Mon, Jul 17, 2017


Greetings Kingdom Seneschals,
 
This is the followup to the new policy. Please read and acknowledge. This is for distribution to all local Seneschals and event stewards/autocrats.
The new policy can be found here: http://socsen.sca.org/the-sca-harrassment-and-bullying-policy/
 
By request of the Society Seneschal with the support of the Board and the President of the SCA, the following statement must be posted at gate/troll at every SCA event in a size large enough for people to see it as they enter our events. This language must likewise be quoted in ALL site handouts at every event a site were a handout is made available.
 
Thank you for all for your cooperation. I would also like to thank Director Richard Sherman who distilled down this language from the most recent addition to the Seneschals Handbook as well as the President and Board of the SCA who have supported making the SCA a safer environment.
 
Best regards,
A.J. Pongratz
Vice President of Operations, SCA Inc.
Society Seneschal
 
 
THE SCA PROHIBITS HARRASSMENT AND BULLYING OF ALL INDIVIDUALS AND GROUPS.

• Participants engaging in this behavior are subject to appropriate sanctions.

 

• If you are subjected to harassment, bullying or retaliation, or if you become aware of anyone being harassed or bullied, contact a seneschal, President of the SCA, or your Kingdom's Board Ombudsman.

 

A report of the Court of Their Majesties, Quilliam Rex and Tangwystl the Queene, held at Pikeman's Pleasure on the third day of June, AS 52.

After opening Their Court, Their Majesties Quilliam and Tangwystl received the fealties of members of the Order of the Laurel.

They then gave Their Excellencies of Septentria, Dafydd and Mahhild, leave to hold Court. Once Their Excellencies' business was concluded, Royal Court continued. The marshals of the various martial activities ...of the day were called forward and prizes awarded to the victors.

Their Majesties summoned Ludwig von Eisengrim into their Court. At his surprise in being summoned, Their Majesties noted that they had been searching for him for many years to complete the business of their predecessors Trumbrand and Kaylah. Indeed, as the scroll was read it became clear that this particular piece of business was dated to the Lady Mary Tourney in the 48th year of the Society, over four years past. The wording of the scroll referenced the now-clean-shaven Ludwig's "forked beard" and resulted in much laughter. He was awarded the Orion for his skill in cookery. Her Majesty thanked her spies for tracking him down so that this could be done, and Duchess Kaylah greeted him with a hug.

Isabel de Rivera was called forward. A young lady wearing pink emerged from the kitchen where she was working and was awarded the Wolf's Cub for her skills in lucet and knitting and her assistance at events. Her Majesty also presented her with a wolf pendant in a pink pouch to match her dress. Scroll illumination was by Hyrrokin and wording and calligrapy by Dame Asa.

Their Majesties called forward Helen Gray and awarded her with the Orion, also for skill in knitting and assisting with events (she had indeed organized classes for the day). Illumination by Jane Caldwell and Calligraphy and wording by Dame Asa.

Merewen de Sweynesheie, who was standing as Queen's Guard, was called forward to kneel before Their Majesties. The Order of the Crucible was then summoned and asked whether it was their will that she be added to their number, to an enthusiastic and positive response. The new Honourable Lady was then admitted to the Order for her skills in illumination, research, and other arts. Scroll was wrought by Maestra Jocelyn de Cranewell.

After thanking those in attendance and the Canton of Petrea Thule for their hospitality, Their Majesties asked those attending their first event to come forward. Although there were none in the room, one cup was passed on to be presented to a newcomer who had attended, with Their Majesties' welcome.

Court was then concluded.

By the pen of Nicolaa Rouge Estoile, acting as Royal Herald to Their Majesties.

An account of the courts of Their Majesties Quilliam Rex and Tangwystl the Queene at Trillium War, the first day of July in the year of the Society LII.

Court was opened upon the field in the early afternoon as the Barbarian who could not be found at Murder Melee was spotted beside the listfield. Tannin was called forward by Their Majesties and presented with a jar of dirt. A hide was unfolded bearing writing that explained that said Tannin was being created a Baron of the Court, and that said jar bore the land over which he has dominion, and wherever a little of it be scattered, that would be considered his lands. Also set out were terms of tithes of livestock, gold, and drink to Their Majesties and the Baron of Ben Dunfirth. He was invested with a coronet of bone to confirm his new station.

Court was reopened in the evening after a delay due to the local weather deities.

The Ealdormere Waits were summoned forward. Master Martin indicated that this group of musicians now had proper registered heraldry and that a charter had been presented to Their Majesties for their signature. The charter was produced, already signed and sealed, and was read into the record. With the charter accepted by Master Martin, the Waits departed, but Her Majesty indicated that one Jamie fitz Mordain, a dancer, did not have leave to depart. Several members of the Queen's Rapier Guard surrounded him to ensure he stayed. It seemed that reports of his activities, such as dancing in church on Sundays, occupying the time of the Caldrithig musicians with his research, and other such deeds had been reported, and such were confirmed by Master Martin, Mistress Emma, and Mistress Marie. It seemed that the only remedy for such a troublemaker was to beg a boon for him to be admitted to the Order of the Laurel for his dance research and teaching. Their Majesties agreed that this was a right and proper thing, and a writ was read out that he might sit his vigil and be duly elevated in the Great Hall in the Debatable Lands at Pennsic.

After fealties were recieved from the Chivalry and Populace (the latter which developed a certain tunefulness due to the presence of the Widow Kate), leave was granted to each of the baronies there present to hold court, and the baronies of Septentria, Skraeling Althing, and Ramshaven did so. The Barony of Ben Dunfirth was silent, and His Majesty publicly wondered whether Baron Brand was up to something.

A petition was received from His Excellency Duncan McLeod concerning the operation of siege engines and the handing over of said engines from veterans to newer blood. Their Majesties promised to give it due consideration.

Their Majesties then admitted THL Tadc and THL Raithe, who, hearing the phrase "Bacon is Victory", decided that Ealdormere needed more bacon, and that a war banner bearing this motto should be borne into battle at Pennsic. Said banner featured a trillium and other elements that could only be blazoned as "bacony." The banner was entrusted to Sir Baldric as TRM's general and the bacon to the commissariat.

There was yet more bacon to come. Their Excellencies of Ramshaven had promised two pounds of said substance to be provided each year as their taxes. Their Majesties had asked it be presented at Pennsic, but as Their Excellencies would be unable to transport such delicacies past the toll keepers in Rhydderich Hael, it was presented at this event.

The members of Hexenhaus were called forward. They had sponsored a Thrown Weapons tourneys, and presented gifts of brooms (their household badge) and small flags to the winners of said tournament.

The White Wolf Fian was called forward. The challenge of Lady Alienor, who had conducted experiments in spinning using various drop spindles, written of said experiments, and taught classes, was accepted as complete. Lady Orla rechallenged with a new project (creating coin dies). New challengers included Astrid of Beremere (calligraphed and bound book of Anglo-Saxon poetry), Vindemia (Roman hair dye) and Amelye (Eleanora of Toledo stockings) were presented to Her Majesty and approved to proceed.

The Preceptor of the Ealdormere Academy of Defense was called forward. THL Lars announced that Cesare had successfully challenged as a cadet, and invested him with his red scarf.

THL Pelayo Lanza Hierro, Trillium Herald was called forward, and all members of the Ealdormere College of Heralds were invited forward to witness as he transferred the office to THL Sciath ingen Chaennaig. Before doings so, he thanked members of the college who were stepping down, including Her Highness Rylyn as Green Mantle, Mistress Wencenedl as Afon Fawr, Maistres Medb as Seeblatt, THL Sciath as Rising Waters Pursuivant, and Her Excellency Liadin as Calygreyhound. After THL Sciath swore to refrain from dicing , taverns, and places of ill repute, water was poured on her head and she was invested with the tabard, chain of office, and baton. She in turn appointed many new officers.

Their Majesties announced that Lord James Edgarsson would be added to the Scroll of Honour for "his generous spirit, valour, and elan in the face of pain whilst displaying skill and prowess at our great tournaments."

Their Majesties called forward Astrid of Beremere (she who had just challenged the Fian) and awarded her Arms. Scroll was created on site in its entirety by Dame Asa.

Faelan of Skeldergate, after some confusion with one of the canine persuasion named Balin, was awarded Arms, as was Gareth of the E'rainn. Kennis of Beremere was likewise called into court, but did not arrive until later.

Their Majesties called forward Neala Andrimirsdottir and presented her the Award of the Scarlet Banner for her fighting prowess, in the form of a giant War Spoon carved by Master Corwyn and Duchess Domhnaill.

Henry Foster was called before Their Majesties and asked whether he knew why he was there. When he said he did not, the Order of the Crucible was called forward, and despite his humble protestations, enthusiastically indicated that he should join their Order, and he was duly inducted.

As she made to depart with the other Crucibles, Lucia d'Enzinas was called back into court. Their Majesties indicated they were greatly impressed by her service and called forward the Order of the Wain, who affirmed that it was their wish she join their ranks, and it was thus done.

As Kennis of Beremere had arrived, she was invited back into Court and awarded arms.

Their Majesties called forward the event staff, and both they and Their Excellencies Septentria presented the event Stewards, THL Hans and Lady Neala, with gifts for their service.

As was tradition, Their Majesties invited forward all who were attending their first event. So many were there that there were not enough cups to present to everyone and His Majesty invited them to see him after Court to receive their gift. Amongst the first timers, the tiniest was the young daughter of THL Bjarn and THL Orlaith.

After a few announcements, and words from Their Majesties and Their Highnesses, His Majesty noted once again that Baron Brand had been very quiet, and that perhaps he might like to speak. "Sure!" said the Baron. He asked the audience who was going to Pennsic, and then asked all of those who had volunteered to stand up. He then encouraged all to volunteer, because that is what allows Pennsic to happen--folks like Duchess Dagmar, who arrive weeks ahead of time to draw lines and set up the camp, people who are rarely recognized. And then he begged a boon, that the same Duchess Dagmar be elevated to the Order of the Pelican, and a great cheer arose from the populace. The Order was summoned (including some visitors from afar who had been hiding the whole day) and she was sent on her vigil, with elevation to occur at Pennsic.

The Court concluded with the recognition of a certain 150th birthday.
For the True North Strong and Free, Wassail!
For the Crown of Ealdormere, Wassail!
For the Kingdom of Ealdormere, Wassail!

Post scriptus: The bacon presented earlier to the Comissariat had almost immediately gone missing, and a certain Not So Innocent Viking Countess, after swearing fealty in her own words, was appointed to look into the matter. Their Majesties also received the taxes of the Brewer's Guild.

Recorded by Nicolaa Rouge Estoile, acting as Royal Herald to Their Majesties

Wassail to our new Highnesses, Prince Edward the Red who was inspired by Princess Rylyn Buchanan to be victorious in Crown Tournament yesterday!

Greetings to the People of Ealdormere,
 
I am pleased to announce that the Moot for the reign of Their Royal Majesties Quilliam and Tangwystl, will be held at War of the Trillium on Sunday July 2nd, 2017.  Please gather at the Royal Seats at 11am.
 
If there are any concerns or topics that the Populace would like to see discussed I encourage you to contact me, I can be reached at ealdormere.lawspeaker@gmail.com
 
In Service
Mistress Eluned verch Angor

Greetings from Amelius Cladius Rattanicus Earl Marshal of Ealdormere,

I would like to announce that at Pikeman's Pleasure on Saturday, June 3, 2017 Hosted by the Canton of Petra Thule there will be an Armoured Combatants Moot. The subject of the moot will be creating a Combat Archery only authorization within Ealdormere. Other topics may be discussed time permitting.

Although geared to combat related topics, I would encourage anyone interested to attend. For those that cannot attend and would like to submit commentary on the above topic, please submit your questions and concerns to myself at earlmarshal.ealdormere@gmail.com

Rattanicus

Greetings all, we are pleased to announce that after many years of Her Excellency Liadin Chu hosting the kingdom Order of Precedence on www.wolfium.com, it is now hosted on the kingdom site.  It can be found on the Trillium Herald's page, or directly at the following link.

Ealdormere Order of Precedence

Greetings all,
 
By now you may have seen my note in the March Tidings that I am seeking my replacement as Kingdom Media Relations Deputy. This is a unique opportunity for someone to support Ealdormere with public outreach. If you’ve got the right skills-set please consider applying. The deadline is March 25. See below for the details.
 
Thank you!
 
THL Avelyn Wexcombe of Great Bedwyn
 
----------------------
 
This is a deputy position under the Kingdom’s Seneschal. In my opinion it is one of the more unique officer positions and can provide great experience that applies to the mundane world as well. It can be quiet for long periods of time, broken by a flurry of activity in short bursts requiring close attention.
 
Our Media Relations Officer (as I refer to it in mundane circles) acts as the official contact point for the media and by extension, the public. Much like a seneschal, the role sometimes interfaces more with the “real world” in its administration than other offices in the SCA.
 
The position requires:

• an excellent sense of tact and common sense/strategic thinking;
• an ability to respond to media requests in tight timing; and,
• fair measures of initiative, organizational and interpersonal skills.

 
Candidates interested in the office should have consistent and reliable access to web and email (currently the office has a Gmail account to maintain) as well as phone and if possible, texting. Reporters are apt to use a variety of methods to contact the officer, and the candidate should be able to return queries during their workday breaks if an urgent situation requires it. Of course, the KMRD also needs to be an SCA Inc. member in good standing.
 
Candidates do not necessarily need academic or professional experience in media/public relations, communications, or journalism. However, having some experience or formal training in one of these fields is a definite asset. An interest in using social media for the office is an asset.
 
To apply, please send me your letter of interest and preferably both your SCA and modern resumes to Ealdormere.Media@gmail.com by Kingdom A&S (March 25). Candidates should outline what draws them to the position and their relevant experience.

Greetings to the Good People of Ealdormere!

I am pleased to announce that Duchess Adrielle is our new Regalia Minister. Many thanks to Angela our out-going Minister for her many, many years of service. Duchess Adrielle has been the Royal Peer on the Regalia Committee, therefore this position will now be open. Resumes will be accepted until February 15th. Letters of interest should be sent to: ealdormere.exchequer@gmail.com

Chancellor of the Exchequer
THL Catriona inghean Ragnaill 

Greetings to the good people of Ealdormere,

It has been brought to my attention that there are some questions and concerns in regards to how Kingdom Event Bids are chosen by the Privy Council.

I thought I would walk through the process that a bid goes through when it is received by the Kingdom Seneschal, to clarify any misconceptions. The first thing that happens is the Seneschal reviews the bid to see if it meets kingdom guidelines, has a solid budget, and reasonable expectations for attendance, and so on, and will often ask the sponsoring group for clarification or ask for corrections or additions to make sure the bid will answer all the questions put forth by the Privy Council.  After the bid is deemed complete, it is sent to the Privy Council email list and the Council reviews and discusses the bid. The Council members may have questions and concerns about the bid which the Seneschal will forward to the submitting group. Their response is then brought back to the council and either there is more discussion or an online poll is conducted to decide if the bid is acceptable as it is or, in the rare case there is more than one bid, a vote by each member of the Council is completed to decide which bid to proceed with. The King and Queen separately each get a vote, the Prince and Princess (if we have Heirs at the time of the vote) share a vote and each Greater Officer of the Privy Council is allotted one vote. It is a simple vote where the Majority wins, but the Crown must support the decision.

With respect to the two bids we received for the March 2017 A&S Competition each person on the Council took the time to examine both bids and we had lengthy discussions in person and online. We clarified and requested some changes and then we held the vote online in order to allow the successful Canton to get started putting their event together. We did follow up with a brief discussion and in-person vote during our Privy Council meeting at Feast of the Hare. The meeting was open to the public. The minutes for that meeting are available in the Library section of the Kingdom website.

When looking at bids, the Privy Council is looking at multiple different details to determine if a bid can result in a successful event. Please remember that the Kingdom relies on the profits from Kingdom events so it is essential that the bids reflect a profitable budget. Different council members may be looking for the things that impact their position on the Council (e.g. the Exchequer may focus on the financials, the Earl Marshal may pay particular attention to the marshal activities and the plans laid out in the bid, etc). Many council members are generically looking at the bid as a whole. Each Council member will ultimately vote for the bid that they feel is the best choice for the Kingdom. 

I can assure you that one of the biggest issues I have faced as the Kingdom Seneschal is a lack of bids for Kingdom events. In my time as Seneschal the 2017 A&S bidding process is the only vote between two bids that I have conducted. The others have all been polls of support for the single bid submitted. I would also add that in many cases getting that single bid was stressful, time-consuming and nerve-wracking. I was thrilled to receive the two bids that we received and I am so pleased that both groups are interested in running Kingdom events.

I would respectfully suggest that if you are unhappy or unsatisfied with the way bids are selected, the location of the events or some other aspect of the bidding process that you get involved. I encourage you to apply for a position on the Privy Council when one becomes available and in the meantime volunteer for a position within your group, or volunteer for a position on a local or Kingdom bid to help run an event. Our Kingdom relies completely on volunteers. We can absolutely use more help.

In February at the Service Symposium I will be running a class on how to put together a bid for a Kingdom event. I would welcome anyone interested in learning more about Kingdom bids to join me. We are also working on a brand new Steward’s Handbook that I believe will be a huge asset to all Event Stewards whether they are new to the job or experienced with a question or two.

In service I remain,
Jocea

Greetings,

I would like to direct the populace who will be attending the Moot at Wassail to read the following information as it is directly related to the discussion to be held and will then allow us to have a better informed discussion.

The first topic to be discussed is if Ealdormere wishes to take part in YAFA - Youth and Family Achievement Program.

http://socsen.sca.org/special-deputy-for-family-and-youth-programs/yafa/


The second subject will be related to Kingdom finances and methods of payment.

Many thanks,

TH Lady Eluned verch Angor
Lawspeaker

Honors given by Siegfried and Xristina,
Queen's Prize Tourney, November 26, 2016, A.S. LI

Award of the Wolf's Cub - Liam of House Marchmount
Award of Arms - Lucia de Enzinas (tee hee!)
Award of Arms - Elenore de Cherbourgh
Award of the Maiden's Heart - Marguerite Gingraix
Award of the Orion - Magnus Kowalsky
Order of Thorbjorn's Hammer - Thorfinna gra'feldr
Order of Thorbjorn's Hammer - Mahhild de Valognes
Order of the Crucible - Mahhild de Valognes

Eluned verch Angor was placed on vigil for Order of the Laurel.
The Dread Overlords of the Grand Duchy of Ben Dunfirth donated $1253 as proceeds from Crown Tourney.
Their Excellencies Arthur de Beaumont et Shadiyah al-Zahra, emissaries from the East Kingdom, gifted a basket of cordials and treats.
TH Laird Colyne Stewart answered the bardic challenge of their Majesties.
Lady Merewen de Sweynesheie stepped down as Proctor of the Academy of Defense, and Master Giovanni di Enzinas stepped up.
Marsalai inghean Aoidh and Martin Bildner successfully challenged into the White Wolf Fian.
Mahhild de Valognes was selected as the Judge's Choice for Queen's Prize Tourney for her block printing.
Gerart VanderBorch was selected as Queen's Choice for the Queen's Prize Tourney for his hand-forged locking mechanism.

Honors given by Siegfried and Xristina, 
Feast of the Hare, November 5, 2016, A.S. LI

Award of the Wolf's Cub - Arngeirr Svennson (called Benjamin)
Award of the Wolf's Cub - Arromir the Archer (called Zachary)
Award of Arms - Richard Vincent the Mercer
Award of the Orion - Gwendolyn of Aldburg
Award of the Maiden's Heart - Song Zidie
Award of the Scarlet Banner - Maeve Dubh
Order of Thorbjorn's Hammer - Laurenz Tonnemacher
Order of the Crucible - Dafydd ap Alan
Court Baron - Duncan Gabha MacLachlan MacLeod

5 people successfully completed their challenge into the White Wolf Fan: Marina Anastasia Ozeroski, Laura Battista, Cesare di Salvazzi, Matilda la Zouche, and Jane Caldwell.

The Canton of Caldrithig was pleased to host Rick Mercer and a small crew of the CBC’s “The Mercer Report” at their event Feast of the Hare on November 5. Rick spent the day meeting people from all over Ealdormere and trying his hand at some of our activities, including dancing and armoured combat—even melee! Their full day’s-worth of filming will be edited down into a segment a few minutes long.
 
This media opportunity brings tremendous, positive exposure for the SCA in Canada, and for the kingdom. The Mercer Report airs nationally, so other Canadian SCAdians will see how Ealdormere shows its pride. It also means millions of viewers will watch the fun we have and perhaps be tempted to come out and meet us, wherever they are in Canada.
 
Support for the production was overwhelming--from those in attendance, and from those who made all the logistics happen. Well over two dozen volunteers stepped up to show Rick various activities on camera! Our episode does not have an air-date yet, but it will likely broadcast between the end of November and February 2017. Watch for an update on the broadcast here!

Greetings,

Thank you to all those who stepped up and put themselves forward for the
chance to serve Our Kingdom. We are very pleased with the level of honour
and grace and inspiration that was shown by all the combatants and their
consorts at Our Crown tourney this past weekend.

We would like to welcome the new Heirs of Ealdormere, Prince Quillium and
Princess Tangwystl. Wassail!

Thank you to the Barony of Ben Dunfirth for hosting Our tournament. It was
truly a splendid day.

To Lady Augusta, event steward, THL Yoshi, feast steward, and all the
volunteers who helped staff positions, kept us fed at both lunch and feast,
who served and who made the whole day work, thank you. Running an event of this level requires a great level of work and you all excelled.

Thank you to the marshals who took the time to make sure Our tournament was run well and safely. Your work is always appreciated.

Thank you to the heralds who made sure We and everyone else in the hall,
knew what was going on and for making sure all our combatants and their
consorts were properly called in during the procession.

To the Lady Kestra, list mistress and those who helped her keep the list
organised and running and to Liadin for keeping the board updated so both
those at the event and those unable to make it were able to see what had
happened and what was going to happen next.

To Lady Augusta, THL Alexandre, Baron Richard and all those who use their
time to capture so many moments on camera to share with others, thank you very much. Your photos are always appreciated.

A final thank you to Mistress Asa and all the scribes who have done (and
continue to do) such diligent work in making sure the people of this
Kingdom have beautiful scrolls to help recognize their accomplishments.

Siegfried and Xristina

Velikii Knyaz and Velikii Knyagina

Please find attached the event rotation schedule for 2017.  Please note, you do not have to be the scheduled group to submit a bid for a kingdom event -- all bids happily accepted.  To submit a bid, please use the kingdom bid form.

The Privy Council has received a bid for Spring Coronation 2017, and will now accept further bids for consideration over the next 30 days.  If your group is interested in putting in a bid, they can be emailed to Jocea Valente at ealdormere.kseneschal@gmail.com by Friday, August 26. 

Youth Combat

Below is a draft of the revised youth handbook, mostly reflecting mandatory changes required by Society.  Commentary will be accepted over the next 30 days before the handbook is finalized.  Comments can be sent to earlmarshal.ealdormere@gmail.com.

DRAFT HANDBOOK 2016

An updated edition of the ceremonies book was presented by Pelayo de Lanza, Trillium Herald, to Their Majesties Nigel and Adrielle, and distributed to the College of Heralds at Trillium War.

A copy can be found in the Kingdom Library here