Kawaii

No problem. I hadn't cast my own vote earlier because I didn't want to influence anyone's choice. I cast my vote for China, breaking the tie between the two. 

Regarding themes. Anything is fine for me. Because I'm quite a fan of those days (Imperial Russia, Dynastic China and Shogunate Japan). But hey, if other than that. I'm cool with it.
It would be awesome if we go with Feudal Japan. Huehuehue. 

I've been part of a few "my way or the by-way" situations (including some in THIS region) and this doesn't feel like that to me. This feels more like an honest effort from a delegate eager to try something to encourage activity. "We need more activity" has been a point for a while here, I know I heard it while I was delegate. I just didn't have it in me to enact any sweeping changes. Part of that was likely because of the reaction I was sure that I would get, from both in and out of the region. Halo, apparently, does.
I'm iffy on some aspects of this, there are certain things I'd have preferred to have seen done differently. I didn't participate in the conversation, and that was my choice; I'd seen the TG about it. However, I'm down to see how this goes. It could end up amazing. But if it sucks, I trust that Halo will make an effort to adjust things so they do not suck.
When things don't change, we end up in a place with a good ol' boys club. I've seen it happen here before. 
So, really, the way I see it, the worst thing that happens with this is people are cranky, it doesn't work, and Halo adjusts it. The best is that it's actually fun and new people get active on some level, participating.

So when the delegate doesn’t govern the way you want, you just decide to change the government? I can’t believe a simple theme change is enough for a forum admin to threaten to create a new forum government. 

No. The vote will be in The Hall.

West, it was your choice not to participate in the government by not becoming a citizen. You still have been not only allowed to express your opinion, but listened to with respect.

Wasn't an insult. Just in reference to the people who create a nation, explore it for a couple days, then disappear forever. Clearly people who've been around for over a decade are not in the "will CTE a few weeks from now" Category. Didn't mean to make you feel insulted, West, I love your rocking chair, wise old posts.  
 
Weeeelll... not the Hebrews, no. But someone is definitely building those pyramids... 

You are right, Fujai. This is all about activity. After having listened to the discussion, and before voting had started, I had started to plan out how we would implement the theme change. I wanted the implementation itself to generate activity and I wanted it to be as inclusive as possible, so I had decided to hold a contest open to all of the residents of TWP. Teams would be tasked with developing ideas on how to implement whatever theme is chosen. They would be given certain guidelines, one of which would be to be respectful of TWP's character. 
This isn't the only program that we are going to put forth to try to generate activity. We have a lot that we're working on.
I can't believe the fuss over some fun window dressing. Does Osiris enslave Hebrews? Is Balder raiding monasteries? Is The Pacific feeding Christians to the lions? All of these regions, and many more (and us many times in the past) have themes and are still the kinds of regions they are because of the people there.

You were the one who set up the current government structure based upon what already existed in TWP, Badger.
 

There were twenty different players discussing this here, of which twelve were definitely for the themes, six against and two it's hard to say from posts here. That is more input than we've had in anything that has happened here as far as I can remember. I have also had dms and tgs from players and many other conversations. I also sent a region-wide tg telling everyone what was happening and asking them to become citizens so that they could take part in the discussion. This was also discussed in the Cabinet for weeks. Several other options were discussed. I never said the support was massive, but it is clearly in favor.

Let me state for the record that TWP will never  become anything even close to TEP. Let me also say that the idea that if TWP adopts a Japanese theme, that does not and should not ever be seen as a bad thing that will lead to an influx of memers, disrespectful types of any kind, or any kind of individual that we wouldn't normally banject on the reg. I think too many people have let the bad "weeaboo" kids ruin the image and idea of a Japanese theme, but it's important to remember that there's more to Japan than Anime and J-Pop, just as China isn't all about kung fu and Mauism. :^)

I had an idea to adopt a fun and promising environment that reflected Japan's Bubble Economy of the 80's, complete with the aesthetics as you can see by my flag. (And I'm aware that's not exactly "imperial Japan but it's what I was feeling so I went with it lol.) To give some background on the general culture of the Bubble Era, it was a time in Japan when its economy was at its peak and commercial success was high for many people. There are a certain feel and mood that's strongly present in many media depicting 80's Japan, that paints a picture of the good old days. It wasn't too far off from what the 80's was like here in the US.

I wanted to try and take the key aspects that made Bubble Era special and incorporate them into a theme, allowing us to leave a good first impression with those who come to our region. I wouldn't have sold them short either. I would do anything to give them something reminiscent of the high spirits and energy that was everpresent in 80's Japan. This coupled with a nice retro look would pull in many people. Especially as it relates to Japan. A lot more people now than ever are falling in love with Late 20th Century Japanese culture, it's been growing in popularity for over the last decade, and doesn't show any sign of stopping; nostalgia is very easy to market.

Now with all that being said, TWP wouldn't be "80's Japan," it would be TWP but with the characteristics and overall environment present in 80's Japan. I agree with keeping our coastal beach idea, but adding in a more fun, active, and promising vibe to it along with retro imagery.

Anyway, that's my two-cents as it relates to my theme. I know the other two are quite different. But now I've spilled my beans and explained my thought process with my theme a bit, hopefully, it may be to more people's liking.

I promise that whichever theme is chosen, I will take my time implementing it, using it only as a starting point to come up with something that is uniquely TWP. My thought is that I will form an implementation committee to advise me on this so that I receive a broader range of ideas. No plan will make everyone happy, but my goal will certainly be to put in place something that at least most of us can be proud of.

Hello, this conversation has been very interesting! In the spirit of togetherness and friendship, I believe that I would like to change my vote to The Weeb Pacific. 
Here's a picture of Badger as an anime girl for inspiration:

 
I think that we can all agree this is the best direction for TWP. I'm gonna go ahead and assume that we're all on board here and heavily instigate this on Discord. Can't stop me now!! Bwahahaha! >:) 

As for me...
Well, to be honest, anyone of you folks who've been around me for any amount of time will know that I'm absolutely crazy about Japan. Not weeaboo crazy, just, y'know, love how they do life over there. So when I heard that you guys had a Japan option for the theme, I was like, hell yeah! Japan is such an amazing country. The food, culture, people...the list goes on and on. Even if you don't admire it you gotta admit they've got some cool staff over there. I think the main reason why is because we will have the advantage of the Japanese culture as well. Think about it. Their culture emphasizes honor and respect which goes perfectly with what were aiming for here in TWP! Also is the emphasis on the group and working as a team which can work for our raiders...I guess what I'm trying to say over here is that we would do well to learn from the Japanese and their way of life and that it would help us to be a better TWP!
Also Japanese food
Did I mention the food?

My reference to 80's Japan is mainly to point out the culture and environment of Japan that was present at its time. The main point I was making was to give TWP the same kind of feeling which new people see as being fun, bright, and promising. Also, sorry, westwind, but Japan's 80's was the most happening place in the world!  Regardless, my focus is more of creating a bright and fun atmosphere, and the promise of a fulfilling NS career that outputs ten-fold given one's hard work and dedication.

Design-wise, it probably really doesn't matter too much, but I'd like to try and go for a retro look, that's what's "in" these days as I mentioned. The designing itself wouldn't seek to outright replace any aspect of TWP, but would try to put a tasteful spin on it. 

As for the color scheme, I had used the same colors as the traditional flag but up'd the vibrance to make it bloom. If it's too much, I can tune them down a bit. 
That's not a bad idea, either! I could make a stamp graphic like that too, and using them for the FA would be a wonderful touch! Thanks for the suggestion!

Accepted! Welcome aboard. 

The Ambassador sign-up thread is here:
 

Sounds interesting! Where do I sign up to be an ambassador?

I agree with you, Dave, that The Hall of Nations could use the work and also that this would most likely pass, but I'm not presenting The Hall of Peers to the Hall for approval  because I don't want to start the precedent that all Manners changes have to be approved by The Hall of Nations. 
I did want everyone's input, though, which is why I brought this all up for discussion in the first place.

*chuckles* I've no doubt!
In the US, some people did very well, and some did very poorly. The economy didn't soar as some would make it seem, instead it fell back several times. I remember the storefronts suddenly going empty across the cities a couple times. The music sucked. Government spending to defeat the Soviets provided jobs, but took it's toll by taking resources from other parts of the economy. The Decade of Greed wasn't universal, it was only a section that flaunted it with their suits and cocaine which Hollywood loves to portray, the corruption of the Keating Five, Iran/Contra, 1987 Black Friday market crash, Savings and Loan crisis.....
A friend of mine and I were driving around downtown Kansas City in the '80's and we noticed these businessmen marching around the sidewalks in their grey suits as if they owned the world. We'd try to talk to them or at least get their attention. They wouldn't even respond to saying a simple 'Hi!" The thing that finally got their attention?  We called out "Dollar Bills!" and they all turned their heads in unison to look our way. It was hilarious. Silly human race. These businessmen walking shoulder to shoulder, three people wide.....we decided that The Who nailed it. "Eminence Front. It's a put on." (the rhythm/beat of the song perfectly matched the businessmens purposeful steps)
*winks*
 

 
 

BTW Westwind, I loved the historic graphics that you posted earlier.  The "Illuminati" eye reminded me of @Kawaii

NationStates Nation Name: Danlina
Discord User Name: RedManlyUnicorn#5649
Your Local Timezone: IST (UTC+2)
Regions You Have Active Nations In:  The West Pacific, Osiris (I don't use this player anymore but it's still active)
Any Diplomatic Experience:  Elementary school debate classes, high school MUN club, currently working on two legislation proposals for general assembly.
 

My reference to 80's Japan is mainly to point out the culture and environment of Japan that was present at its time. The main point I was making was to give TWP the same kind of feeling which new people see as being fun, bright, and promising. Also, sorry, westwind, but Japan's 80's was the most happening place in the world!  Regardless, my focus is more of creating a bright and fun atmosphere, and the promise of a fulfilling NS career that outputs ten-fold given one's hard work and dedication.

Design-wise, it probably really doesn't matter too much, but I'd like to try and go for a retro look, that's what's "in" these days as I mentioned. The designing itself wouldn't seek to outright replace any aspect of TWP, but would try to put a tasteful spin on it. 

As for the color scheme, I had used the same colors as the traditional flag but up'd the vibrance to make it bloom. If it's too much, I can tune them down a bit. 
That's not a bad idea, either! I could make a stamp graphic like that too, and using them for the FA would be a wonderful touch! Thanks for the suggestion!

That would be a good thing, I'd think.
*chuckles* Bunch of rogues......The Syndicate (oh wait, a region already did that), The Western Cartel. The Rogue Gallery of The West Pacific....
I don't know if anyone knew this, but once upon a time I was looking to establish a Rogue Pirate military, sailing across all the Pacifics, unaffiliated with any of them. There were two or three missions these unknown Pirates engaged in across The Pacifics, but never really got fully off the ground.  I smiled when TWPAF went Pirate, I was proud of you all.
Exactly.  Of course, if The Delegate wishes to pursue a process/debate/choice beyond that.......that's The Delegate's choice too. On the other hand, if....
And no pink with purple polka dots WFE. I see a region that does that and I immediate click elsewhere. Have some respect for your viewer/readers and be easy on the eyes. 
Yup. You'll be sorry. You'll be frustrated. NS isn't worth the high blood pressure.
I tend agree with this. I'm still waiting for a presentation of sufficient cause for change, and where that change might apply, how it will be applied......
Although, had the Delegate simply announced "here is our new Theme!" I'd accept the Delegate wanting  a change as reason enough. (That doesn't mean I'd agree with or like the change)
 
I can't fully address this, I'm not on Discord so I don't know what the real activity level is here. Also, the period of the Holidays into February is always slow. The ebb and flow of NS. 
A theme change isn't sufficient to drive activity to combat staleness. Action is what drives change, and that action comes from the region's Leaders, not the theme.  
Partially why Pirates is worth considering.....the military is active, the military is Pirate.  I don't see that theme being promulgated on the RMB or via mass TG, so it feels detached from the region as a whole.  Integrating Pirate into the theme would meld the two together better in player's minds. (Psychology), tying the civilian and the military into a whole.  
Whenever the civilian government is closely tied to the military and military/diplomatic activities, it drives interest and activity. When a civilian government begins to ignore it's military, it will progressively go inactive. Unless is has another strong area (such as RP) to supplant the military activity.
 
There does seem to be less interaction with the region ingame these days. And obviously little interaction on the forum.  I don't do Discord, so I have no idea there. I feel like Non-Discord players have been locked out of activity by the regional Oligarchies.
Never ever EVER EVER allow a higher legislative body. NEVER. 
 
If it has no power, no one will participate - there will be nothing to do.  If it has too much power, I guarantee you will eventually have a conflict with the Delegate.  This is where the balancing act of TWP comes into play.
Let's not go to RL national themes at all. The Rising Sun of the TWP flag used to bother me all by itself as it was too suggestive of WWII Japan. I'm old, grew up with those veterans, knew WWI vets. My grandfathers were both considered National Security assets, my daughter's maternal great grandfather was a  private American citizen, captured as a POW by the Japanese and he died in malnourished captivity, his body never recovered.
(I knew a US Civil War vet - at his 100th birthday he said of his imprisonment as a POW that the prisoners "ate as well as the guards. All we had to eat was grasshoppers.")
Although no NS theme insulted me more than The NPO's Soviet theme. Made me sick to my stomach after growing up at nuclear ground zero for the Cold War. Let's not promote RL murderous regimes (such as Imperial Japan, Soviet Russia, Nazi Germany.....). 
I lived through that time, the 80's sucked.
Don't do 70's Japan, back then Japan was known for flimsy cheap throw away products. (Like China is known for now). *chuckles*
I like your flag design best of the choices, but I don't like it's color scheme.
I'd prefer to keep our flag, or alter it slightly, than a wholesale change.  I won't like it, whatever it is, if the theme design abandons our 15 year flag.
 

I have a crazy idea.  *watches everyone roll their eyes*
Flags:
I love the dragon flag where the dragon is clinging to the back of the sun for the Regional WFE flag.  I have always been partial to dragons and love them in all their literary and film adaptations.  I also really like the stamp-like, trendy flag that was Kawaii's, I think.  I like it because it looks like a stamp.  If we added a relief of words (or a dragon?) in the top part of the sun, it could easily be used as an FA seal for treaties and dispatches.  I dislike the first group of flags because they remind me too much of the Kaiser and WWI sensibilities.   However, I have always wanted to rp-live in Imperial Russia.  Which brings me to ...
Titles:
I dislike all of them and their forms of address.  But not the idea of titles and some designations.  I think we (the region) can do better if we drink some wine and argue about it one evening.   I would like to ask that the Heir apparent designation be removed from the lists for a number of reasons we can argue about another time.