February rang in the closing of our first annual fundraiser. We sold a variety of soups from "Frontier Soups Co." in Illinois. The proceeds all went directly to each dancer to aid in the purchases of their many needed dance items, especially those who will be competing this year. Many purchased their first pair of ghillies, a kilt or national outfit or practice equipment for their homes. Overall, I think the fundraiser went very well and, much to my relief, very smoothly!

    On February 11th I tagged along with the wonderfully entertaining Lyon College pipe band to Magnolia Arkansas. I danced the Fling, Seann Triubhas, Lilt- which was actually supposed to be the Flora!- and the often overlooked Earl of Errol. The pipe band put on a wonderful show and we were all treated to a wonderful Burn's Dinner as usual. The food in Magnolia is excellent and the people are always happy to see us. Always a pleasant visit!

    Plans are already underway for our 2nd annual Highland Dance Recital and Awards Night and before we know it the Arkansas Scottish Fest will be here bring with it the dance competition! I am very proud to announce that we have added a few more wonderful dancers to the competitive dancing world here at Lyon. They are: Clair Sonnier, Josie McCann, Erin Sandlin, and Cris Slaymaker. Our returning competitive dancers are: DeAnna Massey, Haley Skinner and myself.

Until the next Fling,

                      Brooke Hollis