Hello friends! It has been a while since I posted. I wish I had a super happy go lucky bit of news for you this time around. I do not, unfortunately. Here’s what is on my mind. My beloved Koroneburg Renaissance Festival is in dire peril.
I have been at this renaissance festival since its founding, this event has a large place in my heart. Over the years I and several hundred other participants have planted trees; built buildings, painted fences, over and over putting out 150% effort to make it a success. There is a literacy program based out of this festival. The arts happen here, actually they FLOURISH here. Its been a long road, with so much work and so many changes. New management had come in after the passing of our founder. They revitalized everything. New customers, new opportunities, new and improved. And, in 2019 it seemed that we had finally ‘arrived’.
Sadly, I recently was informed by festival management that Orange County, CA has filed for Eminent Domain rights over the land where my home festival has been for over 25 years. There is a large public works project to increase the size of the Prado Dam and reservoir, and they want our place for easement/flood control. This project has been in the works for years. I am stunned. My heart hurts. I certainly have a lot of strong opinions that I will not put in writing.
Are we for sure dead in the water? mmmm, maybe not. There is a chance the park can be granted an exception to a Vacate Order. It would depend on a lot of factors.
Will we have to scramble to get out right away? Maybe not, because these things take years sometimes. Hopefully information is forthcoming. There are city counsel meetings I’m going to zoom attend to see if I can get information.
I’m not out of business. Fortunately I do more than one show however much I love Koroneburg Renaissance Festival specifically. I’ll be here, plugging along for a good long time. There is the Renaissance Pleasure Faire in early spring each year and also the Northern California Renaissance Faire in the fall. I have my website, and I have you guys. I have the ability to make new plans and dreams, so I will do just that.
New Things: I’m getting more listings in my website Shop. One recent is back by request – this ladies linen hip length chemise. I’ve carried this piece in my booth for many seasons so its past time to get it available to everybody. Coming soon, Mens cotton shirts in two colors. Another item I’ve carried in person that also deserves a broader audience.
Until next time with Good News, and I promise to get back to writing more often.
~ Martina, Creative Overlord