Minutes and Newsletters from 2004
Spring Equinox Meeting Minutes 3/20/04
Attending:
Aonghus
Vollund
Eberwulf
Elysia
Dairchan
Brogan
Helska
Fercha
Absent:
Valerian
Faellon
Guthrum
Finnoualla
Falgon
Sil
Momus
Colin
The following people received fines for not wearing their torcs:
Aonghus
Eberwulf
Brogan (also received a fine for not having a copy of the laws with him)
At 1:56PM, the meeting started with a blessing by the Druid.
What News:
Brogan – has been healing from his hip surgery, and meanwhile helped Dairchan and Elysia to build their second section of the great table.
Elysia – made clothing for Falgon, has been studying Irish (Gailge), and worked on the feast table.
Dairchan – worked on the feast table, has been studying Irish (Gailge) and pursuing druidic studies.
Vollund – has been studying Irish (Gailge) and working on wood carving.
Aonghus – has been studying Irish (Gailge) and helped Dairchan and Elysia with their feast table, has read M. Llewellyn's "Fionn MacCumhal", and "The Colloquy of the Ancients". He stated that the progress on the TdB website is temporarily stymied due to computer troubles.
Helska – took pictures at Imbolc.
Faircha – is considering starting an illuminated manuscript on the subject of the Táin (aka "The Cattle Raid of Cooley").
Treasury Report: Unknown, as the treasurer was not present.
Old Business:
Membership Process: Motion by Eberwulf, seconded by Brogan. Motion – Due to overwhelming demand for change, Eberwulf brought up a possible plan for new membership process, as previously posted on the Bhriain Yahoo group. Since the motion requires a unanimous vote, it was automatically tabled until the next clann meeting.
Membership Process: Motion made by Aonghus, seconded by Brogan. Motion – To change the current requirement for a unanimous vote to a requirement for ¾ majority vote. (Motioned as a technicality just to keep the subject "live" and on the table at the next meeting.) Automatically tabled until the next clann meeting.
New Business:
Motion – Dairchan motioned that the required reading for new probates be as follows:
a. Required Reading: The deor-fuidir should read and understand the laws of the clan.
The Tuatha de Bhriain is a medieval re-creation group. Members assume a persona of someone living during the time period we represent. In order to have an informed opinion of the time period and culture the deor-fuidir should have a working knowledge of 5th century AD Celtic Ireland in the areas of history, archeology (tools and art style), and mythology. Read one book from each category:
(1) General Celtic Culture:
o "The World of the Celts" by Simon James
o "The Story of the Irish Race" by Seamus McManus
(ch. 1 -20, 22, 24, 27, 31-35)
(2) Irish Dark Ages:
o "Early Irish Law" by Fergus Kelly (ch. 1-9)
o "A Social History of Ancient Ireland: Manners, Customs, and Domestic Life of the Ancient
Irish" by P. W. Joyce
(2) Mythology:
o "Gods and Fighting Men" by Lady Gregory
o "The Táin: Translated from the Irish Epic Táin Bo Cuailgne" by T. Kinsella
o "Tales of the Elders of Ireland: Acallam Na Senorach" by Anne Dooley
o "Red Branch" by Morgan Llywellyn
o "Finn McCool" by Morgan Llywellyn
The motion was seconded by Elysia. Motion passed unanimously.
Motion – Aonghus motioned that a portion of every meeting be allocated for review of existing probates' advancement in the membership process. Seconded by Eberwulf. Motion passed unanimously.
Motion – Aonghus motioned that a probate must complete all of the tasks on the task checklist before their membership may be brought up for a vote, as described here:
b. Handbook Tasks: The handbook task serve to introduce the probate to the necessary chores of running the group, as a vehicle for members to get to know the probate in question, and evaluate how well they will work in the group environment toward clan goals. The deor-fuidir must have completed or significantly assisted in the completion of the following tasks and should be performed as specified in the Clan Handbook:
Water Hookup, Water Hookup Break Down, Shower Hookup, Shower Hookup Break Down, Water Heater Set Up, Water Heater Break Down, Fire Pit Set Up, Fire Pit Break Down,Firewood, Fire Starting / Tending, Keg and Jockey Box Set Up, Keg and Jockey Break Down, Coolers and Ice Set Up, Coolers and Ice Break down, Grill Set Up, Grill Break Down, Spit Set Up, Spit Break Down, Great Table Set UpSheet Wall Set Up, Sheet Wall Break Down, Day Board, Cooking Dinner Main Course, Cooking Dinner Side Dish, The Dishes, Re-season Cast Iron Pot, Torch Set Up, Garbage Detail, Town Run, Last Person on Site, Imbolc Hall Clean Up. (A checklist is provided separately for convinience).
In jobs that have both a set up and break down component, the deor-fuidir must do both for proper credit. Motion seconded by Brogan. Motion passed unanimously.
Motion – made by Aonghus, seconded by Elysia.
Under normal circumstances, repeating tasks would not be grounds to exempt the deor-fuidir from other tasks. Motion passed 4-1-1.
Motion – made by Eberwulf, seconded by Dairchan.
Tasks must be completed under the supervision of a member. The supervising member need not be the sponsor, in fact, the probate should endeavor to work with as many different members as possible. A checklist with only a few names repeated as a supervising members will most likely be received poorly. Motion passed unanimously.
Motion – made by Aonghus, seconded by Dairchan.
A supervising member is within rights to refuse signing off on the check list and recommend the task be repeated on any chore the deor-fuidir's assistance was lacking in any way or if they exhibited a poor attitude. Motion passed unanimously.
Motion - made by Aonghus, seconded by Brogan.
Sponsors are encouraged to make motion for a "freebie" check off the list when the deor-fuidir does something not specified on the list but is of particular benefit to the group. The freebie should not be applied to any reading. Motion passed unanimously.
Motion - made by Aonghus, seconded by Elysia.
Should a deor-fuidir be physically unable to perform a task, the sponsor can apply for an exemption, however, since assisting in a task is acceptable for credit, such exemptions should be applied for and granted sparingly. Motion passed 5-1.
Motion – made by Dairchan, seconded by Elysia.
Deor-fuidirs must faithfully attend 3 events and four meetings prior to their membership vote, with the understanding that such attendance is expected of full members. However, the length of their probationary period may extend as long as a sponsor deems fit. Attending Pennsic is NOT a requirement but DOES count as attending an event. Motion passed unanimously.
Motion – made by Aonghus, seconded by Eberwulf.
Clan Projects Deor-fuidirs are to contribute significantly to two sponsor approved projects that provide for the common good of the clan with the understanding that such participation is expected of members.
The projects are intentionally non-specific as they could be anything from helping out on trailer day or consistently entertaining the clan by building armor and fighting, learning a period instrument and performing, or doing something more academic such as a historical topic or craft presentation etc. Motion passed unanimously.
Motion – made by Aonghus, seconded by Eberwulf.
The deor-fuidir should obtain all the equipment of the "Ocaire" as described by clan law, that being: A set of period style garb of wool or linen. (Tunic, trews, bog dress, Leine) , Period feast gear: bowl, trencher, or plate of wood or clay, Eating utensils of iron, bronze, or silver, A period drinking vessel (horn, wood, clay) and a Torc. Note: A Period Tent is a bonus item that will increase your honor price status as a probate (Bothach Status). You will be expected to get a tent eventually as a member. (Items are listed on the checklist for convenience). Motion passed unanimously.
Motion – made by Eberwulf, seconded by Dairchan.
To become a member a person must first go through a probationary period. It is expected that the applicant will have attended a few events and at least one meeting before seeking probationary status.
A person wishing to become a member must obtain sponsorship from an existing member. The sponsor will move for a vote at a clan meeting (not and event) and upon a 2/3 aproval of the clan, the clan Druid will ask the following to the applicant: "Will you socialize, work toward the goals of the clan and enjoy camp life in a reasonably pleasant and harmonious manner, with your primary loyalty firmly set towards the good of the group?". Upon an affirmative response from the applicant they shall be elevated to Deor-fuidir (aka Probate) status. Motion passed unanimously.
Motion – made by Elysia, seconded by Brogan.
Upon unanimous approval of the clan, the deor-fuidir will be escorted back to the assembly by their sponsor and asked to recite the Oath of a Kinsman before the clan druid.
The Oath of a Kinsman
(Should be recited with bodhran accompaniment)
_______ swear before our Gods and all assembled:
To obey the laws of the clan and to defer to its leaders,
to assist my clanfolk and contribute to the clan good by all reasonable means,
to settle grievance by clan law and to fulfill in deed that which my tongue set before me.
may the earth split and consume me
may the sky crack and fall upon me
may the seas rise and swallow me.
Upon completion of the Oath, the deor-fuidir is elevated to "aurrad" (aka full member) status with whatever honor price they are entitled to. Motion passed unanimously.
Beltaine Event Planning:
Date of event moved to Friday, the 11th of June through Sunday, the 13th of June, with the possibility of Thursday the 10th thrown in. Date of event changed for mundane medical reasons.
Task List:
Aonghus – rake fire pit, main course, Sunday AM trash pick-up
Brogan – transport trailer, transport cooler, provide beer funds, white cooler, cleanup, assist w/ main course
Eberwulf – water hookup and breakdown, jockeybox setup and breakdown, pottage
Helska – cider
Guthrum – storing leftovers, beer
Finnoualla – vegetarian dish
Elysia – feast-o-crat, table setup, bacon kale
Dairchan – bus tables, help w/ dishes, turnips, help pack trailer, assist w/ druidic ceremony
Faellon – bread and honey butter
Falgon – start fire for cooks, set up the spit, pack the trailer w/ Dairchan assisting
Sil – dessert, rake path between campsites
Colin – firewood, help Elysia w/ feast and table setup
Momus – assist Elysia w/ feast setup
Vollund – tiki torches, welcome stew, dessert, Ard Droi
Valerian – dayboard, dishes (assisted by Dairchan)
Trailer Issue:
May 1st is "Trailer Work Day" – the kitchen trailer has developed some structural problems that need to be resolved. All help appreciated! Call Aonghus for additional information.
2004 Clann Tee Shirts:
Project assigned to Dairchan. Designs to be presented at a later date.
Motion to end the meeting made by Aonghus, seconded by Elysia. Motion passed nearly unanimously, except for Dairchan, who abstained for the hell of it.
Tuatha de Bhriain Summer Solstice Meeting Minutes
6/26/04
In Attendance
Eberwulf
Aonghus
Brogan
Valerian
Colin
Vollund
Faellon
Falgon
Dairchain
Elysia
Not Attending
Momus
Guthrum
Finnoula
Sil
Meeting called to order at 1:35 PM with a blessing from the Druid
What News
Brogan: made a batch of Henbane Beer, from a period recipe, which, according to Brogan can produce feelings of euphoria and invincibility.
Valerian: In the process of buying land and a house. Looking to start a candle making business. Informed the Clann that Lynette and Angus are looking to host an event on their property in Maine over Columbus Day weekend. She will keep us all informed.
Falgon: Has been busy with work. Not done much medievally.
Colin: Has been busy with the new house. Work and his girlfriend, Victoria taking a lot of his time
Faellon: Has also been busy at the new house. Just got a smoker and is experimenting with it.
Vollund: Has been working at News 12 and is learning to edit tape for the news broadcasts.
Eberwulf: Put up a new pool. His advice to everyone: Pay someone else to do it! Has been working and playing video games.
Aonghus: Has just finished his first year of Irish Gaelic lessons.
Elysia: Went to a book signing for a book of poetry that was written in the Irish language. First book of it’s type written in many years. Got a new wrought iron gate for their garden.
Treasury Report
Treasurer not present, nothing to report. Valerian asks that the Treasurer cash the checks that she gave him.
Old Business
Eberwulf: Proposes to change the guidelines for voting in new members to make a provision to allow new members to be voted in without a unanimous vote. The contents of the new law are as follows:
Procedure for electing new members
Preamble: The following procedure sets out a three-vote process for electing members into the Tuatha de Bhriain. It is expected that most probates will go through the three-vote process, but it is possible, upon a unanimous vote, to obtain membership on the first or second vote.
1. When a sponsor believes that it is time to bring up his/her probate for membership, the sponsor shall inform the Clan at the meeting prior to bringing up the vote.
2. Any member who will not be able to attend the meeting is entitled to send a proxy vote either supporting the probate for membership, or stating that the member would vote “no” should a vote be called. Such message shall be sent in writing. The absent member should give reasons for their support or lack thereof, in accord with Clan Law, which requires members to state reasons for their votes.
3. Any member who is not in attendance, and does not contact anyone or send any message regarding the probate will be presumed to support the probate’s membership.
4. At the meeting, the members shall discuss the merits of the probate, and give opinions as to whether or not they think the probate is ready for membership. During the course of this discussion, the sponsor shall make a determination as to whether or not the time is right to bring up the probate for a membership vote. Only the sponsor can move for a vote on the probate’s membership, no one else may force a vote. The sponsor has the following options:
a. If the sponsor feels that not enough of the Clan would support the probate, he/she can end the discussion without a vote, and later have a discussion with the probate about whether or not the probate wishes to continue to remain a probate.
b. If it becomes apparent that there is unanimous consent (including any proxy messages) to approve the membership, or if the sponsor feels that the probate would receive a ¾ majority of the votes, the sponsor may move for a vote. The motion is stated as follows:
“I hereby move that probate X be approved for membership and initiated as a full voting member of the Tuatha de Bhriain at ‘the next event.’” i.e., Beltaine Samhain, etc.
5. Should the probate fail to obtain a ¾ majority, the motion for membership is defeated, and it is in the discretion of the sponsor and probate as to whether the probate wishes to continue his/her probateship. If the probate elects to continue, the issue of membership may be raised again at any time according to these rules.
6. Should the probate pass by a ¾ majority, but not unanimously, the membership consideration shall be automatically tabled for a First Review (detailed in Paragraph 8) in six months time, i.e., the planning meeting after the next two events. The issue of that probate’s membership may not be raised again before the First Review. Example: probate X receives a ¾ majority at the Samhain planning meeting. The First Review will occur at the Beltain planning meeting, and no sooner.
7. Should the probate pass unanimously, the probate will be deemed a “member elect,” and there will be a ceremony at the following event to bestow full membership rights unto him/her.
8. The First Review: Once again, the sponsor must remind the Clan at the meeting prior to the review that the probate’s membership is coming up for First Review. The process will be virtually the same as at the original meeting. Non-attending members may send in a proxy, and if they do not, they will be assumed to support membership. At the First Review, a sponsor MUST move for a vote. If, for some reason, the sponsor cannot be at the First Review meeting, another member may be delegated to move for the vote.
9. Should the probate fail to obtain a ¾ majority at the First Review, his membership bid is defeated, and it is in the discretion of the sponsor and probate as to whether the probate wishes to continue his/her probateship. If the probate elects to continue, the issue of membership may be raised again at any time according to these rules.
10. Should the probate again pass by a ¾ majority, but not unanimously, the membership consideration shall be automatically tabled for a FINAL REVIEW in six months time, in the same manner as the previous tabling for the First Review.
11. Should the probate pass unanimously, the probate will be deemed a “member elect,” and there will be a ceremony at the following event to bestow full membership rights unto him/her.
12. The Final Review: This review is held in exactly the same manner as the First Review, with all of the same requirements, i.e., reminding the clan at the prior meeting of the upcoming review, proxy votes, and a mandatory motion to vote.
13. Should the probate fail to obtain a ¾ majority at the FINAL REVIEW, his membership bid is defeated, and it is in the discretion of the sponsor and probate as to whether the probate wishes to continue his/her probateship. If the probate elects to continue, the issue of membership may be raised again at any time according to these rules.
14. Should the probate pass by a ¾ majority vote at the FINAL REVIEW, the probate will be deemed a “member elect,” and there will be a ceremony at the following event to bestow full membership rights unto him/her. A unanimous result is not required at FINAL REVIEW.
Eberwulf brings this motion up for a vote
Aonghus seconds the motion
Motion Passes with 6 approving, 2 abstentions.
Cathedral Pines:
There is a new staff at the park. Our traditional camping sites have been newly designated as “Youth Group Camping” sites. Aonghus is awaiting a call from the park to verify that we will still be able to get our sites when we need them.
Trailer:
Faellon Proposes a trailer workday to clean out the trailer and assess the damage. Aonghus seconds.
Trailer workday will be held on July 31st at 1PM at Aonghus’ shop.
New Business
No new business presented.
Presentations
Brogan presents an article in a Beer magazine about what is now the oldest known brew house in the world. It is 3000 years old and was found in Bavaria. It is believed to have been built by Celtic people and used to supply Romans with beer. The Romans paid or traded with the Celts in exchange for the beer.
Brogan also presented his Henbane Ale, which was opened and sampled by the Clann.
Personal Business
None at this time
Aonghus motions to adjourn meeting
Faellon seconds
Meeting adjourned at 3:20 PM.
In attendance:
Members:
Aonghus
Eberwulf
Brogan
Faellon
Finnoula
Guthrum
Colin
Non-members:
Fiachra
Late Arrivals:
Dairchan
Sil
Meeting called to order at 12:15 by Brogan
What news:
Eberwulf:
Not been doing much medievally. Thanked everyone for coming to his BBQ a few weeks ago. Found an interesting article in Newsday about a Viking burial site that was found recently
Faellon:
Is working with his father doing computer consulting again. Finally has all the brewing equipment set up at the house and is ready to start brewing again.
Guthrum & Finnoula:
Guthrum is very happy at his new job. They have met some new friends who are interested in coming to some events. Brynna is starting Kindergarten this year. They have 5 gallons of strawberry mead that is ready to bottle. Finnoula is working full time again and has tons of business coming in.
Brogan:
Working on a Clan cookbook. Has started an outline for a Brewers Guild. Has been very busy with work.
Aonghus:
Has contracted a rare blood disease but is doing very well. Made up plans for a new spit and gave them to a blacksmith for a price quote on having it made. Got the metal needed to finish the repair on the trailer, which Finnoula’s father has since fixed. Has started his 2nd year of Irish Lessons
Fiachra:
Is now in business for himself and is taking cases from the Suffolk County Family Court. Went to his first Pennsic this summer and had a great time.
Treasury Report:
Treasury is currently at $1303
Old Business:
Trailer:
Aonghus got the materials to fix the trailer. Finnoula’s father has since done the repair for us and the trailer should now be road worthy
Brewers Guild:
Brogan presented an outline of a charter for the guild. After an hour of discussion the proposal was tabled
New Business:
Samhain Planning:
General Event duties:
Fire wood, Order minimum of 2 weeks before: Guthrum & Finnoula
Wicker man: Vollund to contact Greycloak
Transport trailer: Brogan
White Cooler Transport: Brogan
Half-barrel Transport: Brogan
Water hookup: Eberwulf
Rake and string guideline on path: Dairchan
Rake fire pit areas: Fiachra
Jockey box set up (includes getting Ice if needed): Faellon
Start Fire for cooks / set up spit: Aonghus
Tiki Torch set up and fill for Saturday: Finnoula
Welcome stew: Vollund
Champion Battle at 2pm: Sil
Day board: Valarian
Feast Co-coordinator / Table Set Up: Finnoula
Feast:
Do as much preparation off site as possible
Main Course: Faellon & Colin
Vegetarian Friendly Main Dish: Vollund
Pottage Eberwulf
Vegetable: Guthrum and Finnoula
Starch: Eberwulf
Fuggan Cake: Guthrum & Finnoula
Dessert: Elysia
Bread: Falgon
Honey Butter: Falgon
Beer: Faellon & Brogan
Cider: Helska
New Probate:
Dairchan motioned to have Fiachra accepted by the Clan as a new Probate
- Motion seconded by Aonghus.
- Clan voted unanimously to accept Fiachra as a new Probate with Dairchan as his sponsor
Welcome Fiachra as our newest Probate!
Presentations:
Brogan brought a cookbook “Celtic Folklore Cooking” to show to clan
Aonghus motions to adjourn meeting at 3:40 PM
Seconded by clan
Meeting adjourned at 3:40 PM
Winter Meeting Minutes
The meeting began at 1:37p.m., with a blessing from Druid Volund.
In Attendance:
Members: Eberwulf
Volund
Brogan
Aonghus
Colin
Guthrum
Finnoula
Probates: Fiachra
Friends: Helska
What News:
Guthrum and Finnoula will be visiting a Meadery tomorrow.
Volund has been looking into starting a winery tour business, and has been doing some drawings for Aonghus’ carvings.
Brogan has ordered some books about medieval crafts. Also, he has been having some problems at work, but vows that if things work out in his favor he will throw a mead party.
Aonghus has been doing carvings and trying to catch up on some old projects.
Colin just got back from a Florida vacation, has just started brewing some beer for a New Years party at his house, and will be acquiring 120lbs. of honey for massive mead brewing.
Eberwulf has been thinking about the coming years events, and playing a lot of Halo 2.
Fiachra has moved back to Queens and is working on getting office space for his business.
Helska is gearing up for the coming holidays.
Treasury Report:
The treasury currently has $1,270.00. 5 members owe dues. 1 member was fined for lateness, and 3 members were fined for no torc.
The treasurer also reported that due to rising park fees and costs of feast supplies, the Samhain event lost a significant amount of money. The treasurer reported that while the goal of an event should not be to make money, the Clann should at least try to break even. It was noted that there has been no increase in event site fees in nearly 15 years of events.
Old Business:
1) Brewer’s Guild: The formation of a Brewer’s guild was again discussed, and it was agreed that Colin and Finnoula will work together to coordinate a meeting amongst all Clann members interested in becoming part of the guild. It is hoped that this meeting will result in an official charter to form the guild which can be presented to the Clann for approval at the spring meeting.
2) Clann Coins: Volund reported that the dyes for striking coins are complete, and merely need to be tested. The Clann voted unanimously to appropriate $80.00 to purchase silver blanks which can be struck into coins. January 15, 2005, was set as a date for coin striking. Volund will head this project, so the date is subject to change if he finds it necessary.
3) Trailer: The water-works on the trailer may need some attention. A trailer work day needs to be set before Beltain. It was decided to set March 12, 2005 as a tentative trailer work day, so that we can be aware of any problems before the spring meeting.
New Business:
1) Site Fee: Based on the Treasury Report above, Colin moved to raise the site fee for all local Clann events from $15.00 to $20.00. After a brief discussion the motion passed unanimously. All future events will now carry a site fee of $20.00.
2) Imbolc: Imbolc is scheduled for February 5, 2005, unless the usual hall is not available for that date. Aonghus will reserve the hall. The Brewey and the Secretary will coordinate the sending of invitations to the event. Set up will begin at 3p.m., and guests are invited to arrive at 4p.m. The following tasks were assigned.
a. Acquire key to hall – Aonghus
b. Plug in water heater on day prior – Aonghus
c. 3p.m. Open Hall, adjust heat, note any existing damage or mess – Eberwulf (note: EW will attempt to have the hall open by 2:30p.m.)
d. Set up of tables, chairs, auction table, etc. – Everyone
e. Jockey Box and cleaning kit transport and setup – Colin
f. Bring Garbage Bags – Guthrum
g. Bring Paper Towels – Guthrum
h. Feast O’Crat will attempt to coordinate dinner being served at 6:30p.m. – Brogan
i. Main Course – Brogan (Some sort of Chicken or Game Hen)
j. Vegetable – Dairchan and Elysia
k. Roasted Vegetables – Volund
l. Pottage and Barley – Eberwulf
m. Cowboy Cookies – Elysia
n. Bread – Dairchan and Elysia
o. Honey Butter – Guthrum
p. Day Board – Fiachra
q. Beer – Guthrum and Finnoula
r. Mulled Hot Cider – Volund
s. Leftover distribution/disposal – Finnoula
t. Bus Tables – Finnoula
u. Dishes – Valarian and Dairchan
v. Druidic Ceremony – Volund
w. File’s presentation and running of craft show – Brogan
x. Bardic presentation and running of auction – Valarian
y. Clean Kitchen stove, counters, sink and fridge – Volund
z. Clean Bar Area – Momus
aa. Jockey Box clean up and transport – Colin
bb. Sweep floors – Aonghus
cc. Remove garbage and transport – Aonghus
dd. Mop Floors – Fiachra
ee. Lower Heat, unplug heater, kill lights, lock up – Aonghus
ff. Return Key – Aonghus
Probate Review:
Fiachra underwent a review of his progress as a probate. He reported that he has read 4 of the books on the reading list, including one from each of the required categories. He found the book on Celtic Law to be the most interesting. He also reported completing a number of tasks at Samhain. He has an official task sheet containing the signatures of members who supervised those tasks.
Presentations:
The File, Brogan, brought a videotape presentation regarding mummified bog bodies which was available for viewing after the meeting.
The meeting was adjourned by motion of the Chieftain at 3:24p.m.