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23rd Annual

Official Program July 8 - 9, 2017 A supplement to the Skagit Valley Herald New Club Members Receive: FREE-PLAY $ ! 10 day pTo n U Sig

TheBETTOR Place

CASINO • RESORT Owned by Upper Skagit IndianTribe theskagit.com • On I-5 at Exit 236 • 877-275-2448 039 621 1 Welcome ...... 4 LittlefieldC eltic Center— vibrant cultural place hits its stride ...... 5 Chieftain of the Skagit Valley ...... 7 Highland Dancing at the Games! ...... 8 The : Piping at the Games ...... 8 Irish Music, Culture and History at the Games ...... 10 Sheepdog Trials ...... 11 History of the Scottish Heavy Events ...... 12 Heavy Events at the Skagit Valley Highland Games ...... 12 The Ceilidh Tent ...... 14 Clans at the Games ...... 15 Membership Registration Form & Information...... 17 2017 Pipe Bands ...... 19

ontents Volunteer Chairpersons...... 19 Map...... 20 Thank You to the 2017 Highland Games Sponsors...... 21

C Schedule of Events...... 22-23

Clan Heather Dancers Scottish & Irish Dance SKAGIT PUBLISHING Year-round classes - all ages 1215 Anderson Road Mount Vernon, Bellingham & Everett Mount Vernon, WA 98274 P: 360.424.3251 • F: 360.424.5300 Heather Richendrfer, Director Advertising: 360.416.2180 Dance Competition Chair - Skagit Valley Highland Games

[email protected] 1 Life Member - British Association of Teachers of Dance 628472 Restocking: 360.416.2171 Member - Scottish Official Board World-Wide Judging Panel © Skagit Publishing, LLC 2017 All rights reserved. www.clanheather.com (360) 715-8682 [email protected] goskagit.com Skagit Publishing LLC 2017 Skagit Valley Highland Games 3 Welcome

Welcome to the 2017 Skagit Valley Highland Games— our 23rd annual Scottish celebration in the valley! It is the largest event the Celtic Arts Foundation produces each year and—along with the CAF—is going stronger than ever. We continue to attract participants to the Highland Games from all over the Pacific Northwest, Lower Mainland of BC, and yes, even ! Our focus has always been to provide fun, family-oriented, quality activities in an inclusive way. We’ve greatly expanded our Irish offerings over the years, and now routinely include and enjoy performances by Irish musicians as part of the Highland Games.

In a word, we are all about celebration! Celebration of heritage and culture, yes, but also providing an important opportunity for the broader community to come together, enjoy some different music, dance, and traditional activities, learn some history, and generally just revel in things that you just don’t see every day! Regular visitor to the Games will have their favorite parts—the “heavy” athletic events, sheepdog trials, Highland dancing or piping and drumming, and maybe even the whisky and beer garden for some! Whatever activity becomes your favorite, the Celtic Arts Foundation, and especially our team of tireless volunteers who make this event possible, invite you to take it all in and celebrate with us!

If you haven’t yet had the chance to visit the Littlefield Celtic Center, our beautiful base of operations and vibrant event center here in Mount Vernon, we invite you to do so. Whether for a drop-in tour or one of our regular musical concerts—seems like there is always some fun activity going on and we welcome the chance to share more of our culture and heritage with you.

On behalf of our Board of Directors, volunteers, and sponsors, thank you for your continued enthusiastic support of the Skagit Valley Highland Games and the Celtic Arts Foundation. Thank you to everyone who participates, whether as a competitor, performer, vendor, or audience member—we join you in looking forward to a wonderful weekend in Skagit County. Enjoy the Games, and in the words of one of our favorite traditional slogans, “Haste ye Back!”

Skye K. Richendrfer Founder and Executive Director, Celtic Arts Foundation

4 2017 Skagit Valley Highland Games Skagit Publishing LLC goskagit.com LittlefieldC eltic Center— vibrant cultural place hits its stride

territories occupied by Celtic tribes observed a Celtic harper who performed ntering its second full year of opera- E historically stretched well into what at the Center in early 2015. The “Great tion, the Littlefield Celtic Center is on is present-day eastern Austria and Hall,” where performances and most the map as a destination for performers through parts of Northern Europe, events are held, is an acoustically and lovers of all things Celtic. Operated including large concentrations in France engineered space, with sophisticated by the Mount Vernon-based Celtic Arts and Spain. “In fact, there are vibrant audio reinforcement systems as well Foundation (producers of the Skagit Val- concentrations of Celtic people in as state of the art video capabilities. ley Highland Games), so far the regular in France and throughout major These systems provide the Littlefield concerts, workshops, and events have parts of Spain, especially in Galicia,” Celtic Center with unusual capabilities, followed a primarily Scottish or Irish Richendrfer added. Look for more and performers are eager to take full theme. However, the term “Celtic” refers programming including performers advantage. to a culture that greatly expands beyond from those regions in coming months the borders of Scotland and , and Around 2,500 people attended and years at the Littlefield Celtic Center. well outside of the British Isles. events in 2016 (the Center’s first full The Center has already made its year of activities) and activity levels “People generally think of the term mark as a destination for performers, thus far in 2017 look to outpace that Celtic as referring only to people with with artists and their agents regularly significantly by years’ end. The diversity Scottish and Irish ancestry,” explained contacting the Foundation to see about of programming has something to do Skye Richendrfer, the Founder and performing. It appears the word is out: Executive Director of the Celtic Arts “Everyone is going to want to play here,” Littlefield cont. on page 6 Foundation. He explained that the 628468 1

goskagit.com Skagit Publishing LLC 2017 Skagit Valley Highland Games 5 Littlefield cont. from page 5 with it, as beyond music performances and sessions, things like literary events, workshops, and even Gaelic language classes have also proven to be very popular. “We’re certainly not resting on our laurels,” Richendrfer said. “It’s exciting to have a place where people expect first rate performances and entertainment— we know there is a lot of competition for people’s leisure time.” Recruiting international talent isn’t an easy matter either. Long gone are the days when performers from Scotland might just hop on a jet and come over for a few gigs and return home. Due to very complex US work visa requirements, non-US artists have to compile massive paperwork and pay steep application fees to County. Several offers resulted from Celtic Center continues to enjoy strong come perform. This ends up severely that trip, and are currently under attendance, and looks forward to a full limiting opportunities and many groups consideration by various UK traditional docket of music and other cultural completely shy away from coming to the music groups and individuals, events in coming months and years. US, as they find the process onerous and according to Richendrfer. The calendar expensive. To overcome this obstacle, for planning and recruiting bands, the Celtic Arts Foundation has taken on completing visas, and coordinating completing work visas for many of the with other venues has pushed bookings artists who come to the United States out in some cases to more than two from the UK and Canada. years. In the meantime, the Littlefield Even though performers are regularly contacting the Littlefield Celtic Center, the Foundation isn’t just waiting for people to come knocking on their front door. In April, Richendrfer participated in the “Showcase Scotland Visit” program; traveling to Scotland to listen and evaluate over 20 traditional performing groups, with an eye to recruiting them to come play in Skagit

Free Scottish Music Sessions are held the first Sunday of most months and Free Irish Music Sessions are held on the third Sunday of most months at the Littlefield Celtic Center. See website for more info: www.Celticarts.org

6 2017 Skagit Valley Highland Games Skagit Publishing LLC goskagit.com CAF Board & Staff

Dr. James M. Ford (r) receives lifetime membership from William “Bill” Babb, President Skye K. Richendrfer, then-CAF President Walter Briggs (l), March, 2016 Patty Dunn, Vice President Founder and Executive Director Chieftain of the Skagit Jan Gould, Treasurer Lindsay Van Houten, Program and Event Manager Valley Highland Games Jim Monroe, Ph.D., Secretary Roberta Bjorling, The Board of Directors of the Celtic Tyrone Heade, Board Member Program and Administrative Arts Foundation is pleased to honor Walter Briggs, Board Member longtime member, donor, supporter, and Assistant friend, the late Dr. James Marshall Ford Marilyn McLean, Board Member of Anacortes, as Chieftain of the 2017 Skagit Valley Highland Games. Sadly, David Ryberg, Board Member this recognition comes posthumously, as Dr. Ford passed away in May of this year. As former President of Skagit Valley College, Dr. Ford was a true community leader and tireless advocate and champion for higher education. His Zero to innate academic interest in the world around him never interfered with his fundamental approachability and Gaelic adult language education kindness. Conversations with Dr. Ford program were often intertwined with athletic stories, leadership lessons, current events, and, invariably, questions that made you pause and think. Seirm His beloved wife Fran was proud Gaelic song and music of her Scottish Orkney ancestry, and perhaps a little responsible for Jim being willing to “suspend his disbeliefs” long Féis Seattle enough to try his first haggis at a Robert language, music and cultural Burns dinner at the college years ago. festival Dr. Ford regularly attended concerts and events at the Littlefield Celtic Center, and at a 2016 St. Patrick’s event was awarded lifetime membership in the Celtic Arts Foundation. We’re sorry Dr. Embrace Living Tradition Ford is not physically with us today, but 4 7 84

we know he’s watching and listening, and 62 wwwww.w.slisligheghe.o.comrg ••20206.6.90903.943.945252 1 has just the right story to share…

goskagit.com Skagit Publishing LLC 2017 Skagit Valley Highland Games 7 Highland Dancing at the Games! America. will see a world-class dance competi- he Skagit Valley Highland Games T tion in both Highland and national features one of only 14 Open Champion- The competition will be held in the dances of Scotland. While the is ships held in the U.S. this year. Cham- dancing area from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on worn for Highland dances, females pionships are the highest level of com- both Saturday and Sunday. The Northern wear flowing skirts with shawls petitive Highland dance sanctioned by U.S. Open Championship at the Skagit (called plaids) and velvet vests for the the Scottish Official Board of Highland Valley Highland Games and the Celtic softer national dances. The Sailor’s Dancing (SOBHD). Judges for champion- Arts Championship held each Febru- depicts actions of sailors ships are an elite group of well-seasoned ary in Bellingham are both organized onboard Scottish whaling vessels. The experts selected from the SOBHD by Heather Richendrfer. Richendrfer is Irish is performed in hard shoes panel. Solo dancers compete in the four an expert in Highland dancing and has and features wonderful rhythm tapped traditional Highland dances with steps set been teaching year-round classes in three out by dancers as they perform. The for 2016. Championship dancers receive local cities and workshops across North choreography events are always crowd trophies and medals; cash prizes go to America for 40 years. She is a judge on pleasers as the dancers perform unique dancers 16 years of age and older. The the SOBHD panel and has judged all lev- Celtic-themed numbers, often in origi- championship often expands to include els of competitions, including the World nal costumes. Each year brings new 10 age groups, drawing competitive Championships in Scotland. choreography, , and dancers. dancers from overseas and across North Spectators at the Highland Games

The Great Highland Bagpipe: Piping at the Games The 2017 Skagit Valley Highland stage area from 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. pipe/Reelpipe event. The event features Games piping competition will bring to- on Sunday, followed by a bands performances by pipers playing less gether more than ten traditional Scottish performance until 4:45 p.m. Groups well-known types of “bellows-propelled” pipe bands competing before an interna- are traditionally made up of 6-25 Great pipes, often played in music sessions tional panel of judges, including special Highland pipers, 3-10 snare drummers, with other types of instruments. Held on guests and world champion pipers Stuart 1-6 tenor drummers and usually one, but Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Liddell of Inveraray, Scotland, and Willie sometimes two, bass drummers. The en- ten pre-registered pipers perform either McCallum of Bearsden, Scotland. Both tire section is known collectively a solo or in a duet pairing with other are also scheduled to perform at the as the drum corps, but the tenor drum- pipers, fiddlers, and guitarists to present Friday, July 7 “Gathering of the Clans” mers and bass drummer are referred to a musical performance of their choice. dinner event at the Littlefield Celtic together as the ‘bass section’ or, in North Unlike Highland pipe competitions, Center in Mount Vernon. America, as the ‘mid section.’ The band which are structured with guidelines and follows the direction of the pipe major. The solo piping and drumming com- players are rated based on established petition will be held on Saturday from Do not miss this opportunity to hear criteria, the Smallpipe/Reelpipe perfor- 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the piping area. some of the best Highland concert pip- mance is more focused on musical style The full pipe band competitions will be ing in the world! Events run all weekend. (and playing with other instruments, in held in the main stage area on Saturday The Scottish Smallpipe/Reelpipe Event the case of the duet event). The players from 2:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Wash- receive a critique sheet making sugges- An unusual feature of the Skagit ington State Grade III and IV Pipe Band tions on various aspects of the musical Valley Highland Games is the Small- Championships will be held in the main performance of the player.

8 2017 Skagit Valley Highland Games Skagit Publishing LLC goskagit.com Caring for our Community. Whether you need routine care from your family medicine provider or complex care involving imaging, surgery or rehabilitation, PeaceHealth is caring for our community right here in Skagit County.

Find the care you need at peacehealth.org.

PeaceHealth United General Medical Center PeaceHealth Medical Group 2000 Hospital Drive, Sedro-Woolley Irish Music, Culture and History at the Games

dinner, film showings, and monthly Irish nly 17 miles or so separate Ireland Presentations O music sessions. Numerous well-known and Scotland from each other across Irish musicians have performed and will at the Culture Tent the swift North Channel waters of the continue to perform on the Littlefield Irish Sea. In ancient times those waters, Celtic Center’s state-of-the-art stage. ulture Tent presentations are sched- though not formidable, kept the two C uled for both Saturday and Sunday regions somewhat apart. In our mod- Booth on culture, music, arts, clan histories, ern, enlightened world, there has been and on specific events or personalities a bridge of sorts, connecting those old bout 34.5 million U.S. residents within Celtic chronicles, such as Grace worlds in a based on their A claimed Irish ancestry in 2011, accord- O’Malley, Ireland’s 16th Century Pirate shared culture of music, art, history, and ing to the Census Bureau. That statistic Queen. Maps of Ireland and Scotland are language. accounts for the largest singular popu- also displayed with pictures that high- That revival momentum and recon- lation of Celtic people in the United light significant historical sites. nection has been nurtured at the Skagit States! To recognize that segment of the Valley Highland Games with the return population at the Highland Games, a Irish Music of the Clans of Ireland booth, an of Ireland booth was established history presentation in the culture tent, in 2009 to provide research and net- The harp has long been the symbol of and an Irish music session on Sunday working services. Those stopping by the Ireland. It has been played extensively afternoon. There has also been a steady booth can have a genealogist or assistant throughout Ireland and the Celtic world increase in Irish-related activities at survey several publications in an attempt for over 1,000 years. This year, as in the the Littlefield Celtic Center in Mount to provide individuals with informa- past, the Highland Games will feature Vernon, including a St. Patrick’s Day tion on the origins of their ancestors harpers in the Harp Tent who provide based on current or original spelling of an overview of songs and tunes found in surnames. the Gaelic world. Brian McGuiness, a retired Naval An Irish Music Session is scheduled Officer and aviator, organized the Clans for Sunday from 2:00-3:00PM at the of Ireland booth. He has been an active Ceilidh Tent, including harps, whistles, PAPACCKK member of the Celtic Arts Foundation flutes, fiddles, guitars, and several types (CAF) since 2005 and has volunteered of the melodious bellows-driven Celtic in many of its Scottish and Irish activi- pipes. THTHEE ties throughout the years. When asked what motivated him to join the CAF, he said his two trips to Ireland to see where PERFPERFEECCTT his grandfather was born stirred him to learn more about the culture of his ancestors and share it with others. PICPICNICNIC The Clans of Ireland booth shares its space with the Irish Heritage Club, based in the Seattle area. Judy Donoghue, a retired teacher, has managed the club’s participation in the Games for the past ten years. Free Irish Music Sessions are held OWNED BY THOUSANDS on the third Sunday of the month OPEN TO ALL at the Littlefield Celtic Center.

EXIT 226 DOWNTOWN MOUNT VERNON More info available at: (360) 336-9777 | SKAGITFOODCOOP.COM www.Celticarts.org

10 2017 Skagit Valley Highland Games Skagit Publishing LLC goskagit.com Sheepdog Trials

“Can other dogs do this?” is a com- mon question heard at the sheepdog ally runs in the Skagit Valley Highland dog to move one group of sheep to the trials at the Skagit Valley Highland Games with her handler, Joe Haynes. handler and then a subsequent trip to Games. The event draws a crowd dotted Most sheepdog trials are held in large bring a second group of sheep to join with veterans of the event and newcom- fields of 100 or more acres and include the first. In most competitions the dog is ers who appreciate the keen intellect a series of specific tests or elements. Ele- required to do the fetching and driving and quick movements of the dogs, ments may include herding resting sheep tests on their own, with the handler po- responding to their handler through just from some distance away or bringing sitioned in a stationary spot on the trial whistles. them to the handler and then back course. During the shedding, single, and across the field. Dogs are often asked to penning elements, the handler usually So many of us have dogs and have leaves the post and works with the dog some experience trying to get them to “pen” the sheep inside an enclosure, such as a gated space or vehicle. Elements may to achieve the task. Dogs are expected do something we ask—and we know to manage sheep kindly, appropriately, how difficult that can be! Dawn Pucci, also include “shedding,” where sheep are divided into two groups. Taking a and efficiently and can be eliminated for the coordinator for the sheepdog trials, disrespectful behavior such as biting. explains “It takes between one and two “single” is a type of shedding where a years to train the dogs the basics, though dog separates one sheep from the group. they will spend their lives learning to Some of the most difficult challenges read sheep and how to put pressure on are the “cross drive,” which requires the and off whatever sheep they are work- dog to move sheep in a straight line ing on. Too much pressure from the from one side of the field to the other, dog can either send the sheep running and the “double lift,” which requires the off uncontrolled or cause them to stand and challenge the dog.” Most of the dogs competing are border collies, although Pucci says it is possible for other breeds to learn the skills as well. “Border collies will learn how close they can get to a group of sheep to move but not panic them,” she explains. “They will lean in or turn away. Sometimes the movement is so subtle or so quick that we don’t see it happen. The sheep feel it happen, though. And that’s one of the things that keep even us dog handlers fasci- nated - the subtle quiet and fast language between sheep and dog.” While it’s not known exactly when shepherds in Celtic cultures started using dogs to herd sheep, the tradi- tion of sheepdog trails started over 130 years ago in Great Britain. These trials continue to be a significant part of Celtic culture and can be found across the globe, including North America, Europe, South Africa, and Australia. This year, the World Trial is being held in the Netherlands. Four of the ten dogs on the Contact the band at: [email protected] US team are from Washington, including www.kdpipeband.com 1628470 a little dog named Keally, who usu-

goskagit.com Skagit Publishing LLC 2017 Skagit Valley Highland Games 11 History of the Scottish Heavy Events

Scots have tested their strength against were still seen as a way for kings and As Scots ventured out of their home each other at Highland gatherings for chiefs to choose the best men for their country, they took their love of sport centuries. Never ones to shy away from service. and proud cultural identity with them. competition, clansmen utilized everyday Within the last 200 years or so, Scots The first Highland Games in the United implements easily available in Highland have seen the Heavy Events transformed States occurred when the Highland So- communities in the pre-industrial age. into organized competitions with ciety of New York held its “first sportive Box weights (commonly used to weigh governing bodies, consistent rules, and meeting” in 1836. Many “Caledonian grains and other crops), blacksmith or standardized techniques. Specific classes Clubs” were formed in subsequent years quarry hammers, stones, and logs were have been established based on abil- and one of the first actions of most all put to use in tests of strength and ity and age, such as Novice (new to the of these clubs was to hold a Highland power. King Malcolm Canmore, who sport), Masters (age 40 and over), Ama- Heavy Games. Today you can find began his reign in 1057, is credited with teur A and B, as well as Professional level Scottish Heavy Events across the globe. initiating crude forms of today’s Scot- athletes. Within the last 30 years there Events are prevalent in the United States tish athletic competition as a means of has also been a great increase in partici- and Canada and can also be found in improving the abilities of his military. pation and support of women athletes Bermuda, Indonesia, Hungary, Iceland, While the games had become festive competing in the same events as men. and many more countries. occasions by the sixteenth century, they Heavy Events at the Skagit Valley Highland Games tive and local business owner, Luke is The Heavy Events will run from 9am he Scottish Heavy Events have been a T also a competitor. He won the National until about 4pm both Saturday and Sun- large part of the Skagit Valley Highland Lightweight Championship in 2014. By day with the individual events staggered Games since its inception in 1994. Lew competing on a national level he has throughout the day. Men’s Amateur A, B Ross was brought in the first few years to been able to invite and host competitors and Masters compete on Saturday. On host the competition. Hailing from Brit- from across the country to compete at Sunday, the Novice, Women’s, and Men’s ish Columbia, Canada, Lew had been a his home games. Luke is supported by Lightweight will compete. Each day an driving force for the sport in the Pacific Christy Ham and Sue Gregg. Christy Athlete of the Day trophy is awarded to Northwest for years, running events and has been involved with the Skagit Valley the competitor with the best score across recruiting new athletes throughout the Highland Games in one facet or another all classes competing. Feel free to ask the region. Rob Robertson then took on almost every year. A Project Manager Athletics Team or the MC any questions the duty of Athletic Director. Rob was from Bellingham, she lends her ad- you may have, they will happily share dedicated to the Heavy Events and was ministration skills to the team as Head their knowledge and adoration of Scot- crucial in establishing them as a main Scorekeeper. When not participating in tish Heavy Events. stay of the Highland Games. With Rob’s other Highland Games in the area she passing in 2006, Bob Ham took on the is a coordinator for multiple fundrais- Event Descriptions role. Bob had been a reginal competitor ers, cultural events, and music festivals since 1984, earning the title of North- There are nine events that make up throughout the Pacific Northwest. Sue west Masters Champion three times, a the Scottish Heavy Events. Similar to a has also been an integral part of the Ath- feat that has not been repeated since. decathlon in , the athletes letics Team since 1995. A trip to Scotland During his tenure the Heavy Events compete in all events and an overall win- in 1968 ignited her interest in Highland grew to include more competitors and ner per class is determined by a com- Games. Sue is the Jill of All Trades of the classes, including the Women’s classes, as bined event score. Competition encom- team, from fixing implements to keeping well as fostering new athletes into well- pass three categories: distance events, everyone on track and well looked after. known names in the sport. Bob retired height events, and the caber. Competi- She lives in Mount Vernon and is also in 2014 but can still be found at the tors have three attempts per event, with involved in local veterans’ groups and games looking for a good beer, meat pie, the best score being counted. the Mount Vernon Elks Lodge. With the or even as the MC for the Heavy Events. support of countless volunteers, family, Stone Putt: There are two stone events. Luke Lomsdalen now holds the title and friends of the sport, the team strives Both events involve “putting” (Gaelic of Athletic Director. Skagit County na- to provide a first rate competition. word for thrust) a stone for distance

12 2017 Skagit Valley Highland Games Skagit Publishing LLC goskagit.com from the shoulder area while not letting the elbow lead the wrist. The Open Stone is lighter in weight and can be putt using an approach to achieve more momen- tum and a longer distance. Open stones range in weight from 8-21 lbs. depend- ing on the class. The Stone is putt from a stationary position resulting in a hefty heave. Braemar Stones range in weight from 13-26 lbs. after year. The Sheaf ranges in weight from 10-20 lbs. Weight for Distance: The weight for distance events also include two differ- used a blacksmith’s sledge or hammer to : As the most recognized of ent weight implements. The lighter of see who could throw it the farthest. the Scottish Heavy Events, it is neither scored for distance or height, but for the two is 28 lbs. for men and 14 lbs. for Weight for Height: Also known as the accuracy. The most prominent legend women. The heaver weight ranges from Weight Over Bar, it is one of two events surrounding the origin of the caber toss 28 lbs. for women to 56 lbs. for men. All measured and judged by height. Com- is that of breaching barriers or cross- are similar in design with a chain and petitors use a spin or swing to create ing streams during wartime. Cabers handle attached to the weight. They are momentum and heave the weight up can range in length from 15-23 feet, thrown one handed and the most com- over their head. The weight must clear a can weigh 70-130 lbs., and are tapered mon technique is a double spin to gain bar placed on upright stations to move for balance. Competitors start with the momentum for the distance throw. on to the next round of the event. The Caber standing on end with the smaller bar is raised each round, resulting in end down. They then “pick up” the caber elimination of competitors until only using interlocked fingers into the palms one remains. These weights range from of the hands. Once balanced, a few steps 28-56 lbs. are taken to create momentum and Sheaf Toss: The second of the height the Caber is “tossed” end over end. The events has its roots in farming and coun- accuracy is determined as though the try life. The object of the event is to take thrower is standing on the 6:00 mark a simulated sheaf (bale) of wheat or hay on a clock face with a caber pointing at and toss it over a bar with a pitchfork. 12:00 considered a perfect toss. Similar to the Weight for Height in tech- Keg Carry: Unique to the Skagit Valley Scottish Hammer Toss: Ancestor of nique and judging, but with impressive Highland Games and a nod to the local the modern day Olympic Hammer, heights that have been increasing year the Scottish version is a ball, weigh- brewing culture, this event is based on ing 16-22 lbs. for heavy and 12-16 lbs. brute strength and whatever energy the for light, on the end of a 50” length of competitors have left. A keg is “hugged” cane or PVC. The hammer is “tossed” by around the middle and carried for spinning the implement over the head distance. No small feat after a long day to gain momentum and releasing over of competition! The keg weighs 226 lbs. the shoulder to be judged for distance. for men and 85 lbs. for women. Cheers Movement of the feet during the toss of encouragement and a contribution to results in a disqualification. The origins the “hat” are greatly appreciated, with the of its name date back to when clansmen spoils going to the top three distances.

goskagit.com Skagit Publishing LLC 2017 Skagit Valley Highland Games 13 The Ceilidh Tent

Return visitors to the Skagit Valley (a type of Celtic drum) and enjoy more can be 2-5 minutes in length. All levels Highland Games will notice something hands-on opportunities to explore the of players welcome! new this year: The Fiddle Tent has world of . For novice Celtic fiddlers who are undergone some exciting new changes The Ceilidh Tent is made possible interested in developing tunes and and is now the Ceilidh Tent! through the generous support of Bob techniques, we extend an invitation We are very excited to feature this Guild, the Kilted Advisor! Bob’s love to join us for bi-monthly practice updated tent as part of the Games. and commitment to Celtic music have sessions at the Littlefield Celtic Center Beloved staples of the Fiddle Tent assisted us in both the vision and reality in downtown Mount Vernon. These remain intact, including the fiddle tunes of the Ceilidh Tent. sessions are held on Monday afternoons and “instrument petting zoo.” There Celtic fiddlers are welcome to join us and ideal for beginner and intermediate are plenty of opportunities for guests at an open Fiddle Recital/Critique from players. to learn about, try out, and listen to 10:30-11:30AM on Saturday. Come share We also extend a warm welcome to Celtic fiddle! In the spirit of spreading a fiddle tune, or set of tunes, in front fiddlers and fiddle fans to join us at our knowledge and love for Celtic music, of a supportive audience, and receive free monthly Scottish and Irish Music though, we’re expanding into a Ceilidh valuable feedback on your playing. Sessions at the Littlefield Celtic Center, Tent to bring even more of these A friendly panel of accomplished held the first and third Sunday of the opportunities. Guests can participate musicians will give you a written critique month, respectively. Musicians and in a workshop for whistle and bodhran after your performance Performances audience members alike are welcome! More information about what to expect from sessions can be found online at CelticArts.org. The Ceilidh Tent will feature a special performance by the Bellingham Ceili Club. For the last four years, the Bellingham Ceili Club has provided a friendly environment for beginning session players. The BCC hosts monthly slow sessions at the historic Roeder Home, which give musicians a chance to play and practice Irish tunes, meet other players, and share information. The club has become a valuable resource for those interested in exploring Irish music by providing recommended session tunes and a lending library of music and literature. Fresh Flowers & Exceptional Gifts! Fiddlers may be interested in participating in the Celtic Arts Winter Open Year School, an annual workshop held in late Round! January to early February in Seabeck, RoozenGaarde offers WA. An opportunity to study with unique gifts for the other aspiring Celtic musicians under home & garden! Take well-known and accomplished fiddlers, home a bouquet of students will appreciate the talented fresh-cut flowers, stroll the Garden or share instruction, small class atmosphere, and the beauty of our Hours: camaraderie of Winter School. Visit valley with others. Mon-Sat 9am-6pm celticarts.org and grab a Winter School Sun 11am-4pm flyer from the Ceilidh Tent to learn more! 15867 Beaver Marsh Rd. • 360-424-8531 • www.Tulips.com 1615749

14 2017 Skagit Valley Highland Games Skagit Publishing LLC goskagit.com Clans at the Games

Through the rich abundance of resources available at our fingertips, the internet has provided a means to con- nect to the past. Genealogy continues to be an increasingly popular hobby, with technology revealing more and more about our pasts. Whether through a clan and Scottish history/culture, others lan ameron DNA test or access to records housed in will accept only those with the match- C C far-off corners of the world, family his- ing surname, and still others will accept Motto: “Let Us Unite” tories are becoming more accessible as only those with the matching surname The Cameron surname has been in technology continues to shed new light and any of the names under their use for more than a thousand years, with on the story of who we are and where we clan. For those who know their clan possible Gaelic translations of “crooked come from. heritage, we extend the invitation on nose” or “crooked hill.” The story of Clan Family histories have always been of behalf of your clan group to visit your Cameron is one passed down through its particular importance in Celtic culture. clan’s booth and learn more. Another chiefs and the sennachie, ancient Celtic While Celtic peoples span a broad geog- great resource—both for those who bards, who shared song and legend. Clan raphy across Europe, in Scotland, family know their clan and those who don’t— Cameron of the Pacific Northwest cites groups are known as clans. Meaning is the National Tartan Day booth. This the clan’s ancestral lands as Lochaber, “children or offspring”, clans are families group helps visitors learn more about where the clan had been established by and groups of families related to the their clans and research resources in the year 1400 and had likely settled hun- Clan Chief by blood or allegiance. Each our community. dreds of years beforehand. of Scotland’s major clans has a castle The Celtic Arts Foundation is pleased of the Pacific Northwest where the chief lived with his family. to be offering a Celtic Genealogy describes the Camerons as “…a warlike Both clans and lived in the area Workshop this September 16th at our people who had to fight for their exis- surrounding the area. Septs are family headquarters, the Littlefield Celtic Cen- tence against powerful neighbors…” The names other than the clan name—some ter. We are partnering with the Skagit Camerons were Jacobites who supported clans recognize over 100 different Valley Genealogical Society to offer the uprising of Bonnie Prince Charlie. surnames as their septs. They can be de- this introductory course for anyone The 19th Chief of Clan Cameron, Donald, termined by the main clan or the septs’ in the community who is interested in was one of the first of the clan chiefs to geographical location within Scotland. learning the basics of researching Celtic declare himself to Prince Charlie and Some of the most recognizable symbols heritage. The workshop will cover the personally intervened to save the city of clans include a chief, motto, badge, records resources we have in the com- of Glasgow when the Jacobite army was crest, and tartan. munity as well as an overview of DNA planning its destruction. Following the Clans continue to be a rich part of testing and what information it does— tragic defeat at the , Celtic culture today. Each clan has its and doesn’t—reveal. We invite all those a devoted group of Camerons hid the own history, stories, and traditions who are interested to register online Prince in caves and huts near Achnacarry. passed down through the generations. at CelticArts.org or over the phone at Clan Cameron of the Pacific North- Those interested in learning more 360-416-4934. west is part of the international Clan about their own clan histories have a Each year, the Celtic Arts Foundation Cameron association. Membership is variety of resources at the Skagit Valley invites one clan to be honored as the open to individuals bear the surname (or Highland Games. Clan societies exist “host clan” for the Games. For 2017, the whose mother or grandparents did) of around the globe, and many clans are Clan Cameron was selected for this dis- Cameron or one of the clan’s listed septs. represented this weekend. The Skagit tinction. Celtic Arts Foundation Execu- According to Clan Cameron of the Pacific Valley Highland Games are the second tive director Skye Richendrfer explained Northwest, “The aims of the Association largest Highland Games in Washing- “the Clans are such an important part are cultural and educational, promoting ton State and there will be about 30 of Scottish history and culture—from friendship among persons who enjoy a clans represented this year. Many of the very start of our event we wanted to kinship and encouraging perpetuation in the clan groups have active chapters in be sure to appropriately showcase and the Pacific Northwest of history, music, our community; some clans will accept honor their respective contributions to and folklore of their forebearers.” anyone who shows an interest in the Scottish culture.” goskagit.com Skagit Publishing LLC 2017 Skagit Valley Highland Games 15 MASTERS OF SCOTTISH ARTS concert

FEBRUARY 9, 2018 | BENAROYA HALL, SEATTLE

Limited time special 30% discount! Discount Code: HGames2017 Contact Benaroya Ticket Office at 206.215.4747 or 1.866.833.4747 (toll-free) | [email protected] 16 2017 Skagit Valley Highland Games Skagit Publishing LLC goskagit.com Membership Categories Membership Registration There are two membership categories in the Celtic Arts Foundation: Individual Renewal New Member (one vote) and Family (two votes). We Individual Member ($35) ______invite and encourage additional financial contributions as outright donations. Family Member ($50) ______Membership is renewed annually during Additional support for operations ______the member’s anniversary month. Scholarship donation ______Individual Member ($35) Includes voting rights for one and Total Amount $______benefits described inside this flyer. Please complete this form, detach it and return to: Membership card provides one adult weekend pass to the Skagit Valley Celtic Arts Foundation Highland Games. P.O. Box 1342 Mount Vernon, WA 98273 Family Member ($50) or sign up/renew online: Includes voting rights for two and benefits described inside this flyer. CelticArts.org Membership card provides one family weekend pass to the Skagit Valley Check one: Mr. Ms. Mr. & Mrs. Highland Games.

Membership Categories Last Name(s) Membership terms are for twelve months. First Name(s) • General voting privileges & eligibility fee Please with membership detach return and for election to Board of Directors Address • Invitation to annual dinner & membership events City, State/Prov. • Discounts to selected events and on

merchandise Zip Code • Frequent CAF newsletters & bulletins • Advance information about special Phone events • Exclusive volunteer opportunities Email • Support for scholarships for Celtic groups and artists • Opportunities to develop new programs, make new friends and Highest Quality • Local Shrimp experience the Celtic-American community Shop Here for Locally owned & operated by LOCAL Gift Items • Membership cards local fishermen & women. Gifts For Local Jams • Jellies dies” • Free admission and hospitality tent at “Foo Salsas • Honey • Sauces Skagit Valley highland Games • Dungeness Crab • Oysters for Every Taste • Preferred seating and discounted • Fresh Fish • Clams • Mussels 1526889 tickets at MSA concert at Benaroya • Shrimp • Scallops • Smoked Fish Hall EBT 360.707.2722 | 18042 Hwy 20 | Burlington | www.SkagitFish.com Accepted

goskagit.com Skagit Publishing LLC 2017 Skagit Valley Highland Games 17 18 2017 Skagit Valley Highland Games Skagit Publishing LLC goskagit.com 2017 Pipe Bands Name Location Tartan Pipe Major

Keith Highlanders Bellevue WA Ancient Keith Larry Koch Pipe Band Portland Metro Portland, OR Muted Red Frasier Alexander MacLeod Youth Pipe Band Greighlan Crossing BC Sutherland Myles Wilcott Pipe Band Old Weathered White Spot Langley BC BC Centennial Jacob Carlos Pipe Band Kenmore & District Lynnwood WA MacDonald of Jim McGillvray Pipe Band the Isle-Hunting Olympia WA Clan Gordon James Naismith Pipe Band Northwest Junior Shoreline WA McKenzie Vienna Scheyer Pipe Band Portland Metro Portland, OR Muted Red Fraser Mark Tomasetti Pipe Band Elliott Bay Seattle, WA Graham of Mentieth Tyrone Heade PipeBand

Volunteer Chairpersons

Howard Anderson, Electrical Jack Herring, Special Ops/Country Cate Anderson, Children’s Events Dancing Charles Boyd, Parking Micah Kelley, Whisky Bud Bowers, Special Ops Luke Lomsdalen, Athletics Jerry Bromberger, First Aid/Special Ops Brian McGuiness, Clans of Ireland/ Culture Tent/Special Ops Mary Bromberger, Beer & Whisky Pam McNaughton, Command/ Mairi Campbell, Gates Volunteer Tent Rob Campbell, Special Ops Ali Mears, Vendors Coordinator Craig Carlile, Special Ops/Banners Heather Richendrfer, Highland Dancing Margaret Driscoll, Ceilidh Tent Sally Richendrfer, Parking Susan Easthouse, Culture Tent/Clans of Richard Riddell, Beer & Whisky Ireland Cayley Schmid, Ceilidh Tent Amra Graham, Hospitality Alastar Stewart, Trash Master Sue Gregg, Athletics Kayalyn Stewart, CAF Tent Christy Ham, Athletics Tina Tate, Gate Coordinator Alex Hanewacker, Scottish Farm Sally Verrinder, Harp Tent

goskagit.com Skagit Publishing LLC 2017 Skagit Valley Highland Games 19 Event and Activity Locations

CELTIC ARTS FOUNDATION/INFO TENT: • Purchase your 2017 Games T-Shirt & Hats 536 • Lost & Found Items W. DIVISION ST. • First Aid & Emergency Personnel

FREE SHUTTLE PARKING FROM DOWNTOWN: •Located on Kicaid St. (Just off Exit 226)

WESTSIDE BRIDGE TO FREE

GARFIELD ST. S. BAKER ST. HIGHLAND S. BALL ST. GAMES SHUTTLE IN DOWNTOWN MOUNT VERNON MORE PARKING AVAILABLE AT WASHINGTON SCHOOL

NORTH MAIN GATE GATE

BEHRENS MILLETT RD. SKAGIT RIVER

N

SOUTH GATE W E

S

ATHLETIC EVENTS CULTURE TENT FOOD VENDORS GATE LOCATIONS CANINE VISITORS: Dogs will be allowed at the SOLO PIPING CLANS ARTS & CRAFTS RESTROOMS Highland Games only if they are leashed (extend-a- VENDORS leashes are NOT allowed). SOLO DRUMMING CEILIDH TENT CAMPING Unleashed dogs and their BEER GARDEN/ owners will be asked to HIGHLAND DANCE HARP TENT WHISKEYS OF THE PARKING: Parking is leave immediately. Plastic WORLD FREE at Edgewater Park bags are available at each SCOTTISH COUNTRY SPINNERS & WEAVERS and in the downtown Mount entrance gate for animal Vernon parking lot, with waste. Please clean up after DANCE CELTIC ARTS complimentary shuttles your animals. A watering MAIN STAGE FOUNDATION / running at 20-minute station is located near the CELTIC FARM & INFORMATION TENT intervals all weekend, from information booth. Thank SHEEPDOG TRIALS CHILDREN’S EVENTS approx. 9am-8pm Sat. & you for being a responsible 9am-7pm Sun. pet owner. ATM LOCATIONS

20 2017 Skagit Valley Highland Games Skagit Publishing LLC goskagit.com Thank You to the 2017 Highland Games Sponsors Highland Games Event Business Acknowledgement Highland Games Event Sponosors ~ $2,000+ for in-kind support Sponsors ~ $1,000+ Bayview Land Maintenance – Athletic Events Sponsor Blade Chevrolet Budget Towing Cascade Mall Children’s Museum of Skagit County Dahl Electric, Inc. Faber Crane Services Karl’s Paints Norco Medical Pacioni’s Restaurant Port of Skagit County Skagit Farmers Supply

SKAGIT PUBLISHING

goskagit.com Skagit Publishing LLC 2017 Skagit Valley Highland Games 21 2017 Events Saturday

9:00AM-9:45AM Try the Harp! (Harp Tent) 1:00PM-2:00PM Scottish Fire Band (Main Stage)

9:00AM-10:00AM Open Tent Displays (Culture Tent) 1:00PM-2:00PM “What to Listen for in ” with Skye Richendrfer and John Brock 9:00AM-10:30AM Highland Dancing: Pre-premier Events (Culture Tent) (Dancing Area) 1:00PM-2:00PM Bodhran Workshop (Ceilidh Tent) 9:00AM-10:30AM Instrument Petting Zoo (Fiddle Tent) 1:00PM-2:00PM Bellingham Scottish Country Dancers 9:00AM-3:00PM Solo Piping & Drumming Competition (Country Dancing Stage) (Piping Area) 1:05PM-1:35PM Molly Bauckham: Harp and Voice 9:50AM-10:15AM Nan Pardew, Wire Harp (Harp Tent) (Harp Tent) 10:00AM-11:00AM “Grace O’Malley: Ireland’s 16th Century 1:40PM-2:15PM Philip Boulding, Solo Harp (Harp Tent) Pirate Queen” with Brian McGuiness (Culture Tent) 2:00PM-2:30PM “: Not Just for Menswear” with Mary MacDonald (Culture Tent) 10:20AM-10:50AM Becky Fox, Wire Harp and Voice (Harp Tent) 2:00PM-3:00PM Instrument Petting Zoo (Ceilidh Tent)

10:30AM-11:30AM Fiddle Recital/Critique (Ceilidh Tent) 2:25PM-3:05PM Cara Harp Ensemble (Harp Tent)

10:30AM-3:00PM Northern United States Open Highland 2:30PM-4:00PM Pipe Band Competition (Main Stage) Dancing Championship (Dancing Area) 3:00PM-4:00PM “On the Road through Scotland and 11:00AM-11:30AM Serim, Gaelic singers and multi- the Norwegian Fjords by Plane, Train, instrument band (Harp Tent) Bus, and Ferry” with Susan Easthouse, Dick Shiley, and Jim Monroe 11:00AM-12:00PM “Tracing Your Genealogical Roots” with the Skagit Valley Genealogical Society 3:00PM-4:00PM Bellingham Scottish Country Dancers (Culture Tent) (Country Dancing Stage)

11:00AM-12:00PM Bellingham Scottish Country Dancers 3:00PM-4:30PM Open Session (Ceilidh Tent) (Country Dancing Stage) 3:00PM-5:00PM Highland Dancing Choreography 11:00AM-4:00PM Whisky Tastings (Beer & Whisky Garden) Competition (Dancing Area)

11:00AM-6:00PM Sheepdog Trials (Farm Area) 3:10PM-3:45PM Try the Harp! (Harp Tent)

11:30AM-12:00PM Bellingham Ceili Club Performance 4:00PM-4:30PM Seirm, Gaelic singers and (Ceilidh Tent) multi-instrument band (Harp Tent)

11:40AM-12:00PM Try the Harp! (Harp Tent) 4:00PM-5:00PM Open Tent Displays (Culture Tent)

12:00PM-12:30PM Opening Ceremonies, Parade of the 4:30PM-7:00PM Open to all harpers (Harp Tent) Clans, Anthems & Lament (Main Stage) 4:45PM–5:00PM Massed Bands (Main Stage Area) 12:30PM-1:00PM Nancy Chouinard: Harp and Voice 5:00PM-6:00PM (Harp Tent) Scottish Fire Band (Main Stage)

22 2017 Skagit Valley Highland Games Skagit Publishing LLC goskagit.com Sunday 2017 Events

9:00AM-9:25AM Try the Harp! (Harp Tent) 1:00PM-2:15PM Whistle Workshop (Ceilidh Tent)

9:00AM-10:00AM Intro to Scoial Music/Listening-Celtic 1:30PM-2:30PM “What to Listen for in Bagpipes” with Tune Sharing (Ceilidh Tent) Skye Richendrfer and John Brock (Culture Tent) 9:00AM-10:00AM Open Tent Displays (Culture Tent) 1:45PM-2:30PM Dinas o Frain, fiddle, flue, concertina 9:00AM-5:00PM Highland Dancing Competition and harp (Harp Tent) (Dancing Area) 2:00PM-3:00PM Scottish Fire Concert (Main Stage) 9:30AM-9:50AM Susan Easthouse, Solo Harp (Harp Tent) 2:15PM-3:30PM Irish Music Session (Ceilidh Tent) 10:00AM-10:45AM Nan Pardew & Becky Fox, A Walk on the Wired Side (Harp Tent) 2:30PM-3:30PM “Harris Tweed: Not Just for Menswear” with Mary MacDonald (Culture Tent) 10:00AM-11:00AM “Grace O’Malley: Ireland’s 16th Century Pirate Queen” with Brian McGuiness 2:40PM-3:10PM Linda Khandro, Double-Strung Harp (Culture Tent) (Harp Tent)

10:00AM-11:15AM Fiddle Workshop (Ceilidh Tent) 3:00PM-4:00PM Bonnie Dundee Scottish Country Dancing (Country Dancing Stage) 10:00AM-4:00PM Sheepdog Trials (Farm Area) 3:00PM-4:30PM Washington State Grade IV & 10:50AM-11:20AM Cynthia Kuni, Solo Harp (Harp Tent) Grade III Pipe Band Championships (Main Stage Area) 11:00AM-12:00PM “Tracing Your Genealogical Roots” with the Skagit Valley Genealogical Society 3:20PM-4:00PM Eastside Harp Ensemble (Harp Tent) (Culture Tent) 3:30PM-4:30PM All Style Music Session (Ceilidh Tent) 11:00AM-3:00PM Whisky Tastings (Beer & Whisky Garden) 3:30PM-4:30PM Traditional Celtic Woodcarving with 11:15AM-12:00PM Scottish Smallpipe Recital/Critique Bill Pierce (Culture Tent) (Ceilidh Tent) 4:15PM-5:00PM Open to all harpers (Harp Tent) 11:25AM-12:00PM Philip Boulding, Solo Harp (Harp Tent) 4:30PM-4:45PM Massed Bands (Main Stage Area) 12:00PM-12:30PM Open Tent Displays (Culture Tent) 5:00PM Event Closes: Haste Ye Back! 12:05PM-12:30PM Try the Harp! (Harp Tent)

12:30PM-1:00PM Opening Ceremonies, Parade of the Clans, Anthems & Lament (Main Stage)

1:00PM-1:35PM Eric Bowen: Welsh Vocal and Guitar (Harp Tent)

1:00PM-2:00PM Scottish Fire Band (Main Stage)

1:00PM-2:00PM Dundee Scottish Country Dancers (Country Dancing Stage)

goskagit.com Skagit Publishing LLC 2017 Skagit Valley Highland Games 23 1628471