Osiris Fraternal Order

Due to Venico's resignation I have had to think deeply about those who have experience in the wide range of topics that Culture covers, and have looked within Osiris to see who would have the knowledge and expertise to manage a culture portfolio and still be able to bring something unique and fun to the region.

I have spoken to Flemingovia, who has agreed to become the Scribe of Culture.

Flemingovia is most known for the religion in his name that for several years has been a staple aspect of North Pacifican culture, and for some, the key focus of their activity in the region. Due to recent events in the North Pacific, Flemingovia relocated to Osiris to spread the word and benevolence of the Fiqh, something I am more than happy to support and I feel that Flemingovia has a wealth of expertise and knowledge of nearly a decade in NationStates that will be beneficial as we seek to carve a regional identity and enrich our own community with a shared cultural bond.

Hopefully, this will prove a learning experience for us all, and I am looking forward to seeing what Flemingovia can achieve in this new office.

Thus I would like the Keeper to open a confirmation vote as soon as is convenient. I should note that Flemingovia is not a member of the Deshret, so if Councillors would like to ask questions of him, he'll need to be remasked with temporary access.

-LR

I've gone ahead and masked him with temporary Deshret masking.

Flem, what goals would you have for regional culture aside from Flemingovianism? I'm actually more than happy to see that incorporated into our culture as I've always found it intriguing, but I'm wondering what's on your agenda for things like RP, media, and events (both regional and interregional)? I'm also curious about your views on the new House system and what if anything you would like to accomplish with that, though I realize this is primarily the Pharaoh's project and there will also be a Registrar to oversee the logistics of it.

These don't have to be overly specific, I would just like to have an impression of your general direction.

Thanks for the questions, Cormac.

First, a disclaimer. I am very new to Osiris, and was surprised when Lord Ravenclaw approached me about this role, which I did not seek. I do not yet have an instinctive understanding of the history, culture and zeitgeist of Osiris. If I am given this role, I have a steep learning curve. That being said, I have been in NS more than 10 years, and have learned a few transferrable skills along the way. Councillors may feel that I need more experience in Osiris before taking on such a role as this, and if that is your decision I would understand completely and not be offended in the slightest.

You ask about goals. Culture is for me about three things.

The first is Identity. Cultural activity can helps set the tone of a region and help people bond together. It can help loyalty, relationships and in this cosmopolitan age can help people identify with Osiris as their primary, if not sole, region. I have noticed that the regions that are most attractive to people tend to be those with the strongest cultural life.

The second is activity. Not everyone is turned on by legislative, judicial or military matters. Some will be attracted by the roleplay or creative side of regional life. If Osiris wishes to attract a spectrum of people, and retain their interest, then we have to develop a strong cultural side to the region.

The last thing is enjoyment. NS can be absorbing, and it can be easy to forget that it is a game we play for fun. Over the years I have seen players come and go, and those who stick with it tend to be those who maintain a sense of perspective and enjoy the more social aspects of the game.

How could this be furthered?

Well, by promoting and sponsoring cultural and OOC events. Opening new OOC threads, and spamming like hell myself. Activity breeds activity. I ought to add that I was in charge of the OOC area in TNP many years ago, and it was probably its most active time.

I would like to talk to the Pharaoh and admins about how cultural excellence might be rewarded: Badges? (Spammer of the month, Artist in residence, Poet Laureate) boosts to post count?

I liked the idea of the Lazarus / TNP cultural exchange that took place recently; but it was a bit last minute and rushed, and never really had the impact it might have had. I think Osiris could do it better, with planning.

In terms of more highbrow culture, I would like to set up a library of Alexandria as a home for songwriting, literary submissions, poetry etc.

One crazy idea: I would like to get folks to design a pictograph alphabet for Osiris, rather like hieroglyphics. Perhaps the best of these could become emoticons on the forum? A symbol for Pharaoh, for the deshret, etc.

You also asked about the house system. Here I will happily plead ignorance. I would need to talk to the Pharaoh about that, and what his plans/hopes are. Sorry – that’s one of the perils of being new here.

Finally, A word about Flemingovianism. It’s a lot of fun (for me at least!) but it would not be a major plank of what I would do as Scribe of Ptah. As Scribe, I would have a much broader focus. Think of Flemingovianism as a private hobby!

Finally Finally, I note that Ptah was the god of culture, the arts and fertility. Without wishing to brag, that is something I can relate to.

I wouldn't worry too much about being new to the region and not knowing our culture. To be blunt, a large segment of our community is new as the community of the KRO had begun to wither and die. Even before the recent troubles, it had been ages since Osiris had a meaningful cultural life. We're very much building a new culture at this point and I don't think much understanding of the previous culture is required for that job.

You've literally knocked my socks off with your answers. To say I agree with your direction for our culture would be an understatement. You have my full support and I look forward to working with you.

Are there any more questions or would a councillor be kind enough to motion for a vote?

I agree with absolutely everything you've said on the fundamentals of culture and the way to go about promoting it Flemingovia!

EDIT:

I motion for a vote.

Seconded.

Thirded.

Fourthed

Fifthed ... no ... wait ... scratch that.

Seriously, no more questions? If someone came into my region and was to be appointed to a ministry within days, I would want to find out a bit more about them.

Let me give you some real life.

I am older than most NS players. 51 years old. I am married and have four children. My wife and two of my children all play NS, although we keep away from each other. One of my sons was in a raider region, but left when I cut him out of the will.

I have been in TNP since I started playing. I have been delegate and most other things in that region over the years. I am currently admin of the forum and a justice, although my term as justice is, thankfully, coming to an end.

I am British, support Chelsea Football club, and cook. A lot. I enjoy fine wine.