Date: April 14, 2008
Time: 6:55 p.m.
Location: Jason’s Deli at Poplar and Highland
Attendance:

• 41 members and guests

Pledge of Allegiance

Prayer: Ken Letterman

Call to Order: President John Schultz

Introduction of Guests: Richard McAden, Gus White, Mike Taylor, Mike Macey, Carl Ryan, David Peters, and Brad Randall

Announcements

• The Spring Picnic will be held at the Sellmansbergers on Saturday, May 17, from 11 a.m. until - ??? Bring lawn chairs, pot luck dish, tents, etc. Games will be provided. A map is available on the website.
  
• The Celidth will be held in the summer indoors with the date to be announced.
  
• The Batesville Scottish Festival and Games will be held this weekend, April 18 – 20. Three local bands will perform and/or compete: Wolf River Pipes and Drums, Sgt. Singleton Pipe Band, and the Northeast Arkansas Caledonian Band. MSSI has decided to not have a tent available at the games.

Announcements from the Grace Notes included:

• The Birdsong Harp Center and the Irish Harp Orchestra will perform April 19 at Immaculate Conception Church. The New York Choir of Men and Boys will perform at St. John’s Episcopal Church on the evening of April 25; tickets are $20.
  
• The Celtic Fest will be held November 1, Saturday, in Jackson, Tennessee.
  
• Debbie discussed the results of the survey that she passed out at the last meeting concerning programs and location of the monthly meeting.

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Program – Flintlock Rifles

The program this evening was presented by Brad Randall, a local gun maker, on flintlock rifles, the history and works of such weapons. It was an excellent program.

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Door Prizes:
The door prize was won by Gavin Anderson.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 p.m.

Date: November 12, 2007
Time: 6:55 p.m.
Location: Holiday Inn Select (Poplar at I-240), Memphis, Tennessee
Attendance:

• Total Attendance: 51 members and visitors

Pledge of Allegiance

Prayer: Reverend Cliff McWhorter

Call to Order: President John Schultz

Introduction of Guests: Linda Smothers, Woody Berry, Bryn Dickie, Emma Hart, Robert Wetzel

Announcements

• John read a letter from Lee Hutchison thanking MSSI for helping with Clanjamfry.
  
• The Celtic Fest in Jackson, TN, November 3, was attended by 2000-3000 people.
  
• Nine MSSI members manned the phones at the WKNO Auction with five remaining until the end (late night). MSSI was well represented with a vase by Agnes Stark and the Simpsons purchased a Tiffany lamp.
  
• Mary Ann said the Christmas Party will be held December 10, and will be a pot luck. Dress up in your Christmas best, and bring a $5 gift for the gift exchange plus a toy for Toys for Tots. She will notify members of the place.
  
• Burns Nicht will be held Saturday evening, January 26, at Woodland Hills Country Club. The cost is $50 for members until January 1, and $60 for nonmembers. Patrons will be $70 and Benefactors $100. There will also be a Scotch tasting and music will be provided by Celtic World.
  
• The slate of officers for 2008 was presented by Sammy:
  
• President- John Schultz, Vice President – Debbie Selmansberger, Secretary – Mary Clausi, Treasurer – Tom Lewis, Members-at-Large – Sue Malone, Mary Ann Lucas, and Jackie Garner. Sheena Rose moved that we accept the slate as read and Mary Ann seconded. The vote was unanimous.
  
• The St. Andrew’s Day Tea will be held at Crumpets on Saturday, December 1, from 3 – 5 p.m. It will be a high cream tea and gentlemen are welcomed. We can only accept 25 reservations - $20 a ticket – so please reserve your place early with Sue Malone.
  
• Cheryl Noland is looking for items for the Silent Auction for Burns Nicht.

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Program – Scotland 101: Culture & Fine Arts, cont.

A special thank you and recognition was given to all Veterans in honor of Veterans Day.

The program was as follows:

• Ken Noe spoke on engineers, inventors, and scientists.
  
• Guest speaker Emma Hart, a student a Rhodes College, gave a delightful presentation on dialect, food, and Burns Nicht suppers.
  
• Sammy Rich told the group about the history of golf in Scotland.

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Door Prizes:
Two door prizes were also given.

Next month we will have the Christmas Party in lieu of a program. The meeting was adjourned at 8:05 p.m.

Date: October 8, 2007
Time: 6:55 p.m.
Location: Holiday Inn Select (Poplar at I-240), Memphis, Tennessee
Attendance:

• 38 Dining
  
• 2 Not Eating
  
• Total Attendance: 40

Pledge of Allegiance

Prayer: Reverend Cliff McWhorter

Call to Order: President John Schultz

Introduction of Guests: Margaret Ramsome and Kevin McDonald as new members

Announcements

• The Nominating Committee will consist of Ben Kemker, past president, Seldon Murray who was appointed by the current president, and Sammy Rich who was elected from the membership at large tonight. They will present a slate of officers for 2008 at the November meeting.
  
• The red and yellow banner belonging to MSSI has “disappeared” and we now have a new logo. MSSI is holding a contest to design a banner/flag approximately 3 x 4 feet that would contain the new logo and could hang from a staff; it could also be used at Kirkens. Entries need to be submitted to the board as soon as possible.
  
• John showed the fans designed by Sue Malone and Sammy and asked for volunteers to assemble the fans.
  
• An article on coinage from the era of King James I was made available to MSSI by Allen Simpson.
  
• The Hiskys are hosting the Scottish Clearances on Wednesday, October 10, 7:30 – 9:00 p.m. Please call if you can attend.
  
• Lee Hutchison said that this year’s Clanjamfry was the most successful ever and thanked MSSI members for continued support. 15 clans attended the Saturday festivities and 23 clans marched in the Kirken.
  
• Mary Ann displayed the new tartan sashes, the Caledonian tartan, that will be worn by the Caledonian Chorale thanks to a grant from MSSI.
  
• This Friday and Saturday is the Geneology Fair at the Germantown Center. MSSI will have a table with various clan information.
  
• Bill Crump announced a photo exhibit by Greg Lowhon on Dr. Johnson’s trip to the Isle of Skye. The dates are October 10 thru December 6 at Christian Brothers University.
  
• Mary Ann invited everyone to the MSSI Halloween Party, October 27, at Agnes Stark’s home in Arlington. It will be a partial pot luck. Details will be in the Grace Notes. There will be prizes for best costume and jack-o-lantern plus entertainment.
  
• The Celtic Festival will be held in Jackson, TN, November 3, Saturday behind Casey Jones Museum.
  
• Sammy asked for 10 volunteers to man the phones for the WKNO Auction, Sunday, November 11, 3:30 – 8:00 p.m.
  
• The St. Andrew’s Day Tea, hosted by Sue and Mary, will be Saturday, December 1, 2 p.m., at Crumpets Tea Room on Highland. Tickets are $25 each and there is limited seating. Reservations and payment are required in advance. For more information, please call Sue Malone at 385-1938. All proceeds will go to the Scholarship Fund.
  
• Please make all reservations for monthly meetings either on line or to the MSSI phone number, 757-0200 by the Thursday before the monthly meeting. Please also make cancellations in a timely manner. MSSI is required to pay for all reserved meals.
  
• Nancy Chase announced two house concerts, October 20 and November 11, at 7:30 p.m.
  
• Seldon Murray invited members to attend the Fourth Annual Whiskey Tasting at St. John’s Episcopal Church Thursday, November 8, 6:30 p.m. Cost is $75 a person with the profits going to Clanjamfry. Reservations must be made in advance.

---

There was a brief intermission where Joe Lyle led the attendees in several Scottish songs.

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Program – Haunted Scotland

Elaine Meece and a cast of ghastly ghosts regaled the audience with tales of ghosts, spirits and haunted places of Scotland.

---

Door Prizes:
None.

Conclusion:
Next month’s program will be a continuation of Scotland 101 and will include culture, food, golf, whiskey, etc.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 p.m.

Date: September 10, 2007
Time: 6:50 p.m.
Location: Holiday Inn Select (Poplar at I-240), Memphis, Tennessee
Attendance:

• 28 Dining
  
• 5 Not Eating
  
• Total Attendance: 33

Pledge of Allegiance

Prayer: Reverend Ken Letterman

Call to Order: President John Schultz

Introduction of Guests: Debbie Hirschinger, guest of the Lewises

Announcements

• John asked all members to drive with their car lights on in memory of September 11.
  
• Lee Hutchison asked MSSI members to sign up to work at Clanjamfry which will be help September 21-23. There are 16 clans coming plus the 5K run/walk. He also needs two judges for the "Bonniest Knees" contest. He would also like to borrow MSSI's flag stands for the Kirken. Donations of bottled water are needed. Program deadline for sponsors is Friday, September 14.
  
• MSSI is still researching the donation of the Hisky Scottish Library to Rhodes College. October 20 is the date for the Hisky estate sale.
  
• It is time for a nominating committee for the upcoming election of officers for 2008. It will consist of Ben Kemker, past president, Seldon Murray, and one member selected for the society in October.
  
• John urged those attending to join MSSI for 2008. Our membership list will be purged in October and dues are due at this time. Please see Tom about dues.

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Program – Scotland 101, Session 3 – Culture and Fine Arts

Tonight's program consisted of four talks. First was Brenda Maguire who spoke about Scottish dances. Second was Sammy Rich who talked to the group about Scottish songs and mouth music. Joe Lyle spoke about the history of several Scottish songs and sang and played for the group. Ben Kemker talked about the history of the bagpipes. Third, Lore Hisky, assisted by Bud, gave a talk on Scottish art and architecture. Mary Ann Lucas closed out the presentation with Scottish literature.

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Door Prizes:
Door prizes including a CD and Clanjamfry t-shirts were awarded.

Conclusion:
Next month's program will be a multimedia presentation by Elaine Meece on "Haunts of Scotland". John also asked people to sign up to work in the MSSI tent at Clanjamfry.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:40 p.m.

Date: August 13, 2007
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Holiday Inn Select (Poplar at I-240), Memphis, Tennessee
Attendance:

• 43 Dining
  
• 1 Not Eating
  
• Total Attendance: 44

Pledge of Allegiance

Prayer: Reverend Ken Letterman

Call to Order: President John Schultz

Introduction of Guests: Janet Mandanna introduced her guest, Dean Roe, and Dot Halliday was also welcomed back to the meeting

Announcements

• Clanjamfry – Lee passed out posters and brochures on Clanjamfry, September 21-23, and asked members to place them in businesses and churches in the area. He also asked for volunteers for the event to please call or e-mail him (ELH52@comcast.net).
  
• Lore Hisky announced a sale of Scottish books (moving sale) that she and Bud would conduct sometime in September. Over 300 books, posters, memorabilia, etc. will be sold. The place and date are to be announced..
  
• John Schultz spoke to the members about the death of John and Margo Wright’s son, John Wright, last week and asked everyone to keep the family in their thoughts and prayers.

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Program – Contemporary Jacobites

Dr. John Simmons gave a interesting talk on the history of the Jacobites and dealt especially with current day Jacobites. Their original cause was to bring the Stuarts back to the throne. He also notes several websites that discuss who should be the current king or ruler and how these people traced their lineage over the years back to King James. The program culminated in a song by the Caledonian Chorale, “Ye Jacobites by Name”. The audience joined them on “Amazing Grace”.

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* Mary Ann said that the Scotland 101 series has been well received and Tapes/DVDs are available to borrow. Future programs include Culture and Fine Arts of Scotland (September), Scottish Haunts (October), Culture of Scotland (November), Christmas Party (December), and Tartans and Attire (January), ending in Burns Nicht.

Door Prizes:
No door prizes were awarded at this meeting

Conclusion:
John thanked everyone for attending.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:50 p.m.

Date: July 9, 2007
Time: 6:52 p.m.
Location: Holiday Inn Select (Poplar at I-240), Memphis, Tennessee
Attendance:

• 44 Dining
  
• 6 Not Eating
  
• Total Attendance: 50

Pledge of Allegiance

Prayer: Reverend Cliff McWhorter

Call to Order: John Schultz welcomed back Rev. McWhorter after surgery.

Introduction of Guests: Charles Viar (member from Jackson, TN) and Victoria and Michael Cruikshanks

Announcements

• Lee said that Clanjamfry will be held September 21-23 and will include 14 clans, dance competition, bands, etc. Saturday night the Scottish band Bodega will play.
  
• Posters and t-shirts will be available at the next MSSI meeting.
  
• Celtic Fest – Charles Viar announced that the Celtic Fest, sponsored by the Celtic Society of West Tennessee, will be held in Jackson, TN, Saturday, November 3, at Casey Jones Village. 2500-3000 people are expected. A handout was given to all members.
  
• The new MSSI phone number is 757-4200 and can be used for reservations or any other questions or concerns.
  
• Mary Lewis is in charge of the photo gallery for the Scottish Society and the website.

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Program – Scotland 101, Session 2

• Seldon Murray – The Ice Age – Alexander III
  
• Bud Hiskey – Alexander III – Reformation
  
• John Schultz – Reformation and its effects on the Scottish Church/Presbyterian Church

An excellent presentation was given by all three members and the program was also videotaped.

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Door Prizes:
Door prizes were awarded to Margaret Zavodny and Kathy Schultz

Conclusion:
John thanked everyone for coming and our next program will be given by Dr. John Simmons on Modern Jacobites.

The meeting is adjoined at 8:20.

Date: June 11, 2007
Time: 6:50 p.m.
Location: Holiday Inn Select (Poplar at I-240), Memphis, Tennessee
Attendance:

• 34 Dining
  
• 8 Not Eating
  
• Total Attendance: 42

Pledge of Allegiance

Prayer: Reverend Ken Letterman

Call to Order: President John Schultz

Introduction of Guests: New members Carla Maitland and Ken and Kay Justice

Announcements

• A card was passed around for members to sign for Reverend Cliff McWhorter who is at home after surgery.
  
• Member George Dumbrick has a broken leg and has moved to Southaven.
  
• The MSSI Picnic this past Saturday was well received and all had a good time, even though it was quite hot. Thank you to Debbie Selmansberger and Janet Mandanna for hosting this function.
  
• A new tent was given to the Scottish Society in memory of long time member, Juanita Long. The tent was well received at the picnic.
  
• Clanjamfry will be held the third weekend of September with Susan Branchford as chairperson.
  
• Members were encouraged to receive their Grace Notes by e-mail as opposed to "snail" mail.
  
• Sue asked all members to bring paint sticks to meetings to make fans as part of publicity and to hand out at different Scottish functions in the area.
  
• Mary Ann said that "Scotland 101-Chapter 1" is recorded on both DVD and VHS and is available to members and interested groups. She also asked members to bid on the silent auction items which are displayed in the back of the room. Bids will close at the end of the meeting.

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Program – Whiskey Galore

A very interesting program, including film clips and other visual aids, was given on the "whiskey galore" saga which occurred during the 1940's. Several notable books were listed for further exploration including The Polly, Scotch on the Rocks, Harrisons of Liverpool, and Whiskey Galore. One of our members, Margo Wright, lived in the area and told us some of her story also.

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Conclusion:
Mary Ann thanked John for an excellent presentation and urged members to bid on the silent auction items.

The meeting is adjoined at 8:05.

Date: May 14, 2007
Time: 6:50 p.m.
Location: Holiday Inn Select (Poplar at I-240), Memphis, Tennessee
Attendance:

• 52 Dining
  
• 6 Not Eating
  
• Total Attendance: 58

Pledge of Allegiance

Prayer: Rev. Cliff McWhorter

Call to Order: President John Schultz

Introduction of Guests: Rebecca Crawford and Kate Justice

Announcements

• MSSI Picnic will be held on Saturday, June 9, 3-8 p.m. at the Selmansbergers in Williston, TN. It will be a pot luck. Details and a map will be in the next Grace Notes.
  
• Lee spoke about Clanjamfry Festival, September 21-23, at Evergreen Presbyterian Church. Many new clans will attend this year and a new Scottish group will provide the entertainment for Saturday evening.
  
• John said that he and several members attended the Multicultural Festival at the University of Memphis, the Arkansas Scottish Games in Batesville, and the International Festival at Arlington Middle School and were well received.
  
• The Board is asking for a volunteer to serve as Community Relations Chairman. The position would include looking at ways for MSSI to interact with local festivals, events, and volunteer activities. See the president if you are interested.

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Program – Scotland 101, Session 1

Mary Ann began a series of programs entitled Scotland 101 which will be presented every other month and will cover a variety of topics and will have a number of guest speakers. All sessions will be videotaped for future use by members and interested parties. Tonight’s program included: political geography by Lou Garner, physical geography by James Lucas, Scottish flora by Bill Crump, and Scottish fauna, by Mary Ann Lucas.

The first session was well received by MSSI members.

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Auction Items:
Several items were shown that will be auctioned at the next meeting with funds going to the MSSI Scholarship fund. Lore reminded everyone of the dinner being hosted by the English Speaking Union on the evening of May 17.

Conclusion:
John thanked the speakers for an excellent evening and the members and guests for attending.

The meeting is adjoined at 8:30.

Date: April 9, 2007
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Holiday Inn Select (Poplar at I-240), Memphis, Tennessee
Attendance:

• 41 Dining
  
• 6 Not Eating
  
• Total Attendance: 47

Pledge of Allegiance

Prayer: Ken Letterman

Call to Order: President John Schultz

Introduction of Guests: No guests this evening

Announcements

• Janet Mandanna's mother, Juanita Long, also a Scottish Society member, is in intensive care at Baptist East Hospital. John asked members to keep her in their prayers.
  
• The Spring Celidth will be held Saturday, April 14, at St. Luke Lutheran Church, 6-8 p.m. Sammy Rich is in charge. There will be a pot luck dinner and a variety of entertainment for a small fee. A King and Queen will also be chosen. All money raised will go to the Scholarship Fund.
  
• The Ozark Highland Games will be held the weekend of April 20-22 in Batesville, Arkansas. MSSI will have a tent on the grounds and is asking for volunteers to man the tent. Ken Letterman will preach at the Kirken on Sunday and SAMS will provide the color guard for the Saturday activities.
  
• Lore Hisky made an announcement about the April 17 dinner sponsored by the English Speaking Union which will be held at the Memphis Country Club. Brian Montieth from Scotland will be the guest speaker. Montieth's book is entitled What Margaret Thatcher did for Scotland – Good, Bad and Ugly. The cost of the dinner is $48. Those interested should contact Lore.
  
• The University of Memphis is hosting a Multicultural Festival on Friday, April 13 and MSSI will furnish a table.
  
• Arlington Middle School will host an International Festival on April 24 from 6-7:30 p.m. MSSI will have a booth at this event.
  
• In May we will have programs every other month dealing with Scotland 101. The first program will be Geography, Flora, and Fauna.
  
• A poem written by Ed Meece entitled "The Witness" was read.

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Program – Journey Among the Ancient Celts

Bill McGuire gave an interesting program on how the ancient Celts tied in to Scottish history. One book he recommended was The Philosopher and the Druids which discussed the ancient Greek philosopher, Posidonius. who lived among the Celts. He was an unbiased philosopher as opposed to the Romans who saw the Celts as barbarians.

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Door Prizes:
Door prizes were won by Emily Smith and Rick Clausi.

Conclusion:
John thanked Bill for an excellent talk.

The meeting is adjoined at 7:55.

Date: March 12, 2007
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Holiday Inn Select (Poplar at I-240), Memphis, Tennessee
Attendance:

• 50 Dining
  
• 5 Not Eating
  
• Total Attendance: 55

Pledge of Allegiance

Prayer: Rev. Cliff McWhorter

Call to Order: President John Schultz

Introduction of Guests: Barbara High, Kay Justice, Betty MacNamara, Brian Crisman, Marie Crisman, Debbie, Katie, Robert and Joe Selmansberger, and a friend, Mark.

Announcements

• The following were nominated for the Scholarship Committee: Bill Crump, Ken Letterman and Margaret Zavodney. A motion was made by Robert Hawks, seconded by Bud Hisky, and the nominations were approved unanimously.
  
• The membership was asked to make dinner reservations in a timely manner (we had 10 people attend who had not made dinner reservations). Please do so by phone, mail or e-mail.
  
• John read a letter from Smithfield Fair, thanking us for such a warm reception on Burns Nicht.
  
• Sammy Rich made an announcement about the Spring Celidth which will be held Saturday, April 14, at 6 p.m., at St. Luke Lutheran Church in Cordova. It will be a pot luck with plenty of Scottish entertainment. Attendees may “purchase” the entertainment and all funds raised will go toward the Scholarship Fund. Please check the Grace Notes for further information.
  
• The Ozark Scottish Games will be held at Lyon College, Batesville, Arkansas, April 20-22. MSSI will host a tent on the grounds and would like members to help man the tent.
  
• The English Speaking Union will host Brian Montieth of Scotland on Thursday, May 17, as a guest speaker. He is the author of What Margaret Thatcher Did For Scotland. Contact Lore Hisky for further information.
  
• Upcoming musical events sponsored by the Mid South Celtic Arts Alliance:
  

  March 25	Battlefield Band
  April 1	Chris Stout and Catriona McKay
  April 29	Craobh Rua
  May 20	Back of the Moon

  Contact: earlduke@ipa.net or 901-376-1527 for further information.
  
• The Multicultural Festival will take place Friday afternoon, April 13, at the University of Memphis.

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Program – The Knights Templar and Their Connection to Scotland

Robert Hawks gave a very informative talk on the connection of the Knights Templar organization to Scotland. He also showed a film on Rosslyn Chapel and its significance to the Knights Templar and the Temple of Solomon and the Holy Land. Robert invited everyone to attend the Templar Convent which will be held for the first time in Memphis Saturday, March 31, at Evergreen Presbyterian Church. Contact Kent McAden for further information on the service or becoming a member.

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Door Prizes:
Door prizes were won by Dick Bevier and Ethel White. Two tickets for the Battlefield Band Concert were auction off and the proud owners are Bud and Lore Hisky.

Conclusion:
John Schultz thanked everyone for attending and for the interesting program.


The meeting is adjoined at 8:12.

Date: February 12, 2007
Time: 7:10 p.m.
Location: Holiday Inn Select (Poplar at I-240), Memphis, Tennessee
Attendance:

• 45 Dining
  
• 5 Not Eating
  
• Total Attendance: 50

Pledge of Allegiance

Prayer: Ken Letterman

Call to Order: President John Schultz

Introduction of Guests: Meaghan Dellar, Matt Horton, Woody Barry, Don Miles.

Announcements

• The Scholarship committee will consist of Bill Crump, Ken Letterman, and Margaret Zavodney.
  
• The Board Meeting will be held February 22, 5:30 p.m. All are welcome to attend.
  
• Burns Nicht 2007 was a big success and many thanks to everyone involved. Mary Ann Lucas will report at the next meeting. Over $2000 was raised for the Scholarship fund. Burns Nicht will be held next year on January 26, 2008, and chaired by Kathy Schultz and Jackie Garner.
  
• Announcements, planned events, etc. – from outside groups – will be announced in the Grace Notes, at meetings, or by e-mail.
  
• The Spring Celidh is in the planning stages and will be chaired by Sammy Rich.
  
• The Clanjamfry website has been updated and the dates are September 21-23. The website is clanjamfrymemphis.org.

Upcoming events:

• Battlefield Band – March 25 – Memphis College of Art
  
• Rod Stewart – April 13 – FedEx Forum
  
• Read with Edinburgh – Kidnapped – in February
  
• Celtic Music Concerts – weekend of February 24
  These announcements will be sent to members by e-mail with more details.

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Program – Psalmody given by Sammy Rich

Thank you to Sammy and the Caledonia Chorale for a wonderful sing-a-long and history of Scottish religious music.

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Door Prizes:
None.

Conclusion:
President John Schultz thanked Sammy for an excellent talk. The next program will be The Scottish Connection to the Knights Templar given by Robert Hawks.


The meeting is adjoined at 8:15.

Date: January 8, 2007
Time: 7:10 p.m.
Location: Holiday Inn Select (Poplar at I-240), Memphis, Tennessee
Attendance:

• 39 Dining
  
• 2 Complimentary Dinners
  
• 7 Not Eating
  
• Total Attendance: 48

Pledge of Allegiance

Prayer: Ken Letterman

Call to Order: President Ben Kemker

Introduction of Guest: Bill Crump introduces past president Bill Lane.

Announcements

• Burns Nicht ticket sales are low — 117 as of tonight — all members are urged to purchase tickets and remind their friends and acquaintances of this event.
  
• Reminder to see Cheryl Noland for Silent Auction items.
  
• Reminder to bring clan banners for display.
  
• Wade needs assistance hemming tartan napkins, see her for details.
  
• Decorating will begin at 9:00 a.m. on the 27th, for all those interested in assisting, you are welcome.

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Program – Scotland Tour

September 4 – 12, 2006

Louis Garner offers his talent of photography with our shared interest in Scotland to acquaint us with this land of astounding beauty. He carries us from Edinburgh to castles, lochs, ruins and parks. Famous and not so famous locations and their histories are brought to life. Thanks Louis, for a wonderful program.

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Door Prizes:
4 lucky reserved attendees won door prizes tonight.

Conclusion:
President Ben Kemker thanks his board for a good year. The attendees thank Ben for a great term. Welcome to President-Elect John Schultz and his board.


The meeting is adjoined at 8:20.

Date: December 11, 2006
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: All Saints Episcopal Church
Attendance:
Approximately 67 (no attendance sheet, head count only)

Prayer: Ken Letterman

Call to Order: President Ben Kemker

Arrival of Santa Claus: Santa arrived to retrieve Toys For Tots collection

Enjoyment of Another Great Pot-Luck Buffet

Best Table Award

1st Place — Food Tables
Actually best decorated table: Charlotte Jones — for preparing a perfectly beautiful Scottish themed table

Burns Nicht

Tickets are available through Treasurer John Simmons or through the mail at Post Office Box 241934, Memphis, TN 38124-1934. You may also register on the website. Silent Auction Donations — please contact Cheryl Noland, proceeds benefit the Grant and Scholarship Fund.

Scholarship Committee

Sue Malone reports that a grant was awarded to the Caledonian Chorale, and a scholarship was awarded to Katie Garner, student at Lyons College, Scottish Highland Dancing Class.

Bartlett Performing Arts Center

Contact Margaret Zavodny for attendance at the Dougie McClain concert on February 21st.

Celtic Christmas

Ken Letterman offers thanks to all who attended Evergreen’s Celtic Christmas event.

The Pie-Eyed Piper

A hilarious performance was once again presented by our talented membership. Thanks to Mary Ann Lucas, Jim Lucas, John Simmons, Mary Meister, Sammy Rich, Sandy Simpson, Allen Simpson, and Pat Bevier.

Singing

Thanks to the Caledonian Chorale for presenting us with an exceptional concert. The meeting closed as we sang Scottish Christmas songs.


The meeting is adjoined at 8:20.

Date: November 13, 2006
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Holiday Inn Select (Poplar at I-240), Memphis, Tennessee
Attendance:

• Reserved: 44
  
• Unreserved &/or Late Reservations: 2
  
• Attendees Not Eating: 8
  
• Total Dinners: 46
  
• Total Attendance: 54

Music and Song: Mary Ann Lucas and Joe Lyle

Prayer: Clifford McWhorter

Call to Order: President Ben Kemker

Presentation of Colors: Dick Bevier

Welcome to guests:
Sarah Hull
Beth Rowlett

Announcements

Bill Halladay died unexpectantly today. Visitation will be held on Wednesday from 5:00 – 7:00 at Canale Funeral Directors. Services will be held at Grace St. Lukes at 11:00a.m on Thursday the 16th. Amazing Grace was sung as a memorial for Bill.

Bud Hisky has agreed to complete Bill’s duties as a Member at Large for the 2006 term.

MSSI 2007 Nomination Committee

Seldon Murray, as a member of the Nomination Committee announced the 2007 board nominations.

• President: John Schultz
  
• Vice President: Mary Ann Lucas
  
• Treasurer: Cheryl Noland
  
• Secretary: Mary Clausi
  
• Members at Large: Sue Malone, Janet Mandanna and Sam Rich

The floor was open for further nominations, though none were submitted. These nominations were accepted and seconded by the membership.

The membership will vote for these nominees during the December meeting.

St Andrews Tea

A St. Andrews Tea will be held at Crumpets on Highland Ave, on Thursday November 30th from 2:30 – 5:00pm. Tickets are available for $25.00. See Mary Ann Lucas or Mary Clausi for purchase.

Burns Nicht

Burns Nicht will be held at Woodland Hills in Cordova on Saturday, January 27th. A Patrons Reception will be held prior to the night’s activities. Please see Mary Clausi to assist in food preparation. Smithfield Fair has been reserved for entertainment, along with the Wolf River Pipes and Drums. Cheryl Noland will be in charge of program advertising and the Silent Auction. Please contact her with ad information and items for the auction.

SAMS

A SAMS color guard and piper attended a ceremony at the Church of the Holy Communion.

Wolf River Pipes and Drums

The pipe band will perform at the annual kirking in Grenada, Mississippi.

Caledonia Chorale

Practice is held every Monday night (except MSSI Monday) from 6:30 – 8:30 at the Church of Holy Communion. The Chorale performed at the recent Celtic Fest in Jackson.

Country Dancers

Practice is held at the Idlewild Church on the 2nd and 4th Fridays of each month, except the Friday following Thanksgiving. They recently performed at the Craft Fair, and are scheduled to perform during Burns Nicht.

Order of the Thistle and Order of the Heather

These awards are in recognition of an established member and a new member who has contributed to the principles of the Memphis Scottish Society, Inc. Please submit the name of those members to the Grace Notes staff. These selections will be announced during Burns Nicht.

Celtic Christmas

Ken Letterman announced a Celtic Christmas Celebration at Evergreen Presbyterian Church on December 6th.

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Mary Ann Lucas introduces Bill Maguire as tonight’s speaker.

Program – “Gaelglish”

Bill Maguire again delivered a most informative discussion on the Gaelic Language. How fortunate we are to have this knowledgeable man share his wisdom on this topic. He explained how our English has roots in this poetic, scholastic language. He offered to conduct classes for those interested in learning more about this revived language. If you’re interested in a class, please express this desire to him and hopefully by next fall, he will agree to an organized class.

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Christmas Party

The annual Christmas party will be held at All Saints Episcopal Church at White Station on December 11th. This will be a pot luck affair, complete with $5.00 gender appropriate gifts and games. Please bring your unwrapped Toys for Tots contributions. There will be a table decorating contest, so get your best ideas together, bring your table clothes and centerpieces and prepare to compete. Please contact Mary Ann Lucas or Emily Smith to claim your table.

Scholarship Committee

John Schultz announced the priority of resuming scholarship awards. He will ask each MSSI affiliated organization to name a representative to serve with the nomination committee to select members for this committee. Meetings will begin after Burns Nicht to submit the nominees for the Committee to the membership for selection at the February meeting.


The meeting is adjoined at 8:15.

Date: October 8, 2006
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Holiday Inn Select (Poplar at I-240), Memphis, Tennessee
Attendance:

• Reserved: 30
  
• Unreserved &/or Late Reservations: 0
  
• Attendees Not Eating: 7
  
• Total Dinners: 30
  
• Total Attendance: 37

Music and Song: Mary Ann Lucas, Sam Rich and Ben Kemker

Prayer: Clifford McWhorter

Call to Order: President Ben Kemker

Presentation of Colors: Dick Bevier

Welcome to guests:
Yvonne Blair
Member David Wilkins

Announcements

Bud Hisky recovering from a Carotid Endardarectomy.
2007 Annual Dues can now be paid. See Dena Warth or John Simmons.
Quilt tickets are now available. [view quilts] See Mary Clausi, Mary Ellen Kemker or Cheryl Noland.
The MSSI Banner is missing. If anyone has knowledge of it, please alert Ben Kemper

MSSI 2007 Nomination Committee

The nomination committee will select and nominate members of the 2007 Board. Their selection will be published in the November Grace Notes and announced at the November MSSI meeting. Membership will vote on the 2007 board during the December meeting. The Nomination Committee consists of the past president, a member appointed by the current president and a member voted on by the members attending tonight’s meeting. Ben Kemker has appointed Dick Bevier to serve on the board. Seldon Murray was elected by the membership during the meeting tonight. Therefore, the MSSI 2007 Nomination Committee is: Bill Crump, Dick Bevier and Seldon Murray.

WKNO Telethon

The MSSI will man the phones during the November 11tth event from 6:30 pm to 11:00 pm. Volunteers are asked to see Sammy Rich, who is chairing this event. It is requested that volunteers wear Scottish dress. We are responsible for providing 10 volunteers during the 4 1/2 hour event. Please contact Sammy Rich for volunteering for selected shifts or the entire event.

Tartan Television

Tartan Television has returned to WKNO starting 10/28/06 at 11:00 am with their Halloween Special. Look for it every Saturday at 11:00.

Celtic Fest

The Celtic Fest at Jackson, Tennessee will be held on November 4th. See Mary Ann Lucas for information on representing MSSI during this event.

Halloween Party

The MSSI Halloween Party will be held Saturday October 28th at St Columba from 7:00 to 11:00pm. There is a $2.00 entry fee.

St Andrews Day Tea

The tea will be held at Crumpets Restaurant on Highland Avenue on November 30th from 2:30 – 5:00. Attendance is limited to 25 with an admission charge of $25.00. See Mary Ann Lucas if interested.

Bartlett Performing Arts Center

Great Scottish Performers are on the schedule. On October 21st, see the Celtic Tenors, the week before, see Barage. On February 21st, Dougie McClain will perform. Margaret Zavodny will chair this event for the MSSI. We’d like to attend as a group. Please contact Margaret for ticket information.

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Mary Ann Lucas introduces Ben Kemker as tonight’s speaker.

Program – “If You Thought You Knew Andrew – You Don’t Know Jack-Son”

Ben Kemker presented a most informative biography of Andrew Jackson. This Scots-Irish molder of our current political system simply lived his Scots-Irish traditions and became one of the most successful political leaders of these evolving United States. Thanks to Ben for presenting a different perspective of this President.

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Door Prize

Allen Simpson returns the vase filled with foliage and Snickers and an informative piece on the Fraser Clan. This door prize was won by our guest Yvonne Blair.
Dick & Pat Bevier donate a bottle of Scotch won by Anna Frances Houston. Ms. Houston immediately hosted an impromptu auction for the bottle of Scotch, won by Mary Ann Lucas for $31.00. This amount is donated to the society by Anna Frances Houston.

Scholarship/Grant Committee

Janet Mandanna, along with Sue Malone and Elaine Meece, ask for any scholarship or grant applications to be submitted to the committee as soon as possible.


The meeting is adjoined at 8:00.

We apologize that no notes are available for this meeting, because our regular correspondent was sick.

Date: August 14, 2006
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Holiday Inn Select (Poplar at I-240), Memphis, Tennessee
Attendance:

• Reserved: 40
  
• Unreserved &/or Late Reservations: 5
  
• Attendees Not Eating: 4
  
• Complimentary Meal: Bill Maguire
  
• Total Dinners: 46
  
• Total Attendance: 50

Tribute to James Gresham

Prayer by Cliff McWhorter
“Going Home” performed on bagpipes by Rick Clausi

“Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but, rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming, WHEW, What a ride.” Unknown author

Music and Song: Gavin Anderson, Mary Ann Lucas, Joe Lyle, and John Simmons

Call to Order: President Ben Kemker

Presentation of Colors: Dick Bevier

Welcome to guests:
Teresita Murchison, longtime member, 1st meeting
Pat Carroll, sister of Janet Mandanna
Rebecca Crawford, guest of Jim Moffett
Dexter and Brenda Higgins, friends of Ron Robertson

Announcements

Picnic – John Schultz announces the pot-luck picnic at St Columba, Gates Pavillion from 3:00 – 8:00 on September 9th. Participation is encouraged for a Home Made Ice Cream Contest.
Clanjamfry – Lee Hutchison brings brochures for the event, the 5K run/walk, as well as posters for distribution. There will be music, a concert, and representation by 11 clans/societies. He announces that the demand for the Scottie Dog poster from a few years back necessitated a reprinted. The poster will be available for purchase during the event.
Burns Night – Mary Ann Lucas invites volunteers for the first organizational meeting to be held on August 22, 2006 at 7:00 p.m. at Shoney’s at the Sycamore View location. She announces Smithfield Fair as the selected entertainment. She presented 2 handmade quilts to be raffled during Burns Night, with Cheryl Noland volunteering to organize ticket sales. [view quilts]

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Mary Ann Lucas introduces Bill Maguire as tonight’s speaker.

Program – “The Celtic Migration”

Bill Maguire presented a detailed migration of the Celtic peoples. From the pre-Celtic peoples of 400,000 years ago, to the modern Scotland, we learned of the many elements of this multiple-direction migration. This migration found its way to the current countries of Greece, the Chech Republic, Hungary, Italy, Germany, Spain, France, Great Britain, Ireland and Scotland. This informative program offered great insight to the ancestry that we call ‘ours’.

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Door Prize

Brenda Maguire draws the name of Nancy Gresham, who receives a floral arrangement.
Nancy Gresham draws the name of Lee Hutchison, who receives a set of candle holders.
Volunteers are asked to donate door prizes for future drawings.

Bud Hisky will present September’s meeting, “The Five James of the Scottish Stewarts”.

John Schultz offers directories/bylaws to society members.


The meeting is adjoined at 7:48.

Date: July 10, 2006
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Holiday Inn Select (Poplar at I-240), Memphis, Tennessee
Attendance:

• Reserved: 23
  
• Unreserved &/or Late Reservations: 9
  
• Attendees Not Eating: 5
  
• Complimentary Meal: Mary Ann Lucas and John Simmons.
  
• Total Dinners: 32
  
• Total Attendance: 37

Call to Order by: President Ben Kemker

Prayer by: John Simmons

Presentation of Colors: by Dick Bevier

Announcements:

Kent McAden good to see you here again.
Rick Clausi announces that Mr. Hinner, drummer for Wolf River Pipes and Drums has again been recognized for his abilities during a drumming seminar in Atlanta. Congratulations!!!!!
The picnic will be held September 9th at St Columba. A Home-Made Ice Cream Contest will be held. This picnic is a potluck event.

The Nomination Committee has selected the Scholarship Committee nominees.

• Janet Mandanna
  
• Sammy Rich
  
• Elaine Meece

However, Mr. Rich and Mrs. Meece both are members of an ancillary group. The By-Laws state that no more than one member per ancillary organization shall hold a seat on this committee. Mr. Rich, therefore, declines his appointment and nominates Sue Malone. The membership approved and appoints Janet Mandanna, Elaine Meece and Sue Malone as members of the Scholarship Committee.

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Mary Ann Lucas introduces John Simmons as tonight’s speaker.

“Scottish Presence in the Holy Land”

Presented by John Simmons
John Simmons wows the audience with little known information about the Church of Scotland in Tiberius and Jerusalem. A Dr. Torrance, from Scotland first founded a missionary hospital in Tiberius in 1923. His son continued this missionary hospital upon the death of his father in 1923 through 1959. In 2000, the hospital and church were converted to hotels and churches run by the Church of Scotland. Mr. Simmons also presented a short silent film made by the 2nd Dr. Torrance.

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Door Prize

Kathy Schultz draws the name of Pat Bevier for the floral arrangement.
Kathy Schultz draws the name of Bill Halliday for a box of Jordon Almonds.

The program for August's meeting will be presented by Bill Maguire.

John & Kathy Schultz and Emily Smith offer a 10 minute lesson in County Dancing. This event will be continued after each monthly meeting.

The meeting is adjoined at 7:52 p.m.

Date: June 12, 2006
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Holiday Inn Select (Poplar at I-240), Memphis, Tennessee
Attendance:

• Reserved: 35
  
• Unreserved &/or Late Reservations: 5
  
• Attendees Not Eating: 11
  
• Complimentary Meal: Mary Ann Lucas will receive at next meeting.
  
• Total Dinners: 36
  
• Total Attendance: 47

Call to Order by: President Ben Kemker

Music and Songs led by Mary Ann Lucas & John Simmons.

Prayer by Clifford McWhorter

Presentation of Colors by Dick Bevier

Announcements:

Visitors: Phillip Jones, grandson of Dick and Ethel White. Welcome.
New Members: Allen & Sandy Simpson, June McLauren
Current Member: Eugenia Messick, glad you’re here.
Grace Notes Newsletter: Thanks to Gavin Anderson for the terrific web site. You can receive the newsletter via the email list. Contact Gavin to sign up. Also, contact Gavin to sign off the ‘snail mail’ list.
SAMS (Scottish American Military Society): The next meeting is July 12th at Evergreen Presbyterian Church. All those with military affiliation are welcome.
Wolf River Pipes and Drums: Competed in Glasgow, KY. Congratulations to Scott MacLeod – Senior Snare Drummer of the Day, Kenny Hiner – Base Drummer of the Day, Derrick Stein and David Corbet – Individual Piping Recognition.
Clanjamfry Sep 22-24: Lee Hutchison reports on confirmation for music for Saturday night. Enid Kent (sp?) and Bryan McNeil will perform. Lee also announces sources for kilt purchase at 1/3 to 1/2 off custom order pricing. Please contact Lee for details.

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President Ben Kemker introduces Mary Ann Lucas as tonight’s speaker.

“The Other William Wallace”

Presented by Mary Ann Lucas
Leave it to Mary Ann to find this colorful character, born William Alexander Anderson Wallace in 1817 in Lexington, Virginia. He achieved his fame in Texas during the state’s struggle for independence from Mexico. “Big Foot Wallace” survival to the age of 82 is a bit miraculous considering his desire to place himself in dangerous encounters time and time again. He is the inspiration for the American rugged frontiersman. His numerous escapades have evolved into our Lonesome Dove character. What an American Scotsman!!! Mary Ann invites all to the Heritage Tent at Clanjamfry to learn more about our Scottish-American ancestors whose contributions shaped our country and earned our freedom and democracy.

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Web Site Tutorial

John Simmons and Gavin Anderson demonstrate the ease of locating and perusing our website. Thanks again to Gavin for his time and effort in establishing and maintaining our website. His expertise and generosity is much appreciated.

Door Prize

Isaac Anderson drew the name of Kathy Schultz to win the floral arrangement.
Caleb Anderson drew the name of John Schultz to win the bag of ‘Edinburgh’ onions.
Can that ever happen again????? Two young brothers drawing the name of a husband and wife to win door prizes!!!!!!

The program for July’s meeting will be “Scottish Presence in the Holy Land” by John Simmons.

The meeting is adjoined.