Minutes for April 12, 2003

Officer Reports:

Herald: Katarina participated in court last month and sent in her report so Brendoken is not in abeyance.

Marshal: Alexander had authorizations at “Northern Oaken A&S” and received good comments about the military school. His report should arrive in one week. At the four hour Baronial Fighter Practice at Thistle there were nine fighters in attendance with about half being from Brendoken. There may be a possibility of a themed practice at Alexander’s home. Akira has taken the position of Deputy Marshal.

Chronicler: Katarina reported that Gregor (not present) has formally taken the position of Chronicler and if anyone knew exactly where the Baronial Chronicler's File Box was, to please go ahead and let him know.

Arts and Sciences: Saradwen discussed the trip to the Cleveland Museum of Art and the possibility of a Craftsman’s Faire at Alderford’s “Winding Down from War” event in September, in addition to the already scheduled Faire at Three Towers’ “Encampment at the Castle”. She also relayed an invitation from Master Rufus, formally of Gwyntarian, to members of Brendoken for crash space if visiting the NYC area. See Gatehouse for more information.

Exchequer: Not present, though we have an estimated $630.00 in the bank.

Chatelaine: Not present.

Group Reports:

Gwyntarian: Gunther announced that Gwyntarian has seen an influx of new members in recent months and higher attendance at fighter practices. Classes have also been a regular feature at the weekly meetings. The office of Herald has changed hands from Hathweisse to Brice.

Thistle: Alexander reported that Thistle had just gotten started back up again after Spring Break. There are typically 3 to 4 people in regular attendance with no fighter practice because the Marshal is ill.

Three Towers: Giles reported that the “Northern Oaken A&S and Military School” was successful with a profit of approximately $200.00. He presented Brendoken with a check for the divided amount as decided upon by Midair. They have 6 regular members at the moment with no fighter practice. Three Towers is planning an event for October 17, 18, 19 “War 1066, Battle of Hastings” at Malabar Farms State Park in Hastings, Ohio. Giles is looking for people to play the commander roles the Harolds.

Alderford: Ailith reported that Alderford would be holding “Melee School IV” in Roswell, Ohio in July and it will be run by Gabriel. “Winding Down from War” will be held in September at Camp Tuscazoar and will be run by Genovefa and Gregor. Ailith also announced that several of Alderford’s members had received awards: Francesca, Cassandra, Quentin, Judith, Alvor, and Orianna.

Old Business:

Event Report: Giles gave the event report for “Northern Oaken A&S and Military School.” With initial expenses being $1,607 and a total intake of $2010.95 the event made a rough profit of $300.00. There were over 40 hours of classes, which were well attended. The Arts and Sciences portion ran smoothly, reported Arwenna, with 23 entries and more than enough judges. Debforgail said that the Children’s Theater was wonderful and the kids had a great time and there would also be one at Pennsic this year.

Letters for Baron/ess: Ailith announced that there was currently one couple who had submitted a letter for consideration, Alexander and Catriona and that the window for submissions was March 15th-April 15th if there were any other interested parties.

Medina Demo: Katarina spoke about the May 9th demo at the Medina County Achievement Center on Windfall Road in Medina for Anne. The theme is “A Day in the Middle Ages” and is sponsored by the Kennedy Foundation’s “A Very Special Arts Day.” They are looking for volunteers to help the children and adults who participate in Medina’s MRDD program with simple art activities. It is a daytime demo beginning at 8:30 and running through 1:30 with a mass demo including dances, games and a fashion show in the gym after lunch. She also requested that all volunteers commit themselves to a positive attitude that day because the kids are easily influenced and honestly believe we stepped out of the medieval period. Set up is Thursday May 8th from 4-til done. The kids also like to hug--a lot.

New Business:

Sewing Bee: A sewing bee, organized by Francesca (not present) is to be held Saturday April 26th along with a fabric and garb exchange. She requests that those in attendance bring pre-washed fabric and trim to work with, as well as sewing gear. Katarina volunteered her hood pattern for those who wish to copy it. More information can be found at the Brendoken web site.

Meeting Schedule: For the 2003 meetings Ailith announced that Thistle will be holding next months meeting, probably at the Lowry Center. June’s meeting will be held by Three Towers. July’s will be held by Alderford, with a possibility of a revel or cookout in correlation.

Financial Policy: Ailith passed out a copy of Alderford’s financial policy as a possible role model for Brendoken’s with small adjustments made for Baronial differences. Expenses and approval of expenses were discussed. Also discussed the movement of the #5 bullet to hollow bullet in #6. Changed the deposit time frame for exchequer to 5 days. Ailith said she would revise with agreed upon changes and post to the Brendoken site for comments with a possible vote at the next Baronial Meeting.

New Members: Gunther brought up concerns over new members understanding of Brendoken and the baronial process. He suggested the possibility of a handout to give to new members who had questions about the timeline and processes, possibly a Baronial FAQ sheet.

Respectfully submitted by: Cassandra du Belle Isle