Quick March

 I am not sure when it will be completed, but something has been in the works as a personal project of mine for sometime now. After strong encouragement from so many people abroad in the Celtic communities, I am writing a book. Yes, a book with the publisher being in Scotland. Thus far, about the best reliable source for wearing Highland Garb is the late Dr. Thompson’s book, “So you’re going to wear the kilt” A magnificent reference for anyone new, or old on the scene of things Scottish. Another great reference pertaining to tartan is Phil Smith’s “Tartan for me”

My writing will compliment Thompson and Smith , but carry some things forward. Included, will be commentary from other reknown experts on Highland attire, and other things related.  In my book, I will cover some truths, legend, and speculations on the origins of tartan and presenting factual concordance. When did tartan  really first come on the scene in Scotland. Other thngs, such as “Did anyone actually have a clan tartan prior to the 19th Century?” How many times have you heard someone say “This tartan has been in my family for 300 years?” How then was a clansman identified? Was tartan worn all over Scotland in the past and when did it become a national symbol. Did William Wallace or Robert the Bruce ever wear tartan?

Probably one of the more controversal topics will be “So what is proper to wear with the kilt?”, and even more antagonistic, Pipe Bands and their dress. Why do the majority of Pipe Bands wear a more civilian style attire with the kilt, versus a military appearance. There’s a good reason behind that and we will truly delve into that matter. Though some things may appeal to be “Cool” to wear with the garb of the gael, we’ll look into why sometimes you can either find yourself being complimented or worse, becoming the brunt of many a joke back in other band rooms and practice halls.

The book will even touch on traditional Regiments of Scotland and Irelands history and their influence on uniforms, kilts and accrutements. Why some things are acceptable to wear reflecting of the Regiments, and why some things are taboo.
We will even investigate how some articles of uniform in the United Staes Armed Forces have a Highland origin.

Coming soon!

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I just want to say THANKS! to all of you who came out this past Saturday from the SALPD and all the other Celtic groups in the Richmond area. It was a memorable event and all the neighbors loved it too! Some are now calling it a Celtic Block Party. I especially want to extend my appreciation to Dave Irving and Betty & Vicki Goodman for the pre-event set up. The food you people brought was fabulous. Being raised by  Christian parents, who tought me not to be vain, I do not brag of riches and wealth but to say this.. You can determine a man’s true worth by how many friends he can count on one hand. If he can count five, surely he is wealthy. I guess I can say I am blessed for sure. (times 30)

 Again, thank all of you who came also to the ones who wanted to be there, but couldn’t be. Last, I want to thank my wife, Valerie for putting up with my fanatical gardening and interior/exterior designing over the summer in preparation of opening our home up to you all. My outdoor Man Cave is always open for your leisure. If I am not piping somewhere, pick up the phone and come on by. The door is always open.

Aye yours,

    Tim Lewis Davidson Batten of MacLeod

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What was once a quiet subdivision, at 4:00 PM on Saturday, August 23rd 2008, took upon the appearance of a full blown Celtic Festival! Actually, it was a celebration of the birthday of the St. Andrew’s Legion Pipes and Drums, but more importantly, Wallace Day.

Trying to find a spot to park was the most challenging part of the evening. (other than deciding which whiskey to sample first) Behind the residence of our Pipe Major and his wife, Tim and Valerie Batten, the grills (yes plural) were in full flame cooking fine seasoned hamburgers that made our mouths water, and a buffet spread for everyone. (Betty’s beans and pork and the coconut cake Jude brought were some of my favorites) In attendance, were numerous members of the various Celtic Communities of the Richmond Metro area including, the Irish American Society, the Richmond Scottish Society, Clan Wallace representatives, and even some members of a Scottish motorcycle club on their Harley Davidsons. Richard McKann from WRVA radio come out with his new bride, Catherine. Amidst the Celtic themed garden patios and deck, people were packed in for the evening. Pipers and Drummers marched in and performed. The rare art of “pipe band caroling” was observed as the band went to the next door neighbors and offered a tune or two. Judy Wallace Moore Garrett and Tim spoke before the audience on William Wallace. Flower of Scotland was sung to honor one of Scotland’s greatest sons and then a toast made to Sir William while the flag of Clan Wallace proudly hung from the deck. Even at 11:00 PM, people were still coming in and the event went on to the wee hours of the morning. The song and heart of the Gael proudly sounded in Chester Virginia. Prior to 1692 when the House of Hanover changed so many place names throughout Virginia, Chester was known as New Glasgow. Now that is a more fitting name for a full scale Celtic invasion.

Raise your glasses in the air and a toast to the Legion and Sir William. Here’s to everyone past and present who helped the Legion and for those that continue to support us, and here’s to you Mr. Wallace for the sacrifice you made for Scotland. SLAINTE!!!!

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Wow! What a busy weekend. Even though my cable and inter net service was out for three days, it was still a lot of communication and logistics conducted with the wild schedule for this weekend. First was Thursday nights’ meeting of the Emerald Firefighters at Rare Ol’ Times Irish Pub, and we had a great turnout. Uniform were decided upon and the firefighters are excited. We can’t say FireMEN, because there are a lot of Fire Ladies involved and they have shown such great enthusiasm along with the guys. Butler and RC are doing a fabulous job at organizing and working with the Irish community for support. The various fire departments along with local EMS services have been long overdue to have their very own Firefighters Emerald Society, and they are doing thing the smart way. Butlers dad is a member of a Emerald Society up north and we thank them for their guidance. These men and women amaze me with their dedication. It’s one thing to see them work these long shifts, and even one in particular was injured in a recent incident, but still they keep practicing for their new pipe band. That’s dedication! Everywhere I’ve been over the last several months across the Commonwealth, fire departments are buzzing about the great news.

It was a boat load of fun on Friday night at Rare Ol Times once again. This time we met up with Irish American Society for which some of us already have membership with as well. Gloria, Dan, Jim, Catherine, Nancy, Ed and all the rest have really shown us so much support and we are truly grateful.  SALPD, ODFES and the IAS made some new friends from Shannon Ireland who now live here, and we thank John and Beverly Sheridan for their support. John’s a Firefighter from Ireland. Gloria Cahen did us all such a beautiful rendition once again of Danny Boy. I’ve done many funerals with Gloria in the past, and when she sings Danny Boy, it makes one’s heart melt. Sonny Meade (champion fiddle player) was also with us there, and it was great talking to a true Virginia Gentlemen. It was the first time Sonny and I met, and we learned that we have numerous friends in common back in the western part of the State. He is also the teacher of Mike Hohmans’ lovely wife, Donna. Doug made the fatal error of slapping the challenge coin down on the ol’ Pipie, and I couldn’t resist but to slap not just the SALPD coin down, but pulled out my old Marine unit’s, and five others. I assured Doug just one drink would do. Boy, was he relieved. Now for those who do not know, Doug and Scott Elder are actually kin to me, and we share an Irish and Scottish ancestry. On my fathers’ side, I have an ancestor named Joshua Gough from Antrim County, Ireland who married Cassie Jane MacDonald from Adurmurchan Point, Scotland (a real Glencoe MacDonald). Doug and I did not know of each other until he had joined the St. Andrew’s Legion Pipes & Drums. Nothing happens by coincidence. I often wonder if in Gilbert County WVa, on a particular double grave site, if flowers aren’t blooming as a sign of the pleasure and delight from those looking down upon us.

Finally, we want to thank Andy Jennings at Rare Ol Times for his support and Andy is delighted also that the Richmond area once again will have an Irish style pipe & drums group.

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I’ll start with the event first. We have been invited to the IAS pub supper at Rare Olde Times on August 22nd. We have been asked to come en mass and with pipes at the ready. Not only will we be there but several members of the Greater Metro Emerald Society will be there as well to sign up with the IAS. I highly encourage every one who has an interest to do so as well. The Irish American Society is a great group of folks dedicated to the preservation and advancement of all things Irish. I’m a card carrying member and I can attest to the fun had at general meetings. We need to support them just as they are supporting us. That being said it will be the first time most of us have been together with our band new challenge coins and as promised I’ll go over some of the finer points of challenge coin

- To initiate the challenge you generally place your coin on the table in question. (In louder establishments you can rap you coin on the table/bar to get the challenger’s attention.
- If the challenged person can not produce his/her coin they then have to buy you a drink.
- If the challenged produces the coin you then have to buy them a drink.
- It is generally considered very uncool to announce who does or doesn’t have their coin with them to the other members at the establishment.
- If you accidentally drop your coin you are in essence challenging everyone at the location.
- The coin can not be drilled or other wise modified to make carrying easier it must remain intact or it is not a coin.
- If another member can “acquire” your coin you must then buy them drinks for the rest of the evening.

These are the rules I have found and they can easily be modified. Any of our former service members who have other rules or addendums just email me and we’ll get them out. Have fun with them. I fully expect Tom to be shaking in a corner from where he’s won too much coffee and Dave T. to either be the happiest drunk (free drinks do that) or most broke member.

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OK gang, with Ross having their internal problems on production and filling orders in a timely fashion, we are experimenting among three pipers within the ranks and testing other makes. Currently, we’re experimenting with two other makes, Apps G4 and Warnock. We’ll let you know our findings once we’ve found out between the two, what works best.

Keep your current reeds for now, but do plan to make the switch once we have determined what new reed we will settle with. I will personally miss the Ross and soon enough, we’ll be back on track as we were earlier this year when we were playing on all matching reed/chanter set ups.

Tips for the weak reed: If a reed you’re playing on gets too easy, but is still plying true (not gurgling, double toning, etc) don’t throw it away! Pass it down to someone who plays easy strengths. If a reed is just too hard, same principle, pass it up to a harder blower. Also remember, shaving Shoulder Cut reeds, greatly shortens the lifespan of a reed. Sanding is a different story. It’s the “box” that should be altered, not the blades. Hook up with Robin and Faye for their new little trick they learned at camp.

Another tip is if you have a personal solo chanter and it’s set up, use that at home for practice, rather than the band chanter and its’ set up. That way your band chanter and reed will have a longer life.( Thanks to Christopher Fox)

Don’t soak a reed too too too tooo long!!! Too much moisture constantly soaking cane will make the material change to were once it begins to dry out, the cane cracks, or you’ll find the reeds actually becomes harder to blow and/or seizes up.

Buy a Pipers Pal! These containers regulate moisture and climate for the reed when not in use. They even make them as Chanter cap-covers so you don’t have to take the currently used reed out of its’ seating.

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Well after several camera glitches it’s time for my version of the awards night wrap up. It was a very cool night (other than the fact that we were in doublets and it’s summer time, and as I’ve said before big guys don’t do layers) It was great having members from most of the area Celtic groups including Irish American, Richmond Scottish Society, Ettrick Historical Society, The Greater Richmond Emerald Society, and St. Andrew’s Society to name a few. It was great to put names with faces and see the pride that other groups take in their ancestry as well. Can’t go much further with out mentioning family members either. They do everything from support and encourage us, help transport and generally put up with all our loud shenanigans. I know my youngest kept everyone on there toes and funny bones tickled with her antics that evening and I hope she didn’t distract too much from the festivities, but I thought she did rather well for a three year old sitting though an hour long service.

Being able to recognize and award everyone for their achievements and contributions to the band is a great thing. I don’t think anyone does it for awards or recognition but rather the love of the music. That said it sure is cool to be awarded for that passion and seriously how cool are these medals. The medals are incredible and Tim did a great job designing them. Hopefully everyone appreciates them and will wear them with pride and honor. In the same breath I’m glad that everyone liked the challenge coins and hope that you’ll carry it with pride as well. For those of you not there hopefully we’ll catch up with you at practice and award you with your medals/coin and embarrass you good and proper.I’ll post a blog in the not too distant future about the rules for the challenge coins so there will be no quibbling over the finer points.

Once at Rare Olde Times and we were able to unbutton and let our hair down, (for those of us who have hair) and enjoy each others company. A great time was had by all if I do say so myself. Good food, drink and music does it get any better? (OK maybe if it’s free or your not wearing 20 lbs of wool, but still pretty good) In talking to the staff at Rare Olde Times we were fairly well behaved and they enjoyed having us there. I’m sure we helped them as well for a Monday crowd. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again at the risk of sounding like a broken record I truly enjoy everyone’s company and the honor of being amongst some great musicians as well as some fine Celts. Thanks to everyone for all their work and effort on the awards and our family and friends for attending. Keep up the hard work and we’ll do it all again next year.

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Well, I’m pretty sure the Secretary and others will be posting blogs on the same subject, but I want to thank all who made the Awards Night for the “Legion” a wonderful night. Members within the organization were recognized and it was nice to pack the sanctuary with esteemed guest from the various Celtic societies in the Richmond area to include, The Irish-American Society of Richmond, Richmond Scottish Society, St. Andrew’s Society, Metro Richmond Area Firefighters Emerald Society and individuals from other organizations, and clergy who now, along with the St.Andrew’s Legion formed a new benevolent Christian Celtic organization which is now known as the Fellowship and Order of the Cross & Thistle. Fathers- James Begley, Mark Carroll and Reverends- Paul Wager and Rosemary Welch were deemed Chaplains and Commanders of the Order to guide the Kerns and Dames. The Orders objectives are to promote Charity, Chivalry, Celtic Cultural Preservation, and Christ like deeds within the community, and further our heritage in an united effort. You can find out more about the Fellowship and Order of the Cross & Thistle, once the website is launched.

Other honors bestowed this night were awards for General Service with a new updated medal, Meritorious Service Cross Medal, citations for Armed Forces service, Leadership, Instructors,and Perfect Attendance. The St. Andrew’s Legion now has it’s very own distinguishable doublet collar devices. This device is a particular size and style cross and thistle emblem designed and copyrighted by a member of the SALPD for the SALPD.  

 The Drum Major, myself, spouses and support staff, along with some of the distinguished guest were finally surprised by a beautiful gift from Doug Elder, (whom I know has the be the main leader in the conspiracy) and the rest of the ranks. It was a beautiful military grade Challenge coin bearing the Legions logo on one side and the Scottish Saltire and small Legion emblem in the center, on the reverse side. Bravo folks and you did a wonderful thing. Thank you!

Once Reverend Wager gave the benediction, then we all were off for some Irish “holy water” at Rare Ol’ Times to pack the pub and enjoy ourselves.

 Andy at Rare Ol’ Times is already prepared for the invasions this August by us. On the 21st, the Metro Richmond Area Firefighters Emerald Society will hold their business meeting at the pub, and on the next night we will join up with the Irish American Society for Pub night on Friday the 22nd and a warm thank you to Gloria Cahen- President of the IAS, for the invitation to bring the Pipes. Though there are Scottish pipebands all throughout the region, the Irish-American Society is chomping at the bit with enthusiasm to see the Emerald group come along, and I can’t blame them, they deserve it. The next day, Saturday the 23rd, as most already know about from the email sent out weeks ago, is the bands’ 7th Birthday and William Wallace Day to be celebrated at my residence in Chester.  Real burgers, hot dogs, and the secret reciped Irish Redneck roast in abundance- O yeah! It’s sure to be one heck of a weekend, thats for sure.

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 It’s been a grand season thus far gang. Sorry you guys don’t see that much from me on this blog lately, but those around know, that between working on the normal routine gigs, booking new gigs, teaching, piping, and going to work for the company in Scotland, it’s going to keep bursting wide open with good things as it has been. Keep your eyes on Scotland lads is all I can say, because Scotland’s got an eye on you! With me going to Games out as far as California next year, more and more responsibilty will be passed on to those I’ve already brought up to speed. The mindset is on a bigger picture and it goes beyond the general area, for what’s in store for the organization.

 I want thank all those who made the Brandy Station Parade tonight and it appears we may have another current Piper joining up with us from time to time from Fredricksburg. He knows Chance quite well, but we wont hold that against him. (just kiddin Chance). There’s no rest for the wicked-LOL ,and it’s been busy and thank God we have valuabe human resources as a pipe band and can do what we do. Remember guys and girls, all band events this coming week will be khaki shirt dress, including the two academy graduations due to the fact of extreme heat in the forcast.

. With this organizations 7th Anniversary just weeks away, it hard to believe it has come so far in the short amount of time of its’ existence. I do believe it has earned its’ place and has been tried to be true, thanks to you all, that have stood. The Clan MacLeods’ two mottoes apply to you all: “Hold Fast” and “I birn quil I se–I shine, not burn”. 

Finally, I hope all of you on awards night of the SALPD, affiliations, and a new group for whom I shall not name here, will find that the command and leadership has really put forth an effort to show their appreciation for your hard work and endeavors. I also want to thank all the administration and the staff for doing such a fine job at their duties. Laughing, I have to say it’s got to be pretty apparent for any that have been around long enough, to see that not too much has to come down from the CO to keep this ship in order. We have an outstanding group of true leaders in the ranks. Everyone, right down to the students are doing a great job. Makes this old Pipie feel great when the only time I have to raise my voice is to give the command “By the right, quick march” LOL 

Life is Good!

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