Otter’s Welcome – Volunteers and Newcomers Sought!
On October 15th, Carolingia is hosting an event focused on newcomers in honor of the memory of Mistress Rose Otter. Countess Svava conceptualized the event as a tribute to what she described as Rose’s “unfailing welcoming spirit.” This is a donation only event and will be held at Camp Massapoag, 234 Hall Street, Dunstable MA. The event runs from 10am to 5pm.
“Our society thrives best when we have new people to join us and learn about what we do as it enhances our joy of the SCA to see our society anew through their eyes,” Svava wrote to describe her vision for Otter’s Welcome. “This event will be geared toward showing newcomers how to get involved in what we do and to encourage as many new members as possible. Come show off your skill, love, and passion. Please invite all of your friends that you think would love to come to an event but you just haven’t made the time. If you would like to participate in making this a welcoming space for newcomers please let me know.”
Many activities are planned and experienced SCA participants are asked to come share their knowledge and enthusiasm. A&S activities include calligraphy, period games, European and Middle Eastern dancing, woodworking, music and cooking. An A&S demonstration area will be set up for people to show their activity informally, and classes will be scheduled also. Martial arts represented will be rapier, armored combat, archery and thrown weapons. To volunteer for an activity or to help the staff, please contact Countess Svava or Lord Alaric von Drackenclaue, the co-autocrats.
Mistress Eleanor Catlyng is organizing a “treasure hunt” and is looking for people who plan to attend the event to be part of the treasure hunt. For example, a question on the treasure hunt might be “find someone who is or has been a landed baron(ess). While participants may be able to find several people who could sign off this item, there needs to be at least one designated attendee who can sign off and has agreed to do so. Participants will wear an armband to make them more identifiable for shyer newcomers. Anyone willing to be a treasure hunt item should send Mistress Eleanor their SCA name and 3-5 interesting SCA facts about themselves. She is also looking for a few ambassadors to make introductions between newcomers and participants.