[MR] newcomers

[David Wendelken]

> If you see a newcomer doing something out of bounds, i.e. smoking in your
> tent, not wearing garb, wearing a white belt, etc. you can mention it 
> without being rude. Approach the person in a polite way, explain the 
> conventions of the SCA and then offer a solution to the problem.
> If they have no garb, loan them some. If they are wearing a white belt,
> find someone with a black one they can borrow. 

In general, I think this is very good advice.

However, in 29 years of being a knight, and 33 years in the SCA, I have yet
to see a knight offended by a newcomer who is wearing a white belt.  

Please remember that karate belts and rope belts, whilst white and belts,
are not likely to be mistaken for a knight's belt when worn over civilian
garb.  Few newcomers have the bearing of a knight.  

Please do not be offended on our behalf.   If you have a substitute belt to
offer, feel free to do so.  But if you do not, please do not mention the
subject until after the event, lest you spoil their event with needless
worry.

Yours in Service,

Sir Andras Salamandra