Andrew MacThomas of ~ 19th Clan Chief Volume # 2 Issue # 4 December 2011

Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com Clan MacThomas — U.S. & Canadian Branch Official Newsletter

Volume # 2 Issue # 4 December 2011

The U.S. & Canadian Branch of the In This Issue Clan MacThomas acknowledges Feature Articles 3 US & Canadian Branch of the and yields allegiance to: Clan MacThomas/ Andrew MacThomas of Finegand MacThomas North America 19th Chief of the Clan MacThomas Our Branch Finances — The Chief Andrew MacThomas of Finegand 6 From the Executive US AND CANADIAN BRANCH 3 Cathy‘s Convener Corner EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 4 James‘ The View from My BRANCH CONVENOR Saddle Cathy McComb Ludemann US & Canadian Branch 1653 Hydram Avenue North 4 Ken‘s Northern Hi Lights Oakdale, MN 55128 USA Scholarship Essay 5 Cindy‘s Perspective [email protected] 11 Contest 2011—2012 5 Chris‘ Bio

TREASURER 5 Charles‘ Contemplations Charles S. Tam 2917 Algonquin Drive 5 Clan MacThomas/MacThomas Lafayette, IN 47909 USA Clan Members North America

[email protected] 12 Newlyweds (continued from page 3) Our Branch Finances — 6 COMMITTEE MEMBER ~ USA US & Canadian Branch James L. Thomas 7 Gift Ideas / Clan MacThomas N1198 - 29th Avenue Berlin, WI 54923 USA Merchandise for Sale Membership [email protected] 8 Upcoming North American Renewal 14

COMMITTEE MEMBER ~ CANADA New Membership 9 Clan Quiz 2011 Ken McComb Part #1 & Part #2 1433 - 151 Country Village Road NE Applications 15 10 Feature Recipe Calgary, AB, Canada, T3K 5X5

[email protected] 11 Scholarship Essay CHANGE OF ADDRESS Contest 2011 — 2012

COMMITTEE MEMBER ~ USA EMAIL POSTAL ADDRESS 12 Family News From North John C. (Chris) McComb American Clan Members 6171 Cedar Creek Way Please remember to advise the Branch Convenor / Farmington, NY 14425 USA Treasurer when you change your postal or email 13 State & Province address. If you fail to do so, we will be unable to [email protected] Representatives advise you of all upcoming activities. 13 Answers Clan Quiz Mail or email your changes to:

EDITOR 14 Membership Renewal (2012) Cindy McComb BRANCH CONVENOR Cathy McComb Ludemann GRAPHIC DESIGNER 15 New Membership Application Ken McComb 1653 Hydram Avenue North (2012) Oakdale, MN 55128 USA MAILING ADDRESS [email protected] 1433 - 151 Country Village Road NE Calgary, AB, Canada TREASURER T3K 5X5 Charles S. Tam EMAIL 2917 Algonquin Drive [email protected] Lafayette, IN 47909 USA WEBSITE [email protected] www.clanmacthomas.com

Photos on the front cover courtesy: ―This Newsletter is for member use and may be printed for Jas Thomas—Wisconsin Highland Games in private use only – no part of this newsletter may be duplicated Waukesha with Scott Thomson 2011 and published for any other purpose without the express Cindy McComb—Canmore, Calgary and Red written consent of the Executive Committee of the US and Deer Highland Games 2011 Canadian Branch of the Clan MacThomas‖

Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 2 Clan MacThomas — U.S. & Canadian Branch Official Newsletter

Volume # 2 Issue # 4 December 2011

``DEO JUVANTE INVIDIAM SUPERABO`` — WITH GOD’S HELP I SHALL OVERCOME ENVY! A Message From Our Chief Cathy’s Convenor Corner Andrew MacThomas of Finegand Cathy McComb Ludemann US & Canadian Branch of the Hello fellow Clan members! Clan MacThomas Society and It is hard to believe that Christmas is just around MacThomas North America the corner. The cold temperatures and snow on The following comments are primarily aimed at the ground are a good indication that the end of those of you who are members of both the Clan the year is coming. The Committee members wish you all MacThomas Society (Clan MacT) and MacThomas North a Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year. America (MNA). Please pass on these comments to others A big thank you to all those members who sent in who may be members of MNA but not Clan MacT. graduation announcements for their children for the last Clan MacThomas is not one of the largest Clan Families in newsletter. I enjoyed reading them all and could see the and members of the Council of the Clan gleam of pride in their parents‘ eyes! I think we should MacThomas Society understandably were very upset make this an annual event so keep those announcements when, almost a decade ago, the late former Convenor of coming! And any other family news you may have. After Clan MacT, Robert MacThomas, decided to start MNA in all, we are all family, even if a bit extended! direct competition to the existing Clan Society in the USA, The Executive Committee has been making some which had been first formed in the early 1970s. Council felt financial decisions about how to maximize our treasury, so that Robert MacThomas should have remained a member look for the article Our Branch Finances in this newsletter. of Clan MacT and fought for his beliefs instead of jumping I want to remind our members that the Branch Essay ship. Neither group benefits from such a split. Contest is on again with the submission deadline on Following the sad death of Robert MacThomas last year, January 31, 2012. Contest rules were in the last the Clan MacT Council asked Cathy to approach MNA to newsletter and can also be found in this edition as well as see whether the time was right to put any differences to on the Clan website under Branch news in the members one side and bring the two organisations together for the section. Encourage your sons and daughters and sake of the wider Clan family. There is an indication that grandchildren about this excellent opportunity to win a MNA has shown interest in this approach. $500 prize and learn something about our Clan and/or Over the last ten years, Clan MacT has gone from strength Scotland at the same time. to strength. It is a democratically run international Clan Past issues of our electronic newsletters can now be Society in its fullest sense with branches in Europe, found on the Clan website in the Members Secure area, in Australia, Canada and the USA; it undertakes a wide range the US&C Branch section. If you haven‘t looked at the of activities and has an excellent on-going website website lately, I urge you to do it. It is full of interesting www.clanmacthomas.com. The various branches of Clan information on all aspects of our Clan and related topics. MacT have their own rules, structure and elected officers. The Genealogy section has recently been updated with There are some forty million people around the world of new articles. There is a special section on MacThomas Scottish descent and many wish to join their Clan Societies. names, including lists of Clan emigrants to the USA Clan means ―Children of the Family‖ and they do so for a and to Canada in the mid 1800s. It is obvious that number of very different reasons, such as: Sennachie Grahame Thom has been very busy expanding  To seek personal assistance this area of the website and our webmaster, Jon Hedges,  To create a sense of belonging and kinship within a deserves a continuing round of applause for his dedication larger clan family in keeping the website current and interesting!  To be a member of a Society which protects the interests Lastly I need to mention that it is now time to renew your of your Clan Family membership for next year. The form is included at the end  To obtain information on Clan history of this newsletter. Those of you who did not renew your  To use the Clan‘s genealogy service to help them trace membership in 2011 did not receive the 2011 Clan their family history magazine as it was mailed only to those whose  To sustain the Clan‘s heritage sites membership was up to date. You can still receive it by paying dues for 2011 and we hope you renew for 2012 as  To attend Clan gatherings within Scotland and other well. We do appreciate the support our members give the social events around the world Branch and the Society and thank those who have already  To use for networking purposes and having links with sent in their 2012 dues. people with a common heritage (Continued on page 5) Cathy McComb Ludemann BRANCH CONVENOR, U.S. & Canadian Branch of the Clan MacThomas

Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 3 Clan MacThomas — U.S. & Canadian Branch Official Newsletter Volume # 2 Issue # 4 December 2011 James’ The View From My Saddle significant savings have been realized as Convenor Cathy notes elsewhere. If a paper copy is desired by one of the James Thomas 75%, simply hit the "Print" button on your computer, as I Greetings from the Wilds of Northeast do. Wisconsin. Fall has come in with a vengeance Third, since the purpose of our new Newsletter is to contain with cold, high winds, some rain and many, News, we do depend on the Members to furnish a many leaves, alternating with exceptional Indian significant portion of the content. Thanks to those who Summer weather this month and last month, which came through with stories and pictures last time, and permitted a pleasant end to the SASS shooting season. shame on those who sit in the back bleachers and There is a topic I would like to revisit this time — complain about lack of News or Newsletters without Our Newsletter! There are some basic misconceptions contributing anything. If you go to a Games in or plaid, afoot that need to be put to rest. send a picture. If you sponsor a Clan booth or table, send a First is the number of issues Members can expect. The picture or two. If your children or grandchildren are into Clan Society Rules require only one (1) Newsletter per year Scottish Dancing and compete, send a picture. If you from each Branch. The former Editor was more or less in attend a Robert Burns Dinner or St. Andrew's Society Gala continuous production and averaged six to nine issues a in full Clan Regalia, send a picture either in paper or digital year, but that was his choice on how to spend his time. format to the Editor, Cindy. Most cameras these days take Last year, the Convenor and Executive Committee pictures in digital format on a chip, which can be recruited Cindy McComb, a busy professional (CPA), wife downloaded to a computer and sent as an e-mail and mother, to produce a new Newsletter and agreed to attachment. All Smart or i-phones take perfectly adequate produce four issues a year with an occasional Special photos which can be e-mailed directly from the phone. Edition. This has been done in style, with a fresh new look One of the sad developments of modern life is the and a vastly improved format. This schedule is not enough dominance of spectator sports, professional athletics and for some, and perhaps too much for others, but as a wise reality TV, where the "participation" of the spectators is man once said: "You can please some of the people all of limited to passive viewing, and either positive or negative the time, all of the people some of the time, but you cannot reactions to what they see. The Clan Society is not a please all of the people all of the time." spectator sport. In my opinion it is an elaborate fantasy Second, some contrarians dismiss the new Newsletter as game, bringing to life for a time in our minds, an extended an "electronic Newsletter", which it is not. It is produced family relationship to folks from all over the world from all with a commonly available digital newsletter computer walks of life, based on our surnames and Scottish ancestry program. It can either be printed and distributed by the which we hold in common and relate back to Clan postal service, or distributed "electronically" as an e-mail MacThomas. As you know, family is also not a spectator attachment. Currently about 25% of the Branch sport. So lets get off the bleachers and into the game. Membership who have chosen to receive paper copies, get Just the View from My Saddle, their Newsletter via U.S. or Canadian Mail.

Thanks to the 75% of the Branch Membership who have Warmest Regards, chosen to receive the Newsletter as an e-mail attachment, Jas. Thomas <);-}o> Ken’s Northern Hi Lights Another goal is to increase representation of the Clan MacThomas at community events and Highland Games Ken McComb across our Great Nations. You could help. Consider being I wish the warmest Seasons Greetings from a representative for your State or Province. A listing of the Canada to all members around the world. It is hard duties and responsibilities are listed on page 13 of this to believe that another year has passed so quickly. newsletter. One very important thing to remember is that a This past year Both Cindy and I have been person should only put in as much time as they feel will not involved in a great many events where we had the interfere with their other obligations. I have always lived by opportunity to represent our Clan. It was great to attend all the belief that family comes first, then my vocation and then of the Highland Games and Robbie Burns dinners, but if there is time left to volunteer then I will give 110% of my when we attended our McComb family reunion this past efforts and time accordingly. My time spent representing summer, was the highlight of the year. Not only did we the Province of Alberta and working towards the betterment have the chance to get together with our relatives and of our Clan across Canada has been extremely rewarding. friends, but we set up our Clan tent which we use at the You too could have the same pleasurable and rewarding Highland Games, thus advertising the Clan which has experiences by volunteering. already resulted in some new applications for membership. In closing, I wish each and everyone a very Merry One of the main objectives of your executive is to increase Christmas and Happy New Year. May all good angels our membership and one of the best ways to achieve our guard us always. goal is to talk to our own families, because, aren‘t we all of one family. Ken Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 4 Clan MacThomas — U.S. & Canadian Branch Official Newsletter Volume # 2 Issue # 4 December 2011 Chris’ Bio Cindy’s Perspective Chris McComb Cindy McComb Chris has been part of the Clan MacThomas As 2011 nears its end we are all wondering Society since 1977, and his wife, Kathleen, where it went. It seems that the time goes by so enthusiastically joined upon their marriage: quickly. their honeymoon took them across Scotland, The explanation that I prefer to go with is as sampling the many varieties of single malts, follows: As we age, a year becomes a lesser and included a visit to Glenshee. percentage of the time we have lived making it appear to Chris served as the U.S. Convenor in the early 2000s, and go by faster. (i.e. For a 4 year old a year is 25% of his life he and Kathleen were the co-editors of the Clach for eight but for a 50 year old it is only 2%). This theory also years. Among their most memorable Clan activities was explains why children have a short attention span as even the 2004 Clan Gathering in Glenshee, celebrating the 50th an hour is such a large portion of the time that they have anniversary of the Society. lived. I do question this though at times when attempting to Chris and Kathleen currently reside in Texas, but given talk to my husband – especially when he is watching sports their penchant for career moves, there is no telling where on television as his attention span tends to digress to that they will go next. But wherever it is, it will be as members of a 4 year old. A good friend uses the analogy of life being of the Clan MacThomas Society. like a roll of toilet tissue whereby the closer to the end of Chris the roll you are at the faster it goes. My point in all of this is that as the year quickly draws to a close and we get together with family to celebrate the holidays, please pause and also think of your clan ‗family‘ Charles’ Contemplations and how wonderful it would be to introduce your own family Charles Tam to all of ours. The perfect way to do this is the gift of a For those who have sent in their dues for 2012, membership or by sharing with your family your interest in thank you, it makes the Treasurer‘s job that our society. much easier. For those who have not sent in In closing please remember to send me any news of your their dues yet, please do so at your earliest family that you would be willing to share in future editions of convenience. I do want to wish each and every- the newsletter. From Our House to Yours ~ one a very joyous and a safe holiday season. Have the Best of Christmas Seasons. Charles Cindy

US & Canadian Branch of the Clan MacThomas Society comforting to know that there was always help on hand and MacThomas North America whenever it was needed. (Continued from page 5) Clan MacT and MNA may have slightly different rules,  To make friends with members of one‘s clan family structure, objectives, financial arrangements and entry around the world criteria but I believe that, through discussion and  To obtain access to a huge amount of information on the compromise, such matters could be overcome as the Clan website disadvantages of remaining separate are surely  To visit Scottish events / highland games at home and overshadowed by the huge advantages of reunification. abroad Divided this Clan Family is weaker. United this Clan Family  To take advantage of the many things Clan Societies is stronger and both existing members, as well as future have to offer including annual magazines and regular members, will benefit undoubtedly from all that that entails. newsletters I and the Executive Committee of the Clan MacT Branch in There are opportunities for members to play an active role the United States and Canada hope that recent contact is in some capacity or another if they so wish such as maintained and that face to face meetings will follow. undertaking administrative duties, writing and publishing Hopefully friendships can be made which will lead to newsletters, organising events or playing the pipes but discussions on identifying the differences and agreeing if none of that is compulsory. and how they could be overcome. Eventually a set of One member of the Society, who joined some forty years proposals could be put to both the Board of MNA and the ago, recently reflected that he was instantly welcomed into Council of the Clan MacT for their approval. I look forward the Clan MacT and that he felt that those he had met over to a time when MNA and Clan MacT come together in the years were now part of his own extended family. Also, North America as one organization with leadership from he said the Clan MacT had opened up opportunities for him both groups. to travel overseas, which he would not have done if it had Andrew MacThomas of Finegand not been for the Clan MacThomas Society, and that it was 19th Chief and President of the Clan MacThomas Society

Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 5 Clan MacThomas — U.S. & Canadian Branch Official Newsletter

Volume # 2 Issue # 4 December 2011

that a small ad typically costs about $50. We should Our Branch Finances be able to advertise in 6-8 games programs. If any Clan Finances Oct. 2011 members have suggestions for which games we Your Executive Committee has made some decisions should try, please let us know. regarding the Branch finances for the near future. As we are saving between $600 and $700 a year by not Join Clans and Scottish Societies of printing and mailing our Branch newsletters, we Canada (CASSOC) wanted to use that money to benefit the Branch. This is a well established group in Canada that shares Below are three areas where the Committee feels the information about its member clans with the Scottish Branch should make some expenditures. community in Canada. They attend Canadian games and help people connect to their , Make the Branch Self Supporting encourage research and embrace many aspects of A bit of history for the newer members and for those Scottish culture for dissemination to their members. who may have forgotten: in 2005 the members voted They will include our clan information on their website to cap the Branch‘s contribution to the Society at $15/ and in their newsletter, giving us added exposure. member. Previously we had been giving the Society The cost is $50/year. CASSOC www.cassoc.com. the dollar equivalent of 10 British Pounds. With the We have been members of a similar organization in varying currency conversion, this amount was never the US, COSCA www.cosca.com for several years consistent and at one point was almost $20/member. and will continue that membership for $25/year. We That left the Branch with only $5/member to support plan to keep our ad in The Highlander ($175) but drop our programs and was not a consistent amount on the ad in Scottish Life ($75). which to budget. The purpose of this decision was to provide a consistent amount for budgeting purposes The Committee welcomes members‘ comments on but, more importantly, to provide more money to the these plans and will report back to you about any Branch to make us self supporting. comments we receive.

Perhaps unknown to the members, your committee Cathy McComb Ludemann members have not been taking any reimbursement for postage and, most notably, the full cost of the newsletter. Even though he received some money for printing and mailing the newsletters, Rod Mooney paid a great deal of money out of his own pocket to Reminder produce the newsletters as well as other postage Renew Your Clan Membership costs over the years, for which we were very grateful. However, we didn‘t feel this was good for the future of If you have not renewed your dues for 2012, I the Branch. That is still true today. It is not fair to encourage you to do that soon. expect people to spend excessive amounts of their The Clan MacThomas — U.S. & Canadian Branch own money in order to serve the Branch and could Official Newsletter will not be sent to anyone who is have an impact of recruiting committee members. And not current on their dues. now we have an opportunity to correct that. Your renewal form and payment of $25 can be Our plan is to reimburse the cost of newsletters that mailed to: are still mailed to members, the Treasurer‘s costs in Charles Tam mailing financial records for auditing, and postage 2917 Algonquin Dr. costs for member services. This is estimated to be Lafayette, IN 47909 about $150 this year. Thank you to those who have already sent their Branch Advertising payments. We appreciate your support. In order to better advertise our Society we decided to try putting ads in the programs of a few of the larger Merry Christmas Scottish games around the US and Canada. I have & have a very enjoyable and Happy New Year done a small survey of games websites and found

Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 6 Clan MacThomas — U.S. & Canadian Branch Official Newsletter

Volume # 2 Issue # 4 December 2011

Clan MacThomas Merchandise MacThomas Gift Ideas Available on this side of the Pond Limited Quantities Available US$ / CAN$ Convenor Cathy tells us that she has a limited stock of clan Gentleman‘s Clan Tie Ancient 23.00 23.00 items for sale. Prices are in US$. Gentleman‘s Clan Tie Modern Tartan 23.00 23.00 Gentleman‘s Clan Tie MacThomas 23.00 23.00 Items available are: Qty Available Price Lady‘s Sash Ancient Tartan 51.00 51.00 Adult T-Shirts Lady‘s Sash Modern Tartan 35.00 35.00 Small Light blue 1 14.00 MacThomas Crested Cuff Links 26.00 26.00 Medium White 1 14.00 MacThomas Crested 24.00 24.00 XXL Burgundy 1 14.00 MacThomas Crested Kilt Pin 24.00 24.00 Adult Sweatshirts MacThomas Crested Lady‘s Necklet 26.00 26.00 Medium Dark green 1 25.00 MacThomas Crested Shield 48.00 48.00 Large Dark Green 1 25.00 Large Burgundy 2 25.00 Travelling Rug Ancient Tartan 93.00 93.00 Extra Large Burgundy 1 25.00 MacThomas Paperweight 16.00 16.00 Childs Sweatshirt MacThomas T Shirt Adult 16.00 16.00 Sz 11-12 White 1 12.00 MacThomas T Shirt Child 13.00 13.00 MacThomas Ties Ancient Tartan 2 19.00 MacThomas ―Hoodies‖ Adult 35.00 35.00 Ladies Sash Modern 1 32.00 MacThomas Sweatshirts Adult 34.00 34.00 MacThomas Baseball Caps Black w/ Crest 8 10.00 MacThomas Sweatshirts Child 21.00 21.00

If you would like to buy any of the items, please send an email to List Price includes shipping and handling ~ Prices subject to change Cathy with your request to: It is recommended that you check the website for stock availability and current pricing [email protected] http://www.clanmacthomas.com/

It’s easy to give a family member the gift of a new or renewal of membership in our Great Clan. Clip and fill in the certificate on the left and present it to your family member. Clip and fill in the certificate on the right and send it to Charles. The Gift of Membership A Very Special Gift for You Purchase as a gift a years membership in The Clan MacThomas Society for:

Clan Crest / Sept Names Clan MacThomas Recipient Name: ______Dear: ______Address: ______It is with pleasure that you are presented with the gift City: ______State/Prov: ____Zip/PC: ______of a Year‘s membership in New Membership

(Member‘s # if known ) Membership Renewal ______

We know that you will enjoy the fellowship of Clan Purchased by: ______

MacThomas and sincerely hope that this will be the My Clan Membership # ______beginning of a long and mutually rewarding connection with your Scottish Heritage. Relationship to the purchaser: ______

CIAD MILE FAILTE! Enclosed is the Application or Renewal Form (One Hundred Thousand Welcomes) Payment Enclosed

Yours Truly: Mail to: Charles Tam ______2917 Algonquin Dr. Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com Lafayette, IN 47909

Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 7 Clan MacThomas — U.S. & Canadian Branch Official Newsletter

Volume # 2 Issue # 4 December 2011 UPCOMING NORTH AMERICAN HIGHLAND GAMES

(The games and events listed are only a partial list. Each web site is current for 2011. From the electronic version of this newsletter, go directly to their web page. Enjoy!)

Feb 3, 4 Mid-Winter Celtic Festival Regina, SK, Canada http://www.crpb.org/mwcf/ Feb 12 Winnipeg Scottish Festival Winnipeg, MB, Canada http://www.winnipegscottishfestival.org/ Feb 17, 18, 19 Mid-Winter Festival Philidelphia, PA http://www.eohebrides.com/index.cfm Mar 2, 3 Scottish Festival & Highland Games Fort Lauderdale, FL http://www.sassf.org/events/festival/ festival.html Mar 9, 10, 11 Sonora Celtic Faire Sonora, CA http://www.sonoracelticfaire.com/ Mar 10, 11 Scottish—Irish Faire Midland, TX http://www.chspb.org/ Mar 14-18 CelticFest Vancouver, BC, Canada http://www.celticfestvancouver.com/ Mar 24, 25 Highland Games & Celtic Gathering Phoenix, AR http://www.arizonascots.com/05games.shtml Mar 31, Apr 1 San Antonio Highland Games San Antonio, TX http://www.sahga.org/ Apr 14, 15 Las Vegas Games Las Vegas, NV http://www.lasvegascelticsociety.org/ Apr 21 Dunedin Highland Games Dunedin, FL http://www.dunedinhighlandgames.com/ games.html Apr 28 Brandon Highland Festival Brandon, MB, Canada http://sites.google.com/site/ brandonhighlandfestival/home Apr 28 Celtic Festival of Southern Maryland Prince Frederick, MD http://www.cssm.org/festival Apr 28, 29 Sacramento Valley Scottish Games & Woodland, CA http://www.saccallie.org/games/games.php Festival May Houston Highland Games Houston, TX http://www.houstonhighlandgames.com/ May Th' Gatherin' Ancient Festival O‘ Beltane WaKeeney, KS http://www.thgatherin.com/index_files/ Page266.htm May Scottish Festival & Celtic Gathering Bridgeport/Clarksburg, WV http://www.scots-westvirginia.org/default.htm May 4, 5, 6 Texas Scottish Festival & Highland Games Arlington, TX http://www.texasscottishfestival.com/ May 12 Campbell Highland Games & Celtic Campbell, CA http://www.campbellgames.com/ Gathering May 12 Prescott Highland Games Prescott, AZ http://prescotthighlandgames.com/ May 11, 12, 13 Kentucky Scottish Weekend Carrollton, KY http://www.kyscottishweekend.org/ May 18, 19 Springfield Area Highland Games & Celtic Springfield, IL http://www.central-illinois-standrewsociety.com/ Festival index.html May 18, 19, 20 Smoky Mountain Highland Games Gatlinburg, TN http://www.gsfg.org/ May 19 Comox Valley Highland Games Courtenay, BC, Canada http://www.cvhg.org/ May 19 Moose Jaw Highland Games Moose Jaw, SK, Canada http://www.reginahighlandgames.org/moose- jaw-highland-games.html May 19 Colonial Highland Gathering Fair Hill, MD http://www.fairhillscottishgames.org/ May 19, 20 Victoria Highland Games & Celtic Festival Victoria, BC, Canada http://www.victoriahighlandgames.com/ May 21, 22 Celtic Festival & Highland Games Sudbury, ON, Canada http://www.sudburycelticfestival.com/ May 22 Regina Highland Games Regina, SK, Canada http://www.reginahighlandgames.org/ May 25,26,27 Gathering of the Scots Festival Perth-Andover, NB, Canada http://www.gatheringofthescots.com/ May 26 Kingston Scottish Festival Kingston, ON, Canada http://www.robroykingston.com/ May 26 Riverwalk Highland Gathering Winnipeg, MB, Canada http://www.winnipegscottishfestival.org/rhg/ index.html May 26, 27 Scots Fest Costa Mesa, CA http://www.scotsfest.com/ May 26, 27 Alma Highland Festival Alma, MI http://www.almahighlandfestival.com/

Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 8 Clan MacThomas — U.S. & Canadian Branch Official Newsletter

Volume # 2 Issue # 4 December 2011 Clan Quiz 2011 These 50 questions of the Quiz were presented at the Clan gathering. The first 25 were in our last Newsletter and here are the other 25. Do you know the answers? (Hint: you can find all the answers in ―The History of the Clan MacThomas‖ written by Andrew MacThomas of Finegand or later in this issue).

QUESTIONS 1 ~ 25 QUESTIONS 26 ~ 50 ON SCOTLAND &/OR THE CLAN ON SCOTLAND &/OR THE CLAN

1. From which part of the world did the Celts originally come 26. William McCombie of Tillyfour is credited with creating what before finally settling in Western Europe? famous breed of cattle? 2. From what country did the Celtic Scoti tribe originally come 27. In which century were most Scottish first weaved, before settling in Scotland? including the Ancient MacThomas? 3. In the 5th C, what did the Scoti name their new Kingdom in 28. Who was the Scot who invented the telephone? Scotland? 29. What was the name of the Scot who invented television? 4. What external marauding force caused the Picts and the 30. Where is St Magnus Cathedral situated? Scots to form their own defensive groups around 800AD? 31. What year was the Clan Society formed? 5. What was the name of the famous Shakespeare play about a 32. What relation is the first President of the Clan Society to Scottish King? me? 6. By what nickname is William Wallace often called ? 33. What year was the Harold McCombie Gate installed in 7. What famous battle took place in Scotland in 1314? Glenshee? 8. Name the place in the west central highlands from where 34. What year was the Scottish Parliament re-instated after a Tomaidh Mor came before settling in Glenshee? gap of 292 years? 9. In which century did our first Chief, Tomaidh Mor, first settle 35. How many MacThomas Chiefs have there been to date? in Glenshee? 36. What is the correct Gaelic designation of all MacThomas 10. Glenshee in Gaelic is spelt Gleann Shith – what does that Chiefs? mean in English? 37. What is the Chief‘s motto in English? 11. In what county of Scotland is Glenshee today? 38. Name one of the two birds that support my ? 12. What was the name of the MacThomas Chiefs first seat in 39. What is the wildcat grasping in my crest? Glenshee just opposite the ? 40. In piping, name one of the clan marches? 13. What was the name of the battle in the Glenshee area in 1602 that involved the MacThomases? 41. Over which Scottish town did a Boeing 747 Airlines explode in 1988? 14. What is name of the Clan whose seat is at Invercauld near ? 42. What is the MacThomas plant badge? 15. What was the name of the great Scottish soldier that Iain Mor 43. Up what famous street in Scotland, did the Clans march in (McComie Mor) joined during the British Civil War? 2009? 16. What is the correct Gaelic spelling for the Cockstane? 44. What is the name of the famous Scottish comedian, who comes from Glasgow, lives in America and is married to an 17. What was the name of the Barony that Iain Mor (McComie Australian? Mor) purchased in 1651? 45. What are the MacThomas livery colours? 18. After leaving Finegand, where did Iain Mor (McComie Mor) build his new mansion house? 46. By what name are Prince William and Catherine Middleton known in Scotland? 19. What was the name of the forest that became the subject of a long running dispute between Iain Mor (McComie Mor) and 47. Which political party recently won the Scottish General his neighbours? Election? 20. What was the name of the place near Forfar were two of Ian 48. What is the name of Scotland's National Anthem? Mor‘s sons were killed in 1673? 49. Who is the First Minister of Scotland? 21. Which county in Scotland did Ian‘s Mor 6th son, Angus, move 50. In what year is the next official gathering of the Clan in to when he left Glenshee? Glenshee? 22. What is the date of the Act of Union that united the Scottish and English Parliaments? ASSOCIATION The MacThomas Clan is a current member of the Clan Chattan 23. What was the date of the second Jacobite Rebellion involving Association. Current members of the Clan Chattan Association: Bonnie Prince Charlie? 24. In which decade of the 19th C were the of Dochgarroch which resulted in many Scots going to the New World? th Clan MacBean Clan MacThomas 25. What was the name of the Estate in Angus that the 15 Chief Clan MacGillivray Clan MacQueen bought? Clan Macintyre Clan Phail Clan Mackintosh Clan Shaw

Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 9 Clan MacThomas — U.S. & Canadian Branch Official Newsletter

Volume # 2 Issue # 4 December 2011

Glenshee Wild Cat Items for Sale On sale at the Clan meeting in Glenshee and now advertised on the Clan website are prints of a wild FEATURE RECIPE cat painted by local Glenshee artist, Michelle Hewitt. Michelle notes on her website, ―I was very fortunate to see a wildcat near my home. It was dragging a dead bird across the road and showed me in no Atholl Brose uncertain terms that I was intruding. Beautiful and wild creature, looking similar but very different from a domestic tabby.‖ Michelle painted a very attractive likeness of the wild cat which can be purchased as an 8X8 print or a Ingredients note card. We were able to purchase coasters at the 2 1/3 cups Scotch Whisky Clan gathering, but they are not yet available from (Single Malt or Blended—sampling prior to assembly, for her website: http://www.scottishwildlifeartist.com. tasting purposes, is allowed) 1/2 cup ground oatmeal The information on the Clan website is in the Shop (medium-coarse) section, then From Glenshee. All purchases are 2/3 cup of Heavy Cream directly from the artist. (Double Cream is excellent; add a tablespoon of whisky or The wild cat is connected to our brandy prior to mixing to prevent curdling) Clan MacThomas as we are one 1/4 cup Clear Honey of twelve clans comprising the (Heather honey is preferred) historic Clan Chattan, also Cheese Cloth called the Clan of the Cats. Silver Spoon (preferred) or a Wooden Spoon These clans so admired the wildcat that it was incorporated Preparation into the crests of most of the  Pour the whisky over the oatmeal and set aside Clan Chattan groups. to soak (recommend covered with linen for 48 hours in a cool place) Legend of the Origin of Atholl Brose:  Strain whisky/oatmeal paste through cheese cloth (get every last drop keeping the liquid and throw It is not known for how long Scottish folk have been out the leftover oatmeal) drinking Atholl Brose but the earliest recorded  Pour whisky/oatmeal liquid into a container with recipe dates back to 1475. Prior to this recipes were a wide mouth for stirring purposes handed down from generation to generation. Legend has it that it led to the capture of renegade  Very slowly pour the cream (to prevent curdling) Iain MacDonald, the , who was into the whisky/oatmeal liquid, stirring with a leading a rebellion against the King. He was silver or a wooden spoon captured while supping at a small well that he was  Add the honey even more slowly, stirring known to frequent which had been filled with whisky, continually (honey may be warmed for easier pouring oatmeal and honey at the order of the Earl of Atholl. and stirring) The Duke‘s recipe was the downfall of Iain  Pour the liquid into bottles and set aside for one MacDonald who stayed to enjoy the drink and was week captured. Another legend of the origins of Atholl Brose gives This recipe can be made in a few minutes on the name of the Lord as Lord John who was the last the day it is to be consumed but tastes much Lord of the Isles and was under sentence of death better if stored for a week to allow the flavours but had escaped and fled to the hills. It is said it was to blend. he who could not resist the drink at the well and Seasons Greetings stayed drinking it rather than fleeing the Earls of Atholl and Crawford. Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 10 Clan MacThomas — U.S. & Canadian Branch Official Newsletter

Volume # 2 Issue # 4 December 2011 US and Canadian Branch Clan MacThomas Scholarship Essay Contest 2011—2012 The Executive Committee is pleased to announce that we will again be offering our Scholarship Essay Contest to the children and grandchildren of our Branch members. The contest is open to any student between the ages of 17—23 as of Jan.1, 2011 who will be attending college this fall. An essay on any Scottish subject may be submitted for consideration with the winner receiving a US $500 prize. The deadline for the electronic submission is January 31, 2012, giving the students the fall semester to complete their research. A new requirement for a bibliography has been added as well as a requirement that all essays be submitted electronically. Because there will be a panel of 3 judges to consider the essays, chaired by Meriel Bradford, electronic submissions will facilitate the judging process. Judging is anticipated to be complete by the end of February, with payment of the award by March 31, 2012. Procedures For Submission Of Entries Procedures for the submission of all entries to the U.S. and Canadian Branch Scholarship Essay Contest are as follows:

1. The Branch Scholarship of US $500.00 will be awarded to the student who submits the best essay of approximately one thousand words on any Scottish subject as judged by the Scholarship Essay Contest panel of judges. Criteria for assessing the essay will include accuracy, originality and style. 2. Any student between the age of 17 and 23 years as of Jan 1, 2011, attending any school beyond the high school level, who is the child or grandchild of a member in good standing of the U.S. and Canadian Branch of Clan MacThomas is eligible. 3. Submissions must be original and created solely by the student. A bibliography of 3 original sources, excluding Encyclopedias, Wikipedia and Google as sources, should be included. 4. Submissions must be accompanied by proof of enrolment in a post-secondary institution. Letters from the Office of the Registrar are acceptable. 5. Submissions must include the full name of the student, age and date of birth of the student, the return postal address, telephone number, and e-mail address. 6. Submissions must also indicate the relationship between the student and the active member of the U.S. and Canadian Branch of Clan MacThomas. 7. The submission must be received by midnight eastern time January 31, 2012. The judges will submit their decision to the Executive Committee by February 28, 2012 and the award will be granted by March 31, 2012. 8. Submissions must be sent by email to Meriel Bradford in a .doc or .txt format. Her email address can be found in the US & Canadian Branch section of the Clan MacThomas website. 9. All submissions should be accompanied by a photo of the author suitable for publication and a short biography. The author agrees to have the essay printed in the Branch newsletter and placed on the Clan website if requested by the Executive Committee. 10. The decision of the Scholarship Essay Contest judges will be final and irrevocable. All submissions of essays to the Judges shall remain confidential and not be published until the winning essay is declared and published in the official Branch Newsletter.

The announcement and new procedures will be updated on the Clan website in the near future. Scholarship Fund & Essay Contest DONATIONS REQUESTED The U.S. and Canada Branch Scholarship Fund needs your donation for a Scholarship Award to be made to the student who submits the best essay of approximately one thousand words on a Scottish subject. Details above. As in the past, each Clan member who contributes US$25 or more to the Scholarship Fund will receive a CD which contains reproductions of many years of ―Clach na Coileach‖ back to the historic beginning of our Clan‘s annual magazine.

This program is dedicated to the interest in Scottish subjects in general, and Clan MacThomas in particular, among members of the younger generation who represent the future of our clan. It offers the additional benefit of providing an opportunity for present members to contribute to that future, and of engaging the members in actively promoting clan participation. Congratulations and a hearty thank you to our members for their support of this important program for the future of Clan MacThomas.

Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 11 Clan MacThomas — U.S. & Canadian Branch Official Newsletter Volume # 2 Issue # 4 December 2011 Family News from North American Clan Members

Congratulations To These Members The MacThomas Clan wish to extend our heartfelt congratulations to our Members.

Lilian Clare McCombs was joined in wedlock with Leon Peter Spencer at sunset on 11 June 2011, on the island of Savaii in Samoa. Her dad Dr Thom McCombs gave the bride away and provided The marriage of Amber Nadean McComb and musical support. Patrick George Ashley was celebrated on October The couple make their home in 14th, 2011 at a small private ceremony in Calgary, Sydney, Australia, where they Alberta. The happy couple plan to reside in Cal- work in journalism gary where they can remain close to family and Submitted by friends. Thom McCombs Also pictured in the group photo are Amber's parents (Former branch treasurer Ken and Cindy McComb and Amber's sister Tiffany and committee member) with her husband John Whitnack. Submitted by Ken & Cindy McComb

Ron and Rosemary Thom from Nevada and their granddaughters Kaela and Catriona Palmer. The girls have been pictured in the newsletter in their dancing outfits in the past, and they danced at the Branch gathering in 2005 in Las Vegas. They are accomplished dancers who have won numerous awards in dance competitions. Kaela and Catriona are the daughters of Heather and Sam Palmer. Heather and Rosemary have represented the Clan in Las Vegas for a number of years. The girls (pictured here) danced at a St. Andrew's Day service at Henderson Presbyterian Church. Submitted by Heather Palmer

Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 12 Clan MacThomas — U.S. & Canadian Branch Official Newsletter Volume # 2 Issue # 4 December 2011 WANTED STATE AND PROVINCIAL REPRESENTATIVES

The U.S. & Canadian Branch of the Clan MacThomas is looking for members to volunteer to take on the position of State or Provincial Representatives.

Currently we only have representatives in the following areas: Alberta Cindy & Ken McComb California: Leslie Kenyon Minnesota: Jerry and Cathy Ludmann Nevada: Sam and Heather Palmer Wisconsin: Scott and Jeanne Thomson

Representatives Duties & Responsibilities There are no specific requirements or prescribed duties for this position, but those presently so designated Even the diaper manufacturers must agree that plaids are a usually perform some of the following functions, at their fashion statement. Is this the Pampers dress tartan? convenience.  Setting up or coordinating arrangements for a Clan MacThomas booth at Scottish events in their area.  Applying to the Convenor for available financial or informational support for Branch representation at Scottish events in their area.  Maintaining contact with fellow Clan MacThomas members in their area.  Keeping our Convenor informed of Scottish events in Clan Quiz 2011 1. Asia 2. Ireland 3. Dalriada 4. The Viking Norsemen 5. MacBeth 6. their State or Province and any ways in which the Braveheart 7. The Battle of Bannockburn 8. Garvamore in the Laggan support of Clan MacThomas and its members might District of 9. 15th Century 10. Glen of the Fairies 11. be enhanced in their area. 12. The Thom 13. The Battle of the Cairnwell 14. Farquharson 15. James Graham, Marquis of Montrose 16. Clach na Coileach 17.  Provide reports or interesting articles to the Forter 18. Crandart in Glen Isla 19. Canlochan 20. Drumgley/McComie’s Newsletter Editor as well as a list of Scottish events in Field 21. 22. 1707 23. 1745 24. First decade. 1800 – 1806 25. Aber- their area at which a MacThomas booth is expected lemno 26. -Angus 27. The 19th Century 28. Alexander Graham to be set up, so that this information may be Bell 29. John Logie Baird 30. On the island of Orkney 31. 1954 32. My Grandfather, Alfred 17th Chief 33. 1970 34. 1999 35. 19 36. Mac- published, to encourage attendance and support by Thomaidh Mhor pronounced McHomy Vor 37. I shall overcome envy other members. with God’s help. 38. A Blackcock Grouse or a Domestic Cockerell 39. A serpent 40. Finegand’s March OR March of the MacThomases 41. We provide full support and encouragement as well as Lockerbie 42. Snowberry 43. The Royal Mile / High Street in Edinburgh forms and literature in digital or hard copy and some 44. Billy Connelly 45. Red and gold 46. The Earl and Countess of financial support. We are anxious to expand the Strathearn 47. SNP 48. Flower of Scotland 49. Alex Salmon 50. 2014 coverage of Branch Representatives into areas where there are currently none. So jump aboard and become part of our team, have some fun and help us promote our family. We would love to add you to the list.

If YOU are interested in becoming a Representative in your State or Province please feel free to contact Convenor Cathy [email protected]

THANKS AND WELCOME TO THE TEAM!

Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 13

Andrew MacThomas of Finegand ~ 19th Clan Chief

Membership Renewal Information Combie, McColm, McComas, McComb(e), McCombie, McComie, MacOmie, MacOmish, Tam, Thom, Thomas, Thoms, Thomson Surnames have only become fixed in Scotland since the 18th century, so that early members of the clan used many forms and variations. The initial letter ‗Th‘ in Gaelic having the value of ‗H‘ in English, the name of MacThomais (son of Thomas) and its diminutives MacThom (son of Tom) and MacThomaidh (son of Tommy), came to be pronounced MacHomas, MacHom, and MacHommy respectively, which readily explains the variations of the surnames still in use today. The names Thomson and Thomas also occur in other clans, and in such cases adherence should be determined by genealogical and topographical evidence as to what part of Scotland one‘s ancestors came from. Those from Aberdeenshire, Tayside, and Fife are regarded as belonging to Clan MacThomas.

FULL NAME: MEMBERSHIP #: DATE OF BIRTH:

(DAY / MONTH / YEAR)

MAIDEN NAME: SPOUSE‘S NAME: DATE OF BIRTH:

(IF APPLICABLE): (DAY / MONTH / YEAR)

NAMES & AGES OTHER FAMILY MEMBERS (RESIDING AT SAME ADDRESS):

ADDRESS:

CITY: STATE/PROV: ZIP/PC:

TELEPHONE: CELL PHONE:

Email

The completed form should be returned to the Society address shown on the bottom of this page, with your membership fee. Please PRINT clearly as many members have similar names. (NOTE: All personal information will never be shared outside of the Clan. Your name and address will be will be published in the Clan magazine, the Clachn’Cholich, during the year you join. It will not be published on the Clan website.)

Clan MacThomas Compilation CD (by Jan Rogers) Newsletters from Scotland / US & Canada Newsletters—1960 to 2010 We are offering a compilation CD, prepared by Jan Rogers, to all members who voluntarily donate a minimum of US$25.00 to the US & Canadian Branch Scholarship Fund. This CD contains reproductions of many back issues of Newsletters from Scotland and the US & Canada Branch. I wish to donate to this fund, please send me a CD  YES  NO

Please make checks payable to: Membership Annual Subscription ($25.00) $ Clan MacThomas Society

Donation to the Society in Scotland Mail to: Charles S. Tam $ 2917 Algonquin Drive, Designation ______Lafayette, IN 47909 USA Donation to US &Canadian Branch $ Enquiries — [email protected] Scholarship Fund

(Please remember to advise the Branch Convenor & Treasurer when you change your postal or email address. If you fail to do so, we will not be able to TOTAL REMITTED $ advise you of all upcoming activities). Membership Annual Subscription ($25) is for your Annual Dues for the membership year, which coincides with the calendar year from January 1 to December 31, and are considered to cover all family members residing at the same address. Only one Newsletter will be sent to each address. The dues payment provides membership in the US and Canadian Branch and the parent Society in Scotland.

Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 14

Andrew MacThomas of Finegand ~ 19th Clan Chief New Member Information Combie, McColm, McComas, McComb(e), McCombie, McComie, MacOmie, MacOmish, Tam, Thom, Thomas, Thoms, Thomson

Surnames have only become fixed in Scotland since the 18th century, so that early members of the clan used many forms and variations. The initial letter ‗Th‘ in Gaelic having the value of ‗H‘ in English, the name of MacThomais (son of Thomas) and its diminutives MacThom (son of Tom) and MacThomaidh (son of Tommy), came to be pronounced MacHomas, MacHom, and MacHommy respectively, which readily explains the variations of the surnames still in use today. The names Thomson and Thomas also occur in other clans, and in such cases adherence should be determined by genealogical and topographical evidence as to what part of Scotland one‘s ancestors came from. Those from Aberdeenshire, Tayside, and Fife are regarded as belonging to Clan MacThomas.

FULL NAME: DATE OF BIRTH:

(DAY / MONTH / YEAR)

MAIDEN NAME: SPOUSE‘S NAME: DATE OF BIRTH:

(IF APPLICABLE): (DAY / MONTH / YEAR)

NAMES & AGES OTHER FAMILY MEMBERS (RESIDING AT SAME ADDRESS):

ADDRESS:

CITY: STATE/PROV: ZIP/PC:

TELEPHONE: CELL PHONE:

Email

The completed form should be returned to the Society address shown on the bottom of this page, with your membership fee. Please PRINT clearly as many members have similar names. (NOTE: All personal information will never be shared outside of the Clan. Your name and address will be will be published in the Clan magazine, the Clachn’Cholich, during the year you join. It will not be published on the Clan website.)

Occupation or Profession: ______Skill in any traditional Highland arts or pursuits, please give details, e.g., piping, dancing, Highland games or crafts: ______Are you interested in serving on any Committee, either at the local or national level? ______If your surname or maiden name is not one of the Clan‘s surnames, on what do you base this application? ______Where did you find out about our Society? ______What motivated you to join? ______(We would be pleased if you could provide the following information)

Please make checks payable to: New Application Fee ($25.00) $ Clan MacThomas Society Mail to: Donation to the Society in Scotland Charles S. Tam $ 2917 Algonquin Drive Designation ______Lafayette, IN 47909 USA Donation to US &Canadian Branch $ Enquiries — [email protected] Scholarship Fund (Please remember to advise the Branch Convenor & Treasurer when you change your postal or email address. If you fail to do so, we will not be able to TOTAL REMITTED $ advise you of all upcoming activities). New Application Fee ($25) is for your Annual Dues for the membership year, which coincides with the calendar year from January 1 to December 31, and are considered to cover all family members residing at the same address. Only one Newsletter will be sent to each address. The dues payment provides membership in the US and Canadian Branch and the parent Society in Scotland. Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 15