Just thought I'd let the group know that there is a fairly new pipe band in Bloomington/Normal, IL. It's called the Prairie Thistle Pipes and Drums. It was founded by Ted Kerrn. Here is a quote from an article:

"For those seeking out different types of music in the Bloomington-Normal area or those just interested in something unique, the Prairie Thistle Pipes and Drums band, the newest pipe band of Mclean County, brings their traditional music to the area.

"Prairie Thistle is an official state sanctioned non profit organization whose goal is to promote and teach traditional highland bagpipe culture and music. The official tartan of the band is the MacDonald of Clanard. This tartan is officially endorsed by both Clan Donald USA, and the Captain of Clanard, Ranald Alexander MacDonald of Clanard."

The rest of the article can be read here: http://media.www.dailyvidette.com/me...-3159848.shtml

And... here is their Web site: http://www.prairiethistle.org/

BTW, Ted, if memory serves, is also member of our Scottish-American Society. Anyway, he was at our last Burns Supper. That's why this is of interest to me. A friend who knows of my keen interest in Scottish culture mentioned in passing yesterday, "Have you met 'so-and-so' who is involved with a new pipe band?" It was news to me. I obviously haven't heard them yet but will as soon as I can.