Id like to come out here and ask and pose a few things to you guys. And by you guys i mean every single person other than that of Crew Leader. This idea of mine is solely based on those who do not have a shiny bold suit to sit behind or a slanty one. Its an idea that ive not run past any other Crew leaders and one that im happy to push and bare the brunt with but the hope is that i, as a Crew Leader, can look past my nose and try to open up lines of thinking within our world. Lines that genuinely are more reserved for those who sit with their own HQ's. 

As most people are aware, there are regular meetings that are reserved for CL's and their Hands. These happen probably Bi-Monthly, give or take or after a huge war of sorts or as and when needed. The most up to date meeting happened after a war, so much was to be discusses (i wasn't privy to that meeting) as a bystander, i would assume that there where many issues to be addressed. From looking back at the notes it seemed as though a few people thought the meeting was more of a hearts and mind one and trivial long standing rules and issued where discussed that really didn't need to be discussed at that level, considering every single crew leader was present. I think the underlying question from those who weren't Crew Leaders at the time was; Could more have been achieved? 

There has been many speeches since and its become apparent that there was/is an appetite for change and i sincerely hope there is still is. I hope that people have not shied away from trying to break molds or offer suggestions. 

I know and i understand that we have a wealth of knowledge in these parts, we have think tanks all across our land. We have influential people who are not crew leaders. Im so in favor of tapping into those resources and leaning on not just the bolds of this world but those who can offer much more. I want to nurture people and grab hold of the idea that anyone can offer any suggestions and that its not just a single right that a crew leader or a godfather can offer a change. An idea is not exclusive to to those who sit on a high throne, its an open line of communication, a way of thinking that allows you to offer a different way of working. 

Ideology is for all of you. Yes the doing and the implementation part of it might sit at a higher level but that doesnt mean you cant offer a question, its the opposite. The way i see it, is we should lean on people more, we should implore you to ask and offer suggestion. As a group of Crew Leaders we are hindered by our own imagination and our own suggestions but Benet us we potentially have a wealth of untapped thinking.

So with my conviction on this what i want to do is to offer every single one of you the chance to offer suggestions that i can take into our Crew meetings. Suggestions from you guys. It could be as little as anything that you want to feed back into the group of CL's. This is the best forum within our thing to try ask the questions that you want and offer those suggestions too.

As has been mentioned somewhere else, the same opportunity is offered to all the CL's before the meeting. I dont see why that can not be extended to everyone else. What i dont want to happen is for the meeting to go ahead and there be no real agenda or have no real direction. As a Crew Leader, there is only so much you can bring to the table so im extended my arms out to you guys, the none CL folk. The aim is to use this process going forward for every time we arrange a meeting. 

We have a meeting penciled in for tomorrow, 21:00hrs local time. I know this isnt ideal as its tomorrow but im pretty sure some of you will have some input ready to go. Please, please grab hold of this opportunity and use it. I cant really support people telling me nothing will change if you dont use the chances that you're given.

Also, as this is an initiative led by me, im happy to keep your suggestions etc unknown, as long as they remain respectful and stuff. This a very sincere attempt at getting those who want to be involved that might not have the social status to do anything about a change. 

You can mail me or you can put it into your BA and send me it that way. 

Very interesting, looking to see what all comes of this and what hopefully was said. Thank you Boss Space-pole.

John was walking down the street smoking a cigarette when he heard a man speaking. Not recognizing the man but recognizing his suit as a fine cut that could only be owned by one of the leaders of the community he decided to listen in. When the gentlemen finished speaking John though about what he had said for a moment before speaking. 

"I appreciate that you are interested in hearing the ideas of soldatos such as myself, however, I am not sure that this is the best method. I cannot speak for others but I know that if ever I have a suggestion that I believe should be heard by the council all I need do is take it to my crew leader and it will be given proper consideration and passed along if it has merit." 

John took a long drag before continuing. 

"This thing of ours requires that we respect the lines of command, else we are no better than common street thugs. I can understand the concern that some crew leaders may not be open to suggestions from their families, but if that is the case it is an internal issue that must be addressed from within - not by running outside of the family to try and accomplish what you cannot from within; and if you truly believe that communication with the leaders of our world is an issue then I believe the correct course of action is to bring that fact up with the other leaders when you meet to try and address it within each crew - not by circumventing the role of our leaders."

John nodded respectfully at the crew leader in front of him. 

"I believe that you have our communities best interest at heart, and I mean you no disprespect; however, to call on mafiasos to take their concerns and suggestions to a leader other than their own comes dangerously close to breaking Omerta and should be avoided I believe."

John finished the last of his cigarette before crushing it out and stepping back into the crowd.  

HighPitchEric hears Space-pole addressing some mobsters.  He stops to have a listen before speaking, his voice high-pitched and garbled with a combination of food in his mouth and phlegm in his throat.

HIIIII DADDYYYYYYYY.  WELL IN MY OPINION.....

But his thought is cut short by the sound of slamming car doors.  HighPitchEric turns his head just in time to see two men in trench coats exit a model-T Ford and make their way towards the crowd.  Eric recognizes what this is instantly... it is a mafia hit. 

NOOOOOOOOOOOO!!

The otherwise slow and lethargic HighPitchEric leaps into action and tackles Space-pole, covering him with his obese body as the would-be assassins pull Tommy guns from their trench coats and open fire.  The crowd scatters and HighPitchEric retrieves his own firearm from his sweatpants and fires back.  He looks over at a nearby paperboy who has taken cover in an alley.

RIDE BACK TO THE HANGOUT SPOT!  TELL THE GUYS WE'RE IN TROUBLE AND NEED SOME BACKUP!  DO IT QUICK!

The boy speeds off on his bike as HighPitchEric fires back at the hitmen, bullets flying everywhere.

A familiar face, and some not so familiar, were gathering, with the newest Summerin leader at the fore. Axel wandered through and amongst the masses more and more as he came to know this world more and more. It just made sense to be out amongst it, even if lurking in the shadows. A topic kicked off in a corner of the streets which caught the up-and-comer's attention, more so at first for the familiar face, then for the discussion that followed.

After a part in the conversation, and with an inner force of desire to be heard than he'd never felt before, Axel stepped forward and offered his opinion in response to John_Scalise_Jr yet offered his eye contact and attention to others in attendance as well.

"Although I do agree with you John, in that there is the option to go directly to your direct upper in the line of power, I have to see that this is also a way to communicate as well, and a way to stir minds to come up with some ideas that may not have otherwise been aroused. Sometimes those hierarchical lines of communication aren't as black and white as we would like to believe and idealise.

For example, some may not have the same relationships that we would all like and we that we value. Sometimes also, an open discussion amongst the masses can bring issues or concerns to light that may not others come to light, and not necessary in a bad way either, as when a group of like minded and spirited individuals come together, that collective input and energy can create some truly amazing results that other ways cannot.

Some may not take to this method, but having the opinion that this may not be as effective or beneficial I think is limiting, and as someone who is on the inner echelons of this world, your opinion friend and the weight behind it may close others off to this opportunity.

If at the very least, this creates an open discussion that those in power can bare witness to, then that in itself is a way to let some voice their opinion that may otherwise not.

If someone breaks Omerta, then that is another topic altogether. The streets is simply another platform for expression, and I believe it's just as important and powerful as any other, if done in the right way, and I feel this is being done the right way."

Trips on a seedy sidewalk. Duly notes the address who is responsible for the lack of repairs. I walked into a small crowd having a debate so to speak over some thoughts Space-pole put out for all to ponder and speak on.  Listening to the voices in the crowd, I heard one voice that was all to familiar. Suddenly, I recognize the sound of a bike, the scent of cigarettes and gunfire. I reached for my phone. I get an  answered on the second ring.  

"What is it Isabella?  I am quite busy at the moment."

No dummy here, I hang up., I let out a long burp and excused myself. All eyes were on me now.  I clear my throat. Noting I am experiencing some Phloem  What the fuck?  I cannot help but to think about HighPitchEric.

I am just a lowly wise guy who has a wee bit of brain cells left. May I suggest EVERY CL ask their perspective family what their ideas and opinions are and EVERY CL bring it to the table for the next meeting?

Torak listens to the speech from Space-Pole and is slightly surprised that this could be needed. With that he awaits his turn before stepping up to say his few words.

"I would like to thank Space-Pole for the offer to listen to us crew members about our ideas and to take them to the Crew leaders meets on our behalf, but from my own experience I and my family have no need"

"Here in the 'Entangled Elements' With Tellurium and AurelianoBuendia, I also believe it is similar with the other Philadelphia crews. That we have a very open dialogue between the crew leaders and the crew. We are encouraged to talk about how we operate and how we could change/improve our way of life"

"I know this from personal experience as I'm new to this new world, I came from England so have no relations here and had to learn my place and the rules from scratch. During my time I have constantly ask my superiors how something works? and why is it that way? I know that I could come up with ideas on how I think things could be different and they would listen and if it was actually any good they would see if it could be implemented. I'm pretty fresh faced so not really many of them just yet though"

"Perhaps we are lucky here but I now I and my family have no fear of retribution here In PH for having ideas and discussions"

Once that is said and done Torak steps down and hurriedly moves off, he has the task of collecting the booze for tonight's HQ party and he is already running late.

John_Scalise_Jr, i appreciate you taking the time to listen to me and i appreciate your efforts with your input. Its good to see people are actually listening to people out here. Its exactly what i wanted to see and hear out here. 

I do however think that you've not quite grasped what it is that i was hoping to achieve and what culture i was trying to create....

"I believe that you have our communities best interest at heart, and I mean you no disprespect; however, to call on mafiasos to take their concerns and suggestions to a leader other than their own comes dangerously close to breaking Omerta and should be avoided I believe."

Im not asking for people to come to me with their family issues that they may have with their specific Crew Leader, that would be, for the lack of a better term, silly. Im fully aware that i have no place sticking my nose where it doesn't belong. Im not saying im going to cure the world here, its more an opportunity that we can jump on and try to extend meetings that are a privileged to Crew Leaders only to those of you who wont sit in those meetings. What im trying to do is to compile ideas and suggestions for us to move forward with. The hope is that we get a general consensus going forward and that this type of forum becomes the norm. This is more geared for the meetings and to bring ideas to those people who might not hear you otherwise. 

"I appreciate that you are interested in hearing the ideas of soldatos such as myself, however, I am not sure that this is the best method. I cannot speak for others but I know that if ever I have a suggestion that I believe should be heard by the council all I need do is take it to my crew leader and it will be given proper consideration and passed along if it has merit." 

 

Hierarchy should always exist and it will always more than likely be the method people will use but sometimes people might not have the confidence to do that, what im offering is an unbiased voice when going into the meetings. This what you need to understand here, this is catered for our meetings only. Im not an agony aunt. This is an opportunity for people to add their ideas in a high setting that might not otherwise have the chance. Im happy that you have the confidence to go and ask your upper structure, its a good trait to have.  

"This thing of ours requires that we respect the lines of command, else we are no better than common street thugs. I can understand the concern that some crew leaders may not be open to suggestions from their families, but if that is the case it is an internal issue that must be addressed from within - not by running outside of the family to try and accomplish what you cannot from within; and if you truly believe that communication with the leaders of our world is an issue then I believe the correct course of action is to bring that fact up with the other leaders when you meet to try and address it within each crew - not by circumventing the role of our leaders."

You've replied based on the opinion that im asking people to come to me with problems, i have not.  The whole thought process behind this is to try to unlock and involve those who have potential and those who i would be able to class as a think-tank. Its not based around asking people to come to me with their family issues. Im saying that they could offer a suggestion based around an issue- for ex. im not saying people come to me and say; "My crew leader never talks to me" how that should look is; Maybe to help with communication top to bottom how about suggestion an internal news letter for each crew, that a crew leader should write, those could include updates on family matters, deaths, promos et etc. 

This is just an example but i hope it this gives you more an insight of my directional thought process with it. There is no way that im circumventing leader, actually ive been supported by many. 

I get that it may be contentious but you need to see it for what it is; an opportunity and thats it.  

I think this is a great idea, it's not every day a leader comes out and asks to hear what the community really thinks and what issues they have with the current state of things.

In response to John's comment abut a line of command, that is all well and good but this gives you another platform to bring your ideas to, to maybe even gain support for an idea that you may have, you can't always do that by going directly to your leader.

Space has come out here and opened the door for any suggestions people may have with regards to bringing this world forward. Again, it surprises me that people are reluctant to come out here and speak up, or maybe everyone is happy with the way things are?

Although I appreciate Space-pole’s invitation to suggest topics for possible change, I wonder if it’s realistic that people actually say in public what they think. I can imagine that even when an opinion makes sense, it’s frightening to bring it out here. There are a few people, that even with good intentions raise the bar pretty high. Off-putting high possibly. An idea is often far from perfect and we might have an image where perfect is demanded, before something is introduced. I hope it's not truly like that though. Imperfect ideas are exciting, so let's hear it.

On the other hand, that is exactly why this idea is good. People can approach Space-pole in private as well and suggest ideas in a less public environment, while knowing that someone very capable will bring up their idea for debate for a more bigger crowd. It’s also one of the reasons why I think this proposal makes sense instead of just relying on the traditional lines of communication within a family. Even if established and powerful leaders are willing, there’s no shame in acknowledging that not all of them are able to really perform well in a debate on actual matters that spike fierce discussions. Sometimes an idea might be viable, but picking the right channel to see it implemented, or just announced, is just as vital as having a good idea.

Anyway, here’s some ideas to possibly think of. It’s not something I thought off for long, so these are not complete proposals as all. Consider it a brain-storm. If someone feels it makes sense they can pick it up and work it into a proper plan.

Reward public contributors. If each family would reserve 1 million each week and put it into a pot, we’d average at about 20 million reward to give to people that showed effort in coming out here on the streets. KateLogan’s reviewing paper might already cover half of the work in judging who deserves rewards. A pretty small sacrifice for a family, but a pretty nice recognition for the contributing people. It even adds incentive for others to up their game in this area.

Allow alternative ways for starting a business.
Crewleaders that have empty districts, or space to spare, could allow for people to apply for running an operation in a city. They could think of restrictions or none at all. The idea here is that capable candidates might surface, that might otherwise stay hidden, because they don’t belong to an inner circle. It could also put tension on the inner circle because of this. Instead of knowing that they’ll be the most logical candidate for the next auth, they’ll see that there’s competition and because of this have to up their game.  This obviously creates discussion on whether that’s fair for those who were with familyleader X for this long? I think it would be fair, because you’d want the best leader up and not someone who’s the oldest, least worse or least likely to be stronger than you. But that’s from a society-wide perspective. Again, not a waterproof plan, but an idea to think of. A lot of the current leadership was rocketed into their position because they were motivated for it, or because there was a very high demand for operations to recruit people. It’s worth discussing if this did the community any good and if it did, whether leadership wants to allow for similar opportunities, in whatever form or scale that may be.

I could probably suggest some others things, but it’s not necessary for me to speak much everytime I stumble over a soapbox. Who put those things everywhere anyway?

I have listened and I will address one thing.

Again, it surprises me that people are reluctant to come out here and speak up, or maybe everyone is happy with the way things are?

I will not lie, I am reluctant to speak up.  I hope that helps with some insight. 

MacKayla tips her head in a nod before moving away from the crowd.

John had been listening closely as many people stepped up to speak. The response he found most enlightening, however, was by the original speaker, someone had referred to him earlier as Boss Space-Pole. 

"Boss Space-Pole, I have to say that I do find myself more intrigued the more I listen. I guess I should first apologize as it seems I may have misunderstood your initial intentions."

John bowed his head respectfully before continuing

"With that said I guess I should clarify that I am all for an open community that let's their voices be heard on things that they think can help the community as a whole. I guess I just feel it is important that people at least try to go through their own families first - even with regard to suggestions on how the world as a whole can improve."

"My reasoning for this is simply that I believe that a family is stronger when they communicate and when they work as one to shape the world around them. Let me use your hypothetical suggestion for a moment. If a crew member thinks a letter of that kind would be a good idea - which incidentally I actually think is a pretty good idea - I would see no problem with them discussing it in this kind of forum. That said, however, I think it would be better to take that idea to the head of their crew and their city (through their crew leader) to implement it locally and then have it taken to the council as an idea that is working within their crew and a potential positive change for the world as a whole. By doing it this way we have the opportunity to test it, but more importantly it builds on the solidarity of a family."

"After thinking through your words I can see that what you are trying to do is in fact a positive thing for this thing of ours. I just hope that individuals will actually live up to the spirit of it and come with positive suggestions, not issues. I also hope that people will still try things through their crews first because I truly do believe that it makes a crew stronger. 

Having finished his piece John stepped back into the crowd. 

Several of you have raised two points:

• Why should a CL pay attention to a lowly hoodlum, surely the CLs should raise things when they next meet
• Shouldn't I just take this up with my own CL

To the first point - CLs clearly meet regularly - but there is nothing worse than "group think"/ collective reasoning, call it what you will. The reality is that if those most fortunate keep themselves couped up in ivory towers and only associate with others in similarly fortunate positions then nothing will ever change.

To the second point - keeping it in the family - @SpacePole is asking a question about big picture improvements to society - not what time your boss and consigliere leave their homes in the morning. This is a conversation that many would entertain as they walk down the streets and through open forum gives the opportunity for debate on any matters raised. In addition - we don't always know if you do have an open dialogue within your families, but it is good to hear from Torak that you do.

WoonDa - I listened to your comments with great interest, these are questions that I too have been asking!

Santiago was in quite a hurry as he was late for an HQ GATHERING. While walking down main street he saw a small group of people gathering and decided to lend an ear to what was being discussed.

The longer the discussion went on the more he started to formulate his own thoughts regarding "Open lines of thinking"

Stepping forward he interjects

"Excuse me gentleman, may I have a moment to share my thoughts on the matter"

Santiago walks up to the makeshift podium and looks around seeing a few GROUPS consisting of 3-4 people scattered around the podium. The first thing he recognizes is that the only people pushing this idea are from LAS VEGAS, Interesting he thought... could there be something going on over there?

Starting to speak his mind

"Good day Mr Space-pole, and to all other parties involved. I have been listening to the discussions and unfortunately I do not agree with what you seem to be suggesting.

The first thing I feel that we need to understand is that this life is NOT a democracy . This is not a life where everyone gets to vote as to what they want when they want it. My Grandfather once told me "A person is smart, but people are dumb" . Everybody eats bread but not everyone bakes it. This is the fundamental flaw I foresee in your design. 

Simply put if you operate outside of your families structure that would be a grotesque breech of trust and ultimately disrespect. Maybe some families aren't as well put together as what we experience here in Philly but that is no reason to motivate people to do so. Is there a larger issue coming from Las Vegas we might not be seeing or understanding and if so could you please expand on that? 

If I have a problem internally or externally I kick it up my chain of command and then it gets handled as it should be. Every single time.

Regarding your openness to Ideas and such, what would be the reason for involving what is basically "Associates" to attend or even somewhat influence high level meetings that are essentially way above their pay grade? The tail does NOT wag the dog.  In all honestly what Ideas could a first time mafioso bring to a well seasoned veteran of the underworld. Unless you are talking about the children of deceased mafioso's ? My feeling is that they should still earn that right. As those before them have always done.
 

Great Ideas should be pushed up the family channel, it is hard to believe that a families leadership is not approachable by any of its members and or associates. I know Tellurium has an open door policy. I believe most other CL's would have the same.

Seeing as I always look for solutions I can recommend a "Bring one of your Bosses to Meeting day" where they can learn and explore more about leadership and politics involving the great cities. Earning the rank of Boss should be more than to prove that they are committed and open to learning should they choose to. And of course someone needs to server the drinks at the meetings and scribble notes.

If there is anything I might have missed or are not understanding please engage to that point so we can discuss where needed.

I thank you for the opportunity to have my say and will be following the discussions as it progresses.

Thank you all."
 

Walking away slowly Santiago mixes into the crowd waiting to see who is next.

Signor Santiago,

Your ideas are good, all good, but please, don't mix people in your ideas. Mr.Space did talk about democracy? Where? When? Wherever those are. Or whatever you claim your chain of command is.

We saw the effect of these ideas for some time. Be patient, demonstrate your ability again, and again, and then come criticizing things as they are set to be by higher forces. It's as simple as that. Or make me die in the next hour just for claiming that...

maybe for the simple reason of me slacking reading the streets for them being full of shit many times in the past. Some people just do post things to improve they eyes effectiveness, you know what I mean...

ACTUALLY I DON'T KNOW WHAT YOU MEAN. READ THE STREETS? POST?

HighPitchEric excuses himself from his present task of thwarting would-be assassins and puts his smelly arm around WoonDa.

IT'S OK, UNCLE ERIC IS HERE TO HELP YOU SPEAK PROPERLY IN THE STREETS. FEEL FREE TO DROP ME A LINE IF YOU EVER NEED A SWEATY HAND.

After listening to a portion of Santiago's ramble, Axel shakes his head before walking off, muttering to himself... 'Some people just don't get it, or choose not to, who knows.'

Hearing Axel's flippant comment as he walked by John turned to him and addressed him:

"While I have come around a bit to the idea put forth by Senor Pole I think maybe you are the one choosing not to "get it" and I have to say having heard your earlier remarks it makes me think the same thing."

John paused a moment to light another cigarette and take a sip out of the flask on his side. 

"I heard your comments earlier and one of the things you said was that 'some may not have the same relationships that we would all like and we that we value.'"

"Now, don't get me wrong, as I mentioned earlier I think that people having their voices heard about things they think might benefit our world is a good thing at times - but if the reason they come to the streets to do so or go to another crew leader to do so is because they don't think they have the relationship with their own crew to be able to do it internally then that is an issue that must be addressed from within."

"I think if you ask anyone who knows me that they will tell you I have worked hard to make a name for myself while always honoring my crew and family. I don't know if I am "well known" but I certainly believe that I have earned the respect of my fellow crew members and my family in Detroit; and not because of who my family was."

"I mention this because it is that hard work and the respect I have earned that makes me confident that if I need to go to my crew leader they will listen to the ideas that I have and while they may not agree with all of them they will at the very least consider them and if they have merit possibly move forward. As a goomba fresh into this world of ours I was still willing to share my ideas, but I did so with the understanding that I was still coming up in this world and that my ideas, frankly, were not of the same value as those of someone who had proven their worth to the family."

"Now, don't get me wrong, I'm not suggesting that we should never listen to associates, but the fact is that we have a hierarchy for a reason and one of those reasons is to ensure that those whose words carry the most weight are those who have proven themselves in our world."

"I guess the overall gist I am trying to get across is that while it is certainly healthy to encourage conversation and for people to have their voices heard the place for those voices to be heard in most cases first and foremost is within their own family."

If I have a problem internally or externally I kick it up my chain of command and then it gets handled as it should be. Every single time.

 

Regarding your openness to Ideas and such, what would be the reason for involving what is basically "Associates" to attend or even somewhat influence high level meetings that are essentially way above their pay grade? The tail does NOT wag the dog.  In all honestly what Ideas could a first time mafioso bring to a well seasoned veteran of the underworld. Unless you are talking about the children of deceased mafioso's ? My feeling is that they should still earn that right. As those before them have always done.

First off, this proposal is not at all meant to facilitate problem solving on a family level. All things that aren’t affecting the grand scheme of things in general should still go through your regular upper structure.

You are right that associates should earn their right to actually directly influence the way things are managed. But this proposal is enabling associates to earn that right. No associate is deciding on anything and there’s no guarantee that any idea will be used, but it would be strange to prevent ideas from being communicated because one is ‘just an associate’. If an idea can add to the efficiency or well-being of an organisation, or multiple across the country, why wouldn’t the people at the top want to hear about it?

And having ancestors with experience in this world is hardly a requirement to present ideas. If it wasn’t for bright and young people in our world, a lot of inventions would’ve never happened. If it’s innovation you seek, experience is not what you need. Being able to think outside the box is what is required and that can be done by anyone. And if such an idea is beneficial why would the source be a reason to decide whether we try and implement it or not?

This proposal isn’t focusing on petty personal problems and it isn’t targeting traditional hierachies. It isn’t saying a current family is or is not functioning properly. It’s just an encouragement for people to present ideas that might be good for us all. Helping this place forward, including your own family - to me that sounds pretty much like earning your worth as an associate. For other people snatching 2500 purses might also be a good reason to allow people to influence social-political decisions, but personally I think associates should be stimulated to engage their brain and add on an intellectual level to this place.

The experience and authority of those on top isn’t ignored by this proposal all. Their insight and weight will be essential in improving on ideas and seeing that the good ones get implemented. But it would be strange to assume all wisdom and creativity sits with the people on top, because that’s simply not true. They just have the power to decide on the direction we take. Not all of the people on top have the actual will and skill to take an idea from within their family and launch it on a nationwide scale. Some leaders will have the same reluctancy to make a stand in public, just like many associates have. That lack of confidence can really block fresh ideas that might exist within a family. This route opened by Space-pole allows for another way for these ideas to emerge. If someone prefers to take it through their family, that’s alright as well. But I’d like to encourage people to ask for feedback why something isn’t implemented, or whether something that runs successful within a family can be introduced on a larger scale. Because that is as well a beautiful way to improve this place, but even this “traditional manner of introducing ideas” isn’t something we witness very often.

Whatever the chosen way, I think any attempt to improve on this place should be appreciated and encouraged.

And Santiago, your observation regarding Las Vegas is cute, but I don't think you have to worry about an underlying problem that exists in that city. I'm not really introduced in the bigger scheme of things, but I'm confident that when I ask Artus for a bigger fridge in the headquarters that we'll get one. And to me it looks the city has a few people on top who aren't afraid of proposing and implementing new ideas. What you see can perhaps be described as "maintaining momentum". I don't see that as a problem, but perhaps others do. But I'm just an associate and my understanding of things is limited of course.

Santiago was busy chatting with some businessmen in the crowd. They were talking about the meaning of democracy, where the common man has a say in the upper structures of the country. Be it according to the First Amendment that secures freedom of speech or by making your mark with a vote come election time. Any action where the common man had a say in the higher structures are considered a democratic process. 

But the problem with this was that people could easily inspired by fear, often following one another into making rash decisions and fluently asking forgiveness after the fact.

While exchanging more thoughts and laughter a shadowy figure approached Santiago from behind walking briskly and purposefully bumping him out of the way. Instinctively grabbing his left sidearm Santiago locked eyes with what looked like WOONDA immediatly tightening his grip ready to defend himself.

Grinning maliciously Woonda backs off into the crowd.

While adjusting himself Santiago finds a crumbled note in his pocket...

He opens and reads it :
From Woonda

When will you stop treating peeps in a dog way man? brace yourself...

An angry looking Santiago starts to think to himself. Is this the Las Vegas way? Ask for a free and fair opinion then threaten people when they do open up, freedom of speech is a right not a luxury as long as you maintain respect as a guideline why would there ever be a need for hooliganism like this? No wonder people keep to themselves. Does Woonda even have the authority to threaten people blatantly like that? Disgusting.

Excuse me gentleman, I have to report this to my Boss. 

Good day.

Santiago strides away with a determined purpose.