Surprisingly good weather and the Dock park isn’t swarming with the dreaded Midge, things are looking good for the annual competition for the Draffan Cup, team selection is going well, oops... lets try this again and finally.  Bob has the plan, 3 end per game number of winning ends count not the number of scoring booools. 

Bill welsh and I start with a couple of practice shots,  the green appears to be a bit sticky, it seems that they have applied fertiliser and it hasn’t rained enough to wash it in, but despite the arduous green conditions the challenge goes on and it soon becomes obvious that the skills of most of the club member hasn’t been lost to the ground conditions when it is decided to use GPS satnav to measure the nearest bool to the jack as the tape measure isn’t long enough. 

Just as light is starting to fade Bob announces that we have a winner and that we retire to The Globe Inn where Jane Brown had arranged for sandwiches as well as some cake to celebrate David Baird’s Birthday.

A bit of a judgely huddle and the winners are announced Elaine Whitehead and John Caskie take the Trophy to mutters of you can have it from Ian Whitehead and John saying that he has just the space for it in the coal bunker.

But a great evening although not very serious.

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

It was a beautiful Sunday morning Hon. secretary David Smith, treasurer David Baird, librarian Gordon Johnston and myself navigated our way through the muckle toon (Langholm), Hawick, almost Selkirk if volunteer driver David Baird had listened to my direction, then on to Jedburgh and along to Coldstream.  We arrived a little earlier than expected as the roads had been fairly quite infact we were so early that The Besom Inn hadn't opened it door, we weren't the only early birds as we meet Isa and Alec Hanlon were looking for somewhere that was open to get a tea, coffee, or other refreshment. 
It was interesting to hear reports hot foot from the previous days RBWF schools competition in Coatbridge which seem to have been an excellent day for all involved and once again schools local to dumfries, but to the main activities we assembled in the Legion hall and were piped all the way through the town and along the banks of the Tweed to the Bridge, where the polis stopped the traffic to allow us to lay wreaths at the centre of the bridge to  mark the place and time Robert Burns had first left Scottish soil as he travelled to England.  Floral tributes laid we retired to the greens below the bridge where we toasted the bard in the shadows of the impressive Coldstream bridge the pipers played a lament.  The gathered members and guests of Coldstream Burns Club were then piped back to the Legion hall for a buffet lunch and local entertainment was enjoyed before we travelled home.

AGM - Agenda and info
Item no. 10 reads as follows

NJ takes the chair

Although it sounds strange I am really disappointed that John Caskie's year as president is over, John is such charismatic ambassador for the Howff Club and all things Scottish. Introducing such a wealth of talent to the Howff over the last 12 months I was always sure that any event which John was associated with would be an enormous success. 
It is with great apprehension that I wear the Howff Presidents Chains but glad to have the encouragement and support of so many of our club members.  John Caskie presided over what was probably one of the busiest years in the history of the Howff which marked the 250th year since the birth of Robert Burns and I'm aware that it is almost impossible to improve on excellence, but after many years of fund raising I hope that this year will focus members on the most enjoyable aspects of the Howff - friendship and camaraderie.
The AGM comes to a close with most thing in order and 14 members retire to a local restaurant for a meal !! 

Times Up!!

30^th April 2009 until 29^th April 2010

A year?       12 Months?

 Call it what you like, for me personally it was one of the happiest and enjoyable times of my life as President of the Burns Howff Club.

Yes here I am at the end of my term and time for a short reflection on what was a remarkable year in office. With 2009 being the year of Homecoming and the 250^th anniversary of the birth of Robert Burns it was perhaps busier than normal but equally enjoyable and worthwhile.

I attended over 120 engagements as President whether they were representing the club at various events and commemorations, social gatherings; meetings ect all in the name of promoting the works of Burns and the Howff Club in general.

My travels took me all over the place and included amongst others visits too Langholm, Coldstream, Hawick, Mauchline, Brow Well, Ellisland, Irvine, Largs, Edinburgh and Dumbarton.

Events attended included the Mauchline Holy Fair, Federation conference, re enactment of Burns first visit into England at Coldstream, club outing to Ayrshire, presenting school children in Sanquhar and Castle Douglas with awards, numerous meetings at the Globe Inn, 23 Burns suppers and the many events the club arranged for the Homecoming year.

Any President of our great club regales in presiding over the club functions and what an honour for me to do just that during the Jean Armour night in July, Halloween in October, St Andrew’s in November and the Anniversary Dinner in January.

Over the years I have made many musical friends, to have some of them appear at the club and perform at our functions was a particular pleasure as it was to introduce my great friend and honorary member of the club Davie Shankland to speak in July and Willie McDougall another personal friend to toast the Lasses in January.

I will never forget the invaluable contributions from club members at these functions as well as other invited guests who made them all exceptional nights and ones I will remember for a long long time.

Executive meetings of the club have been eventful if not always harmonious this season and as President I have tried to include all members in decisions and reports as well as spreading the workload at the various club events and functions.

My final three or four tasks as president were on Monday 26^th April to join with some club members to clean the Burns contemporaries plaques at St Michaels Churchyard and the following night attend the closing social of the St Michaels Burns Club in the church hall as their guest singer.

I will preside over the AGM on Thursday 29^th April where it will be a great pleasure to thank Maureen McKerrow and Jane Brown for their support and attention over the past year at the Globe Inn and also to say a special congratulations to Maureen and the  McKerrow family in this the 400^th year since the Globe was founded. Afterward I will pass the chain of office on to Neil Johnston and wish him every success and hope the members offer him the unstinting support they accorded to me over the past year, after that, well! That’s it

Times up!!

Thanks for reading my blogs over the past year.

JOHN M CASKIE

PRESIDNET BURNS HOWFF CLUB

28^TH APRIL 2010

The final Executive Committee meeting of the season took place on 5^th       April and was a relief. The treasurer presented the season’s Balance Sheet which notwithstanding the 2009 Projects showed a healthy surplus. It was agreed to make a recommendation to the AGM for a nominee for junior vice next year. Astonishingly, the Whisky Tasting night on 22^nd April was cancelled due to lack of support.  Friday, 9^th April, out with librarian Gordon Johnston to Solway Offset to collect our copies of the “Big Issue”, the special edition of the Burns Chronicle which is the official record of the Year of Homecoming and the 250^th anniversary. What a superb book. The pictures are excellent and the club is well featured, as are a number of individual members.  This should become a collector’s item in years to come.  Saturday 10^th, the visit from 54 members of Glasgow Haggis Club who arrived at the Globe Inn on schedule in spite of an earlier stop at Ellisland. The reception team worked like a well-oiled spring and groups were ushered to Burns House with minutes to spare before it closed at 5.00pm, before visiting the Mausoleum. Afterwards, the party toured the Globe Inn where knowledgeable Howff members enthralled the visitors before they sat down to tea. A most enjoyable afternoon.  Met up with the president on Tuesday 13^th at the Globe to hand over his “Big Issue” and a chat about his term of office, which I will long remember for several reasons. Variety is what the Howff Club is all about and on Friday 16^th, met up with Bill Welsh, John Lauder and Ian McIntyre to meet 26 secondary school head teachers from Norway, touring the region on an educational visit. Due to the limited time available, there was no chance of a ten-cent tour as the visitors were more interested in  having a drink in the close before being bussed off to a brewery in East Lothian but they appreciated Bill’s short talk in the close on the history of the Globe and the club. Later that night, stuffed 150 envelopes with the papers for the AGM.  Saturday 17^th, duty visit to Dumfries Ladies Burns Club No. 1’s coffee morning. This proved to be quite lively with home-made scones and shortbread before repairing afterwards to the Globe with Ted Murray for a soft drink. Meantime, the first draft of the secretary’s annual report to the AGM was finished but on reviewing this, decided to make major cuts in order to avoid defamation although the president advised me to deliver it as written. We’ll see.

The highlight of the month was the Male Voice Choir’s 60^th annual concert on 23^rd April when a select group of members and spouses joined a large attendance at DG One, thrilled to the magical blend of choir and guest artistes “Caledon”, the three tenors whom some heard at the National Gallery last year during the conference. After a slightly shaky start with “Gods Choir” they warmed up and excelled with some Burns numbers and popular favourites including an impressive “African Trilogy”. In their solo spots, Caledon brought down the house with the Proclaimers “Five Hundred Miles” and a  Harry Lauder medley before finishing with an emotional “A Man’s a Man”, arranged for choir, tenors and audience. Yes, a great night and the president and secretary were fired up to return to the Globe for another soft drink.  This will be the final “blog” of the season and I’d like to record my admiration to John Caskie for the manner in which he discharged his duties. The year was a pleasure and privilege and I look forward to next season with anticipation.

DS

Having been the first person which David Smith our honorary secretary has had to phone in hospital to ask if I would accept the committee recommendation to be put forward as Junior Vice President,  I thought for the past few days that I wasn't going to make it back to Dumfries in time for the AGM next Thursday.  "New president accepts chain of office via mobile phone".   

Volcanic Ash closes all UK airports and cancels all flight through northern European airspace day after day.

I'm due to fly on Friday then suddenly airports start opening  but there are still problems and delays expected, aircraft and crew are in all the wrong places.  Anyway here I am in Palma de Mallorca airport and it isn't nearly as busy as I expected it to be given the problems over the past 6 days.

The departure boards indicate that the flight is expected to depart on time. 3 hrs and I'll be back in Glasgow and in time for the Howff AGM.

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

February and it’s down a gear!!

Technical problems have resulted in me being posted missing from ‘blogging’ for a while but good to be back and here is my recollections of February which was a good but quieter than January but was still rather hectic at times!!

Monday 1^st

Globe Inn where chaired the executive committee meeting and more glowing reports on the anniversary supper.

Saturday 6^th

After a mornings work I headed to Dumfries Academy where the SSCBA Schools Competition was in full flow. These kids get better every year and although didn’t hear all competitors was amazed at the talent during the ‘winners’ concert in the afternoon. They were all winners as far as I was concerned and well done to the SSCBA for organising a great event.

Later that night I was ‘guest’ at Ellisland for the first of their Burns Suppers and sung a couple of songs.

Monday 8^th

Globe Inn for the ‘final meeting’ of the Project 2009 committee, it’s been three years since this committee first met and we have seen a lot of water under the bridge and a host of events and happenings all in the name of the Howff Club. Too many to mention and unwise to single any one event other than say 2009 great time! And great fun!. Bring on the next celebration!!!!

Had earlier been at Dunscore for a final rehearsal for the Befriending Burns Supper with Peter Gunnel the accompanist.

Friday 12^th

Loreburn Primary School where along with D Baird and G Johnston judged the poetry competitions for P4/5/6/7 what fun! Well done to all the children and their teachers for a super afternoon of ‘guid auld Scottish poems’ all delivered with such style and panache. We found it difficult to decide on winners but even harder to work out the scores, it was evident arithmetic wasn’t a strong point of David, Gordon or I.

In the evening it was Easterbrook hall in Dumfries for the Befriending Burns Supper where as is mentioned in David’s blog I was one of the guest singers at a very special night.

Saturday 13^th

Skelmorlie Bowling Club for the Burns Supper of the Skelmorlie Poosie Nancie’s Burns Club. Along with Hon Member Jane Brown we travelled through to Ayrshire for a different Burns Supper but most enjoyable all the same. Jane delivered the Immortal memory in her own inimitable style and instead of a toast and reply to the Lasses they had on their programme ‘Guest entertainment, John Caskie’ The chairman mentioned that it didn’t have to be all Burns material but after a few Burns songs and stories I sang some old favourite Scottish ballads which seemed to do the trick. I included Rothsey Bay which was even more special as the setting of the Skelmorlie Bowling Club where the event was held looks over the sea to Rothsey and the scene when we arrived was awesome and with Rothsey Bay being my favourite Scottish songs it had added sentiment that night.

…It’s bonniest when the sun draps, and red comes ower the moon… (It certainly is!)

Tuesday 16^th

Dryfesdale Church hall for the Lockerbie Friendship Club’s Burns Tea Dance. Sang a couple of songs and watched some very energetic ‘oldies’ enjoy their dancing.

Wednesday 17^th

Guest of Hon Member Maureen McKerrow at the Dumfries Rotary Club Burns Supper in the Globe Inn when I heard some of the best speeches I have ever heard during the Burns Season.

Saturday 20^th

Ukrainian Club in Edinburgh for the Burns / Shevchenko supper where after addressing the Haggis had the honour of proposing the vote of thanks during a different but entertaining night.

Interspersed with the Burns commitments I had compered the Islesteps Accordion and Fiddle Club when guest artistes were the champion fiddle players Gemma Donald from Shetland and Iain Anderson of Edinburgh. Did a radio interview with Robbie Shepherd for Radio Scotland’s Take The Floor programme which was broadcast on Sat 20^th where I was interviewed about my involvement with Old Tyme Dancing in the area. I also entertained in Dalbeattie for the OAP’s treat and Torthorwald Hall for a hall funds Scottish night along with musical friends John Douglas and Ian Kirkpatrick.

So that was February, yes a lot quieter than January but was still never of the top of the road and by the look of my diary for March it’s more of the same to come.

JOHN M CASKIE

PRESIDENT

09/03/2010

The club was well represented at the fourth Burns Supper of the Befriending Project, held at the Easterbrook Hall on 12^th February. The top table was almost entirely composed of members or honorary members and the chairman was Alex Fergusson MSP, a good friend of the club. Over two hundred of the great and good of Dumfries were assembled to hear an “Immortal Memory” skilfully delivered by Peter Kormylo and the “Lassies” toasted by James Haining in his inimical manner. Maureen McKerrow replied to the Lassies” with some wit and our president provided some songs along with Cheryl Easton. Bobby Jess recited  “Holy Willie” and a good night was had excepting for the outrageous Easterbrook bar prices. Gordon J. managed to sell two copies of “A Wee Kist O’ Verse”. I was later asked by the Befriending Project Organiser to do a bit for the Standard and now wonder if I can start up as a freelance scribbler.  The following night, out to the Burns Centre Film Theatre for the world premiere of “Father of the Bard”, two drama documentaries on DVD telling the story of the Burnes family’s early life in Kincardineshire before grinding poverty forced William Burnes to seek a better life in Ayrshire where he married Agnes Broun and his eldest son Robert was born in the “clay biggin” at Alloway. The DVD’s were produced by David Ramsay for Aberdeen City Council and the cast largely consisted of people with learning difficulties. I found this a moving but uplifting experience.  Meantime, the “Burns Unit” performed at round two of the Pub Quiz. Led by JVP Frank Manson, the intrepid team did considerably better than the first. Congrats are due to Frank, Ian McIntyre, William Johnston and Ian Jordan.  However, different personnel took over for round three and the score soared to 91 from a possible….. David Miller, Godfrey Bedford, Rab Walker and the writer confirmed the club’s reputation for excellence. On Friday 26^th February, Ted Murray, John Lauder, Derek Rogerson and myself returned a cumulative score of 353 but were unplaced. A lively night and the sum of  £1200 was raised between the Breast Cancer Charity and McMillan Nurses, two worthy causes.

Earlier, on 20^th February, president John Caskie, senior vice president Neil Johnston, Hon. Treasurer, David Baird, Hon. Librarian Gordon Johnston, honorary member Jane Brown and the writer journeyed to Edinburgh to attend the annual Burns/ Shevchenko Supper at the Ukrainian Social Club, organised by Peter Kormylo. This was another interesting and colourful event with the company drawn from all ages and the programme included David Baird, John Caskie James Haining and Jane Brown. Not having Ukrainian, I was unable to follow the appreciation of the Ukrainian national poet, Taras Shevchenko, given by a lady present but managed to stumble through the Ukrainian National Anthem at the end. This is a much more stirring tune that our own. Gordon Johnston’s skilful driving and navigation meant there was no repetition of last year’s fiasco. February’s Winter Lecture on Thursday 25^th, was one of the best for a long time. Peter Westwood, editor of the Burns Chronicle, held the company for two hours with his talk on the history of Burns Cottage and the descent of the Burns Family Tree. Before Peter’s talk, I was shown a proof copy of the forthcoming Burns Chronicle Special Edition. Extending to over 700 pages, this record of the Year of Homecoming and the 250^th anniversary of the birth of the Bard, has numerous pictures, articles and features from personalities and Burns Clubs worldwide and includes several pages from the club. It is a recurring shame that these lectures are shunned by members. Only one member of the committee managed to attend but thanks are due to members’ spouses and visitors for making up the numbers and the half time biscuits were good. Saturday 27^th February, out to Ellisland with David and Norma Miller for a “party” to thank those who had assisted with the Ploughing Match. To my considerable disappointment, Joanna Lumley was absent but some wine was quaffed and nibbles consumed. The entertainment included the lovely voices of Holly Little and Bill Welsh.  The Burns season for 2010 is now officially terminated. Hooray.

DS 28/02/2010

I trio of Davids and I had a great night across at the Buccleuch Hall in the Muckle Toon supper entertainment fra the full Scocha group , all the usual fun and amusement as well as a terrific performance of border ballads and burns songs.  We also managed to enjoy a 3 course meal and some refreshments before the start of the concert.

IF you see Scocha back at the Buccleuch its well worth a visit.

When Januar’ wind was blawing cauld!

January was always going to be a busy month and after the relatively quite time over Christmas and New Year I was ‘all set’ for the Burns season.

The secretary has documented many of the events in has blog so its bullet points for me.

Monday 11^th. Executive committee meeting at Howff, lively but controllable!! Just!!

Sunday 17^th. Durisdeer Village Hall for the old folks treat, yes I was their treat! Singing to the music of good friends John Douglas on accordion and Ian Kirkpatrick on fiddle.

Monday 18^th. Round Table Burns Supper at The Globe. Sang for my supper as well at ‘toasting’ the Round Table as is the custom for Howff Club President.

Tuesday 19^th. Locharbriggs old folks club Burns Lunch, cooked the meal for the locals then entertained with couple of Burns songs. Later in the evening chaired the meeting of the Locharbriggs Community Centre Association.

Thursday 21^st. Lochfoot Village Hall for the Lochfoot Lunch Club’s Burns Lunch. Sang couple of songs and won a prize in their garden plant competition. Out again at night to Broughton House Kirkcudbright at the invitation of RBWF President Mike Duguid for ‘An Evening with Burns’ along with Chris Rollie and Holly Little. Chris is still one of the best orators of Burns works and if there is a better singer on the scene than Holly Little I have yet to hear her.

Friday 22^nd. Dumbuck Hotel Dumbarton, for the Dumbarton Burns Club Burns Supper. Extended the fraternal greetings from Howff to our great friends at Dumbarton and then sang two songs at the request of the President.

Saturday23rd. Southerness Golf Club Burns Supper which was a comedy of errors at the start but turned out to be ok and a great Immortal Memory from Hon Member of the Howff Joe Campbell.

Sunday 24^th. Locharbriggs Community Centre, where as their Chairman I hosted the ‘Songs of Praise for Burns’ A packed hall sang hymns sung to favourite Scottish tunes,  Burns reflection from Wilson Ogilvie, Prayer from Rev David Almond and music from Willie McRobert on accordion. Great night and the many complimentary comments whilst enjoying the coffee and shortbread afterwards proved we had hit the right note with our theme.

Monday 25^th. Lunch at Globe Inn followed by service at St Michaels where I sang ‘Ae Fond Kiss’ before freezing at the Mausoleum to lay the clubs wreath. A welcome cup of coffee and blether was held in the hall afterwards.

Howff Club Anniversary Supper at Globe Inn.

Biased I may be here but I had the great honour or presiding over one of the best Burns Suppers I have ever attended. Toasts were great from Ted Cowan (Immortal memory) and Willie McDougall (The Lassies O’), Music from James Coutts, Ian Kirkpatrick and Lionel McClelland was of the highest standard and champion recitationist Willie Horne captivated the audience. Club members also added to the programme and I was overwhelmed by the support I received as President. A night I will remember for a long long time and another highlight in my year as Howff President.

Tuesday 26^th. Loreburn Retirement Group Burns Lunch at Maxwelltown Church hall and then to the Globe Inn for their ‘in house’ Burns Supper. Sang and enjoyed a relaxed night of great entertainment and atmosphere.

Wednesday 27th. Lunch at Globe Inn with secretary to de brief from the anniversary supper. We were both still on a high from that great night! Travelled onto Dunscore for a rehearsal with pianist Peter Gunnel for Burns Supper taking place in February.

Thursday 28^th. Globe Inn again as guest of Dumfries Lions Club and sang at their Burns Supper.

Friday 29^th. Gilcknockie Village Hall for a real community Burns Supper,  the hall was packed with all ages and was great to be back singing where I had entertained during their Homecoming event in late summer of 2009.

Saturday 30^th. Locharbriggs Community Centre for the Burns Season Dance. I didn’t do much dancing as my remit was to cook the meal for the 140 folk who were dancing to music from John Douglas and his band. The fun in the kitchen whilst listening to the music was hilarious and we served the meal in minutes with one complaint!!! It was too hot for some! Fun it was and we now realise that the fire safety warning system we installed in the centre in July does work as the alarms were ringing when the ‘tumshie’ boiled over on the stove.

Sunday31st. The month draws to a close with the humbling experience of the Charnwood Lodge Burns Supper. I chaired the event and addressed the Haggis before delivering a short Immortal Memory. I didn’t speak long and themed my speech round quotes from songs and poems that the audience would recognise. I was pleased with my effort and think it went down ok with the assembled members of the Howff and residents and friends of Charnwood.

So January over and what a great month it’s been. The anniversary supper is still being talked about and just proves what a great night it was.

Songs I have sung during the month have included. Ae Fond Kiss, Aye Waulkin O, Corn Rigs, There Was A Lad, Cragieburn Wood, Braes of Ballochmyle, Lass of Ballochmyle, Bonnie Wee Thing, Ye Banks and Braes, A Man’s A Man, O Wert Tho In The Cauld Blast and The Star o Rabbie Burns.

John M Caskie

PRESIDENT

BURNS HOWFF CLUB

07/02/2010

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

Remember, Remember that month of November (Part three!)

 November continued

Monday 30^th November; St Andrew’s Night Supper Howff Club at The Globe Inn

St Andrew’s Night at the Howff turned out to be another night to remember for me as President. Just as at the Jean Armour Night and Halloween I was a bit nervous but tried not to show it as I welcomed the entertainers and guests in the club room prior to the event. It was particularly nice to welcome guests of Dumfries and Dumbarton Burns Clubs who as a club we have a good friendship with.

After an excellent meal from the Globe staff which was served very quickly and efficiently we were treated to a great night of entertainment and laughter. Chief Constable of Dumfries and Galloway Police Patrick Shearer proposed the toast to ‘Auld Scotia’ I found Patrick to be very sincere and passionate about his work, the community and the country he obviously loves, it was a pleasure to enjoy his company at the top table. I had the great honour of presenting him with an engraved tankard of his first visit to the Howff.

Honorary member John Glover and members Donald Shamash, Gordon Johnston, Ian McIntyre and Frank Curran along with Lee McQueen on accordion completed the entertainment line up. Each was in superb form and the variety on show between our various artistes meant it was as great balance for an enjoyable night.

The proceeds from our raffle were to be donated to Past President Peter Kormylo’s project to produce a Burns book in Ukrainian, English and Scot’s. Peter gave the assembled company a short brief on this and during the supper I presented Peter with the total proceeds which were £250. A very humbled Peter thanked the company and we all wish Peter well in his efforts of continuing to foster relationships with Scotland and the Ukraine through the works of Burns.

Auld lang Syne came too quick and the earlier nervous President had now relaxed but the evening was at a close.

Another great Howff night and the month of November at and end.

JOHN M CASKIE

PRESIDENT

BURNS HOWFF CLUB

18^TH DECEMBER 2009

Remember, Remember that month of November (Part two!)

November continued!!

Monday 23^rd November; Executive Committee Meeting.

Held in the club room, the meeting was to make final preparations for St Andrew’s and to debrief from the Gala Concert.

Wednesday 25^th November; Hole i’ the Wa’ St Andrew’s Night.

Along with my musical colleagues James Coutts from Kirkcaldy on accordion and Ian Kirkpatrick on Fiddle, I entertained the members of the Hole i’ the Wa Burns Club at their St Andrew’s Night. The evening took form of an hour of entertainment of music songs and banter before a meal and a toast to ‘Scotland’ which was given by Peter Kormylo a Past President of the Howff Club. Peter was excellent, he spoke humorously of Scotland before being passionate and most of all being poignant and was very well received by the audience. It was then back to more music for the remainder of the night.

Friday 27^th November; Dumbarton Burns Club St Andrew’s Night.

Along with SVP Neil Johnston, I was an invited guest of the Dumbarton Burns Club for their St Andrew’s Night, which was super, and second to none. There were other Howff members in the ‘body o’ the Kirk’ but Neil and I were well looked after at the top table and made more than welcome by President Paul Reilly.

As this is Dumbarton Burns Club’s 150^th anniversary year and the strong friendship between the club’s I presented to Paul and the club, on behalf of the Howff Club, a copy of our Book ‘ A Wee Kist o’ Verse’ and an inscribed barrel for use at their top table at there various functions.

The entertainment and speeches were of the highest order.Lord Advocate of Scotland Elish Angiolini gave a wonderful toast to Scotland, Len Murray toasted the Lasses in humorous but sincere fashion and the reply by Annabel Goldie was also worthy of note. Kirsten Easdale was the guest singer and there was also worthy contributions from Dumbarton Burns Club members. Yes, it was a great night, my first visit to Dumbarton and I am already looking forward to representing the club at their Anniversary Dinner in January.

Sunday 29^th November; Non Event at Edinburgh and Globe Inn Tartan Night.

I arrived at St Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh to be met by the secretary, the treasurer and Ted Murray who had been joined by old friend Murdo Morrison and his wife awaiting entry to the Cathedral for the annual St Andrew’s Day service. It was freezing and we hovered about for about 30 mins before we eventually found out we were one week early. Coffee and scones were the order of the day at Deacon Brodies Café where the secretary was the butt of many jokes because of us turning up 7 day’s too early.

Later that night I was at The Globe Inn for their Tartan Night. During 2009 Jane and the staff have run many events for Homecoming Year all with a variety of themes and I have tried to attend where possible and was delighted to be present and sing at this one. Lee McQueen on accordion along with pipers and a drummer provided the music and young Highland Dancers delighted the audience with their skill. My good friend Avril Kerr was in fine form with her recitations and Claire Hastings who I had heard a few times this year gets better every time I hear her and she was magnificent with her sweet singing voice and own guitar accompaniment. Mince and Tatties in a massive Yorkshire pudding and a prize in the raffle made it a super night and end to a hectic week.

November part three to follow

JOHN M CASKIE

PRESIDENT

BURNS HOWFF CLUB

17^TH DECEMBER 2009

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.

Remember, Remember that month of November!

(Part one!)

November 2009 proved to be one of my busiest months since taking over the role as President of the Howff Club back in April.  As well as the Emily Smith concert mentioned in an earlier blog and many meetings, debriefing from the Halloween supper, preparing for St Andrew’s Night, finalising details of the book to be published from the schools poetry competition and the final preparations for the Gala Concert, there were many enjoyable and entertaining events to report.

Wednesday 4^th November; Past Presidents Photograph

Especially for ‘Homecoming’ year it was suggested that the club should invite all the surviving Past Presidents to the club room for a photograph to mark the ‘250^th anniversary year’. The last such photograph was taken during the celebrations of 1996. It was pleasing for me to welcome 28 of the 32 Past Presidents still with us today. The other four were either on holiday or unable to attend due to illness. It was a rare night meeting and reminiscing with these eminent gentlemen who have made the club what it is today. After the photo shoot a light buffet was served and a ‘dram’ to toast many more years of success not only for the club but for all who have held or will hold the esteemed office of President.

Friday 20^th November; Gala Concert of Scottish Culture

DG One leisure centre was the venue for the clubs Gala Concert of Scottish Culture, as well as welcoming everyone I had the task as compere for the evening where it was a privilege to introduce as part of that entertainment, Dumfries Male Voice Choir and their conductor David McCullough, Singer Roslin Agnew, Dumfries and Galloway Constabulary Pipe Band, William McRobert and his Scottish Dance Band, the winning kids from the Scot’s language competition and special guest artiste Nicky Spence. It was a super evening and the favourable comments form many friends, supporters and very appreciative audience as they left at the end of the concert made it more worth while. The accompanist for the evening was Scott Miller.

During the evening the book published by the club from the Scot’s language competition were released for sale. (See separate blog!)

November part two to follow!

JOHN M CASKIE

PRESIDENT

BURNS HOWFF CLUB

5^TH DECEMBER 2009

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