For the 35th year, Estevanites gathered at the Estevan Legion to pay tribute to The Bard.
Assembling in the Legion Memorial Hall Jan. 26, locals were treated to the reading of Burns' poetry and a hearty meal with the staple of haggis, a Scottish dish made from lamb innards.
The annual event was once again organized by the 2901 Estevan (Elks) Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry Army Cadet Pipes and Drums, who also provided the preliminary musical entertainment that evening. The bagpipes and drums filled the hall as Highland dancers from the Drewitz School and Dance moved in co-ordinated efforts.
Captain Ken Turner moved the evening along as the master of ceremonies, while the cadets carried out their duties. Angela Durr piped in the head table before piping in the haggis.
During the parade of the haggis, Drum Sergeant Jordan Gervais carried a sword, piper Lance Corporal Shelly Guertin-Schmidt brought in the haggis, drummer Mark Fergusson carried a sword, piper Lance Corporal Athena Nash held the scotch, and drummer Dawson Simon entered the hall with the Quaich, a small cup.
Fergusson then gave the address to the haggis, while Simon performed the Selkirk Grace.
Guertin-Schmidt presented the immortal memories of Robert Burns following supper. The immortal memories are a recounting of Burns, who produced many poems still prized today, such as To A Mouse and A Man's A Man For a'That.
The Estevan Elks, represented by Ray Walton, presented the cadets with a cheque for $3,000 on Saturday. They donated $1,500 before Christmas, and these donations help to ensure the army cadet program can continue with day-to-day activities at a local level. Turner noted the donation is a vital part of what he considers a vital community program for youth.
"The program is designed to provide leaders from its training," Turner said in a letter supplied to the Mercury. "The Estevan Elks Lodge No. 113's continued support is essential to the well being of and ability to carry on the army cadet program in Estevan."
A dance followed the formal festivities, with DJ Dave Elliott, once again providing the music.
