Present: Cat, Lily, Dafydd, Marieke, Dietrich, Aethelwulf, Thomas, Rosie, Leo, Katherine. The meeting lasted one hour, and was held via Zoom.
Thomas apologized for the difficulties with Google Meet last time; Zoom is the preferred method going forward.
Loaner Armor – Dietrich discussed options for materials (we agreed on paracord for lacing, and the tough black leather).
Possible future events — For Birthday Bash, held in the fall, Thomas will put out a call for an autocrat. Dafydd will discuss with Panther Vale whether they, or we, will be hosting Yule this year. Panther Vale may be holding a “Homecoming” event in the fall. The Coronation of Their Highnesses, Honig and Ioannes,*may* be at Harper’s Retreat, nearby in Stonemarche, in early Sept., but this has not been confirmed (just a rumor, folks!)
Demos – The SCA Demo at the Stowe Renfaire went well, with Leo’s mannikin “Manny” providing lots of thwacking fun for new blade-wielders. About a dozen new folk have signed up for our Facebook and email lists, and a few have showed up at our Sunday practice. Rosie spoke with Jeff of the Renfaire, and Freeholders are welcome to help put on a demo at the Winter Renfaire, in conjunction with Panther Vale. – We also talked a bit about doing a demo at the St Albans Farmer’s Market, or in the Rutland area, or at ComiCon or Carnage (gamer’s conventions.)
Handouts – Marieke found an old tri-fold pamphlet in her basement that could be a springboard for a revised demo handout; the files are also online at the SCA Chatelaine website. She and Katherine will work on an update.
Fencing Practice – Fencing practices for youth and adults are well-attended, with about a dozen participants and numerous spectators. The participants are working on safety and calibration. Dietrich asked if we have the ability to authorize new fencers. Lily said that authorization requires two marshals, one of whom is not a usual practice partner; so this requires travelling out of shire or inviting a marshal from “away” for a visit. However, un-authorized fencers are welcome to participate in drills and practices.
Exchequer – Dietrich is our new Emergency Deputy Exchequer; Marieke remains as backup. Our bank balance is unchanged. Katherine reminded us that she can authorize reimbursement for COVID-related cleaning supplies. The Financial Committee will be meeting soon to review our financial policies; if you are interested, contact Katherine (exchequer@mountainfreehold.eastkingdom.org)
Arts and Sciences, Sewing Classes — Rosie is happy to see the various A&S projects happening alongside the Sunday practices. Some of our newer members have expressed a desire for garb-making classes, and Rosie has some ideas for that, online and in person. Cat pointed out that there are Kingdom and Society resources online for garb and sewing that can be helpful. Rosie’s friend from NH who came last fall and gave us some very useful tips on pattern drafting, might be persuaded to return for another session. When we are outside at the school, there are no outlets for sewing machines, but in the fall, if we can use the outlets in the school’s HomeEc room. Katherine thought it might be useful to provide “kits” of cloth and thread for people who want to make their first simple garb. Also, Katherine said her bookstore in St. Albans can be used for sewing workshops, off-hours; she has plenty of outlets. For indoor classes, we have to be sure to follow SCA guidelines and people’s comfort levels.
Arts and Sciences – Pennsic University. Rosie also mentioned that Pennsic University will be happening online for two weeks later this summer. They are still accepting class proposals from people who want to teach.
Arts and Sciences – Armor Class. Dietrich is willing to lead an armor-making class, at his home in St. Albans, for youth and adults. He is SCA-background-checked but needs another adult present, and he will comply with all rules and regulations.
Heavy List – Some folk who saw us at the Renfaire came to our Sunday practice to check things out. Yay!
Heraldry – Dafydd says some of our newer people are interested in getting their names and devices designed and registered. Contact pursuivant@mountainfreehold.eastkingdom.org if you are interested! Dafydd is considering recording a class/info session that people can view at their convenience.
Seneschal – Thomas reminded everyone that he is available on Tuesday evenings for Seneschal Office Hours. You can contact him at seneschal@mountainfreehold.eastkingdom.org to set up a phone or video chat.
Here endeth the notes, by Marieke