SENATUS POPULUSQUE ROMANUM
Open SENATE meeting 12JUL2020
Present:
Emperor Stephanus Galtier
Senators: Janu Shimada Octavius, Zarek Antonius, Booker Beningborough, Strymon O Whitewolf Parthicus, C4 Leone RoB Karu, Eryx Etchegaray-Drake, Aurelius Romanov-Phoenix, Ras Parthicus, Damon Leone RoB, Petrus Gnaeus Pompeius
Citizens: Dax Skytower Varro-Parthicus, Asharr Furious Panius, Ruggeris Brittanicus, Appius, Alexei Romanov-Phoenix, Wyatt, Jonny, Ariel Vindelici, Sir Helios of Dacia, Twiztid Octavius, Ricky Aurelio Giordano, Brad Hunter, Miles Maximus, Popov Huldschinsky, GaryMike Maximus, Alexander Richard, Ptolemy Polemistis, Cadmus Neximus Argenteus, Jin Mei Ren, Elysium Karu Leone RoB, Paolo Parthicus
Apologias and proxies: Eryx Etchegaray-Drake for Syrus Etchegaray-Drake
I. THE CHANGING SHAPE OF THE EMPIRE
Emperor Stephanus Galtier: So, first, we all congratulated Pompeii for their official independence July 1. They are our history. They are our friends. They are our family. A couple of months ago Senator Petrus asked me if he could have his own homestead to build his family estate on. This has been a wish of his for some time. I said yes. He wanted to be close to the city of Romanum and we were able to accommodate this wish by moving him between Pompeii Appia Way and Romanum (I). We now have a lovely road and bridges leading from Romanum to Pompeii.
I was recently inspired to have a brand new Imperial Palace built after the current one is 9 years old and rather dated. So I am working to have that done and hope to have the new palace by the end of this year.
As I sent notice on, the Senate in private meeting this morning decided to retain the language in the July 1 constitution that FUTURE Romanum Senators must own land in Romanum. I had that vote taken because of concerns from some regarding that provision.
The new Bacchus Temple has moved to Romanum II. We also have a new Temple of Uranus, Minerva and Gea in Romanum II. There are also many other new Temples. In addition we now have a Romanum Embassy behind the Hospitalis.
Janu Shimada Octavius: Senator Petrus is building a beautiful garden. If you get the chance Do visit. Or peer over the wall.
Jonny: As the owner fo the island in what is now Pompeii Appia Way I would like to express my gratitude for the beautiful view to the north afforded by Senator Petrus' new estate! And to welcome him as my new neighbour.
Ariel Vindelici: It is nice to see that there are now many interesting waterways that we can use civilly as well as militarily. I hope that one day it will be possible to get from Romanum via Pompeii to Kyme on the water.
II. TRIBUNATE REPORT
Popov Huldschinsky: We, the Tribunes, like to inform the present distinguished gentries of our last meeting with the Plebeians Assembly on Sunday, 28th June 2020. In the course of this meeting certain points were raised of which, some will be presented to this assembly if it could bear it, We will also elaborate further on developments since the aforementioned meeting:
- Report was given on the progress concerning Script Meter Boards / counters. Although different options had been discussed further options and details ought to be sought.
- It was also reminded that Betting at the Chariot Races had been started and encountering a certain success but, nevertheless other zCS system uses, for private citizens, were being planned.
- Plebeians remarked on a new-found energy that could be seen throughout the Empire which, was very much appreciated.
- One of my fellow Tribunes had been notified that events from outside the Empire of Romanum were advertised on Romanum Groups and therefore competing with Romanum’s events. Via the correct channel, the mater has been brought to our gracious Emperor’s attention who kindly enlighten the present Tribunate of the official position as well as raisings various questions that will be discussed during the next Tribunate private meeting.
- Due to confusion, it was reminded to Plebeians that their Monthly Assembly Meeting will be held in the Pantheon on Romanum. The present Tribunate would like to take this opportunity to thank our gracious Emperor letting us use such a grandiose site.
- Enquiries were made concerning the zCS coinage, principally the developing of an uniform toll to be used in Romanum shops. This issue will also be discussed during the Tribunate next meeting,
The next Plebeian Assembly Meeting will be held on Sunday, 26th July 2020.
Booker Beningborough: Senators were planning on discussing the conflicting events this morning. However, our time was taken up by the Constitutional item. We will bring it up in the next meeting if not earlier.
Emperor Stephanus Galtier: The issue of Pompeii using both Romanum groups and calendar is an informal agreement between me and Rad and Stef. Some raised an issue with that. So, BOTH the Tribunate earlier and the Senate will address that issue. I expect a proposal form both (or we keep it as is).
C4 Leone RoB™Karu: I think it is a great idea to keep Pompeii using the groups and calendar to insure no cross promoting events at same time and keep the freedom to expand the RP.
Zarek Antonius: To the Emperor's point, until those happen, it is status quo, correct, sire (people can post in both groups). (Emperor Stephanus Galtier: Yes, Zarek)
Cadmus Neximus Argenteus: I agree that Romanum and Pompeii events should both appear in the calendar. I thought the question that was raised had to do with events other than from Romanum and Pompeii but was just my assumption. (Emperor Stephanus Galtier: That can be addressed too Cadmus)
III. UPCOMING CITY EVENTS
Ariel Vindelici: the next big event will be the Neptunalia festival. The schedule for the Neptunalia festival is as follows::
20 July. 11:30am opening
21 July. 2pm boat parade
22 July. 12pm horse blessing
24.July 12pm Neptune's triathlon
26 July 1:15pm Myklos pool party
There will also be the usual parties and weekly events and fountain blessings by Ariel or Janu.
The event co-ordinators Janu Shimada Octavius and Ariel Vindelici are open for possible additions, please contact us within the next days. A poster with info-nc will be hung up the next days too.
To refresh the religious life and keep traditions in Romanum, I suggest dedicating a different god to each month and holding larger or smaller events or prayers.
Janu Shimada Octavius: Mr Romanum traditionally takes place in the Autumn. The Emperor is assembling a team to manage this. I don't know if he wants to say more. I remind you the role of Events co-ordinator is to co-ordinate events. We do not have a veto. But we do try to manage the calendar, so you don't clash with an existing event. We can also advise on venues, and other facilities you may need.
Jin Měi Rén : My name is Jin Mei Ren and for those of you who do not know me, I am currently the Theater Director, Palace manager and the leader of the Homines De Ars.I wanted to talk to you all today about the importance of the arts and culture here in Romanum. Especially the importance of participation of each and every one of you to make a strong arts community here. At the present time I write, direct, choreograph and build the sets for nearly all the performances in our city and some in Pompeii. I enjoy doing it but I'm only one man, which is why the plays are few and far between. I have also noticed that the actors are always close friends of mine. I would love to get to know and work with others. I also know there are others with performance experience as well in our city. Please don't be shy, I would love to collaborate. I would like to see our theater in the future be comparable with RIPA. With some help and dedication of a few more men I do believe we could achieve that. With my skills and experience and all the creative citizens here we could eventually be operating on the same level. I simply need more participation.If we had a well oiled, managed and recognizable theater we could attract new citizens which would be beneficial to everyone. I'm quite sure of this. So please, if you are interested in helping me by performing, learning to direct, making choreography or building sets I would be happy to teach you. Currently we have one completed play, "The Story of Emperor Stephanus of Romanum". I would like the play to open by the end of July or the first few weeks on August. Meetings and casting calls will take place next week.
Next. I want to speak about Palace events. What would you all like to see happening there? What are your ideas for roleplay events? As the Palace Manager the Palace is not just mine to plan events in. It's everyones so I want your input. Tentatively I have planned an annual Ball in November, a formal banquet in the Summer and also for Saturnalia. I was thinking of offering bath and massage services, monthly imperial symposiums and orgies. So please if you have any ideas or want to help let me know.
Lastly I want to speak about the Homines De Ars. Which is loosely based on the Greek Hetaira. The Homines De Ars is a brotherhood of men who are dedicated to Apollo and the arts by performing as well as participating in the visual and literary arts. We perform in city festivals and ceremonies private and public. Also as Imperial palace performers by hosting Symposiums and formal banquets. Currently our head quarters and lodgings are being moved to Pompeii. That by no way means that we are only going to be supporting Pompeii. We will be performing in both cities. If you are interested in joining our brotherhood please feel free to let me know.
Ptolemy Polemistís: I foresee some rather spectacular orgies in Romanum in the near future. please tell your hot friends.
Cadmus Neximus Argenteus: I want to thank the people who have been working on the arts, they add a huge amount to life here. Jin, Ras, Popov, another art gallery that was up for a while, and others, thank you all.
Ariel Vindelici: I think it is a good idea to have more art and theater in the Romanum, although it will probably not reach the level of Ripa. Of course, all planned events should be discussed with the event coordinators so that there is no overlap as in the past. I hope that the announced events can also be implemented.
Asharr Furius Panius: Thank you Cadmus from part owner of other gallery that was here for a while. Should not bath and massage services be offered at the baths rather than the palace?
Jin Měi Rén: There are also Baths in the palace. I'm speaking on Palace events if the bathhouse want to plan events then thats great. All baths matter!
Popov Huldschinsky: I just would like, on behalf of the Homines de Ars, to thanks Ariel for his kind thoughts and negative encouragements.
Ariel Vindelici: I am not negative but realistic.
Jin Měi Rén: It's nice to have a goal and inspiration to attain to. I'm sorry but I could do every bit that that can. Sorry if you have no confidence in me and our citizens.
Booker Beningborough: It is very much appreciated what you do, Jin.
Ariel Vindelici: I never had the intention to speak negative of the work of Jin or Popov. I offered you often enough my help too. I just think we don't need to compare with RIPa, we are Romanum.
Jin Měi Rén: I was just making an example that with some help and experience we could be a theater that draws from all of SL not just Romanum. That's all. nothing more. I believe we could. I have hope
IV. UPDATE ON PRIESTS' ACTIVITIES
Emperor Stephanus Galtier: First, I want to thank Senate Lead Booker AGAIN for the work he does in leading these meetings. That is not an easy job. Second, I am SO pleased by the regular interests in these Senate meetings, the high attendance. Third, I can never thank EVERYONE enough who puts in hard work and initiative to make Romanum fun and interesting. I am pleased to tell you much has happened regarding the organization of religious life in Romanum. I consider religious life to be one of the most important parts of roleplay in Romanum as it was in ancient Rome. In the past few weeks I put together a comprehensive list of all major Roman religious holidays, especially revolving around Rome's 12 major gods. I also laid out minimum responsibilities for the many Temple Flamen. I confirmed Petrus is Stefanos backup and assistant. I had Temples built to ALL 12 major Roman gods and goddesses as well as some others. I want a Flamen at least for the 12 major gods. We are currently filling those slots. We are seeking volunteers and we will also be reaching out to people. So expect a big increase in religious life in Romanum. I had a good conversation with Stefanos about this yesterday.
Ariel Vindelici: I think there should be regular meetings of all pontifexes and flamen to coordinate the religious life better, possibly monthly. (Emperor Stephanus Galtier: There will be Ariel)
Janu Shimada Octavius: I am very grateful for the provision of new temples by our beloved Emperor, and the advertisement for new priests. Can I ask what is the present procedure for appointing new priests? And how many services have been held under the Emperor’s new edict?
Emperor Stephanus Galtier: We are focusing on filling the Flamen lost now. Some by volunteers, some by recruits. The Pontifex Maximus makes the final choice. Once we have all the Flamen in place (maybe sooner for those filled already) I expect a minimum of two things for each flamen: at least a 15 minute prayer service per week for each flamen and their temple. Each flamen will be responsible for celebrating the holidays defined for their gods. I have literally put together a annual schedule with dates for the next 4 years.
Janu Shimada Octavius: The PM has advised he is on sabbatical. When is he returning? And what happens to appointments, pending his return?
Emperor Stephanus Galtier: I spoke with Stefanos yesterday and he said to me when he is absent, Petrus is in charge and can make decisions.
Ariel Vindelici: The 15 minutes prayers should be held by every pontifex or flamen, sire? (Emperor Stephanus Galtier: Yes, once per week)
Elysium Karu Leone RoB: I would like to say that, being a real astronomer and astrologer and having together with my uncle Damon built the temple of Uranus at Romanum II, I would ask if it was possible to hold astronomy and astrology lessons, for those interested, in that temple. since Uranus does not represent one of the 12 main ones but is the creator of the universes together to mother earth Gaia. If it's not a bad idea, you could put it into practice.
Booker Beningborough: Thank you, I know the Emperor will consider your request.
Next meeting of the Senate will be: Next Senate meeting Sunday 9AUG at 11:00am.
Gratitude,
Ix Parthicus ἸΞ ΠΑΡΘΙΚΟΣ
Senate Scribe