CMAA Webmaster, Author at clanmacneilusa.us

Tartans, Bagpipes, and Holiday Cheer: Join the Alexandria Scottish Walk!

Join the Festivities at the Alexandria Scottish Walk!

Get ready to step into the holiday spirit this December as Old Town Alexandria comes alive with the annual Scottish Christmas Walk Parade! For over 50 years, this beloved tradition has transformed the historic streets into a vibrant celebration of Scottish culture, history, and holiday cheer.

Whether you're a local or visiting for the season, this is your chance to immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Scotland. Bagpipes, drums, tartan-clad marchers, and lively floats will wind their way through Old Town’s cobblestone streets, accompanied by Scottish terriers and clan banners. The Alexandria Scottish Walk is a visual and auditory feast that brings Scottish heritage to life, with a special nod to the city's own history—Alexandria was named after Scotsman John Alexander, and the parade honors that legacy with grandeur and charm.

A Weekend Full of Festivities

The Scottish Walk Parade is just one part of the broader Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend, which promises activities and fun for all. Leading up to the parade, visitors can enjoy a host of holiday-themed events, including:

Heather and Greens Sale: Find your perfect holiday wreath or greenery.
Holiday Home Tours: Explore historic, beautifully decorated homes in Old Town.
Taste of Scotland: Sample fine Scottish whisky and gourmet dishes.
Holiday Marketplace: Shop for unique gifts and handmade crafts from local vendors.

Special Invitation to the MacNeil Gathering

If you’re planning to join the festivities in Alexandria this year, Vivian Ramirez and her family invite you to a special MacNeil gathering the night before the parade! This intimate event will feature delicious Scottish flavors and is the perfect way to kick off the weekend’s celebrations. To RSVP and receive further details, please email Vivian at vchangdc@yahoo.com.

Parade Details & Community Impact

The Scottish Walk Parade will be held on the first Saturday of December (12/07/2024), starting at 11 a.m. The route begins at St. Asaph and Wolfe Streets and weaves through the heart of Old Town, making it easily accessible for all. Arrive early to secure a good spot and enjoy the full spectacle!

Best of all, your participation supports a great cause—proceeds from the weekend benefit the Campagna Center, which provides crucial support for children and families throughout Alexandria. By attending, you’ll be contributing to the well-being of the community, all while enjoying a timeless holiday tradition.

Buaidh no bas!

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to be part of Alexandria's most festive and culturally rich holiday event. Dust off your tartans, get ready to hear the pipes, and join us for a weekend of fun and celebration that you won’t soon forget!

"Buaidh no bas!" (Victory or death) is the rallying cry of the MacNeil clan—so, in the spirit of strength and unity, we look forward to seeing you at the parade!

More details are on the Alexandria Scottish Walk website: https://www.campagnacenter.org/alexandria-scottish-christmas-walk-parade/

Tartans, Bagpipes, and Holiday Cheer: Join the Alexandria Scottish Walk! Read More »

Join Our Adventure in Scotland!

CMAA Webmaster

Are you ready for an unforgettable journey through the heart of Scotland? We are thrilled to extend a warm invitation to all Clan MacNeil members to join us on a remarkable group trip to Scotland from August 4th to August 14th, 2024. Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality of this enchanting country.

Tour Stops

Embark on a captivating journey that begins and ends in the vibrant city of Edinburgh where medieval charm meets modern excitement. Throughout the adventure, you'll find yourself in a symphony of Scotland's finest destinations.

Accommodations have been carefully selected in Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Inverness, the enchanting Glen Coe, picturesque Oban, the mystical Isle of Mull, the bustling streets of Glasgow, and back to the majestic embrace of Edinburgh. In between these remarkable stops, prepare to be whisked away to the historic streets of St. Andrews, the quaint beauty of Elgin, the fortress city of Fort William, and the remote allure of Mallaig.

Each destination promises a unique blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, ensuring that every moment of your Clan MacNeil journey is a chapter in a story you'll cherish forever.

Planned Trip Highlights

Historic Town of St. Andrew’s: Explore the charming streets and ancient ruins of St. Andrew's, a town steeped in history and home to Scotland's oldest university.
Dunnottar Castle: Perched dramatically on a cliff, Dunnottar Castle offers awe-inspiring views of the North Sea. Discover the castle's fascinating history as you wander through its well-preserved ruins.
Strathisla & Glen Moray Distilleries: Indulge your senses with visits to two of Scotland's renowned distilleries. Learn about the art of whisky-making and savor the distinct flavors of Strathisla and Glen Moray.
Loch Ness Boat Tour and Urquhart Castle: Embark on a mystical journey across Loch Ness, keeping an eye out for the legendary Nessie. Explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle, which stand proudly on the loch's shore.
McCaig Tower: Enjoy panoramic views of Oban from the McCaig Tower, a unique structure resembling the Roman Colosseum.
Castle Sween: Step back in time as you explore the ancient ruins of Castle Sween, one of Scotland's oldest stone castles.
Kelpies: Marvel at the iconic Kelpies, colossal horse-head sculptures that pay homage to Scotland's equine heritage.
Edinburgh Tattoo: Be captivated by the world-renowned Edinburgh Tattoo, a spectacular military showcase set against the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.
Kilchurn Castle: Discover the haunting beauty of Kilchurn Castle, located on the shores of Loch Awe.
Jacobite Steam Train Ride, Glenfinnan Viaduct, and Glen Coe: Relive the magic of Harry Potter with a ride on the Jacobite Steam Train, crossing the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct. Marvel at the rugged beauty of Glen Coe, known for its dramatic landscapes.
Rannoch Moor: Traverse the wild and picturesque Rannoch Moor, a landscape of endless beauty and tranquility.
Isle of Mull, Duart Castle, and Duncarron Medieval Fort: Explore the Isle of Mull, visit the historic Duart Castle, and step into the past at the Duncarron Medieval Fort.
Stirling Castle: Immerse yourself in the history of Stirling Castle, a symbol of Scottish royalty and military might.
Falkirk Wheel: Witness engineering marvel at the Falkirk Wheel, a rotating boat lift connecting the Forth and Clyde Canals.
St. Conan’s Kirk: Visit the enchanting St. Conan’s Kirk, a unique church with architectural wonders.

Tour Pricing

Pricing is based on the number of people joining in, according to the following:

20-25 paying passengers

Double/Twin shared room £3,715 per person

Single Occupancy £5,395 per person

26-29 paying passengers

Double/Twin shared room £3,615 per person

Single Occupancy £5,295 per person

30-32 paying passengers

Double/Twin shared room £3,565 per person

Single Occupancy. £5,295 per person

More Info

Want all the details? The full trip description has a description of each day's activities along with what's included/not included. You can find that document here: https://bit.ly/2024Scotland

This journey promises not only to deepen our connection with Scotland but also to strengthen the bonds within our Clan MacNeil family. Don't miss this opportunity to create lasting memories and celebrate our heritage together.

To secure your spot on this extraordinary adventure, contact Highland Experience Tours at info@highlandexperience.com or, if you want to call internationally, they're at +44 (0)131 226 1414. Kenny is also available to discuss, email him at president@clanmacneilusa.us

We look forward to exploring the beauty of Scotland with you!

Join Our Adventure in Scotland! Read More »

Are you joining us for the Clan MacNeil AGM at PNW Scottish Highland Games & Clan Gathering?

CMAA Webmaster

We are getting excited for the upcoming Clan MacNeil Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the membership (AGM), which will be held on July 22, 2023 at 3 PM during the Pacific Northwest Scottish Highland Games & Clan Gathering held in Enumclaw, WA (near Seattle). We hope you'll be in attendance at this amazing event where we'll report on the work of CMAA and discuss future plans and initiatives of our esteemed clan.

Are you planning to attend?

To assist us with the planning, please kindly RSVP by responding to our short survey, located here: https://forms.gle/TgZRnC28NruMoqhL6 We'd appreciate a response by July 7, 2023 so we can finalize any arrangements. We look forward to your positive response and eagerly anticipate a memorable AGM filled with meaningful discussions and enjoyable activities.

About the PNW Scottish Highland Games & Clan Gathering

The 76th annual Pacific Northwest Scottish Highland Games & Clan Gathering are planned for July 21, 22, & 23, 2023 at the Enumclaw Expo Center (45224 284th Ave SE Enumclaw, WA 98022). The activities begin at 5 PM PT on Friday and continue according to the daily event schedule on the SSHGA site.

Clan MacNeil AGM

CMAA Annual General Meeting at the games, food will be available (will include a Haggis presentation)

Interested in Sticking Around?

In addition to the AGM, we would also like to gauge your interest in participating in a group activity during the gathering. We believe that engaging in a shared experience will further strengthen the bonds within our clan. We have a few ideas and, depending on the amount of interest we'll look into arranging or coordinating transportation. Suggestion are welcome via the "RSVP Survey".

General Schedule of Events

Thurs. (7/20/2023):

Day trip into Seattle's Pike Place Market and (time permitting) Seattle Center/Space Needle (time TBD)
Evening at Renton Civic Center including pizza, snacks, a showing of Whisky Galore (1949), and fellowship

Fri. (7/21/2023):

Friday events at the games are free to all
Those willing can come out to tthe games during the afternoon (starting at 2:00 pm) and help set up our space for the weekend games.
5:00 pm - Food Booths, Pubs and Vendors are allowed to open
6:30 pm - Pipping Competition and other festivities begin
8:30 pm - Rising of the Clans and Flaming Saltaire

Sat. (7/22/2023):

8:00 am - competitions, music and festivities begin.
12:30 pm - opening ceremony
3:00 pm – CMAA Annual General Meeting at the games, food will be available (will include a Haggis presentation)
6 pm – Cailidh on site

Sun. (7/23/2023):

8:00 am - competitions, music and festivities continue.
5:00 pm – closing ceremonies and the Massing of the Pipes and Drums

Mon. (7/24/2023):

If those in attendance are so interested another group activity will be planned (discussion will be held over the weekend).

Are you joining us for the Clan MacNeil AGM at PNW Scottish Highland Games & Clan Gathering? Read More »

Join the Clan MacNeil Team of Volunteers!

CMAA Webmaster

Calling all Clan MacNeil enthusiasts! Are you looking for a chance to support your favorite clan and make a difference? Look no further! The Clan MacNeil Association of America (CMAA) is always seeking dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers to join our team. If you're interested in supporting our mission and making an impact, we'd love to hear from you.

As a member-run organization, we rely on the dedication and support of our volunteers to help us achieve our goals. For each of the various volunteer roles available within our organization, we'd like to have a backup. Ideally, this would be someone who can help now and potentially lead for the job in the future. We understand that circumstances change, and we want to make sure we have continuity in our operations.

State Commissioners

One of the many exciting volunteer opportunities available is that of a State Commissioner. As a State Commissioner, you'll represent CMAA at local highland games and festivals by hosting the Clan MacNeil tent. You'll have the opportunity to connect with CMAA members, meet new people, and promote the Clan MacNeil heritage and traditions.

Administrative roles

Prefer behind-the-scenes work? We've got plenty of administrative positions to help run the organization. We're always looking to expand our membership team, merchandise, and funding, among other standard admin roles. Some of these roles are filled by dedicated individuals taking on multiple responsibilities. We'd love to welcome more hands to lighten the load and not burn out our current team.

Contributing to the fun

In the Operations arena, we need content creators for our blog, social media, podcast, and magazine. If you enjoy writing or creating content, this could be the perfect volunteer role for you.

We could also use help is with arranging CMAA trips. Our president puts together clan trips every few years, and enjoys doing it. He's always open to input and would be happy to include new ideas and share the coordination of trip arrangements.

Help in a simple ways

You can support us in simple ways too. Engage with us on social media, liking, commenting, and sharing our posts. Your participation spreads awareness, promotes Scottish heritage, and connects with fellow enthusiasts. Even with limited time, your social media support greatly contributes to our cause.

No matter your interests or experience level, we have a volunteer role to fit your needs. Whether aspiring to be a full- or part-time State Commissioner, assisting with administration, or actively contributing to content creation, we enthusiastically welcome you to join our team. Reach out to President Kenny McNeil at volunteers@clanmacneilusa.us to get started and learn more about available volunteer opportunities. Together, let's preserve and celebrate Scottish heritage.

Join the Clan MacNeil Team of Volunteers! Read More »

Calling All CMAA Members! It’s time to send in your articles for The Galley

CMAA Webmaster

What is The Galley?

Published twice a year, "The Galley" is a family literary magazine by the Clan MacNeil Association of America (CMAA). It represents the international diaspora of Clan MacNeil kin, with a focus on cultural, historical, and personal accomplishments. Each issue features profiles of interesting MacNeils (of any of the related family sept names … think Neill, O’Neal, McNeill, and about 120 others), whose accomplishments run the gamut of fields of endeavor.

Our magazine highlights Scottish-related events in the US, from Highland games to Burn’s Night celebrations and reunions (including our Annual General Meeting). It includes the work of emerging poets, fiction writers, and essayists, artists, and cartoonists. There are reviews of books, films, and exhibitions, as well as CMAA officer and commissioner reports from around the country, as well as articles from kin abroad. We celebrate births, deaths, marriages, graduations, travels, public service, and other milestones. Our Clan Genealogist writes regular articles on genealogical discoveries and avenues for exploring family ties.

Significant Recognition

Do you know that the Library of Congress has accepted "The Galley"? Yes, it's true! Being accepted by the Library of Congress is a significant achievement for a publication. This is because the Library acquires only a small percentage of published items and it indicates that the publication has cultural, historical, or other significant value.

The Galley was a top-performing publication in the Family Tree Newsletter Contest, which was sponsored by the Odom Genealogy Library for ten years, from 1995 to 2004. The publication won several awards during this period, including first place in the Magazine category and the Grand Prize (for all categories) for four consecutive years. In 2002, a new category was added, the Master's Class Division, and The Galley won this category in 2002, 2003, and 2004.

Content We Love

The CMAA is always seeking contributions for its bi-annual magazine "The Galley". As a platform for bringing our family together and introducing them to interesting people/events around the country and around the globe, we share items of family interest in "The Galley". It provides a great opportunity for members to showcase their talents and share their stories with others.

We welcome contributions in a variety of forms, including:

Family stories and personal profiles
Accomplishments
Genealogical information
Scottish event details and news
Poetry, art, music, dance, humor, and recipes
Book, CD, and DVD reviews
Travel adventures
Births, graduations, weddings, and obituaries
Scottish cultural items
Tales regarding heirlooms, homes, and businesses in the family
Reunions
Community service projects (on a local or even international scale)
Historical documents and accounts
Games competitions (all areas)

We welcome your contributions, whether you enjoy writing, sharing your genealogical research, or have a talent for creating works of art. Submit your work today and help preserve the legacy of the MacNeil Clan for future generations.

Submit Your Content Now!

To submit your work for publication in "The Galley," please send your text as a Word document or email and submit the highest-quality photos via email to TheGalley@clanmacneilusa.us. The Galley team will review the submission and contact you with any questions. Another submission option for members is to log in to the website and submit through the portal. If you need to send your contribution through the mail, contact Editor Vicki Corporon to make arrangements. We look forward to hearing from you!

Deadline for contributions for the Fall/Winter edition: September 15th
Deadline for contributions for the Spring/Summer: March 15th

The Clan MacNeil Association of America is a non-profit organization with a mission to preserve and promote the heritage and culture of the MacNeil Clan. The association serves as a resource for individuals of MacNeil descent and those interested in Scottish heritage, providing opportunities for members to connect with like-minded individuals. To advance its mission, the association sponsors events, publishes "The Galley," and maintains a website.

Calling All CMAA Members! It’s time to send in your articles for The Galley Read More »

Isn’t all DNA the same?

CMAA Webmaster

Compare Y-DNA, mtDNA, autosomal

Isn’t all DNA the same? Read More »

Toast to the Bard: Celebrating a Traditional Burns Night Supper

CMAA Webmaster

Ode to the Bard

Ah, Burns Night! Every January 25th, Scots and Scots-lovers the world over celebrate the life and poetry of Robert Burns, Scotland’s national poet. But how did this tradition start? The first Burns supper was held in 1801, just five years after Robert Burns’ death. It was organized by nine of his closest friends and held at Burns’ home in Alloway, Scotland. The night was filled with readings of Burns’ work, toasts, traditional songs and of course, haggis. From there, Burns Night became a regular tradition.

In the years following, Rabbie's friends and admirers started celebrating the poet on his birthday. As the tradition spread, Burns Night became a way for Scots to celebrate their heritage, culture and language. Today, Burns Night is an opportunity for Scots to get together and celebrate their heritage with readings of Burns’ work, enjoy a meal, listen to music, share stories, and of course, enjoy a wee dram of whisky.

A Proper Burns Night Supper

We love seeing all the photos of the guests in their Scottish finery and ready for the Burns Night Dinners. The excitement reflects the mood of fun and fellowship of the gathering.

"Some hae meat and canna eat
And some wad eat that want it;
But we hae meat, and we can eat,
And sae the Lord be thankit."
~ The Selkirk Grace ~

The program for the evening traditionally has some core pieces, including:

Piping in the Guests - A piper leads the guests into the dinner, playing a traditional Scottish tune, setting the mood for the evening

The Selkirk Grace - The Selkirk Grace is a prayer attributed to Robert Burns that is often recited at the beginning of a Burns dinner (above).

The bagpipes herald the Piping in the Haggis which marks the arrival of the centerpiece of the supper, haggis.

“Address To a Haggis” – Burns’ traditional poem is recited or – more appropriately, performed – before eating.

Toasts and Entertainment: Throughout the evening, guests will have the opportunity to give speeches and recite poetry by Robert Burns. Requisite among these are ‘The Immortal Memory’ which is a keynote address on the life and works of Robert Burns, and the ‘Toast to the Lasses’

‘Auld Lang Syne’: At the end of the evening, the host will give a closing toast. The gathered group joins in a rendition of "Auld Lang Syne"

"Here's a hand, my trusty fiere!

And gie's a hand o' thine!

And we'll tak a right gude-willie waught,

For auld lang syne.

A Brief Burns Bio

Robert Burns is widely considered to be Scotland's national poet and a major figure in world literature. He is best known for his romantic poetry, which was written in Scots dialect and often centered on themes of love, nature, and patriotism. Burns' use of traditional Scots language and culture in his writing gave his work an authenticity that resonated with his readers. His often humorous and light-hearted take on life and its struggles also made his works accessible to a wide range of readers. His use of folkloric elements and simple language enabled him to create a unique style of poetry that continues to be popular today.

Bonus Fun fact: Atlanta, GA has a replica of the Burns Cottage! The Burns Club of Atlanta used the exact measurements of the original Alloway cottage in Scotland to have it built in 1911. In the 1970's, the cottage was added to the National Register of Historic Places in America. Read more about it on the Burns Cottage of Atlanta’s website or in this book review “Atlanta Robert Burns Cottage” by Frank R. Shaw, FSA.

Sources:

What Is a Burns Supper and What Is the History of It?, on FutureLearn.com
A Brief History of Burns Night, on University of Stirling’s blog

Toast to the Bard: Celebrating a Traditional Burns Night Supper Read More »

Join Us for the 2023 Annual General Meeting!

CMAA Webmaster

We can't wait to meet you in Seattle!

This year's Clan MacNeill Association of America's Annual General Meeting will be held in conjunction with the Seattle Scottish Highland Games. These games are held July 21-23, 2023 at the Enumclaw Expo Center.

Our hosts, Bill & Ellen Huls and Jennifer MacNeill are working with our President Kenny McNeil to plan the meeting, including the general business and entertainment. We're hoping to have some special visitors from Clan MacNeil Canada join us and make this an international reunion. The Games, of course, are part of the agenda. You won't want to miss the Clan MacNeil tent which always gets rave reviews. We've heard a rumor that Bill and Ellen, our Washington State Commissioner and Lady, are doing a tent re-model that's sure to be amazing!

Things to do

Beyond the games, there is A LOT to do in the Pacific Northwest. Beauty surrounds you on all sides, with the majestic Cascade Mountains towering in the east filled with National Parks suited to the outdoors enthusiasts. Stop by bustling Pike Street Market and take in the site of the fish mongers tossing (and catching) freshly-caught salmon to the cheers of the passers-by. The Puget Sound supports all sorts of water traffic including the U.S.'s largest ferry system. And of course, the iconic and distinctive Space Needle can be seen from many vantage points throughout the city. There's so much more than we can list here, if there is something specific you have questions about, reach out, our hosts are very proud of their home state and knowledgeable of the area.

If you're planning to stay a while, maybe come out a little bit early and take in the Skagit Valley Highland games as well. We don't have solid dates yet but Skagit is usually held two weeks prior to Seattle. Our VP of Membership, Jennifer, runs the tent there and would love to see you. Check the Littlefield Celtic Arts Foundation's webpage for updates.

We're going to be there and hope you will be too! So, go ahead and book your travel to get to Seattle, your closest major airport is SeaTac if you're flying. We'll keep sharing updates as we have them, including hotel recommendations, and event details. Keep a lookout on our social media platforms and the next edition of The Galley, Spring/Summer 2023 Galley.

Join Us for the 2023 Annual General Meeting! Read More »

Meet Florida Commissioner, Jamie Ryan!

1 Comment / CMAA Webmaster

If you've attended any of the Highland Games in Florida in the past couple years, you've probably been fortunate enough to meet the unsinkable Jamie Ryan! Jamie brought her infectious personality to her role of CMAA Central Florida Commissioner. You can meet her in person at many of the games in the southeast or via the Clan MacNeil of Central and Southern Florida Facebook group. We'd like to help you get to know her a little better in this #MeetOurMembers article..

Most of her life, Jamie believed her heritage was strictly Irish. When she attended her very first Celtic festival in 2016, a Tartan Day event in her home state of Colorado, she discovered her Scottish roots. Turns out she's Irish, Scottish, and Welsh! Jamie started hosting Clan MacNeil tents at several of the Colorado games and complete with a fun Clan MacNeil pirate logo t-shirt which can now be found on Clan MacNeil Teespring shop.

Fast-forward a couple years and Jamie headed to Central Florida! She moved away from all her family and friends as well as from her successful career as a paralegal, to beginnew adventures in sunny Central Florida where she is now working in the mobile dentistry industry. And of course, even before she moved, she had agreed to be one of two CMAA Florida Commissioners saying, "I love being at a clan tent so that I can help other people find their clan and share the heritage. Whether visitors are MacNeil or not I really love the socializing of a festival. There's always someone new to me, something interesting to learn, something fun to share."

There are 12 festivals every year in Florida and that is a lot to cover! For a list of the ones where Clan MacNeil usually has a tent, check out the Highland Games and Other Events - Southeast on the CMAA website.

Fun fact, when Jamie is not at a Clan MacNeil or St. Andrew's event, she and her roommate host a travel vlog on YouTube "Biddy Buddies" (@BiddyBuddies). The mission is to encourage older people to keep finding new experiences, traveling, and having fun. Check it out, they would love to have more followers!

Thanks for checking out our blog - we hope you will come out and meet Jamie at an upcoming event! If you'd like share a "get to know you" article in this #MeetOurMembers series, let us know!

Meet Florida Commissioner, Jamie Ryan! Read More »