The ballots are in. Tomorrow (March 19th) the selection committee will be counting the ballots and tallying the totals. They will then inform their Majesties about the results and ensure the King and Queen have all the relevant information to make the important decision at hand. The chosen candidates or candidate will be publicly announced at Break the Back of Winter in Greyfells on March 28.
Until then Cristabell and I are filling our time with a number of projects. We have started work on an all linen corset for Cristabell (we found some wonderful canvas weight linen) and will be dancing at the demo in Kemptville this Saturday.
Thank you to everyone who chose us on their ballots.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Some of the Pledges We've Made
During this selection process we have promised things at the All Candidates Meetings as well as in our blog. Some of them were little things some are longer term goals, but we sincerely intend to fulfill all of them.
If we are chosen as the next Baron and Baroness:
We promise that Baronial courts will be short and creative. Court will be held at least once a year in every Canton.
We promise to keep the lines of communication open with all people in the Barony.
We promise our active involvement in addressing the problem of diminishing membership. We will help with demo's, media campaigns, and other activities to help new members feel welcome. We will also try to recognize and reward the efforts of current members so they feel appreciated.
We promise to support the people participating in martial activities in ways that are meaningful to them.
We promise to lead and participate in group A&S activities at events. We believe events would benefit from more dancing, singing and playing of games. We will invite every member to share in the fun of group projects such as painting banners together.
We promise that the kind of fun we bring to events will contribute to the historical atmosphere.
We promise to respect the traditions of Skraeling Althing and Ealdormere, as we explore new ways to grow and improve as a Barony
If we are chosen as the next Baron and Baroness:
We promise that Baronial courts will be short and creative. Court will be held at least once a year in every Canton.
We promise to keep the lines of communication open with all people in the Barony.
We promise our active involvement in addressing the problem of diminishing membership. We will help with demo's, media campaigns, and other activities to help new members feel welcome. We will also try to recognize and reward the efforts of current members so they feel appreciated.
We promise to support the people participating in martial activities in ways that are meaningful to them.
We promise to lead and participate in group A&S activities at events. We believe events would benefit from more dancing, singing and playing of games. We will invite every member to share in the fun of group projects such as painting banners together.
We promise that the kind of fun we bring to events will contribute to the historical atmosphere.
We promise to respect the traditions of Skraeling Althing and Ealdormere, as we explore new ways to grow and improve as a Barony
Caldrithig Polling Update
Copied from Lady Thora's (Henrietta) e-mail:
Caldrithig will be holding their polling day for the current Baronial Selection on:
March 11, 2009, The poll will be open from 8pm to 10pm.
Place: Sandy Hill Community Center, 250 Somerset E, in the lobby
Please bring proof of membership.
ALSO:
Lady Thora will be at the Jack Purcell Center THURSDAY NIGHT at rapier practice to pick up any Absentee ballots8:00-10:00pm the address is 320 Elgin street(**be careful where you park because they are very strict in that area**)
Absentee Ballots:
If you will be unable to come to the polling day, you may still cast your ballot.
To do so, write your first, second and third choice for Baronial successor on a plain piece of paper and on a separate paper include a copy of your proof of membership (either the print out confirmation from the web site or a photo copy of your card). It is important that your ballot and your membership are on separate papers so that your ballot does not identify you and is secret.
Seal these two pieces of paper in a regular envelope. On the outside of the envelope, sign your name and write membership#.
Arrange to have the envelope be delivered to Lady Thora on or before March 12.
Lady Thora's email is hverweybsmith@gmil.com
If you wish to bring some snacks to socialize while the fighters practice feel free to do so.
Hope to see you all tomorrow.
In Service
Lady Thora
Caldrithig will be holding their polling day for the current Baronial Selection on:
March 11, 2009, The poll will be open from 8pm to 10pm.
Place: Sandy Hill Community Center, 250 Somerset E, in the lobby
Please bring proof of membership.
ALSO:
Lady Thora will be at the Jack Purcell Center THURSDAY NIGHT at rapier practice to pick up any Absentee ballots8:00-10:00pm the address is 320 Elgin street(**be careful where you park because they are very strict in that area**)
Absentee Ballots:
If you will be unable to come to the polling day, you may still cast your ballot.
To do so, write your first, second and third choice for Baronial successor on a plain piece of paper and on a separate paper include a copy of your proof of membership (either the print out confirmation from the web site or a photo copy of your card). It is important that your ballot and your membership are on separate papers so that your ballot does not identify you and is secret.
Seal these two pieces of paper in a regular envelope. On the outside of the envelope, sign your name and write membership#.
Arrange to have the envelope be delivered to Lady Thora on or before March 12.
Lady Thora's email is hverweybsmith@gmil.com
If you wish to bring some snacks to socialize while the fighters practice feel free to do so.
Hope to see you all tomorrow.
In Service
Lady Thora
Sunday, March 8, 2009
A Skraeling Pilgrimage
Today we traveled out to the Harrowgate Heath meeting with the hope of discussing the upcoming Demos in Kemptville and Upper Canada Village. As it turns out meetings in "The Heath" are very short, so the formal meeting was ending just as we arrived. Anyway we had the chance to speak to a number of people individually about the demos and will continue the conversations on-line.
One of the best parts of the trip was the ride home. A stroke of inspiration hit us and we came up with a fun way to encourage travel within the Barony. We should all set out on a Skraeling Pilgrimage! If selected as the next Baron and Baroness we would set up a make believe route, including "shrines" at an event in each canton over the course of a few months. Any one who completes the entire pilgrimage will be rewarded with a special pilgrim's badge. Visitor's to the shrines will perform short (5min or less) ritual such as drinking from the sacred fountain, reciting a verse while climbing the steps, and other silly tasks based on historical examples.
This is an example of the creativity we offer to the Barony. A Skraeling Althing pilgrim's route achieves a number of our goals: it would be fun, it makes the game feel more medieval, and it encourages members from across the barony to visit one another.
One of the best parts of the trip was the ride home. A stroke of inspiration hit us and we came up with a fun way to encourage travel within the Barony. We should all set out on a Skraeling Pilgrimage! If selected as the next Baron and Baroness we would set up a make believe route, including "shrines" at an event in each canton over the course of a few months. Any one who completes the entire pilgrimage will be rewarded with a special pilgrim's badge. Visitor's to the shrines will perform short (5min or less) ritual such as drinking from the sacred fountain, reciting a verse while climbing the steps, and other silly tasks based on historical examples.
This is an example of the creativity we offer to the Barony. A Skraeling Althing pilgrim's route achieves a number of our goals: it would be fun, it makes the game feel more medieval, and it encourages members from across the barony to visit one another.
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Polling in Caldrithig and Absentee Ballots
We now have all the details and wanted to post them here for everyone.
Caldrithig's Polling Day:
March 11, 2009, The poll will be open from 8pm to 10pm.
Place: Sandy Hill Community Center, 250 Somerset E, in the lobby
Please bring proof of membership.
Absentee Ballots:
If you will be unable to come to the polling day, you may still cast your ballot.
To do so, write your first, second and third choice for Baronial successor on a plain piece of paper and on a separate paper include a copy of your proof of membership (either the print out confirmation from the web site or a photo copy of your card). It is important that your ballot and
your membership are on separate papers so that your ballot does not identify you and is secret.
Seal these two pieces of paper in a regular envelope. On the outside of the envelope, sign your name and write membership#.
Arrange to have the envelope be delivered to Lady Thora on or before March 11.
Caldrithig's Polling Day:
March 11, 2009, The poll will be open from 8pm to 10pm.
Place: Sandy Hill Community Center, 250 Somerset E, in the lobby
Please bring proof of membership.
Absentee Ballots:
If you will be unable to come to the polling day, you may still cast your ballot.
To do so, write your first, second and third choice for Baronial successor on a plain piece of paper and on a separate paper include a copy of your proof of membership (either the print out confirmation from the web site or a photo copy of your card). It is important that your ballot and
your membership are on separate papers so that your ballot does not identify you and is secret.
Seal these two pieces of paper in a regular envelope. On the outside of the envelope, sign your name and write membership#.
Arrange to have the envelope be delivered to Lady Thora on or before March 11.
Friday, March 6, 2009
Pomp in Different Circumstances
How do you plan to bring a sophisticated level of presence or "pomp" to the game when you are playing (in general)? How would you extend this level of presence to events/functions in the barony if you (both) are not there? What about at kingdom events where the barony is/should be represented?
As a start you can count on our decorum and appearance to befit the station at all times. Although we enjoy our middle class clothing, we would choose to wear splendid apparel appropriate to the station. Even at camping events, as so many are in the summer, you will find us suitably attired. A little looking into the clothing of noble hunting parties and campaigns have offered some terrific options. We like to be actively involved in many activities at events and plan to continue to do so. While on the list, on the dance floor, in meetings and court; we would be mindful of the example we set and do our best to portray the part.
Cristabell and Wilhelm in Court at Coronation
When ever it is allowable by the event staff, we would set up a Baronial presence, similar to the way Eleanor and Menken did. So that all would be able to see that we are in attendance and have a rallying point at out-of-town events. We would also be quick to resurrect the Herald Tree. We love the visual impact and the participatory nature. Every Skrael deserves to be seen and recognized.
Lady Avelyn expressed specific concern for the Skrael presence at camping events such as Trillium War. To this effort we proudly boast of our beautiful pavilion, 16ft x 16ft, with dagged edging and a hospitable sun shade. It offers a beautiful backdrop for a variety of gatherings for the people of the Barony and on behalf of the people of the Barony.
If we personally cannot attend an event the trappings of the Barony and personal emmisaries can be sent. We can send the Herald Tree along with other Baronial Heraldic displays. There are many members of Skraeling Althing that could enter court for us to present gifts and messages from the lands of the Noble Hare.
As a start you can count on our decorum and appearance to befit the station at all times. Although we enjoy our middle class clothing, we would choose to wear splendid apparel appropriate to the station. Even at camping events, as so many are in the summer, you will find us suitably attired. A little looking into the clothing of noble hunting parties and campaigns have offered some terrific options. We like to be actively involved in many activities at events and plan to continue to do so. While on the list, on the dance floor, in meetings and court; we would be mindful of the example we set and do our best to portray the part.
Cristabell and Wilhelm in Court at CoronationWhen ever it is allowable by the event staff, we would set up a Baronial presence, similar to the way Eleanor and Menken did. So that all would be able to see that we are in attendance and have a rallying point at out-of-town events. We would also be quick to resurrect the Herald Tree. We love the visual impact and the participatory nature. Every Skrael deserves to be seen and recognized.
Lady Avelyn expressed specific concern for the Skrael presence at camping events such as Trillium War. To this effort we proudly boast of our beautiful pavilion, 16ft x 16ft, with dagged edging and a hospitable sun shade. It offers a beautiful backdrop for a variety of gatherings for the people of the Barony and on behalf of the people of the Barony.
If we personally cannot attend an event the trappings of the Barony and personal emmisaries can be sent. We can send the Herald Tree along with other Baronial Heraldic displays. There are many members of Skraeling Althing that could enter court for us to present gifts and messages from the lands of the Noble Hare.
Creating a Connection
Lady Avelyn also posed this question:One of my favourite features of the SCA is how royalty can create a feeling of intimacy with individuals in a crowd, even though sometimes it's impossible to speak with every person at an event one-on-one. Do you think you could accomplish this, and how?
We think this is a skill that takes practice to develop. The opportunities we have both had to make presentations in court and at feasts have allowed us a small glimpse into what it takes. The basics include: making direct and gentle eye contact, speaking to be heard, and steering away from "in jokes". This is true when in conversation with a group as well as at head table for a feast or holding court. We would certainly seek guidance from others who have been successful at this in the past as well as feed back about our own developing skills.
Another important part of feeling intimate with the person on the dais comes from having a genuine relationship with them. So although there may not be time at every occasion to speak with every person at length, there should be time set aside though out the seasons to try to spend some quality time interacting with as many parts of the populace as possible. Attending a variety of practices and meetings for example. Offering and accepting offers of a place to stay after an event also gives a wonderful opportunity to become better acquainted with SCA friends you may not see as often. An idea that Agnes recently offered in her submission to the Chronicle was to host a Baroness' tea for newer members. We think the idea is delightful, Wilhelm has even offered to bake the cookies. Spending time together in a quieter atmosphere would undoubtedly help to create and sustain that connection when in the hustle and bustle of a busy event.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
The Media is Your Friend
One of the questions posed by Lady Avelyn, at the Caldrithig All Candidates meeting was: "At the baronial level, do you think the media should be important to us as an organization, and if so, what do you think their role should be?". Although we did chose this one to answer, the following is a more complete reply.
Yes the media is important to the health of the Skraeling Althing. We should be taking the opportunity to showcase our best attributes as often as possible. The examples of positive representation in the media far out weigh the occasional "bad rap". Harrowgate Heath has had some lovely local coverage, including a full page spread of photos depicting a wide range of SCA activities and a healthy cross section of members. We have kept a copy as a memento of the enjoyable day we spent at that demo. That was I believe, the day I met you Avelyn.
We can not prevent a local paper from reporting about us if they so desire, so we had better be on top of things to make sure they feel welcome, get an accurate story and plenty of opportunity to build a collection of positive things to show and tell about us. I love the idea of matching any visiting reporters to a responsible guide or host. I also thought the TV spot Judith helped arrange before the Osgoode demo last year went very well. Mathias was an excellent spokesperson for the SCA. About four or five years ago I helped a student journalist from Algonquin arrange interviews with a number of local members. She was writing a comparative article about the variety of hobbies available in the Ottawa area that give a person a chance to play with swords. The resulting article portrayed the SCA in a very positive and accurate light.
We know how well these particular encounters with the media went because one or both of us have actively participate in all of them. We have always been willing and will continue to be willing to interact with the public, including the media. We understand that not all members of the SCA enjoy, or are permitted to share their free time with the public eye. That is another reason why the media should be invited to see what we do in an unobtrusive, well controlled manner. For all who would rather not be quoted in the news or seen on TV, we will happily be your spokespeople.
Yes the media is important to the health of the Skraeling Althing. We should be taking the opportunity to showcase our best attributes as often as possible. The examples of positive representation in the media far out weigh the occasional "bad rap". Harrowgate Heath has had some lovely local coverage, including a full page spread of photos depicting a wide range of SCA activities and a healthy cross section of members. We have kept a copy as a memento of the enjoyable day we spent at that demo. That was I believe, the day I met you Avelyn.
We can not prevent a local paper from reporting about us if they so desire, so we had better be on top of things to make sure they feel welcome, get an accurate story and plenty of opportunity to build a collection of positive things to show and tell about us. I love the idea of matching any visiting reporters to a responsible guide or host. I also thought the TV spot Judith helped arrange before the Osgoode demo last year went very well. Mathias was an excellent spokesperson for the SCA. About four or five years ago I helped a student journalist from Algonquin arrange interviews with a number of local members. She was writing a comparative article about the variety of hobbies available in the Ottawa area that give a person a chance to play with swords. The resulting article portrayed the SCA in a very positive and accurate light.
We know how well these particular encounters with the media went because one or both of us have actively participate in all of them. We have always been willing and will continue to be willing to interact with the public, including the media. We understand that not all members of the SCA enjoy, or are permitted to share their free time with the public eye. That is another reason why the media should be invited to see what we do in an unobtrusive, well controlled manner. For all who would rather not be quoted in the news or seen on TV, we will happily be your spokespeople.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Ballots Are Being Cast...
The end of the race is near. The last of the All Candidate meetings has now taken place. Thank you to Lady Thora who hosted the meeting in Caldrithig and to Lady Moira who hosted the meeting in Greyfells last night. Each canton brought unique and interesting questions to the discussion. There were also some topics that came up every where; reliability, leadership for the combatants on the field, and plans to improve the barony.
Last night the first ballots were cast in Tor Brant. Thank you to all who expressed their support for us. Harrowgate Heath have announced their poll will be at their meeting this Sunday March 8th. Greyfells has announced that they will be holding their poll at their meeting Tuesday March 10th. Caldrthig's polling night is tentatively scheduled for Wednesday March 11th, we are waiting the final confirmation for this date, check with Lady Thora for more info. All ballots will be counted at the same time on March 19th by the Baronial Selection Committee.
Advanced ballots can also be submitted if you will be away. Harrowgate Heath just posted the following instructions for absentee ballots and I assume they are the same for everyone in the Barony. Use a regular envelope, include a copy of your proof of membership and on a separate paper write your first, second and third choice for Baronial successor. On the outside of the envelope, sign your name and write your membership number. Get the envelope to someone who is attending the meeting.
Our Vicar, Xristinia also made it known in Greyfells last night that every person is expected to select a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd choice on their ballot. The second and third choices will only be considered if there is a tie. Ballots with out all three choices indicated will be considered spoiled, and not be counted. A final confirmation is still awaited from the selection comity, however we urge every one to be sure they are filling out their ballot correctly so that their voice is properly heard by Their Majesties.
Last night the first ballots were cast in Tor Brant. Thank you to all who expressed their support for us. Harrowgate Heath have announced their poll will be at their meeting this Sunday March 8th. Greyfells has announced that they will be holding their poll at their meeting Tuesday March 10th. Caldrthig's polling night is tentatively scheduled for Wednesday March 11th, we are waiting the final confirmation for this date, check with Lady Thora for more info. All ballots will be counted at the same time on March 19th by the Baronial Selection Committee.
Advanced ballots can also be submitted if you will be away. Harrowgate Heath just posted the following instructions for absentee ballots and I assume they are the same for everyone in the Barony. Use a regular envelope, include a copy of your proof of membership and on a separate paper write your first, second and third choice for Baronial successor. On the outside of the envelope, sign your name and write your membership number. Get the envelope to someone who is attending the meeting.
Our Vicar, Xristinia also made it known in Greyfells last night that every person is expected to select a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd choice on their ballot. The second and third choices will only be considered if there is a tie. Ballots with out all three choices indicated will be considered spoiled, and not be counted. A final confirmation is still awaited from the selection comity, however we urge every one to be sure they are filling out their ballot correctly so that their voice is properly heard by Their Majesties.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Songs and Entertainment at Feast
One of Cristabell's fondest memories from her early days in the SCA is the singing at her first feast. The whole hall was aglow with candles, every voice was raised in praise of our King and His lands. There was a wonderful feeling of joy and unity. At that time we did not know and did not care that there was nothing medieval about the melody or the lyrics, all we knew was that there was something magical about that moment.
We see no reason why the best parts of this SCA tradition can not happily co-exist with the best kinds of historical examples. When it comes to music and other entertainments at feast we believe that there is time and space for all. The best part of our memories of singing at feast is the participation and the emotion created by the experience. There are many songs from SCA periods that are simple to learn and sing. If we began to regularly sing them at feasts soon every one would be able to join in. The joy of belonging comes from being able to participate, not from the specific song being sung.
Original work, in an historical style, is also being created by the talented members of Skrealing Althing all the time. The history of our own lands and people can only be celebrated this way. We are not likely to find any references to Baroness Enid, King Sarnac, or the vorpal hare in any pre-1600 manuscript. Our own history is a very important part of continuing to build a strong identity as Barony.
An appreciative audience for all types of entertainment can be found at every feast. Medival and Renaissance audiences apreciated a higly skilled musician, a silly story and even a tallent farter. (It's for real! Ask Wilhelm sometime. He'll just explain, not demonstrate.) In our oppinions; hearing, seeing, and enjoying a wide variety of entertainments can only make a feast better.
We view it as part of the Baron and Baroness' job as hosts in the Barony to both request and reward entertainment. If chosen for the job, we would be supportive of the efforts made by all members and guests who were kind enough to share their talents. We would seek out entertainment to suit many tastes and no less importantly we would be willing to participate in the festivites (even if Lord Vodnikov is asking for volunteers).
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