Associated News Networks [ANN]

The Associated News Network was formed around the twenty-seventh century, to further enhance the news and regulate the flow of information to its viewers and as a replacement to the defunct Associated Press. Originally comprised of three major news networks, the ANN has expanded its ties to most known systems and planets.

Organization

As previously mentioned, the ANN was originally founded by three major networks. Governing this organization is a committee consisting of Network Executives and shareholders, however the Chairman of the Committee serves as the swing-vote, but also directs the flow of the meeting.

Headquarters

Located on (name), the ANN's recently relocated headquarters is a popular attraction for many protests. As a result, a security detachment is awlays on hand, monitoring the situation. After the building was set on fire, the ANN did not hesitate in fortifying the lower floors of the building with defensive walls surrounding the perimeter. Entry into the building is usually quite easy, despite the numerous security protocols one must pass in order to enter. Guided tours are given daily as the building also doubles as a News Museum of sorts, chronicling Mass Media since early times.

Coverage/Conduct

In order to ensure coverage, local agencies are greatly pressured by their larger corporate sponsors for sensational news stories. To deal with this, some networks have taken an almost paparazzi approach to getting the latest story, while others focus on more humanitarian efforts. The ANN attempts to verify many of these stories, but the sheer bulk of media does not always allow for such meticulous investigation. Several local agencies associated with the ANN have fallen under criminal investigation for invasion of privacy, slander and libel amongst other serious charges as they attempt to catch the next big story.

StarCast 9

StarCast 9 serves as a never-ending source of information, through numerous relays scattered throughout each system. While many local networks report to specific regions, StarCast 9 is the only universal source of information, despite the viewers location. StarCast 9 receives information directly from other agencies to ensure a fair coverage, however that is not to say that SC9 does not do its own reporting.

Current Events

StarCast9 is the medium the game's current events travel through. Both staff and submitted player content will highlight news, events, and storyline items that are important or flavor-packed for the game-world. Players are encouraged to let news Story-Guide's know what it is they are doing in the game so that such material can be incorporated in some fashion, in part or in whole.