[SCA-AE] The use of "Troll"

[Krista Traini]

As someone who runs troll fairly often, I have to say I like the term.  It's fun! There is not one person that I know that would call me or anyone else a "Troll" in a mean or derogative way.  Not one. Do you know any? I didn't think so. Therefore, in my opinion, the term is NOT derogatory, and I, for one, intend to continue using it.
 
I remember my first event and the first time I learned I'd have to "Troll in".  I thought it was funny and cool.  I got a chuckle out of it. And let's face it, how many newcomers stick around because their first impression is "Wow, these people are really authentic"? No, they stick around because their first impression is,  "Wow, this is FUN!" (Not that the two sentiments are mutually exclusive, but they don't normally coincide.)
 
Another point: Troll is not really part of the event.  It is what you have to do to get into the event.  Running and sitting at troll is a lot of fun because you get to greet everyone, but for those trolling in, it's more likely to be a neutral or vaguely unpleasant experience.  You shell out cash, maybe sign a waiver or two, and THEN the fun begins.  And it can be annoying if there is a long line or you forget your proof of membership and have to pay the NMS (Go to sca.org, print it out and put it in the glove compartment of each car you have.  Go ahead.  I'll wait). So WHY NOT have a little fun, a little whimsy, a little irony at the gate?  WHY NOT give people a little chuckle at the Troll? So back slowly away from my frivolity. I LIKE IT. 
 
~Hilda
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