I'm pleased to announce that Sir Tiberius is the new Deputy Earl Marshal for Steel Armoured Combat.
​
He'll be heading up the effort bring this exciting new martial discipline to Ealdormere.

Many thanks to Tiberius for offering to take on this important role. It's all new territory, so we'll all be learning as we go along.

Menken
Kingdom Earl Marshal
​
For interest, here is the SCA Steel Combat Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/SCA-Steel-Fighting-2248270048818486

Have you ever wondered just how Pennsic happens, the planning, the expense, where your fees go?  Do you have the time, energy and commitment to become a Pennsic Officer?  If so, apply to be the Pennsic Exchequer.  This is a volunteer position involving a very large commitment of time and energy.  Only serious applicants should reply.

Hourly commitment expected:
During Pennsic, 6-8 hours per day from Opening Day through final Saturday. Ability to arrive a week Prior to the Start of the event a Major Plus.
Attend both weekend planning sessions, November and May.
5-15+ hours per week for the remainder of the year. 

Duties:
Work with the Pennsic Mayors to create and maintain a budget, with detail down to department expense levels.
Report regularly to the Pennsic Financial Committee and the Kingdom Seneschal Group on activities relating to Pennsic finances.
Report directly to the Society Exchequer using SCA standard financial reporting forms.
Serve as a subject-matter expert in determining allowable expenditures.
Travel to two planning meetings (November and May).
Be on-site for the entire Pennsic War (Both Weeks) and be available on site during the week preceding the war if possible.
Hold regular “office hours” during war and monitor a radio and/or pager for the entire war.
Work with the Cooper’s Lake staff to coordinate resources and funds transfers.

Skills and resources required:
1)  Moderate to expert knowledge of Microsoft Excel.
2)  Moderate to expert knowledge of QuickBooks and QuickBooks Online.
3)  Moderate to expert knowledge of SCA reports
4)  Experience as an SCA Exchequer preferred, but not required
Accounting/bookkeeping experience desired.
Reliable phone and email access.
Ability and willingness to communicate to several people over long distances.

Successful applicants will be expected to attend Pennsic for the entire war.

Please send applications (modern resume and SCA activity summary) to CJO@pennsicwar.org  Application period closes 11:59pm EST, September  1, 2020.

Please direct any questions to the Acting Pennsic Exchequer depexchequer@pennsicwar.org 
It is the hope of the Pennsic Financial Committee to complete the selection process by November 1, 2020. 

For information on the various Pennsic Financial Policies please refer to the Documents below.

https://seneschal.eastkingdom.org/PW/PW-ADMIN.pdf

http://www.sca.org/docs/finpolicies/PennsicFinancialPolicy.pdf

Greetings unto Our Most Resilient Kingdom of Ealdormere,

As many of you have now seen, the Board of Directors has approved a Resolution that suspends in-person events until January 31, 2021. While it pains Us to continue to be apart, We wholeheartedly support this Resolution. Always the health, safety and wellbeing of Our populace is paramount in Our decision making in these most difficult times. We know you all want to be able to gather together again. We too want this. We miss every one of you and look forward to raising a glass together in-person. But that time is still not quite here yet. While We are saddened that this plague has not yet released us all from its harsh grasp, We would not put Our populace at risk needlessly.  

We are hopeful that, with luck, We will see the Kingdom able to move forward to the next phase in the Kingdom Reopening Plan and have small, safe local gatherings begin in the coming weeks. The Plan has already been updated to include the requirements with respect to the Board’s Resolution. Should the Kingdom be in a position to open earlier than January 31, We will revisit things at that time.

As our time as the Crown will be longer than expected , We would ask you for your help during the months to come. Our staff, the Kingdom Officers, and so many others have been working hard to provide online content to help find ways to maintain and strengthen our connection with one another during this forced hiatus. With potentially six more months to go, We would ask for input from the Kingdom for new ideas for connectivity, and volunteers to donate some of their time to help support these endeavours. We would ask good gentles in the Kingdom to contact Us or Maister Colyne should you wish to help. We welcome input and assistance from all: newcomers to the Society, long time members, those who have unique interests, those who have ideas they would like to see realized. We hope to hear from you.

Stay strong friends and stay safe. We will get through this together.

​King Rattanicus and Queen Isabel

The SCA honours living history, and has always done so with a progressive social mindset that values inclusion, tolerance, and common respect. Intolerant, exploitative, and predatory practices were a part of many historical cultures that our Society depicts, but we have always made the conscious choice to concentrate on the best social virtues that history has to offer. Against the backdrop of challenges that modern society is grappling with, our ‘conservative’ re-enactment of history is at its best when it honours a ‘progressive’ social value system. In the current climate of completely warranted anger over the status quo, the Order of the Chivalry has pondered how we can improve the situation. 
​
As knights and masters who choose to do so, we swear to the Royalty each reign that we will be the “Shield of the Weak”, “Courteous at all times”, and “Champion of the Right and the Good”. The chivalric virtue of humility teaches that each of us, from time to time, will fail to live up to what our oath demands, and that as an Order, we must guide one another towards being better. Recent deliberations within the Order have led us to believe that further improvement is warranted; our values compel us to hear your criticisms, and to do better in living up to our oaths. There are no perfect knights, but trying to be is a worthy endeavour in spite of inevitable flaws. 

This is not the first time that our Kingdom or our Society has made this sort of statement. If we take this challenge seriously, then recurrent deliberation and reaffirmation of these values is appropriate, in much the same way that we renew our oaths for each new Sovereign. We are not the only ones who serve this Kingdom: we rely on officers, peers, and our fellow populace to hold up the ‘Mirror of Chivalry’ so that we can see our flaws. Sometimes it is people outside our Order that are best suited to define our problems and show us the path to solutions. Our role as an Order is to hear them, respect them, and learn ways to be better from them.  

We value inclusion, tolerance, and respect, and support the cause of justice.  We will not defend those who, through bigotry, sexism, intolerance, bullying, or other predatory behaviours, have made themselves morally indefensible 

If you have experienced one of these things, we encourage you to bring it to one of us. We will advocate for a resolution. We will help ensure that the person best qualified addresses your issue.

Roak 
Steinarr 
Evander
Richard 
Shahid 
Quilliam 
Tristham 
AElfwyn  
Gann 
Rattanicus 
Kasimir
Menken 
Varenko 
Mordain 
Baldric 
Elizabeth 
Tiberius 
Finnvarr 
​Edward the Red

Greetings to the Good People of Ealdormere.

I think I can safely speak for the Crown when I say Thank You to all the generous groups and individuals who have donated towards the Kingdom Zoom account.

As you may know from the challenge issued in Episode 4 of Ealdormere At Home, the Kingdom has been using the 500 participant level of Zoom account ($87/mth +tax) to make sure we can reach our populace.

As we have settled into our Digital routines, we have noted that the participant numbers have safely dropped below the threshold of the next lowest account. We have added other means of distributing our broadcasts such as streaming on the Kingdom Facebook Group and uploading the recordings to the Kingdom YouTube account. We can still reach the populace without the continued need of the high level account.

For these reasons, and to maintain good stewardship over the funds you entrust us with, the Privy Council has decided to shift our Zoom account to the 100 participant, unlimited time tier ($20/mth +tax).

Knowing that groups may be contemplating donations towards our Zoom account, we wish to inform you of the change to maintain transparency and to enable you to make informed decisions.

YIS,
April R/ Jane Caldwell, KExch

 Greetings, Ealdormere.

 I am... well, pleased is not the right word given that we even need to have such a document for these times. In any case, Their Majesties and the Privy Council have approved this plan for the reopening of Ealdormere. As you are all aware, we are officially shut down until 31 July which isn't that far off at all. We are of course in no position to just go back to things on 1 August, so please read and understand the course that has been charted to move forward. This plan describes a phased resumption of activities as Provincial health authorities and the pandemic situation allow. Many thanks to those who had great input and insightful comments as this was being developed. As always, if you have any questions please reach out to me at ealdormere.kseneschal@gmail.com.

 http://links.ealdormere.ca/covid-reopening

Greetings unto Our Beloved Ealdormere,

As we move forward through this long summer, We are hopeful that the months ahead will provide us all with opportunities to gather as we have become accustomed. As the mundane authorities allow for larger gatherings so, too, will the Kingdom open. In looking forward to being able to get together again, one thing is clear, the wearing of face coverings or masks is going to be a part of things moving forward for the foreseeable future. 

With this in mind, We would issue a challenge to those good gentles who would accept, to attempt face coverings and masks that are heraldic and/or medieval inspired! They could be constructed of your heraldic colours, incorporate your personal, household or Kingdom populace heraldry or badge, covered in handcrafted lace, embroidered, stamped, the possibilities are endless. They can be of any style the wearer is comfortable with, however if one is looking for instructions or a pattern, Baroness Matilda has generously put together a tutorial and pattern that can be found in this month’s issue of the Tidings. We would love to see what you come up with and show off the talents and imagination of Our Kingdom and Baron Alexander Gladstone has offered to assist in this task. We would ask that once constructed, please send a photo of your mask or, if so inclined, a photo of you wearing it while in garb to Baron Alexander at photosbyalex@cogeco.ca. Please put “EALDORMERE HERALDRY MASK” in the subject line when you send your photos along with the appropriate permissions to allow for the use of the photo in the body of the message.  It is Our intent to have the compilation of photos featured in an episode of Ealdormere at Home. 

We will be announcing further photo challenges throughout the summer months and would welcome ideas from the Kingdom, not only for themes for the challenges, but for other ideas for online content you would like to see from Us as well. Please send your ideas to Us by email at Ealdormere.Crown@gmail.com.

One of the difficulties of having everything move into the virtual is the limitations it puts on involving the children of the Kingdom in the activities. Our plan had been to bring hobby horses to events during Our reign to gift to the children of Ealdormere to be theirs to decorate and bard so that they might participate in equestrian challenges. We would still very much like to do this, but its implementation requires some adjusting. As such, We ask those with children to contact Us by email and provide Us with a mailing address that We might send your children a gift of a hobby horse! Please note there will be some assembly required upon receipt. 

It has been so wonderful to see the all of the inventive virtual events and classes being hosted throughout the Kingdom. While not the events we are used to, Ealdormere has certainly risen to the challenge of this time of the plague and shown we will persevere and we will not be discouraged! 

Finally, and as previously announced, as We continue to find Ourselves without Heirs We have extended the deadline for submissions for Our Crown Tournament to Sunday September 20, 2020 at 11:59 pm.  As in our previous letters, Our Crown Tournament requirements and Tourney remain the same with the exception of the deadline change as noted above. Should anyone have questions regarding Our tournament, please do not hesitate to contact Us. 
​
We look forward to when we can all gather together again.

King Rattanicus and Queen Isabel

Greetings unto Our Beloved Ealdormere,

This year finds us celebrating Canada Day differently than we are used to. War of the Trillium has always been an event so very dear to Us. Our memories are filled with classes, combat, dancing, archery, grand Courts, songs around camp fires with friends and so much more. While We, along with many in the Kingdom, are saddened that the plague has led to its cancellation this year, the staff have outdone themselves with their inventive and creative ideas to bring some of the fun to the Virtual.

As part of the Virtual Trillium War, We would invite all to come join us this Saturday evening for a brief Court via Zoom so that We might make a few announcements, issue a challenge and maybe a few other things.

Court will be immediately followed by the concert planned by the Trillium War staff. For those unable to attend, Court will be recorded and made available through the magic of Facebook and YouTube.

So don your garb and please come join us, Saturday, July 4 at 7:00 pm.

King Rattanicus and Queen Isabel
​
Ealdormere Zoom is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: Kingdom Court - followed directly by a performance of music and stories Time: Jul 4, 2020 07:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83162804942?pwd=WFlMWk13dWZ0dzBWVm9RVmpuc3p2Zz09

Meeting ID: 831 6280 4942
Password: 386105

These are the virtues of the Kingdom of Ealdormere to which we aspire and strive in thought, word, and deed:

Honour: In all our acts, we strive to be true to the ideals that are the foundation of our Society and to keep our word.

Inclusiveness: We welcome those of all backgrounds, regardless of ethnicity, culture, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious beliefs, or abilities, and will endeavour to make all spaces open and safe for all.

Kindness: We strive to be generous and considerate, breaking down barriers, drawing strength from our community, rejecting bigotry, combatting hate.

Above all, Equity and Justice, respecting the rights of others, giving each person their due in keeping with the laws and customs of Society and Kingdom. There shall be no place within our halls for those who by their words or actions reject these laws and customs, regardless of rank or status.
We who here witness this document hold ourselves to this pledge

This document shall not be sealed and is not complete.
​
This strength of unity shall ever increase in perpetuity.

Greetings unto Our Beloved Kingdom of Ealdormere,

As parts of the Province of Ontario move into the next stage of re-opening and increasing the size of social gatherings, so too must the Kingdom look to how we will move forward. We know how difficult this is for everyone. We all miss gathering together as we are used to. We all look forward to when we can gather together again. However, it is with heavy heart that We announce that time is not quite here yet. 

Although the Province is increasing the number of people for social gatherings this Friday to 10, the Kingdom will remain closed for in-person official activities until further notice. 

The Kingdom Seneschal, in consultation with the Privy Council, is working on a plan for moving forward together and at a reasonable pace. A pace that helps ensure the safety of our people, that applies openings equally to all groups, and where the numbers for in-person gatherings allowed by the Province should be at such a point that groups would be unlikely to have to turn people away from a meeting, A&S gathering, or martial practice. Master Lars has already sent an email to the local seneschals regarding this for more information. 

We know this is not the news many of you were hoping to hear, it is not the news We wanted to bring to you today, but We feel it is way too early in this pandemic to be gathering in-person and putting our friends and loved ones at unnecessary risk. We know it is a lot to ask, but We would ask that you all bear with Us and wait a just little longer. 

Always in Our hearts and thoughts, We look forward to when we can all gather together again.
​
King Rattanicus and Queen Isabel

It's hard to believe that a year has passed since I have stepped into the role of Kingdom Seneschal! That means it's time for me to look to the future and begin the process of seeking my successor. My term does not expire until spring of 2021, but I would like to have a good overlap period before the change of office. The deadline for applications is 31 July 2020.

Applications should include a letter of interest and your SCA resume. If your mundane resume has relevant experience, include it too! Please send applications by email to ealdormere.kseneschal@gmail.com.

Full details of the Kingdom Seneschal’s Role are outlined in Corpora, Kingdom Law, The Seneschal’s Handbook, and the Policies and Procedures of Ealdormere. 

Kingdom Law: 

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ARTICLE VII - Duties of the Officers of State 

VII-100  The Kingdom Seneschal is the chief administrative officer of the Kingdom and shall act as a signing officer in all contractual matters involving the Kingdom.

VII-101  The Seneschal shall supervise the process of formation and advancement of local branches according to the Laws and operating policies. 

VII-102  The Seneschal will ensure that meetings of the Privy Council are conducted in an orderly fashion and that agendas and minutes of the meetings are issued promptly. 

VII-103  The Seneschal shall be responsible for reviewing the content of all proposed laws and law changes to ensure that they do not contradict existing Law or Corpora. The Seneschal shall maintain a current listing of Kingdom Laws. The Seneschal, in concert with the Chronicler, shall ensure that the Laws are published every 20 years. The Kingdom Seneschal shall ensure that changes to Kingdom Law will be made available to the subjects of Ealdormere on the Kingdom Website.

VII-104  The Seneschal shall be responsible for soliciting bids for Kingdom events as defined in Article IV and for the maintenance of the Kingdom Calendar of Events. 

VII-105 Contracts involving the Kingdom may be entered into only by the Seneschal with the approval of the Crown, in consultation with the Privy Council. Such contracts must be signed by the Seneschal, following the procedures outlined in the Kingdom Operating Policies, Section One - Financial.

VII-106 The Seneschal shall appoint deputies as necessary to fulfill requirements of the office. Deputies to the Seneschal may include but shall not be limited to:

Council Secretary - responsible for minutes of council meetings 

Chatelaine - responsible for providing assistance to and education of new and prospective members of the SCA, 

Calendar Secretary - responsible for maintaining the Kingdom calendar of events, 

Deputy of Youth and Youth Programs- responsible for organization of children’s activities within Ealdormere. 

----

Other basics:
Must be a member in good standing
Must have reached the age of majority (18)
May not be sitting Royalty

Also note that for the duration of term, you may not fight or be fought for in Crown Tournament.

If you have any questions about the position, don't hesitate to chat with me, I would be happy to discuss the challenges and rewards with you. I promise, it's not always as hectic as it has been lately!

Lars

To the People of Ealdormere,

​Fondest Greetings to you all.  I dearly hope that everyone is safe and well in these trying times.

​As you may have already gathered from the past few editions of The Tidings, my quest to find a replacement officer is still ongoing. My term is set to expire this September (at the time that would have traditionally been Fall Coronation), but I am in need of securing a deputy now.    This time is vital to provide for overlap/training time so that the incoming officer will be supported in their transition.

Applications are further extended until June 30th, 2020.

I urge anyone with questions about the position to contact me at ealdormere.exchequer@gmail.com.  In person chats may be off the table currently, but I am also happy to set up a phone or video call.

The full rules and requirements to hold office can be found in the Exchequer’s Handbook, Chapter 1 (https://www.sca.org/resources/finances-and-reports/), but bare minimum: candidates need to be members in good standing, have reached the age of majority in the place they live (18 in Ontario), receive the Kingdom Newsletter, hold no other office, not be a landed Baron or Baroness or sitting Royalty and must not live at the same address as any other signatory on the accounts being managed.

The handbook outlines roles and responsibilities of a Branch and Kingdom exchequer. I encourage all candidates to read this section before applying for the position.

Interested parties should send their applications to both the Kingdom Seneschal and myself at the following addresses:
ealdormere.kseneschal@gmail.com
ealdormere.exchequer@gmail.com

Please include your SCA CV, highlighting any relevant experience you have.  Modern experience is also very welcome.   It is recommended that the prospective candidate has held an exchequer position in the past.

Yours in Humble Service,

Jane Caldwell

Here is a text rendering of the Q&A with Their Majesties from 25 April 2020.

​Note that this is not an exact transcript of the Q&A. Some things have been expanded upon from the original conversation.

-----

Q: Just to confirm: the event bid schedule is also on hold? Or will we pick up the current bid schedule when things begin to reopen?

A: Their Majesties are currently planning to hold Crown Tournament on 24 October as planned. If that happens, we will be back on track for the usual schedule of things and so we are going to take event bids for Spring 2021 as usual on the assumption that we will be able to proceed as normal by then.

-----

Q: Given all the work happening behind the scenes to plan and coordinate, is there anything the populace can do to help those officers who are carrying the load?

A: If you have seen anyone who has been doing a lot of work to support the Kingdom during these times, write them in for an award! Also be sure to submit to your Barony. If you have skills (Internet, video, whatever)  or ideas that would help Their Majesties during this virtual time, They would be most glad to have you reach out and They will put you to work. 

-----

Q: Would the Kingdom apply for a variance from the rule that events must be advertised in two Tidings, in order to allow events to be planned in short order?

A: Society has given a blanket variance to make Kingdom websites official publications, so we can publish things there for the duration and have it count. Also, the publication requirement for non-Corpora events (i.e. Crown, Coronation) is defined in the Kingdom Seneschal's Handbook, so we have some leeway to waive that with the consent of Their Majesties and the Privy Council for local Kingdom events.

-----

Q: Is there a central Kingdom-wide "repository" of on-line classes, meetings, and bardic events being offered so that we can all join in?

A: The Kingdom Calendar is the place to advertise your online events. Contact Mistress Lucia, the Lord Clerk-Register (ealdormereweb@gmail.com) to help you reserve a time with the Kingdom Zoom account and get it on the Kingdom Calendar. 

If you don't need to use the Kingdom Zoom feel free to reach out to the Lord Gavin, the Calendar Secretary (ealdormerecalsec@gmail.com) to get your online event onto the Kingdom Calendar. 

-----

Q: This may be premature, but what guidance has the BoD provided for succession plans at this time?

A: The BoD is granting variances as requested more or less. They are trying to take things three months at a time, and so that is where the 31 July date comes from. We're unique because not only are we wholly within Canada, but we are wholly within Ontario. So, we will be following what the provincial government dictates unlike other Kingdoms that span multiple states and provinces that may allow for earlier opening in some areas. We hope that we will be able to open in midsummer, but we will see what the situation looks like then.

-----

Q: What kingdom does Ealdormere have in the Gift Box Exchange?

A: We don't know yet! If you do want to participate, let Their Majesties know so they can let the organisers know and we'll find out what Kingdom we get.

-----

Q: How much lead time & what criteria do we need to decide whether to hold a scheduled event?

A: We are hoping that by late July or August we can get back to having meetings and practices. Hopefully by late August we can schedule a Coronation event. The lead time is an unknown at this point in time. We're very much at the mercy of the plague, and the Government can only do 28-day lockdowns by law. We anticipate another 28 day lockdown after May 12. Premier Ford has been consistent in saying that things will be slow in opening up. We're hopeful for a day event during August but we don't know. 

If you're facing deadlines for an event and need to make a call, make it. For non-Kingdom events you don't need Kingdom permission to delay or cancel. Make the decision that is best for you and your group. All of the groups that had events scheduled for the summer, were sent an email in advance indicating that all events are cancelled through 31 July, and that all camping events are cancelled in 2020, so they have had a chance to figure out their plans.

Should you have financial burdens due to lost deposits or the like, reach out the Kingdom Exchequer (ealdormere.exchequer@gmail.com) to take advantage of the relief fund that is available. On the other side of that, if things start to open up and your event is not a Kingdom event, we can make things work for that.

-----

Q: Will Their Majesties have meetings with Their Orders via zoom in the future?

A: Their Majesties will have some meetings for sure, just not sure how long it will take. Their Majesties will send an email to the various orders to get thoughts. Given that event time may be short They don’t want to stack events with meetings. Some may be in person, some may be online. This includes Hammer/Wain/Crucible.

----

Q: If Milpitas is still in lockdown, insurance for named entities may present problems for groups wanting to host. So we know if SCA .org is working offsite?

A: Given the number of emails the Seneschal is still receiving - yes. 

It’s unlikely we will open before any groups in the US, but it seems likely that if an insurance certificate is needed we’ll be able to get it. The general non-named proof of insurance is always available if your needs don’t require a named one.

-----

Q: Is there someone we can contact if we want to offer a class etc. and poll to find out if people are interested before we offer?

A: FOOL may still have room for classes. Another option is the Zoom account as noted - contact the Clerk-Register. For a poll, perhaps just put a post on the Facebook group checking for interest. (At the time of the Q&A, there was still room at FOOL.)

-----

Q: To the best of Your knowledge, is everyone in our Kingdom COVID free? Is there a place where people can ask for help?

A: At this point, Their Majesties are not aware of any in Ealdormere affected. There are definitely cases in other Kingdoms. At this point, we do not have a place to reach out for help. If anyone hears or knows of such resources, please share them.

-----

Q: Will martial practices be allowed once gatherings are allowed by the Government of Ontario?

A: Yes please! As soon as gatherings are allowed, Their Majesties would like to open meetings and practices. Once we’re allowed to gather more than immediate family, make the best choice for your groups.

Once things to start to open, if you aren’t sure please do reach out to Their Majesties or the Kingdom Seneschal to discuss.

-----
Q: How are Kingdom finances and do we need any fundraisers?

A: Kingdom finances are in a good state. For anyone who wishes to know the current status up to 1 April, we must publish a report every year. That report is on the Kingdom website.

In terms of fundraising, we don’t need anything in particular right now. If there is a cause you wanted to direct efforts towards, we’ll never say no! 

-----

Q: How would awards/peerage be presented during this time after nomination.

A: At this point, Their Majesties are not planning online courts. This may change with circumstances. Ealdormere is a small, close and lovely Kingdom. They think every award is important and that it is important that awards come directly from the hand of the Crown. 

There will be online missives and videos and such from Their Majesties. If Baronies wish to do online courts with awards, Their Majesties fully support that. If the lockdown persists, Their Majesties may change their mind -- and if there are deserving people who normally can’t make it to events anyway, then that may be the best way to get an award to them.

His Majesty adds that the AOA is an extremely important award, sometimes the only award someone may get while they are in the SCA. Larger Kingdoms can sometimes feel like a factory when it comes to awards, and They never want Ealdormere to feel that way.

-----

Q: What ancient deity did Lars offend to be kingdom seneschal during this?

A: Most of them, apparently. It is, however, Her Majesty’s fault that I am here right now. My revenge is that we are all going to cross this finish line together.

-----

Q: Are canton and officers’ still expected to report?

A: Yes. Please report on time as usual. Hopefully things will be happening online. There may not be much to report, but it is important to do so. The wheels of bureaucracy ever turn.

-----

Q: How might officer changes happen?

A: The only Greater Kingdom Officer changeover happening soon is KMoA&S. Xristina had graciously stayed on until this point to resolve all of the details, and Emelote will be stepping into the role in the coming week. 

There are three deputy officer positions changing over: 
Baron Brand is taking over as Kingdom Chatelaine from THL Constance
Dietrich is taking over as Signet Herald from Mistress Elaine 
Count Evander is taking over as Deputy for Youth Combat from Baroness Seonag

For other officer changes, just submit a change of officer form as usual.

After much deliberation and taking the current state of the guidance from the Province of Ontario into account, Their Majesties, Their Highnesses, and the Privy Council have taken the step to extend the closure of Ealdormere until 31 July 2020.

Further, for the sake of safety there will be no camping events in 2020. Our camping events are primitive at the best of times, and gathering many people under less than ideal sanitary conditions even after things have started to relax seems like a bad idea. 

We are hopeful that we can restart things in August with a celebration of Coronation for Their Majesties. With that said, Their Majesties and the Privy Council will revisit this at the beginning of July to see how things are looking, and to decide if an extension of the shutdown is warranted at that time. 

I here pledge unity and support
To the kingdom of Ealdormere
To uphold each other in dark days
And honour the laws and traditions
Giving hands and heart
To the health of the Kingdom
To ever follow the banner
And howl with the Wolf
I stand with Ealdormere
Apart, yet together in spirit
Until the day comes we can embrace again
Thus say I, (name).

Greetings to the people of Ealdormere from Their Majesties, Their Highnesses, and the Privy Council. 

In these days of uncertainty, many of you have questions about the coming days. After consulting with the BOD and our own Privy Council, Their Highnesses and the Kingdom Senechal will be hosting a Kingdom Question and answer meeting on Saturday, April 25, at 7:30 pm on Zoom.

We hope to see you all there on Saturday Night.

In service to the dream
The Royal Family

Meeting Details
Royal Family Q&A (Zoom)
When Sat, 25 April, 19:30 
Description Thier Royal Highnesses, Prince Amelius Claudius Rattanicus and
Princess Isabel Atwyll will host a Question and Answer session on Zoom.

Hosts: TRH & Lawspeaker
Ealdormere Zoom is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Royal Family Q&A
Time: April 25, 2020, 7:30 pm Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting
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Meeting ID: 817 8477 7152
Password: 800037
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Link for Questions

Questions for tonight will be taken from the following Slido document
https://app.sli.do/event/z5w81ltc/live/questions

​Greetings unto the Kingdom of Ealdormere;

Privy Council has arranged to host a Professional Zoom account to assist with maintaining community while we are all practice "shelter in place". The biggest benefit of this video conferencing account is that a paid account offers meeting time limits much longer than the 40 minutes that come with a free account. 

 If your group, guild, household etc would like to hold a public meeting on our Zoom account please fill out this form https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfQX4iS3zYGlBYDMszJOMCki_q2saQwSxyOBQPfVK4BDecFsQ/viewform?usp=sf_link

Meetings should be open to the general Ealdormerian populace, even if the meeting itself is narrow in scope (ie "Equestrian Enthusiasts Moot"). All meetings will be reviewed and then approved by the current Lord Clerk-Register.  Meetings will not conflict with each other. Meetings will be advertised on Ealdormere's Calendar page. 

Until we meet again
Baroness Lucia
Lord Clerk-Register

​Greetings unto the Wonderfully Talented People of Ealdormere from Their Highnesses Rattanicus and Isabel!

Once again We would ask you all to join us in song in the virtual. We will be hosting Ealdormere's second Virtual Bardic Circle Saturday, April 18 from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm with the assistance of the truly inspiring Honourable Lady Emer nic Aidan to lead us. So grab your favourite tasty beverage and come lend your voices to bring a little light to everyone's evening.

Topic: Ealdormere Virtual Bardic
Time: Apr 18, 2020 08:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/813287315?pwd=M0E0TTh6NzlyaEFWdkROTXczMG9EQT09

Meeting ID: 813 287 315
To join by phone:
+1 438 809 7799 (Montreal)
+1 647 374 4685 (Toronto)
Need a different number? Find your local number: https://us04web.zoom.us/u/fcYR7XiBcQ

Greetings unto the Good People of Ealdormere.

We wanted to take a moment to address some questions and concerns We know are coming up with respect to Our reign.

Thank you to everyone who has sent Us their thoughts and comments both though Facebook and email with respect to various options moving forward in these uncertain times. We truly appreciate the support voiced by the populace. The Kingdom continues to watch and take direction from the mundane authorities with respect to events and scheduling and We will keep everyone updated as We can in this ever-changing environment.

As always, should anyone of the populace wish to send Us their comments with respect to this or other issues We would encourage you all to do so by sending Us an email to Ealdormere.heirs@gmail.com.

We look forward to raising a glass with everyone in person when it is again safe to do so.
​
Rattanicus and Isabel
Prince and Princess

Greetings to the people of Ealdormere from Queen Kaylah and King Trumbrand,

As Our time on the Lupine Thrones draws to an end, many have been curious about the succession of the Line of the North.  

The Royal Family, with approval from the Privy Council, applied for and received a variance from the Society.  Ealdormere has been granted an accommodation that will ensure the succession takes place in a timely manner.  

Their Highnesses will take up the virtual crowns of Ealdormere on the originally scheduled date, April 25, 2020.  This will allow Them to begin the administrative duties for Their reign without delay.  There will not be a virtual ceremony.  We will simply be passing Them the keys to the Kingdom in the form of the Majesties email account, and all attendant administrative powers.

We look forward to bestowing the physical crowns at a to-be-determined future event. Flexibility is essential when the north winds blow.  Depending on the situation in the world, Coronation may be held at either an event already existing on the calendar, or may be a newly scheduled event. Please be patient while we wait for the world to regain equilibrium.  All will be informed as soon as a Coronation date is set.

It is our fervent hope that some day soon there will be a Coronation in the physical world with all the ceremony and splendor as befits the incoming King & Queen of these Northlands.  (And then We can get all this regalia out of our house!)

Until then, enjoy the modern medieval world as best you can: retape your weapons, fix your armour, sew that stunning new outfit, research that thing you’ve been meaning to look up, bake bread and brew beer!

May you and your loved ones have good health,
​
Kaylah, Queen by Right of Arms
Trumbrand, King of Grace and Patience

Greetings to the good People of Ealdormere from Queen Kaylah and King Trumbrand;

We may be unable to gather in person, but the fellowship of Our Kingdom continues through the magic of technology. The wonderfully talented Mistress Marian of Heatherdale will be generously sharing her talents on Saturday March 28 at 8pm via the magic of Zoom.

All good citizens of Ealdormere are invited to share in this event! Clap your hands, dance like no one’s watching and sing like no one can hear you. Because this concert was his idea, yes, even Prince Rattanicus can sing along if his microphone is turned way way down.

In these uncertain times, everyone needs a break from the ever vexing news. Ealdormere has been very good at maintaining a positive outlook. Give yourself an opportunity to smile.

Let there be song!
Queen Kaylah & King Trumbrand

Link to Zoom http://www.ealdormere.ca/news/ealdormere-online-bardic

Greetings to the people of Ealdormere from Prince Rattanicus and Princess Isabel,  

We are pleased to release the link for this weekend’s Kingdom Bardic night.  We hope to see as many of you as we can!
​
Ealdormere Online Bardic

Join Their Highnessess Rattanicus and Isabel and Mistress Marian of Heatherdale for an evening of bardic entertainment…

​28 March 2020, 8:00pm – 29 March 2020, 12:00am
To join via web browser: https://us04web.zoom.us/j/567812491
Meeting ID: 567 812 491

To join by phone: 
        +1 438 809 7799 (Montreal)
        +1 647 374 4685 (Toronto)

Need a different number? Find your local number: https://us04web.zoom.us/u/fcYR7XiBcQ

I would also like to thank their Majesties and the Privy Council for all their help in getting this Kingdom Zoom account set up so quickly.

YIS
Prince Rattanicus and Princess Isabel

Kniaginia Xristina Viacheslavova, KMOAS and Jane Caldwell, KExch 
Greetings to the Most Noble Populace of Ealdormere from your Kingdom MOAS and Kingdom Exchequer.   We are proud to promote a new initiative that supports local artisans while welcoming new blood into our Kingdom.

One of our most cherished traditions is to present our Newcomers with a cup at their first event.  It is an offering of friendship and welcome with the hope they come to share a drink with us again in the future.

Countess Marioun, during her reign, called for a new initiative to help support this effort going forward.  While individual donation of physical cups to the Crown are always welcome, we would like to support our artisans who wish create cups to help with this tradition. 

Kingdom Policy now has room to support and encourage artisan donations towards the Cup stores.  A sub-fund has been created to supplement material and studio costs for artisans wishing to create cups for gifting.

For those wishing to find out more or to apply to fund, email the KMOAS at ealdormere.kmoas@gmail.com

Financial policy language on the structure of the fund can be found at http://www.ealdormere.ca/uploads/2/4/1/5/24151324/ealdormerefinancialpolicyoct2019.pdf

Not an artisan, and think this is cool? Donations of funds towards this project are greatly appreciated. Donations can be made directly to the Kingdom Exchequer, or to your local Branch Exchequer. Please let them know what the money is for, and they’ll direct it appropriately. Both individuals and branches can donate towards this fund.   Let’s see what magic we can make together!
    
YIS,

Kniaginia Xristina Viacheslavova, KMOAS and THLady Jane Caldwell, KExch