THE THISTLEDOWN Scottish Society of Tidewater, Inc.

JANURY - FEBRUARY 2009 VOLUME 26, ISSUE NUMBER 1 Sunday Night Celtic Music Sessions at the Green Oak Pub by Marcey Hunter & Lynnette Fitch Brash

fact that no one formally “runs” the L ooking for something to do session. It’s an informal gathering, now that football season is over, so there are times when not every- and before you start getting too one knows the song; they can ei- busy with yard work and other Sun- ther give it a go, or just sit it out. day activities? Want to take advan- Sometimes touring musicians turn tage of some home-grown, tradi- up for the Sunday Session, having tional, and FREE Celtic music? heard about it by word of mouth at Then it may be worth your while to the various local pubs, and sit in. take a trip to the Green Oak Pub in From playing music together so the Great Neck area of Virginia much, the musicians have devel- Beach to enjoy weekly “Sunday oped their own inside jokes, and it Sessions” of traditional Celtic mu- is fun to watch them gently kid sic performed by some very gifted each other. You can also learn a a musicians – many of whom are great deal about Celtic music lis- members of the SST. tening to their brief conversations Most Sunday afternoons, begin- about the tunes. ning about 5 pm, fiddlers, vocalists, “We really look forward to these flutists, dulcimer players, guitarists, Sunday sessions,” said fiddler John There’s always a fiddler or three at the Sunday auto harpists, tin whistle players, Sessions, playing traditional Scottish tunes. McGlynn. “It gives us a chance to and even the occasional bodhran learn a new tune, or practice an old player or piper gather to perform tory) $1 donation toward the “beer one. It has really improved my fid- two to three hours of traditional and kitty.” At a recent session, they per- dle skills tremendously.” familiar Celtic music, with an em- formed a beautiful rendition of “The You may be familiar with one or phasis on Scottish tunes. Ashoken Farewell,” upon request. more of the Sunday Session musi- On a typical evening, one can Just lovely. cians, as many of them have also hear “Mairi’s Wedding,” “Skye Boat The musicians perform in a “go performed at some SST functions, Song,” and “The Boys of Blue Hill”, ‘round” format. They sit in a circle, like the Christmas Ceilidh, the Tar- among many other tunes. The and each musician has the option tan Day Ceilidh, and the annual group will also take requests, with to “play, pass, or request” a tune. picnic. Most are local, but some do a suggested (though not manda- The musicians really appreciate the travel from Williamsburg, Rich- mond, and North Carolina to join in the weekly sessions. The Green Oak Pub, which is owned and operated by Scottish expatriates Eileen Johnson and Graham Smith, along with Gra- ham’s American wife Nicole, is lo- cated at 2253 West Neck Road, off of Shore Drive. (The pub is named Continued on page 8

PAGE 2 THISTLEDOWN JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 About the Scottish Society of A Few Words from the President Tidewater, Inc. Dear SST Members, I hope that the new year has gotten off to a good start T he Scottish Society of Tidewater exists to for all of you. As usual, there have been many events promote the preservation and study of Scottish cul- going on over the past couple of months, and it has ture, including music, language, art, history, folk- been great to see many of you there. In particular, I lore, dance, literature, athletics, and all other things want to make mention of the Tidewater St. Andrew’s distinctively Scottish among interested persons in Society Burns Nicht, where there were many SST mem- the Hampton Roads, Virginia area and to cooperate bers in attendance. As most of you know, this is the with like-minded persons, groups and organizations 250th Anniversary of the birth of Robert Burns, and so here and abroad. this year’s event was a very special one. Once again, A meeting is held on the first Wednesday of each our own Rob Lockwood entertained and educated us month at the Virginia Beach Central Library, 4100 with his fantastic interpretations of the poetry of Burns, as well as a stirring immortal memory speech. Another Edward Brash Va. Beach Blvd., in meeting rooms "A" and "B." President Social time begins at 7:00pm, and the meeting highlight of the evening was the presentation of this starts at 7:30pm. Anyone interested in Scottish cul- year’s Scot of the Year award to none other than Marcey Hunter!!! In ture and history is invited to attend. part, Marcey was recognized for her efforts on behalf of the SST, as secretary, newsletter author and editor, and membership chair. Con- P.O. Box 3733, Norfolk, VA 23514-3733 gratulations, Marcey – the honor is very well-deserved! www.tidewaterscots.com Of course, March and April are very busy months in the Celtic calen- dar, and this year is no exception. We will be participating in the Ocean SST Executive Board View St. Patrick’s Day parade on March 14, and I encourage you to President: Edward Brash [email protected] come out to this fun event. Vice President: The other event that I am asking you to support is our annual Tartan Rob Lockwood [email protected] Day Ceilidh. This year, we will be holding the event at Church of the As- Secretary: cension, in Virginia Beach, on Saturday, April 4th, from 6:30-11:00pm. Marcey Hunter [email protected] Treasurer: The menu will be entirely Scottish, and will include haggis, neeps and Jeanne Rider [email protected] tatties, shepherd’s pie, beef and chicken meat pies, and chicken curry with rice. Of course, we will have live traditional Celtic music for dancing, Board of Directors: so bring your dancing shoes! The ticket price is $20. We are doing our Linda Lucas [email protected] best to keep the price down, while still offering a high quality meal with great live music, so that as many people can attend as possible. Please John McGlynn [email protected] keep in mind that this is one of THE major events for the Society each

George Phillips [email protected] year, so I strongly encourage not only your attendance, but that of your friends, neighbors, co-workers, etc. We will have a flyer ready soon for Terri Woodward [email protected] this event; please consider posting it at your workplace, place of wor-

Trish Young [email protected] ship, or anywhere else that you think would be fitting. As most of you are aware, I have decided not to run for re-election as SST Committees President of the SST for the coming year. After three very enjoyable and Webmaster: rewarding years in this role, I feel that it is time for someone else to take Scott MacGregor [email protected] t on the job, and bring their own ideas and vision to the Society. Many Membership: people have been a great help to me while I have been your President, Marcey Hunter [email protected] and rather than try to name them all and forget someone, I will simply

Program: say thank you to all of you. With that being said, I will single out one spe- Lynnette Fitch Brash [email protected] cial person, my lovely wife Lynnette, without whom I would be, quite sim- ply, lost. Any successes that I may have had as President of the SST Sunshine: Robin Willis [email protected] are a direct result of her wealth of knowledge of all things Celtic, her infectious zest for life, her expert guidance, and her unwavering love and Newsletter Editor: support. Lynnette, I thank you with all my heart. Marcey Hunter [email protected] Slainte, Edward

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 THISTLEDOWN PAGE 3 Don’t forget to vote!

T he SST will be electing a new slate of officers at the Annual Meeting in March. Up for election this year will be the one-year terms of the president, the vice president, the secretary, the treasurer and the two-year terms of four (4) positions on the Board of Directors. Rob Lockwood is running for president, and John McGlynn is running for Vice President. Jeanne Rider, Treasurer, and Marcey Hunter, Secretary, are run- ning for re-election in their respective offices. Candidates for the Board are George Phillips, Trish Young, Linda Lucas, and June Lockwood. See the SST website if you would like to learn more about these candidates. We will also accept nominations from the floor at the March meeting. Now’s your chance if you want to make a difference in the SST. Any member who is in good standing is eligible to run for office and vote at the Annual Meeting. A member in good standing is one whose membership is current and dues are paid to date. Interested? Contact Elections Chair Edward Brash at [email protected]

REMINDER: Membership Dues 2009 Annual membership dues for the Scottish Society of Tidewater need to be paid NOW. If you choose to receive the Thistledown Newsletter electronically, family membership is $25, and individual member- ship is $15. If you choose to receive a hard copy of the newsletter via US Mail, family membership is $30, and individual membership is $20. You should have received an application in the mail. If you did not, or if you’ve misplaced it, you can either download it from our website www.tidewaterscots.org, or contact Marcey Hunter. You may mail your application and payment directly to Marcey Hunter, membership chair, or just bring it with you to the next meeting. Marcey Hunter 301 E. Randall Ave. Norfolk, VA 23503 [email protected] 757-480-4217

Ceud Mile Failte! "One Hundred Thousand Welcomes" to New Members!

Gary Shaw Connie Smith Sharayu Marracino 5608 Arlo Ct. 706 Remington Dr. 2202-A McLain St. Virginia Beach, VA 23464 Chesapeake, VA 23322 Chesapeake, VA 23234 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Clan Shaw

PAGE 4 THISTLEDOWN JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 Hogmanay 2008

On Hogmanay, many members of the Scottish-American community gath- ered in Old Town Portsmouth for the Annual Hogmanay Walk. Though quite cold, it was very well attended, and was a wonderful way to ring in the new year. Carrying the banner for the Newport News Police Pipes, Drums and Dancers are Erin Morrissey, left, and Lynnette Fitch Brash.

Clan MacGregor was represented by Sandy MacGregor, right, Scott MacGregor, left, and Scott’s grandson WESS.

Among the re-enactor groups who participated in the Hogma- nay Walk were the 79th Regiment New York Volunteers, a Civil War Union regiment that consisted of Scottish Highland- ers. At right is Larry McCauley, past president of the SST.

Members of the NNPPD & D join in singing “Auld Lang Syne” at the Portsmouth waterfront. Area boy scouts served as color guard.

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 THISTLEDOWN PAGE 5

Following the Hogmanay Walk, many revelers moved a few blocks to John McGlynn’s house, where we kept warm with tasty food, good spirits and lively music. Eadlyn and her mommy Lynette Crouch are warm and happy as they enjoy the festivities.

Members of the 76th McDonald Highland Regiment Of Foot, prepare to ready, aim and fire.

Rob Lockwood, left, and Tom Crouch, right take a break from piping to have a wee dram.

NNPPD & D members show off their wide range of musical skills with some traditional penny whistle tunes.

From left are SST presi- dent Edward Brash, Charles Murla, and John Have a McGlynn. Their willingness to share their musical tal- wonderful ents helped created a cozy and jolly atmosphere. and safe 2009!

PAGE 6 THISTLEDOWN JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 St. Andrew’s Society Burns Nicht 2009

John McGlynn on fiddle and Edward Brash on guitar played some traditional Burns songs.

The haggis is paraded and presented.

“Chef” Skip Hunter with the haggis.

Present and past recipients of the St. Andrew’s Society Scot of the Year recognition. From left John Wallace, Sandy MacGregor, Charlie Austin, Nancy Miller, 2008 recipient Marcey Hunter, and Scott MacGregor.

Nancy & Dave Montgomery. Former SST President Nancy Miller and CG Miller.

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 THISTLEDOWN PAGE 7 2009 Philly Midwinter Celtic Music Festival

T he 17th Annual Philly Midwinter Celtic Music Festival was a BLAST, as always! I've been going to this festival every year (except when overseas in grad school) for 12 years now, & I've been a performer at it for the past 7 or 8 - I teach Scottish dance classes. Bill & Karen Reid of East of the Hebrides Entertain- ments put on this awesome festival every year, & they bring in the best talent in the Celtic mu- sic world from Scotland, Ireland, Canada, & the US. There are three stages going all weekend long, plus Irish & Scottish dance classes, whisky tastings, etc. This year, a very special treat was having our friend Davie Ross, a Scot-

Lynnette Brash conducts a Scottish Step Dancing lesson. Lynnette is invited every year tish historian & author, over from Scotland to do to the Philly Midwinter Celtic Festival to conduct Scottish dance workshops. some Scottish history talks. We also enjoyed seeing/hearing some great live music - both legendary acts as well as up-and-coming bands: Dublin City Ramblers, Tannahill Weav- ers, Albanach, Rathkeltair, Scythian, the Screaming Orphans, etc. Edward & I had a great group of pals from home to hang out with this year - Erin Morrissey, Katie & Caroline Morse, John McGlynn, Donna Looney, Laurie Macpherson, and Tom & Lynette Crouch were all along for the fun! Great music, good beer, Celtic vendors, meat pies, a pub - all under one roof along with your hotel room! We're already planning next year's trip - as Bill says, "Ye can-

nae beat it!" Scythian was just one of the many Celtic bands performing this year. DON'T MISS NEXT YEAR'S!!! IT'S ALWAYS PRESIDENTS DAY WEEKEND... http://www.eohebrides.com/index.cfm

Submitted by Lynnette Fitch Brash

Many members of the SST made the trip north to attend this incredible festival. Won’t you join us next year? Katie Morse & Edward Brash (of Glasgow Kiss) singing their awesome duet of "The Fields of Athenry" at the sessiun.

PAGE 8 THISTLEDOWN JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 Continued from Page 1 SST President Edward Brash, with other SST members, started the Sunday Sessions about 18 months ago. He views it as a way for like-minded musicians to get together and promote Celtic music, with a heavy emphasis on Scottish tunes. “It’s easy to let the stresses of the work week get to you,” said Brash. “But these Sunday Sessions are a great way to re-charge, and to re- connect to the music and the cul- ture that we love so much. I en- courage SST members and other musicians to come out and join us. It is a great time.” Indeed, other musicians are en- couraged to participate. Don’t be shy! Bring out your instrument(s) and play with musicians of many The musicians perform in a “go ‘round” format. They sit in a circle, and each musician has the option to “play, pass, or request” a tune. Musicians of different skill levels participate. different skill levels. No judging, just a lot of fun. in honor of Greenock, Scotland, On a recent Sunday, the Green While the Sunday Session takes from whence Eileen and Graham Oak had Tennants on tap, and on place most Sundays, there are oc- come.) It’s not a big venue, but it’s the menu were such Scottish stan- casional weekends when they take comfortable. The owners are dards as fish & chips, sausage a break for one reason or another. VERY supportive of the Sunday pasties, and lentil soup. The food It’s best to contact Edward directly Session and basically give over is tasty and plentiful, and very rea- to make sure they are gathering. the main dining room for it every sonably priced. There’s a good You can contact Edward at Sunday. amount of seating, and you can be [email protected], or on his cell as close to the musicians as you at 753-2831. want, or retreat to the other side So please come out and support for a little more quiet. There are these gifted musicians. It’s a great several dart boards if you want to way to hear traditional Celtic mu- stick around after the session for a sic, enjoy an adult libation or two, quick game. and maybe have some tasty pub Occasionally, the musicians will food. And best of all, the music is be joined by some of our local FREE! How can it be more Scot- Highland and Scottish and Irish tish than that?! social dancers to turn the session into a full out Ceilidh! Chairs and tables are pushed out of the way, and the dancers eagerly set up for Want to go? Strip the Willow, the Gay Gordons, and the Dashing White Sergeant, The Greenoak Pub among other dances. Room is tight, but it’s all good fun! And you 2253 W Great Neck Rd. don’t have to be a dancer or musi- Va. Beach, VA 23451 cian to enjoy watching a lively Musicians and friends gather most Sundays at 5 dance set. You can always clap pm for a few hours of traditional music. The sessions are free, and folks are encouraged to along! bring along their own instruments.

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 THISTLEDOWN PAGE 9 This day and this night, Flowers of the Forest may I know O God: The deep peace Lt. Col. Arthur C. Harris of the running wave, Jacksonville, Florida Father of Jeanne Rider The deep peace of the flowing air, The deep peace of the quiet earth, James Marshall West The deep peace of the shining stars, McGaheyville, Virginia Father of James West II The deep peace of the Son of Peace from the book Celtic Prayers of Iona

The Mad Music There was mad music came through the glen, And it cast a spell on our strong, young men, And they left the croft, and they left the mill, And the sheep at the shearing out on the hill, And, without a sigh or a backward look, They took the road that the pipers took.

When the mad music came through the glen, There was never a lad for a sweetheart then. What is the tune that the pipers played With a stronger charm than the smile of a maid? And what is the dream that the young men dream That lights their eyes with that strange, glad gleam?

Oh! The same tune rang through the glen of yore; ‘Tis the pibroch’s call to war, red war. And the dream is as old as the world’s story, For the dream is the old, old dream of glory. Oh! The mad music came through the glen And carried away our strong young men. W.D. Cocker Poems, Scots and English (1914)

We had a special guest join us at the February SST meet- ing. Canadian Grade 1 piper Hugh Donald Macpherson is a Senior Pipe Major of the Canadian Forces, retired. He's been playing the bagpipes since the age 12. P/M Macpherson has two piping books already published and is currently working on number three. Both of his sisters, including SST member Laurie Macpherson, as well as Lau- rie's daughter Lindsey, are highland dancers, whom he has piped to the dance. Laurie's son Gavin Macpherson-Smith has followed in his uncle's footsteps and is also a piper.

PAGE 10 THISTLEDOWN JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009

riends, ello F ort of the St. Bald- H ar, I will be a “shavee” in supp Once again, this ye . My involve- for children’s cancer research rick’s efforts to raise money l urage demonstrated by a loca continues to stem from the co ment , who several years ago was man, José Andres Hernandez young gentle ed our “Nessie Am- l Scottish community and nam adopted by my loca h culture, and, d interest in Scotland, Scottis bassador” for his love of an that . Making him extra special is cially, the Loch Ness Monster espe o known Scottish family con- ally of Mexican descent with n José is actu ttling cancer for the e, he was 10 years old and ba nection. At that tim first time; since then, he’s been in two more bat- tles, and con- tinues to be Our Nessie Ambassador Jose Hernandez strong. My and his family prayers and family. support go out to José and his and Irish communities the For my friends in the Scottish Challenge" respectively will "Clan Challenge" and "County enge is not to see which be going on again. This chall most funds or have the most Clan or County can raise the nite our Clans and Counties contributors. Rather, it is to u w what the extended Celtic behind this fundraiser and sho e do when we come together. n contributions. Please help m community can s able to raise nearly $1,300 i ll your wonderful support, I wa rch into finding a cure for Last year, through a providing funding for the resea oal of raising $1,500 towards meet and exceed this year’s g ’s cancer. children extent allowed by law. tions are tax-deductible to the Your contribu ways: ward my goal in one of three ticipantKey=2009-57697# You can contribute to cipants/shavee_info.php?Par ttp://www.stbaldricks.org/parti · By donating online at h page). (This is my personal shavee -BALD (2253). By calling toll free at 888-899 · hed donation form. in ing out and returning the attac terside Festival Marketplace · By print g on 14 March 2009 at the Wa ur local event that’s happenin ventKey=2009-6#. To learn more about o s.org/events/event_info.php?E ebsite at http://www.stbaldrick at orfolk, please visit the event w bout, please visit their website N bout what St. Baldrick’s is all a rn more general information a To lea r- ldricks.org/#. thy cause. Please consider fo http://www.stba ay to support me and this wor a little time out of your busy d ing to support this worthy Thank you for taking ink might be interested in help ne and everyone whom you th warding this message to anyo cause. iated, Your support is greatly apprec Scott MacGregor

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 THISTLEDOWN PAGE 11

T op o’ the mornin’ to ya! The SST will be marching in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Saturday, March 14. Don’t miss all the fun! Marchers should gather at Northside Middle School (8720 Granby St ) at 9:00 a.m., and the parade will step off at 10:00 a.m. This is Norfolk’s 42st Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, and this year’s Grand Marshall will former Attorney Gen- eral and Gubernatorial candidate Bob McDonnell. There will be lots of pipe bands, Celtic dancers, music and Ocean View revelry. There’s a party at the Knights of Co- lumbus Council 3548 immediately following the parade. In addition, there will be a pre-parade “Nessie Make- Over Party,” to help our Nessie float to look her best. If you need more information, visit the parade website at http://www.norfolkparade.com/, or contact Edward Brash at [email protected]. Don’t miss “Nessie’s” big day!

T he following weekend, on March 21 & 22, members of the SST will also participate in the Church Hill Irish Festival in Richmond. There will be a parade, pipe bands, dancing and lots of live Celtic music. Interested in attending? Check out their website at www.ChurchhillIrishFestival.org or contact Edward Brash at [email protected] Church Hill (St. Patrick’s Church on N. 25th Street between Broad and Franklin Streets) Saturday-Sunday, March 21st-22nd, 10am-7pm Saturday and 10am-6pm Sunday $2.00 donation will be collected at the gate Proceeds will benefit the St. Baldrick’s Society and their fight against childhood cancer

T hree guys, one Irish, one English, and one Scottish, are out walking along the beach together one day. They come across a lantern and a Genie pops out of it. "I will give you each one wish, that's three wishes in total", says the Genie. The Irishman says, "I am a fisherman, me Dad's a fisherman, his Dad was a fish- erman and me son will be one too. I want all the oceans full of fish for all eternity." So, with a blink of the Genie's eye FOOM! the oceans were teaming with fish. The Englishman was amazed, so he said, "I want a wall around England, protect- ing her, so that no one will get in for all eternity." Again, with a blink of the Genie's eye POOF! there was a huge wall around England. The Scotsman asks, "I'm very curious. Please tell me more about this wall." The Genie explains, "well, it's about 150 feet high, 50 feet thick, protecting England so that nothing can get in or out." The Scotsman says, "Oh aye - now fill it up with water."

PAGE 12 THISTLEDOWN JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 NEW SCOTTISH BOOKS AND AUDIOVISUALS At the Virginia Beach Public Library

ADULT FICTION BOOKS: Death of a Witch by M.C. Beaton. New York: Grand Central Publishing, 2009.

His Woman by Diana Cosby. New York: Zebra Books, 2008.

Highland Sinner by Hannah Howell. New York: Zebra Books, 2008

Kieron Smith, boy by James Kelman. New York: Harcourt, 2008.

Devil of the Highlands by Lynsay Sands. New York: Avon, 2009.

YOUTH AND CHILDREN’S BOOKS: You Wouldn’t Want to be Mary Queen of Scots: a Ruler Who Really Lost Her Head by Fiona Macdonald. New York: Franklin Watts, 2008.

- Submitted by Nancy Miller, MSLS, Virginia Beach Public Library

REMINDER: You don’t need to live in Virginia Beach to borrow books and other materials from the Va. Beach Library Systems.

Kieron Smith, boy By James Kelman

K ieron Smith's coming-of-age in a rough Glasgow neighborhood is grimly rendered by Kelman in this stark and affecting novel. The younger of two boys, Kieron is overlooked and seen as simple compared to his brother, Matt, the smart one. Kieron's only safe haven is his grand- parents' house, where his grannie treats him as the favor- ite and his grandpa and uncle teach him to fight (Uncle Billy suggests Kieron use a brick against larger bullies). But when the family moves across town to a better neighborhood, Kieron falls in with a group of rowdy youth from his new primary school, including Mitch, an angry, abused child, and he takes to climbing drainpipes and scampering across rooftops as an outlet for his frustra- tions. As the years tick by, Kieron's relationships with his family disintegrate (things with Matt get especially bad), and Kelman's raw, blunt narration drives home all of Kieron's loneliness, sadness and feelings of inadequacy. If you can roll with the Scots dialect, the narrative is re- warding, bleak and marvelous. from Publishers Weekly

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 THISTLEDOWN PAGE 13

“THE GAELIC CORNER” Gaelic for wildlife goes online From the BBC News, Thursday, 29 January 2009 Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) has launched Faclan Nadair - meaning Words of Nature - on its website. Environment Minister Mike Russell said the Gaelic translation added to the understanding of native plants and animals and their habitats. The site has images and audio guides to help with pronunciation of the Gaelic. Mr Russell said: "One of my personal favourites is the name for the capercaillie which comes from the Gaelic capall-coille meaning the horse of the wood." He added: "However there is a more serious point. Gaelic is the natural key to opening up and understanding Scotland's natural won- ders due to its powerful descriptions, which tell a story about a par- ticular species, and the fact that the language is so clearly tied to the landscape, and therefore its habitats." SNH's Gaelic communications officer Shona Sloan, who is from South Uist and a native Gaelic speaker, said the Gaelic names often gave clues to the behaviour of wildlife. The Gaelic name for bluebells means She said: "The Gaelic for owl is unsurprising - cailleach oidhche, or cuckoo's shoes old woman of the night. The male is bodach oidhche - old man of the night. "But what may be less obvious are the two names in Gaelic for the bluebell - brog na chuthaig - the cuckoo's shoe - as it appears at the same time as the cuckoo and due to the shape of its flowers - or fuath-mhuc, the thing the pig dislikes. "This reflects the fact you are unlikely to find a pig near bluebells as they are believed to find the smell unpleasant."

Words of Wisdom from our Gaelic Ancestors to help us during these tough economic times.

Caith mar a gheibh, ‘s gheibh mar a chaitheas Spend as you get and you'll get as you spend.

IfMa cheannaicheas tu rud air nach eil feum agad, ‘s eudar dhut an uine ghoirid do ghoireas a reic. If you buy what you don’t need, you soon have to sell what you do need.

That gu leor cho math ri cuilm. Enough is as good as a feast.

Thig innleachd ri aimbeart. Want breeds ingenuity.

From Gaelic Proverbs edited by Alexander Nicholson (1996)

PAGE 14 THISTLEDOWN JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 SST TARTAN DAY CEILIDH

Saturday, April 4 Church of the Ascension, 4853 Princess Anne Rd, Va. Beach (near intersection with Baxter Road)

Dinner Music Dancing Prizes Socializing 6:30 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. (doors open at 6:15 pm - no early birds, please) Delicious Scottish dinner catered by the Green Oak Pub Live Scottish Music & Scottish Ceilidh dancing

Tickets are $20, and will be available soon. For more information contact Edward Brash at [email protected]

HISTORY OF NATIONAL TARTAN DAY Americans of Scottish descent have played a vibrant and influential role in the development of this country. However not until 1997 was this influence recognized by a single-year U.S. Senate Resolution that appeared in the Congressional Record of April 7th, 1997. In 1998 National Tartan Day was officially recognized on a permanent basis when the U.S. Senate passed Senate Resolution 155 recognizing April 6th as National Tartan Day. This was followed by companion bill House Resolution 41 which was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives on March 9, 2005. The passage of this bill was due to the work of the National Capital Tartan Committee, Inc., and president James Morrison. April 6th commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Arbroath in 1320, which asserted Scot- land's sovereignty over English territorial claims, and which was an influence on the American Declara- tion of Independence. Canada has been celebrating "National Tartan Day" since 1993. The idea and motivation for creating a similar American holiday was provided by the Scottish Coalition, a group of national Scottish-American

cultural organizations. For more information, go to http://www.tartanday.org/

Generate your own tartan pattern! Tartan Generator is a unique website gives you the chance to design your own Tartan. You may just wish to play and produce your own Tartan images. Perhaps for inclusion on your own web site. Interactive Tar- tan Weaver allows you to: Quickly design your own unique Tartan, experiment with colors and thread counts, produce an image, and even order Products from House of Tartan in the tartan of your own de- sign. Give it a try! http://houseoftartan.co.uk/interactive/weaver/index.html

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 THISTLEDOWN PAGE 15

SONS OF SCOTLAND THE HIGHLANDERS ARE CALLING YOU!

Heritage! Don’t Wait!

Tradition! Join

Today! Honor!

79TH REGIMENT NEW YORK VOLUNTERS Company A Commanded by Captain mike Kelly No Experience needed. If you have a keen interest in reenacting and the History of the Civil War, we want you! We have equipment to loan you to get you started. Contact Company Secretary Lawrence McCauley at (757) 471-4952, for more information.

PAGE 16 THISTLEDOWN JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 At Your Service MUSIC CELTIC DANCE

Newport News Police Pipe & Drum Corps Scottish Highland Dancing Tom Crouch [email protected] Scottish Ceilidh (Social) Dancing, & http://newportnewspolicepipe.homestead.com Scottish Step Dancing Lynnette Fitch Brash [email protected] Pipers For Hire Southside Ceili(dh) Class & Rob Lockwood [email protected] Irish Ceili Dancing http://www.roblockwood.com Lisa Hunt [email protected]

Harper MISC. Rita Hamilton [email protected] Kilts, Alterations Folk Music Christine Lawler [email protected] James West [email protected] http://jameswestmusic.com/ Photography - British Isles Manny Willis [email protected] Scottish Gaelic Song Performances Edward Brash [email protected] Photography - Scotland Linda Lucas [email protected] Traditional Celtic Music Celtic Band for hire at an economical price Scottish Gaelic Lessons Third Degree Burn Scots Gaelic Society of Tidewater Weddings Parties Dance Music Fund Raisers Marcey Hunter [email protected] 1-804-553-9702 1-757-420-1285 [email protected] Travel in Scotland Also solo violin/fiddle music Celtic and Old Timey at Highland Ways your request. Affordable $ - Free fiddle lessons Arthur & Anne Korff 757-596-6063

Scotch Whisky Tasting Mike Lawler [email protected]

This & That ♦ Ian Amorosi has been accepted into the University of St Andrew's in Fife, Scotland. He plans to study Medieval and Scot- tish history with a double major in archaeology. Way to go, Ian! What an exciting opportunity! ♦ Linda Lucas and Terri Woodward are planning a trip to the east coast of Scotland in March. While there, they are plan- ning to meet up with Carol Amorosi. Now there’s trouble! Have a great time, ladies! ♦ Robin & Manny Willis are taking a cruise to Alaska this spring to celebrate their wedding anniversary. Have a great time, and look out for grizzlies! ♦ John McGlynn was recently interviewed by a reporter for the Scottish Daily Express. She asked specifically about his experiences as a Scottish “Ex Pat” living in the US, and about his views on Scottish Independence. That’s some great publicity, John! ♦ Larry McCauley would like to announce the marriage of his daughter, Christina Ann McCauley to John Samuel Logalbo, which took place on February 14th in Lexington Park Maryland. Best wishes to the happy couple, and congratulations to the proud papa! ♦ Larry McCauley had a medical scare recently, when it was discovered that he has developed an arterial fibulation. In fact, he was out of commission for a week. He is undergoing additional testing and will keep us updated. Please keep Larry in your thoughts and prayers. ♦ We wish safe seas to Skip Hunter as he deploys aboard the USNS Bighorn. We’ll see you again in August, Chief!

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 THISTLEDOWN PAGE 17 Could oats be the answer for diabetes sufferers? by Andy Dixon, The Inverness Courier, Jan. 9, 2009

EVERYONE knows porridge is good for your health, but now a group of Inverness scientists want to prove the na- tion's favourite breakfast can also reduce the side-effects of type two diabetes. They believe an oat-rich diet can help people control their diabetes and reduce the side-effects of the condition which can bring on other illnesses, including heart disease. Now they hope to attract 30 volunteers with type two dia- betes to participate in the potentially ground-breaking re- search. The carbohydrates contained in oats are broken down more slowly than other foods, releasing glucose more gradually into the bloodstream after a meal, when a dia- betic's blood sugar levels are normally high. Type two diabetes is the most common form of the condition and is caused by the body failing to produce enough insulin, or not using what it does produce effectively. It is thought research of this kind has never taken place before and if successful, could be promoted as a method of reducing problems associated with the diabetes. Project leader, Professor Sandra MacRury, clinical professor at the UHI department of diabetes and car- diovascular science in Inverness, said the research could prove ground-breaking. "Although we encourage people to eat porridge, that's general ad- vice, whereas this could be more specific," she said. "So it could po- tentially give us new strategies for approaching early diabetes." Scientists at the Centre for Health Science, next to Raigmore Hos- pital, want men and women aged between 40 and 75 to volunteer for the 16-week trial, which could start later this month, but they will only be eligible if they are not taking any medication to control their ill- ness. Professor Ian Megson, LifeScan chair of diabetes, and Professor Sandra MacRury are appealing for volunteers. Iona Spence Trialists will eat a variety of meals containing oats and results will be compared with a standard diet, with immediate and long-term effects of an oat-rich diet assessed. "The aim is to develop new dietary plans which could improve dia- betes control, delay the need for people with type two diabetes to start tablets or insulin to control their blood sugar, and potentially reduce the risk of some of the complications of diabetes," Professor MacRury said. Research is expected to last between a year and 18 months and follows a smaller-scale pilot study in Aberdeen, where this project will be replicated. Overall, around 60 volunteers are being sought for the project, conducted as a partnership between UHI, the University of Aber- deen and nutrition researchers at the Rowett Institute in Aberdeen. The Scottish Government is backed the work with funding of around £200,000.

PAGE 18 THISTLEDOWN JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 Calendar of Upcoming Events

PLEASE NOTE: Due to some changes at the Va. Beach Central Library, the first Wednesday of the month will not always be available to accommodate the SST meetings. Please check the SST website (www.tidewaterscots.com) and the newsletter, for upcoming meeting dates. We apologize for the inconvenience.

March 4 NOTE: In lieu of the Tartan Day Ceilidh, there will be SST Meeting NO SST MEETING IN APRIL. Virginia Beach Central Library Auditorium, 7:00 pm April 4 This is the Annual General Meeting of the SST. Please come SST Tartan Day Ceilidh out to vote for your 2009 SST Officers. Ascension Church, Virginia Beach, 6:30 pm - 11 pm

March 14, 2008 Tickets are $20. To purchase tickets, contact Ocean View St. Patrick’s Day Parade April 6, 2009 Assembly time is 9:00am at Northside Middle School, 8720 National Tartan Day Granby St., Norfolk, with the parade kick-off time at 10:00am. Wear your Clan tartan with pride. Parking is available at the terminus of the parade route with shuttle buses running from Holy Trinity School, at Government April 26 Ave. and First View St., to the Parade area between 8:00 and Kirkin' o' th' Tartan at Historic Christ Church 9:45AM. Parade marshalls will be available to assist you, just Irvington, VA 11:30am

look for the green jackets. For information, contact Wil Phillips at [email protected]

March 14 May 1-3 St. Baldrick's Kid's Cancer fundraiser Virginia International Tattoo Waterside Festival Marketplace, Norfolk The SST has purchased tickets to the Saturday, 9:30 am to 2:30 pm. May 2 performance.

See page 10 of the Thistledown for more information. For tickets, contact George Phillips at

March 21 May 6 Greater Richmond Saint Patrick's Day Parade & Irish Festival SST Meeting Church Hill, Richmond, VA 7pm social visiting, 7:30 meeting and program St. Patrick's Church on 25th & E. Broad St. Program: Parade will step off at 10:00am Please bring a snack to share.

NOTE: IN LIEU OF OUR TARTAN DAY CEILIDH, THERE WILL BE NO SST MEETING IN APRIL.

The Virginia International Tattoo - Don’t Miss It!

he SST will soon be purchasing a block of tick- etsT for the Saturday, May 2nd performance of the Vir- ginia International Tattoo. The show will be at the Nor- folk Scope, and begins at 7:30 p.m. The cost is $29.75 per ticket for members. To purchase your tickets, send your request, via e- mail, to George Phillips at [email protected]. Tickets can also be purchased at the society March meeting. Don’t miss this electrifying performance!

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2009 THISTLEDOWN PAGE 19 A TASTE OF WHISKY Enjoying the Uisege Beatha, the “Water of Life” Scotch Drink by Robert Burns Gie him strong drink until he wink, That's Yet, humbly kind in time o' need, An' hardly, in a winter season, sinking in despair; An' liquor guid to fire his The poor man's wine; E'er Spier her price. bluid, That's prest wi' grief and care: There let His weep drap parritch, or his bread, Wae worth that brandy, burnin trash! him bouse, an' deep carouse, Wi' bumpers Thou kitchens fine. flowing o'er, Till he forgets his loves or debts, Fell source o' mony a pain an' brash! An' minds his griefs no more. Thou art the life o' public haunts; Twins mony a poor, doylt, drucken hash, Solomon's Proverbs, xxxi. 6, 7. But thee, what were our fairs and rants? O' half his days; Ev'n godly meetings o' the saunts, An' sends, beside, auld Scotland's cash Let other poets raise a fracas By thee inspired, To her warst faes. When gaping they besiege the tents, "Bout vines, an' wines, an' drucken Bacchus, Ye Scots, wha wish auld Scotland well! An' crabbit names an'stories wrack us, Are doubly fir'd. Ye chief, to you my tale I tell, An' grate our lug: That merry night we get the corn in, Poor, plackless devils like mysel'! I sing the juice Scotch bear can mak us, O sweetly, then, thou reams the horn in! It sets you ill, In glass or jug. Or reekin on a New-year mornin Wi' bitter, dearthfu' wines to mell,

O thou, my muse! guid auld Scotch drink! In cog or bicker, Or foreign gill. An' just a wee drap sp'ritual burn in, Whether thro' wimplin worms thou jink, May gravels round his blather wrench, Or, richly brown, ream owre the brink, An' gusty sucker! An' gouts torment him, inch by inch, In glorious faem, When Vulcan gies his bellows breath, What twists his gruntle wi' a glunch Inspire me, till I lisp an' wink, An' ploughmen gather wi' their graith, O' sour disdain, To sing thy name! O rare! to see thee fizz an freath Out owre a glass o' whisky-punch

Let husky wheat the haughs adorn, I' th' luggit caup! Wi' honest men! Then Burnewin comes on like death An' aits set up their awnie horn, O Whisky! soul o' plays and pranks! An' pease and beans, at e'en or morn, At every chap. Accept a bardie's gratfu' thanks! Perfume the plain: Nae mercy then, for airn or steel; When wanting thee, what tuneless cranks Leeze me on thee, John Barleycorn, The brawnie, banie, ploughman chiel, Are my poor verses! Thou king o' grain! Brings hard owrehip, wi' sturdy wheel, Thou comes-they rattle in their ranks,

On thee aft Scotland chows her cood, The strong forehammer, At ither's a-s! Till block an' studdie ring an reel, In souple scones, the wale o'food! Thee, Ferintosh! O sadly lost! Or tumblin in the boiling flood Wi' dinsome clamour. Scotland lament frae coast to coast! Wi' kail an' beef; When skirling weanies see the light, Now colic grips, an' barkin hoast But when thou pours thy strong heart's blood Though maks the gossips clatter bright, May kill us a'; There thou shines chief. How fumblin' cuiffs their dearies slight; For loyal Forbes' charter'd boast

Food fills the wame, an' keeps us leevin; Wae worth the name! Is ta'en awa? Nae howdie gets a social night, Tho' life's a gift no worth receivin, Thae curst horse-leeches o' the' Excise, When heavy-dragg'd wi' pine an' grievin; Or plack frae them. Wha mak the whisky stells their prize! But, oil'd by thee, When neibors anger at a plea, Haud up thy han', Deil! ance, twice, thrice! The wheels o' life gae down-hill, scrievin, An' just as wud as wud can be, There, seize the blinkers! Wi' rattlin glee. How easy can the barley brie An' bake them up in brunstane pies

Thou clears the head o'doited Lear; Cement the quarrel! For poor damn'd drinkers. It's aye the cheapest lawyer's fee, Thou cheers ahe heart o' drooping Care; Fortune! if thou'll but gie me still Thou strings the nerves o' Labour sair, To taste the barrel. Hale breeks, a scone, an' whisky gill, At's weary toil; Alake! that e'er my muse has reason, An' rowth o' rhyme to rave at will, Though even brightens dark Despair To wyte her countrymen wi' treason! Tak a' the rest, Wi' gloomy smile. But mony daily weet their weason An' deal't about as thy blind skill Aft, clad in massy siller weed, Wi' liquors nice, Directs thee best. Wi' gentles thou erects thy head;

Scottish Society of Tidewater, Inc. c/o Marcey Hunter 301 E. Randall Ave. Norfolk, VA 23503

www.tidewaterscots.org

Please note:

The Annual General Meeting of the SST will take place on Wednesday, March 4 at the Virginia Beach Central Library. Please come out and vote for 2009 SST Officers. For more information about our candidates, please visit the SST website at www.tidewaterscots.org

Be sure to check out the SST merchandize on sale at the next meeting. A varied as- sortment of garments are available - from jackets to tank tops - at affordable prices. Special orders can be placed for that extra special item. Please help support the SST, and show your SST pride!