If you are at Pennsic, stop by Æthelmearc Royal to admire the lovely new sheet walls and gate entry to the public part of the encampment.
The shorter walls are easier for gentles to raise and lower, while the wider entryway is easier for gentles in scooters or wheelchairs to access, not to mention gentles pulling handcarts.
While you are there… please consider signing up for a shift at Hospitality, that entryway you are admiring. Many slots are unfilled at this point in the War.
New walls for AEthelmearc Royal. Photo by Baroness Katja
Volunteers working Hospitality:
sit in the shade
sit in front of an electric fan
can charge up their phones or devices
Hospitality is an easy two-hour volunteer job — it’s most often greeting gentles, directing them to the scribal or meeting tents, verifying whether the Royalty are inside or seeing visitors, taking messages, handing out bingo sheets, and welcoming gentles to rest, drink water, or charge their devices. There is always an experienced volunteer with each shift, so even if you’ve never done it before or don’t know how to answer a question..
Sign-up is in the schedule binder at Hospitality Table. Shifts are two hours long.
The Watch at Pennsic. Photo by Baroness Ekaterina Volkova
Pennsic 48 needs you!
Did you know that the Pennsic War runs on volunteers alone? Well, it does and it needs many more.
Want to help? Stop by any department that interests you and offer to help out. They will probably grin and welcome you eagerly. Just about every department needs help right now and through the War.
Not sure where you can help and need an introduction? Come to the Watch and ask for Ekat. I will be happy yo make introductions for you.
Come get that sense of fulfillment, meet and make new friends, and help make the vacations of thousands happen.
Greetings from Æthelmearc’s Hospitality Coordinators, Lady Lasairfhiona inghean Aindrias and Lady Dubheasa inghen Dubgaill:
Do you enjoy the magic of Pennsic?
Would you like to be a part of that magic?
Pennsic runs on the strength and dedication of volunteers. We would love for you to experience the joy and wonder of volunteering. Æthelmearc Hospitality at the Kingdom Royal Encampment is looking for people to relax in the shade and greet people. While doing so, you can charge your electronic and have something cold to drink.
Each shift is two hours.
Hospitality is open Monday of Peace Week through Thursday of War Week.
I wanted to post a note with a few observations from setup weekend. I saw many, many sets of hands helping out everywhere. Rank didn’t matter. Royal Peers were next to people without any awards whatsoever.
Do we have bad eggs? Off course. They were nowhere to be seen. And that is ok. In Royal, as well as all the other camps I saw, good people did what they could for others. Even the grumbling I heard (this is too much work etc.,) was all good natured. I’ve been at this site every year since Pennsic 12, and it is still just as magical for me now as it was then. If you let the little things bother you, you will never relax, and will likely be miserable.
Relax, let the little things go and have a wonderful, well deserved vacation with friends and family.
Aethelmearc Royal encampment, a few years past. Photo credit, Aoife
A call for volunteers from the Æthelmearc War Chamberlain, Master Janos:
It is the end of July. The smell of fresh duct tape and the cursing of people sewing permeates the air… War looms on the horizon. SCAdians across the globe check lists, pack, re-pack and hope that their travel plans will get them all the way to Cooper’s Lake for yet another Pennsic War.
The Kingdom of Æthelmearc will yet again set up its own presence to create a space where meetings can be held, stories can be told, artisans can show off their skills and scribes can teach their techniques. Creating this environment takes some effort; effort made easier when many hands come out to help.
This year, we are continuing a system set up last year that seemed to work very well, minimizing the impact on volunteers’ time while also allowing Æthelmearc Royal to be set up quickly and efficiently. Æthelmearc needs you to help out with the following:
Sunday July 30th 9:30AM to 12:00PM (Noon)
Truck Crew at the Trailer Needed: 8 Persons (able to lift and carry)
This team meets out at the Æthelmearc Trailer (near the archery field) to offload the big trailer into the box truck that has been rented to shuttle things over to N04 (Royal). We offload the whole trailer; so this team quickly moves items to the truck, and waits while a small team empties the rental truck at N04 and then returns. This process usually takes about three trips and this team is be released at noon.
11:30 AM to 4:30PM
Ground Crew at Æthelmearc Royal Needed: Many Hands Make Light Work (all skills and abilities)
This team meets at Æthelmearc Royal and sets up the encampment according to an orchestrated plan. Individuals set up pavilions, dig a sump, and finally erect the sheet wall that proudly identifies Æthelmearc’s heart at Pennsic. The Scribal tents, the main gate, meeting tent and other community spaces are created during this time. Refreshments are provided to keep this small army of workers hydrated and this activity will end at 4:30PM, allowing those that need to drive home or finish up things at their home encampments time to do so before supper.
Friday August 11th 10:00AM to 3:00PM
Ground Crew at Æthelmearc Royal Needed: Many Hands Make Light Work (all skills and abilities)
We undo all the work done at set up, carefully packing and stowing the canvas and walls for another year of time in the trailer. Orchestrated again by a “foreperson” on the ground, items are made ready to be loaded back onto the rental truck to make the trip back to the trailer. As before, refreshments will be provided to keep workers safe. This session often has fewer people show up as there are battles and other morning activities still happening on Friday. Thus we need more folks to show up to this so that the camp can be packed up before people start heading home.
1:30PM to 4:00PM
Truck Crew Needed: 8 Persons (able to lift and carry)
The encampment having been packed up, needs to be picked up and transported back to the trailer. A small crew rides the truck to assist with loading at Æthelmearc Royal as the rest of the crew waits at the trailer to pack things back away. We are trying to schedule this so that those who have had fought in the morning will have time to grab a bite to eat to help out afterwards.
Æthelmearc needs your help to set up and break down this communal space. If you are able and willing to assist please reach out to Master Janos (caseyodonovan@yahoo.com), especially if you want to be on the truck crews. You need not pre-register for this, though! Come on by during the ground crew times to assist! Thank you in advance for your help, and we look forward to seeing you in a few weeks. Until then safe journeys!
Greetings from the Pennsic Newcomers’ Point Coordinator,
This year, we are coordinating the return of the Newcomers Point, which will be part of the Pennsic Event Resources.
Our goal is to have a place that is open and available to newcomers, where they can feel comfortable and learn more about the event and the SCA in general. Newcomers’ Point will be a set place where Newcomers can come to ask questions or get information about the SCA and/or Pennsic. We will also be able to help Newcomers get involved with their local group after Pennsic.
The Pointe will be will be located under the same tent as the Pennsic Watch (seated at the table, in the shade, with electricity!), and we will need your help staffing the tent. Already Æthelmearc has chosen to sponsor a day, and the Midrealm has too.
Most shifts are still open, and we especially need people during Peace Week. Please email me to volunteer for a shift and help make this a huge success.
Sunday, July 30, 2017: 11am – 3pm
Monday, July 31, 2017: 11am – 3pm
Tuesday, August 1, 2017: 11am – 3pm
Wednesday, August 2, 2017: 11am – 3pm
Thursday, August 3, 2017: 11am – 3pm
Friday, August 4, 2017: 10am – 6pm
Saturday, August 5, 2017: 10am – 6pm – Sponsored by Æthelmearc
Sunday, August 6, 2017: 10am – 6pm – Sponsored by the Midrealm
Monday, August 7, 2017: 10am – 6pm
Tuesday, August 8, 2017: 11am – 4pm
Wednesday, August 9, 2017: 11am – 4pm
Thursday, August 10, 2017: 11am – 4pm
In Service to the Dream,
Baroness Desiderata Drake, OP
Newcomer Point Coordinator, Pennsic 46
Æthelmearc Royal encampment, a few years past. Photo by Aoife
Greetings unto the populace of Æthelmearc!
Our names are Dubheasa inghean Dubgaill and Lasairfhiona inghean Aindriasa, and we have been asked by Their Royal Majesties to take charge of coordinating hospitality at the Æthelmearc Royal encampment for Pennsic XLV.
For those not in the know, hospitality is in charge of the populace pavilion at the AE Royal Encampment where we provide anyone who would like a place to sit, cool/dry off, hydrate, and socialize. We make sure people get answers to their questions, are directed to wherever they need to go in the Royal Encampment, have messages taken, and we accept gifts to the crown.
Due to the popularity, we will be able to recharge small electronics. These are open to anyone who is in the populace pavilion, in a meeting or other business in the encampment, guarding the gate, or working hospitality. You are, of course, responsible for your own devices.
We are looking for volunteers to fill shifts throughout the war. We like to have two people manning the desk during open hours. We always make sure to schedule at least one experienced person in a shift, so if you’re new to hospitality, feel free to sign up, and we’ll get you up to speed in no time.The first day of hospitality is on Sunday, July 30 from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., during which time we will finish setup.
Peace Week shifts are from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday, July 31 through Friday, August 4.
War Week shifts are from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Saturday, August 5 through Thursday, August 10. We have two shifts in the morning of August 11 to pack up prior to tearing down the royal encampment.Shifts are two hours long.
Hospitality will be closed during Kingdom Court, and adjustments will be made for other activities taking place in the royal encampment or as demand requires it.
If possible, please sign up in advance! We have a total of 108 slots to fill throughout Pennsic to provide the level of hospitality and service we have become known for.
If you can’t commit yet to a time, the hospitality schedule book will be at the hospitality desk to sign up in once you get to Pennsic. Of course, early choice means the best times are available.
Thank you very much!
Lady Dubheasa inghean Dubgaill
Lady Lasairfhiona inghean Aindriasa
Hospitality Coordinators
As we all finish packing up for War, your help is needed to make our Kingdom shine and to provide the space for all people of Æthelmearc to use! Many hands make light work, and a few hours of your time (or as much as you can offer) will make the effort much lighter for all.
The AE Royal Setup-Takedown schedule is:
Sunday July 31 9AM – 1130AM Truck at Trailer, 4-6 person truck crew loads the truck and brings the material over to Royal. Then unloads it there. Truck team released.
12 NOON – 5PM Set up team starts with Scribe 1 and begins to set up all the canvas. By 5 everything should be up. The ground team is released with many thanks.
Friday, August 12 9AM – 1PM Break down of camp commences. The truck will be onsite and as things are broken down, they go right into the truck. Once loaded the ground crew is released.
1 PM – 5PM Loaded truck heads over to the trailer. Unload team will be there to move items from in the truck into the trailer. Once loaded and closed the truck crew is released and we are done for the year.
Please consider coming out and donating a bit of your time to help out. You simply need to show up at the appointed time. If you want to be part of the truck crew send a note to Master Janos (caseyodonovan@yahoo.com). Pains have been taken to make sure that no-one’s time will be wasted and refreshments will be available at both set up and take down.
There’s no party like an Æthelmearc party, and this Pennsic we need YOU to keep the fun going into the night!
The Æhelmearc Kingdom Party will be held on Monday, August 8th. As we all know, one of the keys to a good revel is good food, and this occasion is no different! We are in need of volunteers and donors to help ensure that the bellies of our populace do not leave the celebration empty or unsated.
“But Lijsbet, how can I possibly perform such a feat? I am just one person!”
I’m glad you asked! There are actually several ways you can assist in the Food Tent. If we all pitch in just a little bit, we can make certain that everyone enjoys themselves.
1) MAKE FOOD
Those who are inclined to do so are encouraged to make a recipe (or two!) to be served at the party. Additionally, Vegetarian, Vegan, and Gluten-Free versions of recipes are encouraged and requested. The dish you make should be:
* Finger food, or food that can be easily portioned and eaten while walking around is preferred.
* Medieval and “Medieval-ish” recipes, please. We would like to contribute to the medieval atmosphere that this year’s theme (Arthurian Legends) lends itself to as much as we can.
2) BUY FOOD
Sometimes, Time is not our friend, and Ennui is a cruel mistress. To that end, if you are able to contribute an item (or two!) that could be purchased at the grocery store/Barn Mart, which requires nothing but to be delivered to AE Royal in terms of preparation, please consider this a very appreciated option. Some examples of store-bought foods we are looking for are: cheese and crackers; summer sausage; and veggie/fruit trays.
3) SEND FOOD
Not going to be at Pennsic this year, but still want to contribute? Send food with a friend! If you take advantage of this option, please make sure that you either designate someone who will be at War to be in charge of your dish (cooking/reheating if necessary, slicing, chopping, plating, etc.).
4) VOLUNTEER YOUR TIME
If you know you won’t be able to provide a dish for the party, but still want to help out, we are in need of volunteers to help make sure the food service runs smoothly. Even if you can only spare a half hour of time, your donation is valuable! Ideally, it would be wonderful to have enough volunteers so that each one only needed to spare 30-45 minutes of their evening helping out, while spending the rest of the time enjoying the party.
We are looking for volunteers to:
* Monitor the food table to make sure that items are being served at their appropriate temperatures, and that empty platters are being rotated in a timely manner
* Serve food under the food tent
* Walk around the party with a tray of food to pass out to attendees
* Help plate the food for presentation
* Act as “stand-by” cooking staff in case Plan C, D, E – or even the Dreaded Plan X – becomes necessary
* Assist with writing ingredient labels for each contribution
* Be on “stand-by” in case we need something from the store
* Wash service dishes and utensils when necessary
5) MAKE A MONETARY DONATION
If cooking isn’t your thing, but you still want to help out by contributing money towards the cost of the food that can definitely be made to happen! You can send your donation by mail to the food coordinator, Edelvrouw Lijsbet de Keukere. Please contact her privately (information below) to request the address.
This year, we ask that all those who volunteer to provide food follow the “You Provide It, You Prepare It” rule to make sure that any one person, or small group of people, doesn’t spend the entire evening in the kitchen. Additionally, if you provide food, also please plan on being in charge of making sure it is ready to be served. If it needs to be cooked or warmed up, you are in charge of making sure that happens. If it needs to be portioned, cut, or sliced, you are in charge of making sure that happens. If you have serving ware for your contribution, please plan on bringing it to use, as the kingdom does not usually bring as much as we need for the food table. If you do not have something to serve your contribution in/with, please contact Lijsbet as soon as possible so enough spare platters, bowls, tongs, etc. are brought to Pennsic.
You are welcome to contact Lijsbet with any questions you may have about making a donation of food, funds, or a bit of your time. She can be reached by:
Their Majesties, Their Highnesses, and the party staff and volunteers humbly thank you in advance of your generous service to your Kingdom. The cooks, foodies, and service volunteers of Æthelmearc are some of the best in the Knowne World – We hope you will share your flare for flavor with your friends and neighbors! With your help, this year’s Kingdom Party is going to be so much fun!
Attention, Talented Artisans of the Society for Creative Anachronism
In the Society for Creative Anachronism, we are a collective of volunteers, each serving in their own way at one point or another so that all may have a chance to play, enjoy, learn and have fun. It is on this mantra that the SCA has gone on for 50 years now, and shall continue to do so.
As we Celebrate 50 Years of the Society, many of our SCA family will be considering attending the SCA 50 Year Celebration Event, June 17th through the 27th of this year and many of them will be giving their time and service to the event, staffing the Gate, serving on the Watch, Marshalling the Lists.
We wish to show appreciation to the Volunteers who give of themselves, from the newest member giving their first hour of service to the Multi-Peer who serves alongside that newest member. The Society works because our Volunteers continue to turn the wheels and drive us forward to fun, adventure, knowledge and my personal favorites, Family and Friendship.
Everyone who volunteers on site during the event will receive a ticket for each hour they serve. These tickets can be dropped into boxes that will labeled with the items you’ve donated: items that our volunteers would proudly use or displayed long after the event is over.
And Artisans, this is where you are most needed. We come seeking donations from the Amazingly Talented populace of the Known World: we are asking you to please consider donating handmade items that people would Buy/Trade/Commission for themselves.
No matter your rank, Laurel or student; professional crasftsperson or astonishingly talented amateur: we’re asking all of you to help us recognize the volunteers in service to the Society’s 50th Year Celebration. Please, put forth your beautiful work to be a cherished gift for a Volunteer.
If you’re considering a specialized item (something that must be custom sized or fit, for instance) or you aren’t sure how to submit it to the cause, please contact my Coordinator, THL Justice McArtain, at justice.napier@gmail.com
All donations can be mailed to His Lordship Justice ahead of the Event or delivered at the SCA 50 Year Celebration Event if you are attending.
To Donate, or if you have any additional questions, simply email the following details to justice.napier@gmail.com
SCA Title and Name
Mundane Name
Item to be Donated
To be mailed or delivered at 50 Year
Mailing Address
Any additional information / description of your item you wish to include (including pictures of our work if it’s a ‘after raffle’ item.
As a thank you to everyone who contributes, His Lordship Justice will be doing a raffle of his own.
Two artists will be drawn to receive a Gift Card each to get more supplies (or whatever you want to do with the money).
We thank you for your time and hope that you will reach out to offer your talent to support the Volunteers who give of theirs for this once in a lifetime Event.
In Service,
Herr Alexander Adelbrecht von Markelingen
SCA 50 Year Celebration – Volunteer Relations Coordinator
