I’ve been told that blog entries should be short and punchy so here goes.  The Treasure Hunt on 14^th July was memorable for several reasons but was conducted in an atmosphere of good humour and a violent thunderstorm. As one of the invigilators, I had to stay off the sauce but congratulations are due to the winning team for their prowess in deciphering the cryptic clues and spotting the deliberate misteak. Thanks also due to Gordon Johnston and David Baird for compiling the clues. David Miller was sadly missed.  The Globe Inn “Jacobean Night” on 15^th July was great fun and the Hog Roast was delicious. The following night was the annual dinner and muster of the Royal Dumfries Volunteers in Burns‘Room, under the genial chairmanship of Col. Arent De Peyster (AKA Chris Lyon) and the induction to the Corp of David Miller whose soubriquet is the Rev. Babington.  The dinner was what we have come to expect from the Globe and some strong drink was taken. This included copious quantities of red wine and as a result, the latter stages are now a mist.  David Baird was obliged to lay off the sauce as he had to drive to Ayr and Alloway on the following morning to attend the Ayrshire commemorative events, representing the president of the RBWF. I successfully gave that a body swerve this year. The Brow Well Service was held on 21^st July in beautiful weather although the turnout was poor in comparison with last year. Mike Duguid delivered the oration, attending his first official engagement since his serious accident and David Baird presided for the last time as president of the SSCBA. The Rev. Neil Campbell conducted the devotions and the social evening at the Bruce was enjoyable and well MC’d by Jane Brown. Saturday 24^th July was a day of events in Edinburgh held by the Edinburgh Association of Burns Clubs marking Burns’ death and started at 10.30am with a ceremony at the Burns Monument at Calton Hill which included an address by Professor David Purdie and some songs for others.  The party were bussed to the City Chambers for a reception by the Lord Provost and then bussed to Lodge Liberton 1001, for a reciting competition when the competitors included Gordon Johnston who delivered Burns’ “The Inventory”. A simple meal of haggis, neeps and tatties followed and a social evening took place until club delegates retired to their digs at the foot of Liberton Brae. Bright-eyed and bushy tailed on the following morn, the president and Librarian returned to Dumfries and the Treasurer and Secretary journeyed to Kilmarnock to attend the commemorative event at Kilmarnock Cross at 2.00pm. At least, that was the plan but the diversions due to road works meant that unscheduled visits were made to Muirkirk, Newmilns and Mauchline before reaching Kilmarnock at 12noon when several mugs of strong coffee at Witherspoons were consumed. The ceremony was notable for a scurrilous reference by the president of Kilmarnock Burns Club who claimed that “Ayrshire nurtured the poet and Dumfries killed him” but Mr Baird put him right in no uncertain manner during his speech to the company afterwards. Leaving Killie, it was intended to call in at the Globe’s BBQ in the Close in the afternoon but by this time, your blogger was fatigued and decided to head for home.

An approach was made to the Alloway Trust in 2008 for permission to make facsimiles of the window panes from the Globe Inn with inscriptions by Burns in time for the Globe’s 400^th anniversary in 2010. The panes had been removed from the Globe in the 1830’s and found their way to the Alloway Museum. They were less than helpful initially and the Museum was acquired by the National Trust for Scotland in 2009. After 18 months of negotiation, they agreed to a visit by club officers to inspect the panes and agree the best way to make copies.  Accordingly, on 30^th July, the president and secretary travelled to Hopetown House, South Queensferry, to the NTS conservation workshops were the panes were being “conserved” and met up with a specialist glazier from a firm in Glasgow. The NTS staff was reluctant to allow the glazier to make a tracing of the inscriptions but agreed to digitally photograph the panes which meant manhandling the fragile glass on to a board with a heavy camera mounted on a stand above. What fun. Our glazier, Matt Sempie , from Hurry Bros. was enthusiastic and promised an early result. Hopefully, the facsimiles will be ready for display this year. Wednesday 4^th August, out to Radio Solway with the librarian to listen to a magnetic tape recording of a club function in 1965. Previous attempts to play the tape were unsuccessful but Radio Solway agreed to try it on the studio equipment. This worked and the tape of a St. Andrew’s Night Dinner was hilarious. Things don’t change much over the years as the chairman was long winded and there was much background noise but this is an important club historical artefact and it is hoped to convert the tapes to minidisc. Saturday 14^th August, the club outing to Cockermouth and Whitehaven, 14 members and friends were conveyed by luxury minibus to Jennings Brewery for a guided tour which included three half pints of different strength ales. The beer was excellent and the tour fascination. This was followed by lunch on the premises before travelling to Whitehaven to the Beacon Centre for a visit and a walking tour of the historic Harbour area, by a local tour guide. Another highly enjoyable afternoon in first class weather. The return journey included a stop near Carlisle at “John’s Plaice” for a mammoth fish & chip supper. An excellent day with thanks and congratulations due to Neil Johnston for organising the itinerary.  A meeting of the Renovations Sub Committee on Monday 16^th August when good progress was made in the programme to upgrade the clubroom and anteroom. The club’s Fish Supper Night was held in the Globe Inn on Thursday 19^th August and proved to be an outstanding success for the excellence of the fish & chips from Peter Domicelli at the Midsteeple and the awesome entertainment which included a performance of a parody of Burns’ “Twa Dugs” by Gordon Johnston and David Miller with narration by David Baird. Gordon who played the posh dug, sported a bowler hat which made him a dead ringer for Stan Laurel. The highlight of a superb night was the magical accordion of James Coutts. Neil’s year goes from strength to strength. On the following morning, the treasurer, librarian and secretary foregathered to calculate the income and were pleased to report a modest profit with thanks to the Globe Inn for their input.  Saturday 21^st August, assisted with the street collection for Children 1st and enough said except an enjoyable lunch in the Globe afterwards. On the way back to Gordon McKerrow’s office with the cans and things, Ted Murray who still had a balloon, made towards an urchin and offered her said balloon but fortunately she ran off which perhaps was just as well.   A welcome break from the Executive Committee in July and August but all good things come to an end and the next meeting is due on 30^th August.  DS

The final meeting of the committee was held on 5^th April and was reasonably harmonious although this particular committee tended to lack dynamism, in spite of the efforts of the president. To the astonishment of many it was necessary to cancel the Whisky Tasting Night due to lack of Support!!

Out with Gordon Johnston to Solway Offset on Friday to collect the club’s 17 copies of the “Big Issue”. Well worth waiting for and a super record of the 2009 anniversary year events.

Saturday 10^th April saw a visit from a party from the Glasgow Haggis Club. This is an old and prestigious club which is affiliated to the Burns Federation and have been before. Well organised and enjoyable visit. Tuesday 13^th, met up with the president to hand over his copy of the “Big Issue” and discuss tactics for the AGM.

A party of 26 secondary school head teachers from Norway, on an educational visit to Scotland, came by the Globe on Friday 16^th and a high powered team assembled for the ten cent tour. Unfortunately, time constraints meant they could only stay for 30 minutes and they decided to settle in the close with a drink while Bill Welsh gave them a potted history. Saturday 17^th April, duty visit to the Dumfries Ladies Coffee Morning at the Cumberland Street Day Centre. This was a surprisingly lively affair with delicious shortbread and sparkling conversation. Agreed to a suggestion from Ted Murray for repair to the Globe afterwards for a soft drink.

Monday 19^th, the traumas of a computer upgrade in the morning and glad to escape to the pub in the afternoon. The highlight of the month was the Dumfries Male Voice Choir’s 60^th annual concert at DG One. After a slightly shaky start, the choir delivered an excellent programme of favourites, old and new but the special guest stars, the three tenors, “Caledon”, brought down the house with a fantastic repertoire which included a Harry Lauder medley as well as some stirring and patriotic airs. Still not sure about the acoustics in this venue. Monday 26th assembled in St. Michael’s Kirkyard with sundry members to attempt a clean-up of the commemorative plaques at the graves of Burns’ contemporaries. This was well organised by Gordon Johnston who supplied all the materials including H2O and was completed in a surprisingly short period which allowed time for a scoop o’ the sauce at the Globe,  Thursday 29^th April, the AGM. John Caskie is a class act but other than a hiccup with last year’s Abstract of Accounts, the meeting went well and the accounts were approved. The Chain passed seamlessly and Neil conducted the second half with some skill. The theme in his closing remarks was “friendship, camaraderie and inclusiveness” and bodes well for the future. The new presidential team is an interesting mix and the new committee will be an improvement. The supper at Sinos Restaurant which followed the AGM was excellent and thanks are due to the organiser.  Saturday 1^st May, to a marquee in the grounds of Friars Carse for the “Nithsdale’s got Talent” concert, featuring Nicky Spence, Emily Smith and Claudia Francis Wood as well as the Buccleuch & Queensberry Caledonia Pipe Band and Sanquhar Silver Band and others, all combined to produce a magical evening of immense talent and enjoyment, expertly MC’d by John Caskie, if you can discount the blasts of hot air from the  portable heaters followed by icy draughts, but all in a good cause for the MacMillan Cancer Support. Wednesday 5^th May, a party from East Kilbride Burns Club were picked up at Burns House and scuttled round St. Michaels, the Mausoleum and back to the Globe. This was another enjoyable visit and the reception committee are becoming practised. Saturday 8th May, drove David Baird in his capacity as RBWF senior vice president, to Coatbridge to attend the Federation’s primary schools festival at Coatbridge High School. An interesting afternoon networking with old friends from the Fed and a superb display of talent from the kids.  Sunday 10^th May, to Coldstream for the annual ceremony at Coldstream Bridge, marking the crossing of the Tweed by Burns in 1787 on his return tom Scotland from his English tour. A good run over and the customary warm welcome from Coldstream Burns Club. The weather was excellent and the ceremonies well conducted. This was Neil Johnston’s first official duty as president and he placed the club’s wreath on the hook with great dignity. The buffet and social hour which followed was much enjoyed. The first meeting of the new committee took place on Monday 10^th May and followed the group photo, this year outside Burns House. The meeting was constructive and harmonious and it was agreed to assemble information on alternative venues for a club outing during the summer. The soiree which followed was enjoyable although the baked spuds were sparse as a result of more punters than had notified.  Saturday 15^th May, the SSCBA AGM in the Globe Inn, presided over by the genial president David Baird who reported that Mike Duguid was home from hospital but would be out of circulation for some time following his road traffic accident. Secretary Rose Edgar was absent due to ill health and your “blogger” was asked to take the minutes. Bert Hastings donated two medals of office for the vice presidents and it was agreed to make no nomination for junior vice president of the Federation and to give delegates a discretionary vote at conference. Club members lost no time in gathering in the bar before lunch.

DS

There was no let-up in March.  A meeting of the Executive Committee on the 1^st was well chaired by the president and anarchy was avoided. Friday 6^th, met up with the treasurer and visited McQueen the Engraver to look at options for the Globe Inn 400^th anniversary. Liased with Andy MacKay on content for the April Newsletter. Received the “master CD”s of the Anniversary Dinner and listening to the superb recording brought back a night to remember. Later, joined the librarian at the Globe to continue sorting out papers and photographs for the club archives.  Due to an ear infection, had to call-off from the Globe’s St. Patrick’s Night on 17th and missed the line dancing but heard that a fine time had been had by all. Delighted to be invited to attend a Burns Supper at the Bachelor’s Club at Tarbolton on 19^th and joined David Baird and David Miller. What an atmosphere and what talent from all over the country. Met several old friends including Jim Shields and Willie Horne. There’s always a downside and this was the Federation quarterly meeting on the following day but the show must go on. The highlight was the stop at Poosie Nancies on the way home where we met a member of Mauchline Masonic Burns Club who told tales of Burns and Mauchline and the “Mauchline Belles”.  The sub committee formed to look at the club constitution and chaired by Frank Manson, met on the 23^rd and started work on what will be a long-term project but the target date is the AGM in 2011.  Ian Millar of Thornhill was guest speaker at the Winter Lecture on 25^th March and raised some interesting points concerning the supposed trip by Burns and Maria Riddell to the Lead Mine at Wanlockhead and the legend of the carronades seized from the smuggling brig,”Rosamund” in the Solway in 1792 and the alleged attempt to ship them to the French Revolutionaries. Ian is an enthusiastic and knowledgeable Burns scholar but his claims, although fascinating can’t be proved.  An on-going ear infection kept me from the Games Night at Marchmount but it was reported that the pies & peas were up to standard and Bert Hastings’s prowess on the bandit was much admired.  Saturday 27^th was the SSCBA meeting at the Murray Arms, Gatehouse, chaired by president David Baird who kept the lid on outbreaks of distemper amongst some delegates. The highlight was the lunch afterwards. Saturday night was the president’s soiree at Ellisland when unfortunately president John was unable to attend due to ill health but this was an excellent night with first class pies and mushy peas, good company and fantastic entertainment. Mention should be made of the contribution from John Clark whose verses were much enjoyed. Thanks are due to Les and May for their hospitality. Meantime, busy with the papers for the AGM and the Excom meeting on 5^th April. A most interesting meeting of the office bearers was held at the residence of the president on 2^nd April for a discussion on tactics and strategy for the future. John was a generous host and will be sadly missed.

DS

 

The committee’s Christmas Dinner has increased in popularity since it was inaugurated in 2006 and on 21^st December, 15 members sat down in the clubroom to a sumptuous meal provided by Globe Inn chef James and staff.

 

The more discriminating present chose the Roast Lamb Shank with a Red Wine and Mint Gravy, served with New Potatoes and Fresh Market Vegetables as the main course but mouth-watering starters and desserts were on offer. For this Festive Frolic, members appeared in seasonal attire although some eyebrows were raised at certain ties and electric headgear. It seemed that George Templeton had a Gnu’s skull on his head but was at pains to explain it was a reindeer.

 

President John Caskie welcomed the company, which became more raucous as the evening progressed and inhibitions were cast to the winds. The highlight was the visit by Secret Santa Clause’s deputy, who invited members individually to her ample bosom and granted a wish to each and a gift from her sack which caused much hilarity.

 

After dinner entertainment is best left to the imagination but some photographs are now in circulation, which may be the subject of litigation later. Yes, an excellent night with good company, a terrific meal and some modest refreshments.

 

As this will be the last deposit on the blogosphere in 2009, I would like to take the opportunity to wish all our readers who, including overseas, are numbered in the handful, a happy and prosperous 2010.  No more Burns until 11^th January.

 

DS

24/12/09

 

The end of the Year of Homecoming approaches and with it, the pace of related activities intensifies. 16^th November, met with the president at lunchtime to draw up the programme for St. Andrew’s Night. The following morning, meeting at DG One with choir conductor David McCullough and Bill Welsh along with the DG One team to review the arrangements for the Gala Concert.  On returning home, received a phone call from no less than Nicky Spence, tenor, who “for tax reasons”, neither he or his agent could book his train ticket from London, Euston to Carlisle and Dumfries. Could I do this for him and arrange for his ticket to be collected at Euston, oh yes, and he has a Young Person’s Card. Oh good.  Managed eventually to do this on-line with Virgin Trains but my card is now maxed up and hope the treasurer will arrange early reimbursement to avoid embarrassment.  The concert on 20^th November was excellent and brilliantly MC’d by the president. It was well attended by the public, if not club members and is fully covered in the president’s blog. Personal highlights were Roslin Agnew’s superb voice and the youngsters who won the Scots Language Comp. Fantastic. Very pleased with the Commemorative Book which was well produced by Solway Offset with magical illustrations by John Clark. Have to work out a marketing strategy before the next Excom meeting, Next morning, off to Kilmarnock for the Burns Federation quarterly meeting at the newly refurbished Burns Monument at Kay Park. This was difficult to find. Due to the extreme weather earlier in the week, many Dumfries delegates were absent but they did not miss much. Sunday 22^nd November at Ellisland with Ted Murray to attend the Tree Planting ceremony. Due to the wet weather, only a symbolic tree was “planted” in the Orchard and a mobile commemorative plaque was unveiled in the barn by Ronnie Cairns.  Monday 23^rd to the Globe at 7.00pm for the Excom meeting to finalise arrangements for St. Andrew’s Night. I have high hopes for the seating plan. Delighted that Peter Kormylo’s plea for support for his Burns–Ukrainian Project was adopted. 25^th November, the annual meeting of the SSCBA (Commemoration) Ltd, when a cheque for £100 was received as a donation towards the Commemorative Book.  The November Winter Lecture on 26^th November was especially enjoyable when my old friend Murdo Morrison gave a fascinating talk on the printing history of Burns Works with slide illustrations and samples from his own extensive collection of Burns books. Murdo delighted the librarian with a valuation of a couple of volumes from the library and has promised to return later and conduct a stock assessment. This time the biscuits were fresh. Friday 27^th November, David Millar, president John and me set off for Dumbarton for the Dumbarton Burns Club’s St.Andrew’s Night Dinner. What a superb event, with excellent toasts and replies and entertainment of the best. The president presented the club with the miniature barrel to mark Dumbarton Burns Club’s 150^th anniversary. The hotel rooms were less chilly than last year.  Sunday 29^th November, off to Edinburgh to attend the St. Andrew’s Day Service at St. Giles Cathedral with David Baird and Ted Murray and met the president at the Kirk. To our surprise, the service was not on that day but the following Sunday. Murdo and Hazel Morrison were also surprised, however coffee and a scone at Deacon Brodie’s Café soon restored the spirits and it was agreed to proceed to Roslin for lunch. I accept no responsibility whatever, for any confusion over the date. The club’s St. Andrew’s Night Dinner in the Globe on 30^th November is covered in the president’s well crafted blog but it was one of the most enjoyable gatherings for some time with an interesting toast from Chief Constable Pat Shearer and superb entertainment from guests and members. Ian McIntyre’s performance on the guitar and bodhran was something else, as they say.  I was delighted that Paul Reilly and Gavin Findlay from Dumbarton were able to join us and to reciprocate the hospitality from their celebrations. A good report from Frank Manson on the Dumfries Burns Club function at Ellisland on 27^th November attended by Godfrey Bedford and himself as delegates.  There was no let up and on Wednesday 2^nd December, meeting with Jackie Grant from the Standard and the president and librarian to discuss a feature article on the club as a reflection on the Year of Homecoming from the club’s point of view. We’ll see what actually appears.  Saturday 5^th November, the SSCBA Quarterly meeting in the Globe Inn, which was brief and interesting for what, was discussed before and afterwards. Attention was drawn to a press report from Moffat Probus Club. Luncheon, which followed, was light relief and attended by Mike Duguid, president of the RBWF. Sunday 6^th December, another attempt to attend the St. Andrew’s Day Service at Edinburgh. This time it was on and the treasurer, Ted Murray and I gathered in the Signet Library to meet up with others from the Federation before being marshalled for the procession to the Kirk. We were placed behind the Brownies but in front of the Band of Hope. The procession was as colourful as ever and included the Knights of the Thistle, judges of the High Court and officials of the Lyon Court, as well as academic and professional bodies. The minister made a sarcastic reference to persons seen lurking near the cathedral on the previous Sunday and gave instructions on how the date of the Service can be calculated.  I was able to follow the sermon this year and the choir and organ were impressive. Later, had lunch at Roslin.  Monday 7^th December, the Excom meeting which was constructive with favourable views on the St. Andrew’s Night Dinner, other than a scurrilous comment from one member.  Well-earned congratulations were offered to Neil Johnston and George Templeton on the success of the seating plan and hopefully this will be the format for the future.  Tuesday 8^th December, travelled to Sanquhar with the president and was joined by the treasurer to present the Best Secondary School prize in the Scots Language Comp. to Sanquhar Academy. We were well received by the depute head teacher who assembled the winners from the school for a photograph. President John spoke on the importance of promoting Burns in schools and presented the prizes with great aplomb. John does this sort of thing so well and got a good response from the kids.  Saturday 12^th December, yet another concert by the lads from “Scocha”, at the Buccleuch Centre, Langholm. Ted Murray’s offer to drive was accepted with alacrity by the treasurer, librarian, secretary and past president Dan Cook. Met on arrival by Alex Pool and son David and ushered to a reserved table for supper which was a traditional Christmas meal with alternatives.  Seated at the back of the hall, the concert was the usual exuberant and energetic mix of stirring, patriotic and novelty numbers with fantastic interaction with the audience. Langholm loves Scocha and Scocha loves Langholm as this was the second of two concerts on successive nights. Iain Scott and Davie Chapman’s enthusiasm was infectious and at times, the whole audience was on its’ feet and some were dancing.  Towards the end, Ted Murray left his seat on a pretext and was later seen gyrating with a young sylph-like female near the front. He said later that this was a side effect of his medication. Back home by midnight after a super night.  Thanks are due to Ted Murray and his skilful navigator. Looking forward to a rest now. This is a job for a younger man, I think.

 

The president covered the super gig at Applegarth by Emily Smith and friends so I will say only that the wine was cheap plonk but I could have listened to Emily all night.  Earlier that day, the treasurer and I welcomed a further two visitors from St. Petersburg and trekked through the rain to Burns House and Mausoleum but the ladies who spoke perfect English were enraptured. Later, a high-powered team assembled in the clubroom to conduct the final ploof reading for the Commemorative Book. I have long thought that accurate ploof reading is a skill, which few of us have but Mr. Baird was satisfied at the end.

Back to Solway Offset on Tuesday 28^th October. The book looks fantastic and should become a collector’s item in future. At the same time, I left a selection of photos, ancient and modern, for the special edition of the Burns Chronicle next year. I have to say that the committee photo from 1939 is much more impressive than the modern counterpart.  The second Winter Lecture of the series on 29^th October was presented by pp Peter Kormylo and his colleague Mark Oxbrow from LTS, Glasgow and well covered by the Webmaster in the Events Page. Suffice it to say that the biscuits, which dated to March 2009, will be replaced for the next lecture.  The president’s comments on the Hallowe’en Supper said it all and personally, I thoroughly enjoyed the whole evening. Some issues arose which were addressed by the office bearers on 2^nd November and I look forward to the St. Andrew’s Night Dinner with anticipation.  A particularly happy event was the gathering of past presidents for the photograph in the clubroom on 4^th November. 27 out of 30 surviving pasts crammed into the space and posed for the pic, which is destined for the “Big Issue”. It was pleasing to see so many from the last century and I spent a pleasant hour in reminiscing. Pleased to record that James Haining who was absent due to ill health is now on the mend.  The buffet that followed was consumed in short order. Met up with President John on Friday 6^th to go over the programme for the Gala Concert. The demands made by the guest artist’s agent for chewing gum, lettuce sandwiches and Perrier Water to be placed in the dressing room seem excessive to me but then, what do I know about the artistic temperament.   Monday 9^th and got psyched up for the 2009 Project Sub Committee followed by the Excom meeting at 7.30. Delighted to hear that tickets for the Gala Concert are going well but this is due to members of the Male Voice Choir rather than the club and the president struggled to find six committee members to help out as stewards.  Off to the Friends of Ellisland AGM on Wednesday 11^th. The agenda was completed in 20 minutes but “Any Other Business” lasted over an hour and included accusations that the displays are becoming “Disneyfied”. The chairman could take a leaf out of John Caskie’s book.

An evening of superb entertainment on Friday 13^th at New Cumnock Burns Club attended by David Baird and I when Billy Kay and friends presented a night of music, poetry, story and song celebrating the Scottish diaspora and its influence all over the world. In the first half, Billy took the company round Europe with songs including “The Forfar Sojer” and songs of exile like “The Sun Rises Bright in France” from the Peninsular War. North and South America was the setting for the second half. Billy’s narrative and the songs and music from “Jock Tamson’s Bairns”, three first class musicians and vocalists variously on the fiddle, guitar, flute, bhodran and Jew’s Harp, made the patriotic blood race and left the audience gasping for more. The return journey was interesting.

DS

Blogging is habit forming and I’ve missed the opportunity in recent weeks due to technical problems but here goes from where I left off.

The president covered the excellent concert by Scocha on 19/09/09 and I’ve had lots of positive comments since including some from the band. Hopefully we might be able to bring them back to Dumfries on some future date.

The day after was the Horse Ploughing Match at Ellisland organised by the Friends of Ellisland. Several members were charged to man the car parks and receive admission fees. This was great fun as we all wore the club’s new high visibility vests. Under the command of pp Bert Hastings, Godfrey Bedford, Ted Murray, Derek Paterson, Bill Welsh and I, were posted at the entry points. David Miller and George Templeton marshalled the cars into place as they arrived.  We were kept busy from 8.30am onwards reaching a climax about 11. Only two drivers were guilty of incivility on being advised of the car park charge and they were both old farmers so allowances should be made. The weather and attendance exceeded expectation and an enjoyable day was had by all. I caught sight of the patron, Joanna Lumley, from a distance. She was accompanied by bodyguards.

The first Winter Lecture of the season was on 24^th September when 11 members and friends made their way to Broughton House, Kirkcudbright, for an evening visit to the former home of the Glasgow Boys” artist, A. E. Hornel. We were warmly welcomed on arrival by the custodian, Sally Entwhistle. After a walk round the extensive gardens, pursued by mosquitoes, members were conducted on a tour of the magnificent house, which is in care of the National Trust and one of the best period homes in Scotland. Hornel was a tireless collector of Burns memorabilia and books and the Burns material was set out for our inspection.  An excellent supper at Selkirk Arms Hotel followed.

Sunday 27^th was the rewarding visit from the teenagers (and chaperones) from St. Petersburg which the president covered in his excellent blog. Wednesday 30^th, met up with the librarian and an advisor on applications to the Lottery Heritage Fund to discuss the club’s proposal to restore the ancient Centenary Banner, now in a fragile condition. The application form is a nightmare as, according to the accompanying guidelines, successful applicants are more likely to be from ethnic minorities or otherwise deviants. This is known as “social inclusiveness”. Pleased to report that the application was mailed on 15^th October.

In the meantime, a party from Alloway Burns Club visited on 3^rd October. A team of members spent an enjoyable afternoon conducting a ten-cent tour taking in the Mausoleum and Burns Statue. The visitors whose ages ranged from the teenage to the ancient expressed much appreciation.  Monday 5^th October, met up with JVP Frank Manson at lunchtime to look into the future. Excellent coffee and biscuits.  Excom meeting that evening for the provisional issue of Hallowe’en Supper tickets. Needed a drink after that but out to the Easterbrook Hall on Friday evening to attend the farewell function for Shirley Bell, retiring as chief executive of the WRBF. This was an interesting night, expertly MC’d by President Caskie, with speeches, mercifully brief, of the “backslapping” variety but the entertainment was of a high order and included “Young Burnsian” Holly Little. Earlier that day, the treasurer and I met with Mac Creedon at Solway Offset to discuss the printing of the commemorative book to accompany the Scots Language Competition. This is now taking shape and promises to be most impressive. Wednesday 14^th, met president John at the Globe to discuss the programme for the Hallowe’en Supper and other matters. Whilst there, three visitors from Dalry, Ayrshire, appeared and were told the story of the club and the “hidden room”.

Friday 16^th, was the “Whistle” reciting competition at Friars Carse. Four competitors sang and recited their way through the poem/song. The winner was Willie Horne who will recite “Tam O’ Shanter” at the Anniversary Dinner in 2010. Reciting competitions are not the writer’s scene but superb half-time entertainment was supplied by Lionel McClellan, well known to the club and Kirsten Easdale, from Helensburgh, vocals and guitar.  Saturday 17^th, met up with the treasurer at the Globe to discuss matters of gravity, with a pint and a nibble. We were pleased to be joined by Hector Davidson, a Doonhamer and Burnsian, now resident in London, who was at the club table at Murrayfield during the Federation conference at Edinburgh. Hector expressed regret at the removal of the iconic Burns heads from the “Welcome to Dumfries” road signs and promised to write to the papers. We wished him the best of luck.

During the past few weeks, with the help of Gordon Johnston, I have been assembling some club photographs for Peter Westwood’s “big issue”, the special edition of the Burns Chronicle to be published early next year as a record of the “Year of Homecoming”. Some of these should bring a smile and evoke memories of things past. In compiling the narrative, I read through some old minute books. One had an account of the Anniversary Dinner in 1895. No fewer than 22 toasts were proposed and drunk and Mrs Smith served bowls of soup on retrial at 6.00am the following morning. Perhaps members were more adventurous in those days!

 

D. Smith

Most of the summer activities have been covered in the President’s comprehensive and well-crafted blog but here are a few ...   more »

July will be a busy month. Saturday 4th saw a super performance at the Theatre Royal of the one-act play, "Tea with Clarinda" featuring Cheryl Anne Easton as Jean Armour Burns and Anna Hillis as Nancy ("Clarinda") McLehose. The play is about a meeting between Jean and Nancy with whom Burns had a romantic friendship. Burns and Nancy wrote many letters to each other using the pen-names Sylvander and Clarinda. The two women are supposed to have met only once, about 25 years after Burns' death, when Jean was in her mid-fifties and Nancy in her early sixties and the play is a fictional representation of what might have happened when "the wife" met "the other woman". The setting is the Edinburgh drawing-room of publisher George Thomson, sometime in the early 1820's.  The conversations were illustrated by Burns' songs from both performers, to traditional settings ending with a duet of "Of A' the Airts/ Ae Fond Kiss" and drew a standing ovation from the enthusiastic audience. Cheryl and Anna were later entertained to supper by the office bearers in the Globe Inn.

One of the most enjoyable gatherings in the Globe followed on Monday 6th when president John welcomed a good attendance of members and friends to the Jean Armour Dinner. Following an excellent meal by the Globe Inn, Guest speaker, honorary member David Shanland MBE, delighted the company with a droll, but thoughtful toast to "Jean" and was almost upstaged by Lesley Douglas who spoke on "The Other Women in Burns Life", peppered with  humour with judging from the response, was much enjoyed by the company. Entertainment was provided by Aileen Carr from Dunfermline and Willie McRobert from Moffat, supported by club members Bill Welsh, Les Byers and Gordon Johnston. Delegates form the Ladies Clubs of Dumfries and Annan were present and the Rev. Ella Pennington, president of Dumfries Ladies gave the pre-dinner Grace as only she can.  Junior vice president Frank Manson proposed a vote of thanks and was later spoken to by the secretary. 

Earlier, during a welcome break from the downpour, members and friends were led by club piper Calum Watson to the statue to Jean when president John presided at the wreathlaying ceremony and placed the club's floral tribute on the plinth. Another wreath was laid by David Baird in his role as president of the SSCBA.  In competition with the Brooms Road traffic, Jane Brown delivered a brief appreciation of Jean Armour before the company was piped back to the Globe for a reception for guests.

The evening was highly enjoyable and augurs well for John's year in office.

 

DS

 

To prove that the club gets its money's worth from the secretary's honorarium, here goes again from where I left off.

Ist June was the Excom meting, well chaired by the president, but with its associated traumas and notable for the absence of the treasurer due to an "accident". Members passed a resolution expressing regret. Reports from the club Bowling Night and the SSCBA AGM caused some hilarity but the new club tie was well received. Spent Wednesday afternoon on first draft of the minutes before heading out for a welcome drink with friends. Thursday night, accompanied past p. Bert Hastings to Ruthwell to discuss the running order for the Brow Well Service with Rev. Jim Williamson. This will be Jim's final service before retirement. Also, checked out the Well which needs a clean and last year's bog is still there. Will ask the Council to arrange to drain the bog before the Service. Friday morning, out to Calside for discussions with the treasurer who was displaying accident damage but determined to attend the John Lapraik Speaking Competition at Muirkirk where he is a judge. Friday night was the "workshop" at the Globe to create some letters for the Burns Banner. This was great fun as Gordon, David Miller, Jane Brown and I each drew a decorated letter from the alphabet, using poster paint, with varying degrees of skill and talent, but the "conceptual artist", Stephen Raw, was patient. The results may be displayed in Edinburgh on 8th August, or possibly not. Saturday morning. I did my bit for the Children 1st street collection, with the president, pp David Miller and jvp Frank Manson. I fear the burghers of Dumfries are becoming mean-spirited as it took 'till noon to get rid of the balloons. Worse, a busker arrived at the entrance to the Loreburn Centre where I was and murdered Paul Simon and Bob Dylan on what seemed to be a loop until I suggested politely that he might wish to relocate. This drew an abrupt response in language to take the shell off an egg so I thought it prudent not to pursue this. Later, met up with the rest in the Globe for a well-earned pint and nibbles. Monday morning, met with Peter Westwood and pp John Lauder to meet John Burness from Toronto, a distant descendent of Burns, for a pleasant hour and a ten-cent tour. Wednesday evening, accompanied pp David Miller to Thornhill to inspect the bust of Joseph Laing Waugh, located on the wall of the former Savings Bank. Found on arrival that the extending ladder was not required as the bust was accessible from the pavement. The bust needs some renovation and a report will be sent to the SSCBA who have some funding available. Thursday afternoon, back to the Globe to meet the treasurer who is recovering and did not require reconstructive surgery, to sign some cheques and review the list of members in arrears of subs. Whilst there, met two Burnsians from Fife and conducted another ten-cent tour. The highlight of the week was the "Scocha" concert at the Buccleuch Centre, Langholm, on Saturday night when the president, senior vice and I travelled in a splendid equipage, expertly driven, down the scenic route to Langholm where, on arrival, we met Alex Pool and Iain Scott from "Scocha" who is looking forward to the Dumfries gig in September. Our seats were in the balcony from where we could look down on the floor, set out with tables, cabaret style. The full five-piece band performed with their usual energy to great interaction with the audience. Their repertoire included crowd pleasers like, "The Reivers" and "Ye Jacobites" to the stirring "Saltires in the Sky" and "Flower of Scotland" in which we all joined. Novelty numbers included "Granny's Muckle Soup Pan" and the Goons "Ying Tong Song" which brought the house down. Their encore was "Honky Tonk Women" featuring a risible impression of Mick Jagger by David Chapman. Super show but marred slightly by a raucous section of the audience who had clearly been on the sauce for some time. On the return journey, the president entertained with details of his duties as "Baillie" in the forthcoming Guid Nychburris celebrations. Yes, a night to remember!

DS      

The weeks after the AGM are generally busier than other times.  This last was no exception. On Monday night, a walk round St. Michael's Kirkyard to photograph the CCTV pole and disabled access ramp at the Mausoleum to report to the Fed., then a meeting of the 2009 Project Sub Committee, later meeting Alex Wilson, the Mauchline Ware expert and Burns enthusiast.  Tuesday night at Chez Baird to sort out the entries for the Scots Language Comp. Found on arrival this had been done so relaxed with a glass or four of Chardonnay. Wednesday was Culture Night. Accompanied past pres. John Lauder to the Buccleuch Centre, Langholm for a performance by the Scottish Chamber Orchestra. Super programme included pieces by Handel, Vivaldi's Bassoon Concerto and Haydn's "Drum Roll" symphony with a bravura display by the lady timpanist on the tambourine and kettle drum. Met up with former member Brian Croft, now resident in Carlisle. Thursday afternoon, accompanied treasurer to Solway Offset to talk to Mac Creedon about the commemorative book for the Scots Language Comp. This will be one of the best projects the club has undertaken in recent years. Later, off to the Booling Night at Dock Park. The president concealed his dismay at drawing me as his partner but I did my best to avoid winning the "Draffan Cup". Good session at the Globe followed and congrats are due to Frank and Bert on their success and thanks to Jane B. for providing sannys and sausage rolls gratis. Friday was day off but no escape on Saturday.  Globe at 11.00am for SSCBA AGM, refereed by David Baird. Business discussed raised some eyebrows and I'm glad that the report to the Excom will be given by someone else. The highlight was the lunch afterwards when we were joined by the president of Dumfries Burns Club.  Out to a dinner party with some friends on Saturday night and currently working off a severe hangover. It's not always as busy as this.

DS   

In search of spiritual uplift, the president, treasurer, past president and secretary travelled to Mauchline on 23rd May to attend the "Holy Fair", one of the events in the Ayrshire "Burns an aw' that" festival.  The "Fair" is a re-enactment of the 18th century custom when several parishes would join forces for the annual sacrament, attracting large numbers of communicants from the surrounding countryside for a "holy fair" of preachings and prayer meetings extending over several days prior to the communion itself. In Burns' day however, the holy fair had deteriorated into a curious mixture of solemnity and carnival, symbolic of the double standards of the Church at the time.

On arrival, the streets were crowded with revellers and members were attracted to a performance of the youthful Muirkirk Pipe Band whose bass drum was transparent, before lunch at Poosie Nancie's. Later, a superb ladies choir, "Airs and Graces" sang from a repertoire of traditional and classical material in the Church after which we were accosted by two "manic street preachers", suitably clad in costumes of the time, who bellowed of the fire to come for the ungodly, lest they repent. D. Miller seemed to be a target for their wrath. Escaping, members were given a preview of the attempt for the Guinness Book of Records of a 800lb Haggis, to be cooked and served later and paused to enjoy a fire eating Tommy Cooper look-alike who swallowed a three foot tubular balloon to the delight and disgust of the crowd. It was later regurgitated. Elsewhere on one of the outdoor stages, there was a energetic High School Musical Review which attracted a large audience. Retiring once again to the Church, our own Shelley Clark displayed her tremendous talents as a singer and on the clarsach, supported by her brothers on the fiddle and keyboard. This was the highlight of the day!. After modest refreshment, members thrilled to the Red Hot Chilli Pipers on the outdoor stage which featured exotic dancers. Unfortunately, members were at the back of the large crowd, later, the writer had no hestitation in declining the president's suggestion to try out the Wall of Death.

Throughout the day we met old friends from Eyemouth Clachan Burns Club and Largs Cronies as well as many Federation members including president Bill Dawson in fancy dress. 

An excellent day with good company and dry weather until the last half hour. Congratulations to D. Baird who, as designated driver, stayed sober and did not need the Satnav.     

 

R. Burns has a lot to answer for. No sooner had the new president taken the Oath, when a party of four journeyed to Langholm to attend Langholm Ladies BC's  "Literary Lunch" on 3rd May at the Buccleuch Centre. This was a talk on "Burns songs" by Mrs. I. Connelly, a former lecturer at St. Andrew's Uni., with songs from three talented soloists. I learned a lot from this and enjoyed the buffet thereafter. On 9th May, I accompanied the president of the SSCBA, who is also JVP of the Burns Federation, to the Fed's National Schools Festival at Duns, Berwickshire. This was the Primary Schools event and was blown away by the tremendous talent displayed. The SSCBA team gained three prizes. This was a good day but the outgoing journey, by minibus which had seen better days was not recommended. The highlight was the return trip, stopping at Biggar for a pint in a pub, full of drunken footie supporters and a fish supper.  The day following was one to remember. The president, treasurer, PP D. Miller, Mrs. Jane Brown and the writer travelled in style to Coldstream for the annual ceremony marking the crossing of the Tweed into England by Burns in 1787. This was fabulous, with sunny weather, an impressive ceremony during which the club's floral tribute was placed by the president at the plaque in the middle of the bridge, and an afternoon of superb entertainment. The return journey was interesting. The treasurer who, as JVP of the Fed. was seated at the top table all afternoon had some difficulty in articulation but nobody was fu'. The club delegation was warmly welcomed and look forward to the event next year.

The pace continued on 11th May at the opening committee meeting and soiree (see president's blog). Momentous decisions were made and members were glad to relax afterwards for some harmony. The president's bottle of firewater was much enjoyed.

Watch this space.

 

 

D. Smith

 

 

 

 

David Miller passed the Chain on to John Caskie at the AGM and brought an era to an end.  David had a remarkable year and represented the club at a record number of events, far and wide with great dignity and good humour. He listened to the Hon. Secretary and on occasions, took his advice. I can't let his year go without paying sincere tribute to his approach to the task. David Miller encapsulated everything which makes the Howff Club special and rose to every challenge, great and small. He will be sadly missed.

President John Caskie will lead us through the Year of Homecoming in the manner we will expect. He is supported by a strong team of office bearers and committee and can look forward to a year to remember.

D. Smith

Hon. Secretary    

The third "Spring Fling" took place at the Easterbrook Hall on 28th March when a few members and many friends disported themselves to Reels, Strathspeys and Jigs with music from the popular ceilidh band "Two Left Feet".  Dancing was impressive with some members displaying unsuspected talent for the odd Gavotte and Cotillion. The raffle which took forever was a great success and brought in some cash for the Scots Language Competition. Thanks are due to David Baird and family for hard work and effort to make the evening so enjoyable. It is reported that Ted Murray has been approached for the next series of "Strictly Come Dancing" and is open to offers.

D. Smith

 

Flushed with success in the Round Table Quiz, see above, four intrepid quizzers entered for the Locharbriggs Community Centre's Quiz Night in the Lochar Inn, on 20th March.

Organised by John Caskie, the Creme de la Creme of the club pitted their wits against 21 teams from the district and more than held their own although the opposition was stiff and many of the questions were cryptic. The Burns Unit came in a commendable 5th with Jane Brown's team winning overall but they may have been in cahoots with the questionmaster although this can not be proved. The team consisted of David Miller, John Lauder, Rab Walker and David Smith. Once again Rab's knowledge of popular culture saved the day but the cumulative performance was outstanding.

This was a charity fundraiser for the Community Centre and a most enjoyable night which featured Irish Bingo and nibbles at half time.

D. Smith

 

 

After an absence of some years, the club entered a team in the Round Table Annual Charity Pub Quiz last month.

On successive Friday evenings in February, various cerebral members gathered in the Edenbank Hotel to strut their stuff and field questions from the trivial to the arcane all for fun and to support a good cause.  The first session on 6th Feb. saw David Miller, John Lauder, Rab Walker and the writer, entered as "The Burns Unit" return a score of 81.5 from a possible 100 (not bad). Unfortunately, the score at the next quiz on the 13th dropped to 70.5 when Godfrey Bedford replaced David Miller but that was entirely coincidental. On the third session on 20th Feb. Neil Johnston stood in for Rab Walker and the score lept up to 73.5 but the team fell by the wayside on the final session on the 27th when the score plummeted to 61.5 but the questions then were more obscure and the competition stiff. The last team was John Lauder, Ted Murray Derek Rogerson and the writer. Questionmaster Mark Jardine announced to some hilarity that the team from the Howff Club got a Burns question wrong by answering that the first recorded Burns Supper in the cottage at Alloway was held in 1805. The correct answer being 1801.  OK, so I was 4 years out. No big deal!

The cumulative score for "The Burns Unit" was 287 and we finished in the upper half of the Leader Board.  I would like to express admiration for David Miller's incisive grasp of recondite concepts which was invaluable. The encylopedic knowledge of popular culture (modern music) displayed by Rab Walker, Neil Johnston and Derek Rogerson was beyond price and the quiet erudition of Godfrey Bedford, Ted Murray and John Lauder betrayed a classical education and maintained the club' reputation for excellence. I can say with some modesty that my own contribution was not without merit.

The Quiz raised £2500 split between the local Menengitis Trust and the People's Project.

Perhaps next year, the club can find superior brains and improve the score. 

 

 

                  

Saturday 21st February 2009 was the second supper held by the Ukrainian Social Club of Edinburgh to celebrate the life and works of Burns and the national poet of Ukraine, Tamas Shevchenko.

Over 100 revellers gathered in the club premises at 14 Royal Terrace in Edinburgh's New Town to be welcomed by the club president. The top table included David Baird, Jim Haining, Peter and Lesley Kormylo and the acting Consul General of the Ukriane, based in Edinburgh.

Following the Selkirk Grace, the company was blessed by Father Lubomyr and the Ukrainian Haggis Dish was addressed by Peter Kormylo. An interesting meal included Borsch Soup, made from Beetroot, and Haggis, Neeps and Tatties.

After dinner, David Baird proposed a riveting "Immortal Memory" of Burns, followed by a recital on Taras Shevchenko by Alex Kurlyuk. The toast to the Lassies was delivered by Jim Haining in his inimitable style and was ably replied to by Lesley Kormylo. Later, a ladies choir sang beautifully in Ukranian followed by a mandolin solo. A rousing version of "Auld Lang Syne" was followed by the Ukranian National Anthem at which, the contingent from Dumfries were unable to join in.

A most memorable evening was spent with members of the Ukrainian community and friends in Edinburgh and the Lothians and hopefully, the Burns & Shevchenko Supper will become a regular feature.

I had the pleasure of accompaning David Baird and Gordon Johnston. David, who was driving, found the club a trifle difficult to find due to the roundabouts and road system and the Satnav was worse than useless.

D. Smith

22/02/09