PIP Changes, Update and New Information

[Spike]

Ahoy All,

I have now had the pleasure of meeting with both the Friends of Fort Taylor and David Foster (the new park manager) concerning the Fort Taylor Pirate Fest. With the retirement of our dear friend Harry Smid, things will of course be different, but many things will not change in the way the Festival has always been run. I know that this email is going to generate a lot of questions. I will answer the best to my ability and hope I am able to provide an adequate answer for all of you. This is an excellent opportunity to make a positive impression on David Foster and we must all understand that it is a privilege for us to have this event at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park.

After talking with the Park, there are some things that will be organized differently due to certain requirements that the Fort has put forth. Harry was our advocate, and a buffer between the Park Manager and the reenactors, and as of now, they have not named his replacement. This “reorganization†is a positive thing in most cases, as there are always improvements that can be made to any event. Please try to use an open mind, and remember that this event has grown significantly in the last few years and the volume of people has changed as well. We all want a fun and safe event, and this is only the first of many updates that will be made.

This is our chance to shine, to make our first impression as the professionals that we are as reenactors, and I want it to be a very positive one. This will help ensure that we will be able to continue to have the privilege of camping at Fort Taylor .

1 - We will be able to have showers on-site. Location is being worked on to make sure all grey water is caught in the appropriate facility drainage. Details will be forthcoming. Hip, Hip, HUZZAH to Callenish for making this happen.

2 - Camping will be by invitation only and limited to 150 total (modern and period camps). Each Captain or Crewe Designee will receive a certain number of invitations and will be responsible for assigning them to their crewe. The captains must keep track of their crewe lists and submit to festival staff as soon as possible, so that we may track any potentially unused spaces to offer other crewes. Upon arrival, a member will give their name and crewe to obtain their reenactor pass. Each individual must still register with the online registration that will be posted, as that is how we are able to be “park volunteers†and how they provide our temporary insurance while we are there. More information about the registrations will be forthcoming. The captain or designee will be responsible for their crewe. Each crewe will also have "guest" invitations to introduce any "single" or non-crewe members. Captains and crewes will be responsible for their guests also. The park has limited the number of camping participants this year, but not the number of reenactors overall. This pertains only to on-site campers. If you are staying off-site you are still invited to participate in all battles, skits and Living History presentations and must still fill out the registration form for the park. This only relates to on-site camping. There will be an entire thread that tells more about this, as we expect there to be lots of questions.

3 - Fires will be strictly limited. Our quartermaster, Nigel, will be in charge of getting you your information on all details of camp. We are going to try and get the PM to mandate one fire pit for each camp. If you have braziers, please bring them, as you may use them in place of a fire pit. We will also be asking each camp to submit an approximate foot-print for their site. Our space for the period encampment is also limited to a certain area of the park. Don't worry, the careening camp and period camp will be in the same place as 2008. However, now there will be certain "boundaries" where tents/camp can be set-up. We believe that we have a layout to fit us all.

4 - Each crewe will need to have a volunteer list for clean-up. This includes morning clean-up of bathrooms. Sadly, this was an issue with the Fort staff last year and this is a great middle ground to be responsible for our own clean-up and allow the bathrooms to stay open in the evening. I will be circulating a volunteer list to each crewe, to be submitted to Nigel. There will also need to be volunteers to do ice runs, clean grounds, and assist in manning the gate. We are going to try to get the Park to agree to having us do our own gate after hours, but this is still a negotiation point.

5 - A camp staff member will present at the gate for after hours entry and no one will be allowed to enter without their official pass. Passes will be given upon your check-in. Only reenactors and vendors will have passes for entry.

6 - There can be no more cannon fire from the parapet of the Fort. This has been decided by the Park, because of a structural safety concern with the cannon. We will set-up small arms and "command" center there. Artillery will be placed in opposing line along the field and path. Again, more details will be forthcoming, but we want to make you aware of the changes. We will be able to discuss the details of how we approach these changes together and encourage any suggestions. They will be warmly received and presented to the new management and FOFT.

7 - At this time there is no Park Specialist at Fort Taylor . We are unaware of schedule for replacement. Therefore, the black powder qualifications, checks, meetings, etc., will also be managed a bit differently if there is no replacement by FTPF 2009. Again, we will be discussion these proposed changes in detail for discussion of our possible alternatives.

8 - Some changes regarding the tasks that were formerly performed by the Park Specialist that relate to black powder safety, operations, storage, etc. There will be a different thread dedicated solely to that subject.

9 - Like last year, many crewes are going to cook camp meals and Silkie's Ordinary will be operating the same. However, we are trying to make arrangements for lunch to be provided with a meal ticket for each re-enactor. Dinner on Sat and Sun will be provided free.

And there are the things that will stay exactly the same. For example:

1 - We are gonna have FUN FUN FUN

2 - All re-enactors will be still be Fort volunteers.

3 - We will still have a "period" and "moder n" camping

4 - We will have ice available, water, and this year Gatorade (from a private donor)

5 - There will be a stage, mess tent, food vendors and possibly the old infirmary open.

6 - Ole Zach's Tavern will be open, with entertainment and complete set-up. However, there will be no one serving. Bring yer own Libations (there may be a common fund set aside for Meade. Takes time to pre-order, let's discuss this among crewes).

7 - We still be hitting the streets pre-event to market, hand out cards, and informal Pub Crawls.

8 - There will still be a Land/Sea battle. Details will be coming as we get closer. The BIB may even get a sea dog of their own in this 2009 battle.

I want to personally thank each and every member of our Pyrat family for their continued support of our event. We are going to work hard to make this a great 10th Anniversary. I also want to thank Harry Smid for giving us a fantastic foundation to build this event. I look forward to organizing with each of the crewes, captains, and members of our family.

Thank you All,

Captain Spike

Bone Island Buccaneers

[William Brand]

Thank you for the concise information. None of these changes come as any surprise to me and many of us here, as they've been anticipated in speculative threads and in discussion about the growing pains of the festival itself, so most of us are already on the same page. The cannon fire on the fort was a bit of surprise, but all other issues seem to stem from legitimate concerns touching safety and management of the park itself. Thank you for keeping us updated.

[Spike]

Thank you for the concise information. None of these changes come as any surprise to me and many of us here, as they've been anticipated in speculative threads and in discussion about the growing pains of the festival itself, so most of us are already on the same page. The cannon fire on the fort was a bit of surprise, but all other issues seem to stem from legitimate concerns touching safety and management of the park itself. Thank you for keeping us updated.

William, thanks for the support. We hope that a "safety survey" may be completed by FTPF 2009 so that we can fire again from the parapet. But the states wheels do grind slowly. I will keep everyone appraised of any changes.

- Captain Spike

[William Brand]

I wasn't so much surprised that they think the firing of cannon might be a safety issue, but that I hadn't given it much thought until now. After all, every other part of the fort has suffered from age and erosion, so why not the ramparts where the cannon have always been. Now that I think of it, with Lawrence's larger and larger cannons year to year the issue was bound to come forward eventually, so I would rather have it now than later. Especially if the safety inspection can prove that the fort can take the weight and vibrations now and for years to come. Besides, we still get to shoot at one another.

[Spike]

I wasn't so much surprised that they think the firing of cannon might be a safety issue, but that I hadn't given it much thought until now. After all, every other part of the fort has suffered from age and erosion, so why not the ramparts where the cannon have always been. Now that I think of it, with Lawrence's larger and larger cannons year to year the issue was bound to come forward eventually, so I would rather have it now than later. Especially if the safety inspection can prove that the fort can take the weight and vibrations now and for years to come. Besides, we still get to shoot at one another.

Well the issue came to light when an "anonymous" complaint was filed stating a "brick" had fallen from the parapet during the battle. We never found the so-called brick and can find no evidence, but the state decreed that there can be no more cannon fire without a safety study/inspection. The FOFT have stated they may even be able to help, so we are looking to them for support. The fort is technically classified as a "ruin". We may also have the infirmary available as the roof work will be completed in August.

[hurricane]

Sounds terrific! Great news and many huzzahs to Spike, Nigel and the BIBs for negotiating all this for us. We are very excited about this year's event and making the 10th year a great one - I know our crewe will do its part to volunteer for any areas you need covering so we can show our stuff to the new fort management.

A round of rum for all the BIBs!

Can't wait to start getting all the plans in shape - as you know Spike, let Diosa and I know what you need from us and consider it done.

-- Hurricane

[callenish gunner]

Anything that keeps the event going and growing is a positive thing as far as we're concerned... The flavour of the encampment has improved since we came down there the first year the event took place inside the fort ....let's hope it will continue to grow and we can convince the park that the reenactors can be a benefit to the park and to the fort as a whole. Thanks Spike

[Lily Alexander]

Thank you for the wonderful update Spike.

[Commodore Swab]

Ill pass this news on to the Viceroy next time I talk to him, he is down in Mexice seeing his mom who is in bad shape.

[Spike]

Sounds terrific!........................Can't wait to start getting all the plans in shape - as you know Spike, let Diosa and I know what you need from us and consider it done.

-- Hurricane

Hurricane, thanks to you and Diosa for your offer. We will surely be calling on our Pyrat family to help make this the best FTPF ever. And thanks for the kind words, we really appreciate it. I will pass on your rounds at tonights BIB meeting. Thanks.

[Spike]

Ill pass this news on to the Viceroy next time I talk to him, he is down in Mexice seeing his mom who is in bad shape.

Thanks a bunch. I have already spoken to Lawrence about the changes but he is not aware of all of them. He can call me anytime if he has any questions, comments or suggestions.

[Spike]

Thank you for the wonderful update Spike.

My pleasure Lily. There will be some more updates later this month and more discussion concerning some of the tasks formerly performed by the Park Specialist. I have another meeting with the PM at Fort Zach this week and will have additional info coming. Thanks for your support!

[Spike]

Anything that keeps the event going and growing is a positive thing as far as we're concerned... The flavour of the encampment has improved since we came down there the first year the event took place inside the fort ....let's hope it will continue to grow and we can convince the park that the reenactors can be a benefit to the park and to the fort as a whole. Thanks Spike

And thanks for your donation of the showers. It will be a BIG improvement over last year. Looking forward to making this a great event again this year and the BIB thank all of you in our Pyrat family for everything you do for this event. It would not be a success without each and every one of you. Thanks Callenish!

[Island Cutter]

Ahoy All,

(excerpt)

2 - Camping will be by invitation only and limited to 150 total (modern and period camps). Each Captain or Crewe Designee will receive a certain number of invitations and will be responsible for assigning them to their crewe.... Each crewe will also have "guest" invitations to introduce any "single" or non-crewe members. Captains and crewes will be responsible for their guests also. The park has limited the number of camping participants this year, but not the number of reenactors overall. This pertains only to on-site campers. If you are staying off-site you are still invited to participate in all battles, skits and Living History presentations and must still fill out the registration form for the park. This only relates to on-site camping. There will be an entire thread that tells more about this, as we expect there to be lots of questions.

...

Thank you All,

Captain Spike

Bone Island Buccaneers

I was planning to drive down to PIP from NY with a friend. We are not members of a recognized crew and I am wondering how we might (and IF we might) be able to secure a small campsite. We can't really afford to stay at a hotel for the duration, so we where sort of depending on "roughing it".

Any information would be appreciated.

'Cutter & Co.

[William Brand]

Ahoy All,

(excerpt)

2 - Camping will be by invitation only and limited to 150 total (modern and period camps). Each Captain or Crewe Designee will receive a certain number of invitations and will be responsible for assigning them to their crewe.... Each crewe will also have "guest" invitations to introduce any "single" or non-crewe members. Captains and crewes will be responsible for their guests also. The park has limited the number of camping participants this year, but not the number of reenactors overall. This pertains only to on-site campers. If you are staying off-site you are still invited to participate in all battles, skits and Living History presentations and must still fill out the registration form for the park. This only relates to on-site camping. There will be an entire thread that tells more about this, as we expect there to be lots of questions.

...

Thank you All,

Captain Spike

Bone Island Buccaneers

I was planning to drive down to PIP from NY with a friend. We are not members of a recognized crew and I am wondering how we might (and IF we might) be able to secure a small campsite. We can't really afford to stay at a hotel for the duration, so we where sort of depending on "roughing it".

Any information would be appreciated.

'Cutter & Co.

You don't have to worry about your 'spot', because you're already listed on the first page of the Roll Call. Anyone already on the list of tentative attendees in the encampments is covered. We're still hovering about the 100 attendees mark, so you and yours are fine.

[Island Cutter]

You don't have to worry about your 'spot', because you're already listed on the first page of the Roll Call. Anyone already on the list of tentative attendees in the encampments is covered. We're still hovering about the 100 attendees mark, so you and yours are fine.

Great news!

I was a bit concerned as the PIP event will be the final leg of nearly a month-long journey for us...

November will mark the "Fiftieth Anniversary of my Nativity" and the plan is to tour every Pirate nook and cranny that Eastern Seaboard has to offer. To make it even more of a challenge, we have converted my aging, Diesel "short bus" to run on Waste Vegetable Oil and see how far we can get "dumpster diving". There seems to be a Pirate Themed Faire in Florida almost every weekend through November, ending with PIP. We plan to party like it's 1699!

All goofiness aside, we are looking forward to PIP and meeting all of these Good Pyracy Pub People in person. We have strong skills and are not afraid of a little hard work to help may the event successful. Let us know what we can do.

'Cutter & Co.

Edited July 18, 2009 by Island Cutter

[Tartan Jack]

I'm planning on coming down and joining the Mercury crew.

That is IF they will accept me and grant me admittance to their crew for the week.

Edit:

I may also "help" Bagley with an additional red coat impression as well (for certain actions/demonstrations), IF I get the kit together in time.

Edited July 19, 2009 by Tartan Jack

[Kate Souris]

I'm planning on coming down and joining the Mercury crew.

That is IF they will accept me and grant me admittance to their crew for the week.

Edit:

I may also "help" Bagley with an additional red coat impression as well (for certain actions/demonstrations), IF I get the kit together in time.

Crap.

The Canadian is creating an Army.....

[Tartan Jack]

You should know . . .

[Animal]

I'm planning on coming down and joining the Mercury crew.

That is IF they will accept me and grant me admittance to their crew for the week.

Edit:

I may also "help" Bagley with an additional red coat impression as well (for certain actions/demonstrations), IF I get the kit together in time.

Crap.

The Canadian is creating an Army.....

Kate, we can always do what the colonists did, drive then back to their own country.

Just kidding, I love beating up on the Brits and Canadians and throw in a few of the damn Spaniards too!!

Animal

[William Brand]

I'm planning on coming down and joining the Mercury crew.

That is IF they will accept me and grant me admittance to their crew for the week.

Granted and glad to have you aboard.

[Guest]

I'm planning on coming down and joining the Mercury crew.

That is IF they will accept me and grant me admittance to their crew for the week.

I always thought that the idea of the Mercury Crew was that it was a place for all Pyrates to play together...... "Hey... I'm from California "(or somewhere else ...)... "Hey... I'm from such and such crew... but they aren't going ...where do I play."... that sorta thing....We can form one crew and Play Pyrate.... well for the week.... (welll and the memories last soo much longer... but that is another thread...)

I look at the list of all of the crews playing at PiP, and wonder why are we so split up..... three pyrates from one crew... two from another..... why not just join the Mercury for the week?

Yeah....And here I am trying to form a Buccaneer Camp.... but that is a different time period....

[Silkie McDonough]

I agree Patrick.

Here I am on the crew of the Archangel (you know the good ...errr, bad ...errr, good guys). But the hide is most definitely open to anyone ...especially if he has coin to spend!

Correction. The Sealkies Hide is not an actual place of business. It is a place for reenactors to rest, talk politics of the day, play games, enjoy a drink or two perhaps smoke a pipe. There is no cover charge and the bouncer is piratically correct.

Edited July 20, 2009 by Silkie McDonough

[Guest]

OK... I know they changed the Fort's staff over.... and is it just me.... or alla the sudden is PiP Changing into something else......

foot prints.... fire pits..... we can't carry swords in town anymore......

PiP was once upon a tyme the greatest Pyrate event...ever..... but now it seams to be getting boogured with a buncha rules that we always dealt with ourselves.... is it getting too big? or wot?

A few years ago, it was great... a lot of fun..... maybe I'm miss-reading something.....but it ain't sounding like as much fun as it once was........

[RedJessi]

Patrick, I think whenever any new group takes over a standing event there is something like an imperfect storm. They want the event to be as great as ever, but they also feel the need to make any number of changes for a variety of reasons I won't guess to. In this scenario, that is compounded by the fact that this is a state park that doesn't usually give people the right to do the things we do, add in a dose of environmental responsibility, organizational liability and worry over any and all possible disasters and you've got a situation rife with opportunity for "tweaking".

I wouldn't write off these changes as permanent or as negative, nor would I want to label the new organizers as the enemies of fun. It's possible that some of these changes are needed, just as it is possible that next year some of the rules will relax.

In the end, what makes the event fun is the quality of people that attend, right?