Sas'y News

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SAS'Y NEWS

Scottish American Society

Weekly news from the Scottish American Community

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28th January 2012

Last week at this time we were looking forward to the SHANO Burns Dinner. This week it is just a memory. But a lovely one. I won't admit how long we've been going to their dinners, but the first we attended was in the old Hotel Cleveland ballroom. That was a year or two ago. It never disappoints.

Scottish Country Dancing - If you are interested in joining, contact Frances Acar at: Frances.acar@gmail.com. Her telephone number is: 330-673-6514. We meet on Friday evenings at 7:30 at the Christ Episcopal Church (follow the music to the basement) 118 S. Mantua Street, in Kent, Ohio. Frances is an excellent and patient instructor. She encourages everyone to give it a try. Frances also teaches Scottish Gaelic and singing. If you have Internet access, you do not need to physically attend class. She uses Skype and digital sound files which can be sent via e-mail directly to your home.

Highland Dance - If you know someone interested in learning the art of Highland Dancing, you can call Christie Walsh. Christie is a certified B.A.T.D. Dance instructor and heads the Tigh na Creige highland dance group. For more information call Christie at: 330-867-1030.

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14 January 2012

One minute it's warm, the next freezing. Yep, it's winter in Ohio. Jim Frost did a super job on his presentation at the meeting. As he pointed out, Culloden was the last Civil War fought on British soil. While it ultimately brought an end to the clan system, it brought the beginning stirrings of the Scottish Enlightenment period.

The SHANO Burns Dinner is coming up on January 21st. Donne Shepperly will be happy to answer any questions you might have. You can get in touch with her at: cragnadun@AOL.com

Our sympathy to member Carol Leslie Hosticka. Carol is returning today from Scotland. Her mother, Mary Ellen Boyle Leslie, made her transition at 4:58 PM GMT, on the 12th of January. Our very best to you always, Carol. Carol and her husband, Jerry, live at 3826 Silsby Road, University Hts., Ohio 44118.

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7 January 2012

Well, we're back to normal here in the Frost household. Getting organized for the new year. Wow. 2012. That's absolutely amazing. Our first Sas'y meeting of the year is tomorrow, 3:00, at the Akron Public Library - Meeting Rm.1. Himself, Herr Professor Doctor Frost, will be speaking. He has put together a super program on Culloden. Bring your hankies, it's a sad episode in our Scottish History. Parking in the parking deck next door is free.

Don't forget that the SHANO Burns Dinner is coming up on January 21st. Donne Shepperly will be at the meeting tomorrow if you still need to make your reservation. Otherwise you can get in touch with her at: cragnadun@AOL.com

Marnie Sweet, who spoke to us about her sojourn in Alaska at our September meeting, is currently living in Beijing. She says she loves it there, and shared this information on the Burns Dinner being held at the posh China World Hotel in downtown Beijing.

Burns Night: February 4th in the China World Hotel Ballroom, 7pm. Tickets: 800RMB for members and 850RMB for non members. (If you came to either of the ceilidhs or the Ball you are a MEMBER.)Tables seat 10 so you can come as a group or individually. Ticket price includes pre dinner drinks, buffet dinner, dancing, midnight snacks and a celebration of Robert Burns poetry.

According to Marnie, the 850RMB ticket works out to about $135 PP including $8 for the annual membership fee. She has promised to tell us all about her new adventure when she returns. We'll look forward to it.

In the meantime, Louisa Braten, the lady who previously donated the Akron Burns Club Minutes to us, has sent another box which covers the years 1957 to 1974. You may recall that her mother, Jean (Morton) Clark, was formerly the secretary of the Burns Club. We will have these minutes at the next few meetings for anyone present to look over. After that, like the others, they will be in the Special Collections Department of the Akron Public Library for anyone to use in research.

Our thoughts and prayers are with member Carol Leslie Hosticka. Carol is currently in Scotland at the bedside of her terminally ill mother. Our very best to you always, Carol.

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10 December 2011

This is the weekend for cookie baking at the Frost household. Our decorations are largely in place, but we need to have something ready for refreshments for that jolly old elf and all the friends who stop by over the holidays. It's a busy and fun time.

I think we've decided now that the next St. Andrews fundraiser/dinner dance will take place on - wait for it - St. Andrews Day, 2012. (That's Friday, November 30th - be sure and ink it in on your new calendars.) Just in case you were wondering, we raised enough to pay our pipe bands for the Beltane. How about that? For all who purchased items at that splendid Silent Auction, please know that the folks at Pegasus are very grateful.

Bill Kennedy has two very interesting web sites. One is ScotClans of Ohio and there other is the web site for the Scottish American Military Society. Contact Bill at: wkennedyjr@yahoo.com for more information on these or on Clan Kennedy.

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3 December 2011

The St. Andrews was last night and a really fun event it was. Dreama Powell ushered in the evening with her gentle song stylings on the Celtic Harp. She was followed by the Celtic Eagle pipers, skillfully playing rousing tunes. Chris Smith came all the way from Cincinnati to entertain us with his keyboard improvisations of Big Band sounds. Bob Morehead once again did a masterful job of managing the sound system. His wife, Ida, produced the beautiful (and yummy) cakes for dessert. Granddaughter, Timmie (the little red-headed dynamo who has been with us since birth) is now part of the Tigh na Creige Highland Dancers, taught by Christy Urquhart Walsh and Rebecca Gressock Spillan. Becca's daughter, Ainsley Grace Spillan (18 months), shows great promise as a future member of the group. The Walsh kids kept right on entertaining after their performance, with informal dancing and by leading the Christmas Carols. With Betty and Gene Marcus organizing the Silent Auction tables, lots of folks were able to browse the many very generous donations offered. I'm sure lots of those items will appear under someone's Christmas Tree.

The food was good, the ambience just right for our evening, and those who work at the S.Y.B. Hall were courteous, friendly, and very helpful. In fact, we liked the venue so much Frances sat right down and booked it for next year.

Our Rose and Thistle Award winners required a lot of stealthy voting this year. And yes, you read that right. For the first time we have made the award to a couple - and I'm sure you will agree on the choice. Gene and Betty Marcus. Congratulations to two of our very favorite people.

Scottish Country Dancing - Dance classes have begun again. If you wish to participate (we are not a threatening group) contact Frances at: Frances.acar@gmail.com. Her telephone number is: 330-673-6514. We meet on Friday evenings at 7:30 at the Christ Episcopal Church (follow the music to the basement) 118 S. Mantua Street, in Kent, Ohio. Frances is an excellent and patient instructor. She encourages everyone to give it a try. Frances also teaches Scottish Gaelic and singing. If you have Internet access, you do not need to physically attend class. She uses Skype and digital sound files which can be sent via e-mail directly to your home.

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26 November 2011

I don't know about you, but we're still eating Thanksgiving leftovers. Himself threw out the turkey bones. He does NOT want turkey soup.

Okay folks, here it is. Your absolutely, positively, rock bottom LAST CHANCE for the ST. ANDREWS ! If you haven't made a reservation, pick up that telephone and call Frances Acar immediately. As in IMMEDIATELY ! Her telephone number is: 330-673-6514. If you miss this event, you'll be missing an evening full of camaraderie and fun. Also, a super shopping opportunity. There are some totally wonderful items for sale at the Silent Auction.

The St. Andrews Dinner Dance will be held next Friday, December 2nd at the S.Y.B. Party Center, 4157 Hudson Drive, Stow, Ohio 44240. Cost is: $25 Adults, $15 Seniors (90 & over) $20 (12 & under). Includes dinner, dessert, non-alcoholic beverages and entertainment. Cash bar available. The entertainment will feature the Tigh na Creige dancers, Dreama on the harp, the Celtic Eagle pipers, and Chris Smith duo playing Big Band sounds. Bob Morehead will manage all the good sounds. His wife Ida is providing the cake for our dessert.

The S.Y.B. Party Center is easily accessible from Rt. 8. Directions: Take Rt. 8 to the Steels Corners Rd exit, EXIT 9, toward Hudson Dr. (go 0.25 miles) Turn east onto E Steels Corners Rd. - E Steels Corners Rd becomes Hudson Dr. (go 0.01 miles). 4157 HUDSON DR is on the right. As most of you know, the St. Andrews helps us fund the acts at the Beltane Festival in May - which in turn raises money for Pegasus.

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The meeting was quick. We didn't have all that much business and we wanted to get to the movie, Geordie. The Akron Library staff was right there to help us get it organized. (I have not sufficient accolades for these folks.) Himself and I purchased the film (made in the 50's, but reworked onto DVD) so if you would like to see it, please let us know. We'll be glad to loan it to you for private viewing.

The St. Andrews Dinner Dance is our next big event. It will be held on Friday, December 2nd at the S.Y.B. Party Center, 4157 Hudson Drive, Stow, Ohio 44240. Cost is: $25 Adults, $15 Seniors (90 & over) $20 (12 & under). Includes dinner, dessert, non-alcoholic beverages and entertainment. Cash bar available. We have some very neat items for the silent auction, including kilted skirts in Lindsay tartan, those neat tartan bags and tags from Bev Kincaid, and gorgeous items from Quantum Silver. The entertainment will feature the Tigh na Creige dancers, Dreama on the harp, the Celtic Eagle pipers, and Chris Smith duo playing Big Band sounds. Bob Morehead will manage all the good sounds. His wife Ida is providing the cake for our dessert.

Reservations may be made by simply sending a check made out to the Celtic Beltane Festival, and mailing it to: Frances Acar, 234 Lowell Drive, Kent, Ohio 44240.

Reservation Deadline: November 25th, 2011

The S.Y.B. Party Center is easily accessible from Rt. 8. Directions: Take Rt. 8 to the Steels Corners Rd exit, EXIT 9, toward Hudson Dr. (go 0.25 miles) Turn right onto E Steels Corners Rd. - E Steels Corners Rd becomes Hudson Dr. (go 0.01 miles). 4157 HUDSON DR is on the right. As most of you know, the St. Andrews helps us fund the acts at the Beltane Festival in May - which in turn raises money for Pegasus.

Hope you all have a happy and very filling Thanksgiving....

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October 29

Happy Halloween!

Our next meeting will be at the Akron Library on November 13th. We are showing the film "Geordie" which tells the story of a Scottish Olympian. Be there promptly at 3:00, please.

Prior to that, the Akron-Summit County Public Library and the Summit County Chapter of the Ohio Genealogical Society offers the Seventh Annual Late Night at the Library, After Hours Genealogy Event, Friday, November 4, 6:30 – 10:30 PM in the Special Collections Division of Main Library, 60 South High Street, Akron, Ohio 44326. If you are new to genealogy, attend a tour of the division and an abbreviated version of our Getting Started in Family History workshop at 6:45 PM. As in years past, parking is free in the High Street Parking Deck if you enter after 6 PM. Copies and printing are free. Door prizes and refreshments are provided. Need more information? Contact the Special Collections division at: 330.643.9030

Our next big event is the St. Andrews Dinner Dance. That will be held on Friday, December 2nd at the S.Y.B. Party Center, 4157 Hudson Drive, Stow, Ohio 44240. This is easily accessible from Rt. 8. Directions: Take Rt. 8 to the Steels Corners Rd exit, EXIT 9, toward Hudson Dr. (go 0.25 miles) Turn right onto E Steels Corners Rd. - E Steels Corners Rd becomes Hudson Dr. (go 0.01 miles). 4157 HUDSON DR is on the right. As most of you know, the St. Andrews helps us fund the acts at the Beltane Festival in May - which in turn raises money for Pegasus.

We still need donations of items for the Silent Auction at the St. Andrews. They may be brought to the next meeting, November 13th at the Akron Library. That meeting will feature an old, but charming film entitled "Geordie." I guarantee, you will enjoy this story about a Scottish fellow who becomes an Olympic Athlete.

Scottish Country Dancing - Dance classes have begun again. If you wish to participate (we are not a threatening group) contact Frances at: Frances.acar@gmail.com. Her telephone number is: 330-673-6514. We meet on Friday evenings at 7:30 at the Christ Episcopal Church (follow the music to the basement) 118 S. Mantua Street, in Kent, Ohio. Frances is an excellent and patient instructor. She encourages everyone to give it a try. Frances also teaches Scottish Gaelic and singing. If you have Internet access, you do not need to physically attend class. She uses Skype and digital sound files which can be sent via e-mail directly to your home.

Tune in at 4:00 every Sunday to "Sounds of Britain and Ireland" on WCPN, 90.3 FM, featuring Joe Nicholls and Kevin McGinty, two very charming gentlemen. They do a grand job of keeping folks informed about all area Celtic events, including,of course,those within the Scottish Community. One HUGE THANK YOU to both of them for all their help with our Scottish Events.

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October 22nd

What a wonderful event our Water Aid Tea last week was. So sorry if you missed it. There were goodies in abundance and entertainment to bring joy to anyone's heart. The Robertsons played and sang for us. Our own Brian McElhiney appeared in his gorgeous USA tartan, but had another gig so he didn't play for us. I feel sure he would have if asked. (We can always count on Brian.) Bob Morehead functioned as a very competent DJ, playing tunes and making sure everyone had proper microphones and music. His granddaughter, Timmie, is now one of our most adorable highland dancers. We danced the Circassian Circle at 5:00, thus joining hands with Scots all over the world. Our Agnes Bagley, at 102, was our oldest dancer. Isn't she amazing? I asked her if she was tired when we finished. She smiled and said, "a bit." I'll bet!

Our attendance numbers were down, but nevertheless we raised $360. Then on top of the money we raised at the Tea, several very generous folks on the Board of Trustees of the Ohio Scottish Games added to our total. We are able to send $600 to Water Aid. This charity has been in existence since 1981. They have reached 15.9 million people with safe water, and 11 million people with sanitation (since 2004). Water Aid works with 400 local partners around the world. These are folks who understand local needs. Water Aid teaches them the necessary skills and provides funding so that they can establish and manage affordable, accessible, sustainable solutions. Give yourself a pat on the back, all who contributed to this worthy effort. I'm very proud of each and every one of you - and the world thanks you.

Our next big event is the St. Andrews Dinner Dance. That will be held on Friday, December 2nd at the S.Y.B. Party Center, 4157 Hudson Drive, Stow, Ohio 44240.

This is easily accessible from Rt. 8. Directions: Take Rt. 8 to the Steels Corners Rd exit, EXIT 9, toward Hudson Dr. (go 0.25 miles) Turn right onto E Steels Corners Rd. - E Steels Corners Rd becomes Hudson Dr. (go 0.01 miles). 4157 HUDSON DR is on the right. As most of you know, the St. Andrews helps us fund the acts at the Beltane Festival in May - which in turn raises money for Pegasus.

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October 15th

Don't you wish you could bottle up some of the rain and send it to the 3rd world countries where it is so badly needed?

Too bad we can't do that. But we can help raise money for those who help them find water. Today is our Water-Aid Tea at the Northwest Family Recreation Center, 1730 Shatto Avenue (behind the library) - Akron 44313. From 3:00 to 5:00, we'll sip tea, nibble goodies, and bid on Silent Auction items as we are entertained by pipers, a speaker, the Tigh na Creige dancers, music by the Robertsons and Bob Morehead who provides our sound system.

We will all (hopefully) participate in this International Ceilidh to benefit Water Aid. Water related diseases take the lives of more children than HIV/AID’s, malaria and measles combined. Please help us to continue to change this. To date, the funds raised from this unique event have helped provide a lasting supply of safe water, sanitation and hygiene to over 6000 people. We will join hands with each other and with Scots all over the world who will dance the Circassian Circle at precisely 10:00 (in Scotland - 5:00 our time). It's simple and it's fun. Almost anyone can manage it, but if you cannot, at least be there to applaud those who do.

We still need donations of baked goods for the Tea, as well as items for the Silent Auction.

[Items for either of the Silent Auctions - Ceilidh or St. Andrews - may be brought today. Items for the St. Andrews may be brought to the next meeting.]

Speaking of meetings - Bob Morehead once again did not disappoint. I think we all understand the Darien Scheme better and the tragic consequences. Thank you, Bob. Outstanding program.

Scottish Country Dancing - Our Frances is back from Scotland, so dance classes will begin again shortly. Contact her at: Frances.acar@gmail.com. Her telephone number is: 330-673-6514. We meet on Friday evenings at 7:30 at the Christ Episcopal Church (follow the music to the basement) 118 S. Mantua Street, in Kent, Ohio. Frances is an excellent and patient instructor. She encourages everyone to give it a try. Frances also teaches Scottish Gaelic and singing. If you have Internet access, you do not need to physically attend class. She uses Skype and digital sound files which can be sent via e-mail directly to your home.

Tune in at 4:00 every Sunday to "Sounds of Britain and Ireland" on WCPN, 90.3 FM, featuring Joe Nicholls and Kevin McGinty, two very charming gentlemen. They do a grand job of keeping folks informed about all area Celtic events, including,of course,those within the Scottish Community. One HUGE THANK YOU to both of them for all their help with our Scottish Events. As there is currently a fund drive on for public radio - please call and make a pledge if you can manage. We really want to support public radio - and most important, Joe and Kevin.

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October 8th 2011

What absolutely gorgeous fall weather. This is amazing. Please don't let it distract you from attending the meeting tomorrow, though. It will be at the Akron library, as usual. Free parking adjacent to the library in the parking garage (across from the Art Museum). 3:00-5:00. Bob Morehead will tell us about the Darien Scheme. A dark mark in Scottish History.

On October 15th (the following Saturday) we will all (hopefully) participate in the International Ceilidh to benefit Water Aid. Water related diseases take the lives of more children than HIV/AID’s, malaria and measles combined. Please help us to continue to change this. To date, the funds raised from this unique event have helped provide a lasting supply of safe water, sanitation and hygiene to over 6000 people. We will join hands with each other and with Scots all over the world who will dance the Circassian Circle at precisely 10:00 (in Scotland - 5:00 our time). It's simple and it's fun. Almost anyone can manage it, but if you cannot, at least be there to applaud those who do.

Joe Nicholls writes that WCPN-FM is having a fundraiser next week. Their turn is Sunday, October 16. He was wondering if the Scottish American Society might be able to make a pledge. Any amount will do. If not, would any member be able to help. All the money goes to the station. Any help would be appreciated. We'll discuss this tomorrow.

We will need donations of baked goods for the Tea on October 15th, as well as items for the Silent Auction coming up. We have a program featuring Scottish music, dancing by the Tigh na Creige Highland Dancers, pipers, sound system by J & C Entertainment, Bob Morehead acting as deejay.

[Items for either of the Silent Auctions - Ceilidh or St. Andrews - may be brought to the next two meetings.]

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October 1st 2011

Dreary day today. If you planned a picnic in the park, frankly I'd skip it. Himself says we will not go to Cedar Point today. (Since we didn't plan to go anyhow, that's a moot point.)

Our Membership Chairman, Dave Allison, is doing pretty well despite recent surgery. He was diagnosed with lung cancer, but they feel that they caught it very early. According to Dianne, they removed about half of his left lung after doing a biopsy while he was on the table and verifying that it is cancer. He has some really big drains (he calls them garden hoses). Currently he is in Western Reserve Hospital in room 338. If you wish to send a card, you could send it there or to their home: 1765 Calvert Drive, Cuyahoga Falls, OH, 44223.

Grandma News (hey, I write the newsletter, I get to go there). Grandson Jonathan Belvin (he heads parking at the Beltane) was Athlete of the Week at Springfield High School. He will also be part of the King's Court at Homecoming next Friday. Jon is president of the Springfield HS Band. With that in mind, please, please go to www.Ohio.com/spirit and vote for Springfield as the best Marching Band. They really are.

Don't forget that our next meeting is coming up at the library on Sunday, October 9th. Bob Morehead will tell us about the Darien Scheme. A dark mark in Scottish History.

On October 15th we will all (hopefully) participate in the International Ceilidh to benefit Water Aid. Water related diseases take the lives of more children than HIV/AID’s, malaria and measles combined. Please help us to continue to change this. To date, the funds raised from this unique event have helped provide a lasting supply of safe water, sanitation and hygiene to over 6000 people. We will join hands with each other and with Scots all over the world who will dance the Circassian Circle at precisely 10:00 (in Scotland - 5:00 our time). It's simple and it's fun. Almost anyone can manage it, but if you cannot, at least be there to applaud those who do.

We will need donations of baked goods for the Tea that day, as well as items for the Silent Auction coming up. We have a program featuring Scottish music, dancing by the Tigh na Creige Highland Dancers, pipers, sound system by J & C Entertainment, Bob Morehead acting as deejay.

[Items for either of the Silent Auctions - Ceilidh or St. Andrews - may be brought to the next two meetings.]

Scottish Country Dancing - Let me know if you are interested, I'll be happy to relay the information to Frances. She is currently visiting her family in Scotland. Classes are suspended until she returns.

However, later this month you can contact her directly. Frances Acar, (our instructor) can be reached at: Frances.acar@gmail.com. Her telephone number is: 330-673-6514. We meet on Friday evenings at 7:30 at the Christ Episcopal Church (follow the music to the basement) 118 S. Mantua Street, in Kent, Ohio. Frances is an excellent and patient instructor. She encourages everyone to give it a try. Frances also teaches Scottish Gaelic and singing. If you have Internet access, you do not need to physically attend class. She uses Skype and digital sound files which can be sent via e-mail directly to your home.

Highland Dance - If you know someone interested in learning the art of Highland Dancing, you can call Christie Walsh. Christie is a certified B.A.T.D. Dance instructor and heads the Tigh na Creige highland dance group. For more information call Christie at: 330-867-1030.

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Sept. 10th 2011

Hope you will all fly an American Flag tomorrow in memory of the sad events that occurred ten years ago. But please also plan to attend our meeting at the library. Marnie Sweet will speak on Alaska at 3:00 - usual meeting area.

We will have our International Ceilidh at 3:00 on October 15th at the Northwest Family Recreation Center, 730 Shatto Ave. We will raise money for Water Aid, a charity devoted to bringing water to areas of 3rd world countries where they have none. There is no charge for this event, but a donation at the door is requested.

Water related diseases take the lives of more children than HIV/AID’s, malaria and measles combined. Please help us to continue to change this. To date, the funds raised from this unique event have helped provide a lasting supply of safe water, sanitation and hygiene to over 6000 people. We will join hands with each other and with Scots all over the world who will dance the Circassian Circle at precisely 10:00 (in Scotland - 5:00 our time). It's simple and it's fun. Almost anyone can manage it.

We will need donations of baked goods for the Tea that day, as well as items for the Silent Auction. We have a program featuring Scottish music, dancing by the Tigh na Creige Highland Dancers, pipers, sound system by J & C Entertainment, Bob Morehead acting as deejay.

Scottish Country Dancing - Our schedule is erratic due to the weather and various elements, so if you are interested in Scottish Country Dancing, please contact our instructor, Frances Acar, at frances.acar@gmail.com. Her telephone number is: 330-673-6514. We meet on Friday evenings at 7:30 at the Christ Episcopal Church (follow the music to the basement) 118 S. Mantua Street, in Kent, Ohio. Frances is an excellent and patient instructor. She encourages everyone to give it a try. Frances also teaches Scottish Gaelic and singing. If you have Internet access, you do not need to physically attend class. She uses Skype and digital sound files which can be sent via e-mail directly to your home.

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3 Sept. 2011

We had a great time at Cedar Point. Lots of laughter and one of the last scheduled rides on the paddle boats which will be history soon. We'll miss the calm ride at the end of the day and laughing at the corny jokes. Still, we are looking forward to next year.

In the meantime, we have lots to keep us busy. First there is our meeting on September 11th, featuring a talk by member Marnie Sweet who will speak on Alaska, once her home state. [Please also remember to fly an American Flag on that day, in remembrance of the horrendous events 10 years ago.]

Then we have the International Ceilidh at 3:00 on October 15th at the Northwest Family Recreation Center, 730 Shatto Ave. We will raise money for Water Aid, a charity devoted to bringing water to areas of 3rd world countries where they have none. There is no charge for this event, but a donation at the door is requested.

Water related diseases take the lives of more children than HIV/AID’s, malaria and measles combined. Please help us to continue to change this. To date, the funds raised from this unique event have helped provide a lasting supply of safe water, sanitation and hygiene to over 6000 people. We will join hands with each other and with Scots all over the world who will dance the Circassian Circle at precisely 10:00 (in Scotland - 5:00 our time). We danced the Circassian Circle dance at Country Dancing last night. It's simple and it's fun. Almost anyone can manage it.

Tune in at 4:00 every Sunday to "Sounds of Britain and Ireland" on WCPN, 90.3 FM, featuring Joe Nicholls and Kevin McGinty, two very charming gentlemen. They do a grand job of keeping folks informed about all area Celtic events, including,of course,those within the Scottish Community. One HUGE THANK YOU to both of them for all their help with our Scottish Events.

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20 August 2011

I very likely won't send out a newsletter next week. We'll be up at Cedar Point. If anyone wants to join us at the last minute, they should look for the sign in the picnic pavilion. Or call our cell phones - his: 330-882-0342, hers: 330-903-4573.

If someone is interested in a rental cabin at the campground, let me know by Sunday evening. We have one reserved that isn't going to be used. If you would like to reserve a ticket for Cedar Point on August 27th, call Amy Barrington, 330-280-6091, or e-mail her at: errandsbyamy67@Yahoo.com This event is not restricted to SAS members.

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13 August 2011

Our next event is the Family Fun Day at Cedar Point on August 27th. The more attending, the lower the group price. Some of us plan to camp at Crystal Rock Campground nearby the nights before and after. If you would like to reserve a ticket for Cedar Point, call Amy Barrington, 330-280-6091, or e-mail her at: errandsbyamy67@Yahoo.com This event is not restricted to SAS members.

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7 August 2011

Sorry, I'm a day late with the newsletter - but I have a good excuse. We spent the day yesterday at the Akron Library, studying new Internet research methods and accessible sites for Genealogy. It was a super seminar and if you get a chance to attend it next year, I heartily endorse it for all Genealogy buffs. In the meantime, this is methodology we can discuss with our visitors at Ohio Scottish Games. At our meeting on February 12^th 2012 - we will have this topic presented to us more specifically for our use in a program on Genealogy presented by the obviously competent Akron Library staff.

We learned to our regret that Cathy Gilchrist is stepping down as Chairman of SACSO (Ohio Scottish Games). Cathy has done a fantastic job of running the games and we are sorry to see her leave the position. On the other hand, we learned that our own Frances Acar has been nominated to replace her. Knowing Frances, we have no doubt that the tradition of competence will continue. Congratulations, Frances!

Next event is the Family Fun Day at Cedar Point on August 27th. The more attending, the lower the group price. Some of us plan to camp at Crystal Rock Campground nearby the nights before and after. If you would like to reserve a ticket, call Amy Barrington, 330-280-6091, or e-mail her at: errandsbyamy67@Yahoo.com This event is not restricted to SAS members.

Advance ticket prices through our group: $33.00	Regular (48" or taller) - $18 Junior (under 48" tall) or age 62 & older. [Does not include $10 parking fee.]

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July 30th 2011

Despite an atrociously hot day last Sunday, the picnic was great fun. While some of us hunkered inside in the air conditioning, many braved the heat outdoors to enjoy visiting and the good food provided by those who attended. Greatly appreciated was the Sangria made on the spot by Dianne & Dave Allison. Entertainment in the form of three pipers (okay two on conventional pipes) and a fiddle, was super. Jack and Joan Robertson were among the first to arrive and while Jack played the Fireside pipes, Joan played the fiddle. If we'd had room for dancing, I'm sure we would have been. Brian McElhiney joined in with his pipes when he arrived, and Braylon Smith (age 2 & 1/2) played the Sponge Bob cone in accompaniment. Jack and Joan will be playing for us at the Water-Aid Ceilidh fundraiser in October. We are still seeking a venue but have hope that will be resolved within the week.

Group Ticket prices:	$33 - 48" tall & over. $18 - under 48" & over 62.

Congratulations to Bob & Ida Morehead on the wedding of their daughter, Elissa to Hector Torres. It was a charming, costumed wedding with many of the guests in addition to the wedding party in Medieval or Celtic dress.

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23 July 2011

If you enjoy hot weather, you sure must be blissful. It's not my cup of tea. Well, maybe iced tea. In air conditioning. Just FYI, this week in

Edinburgh the temperature ranges from a low (at night) of 45 degrees to a high of 67. The sun will shine most of the week, but it will be partly cloudy. Sounds absolutely blissful..

We are seeking a venue for our Water Aid benefit. The Rec. Center is not available this year. If anyone has a suggestion (free or very inexpensive - e don't want to take money away from the fund), I'd appreciate hearing from you. Mfrost@nls.net

The picnic is tomorrow. As usual it will be informal. We don't have Larry & Judy's lovely spot on the lake, but we do have a lot of trees and it's pretty cool here. Bring whatever you wish to sare. Somehow we always seem to have enough food. And good stuff!

I need to have your reservation for the Purple Martin Boat ride as soon as possible. The cost is $20 per person, which includes your membership in the Purple Martin Association (membership is mandatory for the ride). This is an excursion you will remember the rest of your life. It is amazing. We can only reserve for ten people and priority goes to our members, naturally. Our plan is to meet at a nearby restaurant for dinner and then go on the ride, which is at twilight.

Scottish Country Dancing - Our schedule is erratic due to the weather and various elements, so if you are interested in Scottish Country Dancing, please contact our instructor, Frances Acar, at frances.acar@gmail.com. Her telephone number is: 330-673-6514. We meet on Friday evenings at 7:30 at the Christ Episcopal Church (follow the music to the basement) 118 S. Mantua Street, in Kent, Ohio. Frances is an excellent and patient instructor. She encourages everyone to give it a try. Frances also teaches Scottish Gaelic and singing. If you have Internet access, you do not need to physically attend class. She uses Skype and digital sound files which can be sent via e-mail directly to your home.

For more information call Christie at: 330-867-1030.

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July 9th, 2011

Summer's here. Hope you enjoy the warm weather. We're gearing up for camping trips and family gatherings. No meetings this summer, but a few get-togethers. Anyone is welcome at the picnic at our house, by the way. We aren't fancy, but we have room to spread out a bit here.

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The Ohio Scottish Games are over for another year. As always, they were wonderful. We thoroughly enjoy every aspect of the games, from the Friday night Ceilidh, right through to the Gaelic Mod Dinner/Ceilidh at the Oberlin Inn after the games on Saturday. What a super weekend. So many old friends to greet, so many talents to enjoy, and so many new friends to talk to. Enough to carry us through for another year.

Our members were everywhere. Hard to even begin to mention them all. I know I'll miss some. But there were Highland Dancers in competition (Christy Walsh, instructor), members in pipe bands, harp competition, the Gaelic Mod (implemented by Frances Acar), several of the clan tents, among them Donald (thank you Clan Donald for your special hospitality), Muirhead, Douglas, Gordon, Kennedy, Claus, and Elliot. On hand in our own Genealogy and Hospitality sections: Jim Frost, Nancy Haggard Davis, Dave and Dianne Allison, Gene & Betty Marcus, and others who stopped by - including Miss Meghan (and oh yes, her parents Julie and Brian), and Miss Timmie and her parents & grandparents from the Clan Muirhead. Clan Claus helped with distribution of the passports, which were ably handled by Ann Douglas Heflin and Bill Heflin. There are a few photos on our web site and our Facebook page.

We had so many folks lining up at our Genealogy table, it was hard to keep track. But despite the fact that we now have some 400+ clans in our database, there were a few we didn't have. We'll add them for next year. We've developed this database and experience for some 30 years, originally working in Scotland with the gal who helped put together the "Scots Kith and Kin" book - a staple used by many to research names and clans.

Brian McElhiney reports: Akron's own Celtic Eagle Pipe Band placed in both the EUSPBA and the Ohio Valley competitions at the Ohio Scottish Games this year. The band earned a solid 3rd place in both competitions (with esteemed judge Reay MacKay giving us first place marks in piping). Even better yet, our drummers were given the distinction of best grade 5 drum corp at the games!!! The tightness and consistency of our drummers really helped to push us into the top 3!!! The placings earned the band some cash awards to help with the cost of outfitting and travel.

Our next competition will be in Edinboro PA, on July 30th and then Ligonier PA on September 10th. We're constantly improving our technique during the summer and look forward to showing the piping world that the Celtic Eagle is truly on the hunt!

ADDITIONAL DATES FOR YOUR CALENDAR

July 24th - Sas'y picnic, our house. 2:00ish

August 8th Monday - 6:00 p.m. Purple Martin dinner and boat ride. Participants limited.

August 27th, Saturday - All Day - Family Fun Day at Cedar Point

September 11th, 2011 - 3:00 - Meeting. Marnie Sweet will present a program on Alaska.

October 19th, 2011- Meeting

October 15th, 2011 - Community fundraising event for Water Aid to 3rd world countries. ‘The Big National Céilidh’. Was the brain child of David and Joey Oliver (BBC award-winning band 422). It is the biggest céilidh event in the UK and involves céilidhs taking place all over the UK and internationally on the same night with everyone dancing the Circassian Circle at 10pm. For us this would be about 5:00 p.m. Since it is early for us, we will celebrate with a Benefit Tea along with the céilidh events.

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By popular demand, PENNYGOWN has reappeared from the Highland Mists. Read the latest news from the 18th century on our web page. We also have a new page on Scottish Memories, written by Bob Leslie, the brother of Carol Leslie Hosticka. I think you'll find both additions delightful.

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28 May 2011

First of all - we hope all of you survived the storms this past week. We hope you didn't have too much property damage and weren't without electricity for too long. Lori Neidert, who lives in hard-hit Cuyahoga Falls, tells me that she and Dreama Powell are doing okay. Beyond some limbs down and no power for awhile, they made it. Dave Belvin reports that they were okay over in Springfield Township. Here in New Franklin we were just fine.

Aside from Mother Nature's snit fit, this past week has been one of relief and joy. Relief that the Beltane Festival - so long anticipated and planned, is finally over. Joy because it was such a success. Our thanks always to Bill Bakan and Maize Valley Winery for hosting our event. Getting their spring clean-up done out there and getting organized for our festival has to be one heck of a chore. Yet they do it with good cheer and always make us feel welcome.

Both Frances Acar and Brian McElhiney had to deal with last minute cancellations, substitutions, and additions. They did it with a quiet efficiency that speaks wonders about their patience and adaptability. The Sas'y Team was nothing less than wonderful. We had lots of helpers, all willing to pitch in. Sometimes they did very little - merely being "back up" but that is a very necessary function. Some, like those in the parking lot and at the gate, worked in the hot sun and did a heck of a good job. Thanks to Jon & Kim Belvin, Katie Tetzel, Emma Tidwell, Shay Harvey, and David MacIntosh Carpenter.

Russ and Ken Luyster acted as emcee and stage manager. With their good cheer and ever present smiles despite the organized confusion, they set the tone for the day. Bob & Jim Morehead quietly manage the sound system - making our event look professional with their competence. Must say, these guys have done a fantastic job from the very first. At the first festival, they came to the rescue at the last minute and have been with us ever since. We could not manage without them. Bill Kennedy, who organized that first festival, sang the National Anthem so beautifully, it brought a tear to your eye.

Gene & Betty Marcus organize the gates and total gate receipts. It is a fundamental necessity, but not one a whole lot of people would be able to do as well. Duane Burrell and his wife were there for back-up assistance. Thanks to Liz and Dave Belvin, who organized the sales items and the baskets for the basket raffle. There were some really neat items in those baskets. Dave built our very sturdy dance floor and provides a lot of muscle power for setting up and tearing down. Thanks, too, to Amy and Lexi Barrington who helped Liz with her sales table.

The Membership Table was staffed by Dave and Dianne Allison, aided by Janet Hilton and Kathryn Krautwurst who were also there to provide First Aid. Donne Shepperly contacted the clans for representation at the festival. We were happy to see so many, and so professionally done. Of course, Donne always does a great job with Clan Donald. Ann Douglas Heflin did an outstanding job for Clan Douglas, Pam and Dennis Gressock had a fascinating display of his Revolutionary War gear, Clan Claus was there with Santa Kona and all his helpers. The Muirhead Clan was well represented and granddaughter Timmie performed with the Tigh na Creige dancers. Bev Kincaid and Chris came up from Cincinnati to display and sell their Tartan Tags and other items.

Lori Neidert was there for Clan Gordon, doing her usual competent job. Dreama Powell brought the wonderful music of the NEO Harpers. Christy Urquhart Walsh brought her excellent dancers, plus she and Tim ran the Children's Games. Performances by the Heather Belles, the Akron Ceili Band, and the pipe bands - Gleann Mor and Celtic Eagle - brought well deserved applause. The highland athletes came down from the hill and mingled with the audience, answering questions and making them aware of their events. A special trophy was presented in the name of our own Agnes Bagley to the Outstanding Athlete of the Day. Agnes was there, but it was a long day for her. She left before the trophy was presented, but I will long remember watching her dancing as she went to the door, hanging onto her walker. She is amazing.

People came from quite a distance to attend, and we were grateful. Among those faces seen were: Dorothea Kingsbury from Cleveland Hts, Richard and Dorothy Jean McHugh from Wellington, Cathy Gilchrist from Bay Village, Jean Weaver from Lakewood and Vicky Weaver from Rocky River. Brad Walker got drafted for clean up. He came late and on his motorcycle - which is why he wasn't wearing his kilt. I can understand, but it would have been interesting to see. Julie McElhiney was having a better day and came to stay for awhile, bringing Miss Meghan with her. We wish her many, many more good days - we were just happy to see her.

I personally owe a ton of thanks to my beloved husband who puts up with so much in getting ready for the festival. Special thanks always to Frances, who makes it all happen.

I'm sure I've missed someone, but please know that it takes a great team to put on a festival like this - and Team Sas'y obviously qualifies. Pat yourselves on the back, folks. It was a super festival - the best ever. We don't have all the figures in yet, but we will be able to make a substantial gift to Pegasus. That in itself makes it all worthwhile.

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14 May 2011

Feel like building an Ark? Sure seems as if we may need one. I'm sure it will all be gone in time for our festival next weekend. If not, we can all pretend we're in Scotland. They're used to rain in the British Isles.

I want to call your attention to something close to my heart. D.C. Dalgliesh Tartan Weavers is in jeopardy. This wonderful boutique, artisan tartan manufacturer is falling upon hard times. It would be more than dreadful to lose them. Please check out their web site and help keep this business alive. You can find them at: www.dcdalgliesh.co.uk

Why not Friend D.C. Dalgliesh on Facebook? Or tweet about them. D.C. Dalgliesh is the last surviving traditional tartan weaver, where once there were hundreds of mills like us. We're now the only place on earth you'll find tartans of this quality. And we keep alive historic skills developed over generations. So please help spread the word, in any way you can.

The next big event for us is the Beltane Festival. Please note: We'd love to have donations. First of all, for items to put into the baskets for the basket raffle - every penny goes to Pegasus - or to volunteer at the festival. For the former you may bring donations directly to Liz & Dave Belvin who are doing the baskets this year (call 330-628-1658 to make arrangements), to us at 5679 Sherwood Forest Drive Akron 44319, or drop them off at Liz & Dave's: 3165 Waterloo Rd. - Akron 44312. If you drop them off at Julie & Brian's - 1109 Wexford Court, Akron 44312, Liz can pick them up there. They live within walking distance of each other. If you are volunteering to help at the festival - hit the "reply" button and let me know. PLEASE!

Last chance for Beltane program ads. Send them to Frances. [ frances.acar@gmail.com ] Advertisement prices: $5 for message or name. $10 for business card size. $30 for half page. $50 for full page.

Ohio Scottish Games is rapidly approaching. Currently ads and donations for the program/games are being accepted. If you are interested in providing either one, please contact Cathy Gilchrist for details and information. Cathy can be reached via email at: cgilchbvoh@AOL.com, or you can send a check to her at: 583 Dover Center Rd., Bay Village, OH 44140-2362.

Tune in every Sunday to "Sounds of Britain and Ireland" on WCPN, 90.3 FM, featuring Joe Nicholls and Kevin McGinty, two very charming gentlemen. They do a grand job of keeping folks informed about all area Celtic events, including,of course,those within the Scottish Community. One HUGE THANK YOU to both of them for all their help and for allowing Frances and me to be on their program tomorrow, plugging the Beltane Festival. They are both as funny as they are good looking. The giggles can't be seen over the radio, but trust me, they abound with those two. You might like to check out their profiles on our web site.

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Certainly hope your day is filled with joy. Mine would be a lot happier if this computer ever got over its glitches. But all will be forgotten when the family is gathered together for the day.

Ohio Scottish Games is rapidly approaching. Currently we are accepting ads and donations for the program. If you are interested in providing either one, please contact Cathy Gilchrist for details and information. Cathy can be reached via email at: cgilchbvoh@AOL.com, or you can send a check to her at: 583 Dover Center Rd., Bay Village, OH 44140-2362.

Our next meeting will be at the library on the first day in May, and we will view a slide show presented by Bob MacDowell. You may bring donations for the Beltane Festival (May 21st) to that meeting. Baskets, items to put into the baskets, or we will gladly accept cash donations to purchase items to fill baskets. Liz and Dave Belvin are doing the baskets. Every penny raised by the basket auction goes directly into our donation to Pegasus. You may get items to us at 5679 Sherwood Forest Drive Akron 44319, or drop them off at Liz & Dave's: 3165 Waterloo Rd. - Akron 44312. If you drop them off at Julie & Brian's - 1109 Wexford Court, Akron 44312, Liz can pick them up there. They live within walking distance of each other.

Beltane program ads can be sent to either me or Frances. [ mfrost@nls.net or frances.acar@gmail.com ] Advertisement prices: $5 for message or name. $10 for business card size. $30 for half page. $50 for full page.

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April 2nd 2011

Our next meeting will be the Tartan Day Buffet Brunch on April 10th at 1:00 at the 356th Fighter Group Restaurant. Please let either Frances or me know if you plan to attend. We will not need any cash, but we do need a head count. Anyone interested is welcome to attend.

For our Beltane (May 21st) you may bring baskets or items to put into the baskets to the 356th Fighter Squadron Restaurant. Leave them in the car until after the brunch, though. Or we will gladly accept cash donations to purchase items to fill baskets. Liz and Dave Belvin have stepped in to take over the baskets. Every penny raised by the basket auction goes directly into our donation to Pegasus. You may get items to us at 5679 Sherwood Forest Drive Akron 44319, or drop them off at Liz & Dave's: 3165 Waterloo Rd. - Akron 44312. If you drop them off at Julie & Brian's - 1109 Wexford Court, Akron 44312, Liz can pick them up there. They live within walking distance of each other.

Scottish Country Dancing - Our schedule is erratic due to the weather and various elements, so if you are interested in Scottish Country Dancing, please contact our instructor, Frances Acar, at frances.acar@gmail.com. Her telephone number is: 330-673-6514. We meet on Friday evenings at 7:30 at the Christ Episcopal Church (follow the music to the basement) 118 S. Mantua Street, in Kent, Ohio. Frances is an excellent and patient instructor. She encourages everyone to give it a try. Frances also teaches Scottish Gaelic and singing. If you have Internet access, you do not need to physically attend class. She uses Skype and digital sound files which can be sent via e-mail directly to your home.

Highland Dance - If you know someone interested in learning the art of Highland Dancing, you can call Christie Walsh. Christie is a certified B.A.T.D. dance instructor and heads the Tigh na Creige highland dance group. For more information call Christie at: 330-867-1030.

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26th March 2011

It's going to be warm weather soon. I promise. (Maybe not today, though.)

Don't forget. Our next meeting will be the Tartan Day Buffet Brunch on April 10th at 1:00 at the 356th Fighter Group Restaurant. Please let either Frances or me know if you plan to attend. We will not need any cash, but we do need a head count. Anyone interested is welcome to attend.

Scottish Country Dancing - Our schedule is erratic due to the weather and various elements, so if you are interested in Scottish Country Dancing, please contact our instructor, Frances Acar, at frances.acar@gmail.com. Her telephone number is: 330-673-6514. We meet on Friday evenings at 7:30 at the Christ Episcopal Church (follow the music to the basement) 118 S. Mantua Street, in Kent, Ohio. Frances is an excellent and patient instructor. She encourages everyone to give it a try. Frances also teaches Scottish Gaelic and singing. If you have Internet access, you do not need to physically attend class. She uses Skype and digital sound files which can be sent via e-mail directly to your home.

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19th March 2011

Our thanks to Dr. Bartlette for his excellent program last Sunday. It was an outstanding presentation and sad if you missed it.

Some of member Marnie Sweet's collection of Alaskan art and artifacts will continue to be on display at the Highland Square Library for the next week. The Highland Square Library is located at 807 West Market Street in Akron. Hours are: M-Th. 10-8:30, Fri. 10-6, Sat. 10-5. Marnie will be presenting a program on Alaska for us at our meeting on September 11th.

Scottish Country Dancing - Our schedule is erratic due to the weather and various elements, so if you are interested in Scottish Country Dancing, please contact our instructor, Frances Acar, at frances.acar@gmail.com. Her telephone number is: 330-673-6514. We meet on Friday evenings at 7:30 at the Christ Episcopal Church (follow the music to the basement) 118 S. Mantua Street, in Kent, Ohio. Frances is an excellent and patient instructor. She encourages everyone to give it a try. Frances also teaches Scottish Gaelic and singing. If you have Internet access, you do not need to physically attend class. She uses Skype and digital sound files which can be sent via e-mail directly to your home.

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12th March 2011

Two Really Important Items:

(1) Don't forget our meeting tomorrow at the library.

(2) Don't forget to put your clocks ahead by one hour tonight.

So that you don't miss church or Sunday meetings (see above).

The Beltane Festival will be here before you know it. [May 21st, Maize Valley Winery.]

We're looking for volunteers and we're looking for vendors. Let me or Frances know if you are willing to help out as a volunteer, and notify Himself, Jim Frost [ jfrost@nls.net], if you know of anyone who might be interested in participating as a vendor.

You can bring baskets or items to put into the baskets to our meeting tomorrow. Or we will gladly accept cash donations to purchase items to fill baskets. Liz and Dave Belvin have stepped in to take over the baskets. Every penny raised by the basket auction goes directly into our donation to Pegasus. You may get items to me, or drop them off at Liz & Dave's: 3165 Waterloo Rd. - Akron 44312. If you drop them off at Julie & Brian's - 1109 Wexford Court, Akron 44312, Liz can pick them up there. They live within walking distance of each other. We certainly wish our Julie well and hope she soon recovers.

Program ads can be sent to either me or Frances. [ mfrost@nls.net or frances.acar@gmail.com ] Advertisement prices: $5 for message or name. $10 for business card size. $30 for half page. $50 for full page.

The Springfield Spartans LaCrosse Team is looking for a short loan of LaCrosse equipment of any kind, in any condition. If you can loan them some for a brief period (a week or two at the most), please contact Liz Belvin at: 330-354-3339.

Our Annual Tartan Day dinner will be held on April 10th at the 356th Fighter Group Restaurant - Buffet Brunch. 1:00. Please let either Frances or me know if you plan to attend. We will not need any cash, but we will need a head count. Anyone interested is welcome to attend.

Scottish Country Dancing - Our schedule is erratic due to the weather and various elements, so if you are interested in Scottish Country Dancing, please contact our instructor, Frances Acar, at frances.acar@gmail.com. Her telephone number is: 330-673-6514. We meet on Friday evenings at 7:30 at the Christ Episcopal Church (follow the music to the basement) 118 S. Mantua Street, in Kent, Ohio. Frances is an excellent and patient instructor. She encourages everyone to give it a try. Frances also teaches Scottish Gaelic and singing. If you have Internet access, you do not need to physically attend class. She uses Skype and digital sound files which can be sent via e-mail directly to your home.

call Christie at: 330-867-1030.

You might like to check out their profiles on our web site.

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March 5th 2011

Don't forget our meeting next week at the library.

That's 3:00, March 13th, meeting room level. Dr. Don Bartlette will speak. Dr. Bartlette is a full time public speaker and is, by training, a social worker, counselor, educator, consultant, and an advocate for minority persons, victims of child abuse, survivors of alcohol addiction, troubled youth and persons with disabilities. He is also a Native American activist. As many of you realize, there are interesting connections between the Scottish and Native American communities. Dr. Bartlette has waived his usual fee to speak to us. Let's make it a good turnout.

Just a reminder that the Beltane Festival will be here before you know it. We're looking for volunteers and we're looking for vendors. Let me or Frances know if you are willing to help out as a volunteer, and notify Himself, Jim Frost [ jfrost@nls.net], if you know of anyone who might be interested in participating as a vendor.

We were sorry to learn this week that Julie McElhiney is very ill and unable to do the baskets or the program for us this year. Liz and Dave Belvin have stepped in to take over the basket chore. We will still need donations of all kinds for this project. Every penny raised goes directly to our donation to Pegasus. You may give items to me at the next meeting, or drop them off at Liz & Dave's: 3165 Waterloo Rd. - Akron 44312. If you drop them off at Julie & Brian's - 1109 Wexford Court, Akron 44312, Liz can pick them up there. They live within walking distance of each other.

We are looking for someone to do the program, but in the meantime ads can be sent to either me or Frances. [ mfrost@nls.net or frances.acar@gmail.com ] Advertisement prices: $5 for message or name. $10 for business card size. $30 for half page. $50 for full page.

Our Annual Tartan Day dinner will be held on April 10th at the 356th Fighter Group Restaurant - Buffet Brunch. 1:00. Please let either Frances or me know if you plan to attend. We will not need any cash, but we will need a head count. Anyone interested is welcome to attend.

Scottish Country Dancing - Our schedule is erratic due to the weather and various elements, so if you are interested in Scottish Country Dancing, please contact our instructor, Frances Acar, at frances.acar@gmail.com. Her telephone number is: 330-673-6514. We meet on Friday evenings at 7:30 at the Christ Episcopal Church (follow the music to the basement) 118 S. Mantua Street, in Kent, Ohio. Frances is an excellent and patient instructor. She encourages everyone to give it a try. Frances also teaches Scottish Gaelic and singing. If you have Internet access, you do not need to physically attend class. She uses Skype and digital sound files which can be sent via e-mail directly to your home.

call Christie at: 330-867-1030.

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February 20th

Hope you had a chance to enjoy that wee taste of spring this past week. Reality is back with the chilly weather and snow in the forecast. It was nice while it lasted.

Most of you were informed of Lloyd Leadbetter's death. A sad event. The calling hours and funeral were earlier this week. In case I missed notifying you, his wife Harriet and daughter, Heather, live at 2645 Gladiola NE Canton OH 44702-2093. Their other daughter, Karin, her husband and three children have returned to their home. Just in case you'd like to send a card or sympathy note. We will all miss him.

We had our initial meeting for the Beltane Festival this past week. The countdown has begun! We're looking for vendors. Notify Jim Frost if you know of anyone who might be interested. Julie McElhiney is in need of donations for the basket auction. Either whole baskets, or stuff to put in them. We also need ads for the program which Julie is also handling. (Bless the McElhineys.) Advertisement prices: $5 for message or name. $10 for business card size. $30 for half page. $50 for full page. (E-mail can be sent directly to Julie. Julie@icingprincess.com)

Coming up in February:

Scottish Country Dancing - Our schedule is erratic due to the weather and various elements, so if you are interested in Scottish Country Dancing, please contact our instructor, Frances Acar, at frances.acar@gmail.com. Her telephone number is: 330-673-6514. We meet on Friday evenings at 7:30 at the Christ Episcopal Church (follow the music to the basement) 118 S. Mantua Street, in Kent, Ohio. Frances is an excellent and patient instructor. She encourages everyone to give it a try. Frances also teaches Scottish Gaelic and singing. If you have Internet access, you do not need to physically attend class. She uses Skype and digital sound files which can be sent via e-mail directly to your home.

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12th February 2011

Happy Valentine's Day!

(I know it's not until Monday, but please enjoy it nonetheless.)

The zero degree temperatures appear to be gone for the season. Or so I'm telling myself. There's a bright glow in the sky today - not sure what it is. Might be the sun, been awhile since I've seen it. It will be warmer for our meeting tomorrow at the library, but that's not a problem either way since free parking is right next door with covered access to the library proper. Come and enjoy hearing our Rose & Thistle Award winner, Donne Shepperly, talk about Clan Donald. That's Sunday, February 13th at 3:00 - in the meeting room area. Look for our sign. (And if you get there early, you can rummage around our wonderful library and discover it's many treasures.)

Anyone interested in any of our events/activities is welcome to attend.

Coming up in February:

February 13th, 2011 - Meeting - Library, 3:00 - Donne Shepperly will present a program on Clan Donald

Scottish Country Dancing - Our schedule is erratic due to the weather and various elements, so if you are interested in Scottish Country Dancing, please contact our instructor, Frances Acar, at frances.acar@gmail.com. Her telephone number is: 330-673-6514. We meet on Friday evenings at 7:30 at the Christ Episcopal Church (follow the music to the basement) 118 S. Mantua Street, in Kent, Ohio. Frances is an excellent and patient instructor. She encourages everyone to give it a try. Frances also teaches Scottish Gaelic and singing. If you have Internet access, you do not need to physically attend class. She uses Skype and digital sound files which can be sent via e-mail directly to your home.

ADDITIONAL DATES FOR YOUR CALENDAR (see the Calendar of Events page)

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5th February 2011

My fingers and toes are beginning to thaw out. It's been a cold morning. Himself and I were helping with the 5K "Chase Your Shadow" race at Portage Lakes State Park. It is an annual event sponsored by our Friends of the Portage Lakes group. Just to let you know that everything we do is not connected to Scotland!

Next week, though, we are all about Sas'y. Donne Shepperly will be doing a presentation on Clan Donald at our meeting at the library. That's Sunday, February 13th at 3:00 - in the meeting room area. Look for our sign. That was a donation, by the way, crafted by Bill Heflin. Currently Bill is at home recovering from knee surgery and doing very well.

Anyone interested in any of our events/activities is welcome to attend.

Coming up in February:

February 11th, 2011 - Battlefield Band - Happy Days Visitor Center, Peninsula. Tickets $17 each. Seating is 1st come 1st served. Details under "Concerts."

February 13th, 2011 - Meeting - Library, 3:00 - Donne Shepperly will present a program on Clan Donald

Scottish Country Dancing - Our schedule is erratic due to the weather and various elements, so if you are interested in Scottish Country Dancing, please contact our instructor, Frances Acar, at frances.acar@gmail.com. Her telephone number is: 330-673-6514. We meet on Friday evenings at 7:30 at the Christ Episcopal Church (follow the music to the basement) 118 S. Mantua Street, in Kent, Ohio. Frances is an excellent and patient instructor. She encourages everyone to give it a try. Frances also teaches Scottish Gaelic and singing. If you have Internet access, you do not need to physically attend class. She uses Skype and digital sound files which can be sent via e-mail directly to your home.

.Tune in at 4:00 every Sunday to "Sounds of Britain and Ireland" on WCPN, 90.3 FM, featuring Joe Nicholls and Kevin McGinty, two very charming gentlemen. They do a grand job of keeping folks informed about all area Celtic events, including,of course,those within the Scottish Community. One HUGE THANK YOU to both of them for all their help.

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29th January 2011

It's still cold outside. Really hard to persuade our dog that he must (as in MUST) go outside. He feels he is being mistreated - has his doggy paws on the speed dial to the SPCA.

Hope to see you at the meeting on the 13th. I'm looking forward to hearing Donne Shepperly speak about Clan Donald. Some of us visited the center on Skye during our last trip to Scotland.

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Coming up in February:

February 11th, 2011 - Battlefield Band - Happy Days Visitor Center, Peninsula. Tickets $17 each. Seating is 1st come 1st served. Details under "Concerts."

February 13th, 2011 - Meeting - Library, 3:00 - Donne Shepperly will present a program on Clan Donald

Scottish Country Dancing - Our schedule is erratic due to the weather and various elements, so if you are interested in Scottish Country Dancing, please contact our instructor, Frances Acar, at frances.acar@gmail.com. Her telephone number is: 330-673-6514. We meet on Friday evenings at 7:30 at the Christ Episcopal Church (follow the music to the basement) 118 S. Mantua Street, in Kent, Ohio. Frances is an excellent and patient instructor. She encourages everyone to give it a try. Frances also teaches Scottish Gaelic and singing. If you have Internet access, you do not need to physically attend class. She uses Skype and digital sound files which can be sent via e-mail directly to your home.

Highland Dance - If you know someone interested in learning the art of Highland Dancing, you can call Christie Walsh. Christie is a certified B.A.T.D. dance instructor and heads the Tigh na Creige highland dance group. For more information, you may contact her at: 345 South Rose Blvd., Akron 44313, or by telephone at: 330-867-1030

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15 Jan. 2011

Find you're getting bored with the Ohio winter? Maybe you'd like to try hunting a haggis. Check out: http://haggishunt.scotsman.com It might be fun for you.

If you missed the meeting and are interested in the topic, I've posted my notes here on our web site under "Highland Clearances."

Our Scottish Country Dancing has begun again and will be every Friday at 7:30, weather permitting. Frances Acar is our instructor. The classes meet at the Christ Episcopal Church (follow the music to the basement) 118 S. Mantua Street, in Kent, Ohio. Frances is an excellent instructor and (thank goodness) very patient. She encourages everyone to give it a try. You may contact her at frances.acar@gmail.com. Her telephone number is: 330-673-6514. She is one multi-talented gal. She also teaches Scottish Gaelic and singing. If you have Internet access, you do not need to physically attend class. She uses Skype and digital sound files which can be sent via e-mail to your home.

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If you know someone interested in learning the art of Highland Dancing, you can call Christie Walsh. Christie is a certified B.A.T.D. dance instructor and heads the Tigh na Creige highland dance group. For more information on her classes, you may contact her at: 345 South Rose Blvd., Akron 44313, or by telephone at: 330-867-1030

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31 July 2010

Bit cloudy today, but weather gurus say it will not be a rainy day. Cloudy with a chance of showers. Except for the fact that it is quite a bit warmer than Edinburgh, it could be Scotland. Temperature here will hover in the low to mid-80's. In Scotland it's closer to 17 degrees Celsius (62.6 degrees Fahrenheit), cloudy with a chance of showers.

Now that I've given you the weather report - I must say it was absolutely lovely last Sunday for our picnic. As always, the Sas'y cooks came through with some delicious dishes. Larry Hunter did a yeoman's duty stoking the fire for hot dogs and S'mores, and some of our folks even did a bit of fishing off the dock. We did very little beyond eating, chatting, watching the boats on Turkeyfoot lake, and enjoying the gentle breeze. Our profound thanks to Larry and Judy Hunter for being such genial hosts. They very generously provided the venue, the hot dogs, beverages, S'more stuff, and even fishing poles. Thank you so very much!

For those of you who get the Hartville News, there was an article (& photo) in that paper this past week of our presentation to Pegasus (the therapeutic riding center) of $1000 raised at the Beltane Festival. We hope to make this our annual contribution to the organization. Our thanks once again to Bill & Michelle Bakan who make it all possible.

While there is no meeting in August, Amy Barrington has booked discount tickets at Cedar Point for anyone interested. On Sunday, August 15th, the family is heading up there to celebrate the wedding of Ashley & Ryan Smith. (They are renewing their vows on Saturday, the 14th.)

If you would like to take advantage of the discount, go to the group sales booth and specify "Smith Wedding tickets." Then look for our tables in the pavilion, if you wish to bring a picnic lunch. My cell phone is 330-903-4573, if you wish to contact us during the day.

Our next charitable endeavor is bit further reaching. We are looking for a venue, but are planning to participate in an International Céilidh on the 16th of October. It is a community fundraising event for the international charity, Water Aid. They specialize in providing access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene education to the world’s poorest communities ( www.wateraid.org ) . The event is a "Big National Céilidh" to unite the folk community worldwide by having as many ceilidhs taking place on the 16th of October as possible. At 10pm (5:00 PM our time) everyone will dance the Circassian Circle to Jamie Allen to unite the event.

In the fall we will resume our Scottish Country Dance classes most Friday evenings at 7:30 PM. Aside from the dancing, we just enjoy the camaraderie. We meet at the Christ Episcopal Church (follow music to the basement) 118 S. Mantua Street, in Kent, Ohio. Frances Acar is an excellent instructor and (thank goodness) very patient. She encourages everyone to give it a try.

If you would like more information or directions, you may contact Frances at frances.acar@gmail.com. Her telephone number is: 330-673-6514. She is one multi-talented gal. She also teaches Scottish Gaelic and singing. If you have Internet access, you do not need to physically attend class. She uses Skype and digital sound files which can be sent via e-mail to your home.

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