26 February 2021
Hi Everyone!
Thanks to Alex Murray our Scottish American Society meetings resumed on Zoom. You, too, can meet our Rogue with a Brogue
via ZOOM. We will have our next Zoom meeting on Sunday, March 14 at 3:00 pm. Furthermore, when we get back to meeting at
the library, Alex says we can set it up so that everyone can continue to participate. So many of you would have a difficult
time getting to in-person meetings, but with this format, you can join the conversation even if you live in Timbuctu. It
is a real thrill to be in touch with you. Not as good as a hug - but close. If you wish to continue, let Alex know. If you
have questions, he is the guy to ask. alrisk@AOL.com.
We pretty much used the same meeting format we always did. Few boring facts and then a program. We chatted a bit (but
not enough) and learned how to manage the Zoom format. Many of those who participated knew how to instruct those of us who
were unfamiliar with how it works. We would like to hear from anyone interested in participating in the next meeting and would
love to hear suggestions for what you might like to hear about. Discussions? Topics? Music? (Please lets do have some
of our very talented folks play a tune or two.)
Anyone interested in presenting something? Individuals can also suggest items for inclusion or present something themselves.
Just tell our Zoom host, Alex.
ZOOM
The rave reviews are in. We have had lots of comments on Zoom meetings. The beauty of it is we can keep in touch with
our widespread membership this way and as Brian McElhinney points out, we are not limited to guests who live locally.
According to Brian, a member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians has connections in Ireland and, during one of their recent
meetings, had a fella visit a pub in Temple Bar and interviewed the owner to see how the pandemic has effected the Irish economy.
It might not sound all that interesting, but it was a blast and kinda neat to have a live feed from Ireland during the meeting.
We toured his pub and raised a glass together.
It is just one idea on some neat things that can be done. I'm not saying I would expect Alex to have his friends/family
running all over Scotland on Zoom during a pandemic, but just remember that Zoom opens our meetings up to people all over
the world and our guest speakers don't only have to be here in the States.
PICNIC Although Alex and others feel it is just too soon to plan actual inside meetings and activities, we are planning
a picnic for next summer at the Barrington house. They have close to four acres, with a pasture next door. It will not be
difficult to stay socially distant. We have also told the Kiwanians we will participate in Pirate Days in the Portage Lakes
if they go ahead with plans to have the event on the 24 of July.
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The virus is still with us. There is light at the end of the tunnel, but we are not there yet. Please remember that hand
washing, sanitizing, social distancing and wearing a mask is the first line of defense against our mutual enemy, the Covid
virus.
Hopefully we will all soon have the opportunity to obtain the vaccine which will lead to immunity. Please do not believe
the anti-vaccine rhetoric. Please get vaccinated. Himself and I both did. It wasnt a bad experience. Your life, or the life
of someone you love, depends on it. One more point. If you enter a store or other facility and people are not wearing masks
– turn around and leave. If they do not care enough about others to wear or require a mask, they don’t
care enough. They do not deserve your business.
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Elizabeth Vernon is making masks. She has several designs for sale. Anyone interested can contact her by phone at (917-545-2866).
She sells her masks for 7.50 each (3 for 20.00) at the Hartville Flea Market on Saturdays and Mondays if anyone wants to
see her selection.
Amy Barrington is also still crafting masks. Contact her at: osu012@yahoo.com. She has many designs and sizes. You can
see them at Amy Barrington on Facebook. Send her the number of the design you choose. She will also make them with or without
the sides open for a filter. Again, you specify your choice. I am quite sure she would also be open to making masks in your
own material (to match a special outfit for example).
Kilt for Scottish events
Highland Kilt Co info@highlandkilt.com. Maybe you would like to buy an inexpensive kilt for next summers Scottish events.
There will be lots of events in 2021 where kilts will be just the thing to wear. Check out these inexpensive kilts and accessories.
https:highlandkilt.com
Scottish Imports
If you are interested in Scottish Pies and other goods, you will have to order them delivered since there are no local
dealers. There is a list on our web site on the Special Events page. (Or drop me a line and I will email it to you.)
The Scottish Banner For the latest issue of the on-line Scottish Banner, go to:
https://www.scottishbanner.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/SB-4409-March-21-NA-.pdf
Join the conversation: #ScottishBanner or #TheBanner
Celebrating 45 Years of Publication
1976-2021
Uniting Scots Around the World
Alex recommends:
Stewart's Scottish Market https://www.stewartscottishmarket.com/
Camerons British Foods. https://cameronsbritishfoods.com
Highland Dance: If anyone is interested in signing up for classes, please contact Christie Walsh. Adults interested in
Scottish Country Dancing? Christie may add an Adult Scottish Country Dance Class in future. Let her know if you want more
information.
Questions? Contact Christie Urquhart Walsh at: cwalsh345@yahoo.com or akronscottishdancers@yahoo.com
Miscellaneous Information - now will be found on our web site under the heading "Information". That page will
include items that are usually found in the newsletter. I will happily add any announcements you wish included.
Love, virtual hugs, and good health to you all-please stay safe and get ready; we are going to have a wonderful 2021.
Slàinte!
Maggie
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