The Memphis, Tennessee scion, the Giant Rats of Sumatra, held their celebration of Mr. Holmes's birthday on January 6, 2007 - and we were there! Above, the brilliant, lovely, and talented Carolyn Senter in the entrance hall of the University Club, one of the oldest private Clubs in the Mid-South, and venue for the Giant Rats 2007 Sherlockian birthday celebration (AH 153).

As the Giant Rats began to assemble, Ethyl White, sporting her plaid vest with deerstalker to match, welcomed Nashville's Susan Stahl.

Rats fraternize while awaiting the ceremonies (and the dinner) to begin.

This young woman gave her name as simply, "Joanne." As the evening progressed, however, it became clear that she was the most popular person in attendance.

Carolyn Senter chats with Ken Gordon, "First Garrideb" (Presiding Officer)of the Giant Rats of Sumatra.

Ken Gordon, First Garrideb, (notice the medallion; his badge of rank and authority) and First Garrideb Emeritus, Dr. Hershel Schwartz call the assembly to order.

Scott Graves toasts Professor Moriarty (amid appropriate "boos")

Dr. Hershel Schwartz, who is not only First Garrideb Emeritus, but also "Rodential Quizmaster in Perpetuity" prepares to befuddle the Rats with his HOUN Quiz. (Click Here to try the quiz yourself).

Joseph Carey (no relation to Peter Carey from BLAC, we think) ponders the official Hound of the Baskervilles quiz created by Dr. Schwartz

This distinguished gentleman is Gael Stahl, eminent member of Nashville's Scholars of the Three-Pipe Problem; the lady to his right is his wife Susan who is studying Dr. Schwartz's HOUN test diligently.

Dr. Dick White, sporting a great looking Inverness cape, toasts Dr. Watson.

Tim Taylor shared with the group some erudite insights into deductive and inductive reasoning while toasting Mr. Holmes and Dr. Watson. Speaking of Mr. Holmes and Dr. Watson, Mr. Taylor plays that old jazz tune on his radio station. Please click here for more info.

Scott Graves exhibits the newest in Sherlockian books.

To your left, Dr. Hershel Schwartz, "Rodential Quizmaster in Perpetuity" steps forth again to confront the panel of experts shown on your right. Please notice the volume of question bearing cards in his left hand!! This eminent panel consisted of four volunteers: (l to r) Joseph Carey, Gael Stahl, 1st Garrideb Ken Gordon, and Thomas Wheeler. 3PP Scholar Stahl emerged as winner!!

As must be the case with all good things, the birthday celebration (AH 153) came to its end. First Garrideb Gordon and Rodential Quizmaster in Perpetuity, Schwartz, rise to bid farewell to their departing fellow Rats. We offer our most profound thanks to the Giant Rats of Sumatra for having us as guests at their august meeting and for the ultimate honor of inducting us, as official members, of their scion!