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

‘Merry, Friendly, Country-Folks’

In his poem of Halloween written in 1796 Burns wrote some merry, friendly country-folks, together did convene, to burn their nits an pou their stocks an haud their Halloween!

Friday 30^th October it was ‘our turn’ the merry, friendly, country folk of the Howff Club, to meet, for our Halloween supper, and what a great night we had.

On the website there Is full report, written in the Secretaries own inimitable style,  so I wont go over the details again other than say a personal thanks to John Haining (main speaker) singers Jim Shields and David Pool, musicians Andy Kain and Michael Phillip and the amazing Alex Pool with his great recitations. All these gentlemen added a great amount to a special night for me and they were assisted by club members Frank Curran and Les Byres who were in equally good form. David, Michael, Andy and Jim were all making their debuts at the Howff and from the overwhelming applause they received I don’t think it will be too long until we see them back.

Michael Phillip is a champion accordionist and he also treated us to his favourite Burns poem ‘The lass who made the bed to me’. Michael and Andy were given a short tour of The Globe by Past President David Miller during the evening’s intervals.

Halloween is the start of the ‘winter season’ for the Club but there have been other happenings to report too., along various meetings to finalise the 2009 projects and two executive committee meetings

I attended ‘The Whistle’ competition on 16^th October at Friars Carse.  Also the ‘Sparkling Sopranos’ concert at St Georges Church Hall on 23rd and on Sunday 1^st November after an afternoon of ‘proof reading’ the book of Scot’s poems written by school kids from Dumfries and Galloway and to be released at the Gala Concert, David Baird and David Smith and myself travelled to Applegarth Village Hall where Emily Smith was in concert and releasing her new album ‘A Doon Winding Nith’ solely of Burns songs and many of them written during his Dumfries years. Emily who was accompanied by her husband and fellow musician Jamie McClennan were awesome and the album is a MUST for any music and especially Burns Lovers, Claire Hastings from Holywood was the ‘warm up’ and hey what a great future Claire has, her singing was delightful and hopefully we will see more of her in the months and years to come. And how nice it was to see the small quaint village hall packed on what was a very wet and dreich night of weather. This was my second village hall event in a week as I had led the entertainment at Eaglesfield Hall on the Wednesday previous in a concert for hall funds.

‘Merry, friendly, country folk’ not only at Halloween, but every where I’ve been in recent weeks. Great times and looking forward to more as the events are mounting up in the diary.

JOHN M CASKIE

PRESIDENT

BURNS HOWFF CLUB

13/11/2009

One of the most enjoyable events in recent weeks was the show, “Sparkling Sopranos”, with Cheryl Easton and Audrey Lowrie, presented at St. George’s Church Hall on 23^rd October in aid of the charity, Cruse Bereavement Care, Scotland.

Cheryl, perhaps better know as Jean Armour from “Tea with Clarinda” introduced a fun-packed programme of songs and duets with Audrey Lowrie, from light operetta in the first half and Hollywood musicals in the second.

The audience enthused to numbers from “Princess Ida” by Gilbert & Sullivan, taking on the way, old favourites from “La Traviata” and “A Nightingale sang” to “Guys and Dolls”, “Showboat” and “My Fair Lady”. Cheryl’s strong voice was well complemented by Audrey’s rich but restrained vocals and both came together in incandescent and lively duets. Sympathetic accompaniment was provided by Scott Miller who also accompanies the Male Voice Choir and from John Lowrie, Audrey’s son who is studying music at RSAM in Glasgow.  It was interesting to note the number of ladies in the audience who seemed to know Ted Murray. An unexpected bonus was the raffle prize won by the writer which drew some derisory comments from John Caskie but I put that down to jealousy.

A most entertaining evening which raised much-needed funds for a very worthwhile cause.

Saturday morning at Cumberland Street Day Centre to find Ted Murray again, this time behind the book counter at the National Trust Coffee Morning. Again to my surprise, won two prizes at the Tombola Stall although one was a bottle of alcohol-free wine, but never mind. Had arranged to meet David Baird in the afternoon but, due to a leak, he failed to materialise.

Looking forward to the Winter Lecture on Thursday 29^th and the Hallowe’en Supper on the 30^th. Aint life grand.

DS

MERRILY DANCED THE FIDDLE!

I was delighted and honoured to accept a kind invitation to be a special guest when the Scottish Fiddle Orchestra performed at their debut concert in Dumfries. Under the guidance of the musical director John Mason MBE and conductor Blair Parham the orchestra were in great form playing a varied selection of tunes old and new and suitable for all tastes. John Mason in his own inimitable style conducted the first few sets of tunes before handing over to compere for the evening Jim McColl of Beachgrove Garden fame, Jim had the audience in roars of laughter with his ‘couthy’ one liner stories. It was the first time I had seen both John and Jim perform in concert for years and I was taken aback how aged they both looked, although they still gave their all. Young Blair Parham has the John Mason style about him when conducting and gets the most out of both the orchestra and the audience with his enthusiasm. Soloists were Dennis Heggarty a superb tenor from Ayr and Belfast lass Debra Stuart who included in their performances songs of Burns. Burns was of course highlighted very much with many tunes having a Burns theme to them and the famed ‘Tam o Shanter Overture’ arranged by none other than John Mason. Another highlight was the involvement of the Dumfries and Galloway police pipe band that joined the orchestra for surely one of the best renditions of Highland Cathedral anyone will ever hear! This brought proceedings round to the interval when I was introduced to the musical director John, conductor Blair, other members of the orchestra and soloists for refreshments and a friendly chat. John reminded me of the time he conducted the ‘Strings of Scotland’ in the Academy hall for a Howff concert and still had, and showed me, the programme and the souvenier beer mat the club presented him with after the event.

The second half of the show was equally thrilling and included some Highland dancers from the Myra Shuttleworth School of dancing. I entertained with Myra many years ago and she is still the best Highland dancer Dumfries has ever seen and I’m sure her girls who danced at the SFO concert will follow in her footsteps.

The Star o’ Rabbie Burns and Auld Lang Syne sang by both soloists and performed by the orchestra and the pipe band brought the evening to a close all too soon. It was the orchestra’s first ever gig in Dumfries and with the applause and appreciation they received from the capacity audience I am sure will have let them know that we all thoroughly enjoyed it.

I have also this month chaired the committee meeting of the Howff executive and met with the secretary to outline the Halloween Supper programme. I compered the retrial party of Shirley Bell retiring chief executive of the RBWF and enjoyed the ‘first’ Whistle competition and entertainment laid on by Thornhill Burns Club at Friars Carse Hotel.

JOHN M CASKIE

PRESIDENT

BURNS HOWFF CLUB

20TH OCTOBER 2009

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

BOWLING!  FOLK! (Sport and music) September (Part one)

Apologies to regular ‘Bloggers’ for the recent non activity by myself. There have been minor technical problems with the blog site and although I have had these scripts written couldn’t paste, however, here they are.

After the hectic but most enjoyable conference it was back to normality in September and looking forward to a ‘quieter’ month, Work commitments meant I had to miss the SSCBA meeting on Saturday 12^th and also the ploughing match at Ellisland on Sunday 20^th which I have heard had been a great success and a great family day out for all.

Sunday 13^th September we at the Howff welcomed members of the Dumbarton Burns club for out annual bowling match; this took place at the Dumfries Bowling Club on Newall Terrace by kind permission of the Dumfries Bowling Club. After an enjoyable day’s bowls we retired to the Globe where a High Tea was served and I presented our visitors with the ‘Jack Trophy’. It was agreed however that the game ended in a ‘draw’. The mutual friendship of both clubs was very evident on the day and I personally look forward to attending and representing the Howff at the Dumbarton Burns Club’s St Andrew’s Night and Burns Supper later in my Presidential year.

Folk group Scocha have entertained at the Howff on many occasions, however, this year we invited the full band (5 piece) to appear at the Theatre Royal in Dumfries on 19^th. The theatre

unfortunately wasn’t full to capacity but the 150 people who did attend all thoroughly enjoyed the vibrant performance of the guys, they included many Burns songs in their programme and the standing ovation at the end  assured them that after their first gig in Dumfries the audience hoped that it wouldn’t be their last! A small refreshment with some of the band members in the Globe afterwards rounded off a super night.

Although these were my only two ‘Burns themed events at the beginning of September, calling bingo numbers at the local hall’s prize bingo night, entertaining at the Lochfoot Women’s Rural 80^th Birthday, the Greyhound Rescue fund raising ceilidh and the Kirkpatrick Juxta Church Harvest Supper and acting Quiz Master at the Lochar Inn Sports Quiz my ‘quieter’ month had all of a sudden got a bit busier than I first thought.

JOHN M CASKIE

PRESIDENT BURNS HOWFF CLUB

SEPTEMBER 26^TH 2009

Edinburgh: Yes! South Africa: No!

The annual conference of the Robert Burns World Federation was held in Edinburgh over the weekend of 4/5/6 September, the events are listed in the secretary’s blog, so I wont repeat the ‘on gans’ other than agree it was a super weekend with great company!

It’s at gatherings such as this, I realise just how much the Howff Club is respected and regarded by many. Whilst proudly wearing the President’s ‘chain’ I was greeted by people from far and wide asking what the ‘chain of office’ was and when replying ‘Howff Club’ they were all complimentary to myself for holding the valued position of President but more so for the high esteem the club has within the Federation and amongst its members.

Although enjoying the weekend I was always reminding myself I could have been at HampdenPark watching Scotland take on Macedonia in their quest to qualify for the World Cup finals next year in South Africa. Delighted to hear the boys had won by two goals to nil, I was now eagerly awaiting the following Wednesday when I would be able to attend Hampden for the now crucial game against the Netherlands.

When the Wednesday came I was there amongst the other 52,000 Scots cheering on the boys in the hope that we would make the playoffs! But alas it hadn’t to be, here we are, where we have been for many years now ‘glorious failures’ once again.!

So Edinburgh played its part as a super choice for the conference as I’m sure Aberdeen will next year.

My dream of a trip to watch Scotland compete in the 2010 World Cup finals in South Africa is sadly, all it is.

JOHN M CASKIE

PRESIDENT

BURNS HOWFF CLUB

SEPTEMBER 2009

HOLIDAY OVER, BUT NOT BURNS!

August (Part three)

My holiday from work is near over but my Burns events keep coming.

Earlier this year I attended the Burns Supper hosted by the Presiding Officer at the Scottish Parliament, it also saw the opening of an exhibition ‘As ither’s see us’ photographs and quotes from Scottish people of all walks of life beside their favourite Burns works. I was therefore pleased to hear that the exhibition had arrived at Kirkcudbright and along with D Smith, J Lauder and G Johnston we travelled through to the town hall to view it on Wednesday 19^th August. I personally walked round , read and viewed the exhibits a couple of times just marvelling at the great photography and linking the photograph and the quotes, of the eminent Scot’s, to the works of Burns. An excellent exhibition. I was pleased the club purchased a copy of the book which accompanies it, for the club library. After words we viewed a painting exhibition also on view at the hall called ‘Coming home’. Paintings of Kirkcudbright artists from many years back, returning home to the town for Homecoming.

After and enjoyable lunch and a ‘fraught journey’ home it was then out to the club room at The Globe Inn for an office bearers meeting, eventful! although there were no fights!

The weekend saw my holiday over and back to work but after my early shift on Sunday 23^rd I called in at Ellisland Farm, by invitation , to sing a few songs to the assembled at their Descendants Day celebrations organised by the Friends of Ellisland. The weather was unkind and it was pouring throughout the day but the marquee and the barn where the settings where along with Lee McQueen I entertained with a few favourite songs of Burns. My final Burns engagement of August was to chair the executive committee meeting at the Globe Inn on Monday 31^st this was another lively Howff meeting and it was especially nice to hear the various reports (15 in all!) on all the activities members of the club had undertaken during our ‘summer recess’.

I had also visited the Edinburgh Military Tattoo which had a Burns theme and of which I thoroughly enjoyed as well as calling dances at another wedding and organising the grand jumble sale and tea dance at Locharbriggs Community Centre. I did purchase two Burns books at the jumble sale for 10p each!! Although they will be a nice addition to my Burns collection I don’t think they will ever make me rich!

So there we have it a short holiday from work which was nice, a range of Burns activities which was even nicer and it’s off to Edinburgh for the RBWF Conference at the end of this week.

JOHN M CASKIE

PRESIDENT

BUNRS HOWFF CLUB

SEPTEMBER 2009

STILL ON HOLIDAY AND STILL BURNS!

August (Part two)

Continuing my look back over August and my holiday from work, Sunday 16^th August was a special day.

When I became President of the Howff back in April it had always been my intention to arrange a club outing and make Ayrshire as the port of call especially this year on the 250^th anniversary of the birth on R Burns and it being Scotland’s year of ‘Homecoming’

Well it happened!! On a wet Sunday in August (16^th) 20 members and friends took off through the Nith Valley and Upper Nithsdale to Tarbolton and the ‘Bachelors club’ where two excellent guides from the National Trust ,who run the premises, gave us a marvellous tour and talk on the activities of the club. Back to our mini bus and onto Mauchline where we gathered in ‘Poosie Nancies Pub’ for lunch and refreshments. After a superb lunch there was time to view the Burns contemporaries’ graves in Mauchline Kirkyard. These are all marked by small plaques telling of whose graves they are and what their association was with Burns.

From Mauchline we then travelled through to Irvine to be greeted by members of the ‘Irvine Burns Club’ where we shown round there very impressive club and allowed to view many of the interesting pieces they have relating to Burns and the Burns movement. We returned through Mauchline and to ‘Poosie Nancies’ for further refreshments! And to collect John Lauder’s umbrella that was left as a ‘plant’!  We viewed the Jean Armour statue that stands outside the library in the village before embarking on a pleasant journey home. Wet when we left in the morning but the sun had shone throughout the day and as we arrived back in Dumfries everyone agreed that a great day out was had by all and hopefully we can revisit other places of interest in Ayrshire on our next ‘outing’.

I personally thank the Secretary D Smith for the hard work in securing our guides and arranging most of the day’s activities.

My holiday's running out! But still more of August to follow

JOHN M CASKIE

PRESIDENT BURNS HOWFF CLUB

SEPTEMBER 2009

HOLIDAY WITH BURNS!

August (part one)

As I undertook a short holiday from work during August,  I have been able to take in a few Burns related events some of these are mentioned on the club web site so will make them bullet point mentions on here.

August 3^rd

Meeting at the Globe Inn with the Secretary to go over the forthcoming ‘outing’ and arrange visitations etc, always an enjoyable ‘get together’ meeting up with David. Always amazed at his vast experience of all things relating to Burns.

August 5^th

Burns Centre Dumfries for a meeting with Professor Kevin Thomson from Hong Kong to talk on ‘Burns time in Dumfries’ and was joined for the chat by D Smith and D Baird, this session was recorded and will be broadcast on Radio Hong Kong between Christmas and New Year.

August 11^th

‘Ae Fond Kiss’ Musical theatre production  as part of the Edinburgh festival fringe at the Scottish mining museum at Newtongrange. This was an excellent show encasing the life of Robert Burns, performed entirely in rhyme, by a theatre company from Edinburgh with four talented actors and two equally talented musicians. The show was awarded five stars in The Scotsman with the reviewer saying she would have given more (stars) but she was only allowed to go up too five! I could only agree this show was Brilliant!!!

August 14^th

Met with club members at Gracefield arts centre in Dumfries and viewed the ‘Zig Zag’ exhibition which was on display. Everyone agreed it was good to see so many artefacts and limited edition materials on show but the whole thing was spoiled by poor lighting!

After the exhibition we assembled in the club room at the Globe Inn for an enjoyable ‘tapas supper’ and friendly company and banter.

August 15^th

Back at the ‘Zig Zag’ and also visited the Mid Steeple and the Burns Centre where along with John Lauder, David Smith and David Baird we were acting as guides for seven members of The Largs Cronies Burns Club who had came to Dumfries for the day.

In between these Burns themed activities entertained at Parkhead Court in Dumfries for an evening sing–a long, Called dances at a wedding in Penicuick ,visited numerous shows at the Edinburgh fringe, Enjoyed the summer sing song at St Georges Church and Joined in the dancing at Linlithgow Palace for their summer ‘Scotch hop’

Half way through my holiday and half way through August, more to follow!!

JOHN M CASKIE

PRESIDENT BURNS HOWFF CLUB

SEPTEMBER 2009

THAT WAS THE JULY THAT WAS! (Part two)

Continuing my look back at July the busy month it was!!

July 21^st

Robert Burns World Federation Summer School concert featuring Emily Smith in the Globe Inn, (Compered a great night of entertainment from Emily and the supporting cast, first met Emily about 8/9 years ago and hey! what a talent, was great to be back on stage with her and to share her company.)

July 22^nd

SSCBA Brow Well service and social (High tea at Moreig before the touching service where I laid a club tribute, before compering an enjoyable social at the Bruce in Annan)

July 24^th

Homecoming open air night at Locharbriggs Community Centre (over 300 folk attended a fun night of entertainment which helped raise money for the centre and celebrate this the Homecoming year in style, the weather was great too!!)

July 25^th

Glasgow University launch of ‘The BARD Initiative’ (Attended the launch by the RBWF president Bill Dawson and ‘mingled’ with those who had attended the week long summer school)

July 25^th (evening)

Globe Inn Dumfries for the Kevin Thomson Burns 250 show (Kevin with his look at Burns life along with songs and recitations of the lesser known variety, audience was quality but sadly not quantity, although this did not detract from Kevin’s excellent performance)

So That Was The July That Was! Yes busy it was indeed but again most enjoyable. Throw in, my young brothers wedding, a work mates 40^th birthday party, entertaining the old folks club in Locharbriggs and organising and setting up the annual Locharbriggs Community Centre Car Treasure Hunt there have been few days spare.

August should be quieter but I am sure will be every bit as good fun.

JOHN M CASKIE

PRESIDENT BURNS HOWFF CLUB

2nd AUGUST 2009

THAT WAS THE JULY THAT WAS! (Part one)

July turned out to be a very busy month indeed; the Secretary has mentioned most of the events in his ‘lively blog’ so I wont go over the full details again other than make reference to them in bullet points.

July 4^th

 ‘Tea with Clarinda’ featuring Cheryl Anne Easton and Anna Hills followed by an after show meal at Globe Inn. (Polished performance from girls and great company afterwards.)

July 6^th

Jean Armour Night, Wreath laying at statue with the Dnner in Globe Inn with Guest Speaker D Shankland MBE. (Super night of great speeches and entertainment)

July 12^th

Wauchope Cairn ceremony at Wauchope near Hawick. (Bus journey eventful! ceremony moving and enjoyable entertainment to finish a grand day out!)

July 16^th

Howff Treasure Hunt. (I looked the part with my clip board but sadly my team let me down!)

In between have entertained at Scottish Night for Annan Riding of the Marches, attended the first Locharbriggs Gala for 20 years and was re elected Chairman of Locharbriggs Community Centre Association at the associations AGM

Half way through July more to follow!!

JOHN M CASKIE

PRESIDENT BURNS HOWFF CLUB

2nd  AUGUST 2009

The club does its best to support local florists this year. On Sunday 12^th July, 12 members and friends made the annual trip to Hawick to attend the Wauchope Cairn ceremony. Travelling by luxury minibus, the party arrived at Albert Bridge, the home of Hawick Burns Club, in good time for light refreshment before setting off for Wauchope. On route, the bus and exhaust parted company but made it for the ceremony when the club’s wreath was laid with dignity by president John Caskie. An address was given by Federation president Bill Dawson before returning to Hawick for an excellent buffet and lively entertainment to which the president and Gordon contributed.  The return journey was uneventful.

The next floral tribute was placed at the Burns statue in Ayr on 19th July when the club was represented by the secretary and treasurer. A ceremony is held at the statue annually before the company proceeds to Leglen Wood where Burns was said to frequent whilst at Alloway and another address from Bill Dawson.

Brow Well was the occasion for the next wreath on 22^nd July when a company of over 100 attended the annual service, conducted with style by David Baird and yet another oration from Bill Dawson. The social gathering at Annan was enjoyable and expertly MC’d by John. Entertainment included a rendition of a song, entitled “Coming Hame”, written and performed by Jim Shields for the Homecoming Year and which this reporter has now heard about 8 times at recent commemorative events.

Yet another floral tribute was laid before a statue on 26^th July. This time at Kilmarnock Cross at the statue to John Wilson, printer of the Kilmarnock Edition in 1786. The party from the club unfortunately arrived too late for the ceremony but that was not the fault of the driver, honorary member Jane Brown. It was decided to lay the wreath anyway and this was done with great aplomb by senior vice president Neil Johnston with other wreaths laid by Mrs. Brown and David Baird on behalf of the SSCBA. The delegation met up with the official party in the council rooms for a buffet, an address from Bill Dawson and Jim Shields’s song. Later, Mr. Baird sneaked his wreath back to lay again at the Burns Monument at Mauchline before repairing to “Poosie Nancies” for a pint.

In between these fragrant events, the annual Treasure Hunt took place on 16^th July when the clues were even more cryptic than ever but 20 odd members and friends turned up for the trail round 8 town centre pubs. Intoxication was avoided however and Chris Lyon and team were declared the winners. Although it can’t be proved, it was thought that Chris had sight of the answers in advance.  The RDV dinner was held in the Globe on 18^th July with much formality and sobriety.  St. Michaels Kirk was the venue on 20^th July for a splendid concert by St. Michaels Burns Club when ageing thespian Dr. John Cairney delivered his acclaimed narrative on Burns’ life with songs and music from local artistes. Emily Smith thrilled an enthusiastic audience in the Globe on 21^st July with a superb range of songs and the Globe was the scene for Kevin Thompson’s “Burns250” on 25^th July. This was Kevin’s one-man show of songs and poems, illustrated with a brilliant slide presentation. An excellent night but disappointing for the poor turnout which numbered 11 and included 3 members of the public.

DS

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

ALL DRESSED UP FOR GUID NYCHBURRIS! (part three)

After a lunch break it was back on the Streets of the town and to Friars Vennel to view the children’s fancy dress contestants and join them in a parade to the Mid Steeple. We were greeted on stage by the thousands who had assembled to watch the final of the ‘Homecoming Idol’ with some interesting and amusing turns. A quick walk about to ‘meet and greet’ as many locals as we could it was then a quick change before getting ‘robed’ for the last time to join the Provost and other dignitaries for the Big Parade and the Beating of the Retreat. The crowds had lined the near 2 mile route and cheered every lorry which went past as well as the pipe band ,baton twirlers, brass bands and walking entries, all led by Cornet Donald Anderson and His Lass Lauren Patterson and of course Queens Beth and her attendants on their float.

There were many Scottish and Burns themed entries this year with the Homecoming to the fore and the Howff Challenge Cup was won by the Dumfries Musical and Operatic Society for their ‘Burns Bothy’ themed entry.

Five pipe bands along with the Dumfries Town band joined together for a closing spectacle with the massed bands version of Highland Cathedral followed by the Town Band playing the  evening hymn bringing a  close to a special and exciting week.

I was proud to be part of the festivities and thank the Guid Nychburris committee for asking me.

As that week closed another very busy one was about to begin. For the past 18 years along with a trusty band of men and women from Locharbriggs we run a children’s football tournament for all ages through to 14 years. The Locharbriggs Five a Sides or as it’s affectionately known locally ‘the Caskie Cup’ attracts over 50 teams each year. After lining pitches on the Sunday, its all go though the week until the Friday which is always Grand Finals night.  This year, Guid Nychburr of Dumfries Mrs Ruth Emmerson presented prizes to the lucky winners and commemorative medals to the runners up.

It’s back to Burns now with a meeting of both the Project 2009 and Executive Committee of the Howff on Monday 29^th June and Tea with Clarinda and Jean Armour statue ceremony and Dinner to look forward to next week.

JOHN M CASKIE

PRESIDENT

03 JULY 2009

ALL DRESSED UP FOR GUID NYCHBURRIS! (part two)

A break from the ‘robes’ on Wednesday 17^th when along with the Secretary, Treasurer and committee member Ted Murray I attended the Friends of Ellisland’s latest offering of a ‘wee nich’t wi’ Burns’, this took form of wonderful recitations, music and song from the young Burnsians of Sanqhuar, along with some of their friends, they have met at the various festivals. An absolute delight to listen too and watch these youngsters perform, and well done to Ellisland for giving them the platform for us to enjoy.

Ride out time again on Thursday 18^th , this time leaving from Huntingdon Market and heading towards the Crichton before the popular ‘Kingholm Gallop’ watched by hundreds.

Friday was a ‘day off’ although I did look in at the Scottish Country Dance in Locharbriggs held by the local RSCDS branch, where music was provided by William McRobert and his dance band.

Guid Nychburris day itself arrived ,as always, on the third Saturday in June! Dark skies made it a bit uneasy! as thoughts always tendered upwards to the weather but although there was much darkness up above it stayed fair and the day passed with very little rain if any.

With the Provost and the other Baillie’s we departed the Municipal Buildings at 7.40am to head to greet the Kings courier at the Mid Steeple. Formalities over and the Cornet proceeded to invite the 189 horsemen and women to follow him and ride the boundaries of the Town. As they headed off , we (Provost’s party) headed to St John’s Church war memorial, where,  when they arrived, the Cornet laid a wreath at the memorial in front of over 500 folk. I was on duty as Baillie to Lochmaben Gate Port which was in English Street where Pursivant John Miller asked my permission to ride through with the assembled gathering of riders. It was a quick dash to St Michaels Gate Port where Baillie Micky Collins, like I had earlier, granted the Pursivant permission to ride through. Castledykes Park was next port of call where the Cornet laid a wreath and then unfurled the flag in the park. The horsemen and women continued their travels while we headed back to the Municipal Buildings for the preparations for the charter ceremony and crowning.

I had the privilege of leading the Queen of The South Beth Mercer through the crowds to be greeted by nearly 5,000 folk who had gathered on the plain staines at the Mid Steeple. We arrived in time to see the cavalcade of 189 horses charge up Bank Street to be greeted by the well wishers at the Steeple.

After reenacting the ceremony of the granting of the charter and the crowning it was off through the same crowds to the Municipal Chambers for a luncheon and drinks. Half way through a busy day, of a busy, but enjoyable week.

JOHN M CASKIE

PRESIDENT

03 JULY 2009

ALL DRESSED UP FOR GUID NYCHBURRIS! (part one)

Having attended the Scocha concert at Langholm on Saturday 13^th June (full details mentioned in the secretary’s blog), it was ‘dressing up’ time for me the next morning with the commencement of my duties as a Baillie at the Guid Nychburris celebrations in Dumfries. Honoured at being asked to once again full fill a role I had previously undertook in 2007 I arrived at the Municipal Buildings in Dumfries on the Sunday morning to get the ‘Baillie robes’ on for the Kirkin ceremony at St Michaels Church. Marching behind the Town Band and the Royal Burgh Pipe Band the sun shone and a large crowd gathered on the streets to witness the procession along Buccleuch Street along the Whitesands to St Michaels Bridge and to the Church. After the service it was back to the Municipal Buildings, this time via St Michaels Street and High Street. The same afternoon I attended the ‘Mabie ride out’, which assembled at park farm before heading through the back roads to Lochfoot where we met the horses as they galloped to the top of the Lochend Hill, they (horses) then headed through to Mabie House Hotel via New Abbey where a massive crowd gathered to greet the Cornet and his party.

Later that evening I attended (with robes!) the Songs of Praise by the Christian Council an up beat ‘happy clappy’ end to the first day!

Monday 15^th was Installation night and again all ‘robed’ it was off to the Mid Steeple to greet the principals where they took their vows in front of again large crowds. Afterwards a reception was held in the Minerva Hall where I proposed a toast to this year’s ‘Queen of The South’ Miss Beth Mercer. After the presentations I attended the ‘after installation party’ at the Globe until the wee small hours!!

Tuesday afternoon was old folks concert in the newly refurbished St Georges Hall where I was compere and sharing the stage with the children and staff of St Joseph’s College, accordionist Lee McQueen, piper Taylor Edwards and singer Haig McCulloch marking his 30^th consecutive year of entertaining at the Guid Nychburris old folks concert. The Queen and the Cornet’s party duly arrived and assisted in serving refreshments to the audience. Tuesday night saw the last rehearsal for the full charter ceremony and crowning on the Saturday.

The week had begun but still a few more duties to attend too.

JOHN M CASKIE

PRESIDENT

03 JULY 2009

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      

FIRST MONTH GONE!

The first month of my Presidency of the Burns Howff Club has gone and hey! What great fun it’s been.

With out being too repetitive and going over some of the events that I have attended and have already been reported on here, by both me and the Secretary, in his blog’s…. (Aint Mr Smith a good blogger?) Here’s a flavour of the ‘first month’ (after Coldstream & the soiree…read earlier blog’s)

The Holy Fair at Mauchline on Saturday 23rd May was a great day out, so relaxed, lots of things happening all at different times and places and meeting loads of nice people both from the world of Burns and Music alike.  Our 2009 projects are well under way and a very constructive meeting of the 2009 committee took place in the club room at the Globe on 25^th May. Checkout  the home page on the website to view details of most of these events.

 I ended up being paired with the Secretary at the bowling night at DockPark on Thursday 28^th May,  when we tried!  But failed miserably in our quest to win the ‘dreaded Draffan Cup*’. I had the honour of presenting the trophy to JVP Frank Manson and his partner Past President Bert Hastings who were worthy winners; read the report on the web site of another great night of fun in the club. On Saturday 30^th May, work commitments meat I had to miss the AGM of the Southern Scottish Counties Burns Association’s (SSCBA) AGM however in the evening I travelled to Gilcknockie public hall, by Cannonbie, to compere and sing at their ‘Homecoming’ concert. An enjoyable evening of friendship and community spirit was most evident where it was great to meet in with honorary member of the Howff Club,  ‘Mr Langholm’, Alex Pool.  Alex was in good form with his recitations and looks forward to being one of our special guests at the club’s Halloween night in October. Throw in a couple of meetings and ‘numerous’ e-mails from the Secretary and hey! That’s the 'first month gone'.

June and July look like being just as busy and a reminder that the Guid Nychburris celebrations take place in Dumfries from 13/20^th June when I will be playing the part of a Baillie. The Big Parade is a highlight of Guid Nychburris and it will be interesting to see who succeeds in winning the Howff Trophy for the best Burns themed entry.

*The dreaded Draffan Cup. This is the prize that is ‘offered’ to the winning team at the bowling night. It was first played for in the club in 1911 and has been presented most years since for various sports, most recently bowls. The cup is nothing much too look at and hasn’t been cleaned properly for years! Although there is a suggestion that last year’s winner (not a club member) had tried in vain to keep it clean. Many members fear that their name will appear as a winner on the cup hence the title ‘dreaded Draffan Cup. I have been ‘unfortunate’ to have won it for my skill at dominoes in 2008.

JOHN M CASKIE

PRESIDENT BURNS HOWFF CLUB

 4 JUNE 2009

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   

Well the chains of office have moved round and it's now my turn to arrange the winter lectures, think about who would be able to deliver the main speeches at the clubs functions from April 2010 although I must admit that some arrangements were already made almost 9 month ago but it is still an extremely difficult task.

Plans are in place the Globe Inn is booked for the dates & Mr Smith is contacting the prospective guests so things are underway.

Anyway here I am 21:30 and I'm updating the website, amending the Blog, checking the forum, several 100 malicious entries every week to be removed. 

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

THE NICHT DRAVE ON WI SONGS AND CLATTER!

The first committee meeting of the ‘new season’ for the Howff Club follows tradition with the newly elected President welcoming the new committee, the office bearers and Past Presidents to come together for a ‘group photograph’ prior to the business. For some years now this takes place at the fountain in the High Street in Dumfries with the Mid Steeple in the background. This year was no exception as on Monday 11^th May we stood in the glorious sunshine and under the instruction of photographer Tom Bonnar smiled like the good gentlemen that we are!!

Another tradition of the first night meeting is the buffet supper and soiree afterwards to allow members old and new to get to know each other and to show off the talent we have within the club. Jane Brown Manageress of the Globe Inn served a lovely supper in the bar before we returned to the club room and had an enjoyable evening of ‘light entertainment’ ranging from the community singing of ‘There was a Lad’ to that great old tune ‘Dainty Davie’, some ‘Cockney Capers’, ‘Modern Scot’s Poetry’, A tribute to Scotland singing legends ‘Fran and Anna’ minus the Mini Kilts! All this, peppered with a few jokes, recitations, and songs with everyone willing and wanting to do their bit. The witching hour was upon us all too quick and a rousing chorus of ‘Auld Lang Syne’ brought us too the end of another ‘traditional’ night in the history of the Howff Club. Personal thanks to all who made it a night to remember. One meeting down only 13 to go!

JOHN M CASKIE

PRESIDENT BURNS HOWFF CLUB

14 MAY 2009

COLDSTREAM BRIDGE CEREMONY

On May 7^th 1787 along with his pal Robert Ainslie, Robert Burns during his visit to the Borders crossed the Tweed Bridge in Coldstream for his first visit to England. It was reported that on Leaving Scottish soil and entering English land Burns went down one knee at the Tweed Bridge and recited the last two verses of ‘The Cotters Saturday Night’ which begin O Scotia!  My dear, my native soil!....

On Sunday 10^th May 2009, 222 years later, Coldstream Burns Club to celebrate this 250^th anniversary year of the birth of Robert Burns re-enacted that very event on the banks of the Tweed Bridge. Over 100 members and Friends of the Club including myself and fellow ‘Howffers’ Treasurer David Baird, Past President David Miller, Secretary David Smith and Honorary member Jane Brown, we joined the procession from the centre of the Borders Town to walk behind the two pipers and the Coldstream Burns Club banner across the Bridge into England and assembled under the Bridge awaiting the arrival of ‘Robert’s, Burns and Ainslie’. Arriving to loud cheers ‘Robert Burns’ dis mounted his horse kneeled on one knee and proceeded to read the lines from ‘The Cotters Saturday Night’ After Toasts to Robert Burns and To Coldstream Burns Club it was back over the Bridge where, I on behalf of the Howff Club laid a wreath at the plaque commemorating Burns ‘arrival in England’.

An absolutely brilliant afternoon of entertainment was then laid on at the towns’ community centre where after an inspirational address by World President Bill Dawson, many members and friends of the Coldstream Burns Club entertained.

Chairman Rob Smith extended a welcome to many guests from the Robert Burns World Federation and neighbouring clubs and asked for a ‘special welcome’ to the members of the Howff Club! Rob said they were honoured that we (Howff Club) could attend and be part of their special afternoon. We has Howff members could only insist that the pleasure was ours at once again being invited and to be part of a very special celebration.

This concluded my second engagement in my first 10 days as Howff President. Sunday 3^rd May was the Langholm Ladies ‘Literary luncheon’ in the Buccleuch Centre Langholm on the ‘songs of Burns’ which was most enjoyable and friendly and before the trip to Coldstream along with many other Howff members  I attended the Theatre Royal in Dumfries to watch the Dumfries Musical and Operatic Society in the performance of ‘Red Red Rose’ a musical jointly written and directed by John Cairney and Geoff Davidson. Well done to the DMOS for a most enjoyable performance.

JOHN M CASKIE

HOWFF CLUB PRESIDENT

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    

PRESIDENT DUTIES BEGIN!

Thursday 30^th April will live in my memory for a long time. That was the night I assumed the role of President of the Burns Howff Club. Over 30 members attended the AGM in the Globe Inn where they heard a comprehensive report on the past years proceedings by Secretary David Smith in his 37^th annual report. Retiring President David Miller, who has had a tremendous year, highlighted a few of the events he had attended and the ‘high points’ in what has been a busy year for him before presenting me with the famed chain of office as President of the club. In turn my first duty was to present David with a Past Presidents badge and thank him for the service he gave to the club over the past year.

Neil Johnston was elected Senior Vive President with Frank Manson becoming Junior Vice President. I look forward to working with both Neil and Frank in representing and promoting the club over the next 12 months. After conducting the second part of the meeting with the assistance of Secretary David Smith it was a pleasure to lead the members in Auld Lang Syne at the close of a morable evening for me.

Some members then retired to the Chinese restaurant for an enjoyable meal and refreshments.

Presidential duties are now under way; I look forward to the year ahead and thank the members of the Burns Howff Club for their support and confidence in electing me as their President for this year.

JOHN M CASKIE

PRESIDENT BURNS HOWFF CLUB 2009/2010

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

BUSY BURNS SEASON

2009 was always going to be a busy year for with the ‘Homecoming’ and the 250^th anniversary of the birth of Robert Burns. I have been out and about and have listed the events I have taken part in during a busy season.

Saturday 10^th January saw my ‘season’ begin. At 2pm, I joined Frank Curran at the local BBC studios where we gave our thoughts on two of Robert Burns’s songs which had been re mixed into a more contempory feel. Frank and I, both agreed that one was acceptable but the other wasn’t too our liking. The programme was recorded and aired the following Friday on BBC Radio Scotland. Later that evening I enjoyed my first Burns Supper at Mouswald village hall at the invitation of MouswaldChurch. A great start to the Supper season with Wilson Ogilvie delivering the Immortal memory. Friday 16^th I was at the Woodland House Hotel as guest of the St Michaels Burns Club’s supper where Michael Russell MSP gave the Immortal Memory. Jim Donald from Dumfries gave the ‘Memory’ at Marchmount Bowling club on Saturday 17^th. Monday 19^th I visited Lochside primary school in Dumfries, where I spoke to the children on the Howff Club and on Robert Burns, the kids were amazing and were well informed of our bards work. Tuesday 20^th I was back at Woodland House Hotel this time along with the members and friends of the Kidney Patients Association. The Immortal Memory was given by KPA member, Rev Ella Pennington. Wednesday 21^st I was honoured to be a guest at the Presiding Officers Burns Supper at the Scottish Parliament, I took my elder brother as my guest and we were treated to an excellent evening of friendship, fun and music in the Parliaments ‘garden lobby’ where the event was held. Before the supper, where Len Murray QC gave the Immortal Memory, we viewed the ‘as other see it’ exhibition. An exhibition of people from every walk of life giving their views on their favourite works of Robert Burns. Thursday 22^nd I attended the Lochmaben lunch Club for the annual Burns Lunch when David Shanlkand gave the toast. Friday 23^rd was the Howff Supper which was excellent and report is available both on web site and President’s blog, during the night, along with Past President Bill Welsh, I visited Dumfries Burns Club to offer in person, the fraternal exchange of greetings between the clubs. Irene McMichael from Auldgirth proposed the Immortal Memory at Hightae’s Royal Four Towns Hall on Sat24th where I was attending and on Sunday 25^th I took part in the Service at St Michaels Church before attending and performing at the Gala Dinner of the SSCBA at Easterbrook Hall in the evening. Tuesday 27^th I attended and sang at the Globe Inn for their ‘first’ Burns Supper run by the pub itself, and what a great night it was, where Chris Lyons gave the Immortal Memory.  Dalbeattie Burns Club held their Supper on 30^th Jan where I was guest singer and when Michael Russell MSP gave the Immortal Memory. Saturday 31^st was Gatehouse for their clubs Supper which was chaired by RBWF SVP Mike Duguid and the Immortal Memory was given by Chris Rollie. January ended but no let up in Burns events and Tuesday 3^rd February I visited Lockerbie for the lunchtime meeting of the ‘friendship club’ to sing a few songs of Burns. Friday 6^th Feb was the Burns season dance at Locharbriggs. In my role as chairman of the Locharbriggs Community Centre Association I welcomed the gathering then departed to the kitchen to assist with preparing the meal for the 150 folk who were enjoying the music and dance of the ‘Bon Accords’. Sat 7^th I ‘stewarded’ along with other Howff members at the SSCBA Schools competitions at the academy hall in Dumfries before heading to Gretna Hall Hotel to assist in the Burns Ceilidh for a private function at the hotel. Friday 13^th and Annan South Church Burns supper held in the church hall was well attended and the Immortal Memory given by Helen McNairn member of the Solway Burns Club. Ellisland Farm on Saturday14th and Michael Russell MSP again delivering an interesting Immortal Memory. Wednesday 18^th I will again be in the Globe Inn for the Rotary Club supper and that will conclude what has been a great time enjoying friendship company music and laughs all in the name of Robert Burns. During my travels I have tried to sing a variety of songs of Burns which have included, Ae Fond Kiss, Lass o’ Ballochmyle’ Ay Waulkin O’, Cragieburn Wood, Braes of Ballochmyle, O Wert Thou In the Cauld Blast, Scots Wha Hae, Corn Rigs, A Mans A Man, Green Grow the Rashes, My Luve is Like a Red Red Rose, The Lea Rig, Bonnie Wee Thing, The Star O’ Rabbie Burns and Auld Lang Syne.

JOHN M CASKIE

SVP BURNS HOWFF CLUB

Friday 23^rd January 2009