The Society of Creative Anachronism, or what we call the SCA, threw an event this past weekend at Camp Taloali in Stayton, Oregon. About 200 people participated on Saturday, April 25^th, in archery, sword fighting, weapon throwing, siege weapon training, period shopping, and classes. There were also performances by poets, musicians, and singers who carry on the bardic traditions. 

Interviewed is a distinguished Master Archery Marshal. Lance Case, age 53, and his family of 4 have been with the SCA since 2008,18 years. Master Case has been an archer in the SCA for 17 years. Master Case used loaner gear during his first year with the SCA. After his first year, he bought his first bow after realizing his passion for the sport. Master Lance Case has been a Marshal for 12 years and holds many responsibilities, including conducting safety checks, inspecting weapons and gear, ensuring safety on the field, and making sure that kids have waivers signed and parents are present at all times. You can follow him on Facebook as Otto Gottlieb. Marshals are found in all weapon activities, whether it be throwing weapons, archery, sword fighting, siege equipment, or heavy fighting. Without Marshals, there would be a lot more injuries. 

Three champions were named at court who had won the most fights during the tournaments. The bards performed beautifully during the day, and by popular vote, the title and responsibilities were passed on to a deserving individual. The bards continued to play and perform throughout dinner, and after dinner, at the bonfire, a group of about 15 people stayed for hours, listening and participating. 

The event, Bar Gemels, ended on Sunday, the 26^th, with a war practice that had about 100 participants. War is a big deal in the SCA, and people get excited to fight other territories. 

The kingdom of An Tir will be going to war with the Western territories from June 30^th through the 5^th of July at the Lazy J. Moore Ranch in Gold Beach, Oregon. 

An Tir’s introduction to the war, “Come once again to the beautiful, temperate coastlands and the epic war between the mighty Kingdoms of An Tir and the West. There will be battles, both rattan and steel. There will be Arts and Sciences, archery, thrown weapons, and equestrian activities galore. Of course, there will also be many fine merchants.” Find this War event here and join the action with an open mind and willingness to learn.