If you do not receive the SNIM directly via email and would like to, or you know someone who would like to receive the SNIM, please visit the Scottish American Center website to subscribe.

For local organizations recurring monthly events, please visit the SNIM webpages.

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EVENTS

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Tartan Day McCracken Ceilidh
The Tartan Day Cooperative looked for someone with just a wee bit of experience with ceilidh’s so the McCracken Clan stepped in and we will give it a go! The ceilidh will be April 9th, 2010 from 6:00pm to 11:00pm.

Kieran’s Pub has generously offered to host our ceilidh again this year in their brand new location on Block E, downtown Minneapolis. You will be able to order food from their menu. They will have live music in the main room. The Ceilidh will be in the Titanic Room with traditional Scottish Ceilidh Dancing, raffles and impromptu entertainment. This is a FREE event!

Event: http://eventful.com/minneapolis/events/2010-minnesota-tartan-day-celebrations-/E0-001-028421886-0

If you or anyone you know may want to perform an act or some music, contact Andrew McCracken at andrewmcc@izoom.net.

Tartan Day Capitol Event – Minnesota State Capitol
April 10, 2010; 3:00pm-4:00pm
The Tartan Day State Capitol event will feature a procession of Scottish Clans with their banners up to the steps of the Capitol, drummers, Highland dancers, historical Scottish regiment re-enactors and of course, bagpipes with special honored guest, Mayor Chris Coleman piping in. The Macalester Pipe Band will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award and be honored for their contribution.

April 10, 2010; 5:00pm
Join us at Merlin’s Rest for a great meal and a pint! Their new (Scottish) chef has been making changes to the menu, including some family favorites.

We encourage all Minnesotans, whether Scots or not, to join us as we proudly celebrate our heritage. And if you can’t attend in person, be sure to wear your tartan and a Tartan Day Button!

RSCDS 34th Annual Ball
The Royal Scottish Country Dance Society Twin Cities Branch is eagerly anticipating its 34th Annual Ball, which will be a MASQUERADE BALL, on April 17th, 2010 at St. Stephen’s School in Minneapolis. The event will include a reception with substantial hors d’oeuvres, Scottish country dancing with live music by Thistledown Band (Sherry Ladig, Ken Steffenson, Pat O’Loughlin, and Anne Benson), an auction, and prizes for the best masks. Tickets are just $35 for the full evening, $25 for non-dancers. More information, including the dance program here: http://www.rscds-twincities.org/annualball.html

“The Very Small Things in Life”, Talk by Alexander McCall Smith
Just wanted to make you aware of an offer that the TCSC has received from the State Theatre, It is as follows:

Take advantage of this great discount offer now to see Alexander McCall Smith – April 26th – 7:30pm

Alexander McCall Smith will give a talk entitled “The Very Small Things in Life” for approximately one-hour, followed by 20-30 minutes of audience questions. Mr. McCall Smith’s books will be for sale at the event. Immediately following his talk, he will participate in a book signing.

Alexander McCall Smith has written more than 60 books, including specialist academic titles, short story collections, and a number of immensely popular children’s books. Referred to as our new P.G. Wodehouse, he is best known for his internationally acclaimed No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series, which rapidly rose to the top of the bestseller lists throughout the world.

Buy tickets now and receive $10 Off $19.50 seats! Offer ends April 26.
The link to order tickets is: http://www.ticketmaster.com/promo/yokygk

Cheers!
Norma R. Macdonald
President
Twin Cities Scottish Club

State Theatre | 805 Hennepin Avenue | Minneapolis, MN 55402

3rd Annual Northeast South Dakota Celtic Faire and Games
The third annual Northeast South Dakota Celtic Faire and Games will take place September 18th and 19th, 2010 in Aberdeen, SD, at the Brown County Fairgrounds. It will be a two day event this year! Visit the website at www.nesdcelticfaire.com and be sure to check back closer to the date. If anyone is interested in going, they should look into booking hotels now. It was recently announced that the Northern State University (a local college) homecoming weekend will be that same weekend. Hotel rooms will be hard to find soon. Thank you!

Robin O’Neill, President
NESD Celtic Faire and Games

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NEWS

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Minnesota Police Pipe Band mourns the passing of Tim Fitzgerald.
Fitz piped with the band for many years, served as band manager, designed our cap badge and was instrumental in establishing our relationship with the Emerald Society. In addition to his work with MPPB, Fitz was an indispensible part of the Midwest Irish Community. Fitz died peacefully in his sleep on March 3rd and we all will miss him.

Highland Dancing Headlines the May 22 MN Scottish Fair & Highland Games
Along with Heavy Games and Bagpiping, no Scottish event would be complete without the highly skilled dancers in their bright costumes. This year is no exception. Featuring dancers from the U.S. and Canada, the contest will run throughout the day in multiple classes. At this competition, spectators will see young dancers ages 6 & 7, to dancers over 18 years old. Boys and girls compete together, the only separation being experience and age. At one time only males were allowed to competed in highland dancing , today 95% of the dancers are female. Our competition will have several champion dancers. A dancer becomes a champion dancer by winning a Championship Competition in front of three judges and dance specific steps for each dance.

Sponsoring the awards for the third straight year is the member Clans of the Minnesota Coalition of Scottish Clans (MCSC) and the Fair Board is grateful for their partnership

Sanctioned Pipe Band competition returns to the MN Scottish Fair and Highland Games
After an absence of 5 years, pipe bands will again be competing for points toward the Northern Midwest Championship. This Sanctioning by the Midwest Pipe band Association, legitimizes the contest and adds prestige. Grade 3, 4, and 5 bands will bring their best effort and showmanship in an attempt to bring home the “bacon” (or haggis as the case may be). By sanctioning the competition, the fair will attract better and more competitive bands from around the United States and Canada. This level of contest will make the Mass Bands at the Closing Ceremonies better (and louder) than ever!

All of this is made possible with the generous sponsorship of Kieran’s Irish Pub.

Wanted! – Harpers to participate in the 2nd Annual SHSA Scottish Harp Competition at the Minnesota Scottish Fair – May 22nd
Lever and wire harp players of all ages and skill levels are invited to compete in several categories for solo and ensemble. Competition will be judged by internationally recognized master player, Minnesota’s own Ann Heymann. See the SHSA website at shsa.org for rules.

Also needed: volunteers and supporters for the harp competition (May 22.) Volunteers should be available for a short shift during the day to assist the players and judge. Supporters can help by sponsoring or donating a prize, or donating cash, gift certificates, or other items toward competition prizes.

Last, but not least, please stop by the event to enjoy the music and support local and regional harpers with your presence. Both events will also feature a time for anyone interested in having a go at playing the harp’s

For more information, please contact Cindy Schaufenbuel: cindy.schaufenbuel@gmail.com or (952) 693-3755.

Laura MacKenzie & Ross Sutter Duo
Laura MacKenzie and Ross Sutter are working on their duo recording of Robert Burns songs and music. They hope to have it finished by May, and Scottish Fair time!

www.lauramackenzie.com
www.rosssutter.net

The Center for Irish Music @ The Celtic Junction
Welcome to a new term at the Center for Irish music! We had a wonderful Winter term and a fruitful and busy St. Patrick’s Day season. Congratulations to all of our instructors and to our adult and student ensembles who performed to delighted crowds at various St. Paddy’s Day events!

WE NEED YOU TO REGISTER FOR SPRING CLASSES NOW! All group classes need a minimum of 4 registered students to run, sso please don’t wait! St. Patrick’s Day is over; we know you missed us during the break. What are you waiting for?

Most of our classes begin next week, but there are a few that start a bit later:
Learning songs in Irish and English with Daithi Sproule (begins Thursday, April 1)
Adult intro to fiddle with Danielle Enblom (begins Wednesday, April 14)
Adult continuing fiddle with Danielle Enblom (begins Thursday, April 15)

http://www.centerforirishmusic.org

The Celtic Junction | 836 Prior Avenue, N. | St. Paul, MN 55104

House of Gordon
Attention all ye Minnesota Gordon’s and friends of Gordon’s. We now have a MN Convener. Actually it will be shared by TWO people. Michael Hilden and Julie Bowman. In addition there will be a House of Gordon tent this year at the MN Scottish Fair. Please feel free to contact the new conveners at their e-mail address: ClanGordonMN@yahoo.com

Lifetime Achievement Award – “Press Release” from Babs Humphrey
Barbara Reyelts to receive prestigious award

Duluth’s Barbara Reyelts will be presented with a prestigious award soon and this time it’s not for broadcasting. The Minnesota Tartan Day Cooperative has selected Barbara as the 2010 recipient of their Lifetime Achievement Award. Barbara, whose efforts on behalf of her Scottish heritage are well known to Northlanders will be presented with the award during the 12th Annual Tartan Day celebrations in the Twin Cities. The events will begin on Friday evening, April 9, starting at 6:00 p.m. in the “new” Kieran’s Irish pub located in Block E on Hennepin Avenue in Downtown Minneapolis. The evening, to kick off the weekend of fun, will include music, pipes, fantastic food and a Tombola booth auction to raise funds for the Tartan Day celebration. A beautiful plaque created by the Twin Cities Scottish Club will be presented to Barbara during the evening.

The celebration continues on Saturday afternoon, April 10, at 3:00 p.m. with a procession of Scottish Clans from the Veterans memorial building up the mall to the steps of the Capitol. Highland dancers, bagpipes, some from Duluth, the historical Scottish regiment re-enactors, Clann Tartan, as well as surprises will fill the afternoon program. Special guests will present Barbara Reyelts with the 8th annual Lifetime Achievement Award on behalf of the Minnesota Tartan Day Cooperative.

Following the celebration on the steps of the Capitol, those interested can gather at Merlin’s Rest, Lake Street and 36th Avenue South in Minneapolis for a great meal and a pint. The new Scottish chef has been making changes to the menu which now includes some family favorites. Later, at 7:30 p.m. the Macalester College Pipe Band will offer their spring concert in the Janet Wallace Fine Arts Building on the Macalester Campus.

Everyone is welcome to attend one or all of these events. We are looking forward to a great turn out from DSHA members as well as Scots from all over Minnesota as she, who has done so much for the Northland and throughout Minnesota, is honored. Join us in the Twin Cities to honor Barbara Macpherson Reyelts, Scottish lass extraordinaire.

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EVENTS MARCH 2010

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L MacKenzie Events

Friday, March 5, 2010 – MacPhail Center for Music
12:15 – 1:00 PM
Noon time concert with Willow Brae, featuring Andrea Stern – harp, Laura, and Marc Anderson – percussion. Free. “Bach’s Lunch” series.
www.macphail.org
MacPhail Center for Music | 501 2nd St. North | Minneapolis, MN

Saturday, March 6, 2010 – Paradise Center for the Arts
7:30 PM
In Concert with Andrea Stern, harp – our duo “Willow Brae”.
www.paradisecenterforthearts.org
Paradise Center for the Arts | 321 Central Ave N. | Faribault, MN

Thursday, March 11, 2010 – Barron Area Community Center
Evening
Ross & MacKenzie in concert.
www.thebacc.com
Barron Area Community Center | 800 Memorial Drive | Barron, Wisconsin

Saturday, March 13, 2010 – Hjemkomst Center
12:00 & 2:00 PM
A Festival celebrating the Celtic cultures of Brittany, Cornwall, Galicia, Ireland, Isle of Man, Scotland and Wales. Music, dance, exhibits, presentations, food and more. 10 – 4 PM. Performing with Gary Rue (guitar and vocals) and Kelly and Casey Pearson, Irish Stepdancers.
www.fargoparks.com/se_celticfest.html
Hjemkomst Center | 202 1st Ave N. | Moorhead, MN

Sunday, March 14, 2010 – Landmark Center
12:00 – 1:00 PM
IMDA’s “Day of Irish Dance Weyerhauser Concert Series”, performing with Gary Rue, guitar and vocals.
www.irishmusicanddanceassociation.org
Landmark Center | 75 W. 5th St. | St. Paul, MN

Wednesday, March 17, 2010 – Alexandria Area Arts Association
7:30 PM
Laura and the Lads in concert (Laura with Gary Rue, guitar and vocals; Michael Bissonnette, percussion)
Our St. Patrick’s Day Celebration concert!
www.alexandreaareaarts.org
Alexandria Area Arts Association | 618 Broadway | Alexandria, MN

And more! Please see Laura’s website for more March events.

Scottish American Center Meat Raffle
Greetings from the Scottish American Center!

Here is an opportunity to support the Scottish American Center in meeting their budgetary goals and bringing home the bacon at the same time!

On March 6th and March 20th there will be a meat raffle at the Glockenspiel Restaurant in St. Paul, 605 7th St. West. For a modest investment ($2.00), you will be entered into a raffle for a bundle of meat. These bundles vary from steaks and roasts to breakfast packages and our favorites a wurst package! In addition, there is a full menu of excellent German Food and some of the best beers this side of Edinburgh. Please join us!

The raffle runs from 1:00 to 4:00 on those Saturdays and we hope you will be able to attend at least one of these.

Glockenspiel Restaurant | 605 7th Street West | St. Paul, MN

TCSC – Whist, Pies & Chips!

Saturday, March 13th, 2010
Time: 1:00-5:00 pm

Don’t know how to play Whist? Don’t worry…we’ll teach you, it’s easy!! Don’t want to play Whist? That’s OK too, you’re welcome to join us anyway, and have a “wee blether” with those not playing cards, and then enjoy the pies/bridies and chips afterwards!

Cost: $7.00 per person for Members, $9.00 per person for Guests, $5.00 for children 12 years & under

See the TCSC website for the registration form. If you have any questions, please call Norma Macdonald at 952-888-2800.

Macalester Plymouth Church | 1658 Lincoln Ave | St. Paul, MN

We’d like bottles for the Tumbola Stall for Tartan Day. It’s becoming a Traditional Fund raiser for Tartan Day. People can donate unusual and common bottles of anything (including nice whiskys and wines) to benefit Tartan Day.

Drop off points for these bottles will be at the following events:

TCSC Whist and Pies Event – March 13th, 1pm to 5pm
Macalester Plymouth Church
1658 Lincoln Avenue West
St Paul, MN 55105-1949
(651) 698-8871
www.macalester-plymouth.org

or

MN Coalition of Scottish Clans Meeting – March 13th, 11am to 1pm
Hallie Q Brown Center
270 North Kent Street
Saint Paul, MN 55102-1744
(651) 224-4601
www.hallieqbrown.org

Thank you!!

Barra in Concert at the Oak Center General Store

Saturday, March 13, 8:00 pm
The Oak Center General Store is located On Highway 63 in Oak Center , Minnesota – 507-753-2080.
www.oakcentergeneralstore.com

Barra will be performing in concert on Saturday, March 13th at 8 pm as part of the Oak Center General Store’s ongoing concert series. Tickets are $15 to $5 General Admission. The concert takes place at the historic Oak Center General Store located on Highway 63, 10 miles South of Lake City; or 25 miles north of Rochester .

While you are there, you can enjoy organic popcorn, home-baked cookies, natural sodas, waters, coffee & beer. Before concerts and during intermission, you can shop in the Oak Center General Store to stock up on organic foods or some of the many other interesting and useful treasures you may find.

Tickets are between $15 and $5, depending on ability to pay. To make ticket reservations, please call the Oak Center at 507-753-2080.

Additional Information on Barra:
Barra, a traditional 5-piece ensemble has been thrilling the Midwest concert and festival circuit for years with high energy, sensitivity and dedication to the tradition. Considered Minnesota ’s foremost Irish band, they have been bringing strains of the Emerald Isle to stages across the Midwest , sharing the sheer fun and vitality of a music loved the world over.

The band features Paul Garding (guitar and vocals), John McCormick (accordion and vocals), Deborah Martin (fiddle and hurdy gurdy) Amy Shaw (Irish flute) and Dave Cammack (bodhran and accordion).

For more information call 651-357-0400 or visit www.barraband.com

Oak Center General Store | 67011 HWY 63 | Lake City, MN 55041

St. Patrick’s Day Irish Ceili Dance – 19th Annual

Wednesday, March 17, 2010
CSPS Hall – St. Paul , MN
383 Michigan Avenue , St. Paul , MN
(near St. Clair Avenue just off of West 7th Street – Upstairs from the Glockenspiel Restaurant)

Music: Barra – Minnesota ‘s Best Loved Ceili Band
Dance Instruction: Ann Wiberg
7 p.m. – $9.50 at the door. Seniors, 62+, and children 6 to 16 are $4.75, children under 5 are free

The annual Irish dance for St. Patrick’s Day. This is considered to be the largest Irish dance that takes place throughtout the year and it’s at the CSPS Hall, a historic vaudeville hall built around the turn of the century with a wonderful wood dance floor.

Sponsored by the Minnesota Folk Arts Alliance – www.mnfolkarts.org with kind support from the Summit Brewing Company.

For more information call 651-357-0400 or visit www.barraband.com

CSPS Hall | 383 Michigan Avenue | St. Paul, MN

Join us at the Scottish (Genealogy) Interest Group

Newly established is the Scottish Interest Group (SIG). We will meet quarterly throughout the year to assist and further your understanding on how to search your ancestry. The first meeting of the SIG will be on March 20th, 2010 at the Minnesota Genealogical Society (MGS) in South Saint Paul. This quarterly meeting of the SIG will provide a tour of the MGS facility, their Library, and their computer capabilities. The meeting will be co-hosted by Bergetta Monroe (MGS) and John McKeen (SAC). The main focus of the meeting will be to discuss tracing your Scottish genealogy by computer. The meeting is from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and will be held at the M.G.S. The Minnesota Genealogical Society is located at 1185 Concord Street No., Suite 218, South Saint Paul, MN 55075. Phone number (651) 455-9057. Web address is www.mngs.org.

Please call Bergetta Monroe (952) 894-9538, bergetta1@q.com or John McKeen (651) 228-0022, jemckeen@isd.net to reserve you space at the computer. If you have a laptop with Wi-Fi, bring it along. You can then save all your information and take it home with you. Please note, a $10.00 fee will be requested unless you’re a member of the Scottish American Center (SAC) or the Minnesota Genealogical Society.

Give us a call, or send us an e-mail! Find out more about your ancestors. Join the Scottish Interest Group (SIG). Share what you have already learned and help others in their discovery. Join us at 10:00 a.m., March 20th and explore your own family history.

Tartan Day McCracken Ceilidh

The Tartan Day Cooperative looked for someone with just a wee bit of experience with ceilidh’s so the McCracken Clan stepped in and we will give it a go! The ceilidh will be April 9th, 2010 from 6:00pm to 11:00pm.

Kieran’s Pub has generously offered to host our ceilidh again this year in their brand new location on Block E, downtown Minneapolis. You will be able to order food from their menu. They will have live music in the main room. The Ceilidh will be in the Titanic Room with traditional Scottish Ceilidh Dancing, raffles and impromptu entertainment. This is a FREE event!

Event: http://eventful.com/minneapolis/events/2010-minnesota-tartan-day-celebrations-/E0-001-028421886-0

If you or anyone you know may want to perform an act or some music, contact Andrew McCracken at andrewmcc@izoom.net.

RSCDS – 34th Annual Ball

The Royal Scottish Country Dance Society Twin Cities Branch is eagerly anticipating its 34th Annual Ball, which will be a MASQUERADE BALL, on April 17th, 2010 at St. Stephen’s School in Minneapolis. The event will include a reception with substantial hors d’oeuvres, Scottish country dancing with live music by Thistledown Band (Sherry Ladig, Ken Steffenson, Pat O’Loughlin, and Anne Benson), an auction, and prizes for the best masks. Tickets are just $35 for the full evening, $25 for non-dancers. More information, including the dance program here: http://www.rscds-twincities.org/annualball.html

Minnesota Scottish Fair & Highland Games – Rumgumption

This year, Minneapolis-based band Rumgumption will be headlining the all-day lineup of Celtic music at The Minnesota Scottish Fair. Their playlist includes traditional and high energy acoustic Scots and Irish music with origins ranging from ancient to sometime last week.

Rumgumption is Adam Modares (djembe, Uillean pipes), Jason Novak (cittern, flute), Chad McAnally (hammer dulcimer, Gaelic harp, assorted whistles), and Shawn McBurnie (vocals, bodhrán).

To listen to a sample from their new CD, click here: music.rumgumption.com

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LOCAL
ORGANIZATIONS TOP

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Clann Tartan

Clann Tartan is a living history group portraying life in the Highlands in the 1630s, when Highland culture was at its peak. We travel to cultural events and fairs around the upper midwest and depict daily life as accurately as possible. We have several repeating get-togethers in which the public is welcome to participate, please visit our website for more information!

www.clanntartan.org

Discount Minnesota Scottish Fair & Highland Games Tickets Available!

The TCSC has obtained discounted tickets for the MN Scottish Fair & Highland Games 2010! The event will be held on May 22, 2010 at the Dakota County Fairgrounds in Farmington, MN.

Normal price of adult admission is $15.00 per person, however, we have tickets available for your purchase at $12.00 each. That’s a $3.00 savings per person! This ticket sale is for a “limited time”, so get your tickets today!

Please contact Norma Macdonald for more details: weeyin57@aol.com

Wanted! – Harpers to participate in the MSF&HG Competition

Second Annual SHSA Scottish Harp Competition at Minnesota Scottish Fair
Saturday, May 22

Lever and wire harp players of all ages and skill levels are invited to compete in several categories for solo and ensemble. Competition will be judged by internationally recognized master player, Minnesota’s own Ann Heymann. See the SHSA website at shsa.org for rules.

Also needed: volunteers and supporters for the harp competition (May 22.) Volunteers should be available for a short shift during the day to assist the players and judge. Supporters can help by sponsoring or donating a prize, or donating cash, gift certificates, or other items toward competition prizes.

Last, but not least, please stop by the event to enjoy the music and support local and regional harpers with your presence. We will also feature a time for anyone interested in having a go at playing the harp!

For more information, please contact Cindy Schaufenbuel: cindy.schaufenbuel@gmail.com or (952) 693-3755.

Hart School of Scottish Dance

The Hart School of Scottish Dance is in need of new students! We do not want to let our heritage of Scottish highland dance die. Our number of dancers this year is way down!!

Talk to Kitty Hart if you are interested in becoming a new dancer. You can find more details and contact information at highlandkitty.com. Contact us if you are looking for dancers to perform or if you have children of your own that would like to learn Scottish Highland Dance.

Scottish American Military Society

The Scottish American Military Society, MN, Post 1858, is a Veteran’s Organization, not only in Minnesota, but across the United States. Our Org. is comprised of, and open to membership to veteran’s from the U.S., Canada, and the United Kingdom of Scottish heritage, we also accept a limited number of non veteran members per post. Our organization goals are to promote our Military heritage, to pass on our patriotic values to our future generations, to teach the traditions of our Military heritage. To promote a forum for civil exchange, to provide Color and Honor Guards, at Scottish and Military events throughout the state.

Visit the website for more information and to fill out an application: http://www.s-a-m-s.org/

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NEWS TOP

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The Minnesota Scottish Celtic Dance Association would like to congratulate Erin Brush, Allie Schmitz and Emily Schmitz for passing their Scottish Official Board of Highland Dance (SOBHD) Teachers Exam. Well done ladies!

The MSCDA would also like to recognize the following dancers for passing their SOBHD Medal Test exams:

Tiny Tots
Bronze
Silver
Gold
Scottish Level I

Caeylyn Petit
Katie Byzewski
Katie Byzewski
Alison Matthews
Abbey Kuzas

Elaina Parsons
Katie Michalak
Abbey Kuzas
Jackie Schmitz

Elise Parsons
Elise Parsons

Victoria Schmitz

Mikylah MacKay

Over Valentine’s Day weekend, the Minnesota Scottish Celtic Dance Association (MSCDA) held its annual competition at the 24th Scottish Ramble in St. Paul. We would like recognize the outstanding effort of our dancers. The MSCDA is very proud of the first-class effort put forth by all of our very talented dancers. A special congratulations goes to Dancer of the Day, Erin Brush.

E. Brush J. Schmitz A. Matthews

National Trust for Scotland – A letter of interest from Babs:

http://www.scotsman.com/news/Cut-more-jobs-and-sell.6082478.jp

Above is a link to an article about the bad situation the National Trust for Scotland is in. These kinds of groups are suffering mightily due to the bad economic times. As a member of SHUSA, I also get a membership to NTS. Gives me free admission to all the NTS properties when I am in Scotland. It is well worth supporting…

Thanks.
Babs

New Books for the NewYear from Unicorn Ltd.

We have been working away here, getting new titles ready for your reading and research in the new year. Most of this grouping of books fall into the “local history” category. We have concentrated in this group on some of the smaller or less well-served counties. These county or regional histories are vital to your family research, since they provide detailed information about the area from which your family came.

A History of Moray and Nairn. By Charles Rampini.
Clackmannan and Kinross. By J. P. Day
Argyllshire and Buteshire. By Peter McNair
Antiquities of Arran . By John M’ Arthur
Berwick-upon-Tweed. By John Scott
Past and Present: A Descriptive and Historical Account of Stirling , Dumbarton, and Linlithgowshires. By Archibald C. M’Michael

Also of interest this week:
Border Raids and Reivers. By Robert Borland.
The Viking Age. By Paul B. Du Chaillu.
History of Ryegate , Vermont . By Edward Miller and Frederic P. Wells.

General link to website:

http://scotpress.com/catalog/

Happy reading,
Renny and Vicki McLeod

The first European to cross North America was a Scot, Alexander McKenzie (1767-1820)

The first European to explore the polar region was a Scot, John Ross.

The first human on the Moon was a Scots-American, Neil Armstrong.

1,388,000 Scots immigrated from 1901-1961 or 20% of the population of Scotland primarily settling in North & South Carolina, Kentucky, Tennessee, Texas & West Virginia in the United States, the Maritime provinces of Canada, Australia and New Zealand

A Scot, Thomas Blake Glover (1838-1911), was instrumental in helping Japan transform into an industrial power and was a founder of Mitsubishi.

A Scot, Allan Octatvian Hume, was one of the founding fathers of the Congress Party in India leading to Indian independence.

A Scot wrote “Waltzing Matilda”

31 of the U.S. Presidents have been pf Scottish or Ulster-Scots descent.

One hundred years BEFORE Darwin, James Burnett, a Scot, published a theory of evolution.

Joan of Arc was supported by 500 Scots in her army.

The Scots Brigade helped the Dutch achieve their independence from the Spanish.

Ian Fleming, creator of James Bond, was a Scot.

Thirty-eight Scots-American have been awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor.

Twenty per cent of those who gave their lives in the Second World War fighting in the British armed forces were Scots — more than twice their proportion of the population.

Scots under the command of Henry Sinclair, Prince of the Orkneys, explored North America 100 years before Columbus and 40 years before the Vikings.

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Scottish American Center Whisky Tasting – February 13th*

The Scottish American Center invites you to a Scotch Whisky Tasting. As you are aware the SAC has been trying to complete the budget funding for 2010 and this event should complete this funding. Cost for this event is $25.00 and we are asking the Scottish Community to not only come but to bring a friend from outside the community who appreciates Scotch.

This event will be during the weekend of the Scottish Ramble. It will be on Saturday February 13th at the Chech-Slovak Hall in St. Paul, Minnesota (upstairs above the Glockenspiel Restaurant, 605 West 7th Street). Doors open at 6:30 and Seating at 7:00 p.m. after the Ramble has closed for the day.

We will be celebrating a flight of four Scotches from all parts of Scotland
Lowlands: Glenkinchie
Islay: Bruichladdich Rocks
Speyside: Aberlour A’bunadh
Orkney: Highland Park 18yr

Our Whisky Wench for the evening will be Fiona MacNeil. Fiona is an accomplished guide and was the WW at Merlin’s for a number of years. Those of you that know her know that she has an extensive background and knowledge of the water of life.

Tickets are limited for this event and reservations and early purchase are strongly encouraged. Tickets can be purchased by contacting Bob Olsson at 651 770-5820. Preregistering for this event is required. Please make out your check to the Scottish American Center and forward them to Bob at 2758 Chisholm Ave. , North St. Paul , MN 55109 . The other option is to see either Neil Johnson, 651 260-0306 or Lyaman MacPherson, 612-710-4662 who have some tickets available.

Glockenspiel Restaurant | 605 7th Street West | Saint Paul, Minnesota

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EVENTS

Malinky in Concert – January 31st
“May be the finest young Scottish band since Silly Wizard” — Boston Globe

With their stunning fourth album Flower & Iron, Malinky celebrate their tenth anniversary and introduce a newly revamped line-up, meanwhile underscoring their reputation as one of Scotland’s most distinctive and accomplished folk bands. While retaining their hallmark song-based repertoire, performed by three superb lead vocalists and arrayed with tastefully inventive instrumentation, Malinky today unite seasoned maturity with sparkling freshness, casting their musical net wider than ever.

Join us at the Celtic Junction for Malinky in Concert on Sunday, January 31st at 7:00 pm. Tickets are $15 in advance and $18 at the door. See the Celtic Junctions website for more details: www.thecelticjuncti on.com

The group will also present a two-hour workshop on Scottish song starting at 2:00 PM; this is a separate event sponsored by the Traditional Singers Club and the Center for Irish Music with a separate admission of $20.

http://www.malinky. com/

The Celtic Junction | 836 Prior Avenue | Saint Paul, Minnesota

Dáithí Sproule & Laura MacKenzie in Concert – January 31st
Visit Mankato for an appearance by Dáithí Sproule & Laura MacKenzie. They will be at Mankato State University, Halling Recital Hall on January 31st, at 7:30pm. For more information: www.mnsu.edu/ music/events

Halling Recital Hall, Mankato State University | 320 Maywood Ave | Mankato, Minnesota

The Eight Annual Scottish Island Concert – February 5th
Our Friends in the North: The Donegal to Scotland Connection

Imagine yourself in a small Scottish island in the local community hall on a dark winter’s night. Inside, island musicians wait to regale you with Scottish songs and tunes, readings from author Audrey McClellan, and a superb Scottish tea at intermission. This year we explore the vital connection that Scottish influences have had on the music of Donegal, home of Altan and other famous Irish musicians. Be an islander for a night on Eilean Dubh (“Ay-lan Dew”), where once a year for the past seven years this concert materializes in early February (more reliably than Brigadoon). The concert is presented by Dunquin (Don Ladig, Sherry Ladig and Nathan Gourley) with special guest musician Lisa Soltermann. See the Scottish Island magically appear Friday, February 5th at 7:30 at Olivet Congregational Church Social Hall, 1850 Iglehart Avenue in Saint Paul (one block north of Marshall; one block west of Fairview Avenue). Admission is twelve dollars at the door and includes a complementary Scottish savories and sweets tea. Doors open at seven. This is a very special event, not to be missed if you love traditional Celtic music.

Dunquin is a Merriam Park-based traditional Celtic band which plays Irish and Scottish music and has recently added American Civil War-era tunes to its repertoire. The band appears at the irish festival, historic sites and private engagements and has released two studio recordings and five live performance albums. Lisa Soltermann plays bodhran, whistle, and sings with Inish Mohr. Audrey McClellan is the author of the beloved and popular Scottish Island novels and lives in Minneapolis.

Olivet Congregational Church | 1850 Iglehart Avenue | Saint Paul, Minnesota

Macalester College Pipe Band Concert – February 6th
The Macalester College Pipe Band will be performing in concert in Bemidji, MN at The Chief Theatre: Home of the Paul Bunyan Playhouse on Saturday February 6th at 7:00. Tickets will be sold at Brigid’s Irish Pub; tickets will be available at the door beginning at 6 p.m.

Tickets are $10 for adults; $5 for 12 and under; free admission for kids 2 and under.

For more information, check out their website: pipeband@macalester .edu

The Chief Theatre: Paul Bunyan Playhouse | 314 Beltrami Ave NW | Bemidji, Minnesota

Scottish American Center Meat Raffle – February 6th & February 20th
Greetings from the Scottish American Center!

Here is an opportunity to support the Scottish American Center in meeting their budgetary goals and bringing home the bacon at the same time!

On February 6th and February 20th there will be a meat raffle at the Glockenspiel Restaurant in St. Paul, 605 7th St. West. For a modest investment ($2.00), you will be entered into a raffle for a bundle of meat. These bundles vary from steaks and roasts to breakfast packages and our favorites a wurst package! In addition, there is a full menu of excellent German Food and some of the best beers this side of Edinburgh. Please join us!

The raffle runs from 1:00 to 4:00 on those Saturdays and we hope you will be able to attend at least one of these.

Glockenspiel Restaurant | 605 7th Street West | Saint Paul, Minnesota

Scottish American Center Whisky Tasting – February 12th
The Scottish American Center invites you to a Scotch Whisky Tasting. As you are aware the SAC has been trying to complete the budget funding for 2010 and this event should complete this funding. Cost for this event is $25.00 and we are asking the Scottish Community to not only come but to bring a friend from outside the community who appreciates Scotch.

This event will be during the weekend of the Scottish Ramble. It will be on Saturday February 13th at the Chech-Slovak Hall in St. Paul, Minnesota (upstairs above the Glockenspiel Restaurant, 605 West 7th Street). Doors open at 6:30 and Seating at 7:00 p.m. after the Ramble has closed for the day.

We will be celebrating a flight of four Scotches from all parts of Scotland
Lowlands: Glenkinchie
Islay: Bruichladdich Rocks
Speyside: Aberlour A’bunadh
Orkney: Highland Park 18yr

Our Whisky Wench for the evening will be Fiona MacNeil. Fiona is an accomplished guide and was the WW at Merlin’s for a number of years. Those of you that know her know that she has an extensive background and knowledge of the water of life.

Tickets are limited for this event and reservations and early purchase are strongly encouraged. Tickets can be purchased by contacting Bob Olsson at 651 770-5820. Preregistering for this event is required. Please make out your check to the Scottish American Center and forward them to Bob at 2758 Chisholm Ave. , North St. Paul , MN 55109 . The other option is to see either Neil Johnson, 651 260-0306 or Lyaman MacPherson, 612-710-4662 who have some tickets available.

Glockenspiel Restaurant | 605 7th Street West | Saint Paul, Minnesota

A Scottish Ramble – February 13th & 14th
A Scottish Ramble is a two day Scottish festival held at and sponsored by the Landmark Center in St. Paul, Minnesota . For over 25 years it has included music, dance, food, vendors and cultural information about Scotland and those of Scottish heritage.

Many of our organizations featured in the SNIM will be participating in the 2010 Scottish Ramble. Be sure to stop by and visit them!

Saturday, February 13th from 10am – 5pm
Sunday, February 14th from Noon – 5pm

$5 for Adults
$3 for Seniors & Kids 12 & Under

Visit the website for more information: www.scottishramble. org

Landmark Center | 75 West Fifth Street | Saint Paul, Minnesota

TCSC “Taste of Scotland Tea Room” at the Scottish Ramble – Volunteers? – February 13th & 14th
The TCSC will have its “Taste of Scotland Tea Room” again this year at A Scottish Ramble, and are currently looking for volunteers to work both Saturday and Sunday. If you are interested, please contact Norma Macdonald at 952-888-2800 or weeyin57@aol. com.

Wanted! – Harpers to participate in two upcoming Scottish harp events – February 14th & May 22nd

Harpers’ Open Mic at Scottish Ramble, Sunday, February 14, afternoon (time TBA.)
Harp players of all abilities are invited to present a tune or two, Scottish, Irish, other Celtic, or original with a Celtic flavor. Ensembles that include at least one harp are also welcome. This is a non-judged, just-for-fun event.

Second Annual SHSA Scottish Harp Competition at Minnesota Scottish Fair, Saturday, May 22
Lever and wire harp players of all ages and skill levels are invited to compete in several categories for solo and ensemble. Competition will be judged by internationally recognized master player, Minnesota’s own Ann Heymann. See the SHSA website at shsa.org for rules.

Also needed: volunteers and supporters for the harp competition (May 22.) Volunteers should be available for a short shift during the day to assist the players and judge. Supporters can help by sponsoring or donating a prize, or donating cash, gift certificates, or other items toward competition prizes.

Last, but not least, please stop by these events to enjoy the music and support local and regional harpers with your presence. Both events will also feature a time for anyone interested in having a go at playing the harp!

For more information, please contact Cindy Schaufenbuel: cindy.schaufenbuel@ gmail.com or (952) 693-3755.

Curious about Scottish Country Dancing? – February 22 – March 15th
Newcomers are always welcome the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society Twin Cities Branch’s Monday night classes, but coming up in February, we are offering a special opportunity to get started:

4-Week Mini-Course on Scottish Country Dancing Basics
No need to bring a partner! Please wear clean soft-soled shoes and comfortable clothing.
February 22-March 15, Mondays, 7:30 to 9:30pm at the Tapestry Folkdance Center.
Just $12 ($10 for members of Tapestry Folkdance Center, free for RSCDS Twin Cities Branch Members) for all three weeks!

For questions or to sign up for the 4-week class, send email to info@rscds-twinciti es.org or call Lara at 612-874-8299
www.rscds-twincitie s.org

Tapestry Folkdance Center | 3748 Minnehaha Ave S. | Minneapolis, MN

The Center for Irish Music – 2nd Annual Instructors’ Concert and CIM Fundraiser – February 26th
Mark your calendars for this not-to-miss event! Held at The Celtic Junction this year, our instructors’ concert features the best Irish musicians in the Twin Cities ALL IN ONE FANTASTIC evening! Please come show your support of what we do here at the CIM! Friday, February 26 at 7pm. Doors open at 6:30, silent auction supporting CIM open throughout the event!

The Celtic Junction | 836 Prior Avenue | Saint Paul, Minnesota

Two Tap Trio & & Rince Na Chroi Concert – February 27th & 28th
Come support instructors Nathan Gourley, Brian Miller, and Norah Rendell as the Two Tap Trio as they provide rousing accompaniment for Rince Na Chroi’s production, “From the Stage to Your Heart,” Saturday, February 27 and Sunday, February 28. At the EM Pearson Theater at Concordia University, St. Paul, various times. For more information, see http://www.rincenac hroi.com/ schedule. htm

Minnesota Police Pipe Band & Rince Na Chroi Concert – February 27th
Join the Minnesota Police Pipe Band and the Rince Na Chroi dancers at the EM Pearson Theater, Concordia College for a concert, Saturday, February 27th at 7:30pm.
MPPB: www.mppb.org
Rince Na Chroi: www.rincenachroi. com

EM Pearson Theater, Concordia Theater | 275 Syndicate Street North | St. Paul, MN

ONGOING EVENTS

Clann Tartan – Monthly Events
Clann Tartan is a living history group portraying life in the Highlands in the 1630s, when Highland culture was at its peak. We travel to cultural events and fairs around the upper midwest and depict daily life as accurately as possible. We have several repeating get-togethers in which the public is welcome to participate:

Clann Tartan sponsors Scottish Country Dancing on the first and third Wednesdays and second and fourth Tuesdays of every month. Wednesday sessions are held at the Lake Hiawatha Community Center in south Minneapolis, 2701 E 44th St, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. and are FREE and open to the public. Tuesday sessions are held at St Christopher’ s Episcopal Church, Hwy 36 and Hamline Ave, in Roseville, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. and are open to the public. We request a $1.00 per person donation for each Tuesday, if possible. We work from the first edition of Playford and love teaching these simple dances to new people. They are mostly very short, for a set of 4-8 dancers, and are all called, like square dancing, whose ancestor they are. They are not strenuous, using about as much energy as a stroll, and involve no hopping or bouncing. We are open to ages 0 to 100+. (Please note: if the month begins on a Wednesday, Dance will be on the first and FOURTH Wednesdays that month.) For more information, email brulieandjuice@ juno.com.

Clann Tartan sponsors Music Guild on the fourth Monday of each month. We meet at a private home in south Minneapolis to learn songs from the 1600s. Voices and musical instruments are welcome. Free and open to the public. For more information please email brulieandjuice@ juno.com.

Clann Tartan Night at the Pub is the third Friday of each month at Merlin’s Rest on Lake Street. Join us for a meal or a drink and conversation. We gather beginning about 7:00 and continue until whenever.

For further information visit our website: www.clanntartan. org

NEWS

MacDougall McCallum Heritage Foundation Scholarship
Our foundation is offering a $1,000.00 Scholarship to spend a week in the Oban area of Scotland where there are projects which they can help with either at Dunollie House, Dunollie Castle, Gylen Castle on Kerrera or the museum on the Isl of Lismore. All of the informatioin is on our website (macdougallmccallum heritagefoundati on.org) which you might want to look at. Perhaps you are aware that Tom King received our Scholarship in 2008 and his experience is noted on our website along with other scholarship recipients.

Any questions? Just give me a call or an e-mail…..

Yours Aye,
Margaret MacDougall Carasik
651-439-4780
carasikm@comcast. net

Discount Minnesota Scottish Fair & Highland Games Tickets Available!
The TCSC has obtained discounted tickets for the MN Scottish Fair & Highland Games 2010! The event will be held on May 22, 2010 at the Dakota County Fairgrounds in Farmington, MN.

Normal price of adult admission is $15.00 per person, however, we have tickets available for your purchase at $12.00 each. That’s a $3.00 savings per person! This ticket sale is for a “limited time”, so get your tickets today!

Please make checks payable to the “MSFHG” (Minnesota Scottish Fair and Highland Games) and mail to Norma Macdonald at 14 Mission Road West, Bloomington, MN 55420. Please include $12.00 for each ticket that you wish to receive, along with your name and address to send the tickets to.

This ticket sale is open to all, so tell your family and friends!

North East South Dakota Celtic Faire and Games – Thank you!
Thank you to all who attended the second annual North East South Dakota Celtic Faire and Games. We had a great time, and preparations are under way for the third annual. Be sure to check in at our website! www.nesdcelticfaire .com

Hart School of Scottish Dance
The Hart School of Scottish Dance is in need of new students! We do not want to let our heritage of Scottish highland dance die. Our number of dancers this year is way down!!!

We just had an amazing performance at the Celtic Junction, where we teach, and I have amazing, talented dancers to perform.

Talk to Kitty Hart if you are interested in becoming a new dancer. You can find more details and contact information at highlandkitty. com. Contact us if you are looking for dancers to perform or if you have children of your own that would like to learn Scottish Highland Dance.

Scottish American Military Society
The Scottish American Military Society, MN, Post 1858, is a Veteran’s Organization, not only in Minnesota, but across the United States. Our Org. is comprised of, and open to membership to veteran’s from the U.S., Canada, and the United Kingdom of Scottish heritage, we also accept a limited number of non veteran members per post. Our organization goals are to promote our Military heritage, to pass on our patriotic values to our future generations, to teach the traditions of our Military heritage. To promote a forum for civil exchange, to provide Color and Honor Guards, at Scottish and Military events throughout the state.

Visit the website for more information and to fill out an application: http://www.s- a-m-s.org/

The SNIM is sponsored by the Scottish American Center. We welcome news from all variety of Celts. Please send news, announcements, questions and concerns to scottishamericancen ter@yahoo. com.

Thank you!
SAC

The MacRae said that he would as long as his friend did not mind if he passed it through his kidneys first.

As most of you know, the SNIM has changed hands once again. The publishing of the SNIM will now be sent out via the Scottish American Center. Be looking for some changes and please excuse our dust as we settle into our latest enterprise!

Many thanks to the previous editor, Lawrence Winans, for the time and effort he put into continuing the SNIM for us over the past year. We appreciate all your hard work.

For future newsletters, please send any news and announcements you may have to scottishamericancen ter@yahoo. com. If possible, please send us your news by the 20th of the month if you wish it to be sent out in the consecutive month’s newsletter. We will also send out special notices as needed, for urgent news only.

Thank You!
Tiffany Esau-McCracken
Scottish American Center

Scottish American Center Meat Raffle – January 16, 2010
The SAC Meat Raffle will take place Saturday, January 16th from 1pm-4pm at the Glockenspiel Restaurant in St. Paul. Check out their website for restaurant details and location: www.glockenspielres taurant.com. If you can’t make it to the January raffle, have no fear, you’ll get another chance: February 6th & 20th and March 6th & 20th.

Glockenspiel Restaurant | 605 7th Street West | Saint Paul, Minnesota

St. Andrew’s Society Burns Supper – January 23, 2010
We are planning our annual Burns Dinner and invite everyone to attend. The date is January 23, 2010 at 6:00pm. The place is the St. Paul College Club. Members should watch for your invitation in the mail. Non-members can make reservations by downloading the invitation from our website.
St. Paul College Club | 990 Summit Avenue | Saint Paul, MN

TCSC Burns Supper – January 30th, 2010
Saturday, January 30th is the Twin Cities Scottish Club’s 40th Annual Burns Supper. The supper takes place at the Ramada Mall of America Airport Hotel, from 5:00pm to midnight. Your ticket entitles you to a three-course dinner with a Scottish flare, traditional toasts and entertainment and a ceilidh. They will also have their silent auction and raffle prizes again this year. Performances will include the Night Scotsman, Florence Hart School of Highland Dance, the music of Laura MacKenzie & Dáithí Sproule, Macalester College Pipe Band and poetry recitation by Doug Bethune.
Please see the TSCS website for more information and to RSVP. http://www.twinciti esscottishclub. org/burnsnight. htm
Ramada – Mall of America Hotel | 2300 American Blvd East | Bloomington, MN

Curious about Scottish Country Dancing?
Newcomers are always welcome the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society Twin Cities Branch’s Monday night classes, but coming up in February, we are offering a special opportunity to get started:

4-Week Mini-Course on Scottish Country Dancing Basics
No need to bring a partner! Please wear clean soft-soled shoes and comfortable clothing.
February 22-March 15, Mondays, 7:30 to 9:30pm at the Tapestry Folkdance Center.
Just $12 ($10 for members of Tapestry Folkdance Center, free for RSCDS Twin Cities Branch Members) for all three weeks!

For questions or to sign up for the 4-week class, send email to info@rscds-twinciti es.org or call Lara at 612-874-8299
FFI: www.rscds-twincitie s.org

Tapestry Folkdance Center | 3748 Minnehaha Ave S. | Minneapolis, MN

Discount Minnesota Scottish Fair & Highland Games Tickets Available!
The TCSC has obtained discounted tickets for the MN Scottish Fair & Highland Games 2010! The event will be held on May 22, 2010 at the Dakota County Fairgrounds in Farmington, MN.
Normal price of adult admission is $15.00 per person, however, we have tickets available for your purchase at $12.00 each. That’s a $3.00 savings per person! This ticket sale is for a “limited time”, so get your tickets today!

Please make checks payable to the “MSFHG” (Minnesota Scottish Fair and Highland Games) and mail to Norma Macdonald at 14 Mission Road West, Bloomington, MN 55420. Please include $12.00 for each ticket that you wish to receive, along with your name and address to send the tickets to.

This ticket sale is open to all, so tell your family and friends!

The SNIM is sponsored by the Scottish American Center. We welcome news from all variety of Celts. Please send news, announcements, questions and concerns to scottishamericancen ter@yahoo. com.