Bongolesia

HAPPY 5th BIRTHDAY, BONGOLESIA BLOG!!!!

2011-12-21T16:05:00.004-05:00

Wow...the time sure flies when you are having fun...
And this blog marks it's fifth birthday today...

102 posts, 72 followers, 25K + page views...

And the hits just keep on coming!

Once again I am humbled and appreciative of those folks out there that continue to read this blog and support my Imagi-nation, my third world African Hell-hole...

This year saw some interesting changes...The creation of Two Facebook Pages, (One group page, and one "Official Government Page"), and this blog being awarded a "Stylish Blogger Award". Also, it's been graciously mentioned by a few others in the creations of their imagi-nations.
Sadly though, the game I was going to run at Origins fell through, and it seems like next year will be a bust also, as the date is now Memorial Day Weekend...but I still have Gencon...muah hah hah!

Bongolesia has charmed many, infuriated some, upset others, disgusted a few, and really rankled those with very thin skins and sensitive personalities. Yet, those who see it for what it is, see it for what it is,,,a dark satire; gallows humor.

And that it's not "Real",. (despite the USPS sending mail there), and is just a place to have imaginary battles and shenanigans with little toy soldiers...

From myself to allow me to keep this blog going for five years...I offier my most sincere thanks and gratitude...

LONG LIVE THE NATION!

HAIL BONGOLESIA!

"Taking Stock of What I Have..."

2011-12-11T11:51:00.002-05:00

"An Inventory of sorts...."

Also known as "inventorying my stuff"...It's gotten to the point that I am starting to lose count and focus of what I have and what I need to work on...sigh...this past T-giving weekend, I ran a couple of introductory games...and had problems finding the right pieces of terrain...So I've decided to actually get an inventory of some sorts down on paper.Thanks to Excel, I now had a 5 sheet excel workbook going on my 15mm Moderns.I'm starting with my 15mm Moderns and currently am just working on the "painted and ready to play stuff"...

Sheet 1: is figures, # of bases and # of figs : 204 stands, 472 figs...
Sheet 2: is vehicles, (ground and military): 131 including 40+ civilian vehicles...
Sheet 3: is aircraft and watercraft; 15 aircraft, 3 boats...
Sheet 4: is buildings: TBD
Sheet 5: is scenery: The misc little pieces that I have, (fences, signs, billboards, etc...): TBD

The eventual goal is to get all of the stuff on the inventory. For buildings I will number them on the base and have a photo of each.After this, will come a list of the "UNPAINTED" 15mm Moderns. This will give me an idea of my "mountain of lead", and what needs to be done...
Years from now after I regain my sanity, I will continue this project with my 15mm ACW, and my 20mm Vietnam, and my 25-28mm, Pulp, Cowboys, Pirates, Horror, Fantasy, and Colonials...
It will make me cry, but it will give me an idea of what I have....
And then I will cry even more...

100TH POST! (and Happy Bongolesian National Independence Day!)

2011-10-22T13:01:00.008-05:00

The 100th POST!!!

HAPPY BONGOLESIAN NATIONAL INDEPENDENCE DAY!!!!

From an official statement from His Excellency, President-For-Life P'hat Daddee B'wonah

(Sudekia) " Today is the day of our country and of our people. Today is National Independence Day for our beloved country of Bongolesia. Under my wise rulership, and the hard working spirit of the people whom I rule, we have made this country into what it is, and what others look upon it as. Countries all around the world look to us as we set an example.

The history of our country, (as all good citizens are aware of), is filled with dark times in the past as we struggled mightily to undo the shackles of Western European Colonialism and Imperialism, and indeed the struggle was long, but in the end, we did prevail, and because of it, our flag hangs on it's long, stiff, and erect pole; a glistening beacon for all to see.

While it is true that there are many out there that would see our nation crumble into ruins and even further despair, (and you know who you are), we as proud members of this nation stand shoulder to shoulder face our enemies with stout hearts and closed minds ready to get jiggy with them, and to look towards our allies with open hearts and hands.

It is on this day that I wish, for all the Bongolesian people to think of what really matters most of all, and remember how to get it, and more.

Long live our nation! Long Live Bongolesia! "

Extolling the virtues of our glorious nation, our beloved leader speaks to all....

LOCAL VILLAGES CELEBRATE INDEPENDENCE DAY!

(Central Bongolesia) The drums were beating, and the screams could be heard throughout the jungles...The local villages were celebrating National Independence Day.

Local villages throughout the nation celebrated the National Day of Independence with a variety of festivals, dances, obscure rituals, and native traditions.

Among the many colorful ones are the highly popular, "Landmine Polka", and the "Incoming, Get Down!" Dance of many of the local tribes.

Among many of the local and time honored traditions enacted were the "Missionary Hop", (very popular in previous centuries), and the Blessings of the Witch Doctor.

These rituals, and traditional activities help portray a large colorful picture of Bongolesian culture on this important day.

Local tribal ladies enact the "Sweeping it all away" dance, (a tribal ritual which focuses on using a broom to "sweep away" bad luck, empty bullet casings, and broken glass from the latest pitched battle...)

BONGOLESIAN INDEPENDENCE DAY CONCERT ANNOUNCED!

Special Guest Performer will "Give it all up" on stage...

(Sudekia) In a last minute annoucement today, it was revealed that a "special mystery guest performer" will "give a show" tonight in Sudekia in celebration of National Independence Day.

While the guest performer has not yet been announced, it is speculated with some turgid anticipation as to who it may actually be that will be on stage.

Rumor has it that a certain performer, who's initials are "B.S." will be on stage putting it all out for everyone to see and giving a special VIP "performance" after the initial concert.

Everyone is licking their lips in anticipation of tonights special encore show!

Who could the mystery performer be that will be putting it out on stage? Details to be announced as more is revealed...err...released... Supposedly a photo showing her overjoyed reaction when being told of her "show" in Bongolesia this evening...Can't you just see it in her eyes???...

BONGOLESIAN BLOG 100th Post!

Wow...100 posts...

And still going...

When I first started this, I didn't think that it would last this long. I had no idea the amount of responses, interest, and reception that I would get with it. I figured that some thin skinned overly sensitive prat would complain, (and a couple have), about it and it would be shut down. Even though the overall basis of it, is that all in all, it's just a simple site made to keep track of an imaginary country in which I play wargames in with little toy soldiers.

But it attracted a lot of fans too...

And for those that have been inspired by what I wrote, or taken some of my gaming ideas and have run with them, or used the idea of the nation to create their own countries, I salute you for your efforts and your support.

Thank you everyone out there for your support, and thank you for believing in the nation and supporting it with your patronage.

What do YOU think of Bongolesia???

From the worktable: "What I've gotten done lately..."

2011-09-30T21:02:00.005-05:00

Greetings once again, dear readers!
A lot of you out there, (okay a few of you), have been asking me "Murph...you write a lot about what is going on or "down" in Bongolesia, but have you been working on anything? It's been a long time since a game report, or even a "project report". So what have you been doing?
That's a good question dear reader and the answer is "Yes, I have been working on things. Due to some "life changes", (becoming a grandfather, having my game room moved, etc.) my produciton schedule and creativity was kind of stifled. With that over with, and my new setup, I decided to get back into it.
Thus, here's what I've gotten done lately...(with pics!)
First off, lets take a look at the work area...
A nice area that has been set up for me, that hold my paints, brushes, groundwork, tools, etc...as well as a nice cold bottle of Shiner Bock. That was a project that I was working on at that moment. I'm proud to say that it was successfully completed! Diligent readers will notice that the entire work/production area is watched over by Mr. Adam West (aka "Batman"), and the ever lovely Ms. Linda Blair, (who in my feverish dreams keeps whispering to me, while feeding me peeled grapes, that "historical miniature wargamers turn her on"...)
Hey...I can dream can't I?
Okay back to the projects....

This is a quick pic of most of what I have gotten done recently. It's actually quite a bit and some of the pieces I am especially proud of...
Keep reading and scrolling...

I completed two pieces of scenics recently. The first one that you see below was started some time back and just was one of those "pieces that you work on when you don't know what else to do..." I call it the "Bio-Organic Nutrient Regurgitation Collection Vats", and figure that they'll be used for "something" that "OMENCORP" is working on...(more to come on them later)....

Yessss...All natural organic nutrient regurgitation is collected here in these containers and then pumped to the nutrient processing facility...(present location unknown)...No artificial colors, flavors, or anything else here...no sir...Omencorp prides itself on "Natural Bio-Organic Nutrient Regurgitation"...mmmmmm-hmmmmm.....

Meanwhile, turning our eyes, minds, and noses away from the little Omencorp item, we find this...
This is a BF FoW WWII fuel dump objective marker. I decided to use it as "something else", instead of just fuel, (I'll get another one for fuel later). Just ignore the greenish stuff leaking out...the burning on your skin will go away soon....I promise...
Nothing to see here folks, move along...

One of the things that I have noticed about AK47, is that there never seems to be "enough" trucks...and in Bongoleisa, there never seems to be enough trucks OR enough trucks that actually run...
Part of the projects completed is these four little BF beauties here...

Two Russian Zil Trucks, (I have about six of these now I think. They are really nice little pieces to paint up), and two Italian Lancia heavy trucks, (with assorted cargo under dirty tarps...Hmmmm...I wonder what they could be carrying?

Now I know you are probably saying, "OKAY MURPHY, ENOUGH with the trucks and blah stuff...Let's see the FIGHTING STUFF!!!"

*sigh*

Your wish is my command....

First off, the latest in Bongolesian Air Defense...

The SA-6 is from QRF, and despite it's simple look, it was an absolute pain to put together. The fins on the missiles were horribly bent or broken and in true QRF style, it had "lots of little fiddly parts", with no instructions as to "where they go"...so I spent A LOT of time looking at various pics of the SA6 to figure out "What goes where." Once it's set up and painted it is an impressive (and heavy), little piece...

But not as heavy as the next one...

...

Pay no attention to this photograph! There are NO, I repeat, NO SS-21 SCUD TEL's in Bongolesia...in fact there are no SSM systems in Bongolesia whatsoever. Bongolesia has been receiveing tractor parts and farm equipment from those Russian and Chinese ships. Go back to sleep your government will take care of you....

Ahem...

Continuing onward...

What would Bongolesia be without BARF? (The organization; NOT the substance!).

Helping to outfit those who would depose His Excellency, President-For-Life P'hat Daddee B'wonah, and replace his system of corruption and msiery with their own system of corruption and misery, BARF recently had two new techncials painted up for them....

Good gas mileage, easy to park, and easily available to help overthrow a government, these little babies come with AM/FM radio, power steering, and convenient removable tailgates to help with those "Extra heavy" loads (like recoilless rifles)...Stop by your local dealer and get one today!

Now with people like BARF driving all over the place, whats a President-For-Life supposed to do when he is travelling by limo to some location?

Easy!

Have his own Presidential Guard Motorcycle Escorts!

Four Peter Pig WWII motorcyles and drivers, these will be used for escorting the Presidential Limo (currently a 1959 Caddillac), or perhaps even used a "scout/recon" units...

And now, my "PRIDE AND JOY".....

For the last year or so, I have been struggling with trying to paint USMC troops in 15mm in the USMC WOODLAND MARPAT uniform. Pictures on the net and requests for help with it, really didn't get me anywhere, until I visited a USMC recruiting office.

Explaining to the young leatherneck there that I am "A: Too damn old to enlist", and "B: Was there to see if I could get some info on Woodland MARPAT"; the courteous young marine handed me a copy of USMC magazine which had EXCELLENT pictures of uniforms, equipment, and gear....
But the killer was, I still couldn't get the uniforms down...the colors just didn't seem to go "right"...Until I realized something...
I was trying "too hard"...
You see, 15mm figs are not like 28mm. With 28mm you can make a more detail and have more area to paint, thus you can see the different pixellations of ACUS, and MARPATS. In 15mm, you have very little, and most of their bodies is covered with gear. So then I started looking at the figures and uniforms and saying "Hmmm..okay....what color do I see at this distance?"
And the answer was "brown".
If you look at a picture of the Marine Woodland MARPAT uniform, and hold it at arms length, you will notice that it overall looks like "drab brown", until you start pulling the picture closer to your eyes. Then as it gets closer you will see the different "pixellations", (the greens, tans and blacks)...it's truly a confusing and remarkable color pattern, and probably THE WORST AND HARDEST that I have ever had to duplicate...I think next time I will go with desert....three colors, (mostly sand), and that's it...

But when they were done, the overall effect is pretty damn stunning if I do say so myself...

And so, ladies and gentlemen, may I present to you....The United States Marine Corps, (in 15mm USMC Woodland MARPAT)...coming soon to a country near you, to kick ass and take names...

"Semper Fi, Baby!"

An overhead shot showing the force, ready for action....command units, rifle squads, LMGs, SAWs, HMG's and Mortars, all ready to put a hurtin' on whomever they are told to hurt...

Rifle Squads are ready to go!!!

M240 MG teams ready for action....remember, "Every fifth round is a tracer..."

Command Stands and Mortars...

Rifle squads, support weapons, and all the "umph!" that Marines carry with them to deliver maximum hurt to the enemy... Perhaps in "all" of Bongolesia, these are the only "real" "good" guys that there are...

But whats a third world hell-hole without war zone activities like ambushes?

And so I present to you, dear reader, my "Ambushed Mercedes Sedan"...

This is another Peter Pig little sweet piece to work on. It cleans up well and takes paint pretty good. I will probably get another one later on and do it in a more "shot up and rusted look", for a car that's been sitting on the road for a while...this one is obviously a "newer casualty"...

By the way...You DO know that Bongolesia starts with a "B" right?

Right?...

Work with me here...

What else starts with a "B"...???

And DON'T say "BOMB!!!!" (wrong answer, you go to the back of the classroom)...

No..."BEACHES!" also start with "B"....

And you know what is frequently seen on "beaches" right?

Right?

And if you say "LANDMINES!", "Oil Slicks", or "Machine Gun Bunkers"...then you really need to get out more....

NO...

What's seen on "beaches" is ......BIKINI BABES!!!!!

Soooooo...how can I have a "beach in Bongolesia" without "Bikini Babes!?"

Have no fear! Peter Pig to the rescue once again!

Peter Pig "ancients range" nude females...and with a very VERY fine brush, gave them outfits that even "Wicked Weasel Bikinis" would be proud of. Now they can flounce and bounce all over Bongoelsia's sunny golden shores...

So where does that leave me?

Oh yes....that was the "completed stuff"...

What about "What I am working on now?"

Welllll....to answer that question...

I am working on a ceremonial parade flag unit of the Bongolesian Presidential Guard.

These guys are acutally 15mm Napoleonic Highlanders that have been shanghaied into Bongolesian Service. They'll be painted up in their dress uniforms and used in ceremonies and parades...I also have bagpipers that may get into it also...

I'm also working on more anti-government troops, (BARF and "The Lions of Allah")....

As well as "more civilians", (Innocents caught up in the mess, "not so innocents that are looting", protesters, etc...) All in all when finished I should have close to 30 stands of civilians...a nice sized mob if I do say so myself...

Oh and trucks...This is the second to last batch of trucks that I need to do, and finally, FINALLY I think I will have enough trucks...I think...
Oh, and two more landrovers also...

And then I have this batch of miscellaneous stuff...some "odds and ends" figures, some more UN trucks, and some M113's that will go to the UN also...along with a couple of scenics to finish...all in all when done, it'll be quite a haul....

So finally, FINALLY, that's what's on my painting/worktable...lots more figures to paint, (but I've made good progress), and a few "special things" in the pipeline...

I will admit that I am indeed getting "burnt out" on painting 15mm figs...I'm thinking that once this batch gets done I will take a breather, and get back to work on my neglected 28mm pulp figs, pirates, and cowboys for a bit...

Or I could even perhaps, *gasp*....run a game!

Hmmm...now there's a thought!!!!

Thanks for reading, and comments are appreciated!

"This Week in Bongolesia!"

2011-08-28T10:15:00.006-05:00

THIS WEEK IN BONGOLESIA!
(Brought to you by "Radio Joe...7.62 on your AM radio dial!)

*Urban renewal projects...
* Kidz at play...
*BOOM! Went the fuel truck!
*National "Backroad Safety Week"
*Superstar "P'nut Lohg in Concert!"

URBAN RENEWAL PROJECTS BEING REVIEWED:
(Sudekia) In an optimistic announcement today, the national government has announced that it is "Reviewing current plans and policies dedicated to urban renewal of areas that really need it." Specifically speaking, the policies and plans come to light on assisting the quality of living in the lower class lifestyle living areas.
"While some people and nations of the world may call them "slums", and "shantytowns", we here in Bongolesia prefer the term "lower class lifestyle neighborhoods". said a national spokesman. "To say that Bongolesia has slums is really an insult to our nation and it's progress under our esteemed Excellency President-For-Life P'hat Daddee B'wonah."
While many of the details of the report has not been released, it is known that certain aspects of the report designed to "focus the awareness of increasing the happiness of life in the lower class neighborhoods", include such things as:

1: "Fixing broken public plumbing and repairing outhouses", to increase sanitation and cleanliness, and to help get rid of nasty smells and the seemingly ever increasing Goomba Fly populaiton. "Let's be truthful.' The Government spokesman said. "Nobody, I don't care WHO you say you are...NOBODY enjoys the smell of a fresh full outhouse on a hot hot day..."

2: Developing new recreation facilities: Ideas have been proposed to established playgrounds for kids so that they can enjoy a "healthy and fun lifestyle in their free time between their work and school activities." This includes cleaning up brown dirt lots and removing the shards of broken glass and metal, and empty bullet cartridges that can cut into the tender of skin of the childrens bare feet as they run screaming through the dust...

These are simply two of the issues that are being looked at by the national government to increasing the lifestyle of it's less fortunate citizens...

"Gettin' a piece o' the pie" Government reviews policies and plans on urban renewal for lower class lifestyle neighborhoods like this one on the outskirts of Sudekia.

KIDZ at play...
(Lonnieville): During the summer months, (and other times also, especially when it's not raining), one can wander during daylight through the neighborhoods all across the country and see the smiling faces of happy children at play.
"It's such a joy to listen to the shrieks and screams of children at play." said a happy mother as she watched her young son playing in the local park before he was pushed to the ground by some other kids in "a game". The mother watched her children get up, shake his head to clear his thoughts while catching his breath and then resumed playing. "True, you have to watch out for them, and sometimes they do get hurt, but it's a learning experience. Plus, the world isn't such a coddling place."
The discussion was interrupted by a loud scream from a child as he fell out of a tree that he was climbing. Hitting the ground with a loud thud, everyone stopped and watched his motionless form for a moment before he regained his senses and conciousness. Then all was cool, and the kids resumed playing...
Children all across the country are building strong bones and reflexive running and dodging skills as they play local games which include throwing things at each other, and the ever present local game of playground football is always underway.
"It's fun to watch them play, and it passes the time on a nice day, to see the chil...chil....*hic* kids playing." said an older man while sitting on a park bench taking sips from a bottle in a brown paper bag.
Children seem to enjoy their leisure time, but soon the school season will be back in full swing, so they are making the best of it.

Fun for all ages! Kids at play at the local playground in Lonnieville.

BOOM! Went the fuel truck!
Accidend under investigation, driver toasted...
(Tomtown): National Police and Safety Investigators today are reviewing the evidence found in yesterdays Petroco Fuel Truck explosion and fire on the outskirts of Tomtown.
"While we do not know fo' sure what caused this to happen, we will be reviewing all possible causes, including illegal activities and safety concerns." said a Bongolesian National Police spokesman. "It's a good thing that this happened outside of town. Can you imagine the mess it would've caused inside?"
The Petroco tanker truck was reportedly travelling towards Tomtown with a full load of high octane fuel from the Petroco Refinery outside of Lonnieville when the accident happened.
Witnesses were told that they heard "a loud noise, then the sound of tires screeching before they heard a loud crash and an explosion, followed by a fire."
"Yeah...that's the way these things normally go..." said a local citizen.
The driver, (whose name is being witheld pending identification and family notification process), was killed in the accident.
Despite the accident, the overall safety record of Petroco in Bongolesia remains very good.
"It's rare that these things happen with our trucks, and our drivers. All vehicles are maintained to the highest standards, and the drivers are trained to be professionals and to handle their explosive loads with care and not like the screaming amateurs of our competitors. " said a local Petroco Spokesman.
"Residents are once again reminded of the dangers of inattentive driving and what could happen if you don't watch where you are going." said a Bongolesian National Policeman.
More details are coming and will be reported as soon as produced.

Wrecked Petroco fuel truck burns outside of Tomtown...

NATIONAL BACKROAD SAFETY WEEK BEGINS IN BONGOLESIA!
(Keeping drivers, passengers, and everything else safe from each other!)
(Sudekia): Government Transportation officials today announced with pride the launch of "National Backroads Safety Week", throughout the nation.
"This is the beginning of a new program dedicated to reducing the number of accidents on our country's backroads, either stupid or otherwise." said a Transportation spokesman.
"It's well know that Bongolesia has a large amount of backroads in various conditions and development and some of these roads are not as safe as others. Travellers driving their own cars and ones that they have borrowed have been known to get into many accidents which hurt and kill people, animals, and other things."
Among the many plans for National Backroad Safety Week is a series of film shorts that will make a circuit around the country to educate the citizens on the dangers of driving and how to be a better driver. Among these films are "Don't drive into the herd." "Danger! Washed out bridge ahead means YOU too!" and the ever popular, "Why cars and landmines don't mix..."

"Guess who has right of way?" will be among the many topics covered during National Backroad Safety Week...

TIME TO GET JIGGY!!!!
Bongolesian Superstar P'nut Lohg to get you going with a series of local concerts!
(Port Tuziak): It's time to change your socks and get your bling on as Bongolesian International Recording Sensation P'nut Lohg opens his new tour to promote sales of his new hit album, "Sploosh!"
"P'nut Lohg has been wanting to get this passed and out to everyone for a long time." said a public relations spokesman for Mr. Lohg. "There's been a lot of grunting and flexing on getting this thing passed down the right way without any backups, and it finally looks like it worked!"
Among the many hit songs on the album are the new dance sensations, "DON'T STEP THERE!", and "Red Tracer Boogie". Also on the album is the heart rendering songs "Did you hear that click?", and even the reach down into your soul bluesy sounds as P'nut Lohg sings "The Misfire Blues"...
Tour dates are soon to be announced, but it's guaranteed that tickets will be sold out fast! So keep your eyes and ears open and your head down low to get your hands on these tickets and to go "see the show!"

"The Artist with a movement..." P'nut Lohg prepares for his next round of concert appearances...

Stay tuned to Radio Joe, AM 7.62 on your dial, for all the latest music, and for "What's happening in Bongolesia!"

Another "Mystery Ship"...

2011-08-16T17:27:00.004-05:00

From: Bongolesian National Radio, (Radio De' Bongolesia)

(Definately NOT "The Love Boat"...)

Romanian Cargo Ship abandoned off the coast...

SECOND MYSTERY SHIP FOUND ABANDONED OFF COAST OF BONGOLESIA...

NO CREW FOUND...

(Waughtown) National Officials are puzzled at the confirmed report of a second "Ghost Ship" mysteriously appearing upon the treacherous shoals, reefs and rocks off of the coast of Northeastern Bongolesia.
The Romanian Cargo freighter ""Regina Marii" was discovered earlier today askew in shallow water and among the low reefs and rocks of the Northeastern Bongolesia Coastline, near the (infamous), Cape of White Rocks.
The Regina Marii was last seen in mid-July off the coast of Greece and according to information provided by the shipping company, was on it's way to England with a shipment of assorted goods and trade items, including local crafts and exports. The ship was reported overdue from a scheduled port o' call in Naples, and no further sighting or communication was made of it.
So here it is, over a month later and Bongolesian fishermen from Waughtown come back with reports of a "ghost ship".
Security forces converged upon the vessel, and confirmed an empty hold of all cargo, and no crewmembers on board. The ships log was found in the captains quarters, along with a discharged pistol, (perhaps suggesting a mutiny). As the documents are in Romanian and there are no current Bongolesian-Romanian translators, available, (If at all), proper translation of the log remains incomplete. It is interesting to note though that the last reported entry was for August 10th, and merely said "draci fiica" ...

Investigation continues on this and more updates are sure to come...

Stay tuned to "Bongolesian National Radio" as we prepare for another exciting radio broadcast of "Jungle Buddies"...This week, Agoop loses the map and compass while trekking with his schoolmates through "The Leopard Forest"...hilarious hijinks ensue and you won't want to miss it! That'll be coming up on the hour right after the National News Break...

BONGOLESIA BOXED SET AND SCENARIOS RELEASED BY REBEL MINIS!!!

2011-08-13T11:06:00.003-05:00

Okay, okay, life has been a bit hectic...
In June of this year, Rebel Minis, released the "Bongolesia" supplement for their "Modern Havok" game. Since this is a supplement, you do need the Modern Havok rules to play, but it has a ton of amazing scenarios and adventures to it.
They've also released a very cool boxed set of minis, including agents, hostages, rebel troops, etc...all in all a perfect starter set to send you down the ever spiralling path of creating your own third world hell-hole campaign setting.

You can find more info on it here: http://rebelminis.blogspot.com/2011/06/modern-havok-bongolesia-boxed-set.html

(Bongolesia's Concept of "Rapid Deployment Troops"...seat belts not included...)

The rules are VERY "tongue in cheek", and ANYONE that "feels offended by them, or how they portray Bongolesians" either has tissue paper think skin, or needs to be offended by something this week, (next week, it'll be something else, like "hubcaps that cause cancer", or "why the blue screen of death on pcs portrays the color blue.")...They're made to be fun and the figs can be added to (go on, you know you want to...) from Rebel Minis, along with Peter Pig, Cannon Fodder, or any of the other 15mm modern manufacturers out there.

It's an honor for me to have Rebel Minis do this. Everything all the way across the board was on the up and up and you couldn't ask for a better way (or people) to work with.
I'm very proud and pleased that my silly little nation has brought joy and fun to so many people, and I thank Rebel Minis for getting this out. The Rebel Minis Company is a great company to work with, and I think that I shall be doing business with them a lot more in the future...(if my wallet can stand my binge buying)...
I think I'll be running a few of these wonderful scenarios in the future....

So do you part for the economy, support your game companies, and see if you can change "Africa"...(Well Bongolesia at least...)
And most of all...have fun with it!

P'hat Daddee B'wonah would be please...I'm sure of it...

More to come....I'm sure of it....

CRISIS IN BONGOLESIA! EUROPEAN DIPLOMATS "INSULT" BONGOLESIAN GOVT AND PEOPLE....

2011-06-11T12:58:00.007-05:00

CRISIS IN BONGOLESIA CONTINUES!

EUROPEAN DIPLOMATS "INSULT" BONGOLESIA SAYS NATIONAL GOVT.

FINANCIAL CRISIS TURNS INTO INTERNATIONAL CRISIS WITH CURRENCY CHANGE PROPOSAL!

ALAN ALDA OFFERS HIS INSIGHT AND IDEAS ON HOW TO SOLVE THE ISSUE!

EURONEWS NETWORK: (ENN): "All the news with a European Flair; delivered by a Eurobabe..."

DATELINE: (EUROPE/BONGOLESIA):
Midday talks on the current Bongolesian Crisis, completely broke down today as European Diplomats offered a "Financial Solution and Change Plan", to "assist Bongolesia in it's current economic boondoggle."
"While Boongdoggle is a term that we do not normally use here in Europe..." says European Spokesman Pierre Poupon of France, "and it is something that ze Americans like to use, *sniff*, ze fact that ze word is simply ze only one that we can theenk of to explain their situation..."
Bongolesian representatives today were presented with a jaw-dropping proposal by the European Nations and Financial Markets to completely overhaul their economic system, beginning with their own currency.
According to an anonymous source, The European representatives proposed to the Bongolesian representatives that their nation, "completely do away with their current currency, The Bling-Bling and to replace it with something that is more financially stable and has maintained it's value over the long term test of time."

FROM THIS....(The Current Currency of Bongolesia)...

TO THIS:...(The Proposed Future Currency of Bonoglesia)...

Bongolesian National Authorities overwhelmingly rejected the proposal and after briefing the government on this latest proposal, Bongolesian Diplomat to Europe, Ambassador F'lybye Nite, said simply..."My Government has received this proposal and after a careful review and evaluation of it, has instructed me to tell my European counterparts that they know what they can to with themselves..."

Bongolesian Ambassador to Europe, Mr. F'lybye Nite, seen here discussing items of importance with a staff member...

Reports coming from Bongolesia say that the National Government is "highly displeased" with this latest round of failed solutions, and talks. This comes as civil unrest continues in the Northern part of the country and is suspected (though not confirmed) to be spreading throughout the rest of the country.

Media coverage of the unrest is currently being censored and controlled by National Govt. Authorities and it is indeed difficult to get a clear picture of what is going on in Bongolesia.

Of course many analysts and experts say that that is "perfectly normal with this country, as they haven't been able to get a clear picture of the situation there for over 20 years..."

SPECIAL!!!

DATELINE: (HOLLYWOOD): Cinema Superstar and International Relations Emasculator Alan Alda today announced that he was willing to discuss his plans for "helping to solve the current situation with Bongolesia, and to show how, once again, the US Government is "somehow at fault for letting this happen."

"I blame Washington." Alda said after sipping from his bottle of Evian Water while sitting in a cafe in Hollywood. "We know that the US Government is usually behind all kinds of things that happen in this world, and it has the reputation of being the schoolyard bully and threatening younger children with violence in the school bathroom if they don't allow us to copy their homework. Do you know what it's like to have to go pee, but you are deathly afraid because of the bully in the bathroom? It's a harrowing experience I can tell you. You shake your legs and watch the clock, waiting for school to be out, because you are afraid of wetting your pants... Well it's the same with the international community and the US Government, I'm thinking...."

Alan Alda, passionately discusses the current Bongolesian Crisis...(Be sure to see the entire special report right after this newscast!)...

STAY TUNED TO THE ENN FOR ALL THE LATEST IN THIS UNFOLDING CRISIS!!!!!

Crisis in Bongolesia!

2011-06-06T21:47:00.005-05:00

EURONEWS NETWORK: All the news, delivered with a European Flair, by a Eurobabe...

US OFFERS DIPLOMATIC "RESOLUTION" TO BONGOLESIAN CRISIS!

PHOTOS OF DAMAGES AND SECURITY OPERATIONS RELEASED!

BONGOLESIAN GOVT SAYS THAT IT REMAINS "IN ABSOLUTE CONTROL"...

DATELINE: WASHINGTON/BONGOLESIA

(Washington): In a rare and sudden unexpected move, the US Government today announced that it is offering its diplomatic assistance to help "find a resolution to the current Bongolesian Crisis afflicting that country."

In a released statement by The White House, it reads: "The People and Government of The United States are aware of the problems in Bongolesia and with it's relations in the international community. We are shocked and saddened that this has taken on a violent tone, and in order to maintain a more peaceful world, we are ready to help resolve this situation diplomatically or otherwise as soon as possible."

It is speculated that the US Government is reacting quickly due to a "Deer In The Headlights" moment in International Affairs due to the sudden presence of Acting Legend and Cinema Superstar Alan Alda, offering his services to go to the Cayman Islands and to help mediate the crisis to a peaceful happy conclusion.

In a quickly worded response, the press agent for Mr. Alda said: "While Mr. Alda respects the sudden sensitivity of the US Government to this issue that they no doubt in some way, shape, or form, had a hand in creating, he still stands by his offer to be flown to the Cayman and handle this in the way that only a sensitve gentle artistic soul of his caliber can. He has his flip flops ready and is just waiting on his boarding pass!"

Mr. Alan Alda, (in a clean shirt and tie); also known as "The Henry Thoreau of International Relations"...

Meanwhile in Bongolesia....

Sources are releasing the first pictures of some of the local actions taken by the Interior Security Ministry in putting down the growing opposition and civil unrest. While only a few pictures have made their way out, they show the security forces clamping down hard on the protesters.

In this picture here, a local civilian is on the wrong end of the riot stick as a local security official persuades him to change the error of his ways...

Also, the first released pictures of the damage to Port Kensington-Hyde-White has been released showing some of the devastation caused by the civil unrest. Bongolesian Govt. Officials have increased the curfew and rumor is that martial law will be enacted "very soon, if conditions do not improve".

Many buildings in Port Kensington-Hyde-White have been damaged or destroyed completely, which is contributing to the break down of the local infrastructure. Rumor is that petrol is completely out, and that food, water, and power is sporadic at best due to the damage.

STAY TUNED TO THE ENN FOR MORE INFORMATION AS THIS STORY UNFOLDS.....

A well dressed dictator....

2011-06-05T08:44:00.004-05:00

There are very few "good things" about third world tin pot dictators...
However, I WILL admit that they always seem to have cool and snazzy looking uniforms filled with awesome medals, badges, jump wings, awards, medallions, other wonderful trinkets of bling.
Soooo with Origins coming up, I've decided..."Why NOT have a Dictator uniform for my Bongolesia game?"
And my lady, (Gawd bless her); has agreed to make it.
While she makes the jacket, (from a combine "Prince Charming", and US Civil War Officers Frock/Jacket Pattern), I decided to go with getting "The Bling".
I wanted it to be tacky...and bemedalled like any dictator worth his dictatorness would have.
The only problem was that I did not want to use "Real" medals that were currently in service or being awarded.
(RANT MODE ON)
Call me odd, but as a military veteran, I have issues with people wearing "Real World" awards that they were never awarded and even as "costume jewelry". I would feel that someone wearing something such as the CMH, or the VC, shouldn't do it because using it as costume jewelry to me, demeans the meaning of what that medal represents. I don't mind anyone wearing medals from countries that no longer exist, (such as South Vietnam, or The British Honduras, or Manchuko), or even horribly obsolete ones, (such as the 1900 series of Belgian medals for Civil Service), but ones that folks on todays battlefield are often receiving is another story...
Now honestly, if you want to go and wear your old high school JROTC Medals and Ribbons that you got 30 years ago...feel free to do so...I don't think anyone is going to care or remember.
But if you wear a CMH as part of your "outfit", you better be damn well ready to prove that you DID in fact earn it....
(RANT MODE OFF)
Now with that little rant being done, I was then faced with "How do I find such wonderful cheap tacky medals?"
The honest answer? You don't really.
Sadly enough to say, there really isn't a large market for medals for non-existant countries, and although there is a site on Ebay that sells "3 military medals", (nice generic ones, just like the kind your would find on Michael Jackson's uniforms); unfortunately I found the prices for them to be a bit too expensive.
Soooooooo....it was time to be creative....
First off...another large night of cruising ebay; and in doing so, I made a couple of purchases of large lots of "miscellaneous medals and parts". Some of these were present day current medals, and some were older medals, and some were medals from now, non-existant countries, (such as the Civil Technician Award from South Vietnam). I don't think that the South Vietnamese Govt. is going to be upset at me using one of their medals for parts etc...
So that's what I did.
I took the draperies and medallions from each of the medals and re-arranged them. The old European one with the red ribbon suddenly had an extra ring and went to a different colored ribbon, etc. Thus "new" medals were created for Bongolesia and no one can accuse me of wearing "Real" medals. In fact one of the crosses is a cheap reproduction, and three of the medallions are actually "vogue jewelry pendants" that can be found at an arts and crafts/hobbies store in the beads and jewelry section. I also think that one of them has doubled in the past as a handle hanger for a chest of drawers....
So a little change here...a swoop there...and voila!

A CHEST FULL OF BLING!

Worthy of any dictator, this chest of medals is sure to impress the ladies, (and make them swoon), make you the idol of the kids on your block, and may even get you a free drink or dinner at your local pub/tavern/bar/hookah lounge/etc...

A close up of the medals and you can see the different variations that can be created by just using your imagination, and some stuff from ebay, and local arts and crafts stores. You'll look like a hero and no one will be insulted. And if they get in your face about "The Order Of The Golden Lion First Class", then you can wait until they finish blustering then laugh in their face....

I also need ribbons and besides my JROTC ribbons that I have around here somewhere, I have some other local growgrain ribbon to make some...So it'll help me look even more "dictatory"...(is that a word?)...

And finally....

Quite dashing, don't you think?

The jacket isn't finished but I had to try it on with my hat and give an "inspirational pose"....

You'll be able to see me in all of my bemedalled dictatored glory at Origins....

WORLD BANKS REFUSE BEC DISTRIBUTION AND VALIDATION...

2011-06-04T10:00:00.010-05:00

FROM THE EUROPEAN NEWS NETWORK (ENN): "All the news, with a European Flair, delivered by a Eurobabe!"...

DATELINE: EUROPE/BONGOLESIA:
World Financial Leaders and Banking Organizations today voted overwhelmingly to reject the validation and international financial recognition and accredidation of the recently proposed and released "Bongolesian Express Card".
In a joint statement released by Financial and Banking Leaders and Lenders throughout the world, it said the following:
"It is with heavy heart and after much consideration that we have decided to reject the validation and financial recognition necessary to accredit the Bongolesian Express Card. This rejection in no way reflects ill will upon the nation of Bongolesia, nor it's people, but instead focuses on the unanswered questions having to do with market stability, government regulations, international trade and financial goodwill, and most of all the fluctuation of Bongolesian Currency upon the world financial market. The fact that the card carries a 875% interest rate has also raised a few eyebrows..."

The Bongolesian Express Card...You can't leave home without it....actually you can, but now no one will recognize it as valid....

National Government Spokesman Sp'in Doktur discusses the current hijinks surrounding the recent snubbing by monetary institutions around the world...

Upon learning of the refusal to recognize the new credit card for Bongolesia, National Spokesman Sp'in Dok'tur spoke in reply:
"It saddens us, as a nation, and a people, and for his Exellency, President-For-Life P'hat Daddee B'wonah, it just breaks his heart to see us treated this way once again, by other nations that have a "We're better than you, n'yah!" attitude. You would think that in this day and age, our former European Colonial Occupiers and their flunky allies would wanna do the right thing and okey-dokey this card to show that Bongolesia would be a good place to invest, and spend your money in as much as possible. It seems though that all they wanna do is play games with our nation and our people until they can get their way once again. Well, I don't know about you folks, but I think that that ain't gonna happen for a loooooong time."

Sources in Sudekia say that due to this recent "look down their nose at Africa once again", mentality and attitude, they expect the financial markets to work against the validity of the Bongolesian Currency, known as "The Bling-Bling". This will increase prices throughout the country and lead to inflation, as well as perhaps even fuel more civil unrest while the government attempts to solve the situation.
Meanwhile despite a curfew and increased police/security presence, civil unrest continues in Kensington-Hyde-White and Waughtown for a second day as for the first time, the delightful aroma of CS riot control gas graced the air and noses of protestors. Despite firing dispersal gas into the crowds of protesters and day shoppers at the local outlet store, civil unrest continues in these two cities, with the largest and most active in Kensington-Hyde-White. National Government officials are working with local leaders to stop the unrest and address issues of concern and restoring order.

Unhappy citizens in Kensington-Hyde-White show their frustration ...

"Suck on this!" Riot gas used on protesters to help restore order...

Meanwhile in Hollywood California, cinema legend and all time acting superstar Alan Alda has offered his services to the US Government to fly him to either the Cayman Islands or Switzerland to meet with Bongolesian Officials to discuss how he can help mediate a succesful ending to the current issues plaguing the nation.

Can he do it? Alan Alda offers his services to help stop "The Bongolesian Issue and to make sure that it's America's Fault"...

STAY TUNED TO ENN FOR MORE NEWS ON THIS UNFOLDING DRAMA AS IT HAPPENS!!!!

STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARED!!!

2011-06-03T16:46:00.006-05:00

Government declares State of Emergency due to thugs and hooligans causing problems in major cities...

Police Force and NDF deal with bad boyz wannabes....

(Sudekia) The National Government today declared a "State of Emergency" within the nation with curfews on the cities of Clarksville, Waughtown, and Kensington-Hyde-White.

Government spokesmen have announced the curfew to help stop the angry rioting that has been fueled by anti-govt. thugs and hooligans using the current financial crisis to exhort their rhetoric agains the law and order government and the people.

In statement issued by the National Government, Spokesman Sp'in Dok'tur said:

"Due to the current wham-bam thank you ma'am issues going on with the international communities against our beloved nation, certain thugs and hooligans that don't like our way of life have decided to use this time to cause trouble in the country. Despite their pitiful efforts at swaying loyal Bongolesians from their nation, there is a whole lotta shaking going on, and as a result his Excellency President-For-Life P'hat Daddee B'wonah has approved a State of Emergency within the nation. Interior security forces are being bolstered by our beloved NDF troops and mark my words...Our boys in green will make sure that anyone getting jiggy as a result of this civil unrest will soon see the sharp end of the pain stick!"

Poor defenseless automobiles are set afire on the streets of Clarksville by thugs and hooligans....

A photograph of some local thugs and hooligans trying to start trouble in Waughtown. Just moments later they felt the pain stick as security forces got jiggy with them and laid down the law.

National Defense troops singing Patriotic Songs and whippin' up the ol' fightin' spirit before going in and dealing with people that did and didn't cause all the problems going on. Besides being able to rip off a burst with machine guns, many of these guys have great singing voices!

General Lok N' Lode, commander of the National Defense Forces, addresses media questions about dealing with the thugs and hooligans. The General likes to get plenty of action, and it's guaranteed that he'll be giving the action to those hoodlums that want to cause problems in our beloved nation.

STAY TUNED AS THIS UNFOLDS....

Bongolesia at Origins!

2011-05-01T21:23:00.003-05:00

Just to let everyone know that my Bongolesian Themed AK47 Republic Game is now listed in the Event List for Origins: http://www.originsgamefair.com/

ITEM#1573

The time has changed though!

The PREVIOUS time was Sat: 22:00 hrs.

The NEW time is Sat: 14:00 hrs.

This should be reflected on the new grid coming out soon.

I'll be there in all of my tin plated third world bemedalled dicatatorshipness and glory....
Stop by and say hi, or bettery yet, join in!

Hope to see you there!

Ship of Lost Souls...

2011-04-23T16:20:00.004-05:00

MISSING MYSTERY SHIP FOUND BEACHED ON BONGOLESIA'S SOUTHERN COASTLINE...

Ship listed as "missing" years ago, suddenly ends up found on rocky shores of Bongolesia's Southern Coast...

Certainly NOT "The Love Boat!"...the Cargo Ship "Dimitrios" photographed shortly after it was reported found beached on The Southern Coast of Bongolesia...

(Sudkeia): Rumors are flying as heads are being scratched as the National Government confirmed today that an Eastern European Cargo Ship that had been declared as "Missing / Lost At Sea", in the Black Sea years ago, has suddenly been discovered beached upon the rocky desolate Southern Bongolesian Shores, devoid of any crew or cargo.

The Greek built, Romanian flagged cargo freighter "Dimitrios", was reported "Overdue" at it's destination in 2003. Based out of the Romanian port of Constanta, The Dimitrios travelled across the Black Sea carrying cargo and a few passengers to ports such as Yalta, Odessa, Varna and Istanbul with an occassional foray into the Mediterranean.

Launched in 1984, The Dimitrios was leased by a private Romanian shipping company to move cargo throughout the Black Sea.

In September of 2003, during a series of freakishly bad storms throughout The Black Sea, numerous ships were damaged, a few swamped and sunk, and a couple reported as "Overdue/Missing"...Among the last ones was The Dimitrios.

Bound for Istanbul with a private cargo, it was assumed that the ship was caught in a fierce storm and sank quickly, preventing any SOS, or even an abandon ship attempt. The ships status went from "Overdue", to "Missing", and eventually to "Lost At Sea".

No bodies or wreckage was ever found.

DEFINATELY NOT A "THREE HOUR TOUR"....

So, imagine everyone's surprise when it was reported to local officals by Bongolesian fisherman that "a big boat was on da rocks near our shore"... Fearing a military invasion, a small force of security troops travelled quickly to check out what was going down. To their surprise and relief, there was no invasion force, just The Dimitrios.

The scouts reported back to HQ of a large shipwreck on the rocks. An investigation team of security and government officials arrived at the scene and confirmed that it was the missing Dimitrios...

The questions on everyones minds (and tongues) is: "Where did it come from?" "How did it get here?" "Where has it been for so long?" and most of all..."What happened to the cargo, (and crew)???"...

All of these questions remain unanswered as the investigation continues into this mystery...

MORE ON THIS AS IT UNFOLDS....

Winner of The Stylish Blogger Award!!!!

2011-04-23T10:09:00.004-05:00

Imagine my surprise and how honored I felt when this morning I discovered that I had been awarded the Stylish Blogger Award for bringing "Bongolesia" to the masses...

First off a HEARTY and HUGE BIG "THANK YOU" goes to David Manley at "Don't Throw Bloody Spears At Me!".

You can find his blog here: http://dtbsam.blogspot.com/2011/04/stylish-blogger-award.html

Now although the honor doesn't come with a cash award or anything like that, it is an honor to be recognized. I've always been one of those guys that say "Wow, I wish I could paint figs, run a game, build terrain, and even have a cool blog like these guys." I never consider myself "good enough". I see some of the other blogs out there, and it does make me envious, wishing that I had that type of skill, but at the same time they also inspire me. I hope that this blog and some of the things I've done will help inspire you, dear reader, onto good gaming!

That being said though...

With this award comes responsibilities and duty....and rules....(Yeah we got rules here...)

There are four rules to the award that have to be followed:

1: Thank and link back to the person giving you the award- - thanks again DTBSAM! :)
2: Share seven things about yourself.
3: Select 10-15 blogs who you think deserve this award.
4: Contact these bloggers and let them know about the award.

Okay so seven things about me...

1: I'm a Civil War Reenactor.

2: I get my college degree at the end of this year.

3: I hope to have a house with a fully designated "Man Cave/Game Room" in the near future with table, display cases and the like, like Lord Ashram has...

4: I wish I could find a good group of people to DM again...(one of my groups ran EVERY Saturday night for many years and was only actually interrupted on account of a war. (Desert Shield and Storm)...

5: My three favorite movies are : 1: The Quiet Man; 2: Darby O' Gill and The Little People; and 3: Casablanca...

6: I'm the original designer of Gutshot (The Origins 2006 Winner for "Historical Miniatures Game Of The Year), and co-creator of the present version.

7: I've been diagnosed with ONHD (a VERY RARE optic nerve disorder that will result in total bllindness for me in 20-30 years)...

8: I've been into "toy soldiers" all of my life, for as long as I can remember...

And now in honor of it all, and in carrying on the proud tradition of it all, I'd like to recognize the following blogs who's stuff has inspired me, thrilled me, taunted and titillated me. All in all, excellent works of gamesmanship and creativitiy, listed in no particular order.

Well done my friends!

ColCampbells Barracks: http://colcampbellbarracks.blogspot.com/

Der Alte Fritz Journal: http://altefritz.blogspot.com/

Doctor Merkurys Lab: http://doctormerkury.blogspot.com/

Mongos Wafflehouse: http://mongoswafflehouse.blogspot.com/

Mistress of Minis: http://mistressofminis.blogspot.com/

Daddys Little Men: http://daddyslittlemen.blogspot.com/

Too Much Lead: http://toomuchlead.blogspot.com/

Panzerfausts 150 blog: http://panzerfaust150.6sided.net/

Crisis In Alcovia: http://alcovia.blogspot.com/

Lord Ashram's House of War: http://lordashramshouseofwar.blogspot.com/

Please check out these blogs for further inspiration and good reading! They've all done a tremendous job!

And once again. Thank you dear readers for all of your support!

More Bongolesian news and updates coming your way....

Medals, Buildings and B'wonah!

2011-04-22T18:03:00.007-05:00

An overdue update for you dear reader...

One of the things that I have noticed is that third world delusional tin-pot tin-plated dictators seem to have in common is their love of medals and military awards. It seems that many of them believe in "The power of the bling"...
That being said, I decided to try my hand at creating a Bongolesian Medal/Award.
And thus I present to you, dear reader:

THE ORDER OF THE GOLDEN LION

The Order of the Golden Lion is an award given to those that have helped to further goodwill, and the cause of Bongolesia nationwide and throughout the rest of the world. It is the highest award that can normally be awarded upon a non-citizen that has worked towards the better welfare of Bongolesia...

In reality, it's a fake military medal created by myself and my wonderful lady...

The Order of The Golden Lion

See how spiffy it looks on a suit coat?

Just the type of bling you want to impress that hot young girl at the club on Saturday night...

More medals and awards to be coming in the future....

And now onto stuff that I'm working on, or finished, or wished I was finished with...

With Origins 2011 coming up fast..and I mean FAST, I'm going on a crash course in construction for Bongolesia. One of the "lollygag" projects I've had was the control tower for Sudekia Airport. I wanted something that had a "Seventies Future-ish" look, and with some scrap material, I created "Sudekia Tower"....

"Ground Control to Major Tom...." The control tower and building for Sudekia International Airport, (also known by it's old French name of "Bom'ba De Plaine Airport"....)...

Weathering on the building and the wear and tear of a 30+ year old control tower...and the corrugated metal roof and siding used in building repairs...

Part of my Origins game is going to rely on a beach, and what good African country that has water and a coastline doesn't have a beach? I mean, heck...Even his Excellency President-For-Life P'hat Daddee B'wonah likes to slip on a pair of speedos once in a while and get the sand between his tootsies as he watches the waves roll in on the beach...

So I started working on building "Ann'zee'oh Beach" for the upcoming game....

27" inches in lenght, and about 10" wide; it's made of pink foam with three dune hills attached ...

The base of the beach...patience and a lot of glue.....

After letting the dunes dry, and giving it a nice base coat, I plastered it with watered glue for the ground, (sand)...and applied liberally...

Here's my effort from my first layer of sand...

Not very easy to see...but you can see the general formation of it all...

I'm currently adding another layer. The dark spot on the left was a comparision of "sands", (The dark being "Sand" from Games Workshop)...

A nice long view of the beach....a place for romantic strolls in the sunset, oil slicks from wrecked tankers, and invasion forces to land...

And finally an update on the creation of the Presidential Palace, (The Pink Palace)...

Why no self respecting dictator worth his weight in truth serum wouldn't have a pad that he can call his own. And B'wonah is no different. The "Pink Palace" is the official Presidential Residence....

Hot and Cold Running Intrigue....

A perfect place for international hijinks and diplomatic shenanigans...

The Palace is made up of foamcore and is based on a solid sheet of foamcore. Groundwork is Scenic Effects flock and Gale Force 9. I'm really liking their stuff more and more....

A 15mm figure on a stand for size comparison..."I wonder who that could be???"...

Why, it's none other than "The Man!", himself! His Excellency President-For-Life P'hat Daddee B'wonah, in all of his resplendent bemedalled military dictatorshipness and glory! He seems to be checking out his crib!

More projects are on the table and being worked on, and more reports and photos to be coming in, including my hellish experiment with painting AAVP7s in NATO 3 color and painting 15mm USMC in Woodland Marpat...(argh!)

Semper Fi, baby....

My Marines awaiting MARPAT painting...

As usual, comments are appreciated....

Get your balls kicked! Football season begins next week!!!

2011-04-10T09:46:00.004-05:00

Fans throbbing with excitement throughout the nation in turgid anticipation of the start of the season next weekend!

BFL SEASON TO BEGIN WITH EXHIBITION GAMES NEXT WEEK!

Two new teams added to lineup!!!

(Sudekia): All of the country is abuzz and jittery with expectations like a new bride on her wedding night at next weeks start of the Football Season here in Bongolesia.

Of particular interest is that two new teams have been formed and added to Division One and Division Two.

"It's going to be quite a season!" said famed Bongolesian sports announcer How'urd Ko'Sell. "Between the up and coming bikini pageant and the start up of what looks like to be an exciting year of hard ball kicking in the BFL, the people of Bongolesia have a lot to be turgid about!"

THERE CAN BE ONLY ONE!

With the League split into two divisions, there will come a time when the two top teams will play in the National Championship, to decide who is the top hyena.

This year the championship game will be held in Lonnieville. Already the local residents are hoping that their homeboyz team will be there to participate and to win the gold plated championship trophy.

TWO NEW TEAMS!

People are abuzz about the addition of two new teams to the divisions and what it could mean for the league itself.

"It makes the field even more competetive than it already is." Ko'sell said. "Seven teams in each division for a total of fourteen. There's going to be a lot of kicked balls during this season."

Of particular interest on the field is the addition of the two new teams, The Jamboville Jam, and the Junkotown Raiders.

"The Jam has a good offense, but right now seems to lack long range ball kicking power. This could hurt their chances for winning games if they don't score early." Ko'sell replied when asked about them.

On the Jamboville Jam he said. "They're new and it shows. They've got some coordination problems, plus the local fighting that resulted in their field being hit with mortar fire delayed their practices quite a bit."

Indeed it seems like there is going to a lot to cheer and scream about in Bongolesia starting next week!

DIVISION 1

Sudekian Terrors

Tomtown Lions

Alexville Rhinos

Clarksville Comets

Porterfield Natives

PETROCO Lightnings

Junkotown Raiders

DIVISION 2

Lonnieville Headhunters

Port Tuziak Warriors

Waughtown Devils

Kensington-Hyde-White Unlimited

UN - "United"

NDF - "Guardians"

Jamboville Jam

All teams will begin their three game pre-season exhbition series next weekend, followed by a twelve game season. Each team will have one BYE weekend that they do not play.

Place your bets, root for you home team, and if attending a game, please follow any emergency evacuation orders in case of a crisis.

It's time to go kick some balls!!!!

STAY TUNED HERE FOR MORE EXCITING INFORMATION AS IT UNFOLDS!!!

NEW UN MILITARY MISSION COMMANDER TO BONGOLESIA ANNOUNCED!!!

2011-04-08T20:27:00.007-05:00

NEW UN MILITARY MISSION COMMANDER ANNOUNCED!!!

SECURITY COUNCIL TO REPLACE ITALIAN COMMANDER WITH PROFESSIONAL GERMAN OFFICER.

(UN Building) In a surprise move today, the United Nations Security Council (Peacekeeping Forces) announced that the current UN Military Mission Commander would be replaced within two weeks.

"UNSC today announced that Peacekeeping General Luigi Attsa'matta would be replaced as Commander of of the UN Military Peacekeeping Forces in Bongolesia (except for the British Contigent which operates seperately in the Northern Sector); and that the change of command would take place within the next two weeks. "

His replacement has been described as "A Professional German Military Officer of the highest caliber"; and has been named as "General-Field Marschall Hans Von KinderSchlager". Sources close to the UNSC spoke anonymously today about General Von KinderSchlager, saying that "He was pure military through and through, and had few vices and even less sense of humor."

General Hans Von KinderSchlager

The New UN Military Mission Commander to Bongolesia (Peacekeeping Forces)

The UN Peacekeeping mission has been plagued with inefficient operations over the last two years due to restricted budgets and cultural issues between the peacekeepers and the Bongolesian people. There are even issues of understanding and cohesion between the peacekeepers themselves. The UN Peacekeeping force is broken into two major military sectors: The MAIN SECTOR (which covers all of the country EXCEPT the NORTHERN SECTOR), is manned by an international coalition (mostly French), of military personnel on one year rotations. With command headquarters in the Capitol city of Sudekia, the French are occassionally backed by a small Danish contingent, as well as a smaller Pakistani contingent. Unofficial word is that the French troops were not happy with an Italian Commander, and to be honest, no one could understand whether the Pakistanis were happy or not...

The NORTHERN SECTOR OF OPERATIONS is commanded by a British Contingent led by General Robert (aka "Bloody Bob") Buggers, and consists of The Queens Own Royal Second Rate Irish Fusiliers; 1st British (and Others) Armored Company, An artillery battery manned by Welsh Conscripts, A platoon of Australian Engineers as well as other occassional various support units that are occassionally deployed to Bongolesia for lack of anything better to do. With Northern Sector command headquarters located in the former British city of Kensington-Hyde-White, the British contingent constantly maintains peacekeeping operations in the treacherous Northern Highlands and Mountains of Bongolesia.

More to come on this important announcement as details are made public...

Bombs, Bikinis, The French, and Business Deals...

2011-04-05T06:36:00.011-05:00

PRESIDENT WORKS WITH INVESTIGATION CREW ON RECENT ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT...

"Will find out who gets the sharp end of the pain stick!"

(Sudekia) Under highly loaded security, his Excellency President-For-Life P'hat Daddee B'wonah, listened carefully to the initial findings of the investigation team focused on the recent assassination attempt.

For those of you not in the know, a two vehicle team of thugs and hoodlums attempted to ram and detonate their vehicles into the Government Building recently, while the President and his staff were inside doing stuff.

Security Forces were able to beat off the attempt, but not after one of the cars detonated in the Central Marketplace Area, killing some poor civilians, and stuff.

His Excellency was very business-like this morning, and just issued a quick statement before the first of what will probably be many closed door meetings.

"I'm a man of few words...but a lot of action. I like action, and I like to get a lot of action, and those hooligans that think they can get away with something like this, will soon discover the error of their ways."

His Excellency President-For-Life P'hat Daddee B'wonah, listens intently on the initial findings of who tried to get the jiggy on him...

MORE TO FOLLOWING AS THIS EVENT UNFOLDS

And in other news....

HERE WE GO AGAIN!!!

Whiny European Leaders discuss "Bongolesian Affairs" while ignoring theirs!

It's becoming a bit of an embarassment to the international community at the "seemingly renewed" interest in our nation that our former European Colonial Masters, now known as the EU, (or should that be "EWWWW"???), have undertaken once again towards our beloved nation, while ignoring the plights of their people and issues within their borders altogether.

Students of approved history will remember that until 1960 our country was under a murky myriad of misguided myoptic masochism and rule by various stagnant European powers and lorded over by those same desperate nations being on trying to maintain themselves as some sort of colonial mastery over us and failing. Now in this day and age, like a weasel in a girls school, they are once again attempting to slip back into things here and are attempting it by using the guise of "International Relations", to do now what couldn't be done back then.

This week at a recent meeting of EU nations on lots of trivial affairs and what-nots, a flunky spokesman for the EU, (and from France of all places!), discussed with his spoon-fed reporters of the international media "his nations disgusts at our annoyance on their high tariff rates for the importation of Bongo-Cola.

Everyone knows that Bongo-Cola is a delicious, refreshing beverage destined to drive away thirst, and that it's something that everyone should enjoy, (even the French); but alas no...

They seem to think that "It's not good enough until they put a high tariff on it to make it an unaffordable luxury for everyone in the country", and thus no one in France is able to enjoy delicious, refreshing Bongo-Cola.

While we here in Bongolesia understand slamming tariffs on things to get people to pay for what they are getting, we are visibly upset because these so called "tariffs" are nothing more than highway robbery without the highways!

This is just one of the latest issues that the EU seems to be drumming up and focusing on within our beloved nation. It would be nice of them if they just went back to paying attention to their own failed systems and leave Bongolesia, (and the rest of the world), alone...

"SAME TO YOU FELLA!!!"

Local Whiny French EU Rep. tells the press "How he feels about Bongolesia..."

WHOOMP! THERE IT IS!!!!

Local beauties get ready for all popular annual Bongolesian National Bikini Pageant!

(Port Tuziak) The heat is on, and the smell of body oil and sweat is in the air as the local young ladies, (pretty and otherwise), are all jittery and excited at the announcement of the upcoming Bongolesian National Bikini Pageant being held this year at the luxious "Fly-By-Night" Club and Resort in Downtown Port Tuziak.

Bikini Pageant Producer See'mo Buttz said "This years contest is going to get you all up and thumpin' for some action! We got a line of beauties from all over the country ready to give it up for the crowd! They'll be strutting their stuff and will be all pimped out ready for a night of action!"

Indeed it seems that the local male population is already salivating and looking forward to the bevy of beauties that will be in the contest. "I'm 78 years old, and if'n I can see some of that hot whoomp, then day-aaaaammmmmnnnn!" said a local elderly gentleman while shivering in the noonday heat on a local park bench. We're not exactly sure what he means by his manner of speech, but we will get back to you on it.

The Fly-By-Night Club and Resort in downtown Port Tuziak, is one of the swankiest, poshest places around town, and is a popular place for entertainment of all kinds, (no sailors allowed). The Pageant will also be televised by Bongo-Vision Television and musical entertainment will be featuring local Bonoglesian Rap Sensation "Sqweekie K'leen", who will perform among his many hits, his recent hot single "I'd buy that fo' a dollar!"

"Something for everyone..."

Local beauties get ready to strut their stuff...

HASSELHOFF CAN'T COME EITHER...

Television Superstar is "saddened" that he is unable to make it as a guest judge of Bikini Pageant...

(Port Tuziak) In a sad statement released today, to the Bongolesian People, superstar and legendary actor David Hasselhoff informed our nation that he is "Unable to attend the Bongolesian Bikini Pageant due to unfortunate personal circumstances beyond his control." In a gently worded statement, he says: "This Bikini Pageant is something that I could really get my hands on and sink my teeth into... I'm so honored that you would ask me to be a guest judge of all the lovely ladies that will be strutting the corner of the stage and showing off their talents and goods. Maybe next year time will allow me to make it and grace your country with myself, and my clear-cut judgement on your local bevy of beauties..."

"Saddened that he can't come..."

Superstar David Hasselhoff is sad that he can't make it happen...

NEED SOMETHING SPECIAL AND EXOTIC???

Honest Abduls has it for you!!!

(Waughtown) Folks that love to spend lots of money, (their and others), will be happy and pleased to know that "Honest Abdul-The Shoppers Friend", has opened his third location here in Bongolesia! In a quick interview with Honest Abdul, he said " We thought long and hard about a third opening, but found that the best place to do business with is with the good people in the Northern Sector of the country. Waughtown has a good small port that allows ships carrying various goods, sundries, imports and exports to come in both day and night, and there are always UN personnel around to make sure that things are handled right." He smiled and took a deep smoke on his favored hookah. "The very best bargain for the very best price can ALWAYS be found at Honest Abduls New and Used Imports, Exports, and World O'Goods Emporium of Fine Things and Other Stuff. It's a great place to spend your hardly earned money."

(Cash, Money Order, International Money/Postal Orders, Gold, and certain International Charge Cards are accepted. No Checks please...Due to issues with the Italian Post, no items to be shipped to Italy...)

"He's got what you want..."

Honest Abdul-The Shoppers Friend!!!

CARGO SHIPS COMING TO PORT TUZIAK...

"What's in the tub, Bub?"

International Trade Agreements help local business and nation with special ordered stuff...

(Sudekia) The Ministry of Trade is happy to announce today that a series of specially brokered business deals with trade representatives from the CIS, and the PRC will allow the people of Bongolesia to see much new and needed items coming into the country via cargo ships. Ships traffic will be increased over the coming months in Port Tuziak and even in Sudekia to unload the cargo that they bring and to allow the sailors to get off. Details and information remain sketchy at the moment, but the word is out that among the items being brought into the country will be "Farm machinery and agricultural supplies, Irrigation devices, Tractors, Plumbing supplies, and other production and manufacturing materials". It's expected that the imports of said items will assist in the creation of many new jobs for the people in our country, and will allow them to sweat and work hard for what they are given. It all points to a brighter future for Bongolesia!

"Good Stuff coming in..."

Cargo ship on it's way to Port Tuziak...

Assassination Attempt!!!

2011-04-04T19:23:00.005-05:00

ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT!!!

PRESIDENT AND CABINET MEMBERS SAFE AND SOUND...

OTHERS, NOT SO LUCKY...

(Sudekia) In a move that can only be described as "cowardly", the peace and quiet of our beloved city was shattered last night when a group of unknown thugs and hooligans attempted an ill planned and poorly conceived assassination attempt upon our beloved President and/or other members of the Government. Shortly after 11 PM BST (Bongolesian Standard Time), a group of wannabe baddies attempted to ram two cars packed with explosives into the National Government Building, where his Excellency, President-For-Life P'hat Daddee B'wonah and other Government Officials were inside working on another national scheme to make things better for everyone involved and all around. Luckily for us and everyone else, the Security Personnel on duty intercepted the enemy vehicles and with a few bursts of rifle fire to convince them of the error of their ways, the hooligans departed the scene in their vehicles rather quickly. Unfortunately one of the thug cars detonated in the nearby Central Market Area killing 4 Civilians, 1 Security Forces Soldier and an unknown numbers of hooligans. The remaining vehicle fled into the darkness of the night.

"Hooligan Failure"

One of the vehicles of the enemy assassins burns brightly in the night in the Central Marketplace. The occupants dead from the accurate fire of the overzealous security personnel and the detonation of their explosive cargo.

Within moments of the incident, the Command Reactionary Assault Personnel (CRAP), of the Presidential Guard were on the scene. As CRAP went everywhere to ensure that his Excellency our beloved President was safe and sound, as well as the other Government officials. The curious civilian onlookers that crowded the scene were gently kept by the the benevolent prodding of CRAP bayonets while Government Investigators arrived on the scene to begin their work.

A Presidential Guard CRAP officer takes command of the scene of chaos and ensures that the President is A Okay and that those responsible will get what they deserve...

OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM THE PRESIDENT:

To the People of Bongolesia and the rest of the world...

Today it just breaks my heart to have to let you know of the chaos of those who would bring down our way of life and of their wicked wicked attempts to put the jiggy on me and the rest of the people that rule over you.

Late this evening, while I was in the thick of things with some of my assistants at the Government Building, some enemies of the state decided to try to force our incredible nation down the road into ruin by wanting to blow me (and some others, but mostly me), to bits.

I am happy to report to you that I am still alive and well, and unharmed.

Can you believe their foolishness? We've seen their type before and believe me, this so called "assassination attempt" was a poorly laid out farce destined for failure. I've seen better attempts myself.

I have authorized the Presidential Guard, The National Defense Force, and Local Security Forces to assist in this investigation. Believe me when I say that we will get to the bottom of this hinky jinky...

Those who are responsible for this and those who would back them and those that would support those that do things like this, (and you know who you are), will be held responsible and will suffer the sharp end of the pain stick with it comes time fo' payback.

I will keep the good citizens that perished in my thoughts, and will keep you informed as to what's going down on these hooligans.

Long Live Our Nation!

END OF STATEMENT

MORE TO COME ON THIS AS IT HAPPENS AND UNFOLDS....

UN vehicles finished!

2011-02-13T18:47:00.003-05:00

Well, good news and bad news....
First the bad news...I didn't get the Presidential Palace completed like I thought I was going to. That's going to be a "one more weekend project". It's about 90% done right now...
But now...onto the good news!
My Bongolesian UN Peacekeeper troops have just gotten a boost in vehicles, and firepower! (As pictured below):

A Cadillac Gage V-150 with HMG and two French AMX-13's painted in UN Colors, have been added to the UN arsenal....

With the exception of about half a dozen more trucks for the UN, and some extra troops to be painted, my peacekeeper force is pretty much done, (oh...they will be getting a helicopter too in the near future.)

So take a look at the UN vehicles and say "Hello" to the New World Order....

Comments are appreciated...

Projects on the table, (done and being done)....

2011-02-12T15:11:00.003-05:00

Well here it is....another fun-filled update with what is going about on my project table right now for Bongolesia.
First off, to let folks know, I am still working to set up stuff for the Origins game, and am working on the last batch of vehicles, (Non-USMC) for the game. Here they are below.

UN V-150, NDF BRDM-2, 2 Landrovers, 2 Technicals, and 2 Gaz Jeeps...all ready for final painting, sealing and adding to the collection.

2 BTR-152's and the BRDM-2, ready for sealing....I'm happy with the camo jobs on the BTR's. It had been a while since I had done a camo job.

One of the weaker factions in my AK47 games has always been the UN forces. In the past they've simply been armed with trucks, infantry, and a couple of M-113's with HMG's, (well there is "The Blue Swallow", a French Air Force Pilot of a Mirage-2000 that is their "on call" air support)...
Realizing that the UN needed a little more "bite", I started working on these...

2 AMX-13's and a V-150, and a couple of extra trucks...This should make rebels and thugs think twice about trying to stop food shipments to refugees...

And finally...FINALLY....

The best thing about a snow day weekend is the fact that is gets you to painting. This weekend wasn't a snow day weekend, but I still have the motivation to put paint on stuff and finish projects (!)
Who would've thought that was possible?

One of my projects was my "Coastal Trawler"....I am glad, and proud to say that she is finally "Done"...

Ladies and Gentlemen, I present to you, "Le Petite Marie"....

This little baby moves along the coast of Bongolesia, for hire to anyone that can pay the price, no questions asked...

Yes, the Le Petite Marie....ready to haul cargo, passengers, or just go on "A three hooooouuuurrrr touuuuurrrrrr..."

I'm hoping to get more stuff painted by the end of the weekend, including plans to finish the Presidential Palace....

And then of course, pics will be forthcoming...

Comments are appreciated....

LOVE! BONGOLESIAN STYLE!!!!

2011-02-05T09:46:00.010-05:00

BONGOLESIAN "ROMANCE TOURS AND HOOKUPS" NOW OPEN FOR BIZNESS....

(Sudekia) They say "All you need is love", and if that's something that you really, really need, perhaps the all-too-friendly and caring staff at "Bongo-love", can make your turgid wishes for hot passion and romance come true.

A new business aimed at proving that "love is out there for everyone" has recently opened in the Capital City of Sudekia. "Bongo-Love" is dedicated to finding "that special someone for everyone"...and "Majors in match-making"...

"Bongo-Love: Experts in Matchmaking, Romance Tours, and True Love" recently opened and is designed to give lonely hearts that special chance to find their soulmates...or a reasonable fascimilie thereof...

"Don't you want somebody to love?" That's right...don't be a loser! Try your luck at getting lucky with BONGO-LOVE!

Run by caring and dedicated professionals that are always on the lookout for lonely desperate men needing love in their life, they are dedicated to finding each and every one of them their own special lonely passionate desperate woman to hook them up with".

Among the many services to be offered will be "socials, and introduction services; flings, getaways and outtings, and full service romance tours, introductions, and wedding and honeymoon packages..." (All reasonably priced we can assure you....)

Details on all packages are forthcoming, but some fun and tantalizing tidbits are already well known!

* Introduction and Dating Service: Don't know a girl in Bongolesia to hook up with?...Let them help you! Plenty of women in this country are seeking husbands, (in or out of jail, or military POW camps)... A lot of them aren't too picky, so if you have decent teeth, and clean underwear, you are already way ahead of some of the others!

* A wonderful variety of women are available to meet you....all ages, and interests, and political records...

Sad to say that she is not listed....

Neither is she....(don't be so picky...)

She is, however...

This is one of our lovely ladies....Her name is X-zyla...and she is a resident of Port Tuziak. Her hobbies include swimmng, dancing, shopping using other peoples money and landmine identification....She handles herself in tense situations quite well and is proud of being able to say that she has been shot at numerous times during tense situations and has never been hit...She's a lucky gal, and any guy would be "lucky" to have her by his side, (whether for a walk in the park or diving for cover)...

As is this lovely lady....

This blushing bridal beauty is Claire. Her recently late father had the honor of being one of the last living French-Nazi Collaborators in the Vichy Regime and had himself and his family "transferred to Bongolesia" in the late 1940's, to "help out". When the last of the European Diplomats left, Claires family felt that "it was in their best interest to stay in their new adopted homeland and not return back to DeGaullist France"... Claire is sensitve and writes superb "goth" poetry, and loves music. Her favorite bands are "Air Supply", and "Wham!" She is looking for a "sensitive good natured man", that isn't wanted by Interpol, or anyone else, and is looking for a "deep caring woman" that will make him scream at night...

Who knows? If you play your cards right, you might be able to find that "special love of your life in Bongolesia, and this could be in your near future!!!!

YES! It's true! Life can be a party with the right woman for you! Let Bongo-Love help you find the babe of your dreams....or a good substitute to fill the slot!

Look here for more details coming soon!

2011 is here, plus News Updates and umm...oh dear...

2011-01-02T13:48:00.006-05:00

2011 is upon everyone in Bongolesia with all the charm and grace of a mad, hungry crocodile...
And since the year 2010 is done and gone, it's time for a news update from the country...

First off...

AMERICANS OPEN EMBASSY IN SUDEKIA:

(SUDEKIA) With the American National Anthem being played followed by the Bongolesian National Anthem outside, the United States officially opened it's Bongolesian Embassy and Consulate Facility in Sudekia, thereby once more establishing official relations with our native land.
Folks with a brain will remember that the US left Bongolesia in helicopters in late 1979 during the intense fighting of the Bongolesian Civil War. Diplomatic faux-paus, and snafu's aside, the Americans up until recently have bungled every attempt at Diplomacy within the country and have now only seen the light in reestablishing contact with The Bongolesian People...
Depsite the warming of relations between Sudekia, Washington and the International Banking Community in Switzerland and the Cayman Islands, there is still a way to go before the people of the nation can wholeheartedly open their hearts alongside their hands fully to the Americans.
American military manuevers constantly pose a threat to the stability in the region, and has required the NDF and our government to prepare cohesive defense plans for defeating the Americans at air, land, and sea if the shootin' starts....
We hope that the Americans will be interested in the terms of relations and of knowing how much better we can be in responding to those of a giving nature than of a demanding nature...

"It's not the size of the flag that counts..."

US Marines hoist their colors up the long stiff pole as their embassy opens for business and dealings...

PRESIDENT SADDENED BECAUSE OF SANTA:

(SUDEKIA) Christmas is supposed to bring good cheer and lots of goody-goody good stuff for all, and more...But who in Bongolesia is more deserving than our beloved President-For-Life P'hat Daddee B'wonah?

"The beloved leader of this nation is sad to have "his heart saddened" by not getting what he wanted for Christmas from Santa." said National Spokesman S'pin Dok'tur. "We know dat the fat man has lots of stuff to do on that special night, but our beloved President should at least get some of the goody goody stuff that he has written letters to the Nort' Pole for..."

Rumor has it that Santa made it for the Bongolesian people but due to time and weight limit restraints was unable to make it for the national leader. As the national spokesman said "Although the prezzzzdent is sad in the heart, he is still joyful for the folks that got the good stuff from Santa and it warms him down to his feet to know that all the people are happy...and will work harder next year than they have before...."

Santa seemed a bit preoccupied this year with toy deliveries...

AIR FORCE TAKES TO THE SKIES

(SUDEKIA) Look! Up in the sky!!! It's a bird! NO! It's a plane! YES!

Its our beloved National Airforce in intensive air-combat flight training!!!!

For those interested, the roar of jet engines were recently heard over the cities of Sudekia and Port Tuziak as the Mig-17 fighter of the BAF engaged in pilot flight training. The two pilots involved in the operation took training in flight operations, in-flight aircraft handling, fuel-gauge reading, flight navigation according to landmarks and maps, and successful end of flight landing proceedures.

Injuries were kept to a minimum during this training, and the BAF is expected to receive more operational jets in the future.

All Bongolesians can look high and see the BAF, where "The sky is the limit!"

"Into da wild blue yonder..."

NEW DEFENSE STUFF TO SHOOT DOWN DA ENEMY

(PORT TUZIAK) Military Commanders and members of the press of The Bongolesian Observer got a first hand look at the new military hardware that was recently procured through international sales and business dealings.

Large displays of small arms and ammunition, repair parts and supplies, were shown to show how the NDF is being updated to meet the needs of national security in the future.

The highlight of the exhibit was the new and recently acquired Air Defense Missile System. "This system will be deployed by well trained Bongolesian military personnel with a good sense of loyalty and understanding of how technical things work." said a defense spokesman. "Due to issues involving currency and other resolutions the radar system for this has not been purchased yet, but we can still use this baby if the pooplaka hits da fan!"

This new equipment is just another way of the governments actions to protect it's interests and citizens from possible outside oppression.

"Up goes da missile...boom boom! Down comes da airplane...boom boom!"

Christmas in Bongolesia...oh dear...

2010-12-26T11:15:00.005-05:00

So it's Christmas in Bongolesia, and let's see how it goes....

First off, Santa checks his list....

"Ho Ho Ho!" he says..."Hmmm.....P'hat Daddee B'wonah.....hmmmm......let's see his naughty and nice list...."

"Hmmmm....mmmmmhmmmm....mmmm....errrr......uhhhh.....errrrggg....Oh dear....errr...."

"Hmmm..P'hat Daddee B'wonah...I'm gonna be here awhile..."

"Was he nice?....True he is a snappy dresser...."

or

"Was he naughty?...He DOES tend to fly off the handle quite a bit...."

Sooo....on Christmas Eve, P'hat (like all the other folks around the world), hung up his stocking with anticipated glee at what he would find there...and hopefully a Christmas goodie or two under the tree, (Salma Hayek or Alyssa Milano, would be good...)

Either / or....he's not that picky....

So he hung up his stocking, (with his name in gold lettering for easy viewing...)

Right next to the flag...

And the next morning, he raced down the stairs; just as fast as his size 14 feet could carry him...to see the wonderful things that Santa left him....

And he found that Santa have given him....

Oh dear...Some of West Virginia's finest export...

Needless to say, P'hat isn't very happy right now....and this doesn't bode well for Bongolesia...

Meanwhile over at our house, my lady discovers a present to her from "You know who"...

"Wellllll....at LEAST it's NOT ticking....."

The expression on her face is one of...????

Why whatever could it be???

And most of all, how did it get past the International Postal Inspectors???

So she opened it up and found....

P'hat Daddee had sent her a SNUGGIE!!!! With a nice skull and crossbones motif....how, errr....appropriate...I think...erg...

So we seem to end this Christmas and 2010 with a sad dissapointed P'hat Daddee B'wonah, who didn't get what he wanted for Christmas....(much to Salma's and Alyssa's relief), and my lady getting something that forces her to remember..."It's the thought that counts..."

Merry Christmas from The Bongolesia Blog!!!!

HAPPY 4th BIRTHDAY, BONGOLESIA BLOG!!!!

2010-12-21T20:38:00.002-05:00

Wow...my baby has turned 4...

Little did I know that four years ago, I would start a blog on something that isn't real, yet leads people, organizations, and government agencies to believe it is...something that doesn't exist in the real world, yet has people argue about "the social condtions within it's borders" in a college cultural anthropology class and with a teacher from Africa that never realized that the country wasn't real...

wow...

In the last four years, I've designed much for the country, including facebook pages, and have been embroiled in hot Wiki arguments for it's survival, and on TMP with folks that seem "offended".

And it's all in fun.

So many people over the last four years have helped, and contributed to this site. I cannot name them all, but in the words of His Excellency President-For-Life P'hat Daddee B'wonah, "And you know WHO you are..."

But here are some names and thanks to those that helped this little hell-hole come about:

1: To TMP for allowing it to flourish.

2: To Joe Sudek, Jason Coffey, Rick San Augustin, Alex, Jon Wright, Dan Tuziak, Gary Dryzanski, Tom Adams, and so many more from the Las Vegas gamers groups there that helped support it.

3: To Tony Rocha, (the founder of Houstons "Little Wars"), for his support, and to Mike Porterfield, who helped open my eyes to the world of AK47 Republic.

4: To the Indianapolis and Midwest US crew; My "brother" Dan, (Marauder6), Noah and Brian, and their kids who have romped through this land, and the rest of the gang from G2D4 here in Indy. Jerry runs a good shop. Thanks Jerry.

5: To the country's fans, (those brave souls that have subscribed to this site...) and especially to "Kyoteblue" and "Count Natokina" of TMP fame who have given tons of support. Without the support of you folks here reading this, it would simply be another "little site".

6: To Salma Hayek, David Hasselhoff, Alan Alda, Martha Stewart, Ricardo Montalban, and the rest of the supporting cast that have found themselves drawn into this...

7: The guys at the AK47 Republic Yahoo Group..which puts up with my madness....

8: And a big thanks to those people who have for some reason said "That this inspires them" to create their own countries, build armies, engage in third world shenanigans, created action figures, and thank me for using ideas that they said I gave them. In all honesty I should be thanking them for their creations and for enjoying what I could do. So guys...here's to you...

And most of all:

To My lady Melodie, who supports all of my strange endeavors and imaginary glory in this country. She's supported this country and it's political hi-jinks whole heartedly...and I could never ever thank her enough...

Thank you all for letting this get to it's 4th birthday....

Sincerely;

Michael T. Murphy

sigh

2010-12-19T10:40:00.002-05:00

Yes, we know who you are...

'nuff said...

The National Defense Force...(For Origins!)

2010-11-21T14:25:00.007-05:00

Now that we've established the force makeup for BARF, I thought I would sit down and get the NDF units (yes, units as in plural), up and on the site.
These will show the general TO&E of 1st and 2nd Bongolesian.

First off, the 1st Bongolesian Combat Force:

FIRST BONGOLESIAN:
The 1st Bongolesian Combat Force (1 BCF) is a combined/mixed combat element, and is one of the two mainstay units within the National Defense Force. Currently stationed and based out of Camp K'illemall in the capitol city of Sudekia, the overall mission of 1BCF is to provide defensive/military security against any enemies to the country, foreign or domestic. On paper it's planned to be able to "work with" the Presidential Guard, however there seems to be a growing rivalry between the PG forces and the NDF troops.
1BCF currently contains the following:
*1st Bongolesian Armored (PT-76's): "The Fighting Jujus"
*1st Bongolesian Recon (mixed): "Roaring Cheetahs"
*2 units of truck mounted infantry with support weapons attached.
*1 section of truck carried heavy support weapons, (including 2 mortars, 1 HMG, and a truck carried ZPU autocannon)
*1 heavy AT asset (MT-12 100mm AT gun) with M3 Halftrack prime mover.

1st BCF

1st BCF showing 1st Recon ("Roaring Cheetahs") up front...

1st Bongolesian Armored: "The Fighting Juju's"....This (in)famous unit is well know for it's aggression and has been known to attack non-discriminately. Rumors of it going on bloody rampages have circulated for years, but proof of such rampages is always dubious at best. The PT-76's allow the unit to have good firepower and manueverbility, along with amphibious operational capability which can help with the capitol city being located on a shoreline...

SECOND BONGOLESIAN:

The 2nd Bongolesian Combat Force (2BCF) is currently stationed North/Northwest of the capitol city of Sudeka and is under order to maintain security for the interior between Lonnieville, and Port Tuziak. Currently stationed at "Base Camp Zebra", 2nd BCF has seen a drastic shift downward in morale lately. This is probably due to the fact that the 2nd BCF suffered trememdous losses at Junkoville from enemy and friendly fire from "The Fighting Jujus". 2nd BCF was a favored unit of recently retired Gen'l Bunga M'Bunga, and with his exit, and the arrival of newly promoted Gen'l Lok N' Lode, the overall effectiveness of 2nd BCF seems to have diminished.

2BCF currently contains the following:

* 2nd Bongolesian Armored (T34/85's): "The Goldien Lions"

* 2nd Bongolesian Recon:(mixed): "The Condors"

* 2 units of truck mounted infantry with support weapons attached.

* 1 section of truck carried heavy support weapons, (including 2 mortars and 2 HMG's).

* 1 "Heavy Support Weapon Asset" consisting of a ZSU-57-2 which provides both air and ground fire support.

2nd BCF with 2nd Recon, "The Condors" in front...

2nd BCF with 2nd Bongolesian Armored "The Golden Lions", and their venerable but trusty T-34/85's up front. In this photo you can also see the ground troops and support weapons as well as the ZSU-57-2...

2nd Bongolesian Recon, with their 2 gun jeeps and Panhard armored car along with 2nd Bongolesian Armored. These two units have worked very well in the past and form the backbone of 2nd BCF. 2nd Recon has a proven track record of locating and engaging the enemy, (real or imagined)...

Next up...some surprises!!!!!

As usual, comments are appreciated....

BARF!!!! (Rebel Scum for Origins!)...

2010-11-20T22:21:00.006-05:00

So in early preps for making sure I have what I need to run next Junes Origins game, (and no I don't have it all...time to order from Brookhurst again...sigh), I decided to take a couple of pics of the BARF force that will be up on the table.

This is the current planned TO&E for BARF. (Note that I have modified it some, (ie: "enlarged") the force stand ratios and unit size. This is to compensate for 2 NDF units on the board and everyone else, and to give them a fighting chance...

The rebel force ready to march onto the capitol city...

Another view of the anti-govt. forces of BARF!!!!

BARF Technicals set up in a wide variety of combinations...

BARF heavy armor assets...2 T-55's and 2 "BMP style" IFV's...

A front shot of the technicals section...

Some of the BARF Support Weapons...Here we see a Recoilless Rifle and a ZPU-4 along with vehicular assets...

BARF Troopers and their colors...

Machetes and Machine Guns....what a nice combination....

An overall look of the BARF rebel troops....

Sworn enemies of His Excellency, President-For-Life P'hat Daddee B'wonah; these troops are determined to end his regime once and for all and to install their own brand of Marxist based thuggery and misery upon the nation of Bongolesia...

Will they put a bullet in B'wonahs thick skull and overthrow the govt; or will the "Boys In Green" of the NDF be able to put the jiggy to them with the pain stick once and for all?...

Only time will tell....

As always comments are appreciated....

Current updates and goings on...

2010-11-20T09:31:00.006-05:00

It's been a while since I've updated the dear readers on "What's happenin'!" in Bongolesia. The country has been relatively quiet over the past few months. However here are some highlights of recent activities...

* The Govt. is still in "negotiations" over the purchase of a unit of T-72 MBT's for the Presidential Guard. Negotiations to the Russian Govt. through "Honest Abdul" of "Honest Abdul's New and Used Emporium of Fine Things and Other Stuff" is currently at a standstill while "the finer details" are being "worked out"...

Honest Abdul; The Shopper's Friend...

* The NDF troops have been training quite heavily under the new leadership of Gen'l Lok N' Lode. Rumor is rampant that they will soon be moving into action as it's known that the good general likes to get a lot of action...

"Hut, two, three, fo'...."

*His excellency, President-For-Life P'hat Daddee B'wonah gave a rousing speech to the people of the City of Lonnieville recently. In the speech he discussed "How Lonnieville has become a major hub of industry for the nation" (referring to the nearby location of the Kareem Abdul Jubar Petrochemical Facility and Oil Station); and "How things will get better as you folks are worked hard..." Afterwards the children of Miss Zoomoomboos 4th Grade Class brought a smile to the presidents face as they sang to him the old favorite song "There's a snake in my bed!"

The President tells folks what they need to know...

* Omencorp is completing it's acquisition of the holdings of Perverticus Industries after the latter failed to maintain and uphold it's financial and contractual obligations and responsibilities for operations within the nation...All Perverticus Industries facilities and materials should be running under the OMENCORP log by the beginning of 2011...

Soon to be in your neighborhood....

* In a recent announcement given by the US Pentagon today, the US Military has announced it's annual military exercises in the region near the country of Bongolesia. "Operation Azzwhip" will soon be taking place and will include all branches of the US Military in operations which will include lots of stuff being blow up, and bombed. Despite the overtures to better relations and the opening of the US Embassy in Jan. 2011, the National Govt. will be keeping eyes on this American Military Operation...who knows what their real plans could be?

"In The Navy! US Military forces announce exercise in the region"

* It was sadly announced today that Actress Salma Hayek "sadly had to refuse" the personal invitation by his Excellency President-For-Life P'hat Daddee B'wonah, to visit Bongolesia as a "VIP guest". She stated that "her current schedule and committments to her work and dealing with her billionaire French husband makes it currently impossible for her to accept the invitation." Sadly enough, somehow and someway, rumors have gotten around that she turned it down, because according to her "The way he looks at me...scares me." is nothing but baseless unsubstantiated gossip that has been falsely attributed to her. The President stated that if she "changed her mind" that he would "make time for her"...

"She can't come for the President...darn..."

* Recent news reports have revealed that the insidious religous cult leader "The Reverend Father Doctor John", who is the leader of the Strange and Mysterious "Oingo Boingo Cult"; has been seen near the borders of Bongolesia and the Bunji Republic De Nationale. If this is true, this would be the first time he has been officially seen since the military raid on his compund in Moonbatsia in July of 2007 by NDF forces which resulted in the rescue of Miss Vienna Dupree. It's a sure sign that if he is seen, then he is up to no good...

"Snake Oil in a yellow suit....The Rev. Father Dr. John, leader of the Oingo Boingo Cult"...

More updates to follow as they happen....

Comments as always are appreciated...

Flags

2010-08-28T19:17:00.002-05:00

Apologies for the lengthy delay....
After a bit of thinking and discussion, I finally got off of my butt and decided to create the flags of the groups that are involved in Bongolesia. After all, how can the boys rally 'round the flag, if they have no flag to rally round?

First off, the National Colors of Bongolesia...

The Colors of our beloved little third world African Hell-Hole. Kinda puts a lump of patriotic fervor in your throat doesn' t it?

Ahhhh....the colors of the anti-govt. rebels, determined to overthrown B'wonah and install their version of misery as new national policy... This flag has already been seen during the battle of Jerriville...

The colors of the small, but powerfully growing radical group, "The Lions of Allah"....Not much is known about these chaps yet, but I am sure that we will be learning more about them soon...probably on the six o' clock news...

What's a third world hell-hole without a wacked out religious cult? And what's a whacked out religious cult without an even wackier whacked out flag? Yes, this one belongs to none other than the Oingo Boingo Cult and the ever mysterious mystical con-man "The Reverend Father Dr. John". Not much has been heard of him since the rescue of Vienna Dupree in Moonbatsia, but I don't think we've heard the last from him...

And just to the South of Bongolesia...their "neighbors", aka "The Mysterious Fandango Republic". Yes...that is a vulture above the yellow star...

The colors would probably be pleasing to the eye of Ricardo Montalban, (if he were still alive)....

Coming soon...the colors of Bunji De' Nationale, and The CBPR!!!!

Bongolesian News Update!

2010-02-10T22:25:00.003-05:00

Updates from BNN and The Bongolesian Observer (aka "The Old B.O.")

Bongolesian News Update

State Funeral for goes off without a hitch!
(Sudekia) In a right nice send off the late Bogoo Moboo, Spokesman for The National Interior Ministry was laid to rest in the soil here in Sudekia today.
Readers will remember that Secretary Moboo, along with his driver, were killed recently in a single vehicle automobile accident in which witness were told that they saw the vehicle traveling at a high unsafe rate of speed and that the driver lost control.
It was a fine and solemn funeral with the local clergy and friends being allowed to talk nicely about the late Mr. Moboo.
“He had a tremendous singing voice, and knew how to talk to people about things that he had to tell them about the Government.” A family member who wishes to remain anonymous said.
After the service, there was a brief interment ceremony at the cemetery and Mr. Moboo was laid to rest.
Services for the remains of his driver were also held in private by his family in another part of the country. The announcement for a replacement for this position should be made shortly.

Mr. Moboos coffin being carried out of the church and on it’s way to it’s well-deserved hole in the ground...

NEW MILITARY GENERAL TO TAKE COMMAND OF NDF

President appoints new loyal commander to lead troops after M’bunga retirement and absence.

(Sudekia): After a long round of working and all-nighters, His Excellency, President-For-Life P’hat Daddee B’wonah has appointed Col. Lok’n Lode as the new district commander for the Bongolesian National Defense Forces.
Col. Lok’n Lode is a loyal leader to The President and has followed orders explicity without question or hesitation. He is a dedicated professional military officer with a high streak of loyalty to our beloved leader and thus, our nation and it’s peoples.
Readers will remember that the position that Col. Lok’n Lode was appointed to was recently vacated by longtime commander General Bunga M’bunga who retired this year after many years of dedicated service.
In a short interview with Col. Lok’n Lode, he issued the statement: “I’m a man of few words, and a lot of action. I like to get a lot of action, as does our esteemed President. I will follow his orders and the people of the nation and the troops of the NDF can rest assured that we will do the right thing.”
It’s a testament to the Bongolesian People of their courage in the face of the Anti-Govt, hoodlums and thugs. But have no fear fair folks! Our beloved boys in green under their new general will soon use their new tanks and other cool stuff that runs and shoots and will show the enemy a newer sharper end of the pain stick!

He’ll get jiggy at any time…New National Defense Commander Col. Lok’n Lode answers a couple of questions and makes a statement.

NEW(ER) TANKS???

(Sudekia): Unconfirmed word is that the NDF is testing newer tanks in addition to the ones that they have recently received.
With the creation of 3rd and 4th Bongolesian Armored, equipped with the trusty T55 Main Battle Tanks, there is discussion of the possibility of the expansion of the Presidential Guards armor force also.
In doing so, International Arms Dealers from Russia have recently arrived and unloaded two T72 Tanks as display and demo vehicles.
Although the tanks are a bit pricey, and the determination of sales is still underway, there is a chance that one day soon, the people of Bongolesia will see new(er) tanks in the Presidential Guard.

Coming soon? New Tanks for Presidential Guard…

Bongolesian News Update!

2010-02-06T17:34:00.003-05:00

National Interior Spokesman dies in auto accident

Spokesman on his way to traffic safety meeting when he meets ugly bloody fate that makes him shake off his mortal coil…

(Sudekia): Bongolesian Interior Ministry confirmed today that National Interior Spokesman Bogoo Moboo was killed last night, along with his driver in a one vehicle automobile accident outside of Lonnieville.
While official information remains sketchy at best, and the investigation is still underway by National Police, witnesses that were later found to be at the scene, confirmed that Mr. Moboo’s automobile was traveling at a higher rate of speed than normal, and it seems that either mechanical difficulty, or poor vehicle handling on the part of the driver caused the accident.
Witnesses say that the car “rolled, bounced, be-bopped and burst into flames”.
Emergency services arrived too late to the scene to be of any use to anyone, as it was obvious that both driver and spokesman Moboo had met their maker.
“Many people saw the smoke and came out and saw the car burn.” Said a Lonnieville citizen.
While there is no official statement coming from the Presidential Palace and his Excellency, President-For-Life P’hat Daddee B’wonah, unofficial word is that there will be a small, low-key state funeral for Mr. Moboo and his driver sometime this week.
Details are pending and will be released soon…

The burning wreckage of Mr. Moboos Vehicle outside of Lonnieville...

HAPPY 3rd BIRTHDAY BONGOLESIA BLOG!!!

2009-12-21T15:57:00.002-05:00

Wow...has it been three years already???
Yeps. On a windy, grey afternoon, three years ago, I decided to start blogging about everyone's favorite third world African Hell-Hole; that place that we all know and love (to hate).
Bongolesia.
And while Bongolesia has been around in one form or another for about five years now, it's only been three years that the blog has been up. Sure there was an old Geocities one that I had started, but it's off to the dustbin of internet history.
So, it's also been quiet on this side for a bit, as I have been doing a lot of painting and building for my favorite African land. And to give an idea of how much it has "grown" I decided to try to get pics of most of the vehicles and figures. My goal one day is to get EVERYTHING in one major picture, (or a couple of pictures and make a panaorama)... There's just simply so much, that I have right now that it's almost impossible with the little table and room that I have.
But Pics are needed on this all important day...so pics there are...
(CLICK ON PHOTOS FOR LARGER PHOTOS)

We start of with ..."The Main Man"...

His Dicatatorshipness, President-For-Life P'hat Daddee B'wonah, the ruler of Bongolesia since approx 1987, due to a successful coup against the corrupt government of the nation. Looks kinda spiffy in his uniform don't you think?
Next up, the boys in Green...

Yes, the ever fighting, hard charging National Defense Forces. Infantry, Armor, Support, Trucks, etc...(Missing is the Mi-24, and some additional trucks, due to mechanical difficulties)....

A shot of the NDF forces, Presidential Guard, , Some BARF technicals, civvies, all in all a small smorgasbord of some of the many vehicles I have for this nation in crisis.

1st and 2nd Bongolesian Reconnaissance (Light and Heavy), make their appearance....

The Presidential Limo, a 1959 Caddilac with custom "Misty Purple" paint job, (courtesy of Dos Hommiez out of Southern Los Angeles, California).

Another shot of some of the many figs and vehicles I have. The US Troops, UN Troops, BARF Troops, Mercenaries, along with helicopters, the C47, and a slew of civvie vehicles are missing...

The nuns of "Our Lady of Benevolent Suffering" along with their Mother Superior (Sister Mary- Hermann-Goering), and their Reliable 1957 Chevy Nomad Station Wagon with it's ever known name of "Swanky"...

Some of the civilian (European Refugees) that are always fleeing the country when it starts to fall apart....

Some of the many "characters" that's been featured (or wil be featured in further Bongolesian Adventures). From L to R. Bongolesium Scientists, Eurobabe Hostages, "Idi" from Idi's Auto Sales, (Buy Less! Pay More!), Bodonga the Apostle, Bodyguard, The Reverend Father Doctor John, (leader of the Oingo Boingo Cult), Thriller Michael, "Rumbo" (jungle fighter extraordinnaire), Father Christmas, Miss Vienna Dupree, and Kimba The Lion...

And as we celebrate our third birthday with this blog, we realize that Christmas is just around the corner, and how Bongolesians love to get...and recieve stuff....so what better way to end this post than with a pic of the man in the red suit himself...in Bongolesia...

My thanks to everyone out there for a great (although quiet) third year in the "Big B", and will be putting more up soon, (including more buildings, some history, and a few games when they are run!). My thanks to those that read this blog and support it, and the hobby of miniature wargaming, which without it, this little world of mine would never have found a place or a voice...

Merry Christmas to all and a Happy New Year from Bongolesia!!!!

WTF???

2009-09-16T11:18:00.004-05:00

So the other day I go to the mailbox...

And it's full of stuff, stuff, bills, and more stuff.

I look at the important things, and then put the "stuff" in my "to be looked at later pile"...

So I'm checking out the pile, and lo and behold...a piece of mail from Stamps.com

addressed to "guess where"...

(blackened lines protect personal info)...

All righty then....

Hmmm...Stamps.com is an approved vendor for the US Post Office.

So, the Post Office is now sending mail to Bongolesia via me?...

Ummm..has anyone told these folks that "It isn't real?"

But wait...if Bongolesia is getting mail...

Then...that could possibly mean that they have identified it as a real nation...

And thus if the US Postal Service is sending mail to Bongolesia, (or at least addressed to Bongolesia), then...

That means that technically Bongolesia has been recognized (in some sort of way), by the US Government!!!!

Hmmm...so the next step is...

A: Do I inform them that it isn't real?

B: Do I contact the State Dept, and request to open diplomatic negotiations and possibly request a nice big international aid package???

Hmmm....decisions, decisions....

PRESS RELEASE!!!

2009-09-15T11:41:00.002-05:00

OMENCORP TO TAKE OVER PERVERTICUS INDUSTRIES OPERATIONS AND FACILITIES IN BONGOLESIA.

LUCRATIVE DEAL MADE.

PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Distribution

OMENCORP to take over Perverticus Industries Operations in Bongolesia

(Sudekia): In a worldwide broadcast this morning, it was announced that OMENCORP, has successfully negotiated the annexation of Perverticus Industries and all operating assets in Bongolesia.
Speaking briefly while on a trip to the Carpathian Mountains in Romania, Omencorp President Lucifer Drake said “This is a great day for Bongolesia, and for Omencorp. “Omencorp has a long, rich, history of working with lesser developed nations, and providing the goods, and services that they need and deserve to get. The people of Bongolesia have made a wonderful and wise choice in assisting with this deal.”
Omencorps name is known the world over as a leading provider in goods, services, and international development projects designed at increasing market shares and developing future market resources for increased profitability.
With its World Headquarters in Brussels, Omencorp has direct business operations in numerous countries and assists in many more. The World Headquarters oversees the continental operations, and each continent has it’s own headquarters which is then sub-routed to the Regional Headquarters for each country that Omencorp works in.
It had been discussed in the past that Perverticus Industries was having problems upholding it’s contract deals with the Bongolesian Govt. and discussions were taking place on the possibility of Perverticus Industries selling their interests in Bongolesia.
Without any further information on the deal, it seems that this may be the case.
“With the current world economic situation and the way things is goin, we needed to look at the alternative situations of what we could do and get.” Said Nat’l Affairs Spokesman Sp'in Dok'tur. “This deal with Omencorp will give the Bongolesian people of our nation what they should all get and ensure that they should get theirs.”
Mr. Drake upon hearing the news from Sudekia, said while nodding and smiling. “I agree! I personally guarantee that we at Omencorp will work our magic in Bongolesia and insure that the Bongolesian Govt, and especially The Bongolesian People get what they deserve…”
Details are sketchy, but information suggests that Omencorp will have initial personnel in country within 2 weeks and scheduled assumption of Perverticus Industries Facilities and Operations will be complete by 1 October.

IN THE INTERNATIONAL MARKET:
Shares of Omencorp rose to 6.66 ($ USD)
Shares of Perverticus Industries fell on the news to 1.87 ($ USD)
Bongolesian Bling-Bling Currency Exchange Rate/Value rose today as a result of the current economic news and industrial announcement to 1 Bling-Bling (BB) = 0.08 ($ USD); a rise of 0.02 since yesterday.

More information on this exciting development as it unfolds!

The Lions of Allah; a growing problem for B'wonah...

2009-06-28T19:18:00.008-05:00

While working on Bongolesia, I had decided that I wanted to push another "faction" into the fray. We already have BARF, and we have the local Oingo Boingo Cult. But I wanted a "hard" dedicated religious faction that could be used to shape the present and the future of this beleagured African Country. And so dear reader I give you "The Lions Of Allah" (LOA).

(PLEASE NOTE: This is a fictitious faction loosely based on certain groups within Africa. It's not meant to upset anyone with delicate sensibilities. Heck, if your sensibilities are THAT delicate and fragile, you shouldn't even BE on this blog!)

THE LIONS OF ALLAH:

With the recent Islamic surge throughtout Africa, the nation of Bongolesia has not been exmpeted from the rising tide of Islamic Extemeist and Fundamentalist problems.

Among the major factor in this issue is an organization known as "The Lions of Allah", or LOA.

The LOA is a recent new organization within the power scheme of Bongolesia as is the Islamic religion, but it and the religion are growing steadily. African Islamic Power is establishing itself in the main cities of Sudekia, and Port Tuziak, with the first Mosques open for worship five years ago. It's thought that approx 10% of the general stable population is Islamic. Currently the B'wonah regime allows the religion within the country as long as it doesn't challenge his authority.

However unknown to him it is being challenged.

The current Islamic Leader in Bongolesia is Mullah Ach'med A'hmed P'ita Eetuh. A recent transplant from Sudan; the Mullah has been in country for approximately two years and has worked on winning the hearts and minds of the Bongolesian people and spreading Islam throughout the country. All of his efforts in the long run DOES increase his power base.

Despite words from his fellow Ayatollahs, etc. Mullah P'ita Eetuh has jumped ahead of the standard schedule of "Islamitization", and has already allowed a small branch of diehards (The LOA), the begin small scale operations to destablize the country and help push the people (at the point of a bayonet if necessary), towards Islam with the overall goal to replace the B'wonah regime with an Islamic African Nation, (with himself in charge of course)...

(Mullah Ach'med Ahmed P'ta Eetuh; the man in power and giving orders to the LOA. He senses his destiny and knows that history has a place for him...)

While overall information on the size and organization of the LOA is very sketchy at this time, and hard to come by, it is known that the LOA seems proficient in small group operations. Small cell teams of less than a dozen, (usually smaller than this), seem to be their main modus operandi. In some areas and cases they have been known to operate in smaller groups of 2-4 personnel each.

They are proficient in ambush attacks and seem to prefer hit and run, rather than stand and fight operations. Perhaps this is due to their objectives, or because of limited size and/or equipment.

Most LOA activities are concentrated at night in smaller towns and surrounding villages where "LOA Law", and "Tithes" are enforced and enacted upon the populace. Despite the intervention of Local Police, and NDF forces, there has been no concrete evidence (yet), that the LOA individuals are in any way associated with the mullah. He in fact disavows them and says that "their actions are not of what he preaches."

President B'wonah is still skeptical though. So until evidence linking the mullah to the LOA can be found, (or decently fabricated), the Mullah remains alive and free to preach, (and plan), without having to worry about receiving a "B'wonah Brain Hemmorrahge"...

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Figures for the LOA:

I'm currently using Peter Pigs Arab figures mixed in with Regular Milita figs to flesh out the forces for the LOA.

To help users with id'ing figs, I have decided that support weapon teams (2 figs, LMG, RPG, etc), will have at least 1 figure (the major figure), wearing a red headress with white stripes, (or is that white with red stripes???)....hmmm..

Here are some that I have painted up right now...

(A LOA RPG team, ready for action...)

(An LOA Attack force, in training at a "secret camp"...Note the different styles of headdress...)

(A picture of an LOA "martyr" force in front of a recently vandalized wall of B'wonah Posters...)

BONGOLESIA OPENS DIPLOMATIC TIES WITH AUSTRALIA!!!!

2009-06-28T09:58:00.004-05:00

PRESS RELEASE:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
BONGOLESIA TO OPEN DIPLOMATIC ACCORDS WITH AUSTRALIA!
DIPLOMATS TRAVELLING TO THE LAND DOWN UNDER TO MAKE THINGS SWEETER…

(Sudekia): The National Govt. released information today an important official announcement whereupon our nation has decided to engage the country of Australia in diplomatic accords.
“Look, we were thumbing through some of the records that we had in our boxes and files, and realized that we had never opened up international relations with Australia.” Said National Spokesman Sp'in Dok'tur. “After checking to see what the deal was with Australia, we sent a message to his excellency our wonderful leader, President-For-Life P’hat Daddee B’wonah, outlining our regards and schemes to recognizing and opening up relations with Australia.”

(Bongolesia and Australia: A WONDERFUL Future together!)

“We seen on the map that they are on an island completely surrounded by water, just like Gilligan and the Skipper, and the rest of them folks.” He continued. When we reviewed what was going on with them, our wise president said that “we as Bongolesians”, should do our best to get with the Australians and let them have what we have to offer them, because we have so much to offer. And they have so much to offer to us also. We would be so much better off with what they have to offer, that it’s a win-win situation!”

Current plans for a diplomatic mission to be undertaken are being drawn up as this is released. It’s known that Ambassador T'ooka Dump will probably the main diplomat sent on this historic sojourn.

(Ambassador T'ooka Dump our main man for the Australians)

“As a duly noted representative of the Bongolesian Govt. under the fantastic leadership of President-For-Life B’wonah I will do my best to get under their skin in the de land o’ plenty and help them get to know us better, and know how we can benefit from this diplomacy…” Ambassador T'ooka Dump said with a smile while reviewing his stock options.

It is hoped that the Australian Govt. will open their entire nation up and accept The Bongolesian People and their intentions with open arms and the sugary sweetness of future fuzzy warm relations between Bongolesia and Australia in the spirit of international goodwill, cooperation, realtions, and exchange.

More info to be released as events unfold...

Bongolesia's Neighbors - The Mysterious Fandango Republic PT 1...

2009-06-09T07:59:00.006-05:00

Now that it seems we have established some basic knowledge of Bongolesia and it's inner workings, some folks have asked me about it's "neighbors"; who are they and what are they, and most of all, what is their relationship to Bongolesia.

So after reviewing all current intelligence info, and perusing old articles from "The Weekly World News", and catching up on my 1987-1988 episodes of "As The World Turns", I've turned my attention to the first of a two parter on Bongolesia's Southern Neighbor; The Mysterious Fandango Republic...

------------

THE FANDANGO REPUBLIC
Beyond the Southern Border of Bongolesia lies The Fandango Republic, (also occasionally known as “The Mysterious Fandango Republic”).
The Fandango Republic (known as “FR” for short in this article), is an African nation that shares a common border with Bongolesia and the CBPR, along with a joint triple border area, as well as a disputed region of coastline of the Great African Sea.
Bongolesian Intelligence officially knows little about the comings, goings, and doings of the FR government, but President-For-Life B’wonah holds them in low regard (as well as his other two neighbors).

SIZE and GEOGRAPHY:
The FR is slightly smaller in land size than Bongolesia but due to it’s geographical location, receives as much rainfall as the Central and Southern Regions of Bongolesia.
The FR does not have the grasslands, desert plateaus, and sub-Saharan geography such as Bongolesia does. Instead, the majority of the country is lush agricultural valleys and gently rolling hills, which have created countless streams, which nourish the soil. Agriculture is the main export in the FR, and the FR govt. is extremely dedicated to successful agricultural production with large amounts of money going towards fertilizers, hybrid grains, etc.
Besides the rich valleys and farmland of the FR, a small mountain range runs on an NW-SE axis along the Southern Border of the country. This mountain range has produced small amounts of gold, diamonds and bauxite, and large amounts of quartz, gypsum, and talc as well.
From the talc and gypsum mines the FR has created perhaps the most successful foot and crotch powder industry in the entire African Continent.
“Uncle Korns Rubbing Powder For Your Feet and What’s Between Your Legs” is sold across the continent and has been a major staple on shelves for the last 10 years.
The coastline of the FR is mostly rocky with beaches of varying size interspersed along the coast. Recently these beaches have become the scene of an increased and dedicated tourist trade focused on bringing foreign tourists (and their currency) to the country.

A map showing the shared border of Bongolesia and The Fandango Republic.

Cities and Government;
The Capitol City of The FR is the coastal city of Montalbania (named in honor of Actor Ricardo Montalban), who was dedicated to ensuring that the people of all social classes of the FR had the ability to enjoy rich Corinthian Leather. Due to his popularity with the people in the FR, Ricardo Montalban was awarded The Legion of the Flamingo with crossed scimitars and palm leaves; one of the highest awards in the nation.
Currently due to trade and “cultural differences”; the Bongolesian Govt. jams the TV signals for Fantasy Island that are beamed out of Montalbania.

Ricardo Montalban; A Foreign “Citizen of Honor and Hero of the Fandangonian People”…

Besides the Capitol City of Montalbania there are three major cities within the country:

Gulladoon: a coastal city which has the largest harbor facilities in the nation, and is thus the shipping center for import and export merchant vessels. Gulladoon is also home to the nations only “clothing optional beach”…

Bazookalonia: a mid sized city located in the central midlands of the country, this growing city is a major manufacturing and transportation hub for many of the smaller towns and villages in the region. It is the headquarters for The Uncle Korn Company, and added a second rail-line connecting it with Montalban, and Gulladoon.

Wallader: like Bazookalonia is another mid sized city. Located further to the south and not very far from the Southern Border, it is home to the FAF (Fandango Air Force) training center. Due to the close proximity of the mining facilities in the nearby mountain range, Wallader is very much what is known as “A blue-collar town”. Factories, services, and transportation centers are all there to assist with the ores brought down from the mountain. Many young Fandangonian men travel to Wallader looking for jobs.

THE GOVERNMENT:
The Fandango Republic (FR) is technically ruled by a constituonally elected parlimentary majority with a party elected “National-Premier” as the head of the Govt.
The Premier’s term is only interrupted once every six years for a mandatory election, or when his party ousts him, or the opposing parties are able to garnish enough legislative support to force a constitutional vote of confidence. In theory a majority vote of “no confidence” is enough to force new elections within two weeks, however with the current political majority ruling the country for the last 14 years and keeping the opposing parties divided and weak, a no-confidence vote is unlikely anytime soon.

------------

Part II to be continued...

The Goomba Fly

2009-04-18T14:17:00.000-05:00

The Goomba Fly;
(Musca Goomba-nastyous Bongolese Africanus)

“It’s a particulary vile example of creation given to us by an ever loving God. Indeed Darwin himself would be repulsed at the general overall vile-ness of this flying thing filled reeking of germs and unpleasantries. To step on one is to step upon a bad cream pastry, while the most misfortunate of us has had one of them fly into our mouths. They are not tasty, and seem to be to drawn towards human mouths. Ewww…”
From the diary of Lady Anne Willsow-Hollsby
On her return journey to England and stopping over in Sudekia
June 1892

The Bongolesian Goomba Fly; (Musca Goomba-nastyous Bongolese Africanus); is the most common of the “wild” flies that infest the continent of Africa. Larger than the standard housefly, the Goomba Fly for all purposes seems to be an enlargened version of the common horsefly except for a few particular traits.
During the mating season, the internal organs of the Goomba fly turn from the standard “pasty crème” yello color to a bluish-green color that resembles bad birthday cake frosting.
It’s during this time that the Goomba Fly is most aggressive, and it’s innards seem to swell in size. It makes one wonder how “so much guts could be contained in such a small body”, but such is the mysteries of science…
Goomba flies are indigenous to Bongolesia, and the people have learned to put up with them. They are well known for flying into peoples mouths, and attempting to use human orificies as a place to lay their eggs. They also seem to be attracted to fecal matter, and human sweat.
A well known Bongolesian tribal saying is “His mouth is full of Goomba Flies”; which means essentially that “he is talking too much about things he doesn’t know of”…

Most tourists to Bongolesia are warned of Goomba flies, and are advised that when travelling in the wilds to keep a mouth cover near so that they might prevent a “Mouth to Goomba Fly” encounter.

In fact the Bazunga Tribe of the Central Bongolesian Highlands speaks of one of the reasons they remain in the higher altitudes is “less Goomba Flies, and our breath doesn’t stink…”

A bit of Bongolesian History...

2009-04-12T09:51:00.010-05:00

"They are generally a sad, lazy, lot; given to spending long hours of their days working hard at trying not to work, and spending more time and energy to find reasons not to do something than doing it in the first place and getting it done. What Her Majesty's Empire would do with people like this is a question that I shall always seek to answer, and sadly feel as if it shall never be answered."

- Col. George Willowby-Stratton

6th Royal African Geographic Study

2nd Bongolesian Colonial Expedition

July 1878

The Bongolesian Situation
Current Fighting 2005 -

Introduction:
In order to understand the latest episode in the series of military actions in Bongolesia, one must understand the basis for the fighting which has been a steady mark on this nations history.
Before going into great detail on the causes and origins of the Bongolesian Civil War and it’s aftermath, it must be stressed that the current operational conflicts from 2005 to the present has not been one long, continuous struggle, but a series of violent affairs and clashes, along with fierce pitched battles, numerous raids, ambushes, and massacres, as well as coups and attempted coups; separated by varying amounts of “peace” in which small actions were continued. The origins of this conflict date farther back to the original achievement of Bongolesian independence in 1960; and the struggle of the Bongolesian people under the colonialism of the Belgians, French, Italians, and the British.

19th Century Colonialism and World War I.

BACKGROUND: BONGOLESIA UNDER COLONIAL RULE.

Bongolesia, like many other African countries was colonized and claimed by various European powers wanting to spread their influence throughout the world in the latter half of the 19th Century. England, France, Italy, and Belgium all jumped at the chance of the possibility of additional riches and gleefully claimed portions of the country for their nations. Each country claimed a portion of the land, (which in true European colonial fashion usually had their geographic borders overlying each others and completely ignoring the boundaries of other nations); and built a harbor, schools, rail lines, government buildings, and everything else that was needed to run a successful colony as well as stabilizing and exploiting the native population into a loyal, efficient, and subservient workforce. Looking for riches and marketable goods, the European powers sent explorers into the wilds, jungles, and the mountains looking for the gold, diamonds, and other precious goods that were so plentiful on the rest of the continent that could be extracted by the labor of the native population.
They were to be sorely disappointed.
Many of the explorers and exploring parties that were sent out at this time didn’t return at all, and it is often said that certain tribes in the Bongolesian Highlands ate very well during this time. In fact one tribe (The “Bazunga Tribe” of the Central Bongolesian Jungle Highlands mark a certain day each year in their calendar in remembrance of “The Great White Feast”…)
Those that did return came back with a sad, disappointing story.
The diamonds and gold weren’t there just waiting to be dug out by native workers. The great herds of elephants, with their ivory tusks, did not roam the grasslands waiting to have their tusks taken to market. Lions, cheetahs, and panthers were not so abundant as to supply fashion conscious European ladies with pelts and furs that they craved to help ward off the cold winter winds, and yet to stay in style. Disappointed, frustrated, and disillusioned, many of the nations resumed their conquest of the rest of the African continent.
During this time period, not only did explorers go out into the wilds, but “The Men of God” went also…
The Christian Religion was introduced into Bongolesia and the natives were generally found to be apathetic to Christianity on the whole, but certain tribes once again found missionaries to be quite tasty. Protestants and Catholics alike, sent missionaries into the jungles… Some came back…some didn’t. (The Bazunga Tribe describes this time period in their local lore as “Meals given by Heaven”…) With the absence of any obvious local resources that could be easily exploited, and the overall atmosphere of the local native population being generally apathetic towards any type of improvement or influence, the Europeans pretty much ignored Bongolesia and looked upon it as little more than a “second hand” colony.
In a way, this was more of a blessing than originally realized as Bongolesia was spared the many of the problems that other areas of Africa were given due to European colonization.
The harbors were used as rest stops and supply points for ships going round the cape, but that was about it.
The native Bongolesians were treated as lower second-class citizens by the white colonial powers and the overall land, activity and general attitude about Bongolesia generally did not change and it was basically ignored until 1914 and the First World War.

WORLD WAR I:

In 1914, the First World War broke out and the armies of Europe quickly threw themselves against one another in masses un-thought of, with horrifying results. Casualty rates were enormous and practically unbelievable. As casualties rose to horrendous proportions, nations scrambled to provide more men to throw into the human meat grinder that was officially known as “The Western Front”. Colonial Troops that were stationed in Africa were suddenly sent to Europe or Turkey to join into the fray
By 1915, it was evident that the British Fleet was still sovereign on the seas, and the Central Powers had decided to affect the supplies of raw materials for the Allied War effort coming from Africa. Although the German intervention in East Africa is well documented, there has been little ever mentioned about the smaller, bloody, German actions in Bongolesia.
In July of 1915, a small German Force under the command of Oberst-General Freidrich von Heidentorffer landed on the Southeastern coast of the country. Heidentorffer had been to Bongolesia twice before in 1910 (on his way back to Germany and from a disastrous romantic dalliance with the daughter of an Arabic Sultan); and in late 1913 as his passenger vessel stopped over for repairs it had suffered in a minor storm at sea (while he was on his way to “somewhere” after fleeing a disastrous romantic dalliance with an up and coming German Opera Singer who had caught him during their engagement in an even more romantic dalliance with a Parisian Can-Can Girl…). Being the only German officer that had been to Bongolesia, (much less even heard of it), the Kaiser appointed him the Officer In Charge of “Military Actions Against The Enemy Forces of Germany in Bongolesian Afrika.”
Heidentorffer was no fool. He was smart, sneaky, savvy, and realized that the Allied Powers could use the harbors as refueling and repair facilities for their naval vessels supporting any operations against German interests in the East African Region. He realized that by stirring up the issues and using the native Bongolesians against the colonial rulers, it would, tie up various Allied Resources, and perhaps close the harbors to Allied Shipping. He also realized that if Germany won the war and he was successful in this operation that he could cut himself out a nice little piece of land here in the Kaisers New Afrikan-Empire and hide out here when he needed to hide out from the ensuing fall outs of his romantic dalliances.
In early July, Heidentorffer landed on the island with approximately 200 troops, some engineers, a couple of Maxim machine guns, and a small field gun. During the period of August and September 1915, he secretly met with various Bongolesian Tribal leaders, and supplied them with weapons and ammunition and led them to believe that he was there to help them push out their “colonial overseers”, (all the time carefully managing not to inform the Bongolesian tribal leaders that once Germany won the war, it would be Germany being the new colonial overseer in Bongolesia instead of France, Italy, Belgium, and England).
Heidentorffers actions in Bongolesia went about completely unnoticed by any of the European powers that had administrations there and they were completely unaware of the German presence or the growing uprising as they were too busy seeing how many men could die daily on the Western Front in their umpteenth failed attack against well prepared defenses.
With a carefully constructed plan, (that soon went awry, much to Heidentorffers dismay and horror), the Bongolesian natives struck out at the Allies. The uprisings and rebellion started with nighttime attacks against outlying towns and Military outposts and soon degenerated into rampant vicious lawlessness, anarchy, and “revengeful brutality” towards “their colonial masters”. Telegraph wires were cut down to prevent news of what was happening to be sent to other towns in the country, and a French Train was derailed. Smaller towns were completely burned and many men, women, and children, (European and Bongolesians) were killed or taken captive and forced into the jungle, while military captives were usually found tortured or executed in a manner most grim, and fat missionaries got the worst of it as they simply became “repas du jour” or “the meal of the day”, (according to the Bazunga Tribe).
The Belgian Military Camp, of “Emmel De Belgique” was completely overrun and the defenders and inhabitants slaughtered completely and without mercy.
The savagery of the attacks threw Heidentorffers plan off, for now, he knew that Allied retaliation would be swift and hard. Despite the fact that he urged restraint upon the citizens of the captured areas as he felt that "Live prisoners would be better than dead bodies”; he argued, but the Bongolesian natives who had suffered all those many, many years of European Colonialism, would hear nothing of it.

(A rare photo of German Soldiers under Heidentorffers command in the field.)

The situation and savagery had gotten to the point that the only safe areas were the larger port cities of Sudekia, Port Kensington-Hyde-White, and the French Port City of Javiers, (later to be known as Port Tuziak). The Belgian Port City of Brusel-de-Bongolese, (later to be known as Waughtown) was harassed daily, and it was only the courage of the Combined French Foreign Legion, Belgian Colonial Troops, and a handful of Italian Troops plus a platoon of men from His Majesty’s Royal 112th Field Mess Kit Repair Battalion (that had been left behind when their unit was sent to Gallipoli), that saved it from suffering the same fate as the camp.
Nonetheless, word did get out by wireless of the attacks on the country, and relief was in sight.
On the 2 of September, the citizens of Port Kensington-Hyde-White awoke to the sight of 12 Royal Navy ships sitting off the coast. The fleet was led by the battle cruiser HMS Vanguard, and consisted of itself, 6 destroyers, a supply vessel, two transport steamers, a coaler, and a medical transport ship. Those that were still asleep in the port city were awakened when the number 2 turret on the Vanguard; with its dual eight inch guns, announced it’s arrival by sending shells high over and beyond the town and into the jungle to signal that they were there.
Heidentorffer knew his days on Bongolesia were numbered and started quickly to make defense and withdrawal plans. He hadn’t the men or supplies to hold out in a long protracted action against the Allies, and the thought of him actually risking being killed in battle scared him silly. With careful instructions and guidance he moved his men back, (along with those natives that were with him).
Within an hour of the guns firing from HMS Vanguard, the pipes, of the 12th Scottish Royal Rifles were heard as the troops moved through the streets to cheering crowds. Within two days, elements of the Royal Marines had landed to support Sudeka, Javiers, (Port Tuziak), and Brusel-De-Bongolese (Waughtown). Within a week, additional troops from France, Italy, and Belgium, along with a small Canadian force, had secured the cities from attacks and had begun a counteroffensive which moved slowly due more to command inefficiency rather than enemy resistance.
The operations to re-take the land from the natives lasted less than three months. By the end of December 1915, all cities and townships had been secured, and the majority of the countryside was in allied control, as the Bongolesian natives realized that they could get more from the Allies than from the Germans and conveniently switched sides due to easy bribes. The allies then first realized the involvement of the Germans when a German Courier was shot dead by a Royal Marine. Now the allies knew of the German involvement upon the country. By January 1916, the allied force on Bongolesia had increased and the city of Sudekia had a primitive airfield with three fighter planes. Despite the efforts of the allies though, the hunt for the elusive Germans was relatively unsuccessful. In January of 1916, Heidentorffer and his element, (having lost only four troops in the entire affair), was successfully extracted from the coastline under the cover of darkness on a German Freighter. Even with the disappearance of the main insurgent element from the country, old hatreds dies hard, and as a result there would be numerous small “incidents” between Bongolesian insurgents and the occupying colonial powers until the mid 1920’s.

After the extraction of Heidentorffer and his forces, Bongolesia remained quiet (except for some local native unrest) and undisturbed by the rest of WWI, and once again slowly drifted out of the attention and conciousness of the world, spending the rest of The First World War, as a quiet backwater African Colonial Territory...

Heidentorffer went on to finish out his service to the Kaiser and the war without ever seeing the glory, or attention that he tried to get. Tragically he ended up being shot dead in the summer of 1919 by the jealous husband of an Italian silent film actress who found his wife and the former German Officer in a rather "dubious" position, and solved the problem once and for all with five shots from his revolver...

General M'Bunga "Retires"...

2009-03-03T20:49:00.003-05:00

From the Bongolesian Observer (The B.O.)...
(Sudekia) After decades of dedicated service to the Nation, General B'unga M'Bunga retired gracefully today.
A dedicated and emotional "going away" ceremony was held at Camp K'illemall, Home of the Bongolesian National Defense Military Command Headquarters, right outside of Sudekia.
General M'Bunga was presented with a bouquet of flowers, and honored with "The Military Order of The Screaming Jackal"; a special award given to those who have dedicated themselves to making sure that Bongolesia is first in the hearts of it's countrymen, and ensuring that military protocol and discipline upon the land is kept.
President-For-Life P'hat Daddee B'wonah graced the ceremony with his presence and awarded the medal to General M'Bunga. He said "This is a good example of how far you can get when you get what you want and want to get more of what you want. General M'Bunga knew how to do what it was that he knew how to do and did it so well that he did it too good sometimes but good enough for other times. We are going miss him and his smiles and dedication to our country, but we know that he will come to our aid and his nation if necessary. We wish him a longer life and a happy one."
Under the watchful eyes of the President, First Lady, Officers of the NDF and the Bongolesian Presidential Guard, the NDF made an impressive pass in review in dedication to General M'Bunga.
"Well...it's about that time." The General said softly with a tear in his eye. He said that he looked foward to spending his days reflecting upon his service to the nation, and what he can do "to be a good citizen"...
After the ceremony, there was a light reception with entertainment provided by The Bootles, (a hip little up and coming musical group).
General M'Bunga was pretty quiet about his future activities but said that he was looking at vacationing and "travelling overseas" a bit.
President B'wonah is scheduled to announce General M'Bunga's successor in the next few days...
We wish the General well in his retirement...

(Thanks for the memories, General M'Bunga...)

What's been going down in Bongolesia lately...

2009-02-22T16:28:00.001-05:00

Well here we are in the month of Feb, and I have schlubbed off and not finished the AAR...
I'll get to that, (eventually)...
Meanwhile...to update the latest news from Bongolesia...

For those of you not keeping up with "All that's hip and happenin' in the "Big B"…Here's some updates.

1: A new deal was signed with the Government of China to allow some "engineers" to come in country and "oversee" some construction and implementation projects.
2: The Ice Machine at the Bongo Hilton has been fixed again. The manager asks customers to please refrain from stealing the copper condenser coils or shooting the machine.
3: Idis Auto Sales is HAVING A SALE!!!! 3 new running cars are on the lot and they are gonna go fast fast fast! So come in and get your wheels today!!!!
4: Successful postal deliveries to urban areas is up by 2.17%. This is letters only. There still seems to be a slight problem with package deliveries.
5: A new diving board has been installed at the Sudekian Bongolesian Publik Pool! Come in and try it out!
6: A retirement ceremony for General B'unga M'bunga is scheduled for March 3rd.
7: Gossip in Sudekia is rife with the rumor that Wang Chung may play live at "The Bongo Club".
8: Russian Pilots have arrived to Sudekia to demonstrate to the B'wonah Goverment two possible aircraft that may be sold to Bongolesia. The MiG27, and the YaK36 may be sold to the BAF in limited numbers along with support, and training provided by the Russian Govt.
9: SNAK SHAK is pleased to annouce the opening of a new franchise outside of Lonnieville. Please come by and try out our local delicacy, "Meat on a stick"…
10: The US Govt has announced that their embassy in Bongolesia will be formally opened and functional on the 1st of April.

Coming soon to a bookstore near you!!!!

2009-01-04T07:20:00.003-05:00

Just in time for the New Year and for making ALL of your holiday travel plans!
A delightful book outlining all that the savvy traveller needs to know when visiting this exotic locale.
This book will cover all the questions that you, The Savvy Traveller will have when going to Bongolesia including;
An overview of Bongolesia, with a quick summary of history, the current presidential administration, culture, daily life, what to expect, who to believe and trust, etc...

All of this is covered in 23 wonderful chapters:

1: Travel, (What to do, what not to do, who to pay off, and what not to eat)...
2: Toilet Paper, (Bring yer own)...
3: Now that you're here...
4: Getting through customs, (with most of your luggage)...
5: Travelling around Sudekia...
6: The "Wonderful" Bongolesian People...
7: The "Not So Wonderful" Bongolesian People...
8: The "Really Not So Wonderful" Bongolesia People...
9: The "Scummy Low Life" Bongolesian People...
10: Bongolesian Culture
11: Bongolesian Cuisine
12: Bongolesian Nightlife, (aka "Booty-call")
13: Travelling outside of the Cities.
14: Animals that you may encounter in the wilds, (including a listing of at least half a dozen species that may try to eat you, both four legged AND two legged)...
15: Landmine identification guide.
16: What to do in case of trouble.
17: Guidelines and helpful tips if you get taken hostage.
18: Exploring the local villages.
19: What not to do to the Local Witch Doctor.
20: Helpful Phone #'s for assistance, reporting guerilla activity, or informing friendly officials of your predicament.
21: What to do when dealing with The Bongolesian Authorities.
22: Cash...how much you need, when you need it, where to carry it...and make sure you can get some more...
23: Enjoying your stay in Bongolesia.

So get yours today! Copies will be selling fast!!!!

2009 in Bongolesia, a chat with Alan Alda, and other things...

2009-01-03T10:41:00.004-05:00

Well it's 2009 in Bongolesia and despite the recent nastiness up in the Northwestern corner of the country, (Which will be addressed REAL SOON), things seem to be normal in the daily lives of Bongolesians throughout the country.

The New Year Celebrations helped bring in the New Year with joyous noise, music, par-tays, and all sorts of merry mischief and mayhem that Bongolesians are well known for.

There was a little damage as someone fire-bombed three porta-toilets at a construction site in Waughtown, and some shop windows were broken by over-festive party-goers, but overall the damage was minimal, fires were controlled, and only 4 people killed.

"2009 promises to be an interesting year for our beloved nation..." Said Bongolesian National Spokesman S'pin Doc'tur. "Already things are happening behind the scenes that will cause the world to sit up and open their eyes and notice that we is who we is."

(Happy Bongolesian Children ring in the New Year in "de land 'o plenty...")

(And they partied in the new year in the villages too. Much more than usual now that a lot of the landmines have been removed...)

More to come on this as things develop...

Also, during the holidays The Staff of Whiny Now! Magazine was able to get an exclusive interview with actor and social emasculator Alan Alda on what he thought about the recent crisis and issues in Bongolesia.
At a recent sit down in a Artistic Faux-French Coffee and Pastry shop in Beverly Hills, Mr. Alda was able to give his ideas and opinions on Bongolesia. While sipping on his cinnamon sprinkled foamy latte, Mr. Alda was able to speak openly on Bongolesia...

"Bongolesia is an amazing country, unlike the US because it's so...so...different. There are things there that we don't have over here. I blame the US administration for their problems. Being able to understand the plight of the poor from my home here in Southern California, I can see the misery that comes out of that country and the need for assistance.
I also understand that there are issues over there involving their government and military actions against the peaceful Marxist rebels of that nation. Such thuggery, and shenanigans should be outlawed in the international community and the UN should condemn the actions as illegal. I mean, (sipping a cinnamon sprinkled, white foamy latte), there are UN peacekeepers there, why aren't they keeping the peace?
I can understand that the recent crisis issues in that country interrupted The Alan Alda Winter End Season End Years End Holiday Fest and Musical Extravaganza which by the way had the highest ratings for any show I have ever hosted, but there comes a time when the world must sit up and take notice for what is going on in there. I blame the US for this..."

(Mr Alan Alda...a very passionate man about Bongolesia. He seems to know a lot...)

The rest of the article will soon be posted in an upcoming issue of Whiny Now! magazine.
Be sure to look for it on your newstands!!!!

In other news, there is unconfirmed rumor that with the New Year here, there will be some "reassignments" going on at the National Defense Headquarters. Already it is rumored that General B'unga M'bunga will probably be retiring soon to a well deserved retirement and military pension for his grand service to the nation.

(Puttin' out to pasture? General M'Bunga, rumored to be retiring soon...)

More to come on this situation as things develop...

As usual comments are appreciated!

A Christmas Message From Bongolesia...

2008-12-25T11:33:00.002-05:00

From the Presidential Palace of His Excellency, President-For-Life P'hat Daddee B'wonah...

"Greetings to all that hears these words on dis most wonderdfull of holidays. As President of the wonderful nation of Bongolesia, I send all my loving and greetings to you until you are full of it. I have so much to give to you that we should all be thankful.
As da year slowly swindles to a close, we here in Sudekia and da rest of the country look forward to 2009 and the many good things we can see that it will bring all of us. The government under my rule and command has made sure that it could do to you all that it could, and has brought up much successful schemes to help our national economy and our way of life that it even reaches down to you. And you should be happy.
We have seen new industries come to our beloved land, bringing jobs with it that will enable the people of this land to work hard so we can all get more.
We have seen new skills needed and provided, and so many people getting what was coming to them that it makes my head spin sometimes with all of the wonders dat we do to you and for you.
Of course with all progress, dere are dose thugs and hoodlums and just no goods dat don’t know how good dey’s got it, and would want Bongolesia to be like France, or Arkansas or some place like that. And it is dese folks that seek to ruin our nation even further than it already has been, and change our way of life into something else that we wouldn’t recognize from what it already is…These folks are the ones that want to see our land crumble and our way of life ruptured like the carcass of a dead cat roasting on a dusty road in the hot, hot, sun. And deys won’t stop till they succeed or are destroyed.
Of course true Bongolesians know the meaning of patriotism, loyalty and who butters the bread, and with this we know that all Bongolesian citizens who know what is good for them will do their best to remain true to the nation. We will soon have the army giving the pain stick to those that give us problems, and come from third-world hell-holes (and you know who you are…)
But dis is not the time to talk about dat. Dis is da time of joy, of hope, of gib’ing and getting. For as we have poor’ here in Bongolesia, dere are many folks out there that have more than dey’s need and can afford to give more to help the poor. Because the themes of dis season is gibb’in and gibbin’ makes you feel good inside. And the more you gib, the mo’ bettuh you feel.
I know dat some folks (especially Americans with money, and those of former European Colonial Descent) will want to soothe their souls and help de poor. That’s why we ask of them to remember da season and gib all dey can and a little more. Because it’s the season of gibbin’ and it’s all for the chiiiiiiiiiillllllllldrennnnnnn….
And you don’t wanna see little children cry on Christmas do you?
And as President of this wonderful nation, I personally guarantee that for all that you give for and to the poor dat dey will get theirs in the end.
On behalf of Moolah and I, we wants to wish you all a very Merry Chris’mus and a Happy New Year.

Long Live Bongolesia!

Hot Sultry Action in Junkotown PT II

2008-12-21T22:36:00.004-05:00

CLICK ON PIC FOR LARGER PICS

PART II

The small-dilapidated hamlet of Junkotown grew closer in view. Captain H’ameneggz glanced down at his maps; just beyond the town was a piece of open ground, and then the BARF main camp.
He looked over at the Commander of the Fighting Jujus as the PT-76s tore through a barren poorly plowed field of some town farmer whose skill at farming seemed to leave a lot to be desired.
“Let’s hope dat deys don’t screw dis up.” He said to himself as he reached for the signal flags. A quick swipe through the air with the red and yellow flags and the attack column broke into town. The Lions wheeled around the right, while the Jujus sped into and through the town streets.
Reconnaissance Jeeps and Scout Cars raced ahead of the tanks looking for any evidence of enemy forces.

Captain B’ustah of the Fighting Jujus grinned as the Golden Lions peeled off and began their swing around the town. The delay of moving around the obstacle instead of through it, would cause him to miss out on the prize…and the reward.
He licked his thick cracked lips and thought about the fun and frolic he could have with the large cash reward for rescuing the silly European newsgirls…
And the scientists and briefcase… He reminded himself.
He cursed slightly as he thought to himself. He had always been able to be distracted by a pretty face, but this time he would keep his mind on his business and kill anyone that stood in the way of him getting what was his.
Suddenly as his tanks began to work their way across a barren field, the dusty white UN vehicles seemed to pour around his left side and take a slight lead ahead of his tanks. He watched as they moved ahead of his tanks and the slowed down at an opening around a small hill.
He looked up ahead. In the distance the BARF camp was in sight!

AT THE BARF CAMP:
Comrade Commander P’uffdiddie looked over the supply list and frowned. What he was being told to provide was nearly impossible in this region. Comrade General T’uba S’alami was asking him to “request” more supplies from the local peasants than they were able to provide.
P’uffdiddie leaned back in the rickety wooden chair and closed his eyes as he sighed deeply. One day soon…he thought to himself. We will emerge victorious and a new rule will be established in Bongolesia; a rule where people will share and share alike. Naturally those of us in charge will get a bigger share, but that’s the way it always isn’t it?
The frantic knocking on the office door suddenly interrupted his daydreaming.
“What is it?” He asked loudly, irritated that his few moments of relaxation was rudely taken away from him.
The young messenger walked in, bowed as required and reported hastily.
“Oh great and glorious commander, it looks like B’wonahs hoodlums are on their way!”
P’uffdiddies face frowned slightly. He could sense the fear in this young mans voice. ”Do not be afraid soldier. Go to your post and prepare for battle, we shall do our duty and emerge victorious!”
P’uffdiddie smiled as he could see the young mans fear on his face vanish and an eagerness for battle replace it. The soldier saluted, and turned to leave.
“Comrade Private.” P’uffdiddie said.
“Sir?”
“You forgot to bow when you were leaving.” P’uffdiddie said quietly.
“Sorry comrade general. It won’t happen again.”
P’uffdiddie nodded as the soldier left. Of course not. He said to himself as the sounds of the base camp preparing for battle suddenly began. That is why, AFTER the battle, you will only receive five lashings with the whip. Discipline and Protocol MUST be maintained and expected at all times…
Fortunately for the young private it was the last time he would ever see Comrade Commander P’uffdiddie…

MERCHANTS MARAUDERS:
Major Merchant wasn’t happy.
He grunted unhappily each time his jeep seemed to bounce in one of the countless holes and ruts on the ruined dirt trail that the Bongolesians seemed intent on calling a road. He looked up from his map to view the trucks that he had gotten from “local sources” to carry his troops and weapons teams. Two of the vehicles seemed to be on their last legs. Even Cpl “Hotwire” Jenkins had had trouble trying to get them to start and keep running for any long amount of time. They would simply just stop running as if they had a temperamental mind of their own.
“Looks like we might got the jump on ‘em sir!” his driver said over the roar of the jeep engine.
Merchant nodded. He was remembering the contract details for payments. “Rescue the Scientists. Rescue the Bongolesium. Grab the Girls if he could for a “bonus”. All in a good days work he thought.
His mind snapped back out of its reverie by the sudden snap crack sound followed by an explosion up ahead. The troop trucks suddenly swerved off the road. Most turned left and sought cover at the halfway constructed airfield. A tired old C-47 sat on the mostly level rough ground near a small building. The troops began unloading quickly while one of the other trucks took a hard right and fought a hiding place between a series of storage tanks.
Merchant saw the signs on the tanks. Two were from Petroco, and the other two were from Perverticus Industries. Their conditions left a lot to be desired.
The men began unloading from the truck and taking cover.
“Crikey Major! That’s not a good place for the men to dig in!” The jeep driver yelled as he pulled the jeep off the road and sought cover. Merchant took a quick glance down the road. In the distance he could see a tank, and what seemed to be an IFV…

“Tell me Jeeves, did our briefing say ANYTHING about the enemy having tanks and possibly BMPS???” Merchant asked his driver, while trying not to yell. Jeeves shook his head. “No Sir…nuttin’ at all.”
“That’s what I thought.” Merchant muttered to himself. Suddenly this “easy” job seemed not that easy anymore.

AT THE BARF CAMP:
Comrade Commander P’uffdiddie listened on the radio as his Tank Commander reported engaging the mercenaries. “They are hiding around the airport and the storage tanks Comrade Commander. Your orders sir?”
“Move in and destroy them.” He responded.
The radio crackled for a moment. “Sir I would follow your orders, but the engine on my tank seems to be having problems again. It runs, then stops, runs, then stops.”
P’uffdiddie cursed. The few tanks that BARF had seemed to be plagued with maintenance problems.
“Very well, get your tank running when you can. In the meantime do you see a big fuel truck there?”
“Yes Comrade Commander.”
“Good. Then shoot the fuel truck and roast the mercenaries like so much cheap lunch meat.” P’uffdiddie instructed.

The BARF Tank commander looker up into his sights and began searching for a new target for his gunner. With most of the mercenaries taking cover behind the building he was wondering what to shoot, when the gunner suddenly began screaming. “They have a Recoilless Rifle!”
“SHOOT IT!” The tank commander screamed back.
The crack from the T55 main gun sent a high explosive shell directly on target and the mercenaries with their recoilless rifle, simply ceased to exist.
“Bloody Hell!” Merchant screamed as he watched his RR team evaporate. He looked over at Jeeves. “NOBODY TOLD US ABOUT TANKS!!!”
Jeeves nodded and leaned back a bit. He knew that when the Major got this way he tended to drool and spit a lot.

The BARF Tank commander grinned. A well placed shot had taken out the soldiers for hire white devils. He spun the turret to the right. “Do you see that big new shiny truck full of aviation fuel?” He asked the gunner.
“Yes I do!”
“The shoot that. Let’s make it hot for them.”

The T55’s gun cracked again and for the mercenaries someone set off the worlds biggest flash bulb.
Luckily the building covered the majority of the group, but the first squad simply dissolved in the fireball screaming.

Captain B’ustah looked over to his left. He could see troops scattered about and a large fireball rising into the sky. He grinned as he saw targets of opportunity.
“Gunner, swing left and put a shell into one of those storage tanks.” He said.
The gunner traversed left and a moment later the gun of the PT-76 spit forth a shell.
The shell ripped into a storage tank of Perverticus Industries. Immediately from the opening a large spreading black cloud poured out and began to settle on the mercenaries there.

“Crikey Major! The NDF is shooting at us also!” Jeeves yelled.
Merchant turned to see the black cloud settle down on the men taking cover behind the storage tank. Suddenly he could hear coughing and choking, as the men gasped for air. These gasps were then punctuated by screams.
“What…the…bloody…hell?” Merchant babbled to himself.
His questions were answered when forms emerged from the cloud. Where his men had been, SUDDENLY, came the slow shuffling forms of the newly undead…zombies.
“Oh hell…SHOOT THEM NOW!” Merchant screamed.
A mercenary squad opened up on them, sending bullets into newly formed undead flesh and causing the bodies to hit the ground and flop until they were all suddenly still. Each corpse then took a long burst to the skull, “just in case”.

To Be Continued...

HOT SULTRY ACTION IN JUNKOTOWN!!!

2008-12-18T21:18:00.007-05:00

(CLICK ON PICS FOR LARGER PICTURES SHOWING DETAIL)

PART I

The window unit air conditioner rattled as it desperately tried to keep up with the sweltering humid sticky heat of the Bongolesian afternoon. A recent storm had dropped just enough rain on the Capital City of Bongolesia, which seemed to enhance the mugginess of the heat instead of helping to cool it off like most rainstorms do.
A sudden "WHACK" upon the air conditioner with a stick caused the rattle to stop and the air conditioner continued to struggle to do its job, although in a more silent modus of operation.
Inside, P’hat Daddee B’wonah stared at the air conditioner in silence, holding the stick in his hand and glaring at the window unit as if it were a disobedient child challenging a parent. He waited a moment and when he was satisfied that the air conditioner had learned it’s lesson, he tossed the stick off to the side and turned his chair back towards his desk and the disturbing pictures and reports upon them.
He picked up a black and white photograph and stared at it, frowning slightly. The photo did not have the high detail that he wished he could get from reconnaissance photos, but it had to do. He let his eyes sweep over the photo, taking in every detail.

(Secret Aerial Recon Photo of BARF Base Camp near Junkotown...)

He glanced from the photograph to a map of Bongolesia, which showed Junkotown to be in the Central Northwest region of Bongolesia, not far from the border of the CBPR.
Running the tip of his tongue over his lips, he looked again at the photograph.
So they now have tanks… He thought to himself.
His thoughts were interrupted by the buzz of the intercom.
He stabbed at the button with his thick finger as if he were poking a piece of meat. “Send them in.” He ordered.

The door to the office opened and National Defense Minister M’umbow Jumbow, and Bongolesian General B’unga M’bunga slowly stepped in. Each man had the look on their face as if they were marching into the lion’s den.
B’wonah slipped the picture and the reports back into the folder and closed the cover.
“Ah, gentlemen! Do come in and sit down.” He greeted them cheerfully while motioning to the two chairs in front of his desk.
The men slowly moved to the chairs, and after a quick glance sat down in them; M’bunga sitting on the edge of his seat while M’umbow Jumbow’s fingertips dug into the front of the armests.
“You wished to s..see us, Excellency?” Jumbow said with a quiver in his voice.
B’wonah smiled, showing his large white teeth.
“Oh yes, gentlemen. I’ve been waiting for both of you. I need you to tell me some things.”
“Things sir?” M’bunga asked.
The glistening smile vanished as B’wonah stared at them both. “YES! THINGS! I want to know WHAT HAPPENED IN JUNKOTOWN, and most of all WHY DID YOU FAIL TO DO AS I ORDERED?” he bellowed.
“Excellency, I…” M’bunga started to respond before B’wonah made a gesture that shut him up.
“Let’s hear it from the beginning, shall we?”… He said with his dark eyes flashing their black soulless emptiness to them as he leaned forward towards them.

(The objectives, Hot Eurobabes, Geek Scientists, and a briefcase full of Bongolesium!)

The lay of the land; Junkotown, with the half built airstrip and the BARF stronghold on the left (north) of the table...

South of Junkotown…
The Goomba Flies swarmed thick in the sultry Bongolesian heat as the small town of Junkotown roasted beneath a merciless sun. The sight of a beautiful blue sky gave little comfort to the few villagers as they toiled beneath the blazing orb in the sky. The peasant farmers of the town along with a few townsfolk swatted constantly at the buzzing smelly biting Goomba flies.
Suddenly the local dogs began barking, and the farmers looked up from their cracked drying parched fields to hear and see the dust clouds coming from the south…
“Tanks!” One of the farmers yelled as he dropped his hoe and started running back from the field to the shanty that he and his family called home.

Across the field on the horizon, a cloud of dust moved closer to Junkotown.
Group Captain H’ameneggz sat in the cupola of his T-34/85 clutching to the Old Exxon Road Map, as well as the locally produced map of the region.. His goggles covered his eyes, while a small wrapping protected his face and mouth from the fine ground dust that tanks make, and prevented the unfortunate chance of having a Goomba Fly find it’s winged way into his mouth. He had made that mistake a long time ago, when he was a young officer and learned his lesson as to just how nasty a Goomba Fly tasted. He always made sure never to have a repeat of the lesson.
He looked down at the map, and then to both sides at the rest of his T-34’s. Once again, 2nd Bongolesian, “The Golden Lions”, were on the move. Supported by Infantry in trucks behind, and a jeep recon element racing ahead of them, he looked over to his left. His “supporting element” was the 1st Bongolesian Armored, “The Fighting Jujus”. Armed with PT-76s and truck mounted infantry, their wheeled scout element of armored cars roared ahead of them, looking for signs of the enemy…

(Movements of the Rescuing Forces during the battle...The Red Line shows the path of Merchants Marauders (Mercenaries Most Foul); while the Light Blue Line shows the path of the UN forces under Capi'tan Robespierre; while the Light Green line shows the confused path of the 1st Bongolesian, "The Fighting Jujus", and the Yellow Line shows the path of the 2nd Bongolesian, "The Golden Lions"...)

Capi’tan Robespierre of the French United Nations contingent squinted through his binoculars at the dust cloud moving off to his right. He licked his dry cracked lips, and shifted his butt in the jeep seat to a more comfortable position. He tried to ignore the sweat trickling down into his face from beneath his helmet, and instead focused his thoughts on the sight of the Bongolesian vehicles far off in the distance.
Behind him the engines to the UN Trucks and the M113 APC’s idled, adding their exhaust to the thick hot dry air creating a hot carbon monoxide stink that only diesel fuel vehicles in a hot sun can make.
“Sooooooooo….zey t’ink dat they shall get to ze rescue before me and my meeeeeeeen…” He muttered to himself. He tossed the binoculars into the back of the jeep, and grabbed the radio microphone. “Whiyat Kniyat to ze Blue Swallow….Whiyat Kniyat to ze Blue Swallowwwww….come eeeeeen Blue Swallow…”
The radio crackled to life, “Zis is ze Blue Swallow…Ah ahm on ze station…ohverrrrh…”
Robespierre smiled and looked up at the sound of a jet aircraft, high above them in the sky, as it roared about.
Tossing the microphone back to the radio operator, he slapped the dozing jeep driver in the back of his UN blue helmet.
“Wake up you seeeeeelly sol’jier! ALLONS! For-wahrds!” He screamed as the little group proceeded to move across the Bongolesian Countryside.

(In the spirit of International Cooperation, and to help their record of goodwill in Africa, The UN contigent decides to get involved...)

West of the UN Group…
“Crikey Major. Them UN Frogs have busted out and are moving fast and ‘eavy for the village.”
Major Dan, “Mad Dog” Merchant, looked up from the map at the soldier observing the UN force in the distance. He squinted his eyes at the small vehicles on the horizon, and nodded in agreement to the soldiers statement.
“Lets get the Marauders moving.” He said with the curtness to his voice that gave orders to the men around him, without him having to verbally give the order. Being a leader of well-trained mercenaries known as “Merchants Marauders”, gave him the benefit of doing just that. Each man was hand picked for the job, and they knew what needed to be done. They were professional soldiers for hire...mercenaries...soldiers of fortune.
Suddenly the two recon jeeps sped forward down the road. Ahead of them lay the Junkotown airport, the BARF stronghold, and their objectives, which meant that they would get paid...

(They saw this on "Rat Patrol", and always wanted to try it!)

STAY TUNED FOR PART II !!!

NEWSLFASH!!! EUROBABES MISSING IN BONGOLESIA!!! BARF SUSPECTED!!!

2008-12-07T20:28:00.004-05:00

(Unofficial Photos of Unconfirmed Missing European Newsbabes...errr...newscasters...)

NEWSFLASH!!! Eurobabes missing in Bongolesia, BARF suspected.

European News Network (ENN), "All the news, delivered with a European Flair, by a Eurobabe…

“European News Network Eurobabes Missing in Bongolesia. BARF Suspected!”

(Sudekia) Rumors are running wild of a soon to be possible military action against anti-govt. guerillas of the Bongolesian African Revolutionary Front (BARF), after it was found out that a trio of European News Network Female Newscasters were discovered missing this afternoon, and presumed to be held against their will by BARF forces.
“Oh man…now dey’s done done it!” Said National Defense Minister Mumbow Jumbow. “When his Excellency Da President For Life P’hat Daddee B’wonah hears about dis, man, is they gonna get da pain stick!”
Sources in Bongolesia said today that the Eurobabes…errr…newscasters group were on their way to a “secret meeting” with Rebel Leaders to interview them about the recent crisis of concern due to the 3 kidnapped scientists and the location of a large container of the missing rare super element, “Bongolesium”.
It is now believed that the entire meeting was a trick to capture the Eurobabes…errr…newscasters and to hold them as additional hostages to keep any outside European Influence from interfering with BARFS rumored plan to sell the Bongolesium to the highest bidder on the market.
While many countries have denied even being in communication with BARF, sources say that some countries not only have been in communications with the Rebel Leaders but have already sent “bargaining teams” to negotiate contract prices.
The European Union has expressed its shock and sadness at the prospect of having some of their ENN Eurobabes…errr…newscasters kidnapped.
“This is most distressing to everyone here in the International Community. While we deplore any unnecessary violence within Bongolesia, we also ask, and beg pretty please not to harm any of the Eurobabes…errr…newscasters. “
Rumors are swirling that there will soon be a major military action as Bongolesian Radio AM 7.62 began playing a 30 minute Wang-Chung Music Marathon.
“Oh man, dis is gonna get bad…” said a Bongolesian citizen on the streets of Sudekia when hearing the music on the radio.
Stay tuned to the European News Network (ENN), "All the news, delivered with a European Flair, by a Eurobabe… as this crisis unfolds in Bongolesia.
And now back to “The Alan Alda Christmas Holiday Musical Extravaganza”, for your viewing pleasure, already in progress…

NEWSFLASH!!! Rebels intend to sell Super Element!

2008-12-06T12:27:00.004-05:00

European News Network (ENN), "All the news, delivered with a European Flair, by a Eurobabe…

"MYSTERIOUS "SUPER ELEMENT BONGOLESIUM" RUMORED TO BE SOLD TO HIGHEST BIDDER!

(Sudekia) In a frightening turn of events, a spokesman for the Anti-Govt. Force of the Bongolesian African Revolutionary Front (BARF) said today that their possession of the rare mysterious super element "Bongolesium", they would sell to the highest bidder."

Since we need cold hard cash to purchase the boomy boomy to use against B'wonahs Regime, this strange glowing stuff has seemed to generate a lot of interest. So we are going to put it on market to the highest bidder." The spokesman who was never identified said.In an interview over the telephone, after the European News Network accepted the charges for the collect call, the spokesman confirmed that BARF does indeed have possession of the scientists from Perverticus Industries, and the container of Bongolesium.

"It's time that the developed nations of the world stop coming into our third world hellhole and trying to make it an even worse place than it already is. If there is going to be anyone to ruin our nation, it should be the native indigenous population that be given the opportunity to do so." The spokesman said, while cheers and the rattle of weapons fire could be heard in the background.

Unconfirmed international reports also say that Iranian and Chinese delegations are preparing to leave for Africa to see "what kind of deals" can be made with BARF."

At first we wuz thinking of putting this up on ebay, but since we don't ship to Italy, and the Paypal fees are absurd in this portion of the world, we've decided to let the buyer come to us." The spokesman said.

Meanwhile, various military units of the Bongolesia National Defense Forces have been rumored to have been put on a low key alert for possible operations." Staff officers have been seen coming and going at National Headquarters and the President-For-Life, P'hat Daddee B'wonah has been busily keeping his fingers in the pie of the operation." Said a govt. spokesman who wished to remain anonymous.

President B'wonah will be hosting a state dinner this evening, and in the spirit of goodwill and good intentions has invited the Eurobabes of the ENN to attend.

Stay tuned to the European News Network (ENN), as this situation unfolds. "All the news, delivered with a European Flair, by a Eurobabe…

"We now return you to the end credits of "Brazilian Beach Babes Hot Oil Bikini Rub-Down"…

NEWSFLASH! CBPR FORCES NEAR BONGOLESIAN BORDER!!!

2008-12-06T12:11:00.003-05:00

CBPR Tanks on Military Manuevers near the Northwestern Bongolesian Border...A CBPR military spokesman said that these are "routine military exercises"...

European News Network (ENN),"All the news, delivered with a European Flair, by a Eurobabe…"
CBPR Military Forces conducting "maneuvers" near border with Bongolesia; Officials say "Merely routine"…

(Sudekia) Tensions in Bongolesia already heightened due to the recent confirmations of 3 missing scientists and a large amount of the newly discovered element "Bongolesium", have been further increased by the reports of Military Forces from the neighboring Central Bongolesian Peoples Republic, (CBPR) on military exercises near the border that they share with Bongolesia.

Reports are confirmed from National Defense Forces Headquarters in Sudekia that ground forces of the CBPR have recently begun military operations close to the border.

Earlier this afternoon, a press conference was held where Military spokesman General B'unga M'bunga told reporters. "This is the first time in a long time that we have had reports of the CBPR trying this. If they think that these "exercises" are meant to scare the Bongolesian people into acting like an old lady crossing a busy street with cars that don't stop, then deys got anudder thing comin'!"

When told that at least one plane of the CBPR air force was involved in the exercises, General M'bunga scratched his head, and looked confused while answering with "Really? They finally got the engine fixed on that thing?? Well, you learn something new everyday." General M'bunga then went on to discuss that he had been given his orders by His Excellency President-For-Life P'hat Daddee B'wonah in which "he was authorized to repel any invaders that launched into the Bongolesian countryside from their third world hellholes."

"And you know who you are…" He said wagging his finger.
Unconfirmed reports are arriving that National Defense Forces are moving into the area as a show of force against the CBPR. However, word is also out that since the area is rife with anti-govt. BARF encampments, that this may be the beginning of a pre-emptive military strike against the rebels and perhaps to recover the rare and expensive Bongolesium."

And don't forget the scientists…them too." General M'bunga said with a smile.
President B'wonah is scheduled to hold another press conference tomorrow morning and has invited all European News Network Eurobabes to breakfast before the conference for private discussions…
Stay tuned to The European News Network as this story unfolds….

And now back to "Knightrider-II; The Wrath of Hasselhof"…

NEWSFLASH! Missing Scientists Kidnapped by BARF!

2008-12-06T12:02:00.005-05:00

European News Network (ENN),"All the news, delivered with a European Flair, by a Eurobabe…"

Missing scientists and missing "Super Element" confirmed kidnapped by BARF"!!!

(Sudekia) In a flurry of recent events, sources have how confirmed that the 3 missing scientists and their cargo of the rare mysterious "Super Element", Bongolesium, have probably been kidnapped by anti-govt. guerilla forces of the Bongolesian Revolutionary African Front, (BARF).

"Yes indeedy doody, we can pretty much say that it's for sure now dat dese po' chumps got hubbi-jubbied out in duh wilds and are now "guests" of those Hoodlums that seek to further push our country down the road to ruin quicker than it has been going." said General Bunga M'bunga of the National Defense Forces in a recent press conference. "Naturally when we get da word from our beloved President-For-Life, our boys in green will get jiggy and hit them with the pain stick!"

It is said that this information was confirmed with the delivery of a photograph of the missing scientists and a large cargo container with the words "GUESS WHO???" written on it. Further details are sketchy, but National Defense Minister M'umbow Jumbo has said that he is working out the details to verify and confirm this information and meeting with the President to discuss further plans of action. "Naturally I will be in close contact with our esteemed leader and taking his directions very directly." He said with a confirmed nod of a man who seemed to know what he was talking about.
Stay tuned to the European News Networks; where all the news will be delivered with a European Flair by a Eurobabe for further developments…

We now return you to your local scheduled program, and the closing credits of, "Salma Hayeks Bikini Party Fantasy Weekend…"

NEWSFLASH!

2008-11-30T13:46:00.002-05:00

European News Network (ENN),"All the news, delivered with a European Flair, by a Eurobabe…"

MISSING SCIENTISTS HAD RARE "SUPER ELEMENT"!!!

(Sudekia) Additional Reports are coming out of the African country of Bongolesia that the recent abduction of three prominent scientists by anti-govt. forces may have also included the acquisition of a newly discovered rare "super element" – Bongolesium.Professor Rudolf Von Reinhardt, Professor Art VanDeLay, and Doctor Nigel Percival Incubator-Jones,(All of Perverticus Industries), along with their driver, local native Goh'Speed R'aysur were reported overdue from a research trip into the Bongolesian Outback.A search party found the bullet riddled jeep, along with the bullet riddled body of the late local native Goh'Speed R'aysur, but no sign of the scientists nor the container holding the rare element.

Discovered by accident in the Central Region of Bongolesia near the Goombatz Mountain Range and Lake Damnitsdeep, "Bongolesium" is a rare element that seems to display some "unusual talents".

As one US Scientist said over his third Bourbon and Coke, "While we don't know the full aspects of what Bongolesium can do, I can *burp* say with a b..b..bit of a fact jack, that I think this is "one of those things" that we shouldn't let the Iranians get hold of…if you kn…know what I mean. *hic*"

Scientists around the world have been interested in acquiring and studying the rare element, but most expeditions to the country have been turned back due to lack of "necessary approvals and funding". Indeed it seems that Bongolesium is an amazingly rare element and thus its rarity makes it even more valuable on the open market.

With the recent revelation of the fate of the scientists and their cargo, Bongolesian Leader President-For-Life P'hat Daddee B'wonah expressed interest and gave his full support for the safe return of the missing cargo and the scientists. "It just breaks my heart to see such good stuff, and those scientists get hubbi-jubbied by those hoodlums that would see our country run even further into the ground." He said shaking his head."Of course, in the interests of world peace and prosperity, I shall make all Bongolesian Govt. Assets available to seek a meaningful conclusion to this situation as quickly as possible and in the best interests of all."

After these statements, the President invited all Eurobabes to attend a private cocktail pool party at the Presidential Palace. "It's a good way to have some company while The First Lady, Moolah B'wonah is on an extended trip to the international wig and hairdo conference in Tripoli, Libya."He said with a smile.
More on this story as the situation unfolds…stay tuned to the European News Network; where "All the news, is delivered with a European Flair, by a Eurobabe…"
And now, back to "Bowling with Nuns"…

"NEWSFLASH...Scientists missing in Bongolesia!!!!"

2008-11-28T20:48:00.002-05:00

European News Network (ENN),"All the news, delivered with a European Flair, by a Eurobabe…"

SCIENTISTS MISSING IN BONGOLESIA!

(Sudekia) Reports are confirming in this African country of Bongolesia of the possible kidnappings of three prominent scientists by anti-govt. forces.Professor Rudolf Von Reinhardt, Professor Art VanDeLay, and Doctor Nigel Percival Incubator-Jones,(All of Perverticus Industries), along with their driver, local native Goh'Speed R'aysur were reported overdue from a research trip into the Bongolesian Outback.A search party found the bullet riddled jeep, along with the bullet riddled body of the late local native Goh'Speed R'aysur, but no sign of the scientists.Speculation and rumor abounded of the fates of the scientists, until unofficial word was received that they were seen alive along with a large container with unknown contents near a BARF military encampent in Northwestern Bongolesia not too far from the border with the CBPR.Government Officals in Bongolesia will not confirm nor deny that the scientists have been kidnapped by anti-govt. rebels.

(Anti-Govt. rebels may be the reason behind the missing scientists...)

His Excellency, President-For-Life P'hat Daddee B'wonah has scheduled a press conference concerning the situation later today. He has graciously allowed all European News Eurobabes to have front row seats. More info on this evolving situation as we get it.Now…back to our regularly scheduled program of "Dancing With The Homeless"…

An Overdue Update, (Architecture and BARF)...

2008-11-09T11:29:00.003-05:00

Oh my it's been almost two months since my last update on this site! Good gawsh almighty!

Okay, I've done no real AK47 Republic Gaming in quite a while, (almost a year now, oh my!), and instead have been working on painting figs, building scenery, and learning to resin cast. It's hard to learn how to resin cast when you have THREE seperate Arts/Crafts/Hobby Stores and NONE of them carry Alumilite! (Well one did but dropped the brand)...

The last entry that I posted showed the "Bongolesian Arch".

After looking at it, I thought, "This is nice, but it doesn't have the "bling", that makes it look like a national monument.

So I went back to work...

Actually I went to Michaels Arts and Crafts...

I picked up a small pack of small assorted Rhinestone "jewels", and a soft rubbery plastic eagle, (in the science toys section).

A good scrubbing of the eagle, and two coats of primer. (Krylon grey, gotta love Wal-Mart), and then I mounted it on it's base and onto the monument.

I used three different types of "gold" to get the effect that I wanted, finally highlighting it with the "Pure Gold" from P3 (Privateer Press).

I took the rhinestones, and made small indentions into the monument and glued them in, attached the eagle, and added some wording and voila!

So now I present to you (complete), the Bongolesian National Victory Arch of Independence!

(The Bongolesian Victory Arch of National Independence and Unity...along with "almost real" gemstones...)

A close up view of the arch...

An "artistic" oblique view of the arch, showing a PP News Media stand for size comparison...

Hmmm...I've noticed lately that my digital camera seems to be giving me less and less satisfactory pics. Even with light assistance and changed settings I think that it just can't handle the job for what I want it to do...

Of course, it wouldn't be Bongolesia without Anti-Govt opportunists at every corner...

So to help spur on the Revolutionary fervor, (or is that fever?), I present to you, the BARF color bearer!

He's a Peter Pig WWII German Aircraft Mechanic with a metal rod for a staff, and proudly carrying the revolutionary colors of BARF forward to victory!!!

I've also got some more civilians painted up, and the first of my Lions of Allah, and the ship is ALMOST done..(It's taken a back seat to other projects now...grrr..)

More photos and another update soon, I hope!

Comments are appreciated!

Monuments, Propaganda, and things that float in the water...AND PICS!

2008-09-14T18:20:00.005-05:00

Well as promised, and as usual, a long overdue update!

And this time there are pics!!! Woo hoo!

As usual, comments are appreciated. Let me know what you think.

Enjoy!

First off;

"The Bongolesian National Independence Victory and Unity Arch"

This structure is found on Avenue De' Main in the Capital City of Sudekia. It was designed and built around 1970 to commemortate the Oct. 22nd 1960 date of National Independence. After President-For-Life P'hat Daddee B'wonah came to power in a successful coup in 1988, it is also commonly known as "The B'wonah Arch".

Grandeur and Splendor; all in one structure to celebrate Bongolesia throwing off the yoke of it's Colonial Masters (according to what they tell you...)

A close up of the arch with a stand of the Peter Pig AK47 Media figs on the road under the main archway for size comparison...

An oblique shot of the same structure, showing some of the construction and weathering. The entire structure was made from a piece of pink insulation foam sandwiched between two pieces of foamcore and glued onto a basswood support. It was then lightly coated with wall spackling, left to dry and then painted and highlighted. I'm thinking that perhaps in the future I will mount something gaudy and "statuelike" on top of it (sorta like the Brandenburg Gate), perhaps an eagle, or a chariot or something...

Moving right along...

Unfortunately, not EVERYONE is happy with the good to it'ness of President-For-Life P'hat Daddee B'wonah as photographs show. This is a recent presidential billboard that has been vandilized by some local BARF hoodlums and thugs. When asked about incidents like this, President B'wonah shook his head sadly and said "It breaks my heart to see my photo and other things in our country ruined by these bored hoodlums and thugs that seem to flock to those people (And you know who you are), that are determined to bring ruin to our country and to kick me outta power. But, my rule is strong and the people want me like no other, and our country will overcome a few thugs and no-gooders intent on painting up things and causing problems!"

Meanwhile the Ministry of National Information and Propaganda has released a new President B'wonah billboard, exhorting his fame and success!

Kind of makes you shiver and shake in the frenzy of his awesomeness, doesn't it?

Another sign from the Ministry of Media, Communications, and Public Affairs are the new signs advertising "DJ B'oogur S'oodek playing da tunes on Radio Joe, AM 7.62"

Meanwhile....more urban goodness as the third of four blocks of "Funkytown" comes into being...This one includes shops, apts, and a tattoo parlor...oh joy...

The front of block #3 of "Funkytown"...nice colors...and the dirt accents the colors quite nicely...

A nice oblique shot showing some of the local graffitti...

A left oblique shot...another "Radio Joe" sign...and some light graffitti....

The back end of block showing rear (escape) exits, and vandalized posters of Fred Sanford...

A close up of some of the graffitti; a growing source of concern in Bongolesia....

And finally.....(whew!)

A while back I got to thinking about having a scenario involving a 15mm Cargo Ship, (based loosely on the old Liberty Ship designs). I was unable to find one in scale, so the idea then began to build one. Looking at the detail on this ship I've decided to take a lot of the detail off in order to make it playable. (Thanks FoW for the description).

So here is the hull of the Sovie..errr..Russian Cargo ship...which will be christened "Головка трещотки" ("Rattlehead") in honor of Rattlehead on TMP and Rattlehead Games!

The Rattlehead is a standard 1950's era Soviet Design Bulk Cargo Freighter. Built in the Vludoduvnia shipyards and launched in 1956, the ship was used for almost 30 years delivering "Farm Equipment" to various third world nations in return for UN/US/Western Food Aid Shipments that were delivered in payment and loaded onto the ship for return back to Mother Russia.

With the end of the Cold War, the ship was reflagged with the Russian Flag and has become (more or less) part of an "independent Russian Merchant Marine", delivering "items of interest" to any customer with hard paying cash, or something beneficial in trade.

It's currently commanded by Capt. Pickyup Andropov, a former Soviet Navy Officer and carries a crew of 20.

It's know to visit African and Arab nation ports frequently, and can occassionally be seen being towed by repair vessels in the Mediterranean. It has a frequent habit of mechanical difficulty and often spends weeks sitting in port waiting for a repair part to arrive from Minsk, or Moscow, or Col. Bubbies WWII Surplus Center in Galveston, Texas... The hull of "The Rattlehead"....neat looking huh?

An oblique shot of the ship, showing the fore, main deck and aft...

A shot of the ship with a Peter Pig AK47 Media crew (3 figs) on a 1X1 inch Litko Aero stand on deck AND the Peter Pig WW1 Steam Launch for size comparison. This is currently THE Largest scratchbuilt item I have ever tried to build.

More pics will be coming as the project wraps up, and I get more stuff painted!

PRESS RELEASE: PERVERTICUS INDUSTRIES LOCATES TO BONGOLESIA!!!

2008-08-10T13:03:00.004-05:00

(The first sign and storage tanks of Perverticus Industries in Bongolesia)

(Really...cut the grass and repaint the tanks and you won't even notice the chemical leakage and seepage...)

PRESS RELEASE

From The Ministry of Economic Development, Internal Affairs, and Business Dealings.

For Immediate Release

Press Release;

Perverticus Industries signs contract with Bongolesia Govt. to begin long-term business operations in Bongolesia!

(Sudekia) In a major business move that was highly successful for all parties involved, it was announced today in the capital of our beloved nation that global industrial leader Perverticus Corporation has signed a major contract for Perverticus Industries to begin business operations and investments in Bongolesia.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for all of us to get what we want and to bring in some form of something or other for people to do other than standing around all day wanting to do something else.” Said National Economic Dept. Spokesman Werk’nhard Fo’demoney. “This sweet deal will allow Perverticus Industries to come into some areas that need some stuff and give what they can to get stuff done, and we won’t really mind it that much at all. Their checks don’t bounce.”

Little has been reported to the International Community about the business deal, but details have been leaked out that Perverticus Corporation was seeking a new “overseas location” for the establishment of Perverticus Industries, and that due to the current economic and legal issues with the United States and Europe in the fields of Bio-Organic Nutrient Medical Flux Research and Testing, the Corporation felt that it would be “in their best interest” to bring their facilities to a “less developed nation” which would welcome them with open arms, pockets and not put them under as much scrutiny as most first world nations would.

“After that whole business partnership project failure with UmbrellaCorp, and the recent legal issues with Luthorcorp, Perverticus Corporation had a bit of an image problem and worked their people hard to maintain a professional atmosphere of developing high quality stuff for consumers for the right price.” Said Perverticus spokesman Mr. F.N. Stein as he spoke enthusiastically. “This opportunity should allow our Industrial Base to work full speed on what needs to be done and get things taken care of without all the fuss and hassle that the media, pesky investigators and those meddling kids and their dog were giving us.”

The leader of our country, our beloved President-For-Life P’hat Daddee B’wonah, when asked about the deal said “ Word! Anything that helps fill the void that we have in our lives for what we want is a good thing. We will make sure that the Bongolesian people will know of the opportunity so that they can get what they can and we will make sure that they will work hard to get what they can.”

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Whoo boy, it's been a while since the last release. I've been busy, but the the storage tanks and the sign for Perverticus Industries is finally done!

I've been busy painting figures today, and once this round is done, I will have fifty three (53!) more stands of figs for AK47 Republic bringing my figure stand count to righ under the 200 mark, which will actually be almost halfway to my overall goal of having 500 stands of figures. I count each stand as either:

1: A 3 figure group stand.

2: A 2 figure Support weapon stand, (LMG, or RPG, or SNIPER team, etc..)

3: A single figure stand, (Leaders, character, suicide bomber, Professional Snipers, SF, Special Interest Civilians, etc..)

Now let's just hope that my bases from Litko Aero get in this week!

Let me know what you think about the tanks and the sign.

More to come.

Urban Development and other things...

2008-06-22T10:53:00.008-05:00

June 22nd...

Well today is the anniversary of "Operation Barbarossa", and the longest day of the year, (from what they tell us). I find it interesting that as of today the days are supposed to "start getting shorter".

But no matter.

I've been on a slight building streak lately, and as promised in my last post, pics of what is going on and being built on my table were forthcoming and have arrived!

The first off is the third block of my four block urban project known as "Funkytown". I've got one more block to do, and then I will be done with it. Four blocks of urban downtown fun for everyone to fight over. This third block, I actually included an establishment (Mama Jujus House O' Good Eats), and used some N scale brick walling to do one side of the building for variety. A tacky paint job, some graffiti and weathering and voila! DONE!

(Block 3 of 4 of Funkytown...Contemporary Urban Living at it's best...*cough cough*)

A close up of the block...more on the VW later on...

No one ever said that city living was clean, or graffiti free...

The weathered brick wall...touched up with some local "graffi...errr.."artwork"...

It wouldn't be Bongolesia without B'wonah letting you know who and where you are...

I have to apologize for the poor pics of this block of Funkytown. For some reason, I have mucho difficulty in getting the building in focus. I used two different digital cameras, (A Samsung 4010, and a KodakCX7530), and both were having trouble taking close up pics of it in focus. Most of the pics I have taken have been with the Samsung, but for some reason the Kodak seemed to do better with this scenic than the previous, but it still didn't do a good job. I can only think that maybe it had something to do with the color coordination, which may have "confused" the camera, (purple, orange, and yellow CAN be a bit of a problem...).

Now that the end is physically in sight for my urban area, I've started working on some other buildings and projects also. Here are a couple of shots of my almost complete National Police Station...

I really just need to finish the doors, put the POLICE signs up, put the grilling/grating on the windows and weather up the building some, and it's pretty much done. I've been a schlub on getting this one done lately, and I need to get it done and off the table.

Next up, is a set of quickly made and painted, "chemical storage tanks". Well weathered and having seen better days, these two tanks are made from the cardboard tube of a paper towel roll, with a cardstock top, and mounted on foamcore! Yes, it's true when they say that you can pretty much use anything when you make stuff for this silly hobby.

I've got to add the groundwork and final touches to it, but it's mostly done.

A friend of mine recently asked me if I could show him what my "slums" look like while they are under construction, so to help him out, here are some pics showing that you CAN use pretty much anything you want to build them. These pics show paper, foamcore, balsa wood, corrugated paper, plasticard, etc..

An overall view of the three remaining slums blocks I need to do. You can see that I have made pathways 1" wide (to accompany a stand of figures to be able to move/fight in them.

Remember, neatness does NOT count in building these!

And finally, just as buildings have seen better days in Bongolesia, so have some cars that are out there and rolling.

This 1:87 VW Kafer was bought at Wally World, (Wal-Mart), and seemed like just a perfect vehicle for the lot of "Idi's Auto Sales". So a few moments with a Dremel brush and about five minutes of quick drybrush and weathering and voila!; vehicle depreciation at it's finest!

On the showroom floor...

Such a pretty paint job...lets take it for a drive in Bongolesia!

Well...that was an "errr..interesting" trip...

Ummm....this car doesn't look so nice anymore...ewww...

Soon to be on the lot at IDI'S AUTO SALES!!!!

I've got a couple of other projects on the pipeline and just started, (including starting to build a 15mm scale cargo ship), and will be getting more back soon.

As always, comments are appreciated.

Enjoy!

A long overdue post and explanation....

2008-06-15T13:07:00.002-05:00

Holy crap! It's June!!!!!
Sorry dear readers who live for and love Bongolesia and AK47 Republic, I've been so diverted from other things, that this poor site (and my gaming altogether), has fallen wayside and slipped onto the back-burner.

But..fear not...
Yesterday I started working on more terrain and scenery...

Currently I am in the process of creating the following:

1: A few additional cars for Idis Auto Sales...

2: Bio-Organic Industrio Chem storage tanks, consolidation and mixing vat, control points, and ummm..drainage sludge pit...

3: The final three blocks of "Funkytown"...

4: The final three blocks of "Slummy town"...

5: The Bongolesian Public Pool...

6: A National Police Station...

7: The first part of Sudekia International Airport (Still known affectionately by it's French name of "Le Bomb'a De P'lane" Aeroport.)

8: The first part of the wharf facilties...

Man...talk about building boom!

I will be taking more pics this week and getting them up for everyone to enjoy!

More to come!

SPECIAL FORCES!!!!

2007-12-27T20:59:00.000-05:00

WOO HOO! I can do the ACU's in 15mm!!!!

Presented to you dear reader is my US Special Forces team, (Complete with ADA, AT, Sniper, FAC, and Command Staff elements) in 15mm. The figures are from Rebel Minis, and were flash intensive but cleaned up well...and painted nicely.

The best thing you can do for ACU's is to find a light light grey and sage green.

1: Prime

2: Base coat, light grey.
3: wash of sage green.
4: Drybrush dark green.
5: Re-drybrush MORE sage green over it, almost practically (but not) eliminating the dark green.
And for 15mm it works!!!!
Now I gotta get those Blackhawks done tonight...

(Command Element)

(ACU patterns on Assault Troops)

(An Artsy side shot....for ACU review)

(Coming soon to a country near you!)

Up close and personal...

"The gangs all here..."

(Remember "When I scream DANGER CLOSE!!! I MEAN "DANGER CLOSE DAMNIT!!!")

Protecting our sky from things that fly...

Reach out and touch someone...

And as always, let me know what you think!!!

The room is clean, and my December project...

2007-12-14T14:03:00.000-05:00

Eeeek again!

It seems that suddenly I've gotten the room "pretty much clean" and usable, and I have a cleanish sort of worktable!
(What the heck is that about?)
During this time I also got around to FINALLY hanging up the National Colors of Bongolesia!
Yeps...da flags on da wall!

(A clean desk in this picture, as opposed to the previous post...and don't forget to salute the flag!)

That being said...I've realized that I need to get some stuff done for my December game.

So here it is.

Before the game on 29th December I have to build

5 QRF UH-60 Blackhawks

1 "Crashed" Blackhawk

1 QRF AH64 Apache

1 1/100 scale HH60 Pavehawk

Oh...and I have to paint almost 100 figs including approx 30 figs of US Special Forces in ACUs, and "radicals" for "The Lions of Allah"...(Can I do it? It's gonna be a furious attempt to do so!)

(Eureka 15mm SF ready for painting!)

(And last but not least, the Pavehawk I have to build.)

This should be an interesting attempt and endeavor on my skills. The biggest issues that I think I might be facing will be on the "fiddly parts" for the QRF birds. Well..that and the painting of the ACU's on the SF...I'm NOT looking forward to that...

Ah well...

I'll keep you informed of the progress.

Wish me luck on this!

Need to clean my gaming work room!

2007-12-09T19:45:00.001-05:00

EEEEEEEK!

Okay dear reader...no cool posts today about what I am doing. Instead this is a post about "what I need to do..."

And that is clean and organize my game work room, so I can sit my butt back down and get these projects done!

I've got crap EVERYWHERE!

Looking in at all the crap from the door...

Another view of the crap...notice the 5 M2/M3 Bradleys (tan) on the foamcore

I call this disaster my painting/work table...

3 containers of paints and them some...gaaaaah!

My painting table...again...what a freaking mess...

Okay so now you've seen genius at work...

Thanks for reading and not screaming too loudly....

An order for figs, and a NEW GAME DATE!!!!

2007-12-03T23:34:00.000-05:00

Wow, it's amazing how when the reenacting season is over with, I suddenly have "time" on my hands, well that and NaNoWriMo being over with.

So my next game is on 29th DEC!!!

Games2d4 (http://www.games2d4.com/) will be the hosting site of the next AK47 Republic Game run by myself here in Indy on: SATURDAY DEC 29th at 2:00 PM! AK47 Republic! Return to the fun filled full firepower frolic of the African Nation of Bongolesia as we introduce a new "power player" into the ongoing saga of our little African Hell-hole game setting…THE AMERICANS!!!! Scenario: "BIG BIRD DOWN" The Americans have lost something…Something "important" to them…And they want it back. Unfortunately when the Americans "lose" something and "want it back desperately", welllll…naturally EVERYBODY else wants it too! And in Bongolesia THAT means "It goes to the highest bidder"…
No one knows exactly "where" Big Bird is, or "Why" it's down…but BARF, THE NDF, and others, along with the US Forces have a pretty good idea of where it is…They just have to get there first…
And they just have to figure out why an entire small village in Bongolesia has "suddenly gone silent"…
So with a roar of rotor blades, and determination in their eyes, the US Special Forces on board their beloved UH60's will move hard and fast into the Bongolesia countryside; determined to get "Big Bird" before "anyone else" does…Take command of BARF, The National Defense Troops, The "Lions of Allah", as they race the US Special Forces to locating "Big Bird" and getting what is so darned valuable, errr….important….from it. All rules will be taught! Come and join in the fun!

Yeps this should be fun. It gives me a chance to introduce the Americans on a small scale without flooding the board with my half built MEU that is chomping at the bit to "kill people and break things"...

I ordered the SF from Rebel Minis and they should be here this week.
I've already got the birds. I just have to build them.

More intell info will be coming this week.

See y'all soon.

BONGOLESIAN CURRENCY!!!

2007-12-01T21:53:00.000-05:00

FROM THE WORKBENCH:

Geez, what a day. Since it's about 31 degrees and rainy/slushy outside, I decided to do some work on Bongolesia. I did some figure painting today, (mostly civilians and some work on that DAMN MT12), and will have a few more stands of "goobers" here real soon.

But the big thing is that I have designed (finally!), the flag for BARF, and....

Drum Roll Please...

BONGOLESIAN MONEY!!!

Yes..Behold and Feast your eyes upon the very first full color layout of the National Currency of Bongolesia; "The Bling-Bling"!!!!

Yes, you can see that the Bank of Bongolesia has no taste...

Actually in the long run I plan to be able to produce 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 bling bling notes. Able to used by players in buying new stuff for their units for the campaign.

I'm also thinking of selling sheets of these for 2 bucks a sheet.

Soooooooo...who out there wants to invest in Bongolesian Currency???

Let me know what you think.

More to come.

November update....

2007-11-27T23:08:00.000-05:00

It's towards the end of November, and I have been so caught up in "real life" crap, (Funerals, lay offs, family emergencies, etc.), that my AK47 gaming and work has slipped horribly onto the backburner.

This week I intend to get a couple of new things up and going off the work table.

1: Blow dust off the work table.

2: Reaquaint myself with my paints and figs.

3: Put paint on figs and build a vehicle or two.

4: Plan a new game....

The last game saw the havoc caused by a problem with the Mysterious Oingo Boingo Cult and the "abduction" of Vienna Dupree. This time I think it's time for BARF to make another appearance...or perhaps....hehehe..."someone else"...

Hope to have some more updates here sooner than later...

Thanks for your patience...

New stuff, and new plans...

2007-10-08T11:10:00.000-05:00

Wow, it's been almost two months since my last entry. And for that dear readers of what gets down in the "Big B", I apologize.
Nothing much has been going on since the last game due to a LOT of indecision by my FLGS. Trying to get a real date from them for games is like pulling teeth, (Unless it's FOW)...

However...
Now that the ACW season is coming down to a close, I am getting back into getting stuff ready for the next round. I scored with a local guy on ebay on getting 2 more QRF M1's and some more Helicopters, (including an AH-64....woo hoo!)...
And to help things out, I also got an SA-6 SAM system...woo hoo!

I'm hoping to have a good amount of stuff set up and ready to go by Origins next year. If I can do the scenarion that I would like to have I think it would be great, (and huge).

Currently I still need to update some equipment.
I need some T-55's, a couple of BMPS, and a ZSU23-4 also.
A BRDM2 or three or four would be nice also.

Plus more US troops.

I gotta get a decent paint scheme down for the US Marines.

And someone please remind me to finish the US Embassy...

More stuff to come.

A quick update...

2007-08-20T19:50:00.000-05:00

Since the last game, I've been uber busy in getting other projects done. However on the good news front, I scored on Ebay and got me a nice six M1A1s and Bradleys along with 2 TOW HMMVs from Matchbox! Woo hoo! Now I can start building that MEU!

I'll be getting photos of them this week. Plus I am waiting on an answer back from Jerry as to when the next AK47 game can be. It will have to be in October as ALL of my Sept. weekends are taken up.

More to come!