CHESTERMERE – The sound of bagpipes could be heard echoing out of the Whitecappers Centre on Jan. 31, as the group hosted a special Robbie Burns themed pot luck dinner.
The Whitecappers spared no details, as they invited Calgarian Alan Stewart out to act as Master of the Address to the Haggis, and invited an experienced bagpiper to both march in the haggis and perform a few songs.
Although the seniors group comes together on the last Tuesday of every month for a pot luck dinner, this was a particularly special gathering, as they came together to bid farewell to longtime members Bill and Jean Donaldson. The pair are moving from their home in Langdon to Ontario to be closer to family.
“They are longtime members and they will be dearly missed,” said Whitecappers president Carollyne Hinde. “They have always been active participants in all programs, and we are sad to lose them.
“They were thrilled with the potluck and were so honored that they were included in the Robbie Burns evening.”
Hinde said that the rest of the group also responded positively to their second annual scottish-themed evening. Whispers during the dinner suggested that the haggis “blew up” last year, so everyone was happy to see that it was still in tact and ready to be enjoyed this time around.
“The comments have been all positive, people were amazed at how wonderful our piper was, and really enjoyed having the fellow join us to officially address the haggis,” she said. “We had the event last year but there was no piper, so everyone was thrilled by that entertainment.
“A good time was had by all and we plan to make it bigger and better for next year.”
Maureen Meany of the Whitecappers also said that she heard positive feedback from the seniors.
“It was a huge success, and to think that we may have started something we can carry on with every year is great,” Meany said. “Everyone loved it, it was a great evening with food and friends.”
Hinde said that she and the rest of the Whitecappers wish Bill and Jean all the best in Ontario.
