ICONS OF SCOTLAND HONORS THE BEST SCOTS DURING TARTAN WEEK CELEBRATION

New York, April 5th - This evening Scotland Magazine along with co-sponsors, The Macallan, Drambuie and VisitScotland produced the Third Annual Icons of Scotland. Comedian and leading Scottish radio show host, Fred Macaulay, hosted this lively benefit dinner and awards ceremony. The event was held at the iconic Waldorf=Astoria and was attended by Scottish dignitaries and Icon of Scotland nominees.

"VisitScotland is once again proud to sponsor awards that celebrate all that is great about Scotland,” Melanie Angus, Trade Promotions Manager, VisitScotland. “The Icons' Awards showcase the wealth of talent and knowledge that Scotland has to offer as well as highlighting the exciting and vibrant culture visitors can experience when they vacation here. We have chosen two awards to reflect the quality and diverse experiences that Scotland has to offer visitors from the USA."

The mood for the evening was set as soon as guests arrived on Park Avenue, as they were greeted by a traditional bagpiper and Celtic rock band, The Gutty Slippers, playing in front of the venue. The festivities continued inside as guests were treated to Scotch cocktails courtesy of event sponsors, The Macallan and Drambuie.

As guests were sitting down to dinner they were welcomed by Scotland Magazine Publisher, Damian Riley-Smith. Following his remarks, Mr. Riley-Smith introduced the emcee, Fred Macaulay. As promised, Mr. Macaulay maintained the energetic air of the evening with his colorful humor. Throughout the night guests enjoyed performances from authentic Scottish musical artists including, harpist, Katie Targett Adams; singing group, Caledon; rock band, Peatbog Faeries and Broadway cabaret act, Fascinating Aida. As part of this highly entertaining evening, guests were treated to sumptuous highland culinary delights, prepared by leading Scottish chef, Kevin Macgillivray, selected and flown in by Visit Scotland

The awards ceremony began with the American Scottish Federation’s Wallace Award, presented to American Scots in recognition of their contributions to Society. Mr. Alain Bain, president of ASF, presented Don and Eleanor Taffner with this year’s award.

The presentation continued with the awarding of the Icons of Scotland. The best “Scot” in each of the following categories received the Icon award:

• Scotland the Home of Golf’ Experience, sponsored by VisitScotland - A tour operator who has consistently provided the most memorable experience of Scotland.
  Winner: Golf International

• Performance Scotland, sponsored by Drambuie - A Scottish star from the world of entertainment, acting, music or sport.
  Winner: Violinist, rising international star and BBC Young Musician of the Year Nominee, Nicola Benedetti

• Creative Scotland Literature, sponsored by Scotland Magazine - A leading Scottish author
  Winner: International best-selling mystery writer, Ian Rankin

• Creative Scotland Literature, sponsored by Scotland Magazine - A leading Scottish visual artist.
  Winner: Renowned portraitist, Fionna Carlisle

• Champion of Scotland, sponsored by Drambuie- A North American of Scottish descent who has made the greatest contribution to US society.
  Winner: A man with familial ties to the Isle of Lewis, who has changed the face of real estate, Donald Trump

• Innovation Scotland, sponsored by The Macallan - Person of Scots ancestry that has succeeded in business or demonstrated entrepreneurial qualities.
  Winner: Founder of Scotland’s most successful independent film and television company Ecosse Films, Douglas Rae

• Heart of Scotland, sponsored by VisitScotland - A tourist attraction or place in Scotland that best captures the true nature of Scotland
  Winner: The jewel of Roslin and one of Scotland’s greatest attractions, Rosslyn Chapel

• Spirit of Scotland, sponsored by The Macallan - A Scottish person who best symbolizes the positive side of Scotland.
  Winner: A remarkable philanthropist and entrepreneur, Dr. Tom Hunter.
  

Finally the Icon of Scotland 2005 was given to this year’s honoree, Actor, writer, and businessman, Alan Cumming. “He is the very essence of all that we have recognized tonight, says Damian Riley-Smith, Publisher of Scotland Magazine. “Alan was a natural choice for our 2005 Icon.” A portion of the proceeds from the event went to will go to benefit Clì Gàidhlig, an organization dedicated to preserving the Gaelic language.

About Icons of Scotland
The Icon of Scotland Award celebrates individuals and organizations who have served as ambassadors, both formally and informally, showcasing the artistic and cultural wealth of Scotland. Past award recipients include: Ewan McGregor, Spirit of Scotland; Pringle of Scotland, Scottish Inspiration and The Balmoral, Scottish Food and Drink.