Shown from left to right. Top row – W. Johnstone, D. Cook, C Watson, F. Manson, G. Johnstone, G. Bedford        Bottom Row- Cameron Goodhall, John Clark, Wull Dick

President’s Blog Halloween Supper and report . Globe Inn 30th October 2014

After a Spooky start, despite teething problems with the microphone and initial nerves I think the Halloween Supper was a resounding success. Thanks must go to the organising skills of D Smith, D Miller, J Caskie, Gordon Johnstone and the ex-council for organising the programme, seating and Ma Broon, Chef and staff of the Globe for providing an excellent supper!! We were sorry to hear John Caskie couldn’t make it on the night but thanks must go to Bill Welsh for standing in at such short notice. Bill was in excellent voice and proved a worthy first reserve. Welcome to new members Bill Thomson, Don Moffat, Graham Trickey and Bob Feelie – we hope you will join in with the varied programme throughout the year!

There was a wee scare when one of the members (John Melrose) had a bit of a turn. An ambulance was called and John was given first aid by past President Godfrey Bedford. Although John was taken away by ambulance I’m pleased to report that he is now on the mend. It was reassuring to know help was not too far away on the night – well done Godfrey and others for assisting John when he was clearly in distress! Best wishes to you, John and a speedy recovery!

The guest speakers were excellent with Wullie Dick from New Cummnock giving us a hilarious, at times bawdy comedy sketch and the mighty Cameron Goodhall for providing us with a fascinating account of ancient Halloween customs, prior to rendering us with a faultless recitation of Burns’ poem, ‘Halloween’. Musical genius was provided by Andy Cain and Craig Paton – our toes were fair a- tappin and oor hands were fair a -clappin!! Club member, Bobby Jess gave as another brilliant animated recitation which had us in stitches and the evening was wound up with an eloquent vote of thanks by William Johnstone our Junior Vice.

Thanks to those who contributed to the raffle which raised over £230. The collection for the Globe staff raised aprox £82. Bill Welsh led the evening to a close with Auld Lang Syne – and the company rose as one to finish of the night in style. All in all a great night!! Proceedings finished about 11.15pm.

John Clark

Barry Graham – Winter Lecture – President’s Comments 23rd October 2014
Maintaining the club’s high standard of guest speakers, Dumfries businessman, Barry Graham kept members captivated by giving his audience a colourful glimpse of South African life in the former British Colony of Rhodesia. Growing up in Salisbury, the capital city of Rhodesia, he described an idyllic life of privilege funded by successful (property developer) parents. He also painted a darker side of growing up in the state (now Zimbabwe) as a result of apartheid.
The club has seen many talented musicians over the years but this was the first occasion the sound of African drums and tribal folksong reverberated through the clubroom! Barry an accomplished flautist, drummer and singer kept us entertained with fascinating accounts of life in the capital city and occasional moments of madness with tales of village Shamans and African superstitions! His love of South Africa was clear by the enthusiasm in the delivery of his music and song. His love of the Dumfries area was also evident as he asked if he could be adopted as a Doonhamer! He was given a unanimous thumbs up on the understanding he became a Q.O.S supporter!!
The talk was thoroughly enjoyable and I have no doubt that Barry will remain high on the list of Howff Club preferred speakers. I must remember also if ever I am in South Africa, never to remove stones from under anyone’s bed!!!! ……………..

John Clark