With all the hustle and bustle of the past two weeks there has been very little time for even thinking of newsletters. I am sure the Federation Chief and Consort enjoyed their trip to the “Highland Province” filled with many surprises, finally to be shipped off to the Airport to catch their flight back to PE. It was great having them and I’m sure they are glad to be home to have a rest before off to Congress in Welkom in October. Our own Robin and Glenys Kelly have also been very busy with their Official Welcome at Randfontein and Boksburg taking place with the Federation Welcome. If you are on facebook there are pics of all the functions “Click” on the link below to see these varied functions.       

http://www.facebook.com/tommy.soutar#!/pages/Federated-Caledonian-Society-of-South-Africa/239226126092527                                                                                      

Next up for St Andrews is Chiefs Night on the 17^th of September 5.30 for 7pm. Usual venue Herbert Park Bowling Club. R60.00 Adults,  R30.00 Children 12 years or younger. The weather is getting warmer, the sick list is getting shorter, so we expect a good turnout for this function. The formalities will be dispensed with very quickly (if we can get started on time) and we can get on with having a real good Callie evening. Remember the kids are welcome and an activity table will be provided for them while we dispense with the formalities. Where else can you enjoy an evening’s entertainment with a meal for R60.00 and drinks at club prices? Your committee is aware of the economic situation and that is why we have held the cost of our functions at only R60.00 despite increases from the caterers etc. We have also looked at changing the dates of some of the functions as the 3^rd Saturday could be on the 15^th or the 20^th, (bit short of cash) again it wouldn’t make sense to move the functions to the 1^st Saturday as we would have had to hold Burns Night on the 1^st of January, Valentines would have been on the 5^th of Feb and Easter would have been on the 2^nd April, if it was 2011. What we would suggest is that Members who intend coming to the function Pay by Eft. And put their name as Ref then email Tommy to confirm the booking and payment. It’s one way of overcoming the mid-month crisis.                                                                                                                     

Banking details:  Nedbank  Bedfordview Branch 192-505   A/C no 1915127386.

 The Committee meets on the first Monday of every month at 7.30pm in St Andrews House and as a member you are welcome to attend any meeting, or to submit any idea you may have to improve our functions, or suggestions on something new to add to our calendar. As our Federation Chief said in her speeches, moving functions from evening to afternoon or vice versa does not improve attendances. St Andrews Society is very fortunate to have a very involved committee as can be seen from how we have gone out to promote the Society and the Federation in the past year. What can you the Member do to make St Andrews grow? Bring along other Scots or friends interested enough in the Scottish Culture to possibly join the Society.  

After Chiefs Night we have one of our FUN FUNCTIONS:  HALLOWEEN

Now is the time to think of your costume. No need for expensive hires, use your imagination, old or borrowed cloths, make-up etc. The most expensive costume doesn’t always win, the judging is on originality. For big and little kids let’s have a whale of a time. (Picture Flashback from last year) We will have witches, worm cake, spider jelly and frog soup as well as other dishes that we think up. Any ideas welcome?

St Andrews Scottish Society was the first of 5 welcomes to the Federation Chief and Consort Frances and Ivan Dickson, and all stops were pulled out to make it a memorable occasion, the hall was completely transformed into the St Andrews colours of Blue and White not forgetting the Tartan Trimmings. My thanks to all those who helped set the whole thing up, it really was fantastic “Andrew” our MC for the evening, “Rodney and his Pipers “, “Ma wee Champion” Skylah Guest for dancing, My wife who although she had her Fathers 80^th Birthday found the time to do the “Flowers”, The Ladies who supplied the cake and dished up the Food, “Cathy” from the Club who stayed behind and allowed us time for setting up, Mike & co for the Manual labour, Our fellow Societies for their support in fact everyone connected with the function (getting old might forget someone, no good in the Callies)  See Pic’s below or go to facebook will be published on the website shortly (Maybe it’s there already).

Best wishes to Alan Millar Who Celebrated his 81^st Birthday

And a Speedy recovery to Madge Kruger who was hospitalised

That’s it Until Chiefs Night (Please book early)

Slainte,

Tommy Soutar (Chief)

By

Chitra Bodasing

News editor

Joburg East EXPRESS

Caxton East Rand Newspapers

The badly vandalised Scottish Horse War Memorial, in Kensington, is on its way to returning to its former glory.
Last week Mr Eric Itzkin, the deputy director of immovable heritage in the city’s department of community development, confirmed that the purchase order for restoration and repair of the monument was approved.
“I am glad to say that people have been appointed to conduct the restoration. The Scottish Horse War Memorial is a landmark structure that gives Kensington its identity. Once the restoration is complete we hope to get the support of the community to help make sure that no one vandalises the monument again,” he said.
In the June 1, 2010 edition of the EXPRESS it was reported that the lightning conductor on the back of the cross was missing. Ms Sharon Doubell, a Kensington resident, said that she was concerned as the monument had a hole chopped in the centre and also about the beginning of the tunnel underneath it.
She believes that people dug up the monument thinking that there were items of value buried inside.
Last week Ms Lee Cahill, a Kensington resident and member of the Joburg Advocacy Group (JAG), said that she was delighted that the restoration of the Scottish Horse War Memorial will be going ahead. “Johannesburg has a rich and varied history and we believe it is essential to preserve that history for both residents and for local and international tourists. Apart from its historic value, the memorial is also situated on one of the city’s most spectacular view sites and offers a unique vista of both the inner city and the landscape to the east, which includes the Bezuidenhout farm, one of the original farms on which Johannesburg was established. Sunset views are, in particular, a special treat.
“Further, as much as it is important to preserve the site for present usage, it is also important to preserve it for the use, information and benefit of future generations. A connection to all aspects of our history gives us a sense of where we come from and solid ground on which to build a new and vibrant future,” she said.
JAG has been working closely with the city in the hopes of having the monument restored. Ms Cahill thanked Mr Itzkin who, according to her, went out of his way to obtain budget for the project and to complete the tendering process required for specialist contractors to undertake the work on the monument.
“Sincere thanks are equally due to the Transvaal Scottish Regiment and, in particular, to Lieutenant Colonel Don Smythe, who is assisting us with, among other things, photographs of the original monument and the names of those listed on it as some names were lost when the monument was vandalised,” said Ms Cahill. Colonel Smythe said that he and the regiment are ecstatic about the restoration. “There are a lot of monuments that have been vandalised and we are happy that something is being done to repair the damage at the Scottish Horse War Memorial. We have great interest in this monument.
“This memorial is a replica of the one erected on the Esplanade of Edinburgh Castle in Scotland,” he said.
Ms Cahill said that the community will also be assisting with security measures to ensure that the restored site remains safe and undamaged.
She said that the long-term objective is to work with the city to make this monument into an attractive sanctuary equipped with benches, permanent garbage bins and possibly even some trees and flower beds.
“The immediate project will consist of a full restoration of the monument itself, which is built from the indigenous stone found in the area. Since JAG began working with Mr Itzkin on this project, the I Love Kensington Association (Ilka) has formed a Heritage Trust dedicated to this kind of work in the area. As JAG’s primary focus is on civil society advocacy, we have therefore asked the trust’s committee whether it would be prepared to take over the project management of this restoration, which will include liaising with the local community to assist with security arrangements.
“JAG will continue to offer both information and support in any way that it can, and we look forward to the day when we can all enjoy the beauty of the restored monument again,” said Ms Cahill.
Mr Brendon Burmester, chairperson of Ilka, said, “This is exciting news. We will help make sure that the monument is secure.
“We are going to raise funds for a camera so that the monument can be monitored. We will also seek the services of local security companies. I am glad that council has taken a step to make sure that historical areas such as the Scottish Horse War Memorial are kept in good condition. A meeting will be held to discuss how we are going to go ahead with plans,” said Mr Burmester.
The Scottish Horse War Memorial is situated on Caledonia Hill. Access is from Highland Road.
The monument commemorates all officers and men from the Scottish Horse Regiment who were killed in action, died of wounds, disease or by accident during the South African Anglo-Boer War.
It is one of Johannesburg’s earliest war memorials overlooking the site of one of the largest remount camps of the Anglo-Boer War, 1899-1902.

AUGUST 2011 NEWSLETTER

          Scribe: Stuart Rennie Tel/Fax  021 762 3253  Mobile 079 534 8389

Email: scrennie@telkomsa.net

Just a Wee Bit of History

The Saltire became the national flag of Scotland in the year 832AD, in the sky above a battlefield near the village of Athelstaneford in East Lothian. On this occasion the Scots were the invaders as East Lothian was part of the kingdom of Northumbria. On the eve of the battle, King Angus, who was leading the Scots and Picts, is reported to have had a vision in which St Andrew appeared to him, and assured him victory would be his. Arriving at the battlefield the next day, the Scots and Picts were heavily outnumbered, and Angus and the Scots army knelt down to pray to St Andrew, vowing that if he emerged victorious, Andrew would be our patron saint and his cross would become the national flag of Scotland.

As the forces of Scotland and England faced each other to commence battle, a strange thing happened. White clouds formed the shape of a diagonal cross, set against the background of the light blue sky.

Inspired, the Scots went on to victory when the English leader Aethelstan was killed and the Northumbrians fled. From that time the Saltire became the flag of Scotland, and Scottish soldiers wore the Saltire on their bonnets and tunics for identification on the battlefield. In the kirk yard of Athelstaneford Parish Kirk there is a memorial marking the ‘Battle of the Saltire’ depicting the battlefield, the two armies and the sky above them. 

 The crucified image of St Andrew appeared in the seal of Scotland in 1289, but following the Union of the Parliaments in 1707 use of the Saltire was rare until there was a resurgence in its use in the 20th century. 

 Now recognised legally as Scotland’s national flag, it is used by Scottish teams in international competitions and flown from public buildings, either on its own or side by side with the Union Flag. When it was incorporated in the union flag the saltire was shown in a darker navy blue and many flag makers have adopted this colour. In 1936 the Saltire Society was founded to preserve and enhance Scottish society and culture, and more recently embassies of the United Kingdom have flown the Saltire on 30th November, to mark St Andrew’s Day.

The Lion Rampant is sometimes mistakenly thought to be the flag of Scotland, but in actual fact, it is the flag of the Monarch of Scotland.

For Anyone Over 40 – From Scotland (Sound Familiar?)
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE KIDS WHO WERE BORN IN THE 1940′s, 50′s, 60′s and 70’s!!

First, we survived being born to mothers who smoked and/or drank while they carried us. They took aspirin, ate blue cheese dressing, tuna from a tin, and didn’t get tested for diabetes. Then after that trauma, our baby cots were covered with bright coloured lead-based paints.

We had no childproof lids on medicine bottles, doors or cabinets and when we rode our bikes, we had no helmets, not to mention, the risks we took hitchhiking. As children, we would ride in cars with no seat belts or air bags. Riding in the back of a van – loose – was always great fun. We drank water from the garden hosepipe and NOT from a bottle. We shared one soft drink with four friends, from one bottle and NO ONE actually died from this. We ate cakes, white bread and real butter and drank pop with sugar in it, but we weren’t overweight because…… WE WERE ALWAYS OUTSIDE PLAYING!!

We would leave home in the morning and play all day, as long as we were back when the streetlights came on. No one was able to reach us all day. And we were O.K. We would spend hours building our go-carts out of scraps and then ride down the hill, only to find out we forgot the brakes. After running into the bushes a few times, we learned to solve the problem.

We did not have Playstations, Nintendo’s, X-boxes, no video games at all, no 99 channels on cable, no video tape movies, no surround sound, no cell phones, no text messaging, no personal computers, no Internet or Internet chat rooms……….WE HAD FRIENDS and we went outside and found them! We fell out of trees, got cut, broke bones and teeth and there were no lawsuits from these accidents. We played with worms and mud pies made from dirt, and the worms did not live in us forever. We made up games with sticks and tennis balls and although we were told it would happen, we did not poke out any eyes. We rode bikes or walked to a friend’s house and knocked on the door or rang the bell, or just yelled for them! Local teams had try-outs and not everyone made the team. Those who didn’t had to learn to deal with disappointment. Imagine that!! The idea of a parent bailing us out if we broke the law was unheard of. They actually sided with the law!

This generation has produced some of the best risk-takers, problem solvers and inventors ever! The past 50 years have been an explosion of innovation and new ideas. We had freedom, failure, success and responsibility, and we learned HOW TO DEAL WITH IT ALL!

And YOU are one of them! CONGRATULATIONS!

You might want to share this with others who have had the luck to grow up as kids, before the lawyers and the government regulated our lives for our own good. And while you are at it, get your kids to read it so they will know how brave their parents were.

PS – Maybe the type should be bigger because your eyes are shot at your age.

MEMBERS’ NEWS

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO:

Colleen Rennie       10^th August

Peter Mcleod           19^th August

May you both have a wonderful day being “spoilt rotten!” Enjoy!

NEW MEMBERS:

We’re pleased to announce that we have received applications from seven prospective new Members for ratification at the next Council Meeting and hope to be welcoming them all in the next Newsletter.

GENERAL: 

Colleen and Stuart Rennie are presently in the UK to attend their fourth grandchild’s Christening. They’ve been in touch via ‘Skype’ with Colleen’s sister, Trish, and she says they are enjoying being with family there and, in particular, being able to be Gran and Granddad first hand. We wish them well and hope they have a wonderful time at such a special event in family life.

Our Honorary Padre, David Gray, and his wife Rosemary are also in the UK and will be away for most of August. They will be staying with friends and family in various parts of the UK and are really looking forward to visiting Scotland with the good possibility of attending the Edinburgh Tattoo just before they return to South Africa. We’re hoping that there will be many pictures to view and share the excitement.

Vicki Mackenzie has returned from a fantastic holiday in various countries in Europe and will be sharing with us some of her adventures along the way. Vicky, don’t forget to let us have some photo’s to share and make us a teeny bit jealous.

Peter Ross has travelled to Graaff-Reinet to attend a 40^th School Reunion Celebration. Peter, here’s hoping it was a great time of renewing friendships, catching up and just having fun. Tell us about it when you get back.

We reported last time that Audrey Smith was recovering from her operation. We were delighted to see her at the Ceilidh on 23^rd July having battled through gale force winds to get there. Audrey, we’re still praying for a full 100% recovery and are sure that it’s not far away (if not sooner!).      

Duncan MacMillan hasn’t been at all well and Rose has reported that she has also been feeling the effects of the winter. We hope that you both get well soon. Keep warm on the wet and windy days and relax and enjoy the sunny ones. We keep you both in prayer.   

After Myra Horn lost her sister she felt it was time to come along and play a more active role in the Society. However, dealing with all the vagaries of winding up Claire’s Estate has, and continues to be, somewhat daunting and we want you to know, Myra, that we are always here for you if we can be of assistance and we continue to pray for peace patience and grace and, above all, hope for the future, and that you are fulfilled in the knowledge that God has directed you in all that you achieve. We look forward to the time when we can meet and talk without the pressures of the ‘other’ activities in life holding us back.      

I’ve just learnt that Judy Lucas will be travelling to Australia to join her husband after a conference he’s attending. They will be taking timeout to visit various cities and famous places, not least of which will be The Great Barrier Reef.

May God bless all those travelling to various destinations and keep them safe. I can see that we may have to consider a photographic Newsletter just to show all the pictures taken from around the world by our world-wise Members. 

MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF

As our Scribe is overseas, and won’t be back until later in August, so it’s fallen to me to produce this August 2011 Newsletter for you. I hope I haven’t forgotten anything or left something out. If I have, let me know and we’ll put it the next Newsletter in September.   

As you can see, there is a lot of news to share and, hopefully, it makes for interesting reading. However, please don’t let that stop you from dropping me or Stuart Rennie a line to share your news or simply picking up the phone and calling us. We really do enjoy hearing from you and we know that other Members do as well. There must be so much and so many interesting snippets out there that you may find just mundane but to others may just make their day. Think back over the years – what has been your most rewarding experience with the Callies? There must be many anecdotes that we could publish that would bring back many fond memories to so many and be of great interest to the younger Members. How about a favourite recipe or cocktail? What famous people have you met and what was your impression of them? Where, or whom, have you visited that really “got you going” and you enjoyed so much – a restaurant, a town, a drive, a walk, an exhibition or show, family, friends, Callies members and functions, other Societies, or whatever. This Newsletter is YOUR Newsletter and, we hope, reflects what is going on in your lives as well as reporting on “What’s On” in the Callies. Over to you.

Talking of writing in, some of you may know that I’m trying to put together the history of the Society for the benefit of Members and for distribution at functions as well as to be part of a marketing plan to publicise the Society and all cultural and other groups associated with it. We’ve received a tremendous amount of material in the form of records from a number of Members, including Rose MacMillan and Tony Reis, but it’s taking for ever to go through it all but we’ll get there. I would be so pleased to receive anything from any Member, no matter how small or large, long or short, that I can add to make the history more personal or, for that matter, more factual. Again, over to you!

I must share with you that on Friday 5^th August I received my new Identity Document. It was a time of great celebration because, what with one thing or another, it’s taken two years. My ‘old’ ID was so old and battered that it was held together with clear packing tape, was virtually unreadable and had no bar-code. (No not THAT kind of bar! I don’t need it to buy a wee dram with it!) The point is, or was, that I was having some difficulty in transacting business with banks and other institutions because of it. Not least of the problems was the fact that it was issued in 1983 and I look somewhat different after 28 years (I even had some hair on top then – not much, but some!).

I must say that the Ceilidh was a great success and I need to say a very special, and personal, “Thank You” to both the Officer Commanding, Cape Garrison Artillery, Major Vidius Archer and Regimental Sergeant Major, Master Warrant Officer Danie Steyn, for providing and preparing a venue for the Society in Fort Wynyard (the Cape Garrison Artillery Headquarters). Despite the gale force South Easter blowing, the Ceilidh went ahead without a hitch and a warm and happy time was had by all.

Last month I had the opportunity to fly up to Jo’burg for a short, 2 day, conference with the Company I represent here in Cape Town. I was booked on Kulula and on the return trip sat right in the front row. Big mistake! The seats are, by no means, big! Once I sat down, that was it, I couldn’t move, so be warned – the seats further back are far more comfortable. Anyway, at least I had a front seat to an entertaining time between the Stewardesses and the children on the ‘plane. About half an hour out of Cape Town the children were all invited to come to the front and have their faces painted. Well, from toddlers to about 10 years old, girls and boys, had great fun being made up as Spiderman, a Pussy Cat or a Fairy etc. and, without exception, all had big beaming smiles on the way back to their seats. Then one of the staff entertained us with a rendition of a kiddie’s song as we landed – when she finished the whole plane erupted in applause. What a great way to arrive home to the Mother City.    

I’m sure that a number of you’ve been “ducking and diving” the latest bunch of colds and ‘flu going the rounds. Well, Jacinta and I didn’t duck soon enough, and both of us have been laid low at some stage during the past few weeks but, never-the-less, we’re climbing out of the deep end now and looking forward to interacting with you all at the AGM and St Andrews Nicht/130^th Anniversary Celebration.

Until we meet again.    Slainte   Stuart

LETTERS TO THE CHIEF:

There weren’t any specific letters received since the last Newsletter that needed a response. However, I have to say thank you to those that have written in, in the past and, also, thank you to all those that wrote, Emailed, ‘phoned or sent a SMS saying just how much they enjoyed the Ceilidh. The combination of a certain amount of formality and then a relaxed atmosphere to join in or not as people felt, has really been applauded. Thank you all so much for the critical feedback, it has been very much appreciated by all who worked so hard to put the function together for you, and makes the planning for the next function so much more enjoyable knowing what you like.

PAST EVENTS:

The Ceilidh is the only function that we can really report on and much has been said already. But, in the background, many decisions had to be made regarding the venue, and the date, before we could give you any certainty about when and where it was going to be held. The original venue we had booked cancelled our booking because of prior commitments which they had to honour. Other venues were seriously considered but availability, costs, location and whether we could hold the type of function we wanted on the premises were, and always are, uppermost on the agenda. Then there was also the availability of the Pipe Band, the Country Dancers and, of course, if our Provincial Chieftain and his Consort, Gordon and Mary Wallace could fit us in with their busy schedule.

To cut a long story short, two very staunch Members, Vidius Archer and Danie Steyn, came to the rescue and suggested the use of the Mess at Fort Wynyard. I have to say that was a Godsend and the offer was accepted with some alacrity. Not only that but everything fell into place and everyone was OK with the date. It turned out to be a perfect venue – except for the wind outside, but that couldn’t be helped – and a good time was had by all. Among the guests was Maureen Sharpe, President of the Irish South African Association and she told us she felt really at home and enjoyed herself immensely.  Folk brought along their own supper or snacks and made use of the cash bar and free coffee and tea. During the evening Gordon gave an address of encouragement, there was a sing-along and demonstrations of Country Dancing, the Cape Town Caledonian Pipe Band excelled as usual with a rousing selection of old (and new) favourites, and there was a chance for all to dance the Gay Gordon’s accompanied by the Band – what thrilling way to enjoy the dance. There was a raffle with the main prize of a bottle of Bells Very Special Whisky worth over R300. Afterwards we could all join in and dance to the music and singing of “Charmed”, a group of three sisters who came together from as far as Hermanus and Tableview to entertain us and round off a great evening.  Many, many, thanks to all of you that came along. Without you and your enthusiasm it wouldn’t have been the success it was. Here’s hoping for many more fun times in the future.           

  JUST A FEW VISUAL MOMENTS OF THE CEILIDH TO SHARE AND REMEMBER

FUTURE EVENTS

2011 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING:

The official notice of the AGM follows at the end of this Newsletter. Please be good enough to make a special effort to come along. It’s an important annual event and it depends on you to ensure the continuity of the Society. This year we are departing from the usual venue and will be meeting in the more congenial surroundings of the Tai Ping Restaurant owned by Society Members, Colin and Pam Wing. Tea and Coffee will be available with the compliments of the Society. Colin and Pam have graciously offered to open up early for us and, if you would like to stay on after the meeting, they have arranged a special lunch, at a very special price available only to members of the Society. The AGM will start promptly at 11 o’clock in the morning on Saturday 27^th August, so please come early to ensure you find parking. Tai Ping is located on the corner of Dean and Wilkinson Streets in Newlands – entrance in Wilkinson Street. If you’re not sure where that is please ‘phone and we can direct you – but not after the start of the meeting as our ‘phones will be switched off at 11 o’clock.  

WHISKY TASTING:

Together with Maureen Sharpe, President of the Irish South African Association, we’re hoping to arrange a combined whisky tasting of Scotch Whisky and Irish Whiskey, sometime later in the year. We’re working on it – watch this space. By the way, this was mentioned, in passing, to Sian Erasmus, President of the Cape Welsh Society and she mentioned that she might have an introduction to some Welsh Whiskey. (Oops! I didn’t know there was such a thing – sorry Sian!) This could prove interesting if we can get it all together!  

KIRKIN’ ‘O THE CHIEF AND THE CHIEF’S AT HOME:

The dates and venues for these events will be shared with you all, sometime after the AGM.

ST ANDREWS NICHT / 130^TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION OF THE SOCIETY:

The date of this very important and prestigious event is Saturday 3^rd December 2011. Please diarize this date because, God willing, it will not change. The venue hasn’t been finalized yet but it will be somewhere special and you are assured of a great time of celebration. If we can negotiate where we would like to be, then there will definitely be limited seating so you will HAVE to book, and pay, early to ensure entrance. We’ll let you know as soon as we have the details all tied up – but don’t forget the date!

NEWS FROM PINELANDS CALEDONIAN SOCIETY

The Pinelands 2011 AGM was held on Saturday 2^nd July and was quite a lively affair with many Members offering ideas and suggestions. Despite urgent pleas for new nominations over a number of months they fell on deaf ears and Eddie and Ann Stevenson were re-elected as Chief and Lady President and so were the Committee Members together with one new Member.

Their “Chief’s at Home” celebration will be in the evening of Saturday 27^th August – the same day as we hold our AGM (in the morning) at Tai Ping.     

NEWS FROM THE CAPE TOWN CALEDONIAN PIPE BAND

Pipe Major Tony Reis was invited to pipe with the South African Irish at the Tattoo recently held in Basil, Switzerland. He was there over the weekend of our Ceilidh – busy man! On his return on the 26^th July from what he said was an “unbelievable Tattoo”, he was immediately thrown into the final preparation to travel, the very next weekend, to Benoni with the Cape Town Caledonian Pipe Band, to compete in the South African National Championships.

Tony reported back to us on Saturday evening (just before 12 midnight!), as follows, on the exciting news of the success they achieved:

“Hi everyone,

After not competing for 4 years, the Cape Town Caledonian Pipe Band competed over the weekend at the South African National Championships held in Benoni.”

“We were well received by all the other competing bands from around the country. Most of the bands were from Joburg. As a matter of fact, there were only three bands from outer Joburg, ie CTCPB (us) and 2 bands from Durban.”

“Coastal bands always battle with altitude in the Joburg area and with the weather playing up the way it did before Saturday, we knew we were in for a very tough ride. Fortunately on the day, the weather warmed slightly, but it still took a full 2 hours for me to get the pipes tuned to where we were ‘sort of’ satisfied.”

“Anyway, we competed in 2 events. We were on at 11H50 with our Selection of Marches (± 5 minute performance), and on again at 12H20 with the March, Strathspey & Reel (also ± 5 minute performance).”

Results:

Selection of Marches – we came 1st

March, Strathspey & Reel – we came 3rd

Overall: – 2nd in our Grade!!

 “To crown off a reasonable, but enjoyable weekend, the Cape Town Caledonian Pipe Band won: Drill, Dress & Discipline, which was not expected at all.”

“So it’s back to band practice tomorrow evening at Fort Wynyard to start planning for next year’s competitions!!”

“Regards”

“Tony”

Tony, on behalf of the Society, please accept my very sincere congratulation to you and the Band on a great achievement. We knew you could do it – of that there was no doubt – but it’s always nice to see it in print. To say we’re proud of you all doesn’t really say enough but I’m sure you know what I mean – we ARE proud of you!  

Congratulations were also received from a number of quarters but noticeably from:

“Hi Tony,
My congratulations to you and all the members of the CTCPB for the magnificent achievement.
Congratulations from all of us at the Gatwick Caledonian Pipe and Drums as well.
Regards to all.
Mac / Malcolm.” (McHenery)

And:

“Tony
Congratulations to you and every member of the CTCPB – we are very proud of you!

You have made Cape Town very proud. Keep up the good work.

Kind regards

ALDERMAN JAMES VOS

Ward Councillor for Ward 5

Member of the Tourism and Events Portfolio Committee of City of Cape Town Council”

NEWS FROM THE DANCE FLOOR

Heather Hodgson sent us this lovely photograph together with most interesting news:

There has been no shortage of opportunities for Scottish Country dancers in the Fairest Cape to lace up our ghillies and take to the floor these past few months.  The most recent event was our Mandela Day Dance on 18July. This formed part of a series of charity dances organized by Clan Colquhoun and hosted by Fish Hoek Scottish Country Dance Club, which have seen dancers from Cape Town’s seven clubs gather together for an enjoyable evening’s dancing for a good cause.

The programme for the Mandela Day Dance is compiled so that we dance for 67 minutes in keeping with the spirit of Mandela Day and we dance the 46664 (Four, Double Six, Six Four) Jig. There is no charge for this dance but dancers bring along contributions of food for hampers for folks in need, pet food for an animal welfare society and books for a charity helping children in rural regions. It’s an evening of fun where kilts blend with Madiba shirts.

On 11 June the Somerset West Scottish Country Dance Club celebrated their 54th birthday with a party. The dancing was done to recorded music as is the norm here but we were fortunate to have two pipers from the Cape Field Artillery Pipes and Drums to start the evening by leading the Grand March for the 38 dancers who attended.

There were two tables (sets in Scottish Dance terminology) of Scottish Country Dancers at the recent Cape Town Callies Ceilidh at Fort Wynyard. We appreciated the opportunity to share the joy of dancing with those present. Six of us demonstrated a couple of dances – Montgomeries’ Rant and Byron’s Strathspey – before it was the chance of the audience including the Chief and Lady President to join us on the floor for a few dances including Virginia Reel and Welcome the Dance. A new alliance was formed on the evening when we all danced the Gay Gordons to the skirl of the pipes and drums provided by the Cape Town Caledonian Pipe Band.  Next time we hope the band will play for us for Mairi’s Wedding and the Dashing White Sergeant.

Please do visit our web site www.scd.za.net  where you’ll not only find  ‘recaps’  and photos from recent events but also details of upcoming dance events and classes.  Newcomers and spectators are always welcome and there are opportunities to dance across the peninsula on most evenings of the week.

Some of the special events coming up are Rondebosch’s party on 16 August, a “By Special Request” Charity dance in Fish Hoek on 29 August, Braai and Dancing on 24 September and the Bergvliet Scottish Country Dance Club are hosting an open evening of dancing on 20 October.

We hope to meet you on the dance floor.

Heather Hodgson

2nd August 2011

NEWS FROM THE HIGHLAND AND IRISH DANCERS

Judy Lucas kindly put together the following interesting news for us just before she leaves for Australia:

HIGHLAND DANCING:

The past 3 weeks have been extremely busy.

Firstly, the Constantiaberg Festival was held on sat. 23^rd July.

Then 11 Cape Town dancers travelled to Gauteng for the South African Highland Championships held at the Benoni Gathering on Sat. 30^th July. (Note from Stuart: this is the same Gathering attended by the Cape Town Caledonian Pipe Band) We were very pleased with our results and we congratulate the following dancers on their achievements:

Robyn Searle winning the 12 & under Novice and Amber Vogel the 13 & over Novice Sections.

In the 15 & under Championship Kate Ellis was placed 3^rd and Cathryn Goodwin 6^th.

In the 16 & 17 yrs Championship Daina Johnstone and Taryn Ballentine were placed 5^th & 6^th respectively. Both these girls have come out of serious injuries and this was the first time this year that they were able to compete. Taryn Ballentine also received trophies for 3 of her 4 National dances.

On Sunday an examiner from Scotland conducted a Judges exam. Taryn Harkness, Hayley Johnson, Jeanette Moulder and Jess Workman were among the candidates. These ladies have been studying for this exam, under Heather Booysen’s guidance, for the past 18 months. They now have to wait until the end of the year for results.

The same Examiner, Shendl Russell, then conducted Highland exams for the Cape Town dancers on Thursday 4^th August.

IRISH DANCING:

The next few months are also busy for these dancers.

We have 2 competitions coming up

Sat. 13^th August:         Bergvliet High School – all day

Sat.  17^th September: Milnerton Playhouse – all day.

At the end of September the dancers head back to Gauteng for the SA Irish Champs.

ANNUAL CONCERT:

Sat 22^nd October:       Combined Dance Studio Concert. Shows at 3pm & 7pm.

NEWS FROM OTHER SOCIETIES IN SOUTHERN AFRICA

We’re hoping to pass on news of activities happening in other Caledonian Societies from next month on. Maybe we can learn a thing or two from their functions and outings.

NEWS FROM FEDERATION

SAD NEWS:

Norma Craven has passed on the following sad news on Monday 1^st August:

The Federation has learned with great sadness the passing away of Jimmy Mackie in Scotland on Sunday. Jimmy was a past Federation Chief, who served the Caledonian movement well for many decades. We send our condolences to Jean and the rest of their family.

CONGRESS:

There is still time to apply to attend the 87^th Annual Congress of the Federation of Caledonian Societies in Welkom, from Friday 14^th to Sunday 16^th October 2011. You have until 31^st August to have your application in and all costs paid. Please see the June/July Newsletter for details and the application form.  

NEWS FROM KINDRED SOCIETIES

IRISH SOUTH AFRICAN ASSOCIATION:

Geoff Winton. We received an email via Peter Ross from Marguerite Winton, who is a Past President of the Irish South African Association, about the sad passing of her husband. Unfortunately, I received it too late to pass it on via one of my email Flyers but it’s important that I share this with you all now:

Dear Friends,

It is with great sadness that I have to tell you that our beloved Geoff passed away peacefully at a long illness, bravely fought, at Constantiaberg Medi Clinic, Cape Town on Sunday July 31st 2011 at 18.00. Funeral will take place at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, Bergvliet Road, Bergvliet on Fri Aug 5th at 14.00. You are all welcome to join us as we celebrate Geoff’s life while we mourn his passing.

Geoff will be greatly missed by all of us – by Beni, Clover, Sophie, Eloise, Dominic, Amber-Rose & Hugo as well as his 3 grandchildren – Summer Rose, Callum & Maisie & of course by me…….. If you can’t be with us on Fri please join your thoughts with ours that day as we bid farewell to Geoff.

Love,
Marguerite

Maureen Sharpe has reported that activities are a little quiet at the moment but – watch this space – things will start to get going the closer we get to Christmas.

CAPE WELSH SOCIETY:

Sean Erasmus says that the opening World Cup rugby match between the Springboks and Wales on September 11^th will be watched with avid interest in Melkboss. I wonder which team they will be supporting?

NEWS FROM THE CAPE GARRISON ARTILLERY

THE CGA LADIES GROUP – “The Cute Girls Association”:

Over the past two months the ladies have arranged two very successful social evenings. The first was a Jack Parow evening – everybody HAD to arrive in fancy dress and the second was a Bingo evening held in the CGA Officers Mess at the Castle. Here’s some pictures to get you thinking:

Jacinta hosted a card making workshop at Dulce Café in Plumstead for some of the “Cute Girls”. There was great fun in discovering the creativity in each one – see the above ‘photo on the right.    

Jacinta has been inducted into the CGA Ladies Group (I call it the Officers Wives Club but that’s not correct). One interesting thing is that whenever they have a meeting (at Fort Wynyard on the second Tuesday of every month – to plan future functions, or any outreach to others less fortunate than themselves) should a Cellphone (Mobile) ring, immediately the owner is charged with a non-returnable R50 fine which goes into the ‘kitty’ they build up to help others.

Vidius Archer, Danie Steyn and I have been discussing how the Society’s close association with CGA can be of more social benefit to both the Society and CGA. The outcome of these discussions will, I think, add tremendous value to the historical memory of the Society and the future enjoyment of Members. Thanks Vidius and Danie for your enthusiasm and encouragement.   

NEWS FROM SCOTLAND

ONLY IN SCOTLAND?

Being Scottish is about driving in a German car to an Irish pub for a Belgian beer, then travelling home, grabbing an Indian curry or a Turkish kebab on the way, to sit on Swedish furniture and watch American shows on a Japanese TV.

And the most Scottish thing of all? Suspicion of all things foreign!

Only in Scotland can a pizza get to your house faster than an ambulance.

Only in Scotland do supermarkets make sick people walk all the way to the back of the shop to get their prescriptions while healthy people can buy cigarettes at the front.

Only in Scotland do people order double cheeseburgers, large fries and a DIET coke.

Only in Scotland do banks leave both doors open and chain the pens to the counters.

Only in Scotland do we leave cars worth thousands of pounds on the drive and lock our junk and cheap lawn mower in the garage.

Only in Scotland do we use answering machines to screen calls and then have call waiting so we won’t miss a call from someone we didn’t want to talk to in the first place.

Only in Scotland are there disabled parking places in front of a skating rink.

Not to Mention..

3 Scots die each year testing if a 9v battery works on their tongue.

142 Scots were injured in 1999 by not removing all pins from new shirts.

58 Scots are injured each year by using sharp knives instead of screwdrivers.

31 Scots have died since 1996 by watering their Christmas tree while the fairy lights were plugged in.

19 Scots have died in the last 3 years believing that Christmas decorations were chocolate and Scottish Hospitals reported 4 broken arms last year after Christmas cracker pulling accidents.

18 Scots had serious burns in one year trying on a new jumper with a lit cigarette in their mouth.

5 Scots were injured last year in accidents involving out-of-control Scalextric cars.

and finally…

A massive 543 Scots were admitted to A&E in the last two years after trying to open bottles of beer with their teeth.

AND YOU THOUGHT THESE THINGS HAPPENED ONLY IN SOUTH AFRICA?…YEA!…RIGHT!

From your Chief, Lady President, Council and Scribe

Let’s  hope our cold weather is something of the past and that it is going to start getting warmer.  Trish and Bill are back from their overseas trip and hopefully enjoyed it to the fullest.  Trish says that she had a “senior moment” on Monday night and forgot about our meeting but we believe that she was still tired and got back into the swing of things slowly and missed the meeting, thus the reason for me doing the newsletter again this month.  Trish will be back next month in full force.  Mick also arrives back home today from his weeks break with Steven in the Cape!  We hope you had a good time too Mick!

Just a reminder that our Subscriptions are due before the 31^st August 2011. 

Ordinary Members R100.00 per person

Pensioners or Unemployed : R50.00 per person.

As far as I can see there are no birthdays this month but if anyone has been left out, my apologies!         

Future Functions:

August:

• 14^th                   Christmas in “August”      Cancelled due to Bev having to go into hospital in BFN.
• 21^st           Golf Day
• 27th         Ladies Afternoon ~ bring a small plate of eats and come and join us
• 28^th                          Unveiling of Rose’s Plaque

September:

• 2^nd           Bingo
• 11^th          Callies Fun Walk

 This & That:

• Good Luck Bev, we are thinking of you and know that all will be well.  We will keep all updated on Bev.
• Once again the Bar Hours on a Sunday are becoming a problem.  At the committee meeting it was decided that the Bar Hours on Sunday are as follows:

13h00 to 17h00.

We request that all members adhere to these bar times ! ! !   

Once again Welcome home Bill, Trish and Mick today after his gallivanting in the Cape with his son Steven.  We missed you all!

Bev, keep your head up Girl….. be positive, and know that you have the support of all your friends at the Callies, We love you lots!

     Best regards,

     Debbie 

The Times of St Andrews Newsletter -  August 2011

This has to be the final “end of winter Sunday” and we feel certain that Spring will officially arrive this week so that we can all enjoy the wonderful function being prepared for you on Sunday 21st August at the Village of Happiness Bowling Clubhouse. Time is 12 for 12:30 and we have an amazing programme arranged for your enjoyment. Cost  of function is R65 p.p. and you can either get tickets and book at the Elna shop in Shelly Centre or by phoning Marge on 039-312-5150.  Numbers are limited to 80 and we already have over 40 bookings so be quick.

Our Pipe Band will be there in full force with some new numbers to entertain us, and our new
Chief Charles Carr will be installed by Sally Morning, Scottish songs by Peter Smith as well as a different variety from Christine Venter. The Haggis will be addressed and a short talk on the Immortal Bard Bobert Burns and some other surprises. Dinner will be Haggis, neeps and tatties to start with a Chicken dish by “Ma” i.e. Marlene & Marge, with help from our super Committee.

We held a very successful A.G.M. where Charles was voted into office for the coming year, and we have decided to charge membership fees as from July this year at R35 p.p. Please see that we have your membership/application form (extra forms will be available at the function).  We are delighted that Marlene McLeod is taking over our finances, but Charles will remain as secretary as he has done such an outstanding job over the past two years.  We also have to report that two new willing and capable friends of Scots descent have joined our Committee and it gives me great pleasure to welcome Felicite Prior and Mike Morrison to our ranks.  Felicite is so disappointed that she will be missing this function as she is overseas visiting her family. We wish her a happy trip and welcome both her and Mike to our workforce. Thanks to both of you.

Congress will be held in the Free State this year and anyone wanting to attend would be welcomed.  Next year we hear it will be in Fourways – Jhb and we will attend this as our daughters live in that area.   Our next function will have a Christmas Theme and will be held on either the second or third Sunday in November. The date will be advised as soon as the Bowling Club give us confirmation of dates.  Please give us feedback about our functions and whether you have any constructive criticism to pass on to us. We will try to please ye all.

Marge and I will officially and happily step into the position of “past” officials and will still be on the committee to assist, but we are both delighted  that the past two years have been so successful and that we can now take a back seat and enjoy without having so much responsibility. Our own health has not been as good as we could have wished recently and instruction from family and friends is to take it easy – that will be a pleasure!!!. First of all we have to get busy and sell our family home in Southbroom, We hope to find a buyer soon, and then surely we can relax and enjoy our lives for many years to come.

It remains for me to thank you all for the support and interest in Hibiscus Scottish and to praise our very capable, loyal and hardworking comittee for their unending hard work & enthusiasm. 

They all work with laughter and smiles at every function.  One does not have to ask this committee to do anything, they just volunteer – simply magic to lead a band like YOU!! Thanks++++++

Marge would epecially like to thank all the committee ladies and personal friends for their wonderful catering assistance. Without you we would not have held such successful functions.

You will all be happy to know that Noel Roos our pianist came second in the World Line Dancing competition held in England last week. Congratulations and well done Noel!. He is the current South African Champion and we are so blessed to have hime bring us beautiful music.

Yours aye,             

 Jack

Dear Callies,

Its almost time to pack away the winter woollies yeah! I for one cannot wait for the warmer weather. My Banksia rose is starting to flower, the news leaves are coming out on the trees, roses have been pruned, soon it will be flowers all the way. September is officially spring month so enjoy.

Previous Function

This was a bit of a disaster as the Motel was very busy, food was late being served and orders were mixed up. The quality was, however, still enjoyable and the company good. Unfortunately it was out of the hands of the committee so better luck next time.

Next Function

Date:…………………………………. Sunday 4^th September

Time:………………………………… 12.30 for 13.00

Venue:………………………………. Gardens Tennis Club

Price:………………………………. R40 for Beef or Chicken Curry and Rice

………………………………………. & Pudding

RSVP:……………………………….. Mary before the 29^th August.

Mary…………………………………. 0538614980 Cell: 0832312153

Own drinks or Cash Bar

All welcome!

Round & About

1. There is a request for email addresses to send news letters and other relevant information to members. Please send them to me at maryp@hotmail.co.za
2. Joy doing well after her op but has to have another round of chemo. Doctors pleased with her progress!
3. Mike Emery having a hard time with his legs, finding it difficult to walk and drive.
4. Patons very proudly showing off the new grandson and enjoying Andreas company.

Laugh for the day!

A public school teacher was arrested today at O R Tambo International airport as he attempted to board a flight while in possession of a ruler, a protractor, a compass, a slide-rule and a calculator. At a morning press conference, the Deputy President said he believes the man is a member of  the notorious Al-Gebra movement. He did not identify the man, who has been charged by the Metro Police with carrying weapons of math instruction.
‘Al-Gebra is a problem for us’, the Deputy Prez said. ‘They derive
solutions by means and extremes, and sometimes go off on tangents in search of absolute values .’ They use secret code names like ‘X’ and ‘Y’ and refer to themselves as ‘unknowns’, but we have determined that they belong to a common denominator of the axis of medieval with co-ordinates in every country. As the Greek philanderer Isosceles used to say, ‘There are three sides to every triangle’.
When asked to comment on the arrest, President Zuma would not comment, but Joeliehaas Malenema said, ‘If God had wanted us to have better weapons of math instruction, he would have given us more fingers and toes.’ Luthuli House aides told reporters they could not recall a more intelligent or profound statement by Joeliehaas. It is believed that another Nobel Prize for Woodwork will follow.

Yours Aye,

 Mary