Old News

[ermenrich]

So there appears to be a shift to online editions of Kingdom Newsletters.  Personally I think this is a great move and wonder why it has not been done sooner but at least it seems on the horizon.  (Latest I heard it was that it was in the "planning phases.")

But this is what baffles me.  From a BoD memo dated March 22: "The newsletters will be on a

Comments

[niquerio]

I agree with everything you have said. I get my membership because the Pennsic discount basically pays for it.

My guess is it has to do with the ongoing "problem" of "too many non-members participate in SCA events"... and the perceived idea that making the Pale available without a membership would exacerbate the problem. Of course that's ridiculous, but... yeah.

I feel similarly about the recent mandate that Barnoies MUST have a chronicler that publishes at least quarterly. Sure it's a nice to have. And if done well it could be valuable. But necessary? Really?

[newcastleepl]

I would guess that it is because membership is down, and the BoD has no clue how to get people to pay to be members.

[maiabee8]

You do not need to be a member of the SCA to get authorized to fight; that is a kingdom law issue. Calontir is not one of the kingdoms that requires membership for authorization.

I agree that having an online newsletter password protected is silly. The only reason I can see other than wanting to keep the "tangible" benefit to membership is that newsletters are often used in lieu of membership card... so maybe you could bring your smart phone and log on to show that you are a member? I'm trying here. :)

[ermenrich]

The Middle Kingdom does have that law. It makes sense to me and have no problem paying it to fight. But the newsletter? It was never worth it to me....

[elasait]

Nevertheless, it's one of the few "tangible" benefits of membership and that is why they will keep it tied to membership.