The Thistle and Quill

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WHAT’S YOUR SCOTTISH FAIR STORY?

     and spotted Ben coming as fast as he could down the hill, wearing an enormous smile and dragging a metal sword two-thirds his size, which he’d tucked, unsuccessfully, into his belt. "When’s our next show?" he bellowed. "I’ve got a bunch of kids lined up to hear it, so you better get moving. I’m gonna start in fifteen minutes."
     I hope I see Ben this year at Glasgow. I could use the rest.

     Columbus Scottish Festival and Highland Games, Indiana: First clouds, then rain, then the Big Wind, all in about eight minutes. We just had time to sling our stock and signs into the van before it hit. We clung to our wind-whipped canopy, but were afraid we’d be blown down the road -- or up into the sky like Dorothy -- so we gave up and tried to save the frame. But it was bent and twisted. Next morning a crew from the Festival staff appeared and mended the frame temporarily and skillfully, with duct tape and a broomstick, so that we could operate that day. Ah, the joys of an outdoor event!

     Have you got a Scottish Fair story?

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HERE’S THE ST. ANDREW’S SCOTTISH FAIR (AND TARTAN DAY AND PUB NIGHT) STORY!!!!!!!!!

     Annual Minnesota Scottish Fair and Highland Games. The day started out bright and sunny, but clouds and wind came in the afternoon. Still, it was an acceptable day when you realize that we had snow on the ground less than 3 weeks earlier. Though no figures are available yet, the attendance seemed very good and very steady for the whole day. We had many visitors at the St. Andrew’s tent and signed up 8 new members. We also sold a number of Scottish badges. It was great to talk to so many visitors who were genuinely interested in what our organization does.

     Last bit of news on events: Pub Night on Friday May 23 at Merlin’s Rest was a great evening! We had an excellent turnout of 30 to 40 people for several hours of fellowship, conversation, sharing a meal, a pint or a wee dram, and some great music too. Check the calendar on page 4 and try to make a future Pub Night. Make them part of your summer of 2008. It’s much cheaper to drive to a pub than to drive "up north"!