[SCA-AE] lawsuit and changes

[Scott Macek]

My understanding is that the BOD discussed the settlement with our two insurance carriers, both of whom were responsible for paying any settlement.  Both carriers said, "That's a great idea."  After the settlment agreement, one carrier paid a portion of the settlement (to the tune of $450,000, I believe).  When the other carrier was approached for their portion, they said, "NO."  Having been directly contradictory to their agreement to pay, it makes complete sense to me that the BOD took this course of action.  Every check we write to our local groups includes "SCA, Inc." on it, which means that by rights, this is the SCA, Inc.'s money that is being "requested".  
 
NOBODY is particularly happy with this course of action.  
 
Having read the posts in the past 72 hours has renewed my love for what the SCA represents.  We can spend the next decade (or more!) discussing "woulda, shoulda, coulda".  The fact is that we have to have faith that the BOD is doing what is best for the Society.  
 
Let's forget for a moment the heinous acts that spawned this disaster and let's forget that the SCA as a whole was named in the lawsuit.  Even if the SCA were not named, we would still be here.  Why?  Because three VOLUNTEER officers for the group from which the perpetrator participated were being sued for EVERYTHING that they had.  The SCA, Inc. said "This will NOT happen."  The three individuals who wanted to help the SCA and have had their lives turned UPSIDE DOWN for almost ten years can see light at the end of the tunnel because of this settlement.  
 
"The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few, or the one." is one of my favorite quotes.  This also seems to me to be a great deal of the arguments I've heard against getting these funds to the Kingdom ASAP.  Chivalry and Courtesy, in my eyes, are about doing what is right, no matter the cost.  I challenge everyone to remember that this money is for our GAME.  All of those funds have been hard earned, but they are going to save LIVES.  As much as I love the SCA, I find that a much worthier donation and would hope you do too.
 
YIS (and stepping off the soapbox)
Lord Gregory Hillson
MKA Scott Macek