It would be hard for me to track what I've done in the last calendar
year. Off and on I've tried to be helpful to the Ivory Keep, as my
time and their need allowed. I've been a subscriber to the Southbanke
mailing list since I moved there.  Mostly I'd have to say that I've
listened. Where opportunity has presented itself I've tried to take
the time to hear things from their perspective. Sometimes I've
presented examples from my own experience running a (mostly) college
group, but without trying to tell them how they should do
things. Every experience is unique.  I've heard a number of things. I
have talked to borough folk who have been discontent with being
ignored, being undervalued, or being constantly hit on by middle-aged
men. I have tried to address what problems have been presented in what
ways I've been able to in individual circumstances and in how I
conduct myself as an example. Are these common issues? Are they just a
minority of vocal malcontents? In my role of Baron it would become my
duty to understand such things. If nothing else, I would like to be a
person that anyone can bring problems to, that aren't necessarily
fulfilled by an appropriate officer. I take the concept of fealty very
seriously. It is not just about retainers serving a liege, but also a
liege serving their retainers.
