An edict must be published in the Kingdom newsletter to be in effect for the duration of the reign.
The Chamberlain may choose to appoint an Archivist, who maintains the archives of the Kingdom which are placed into his/her keeping.
Policies of the Archery Commander
This is an edited version of the Policies; should you wish an entire copy of the Policies of the Archery Commander, please send a request to the Archery Commander for the Archery Marshal's Handbook, the address of which can be found listed in the AEstel.
The Archery marshallate in the Kingdom of AEthelmearc shall be organized in the following manner;
The Archery Commander- shall be appointed by the Crown, and is responsible to same and to the archers of the Kingdom. As with all Archery Marshals, the Commander must fulfill all the requirements to become a marshal and maintain an Archery warrant.
The Archery Scorekeeper- shall be appointed by the Archery Commander and reports directly to same. Does not need to be an Archery Marshal.
Regional Marshal- Shall be appointed by the Archery Commander, and reports directly to same. The Regional Marshals oversee their regions and aid the Archery Commander by administering the warranting tests to likely candidates, answering questions from local marshals, and dealing with such problems as may arise on the local level. Must be warranted Archery Marshals.
Company Captain- appointed by the local group's Seneschal with the approval of the group's archers. Duties to include the formation and maintenance of an Archery Company for the local group, the organization and running of an archery practice for the local group, and the overseeing of the group's archery activities and training of new archers. Must be a warranted archery marshal and reports to the Commander.
Archery Marshal- shall be warranted by the Regional or Commander, and reports to the Commander. Shall be responsible to the local archers and provides training and supervision in the local group.
Responsibilities of the Marshallate-
All warranted Archery Marshals shall report to the Archery Commander; On or before March 31st, and within 10 days of marshaling an event or function. Reports due March 31st must include; Proof of membership, address, SCA name and modern name, phone number and E-mail address, and a detailed listing of past actions and future plans.
Event reports shall include a detailed list of the archery activities of the event, names of any aiding marshals. and any information the Commander should be aware of. Reporting forms may be found in the back of the Archery Marshal's Handbook.
The Archery Marshal shall be responsible for the safe running of any sanctioned SCA archery activities. This includes inspecting of equipment, setting up and running of ranges, and training of archers. No archery activities may take place at an event, demo, or any sanctioned SCA function without an Archery Marshal being in charge of that activity.
The most important responsibility of the Marshallate is to foster the growth of archery in the SCA, this being done by the safe running of ranges, training new archers, and providing an example to the archers of this Kingdom.
Equipment standards shall be set and monitored by the Archery Commander, and shall conform to period archery equipment as much as practical. Complete listings of the standards shall be set forth in the Archery Marshal's Handbook.
Procedures for running a range, a specific shoot, and the rules to these shoots, shall be set out in detail in the Archery Marshal's Handbook.
Archery Ranking System for the Kingdom of AEthelmearc Archery ranks shall be determined by the average of the three highest scores shot for the Royal Rounds at a published practice or sanctioned SCA function received by the Archery Scorekeeper for that archer. The scores shall remain valid for 12 months from the date SHOT. Scores shall be submitted to the Scorekeeper within 30 days. The ranks are as follows;
ARCHER- average up to 40
MARKSMAN -average of 40 to 60
BOWMAN - average of 60 to 80
MASTER BOWMAN - average of 80 to 100
GRAND MASTER BOWMAN -average of greater than 100
Blazons for the badges for these ranks may be gotten from the Archery Marshal's Handbook. The badges for the ARCHER, MARKSMAN, and BOWMAN may be handed out by the local Company Captain, marshal, or local Nobility. The ranks of MASTER and GRAND MASTER are of sufficient note that the Crown of AEthelmearc reserves the right to award these badges.
The ranks obtained are only valid as long as the archer maintains that average, save that of GRAND MASTER, which is a lifelong achievement and is permanent.
The ranking system for JUNIOR archers is the same, save all ranks are prefaced with JUNIOR. See the rules for JUNIOR Royal Rounds in the Archery Marshal's Handbook for more details.
Policies of the Archivist
Revised 1 April A.S. XXXII (CE 1998)
I. Archives Contents - The AEthelmearc Archives shall consist of all Business Records of AEthelmearc that are put into the Archivist's keeping.
II. Records Delivery - All documents that are to be put into the Archives may be delivered to the Archivist at any of the duly defined Kingdom Level events or any other event within AEthelmearc by arrangement in writing.
III. Cataloging
A. The Archivist shall develop and maintain a catalog of ALL records of AEthelmearc that are put into his keeping.
B. Copies of the Catalog
1. A copy of this catalog shall be sent to the Board Ombudsman responsible for AEthelmearc. Updates shall be sent twice yearly, in June and December.
2. With the exception of "closed matters", copies of the respective chapters of the catalog shall be sent to the Crown and each Kingdom Officer pertaining to records that each has sent to the Archives.
IV. Release of Archival Material
A. Except for AEthelmearc Officers, the Crown, Their Heirs, and the Society's Board of Directors, all requests for materials in the Archives must be made to the Office from whom the materials in question originated.
B. Once the request has been made and an affirmative response has been received from the Office from whom the information is being sought, a request for release of the material in question may be made to the Archivist. Said requests must meet the following criteria before they can be considered:
1. The person making the request MUST be a current, PAID member of the Society.
2. The request must be in writing and delivered by the US Postal Service (i.e., E-Mail requests shall not be considered), and include proof of current Societal membership as defined by Corpora.
3. The request must include copies of all correspondence with the Office from which the material in question originated.
Provided these criteria are met, the Archives shall work in cooperation with the Office from which the requested materials originated to release them to the member who made the inquiry.
C. AEthelmearc Officers may freely request materials from their section of the Archives. Any requests for materials outside of their respective section of the Archives must include copies of all correspondence with the Office from which the material in question originated.
Policies of the Arts and Sciences Officer
The duty of the Arts and Sciences Officer, on all levels, is to ensure that anyone wishing to study, teach, demonstrate, display, or practice an Art or Science of the Middle Ages has the opportunity to do so. The A&S Office does this by supporting the organization of educational opportunities in the form of classes, workshops, guilds, demonstrations, publications, and competitions. The primary goal of which is to promote the interaction and communication of artisans within our society. All local groups are required to have an A&S Officer. The Kingdom A&S officer is a member of the Regalia Committee, and shares information regarding demos and other educational contact with the mundane world with the Chatelaine.
REQUIREMENTS OF THE LOCAL A&S OFFICER
Group officers are required to maintain files, answer correspondence, read the A&S column in the Kingdom newsletter, comply with Corpora and AEthelmearc Kingdom Law, and file two semi-annual reports with the Kingdom A&S Officer.
Reporting dates for Arts & Sciences Officers will be November 1st and May 1st. These dates will provide a 25 day period of time for report collector and/or to take action against non-reporting groups. Officers who fail to report, after attempts have been made by this office to ascertain and correct the failure, shall be removed from office.
The Arts & Sciences Officer is a required position for all Baronies, while Shires may have either an A&S officer or a Knights Marshal. If you cannot maintain your group's required officer positions, than you shall no longer be a group. We hope that this extreme act will not be necessary, however, groups that do not report within the allotted time, whose officer has to be removed, and whose Seneschal neglects further to fulfill the report requirement and/or to have the A&S office filled,...Shall Be Recommended to the Seneschalate for Further Action.
If a Shire's A&S office is vacant, it is the duty of the group Seneschal to file that report until a new A&S officer is elected. Groups are not required to have an A&S officer if they have a Knights Marshal, who is also required to report, and it is advises that you notify this office if this is the case.
Lastly, all A&S officers are further required to report on at least two workshops every year within your group, even if you must conduct it yourself, as well as conduct one A&S exhibition or competition during at least one of your group's yearly events. What you must note here is that these three required activities must also be included in your A&S report. Many groups hold regular Dance Practices, Bardic Circles, Guild Meetings, and a host of other activities which certainly qualify for the definition of Workshop. We are aware that many groups already meet or exceed these requirements and we applaud your efforts.
Local Officers are chosen by their groups and when accepted by the kingdom officer are placed upon the Official Roster of AEthelmearc A&S Officers. To be officially rostered to your post, you must submit a letter of your group's decision (containing at a minimum: The A&S Officer's SCA and legal names, your group name, mailing address, a statement that your are the local A&S Officer, proof that you have access to the Kingdom newsletter at your address, and proof of membership), and a letter from both the previous officer and local Seneschal. This letter should reflect that you are, in fact, the newly elected officer. You will remain the Rostered A&S Officer for your local group until the Kingdom Office received a letter of your resignation, or letters which install your replacement (ie...the letters from the new A&S Officer and the local Seneschal).
DEPUTIES
Regional or Other Deputies may be appointed as needed by the Kingdom A&S Officer. These deputies must conform to the requirements listed above for local A&S officers, plus whatever specialized functions are agreed on at the time of their appointment. These deputies do not keep a roster of local officers within their region, unless so delegated by Kingdom.
Regional Deputies shall serve as a line of communication between the Kingdom A&S Office and the local groups. As representatives of the Kingdom A&S Officer, they shall be required to support the organization of educational opportunities, instruct on the local level, and bring any unresolved difficulties to the attention of this office for resolution on the Kingdom level. Further, they may be called upon to represent this A&S Office in the event that the Kingdom Officer cannot attend an event in that region.
Other Deputies may be appointed on an as needed basis. Deputies may be appointed to act as a Guild liaison, compile a directory of A&S teachers and their subjects, to assist in the publication of an A&S newsletter, etc.
GENERAL POLICY
This Office supports the existence of both competitions and exhibitions as a method of bringing about communication and interactions between artisans and scholars, and to stimulate improvement of skills and recognition of achievements in the Arts and Sciences.
Lord Tarquineaus Turnbull, Minister of Arts & Sciences to the Kingdom of AEthelmearc
Policies of the Chamberlain
These Being the Policies of the Office of Chamberlain of the Kingdom of AEthelmearc ,
First, If you are giving a gift to the Royalty (the individuals as people and not the position) sitting the throne, the Chamberlain does not need to know.
Second, If that gift is to the Crown (the position of King and/or Queen), the Chamberlain does need to know. I require the following information:
Name(s) of person(s) giving the gift
Names of the Reigning Royalty
Event presented at
Brief description of the gift (with a picture if possible)
An estimate of the value of the Item
This information can be gotten to the Chamberlain in a few different ways;
1) Mail it directly to the Chamberlain
2) E-mail it to the Chamberlain if they have e-mail
3) Hand it to the Chamberlain at an event you are both attending
Please Take Notice, ALL of these methods involve giving the information directly to the individual in the office of Chamberlain.
It is desired by the Chamberlain that any gifts given to the Crown at events where the Chamberlain is not in attendance, be noted by the Royalty and those notes submitted to the Chamberlain as soon as possible.
Third, If you have an Idea for regalia, there are a few steps that must be taken if you expect the Kingdom to accept the cost for the production of the item.
1) Write a proposal and bring it to Curia
2) Wait until you receive written conformation of the acceptance of your bid before starting construction.
3) Submit ALL receipts to the Exchequer, I can not write checks.
Remember, no one can singularly authorize the expenditure of Kingdom funds.
Talking to someone about an idea is very different from submitting a bid to Curia.
Fourth, If Curia agrees with the Crown that an item of regalia is desired for the Kingdom:
1) The Chamberlain will research; suppliers, artisans, possible donations of items or funds, and such avenues of acquiring the regalia in question.
2) Should the Chamberlain deem their experience insufficient to the task, the Chamberlain can form a regalia committee. The purpose of the committee will be to inform and give advice to the Chamberlain. Any regalia committees will be temporary bodies under the office of the Chamberlain and will make reports to that office if the Chamberlain is not present at meetings. The Chamberlain reserves the right to accept or deny acceptance of any individual to a regalia committee.
Last, The Chamberlain will be responsible for the storage and care of all Kingdom regalia not currently in use by the Royalty. All regalia will be catalogued and accounted for. A sign out form will be used by the Chamberlain whenever regalia is loaned from the Kingdom to the Reigning Royalty or their Heirs. Wear and tear is expected over time, all items considered unusable after a reign will be reported at the next Curia. Items missing will first be discussed with the outgoing royalty, and then included in the report to Curia of unusable items.
Policies of the Chancellor of the Exchequer
(Hereafter known as the Treasurer.)
These financial policies are in addition to the guidelines of the Society for Creative Anachronism, Inc. (SCA), Officer's Handbook (hereafter known as the Handbook) and should be followed as if incorporated into Kingdom Law. The handbook is available from your local treasurer.
I. WHO MAY RAISE FUNDS/HAVE INCOME: Territorial groups may raise monies in the name of the SCA without special approval. Officers of State may raise monies in the name of the SCA only if they have an official treasurer confirmed by the Kingdom Treasurer. Entities which have funds shall maintain a bank account in the name of the SCA. All checks shall be made payable to "SCA, Inc. - name of entity" and deposited in the entity's bank account. Events announcements instructing payment in any other method (other than cash) shall not be published. All cash must be deposited in the group's bank account. Funds raised in the name of AEthelmearc must be given to the Kingdom Treasurer directly. An individual and/or group raising funds for the Kingdom/or a specified individual must have permission of the Treasurer of the group and the autocrat of the event.
II. REGARDING DONATIONS/FUNDS:
All official treasurers may accept/provide receipts for monetary donations
- follow the process in the handbook. NO MONIES MAY BE DISTRIBUTED IN CASH
- DEPOSIT EVERYTHING IN THE GROUP BANK ACCOUNT. Donations for Kingdom Funds must be sent to the Kingdom Treasurer; but please announce the results in court. If raising monies for a specific cause (ex travel fund), the cause must be made known prior to collecting the funds. Reference documentation on Kingdom funds as necessary. The Kingdom Treasurer or his deputy may pass the "great hat" at Kingdom events for Kingdom fund-raising.
Transfers between groups, including Kingdom accounts, do not count as donations.
Non-monetary donations, e.g. equipment, supplies, items for resale, with a value in excess of $100.00 require approval of the Kingdom Treasurer who will issue the receipt. The donor individual/business is responsible for setting the value of the donation; we are not to place a value on items donated and nothing should be considered without seeing it first.
III. OFFICER RESPONSIBILITIES:
Information for the requirements for Office, warranting, bank accounts, bank cards, annual reporting and all forms can be found in the Treasurer's Handbook. Bank accounts are required to be checking accounts if at all possible. Savings accounts are recommended to be accessible only through the checking account. CD's require a variance from the Kingdom Treasurer. It is acceptable for more than one group to pool assets in one SCA account as long as the assets can be allocated to the individual groups by the treasurer responsible for the account.
IV. TERM OF OFFICE:
Terms of office may be set by local groups; however, the Kingdom Office retains the responsibility to remove a treasurer from office should it be required. When changing treasurers, signatures on the bank account must be reviewed and changed as required. Local groups must notify the Kingdom Exchequer of the change of treasurer and who is on the account.
V. EVENT FINANCES:
Bills are not to be paid out of the cash box. All expenses must be paid by check with a proper receipt so an appropriate money trail is recorded.
If an event is to be a "fund-raiser" it should be noted in the event announcement. Twelfth Night, Coronations and Crown Tournament are designated "Kingdom fund-raisers" by law.
Event financial reports are due to the Kingdom Treasurer within 30 days of the event. The responsibility for the filing of the report lies with the Treasurer not the autocrat. Autocrats will promptly supply their treasurer with all receipts, a gate reconciliation, the "troll" lists and all information necessary to complete the event form and hopefully participate in its preparation. While not necessary, sending copies of the troll list and receipts with the event form will fulfill the requirements of a bi-annual audit if everything else is in order.
VI. FINANCIAL REPORTS:
In addition to event reports, all territorial groups and Kingdom Officers with bank accounts are required to report to the Kingdom Treasurer quarterly. The 1st and 3rd quarter reports will only be financial reports if requested by the Kingdom Treasurer. This will be on a case by case basis in the cases of new treasurers or prior problems in reporting. Otherwise the 1st and 3rd quarter reports should be the status of your office. The midyear financial report is for the first six months with the period ending 6-30. The yearend report is for the period ending 12-31.
Schedule for reporting:
1st quarter Thru 3-31 Due 4-30
Midyear Thru 6-30 Due 7-31
3rd quarter Thru 9-30 Due 10-31
Yearend Thru 12-31 Due 2-15
A copy of each reports is to be filed with the group seneschal. In addition, copies of the year end report are to be provided to the group (alternately published in the group's newsletter)
VII. INTERACTION WITH OTHERS:
Review Chapter 6 of the Treasurer's Handbook. Each group should form a Financial Committee. Chroniclers (except for AEstel) will not maintain a separate account and, by Corporate Policy, must to report quarterly to the treasurer to reconcile newsletter sales and subscription monies. All newsletter activity must appear in the financial reports.
Heralds (except for Silver Buccle) will not maintain a separate account and also, by Corporate Policy report quarterly to their treasurer as well as Silver Buccle to reconcile their submission monies.
No other officer will maintain a SCA bank account unless variance is granted by the Kingdom Treasurer.
The Royalty or any Officer may never be given group money (and never cash) without first obtaining proper receipts and following all appropriate procedures. Special meals prepared for the Royalty can be construed as gifts and are against Corporate Policy.
The Kingdom Budget shall be presented to the Royalty and the Financial Committee at Twelfth Night. Additions may be made at Kingdom Curias. Requests for additional funds should be received by the Kingdom Treasurer prior to any Curia so that matters can be properly researched for presentation to Curia.
VIII. SPECIAL KINGDOM FUNDS:
All donations to the Kingdom shall be credited to the General Fund unless specified. Kingdom monies may be designated for special purposes with the stipulation that the purpose, duration, any limitations on spending, and management of excess monies be documented prior to fund creation. The Kingdom Exchequer shall maintain and provide this information with the budget and upon request.
Policies of the Chancellor Minor
Safety for children should be the first concern of any parent at any event; as in mundane life your responsibility is for the care and welfare of your child/or children. To that end, all policies of the Chancellor Minor will take into account safe activities for children, peace of mind for parents, responsibilities of parents, adults supervising activities, and State and Federal laws as they apply to minors.
I. No infants, toddlers, or pre-schoolers should be left unattended by their parents/guardians even at planned children's' activities.
II. Children K to age 14 should be checked on every few minutes.
III. Officers of the SCA MAY NOT act as child minders in their capacity as SCA officers. Parents always assume full responsibility for their children and their children's actions. Parents and children therefore must know each other's whereabouts at all times, AND must know each other's SCAdian names. This is in no way intended to interfere with babysitting arrangements made between private individuals.
IV. Children age 14 and under, by law, are not appropriate baby-sitters for other children. Young children (under 14) who have been left for any significant period of time have been placed in a criminally dangerous position. Please arrange for a child minder if you intend to celebrate separately from the children you have brought to an event. Older children can participate along side the adults in many activities; please teach and encourage them to do so.
V. In stating this; all parents/guardians should be aware of and know where and what their child/children are doing much of the time at an event. But it still has to be noted that children will be children. If a child/children are endangering themselves, or causing excessive problems, a parent should be approached by an autocrat, children's activity co-ordinator, or even a concerned parent to address the problem.
A. If a parent is approached concerning a problem with their child/children, it will be done with tact and courtesy; with respect to the parent handling the situation with their own child/children. If problems persist with a child/children, depending on the situation, a parent should consider removing the child for a period of time from the situation or consider calling it a day (leaving the event or retiring to their tent). If the problems continue to persist, the Autocrat, or the local Seneschal will tactfully ask the parents either to leave the event or to retire to their tent with their child/children. This policy goes for demos and local meetings as well.
VI. Concerning events; we recommend that autocrats have forms available for parents or guardians to fill out, stating the child's' mundane name and SCA name, the parents/guardians mundane name and SCA name, in case of emergency; as well as the SCA site waiver form the must be signed by the parent/guardian. If a child or children (under 18) is attending an event without their parents; their parents names, address and phone number where they can be reached should be written down at "troll" and also a copy kept on the child's person (hospital bracelet, i.d. tag, improvise) just in case they can't speak for themselves if they are injured. Also, any health concerns should be noted, like allergies, etc. ( Legally, if a child is injured, a parent/guardian has to give permission before a doctor can help your child.) They also need an SCA site waiver signed by a parent/guardian and a parental permission slip with signature, name, address and phone number where they can be reached in case of an emergency. This needs to be complied with so we do not have to require children under 18 to only attend events with parents/guardians.
VII. Warranting of group Chancellor Minors. - It is required that all Chancellor Minor officers of local groups ( i.e. principalities, baronies, shires, cantons, etc.) be warranted through the office of AEthelmearc's Chancellor Minor.
A. Any gentle (18 and older) wishing to become a group officer, should contact in writing, their local seneschal, and the Kingdom Chancellor Minor. The letter should include:
1. Reason for requesting warrant (elections are coming, we don't have a group officer, etc. )
2. Any qualifications for the office (experience working with children, teacher, coach, scouts, etc.)
3. SCA and mundane names.
4. Address, phone number, and name of local group.
5. Proof of membership and age.
6. Copy of letter sent to seneschal.
7. This must be repeated for each election.
B. To become a group officer officially you need: Kingdom officer approval in writing, group seneschal approval in writing and a vote of confidence from your local group in writing.
1. A group's Chancellor Minors' job is to encourage, organize, and help implement or run children's activities. They must show ability to handle the job and have people skills.
2. Group Chancellor Minors' will report twice yearly to the Kingdom Officer. Reports will be due Oct. 1st and Apr. 1st and will include how many events had children's activities, any problems and how they were resolved, and any activities that were not successful.
3. A group officer who does not report, cannot handle the responsibility or children can be removed from office. The local seneschal will first contact the Kingdom Officer in writing with concerns. It will be the Kingdom Officer's responsibility to contact the officer in question to discuss the problem and deal with it from then on, keeping the group seneschal informed of the situation either being resolved or the officer being asked to step down.
These policies will be revised and added to as time goes on and need arises to best serve the populace of AEthelmearc.
Policies of the Chirurgeon
(Based on the original Handbook for the Chirurgeons' Guild by Mistress Annalind Airamid the Healer, then Chirurgeon General, 24 April 1986, and the East Kingdom Specifics by Master Devon Adair Bartholomy, Pennsic XIX, 1990, the 1994 Update by Mistress Amaryllis Coleman and the 1997 Update by Lady Caitlyn fitz Robert)
I. Statement of Intent: This policy is designed to acquaint the reader with the policies of the Chirurgeons' Guild of the Kingdom of AEthelmearc, within the Society for Creative Anachronism, Inc. All statements are subject to the duties and powers outline in the Corpora and By-laws of the Society for Creative Anachronism, Inc., the Laws and Policies of the Kingdom of AEthelmearc, and guidelines specified by the Chirurgeon General of the SCA, as well as to mundane laws. While an effort will be made to minimize repetition, some is unavoidable to maintain clarity. The reader is referred to those documents previously cited for further information.
II. Purpose and Goals.
A. The Chirurgeons' Guild of AEthelmearc is the name of the first aid organization within the Kingdom of AEthelmearc, within the SCA. Its members shall have a minimum level of training, consisting of:
1. current first-aid certification (American Red Cross Standard First Aid, or its equivalent, or better);
2. current CPR certification;
3. current SCA membership;
4. completion of an observation period within the SCA to include a minimum of four events, these events include one shift of duty at Chirurgeon's Point at the Pennsic War, and a minimum of one event that is not Pennsic; and
5. legal age of majority in the member's home state of residence and in the state where the member is to work as a Chirurgeon.
B. The goals of the Chirurgeonate are:
1. to provide first aid at SCA events;
2. to assist the Marshallate in maintaining safe fighting;
3. to assist in the training of Apprentices or other persons interested in the application of modern first aid practices in the SCA environment; and
4. to assist the SCA populace in maintaining safety and awareness in the SCA setting.
III. Warrants and Identification
A. Warrants are issued through the Kingdom Chirurgeon of AEthelmearc, following satisfactory completion of steps outline above (see II.A.) Further information may be obtained from the AEthelmearc Kingdom Chirurgeon.
B. Following receipt of a Warrant, the Chirurgeon may practice throughout the Knowne World, with respect to any limitations specific to a given locality. If any part of the warrant has lapsed, you may not practice as an SCA Chirurgeon.
AT NO TIME IS A CHIRURGEON TO EXCEED THE LIMITS OF HIS/HER MUNDANE CERTIFICATION!
C. Identification of a Chirurgeon who is "on duty" will follow the conventions of the Kingdom of AEthelmearc. The "distinctive garb of office" will have the device of the Chirurgeonate prominently displayed. The device is: "gules, on a goutte argent, a fleam gules". A Chirurgeon who is "on duty" is, in effect, saying that "help is available here". As such, the Chirurgeon on-duty is encouraged to have available an adequate stock of supplies appropriate to the activities in progress and a suitable site for use as a "Chirurgeon's Point", however temporary.
IV. An event report must be filed after each and every event with copies sent to the Kingdom Chirurgeons The Chirurgeon in Charge at an event is to file this report within two weeks after the event. A preliminary report may be filed by e-mail, but must be followed by a hard copy with the signature of the CIC. If there is no CIC, it is the responsibility of the Autocrat to do so.
V. Please contact the Kingdom Chirurgeon for more information.
Policies of the Chronicler
I. General AEstel Submission Guidelines
A. The deadline for paper copy --that is, anything that the Chronicler needs to type -- is the 30th (or 28th for Feb.) of the month 2 months before the cover date (e.g. March 30th for the May issue). Everything except art and paid advertisements is typeset by the Chronicler's staff; no exceptions. The deadline for electronic submissions and ads is the 1st of the preceding month (April 1st for the May issue).
B. Copy should be neatly typed using a dark ribbon, hand-written very neatly, or sent via email (normal ASCII text only; no postscript WordPerfect output files, mime, etc). Please refrain from using small, ornate fonts on paper copy.
C. If you send Express Mail packages, remember to waive the signature requirement. If you cannot waive the signature, call before mailing it to make other arrangements. Failure to make arrangements could cause your submission to be delayed.
D. The Chronicler reserves the right to edit all copy. If you want your article to be printed exactly as written or not at all, you must say so when you submit it.
II. Event Announcements
A. Not all events need to be published in AEstel. If official business (see paragraph II.E.) will not occur, publication in a local newsletter is sufficient to obtain insurance coverage.
B. Complete event announcements will be listed in the newsletter for the month the event occurs, the preceding month, and, if the event is in the early part of the month, the month before that, providing that it is submitted by the appropriate deadline (ex. a Dec. 5 event announcement will be in the Oct., Nov., and Dec. AEstel, a Dec 19 event announcement will be in the Nov. & Dec. AEstel ).
C. If you wish to give the populace information about the event earlier than this, you can do so in the form of an Event Teaser. This will be limited to 250 words, which is the size of 2 decent paragraphs. You can indicate what parts of the event key you would like to have me put in the heading for the event separately (like 'wet site') without using up Event Teaser space for it.
D. If you really need to use more than the 250 words to tell people about things for your event more than 2 months ahead of time, the space you need can be purchased at the advertising rates ($20 for a quarter page, $30 for a half page, $50 for a whole page). Payment for this must be in my hands before your early announcement will be placed in the AEstel (you can email me the announcement, and put the check in the mail - just make sure that I get the check by the email submission deadline).
E. Events at which official business -- such as courts, transfer of offices, and Crown or Coronet lists -- will be conducted must contain all of the following information.
1. Date (day, month, and Common Era year).
2. The time of the event when the site
a) opens and b) closes.
3. The name of the sponsoring group: if the group is incipient the sponsor must be listed as well.
4. The location (name, street address, and town) of the site. If there is no street address, this must be stated clearly.
5. The name (both Society and real), address, and phone number of the autocrat. If there is a separate reservations clerk, include the reservations clerk's complete information as well.
6. a)The statement, "Make checks payable to SCA Inc, " and b) the cost of the event if there is a fee. If there is no fee, it must be stated clearly.
This is a corporate requirement. Incomplete announcements will still be printed but they will be flagged as incomplete, with the number(s) of the missing information indicated, and official business cannot occur at them if corrections are not made in time to be published.
F. Announcements will be run only for those groups known to the Kingdom Seneschal and listed in the Regnum. An event run by an incipient group must be sponsored by an established group, and this sponsor must be stated in the event announcement. The Seneschal of the sponsoring group must send a letter of sponsorship to the Kingdom Chronicler; this can be a single letter giving blanket permission for all events of the incipient group, or it can be more specific and be submitted with each announcement.
G. Events taking place outside AEthelmearc will be published if space is available.
H. Demos (as opposed to events) may be published at the discretion of the Chronicler.
III. Other Articles and Art
A. The Chronicler strongly encourages articles, poetry, songs, opinion pieces, etc.; every effort will be made to publish at least some of them each month. However, the primary goal of this newsletter is to disseminate event information and officer's reports to the kingdom. The Chronicler asks for the populace's understanding if there is no room for articles or artwork in a specific issue.
B. Artists who are willing to do cover or filler art should contact the Chronicler to get on the schedule. The Chronicler will contact you 3-4 weeks before agreed upon cover is needed. Cover art should be 4 3/4" by 7 3/4" in its final size and include the word "AEstel" as well as the month and Society year.
C. Anyone is welcome to submit lost and found lists, bans of marriage, and other announcements of general interest. They will be printed as space is available. There is no charge.
D. The Chronicler intends to publish an annual Arts and Sciences issue as a showcase for articles (especially longer ones that will not fit in a normal AEstel) on all aspects of any of the arts and sciences, from research to "how to" articles to reviews. See the AEstel calendar for submission deadlines.
IV. Advertisements
Formats, prices, and policy on publication of advertisements can be found in each issue of the AEstel. Ads not conforming to these restrictions will not be printed. Ads are run on a space-available basis and no guarantees are made.
V. Problems
A. Delivery: Occasionally a few copies go astray. If yours is one of them, call the Chronicler to receive a replacement. If you fail to receive more than one in a row, or if other publications such as TI also fail to arrive. Check with the Registry to see if there is a problem with your membership. If there is a persistent problem with the postal service, please file a written complaint with your postmaster and send a copy of the complaint to the Chronicler.
B. Other: If you have a complaint about AEstel or some other aspect of the Chronicler's performance, please bring it first to the attention of the Chronicler. No one can solve problems they don't know about.
VI. Local and Guild Chroniclers
A. To be a Chronicler in AEthelmearc means that you publish a regular newsletter. This can be monthly, bi-monthly, or even quarterly or semianually. However, once you have set the schedule for publications, if you do not abide by the schedule you have set, or you do not change the schedule and abide by the new one, you may be removed from office.
B. Chroniclers must abide by the policies set by the Kingdom Chancellor of the Exchequer for the handling of newsletter money.
C. Reporting Requirement:
1. Mail a copy of each issue of your newsletter to the Kingdom Chronicler. This is considered your "regular" report. Local group chroniclers should be publishing newsletters at least 4 times each year. Guild chroniclers should be publishing newsletters at least 1 time each year. If for some reason this is not possible, contact the Kingdom Chronicler.
2. By December 15 of each year local chroniclers must send an annual report to the Kingdom Chronicler. This is to include:
a. Proof of current membership. Taping a mailing label the letter is just fine. If your membership lapses or you do not supply proof of membership in time, you will be warned and given 30 days to set matters straight. Failing that, you will be suspended.
b. Proof that you receive a copy of the Kingdom newsletter at your place of residence (if you are not the subscribing member of the household - this could be taping their mailing label to the letter).
c. The subscription rate for your newsletter, and how often that newsletter is published (ie $8/year, 12 issues/year)
d. The number of newsletters you publish monthly.
Chroniclers in principalities report through the principality chroniclers; principality chroniclers are required to send a current roster to the Kingdom Chronicler by January 15 of each year.
3. All local chroniclers may be required to make other reports deemed necessary by the Kingdom Chronicler; they will be informed through writing or through the Kingdom Chronicler's column in AEstel of any required reports.
D. When an office changes hands, the new chronicler and the local seneschal must send a letter to the Deputies for Local Groups requesting that the new chronicler be added to the roster. This letter must include proof of current membership and a correct address and phone number for the new officer. It is preferable that this letter also be signed by the outgoing chronicler, if any. Chroniclers in principalities should notify the Principality Chronicler instead.
E. Outgoing chroniclers are required to turn over all files, financial records, and supplies promptly and in good order.
F. A local/guild newsletter must include:
1. The standard disclaimer: "This is the . A publication of the of the Society for Creative Anachronism. Inc. is available from . It is not a corporate publication of the Society for Creative Anachronism Inc., and does not delineate SCA policies." Include subscription prices (cost/number and frequency of publication). It is suggested that policies for the reprinting of articles in other newsletters be included as well.
2. Names and phone numbers of the group's officers.
3. A listing of local group activities, with contact names and phone numbers.
G. A local/guild newsletter must not print:
1. Material that is offensive, detrimental to the SCA, or in poor taste.
2. Copyrighted material, unless written permission has been obtained and an indication of this permission is published with the material.
3. Paid advertisements.
H. Courtesy copies of each issue must be sent to the Kingdom Chronicler, Their Majesties, and the Kingdom Seneschal. It is nice, although not required, to send copies to Their Highnesses, as well. Chroniclers who live in principalities must send copies to the Principality Chronicler as well.
I. All chroniclers should have a copy of the SCA Publications Policy, which describes a chronicler's duties and responsibilities in more detail. (Additional/replacement copies can be obtained from the Kingdom Chronicler.) The Kingdom Chronicler may remove from office any local chronicler who does not abide by the policies and guidelines contained in these documents. Chroniclers in principalities are additionally responsible for following policies set forth by the Principality Chronicler.
J. All local Chroniclers are to read all announcements from the Kingdom Chronicler that are published in the Kingdom newsletter for updates and information.
Policies of the Earl Marshal
(Effective August 17, 1998)
GENERAL CONVENTIONS
I. Precedence of Law
Corpora and other Governing Documents of the Society for Creative Anachronism, Inc. (Society) set the minimum standards for combat activities within the Kingdom of AEthelmearc (Kingdom). Society policy states that kingdoms may institute standards which are stricter than those of the Society, but may not reduce or waive any Society standard. Therefore, in any disagreement between Kingdom and Society rules, the Society rules shall take precedence. Invalidation of any item within these rules shall not affect the validity of the remaining sections.
All marshals must obtain copies of the current Society and Kingdom policies governing combat activities, including Corpora and The Marshals Handbook.
II. Structure
1. The Crown, Earl Marshal, and deputies to the Earl Marshal (see 3.a below), in that order, are solely responsible for interpretation of the rules, conventions, armor standards, and all other matters dealing with Society combat activities within the Kingdom.
2. The earl marshal serves as a coordinator, arbitrator, and facilitator for all combat activities within the kingdom. He writes and enforces policy dealing with areas of interaction between the combat related activities under his jurisdiction. The earl marshal reserves the right of review over all matters pertaining to combat activities within the kingdom.
3. The combat related activities of the Kingdom include: Contact (e.g., combat archery, fencing, and rattan combat), non-contact (e.g., lists office, archery, thrown weapons, and equestrian) and other activities as shall be designated by the Society Marshal or the Board of Directors, from time to time.
a. The senior marshal or officer of each of the above activities (i.e., marshal of fence, minister of lists, combat archery commander, etc.) is a deputy to the earl marshal.
b. Each deputy is responsible for establishing policy within their warranted area, subject to item 2 (above).
c. Each deputy will maintain regular contact with the earl marshal. Written reports will be submitted quarterly by the 1st day of March, June, September, and December. Deputies are also responsible for forwarding to the Earl Marshal (within 24 hours) any reports concerning injuries or disciplinary action.
d. Marshals will restrict their marshaling activities to those areas for which they hold a warrant. Exception: any marshal should intervene if he observes breakage of armor, boundaries, or tempers.
e. It is neither stated nor implied herein that any activity is superior to another. Cooperation, assistance, and common sense are the rule when an event contains multiple combat activities.
f. Chivalric Peers are considered to be warranted marshals for rattan combat activities once they have provided proof of membership and contact information to the earl marshal or his representative.
III. Minor Participants.
1. Definition: for the purpose of these rules a minor is defined as any person who has not attained his/her eighteenth (18th) birthday.
2. No minor shall be allowed to participate in armored combat activities. These activities include the following: combat, marshaling, scouting, banner bearing and combat archery.
IV. Problem Resolution.
1. All marshals have the responsibility to maintain the standards of the Society and the Kingdom for marshaled activities. If the marshal feels that action is required against any individual who fails to meet standards (this includes failure of armor inspection, excessive force, repeated non-acknowledgment of blows, etc.), the marshal shall inform the individual of the action to be taken and send a written report to the regional marshal (the Earl Marshal if the marshal taking action is a regional marshal) reporting the action within 72 hours.
2. Any individual informed of an action may appeal to the Earl Marshal if they feel that the action is inappropriate or disproportionate to the offense.
3. The Earl marshal, when asked for appeal, will respond to the individual. If this appeal is still unacceptable to the individual, a further appeal will be made to the Crown who, in consultation with the Earl Marshal, will set a date for the individual to present his/her case to the Crown. If the action taken initially involved the revocation or suspension of authorization, the authorization will remain in suspension until the date of the hearing with the Crown.
4. The Earl Marshal will make every attempt to facilitate a speedy process for dealing with issues.
CONVENTIONS OF COMBAT
In general, these conventions are in addition to those already listed in the governing policies of the society Marshal and the Marshals Handbook. Conventions in those text will not be repeated here, however they are in effect as Kingdom standards and shall be adhered to.
I . Calibration.
1. For purposes of calibration, all fighters are presumed to be wearing a hauberk over padded gambeson, boiled leather arms and legs, and open face, iron helm with nasal and chain mail drape.
a. Blows or thrusts to the face require less force than elsewhere, due to the helm having an open face. Tip slashes to the face need not be taken due to the nasal and drape. Thrusts to the face are good if they move the helm. Target for a face thrust is defined as an area running from 1" above the eyebrows down to the collar bones across the entire width of the face.
b. The entire body is legal target with the exception of the hand, up to and including one inch above the bend of the wrist; and, the lower leg, up to and including one inch above the knee. While the groin and throat are legal targets, and should be taken as kills, blows to those areas are strongly discouraged.
2. All fighters are expected to take into account the nature of the weapon being used and the point of impact when judging the effect of blows they receive.
a. Blows should be struck properly oriented and with sufficient force for the weapon being used.
b. Mass weapons (axe/mace), pole weapons, greatswords, and katana which strike on or above the hip socket or inside the shoulder socket are fatal or totally disabling.
c. A blow which strikes with sufficient force and properly oriented shall be considered effective regardless of what it hit prior to striking legal target.
d. A blow begun after a hold is not a legal blow and need not be accepted.
e. A blow that includes dropping the weapon at the moment of impact need not be counted.
II. Tournament Behavior
1. All fighters, prior to combat, must have their armor and weapons inspected by a warranted member of the Kingdom marshallate.
a. Inspection by a member of the marshallate does not void a fighters responsibility for the condition of their own equipment. Each fighter has an obligation to maintain compliance with Society and Kingdom armor and weapon standards.
b. Armor failure during single combat shall result in a forfeit if the Crown or Marshal-in-Charge determines that necessary repairs will constitute an unnecessary or unwarranted delay.
2. All fighters shall obey the commands of the marshals on the field, or shall be removed from the field and shall be subject to disciplinary action.
a. Disagreement with a marshal shall be resolved through the established mechanisms outlined in these policies.
3. Each participant on the field shall maintain control over their temper at all times.
4. Striking an opponent with excessive force is forbidden.
5. Any behavior that takes deliberate advantage of an opponents chivalry or safety-consciousness is prohibited. A helpless or unarmed opponent may not be struck. A fighter who repeatedly feigns helplessness (e.g., dropping their weapon, falling over, etc.) may be warned by the marshals and then, upon the next occurrence of such behavior, be required to yield. The marshals are advised, though not required, to consider input from both fighters before requiring a fighter to yield.
6. The striking surface of a weapon may not be intentionally grasped or blocked by the hands or lower legs to impede a blow. Incidental contact does not violate this convention, but repeated occurrences may result in disciplinary action.
7. Weapons may not be braced against a fighters body, helm, or shield when they are struck. Such action may result in the marshal warning the fighter and then declaring the weapon broken at the next occurrence.
8. A shield may be used to displace, deflect, or immobilize an opponents shield or weapon, so long as such use does not endanger the safety of the combatants. Deliberately striking an opponent with a shield is forbidden unless the shield is designed as a weapon and conforms to the Kingdom rules for mass weapons.
III. Additional Conventions for Melee Combat
1. Conventions and tactical limits may be modified for a particular battle if:
a. all participants are aware of, and agree to abide with, said changes;
b. the modifications do not, in the opinion of the marshal in charge, create unsafe conditions;
2. No two-handed weapons will be swung through an arc greater than 90 degrees.
3. Armor failure during melee shall require the fighter to yield the field. The fighter may only return if the tactical limits of the battle permit and, in the marshal's opinion, he may do so safely. Temporary loss of a sword, resulting in inadequate hand protection, does not constitute armor failure if, in the marshals opinion, the fighter can safely recover his weapon.
4. A fighter who is helpless may not be struck. However, a lost weapon during a melee is not considered to make a fighter defenseless. (Use common sense when deciding how hard you must strike an unarmed opponent and, if possible, permit your opponent to yield.)
5. While two units are engaged any member of either unit may strike any member of the opposing unit.
a. During a breakthrough you may strike or be struck by passing opponents. Other than during a breakthrough, striking from behind is prohibited.
b. If a fighter or unit breaks engagement (moves out of weapon range) for any reason, he must reestablish recognition before striking an opponent. This means positive eye contact PLUS some other unquestionable indication that your presence is acknowledged. You should not be striking your opponent as he is turning to face you, or as a means of getting his attention. If you are engaged with a fighter and he turns away but does not move out of range then engagement has not been broken and he may be struck.
c. Except in the case of engaged units, no more than four fighters shall attack a single opponent. (A single fighter is never considered to be a unit.)
6. If you are killed by a teammate you are still dead.
7. Dead fighters may not give aid or assistance to their still fighting comrades.
8. Combat Archery and projectile weapons.
a. Arrows/projectiles must hit squarely and point first to be considered good.
b. Arrows/projectiles may be fired at a target from any angle (even from behind) and at any distance. Archers are to use restraint when firing at close range or from behind.
c. Arrows/projectiles need not hit with the same force as a rattan weapon to be considered good.
d. Glancing arrows/projectiles may kill if they strike another target squarely with point first.
e. If an arrow/projectile strike is good, it kills whoever it hit (no matter who's side they are on).
f. Firing into crowds of spectators (armed or otherwise) and outside the safety zone is prohibited and calls for the repeal of the offender's authorization.
g. Arrows/projectiles found on the field may be reused if they pass a quick visual inspection to check for obvious defects.
h. Arrows (but not siege engine projectiles) may be blocked by shields and pavices. Weapons may not be intentionally used to block arrows.
i. Archers must not use their bows to block rattan.
j. All combatants shall be considered engaged and recognized by archers when the marshal gives the lay on signal.
k. All parts of the body above the knees and above the wrists are legal targets for archers as with rattan combat. However, catching arrows/projectiles or batting them out of the air with ones hand will cause the loss of that hand.
l. It is strongly recommended that Archers place their bows off the field prior to switching to other weapons forms, however bows may be sheathed, handed off, or held out off the way in order to switch. At no time may an Archer use their bow in order to block or throw blows at other combatants. Bows may not be left on the field of combat.
9. Combat Throwing Weapons
a. Any authorized fighter may use combat throwing weapons (there no separate combat throwing weapon authorization)
b. Standard armor requirements for hand protection applies (full gauntlet for fighters, half gauntlet for archers) for throwing weapons.
c. Combat Throwing weapons must be thrown in order to kill.
d. Rules governing good hits for combat arrows apply to javelins and throwing axes.
e. Throwing weapons may be repeatedly thrown as long as they are not structurally damaged.
10. Combatants may switch between multiple weapons forms during combat provided that their armor is legal for each form.
11. Catapults
a. Catapults will be restricted to a catapult zone. Only catapults and their operators will be allowed in this zone.
b. All people within the catapult zone must wear a heavy helm and a padded gambeson to protect against enemy catapult fire.
c. Ammunition may be gleamed from the field by armored fighters, archers or scouts and reused.
d. Catapults may be destroyed by an opposing fighter by pointing their weapon within 15ft and saying out loud "destroyed." Catapults may also be destroyed if opposing catapult fire touches a catapult or any of its operators. If a catapult is destroyed, the operator and anyone assisting in its operation are dead and must leave the field or lay down.
e. Catapult fire kills everyone it touches, and can not be blocked by shield. However, projectile are considered dead when they touch the ground.
12. All marshals are responsible for determining the safety of persons on the field (including non combattants such as scouts and water bearers). Marshals may not, except in cases where safety is an issue, forbid the use of certain weapons forms in melee combat. Since projectile weapons are a safety issue for spectators as well as persons involved in combat, "safety zones" should be established around any field or area to be used for melee combat.
13. It is strongly recommended that marshals be aware of the dangers inherent in projectile weapons and that eye protection be worn. Other armor protection is also recommended.
ARMOR AND WEAPON STANDARDS
In general, the standards for armor and weapons in the Kingdom of AEthelmearc will be Society standards. Additional requirements are listed here.
I. Armor
1. Please see the Society Marshal's guidelines for armor standards.
II. Weapons
No metal may be used in the striking surface of any weapon.
1. Swords
a. Swords shall be constructed of rattan and shall not be less than 1 1/4" in total diameter (including rattan and tape) along its entire length. The use of the material known as Sil-O-flex (astm # D-2239) may be used in the construction of swords as an alternative to rattan. This material may be used by encasing a 1" interior diameter piece of rattan inside of the Sil-O-Flex (exterior diameter of 1 1/4"). No other material (eg. glue) may be used in the construction of the sword.
b. One-handed swords shall not exceed 42" in overall length. Two-handed swords shall not exceed 72" in total length.
c. Total weight may not exceed 4 pounds for one-handed weapons, or 6 pounds for two-handed weapons.
d. Thrusting tips shall be no less than 2" in diameter and shall provide progressively resistant give without allowing contact with the rigid tip of the weapon.
e. Low profile thrusting tips are permitted for use on single handed swords only. A low profile tip is defined as one in which the diameter of the tip is identical to that of the sword.
ii. Butt spikes are not permitted on swords.
f. Two-handed sword grips shall not exceed 18" measured from the bottom of the guard to the bottom of the pommel.
2. Mass weapons (maces, axes, and war hammers)
a. Total length shall not exceed 48".
b. "Clicker" maces are permitted according to the following restrictions:
i. The head shall be constructed as above.
ii. Rattan (minimum of 1 1/4" diameter), which is split in half longitudinally, may be placed on the striking surface so that it ends no closer than 1" of the top and bottom of the padded area of the head. Both the top and bottom of the rattan shall be beveled so as not to present a sharp edge. Both rattan and padding shall be covered with tape as per previous conventions.
3. Pole Arms
a. Total length shall not exceed 72 inches for padded polearms, or 90" for unpadded.
b. Total weight shall not exceed 1 pound per foot of length.
c. Polearms may contain blades constructed of split rattan so long as the two pieces are securely fastened to the haft using tape. No materials may be used which alter the properties of the rattan (eg. glue)
4. Spears
a. Total spear length shall not exceed 12 feet.
c. Spears do not have any cutting/smashing heads or butt spikes.
5. Combat Archery
a. Recurve, longbows and crossbows are permissible. Compound bows are not allowed.
b. The weight of any bow is limited to 1000 foot inches or less. Foot inches are calculated by multiplying the poundage of the bow at full draw times the distance (in inches) of the string at rest to the string at full draw. For example: a 50# bow with a 28 inch arrow has a draw distance of 20 inches (50# x 20 in =3D 1000ft. in.)
c. Arrows shafts must be made out of golf tube material. The outer diameter of the tube is at least 11/4" in diameter. They may be of any length.
d. Tips may be constructed of closed cell pipe insulation foam. Shafts must be plugged with a pine dowel (2" in length) to prevent the foam from downing the shaft of the arrow. The dowel may penetrate up to 1 inch into the arrow tip. A minimum of 1 inch of foam must protrude beyond the tip of the dowel. Arrow tips must be at least 1-1/2 inch in diameter.
e. Tennis balls may also be used as tips. All tennis ball tips must be attached to the shaft by 1/8 inch twisted nylon/dacron cord and reinforced with nylon filament (strapping) tape.
f. All arrow tips must be marked with contrasting tape.
g. Fletching must be made of soft, flexible material such as foam or duct tape. The edges must be rounded.
h. Additional weight beyond what is required to construct the arrow is not allowed. However, spray insulation foam may be applied to the inside of arrow shaft or double tubing with a second golf tube may be used to add rigidity.
i. All arrows must be marked with the owner's SCA name and local group.
j. Arrow nocks may not exceed 3/4" in length.
6. Throwing Javelins
a. Javelins are to be constructed from one (1) inch (approx 1-1/4 outer diameter), schedule 40 PVC tubing, with the mark SCH-40 left visible.
b. Javelins are not to exceed 4 ft in length (excluding tales) and 2 pounds in weight.
c. Javelin striking tips must be at least 2 inch in diameter and be marked as per thrusting tip regulation.
d. Javelin back ends must be capped or padded to a minimum OD of 1-1/2 inch
e. Javelin shaft must be spiral wrapped with fiber (strapping) tape.
f. Javelins may have tail fins or trailers to add stability.
Tail fins must be made from soft, flexible material such as foam or duck tape while trailers must be made from 1-1/2 wide cloth not exceeding 2 ft. in length.
g. Javelins must be marked with the owners name and home group for identification.
7. Throwing Axes
a. Throwing axes are to be constructed out of 1 inch rubber tubing such as garden hose and ethafoam (used in packing material for appliances, such as computers, and as self-healing archery targets). (see TI Issue 72, p. 24 for more details)
b. Throwing axes are to be first wrapped with filament and then wrapped again with duck tape to hold it together. No wood, metal or rattan may be used in constructing throwing axes.
c. The butt of the handle and ax blade must be at least 2 inch thick with the striking surface marked with contrasting tape.
d. Throwing axes must be marked with the owners name and home group for identification
8. Siege Engines
a. Siege Engines are to be free standing structures which may not exceed 80 pounds of thrust at its cocked position.
b. Catapult ammunition will be comprised of tennis balls (3 for a base with one on top) taped together with a layer of strapping tape, then covered with duck tape. Ammunition may not be composed of any other substances other than tennis balls and tape.
6. Other weapons
a. A madu is defined as a single length of rattan no longer than 60" with a fixed center grip and thrusting tips at each end. It is constructed as per the rules of a sword, but contains no cutting edge.
b. A javelin is defined as a single length of rattan no more than 60" in length with a non fixed grip, but only one thrusting tip. A javelin has no cutting edge.
c. Thrusting tips on both madus and javelins must be at least 2" in diameter.
Policies of the Hospitaler
Every group within AEthelmearc, no matter their size must have a rostered and reporting Hospitaler. If a group does not have an Hospitaler, then the Seneschal must report as Hospitaler until he/she finds a willing volunteer to fill the position. Any group whose Hospitaler or Seneschal does not report for two consecutive quarters will be considered in violation of Kingdom Law, and will be reported to the Kingdom Seneschal.
THE PURPOSE OF THE OFFICE
The purpose of the Hospitaler (or Chatelaine) is threefold:
1) To act as the press officer of the group, ensuring along with the Seneschal that any information that goes out to the public conveys a true sense of the purpose and intent of the SCA. And that all information is conveyed in a respectful and courteous manner.
2) To encourage people who show an interest; to join the SCA and become involved in their local group.
3) To help new members become quickly assimilated and comfortable with the SCA and their local group.
RESPONSIBILITIES OF GROUPS HOSPITALERS
1. Be familiar with Corpora and with the Laws and polices of the Kingdom of AEthelmearc.
2. Report to the Kingdom Hospitaler every January, March, June, and September (in other words, at 12th Night, the Ides of March, Midsummer, and Harvest Time).
3. Organize and attend demos, both for recruitment and for educational purposes.
4. Provide handouts about the SCA to prospective members and the public wherever appropriate.
5. Take a list of prospective new members at each demo. Keep a list of interested person and follow up on them on a regular basis.
6. Respond in a prompt fashion to anyone who shows interest in the SCA.
7. Hospitalers should always be aware that their language, attitude and demeanor will often be the first impression a new member gets of the SCA. Answering machine messages should be clear and courteous, Hospitalers should watch not to use words that can be misunderstood, or cause offense or annoyance (words such as "newbie" and "mundane" for example).
8. Hospitalers should never be pushy, we are not trying to sell anything. Nor should a Hospitaler bring their own bias towards or against any group of people or household into their office. An Hospitaler should at all times no matter their personal bias be diplomatic and very respectful of the accepted establishment of the Kingdom.
9. Encourage established members to be involved in all of the aspects of recruiting and establishing new members. Using mentoring wherever possible.
10. Hold new member meetings and assist the new member to quickly become comfortable with the group.
11. Keep an eye out for new members at events, and be the one to make them feel at home. Even if the event isn't in your group. Introduce them to people who share similar interests. Remember wherever you are you represent the hospitality of AEthelmearc.
12. Maintain a "Gold Key" collection of garb, and feast gear. Keep the gold key looking decent. A new member should be pleased to use it, not embarrassed to be seen with it. Bring the gold key with you to all local events.
13. Advise the newcomer on sources for buying fabric and other SCA necessities; on how to become a member of the SCA, and on court etiquette, especially before an event where Royalty will be attending.
14. Get to know your fellow Hospitalers and help each other out. If you are attending Pennsic, volunteer for at least one shift.
IN FOUR WORDS; BE HELPFUL, COURTEOUS, DIPLOMATIC, AND WELCOMING.
RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE KINGDOM HOSPITALER
1. Read and understand Corpora, SCA by-laws, and the laws of AEthelmearc.
2. Report to and work with the Society Hospitaler.
3. Maintain an up to date Roster of all the Hospitalers in AEthelemearc.
4. Designate a Drop Dead Deputy, and Regional Deputies and give them jobs to do.
5. Communicate---OFTEN
6. Report to Curia, to the Kingdom Seneschal and to the Kingdom. Submit appropriate articles and reports to AEstel.
7. Spend time helping and welcoming new members into the Society.
Policies of the Marshal of Fence
I. Age and Other Requirements
A. Minimum Age - As per the Laws of the Kingdom, the minimum age for anyone participating in any official Kingdom fencing activity, including regular local practices, must be 18 years of age, or the youth must provide proof that he or she is an emancipated minor.
B. Medical Condition - Gentles having medical conditions which may affect or be affected by fencing must provide written permission from their physician before being allowed to participate. Said documents must be put on file with their local group and Kingdom marshals.
II. Armor Requirements
Note: No skin shall show anywhere on the fencer's body, regardless of the position or stance of the fencer.
By S.C.A. Rules, Standard Armor shall be a minimum of 4 oz. leather or 4 layers of will/trigger/champion cloth. Anything else must pass a punch test. A three-weapon jacket will count as three layers of twill/trigger/champion cloth, and as such must be covered by at least one layer of tight-weave material.
A. Fencing Mask - The mask must be a minimum of a 12 kilo mask. Marshals have the right and responsibility to refuse any mask that he or she deems to be in danger of failing to protect against a hard thrust with an epee. Upon the wearer's request, a mask may be punch tested if the equipment is available. Marshals cannot require a punch test. A good field test, if a punch tester is not available, is to push on the mesh with a thumb. If the mesh shows any flex, the mask is not strong enough. Period-style helmets with perforated steel face plates may be used so long as they provide protection equivalent to that of a 12 kilo fencing mask and are approved on a case by case basis.
B. Thrust Resistant, Resilient Padding for the Throat and Neck - The throat and neck protection is required from the bottom edge of the jawbone down to the level of the collarbone. The minimum is 4 oz. leather with at least 1/4 inch resilient padding or equivalent. The bib on a modern fencing mask by itself is not sufficient. Additional protection for the throat and neck may be a high, stiff collar, a gorget, a cowl, or the equivalent.
C. Thrust Resistant Padding for the Head - The back of the head must be covered with a piece of standard armor firmly attached to the mask frame, and extending low enough to cover the back of the neck. Care must be taken to ensure that the side of the neck is not exposed.
D. Torso and Arm Armor - Standard armor shall cover the body from the top of the shoulder to the base of the groin and must also extend from the underarm area to the level of the elbow. The edges of any closure must overlap by at least 3 inches. The lower arms must be covered with at least one layer of tight-weave material.
E. Gloves - Gloves must overlap the wrist openings of the sleeves by at least 3 inches, and
cover any cuff opening. If gloves designed for electric equipment are used, the openings for wires must be sewn shut.
F. Groin/Breast Armor - Male fencers shall wear a cup underneath the lower extremity armor. Additional breast armor for females is left to individual discretion. However, female fencers are strongly encouraged to wear additional breast armor.
G. Lower Extremity Armor - All portions of the lower extremities must be covered with at least one layer of fabric. Spandex, cotton gauze and nylon tights are unacceptable. If skin can be seen through the material, the material is too thin. Footwear must completely enclose the foot.
H. Punch Test - The test is to be done in the following manner: Lay the material on a penetrable surface. While holding the length of the blade with your hands placed about ten inches apart, punch the material four times, increasing the force each time. After each punch, examine the material, if it has been completely penetrated or seriously damaged, it fails. If there is no damage, or if only the top layer has been damaged, the material passes. Note that the test blade is a foil blade, and have a flat point, not a jagged one. Note also that materials are only tested once, not before each tournament. However, armor may be retested if a marshal feels that there is something amiss.
Note: Any armor that prevents its wearer from properly calibrating and acknowledging blows will be disallowed. See Section V A1.
III Weapons Specifications
A. Rapiers
1. Foil, epee, and schlager blades are allowed within AEthelmearc. The use of schlager is subject to additional rules; see Section VII below.
2. Points must be capped with standard plastic or rubber fencing tips, and must be taped with tape that contrasts in color with the blade. The tape must not cover the tip.
3. Foil, epee, and sabre bells are permitted. Bells with openings large enough to admit a standard, capped sword point must be blocked with rigid material. Quillons can be no longer than 12 inches. The ends must be blunted and all edges rounded. A rapier with quillons which may trap and/or break a blade are cause for prohibiting the use of the blade. As per Society Fencing Rules, orthopedic and pistol grips are prohibited.
4. Blades may have a single, gradual curve. Sharp bends, or more than a single curve are cause for prohibiting the use of the blade.
5. All rapier weapons shall be fought as light two-edged weapons with a point.
6. Marshals shall disqualify weapons that are in danger of breaking.
B. Daggers
1. The maximum allowable dagger length, pommel to tip, is 25 inches for a flexi-dagger, and 20 inches for foam and PVC daggers.
2. Bells, grips, and quillons shall follow the specifications for rapiers (See III.A.2-6 above)
3. Standard thrusting daggers shall be commercial flexi-blades, which will be capped as rapiers are (See III.A.2 above). Daggers made of a combination of foam and PVC may also be used. PVC and foam daggers shall be capped with a standard thrusting tip: the PVC will be capped with schedule 40 PVC cap, and shall have a striking surface of at least 2 inches in diameter with at least 1 inch of progressive resistant give. No dagger may weigh more than 1 1/2 pounds.
4. Flexi-daggers score touches in the same manner as foils or epees. Foam and PVC daggers are thrusting only.
C. Parrying Objects
Note: Striking any part of the body with any parrying object is strictly illegal.
1.Bucklers
a. The allowable maximum area is 315 square inches (20 in. diameter circle)
b. Bucklers shall be constructed of lightweight, rigid material, such as 1/4 inch plywood.
c. Buckler edges shall be covered to prevent splintering, and may not be jagged or rough.
2. Cloaks
a. Cloak size, shape, and weight are left to the discretion of the user.
b. Hem weights are permitted, but shall be padded. Rigid weights, such as bars, rods or strips of metal are prohibited.
c. The cloak may be used to entangle an opponent's weapon.
d. Cloaks will be allowed to take multiple hits without being considered to have sustained ruinous damage to the fabric. However, if the marshal sees things getting out of hand, he or she may step in and advise the fencer that the cloak is no longer useful. A thrust or cut will penetrate a cloak and do damage to the fencer.
3. Other Parrying Devices
a. Virtually any object may be used as a parry item provided that the object poses no threat to the safety of the combatants and will not trap and/or break a blade.
Note: Marshal discretion regarding the safety of the parry item is the deciding factor as to whether or not it will be permitted into the list.
IV. Weapons Forms
A. Rapier - The form shall consist of a single rapier. The fencer should use the empty hand for defense.
B. Rapier and Rigid Blocking Implement
C. Rapier and Dagger
D. Rapier and Non-Rigid Blocking Implement
E. Case of Rapiers - The form shall consist of two rapiers.
V. Conduct Rules
A. Fencing Rules:
1. All fencers will behave in an honorable and chivalrous manner.
2. The standard of calibration shall tend toward the lightest touch which a fencer can reasonably expect to feel. The maximum allowable pressure is that which would cause a bend of two inches in a standard #5 foil. (Approximately 6.5 oz of pressure)
3. All fencers are considered to be wearing cotton, linen, or wool street clothing of the period that these rules are intended to simulate. Skirts are to be no longer than ankle length and not entangle the fencers normal movement. Corseting, bum rolls, or anything that drastically changes the form of the body is prohibited. Clothing which prevents the wearer from accurately calling blows is prohibited.
4. It is the responsibility of each fencer to determine what weapons his or her opponent is using and to resolve any questions about said weapons before combat.
5. Any portion of the body is a legal target.
6. Any charging, running, hopping or other attack where the fencer cannot immediately cease movement when a hold is called is strictly prohibited, e.g. a fleche.
7. Cuts should be performed as draw-cuts using wrist action. Whipping, hacking, and modern sabre cuts are prohibited. Draw cuts, push cuts, and tip cuts are all considered to be valid
cuts.
8. Wrestling, grappling, and kicking an opponent is prohibited.
9. Striking with any portion of the weapon other than the blade is prohibited.
10. Combat between fencing weapons and SCA heavy list weapons is prohibited.
11. A fencer is considered armed so long as one offensive weapon is retained.
12. Hold will not be called for dropped weapons unless it becomes a safety issue. A fencer who disarms his or her opponent will have the option of allowing the opponent to retrieve his or her weapon or forcing the opponent to yield. A fencer who has been disarmed must abide by his or her opponents decision.
13. Parries with the empty hand while using single rapier are permitted and are not considered as wounding so long as the blade is not drawn or thrust against the hand. So long as the hand is not grasped, pushing the opponent's hand aside is permitted.
14. Entrapping, 'catching' or 'placing' an opponents weapon or parrying device in a position in which it is irretrievable, through the use of the hand or other object is prohibited. ,
15. All fencing is to be done in the round.
16. No object may be thrown or tossed during the course of a bout.
* 17. At the end of every tournament bout it is the list marshal's duty to ask each fencer if they are satisfied with the outcome of the bout.
B. Qualifications for Authorization
1. The fencer will have read and understood the rules and armor requirements of SCA fencing, and particularly of the SCA Period Fencing Rules for the AEthelmearc.
*2. The fencer poses no unnecessary risk of to injury either to his opponent or to himself
3. The fencer can define and demonstrate some defensive capability (a minimum of two or three parries), including the use of the off-hand for defense.
4. The fencer can define and demonstrate some offensive capability other than just a direct attack.
5. All fencers must authorize in single rapier as their first weapons form.
* 6. Two warranted AEthelmearc marshals must be present to qualify a fencer. At least one of which should not be from the fencers home group.
C. Scoring
1. Before each round in a tournament, calibration between unfamiliar opponents will be mandatory.
2. A Kill is considered to be one thrust to the torso, head, neck, or groin, one draw cut to the neck, groin, or the area below the ribcage and above the hip bone, or two draw cuts to other regions of the torso and the head.
3. An arm, hand, leg or foot is rendered unusable after a single thrust or two draw cuts to it. If an arm is lost, it cannot be used. If a hand is lost, it may not be used and must remain limp. If a leg or foot is lost, a fencer must kneel or sit. The fencer may not rise up or use the muscles of the injured leg. A hip or buttock is part of the leg on the same side.
Note: The fencer may pull themselves along using their hands and arms.
4. Lost limbs may not be used in a defensive manner in any way, shape, or form. Blows which strike a lost limb which would have contacted the body, are to be counted as having struck the body.
5. Any blow may be counted by the recipient as heavier than technically required if, in his or her opinion, it would have caused a disabling wound. No blow may be counted as less effective than the above rules require.
D. Marshaling
1. The Kingdom Marshallate shall institute such standards and procedures for authorizing participation in fencing at SCA events and for the warranting of fencing marshals as shall be deemed necessary.
2. Marshals shall be thoroughly versed in the SCA Period Fencing Rules of the Society and of AEthelmearc, and shall practice and enforce such rules during any SCA fencing activity.
3. Marshals shall be specifically trained and warranted as per the Rules of Fence of the Kingdom of AEthelmearc, and shall be qualified in a minimum of three weapons forms.
4. The Kingdom Marshal retains the sole authority for inspecting and allowing the use of materials other than those specified in these rules.
5. Marshals shall thoroughly inspect and test fencers' weapons and equipment for compliance with SCA and Kingdom standards prior to allowing their use. Weapons and armor inspection must occur at every practice and every tournament.
6. Before tournaments, marshals must mark weapons in distinctive fashion weapons that either pass or fail inspection. Note that marshals may not destroy or confiscate a weapon that fails inspection.
7. All bouts shall have at least one warranted fencing marshal present and attentive.
8. The marshals watching a bout have absolute say on a fencer's conduct on the field, and may summarily eject any fencer who is guilty of misconduct or unsafe behavior.
9. Fencing marshals are not subordinate to knight marshals.
10. Marshal warrants shall be valid for two years.
11. As representatives of the SCA all fencing Marshals must be paid members of the SCA.
VI. Melee Rules
A melee is defined as any bout involving 2 or more fencers.
The following rules are in addition to the rules for a standard list.
A. Before a fencer strikes an opponent, the fencer must have acknowledgment from the opponent that he/she understands the fencer is not an ally.
B. A fencer may bind an opponents weapons without having recognition.
C. All defeated fencers must remove themselves from the melee field with their weapons visibly gripped by the blade or raised visibly overhead.
VII. Rules for the Use of Schlaeger Blades
A. Except as otherwise stated in this section, all sections of the Rules of Fence apply to the use of schlaeger blades.
B. Schlaeger blades are approved for use in the Kingdom of AEthelmearc. However, the use of schlaeger blades shall require additional rules, further authorizations, and marshals who are specifically rostered for this activity.
C. Schlaeger Marshals
1. The Kingdom Marshal of Fence (KMOF) shall appoint a Deputy Marshal for Schlaeger (DMS), who shall report directly to the KMOF. The DMS, in conjunction with the KMOF, shall establish rules and conventions for the use of schlaeger blades, oversee their use in the Kingdom of AEthelmearc, and shall warrant marshals for the use of schlaeger blades.
2. Schlaeger marshals shall be warranted separately from regular marshals.
D. Weapons Standards
1. A schlaeger blade is defined as a stiff, heavy, oval cross-sectioned blade of 34 inches or more in length. Blade width shall vary from 5/8 inch to 1/4 inch at the tip. Schlaeger blades of less than 34 inches in length are not allowed. Blades with a diamond cross-section, or "Del Tin" schlaeger blades are not allowed in this kingdom.
2. Before placing a tip on the blade, the point of a schlaeger blade shall be filed or cut down flat (The use of a filing wheel is NOT recommended!). Any sharp edges shall then be filed smooth.
3. The tip of a schlaeger blade shall be covered with a metal casing or washer, then covered with a rubber archery bird blunt. Padding may be used to hold the tip in place. Equivalent tips may be approved by the DMS on a case-by-case basis. Standard foil and epee tips are not to be used as schlaeger tips.
4. The rubber tip of the schlaeger must be taped to the blade itself with electrical tape or woven cloth tape in a color that contrasts with the blade. Tool dip is not an acceptable substitute. The tape shall not cover the end of the rubber tip, but shall leave enough showing that a marshal would be able to see if the rubber tip is wearing through.
5. Open guards and hilts may be used so long as they present no sharp edges or protrusions, which would present a hazard to the fencer or an opponent.
6. Schlaeger blades may not be used against foil or epee blades, but may be used against flexi-daggers.
7. The weapons forms for use with schlaeger blades shall be the same as those for use with foil and epee.
E. Armor Standards
In addition to the armor already specified in these Rules, schlaeger fencers must wear a heavier gorget. The minimum such gorget shall consist of at least 8-ounce top-grain leather with 1/4 inch of open-cell foam padding. Gorgets made of more rigid material, such as metal, are also allowed.
F. Use of Schlaeger at Events and Practices
1. Schlaeger blades may be used in a tournament bout under the following conditions: the Marshal in Charge must specifically approve of the use of the schlaeger blades in the tournament; both combatants must be authorized in the use of schlaeger blades; and a warranted schlaeger marshal must oversee the bout.
2. Gentles who are not authorized in the use of schlaeger blades may train with them at official SCA practices or events under the following conditions:
a. Any gentle that is authorized in three or more weapons forms withfoil/epee may fence with a schlaeger only under the direct and attentive supervision of an authorized schlaeger fencer.
b. Any gentle that is authorized in fewer than three weapons forms with foil/epee may fence with a schlaeger only under the direct and attentive supervision of a warranted schlaeger marshal.
c. No gentle shall attempt an authorization in the use of schlaeger blades until he or she is authorized in the form of single rapier with foil/epee.
3. Schlaeger blades are not to be used in melees.
4. Consistently unsafe or careless use of schlaeger blades will result in sanctions as determined by the Deputy Marshal for Schlaeger.
5. In order to authorize in the use of schlaeger blades, a fencer must demonstrate:
a. A thorough understanding of the Rules of Fence of the SCA and of the Kingdom AEthelmearc, including any specific rules relating to schlaeger use.
b. The ability to use schlaeger blades safely and competently, so as not to present a danger to one's self or one's opponent, in all five weapons forms.
c. The ability to define and demonstrate adequate offensive and defensive capability.
d. The ability to demonstrate acceptable calibration, both in the giving and receiving of blows.
G. Combat Conventions
1. Schlaeger blades will be used at a touch calibration. Consistent excessive calibration shall be grounds for revocation or denial of authorization.
2. Cuts to the head and throat are permitted. Thrusts to the head and throat are permitted only upon consent of both combatants.
3. Draw cuts with the flat of the blade shall not be counted as legal draw cuts. Only draw cuts with the edge of the blade shall be counted. Tip cuts and push cuts shall count as legal cuts so long as they are performed with the edge of the blade.
4. Hacking or sabre attacks are not legal, nor are slaps, pops or other blows delivered without a tangible draw with the edge of the blade or thrust with the point.
Policies of the Minister of Lists
A. AUTHORIZATIONS:
1. Every authorization, whether new or renewal, MUST include a signed waiver.
2. All authorizations must be sent to the Kingdom Minister of the Lists office for the issuance of a laminated authorization card. A copy of the authorization form will be valid for proof of authorization for 60 days from the date it was signed.
3. Initial authorization will require the signature of two marshals in that form. Reauthorization will require the signature of only one marshal.
4. Authorizations expire on your birthday no less than one and no more than two years from the initial date of authorizations. When one authorization expires, you will need to renew all current authorizations for the 2 year period.
5. Members of the Chivalry will receive a request for a new waiver every two years when their renewal authorization would normally be required.
6. Authorizations require the following:
* SCA Name
* Mundane Name
* Today's Date
* Full, valid mailing address (to send the permanent card)
* Phone Number (for questions)
* Birth Date
* Weapon Form(s)
* Whether this is a new or a renewal authorization
* Marshal Signature(s) and membership numbers
* Minister of Lists signature and membership number (if one is processing the paperwork)
* SIGNED WAIVER
B. LOCAL MINISTER OF LISTS, M.O.L.-AT-LARGE's, AND REPORTING REQUIREMENTS:
1. All groups of Barony size or larger must have a Minister of Lists as an officer. This officer must be warranted by the Kingdom office. This can occur by submitting a copy of their membership card with a signed note from their predecessor in the office and the seneschal of the local group stating that they are taking office.
2. Reports are required within 30 days after each event where fighting occurred. These should include the following information:
* The reporting Minister of the Lists mundane and SCA name(s)
* Address and home group
* Event name, Location, and Sponsoring Group
* Date the event was held
* Autocrat
* Marshal in Charge
* Chirurgeon in Charge
* What tournaments were held
* Who fought (in all organized events - both tournaments and melees)
* Who won (if applicable)
* A list of any authorizations done (name & form) along with the forms
3. Authorization cards should be send promptly, regardless of whether a complete report is being sent.
4. Anyone with an interest in the lists can speak to the Kingdom Minister of Lists about becoming an M.O.L.-at-Large. M.O.L.-at-Large's will be warranted as well. Their warrants will require either having stepped down from a Minister of Lists office, the signature of a warranted M.O.L. stating that they are familiar with the job, or the
discretion of the Kingdom M.O.L..
C. KINGDOM M.O.L. RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Maintain the database of authorized fighters and fencers in the kingdom
2. Run the list for kingdom-level events - Crown and king and Queen's Champion Tournaments
3. Issue the laminated authorization cards in a timely manner
4. Issue letters to the Chivalry requesting new signed waivers
5. Teach and assist other Ministers of the List in the execution of their duties
6. Maintain and distribute the AEthelmearc Minister of Lists handbook, which includes the current policies and forms as well as details of how to run different types of tournaments.
D. KINGDOM M.O.L. REQUIREMENTS
To effectively execute this position, a candidate will need the following:
* A computer, either PC or Mac. The machine should be fairly recent and of sufficient power to handle the processing of the MOL Database.
* Microsoft Word, within the last 2 major releases
* Microsoft Excel, within the last 2 major releases
* A color printer
* Approximately 5 hours per week to process paperwork and handle requests and questions
* The ability to travel to events throughout the kingdom
* A current membership
Policies of the Seneschal
April AS XXXII (1998 CE)
These policies govern the seneschalate of all groups in the Kingdom of AEthelmearc. The policies included here are augmented by the AEthelmearc Local Seneschal's Handbook. Local Seneschals are responsible for knowing and following these policies as well as those in the handbook.
The AEthelmearc Local Seneschal's Handbook may be obtained from the Kingdom Seneschal.
I. Deputies to the Kingdom Seneschal - All deputies must be members of the Society at any level and have access to the Kingdom newsletter at their residence. Unless otherwise defined in AEthelmearc Law, deputies' terms of office are the same as the Kingdom Seneschal's term, and are appointed and removed by the Kingdom Seneschal.
A. Special services; the following deputies are required to report at least twice a year and will be asked to provide a report as needed for Curia.
1. Chancellor Minor: The Chancellor Minor is responsible for the collection and dissemination of information on minors and children in the Society, including policies, waivers, and age appropriate activities as requested by local groups and autocrats. The Chancellor Minor is also an advocate for providing age appropriate activities and ideas for ways to allow minors to participate in the Society. The Chancellor Minor is responsible for writing and maintaining his own set of policies that govern the office and the conduct of local chancellors minor, pending approval of the Kingdom Seneschal.
2. Porter: The Porter is responsible for the collection and dissemination of information on disability access and disability services within the Society as requested by local groups and autocrats. The Porter is also an advocate for access and services that allow those with disabilities to participate in the Society.
B. Regional deputies: the following regional deputies are defined. Regional deputies act as the eyes and ears of the Kingdom Seneschal in their regions. They should attend as many events in their region as possible, and may be asked to perform a variety of tasks by the Kingdom Seneschal as deemed necessary. The regional deputies should have copies of Corpora and AEthelmearc Law.
1. Under Seneschal of Mearcfells (West Virginia, including Afenegara, Blackstone Mountain, Misty Highlands, Port Oasis, Riversmeet, Sylvan Glen) - Region 1
2. Under Seneschal for Lower Aethelwald (Western and Southwestern Pennsylvania, including Cour d'Or, Debatable Lands, Hunters Home, Robledal, Steltonwald, Stormsport) - Region 2
3. Under Seneschal for Upper Aethelwald (Northeastern Pennsylvania, including Abhainn Ciach Ghlais, Coombe Petroc, Endless Hills, Hornwood, Nithgaard, St. Swithin's Bog) - Region 3
4. Under Seneschal for Langstrand (Western NY, including Beau Fleuve, Hearthstone, Heronter, Rhydderich Hael, Thescorre, Wintersedge) - Region 4 and (Eastern NY, including Coeur de la Terre, Coppertree, Delftwood, Myrkfaelinn, Orion's Gate, Sterlynge Vayle) Region 5
II. Local Seneschals
A. Requirements for Local Seneschals.
1. You must be 18 years of age or older, since you will be functioning as the legal representative of the Society in your area. This will be assumed to be true, but proof will be required should there be reason to suspect otherwise.
2. You must be a member of the Society at any level and have access to AEstel and Tournaments Illuminated at your place of residence. Your membership must be maintained, without lapse, for the duration of your tenure in this office.
3. You must have a valid mailing address and telephone number. Exemptions may be made for extenuating circumstances.
4. You must accept the position of local seneschal and agree to fulfill the duties of the office by a letter to the Kingdom Seneschal. This statement must include both SCA and legal names, full mailing address and telephone number, proof of membership (e.g., a copy of your membership card or mailing label). Failure to provide any of the above information can result in a delay in your appointment. You will be sent a letter confirming your appointment within 10 days of receipt of your full information.
B. Appointment of Local Seneschals.
1. Your appointment to the Seneschalate becomes official when you have received confirmation from the Kingdom Seneschal and when it is published in the Regnum section of the AEstel.
2. The selection of a local seneschal is governed by local customs of the group that have been established and made known to the members.
3. The proposed local seneschal must request the job and meet the requirements, as outlined in A above.
4. The Kingdom Seneschal reserves the right to refuse a local seneschal candidate for any reason. Should a request to be rostered as a local seneschal be denied, the Kingdom Seneschal shall advise the candidate and the Crown, in writing, of the reasons why they were refused.
5. In the event that a group is without a rostered Seneschal, the regnum shall bear the term VACANT. Any established group that has no rostered seneschal for a period of two consecutive months will be brought to the attention of the Crown and the Society Seneschal for possible dissolution. An incipient group without a seneschal for two or more months is subject to immediate dissolution.
C. Terms of Office and Renewal of Local Seneschals.
1. All local seneschals will be reviewed once a year in January by the Kingdom Seneschal. The Kingdom Seneschal reserves the right relieve a local Seneschal of office for reasons given in E below.
2. If, for any reason, the Kingdom Seneschal elects to remove or to not approve the appointment of a Seneschal, the branch shall have 45 days to select a replacement.
D. Resignation of Local Seneschals.
1. A seneschal may resign at any time, without prejudice.
2. A written resignation should be sent to the local branch and to the Kingdom Seneschal to give the local branch enough time to select your replacement.
E. Removal of Local Seneschals.
1. Seneschals will be removed for the following reasons: repeated infractions of membership policy; repeated failure to meet reporting requirements; lack of support from the members of the group; violations of civil law; violations of Corpora, Kingdom Law or these policies; or endangerment of the Society for Creative Anachronism.
2. Warnings will be given for such infractions as membership or reporting problems.
3. Removal takes effect upon written notification from the Kingdom Seneschal. This supersedes the Regnum currently in print.
4. All customary appeal procedures are in effect.
F. Responsibilities of Local Seneschals
1. To uphold Kingdom Law, Principality Law where applicable, and Corpora.
2. Attend Curia whenever possible.
3. All local seneschals must have a deputy. Ideally, this should be your replacement-in-training, but you must at least have someone designated to take over in case of disaster.
4. Quarterly reports must be filed with the Kingdom Seneschal, or Principality Seneschal as applicable, on 15 March, 15 June, 15 September, and 15 December, covering all local activity for the previous three-month period. Appropriate report forms may be found in the Local Seneschals Handbook.
5. Make sure that all branch reporting requirements are met in a timely fashion.
6. Ensure that your branch has all of the necessary warranted officers per Corpora, Kingdom, and where applicable, Principality law. Make sure that all local officers, including yourself, continue to meet all membership and residency requirements, and have been properly warranted through the appropriate Kingdom Office.
7. Monitor branch membership levels to insure that they meet the minimum required for your branch level.
8. Notify the Kingdom Seneschal in advance of any impending media coverage of any of your branches' activities only if such coverage is not strictly local in nature. You should also notify the regional or Principality Seneschal of any media coverage that occurred, whether planned or unplanned. You are required to file copies of any particularly favorable and/or unfavorable press pieces with the Kingdom Seneschal.
9. Notify the Kingdom Seneschal immediately if any civil authorities become involved in any SCA matter, or if you or any member of the group are contacted by civil authorities as members of the SCA. If an emergency or other occurrence requires the presence of fire, medical, or police personnel at an event or practice, contact the Kingdom Seneschal as soon as possible after the event and file a complete written report with the Kingdom Seneschal within 10 days of the occurrence.
10. As the legal representative of the Society in your area (your equivalent 20th-Century title is "Local Chapter President"), it is your responsibility to sign contracts (e.g., for site use). You may delegate this authority to the event autocrat or to the responsible warranted group officer in the case of sites for meetings or practices. Maintain copies in your files of all letters of permission or permits to use a particular site on a regular basis.
11. You are required to be the second signatory on your branch's SCA bank accounts. Exceptions may be made with the prior written consent of the Kingdom Treasurer.
F. Restrictions.
1. No local seneschal may be a Territorial Baron/ess.
2. No local seneschal may be a Kingdom Officer.
3. No seneschal may assume the Crown or Coronet. The office must be turned over to a deputy who meets the requirements outlined in II.A above.
4. No seneschal may hold more than one position in the seneschalate at the same time, but may hold other local offices in keeping with the policies of that office. The exceptions to this policy are: a local seneschal may serve as a deputy to the Kingdom Seneschal, and a Baronial Seneschal may assume the responsibility of a Canton Seneschal, if necessary, until such time as the Canton can fill the office, and for no longer than 60 days. The appointment must be made with the full knowledge and agreement of the Kingdom Seneschal.
III: Branches
A. Formation of Local Groups below Barony/Province
1. No group is a recognized branch of the Society for Creative Anachronism, Inc. -- Kingdom of AEthelmearc until it appears in the Regnum section in the AEstel. Any group of individuals who publish a branch newsletter, or in any other way claim to be a branch of the SCA, Inc. and/or the Kingdom of AEthelmearc before such branch appears in the AEstel Regnum seriously jeopardizes the group's chances to gain Incipient Status.
2. Any group wishing to become a recognized group of the Society for Creative Anachronism, Inc. should contact the Kingdom Seneschal for information.
B. Formation of Baronies/Provinces/Principalities - If an area of the Kingdom has reached the point where it feels ready to assume the added burdens of Barony, Province, or Principality status, it should contact the Kingdom Seneschal's Office for the necessary information to proceed further
C. Maintaining status - A group that does not maintain the necessary membership level per Corpora or who fails to fill offices required by Kingdom Law, Principality Law (if applicable), and/or Corpora will receive a written warning to the Local Seneschal that a deficiency exists. If the problem is not corrected within 45 days, the Kingdom Seneschal shall publish notice of the deficiency and potential for downgrading in status in the next possible issue of AEstel.
If a branch should wish to make any other change in status not specified above, it should contact the Kingdom Seneschal's Office to discuss the possible options and for directions to proceed further.
IV: Events
A. Branch Events
1. For the purposes of these policies only, the term event(s) is defined as a medieval recreational activity sponsored by a branch of the SCA intended for the attendance and enjoyment of more than that branch's populace, advertised to more than the population of the branch, and requiring fees to attend. Specifically excluded are all practices where the participants contribute funds to cover the rental of the practice site.
2. The purpose of a branch is to sponsor Society activities. While an individual may autocrat the event, the branch is ultimately responsible for that event and must have given its consent.
3. The events of an incipient branch are held under the auspices of its sponsoring branch.
4. As the Autocrat of any event is acting as an agent of the branch sponsoring the event, the Autocrat must be a paid member of the SCA, Inc. It is the responsibility of the local seneschal to make sure that all Autocrats meet this requirement.
5. As the legal representative for the group, the local seneschal or a duly designated deputy should attend all events sponsored by their group.
6. Branches may only sponsor events within their own territory, as defined by the zip/postal code lists on file with the Kingdom Seneschal. An event may be held within another branch's territory with its prior written consent. The sponsoring branch of an incipient branch must assume the responsibility in writing.
7. Neighboring groups may establish treaties or agreements concerning the use of event sites near the borders. Such agreement may not be made in perpetuity and may not last more than two years at a time. Any and all such agreements must bear the signatures of both current seneschals of the groups and be filed with the Kingdom Seneschal. A copy should also be provided to the Regional or Principality Seneschal.
8. No Branch may sponsor an event unless they have a duly rostered seneschal. The Kingdom Chronicler will not print event announcements from groups listed as VACANT in the Regnum without explicit directions from the Kingdom Seneschal.
9. The autocrat of an event has full responsibility for that event but is ultimately responsible to the sponsoring branch. The autocrat of an event is to be considered a local officer for the duration of the planning and execution of the event.
10. All branches must establish and make known to their members the procedure for sponsoring and scheduling of local events.
11. All event announcements for official events must appear in AEstel no later than the month in which the events will occur, and conform to the requirements of the Chronicler's Office. The Chronicler is not obligated to print announcements for events that do not contain the required information. Official events are defined as those including any of the following: the giving of awards by the Crown, Coronet, or a representative of the Crown; Crown or Coronet Lists; the making of laws or other official business of the Kingdom; Coronations or Coronettings.
12. All branches must file any required event reports with the appropriate Kingdom Office.
13. A copy of all event reports for Kingdom-level events must be filed with the Kingdom Seneschal.
V: Subordinate Group Relations
A. Barony/Canton and Province/Riding Relations.
1. A canton or riding is a fully functioning branch, with all those rights and responsibilities, that is also obligated and privileged to participate as an integral unit of its parent barony/province.
2. A canton/riding seneschal is to be considered an officer of the parent barony/province, especially in terms of their representation at officers' meetings and their participation in the determination of baronial/provincial policies.
3. All members of a canton/riding are also members of the parent barony/province, and may hold office or participate in any activities or guilds that require membership in the barony/province. However, only residents of the canton/riding may hold canton/riding offices. Exceptions may be made to this policy if necessary and only for a maximum of 60 days and with the full consent and knowledge of the appropriate Kingdom officer.
4. Officers of a canton/riding have the option of filing reports directly with their Kingdom/Regional Officer, a copy of which must then be sent to their baronial/provincial supervisor. The canton officers may also choose to allow their parent barony/province to file for them, but they should notify the Kingdom officer that they have chosen to do so. Unless this is specified it will be assumed that the subordinate group is filing separately
5. Because a canton's or riding's territory is an integral part of its parent barony/province, it is available for the use of the barony/province, after consultation with and the permission of the canton/riding.
6. Multiple cantons or ridings within one Barony/province may use sites within another canton/riding's territory only with advance written permission of the canton/riding where the event will be held as if the two groups were both independent.
Policies of the Silver Buccle Herald
I. Submissions
A. Armoury - All armoury submissions (devices, badges, resubmissions, appeals) must include 3 color copies, 1 outline copy, and 2 40% reduced outline copies. If documentation is needed, please include 3 copies of all substantiating documentation, including book title pages. All submissions should be signed by a rostered herald. As a courtesy, please include 2 self-addressed, stamped envelopes with each submission.
B. Names - All name submissions (new, resubmissions, and appeals) must include 2 copies of the original form and 2 copies of all substantiating documentation, including book title pages. As a courtesy, please include 2 self-addressed, stamped envelopes with each submission.
C. Payment information - Each submission (a name, device, or badge) costs $8.00. Resubmissions are free for up to one year following notification of the submitter of the return of the original submission. Checks should be written to "SCA, INC. - KINGDOM OF AETHELMEARC". The Silver Buccle office prefers not to accept cash--checks or money orders are strongly encouraged.
D. Handling Cash - If a herald must accept cash for a submission, he or she must provide the submitter with a written receipt, dated and signed.
E. Branch Names and Armory - All branch name and armory submissions must follow the policies outlined above. Submissions involving the name or arms of an active branch must include evidence of support for the action on the part of a majority of the active members of the branch. In the case of branches with no ruling noble, this support may be demonstrated by a petition of a majority of the populace and officers or by a petition of the seneschal and at least three-quarters of the other local officers. In the case of branches with ruling nobles, such petitions must also include a statement of support from the ruling noble. Evidence of support is not required for award names, branch badges, guild names. Groups are expected to pay for heraldic submissions out of the group account, not from a member's personal funds.
II. Handling of Submissions
A. Timeliness of transfer to Silver Buccle - Heralds will make every effort to process submission in a timely manner. Submissions should be in the hands of the Silver Buccle office within 14 days of payment.
B. Internal Letters of Intent - Submissions will appear on the next Internal Letter of Intent published after their receipt by the Silver Buccle office. Letters of Intent will be published at least every two months; every effort will be made to publish them on a monthly basis.
C. Client Notification - The Silver Buccle office will inform the client via letter of the progress of their submission.
III. Finances
A. Silver Buccle Checking Account - Silver Buccle Herald is responsible for the maintenance of the Silver Buccle checking account.In the maintenance of the account, Silver Buccle Herald will adhere to the policies of the Kingdom Treasurer. Per Kingdom Treasurer's Policy, no herald except the Silver Buccle Herald may maintain a separate account for submission moneys.
B. Financial Reporting - All heralds who accept money for submissions must provide a quarterly accounting of money collected to their local treasurers and to the Silver Buccle Herald. The Silver Buccle Herald must provide accounting of money in accordance with Kingdom Treasurer policy.
IV. Staff
A. Appointing Staff - Silver Buccle Herald may appoint such staff as he or she feels necessary for the operation of the office.
B. Silver Buccle Staff Titles - The following titles are available for use by the Silver Buccle Office: Silver Buccle Herald, Sycamore Herald, Golden Alce Herald, Keystone Herald, Cornelian Herald, Garnet Herald.
V. Terms of office
A. Membership requirements - All members of the AEthelmearc College of Heralds must be members in good standing in the SCA, as per corpora.
B. Term for Silver Buccle and Staff - Silver Buccle's term of office is per Kingdom Law. All Silver Buccle staff members' terms of office correspond to Silver Buccle's term; Silver Buccle may, however, choose to replace any staff member at any time.
C. Term for Branch Pursuivants and Pursuivants-at-large - All branch pursuivants and pursuivants-at-large are rostered by the Silver Buccle office. Terms of local pursuivants are per their local group's policy. Local pursuivants must notify Silver Buccle when they acquire or step down from a local pursuivant position.
VI. Reports
A. Quarterly Reports - All local pursuivants and pursuivants-at-large must report four times a year: (at the end of March, June, September and December) to either Silver Buccle or Sycamore herald, according to the region they are in. Report forms are available, but need not be used. Reports must include an accounting of any money collected for submissions, and should include reports of courts, demos, consulting, classes, and other heraldic activities. Reports may be submitted on paper, or via email, assuming Silver Buccle and/or Sycamore have email.
B. Court Reports - Court reports must be sent to the Golden Alce Herald within 14 days after the court. Golden Alce will distribute courtesy copies to the Minister of Scrolls, Chronicler, Silver Buccle Herald, King and Queen (for Royal Courts), and Baron and/or Baroness (for Baronial Courts). Court report forms are available, but need not be used. Court reports must include the following information: date and event name, presiding Royalty/Baronage, SCA name of presiding and reporting herald, order of awards, the SCA name of each recipient, award given, whether a scroll was received, and the name of the scribe. Court reports may be submitted on paper or via email, assuming that the Golden Alce Herald has an email account. If submitted via email, as a courtesy, please cc a copy to sca-aethelmearc-announce@andrew.cmu.edu
VII. Order of Precedence - Maintenance and Distribution of the OP - The Silver Buccle office will maintain and publish an up-to-date Kingdom Order of Precedence. Copies will be made available to group seneschals on request by the Silver Buccle Herald. The Silver Buccle office will also maintain and make available an online Kingdom OP.
VI. Disclaimer - No policy of this office supersedes or will be assumed or interpreted to supersede, the Administrative Guidelines of the Laurel Sovereign of Arms and College of Arms or Corpora.
Policies of the Sylvan Signet
I. Responsibilities of the Sylvan Signet
A. The Sylvan Signet promotes the arts of calligraphy and illumination in the Kingdom.
B. The Sylvan Signet receives Royal requests for scrolls, which are then distributed to scribes. The Sylvan Signet communicates with Royalty about the status of scroll assignments.
C. The Sylvan Signet provides the College of Scribes of AEthelmearc with support, information, and aid in the production of scrolls. The College of Scribes of AEthelmearc consists of all those gentles who have produced at least one scroll for the Kingdom within the previous year.
D. The Sylvan Signet brings to the attention of the Crown candidates who are deserve recognition for their work in the scribal arts, including those who produce scrolls, those who teach scribal classes, and local guildmasters.
E. The Sylvan Signet maintains a list of scribes who are willing to produce scrolls and teach classes.
F. The Sylvan Signet purchases vellum for the County scrolls; the expense (up to $125 per reign) is reimbursed by the Kingdom.
II. Scroll Requests and Assignments
A. There is no such thing as making a scroll request "too early"!
B. A minimum of one month's lead time for the completion of most scrolls is recommended, with six to eight weeks needed for high-level awards.
C. Last-minute scroll assignments (giving the scribes two weeks' notice or less) will be made with the understanding that the scroll may not be completed for the event.
D. Promissory and on-site scrolls should be avoided. Scrolls done on short notice rarely allow scribes the chance to produce quality work. Also, scribes who constantly work on short notice tend to burn out very quickly.
E. The Sylvan Signet assigns scrolls to specific scribes based on closeness to the recipient, time constraints, and the scribe's skill level and reliability. Scroll assignments may also be made through local Guildmasters.
F. Scribes wishing to do scroll assignments for specific individuals may contact the Sylvan Signet with their "special requests."
III. Becoming a Kingdom Scribe - Anyone who wishes to be assigned Kingdom scrolls may do so by fulfilling the following qualifications:
A. Send a letter providing your modern name, address (postal and electronic, if available), and telephone number to the Sylvan Signet, along with your preferred amount of lead time, favorite styles, and any "special request" scrolls you would like to do.
B. Familiarize the Sylvan Signet with your abilities via any one of the following:
1. Show or send the Sylvan Signet a sample of your work. For illumination, this would consist of an uncalligraphed, blank border in an appropriately period style, suitable for use as an Award of Arms scroll. For calligraphy, any original sample in an appropriately period style is acceptable.
2. Along with your letter (See B.1, above), include the name(s) of any scribal Laurel, Sycamore, Maunche, or Guildmaster who will vouch for your skill level and reliability.
3. Belong to a local Scribes' Guild and be assigned a Kingdom scroll directly by the Guildmaster of that Guild.
(The Sylvan Signet would like those who follow this path to send in the letter requested in B.1, above, but it is not required.)
C. Having accepted scroll assignments, you must do careful and authentic work, and complete and deliver scrolls in a timely manner.
VI. Scroll Standards - Acceptable Kingdom scrolls meet these guidelines:
A. They include the necessary information and spaces for appropriate signatures.
B. They are made of suitable materials.
C. They "look medieval" (like they came from a medieval manuscript rather than from the cover of a modern bodice-ripper or comic book).
D. They fit in standard-size picture frames.
E. They represent your best effort; ideally, each piece should be better than your previous one.
Policies of the Thrown Weapons Marshal
I. Introduction: These rules are designed as a set of Thrown-Weapons "Rules of the Line," to be used any and all times that the martial art of thrown weapons is incorporated into any SCA event or activity. Covered in these rules are such items as basic authorization of throwing marshals, weapon classifications, inspections, line procedures, line courtesy, and the layout of a thrown-weapons range.
II. Kingdom Marshal of Thrown Weapons.
A. Shall report to the Kingdom Earl Marshal as defined by Kingdom Law.
B. Shall promote Thrown-Weapons activities throughout the kingdom.
C. Shall train and warrant TMS.
D. Shall establish policy for Thrown-Weapons activities.
III. Regional Deputy Marshal of Thrown Weapons.
A. Shall report to the Kingdom Marshal of Thrown weapons.
1. Regional Deputies Thrown Weapons Marshals report
a. Report consists of marshals reports from marshals within the deputy's region, as well as the deputy's personal report. A Regional summary letter will be included with this report so that by looking at the first sheet an overview of the Region's activities can bee seen.
b. Regional Reports are due to the Kingdom Marshal no later than the following dates: March 25th, June 25th, Sept. 25th, and Dec. 25th of each year.
IV. Warranting Procedure
A. The Kingdom Marshal or an assigned agent must test the applicant to ascertain that the applicant has both a book and a working knowledge of the "Rules of the Line."
B. The Kingdom Marshal, based upon an assessment of the applicant's book knowledge, as well as their applied knowledge will:
1. Add the applicant to the roster, and inform the Kingdom Earl Marshal of the appointment and warranting or
2. Determine that the applicant is unacceptable. The applicant must be informed of the reason(s) for refusal and can reapply after 60 days.
3. In the event that only part of the training is complete, the applicant will be considered a Marshal in Training until such time as the training program is finished.
V. Requirements for Throwing Marshals (TM)
A. All warranted TMs are expected to exhibit a level of activity.
B. All TMs must be of legal age in their state of residence.
C. All TMs must be members of the SCA.
D. All TMs must have been added to the roster of TMs kept by the Kingdom Marshal responsible for Thrown-Weapons activities.
E. All TMs must successfully complete the warranting procedure.
VI. Responsibilities of Throwing Marshals.
A No Thrown-Weapons activities are to take place at an event unless a warranted Thrown-Weapons marshal is present, hereafter referred to as the TMC (Throwing Marshal in Charge).
1. A marshal staff shall be present at all times when the marshal is on the range.
2. A copy of "Range Etiquette" shall be posted or placed in an area where it can be read.
B. The TMC, alone or with the help of other marshals, shall be responsible for designing, establishing, and judging any or all competitions or tournaments.
C. In the event of any disagreement, the TMC shall have complete say and control in resolving the dispute.
D. The TMC's commands are to be followed explicitly by all throwers while on the Thrown-Weapons range. Failure to follow direction will result in removal from the range for the day.
E. The TMC may request assistance of other TMs in running the line and inspecting equipment, but the responsibility for safety remains with the TMC.
F. The TMC or assisting TMs shall inspect all thrown weapons for damage and compliance to the rules of the line.
1. Equipment that does not adhere to the limitations laid out in Section VII shall not be used.
2. Equipment deemed dangerous by the TMC shall not be used.
G. All TMs are responsible for the enforcement of the rules and safety standards for thrown-weapons activities or events.
H. All TMs are responsible for ensuring that all throwers are familiar with and comply with the range etiquette outlines in Section X.
I. A copy of the Marshal's reports shall be given by the TMC, prior to leaving the event, to either the autocrat or co-autocrat of any event at which there are Thrown Weapons activities.
J. Schedule of reporting deadlines.
1. All TMs must submit a report to their area's regional deputy marshal by Mar. 15th, Jun. 15th, Sep. 15th, and Dec. 15th of each year, containing: a) Scadian and Mundane Names, b) Address, c) Phone Number, d) Local Group, e) Membership Expiration Date, f) a brief description of past and upcoming activities.
Note: Failure to fulfill the requirements and responsibilities listed above may result in removal from the roster of warranted TMs.
VII. Equipment Standards.
A. Equipment and Safety Standards vary greatly depending upon the type of Thrown Weapon and the techniques that the thrower uses to throw the weapon. All inspections and decisions should be made with the following considerations:
1. How will the user be throwing the weapon? E.g., for knives, will it be thrown by the handle or the blade?
2. Is the weapon designed to be thrown?
3. Is the weapon sturdy enough to be thrown?
4. How sharp is the blade?
5. Is the haft of the weapon designed to break away?
6. Will the thrower be wearing gloves or other hand protection?
7. How balanced is the weapon? If the weapon is so unbalanced that it would be awkward to swing, than reconsider its use.
8. Is the handle taped? If the weapon's handle has been taped or reinforced, it must have been done for a reason. Ask the owner about it. Give it extra attention; make sure that it is structurally sound and safe. Duct tape is not an acceptable fix for a handle with a major crack. If it can't be inspected due to covering, fail it.
B. Knives
1. The handle of the knife should be firmly attached.
2. The throwing surface should be free of burrs or protrusions that can cut or injure an unprotected hand upon release.
C. Axes
1. The handles of all axes should be firmly attached. Some axes are designed to allow the head to slide up a tapered handle and pressure-fit on. The heads will come off if they are pushed toward the butt of the handle. When used, the head is forced into place and seats tightly. Just make sure the head seats tightly and will not slip over the taper.
2. The handle cannot have any major cracks.
3. The handle cannot have any burrs or rough surfaces that can cut or give splinters to an unprotected hand upon release.
D. Spears
1. Spear heads must be firmly attached to the shaft of the spear.
2. Spears may not exceed 72 inches (6 feet) in length, including the point and any butt-caps.
3. The haft cannot have any burrs or rough surfaces that can cut or give splinters to an unprotected hand upon release.
4. The haft must be sound an without major cracks.
E. Atl-Atls
1. Spears used must be designed for use in the Atl-Atl.
2. The haft must be sound and without cracks.
3. Break-away heads are not permitted at any time.
4. The spear holder and any other attached components must be firmly attached to the Atl-Atl.
F. Specialized Throwing Weapons - Specialized throwing weapons are any weapons that have been designed with more than one impact surface to increase the chances of the weapons 'sticking' in the target. Because they come in a variety of shapes and sizes, they must be judges on and individual basis.
VIII. Range Set-up
A. Safety Is Primary.
B. Range will be identifiable at all times.
1. Bright-color rope, tape, etc., will be used to mark off the range and the safety area.
2. A marshal staff shall be displayed at the range which indicates an authorized and sanctioned range.
C. If possible, make the entrance to the thrown range to the side of the range, not the back.
D. The throwing line is the closest position from which a throw can be made.
E. 'Hard' targets for axes/knives and such should be at least 10 feet away from the throwing line.
G. 'Soft' targets for spears should be a least 10 feet away from the throwing line.
H. The Safe Zone starts 6 feet from the thrower on each end and continues down-range at a 45-degree angle away from the targets. This safe zone should extend for at least 30 yards, and at least 30 yards beyond the last target.
I. There must be a buffer zone of at least 10 feet behind the thrower who is farthest from the throwing line.
IX. Range procedures
A. The TM will call the throwers to the line.
B. The TM will look to see that the range is safe down range.
C. The TM will look to see that no spectators (anyone not on the line) are directly behind the throwers, in the path of the swing, or within the arch traversed by the swing.
D. The TM will call out "Clear down range, clear behind range!" and wait momentarily for any responses.
E. If all is clear, then the order "Throw when ready!" will be given.
F. When done, the throwers are to put down any weapons in hand and wait until the order to retrieve is given.
G. When all throwers are done, the TM will call "Weapons down!" Wait for compliance.
H. When all weapons are down, then the TM will give the command, "Retrieve weapons!"
I. When more than one weapon is being thrown at the same target, and any weapon strikes another in any fashion, all weapons involved must be re-inspected prior to being thrown again.
J. All throwers on the line must throw from approximately the same distance. If individuals wish to throw from different distances, use the following guidelines.
1. Have everyone on the line move to the farthest distance.
2. When the range is called allow the gentle(s) who wish to throw at that distance throw at leisure.
3. When done, have all of the people on the line move forward to the next position.
4. Have the throwers toss their next volley.
5. Continue this pattern until everyone is done.
K. If the throwing range is set up so that it is part of an archery range, then the TMC must coordinate retrieval activities with the marshals tending the archery range.
X. Range Etiquette
A. Do not stand or walk behind throwers on the line.
B. No side-arm throwing of weapons.
C. Just before each throw, look behind to ensure that it is clear.
D. Do not throw at a target containing other gentles' weapons without their expressed permission.
E. Ask the TM for permission before 'filling in' the line.
F. Be aware of sharp points and edges of weapons.
G. Throw only at designated targets.
H. Do not throw until commanded to do so.
I. Do not retrieve until commanded to do so.
J. If "Hold!" is called, put down your weapon(s) and step back from the line.
K. Step aside or back once you have completed throwing.
L. Do not throw weapons that have not been inspected.
M. Remove only your own weapons from the target.
N. Remove weapons by "worrying" them out. Do not yank them out.
O. Do not swing weapons aimlessly or in a careless manner. Always be aware of what may be in the path of your weapon when it is swung.
P. Do not handle other people's weapons without their expressed permission.
Q. Keep alert. Weapons can and will bounce back from the target if mis-thrown.
R. Never throw any weapon at live trees.
S. No one that has been drinking alcoholic beverages is permitted on the range.