program. The CDX program will build sixteen ships across three classes of destroyers while Future Frigate program will construct twenty 6000 ton frigates for the RCN.

June 8, 2014: Vladmir Putin is critically injured during an assassination attempt, taking three bullets to the torso. He is immediately hospitalized but remains unconscious. Police immediately detain the would be assassin who is described as a “radical lesbian anarchist” by Russia Today.

June 9, 2014: In retaliation of the attempted assassination of Vladimir Putin, a group of Russian army soldiers in St. Peterborough starts a killing spree against anybody they see as homosexual after posting a video on social media sites. The death toll from the massacre levels at 61, the deadliest single rampage killing, but was heightened by the fact there was a group of them.

June 9, 2014: - Legal procedures in China and the United States make way for Lenovo Group's $2.91 billion acquisition of Google's Motorola Mobility division, placing the technological multinational over its competitor Huawei for the world's third-largest smartphone provider after South Korea's Samsung Group and the United States' Apple Incorporated. Cross-licensing agreements ensure either party's access to the brand's immense patent portfolio, as Beijing-based Lenovo gains a foothold in the vast markets of North and Latin America. Seeking to expand its LTE offerings in a new triad focus on tablets, PC's, and smartphones, CEO Yang Yuanqing plans to roll out the Motorola name to the company's dominant turfs in China, Indonesia, and Russia, all the while dialing up its presence in Europe and strengthening its mobile launch in Brazil this year.

June 10, 2014: The video announcing the massacre is taken from YouTube. Dmitry Medvedev condemns the massacre the day he becomes Interim President and announced a military tribunal. This gives the world a gimps into the massive change between Medvedev and Putin, putting Medvedev in a positive light.

June 10, 2014: On the same day, Russia Today that was quoted as saying “the would be assassin who is described as a “radical lesbian anarchist”” comes under fire from the Western World for inciting Homophobia that caused the massacre.

June 10, 2014: The world waits in anticipation still of the fate of Vladmir Putin. Meanwhile Prime Minister of Russia, Dmitry Medvedev, announces he will become the Interim President until Putin recovers.

June 14, 2014: The Russian Orthodox Church goes against Medvedev's new approach to homosexuality, this puts a spotlight on the Russian Orthodox Church which is bombarded with comments from critics.

June 15, 2014: Ukrainian Presidential Elections - Vitaliy Klitschko (UDAR-Batkivshchyna) wins by a landslide, winning 63% compared to his nearest rival Oleh Tyahnybok (Svoboda) who won 21% of the vote. The main pro-Russian parties (Party of Regions and the Communists) suffer massive defeats in the Verkhovna Rada, with the PoR largely dissolving by itself after the elections.

June 27, 2014: Mercedes-Benz debuted the 2015 S-Class, which featured an improved autonomous driving feature. Like the 2014 S-Class released in 2013, the autonomous driving feature is operable at highway speeds.

July 1, 2014: In a widely-expected move by the West, President Vitaliy Klitschko suspends all talks of joining both the Customs Union and Eurasian Union, opting instead to sign and ratify the Association Agreement with the EU. In a speech directed to a joint session of the Verkhovna Rada shortly before ratification, Klitschko declared that “Ukraine's future is forever with Europe, not with Russia”

Most pro-Russian groups (especially the Communist Party) protests, but they are mostly ineffectual since the Ukrainian crisis, while Russian Interim President Dmitri Medvedev (becoming Interim President after Vladimir Putin's assassination attempt) expressed concern at the situation.

July 1, 2014: Mexico see's largest gains in GDP in over 4 decades at 6.7% growth. Economists and politicians credit it to the liberalization of the Energy sector last winter.

July 5, 2014: Mexican president Peña Nieto calls for new trade deals with the US in regards to the new energy policy and how US companies can move into the country.

July 14, 2014: 2014 World Cup - Brazil earns a record sixth World Cup title, beating Spain 2-1 in the final match.

July 18, 2014: Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel resigns from his position and refers to the Obama administration as “dishonest and disgraceful”. He refuses any interviews or offers to elaborate on his comment.

July 21, 2014: White House Chief of Staff Denis McDonough also resigns, stating “I have failed to control the many situations I have faced”.

July 30, 2014: President Obama announces his a joint trade summit for Mexico and the US as well as Canada due to NAFTA obligations. This summit is scheduled for early 2015.

August 6, 2014: Large groups of pro-Russian protesters, gather in front of Besserabsky Square, where a statue of Lenin used to stand. Due to the largely discredited nature of the pro-Russian groups after the fall of Yanukovych, the protests are largely ignored.

August 7, 2014: The crisis in the Central African Republic grows worse, even as the French try to intervene. Hundreds of people are killed in the latest clashes, and now 2 more groups are emerging out of the shadows, an armed movement to restore the Central African Empire under Emperor Bokassa II, and a Maoist revolutionary group. Both are waging war against the government, French peacekeepers, and Séléka rebels, as well as targeting the other.

August 7, 2014: NJ Governor Chris Christie signs into law new regulations requiring most police vehicles to install dashboard cameras by July 1, 2016.

August 13, 2014: Audi released the Fourth Generation A8, the first model to feature an autonomous driving system, dubbed the “Traffic Jam Assistant”.

September 3, 2014: Japanese PM Shinzō Abe approves a controversial constitutional amendment (pending approval in both houses of the Diet) that will amend Article 9 of the constitution and allowing Japan to field a army of its own. This comes as tensions over the Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands continue to escalate.

September 3, 2014: The final version of the Bangsamoro treaty between the Philippine government and the MILF is signed. Among other things, it creates a new autonomous Bangsamoro region with sweeping devolved powers.

September 4, 2014: 2014 MLS Cup The Chicago Fire beat the LA Galaxy 3-0 to win the MLS Cup.

September 9, 2014: The European Union announces a protection deal for Ukraine, promising it protection from Russian capture when the push is finally made. Ukraine accepts the deal under Klitschko, which angers many pro-Russians still inside of un-occupied Ukraine, as well as Russian soldiers based in Ukraine.

September 9, 2014: Bungie's new game Destiny is released to great critical acclaim, with IGN calling it 'The First Truly Next-Gen Title'.

September 10, 2014: Apple announces the iPhone 6 and once again it has a 4 inch display but different design and 13 mp Camera.

September 18, 2014: Scotland narrowly votes (50.8% to 49.2%) against independence from the UK.

September 25, 2014: The United States Supreme Court agrees to hear arguments in Kitchen v. Herbert after the Tenth Circuit Court agrees with Judge Robert Shelby's ruling that banning same-sex marriage is unconstitutional.

October 1, 2014: Bob Dylan releases Funeral in the Valley, his first studio album since 2012's Tempest. Reviews for the album are favorable, though it is seen as a step-down from Tempest.

October 2, 2014: A second incident involving NSA and CIA international investigations and illegal operations is revealed once again. The responsible for this time was Anvril Haines Deputy Director of the Central Intelligence Agency, who is suffering from a serious case of brain cancer in the terminal stage.

October 4, 2014: Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) announces he will not run for President in 2016 and will focus on his reelection effort in 2016.

October 5, 2014: In a joint session of the Diet, the controversial “War Powers Amendment” passes by a wide margin. China and South Korea protest.

October 7, 2014: Pre orders for the first time for the iPhone 6 are not breaking records for the first time ever.

October 12, 2014: Despite protests from Nur Misuari and the now-discredited MNLF, the Bangsamoro Accords are ratified by Congress, subject to a referendum.

October 14, 2014: Canada purchases a further 130 upgraded CH-146 Griffons, 32 CH-147F Chinooks, 50 CH-148 Cyclones and 16 CH-149 Comorants to expand the Canadian Forces. The Canadian government also purchases 75 NHIndustries NH90 helicopters as a new addition to the CF.

October 15, 2014: In a short teaser video released online, Disney reveals the title for it's upcoming Star Wars film as Star Wars:Episode VII:Legacy of the Rebellion.

October 18, 2014: The 2015-2016 budget for the Canadian Forces is increased to 2.2% of Canada's gross domestic product.

October 25, 2014: 2014 World Series In a surprise turn of events, the Boston Red Sox beat the Washington Nationals (after the Nationals win the first 2 games) 29-21 in Nationals Park in Game 7 (4-1), giving the Red Sox their fourth World Series title since 2004.

November 1, 2014: Hawaii senator Brian Schatz comes under fire after a reporter discovers that in college he may have plagiarized several papers.

November 9, 2014: Unlike Scotland, Catalonia votes in the opposite direction, voting overwhelmingly (78% to 22%) for independence from Spain.

November 10, 2014: The iPhone 6 is not recieived well at all. The concenceus is that apple has lost its magic. AAPL Drops nearly 290 dollars.

November 21, 2014: CIA agents in cooperation with Mexican intelligence thwart a plan to kidnap the President Peña Nieto Daughter Paulina by a Cartel in response to what appeared to be a ceasefire with the Cartel's rivals. President Peña Nieto vows that when he is no longer president the Cartel's will no longer have power in Mexico.

November 21, 2014: The Hunger Games: Mocking Jay Part 1 sets a new box office record for it's opening weekend.

November 23, 2014: 2014 Formula 1 Season Sebastian Vettel wins the 2014 series for a second time in a row, with Lewis Hamilton in second. the series included the new race-track around the Sochi Winter Olympics park.

November 27, 2014: On the 14th anniversary of the release of their first album “Since I Left You”, The Avalanches release their long awaited second album, “Friday Night Fever”. The album is far more dance and hip-hop influenced than SILY, and features collaborations from artists like A$AP Rocky, and Flying Lotus. The album is a critical smash hit, and enjoys mild commercial success, reaching number one on the Australian album charts.

December 1, 2014: President Obama and Peña Nieto both announce that the upcoming trade summit will also include joint meetings with all affected parties in how to deal with the cartels. In a surprising turn of events has invited every Central American country as well as Columbia and Peru.

December 6, 2014: A massive 8.8 earthquake strikes central Nicaragua, levelling much of the cities of Léon and Managua, and killing some 45,200 people, and injuring some 160,000 people.

Killed among them is Miley Cyrus, who was vacationing in Managua when the roof of the hotel she was on, collapsed around her.

December 11, 2014: A plot to detonate a bomb in Times Square during New Year's celebrations is uncovered by US security forces. Although Al-Qaeda were initially thought to be the perpetrators, the plot is found to be the work of a rogue, relatively small group.

December 13, 2014: In a surprise move, the EU opts to grant Catalonia its membership in the EU. Spain protests however, and begins plans to withdraw.

December 15, 2014: The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie 2 is released in theatres. Despite being one of the best movies of the year, many critics call the movie “SpongeBob's Swan Song”, after the general decline of the show since the first movie.

December 17, 2014: China announces that certain areas in the North East of the country will be placed under curfew to prevent further spread of the 'H10N8' virus which has claimed over 100 lives in the past week.

December 31, 2014: End of year statistics show the Philippine economy continuing to grow at a record pace, going as high as 6.3% this year, and with a projected high of around 7.1% (by some estimates). This has lead some analysts to make the claim that the Philippines could become the fastest-growing economy in the world.

January 1, 2015: Galaxy S6 is announced and pre orders start. The pre orders for the galaxy S6 shatter records.

January 2, 2015: The BBC officially announces that a Doctor Who feature film is in development. Its scheduled to be released on Christmas Day 2017 and will star Peter Capaldi as the doctor. After a successful first series as the doctor, the BBC also announces that Peter Capaldi will remain the Doctor through 2017.

January 2, 2015: In a surprise appointment, President Campos makes the former Prince Pedro Carlos de Orléans-Braganza to become Ambassador to Portugal. The Brazilian monarchy has not ruled since being deposed in 1888.

January 3, 2015: The Mexican government accepts the transfer of the decommissioned USS Curts (FFG-38) and USS McClusky (FFG-41). They are renamed ARM Alfonso Virgen Meza (F-215) and ARM Fernando Hernández Vega (F-216). The two frigates are sent into dock to receive an overhaul using blueprints of the Australian Adelaide-class guided missile frigates.

January 3, 2015: A referendum on the Bangsamoro Accords is approved by 78% of the people. Elections with the devolved Bangsamoro Assembly are scheduled 6 months from now.

January 10, 2015: The joint trade/security summit is officially planned to start on April 1 in Mexico city. Mexico City's police force are temporarily supplemented by the Mexican army to calm the streets over the next few months in preparation for the summit. While foreign corespondents claim civil rights abuse local radio stations call it the safest its been in weeks.

January 10, 2015: 2015 Detroit Auto Show The 2015 Detroit Auto Show commences with a blind-side announcement from GM. The venerable company has announced a new division that will update and re-imagine its classic models for the new millennium. The new “GM Classics” division will start by releasing the “1955 Bel Aire II” in 2016.

January 12, 2015: The BBC revises its decision to finalise its prime-time hit Sherlock with its fifth season, instead extending the popular television series for a sixth and seventh on the backs of its highest one-day viewerships ever recorded with today’s broadcast of the fourth series finale – The Red Star. Simultaneously released in all global markets as well as on online platforms, the episode reached an apex of 19.4 million worldwide. Numbers were especially bolstered by Latin American and Asian audiences, where the latter bore responsibility for a quarter of the ratings lead by Chinese telestream service Youku. Reairing throughout the week is estimated to top nearly 40 million, continuing the British programme’s increasing Sino-fame and helming British cultural exports to and proliferation in the billion-member nation. Everyday monikers assigned to the show’s leading characters Fuermosi (福尔摩斯– Holmes) and Huasheng (花生– Watson) are household names as the series is now the most-watched foreign production in the Middle Kingdom, drawing praise from the country’s media outlets for the plot’s nod to the nation (the finale title doubling as a reference to the original 1911 short The Adventure of the Red Circle).

January 13, 2015: Apple announces that Tim cook will remain on the board but will no longer be CEO.

January 16, 2015: As a result of the no vote against Scottish independence in the 2014 referendum, multiple Ministers and Secretaries of the Government of Scotland resign their place including First Minister Alex Salmond and Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, leaving the Government of Scotland leaderless. Opinion polls show a drastic drop of support for the Scottish National Party.

January 21, 2015: A Class 4 Hurricane with winds of 150MPH hit the finnancial district of Manhattan. The Structural damage is estimated over 300 billion dollars, and the Economic damaged is predicted to be over 1 Trillion dollars over the course of the upcoming days.

January 23, 2015: Leaked images of a iPhone 6s are leaked and while it has a 5 inch display it still has a 13 mp camera and apple stock continues a free fall.

January 25, 2015: An unscheduled protest take place outside Westminster between Parliament and Downing Street with camps showing up in Victoria Tower Gardens, Parliament Square and Horse Guards Parade. The protest is aimed to spur in a second referendum.

January 27, 2015: Police break up the demonstrations around Victoria Tower Gardens and Parliament Square relatively peacefully apart from 4 arrests, but this is voided as a larger occupation of Horse Guards Parade, Trafalgar Square and St.Paul’s Cathedral occur due to the use of social media.

January 27, 2015: On the same day Virgin Media become the last major internet supplier in the UK to turn on 'Adult Filtering'.

January 29, 2015: The Guardian citing WikiLeaks publishes evidence which it says shows that the 'Adult Filtering' settings imposed by ISP's also block a large amount of content which is viewed as portraying the government in a negative light.

January 30, 2015: UK ISPs report that in the last 24 hours around 30% of users have 'opted-in' to receive filtered content.

February 1, 2015: Super Brown XLIX the New Orleans Saints make a stunning comeback, trouncing the Pittsburgh Steelers 28-17 in the University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, AZ.

February 16, 2015: The WHO reveal a vaccine for H10N8 has finally been developed, though the virus has significantly weakened and slowed in recent weeks and many consider this a more preventative measure. Experts praise the efforts of Health Authorities in preventing 'a much more devastating outbreak'.

February 17, 2015: Texas became the sixth state to legalize autonomous cars.

February 18, 2015: The Ukrainian governments begins an extensive rebuild of the Slava-class cruiser Ukrayina to bring it into active service.

February 20, 2015: Former White House intern Jamie Andrews leaks documents which imply that the Obama administration and the Democratic National Committee used national security surveillance programs to their electoral advantage during the 2014 midterm elections, sparking national media attention.

March 7, 2015: the Feasibility Study into the possible resettlement of the Chagossians back into the Chagos Archipelago is concluded, recommending that the displaced islanders be allowed back into the Salomon islands, Peros Banhos islands, and a small part of Diego Garcia. It recommends that the islanders' resettlement be a part of negotiations regarding the renewal of Diego Garcia's lease agreement with the U.S. military.

March 8, 2015: Vice President Joseph Biden suffers from a minor stroke, while he is projected to make a full recovery, many commentators call the stroke an “end to his career”.

March 9, 2015: Hillary Clinton announces that she will not be a candidate for President in 2016.

March 15, 2015: T-Mobile announces they have seen a substantial drop in iPhone sales.

March 16, 2015: Orlando City FC the newest MLS team plays their first match beating Vancouver 2-1.

March 18, 2015: A stock market crash occurs in the United States; by closing time, the Dow Jones has dropped 6.8% and commentators already begin to debate the cause of the “Wednesday Crash.”

Also, the Canadian government announces that it will be constructing three Polar 8 icebreakers and that the names of the icebreakers will be CCGS Robert Lorne Stanfield, CCGS John Edward Broadbent, and CCGS Colin Angus.

March 19, 2015: Following the stock market crash yesterday, US President Barack Obama tries to reassure the public that it is only minor setback. At a press conference Obama says, “we will have bumps along our way, but we've made progress. Overall, I would say we are in a much better place than when I was first running for President in 2008.”

March 20, 2015: Two days after the stock market crash in the United States, Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne delivers his pre-election budget amid huge economic uncertainty. Osborne wins plaudits for his cautious leadership during the crisis. This leads to the Conservatives overtaking Labour in the polls.

March 20, 2015: Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) announces he will seek the Republican nomination for President.

April 1, 2015: The Mexico City summit begins. The Wednesday crash leads many to question whether such trade deals should go forward but US-Mexican negotiators reassure the smaller delegations that the trade impact as well as the security provisions will be worthwhile.

April 3, 2015: The British Parliament approves the study's recommendations, making resettlement of the Chagossians into their original homes part of any renewal of the lease agreement of Diego Garcia. It also includes a formal apology by the British Government for the Chagossians' expulsion in the 1970s.

April 7, 2015: Interim President of Russia Medvedev announces of the fall-back of troops from Western Ukraine but does not move on the subject of occupying Eastern Ukraine and moving armies off the border of the Baltic states. He says in an announcement “Putin may have wanted to reunite all Russian supporters, but starting World War III is not worth the chaos it will cause.”

April 8, 2015: The EU congratulates Medvedev for retreating from Western Ukraine, calling it the first step for diplomatic peace. In the same speech though, they also scold Medvedev for not retreating fully out of Ukraine and wanting to keep the land in name of Russia. Klitschko and government returns to parliament in Kiev on the same day after leaving out of safety.

April 15, 2015: The Mexico City Summit closes with trade deals that allow the US easier access to Mexican oil and financial sectors in exchange for investment and reduction of farm subsidies. Similar deals were made with the other Latin american countries present. A joint security deal was passed but the only public announcement was that their is there will be more joint cooperation of the intelligence and military agencies of the countries involved.

April 15, 2015: Construction starts on a high speed rail line connecting Edmonton, Calgary, Regina, and Winnipeg with plans for expansion into Saskatoon, Fort McMurray, Red Deer, and Lethbridge.

April 19, 2015: The 20th anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing is marked at a ceremony attended by President Obama, Vice President Biden, as well as former Presidents George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and Jimmy Carter.

April 21, 2015: Ontario premier Kathleen Wynne announces plans to build twenty-four hydro-electric dams, producing some 40,000 MW of electric power, in areas in Northern Ontario that drain into Hudson Bay. It is named the Ontario North Project. It is estimated to cost over 32 billion CAD.

April 24, 2015: The commemorations for the centennial for the Armenian Genocide are held across the world, with Yerevan hosting the main commemorations.

What surprises everyone across the world is that Turkish PM Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, President Abdullah Gül, Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu, and other senior Turkish officials attend the main ceremonies in Yerevan. In a speech addressed to everyone present, PM Erdoğan tells of “a need for reconciliation between our two peoples, for the common good of both our two nations.”

April 30, 2015: Verizon and both AT&T announce no more handset subsidies.

May 1, 2015: Katy Perry's fourth album Love Us All. The album is a critical and commercial flop, only one of the singles charts on the Hot 100 “Killer” featuring Kendrick Lamar peaks at #26, the album is considered a major failure and does severe damage to Katy Perry's career.

May 4, 2015: Queen releases State of Shock, an album featuring unreleased material by the band and decreased singer Freddie Mercury. The album features collaborations with Michael Jackson, The Jacksons and Montserrat Caballe. It reaches No.1 in the UK, and top 10 in most other countries. Singles include State of Shock and There Must Be More to Life Than This.

May 8, 2015: NBC show Parks and Recreation ends its final season, with Leslie Knope being sworn into United States Congress by Vice President Joe Biden.

May 12, 2015: Medvedev announces Referendums to all occupied Ukrainian states as to whether they would like to join Russia (like with OTL Crimea but on a larger scale). The EU and US goes against this calling it a “shot-gun referendum” in that Russia is pushing pressure onto occupied Ukrainian states.

May 12, 2015: Klitschko, who was outside of Ukraine with a select few of his cabinet at the time of Ukraine’s capture, resurfaces in Brussels, being kept by the European Union. He announces plans to work with the EU and the US to negotiate occupied Ukraine from the Russians.

May 13, 2015: A monstrous EF5 tornado strikes at the heart of Dallas, TX, reaching speeds of 310 mph, becoming the strongest tornado on record. 1,438 people die as a result of the tornado.

May 16, 2015: Muhammad Ali dies, aged 73. The “Greatest” was remembered at all professional boxing matches for the rest of the month. A new amateur competition, The Ali Championship, was named after him.

May 17, 2015: The International Criminal Court announces an investigation into the genocide of homosexuals after the Putin assassination attempt is to be made. Medvedev will not be investigated as he was the one who halted the genocide.

May 23, 2015: Ireland wins the Eurovision Song Contest on home soil (Dublin), with former Saturdays singer Una Healy performing Floods of Tears. United Kingdom are 2nd. There were 2 interval acts, a celebration of Eurovision hits which featured Celine Dion and a ABBA reunion, followed by a new version of Riverdance called FutureDance, featuring Michael Flatney performing with modern dancers. Morocco are the only country to return, while Liechtenstein debuts, finishing 3rd.

May 28, 2015: Avengers: Age of Ultron is released. The movie is highly praised, though many fans are upset with the decision to kill the character of both Tony Stark and Natasha Romanov only 35 minutes into the movie.

May 29, 2015: Despite an effort by several interest groups concerned about safety to block it, New York became the fifth state to legalize autonomous cars.

June 3, 2015: The Trade treaties from the Mexico summit pass in congress with a surprising level of both bi-partisan support and opposition. Reporters call this a hopeful thawing of partisanship in the government.

June 3, 2015: The United States Congress holds an investigative hearing concerning the matter of the Jamie Andrews documents, intending to discover if there was any wrongdoing on the part of Obama administration officials.

June 6, 2015: June 6, 2015: During a congressional investigative hearing, United States President Barack Obama famously declares that he “had no substantial knowledge of surveillance misuse.” Despite Sen. Rand Paul's continued questioning of the President over the legal definition of substantial, President Obama is cleared of any wrongdoing and concludes his presence at the so-called “PRISM hearings”.

June 6, 2015: 6 June, 2015 - Elections in the 75-seat Bangsamoro Assembly take place. The results are as follows…

• Bangsamoro People's Party (Democratic Islamist party) - 31 seats
• Liberal Party - 23 seats
• National Front (Left-Wing Nationalism, Independentist) - 12 seats
• PDP-Laban - 6 seats
• Independents - 3 seats

June 13, 2015: The United Kingdom becomes the first to recognize Somaliland's independence. Somalia, however protests alongside Scottish nationalists who in disbelief that the UK is more willing to recognize Somaliland than Scotland as an independent state, again protests occur around London as well as outside of the Scottish Parliament Building.

June 14, 2015: Ethiopia, Kenya, South Africa, and France soon follow the UK's lead in recognizing Somalilander independence, with more countries on the way.

June 24, 2015: In a 5-4 decision, the Supreme Court upholds the lower court's decision in Kitchen v. Herbert, ruling that laws banning same-sex marriage violate the Fourteenth Amendment. Same-sex marriage is immediately legalized nationwide.

June 24, 2015: The Broadcasting Act of 2015 is introduced, making ITV a regional service again in June 2016. A franchise round will be held in November 2015. In other TV developments, the local stations introduced in 2013/2014 will now form a proper network called Local 7.

June 26, 2015: In the 2015 NHL Entry Draft held in Montreal at the Bell Centre, the Buffalo Sabers selected Connor McDavid first overall. MCDavid is believed by many to be the next great hockey star, with many comparing him to Sidney Crosby and some even going as far as to compare him to Wayne Gretzky.

June 28, 2015: 23 people are killed in Tulsa, Oklahoma when a gunman opens fire at a public ceremony where five same-sex couples are married. The gunman claims to be “commanded by God” after he is arrested.

July 1, 2015: Senator Kirstin Gillibrand (D-NY) forms an exploratory committee to consider a potential presidential campaign in 2016. Also in Canada, the Royal Highland Regiment of Canada, Les Voltigeurs de Québec, 8th Canadian Hussars, Ontario Regiment (RCAC), Canadian Airborne Regiment, and Governor General's Foot Guards are returned to the Regular Force of the Canadian Army. Defense Minister Rob Nicholson also announces that the formation of the Canadian Special Air Service.

Meanwhile in America, 17 people are shot dead in another religiously-motivated anti-gay marriage massacre, this time in Tupelo, Mississippi.

July 3, 2015: Rush Limbaugh is immediately fired from his radio show after several straight days of offensive remarks about recent acts of violence against LGBT individuals in response to the Supreme Court's recent ruling.

July 7, 2015: Japanese Emperor Akihito dies of natural causes, ending the Heisei Era.

Having been notified of his death, Crown Prince Naruhito quietly assumes the throne, taking the era name “Shōrai” (将来) meaning “the future”.

Also the New Caledonian government finally schedules the independence referendum on 6 September, 2017.

July 17, 2015: Superman Vs. Batman, the sequel to the 2013 film Man of Steel is released and is considered a huge flop. The film involves Superman (Henry Cavill) having to fight Batman (Ben Affleck), who has been tricked into working under Lex Luthor (Joaquin Phoenix). Although the film is notable to being the first time the two iconic characters share a feature-length live action film, as well as being the first appearance of Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot) on the big screen, both audiences and critics largely dislike it.

July 19, 2015: Former Senator Rick Santorum (R-PA) announces that he is running for President.

June 20, 2015: The Colorado Avalanche defeat the New York Rangers to win the Stanley Cup.

July 21, 2015: Gold is discovered on Baffin Island when an Inuit hunter found a gold nugget on the island larger than a golf ball.

July 31, 2015: Governor Chris Christie (R-NJ) announces that he is running for President. In other news, the 127th IOC Session takes place, with Kraków, Poland being awarded the 2022 Winter Olympics in front of competitor Stockholm, Sweden with only a vote between them.

August 5, 2015: Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) announces her intentions to run for President.

August 7, 2015: MLS announces 2 new teams, an unsurprising expansion into Miami and a shocking new team in San Juan Puerto Rico.

August 8, 2015: A rough copy of Dr Dre's long unreleased album “Detox” appears on torrent site Pirate Bay. The copy is clearly unfinished, with some songs having long gaps clearly intended to be filled by other rappers. The album is rather varied in style thanks to the length of time between recording. Dre and his label Interscope do not issue an comment, being seen by many as apathy on his part towards releasing new music.

August 18, 2015: The sixth book in the A Song of Ice and Fire series, The Winds of Winter, is released with much fanfare.

August 29, 2015: Led Zeppelin reunites at Indianapolis' Motor Speedway. All 275,000 tickets sell out in 10 minutes globally. The show is a rousing success and the band announces a new album for 2016, named “Ascending the Stairway.”

September 1, 2015: Brian Schweitzer (D-MT), former governor of Montana, announces his intention to run for President.

Meanwhile the third economic quarter report is released with a surprising numbers in not only growth, and jobs gained, but rising incomes as well. The Wall Street Journal however calls out the US and Mexican governments for no significant changes in the supposed “Cartel wars”.

September 3, 2015: 2022 FIFA World Cup Owing to continued safety violations, failure to meet construction goals on time, and most recently last week's violent putdown of a strike by foreign construction workers that killed 15 and injured over 50, FIFA President Sepp Blatter announces that the 2022 FIFA World Cup will no longer be hosted by Qatar. The replacement host is expected to be the United States, whose 2022 bid received second place to Qatar's.

September 4, 2015: The Candidate cities for the 2028 Summer Olympics are announced by the IOC, with the host city chosen in 2017. They are. . . .

• St. Petersburg, Russia
• Casablanca, Morrocco
• Busan, South Korea
• Buenos Aires, Argentina
• Manila, Philippines (considered by many to be a dark horse candidate)

September 7, 2015: The Canadian government announces that the Eurofighter Typhoon Tranche 3 is the winner of the CF-18 Replacement Project and orders 160 fighters.

September 7, 2015: Jeb Bush (R-FL), former Governor of Florida and brother of George W. Bush, announces his intention to run for President.

September 7, 2015: The Columbus Crew beats Vancouver 8-7 on PKs after a 0-0 match to win their second MLS cup.

September 7, 2015: Apple for the first time has no keynote announcing the new iPhone.

September 8, 2015: David Dobkin releases Hefner, a Hugh Hefner biopic starting Robert Downey Jr. as Hugh Hefner.

September 8, 2015: September 8 2015:A movie adoption of Jeff Greenfield's book If Kennedy Lived, directed by Oliver Stone is released, making 80 Million at the box office in the first weekend.

September 8, 2015: Nearly two years after preliminary approval of the Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CETA) between the European Union and Canada, the deal finally sees ratification after passing through legislators in Poland’s National Assembly today, the last EU holdout state left to conclude its examination of the treaty. True to its name, CETA’s implementation marks either side’s most extensive and most liberalised agreement to date, even more so than NAFTA – admitting boons from cross-Atlantic government procurement contracts to elimination of 98% of former tariffs. Granted are significant hikes to export quotas ranging from automobiles to pharmaceuticals, as well as an expected increase of 20% in bilateral trade. With the floodgates between the multi-trillion dollar markets of 700 million now opened for deeper direct and preferential investment, German Chancellor Angela Merkel championed today as “…a revolutionary transformation for the better in the tight-knit EU-Canadian relationship.”

September 8, 2015: FIFA confirms USA as the host of the 2022 World Cup, marking their second time at host of the events. The calendar will revert to normal format and not the proposed December start.

September 10, 2015: Czech President Milos Zeman dies of a heart attack. His unhealthy lifestyle of not going on a diet and drinking heavily even though having diabetes is thought to have contributed to this. The elections are set to be held on the 7th of January 2015.

September 17, 2015: Kansas Governor Samuel Brownback announces he will run for Republican nomination for President. Only hours later, Wesley Clark announces that he will run for the Democratic nomination for President. Pundit Bill O'Reilly refers to the announcements as “major game changers”.

September 19, 2015: Former Secretaries of Defense Chuck Hagel and Colin Powell endorse retired Gen. Wesley Clark for President in a joint announcement.

October 8th, 2015: Kanye West and Lady Gaga release their collaborative album Famous, Poisonous. all album includes featured artists include Jay Z, Beyonce, Justin Timberlake, MGMT, Janelle Monae, Nate Ruess, P!nk, Daft Punk, Justice, Danger, and Kavinsky. It reaches #1 on the Billboard Hot 200 and stays there for three weeks. The lead single off of the album “Snakes” features Nate Ruess and Daft Punk and samples a 2014 speech by Hilary Clinton.

October 10, 2015: The U.S. and U.K. finally approve a renewal of the lease that extends the lease of Diego Garcia base until 2041. According to the lease agreement, the Chagossians would be allowed to resettle in the Salomon and Peros Banhos islands, as well as a small corner of north-eastern Diego Garcia (extending from Barton Point to Cust Point). In addition, the United States, United Kingdom, and Mauritius will share the costs associated with Chagossian resettlement.

October 15, 2015: the PnF-PreCure crossover airs and is a huge success. One of the most memorable scenes is where Isabella becomes a Cure herself (dubbed “Cure Love”). Fans are especially fond of the friendship between Isabella/Cure Love and Hannah Whitehouse/Cure White.

October 19, 2015: The 42nd Canadian Federal Election is held.

October 24, 2015: 2015 World Series The San Francisco Giants win against the Los Angeles Dodgers 32-21 at Game 6 in AT&T Park, winning their third title of the decade.

November 6, 2015: Anti-war activist and 2012 Peace and Freedom Party Vice-Presidential nominee Cindy Sheehan announces her intention to seek the Green Party presidential nomination in 2016.

November 6, 2015: The Hunger Games's fourth and final film instalment Mockingjay: Part 4 opens in theatres. It is widely considered one the best movies of all time.

November 8, 2015: The MLB decides to create 2 new divisions to represent the Southern teams (called AL South and NL South respectively). At least 4 of the teams (2 each from both the NL and AL) on existing divisions will be transferred to the new divisions starting on the 2018 season. The same announcement also brings the Norfolk Tides into MLB as part of AL South.

November 16, 2015: the ITV franchise rounds occur. The following retain their spots…

• Northern and Central Scotland (STV)
• Northern Ireland (UTV)
• Channel Islands (Channel TV)
• Yorkshire (Yorkshire TV)
• Eastern England (Anglia TV)
• Northeastern England (Tyne Tees TV)
• Wales (HTV)
• Southeast England (Meridian TV)

November 17, 2015: The second round of the ITV franchise rounds occur to replace those which failed to win. The following regions receive new broadcasters;

• Southern Scotland, and Berwick-upon-Tweed: STV South (which is owned by SMG, along with STV Central (Scottish TV) and STV North (Grampian TV)
• Cumbria, and Isle of Man: Cheviot TV
• Northwestern England: TVNW
• English Midlands: Mercia TV
• Southwestern England (includes area formerly covered ITV West): Dumnonia TV
• London (both weekday/weekend): TVLondon

They are set to launch 12 June, 2016

November 17, 2015: Rush releases their first Billboard Hot 200 #1 album The Last Clouds. At the same time, the band's collaborative single with Muse and Lorde “Age of Chaos”, peaks at #17 on the Billboard Hot 100.

November 21, 2015: The United States and Iran formally normalize relations for the first time since the Iranian Revolution.

November 30, 2015: Death of former USA President George Herbert Walker Bush (b. 12 June 1924) from pneumonia at Methodist Hospital in Houston, Texas.

December 9, 2015: Quentin Tarantino releases Edison's Cowboys. The film is about a director named Stewart Kirkman (Michael Madsen) and his crew who move from New York City to Arizona to avoid goons sent by Thomas Edison (Christoph Waltz) due to their use of prohibited film equipment. This leads to a protracted battle between Edison's men and Kirkman's crew.

December 12, 2015: The Coen brothers release Hail Caesar!. The film tells the story of an actor/director in the 1920s named Gary Livingston (George Clooney) who casts himself as Julias Caesar.

December 18, 2015: Star Wars:Episode VII:Legacy of the Rebellion, the long-awaited sequel to 1983's Star Wars:Episode VI:Return of the Jedi is released.

December 23, 2015: Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh passes away, aged 94. The royal family go into mourning during the Christmas period.

December 25, 2015: The Doctor Who Christmas special, featuring Jason Isaacs as the Master and the permanent return of Gallifrey, sets ratings records notching over 15 million viewers in the UK and over 5 million viewers on BBC America.

December 25, 2015: In a Christmas Day game against the Memphis Grizzlies, Warriors player Stephen Curry breaks Wilt Chamberlain's single game NBA scoring record with 102 points in the Warriors' 159-137 victory, including 15 of 17 3-pointers.

December 31, 2015: To mark the 35th anniversary (December 31st 1970) of the band's spilt, Ringo Starr and Paul McCartney completes the songs unfinished or not included during the Anthology sessions to form the 12 song Beatles LP “Grow Old With Me”. It features the title track, Carnival of Light, Now and Then and All for Love. The album goes No.1 Worldwide, and surprisingly, Grow Old With Me and Now and Then both reach No.1 in the UK.

January 1, 2016: Sherlock Series 4 premieres on BBC One with record breaking numbers tuning in to see what will happen after the explosive revelations of the Series 3 finale. The news is however bittersweet as star Martin Freeman announces Series 5 will be the last.

January 1, 2016: Iraqi Kurdistan declares independence, prompting condemnations from the central government in Baghdad.

Meanwhile, in Syria, Al-Qaeda-backed militants launch a chemical attack on Damascus, killing over 4,000.

January 3, 2016: In retaliation for the chemical attack in Damascus, Syrian president Bashar al-Assad orders a chemical strike in the rebel-held city of Aleppo. 5,000 are killed as a result.

January 4, 2016: President Obama castigates the Assad regime for the use of chemical weapons once again, and in an emergency session of Congress later in the evening calls for an American intervention in Syria.

January 4, 2016: Kuomintang candidate Lin Fong-cheng win the election by such a narrow margin over his opponent Tsai Ing-wen (DPP) that a runoff is called (in which he wins the Presidency by 53%).

In his victory speech, Lin calls for the warming of Cross-Strait ties, while remaining tied to the U.S.

January 5, 2016: Sectarian violence in Syria worsens in and around contested Aleppo and Damascus as a result of the New Year chemical weapons exchanges instigated by al-Qaeda-backed rebels. President Bashar Assad is quick to decry the attack on Damascus as a ”…product of foreign funds and a dangerous disruption of the peace process,“ in reference to the subtle patronage of Sunni fundamentalists by Qatari, Saudi Arabian, and Kuwaiti governments - U.S. allies. Having bowed to external pressure in past years to relinquish most of their own chemical armaments, Bashar would go on to say that the ”…efforts to disarm us and outfit terrorists [were] representative of Western hypocrisy.“ - a comment that is seen as being directly aimed at President Obama's own scolding statements yesterday. Despite organised efforts by the increasingly irrelevant Syrian National Coalition and others to moderate rebel forces, jihadists are newly estimated to compose two-thirds of the disunited anti-Assad faction, building upon only a quarter two years ago.

January 7, 2016: January 7th 2016: Steven Spielberg's new film The Crimes of our Fathers dealing with a group of German Students being sent back to early Nazi Germany and trying to stop Hitler is realesed, critics our meh about it but it is popular with the public.

January 10, 2016: Mass arrests of suppliers, confiscations of drugs, and assaults on drug lords have started on this day in not only Mexico, but in the American Southwest, Columbia and Peru. This is that start of what will be known as the Bloody Six Months. In recognition for the most concentrated actions over the Cartel Wars.

January 12, 2016: American reporters call out the president starting the cartel wars as a military intervention is happening in Syria. Analysts blame in inherent secrecy of what was the security deal of 2015 and a classic case of the left hand no knowing what the right hand is doing.

January 17, 2016: The United Nations Security Council, barring the United States, votes 'no' on Syrian military intervention amidst petitions by D.C. and 14 out of the 21 active members of the Arab League to put the action to a referendum. Alarming, however, is the UNSC's extraordinary triple-veto by Russia, China, and joining the traditional naysayers on the Council for the first time, the United Kingdom (its first use of veto power in the 21st Century); France's abstention finalised the results. Representatives from the four countries agreed that the move would overstep the UNSC mandate and that “…the actions of external actors [had] already exacerbated the conflict,” - a stark departure from the U.K. and France’s can-do attitudes during the Libya Intervention of 2011. A firestorm across U.S. media networks takes place with the fragmentation of the long-established voting blocks.

January 20, 2016: The United States Congress passes a joint resolution: The Authorization of Limited Military Intervention in the Syrian Conflict, permitting the use of limited military forces in the hopes of ending the Syrian Civil War.

January 20, 2016: The passing by U.S. Congress of the Authorization of Limited Military Intervention in the Syrian Conflict reveals cracks in global solidarity as Germany, the U.K., and Canada immediately announce their intentions to reject any sort of participation. On the heels of escalating terrorism by anti-Assad militants are echoes by most of NATO to follow, including Turkey, whose abstention from the U.S. initiative is seen as a preventative measure from embroiling itself any deeper in the civil war. Already dealing with refugee hordes and cross-border attacks, Istanbul is thought to have given in to public pressure to avoid blowback by Islamic militant groups. Meanwhile, the position of Israel is in the spotlight as Tel-Aviv's silence on Washington's decision resonates with many. Tensions between Iran and Saudi Arabia, however, take centre stage as actions by either are predicted to inevitably flair rivalries.

January 23, 2016: AMC premieres Student Loans, a series about 4 intelligent and unpopular college students who begin making designer drugs, moonshine, and other illegal substances in their dorms to make money to pay for their student loans and other costs. The show is an instant critical darling, with many praising RJ Mitte in the lead role and noting the many similarities to Breaking Bad.

February 1, 2016: Vigilante groups in Morellia and Michoacan agree to work with Mexican authorities and return civil administration to the Mexican government after the aggressive moves made a month ago.

February 4, 2016: Jenna Coleman announces that she will leave Doctor Who at the end of the next series. On the show for 5 series, she becomes the longest running companion of the Doctor.

February 5, 2016: The United States becomes one of the last states to recognize Somaliland's independence. With China and Russia recognizing it much earlier, all five members of the UN Security Council approve the country's membership into the international organization.

February 6, 2016: Gov. Chris Christie withdraws from the race for the Republican nomination. Former Florida governor Jeb Bush is ahead in the polls.

February 7, 2016: Super Bowl L After their defeat in Super Bowl XLVIII, the New Enlgand Patriots beat the Green Bay Packers 35-24 in Levi's Stadium in San Francisco.

February 13, 2016: In the first major conflict involving American forces in the Syrian Civil War, Assad regime forces manage to hold the city of Aleppo during an American assault.

February 14, 2016: A day after the first American operations take place, Hezbollah is prompted to enter Syria with its own Lebanese paramilitary forces in support of embattled President al-Assad as well as in defense of bordering Shiite communities attacked by Sunni groups. The Lebanese government, on the other hand, officially refuses any assistance for the mobilisation, a sentiment that is disagreed with by many in the country as a result of sporadic attacks on Hezbollah bases by a native branch of theIslamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) - which have killed Sunnis, Shiites, and Christians alike. Meanwhile, Israel's up and coming Minister of Foreign Affairs Avigdor Lieberman announces his own nation's continued neutrality in the face of the U.S. intervention. With the majority of rebels in the Syria now in favour of an explicitly anti-Israeli regime, Lieberman states that military aid in any form was ”…in the interests of nobody.“

February 28, 2016: Many cartels are divided on what to do. While several smaller one have just burrowed deeper underground. Many such as the Psuedo-religious Knights Templar wage a campaign of terror to “teach the people of the wrath of God”.

March 3, 2016: Turkey's $35 billion nation-wide high speed rail circuit reaches another point in its expansion. In tandem with negotiations dealing with the upgrading of links to Bucharest, Tblisi, and Baku, Istanbul enters plans with neighbouring Iran to construct an HSR connection from Kars to Tehran - a first, and significantly adding to the Edirne-Kars route's value. Also participating in negotiations are the interests of Chinese consortiums, parleying an estimated $30-45 billion in loans to help support the proposal, furthered by motives to realize the PRC's plans for its Trans-Asia Railway, or Eurasian Land Bridge project. Such works accompany construction in Kazakhstan, Romania, Serbia and Hungary - adding to the likes of the 1050km Almaty-Astana and the $3 billion Budapest-Belgrade lines.

March 4, 2016: Following up on the widely successful crossover almost 6 months ago, the first episode of a new PnF spinoff series Isabella and Hannah airs, following the adventures of Isabella and Hannah (as well as Phineas, Ferb, and Natalie Blackstone/Cure Black) in Danville

March 12, 2016: Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D-NY) is ahead of Vice-President Joe Biden for the Democratic nomination.

March 18, 2016: Colombian cartels wage guerilla warfare against the Colombian governments outside of the main urban centres. The Term the Cartel Wars becomes the official name of this period

March 21, 2016: Peruvian drug-lords attempt to bribe and strong arm politicians. Leading to a wide string of arrests on corrupt politicians Thanks to CIA intelligence sharing to the Peruvian government.

March 22, 2016: Google acquires Nintendo for $8 billion.

March 25, 2016: On the two-year anniversary of the assassination of President Salva Kiir, top commander of the East African Community's Joint South Sudanese Taskforce (JSST) Colonel Kayanja Muhanga announces that ”…most immediate threats directed by fugitive Riek Machar and his cohorts have been tempered.“ The statement draws praise in the capital of Juba, as a three-month peace in the city propels a conference on the introduction of an interim government. For the time being, proclaimed Muhanga, “The JSST will remain in collaboration with the Sudan People's Liberation Army to oversee the passing of power.” While the success of the JSST draws international acclaim, especially in the circles of the African Union, the north Sudanese government releases its own statement regarding the intervention as ”…an objectionable breach of sovereign affairs.“

March 25, 2016: After negotiation with the Afghan government under Pres. Abdullah Abdullah fail, the Taliban retakes the city of Kandahar, marking their return as a powerful force in the country.

March 26, 2016: The indie-rock band Tunnel Snakes release their hit album “Tunnel Snakes Rule!”.

April 5, 2016: Guatemala sees intense government and cartel clashes. The clashes lead to government de-stabilization. The recently re-elected President Molina of Guatemala declares that the threat of the cartels will be stopped.

April 5, 2016: In response to continued protests from ethnic Tibetans and Uyghurs that led to several noted incidents over the last 5 years, Chinese President Xi Jinping (in a surprise decision) creates a new “Tibetan ane Uyghur Board” designed to address their rights.

April 7, 2016: Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki is killed by a suicide bomb. Shi'ite extremists angry at the PM's reconciliation towards the Sunni minorities take responsibility

April 7, 2016: HBO's new series FDR, which chronicles the life of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, premiers to wide-acclaim.

April 11, 2016: Michael II, featuring unreleased songs from Michael Jackson's back catalogue is released. It reaches No.1 in the UK and US, and single A Place With No Name is top 10 worldwide.

April 12, 2016: Ibrahim al-Jafaari becomes Iraq's new Prime Minister in a joint session of the Parliament. In his first address, he condemns the extremists for the attack, al-Jafaari calls for peace and harmony between Iraq's sectarian divide.

April 14, 2016: Angered by PM al-Jafaari's words, Shi'ite extremists openly declare war on the Iraqi government, vowing to cleanse Iraq “of all the blasphemers”.

April 16, 2016: Following up on the widely successful crossover almost 7 months ago, Toei Animation sells the worldwide distribution rights to the Pretty Cure franchise to the Walt Disney Company. Disney in turn, would announce the airing of the other seasons (Seasons 1 and 2 had already aired by the time Isabella and Hannah began) starting September 2017.

April 20, 2016: Time Reports that Mexican and Colombian Cartels have moved into Guatemala using its instability as a haven from government actions.

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May 8, 2016: In the smallest Eurovision Song Contest this century (only 22 countries took part because of financial problems and the success of Turkvizyon), The United Kingdom wins in Dublin with Outta My Mind, performed by Tulisa.

May 2, 2016: Libya's Prime Minister Ali Zeidan begins his gradual retirement from power with the calling of the first elections in the country in years, declaring his nation 'ready' for the transition. International observers from the United Nations begin flying in for fair election monitoring. Such a move comes after the multi-year gridlock in choosing a successor to Zeidan, as well as the quelling of separatist violence and record lows of foreign-national kidnappings. Observers hail the stability that has settled over the nation in the aftermath of the 2011 Intervention and the collapse of Gaddafi rule, as shown with the upswing in investment and slow entrance of multinational interests propping reconstruction.

May 3, 2016: Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro says in a speech that if the Members of the Mexican summit are able to resist the imperialistic urges of the United States Venezuela might be interested in joining the initiative of the Mexican summit.

May 7, 2016: An EF-5 tornado devastates the suburbs and east side of Kansas City, Missouri, missing the downtown area by less than a mile. The tornado kills 207 people and causes $7 billion in damage.

May 9, 2016: The Philippines elects Mar Roxas for President. He vows to continue the reforms initiated under outgoing President Aquino.

May 18, 2016: A Mexican Cartel in the Yucatan city of Mérida use a local school to hide product from the authorities in desperation after a surprise raid.

May 19, 2016: A local student accidentally sets of the product causing a chemical explosion killing 31, injuring another 18. The global community universally condemns the cartels for the action.

May 30, 2016: A new local drug-lord by the name “Heisenburg” makes appearances in the city of Albuquerque.

June 4, 2016: Footage depicting what appear to be American troops brutalizing captured Syrian civilians is released on the internet.

June 5, 2016: Ex-French President Nicolas Sarkozy announces that he will run for a second term as a candidate for the UMP.

June 6, 2016: Video evidence of reconsolidating American troops abusing noncombatants in US-held Latakia in the aftermath of the Aleppo offensive goes viral. The footage, although hastily deleted from YouTube databanks, was openly available for a whole 23 minutes, in which it was copied and reuploaded dozens more times. With tens of millions having viewed the material online alone, condemnation from across the world spectrum follows suit. President Assad seizes the opportunity to denounce the video as ”…evidence of a repeated Iraqi invasion.“ For now, any allied sympathies for the United States' lone-wolf expedition have seemingly evaporated overnight. General Salim Idris of the Western-backed Free Syrian Army (FSA) attempts to distance his forces from the scandal, as non-moderate rebels and government troops capitalise on the chance to openly assault F.S.A. holdings across the country.

June 7, 2016: At E3, Google announces the company's first home gaming console, the Google Soul. Google promises that most of Nintendo's major franchises, including Mario and Zelda, will have games on the system. In addition, many games will be playable on compatible Android devices with cross-play and cross-save capability.

June 7, 2016: 2016 Stanley Cup The Montreal Canadians win the Stanley Cup over the LA Kings. This concludes a long and Stunning playoff run. The Season is also notable for the “January Protests” where evrey Canadians game in January was in some way protested by Quebec City Hockey fans who wanted their own team.

June 10, 2016: Clashes in Guatemala escalate causing a state of civil war between the cartels, foreign and local, and government forces. President Molina calls the nation to be strong and orders a state of martial law.

June 12, 2016: In a setback to the last two years of Western rapprochement, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani sternly condemns the American-Syrian Intervention in relation to the previous week’s publicised civilian abuses, joining the rest of the global community by labelling the scandal “a grave mistake.” While continuing to funnel resources to pro-government factions in Syria, the comment is the first by Rouhani on this year’s step-in by the United States, as he went on to say that the intervention was “counterintuitive” to anti-terrorism efforts in the country (an oblique reference to Syrian rebels). Although his words draw consternation, media pundits are quick to point out that such statements are a great deal less inflammatory than expected. Nonetheless, Rouhani continued his unwavering support for the “legitimate rule” of Bashar al-Assad,” giving no hint of any sway in Iran’s position on the matter.

June 12, 2016: As expected, the many franchises of ITV are launched across the UK.

Meanwhile not wanting to be outdone by the recent magical girl deals, DC Comics has announced that it'll be making a Princess Amethyst TV show (based on the DC Nation shorts) that will air in Cartoon Network sometime in 2018.

Also CN has also announced that it will air the English dub of Powerpuff Girls Z starting February 2018.

June 14, 2016: Building upon previous years' talks at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, the Silk Road Economic Zone is formed, inaugurated by President Xi Jinping - encompassing much of Central Asia to include Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and (through Xinjiang) Mongolia. Chief among its supporters are associates China, Turkey, Iran, and Russia - the latter in a statement by Vladimir Putin commenting that “the relationship is complimentary to that of [the Eurasian Union].”Among the primary goals set out for the SREZ is the reduction of interstate tariffs and customs barriers, and to improve the transportational network across the regional belt. Aimed at bridging the markets of the European Union to the economic zones of the Pacific, the SREZ additionally has the incentive of acting as an energy and rail corridor, officiating itself as the continental middleman. Preferential trading and investor rights are granted to the PRC as well as the other three associate members.

June 14, 2016: The Japanese government announces plans to build a trio of gas turbine-powered aircraft carriers in the 36,000-ton range, each one roughly 900 feet long and 110 feet in beam, and designed to handle 45 aircraft and with three catapults. The three carriers are provisionally named JS Fuji, JS Tate and JS Haku, after Japan's three “Holy Mountains”.

June 15, 2016: Presidents Peña Nieto and Obama both use executive power to deploy military assets to the Guatemala. Obama faces Harsh criticism from the left and the right for the action despite presence in Syria. Obama is quoted as say “The fate of this Hemisphere depends on us standing with the right and lawful governments. To this The US will go to no end to ensure peace and stability for not only Americans but of all people of the Americas”. The bloody Months phase of the Cartel wars ends.

June 15, 2016: Eminem release his 9th album Guilt, the album is instantly controversial for it's lead single Not Guilty in which Eminem talks about the changing definitions of racism, sexism, and homophobia and compares his life to many famous court cases. Regardless of the controversy, the song debuted at #1 and stayed there for 3 weeks.

June 19, 2016: A political satire series called World Leaders Anonymous premiers on Comedy Central with the purpose of poking fun of world leaders. The series stars Iman Crosson as Barack Obama, Vitaly Zdorovetskiy as Vladimir Putin, Anita Briem as Helle Thorning-Schmidt, and Kevin Wu as Kim Jong-un among others.

June 20, 2016: Amidst the formerly pro-Assad Mediterranean port of Latakia, the first city to submit to entering American military forces, civilian protests furiously erupt in response to the abuse controversy, clamoring for a halt to the Intervention. Thousands take to the streets outfitted with placards and banners – Sunnis, Alawites, and Christians alike – hurling rocks at U.S. patrol vehicles. For its part, Washington orders a stand-down across Syrian command, but simultaneously locks down all U.S. compounds in the country. Quickly disseminated across social media is footage of burning effigies lining the concourse towards the primary U.S. naval anchorage. Finally responding to international outcry, President Obama denounces the acts committed in the viral video as “deplorable,” personally mandating the extradition of the soldiers in question back home to face court-martial.

June 28, 2016: In one of his addresses to Vidovdan, Crown Prince Alexander makes a speech praising Serbia's democratic institutions and European integration (despite the loss of Kosovo). The address would be widely praised by many Serbians, especially Europe-minded liberals.

June 30, 2016: Canadian parliament authorizes use of military force in Guatemala to stabilize the region.

July 1, 2016: The General Motors Company tentatively moves into its breaking out of the G.M. Classics division, with the first sales of the 1955 Bel Aire II surpassing expectations two-fold. The implementation of the autonomous driving feature is seen as having emboldened consumers into purchasing the vehicle - spurring drivers to take risks with expensive forms when backed by the insurance of guaranteed safety on roads. The 'throwback success' prompts announcements by Volkswagen, Ford, Toyota, and B.M.W. to commence their own vintage automotive lines with a heavy spotlight on 40's and 50's releases. In accordance with popular trends, G.M. CEO Mary Barra eagerly vows to integrate autonomous driving within all future cars in the next five year period - sealing the aspect as a key part of company policy.

July 3, 2016: In a surprise vote, by the Montenegrin parliament decides to restore Prince Nikola II Petrović-Njegoš to the newly reconstituted Montenegrin throne.

July 4, 2016: Tensions escalate in Syria as an explosives-filled van rams into the United States’ base in Latakia, killing 8 soldiers. The act follows increased discontent with the foreign presence in the nation, as well as lynch-demands by the Syrian public for the infamous four U.S. privates the abuse scandal is centred around to be sentenced by the Syrian legal system. The fact that the identities of the suspects have remained hidden has further angered Syrians, who have turned to barricading roads in and out of occupied cities. Polling in the U.S. reveals that public opinion is narrowly divided on the issue, as the factors of humanitarian concerns, chemical weapons, and prolonged conflict have tested the resolve of most – ontop of the newfound intervention in cartel-torn Guatemala. Republican Presidential candidate Jeb Bush attempts to capitalise on the day’s attacks as “proof that a firmer hand in the Middle Eastern theatre is required,” branding current operations as “too little, too late” as a result of the Obama administration’s “lax foreign policy.”

July 15, 2016: One of the worst tornado outbreaks ever strikes North Central Illinois, with three EF-5 tornadoes and seven EF-4s. Joliet is hit by a pair of EF-4 tornadoes, while the town of Diamond is almost completely leveled by one of the EF-5s. The outbreak kills nearly 150 people in all.

July 18, 2016: 34 are killed when a man opens fire in an airplane. The plane makes an emergency landing in Moscow. The shooter is arrested and identified as American Kenneth Small. The gun he used was plastic and made with a 3D printer. He had with him what appeared to be a suicide note that quoted “Not Guilty” by Eminem. Russian authorities say they will put Small on trial.

July 19, 2016: On the American elections’ campaign trail, Jeb Bush’s comments on Syria have turned to have worked against his favour, with the politicisation of the conflict on the eve of 8 soldiers’ deaths seen by the public with distaste. Slightly uplifting American opinions, however, are rather bloodless advances in the Idlib and Hama Governorates, where the emptied ruins of Maarrat al-Nu'man and Jisr al-Shughur are taken with the rebuff of the Syrian Army. President Assad’s forces still hold the key city of Idlib, though with recent losses, its grip is faltering. On the other hand, popular protests still rule in Latakia, as attempts are made to disrupt and commandeer supply convoys on their journeys to the American front lines – made difficult with growing numbers of road barriers. While clashes between residents and troops are irregular, the ongoing trial of the June video’s disgraced U.S. soldiers remains a contentious point of order, with quiet agreements by Jordan, Turkey, and Lebanon for their sentencing to take place under the Syrian judiciary – if not at least a Muslim one.

July 22, 2016: US Attorney General Eric Holder causes a stir in international affairs when he says that suspected mass murderer Kenneth Small is an American Citizen and as such he should be put on trial in the US. Currently, Small is being held at Butryka Prison in Moscow.

July 29, 2016: The film Star Trek Infinities is released, just a few months ahead of the 50th Anniversary of the premier of the original series. The film is a critical and financial success, and even manages to please some of the “Prime Universe” Trek fans. In addition to the cast from the two previous Star Trek films, Patrick Stewart also reprises his role as Captain Jean-luc Picard from Star Trek:The Next Generation and includes cameos from Star Trek alumni such as William Shatner and George Takei.

August 1, 2016: Mexican and American troops land in Guatemala City just in time to assist in what was a riot started in the slums by cartels members and people protesting the bread lines. The USS Carrier the Theodore Roosevelt is deployed in the region offering air support.

August 10, 2016: A busy day in Syria, as American forces launch a major offensive on the centre of Idlib, firing artillery and making use of drones – forcing loyalist troops to pull out eastwards. Upon entering, American troops are faced with insurgents from the jihadist Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), who themselves withdraw and continue sporadic assaults within American-held territory on the road to Aleppo. The weakening of Syrian Army in Aleppo inadvertently strengthens extremist opposition advancing from al-Bab and Maskanan, who continue to close in in pursuit of encircling the disputed city. Shi’ite Hezbollah, however, succeeds in eradicating anti-government forces from Lebanese borders, mobilising greater numbers of troops into the country and significantly detracting from Islamic Front momentum around Damascus. Hezbollah's deputy leader Sheikh Naim Qassem affirms the group’s backing of al-Assad as reinforcements are diverted northwards, promising to support of the group's “true Muslim brethren” in order to combat “takfiris.”

August 13, 2016: Talks between the Angolan government and leaders of the dismantled FLEC finalise in the coastal city of Tchiowa today. Outlined in a new 'affiliation agreement' are provisions that allow the Province of Cabinda to retain two thirds of its oil profits, but under the condition that the FLEC militant arm, the Forças Armadas de Cabinda (FAC), be disassembled and reintegrated into the national armed forces. Also agreed are terms that allow Luanda to control oil and mineral concessions granted in the Cabindan exclave, with limited input by the Cabindan provincial government, as well as a gradual reduction of the aforementioned revenue appropriation on a decade-by-decade basis. Today's deal marks an end to the 40-year long insurgency as President dos Santos welcomed the agreement as ”…the beginning of a new chapter in Angolan history.“

August 14, 2016: 3 months after her win for the UK in the Eurovision Song Contest, Tulisa is arrested under drug dealing charges and sentenced with 6 years in jail.

August 17, 2016: The BBC announce that even though Tulisa is now incarcerated for her drug dealing charges, the Eurovision Song Contest will still go on in the UK as planned, with the runner-up performing the song at the start of the show.

August 19, 2016: Miao Wei, Minister for Industry and Information Tehcnology of the Government of the People's Republic of China, announces that China hopes to reach the pinnacle of its Chang'e program for Lunar Exploration with a manned mission to the moon in 2025.

August 21, 2016: The 2016 Summer Olympics take ends in Rio de Janeiro. By the end of the games, the U.S., China, Russia, and Brazil lead the total medal counts.

August 31, 2016: In Miami a local cartel was violently dismantled by an unknown person or persons through excessive amount of explosives. The US government claims it was the action of the CIA. But locals claim it was the work of a man known as “Michael Westen”. CIA liaisons claim Michael Westen doesn't exit. In other news Russian KGB officials announce new security protocols.

September 1, 2016: The quarterly report is in with an estimated growth rate of 3.2% and a decrease of unemployment to 6.5%. Many credit it to the trade deals of the Mexico City Summit. The Guatemalan and Syrian interventions are top of voters minds going into the polls.

September 9, 2016: 2016 MLS Cup The LA Galaxy crush New York FC 5-0 winning the MLS cup

September 14, 2016: A second Trigun animated film, Trigun: Desert Days is released. Due to strong sales, rumours persist about a live action version.

September 15, 2016: Former Vice President Walter Mondale dies at the age of 88.

September 28, 2016: Announced by the National Bank of Greece are figures showing GDP growth in the country to have been valued at 3.5% this quarter. The data notably reverses the fortunes of Greece after nearly 10 consecutive years of shrinking (or sub-par growing) GDP for much of the 2010's. The Bank cites the explosion in the cargo-shipping industry, much of it attributed to the port of Piraeus, where imports from the Asia-Pacific have been on the rise, employing tens of thousands in subsequent sectors. The unemployment rate is estimated to have sagged to 13% - a far cry from the record 28% broken in 2014, yet still above the Union average. Former European Union President Antonis Samaras hailed the statistics as a “definitive sign in the Greek recovery.”

September 30, 2016: Microsoft Corporation, in close partnership with China's Huawei Technologies, reveal their expansion of the Mawingu initiative - providing high-speed broadband internet through solar-powered stations. Covering a vast geographical region, the two corporations gain the tacit approval to stretch Mawingu's range across all members of the East African Community from its founding base in Kenya. Through widespread, wireless net access, the multi-state organisation is hoping to unlock the economic potential across its rural swathes. Huawei's 71-year-old President Ren Zhengfei says the dual-company venture is merely ”…the first such project“ set to occur in concert with the U.S. technological giant, as both seek to tap into the quickly growing African market. A joint-corporate statement promises to introduce Mawingu into emerging centres Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Congo-Kinshasa before the termination of this decade.

October 10, 2016: After months of intensive negotiations, New Line Cinemas announces that they have acquired the film rights to the remaining portions of the Middle Earth legendarium from the Tolkien Estates. It is simultaneously announced that preproduction will begin shortly for a film adaptation of The Children of Húrin, to be helmed by Peter Jackson.

October 18, 2016: 2016 World Series After their bitter loss to the Red Sox in 2014, the Washington Nationals trounce the New York Yankees 38-31 at Game 7 in Nationals Park, giving them their first World Series title in history.

October 20, 2016: In the state of Washington, Mt. Rainier erupts for the first time in over one hundred years. Less powerful than the eruption of Mount St. Helens in 1980, Rainier's eruption manages to cause even more damage: 419 people are killed as a result, and billions of dollars in damage are caused when the eruption affects the nearby population centres - including Tacoma, Washington.

October 21, 2016: While touring areas struck by the recent eruption of Mt. Rainer, Governor Jay Inslee issues a state of emergency following the eruption of Mt. Rainer and suspends his re-election campaign for the governorship. In a televised speech, Inslee says that he has called in the National Guard and Military reserves to provide what assistance they can, and promises to work with the federal and municipal governments to coordinate relief efforts.

October 24, 2016: _2026 FIFA World Cup__ In a possible move to placate the Arab world after the removal of the 2022 FIFA World Cup from Qatar as well as to please European fans with better match times, perennial bidder Morocco is selected as the host of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, narrowly winning out over Colombia in the final tally. Australia and Indonesia also bid.

October 28, 2016: Canadian destroyer HMCS Huron is lost when it suffers complete structural failure due to age related fatigue and breaks up taking its entire crew (~240 souls) with it.

November 8, 2016: In the United States, the 58th quadrennial United States presidential election was held on this day. A contest between Former Governor Howard Dean (D-VT) and Former Governor Jeb Bush (R-FL), the election was the closest since the presidential election of 2004. Despite a contentious campaign, Howard Dean managed to triumph over Jeb Bush, becoming the president-elect.

November 13, 2016: Chechen terrorists unleash a very small sample of the Marburg virus in Astrakhan, Russia, killing over 100 people.

November 14, 2016: Just under 20 years after its debut the final episode of hit cartoon South Park is aired, after creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone decide to focus on other projects including their second Broadway Show Jihad: The Musical. The episode is highly controversial, even by its standards, largely due to the graphic deaths of many of the central characters, but fans of the series receive it very well.

November 16, 2016: Commentator Margaret Hoover announces she will run for New York City mayor in 2017 as a Republican.

November 20, 2016: Presidential and National Assembly elections lead Nicaraguans to the ballot box, scoring an unchallenged victory for now-fourth-term President Daniel Ortega and the Frente Sandinista de Liberación Nacional (FSLN) at 68.3% – a result of earlier constitutional term limit removals. Under the looming aftermath of the catastrophic 8.8 earthquake in 2014, the 71-year-old former guerrilla fighter mopped up the polls under sweeping campaign commitments to “reinvigorate” the nation. An inpouring of international relief has elevated the Central American state into the spotlight, as work continues apace by HKND Group and its trans-oceanic canal megaproject. Tens of thousands left displaced and unemployed in the ruined cities of León and Managua have migrated towards the interior, where around-the-clock work is dedicated to dredging lochs, excavating soil, and enlarging waterways. Speaking amidst the mess of the capital’s reconstruction zones, President Ortega lifts raucous crowds with “…a new future for a new country.”

November 29, 2016: The Syrian Intervention comes to a standstill as both ISIS and al-Qaeda-backed al-Nusra infiltrate American military facilities and outposts across the occupied frontier. Compounding the assaults are full-blown riots in Latakia with the failure of any concessions around the June-video suspects. 9 Humvees openly driving through the city are engulfed by mobs and put to the torch, as militant loyalist groups arise in the countryside. Civilian and paramilitary forces in the former-Crusader ports of Jableh and Baniyas stubbornly hold out against U.S. forces, as humanitarian aid escorts from dozens of international agencies are reported to be caught in the crossfire. The blowback considerably mars the image of recently-elected President Howard Dean, who presides over the conflict with a death toll numbering over 217,000 civilians since the Civil War's beginning, including 803 American soldiers - making 2016's Syrian Intervention the deadliest year for the U.S. armed forces since Iraq in 2007.

December 1, 2016: Heloísa Helena, a former member of the Workers Party who was expelled for not keeping party discipline, announces her intent the presidency sitting that Dilma Rousseff has turned her back on her socialist roots and doesn't care about the people.

December 6, 2016: The Danish government finally announces the date of a Greenlandic referendum on independence, to be held around 2020. With Greenland's economy growing at a record pace due to mining and oil revenues, many Greenlanders are now calling for Greenlandic independence.

December 25, 2016: In the early hours of Christmas Day, Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge gives birth to identical red-haired twin sons at the King Edward VII Hospital in London. Prince Christopher Leopold Michael of Cambridge, the elder is born twelve minutes before his younger brother Prince Alfred Henry Francis of Cambridge. The names of the newly-born princes are announced immediately.