Officer Reports

Updates from Bhakail’s Officers

May 2023 Business Meeting Notes

Barony of Bhakail Business Meeting Notes: May 9, 2023

Baronial Events

Waking of the Salamander II

Great event, people are beginning to talk about next year although there is no bid yet. The event turned a profit.

Champions and Commons

Bid was accepted at last months meeting

Yule

A bid has been received from Scholastica Capelleria and Mari Clock van Hoorne. The financials are currently under review by the Council of the Exchequer, and should be brought to the Barony for vote next month. Costs will be higher than last year due to increase in insurance and site costs. Idea is an Eastern Yule, with an all day dayboard and no feast. Mari clock van Horn

Other Events

Bhakail should be aware of the upcoming investitures for our neighbor Baronies of Iron Bog (June 10) and Buckland Cross.

Old Business

Shire Wars Charter

No updates on the charter from the last meeting.

Shire Wars

Philly reported that the event last year made a profit, and as a supporter Bhakail will receive a portion.

New Business

Knight Marshal

Motte, who has been the Knight Marshal, has asked to step down and hand the position to Aaron the Swift from Bhakail. He has submitted a letter of intent to the Seneschal.

Deputy Seneschal for Social Media

Rowen Cloteworthy is seeking a candidate to replace him in this position. He will gladly mentor anyone who is interested. Main duties are maintaining the Barony Facebook group, welcome new members of the group, and connect them with Chana. Also need to make sure that any information posted on Facebook is also shared on the Barony email list, which is the only officially recognized communication tool.

Additional Officer Reports

Coronet’s Report – Baron Muin maqq Minain

Hellooooooooooo the Peoples of the Barony, Our neighbors and Our Allies;

We of Bhakail rejoice, as Our WotS2 event is was a lovely success, that Amazing and Illuminating Blaze of Springtime Cheer that sets boldly upon Our Barony’s Hearth; We were set to witness Our People Camp, Cook, engaging in Fun and Games, and randomly creating music with one another, bringing great joy to the Lands of Bhakail in this new year. We met new people, who We hope to see more of in the future, in the form of new people to the SCA as well as previous members now returning.

As mentioned before, the Baronry is still currently in need of more scroll holders, if anyone either has spares lying about, or is willing to construct them, We would appreciate these efforts greatly.

I would also like to note the various Largess Projects that are on Our Horizons this year, anyone interested in participating, please see Lady Scolastica! We held a Largess Moot this last Sunday which was incredibly informative. This on-line meeting was well attended by many friends and allies from far flung places that sadly lack in being the Glory that is Bhakail, and for this must be forgiven.

Regardless of all else, We are hoping to see as many of you all at upcoming events both within and without the bounds of Bhakail!

In closing: Read these words of High Poetry and Song by those Grand Forbears of August Lineage of the Great Khan of the Cairngorms, with words by their most honored and noteworthy of Flapdoddlesmackers, sometimes known simply as The Ain WeeJock. Let these words whisk you away to a time e’er now long gone. Let its inspiration give your soul wings, and add extra dimensions to thine own setupons!

Энэ их урт зам байсан
Тэндээс энд хүрнэ
Удаан хугацаа өнгөрчээ
Гэхдээ миний цаг ойртож байна
Мөн би яг одоо салхины өөрчлөлтийг мэдэрч байна
Миний замд юу ч саад болохгүй
Тэд намайг цаашид барихгүй
Үгүй ээ, тэд намайг барихгүй
Яагаад гэвэл надад зүрх сэтгэлийн итгэл бий
Би зүрх минь намайг авч явах газар л явна
Надад итгэх итгэл бий
би юуг ч хийж чадна
Надад сэтгэлийн тэнхээ бий
Мөн хэн ч намайг нугалж, эвдэхгүй
Би ямар ч одод хүрч чадна
Надад итгэл бий
Надад итгэл, зүрх сэтгэлийн итгэл бий

Be well,

And Peace be upon you in these Slowly Enlightening Times;

Muin,

Baron of Bhakail

Social Media Deputy – Magister Rowen Cloteworthy

Our Facebook page has seen an influx of visitors from out-Kingdom, Pennsic campmates of the Barony. We’ve also had several newcomers join, all of whom have been introduced electronically to Baron Muin and Lady Chana. Information continues to travel back and forth between our social media and email.

Also, I’ve reached out to Máistir Mael Eoin as Seneschal and Taichleach as Deputy Seneschal. Having served the Barony in this role for 3-1/2 years, and while I’ve enjoyed being involved as our first Deputy Seneschal for Social Media, it is a right and good thing that space be made for newer members to have opportunities to serve. To that end, I’m announcing that I’m stepping down on a timetable convenient for the Barony. I’ll still be available to offer any mentoring to my replacement, should that be needed. Thank you to the Honorable Lady Alesia and the Barony for allowing me to start this office and to Máistir Mael Eoin for allowing me to continue until now.

Officer reports submitted prior to the day of the meeting are available at: https://bhakail.eastkingdom.org/wordpress/index.php/2023/05/08/may-2023-officer-reports/

Minute notes recorded by Ellyn Grene

May 2023 Officer Reports

Following are the monthly officer reports that have been submitted prior to the Bhakail monthly business meeting of May 9, 2023.

Seneschal’s Report – Máistir Mael Eoin mac Echuidh

Greetings to the Barony,

The big news, I believe, is that we had a very successful second run of Waking of the Salamander! Yes, we were rained out on Saturday, and about 30 minutes earlier than anyone expected, but people stuck around to help pack most everything out, and for that we’re extremely grateful. Friday night around the fire was well worth making it out for and the pottery demos were very well attended, as was the foraging walk! Thank you, too, to those cooks who did make it out and everyone who contributed food throughout the event. We’re looking forward to the next one and discussions are already underway…always a good sign 🙂

Insurance rates have gone up at the Society level; not by much, though something for event stewards to consider when planning event bids.

Keep an eye on the East Kingdom Calendar for upcoming events, consider visiting some neighboring events for great activities and hopefully some camping as things warm up (and dry out!) more 🙂

Knight Marshal – Lady Motte Nachtfalter

From the midst of the local fighting populace of Bhakail, I have received inquiry as to the availability of my current office. I have gladly served the role in spirit, as promised, but have found my flesh too absent from the practices held for my liking. Fear not, for now one of your own wishes to take upon the mantle of your Knight Marshal!!

I cannot in good conscience stand in the way of one who resides within thine borders, present and active at the practices we hold, and is well thought of both locally and abroad. Please consider this my recommendation of Aaron the Swift (modernly known as Quinn White), current Beast of the East and Champion of Iron Bog as the future Knight Marshal of Bhakail.

Aaron’s prowess has earned him the respect of both our peers and our Peers. The warranted marshals who maintain our practice in my physical absence know him well and will maintain their duties while Aaron himself finishes his training to join the registered marshallate. For this and his unprompted interest in taking up the role, I do gladly step aside to allow one better suited to the responsibilities to step forward.

It is with a fondness that I thank both you and the populace for enlisting my aid this past year. The Barony of Bhakail is my sweet neighbor and I am glad for our friendship. If ever you have a need, please do not hesitate to call upon me and I shall do my utmost to lend aid.

Thank you for the honor and I shall abide as the decision is discussed and elections are made in accordance with your laws. Once the way is clear, I will ensure the Iron Key entrusted to me and increased during my term is passed safely to the next hands that will guard it.

Rapier Marshal – Don Melchior Kriebel

Bhakail Rapier Practice continues to be suspended as we search for a proper practice location.

In addition, I have named Ysmay as the baronial deputy marshal as she has now been made a proper SCA rapier marshal.

Thrown Weapons Marshal – The Honorable Lord Mikael melrakki

Practices continue on Sundays

Minister of the List – The Honorable Lord Mikael melrakki

Nothing to report

Exchequer – Beck of Copeland

I’m working with Philly to learn my new job. I haven’t been added to the bank account so Philly is doing the reimbursement checks for WofS. I have the check from the PayPal registration ($909.xx) and need to get it deposited.

Chronicler – Lady Ellyn Grene

I’m currently working on the next issue of the newsletter, which is scheduled for publication in late May. Please send me anything you would like to contribute to the issue by May 21.

Minister of Arts & Sciences – Lady Scolastica Capellaria

April was another busy month for Artisans, teachers and cooks who displayed all their wonderful skills at the Waking of the Salamander. A big thanks goes out to Lord Aiden, Mistress Lissa, Baroness Ysmay, Dame Elizabet, Lady Alexandra, and Lady An Hua for their teaching. We also were graced by amazing cooks and fantastic chickensmithery from Master Jabril, Master john Marshall, Margarette La Gantiere and David Bonar.

If you are interested in teaching or hosting arts and science classes, please let me know! I would like to schedule additional classes for the barony and friends.

Largess! There is a call for Largess for various gift giving opportunities. Please inquire if you are interested donating your time to make things for the Barony to give as Largess in the near future. If you have any questions, please send them my way!

There are A&S opportunities at the following local events:

May 13, 2023: Sign of the Dancing Fox, Shire of Nordenhalle (Kingston, NY) Music, Song, Dance, and Arts and science challenges to mark the day.
May 20, 2023: Al-Hafla, Buckland Cross, (Bucks County PA TBD), Music, Dancing, Game, and food.
May 26-29th, 2023: Quest for Wit and Wisdom, Settmour Swamp (Pittstown, NJ). Baronial A&S Competition, display and artisan’s row.

Our neighbors in Buckland cross are putting on a series of garb related workshops to help all get ready for Pennsic. Check out their facebook page for more information.

The Kingdom MOAs office now has a calendar for arts and science events across the kingdom! https://moas.eastkingdom.org/event-calendar/

If you have any A&S interests that you would like to explore, need help researching something, or are looking for resources feel free to email me at MOAS@bhakail.eastkingdom.org. I also would love to see what you are working on! Please send me pictures of your projects!

Chatelaine – Lady Chana Freidl the Maker

Pennsic Report: Pennsic is coming! Bhakail held a camp meeting on 4/30 and made some decisions. Now is the time to set up your tents and check for leaks! And measure them to make sure your camp forms are accurate! Your camp masters ask a million questions for a reason – we want to have all the details so we can make your Pennsic go smoothly.

Chatelaine Report: More and more newcomers have been joining us and I love seeing how Bhakailis and our neighbors are welcoming them. At Waking of the Salamander we had 12 newcomers! Please continue to help these fine people by answering their questions with patience and kindness. You too were new once, remember that feeling of the first person that really helped you find your footing? Give that to someone else!

Webminister – Finnolfr Hrafnsson

I have made some minor alterations to the website and am working on trying to make the calendar a little easier to read. I have updated the current champions as well.

I’m working with Ellyn to add some photographs to the website to make it more engaging and obvious as to what we do. I would love photographs from the populace of Bhakail in action! Whether it be Pennsic photos, Waking of the Salamander, or Bhakail at other events! If you have any submissions please send them my way!

Bailiwick of Ivyeinrust – Honorable Lady Livia Petralia

The Bailiwick’s May 8th meeting was run by the deputy Seneschal, Livia Petralia, as our new seneschal, Emery de Champagne, was present but under the weather and we have not yet received full acknowledgement of the change in officers from the Kingdom Seneschalate.

Officer email transfers are in progress, but not all are complete. We are still in transition.

Upcoming activities include:
next Lunch in the Bailiwick will be Wednesday, May 17th at noon at the outdoor tables of Sang Kee Noodle House (3549 Chestnut St)
next business meeting will be Monday, June 12 at 7pm over Zoom

Please feel free to join us.

We also discussed upcoming activities in the region:

Bhakail’s scriptorium
Hartshorn-dale’s Friday dance practices
Hartshorn-dale’s Virtual Newcomer Socials on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 7pm
Hartshorn-dale’s Virtual A&S discussions on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays at 7:30pm
UPenn’s Fine Arts Library’s workshops on printing and natural dyes (separate workshops, not together)

And carpool needs for various local events like:

Iron Bog Investiture
Bhakail Champions (which would be great to take students to, if we can recruit any over the summer)

And then we discussed cats. As one does.

April 2023 Officer Reports

Following are the monthly officer reports that have been submitted prior to the Bhakail monthly business meeting of April 11, 2023.

Coronet’s Report – Baron Muin maqq Minain

Hellooooooooooo the Peoples of the Barony, Our neighbors and Our Allies;

We of Bhakail must rejoice, for Our WotS2 event is JUST around the corner, that Joyous Joyous Blaze of Springtime Cheer that sets boldly upon Our Barony’s Hearth; We are set to witness Our People Camp, Cook, engaging in emBardiculations, and randomly Gaming with one another, bringing great joy to the Lands of Bhakail in this new year.

And the classes… let us not forget the classes!

I would also like to note the various Largess Projects that are on Our Horizons this year, anyone interested in participating, please see Lady Scolastica!

Regardless of all else, We are hoping to see as many of you all at this Lovely event!

In closing: Let us think now upon the Poetry of those Ancient Hiberno-Sino-Franquish-Persian Poets WafflemakingChefs, with words by their most honored and noteworthy of Chickensmiths, Floerpdoeddle MacExtrafromaggio, sometimes known simply as The Mighty Monarch. Let these words whisk you away to a time e’er now long gone. Let its inspiration give your soul wings, and add extra dimensions to thine own setupons!

An toir thu dhachaigh mi a-nochd?
Aah, sìos ri taobh an t-solais teine dearg sin
Am bi thu a ‘leigeil leis a h-uile càil a bhith a’ crochadh a-mach?
Clann-nighean le bonn reamhar
Bheir thu air an t-saoghal creagach a dhol timcheall
Hi!
Cha robh annam ach gille caol
Cha robh fios a-riamh air math bho olc
Ach bha eòlas agam air beatha mus do dh’ fhàg mi an sgoil-àraich agam
Air fhàgail leis fhèin le mòr reamhar Fanny
Bha i na nighean cho gòrach
Heap boireannach mòr, rinn thu balach dona a-mach orm
Hey, hey!
Tha mi air a bhith a’ seinn leis a’ chòmhlan agam
Tarsainn an t-sreang, across the land
Chunnaic mi a h-uile gorm-shùilean fliuch air an t-slighe, hey
Ach am bòidhchead agus an stoidhle
Chaidh mi car rèidh às deidh greiseag
Togaibh mi riu uaislean salach gach uair
Seadh
O, nach toir thu dhachaigh mi a-nochd?
O, sìos ri taobh do sholas teine dearg
O, agus bheir thu dha na fhuair thu
Clann-nighean le bonn reamhar
Bheir thu air an t-saoghal creagach a dhol timcheall
Clann-nighean le bonn reamhar
Bheir thu air an t-saoghal creagach a dhol timcheall
Hey, èist an seo
A-nis fhuair mi morgaids air dachaighean
Fhuair mi stiffness na mo chnàmhan
Chan eil banrighrean bòidhchead anns an sgìre seo, tha mi ag innse dhut
O, ach tha mi fhathast a ‘faighinn mo thlachd
Fhuair mi an ulaidh as motha agam fhathast
Heap boireannach mòr, rinn thu duine mòr a-mach orm
Faigh seo a-nis
A bheil (tha fios agam) gun toir thu dhachaigh mi a-nochd? (Mas e do thoil e)
O, sìos ri taobh an t-solais teine dearg sin
Am bi thu a ‘leigeil leis a h-uile càil a bhith a’ crochadh a-mach?
Clann-nighean le bonn reamhar
Bheir thu air an t-saoghal rocaid a dhol timcheall (seadh)
Clann-nighean le bonn reamhar
Bheir thu air an t-saoghal creagach a dhol timcheall
Gabh air do bhaidhsagalan agus rothaireachd
O seadh, oh seadh, iad nigheanan le bonn reamhar
Clann-nighean le bonn reamhar
Yeah, yeah, yeah
Ceart gu leòr, marcaich air am buachailleClann-nighean le bonn reamhar
Tha, tha

Be well,

And Peace be upon you in these Slowly Enlightening Times;

Muin,
Baron of Bhakail

Rapier Marshal – Don Melchior Kriebel

Bhakail rapier practice continues to be suspended until a new location can be secured.

Thrown Weapons Marshal – The Honorable Lord Mikael melrakki

Practices start April 9th and will be Sundays 11-1 with archery following at 1:30-3:30.

For more information contact me or join the FB group Bhakail Projectiles Practices.

Minister of the List – The Honorable Lord Mikael melrakki

Nothing to report.

Chamberlain – Honorable Lord Bryan Mac Dhunghaill an Boghadair

Martyn said he would send out a survey to find a date to collect and store the Barony’s stuff.

Chronicler – Lady Ellyn Grene

Thank you to everyone who contributed to the March edition of the Salamander. The next issue will be published in May, and will be focused on the Arts & Sciences in the Barony. Please send me photos or articles about your projects and passions! Folks of all experience and skill levels are encouraged to participate, especially if you are trying something new and want to share about your A&S journey.

Historian – Honorable Lord Bryan Mac Dhunghaill an Boghadair

I am working on recovering the work that I have done and getting on a hard drive that I have. I want to come up with a 5 to 10 minute presentation about the Barony. The problems I have is I need pictures, stories and videos. I need people to send me stuff. I want this to be everyone’s stories and not just mine.

Minister of Arts & Sciences – Lady Scolastica Capellaria

March was a busy month for our artisans Dillena O’r Gwyrddol entered the Arts and Science competition at Mudthaw with her beautiful tablet weaving. Many members of the barony including Chana the Maker, Ysmay de Lynn, Rosie Posey, and Eleanora Tylemaker taught classes at the Nova Schola in Hartshorn dale!

If you are interested in teaching or hosting arts and science classes, please let me know! I would like to schedule additional classes for the barony and friends.

There are A&S opportunities at the following local events:

April 15-16, East Kingdom Brewers’ Collegium, Crown Province of Ostgardr (Peekskill, NY);
April 16, 2023: Service Schola in the Barony of Carillion (South River, NJ) with classes on various volunteer positions in society;
April 22, 2023: Waking of the Salamander (Media, PA) camping and outdoor cooking and other arts and science activities!
May 13, 2023: Sign of the Dancing Fox, Shire of Nordenhalle (Kingston, NY) Music, Song, Dance, and Arts and science challenges to mark the day.
May 20, 2023: Al-Hafla, Buckland Cross, (Bucks County PA TBD), Music, Dancing, Game, and food.
May 26-29th, 2023: Quest for Wit and Wisdom, Settmour Swamp (Pittstown, NJ). Baronial A&S Competition, display and artisan’s row.
The Kingdom MOAs office now has a calendar for arts and science events across the kingdom! https://moas.eastkingdom.org/event-calendar/

Chatelaine – Lady Chana Freidl the Maker

A few newcomers have been in contact about coming to Waking of the Salamander, so I will be bringing Gold Key to lend to them. Please contact me if you need any loaner garb!

Pennsic Report – it is now after April 1st, which means those on the waiting list to camp with us at Pennsic have been given permission to prereg. We currently have 74 preregs out of a possible 96. If you have not yet pre-regged, please do so as soon as possible to secure your spot in camp.

Webminister – Finnolfr Hrafnsson

I have begun working in revamping the website. I’m open to ideas, suggestions, etc. I’d also like to include a section of ‘Bhakaili’s in the wild’, so please submit any photos you may have of members at events, getting awards, or generally having fun to me.

March 2023 Officer Reports

Following are the monthly officer reports that have been submitted prior to the Bhakail monthly business meeting of March 13, 2023.

Seneschal’s Report – Máistir Mael Eoin mac Echuidh

We’re about a month out from our next event – Waking of the Salamander – and have news of a bid in for Champions and Commons already, which is great news to get that set before we start really getting into event season and prepping for Pennsic 🙂

Society launched the new member portal, but be advised that there may still be some issues with it, so if you find anything strange, please let me know as well as Society. Notably, there’s some reports of member numbers changing and most painfully, no Seneschal has received the monthly membership report that usually comes out every month. We’re relying on pretty old data at this point…so if it looks like your membership has lapsed (including setting up EK member emails for becoming an officer, joining mailing lists, etc.) the system isn’t going to have that data updated and what we have is at least 3 months old. Other than that, things should be OK.

There are some Investitures to keep an eye on as Iron Bog, Buckland Cross and Hartshorn-dale will all be investing Baronial heads this year, with Iron Bog first up in June.

Rework on our Baronial policies continues and we should be opening up invitations to join in on reviewing those before we start proposing anything in earnest to the Barony at large. The early passes are focusing on redundancy with higher law, trimming what shouldn’t be repeated where it isn’t needed, etc. but we should be getting into meatier things next month.

Hope to see everyone at an upcoming event, practice or the like soon!

In Service, Mael Eoin

Rapier Marshal – Don Melchior Kriebel

Rapier practice continues to be suspended while we look for a new practice space. It is undetermined when practice will resume.

Thrown Weapons Marshal – The Honorable Lord Mikael melrakki

Site Prep day planned for April 2nd.

First practices planned for Sunday April 9th. Thrown Weapons: 11 am – 1 pm. Archery: 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm.

Minister of the List – The Honorable Lord Mikael melrakki

Recently received new authorization databases. Contact me if you wish to check your status.

Chronicler – Lady Ellyn Grene

Currently working on the next bimonthly issue of The Salamander, which will be published before the end of March. Please send me any content you want to contribute.

Minister of Arts & Sciences – Lady Scolastica Capellaria

Members of the Barony continue to participate in the arts and sciences. In February a virtual class was held on the Introduction to Research If you were unable to make the class, feel free to email me to get a copy of the handout/power point at MOAS@bhakail.eastkingdom.org.

If you are interested in teaching a class in person or virtually, please let me know! I would like to schedule future classes for the barony and friends.

Largess! There is a call for Largess for various gift giving opportunities. Please email me if you are interested donating your time to make things for the Barony to give as Largess.

The entries into the Kingdom A&S Competition and Display are now live on the kingdom MOAS website: https://moas.eastkingdom.org/crowns-arts-sciences-competition-and-display-2023/

There are A&S opportunities at the following local events:

March 4, 2023: Nova Schola in Shire of Hartshorn-Dale (Collegeville, PA) a day of classes and learning!

March 25, 2023: Mudthaw in Settmour Swamp (Hackettstown NJ), A&S Competition theme: three items for your first sea voyage of spring;

April 15-16, 2023: East Kingdom Brewers’ Collegium, Crown Province of Ostgardr (Peekskill, NY) featuring classes for brewers of all skill levels as well as paneling and judging of period brews;

April 16, 2023: Service Schola in the Barony of Carillion (South River, NJ) with classes on various volunteer positions in society;

April 22, 2023: Waking of the Salamander (Media, PA) camping and outdoor cooking and other arts and science activities!

May 13, 2023: Sign of the Dancing Fox, Shire of Nordenhalle (Kingston, NY) Music, Song, Dance, and fox related Arts and science challenges.

May 20, 2023: Al-Hafla, Buckland Cross, (Bucks Count PA TBD), Music, Dancing, Game, and food.

There continue to be virtual events throughout the known world.

Atlantia University next session: Sunday June 11, 2023 https://university.atlantia.sca.org/

Known World Italians: August 2023 (Currently looking for staff and teachers) https://knownworlditalians.org/

Known World Scribes: To be Announced. In Person event June 23-25, 2023 in Northshield (Wisconsin). https://heraldry.sca.org/kwhss/

Sunday with the Scribes: A weekly scribal lecture series https://scribal.art/swts/sncal/

Costumers of Color: Silk Routes Symposium 2023, all lectures are available including many videos about non-western garb: https://costumersofcolor.org/events/list-of-classes/?fbclid=IwAR0BEEOg2ABOJmXoLU3OihDykTm0mcHu8WAjVo1XktpaqFkZyiR3fWWBoL0

If there are other virtual events/A&S opportunities out there please let me know!

If you have any A&S interests that you would like to explore, need help researching something, or are looking for resources feel free to email me at MOAS@bhakail.eastkingdom.org. I would love to see what you are working on! Please send me pictures of your projects!

Chatelaine – Lady Chana Freidl the Maker

Our newcomers are coming to social and events, and we love having them! Please remember that not all newcomers know SCA jargon yet – they might have questions about things that seem self-explanatory for people who have been in the SCA for a while. Explain things! Answer questions! Help them!

Pennsic: I have emailed our encampment email list and posted on social media – If you have camped with Bhakail at the last few Pennsics and wish to do so again, you MUST pre-reg by April 1st. After April 1st I will be opening up camp pre-regs to our active newcomers who have expressed interest in camping with us and have been on the waiting list. You risk losing your spot in camp if you have not reserved it by April 1st.

PAX Unplugged: Dates have been announced to vendors only – December 1, 2, and 3, 2023. If you are interested in helping at the booth this year, please contact Chana. Fight demos are still uncertain, I will let the Barony know when and if they get approved.

Webminister – Finnolfr Hrafnsson

I have begun researching a redesign of the Bhakail Website. I have been looking at other pages for ideas, and want to make the page a little more user friendly, particularly for newcomers. I am open to ideas, thoughts, and suggestions! Please send anything to me at webminister@bhakail.eastkingdom.org.

March MOAS Report

If you are interested in teaching a class in person or virtually, please let me know! I would like to schedule future classes for the barony and friends.

Largess! There is a call for Largess for various gift giving opportunities. Please email me if you are interested donating your time to make things for the Barony to give as Largess.

The entries into the Kingdom A&S Competition and Display are now live on the kingdom MOAS website: https://moas.eastkingdom.org/crowns-arts-sciences-competition-and-display-2023/

There are A&S opportunities at the following local events:

March 4, 2023: Nova Schola in Shire of Hartshorn-Dale (Collegeville, PA) a day of classes and learning!
March 25, 2023: Mudthaw in Settmour Swamp (Hackettstown NJ), A&S Competition theme: three items for your first sea voyage of spring;
April 15-16, 2023: East Kingdom Brewers’ Collegium, Crown Province of Ostgardr (Peekskill, NY) featuring classes for brewers of all skill levels as well as paneling and judging of period brews;
April 16, 2023: Service Schola in the Barony of Carillion (South River, NJ) with classes on various volunteer positions in society;
April 22, 2023: Waking of the Salamander (Media, PA) camping and outdoor cooking and other arts and science activities!
May 13, 2023: Sign of the Dancing Fox, Shire of Nordenhalle (Kingston, NY) Music, Song, Dance, and fox related Arts and science challenges.
May 20, 2023: Al-Hafla, Buckland Cross, (Bucks Count PA TBD), Music, Dancing, Game, and food.

There continue to be virtual events throughout the known world.

Atlantia University next session: Sunday June 11, 2023 https://university.atlantia.sca.org/
Known World Italians: August 2023 (Currently looking for staff and teachers) https://knownworlditalians.org/
Known World Scribes: To be Announced. In Person event June 23-25, 2023 in Northshield (Wisconsin). https://heraldry.sca.org/kwhss/
Sunday with the Scribes: A weekly scribal lecture series https://scribal.art/swts/sncal/
Costumers of Color: Silk Routes Symposium 2023, all lectures are available including many videos about non-western garb: https://costumersofcolor.org/events/list-of-classes/?fbclid=IwAR0BEEOg2ABOJmXoLU3OihDykTm0mcHu8WAjVo1XktpaqFkZyiR3fWWBoL0

If there are other virtual events/A&S opportunities out there please let me know!

If you have any A&S interests that you would like to explore, need help researching something, or are looking for resources feel free to email me at MOAS@bhakail.eastkingdom.org. I would love to see what you are working on! Please send me pictures of your projects!

February 2023 Officer Reports

Following are the monthly officer reports that have been submitted prior to the Bhakail monthly business meeting of Tuesday, February 14, 2023.

Seneschal’s Report – Máistir Mael Eoin mac Echuidh

We’ve had another successful Tavern and should hear more once everything is squared away with our Exchequer, but from all reports so far, it was a fun day! Especially amazing since a quarter of the attendees were newcomers! Vivant to our new Champions as well as outgoing Champions for their service over the past year.

Waking of the Salamander is coming up and as Tailleach is a new event steward, he would appreciate assistance on the event, if anyone experienced is available to support him.

Thank you very much to all who offered to step up for the Financial Committee! Thank you, too, to those who have served over the past few years – Mistress Judith, Mistress Gisela, Doña Damiana and Lady Livia. We’ll work with the new Webminister to get our new members added to the group – THL Bryan, THL Mikael, Lady Motte, and milord Guillaume.

We need to decide on whether we’re to sign the Shire Wars Charter and we’re still in need of a representative for the Shire Wars Committee. They’re still looking for an event steward, too, and a host group for this year’s event.

After Waking of the Salamander, we really don’t have anything until after Pennsic…except for Pennsic, but that’s on everyone’s plate. There’s important notes for this year, being Pennsic 50, so please pay attention to your campmasters and everything that’s required for this year. While we want everyone to be able to camp with us, we’re also trying to accommodate new members camping with us versus camping elsewhere and the deadlines for registration, camp fees and especially tent information are hard deadlines. Again: be on the lookout for missives from your campmasters and pay heed…they’re trying to be fair to as many people as possible but will be bumping people in the queue if dates are missed to accomplish that.

Social Media Deputy – Magister Rowen Cloteworthy

Six new requests to join the Barony’s FB page. A couple current members from other groups, a few new people who’ve been put in touch with Chana. Information continues to flow forth. A posting that the Honorable Lady Scolastica’s embroidery, exhibited at Birka, was reposted to the SCAsocial Instagram page. An announcement from our Baron that Lord Ian Douglas made the final round in Sovereign’s and Consort’s Bardic Challenge with, as Ian reports, presumably the first ever documentable magic show. Lord Aiden has been posting details of his upcoming Viking Hiking trips. Lady Chana posted photos from Tavern. There was a request with a survey from our A&S Minister for class ideas. Folks shared news about online classes. Neighboring groups continue to post their activities. And all is apparently well in Bhakail.

Rapier Marshal – Don Melchior Kriebel

Bhakail’s rapier practice was closed in December due to a lack of practice location. We are still looking for a new location and hope to have some candidates soon. At present, however, Rapier practice is suspended.

Thrown Weapons Marshal – The Honorable Lord Mikael melrakki

Practices are still on hiatus.

Minister of the List – The Honorable Lord Mikael melrakki

Nothing to report.

Chamberlain – Honorable Lord Bryan Mac Dhunghaill an Boghadair

I will need help in setting up a survey to find a weekend to collect and organize the baronial equipment.

Chronicler – Lady Ellyn Grene

The latest issue of the Salamander was published on January 25th, and the next issue is scheduled for March. I’d like to receive submissions by March 17, so please reach out if you have anything you would like to contribute.

Historian – Honorable Lord Bryan Mac Dhunghaill an Boghadair

I am receiving help recovering the electronic history. It is being worked on and I am still looking for stories, pictures and any old salamanders you may have.

Minister of Arts & Sciences – Lady Scolastica Capellaria

To get a better understanding of what kinds of A&S activities members of the barony are interested in, I sent out a survey. Thus far, Bhakalis have expressed interest in a wide variety of arts and sciences, and have expressed a preference toward virtual meetings on either Wednesday or Sunday, and in person meetings on Sundays. The Survey can be accessed via if you are interested in participating: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/DH5LDD6

If you are interested in hosting a class on a Sunday Afternoon, please let me know!

There are A&S opportunities at the following local events:

February 4, 2023: East Kingdom Bardic Championships, Shire of Hartshorn-Dale, Douglassville, PA, Bardic Competition and Largess Challenge.
February 11, 2023: Imbolc Schola, Barony of Settmour Swamp, Madison, NJ. A day of classes!
March 4, 2023: Nova Schola in Shire of Hartshorn-Dale (Collegeville, PA) a day of classes and learning!
March 25, 2023 Mudthaw in Settmour Swamp (Hackettstown NJ)
April 16, 2023: Service Schola in the Barony of Carillion (South River, NJ) with classes on various volunteer positions in society.
April 22, 2023: Iron Bog’s Bardic Championship (Moorestown, NJ);
April 22, 2023: Waking of the Salamander (Media, PA) camping and outdoor cooking!

There continue to be virtual events throughout the known world.

Atlantia University next session: to be announced https://university.atlantia.sca.org/
Known World Italians: August 2023 (Currently looking for staff and teachers) https://knownworlditalians.org/
Known World Scribes: To be Announced. In Person event June 23-25, 2023 in Northshield (Wisconsin). https://heraldry.sca.org/kwhss/
Sunday with the Scribes: A weekly scribal lecture series https://scribal.art/swts/sncal/
Costumers of Color: Silk Routes Symposium 2023, all lectures are available including many videos about non-western garb: https://costumersofcolor.org/events/list-of-classes/?fbclid=IwAR0BEEOg2ABOJmXoLU3OihDykTm0mcHu8WAjVo1XktpaqFkZyiR3fWWBoL0

If there are other virtual events/A&S opportunities out there please let me know!

Chatelaine – Lady Chana Freidl the Maker

We have welcomed a HUGE amount of newcomers recently! At Tavern alone, we had 16 newcomers join us! I used the money made from the Plague Sale at commons to create feast gear sets for some of our active newcomers, and used the rest of it on more small- and medium-sized garb as most of our Gold Key is larger. Thank you all for helping make Bhakail a friendly place for our newcomers to feel comfortable.

Pennsic – Pre-registration is open, and for Bhakail’s camp, that means anyone who has camped with our camp before has until April 1st to pre-register to guarantee a space on camp. After April 1st, I will open up pre-registration to our wait list, which is full of newcomers who want to attend Pennsic for the first time.

PAX Unplugged – Dates for PAX Unplugged have been released – it will be held on December 1-3, 2023. Big plans are in the works, depending on how much space we can ask for at the convention.

Seneschal’s report for February

Greetings,

In Society news, the membership portal is still down, so if your membership has lapsed, please reach out to them in order to renew if you need to. The alternative methods of paying for new or renewed memberships aren’t great (they’re very insecure; never send credit card information via email or snail mail so a check may be better but still not great). There’s no timeline on when things will be back as of this writing (2/8/23).

Waking of the Salamander is coming up and as Tailleach is a new event steward, he would appreciate assistance on the event, if anyone experienced is available to support him.

After Waking of the Salamander, we really don’t have anything until after Pennsic…except for Pennsic, but that’s on everyone’s plate. There’s important notes for this year, being Pennsic 50, so please pay attention to your campmasters and everything that’s required for this year. While we want everyone to be able to camp with us, we’re also trying to accommodate new members camping with us versus camping elsewhere and the deadlines for registration, camp fees and especially tent information are hard deadlines. Again: be on the lookout for missives from your campmasters and pay heed…they’re trying to be fair to as many people as possible but will be bumping people in the queue if dates are missed to accomplish that.

In Service,

Mael Eoin

Barony of Bhakail Business Meeting: Jan 2023 Officer Reports

Following are the monthly officer reports submitted for the Bhakail monthly business meeting of Jan 10, 2023.

Meeting agenda: https://bhakail.eastkingdom.org/wordpress/index.php/2023/01/04/january-business-meeting-agenda/

Coronet’s Report – Baron Muin maqq Minain

Hellooooooooooo the Peoples of the Barony, Our neighbors and Our Allies;

We of Bhakail must rejoice, for Our Tavern event even now meanders ever closer, that Joyous Wreath of Holiday Cheers that sets boldly upon Our Barony’s Hearth; We will need Our People ready for the Bardic and Gaming Championships to choose Our newest Champions who would represent Bhakail in this coming year.

The Baronry is also currently in need of more scroll holders, if anyone either has spares lying about, or is willing to construct them, We would appreciate these efforts greatly.

As We approach the beginning of what COULD be Our Final Year as Baron of this amazing Barony of Bhakail, I would like to take this time to remind the Barony that the SCA draws each of Us to its welcoming arms with a variety of activities and interests. With upcoming Events, such as Waking of the Salamander, if you are thinking of aiding in the running of the event, yet do not know what to do nor where to start, think of those things you enjoy doing in the Society, and start with those things. Or, ask… you could always ask. Yeah. Ask.

This year is fast coming to a close, and We should all be thankful for the turning of the Seasons that will bring back the Sun, and leave this past year where it belongs, in memories, and lessons well learned.

In closing: Let us think now upon the Poetry of those Ancient Ghlaswegeon Peoples, with words by their most honored and noteworthy of encroonenator, Wee Jock MacJock of the revered line of the MacJocks, sometimes known as the Jock, to the Caledorii Mnathan nan Buadhan So-rèiteachaidh Let these words whisk you away to a time e’er now long gone. Let its inspiration give your soul wings!

Am bu chòir dearmad a dhèanamh air an neach-eòlais
Agus nach deach a thoirt gu inntinn?
Am bu chòir dearmad a dhèanamh air an neach-eòlais
Agus làithean na h-aingidheachd ?
Airson auld lang syne, a ghràidh
Airson auld lang syne
Is òlaidh sinn cupan caoimhneis fòs
Air son auld lang syne
Agus gu cinnteach ceannaichidh tu do chupa
Agus gu cinnteach ceannaichidh mi mo chuid!
Gabhaidh sinn cupan caoimhneis fathast
Air son auld lang syne
Tha sinn le chèile air pleadhadh anns an t-sruth
O ghrian maidne gu oidhche
Na cuantan eadar sinn a Thighearna agus at
Bho làithean auld lang syne
Do sheann luchd-eòlais na dìochuimhnich
Agus cha deach a thoirt gu inntinn a-riamh
Bu chòir dearmad a dhèanamh air seann neach-eòlais
Air son auld lang syne ?
Do sheann luchd-eòlais na dìochuimhnich
Agus cha deach a thoirt gu inntinn a-riamh
Bu chòir dearmad a dhèanamh air seann neach-eòlais
Ann an làithibh auldlang syne ?
Airson auld lang syne, a ghràidh
Airson auld lang syne
Is òlaidh sinn cupan caoimhneis fòs
Air son auld lang syne

Be well,

And Peace be upon you in these Slowly Enlightening Times;

Muin,

Baron of Bhakail

Seneschal’s Report – Máistir Mael Eoin mac Echuidh

Happy New Year!

I’ve already missed my own mark of being more prepared on this month’s change in business meeting planning, communication and execution…but the holidays were maybe the worst time of year (…well, maybe aside from Pennsic) to launch something new. My bad. Thankfully, we’re not being graded on it and we’ll give it a good chance before deciding whether to stick with it or change it.

We’ve had a lot of good feedback on the Yule survey, and I think between that and the desire to pin down a place on a site’s calendar before they fill up, we should plan on using the German Society again for Yule ‘23. I had a lot of hope for Lulu Temple, especially with expanded space for activities, but the significantly increased cost coupled with a loss of ambiance really worked against it. More to come on future Yule plans, but the long and short of it is that without legwork being done to find new sites, there’s a lot to recommend staying where we are. If anyone is interested in helping with finding new sites, let me know. Myself and the other officers aren’t able to do it at this time and we need more volunteers. Likewise, if anyone wants to bid to run Yule this year (or any year going forward!), please reach out.

Social Media Deputy – Magister Rowen Cloteworthy

Eleven new folks have joined the Barony’s FB group this month. We had a combination of new folks, a couple people from other groups, and a couple returning SCAdians recently moved into the Barony. All the newcomers were given introductions to Baron Muin and Lady Chana. Information-wise, we’ve posted contact info about the Baronial email list and the Kingdom’s Discord server. Photos from Yule were shared and information about the coming Gaming and Bardic Champs at Tavern was distributed, along with other bits and bobs. Until next time…

Salamander Pursuivant’s Report – Lady Ragna Grímólfsdóttir

No report.

Knight Marshal – Lady Motte Nachtfalter

Practices are expected to continue indoors at the locations listed from December’s report (Ultimate Archery, 120 E Kings Hwy Suite 404, Maple Shade NJ 08052, OR Lonnie Young Recreation Center, 1100 E Chelten Avenue, Philadelphia PA 19138. Site location will alternate weekly, with updates communicated to the fighting Facebook groups.)

Practices continue to be held, with Sir Bari or Sir Elglin acting as marshals or other suitable individuals as needed.

Rapier Marshal – Don Melchior Kriebel

We finally heard back from our new landlords….and he promptly kicked us out of the church basement. In theory it is so the needed repairs can be started but while he says he is open to us using the site in the future the impression I get is that he wants a lot more money for the site once repairs are done.

We have collected our loaner gear and will store it until we have a new place for it.

We are working under the assumption that future use of the space will be too costly for the benefits and are looking to get a new space. Several folks have been contacted to see what we can get.

Archery Marshal – Lady Maryna Borowska

No report.

Thrown Weapons Marshal – The Honorable Lord Mikael melrakki

Practices are still on hiatus.

Minister of the List – The Honorable Lord Mikael melrakki

I will be teaching a class on running various tournament styles at Caer Adamant’s Fighter Schola.

Exchequer – Mistress Philadelphia Brown

No report.

Chamberlain – Honorable Lord Bryan Mac Dhunghaill an Boghadair

No report.

Chronicler – Lady Ellyn Grene

I’m currently working on the next issue of The Salamander, which will be published in late January. If you have content to contribute, please have it to me by no later than January 17.

Historian – Honorable Lord Bryan Mac Dhunghaill an Boghadair

No report.

Minister of Arts & Sciences – Lady Scolastica Capellaria

Starting in the new year I would like to start hosting regular Zoom A&S lectures on different topics once a month. If there is a topic you would like to learn more about, or something you would like to teach, please email me at MOAS@bhakail.eastkingdom.org

Don’t forget about our Bardic and Gaming championships on January 28th in Philadelphia! Please check the event announcement for information on the Gaming Championship format! Bardic Competition Theme to be announced!

There are A&S opportunities at the following local events:

January 7, 2023: Owlsherst Country 12th Night (York, PA) a day of games, music and dancing;
January 14, 2023: Fighters Schola and Tournament of the Fallen Stag, Shire of Caer Adamant, Wilmington Delaware, learn about flighting techniques and history;
January 28, 2023: Sign of the Wolf, Raven and Winged Cat, Barony of Bhakail (Philadelphia PA) Gaming Champion and Bardic Competition;
February 4, 2023: East Kingdom Bardic Championships, Shire of Hartshorn-Dale, Douglassville, PA, Bardic Competition and Largess Challenge.
March 4, 2023: Nova Schola in Shire of Hartshorn-Dale (Collegeville, PA) a day of classes and learning geared toward newcomers.
March 25, 2023: Mudthaw in Settmour Swam (Hackettstown NJ)
April 16, 2023: Service Schola in the Barony of Carillion (South River, NJ) with classes on various volunteer positions in society.

If you are interested in teaching a class, there is a call for classes for Nova Schola in Hartshorn Dale on March 4, 2023 in Collegeville PA. Please contact Alison Wodehalle 148153@members.eastkingdom.org.

March 4, 2023 is also the date of the Kingdom A&S competition! This year in Laval Quebec! Registration opens December 1. This year’s competition will again be a hybrid format of online displays and in person competition. For more information please read about it on the Kingdom MOAS website: https://moas.eastkingdom.org/displays-competitions/crowns-as-champions/

Chatelaine – Lady Chana Freidl the Maker

We continue to have newcomers reach out, hopefully they will start joining us at events soon.

Yule – nothing from the financial committee yet about any profit or loss from the event, but we did receive our security deposit back, so that’s a plus.

Pennsic – Pre-reg will likely open in January. Keep an eye out for information from your camp masters about pre-regging for Pennsic 50!

Webminister – Finnolfr Hrafnson

No report.

Bailiwick of Ivyeinrust – Mistress Philadelphia Brown reporting

Thélème at Penn has been rescheduled for Saturday, 9Mar24.

Emery is planning some recruitment activities this spring on Penn’s campus.

Martyn is working on the 4th quarter year-end exchequer report.

December 2022 Business Meeting Minutes and Officer Reports

Barony of Bhakail Meeting: December 13, 2022

Old Business

PAX Unplugged

Report from Lady Chana Freidl the Maker: PAX Unplugged was a HUGE success! We had so much more interest than last year, from people across the country. Having fighters really attracted a lot of attention, and enough SCAdians were there in the “audience” that we could all talk to the crowd about what they were watching. I have big plans for next year, and I hope the leads we got this year join us! I owe a GIGANTIC thank you to everyone who helped out, I couldn’t have done it without you!

Shire Wars

Planning is beginning, and the organizers would like a representative from the Barony. Next month’s meeting is on the last Tuesday of the month; please contact Mael Eoin if you are interested in volunteering.

Yule

Happened on Saturday, and was a success.

Tavern

Planning is underway.

Waking of the Salamander

A bid has been submitted and is currently under review.

Yule 2023

Several people visited Lulu Temple to check it out as a site location. It is relatively expensive, so Bhakail will be looking to other nearby groups with which to partner. No bids have been submitted yet, so if you are interested in running Yule 2023 reach out to Mael Eoin. Need to think of strategies to keep people to stay and help with cleaning. Contact Philadelphia if you have ideas on alternative sites!

Officer Positions

Chatelaine: Term ends in December. Chana has indicated her willingness to continue. A vote was held and Chana was reelected.
Webminister: Finnolfr Hrafnson submitted his willingness to take on the position. A vote was held and Finn was elected.
Emergency Seneschal: Taichleach Eoghanacht expressed willingness for the position. It is an appointed position and Mael Eoin appointed Taichleach to the position.

Officer Reports

Coronet’s Report – Baron Muin maqq Minain

No report.

Seneschal’s Report – Máistir Mael Eoin mac Echuidh

Greetings to the Barony!

We’ve had a very busy month, between Yule and PAX Unplugged, not to mention all of the regular weekly activities throughout the Barony. As we hit the holidays and the end of the year, I hope things are easy, relaxing and energizing for us all. The past three years have been very difficult – unprecedented in our lifetimes – and while we’re not back to every routine, activity and other opportunities that might have been regular in years past, we’re resuming some activities and forging ahead with other new ones.

As an officer and Peer, I am looking forward to supporting the events and activities that we are planning and would encourage anyone with interest in helping out to reach out to myself or any other organizer. Whether it’s to help staff an event, learn how to run events or head up kitchens or look into a Baronial office as an assistant, either to help in the role or with an eye to taking it on fully at some point.

Specifically as Seneschal, my deputy Taichleach and I will start meeting regularly to review the Baronial customs (“bylaws”, though we aren’t to call them that) and propose an updated version that reflects how the Barony operates today, especially where our practices are at odds with what we’ve previously adopted. Likewise, we encourage all officers to consider their own existing policies (and/or create new ones if none exist).

On a personal note, I’d like to say I was grateful for the Yule we had and the massive demo effort of PAX Unplugged. There’s a lot of opportunity, there, but like many things, it would benefit from more volunteers, whether to staff the booth on occasion throughout the weekend, help make games or the like to give away or help with activities like dancing, fencing and the heavy combat that debuted this year.

I wish things were such that we could’ve seen one another, if we didn’t have the opportunity, and I appreciate the chance to see as many folks as I have through our practices and events this year. Figuring out individual balances and accommodations we need to make to keep doing what we do is a challenge and I expect this next year will be no different there.

Stay warm and safe and however you celebrate this time of year, may it be filled with light and laughter.

Mael Eoin

Social Media Deputy – Magister Rowen Cloteworthy

This month saw seven new people join our FB page. Several who are members in other groups, one a SCAdian recently returned to live in the Barony, and a couple newcomers. As always, much information has been shared. This month there were communications on Pax, Yule, how to subscribe to the Baronial email list, information on the Kingdom’s Discord server, information for beginning scribes, and information from our Seneschal on how he’ll be restructuring the meetings and reporting requirements. As always, information is passed back and forth between the email list and social media. Until next time,

Salamander Pursuivant’s Report – Lady Ragna Grímólfsdóttir

No report.

Knight Marshal – Lady Motte Nachtfalter

Fighter practice continues into the cold months. In a burst of ingenuity and generosity, our Tuesday practices are moving indoors to alternating sites.

12/06 & 12/20
Practice will be held at:
Ultimate Archery
120 E Kings Hwy Suite 404,
Maple Shade, NJ 08052

These accommodations were made courtesy of Sterling del Rosa and are not to be misconstrued as an “unlawful occupation” of Bhakail forces outside the Barony. Attendees are asked to donate $5 toward site cost.

12/13 & 12/27
Practice will be held at:
Lonnie Young Recreation Center
1100 E Chelten Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19138

These accommodations are made courtesy of Osa N’Kante and we are thrilled for his assistance and participation.

Site location will alternate weekly, with updates communicated to the fighting Facebook groups.

Preparations for war continue apace.

New business request: Could I get access to the Bhakail KM email address and it’s backlog? Just in case new folks are reaching out and I’m not aware. Thanks!

Rapier Marshal – Don Melchior Kriebel

Bhakail rapier practice continues to be held at the Mayfair Presbyterian Church in NorthEast Philadelphia. Attendance is moderate and we have had a couple of new people checking out the practice this month. There were no incidents.

We have sent the email to the new building owners a second time and there has still been no response. We have been told they are slow to respond.

Archery Marshal – Lady Maryna Borowska

No report.

Thrown Weapons Marshal – The Honorable Lord Mikael melrakki

Thrown weapons and archery practices are on hiatus, until Spring. If a long period of unseasonably warm weather occurs, an impromptu practice may occur.

Minister of the List – The Honorable Lord Mikael melrakki

Nothing to report

Exchequer – Mistress Philadelphia Brown

As you probably know, the Baronial Council of the Exchequer (aka the Baronial Financial Committee) manages the Barony’s assets (cash and non-cash), approves budgets for events and other expenditures, and is responsible for the Baronial Financial Policies.

The Baronial Council of the Exchequer is made up of five OR seven voting members:

Chancellor of the Exchequer,
Seneschal,
Coronet (one vote whether a single Coronet or two Coronets), and
two at-large members OR four at-large members.

The Deputy Seneschal and the Deputy Chancellor of the Exchequer are kept informed of the Council of Exchequer discussions, but they do not have a vote on CoE issues.

The four current at-large members of the Council of the Exchequer have each served longer than their standard terms. and it is time to give them many, many thanks for all their years of service and let them enjoy a well-earned respite. Vivant, Mistress Judith the Confused, Mistress Gisela Szabo, Doña Damiana Almodóvar de Sevilla, and Lady Livia Petralia!

If you are interested in being an at-large member of Bhakail’s Council of the Exchequer, you must be at least 18 years old and a paid SCA member. If you have any questions about the duties of the CoE or interest in becoming one of the new at-large members, please contact me (exchequer@bhakail.eastkingdom.org) before the January Barony Meeting, if possible.

Thanks very much!

Chamberlain – Honorable Lord Bryan Mac Dhunghaill an Boghadair

No report.

Chronicler – Lady Ellyn Grene

The latest issue of The Salamander was sent out November 29. Thank you to everyone who contributed to the issue. The next issue is scheduled for late January, so please contact me if you want to contribute anything.

Historian – Honorable Lord Bryan Mac Dhunghaill an Boghadair

Had a good Yule, talked to a lot of people and got some help with recreating the electronic history from Beck of Copeland. Scanning has begun. Chana has offered me pictures, I want to start putting together a slide show for the 50th calibration. So I am going to ask for pictures and stories again. His Excellency Buckland’s Crossing said he would send me the documentation about the formation of Buckland’s Cross. I don’t know what event I will be going to in the near future.

Minister of Arts & Sciences – Lady Scolastica Capellaria

This past weekend at our Yule Celebration a New A&S champion was crowned: Katrein Topffer for her illuminated playing cards. Aiden Underhill won the brewing competition with his red currant liqueur and Caudle. Stay tuned for future announcements of next year’s themes! Both competitions were well attended with many Bhakailis showing of their stuff including embroidery, pottery, leatherwork, lacemaking as well as many delicious beverages!

Don’t forget about our Bardic and Gaming championships on January 28th in Philadelphia!

There are A&S opportunities at the following events:

January 7, 2023: Owlsherst Country 12th Night (York, PA) a day of games, music and dancing;
January 14, 2023: Fighters Schola and Tournament of the Fallen Stag, Shire of Caer Adamant, Wilmington Delaware, learn about flighting techniques and history;
January 28, 2023: Sign of the Wolf, Raven and Winged Cat, Barony of Bhakail (Philadelphia PA) Gaming Champion and Bardic Competition;
February 4, 2022: East Kingdom Bardic Championships, Shire of Hartshorn-Dale, Douglassville, PA, Bardic Competition and Largess Challenge.

Chatelaine – Lady Chana Freidl the Maker

I’ve had a few new people reach out online, and hopefully they will be joining us at events soon. We look forward to a couple newcomer feast tables at Yule this weekend, and I know a couple newcomers have already signed up to join us at Tavern.

Webminister – Máistir Mael Eoin mac Echuidh

Will work with Finn to get him access to the website as he transitions into the position of westminster.

Bailiwick of Ivyeinrust – Honorable Lady Livia Petralia

Philly reported that Thélème has been moved to 2024.

Minute notes recorded by Ellyn Grene

November 2022 Business Meeting Minutes and Officer Reports

Barony of Bhakail Meeting: November 15, 2022

Old Business

PAX Unplugged

Report from Lady Chana Freidl the Maker: coming so soon! You must purchase tickets to attend on the PAX website (https://unplugged.paxsite.com/) and if you are going and would like to help at our booth, please reach out to me! I will be taking names of volunteers but would ask that you come to the table at PAX to sign up for a time to play games with us – I don’t want anyone to commit to a time before the panel schedule comes out in case there’s something they can’t miss!

Shire Wars

Shire Wars happened, and planning is beginning for next year. Mael Eoin, as Seneschal, is currently involved in the discussion, and let him know if anyone else in the Barony is interested as serving as a Bhakail representative.

Yule

Report from event steward Lady Chana Freidl the Maker: We are just over a month away! Please pre-register for both Yule and Feast when you can, we are not accepting registrations at the Gate. This will be a Royal Progress, and we are thrilled to host Their Majesties at our event! Exciting things to look forward to include the A&S Championship, Brewing Championship, sock exchange, dancing, and fun times. Our mask variance was denied, so masks will not be required at Yule. There will be medical-grade masks provided at Gate, and I strongly recommend masking indoors whenever possible as cold and flu season kicks in.

New Business

Officer Positions

Minister of Lists: Mikael’s current term ended in October. No one else submitted a letter of intent and Mikael is willing to serve another term. A vote was held and Mikael was reelected.
Chatelaine: Term ends in December. Chana has indicated her willingness to continue.
Webminister: Webminister position is vacant. Finn is willing to take on the roll, collaborating with the Chronicler to get information out on a timely manner. Vote will be held in December.
Emergency Seneschal: Currently no one has expressed an interest in the position. If you are interested please contact Mael Eoin. This is a required position that must be filled.

Tavern

A bid had recently been submitted and is currently under review.

Waking of the Salamander

A bid has been submitted with tentative dates of April 21-23, 2023. Bid is currently under review.

Yule 2023

Mael Eoin reached out to Hartshorn-Dale, who have agreed we can use LuLu Temple as a venue for Yule 2023. Mael Eoin and Philly will be going on a site visit on November 23 to check out the site, and invite any potential event stewards or event staff to join them. There was discussion about moving forward and signing a contract to secure the site in advance of submission of an event bid if the visit goes well, and no concerns were expressed.

Officer Reports

Coronet’s Report – Baron Muin maqq Minain

Hello the Peoples of the Barony, Our neighbors and Our Allies;

We of Bhakail must rejoice, for Our Yule event is trundling ever closer, that Joyous Garland of Holiday CHeers that sets boldly upon Our Barony’s Hearth; We will need Our People ready for the A&S and Brewing Championships to choose Our newest Champions who would represent Bhakail in the coming year.

Also are called for those who would hear the call to Service, and aid in producing these festivities, please be aware we will be hosting the Royals this Yule, and we will need All Salamandry Hands on the metaphorical Deck.

DEMOS! We have a possible demo coming down the pike, in the form of PAX-Unplugged, and if you want to show off for the public, and possibly recruit new members from amongst the public, please let the Seneschal know of your wish to participate. Get Paxxinated against the Winter doldrums, and join Us at this Wonderful, and Game-filled event!

We look forward to the Post New Year Revels that are “TAVERN!” And the contests inherent in that day, as well.

The Baronry is also currently in need of more scroll holders, if anyone either has spares lying about, or is willing to construct them.

As we approach the beginning of what could be Our Final Year as Baron of Bhakail, I would like to take this time to ask if the Baron would hold a vote, and ascertain whether it would like this to BE my final year. Or if it will allow me to Serve the Barony for one more year. As is Our Custom, We leave this weighty matter up to the People of Bhakail, and Its Officers.

In closing: Let us harken now to the Wise, and Winsome Poetry of Ancient Galacianii Peoples, with words by their most honored and noteworthy of wordynessmen, Gascargana the Adle-Eared, sometimes known as the Connie, to his Roman buddies! Let these words whisk you away to a time e’er now long gone. Let its inspiration give your soul wings!

Na rúa, podes escoitala berrar: “Es unha vergoña”
Mentres ela pecha a porta na súa cara de borracho
E agora está fóra
E todos os veciños comezan a cotillear e babear

El grita: “Oh nena, debes estar tola
Que pasou co doce amor que ti e mais eu tiñamos?”
Contra a porta inclínase e comeza unha escena
E as súas bágoas caen e arden no verde do xardín

E así castelos feitos de area
Caer no mar
Finalmente

Be well,
And Peace be upon you in these Dark Times;

Muin,
Baron of Bhakail

Seneschal’s Report – Máistir Mael Eoin mac Echuidh

We’re still tracking to have a good Yule event, and have noticed TRH are intending to attend as well. How this will play out with the Baronial/Royal Room is being worked on, but it means the day will be all the more epic having Their Majesties and Their Highnesses in attendance 🙂

Tavern is being planned and we should see some more about that coming soon.

For Yule 2023, we have some exciting news, though we’ll still need a bid for anything to go forward. After discussing with the impending Barony of Hartshorn-dale, we’re looking forward to returning to the Lulu Temple site that they and we have both used in the past. All of the parking woes we deal with at the German Society will be no more, and the kitchen is significantly better in numerous ways. Consider this the official solicitation for bids for Yule 2023…and the sooner we can start planning, the better 🙂 We will have some additional requirements if anyone is interested, so please get in touch with His Excellency and myself if you are considering putting in a bid so that we can discuss specifics.

Finally, we have some updates around COVID policies:

https://seneschal.eastkingdom.org/new-kingdom-wide-variance-effective-11-11-2022/

This change is in effect until March 1st, 2023.

What this means for Yule or any other event, we have to see closer to the event for specifics, but the thing to note about the CDC metric being used is it is specifically using the “Community levels” map/metric, not “Community transmission” or any of the other metrics.

If we were to hold Yule this weekend, we would be at a “Medium” level for “Community levels” and could not require masking:

“Transmission levels” at the moment for Philadelphia County, however, are “Substantial”:

We’ll keep monitoring the situation as we get closer and will act as the variance allows, but this is what Society has approved for our use at this time.

Stay warm and safe, and hopefully we’ll see one another soon, as and how we can.

Social Media Deputy – Magister Rowen Cloteworthy

A slow month in the world of new subscribers to the page. Just one person, though a newcomer to the SCA and the Barony. She’s been put in touch with Lady Chana as Chatelaine. Activity-wise, lots of posts with important info. The Heirs to the Tyger thrones, the trip to the Met, announcements about Yule, an A&S course the Honorable Lady Scolastica was teaching, and much more! Until next time…

Salamander Pursuivant’s Report – Lady Ragna Grímólfsdóttir

Anyone interested in producing scrolls for future Baronial Courts is welcome to contact me or our Baronial Signet, The Honorable Lady Mairi Crawford.

Heraldic Submissions:

From the Eastern Internal Letter of Intent (ILoI) – This letter includes all new names and devices that have been submitted to the Eastern College of Heralds in the last month. It takes about two months for items to reach the next stage, the Eastern Letter of Decision.

October 2022:

— Martyn de Haliwell has submitted a new device (Per pale azure and gules, an orle of marlets Or).

November 2022:

— Margarette La Gantière has submitted a new name (Margarette La Gantière), new device (Argent, a winged cat rampant regardant sable and on a chief dovetailed sable three plates) and new badge (Argent, a winged domestic cat couchant sable and a bordure parted bordurewise sable and argent).

From the Eastern Letter of Intent (LoI) – This letter reports what items will be forwarded to Laurel to be decided on and what will be returned to the submitter for more work. It takes about six more months for submissions to reach the next stage, the Laurel Letter of Acceptances and Returns.

October 2022:

— I did not see any submissions which I immediately recognized as belonging to members of the Barony.

From the Laurel Letter of Acceptances and Returns (LoAR) – This letter says what items have been accepted by SCA’s College of Arms and what has been returned to the submitter unregistered.

August 2022:

— Finnólfr Hrafnsson’s name (Finnólfr Hrafnsson) and device (Or, a raven rising wings displayed regardant sable within a bordure parted bordurewise wavy sable and Or) have been accepted by Laurel.

— Meadhbh inghean Eoin name (Meadhbh inghean Eoin) and device (Sable, two wolves sejant addorsed and in base a crescent pendant argent) have been accepted by Laurel.

If you are currently unsure of the status of your name or device, please contact me at herald@bhakail.eastkingdom.org and I will provide you with an update.

Knight Marshal – Lady Motte Nachtfalter

No incidents to report, practice continues intermittently at various sites under 95. Marshals in Charge vary between Sir Bari of Angelssey and Sir Elglin the Eagle.

Rapier Marshal – Don Melchior Kriebel

Bhakail Rapier practice continued to be held at the Mayfair Presbyterian Church in Northeast Philadelphia. There were no incidents and attendance was moderate.

We have emailed the new owners of the site to see about how we can continue using the site going forwards. As of today there has been no reply.

Archery Marshal – Lady Maryna Borowska & Thrown Weapons Marshal – The Honorable Lord Mikael melrakki

Report submitted by Mikael melrakki

Thrown Weapons and Archery practices:

No practice on 11/20/22 due to 100MW.

Probably no practice on 11/27/22 due to Thanksgiving.

Practices in December may occur if the weather stays warm.

Check with Mikael or Maryna to verify if practices are occuring. If not, see you in the spring.

Minister of the List – The Honorable Lord Mikael melrakki

Nothing to report.

Exchequer – Mistress Philadelphia Brown

Slooowwwly showing my wonderful new Deputy the ropes. I haven’t scared her off yet, AND she’s been very patient with how long it’s taking me to work on this transition.

Hard to believe that Pax demo, Yule Revel, and year-end report are all just around the corner! If anyone needs reimbursements, please let me know.

For Yule Revel, the additional insurance and the outside cleaning company (for cleaning the floors, primarily) have been set up, just like last year.

Chamberlain – Honorable Lord Bryan Mac Dhunghaill an Boghadair

Nothing to report.

Chronicler – Lady Ellyn Grene

Currently working to gather content for the November issue of the Salamander. Please contact me by Nov 21 if you have something you would like to contribute!

Historian – Honorable Lord Bryan Mac Dhunghaill an Boghadair

Nothing to report.

Minister of Arts & Sciences – Lady Scolastica Capellaria

This past month I taught a class over zoom examining strategies to navigate Museum Databases. I give a huge thanks to Margarette la Gantière for leading the trip to the Met in my stead.

There are A&S opportunities at several local upcoming events including 100 Minutes War/EK Novice day (November 19th in Sparta NJ). Bhakail’s Yule (Dec 10 in Philadelphia) will have our brewing competition, A&S competition and Athena’s Thimble Panel/Solar as well as singing and dancing. Owlsherst’s Twelfth Night event (January 7 in York PA) will boast games, bardic and dancing. Please see the east kingdom event announcements for details.

If you are interested in teaching classes on just about anything, there is a call for classes for Nova Schola in Hartshorn Dale on March 4, 2023 in Collegeville PA. Please contact Alison Wodehalle 148153@members.eastkingdom.org.

As a reminder here are the prompts for our Yule A&S competitions!

Baronial A&S Competition Theme chosen by our current Champion Svana Vefari:

This year’s competition will focus around “Growth”. As artists, we find ourselves on an ever-changing and challenging journey while pursuing our particular area of A&S study. We would love to see how artisans have grown from where they began to where they are now. What have you learned? What “Ah-HAH!” moments did you experience? What explorations helped you refine your art and overcome trials? For those of you who are just starting out in your A&S journey, no worries. Please explain what you have learned so far and what goals you are working towards. Actual documentation for entries is highly encouraged and needs only be brief with a few sources. We look forward to seeing your entries and learning more about your Arts and Science journey. Please feel free to PM me or email me (Lindsay.nery@yahoo.com) with any questions or concerns!

Baronial Brewing Competition Theme chosen by our current Champion Siobhan the Harper:

This year’s Theme is Something to Keep Us Warm:

Any category beverage (beer, wine, mead, cordial, other) that will keep us all warm and cozy. Points awarded for taste and historical inspiration. So bring your best spiced mead or hyppocras, mulled wine, good hearty beer to enjoy by the fire, Wassail (using the brewer’s product), cordials, etc. As always, a full ingredient list is mandatory. Documentation is encouraged, but not required. Questions may be directed to Siobhan the Harper.

Chatelaine – Lady Chana Freidl the Maker

Our newcomers continue participating online, at weekly socials, and are looking forward to future events like Yule and Tavern!

Chancellor Minor’s – vacant

Webminister – Máistir Mael Eoin mac Echuidh

Three of us gathered online, recently, to discuss the office of Webminister and my intent to hand it off. We had a good time with ideas and enthusiasm flowing, and I am announcing that as of this meeting, the position is open for candidates, with Finn offering to step up. He and Ellyn will be collaborating on content in general between their offices, which was a great outcome to see.

If no other candidates are forthcoming between now and December, we’ll hold an operational vote next month, otherwise we’ll plan a formal polling.

Looking forward to new perspectives and energy being brought to the website, and I’ll stick around to support and train as needed 🙂

Bailiwick of Ivyeinrust – Honorable Lady Livia Petralia

No report.

Minute notes recorded by Ellyn Grene