Lochaneil Society 39th Annual Burns Supper

On January 26, 2024 members and guests of the Kenora Lochaneil Society attended the 39th annual Robbie Burns Night in honour of the great Scottish poet, Robert Burns, commemorating the 265th anniversary of his birth. The dinner and celebrations were held at a new venue, the Kenora Masonic Lodge, and a wonderful evening of food, drink, music, poetry and all manner of good times was had by all.

Prior to the ceremonies, Erv Stach gave an acknowledgement of the event taking place on Treaty 3 Territory. PM Cecil Burns piped in the Haggis carried by Murray English, followed by Alex Coats who recited the “Address to a Haggis” in his good Scots brogue. Grace was led by Todd Spencer. After the Haggis was served up, the rest of the meal was served, which was catered by Gropps and included succulent roast beef, “neeps and tatties” and a delicious variety of side dishes followed by delectable desserts. A good selection of single malt whisky and ales were also enjoyed.

Following dinner, there was a series of toasts presented including; “Tae the City of Kenora” by Barb Manson, “Tae the Lassies” by Bill Limerick, “Tae Canada and the King” by Mike Limerick and “Tae the Absent Laddies” by Steve Strachan, followed by the “Toast to the Immortal Memory” given by Mark Labelle. The crowd was then treated to a spectacular performance on the bagpipes by PM Wes Sheppard from the Winnipeg St. Andrews Pipe Band (formerly PM of the Kenora Scottish Pipes and Drums).

One of the original Stalwarts, Don Cameron, made a return to the Burns Night after a 15 year absence. In his own original style, he recited a new “Epic Po-em” that chronicled the recent Kenora Christmas Tree Caper. Other stories and numerous jokes were followed by the Scottish Raffle. The evening ended with the singing of “Auld Lang Syne” and a promise to do it all again next year.