Robbie Burns night: many reasons to go

For well over a decade, the Annapolis Basin Conference Centre has been the location for an annual celebration of the birthday of the Immortal Scottish Bard, Robert (Robbie) Burns. This year is no different, however, the organizers are indicating that this will be the best one yet!

This signature social event on Jan. 27 will have the respected Saltwire Network journalist, Jim Vibert as the guest speaker and the local Celtic group Dúlamán will provide entertainment.

The emcee, as always, is our own very respected Annapolis County Counsellor Alex Morrison. William Alexander Morrison, MSC, CD, who continues to work so diligently on the behalf of our citizens. He has a ‘Joie de vivre’ that makes Burns Night so special for those who attend.

The four-course dinner includes all the favorites: cock – a leekie soup with scones, onion tart, neeps and taddies, with a main of prime rib, stuffed haddock or vegetarian, pudding with whisky sauce and, of course, Scotch.

Yet it is not just the meal, the music or the speaker that makes this event special. It is the pageantry, the comradery and the time honoured traditions that reflect the heritage of the Scottish highlands – a heritage that is an integral part of the fabric of Nova Scotia. Whether you have Scots ancestry, or you wish you did, this is a cultural festival well worth attending.

The reception is at 6 p.m., the dinner at 7 p.m. and the evening will close with a highly entertain- ing Ceilidh that is sure to liven your spirit and lighten your heart, so when you leave you will truly know you have experienced a time to remember.

Jim Vibert, says he has been “a journalist and writer for longer than he cares to admit,” has consulted with or worked for five Nova Scotia governments. Joining the Saltwire network in 2017, which now has 34 daily and community newspapers in Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland; he writes a column on political and social issues. A Truro native, he graduated from Dalhousie University in 1977. A highly regarded journalist, he has also written major speeches for five Nova Scotia premiers from each of the three major political parties, but “intends to finish his working life as he began it, as a journalist.” Yet, Jim is not just a man with perspectives, experience and knowledge, he has a delightful engaging sense of humour.

If you need another reason to forget the challenges of our winter season, funds raised from this event are in support of the Fundy YMCA. The Fundy Y, as I and many others refer to it, is an integral part of the fabric of our greater community. It is there that our people of all ages, all abilities and all health needs find invaluable resources, support and encouragement. They know our strengths, our needs and they respond in a dynamic and proactive manner. It is not just a fitness centre, the Fundy Y is a capacity building entity that is so very vital. Their outreach to youth, to young women, to mature experienced citizens, to immigrants, is noteworthy and deserves profound accolades. They do what they do so very well.

Yet their resources require funds. The Fundy Y is on record for providing more subsidized and assisted memberships than any other YMCA in Nova Scotia. They do it, but they need our support. The dedicated staff reaches out for every possible resource that they can to meet the ever growing needs that are evident here in our area.

This event is a bright light to carry us through the dreary winter months. It is at this celebration where you can laugh, get together with your friends and neighbours, while satisfying your inner child. Robbie Burns had a zest for life liberty and happiness. Laughter was his tonic and that can be your experience.

I would encourage you to add this to your agenda for a good time as well as a good cause! If you want to attend or want further information please contact Kevin Ellis, 902-247-2363, or Digby Clare CBDC 902-245-6166 or the Fundy YMCA 902-638-9622.