Subscription Changes in 2006

It's time for some changes around here!

The Crystal Quill has traditionally operated at a financial loss. In years past, this loss was partially or completely covered by proceeds from the annual Twelfth Night raffle; however, for the past two years, the raffle proceeds have been dedicated to other purposes. Add to this the fact that we haven't raised subscription rates in at least three years and the rising costs of printing and postage, and you get a loss of about $1000 for each of the past two years.

Lady Ellen, Viscountess Anne and I agree that this rate of loss cannot continue. We have met and come up with some changes that, used in combination, should help reduce the annual loss dramatically.

1. Subscription rate increase. The Quill currently costs about $1.70 per issue to print and $0.60 to mail, for a total cost of $2.30 per mailed issue or $27.60 for the year. Our current subscription rate is $12 per year, which includes 12 issues and a copy of the annual directory. Ellen, Anne and I agree that a subscription rate of $24, which would almost completely cover the cost of newsletter production, is more than people would be willing to support. Therefore, effective January 1, 2006, we are increasing the subscription rate to only $15 per year. This will not affect current subscribers. The annual directory will continue to be a benefit of subscription in 2006.

2. Introduction of electronic subscriptions. SCA policy has changed to allow groups to offer electronic subscriptions to the local newsletter. Ellen, Anne and I agree that Nordskogen can support the launch of electronic subscriptions. Electronic subscriptions (if taken advantage of by subscribers) will greatly reduce the annual print and postage expenses. Effective January 1, 2006, electronic subscriptions will be offered at $10 per year, including an annual directory. The electronic newsletter will not replace the printed one; rather, subscribers will have a choice of formats.

3. Subscription length limitation. For the last several years, we have allowed subscribers to purchase multiple years' worth of subscriptions. While we fully understand the convenience this offers to our subscribers, it does cause some financial reporting challenges and hurts us in situations like this, when a subscription rate increase is needed. Therefore, as of January 1, 2006, all new subscriptions will be limited to one year.

4. Dedication of raffle funds to newsletter support. Going forward, efforts will be made to ensure that at least a portion of the annual Twelfth Night raffle will be dedicated to underwriting The Crystal Quill expenses.

I welcome any questions or concerns you may have. Time will be devoted at the January business meeting for your questions; in the meantime, please don't hesitate to direct your questions to me in person or at nordskogenquill@yahoo.com.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Yours in Service,

- ban-Ollaimh Cinniu ingen Cuthbaid, OL
 Chronicler, Barony of Nordskogen