So as was advertised recently, there was a meeting of all the Crew Leaders across our land. All 6 cities where invited to come and take part and offer their thoughts on pretty much anything that they wanted. Once again, an amazing turnout. It was a meeting that lasted well over 2 hours. I wasn't privy to the last meeting but i have to say there was a complaint that it was a meeting of hearts and minds rather than being productive. This was the far opposite of that, there was no shrinking violets there, everyone had a lot to say on every topic that was brought up- it was incredibly refreshing to bare witness too.

I have one question though;  Tim tams, they a biscuit, or a cookie? 

Anyway, ill summarize the best i can, there was so much spoken about. Ill bullet point them and offer some insight into each area of discussion;

• HQ size issues. 

There was a suggestion put forward that we make a conscious decision, as a community of Crew Leaders to drop HQ size to 30 members. The         idea was that having a smaller HQ would offer more chance for new Crew Leaders thus offering more chances of progression. Questions were           raised as to what would happen to the current crop of leaders that already have 40 members. Also a question on if there is real need for it. We         all thought that that it was a decision that all crew leaders would need to buy into for it to be successful. Not everyone agreed on its merit and         going forward, its not something that we NEED to do right now.

• Pass the baton updated 

Basically this is a continuation of a point brought up in the last meeting. Its immanent. We are just waiting on the gods participation with it, so       just watch this space. I think when this does go live, what we have agreed is that we will, as Crew Leaders, really try to get our members               involved. Its an excellent chance for those who might not have the prowess in that area to gain some skills. 

• Poker Tourny.

There will be a country wide Poker tournament, it will pretty much have a Vegas theme, similar to the King of the Ring. The idea is that there         will be one single representative from each family. Its  $1,000,000 enter; 20 million for the winner, second place gets their money back. High         stakes Poker, right there.  The date to be arranged but the time will be around 21.00 local time. 

• Forgotten MIA limits. 

 This was a discussion that split a few opinions and if after 5 minutes grace period, we can then say that it is indeed a forgotten and Missing In          Action. We asked questions as to the validity of the time frame- should it be shortened, should it be longer and if it Should be a universal rule          across our 6 cities. As you can imagine, the opinion was divided as there are plus points and negative for all arguments. In a nutshell the                outcome was that each city and district can govern their won rules around a time frame for you Missing In Action people. Each city has to                demonstrate their stand point in their rules that they put up on the boundary walls of their respective districts. It was recognized that we as            Crew Leaders need to make our members aware of checking city and district rules when shooting your own MIA.

• Referrals process

 This is more of an untouched subject as of yet and still needs some more thought process on how we take it forward. The general idea is a              conscious effort from the leaders of the community to somehow incentivize  our members to try to bring someone here from their home                towns.  So if there is someone that you might know that wants to join our way life who might never have robbed a local post office before and        you ship him over, we will reward you for that. How that looks we are not too sure yet but its something that will happen behind closed doors          until we figure out a lucrative process.

• Fear of the streets

 Its been brought up a good few times that there is a fear of speaking out in the streets and that it leaded to peoples deaths and that its making      people not want to venture out here. Is there a real fear of consequence. We all very much agreed that there is no fear of speaking out and            that it would have to be a great deal of sustained disrespect for someone to even be looked at for their activity out here. In a nut shell people          are not being shot for what they say. This simply not the case, we all agreed that we should be put to task over things, we know that being in        our very fortunate position its something that we have to manage and we will not manage it by shooting someone for questioning what we do.      Id like to think im a huge example of all of the above and look where i sit today. I think the general rule is exercise common sense when                  approaching the issue. Constructive criticism is very much taken on board. 

 As a side note id like to address something that came up over night and a sense or realism. Basically If you step out onto the streets and offer        opinion, you have to  be ready to take on negative comments and not run back to your Crew leader to claim disrespect just because opinions          differ. If we as Crew Leaders are fully accepting that we are going to be put to task in the streets, everyone who comes out here has to accept        the same fate. This doesn't mean you accept disrespect more that you understand what it is you're doing. To be told that someone wont                venture back into the streets because they received negative comments, is counter productive in my eyes. Yes there is a line, but if we start to        micro manage that line, we will get to a place where we might have to kill for people questioning things- its not a place we're willing to explore. 

• Reward those coming to the streets and Open up empty districts to applicants 
   

 Ive coupled both these as these are issues that i brought to the meeting based on my idea of allowing people to channel ideas through me with      the hope of pushing them into these meetings. I have to say, it was well received in the meetings- this idea. Its something id very much like to      continue, pushing forwards.

1. Reward those coming to the streets

 This was suggested and was well spoken about. It was recognized as something that very much would benefit the wider community with the           ideology that we can entice more people out into the streets. KateLogan already does something within her publication and we're going to               piggy back on that.  The difference being that every Crew Leader supports it will drive it going forward.  We have all sent MRs Logan $250k             and we will continue to do so on a weekly basis. The prize fund will be awarded weekly for those who come out here and make the effort. We           aim to make it a globally recognized initiative. 

    2. Open up empty districts to applicants 

 Another idea using my as a medium for the meeting. I brought it to floor and it was spoken about but at this current time all cities and their            respective heads have immediate plans for the districts that lay empty. However, Artus has said that he may explore the option of opening up          a spot within his district- so watch this space.

• Durgans, durgans and more durgans - aiming for max amount of 500

 Currently there is a collection pot to try bring the full capacity of pesky Durgans to our land.  Its sitting at a healthy amount currently but if            anyone wants to add to it, send your contribution to FitzChivalry. 

• BA with Agenda and discussion prior to meetings to flesh out ideas

 It was recognized that with so many people at these meetings that sometimes certain issues may not be given the full vocal and thinking that        it might require. We agree that a lot of major decisions do require a general consensus from us all. We agreed that going forward it would be            much more productive to have a discussion in the BA about issues that just require that bit more thinking outside of the hustle and bustle of a        busy meeting. For example, the 30 man HQ suggestion. It will then become high on the agenda until the next meeting happens. This way we        are all ready armed with a lot of informed decisions.

That was pretty much everything that we covered. Id like to personally thank all of the Crew Leaders who turned up and offered everything that they did. As id also like to take the time to thank those who did use me as an avenue to bring an idea to the meeting- with one idea being a successful one. 

Axel kept it simple and got on with his dialogue. Whilst standing amongst the growing crowd on-lookers, he piped up and yelled his support out for all to hear. Hoping no-one would interrupt him as he did, he made an extra effort to be loud and clear.

"Great work on the Streets Rewards!"

Some in the crowd jeered 'here here' in response, then Axel continued in an even louder voice.

"And don't blow your wig with the Vegas Poker Tourney, spend your moolah on something aces instead, like a hot suit, or a golddigger, or a moll or a pip, cause I'm taking home the check!!"

Laughter rolled through the crowd, and one serious contender yelled out 'bullshit' in return, which gave way to even more laughter. Lastly, Axel cupped his hands and placed them in front of his mouth, intending his voice to be even louder as he pressed on again, this time over the general chatter of the crowd.

"And Tim Tams? Which wet sock calls them cookies?! You and me both know they are bisc...!!!"

Before Axel could finish, one of the men close to his left didn't take too kindly to his words. Maybe it was a back to front American cookie lover, or simply that twit that yelled bullshit moments ago wanting to brawl. Either way he lost his shit and threw a punch in Axel's direction. The two began scrapping and were eventually pushed out of the group whilst others got involved in the overall conversation; CL meeting, tim tam's and all.

"First of all, my opinion is that Tim Tams are biscuits and not cookies.

Second, the collection pot for Durgans is no longer active as TylerDurden and his crew are trying to infiltrate us as I speak.

Again, as Space-pole has stated, it was another huge turnout with mostly everyone there from all cities.

The topic I'd like to bring up is the so called fear people experience which steers them further from these streets. It was mentioned in the meeting that these days crewleaders are much more lenient than we are all use to. Associates and even Made Men and Women are free to speak how they wish and can even call out people with a degree of respect. I can't remember the last time I have seen or heard of someone dying for just a street speech alone, if you could give a good example then you can say I am wrong, but I stand by my words.

Along with this and to help encourage people who speak in public, I will be donating an optional weekly sum of $250,000 to KateLogan when she publishes her weekly newspaper. This is for those who make the most effort and are not afraid to speak up and say what's on their mind, yet again as long as it is said with the utmost respect if calling out crewleaders and hands.

This week at the meeting, there was no candy. I can only assume this is because I wanted them a fortnight ago and people are holding back on me.

I'm sure if you, the members of the community have questions, you can freely speak. Don't be afraid, we don't bite."

MacKayla listened to the speaker and sighed heavily. There was something that was not sitting right for her until she got an explanation. Her sigh was frustration as she didn't feel comfortable being in the streets and speaking but couldn't find any other way out of it. Trying her best to tune out the humming in her head that indicated this would go very bad she began to speak up.

"Excuse me if I may? You talk about people running back to their leaders claiming disrespect but what of the crew leaders themselves. Looking up each experience of former street speeches given it appears its more likely the leader themselves would claim a disrespect stance before a member does. What happens there? Are leaders actually accepting that they will be taken to task? Or will they just come out with bloodline hatred and venom every time?

I am not trying to be rude but its great to offer incentive to those that are speaking up but if they are going to get stomped on every time not even financial incentive can make someone endure that constantly.

That's just a thought of mine though. I am merely interested in clarification for those who may wish to speak up but aren't comfortable with this current leadership to do so."

Bloodline hatred and venom every time?

I'm not sure I've seen any of these incidents you speak of for quite some time, therefore this isn't something people should need to feel concerned about.

If a leader is disrespectful then I imagine that would be down to the victim's leader to deal with, however again I'm not sure this is something I've come across recently, I expect leaders to act with maturity while out here and they tend to do this from what I can see. So again this seems to be unfounded but rather something you're throwing out as a "What if?". Would you agree?

Again, where is this "stomping on" you speak of? If you can point me to some evidence of this stomping on, then maybe it's something we can address. Space-Pole gave people a chance to speak up on concerns last night, you appear to feel comfortable when challenging the current leaders so by all means, bring up your concerns and give us some examples of the concerns you have. Otherwise what do we have to go on to address these points?

The incentives do seem to be working as more and more people seem to be coming out and getting involved in the streets and the business districts. I know the Vegas business district is currently booming and from what my reports tell me, so is Detroit's.

Mikhail listened carefully to the following remarks concerning the latest meeting amongst the countries leaders. 

"Its good to see the leaders of the country come together and speak as often as this regime does. I think it helps better the world as a whole. Its also nice to see some suggestions be put forth and while some disagree with them, it stops if the suggestion is not universally liked. I don't think ideas should be forced upon people. This is a business after all."

Mikhail turns and listens to MacKayla. 

"I have to say MacKayla, I don't think you really understand how this thing of ours works. 

A leader may claim disrespect surely, just like a member may. But where is the line drawn? Probably where the two titles are different, I'd say. A leader is owed more respect than a member, surely. You cannot just flat out disrespect a leader because you don't agree with what their saying. You may disagree with a leader or heck a Godfather, and if you use tact and be respectful, surely there is no reason why someone would find themselves six feet under. I think the point everyone keeps mentioning is that if you approach someone in the streets in a respectful manner, you cannot be in the wrong.

What continuous stomping is there in the streets?"

Jennie groaned and put her head in her hands, "Are we seriously still going on about the fucking Tim Tams?" she asked before shaking her head and walking away. 

Mikhail I think you misunderstand my point.

It is clearly stated that leaders are expecting to be taken to task. If that is the case, how realistic is it for them to rush to the disrespect claim? Sure they deserve some respect I am sure. That isn't what I am asking though. Just asking clarification on how quick they are to hit the disrespect note in discussions. It should not amount to rank vs rank in a discussion regardless. How someone my rank sees things may not be the same way others of higher ranks see them.

Doesn't make either side necessarily wrong but discussions are opinions.

Mackayla, its easy to misunderstand the point I think when there isn't anything to back it up.

It's a very "what if" situation, one I dont think can be properly answered. You are asking us what would happen if a leader claims disrespect. Well what do you think would happen if a leader is  disrespected? They would certainly seek to ensure that the person disrespecting them is dealt with in a manner befitting the level of disrespect shown.

You appear to be implying that a leader may claim disrespect even though none is evident, if that were the case then the leader of the member in question would surely stand up for their member and question the supposed disrespect.

That is about as good an answer as I believe I could give you on these what if scenarios you speak of.

Discussions are opinions, yes.

However you are talking about people who may be afraid to give their opinion in the streets because of their fear of the current leadership. The current leadership has done nothing but promote the use of the streets. From what I've seen about this current crop of leaders is that they are definitely not in a rush to push the disrespect button. I think time and time again, they've showed they are more forgiving and less about offing someone.

Again, if someone uses respect and tact, there is no reason why anyone should find themselves six feet under. If you continue to think thats not the case, provide an example please.

She rolls her eyes at the mention of the COOKIE known as Tim Tam. 

It's a cookie. Deal with it. Biscuits have sausage gravy on them.

She pulls a notepad from her handbag and starts to address MacKayla directly.

Now, onto more important things. The topic of "bloodline hatred and venom" shown toward some speakers. It's really quite simple. You are more than welcome to share an opinion or idea with the leadership of the cities in public as long as it is done in a manner that is respectful. This is something that should be easy to figure out. If you can't say it to your own boss, mother, or grandmother then you should probably NOT say it about or to a leader in public. It's common sense really.

You don't have to kiss our collective asses. You don't have to agree with us. However, you can't sit there and insult the leadership of the cities in a manner that would be defined as "excessively disrespectful". Think before speaking. When emotionally charged take time to calm down and think about what you are going to say. Hell, run it past a member of the upper structure in your family if you are unsure if it should be shared publicly. You can't call a Godfather a sheep fellatio giving hornbag who couldn't lead himself out of a wet paper bag and NOT expect a bit of backlash. 

In the past months I have not seen any of this "bloodline hatred and venom". I'd love to see some examples of this being thrown at currently active and alive members of our society MacKayla. Please, bring forth some current examples of this as I am not the only one that is interested in making sure that this does not happen. If it happened in the past to your ancestors or your friends' ancestors, then guess what, it doesn't matter as we are not our ancestors and you are not yours. We are not the past group of leaders. We are not "Pillars". We are simply business men and women.

She consults her notes again for a moment.

HOWEVER, IF you bring on the "bloodline hatred and venom" yourself you're going to have to deal with it. You can't expect us to sit here and listen to you insult our lives, members' lives, cities, decisions when present in a manner that is excessively disrespectful. You can't pee on our parade and not expect a bit of splash back. Will it mean death? Only in extreme occasions. Things can be dealt with in other ways. A leader can fine a member, demote a member, remove the gun of a member, remove sponsorship capabilities, public apologies, all sorts of things can be done if minor cases of being a thoughtless and disrespectful twat.

When and if this happens I'm sure we'll deal with it. Until then, remove the bunch from your panties and give us a chance. We may surprise you and super wedgies aren't any fun. 

Again consulting her notes she smiles and turns away from the disgruntled MacKayla.

I was lucky enough to be at this meeting and the last and cannot express how much I am looking forward to moving this world in a more positive direction. I too have contributed to Kate's fund to reward those who deserve it. I will also continue tipping those who put effort into their street activities. 

The meeting was very successful and I'd say we have a good group of leaders that are willing to work together to make this a hand holding happy place for all. At least that's what we're trying to do, but we need your help too.. 

One last thing.

Tam Tams are frigging cookies.

Feeling the pang of hunger she wanders off to find some biscuits, gravy, and a cup of hot coffee.

MacKayla, I don't hear anyone taking offense. I hear people disagreeing and explaining why they think you're wrong. How do you hear people taking offense? Has anyone said they've taken offense at what you've said?

Just like BobbyMunson, people are allowed to disagree with you. They're allowed to shut you down, or "stomp" on you as have chosen to describe it. You're allowed to push back. You have yet to be able to give a single, recent, example of where someone was killed for pushing back but yet you want to keep saying how scared people are to speak in the streets. 

I look forward to pass the baton and I think the idea of a reward for those who are participating in the streets frequently is an excellent one. I thank Boss Space-Pole for coming and sharing with us a summary of the recent meeting. 

Mackayla so not only do you want to be able to say whatever the hell you please. You would also like to not have anyone disagree with what you say? Do you think about the words you say before you say them, ever? If you say something and someone disagrees with you pationately about it there might be some heat in the words they say back to you. That's the nature of this thing of ours and debating in general. Any topic that people are deeply attached to they will have strong words to express their thoughts and concerns on it. Simple as that.

 

You wasted no time attacking this person BobbyMunson, who was not only correct on how they approached the topic but respectful. Do you ever think about what you say, ever? You lack respect for those who dont have the same rank as you, witch is comical  seeing as LA just become a legit city not to long ago. Perhaps i have said too much but i could carless, being a CL should not ensure anyone to respect you,  its earned not handed out. 

A vast majority of CL's feel like they deserve something from people outside there city and honestly its bullshit, if you feel like you are entitled to respect show the cities why. If that is to much, you should have reconsidered allowing yourself to get auth,  or setting up on your own terms. 

You lack respect for those who dont have the same rank as you 

I'm going to call bullshit on that one. I've had many a conversation with Bobby and he's always been more then respectful to me. He simply has a voice and he uses it. What do you want him to do, sugar coat how he feels? He never starts the conversation, he responds to what is being said. You shouldn't start a conversation if you aren't ready to deal with the responses you get, even the ones that aren't nice. This is the mafia, grow a pair. 

A vast majority of CL's feel like they deserve something from people outside there city and honestly its bullshit, if you feel like you are entitled to respect show the cities why

Uh...you do realize that both you and the person he "attacked" are members in his city right? The city he was just given to lead. You probably shouldn't be in his city if you don't respect him. Just pointing that out.... 

Veronia walks up to the discussion and picks up the Tim Tam Cookie and takes a bite before Making her statement to the masses. 

 So many opinionated responses on respect and disrespect. I believe that respect is something that is earned on a personal level with every other mafiosi and associate that you are with. In that same note.. I respect each and every member the same, regardless of rank.. Its just what i was raised up.. you treat someone with respect, its more likely that you will be treated with respect back.. Just always give it when its needed and where its due and move on. 

Its super easy to offend someone whom does not expect constructive criticism back, we are mafiosi.. expect the unexpected!  It may not always turn out how we want. 

Veronia steps back into the masses and finishes eating the cookie. 

daniella you must be blind to say he showed respect in the comment he made, being that we are in his city why would he approach one of his own with that tone. Since he is truly the leader of the city should he not have a more appropriate tone to a member of his city who serves under him. But you will just say he is the city leader and can do as he pleases.  I respect very few as most ppl currently have not shown they deserved it. The conversation was not about who i respect, but that respect should be earned not handed it.  

Again you have me confused for someone who cares about the opinions of others,  you claim he respects you but thats YOU.  I have witnessed many comments  he has made dont speak to me as if i am missinformed or dont know what i am talking about. But im not here to throw dirt on anyone, the last bit was intended as a general statement thats why i mentioned a mast majority of CLs. You are neither a CL or in LA so what point are you making by saying I shouldn't be in his city? Its his city im sure if he felt i was an issue  i would be removed.