Get your own Free Home PageOn 24 September, Lord William and I performed a demo for a 5th grade class at Northern Eastheart's elementary school. It went quite well. William filled in where I needed to regroup my thoughts and we complimented one another throughout.
24 October, 8 of us performed a demo at King's Point's Heritage days festival. 'Twas an all-day demo and it was nice again to work outdoors. The event autocrat was impressed with us and asked if we might consider a return engagement. In December, I assumed the office of Chronicler from the Schreck of Bern. It was rather short notice, so my publications were almost all my own work, and not by my choice.
Lord Lycurgus assumed the seneschalate at the last Tribal Revelries, and regrets by Lord Wulfgar over his choice were surfacing. Lycurgus seemed to be wanting to militarize Lost Forest. Lycurgus was worried about the Phoenix and Lord Wulfgar, and much of the populace was paranoid over Lycurgus and the things he was trying to do. He attempted to institute many things which a significant portion of the populace was against. The one that upset most of us, or got many of us thinking, was that he said that he'd see all the old heads out of office before he stepped down. One "old head" he already stripped of responsibility was Ld William, our castellan. He'd been serving as assistant seneschal since Lost Forest's re-birth and now Lycurgus created a permanent autocrat office and stated that her voice would be second only to his own. He was fought with letters and verbal challenges which he, for the most part, ignored. I started to get busy with my pen, and told of how I would notify anyone I felt could help us if happenings in Lost Forest didn't start to calm down. We, in the Brotherhood of the Phoenix, discussed the problem with Lycurgus after he made a politically poor-taste phonecall to one of our brothers. We elected to attack only his poor taste in the phonecall, and to give his policies a chance to adapt to the wishes of the populace.
I offered my assistance to Lycurgus to diplomatically word his policies and he eagerly accepted. I also announced my intent to seek the office of Castellan upon Lord William's departure for England. This too, was accepted.
I attended a Saturday fighter practice in March, and found that tensions between Pro and Anti-Lycurgus factions has calmed considerably. I actually enjoyed the friendliness. The problems still existed, and a meeting of Lords, Ladies, household heads, and officers was suggested to clear them once and for all. This meeting was met with great resistance.
14 Feb AS XXVII: I have made several attempts to contact Lord Lycurgus to discuss some of the problems looming over our fair stronghold. Friday, 12 Feb, I sent in a bid for seneschal to Lord Deotrich Hiltipard, seneschal for Calontir. I hope that when Lord Lycurgus for one reason or another, is forced to relinquish the office, I may be able to take over. Lord Wulfgar assures me that I have his support, and he will function as an ambassador for Lost Forest. This is, of course, if he doesn't try to start another splinter group in Sedalia or other nearby community. Lord Lycurgus has many good ideas. One of which I am in favor, is his emissary program. The emissary is a disseminator of information. The emissary reminds those under him or her, of the group's need for funds. The emissary is a go-between for the populace and seneschal. Lord Lycurgus is frequently unable to be contacted, and needs people who can fill in for him in his absence.
On 17 Feb, AS XXVII, I prepared a letter to Lord Lycurgus, very similar to the letter I had prepared for Lord Deotrich. I will be giving Lycurgus the letter when/if he contacts me regarding 2 messages I left on his answerer. Rumor has it that Lycurgus appointed Dorenn as assistant seneschal. The same rumor also says that she has no desires to become THE seneschal. I am waiting for Lycurgus to announce her appointment officially, and I will talk to her about whether or not she wants the office of seneschal. Things seem to be going back to the War of the Morals days, when Caistrin was seneschal, and didn't consult his officers on matters concerning them or the populace.
Early last week, 8 or 9 Feb, I left messages for Lycurgus to contact me regarding the settling of differences prior to Caloncon. He has not returned the calls as of yet, 18 Feb. This, in my opinion, shows lack of respect for the thoughts of his officers. I will attempt contact again today.
21 Feb AS XXVII: Friday evening, Ld Lycurgus returned my calls. He said that he had made it quite clear that Dorenn was his assistant seneschal, at the officer's meeting held in January. I was not in attendance. Apparently he hadn't made it as clear as he had intended. Several members were in disagreement over how she handles the power she thinks she has. I haven't seen it first hand, but I've been trying to keep out of the politics. Yesterday's fighter practice went quite smoothly. There was no hostility in the air, as William, Garth, Manfred, Lycurgus, William Langsford, Parthalon, and Eltee (as Lycurgus called him) fought one another. With what Lycurgus told me on the phone, and what I saw at the fighter practice, I plan to make a few changes on a positive note, to the letter I have prepared for him. I will be delivering it tomorrow. At the fighter practice, attending were also Morganna, Brecanni, Black Corwin, John of King's Point, and myself. I will be making a book list for John, as he seemed very interested in finding more information like I had been bringing to various events. I brought my newly acquired Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, and John was quite fascinated at its content. Lycurgus asked for complaints and concerns in writing. I responded.
CONCERNS AND OPINIONS of Ognyen:
As officers of Lost Forest, it is our duty and responsibility to SERVE THE
POPULACE, and not the other way around. I hope what I see, as the start of
strict regimentation and absolute autocracy, is just a paranoid misconception
on my part.
I believe the emissary role is a necessary one, as disseminators of
information, NOT as stronghold tax-collectors. We could help ease the load of
the Seneschal by answering questions on scheduling and by trying to stop
rumor-mongering, and the Castellan by working as sponsors for new-comers until
they get comfortable. I feel that one who recruits should be responsible for
those recruited until such time as they go for it on their own, or show a
distinct lack of interest. The Castellan should maintain records on new
members, but should sponsor only those recruited at events and demos.
I do understand that we need funds to support many of our undertakings. For
fund-raising purposes, I would rather see the passing of a collection
plate at feasts rather than other suggested methods. We could even
(and I'll build it) post a contribution box for use at our gatherings and
demos. Most of our populace has elected NOT to subscribe to publications. I
don't feel subscriptions should be made a part of the services provided through
a "voluntary" $4.00 a month.
You say you will consider the $4.00 on a case-by-case basis. I consider
myself to be a strong contributor to the support of Lost Forest through crafts,
writing recruiting articles, membership propaganda, time invested on
publications, etc., but how can you fairly, in the eyes of others, say one
doesn't have to donate the $4.00 cash, but another does? You will be quickly
accused of favoritism and clique-building, and those not giving the $4.00 will
be accused of "a**-kissing". This will cause alot of gossip and
rumor-mongering, and you well know that can tear apart the group. (And please
don't continue the "Well f***-'em" attitude you've expressed in the past. We
all have opinions, and they all count equally.) I think the pass-the-plate and
donation box is the preferable route, and I'll provide free to all, the Advance
Scouting News, and lower the subscription rate for the SCOUT. The emissaries
should still take the responsibility for the information network, but don't
drop a person from the net because he/she doesn't contribute the "voluntary"
$4.00 a month.
Demos are a necessary part of our existence, and I don't feel money should be the driving force as to whether we do one or not. We, in the SCA, are part of a non-profit EDUCATIONAL organization, and educating the mundane populace of our existence and willingness to teach should not be neglected. School demos should be done without even mentioning that we need funds. School demos are fun, and expose kids and potential contributing parents to our group. We could display the contribution box and herald our need for support at other demos.
I know you stated that no one disagreed with what you presented at the meeting. I don't believe anyone had the time to think about all that was thrown at them. I hope my expressed opinions don't label me as a whiner and complainer, but from what I've heard from others, someone needs to voice areas in which there are disagreements. I shall remember, that I am a servant of Lost Forest, and as such, I will strive to support any of our programs. If I have a difference of opinion with you, I will say it to YOU, and not fuss about it in the rumor mill.
Finally, bear in mind, that these are only my opinions, but that I am an experienced officer and seasoned member of Lost Forest, and that these ideas are not expressed without thought for the well-being of the stronghold as a whole.
signed
(editted for political reasons, and besides, we've grown up quite a bit since this was originally written.)*FINALLY, I have a problem with myself, in that I am not allowing time to see if your policies will work for the benefit of SLF. I admire your aggressive attitude toward what you feel will benefit SLF. I am in total agreement with your proposed office of emissary as communicators and sponsors. I admire the fact that you will at least hear a grievance in spite of where it comes from, and I'm sure by now, you perceive me as an irritant, though that isn't my intent. You have succeeded in getting thoughts rolling, and as such, I start writing, in hope that it will help me give my thoughts some cohesiveness.
We've had, or many think we've had, problems over the policies of our new seneschal. I feel we're not giving enough time to see if these policies can work for the benefit of SLF. I see people hearing something, and twisting it to suit his/her needs, and spreading it around. We're getting conflicting stories which need to be straightened out. I don't think Lycurgus is quite as bad as some seem to think, nor do I feel that his assistant, Dorenn, is out for glory, not thinking about what's good for the group. We need aggressive leadership, but this leadership must consider opinions and thoughts of the populace. We all have opinions, and they are of equal value.
26 Feb AS XXVII I will be giving Dorenn Gunn McTigue a call to verify rumor of her not wanting the seneschal position, and to inform her of my bid for the job, should Lycurgus need to step down.
I just spoke with Dorenn, and she stated that she thought she wouldn't be well accepted as seneschal, and that the job entailed quite a bit more work than she was willing to undertake at this time. She seemed quite open, and willing to talk about any subject. She said that if anyone had any difficulty with her, to talk directly to her. I shall, in the future, refer those people to her. I had no hardship in discussing the potentially controversial topic of my bid for seneschal. We discussed those having problems with her/Lycurgus. Without mentioning any names, I said that some saw the "boat" being rocked, with others on the same boat, not spilling a drop of tea. It was verified, that there are different stories on the same subject. She said that she thought publications were included with the $4.00 monthly donation, and hadn't heard that Lycurgus had said that it was back to subscriptions only. She did say that Lycurgus said that chronicler was my baby, and that I would run it. Lycurgus, I appreciate your faith in my abilities.
10:15 pm: After a short talk with Ld Wulfgar, I see that the battle of the personalities has erupted over Crown Tourney. I was told... (more editting) I think too many of us see each other running around with knives to stick in our backs, when these perceived knives could actually be turned into quills with which to write award recommendations. We all need to try to be more tolerant of the views of others, and try to work with them, even if we might disagree with them.
If you're reading this; Lord William of Friedrichsburg, your intentions are
noble. Your motivation is admirable. You speak far too frequently without
thinking things through or allowing yourself a chance to cool down. With a
cool-down period, you might see things more clearly after the steam dissipates.
Lady Molly, your garb-making abilities and musical talents are nearly without
peer. When given a task, you take it and run with it. You must remember that
the opinions of others are just as valid as your own, and that everyone is NOT
out to cut you down. Lord Wulfgar, you led us well during your term as
seneschal. Your leather-working talents have benefited many in our stronghold,
and your mead is exquisite. You seem to value the opinions of others. I feel
you might broaden your acceptance of who these "others" are. Lady Molly has
valid opinions too. Dorenn Gunn McTigue, you have been with our stronghold for
a while now, and have displayed a desire to get things done. For this, you
have been granted an almost permanent position of autocrat. Slow down abit,
and allow others to catch up. This way, they'll see you're not doing things
without them, and you may be able to benefit from some of their experience.
Lady Brecanni, your experience in the arts and sciences is vast, from brewing
of fine scents to cooking, garb making, herbalism and song. I've not found a
time when I couldn't talk with you; and you gave the feeling like you were
truly listening. You are ever curious, and ever helpful. Try to get a little
pushier. "I don't think so," and "Well, I don't know", are NOT no answers. I
don't think you're quite as tough as you sometimes seem to try to come across.
There's nothing wrong with being quiet and sensitive, but don't let people walk
over you. Lady Brienne, in my few dealings with you, I have found you to be
quick to help if you can. You knew that I liked experimental crafts, and
without my asking, have given me quite a few odd pieces with which to work.
You must be doing a good job as exchequer, as I've heard no ill rumors coming
from your superiors filtering down to the populace. Please, consider your
wording when asking about possible mis-placed funds. You, like Lord William,
seem to thrive on crisis. Things are not always as big as we might initially
think. Lord Garth, you seem to truly be trying to live chivalry. You are not
quick to anger. You control your tongue. You handle yourself gracefully in
awkward situations. Perhaps you could teach the Stronghold a bit about
etiquette. Lord Lycurgus, you have been our seneschal for a few months now.
Isn't it fun? You have great ideas for the direction in which you'd like to
see SLF go. You have a strong DO-IT attitude, and a diplomatic way of pushing
things. Try to be less politically minded, and know that we talk amongst
ourselves. Somehow many of us get different stories on the same subject. When
someone whines, it's usually because something's bothering them. Try to work
out the problem, or at least convince the person that what they're seeing is
actually an opportunity to excel, and not a problem. Lord Ognyen, you have
made some nice things for the SLF, both for local use, and for gifts. You've
been in various offices, and done them quite acceptably. Like almost every
other officer in this stronghold, you've been too quick to take a side. Know
that there are at least 2 sides to every gripe, and that each considers itself
to be in the right. Lord Garth, Lord Parthalon, Lord Greiggor, John of King's
Point, William Langsford, Hengeist of Stamford Bridge, and Lord Manfred, to
name a few of the cool heads in the group, you have been visible parts of our
Lost Forest, yet somehow have managed to steer clear of the rumor mill, and
keep from taking sides in disagreements. I commend you!
WE'RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER. TOGETHER. TOGETHER. LET'S LEARN TO WORK
TOGETHER, AND NOT TRY TO FIGURE HOW EVERYONE ELSE IS TRYING TO PUT US DOWN.
WE'RE HERE TO HAVE FUN, AND ENJOY THESE CURRENT MIDDLE AGES. HOW CAN WE SHOW
OTHERS HOW MUCH THIS ORGANIZATION AS TO OFFER THEM, WHEN THEIR FIRST IMPRESSION
OF US IS ONE OF CONSTANT ARGUING AND BICKERING. WE'VE SAID IT BEFORE, BUT TO
NO AVAIL, "LET'S STOP ALL THIS RUMORING AND GOSSIPING!"
28 Feb '93: I now hear that something dreadful has happened, and that Lycurgus said that there's no way I was ever going to get seneschal (not that that in itself is so dreadful). I don't know yet, what all was said/alledged to have been said. I may find out at a Phoenix meeting tonight.
1 Mar '93: There is trouble in Lost Forest. My findings are summed up in another letter entitled "Crisis". (The "Crisis" document has long been lost.) I firmly understand that my frequent writings make what I say un-argueable. Through this practice, I feel I won't be accused of telling two different stories. (I feel that the conflicting stories you may find in this writing are merely changes in attitude as time passes.) I also know that I can't deny writing what I put in print. These writings are posted in my Lost Forest personal history book, and I do not try to hide them. I try to be open with my thoughts, and I try not to tell one person one thing and someone else another.
2 Mar '93: I had a most enjoyable evening last night, and thus far this night, in that I have not been harassed with SCA telephone calls full of complaints. I have, in fact, received no calls regarding SCA at all. I had time to read an historical timeline from one of my son's books he got from his great grandma. I even peaceably worked on some carving of Lost Forest pins. It was a nice time. I believe I may have successfully propagandized Ruthe Koenig in that she asked when our next gathering would be, and that she would try to make it. I said that the only up-coming thing I could think of was the fighter practice of the 20th of March. She remembers the fighter practices we used to hold in Shepard Park, and mentioned that she loved the garb. She was going to come, if for nothing else, the clothes. I tried to explain that fighter practice is for the fighters, and only on occasion, others show up. It might be worth our whiles to be garbed and in mini-demo form, as she has a wealth of information and education in Middle Ages areas. She is specially interested in European history and says her first love is medieval literature (degrees in English and History). She is in her late 60's, I believe. She is a high school English teacher, and State Fair Community College teacher of Government and American History. She would be a valuable asset to SLF. I feel that we would do well to try to impress her.
3 MAR AS XXVII: I spoke to Lycurgus today, and he seems to be opening up to the opinions of others, as he has elected to hold the meeting that was suggested to him. He says to extend invitation to officers, Lords and Ladies, household and interest group heads. He stated that the rest of the populace is welcome as well, but won't get special invitation. I will be speaking shortly to Dorenn, regarding the scheduling of this meeting. I am hoping that he uses the meeting for his benefit, and not to the detriment of himself and Lost Forest. He also said that the Phoenix would be sponsoring the 18 April feastmoot, and that other sponsors would be bumped for this.
about the 7 Mar meeting:
What a meeting! Lycurgus told everyone 'how it
is', without ruffling many feathers at all. We know where we stand regarding
Spring Crown Tourney and with Dorenn, the autocrat. Lycurgus was NOT the iron
handed tyrant that many had been complaining about. I preached anti-gossip
through a letter I'd written. Even the two bardic groups are opening up
negotiations with the hope of reunification. Barely a stone in Lost Forest was
left unturned. One great stone was moved, which I'm not sure should have even
been disturbed. The phone calls between Lycurgus and Wulfgar came into the
open. The allegation that someone had threatened Wulfgar and
Breccani was brought out, and that it makes it very difficult to function as an
officer and work with people when others one works with talks like this. The
populace was appalled and demanded to know who it was that was threatening
other members. Lycurgus said that he really didn't remember talking like that.
He took all that was said quite well, even down to the tongue lashings from
those at the meeting.
17 Mar AS XXVII: The past few days had been pretty peaceful. Wulfgar called the house yesterday and asked if I had anything I wanted to submit to Tournaments Illuminated. He proudly said that he got the cover for the next issue. Wulfgar offered to send my submissions along with his. He said that other stuff is goin' on, but that he wasn't going to go into it. I thank you Wulfgar for taking my request of leaving me out of the rumor loop seriously.
Now I get confused. At a little after 11:00 last night, Lycurgus called and offered me the seneschalate. I asked if he got orders. He said he didn't and that he was just giving up his office. He said that it would be open for me after Crown Tourney. I accepted, though I am still puzzled as to the reason. I hope to find that out sometime today or tomorrow.
18 Mar: I spoke to Lycurgus yesterday at lunch time. He verified that he indeed made the call, and said what he said. I thought there was a chance that he might have been drinking and offered me the job in the heat of the moment. He said that he felt he was of the wrong temperament to fulfil the duties of seneschal in a manner in which they should be done. He seems to have found new faith in me that he hadn't seen in the past. There are a few, according to Lycurgus, who will step out of offices or leave Lost Forest altogether if I become seneschal, or if Lycurgus steps down. To me, this shows they have no loyalty to the stronghold, and it also shows a great deal of immaturity. How honorable - Quit rather than face a problem and work it out. In my opinion, attitudes like this are detrimental to our stronghold. I say, Weed 'em out! One is said to have stated that he and his lady are now planning to leave Lost Forest because of present political reasons. This man, just a few weeks before, asked if he could become a member of the Brotherhood of the Phoenix. A Phoenix member swears to support the Lost Forest and the Brotherhood. Supporting and quitting are contradictory. He asked me why I said that I couldn't say yes to his membership. I told him that it was because I didn't know him well enough to say yes, but at the same time, I didn't know him well enough to say no. I said that if the Brotherhood truly wanted him in, I would support the decision. I am glad that the Phoenix took my hesitation to heart and waited on his acceptance. His words, if he said them, proved me right in my assessment of his loyalty. I see no reason for Lycurgus to make up a lie. I feel about the same way toward Lost Forest as I do the Phoenix. If you want to be in it for selfish reasons, and not to support the group, I don't care if you do leave. I don't want your support if you're going to let go at the first sign of hardship. It is better for ones like this to leave, rather than to stay and fester in our stronghold like a boil. The infection from foul attitudes spreads far too quickly. Amputate, or run the risk of death from complications. The other route, and the preferable one, is to disinfect and correct the attitude.
A thing for me to consider, and a paranoid thing at that, is that this whole seneschal thing might be a political game to kill the "old heads". Let's throw a great Crown Tourney and show the kingdom how great we're doing under Lycurgus' leadership. After we get all the glory, we'll pull out of Lost Forest, leaving the "old heads" a wounded, crippled near-corpse to try to work with. Ognyen and the "old heads" along with the Phoenix will look like high grade fertilizer to kingdom when Lost Forest dies, and we can step back in and clean it up, throwing more mud at those *$@#&%+ "old heads".
I spoke to Lord Parthalon, and he said that the rumor had spread around Westheart, of my assuming the seneschalate. He said that he would most certainly function as my assistant. I don't quite know what the assistant seneschal's duties would entail, but I need a close, Westheart, non-Phoenix contact to provide me with non-Phoenix inputs. I am sure I will have all the voluntary support from the Phoenix that anyone would want. I hope it won't come across as the Brotherhood running the Stronghold. I mentioned that Siubhan was considered for chatelaine, and that I thought her attendance at local events should be better before taking on a job like that.
I am looking for potential replacements for the offices of chronicler, castellan, exchequer, archer marshal, and a replacement for head of the herbalists, just in case the rumor from Lycurgus holds true. I hope these people can reconsider their thoughts, if the rumor is valid.
19 Mar: In an effort to kill a rumor, I called Lord Ferogain to hear him tell about his possible stepping down as archer marshal when the seneschal changeover takes place. He said "That'd be insanity!" when I told him that I heard he was stepping down due only to the changeover. He says only a tiny bit of the reason stems from that, but mostly it is because he's had it for long enough. I would like to know about that tiny bit of reasoning for stepping down because of the changeover. He wants to give someone else a chance to try to get Lost Forest archery off the ground. I asked if he knew anything about Molly's staying on as bardic head. He says he doesn't know.
A few weeks back, I received a call from a friend that a lady had placed an ad in the Eastheart newspaper trying to find the local SCA group. I made contact with her, and she expressed an interest in fighting. She says she has experience in the SCA from one of the eastern kingdoms. I spoke with her today, and she will be accompanying me to fighter practice tomorrow.
20 Mar AS XXVII: It had been made clear, at least in my mind, that fighter practice was to be held today. I was called by Black Corwin MacCamie at 10:20 am and told that it was cancelled. I know that I had requested that Dorenn run the emissary listing to inform all, that I needed garbed spectators to impress a potential guest. She apparently did not, though she said she would. I spoke with Lord Garth, Lord Parthalon, Lady Breccani, and others earlier this week regarding garbed support and none indicated that there was any postponement or cancellation. At our last feast and officer meeting, it was stated that fighter practice would resume on the Saturday after spring break was over. I questioned the time and location for my own information, and had 11:00 at North Morrow Gym on the 20th confirmed. How did I get my wires crossed, and why did everyone wait 'til I was ready to leave for the practice to inform me of my misunderstanding? No harm was done, no one got embarrassed, and my potential guest did not show up, but I am still confused and frustrated.
Black Corwin showed up to talk to me, as I stated that I would still be there, to at least tell anyone else who might come, that the practice was cancelled. The lady that opened the gym had apparently not been informed of the cancellation either. She was puzzled, saying that the 'other guy' (Manfred) is usually here early with all his gear. I told her I would speak to those in charge in hopes of their letting the school know of schedule changes like this. Corwin and I discussed several points, and I wish to express my views here, on what I heard. There is a leak somewhere, on what is going on with the Phoenix. Corwin said that members were considering pulling out of their offices so there would be no Phoenix members in Lost Forest officer positions. Where is Corwin getting his Phoenix information? Most of what we stand for, is the support of Lost Forest. How can we support and take away our support at the same time? Lord Garth, who could take over as fighter marshal? Lord Wulfgar, who knows heraldry in Lost Forest like you do? I will resign from the Brotherhood before I'll sit back and watch Lost Forest die, just so we can try to revive it for our own selfish glory. I believe in what we stand for, with or without the Phoenix. Didn't nearly all of us swear on the sword that we would support Lost Forest through thick or thin? Rather than pull out of offices, we should put the Phoenix in the background detaching it completely from our positions in Lost Forest, and go forth and work even harder in support for the stronghold. With regards to bardic, I told Corwin that it might be in his best interest to let Molly run with it. If, as he sees it, too many disagree with her, he could peaceably step in after a while and take over, rather than to keep fighting constantly.
I made deliveries of several ASNs after I left the fighter practice site, and left a letter with Justasien for those who fear my taking over as seneschal after Crown Tourney. I hope any misinterpretations will be cleared up DIRECTLY with me before anyone flies off the handle and gets upset.
I seek a replacement chronicler. It must be shown to me that he or she is loyal to Lost Forest, and to the office and responsibilities of the chronicler.
21 Mar: All of this could well generate rumor. I do NOT want to leave the Phoenix, and consider it a very drastic measure to take. That which I heard from Corwin is rumor, and is to be taken as such. I do think about things I hear, rumor or fact.
Lord William paid me a visit yesterday. We talked, or more accurately, I talked. My spouse pointed out that I needed to work on my listening skills. I don't notice this while I am with someone, but do sometimes after the fact. (Tell me to shut up if you need to squeeze some words in, and I'll try not to take offense.)
22 Mar: Thus far, without my access to a seneschal's handbook, I have found
this information.
In accordance with the Known World Handbook, 25th year edition, '...chief
administrative officer and legal representative of any SCA group and generally
also responsible for coordinating the activities of the group's other officers.
The Badge: Gules, an ornate key fesswise Or.' How do I interpret this? "Chief
administrative officer and legal representative", to me, means that I would
function as a central point of contact for officers of the group. I am to be
knowledgeable of SCA and kingdom laws regarding the operation of the group, and
stop illegal activities. I would caution those coming close to violation of
those laws. For example; Lady Breccani has appointed Black Corwin as her
assistant MoA&S. This in itself is not a violation of law. It appears to be
an appointment made to give a title to a friend and ally, and to throw mud in
the face of another member. It is stated that appointments and offices are not
to be given simply to give power and status to any individual. I caution
against such appointments. I have not seen how this action actually detriments
Lost Forest, therefore, if I was in such a position, I could not override her
decision. Arts and sciences is her area, and I'll not tread on her authority
unless ill-doing can be proved. I have only expressed my disagreement over
this to our seneschal, Lord Lycurgus. It is also a violation of unwritten laws
of courtesy for an autocrat to deny anyone inputs for events, unless they go
against the theme of the event, or must be denied for just reasons. I have not
seen how Dorenn is alleged to have excluded anyone from inputs for Crown
Tournament. I see no reason to take action other than to remind others to give
her the inputs. I have every reason to believe that she will work with them as
best she can. "Coordinating the activities of the group's other officers" to
me, means that I will function as a mediator for disputes, and insure the
officers are doing the jobs for which they are responsible. The only officer
problem I see right now, is with the MoA&S and the bardic situation. Our bards
comprise a fairly large piece of our dedicated populace, and their attitudes
reflect a great deal on the stronghold. I shall not step in to determine
fault, unless I am requested (actually demanded) to do so. I feel this problem
needs to be worked out between Lady Breccani, Lady Molly, and Black Corwin.
Lady Breccani and Lady Molly do truly need to work out their differences, as
they have been a sort of sore spot since they met. Airing of their grievances
in writing would eliminate angry tones of voice, and would make what was said
indisputable. Stubbornness has been seen on both sides. Both have legitimate
views. There must be some sort of compromise worked out so we can once again
become the "happy family" so many of us have reminisced about. Lord Wulfgar
needs to let them fix their problems without interfering. All four of these
gentles have much they can offer Lost Forest. I do not wish to alienate any of
them. Some time ago, I made a decision which impacted Lady Breccani and Lady
Molly, as well as myself, in that I made it. I hope I have patched up the
ill-feelings between myself and Molly. We did say we'd let the past be the
past. I have been trying to do so. If I had to settle this bardic problem
myself, no one would go away happy.
25 March, AS XXVII: Our Brotherhood of the Phoenix is perhaps going in the wrong direction. We seem to have strayed from those original thoughts which bound us together. We seem to be adopting a superior-to-those-who-disagree- with-us attitude. This must stop. Those members of Lost Forest who are not of the Brotherhood have not sworn to the things which we have. It cannot be demanded that they live by them. Do we fight for truth, honor and chivalry? Or do we merely hold them up as a shield in order to fight for whatever we want? I think we have lost sight of our goals and duties. We need to re-think our ways of doing things, and our position in Lost Forest.
There are a few Lost Forest members who are not a part of the Brotherhood who have earned, from me, a great deal of respect. Lord Parthalon was asked to be a Phoenix member, but he declined. He still displays those qualities which I see as Phoenix-worthy. There are several things about Lord Ferogain which I question, yet he has been in a position on many occasions to get angrily involved in disputes. I've not seen him raise his voice in anger. William and John from King's Point, have been visible parts of Lost Forest for a time now, and have stayed out of the petty battles. Now look at Lady Molly. She has been slammed and beaten around by almost every member of our Brotherhood, me included, but is still doing the things she feels are right for Lost Forest. I admire that. Lady Breccani has been involved in Lost Forest problem solving since before Lord Wulfgar was Seneschal, and she is still in there, holding one of the mandatory officer positions, fighting for what she feels is right. Lord Lycurgus is our Seneschal, and is receiving very little support from our Brotherhood, even though we are to support SLF. He is sticking with his job, and I truly feel that he is trying to open-mindedly run things. We may disagree with the way he is doing it, but he is trying. Being the Seneschal is not easy, as I'm sure Lord Wulfgar will attest. We all know that one cannot please everyone, all the time.
My attitudes over these past few months have changed a great deal through my dealings with multiple sides of disputes. I know that every side in a disagreement has a valid complaint. Please try with me to see this. We can be a stronger Brotherhood, and mend many hostilities toward the Phoenix by doing this.
8 Apr AS XXVII: In the past couple weeks, letters have gone to Their Majesties, Kingdom MoA, Kingdom Chronicler, Kingdom Chatelaine, Gold Falcon Herald, Clerk of the Precedence, Baron Christopher, Count Sir Roderick, Lord Wulfgar, Lord Lycurgus, and more. I have written much for the SCOUT, and drafted several forms for Lost Forest use.
Caloncon brought news to our fair Stronghold. Our bards must either clean up their acts, or get out of the business of leading our local musicians and story-tellers.
I feel good about Lost Forest at the moment. Lord Lycurgus called me a bit ago, and had no ill information to pass on. I have been staying out of the rumor loop, or rumors have died to next to nothing, or at least nothing that's been making waves. I like that.
11 Apr. Lady Siubhan called last night to find out a bit about where to find jeweler's tools. I suggested Radio Shack to her, as they carry tools for handling and working with tiny electronic components. We discussed some about the SCOUT, and I need to get in touch with her and deliver the stuff I've got ready for it. I think I'll do the calendar as well as the other stuff, just in case she doesn't get to it. I just turned the job over to her, and I feel like I need to keep an eye on her until she gets settled with it.
23 Apr. Yesterday we, Lady Siubhan, Dorenn, Cynthia of Hermit Manor, and myself, were present at Whiteman AFB's Student Teacher/Earth day. The rumor heard earlier, of Lord Parthalon's taking over Lost Forest bardic arts was somewhat confirmed, as I had a request for some graphics to put in the SCOUT, from Parthalon through Siubhan of musical notes for his letter. It was too windy to play recorder, so I just worked on chains and sold small items. Cynthia demonstrated spinning and displayed much of her hand weavings. Siubhan and Dorenn provided added atmosphere with playing medieval card games on a blanket on the ground. Like last year, my common responses were, "Yes, it's a real sword", "No, you can't handle it", "No, those aren't for sale. They're just for display." There were many more, but I shan't go into them. There was one notable buying frenzy when one young gentleman asked how much a mounted stone was. I hadn't intended to display them, much less sell them. I asked if a quarter was too much, and he said no. Another offered $1.00, and the bidding went as high as $2.00. I was not encouraging the auction, so I sold it to the original gentle for the quarter, telling the other to buy it from him for a dollar. The buy urge was so strong that I was offered a dime for a 3" piece of thin copper wire. I refused him, but he insisted and I compromised by stripping a 12" piece to expose 15 individual wires. This, I sold to him for his dime. Next year, if there is such a thing, I shall have more rings to sell. I had none made up this year, but a young lady with friends ran across the field and asked if I was the guy that had the rings last year. I said that indeed, I was, but I had none prepared. I did have some wire, and sold the 20 or so rings I made, as fast as I could make them. Siubhan helped out a bit in shaping them, but was distracted when one of her smalls ran off.
(more edits) I spoke via farspeaker with Lady Molly, regarding splits with Lost Forest. She is apparently living with Leandrea and Miguel. I called for Leandrea but got Molly instead. I left several messages for Leandrea, but have gotten no response. Molly says that Leandrea and Miguel have broken from Lost Forest. I would much prefer talking with Leandrea herself. I asked about the Chilhowee demo and invited them all to the up-coming WAFB demo. She said no mention of the Chilhowee demo was made to the Stronghold because it was such short notice. It was known of at least a week in advance. Morganna overheard Dorenn discussing it on the phone long before it took place. On 25 Jun, I performed a solo demonstration for the 5th grade Advanced Learning class at Whiteman AFB's elementary school Summer session. I put news of this into the phone tree, but got no takers. I occupied the entire time with Q&A to start, then proceeding into history from the fall of Rome to the sinking of the Spanish Armada. I told how our language is supposed to have stemmed from Indo-European roots and spread across Northern Europe to become what we speak and write today. I demonstrated development of our alphabet from runes and Roman symbols to what we use now. I showed also, chainmail, heraldry, jewelry making, coin striking, and more. I played a few tunes on the recorder.
Lycurgus called me during the last week of June/first week of July. He wishes that I assume his office in August when he steps down. He said "...and this time I ain't yankin' yer chain."
On 13 July, I submitted a few lines for publication in the Whiteman AFB Bulletin. I hope it gets some response.
14 July: I have finished a letter on a proposed "Council of Officers and Elders" which would, if I become seneschal, help me in decision making for the group. It is designed such that no group would be without representation.
18 Aug: Many things have happened during the past month. I have been acknowledged as seneschal by kingdom level, through a letter I received yesterday.
I made mention that I was looking for a replacement for my office of castellan. I got 2 applicants for the job: Black Corwin MacCamie, and Lord Parthalon Mac Keon. Corwin, I believe, would not be well accepted by the populace, and he is too apt to take sides in disagreements. He is dedicated to the SCA, but needs better direction. Parthalon was contacted by me earlier when Lycurgus first suggested that I would be seneschal in the first part of the year. He said he would function as my assistant then, and he volunteered for the now-open job of castellan. I will be giving the position over to him. Another applicant, through the rumor mill, was Justasien Morey. This is funny, because just before he asked for others to find out from me if he had a chance at castellan, he was heard to say what a bad choice for seneschal I am, and how I would bring about the downfall of Lost Forest. I don't think I can work with someone like that. He has been a part in many of the hardships in Lost Forest, and pulls out at the sign of bad times. He is lacking in dedication to the group, and to the group's officers.
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