The show in Black Rock wrapped up, and we, my merry gypsy cavalcade, headed first to Holly to spend a few days with our dear friends the Cornwells. We camped, ate venison, and made pickles. Delicious, jalapeño dill pickles. Holy crap, those pickles. It was an idyllic few days of campfires and wine...like I don't get enough of those, right? Haw. We left to head back West, however, aiming for just north of Chicago, to Kenosha, the home of the Bristol Renaissance Fair. And no, I didn't get to see the boys at that show- I was on RESCU business. Why, what's RESCU, you ask? I'm so glad you did! RESCU is a non-profit organization established to promote and maintain the health and medical well being of the participants of Renaissance Faires, historical performances & other artistic events through financial assistance, advocacy, education and preventative programs. What this translates to largely is 'Advocacy' wherein we assist clients in communicating with hospitals to reduce the bills owed after ER visits. We help sponsor clinics and CRP/First aid training seminars, and a variety of other community events to help rennies help themselves. In events of greater need, we also provide funds to be allocated for those bills which CAN'T be reduced, or even still prove insurmountable.
"Well, gosh, PT, what does this have to do with you going to Chicago?"
I was just named to the board of RESCU, and and am excited to be serving as the communications chair. RESCU has been in existence since 2003, and is now, in a big way, looking to expand into the realm of raising funds and support outside of the community of participants. We're inviting our friends and family of the patron community- Patrons, Playtrons, Participatrons, Weekenders, however you identify yourself- to join us in 'Pledging to the Health of the Company!'.
I think it's safe to say that most of us, whether on stage, in a booth, in the audience, or in the lanes, come to the Renaissance Festival largely for the sense of belonging, for that community of like minded individuals who make us feel like we've come home. I know for a lot of my friends, a festival site is a place to go and simply be yourself, a place without judgement. This enviroment is created by the amazing people I get to work with everyday, from crafters, to musicians, and foodies to jugglers.
#tortugatwins
