May ACORN discussion

["chuck graves" <chuck_graves@mail.hq.faa.gov>]

     Greetings, all.
     
     It seems we should separate a couple of things:
     
        1) The article quoted by Master Thomas is the official policy of 
     the SCA--and happily agreed to by everyone I've seen so far;
     
        2) The content of Master Thomas's letter should have given us a set 
     of guidelines to help in demo PR.
     
     What has folks torqued is the following:
     
        1) Master Thomas did not present such guidelines as suggestions OR 
     ask that we consider them;
     
        2) Master Thomas did present them in a much stronger tone--and 
     implied enforcement.
     
     Off-line I had some senior folks tell me that many times you have to 
     overstate your case in order to be listened to. That argument implies 
     that it's okay to insult someone in order to get their attention-- 
     that's overstated, but the logic unfortunately flows.
     
     The simple fact of the matter is by virtue of Master Thomas's 
     position, his letter carries with it the weight of stated policy for 
     the Kingdom of Atlantia. He indicated no caveats or secondary 
     considerations.
     
     I do not wish to impugn Master Thomas in any way. I know him to be a 
     fine and noble man--dedicated to his duties. I simply take issue with 
     the manner in which he communicated himself this time.
     
     In defense of Master Thomas, I understand that his interpretation on 
     this matter is far more lenient than other kingdom seneschals. If 
     that's true, my condolences to those other kingdoms.
     
     As for most of the discussion, PC will never replace good PR. It's not 
     what we wear but how we carry ourselves that matters: a bright smile, 
     a colorful display, cheerful and energetic participants. That's how 
     you win a crowd--or teach a class. Attitude and energy.
     
     My regards,
     Tadhg