When Rita was heading towards Houston, I decided it was prudent to cancel our September meeting. The cancellation was sent by e-mail, and I apologize if some of you did not receive the notice. Derek MacLeod has done a great job with announcements on our website, so be sure to check out: www.heatherandthistle.org, if possible, for Heather and Thistle news.
Does everyone have their fingers, toes, arms and legs crossed with the hope that our hurricane season is over? I imagine we all will have our own personal stories to tell for many years to come. Walter and I – plus two cats and a bird – spent 10 hours in the car (without a break I might add) headed towards Austin to be with our family. We left at 10am and by 8pm had traveled approximately 35 miles. Listening to the radio, the mayor announced that Rita was downgraded to a 3 – headed for Port Arthur, and requested that only those in low lying areas evacuate. I held onto my seat as Walter turned the car around and headed home. It took 40 minutes to return. I don’t know who was more relieved – the humans or the pets! Fortunately, our family sustained only minor wind damage. I hope all of you survived the evacuation and storm with minor affliction. Please remember those less fortunate in your prayers.
October 24th Meeting. We are fortunate that Jay Dooling has agreed to give his cancelled September Irish program at our October 24th meeting. Depending on scheduling, we may also have a few pipers from the Houston Highlanders perform for us. Please come to enjoy all.
November 20th Kirking Service. Everyone is invited to attend the Kirking service to be held at St. Stephen Presbyterian Church. Scottish dress is encouraged. This is Jack Hume’s church, and we plan a memorable event. We are having a catered luncheon after the service for members and guests. Please mark your calendar. The luncheon cost is $10.00 per person prepaid. Refer to the printed information in this newsletter for details. Be sure to send me your check as soon as possible so that you can enjoy the luncheon after the service. The service normally starts at 10:30 am, so please arrive by 10:15 am.
Dixon-Hedges Award. My officers and I have made our selection for this years honoree for the Dixon-Hedges award. Annually, a non-officer who has contributed greatly to our Society is selected by the Chieftain and officers to receive this deserved recognition. The individual’s name will be announced at The Burns Supper and the trophy is displayed for all to view. We hope to announce our selection at the October meeting.
Future Programs. We are looking forward to our Royal Scottish Country Dancing Society exhibition and dancing lessons at our November meeting. This should prepare everyone for The Burns Supper. In December, we will have our annual Christmas party and we look forward to The Burns Club presentation in January.
The Burns Supper. Don’t forget to mark your calendar for January 28, 2006! Encourage your friends to attend. Everyone is hard at work to make this a grand evening. Our very own Jack Hume will be giving the Immortal Address.
Pantry Donations. I think it is important that our Society join with the many other societies, churches and organizations who have helped our community in time of need. We obviously were not able to bring items to the September meeting, so please remember to bring some pantry items to the October meeting. The shelves need replenishing. Refer to the printed list for suggestions. I thank you in advance.
Hopefully, in the next newsletter, we will all be basking in the glory of an Astros World Series win! Go Astros!!!!!!!!!
Pantry Needs: canned beans, tomato sauce, spaghetti sauce, canned meats, fish, beef stew, instant mashed potatoes, peanut butter, jelly, cookies, small sugar, flour, coffee, toothpaste, small shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant, combs.
Yours aye,
Cheryl Duthie May
Chieftain