[MR] A&S Questions

[Maura Pfeifer]

I guess I'll begin by addressing the issue of forms.  There are two basic 
problems I have encountered in using the standard A&S forms.

The first is that there is simply not enough room to write all the 
information that is requested.  This is particularly true on the Entrants 
Roster.  Trying to fit in SCA Name, Mundane Name, Mailing Address, Phone 
Number and Email is challenging, and makes for some difficult reading when 
it comes time to write an event report.  I think I would rather see multiple 
pages of information than information that has been crammed into a tiny tiny 
spot.

The other problem I've encountered on multiple occasions is the spot for 
entry number.  When running a competition I have never used this system, and 
to be honest find it confusing.  When filling out forms the entrants 
frequently have questions about this and are also confused.  I must admit 
that I could remove that section from the form, and honestly I'm usually in 
a rush and simply print off a large number directly from the A&S website.

Overall I find that there tend to be too many forms to be filled out, and 
too many pieces of paper (I know the contradicts what I said earlier) that 
need to be filled out when entering a competition.  Perhaps streamlining the 
whole process would be beneficial and encourage more people to enter 
competitions.  I work really hard to get people to enter their work, even if 
they feel it isn't good enough, I love seeing peoples first and second 
attempts at something.  Being a Laurel or a Pearl is not a pre requisite for 
entering a display or competition!

On the matter of blind vs non blind judging.  I happen to like seeing who is 
doing what.  I think that it helps encourage sharing and discussions about 
what we're up to.  If I happen to like Lady Rose's (fictitious name) Beads, 
and want to know how she did that neat swirly thing, then I have the 
opportunity to track her down at the event and chat.  If I don't know her 
name, then I have to track down the A&S coordinator etc..., get Lady Rose's 
name... then find Lady Rose. I think it is up to our judges to be impartial, 
and our A&S coordinators to choose judges who are capable of that.  If a 
judge has a conflict of interest, or strong personal feelings about an 
entrant, then it is up to the judge to make a decision as to whether they 
should act in that capacity.

Just my two cents worth.  Take what you want and leave the rest.

Lady Mor Fhionn
Minister of Arts and Sciences
Barony of Storvik

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