ST ANDREW, PATRON SAINT OF SCOTLAND 30th NOVEMBER 2008.

ST ANDREW, PATRON SAINT OF SCOTLAND 30th NOVEMBER 2008.

ST ANDREW, PATRON SAINT OF SCOTLAND 30th NOVEMBER 2008 is this Sunday coming.
St Andrew's Day marks the launch of the Winter Festival period which runs through until Burns Night on January 25th 2009.
The stepping stone to Homecoming Scotland 2009 celebrations which runs from Burns Night all the way through until St Andrew's Day 2009.
For those still unsure or reading this for the first time, Homecoming Scotland events are a Scottish Government initiative which is being promoted throughout the World as one huge invite to everybody and not just Scots to come and enjoy Scottish Hospitality first hand.
Have you considered visiting home recently? Don't put it off any longer, come and visit your roots and enjoy the celebrations along with the rest of Scotland.
You can view the St Andrew's video...here!

and you can get more information...here!

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT INITIATIVE 28th NOVEMBER 2008.

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT INITIATIVE 28th NOVEMBER 2008.

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT INITIATIVE 28th NOVEMBER 2008 took another step forward with their new advertising campaign.
The Scottish Government initiative being promoted in conjunction with Events Scotland, Visit Scotland, The European Regional Developement Fund, and of course hundreds of volunteers.
Taking part in the Homecoming Scotland request for Scots Worldwide to visit home are some well
kent faces.
Names like Lulu, Sean Connery, Sandi Thom, Tom Evans, Kelly Brown, Eddi Reader,Sam Torrance,
Chris Hoy, Amy Macdonald, not forgetting the man who penned the beautiful and heart tugging song
"Caledonia" Dougie Maclean.
The graphic above shows a quick snap of todays (28th November 2008) BBC News in Scotland.
To view the video;
http://www.homecomingscotland2009.com/videoplayer.aspx?swfSrc=/common/flash/MainVideo.swf&flvSrc=/Repository/caledonia/60secsad.flv&skinSrc=/common/flash/SkinOverAll.swf&title=caledonia%20clip

More information;
http://www.homecomingscotland2009.com

RESTORATION OF THE BURNS MONUMENT IN EDINBURGH.

Burns Monument in revamp appeal

Edinburgh's Burns Monument is on Calton Hill

An appeal has been launched to raise funds for the restoration of the Burns Monument in Edinburgh.

Edinburgh World Heritage and Edinburgh City Council have pledged money but more is needed for the Burns Monument on Calton Hill.

The monument is one of the buildings that gave Edinburgh its famous nickname of Athens of the North.

Its intricate neo-Greek temple design reflects the ideas behind the Scottish Enlightenment.

The total cost of the project is expected to be about £350,000.

David McDonald, Edinburgh World Heritage projects manager, said: "The monument also sits in a position with a fantastic view of the city, and it would be good to open it up to the public, perhaps even as an outdoor venue for Fringe events."

I'm sure that this drive will encourage those who love Burns' work to contribute to the further development of this important monument to one of Scotland's greatest poets Deirdre Brock Edinburgh City Council

Deirdre Brock, Edinburgh City Council culture leader said: "Robert Burns' body of work is of enormous value to our nation and I am delighted that our investment in the Twelve Monuments project will help restore this stunning tribute to his legacy.

"I'm sure that this drive will encourage those who love Burns' work to contribute to the further development of this important monument to one of Scotland's greatest poets."

Jim Shields of the Robert Burns World Federation said: "We will be advising our members worldwide of the state of this beautiful monument and asking both individuals and clubs for any financial support they can give to this appeal.

"At a more local level, we will also be asking not just Burns Clubs, but all of the many organisations who hold Burns Suppers throughout Edinburgh and Lothians, to put their hands into their pockets to help save this beautiful monument."

read full story...

HOLOCAUST EDUCATION FUNDING FROM SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT 26th Nov2008.

HOLOCAUST EDUCATION FUNDING FROM SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT 26th Nov2008.


WISHART WELCOMES HOLOCAUST EDUCATION SUPPORT

FIRST EVER FUNDING PLEDGE FROM ANY SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT

SNP MP, Pete Wishart, today (Wednesday) welcomed news that the Scottish Government has taken action to guarantee the future of Auschwitz visits for Scottish school pupils to learn about the Holocaust.

The Scottish Government has pledged to provide £214,000 to ensure the flights from Scotland continue. Mr Wishart was the only Scottish MP to go on the visit to Auschwitz this year and has been working with the Holocaust Education Trust and the Scottish Government to find a solution when a funding difficulty emerged.

Mr Wishart said:

“Having seen at first hand the work of the Holocaust Education Trust, it is clear that these trips are powerful and worthwhile, and I wholly welcome the action by the Scottish Government to guarantee the future of these visits for Scottish schools.

“The previous Labour/Liberal administration did not provide any financial assistance for these important visits, and it is excellent to see the SNP government take this initiative. I am delighted that their intervention will mean that the visits from Scotland will continue.

“I trust that all those Labour politicians who chose to play politics with this issue will also congratulate the Scottish Government for their action in providing this funding, for the very first time by any Scottish administration.

”We must ensure that these issues are treated sensitively and that Scottish school children continue to learn the important lessons from one of history’s darkest moments.”

THE SCOTLAND NEW ZEALAND CONNECTION 26th NOVEMBER 2008.

THE SCOTLAND NEW ZEALAND CONNECTION IS ALIVE AND KICKING.
Do More To Celebrate St Andrew’s Day

St Andrew’s Day holds particular significance for kiwis this year in the run up to Homecoming Scotland 2009 and Scotland is encouraging everyone to “DO more” to celebrate their national day and the New Zealand/Scottish connection.

Scottish Culture Minister Linda Fabiani announced an ambitious programme of events planned in cities and towns across the country with the flagship event, the St Andrew’s DO, taking place right in the heart of Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s West Princes Street Gardens will host the St Andrew’s DO, with a range of free entertainment activities over the entire St Andrew’s Day weekend (29-30 November). St Andrew’s Day also marks the start of Edinburgh’s Winter Festival programme and provides a taste of the celebrations to come over Hogmanay and Burns Night, leading into Homecoming Scotland in 2009. An exciting line-up of local events will run across the nation with full details on www.scotland.org/standrews

Culture Minister Linda Fabiani said:

“St Andrew’s Day is an opportunity for everyone at home, and our friends around the world, to celebrate Scotland – from our rich heritage to our vibrant modern culture.

“This year there is a great programme of events from our St Andrew’s DO in Edinburgh to the various ceilidh's and street parties taking place all around the country. In addition to all the wonderful events scheduled in Scotland, many of the millions of affinity Scots all over the world will be celebrating St Andrew’s Day, from the St Andrews Society of Toronto to the Scottish Australian Heritage Society in Sydney – this is a great platform in the run up to Homecoming next year.

“Building on the successful “Visit for Free” initiative from last year, the public will again be able to visit some of our top visitor attractions with castles, museums, gardens and abbeys from Orkney in the Northern Isles to Jedburgh in the Scottish Borders taking part on 30 November. St Andrew’s Day also kicks off the Winter Festival running through Hogmanay and culminating on Burns Night – it’s vital that we use our winter cultural calendar to showcase Scotland as a great year-round visitor destination.

“This year’s celebrations are particularly special because they will be the warm up to Homecoming 2009 – www.homecomingscotland.com. Marking the 250th anniversary of the birth of Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns, Homecoming will pick up from St Andrew’s Day to celebrate Scotland’s great achievements and our ties of family and friendship around the world.

“I encourage all Scots everywhere and anyone with a connection to Scotland to do more this year - celebrate our national day and enjoy the inimitable culture of Scotland old and new.”

To book your trip from New Zealand to Scotland and celebrate Homecoming in style – or for information on flights and packages, please contact House of Travel 0800 838 747 or houseoftravel.co.nz
Story source;
Scoop Independent News
New Zealand.

SCOTLAND'S HOSPITALS HAVE FASTEST EVER WAITING TIMES. .

MSP WELCOMES FASTEST EVER WAITING TIMES

Lothians MSP Dr Ian McKee has today welcomed the statistical announcement from the Scottish Government that faster treatment times are being delivered across Scotland and that all of the current national maximum waiting times standards have been effectively met.

The statistics show that NHS Scotland is delivering ahead of the maximum waiting time standard of 18 weeks for a first outpatient consultation and for inpatient and day case treatment.

They also show that NHS Scotland is on track to meet the new targets for reducing the waiting times for outpatient and inpatient treatment to 15 weeks by March 2009, and to meet the target to reduce the maximum wait for key diagnostic tests from nine weeks to six weeks.

Commenting on the figures Dr McKee said:

"These statistics show the SNP Government is taking us in the right direction to make a healthier Scotland. It is a very welcome development that after years of disappointment we are delivering on waiting times.

"The SNP pledged to make a healthier Scotland and these figures are not only proof we are heading in that direction but also underline our determination and desire to achieve that aim.

"These statistics are not the finishing line and I am confident that the SNP and the Scottish Government in conjunction with local health boards will continue to tackle waiting times head on."
Excellent news for the people of Scotland!

U.S. DINOSAURS ONCE ROAMED SCOTLAND 24th Nov 2008.

U.S. DINOSAURS ONCE ROAMED SCOTLAND.
AND
SCOTLAND'S DINOSAURS ONCE ROAMED THE U.S.
Spot the resemblance between Wyoming and Skye?
This time it is more than the human blood line of the adventurist Scot travelling to far away lands.
Skye is proving to be a treasure trove of Prehistoric information.
Proof of the earliest water turtles have been found on Skye along with the exact same type of dinosaurs footprint found in Wyoming.
BBC reporter Steven Mckenzie has an interesting story about it...

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND 2009 FUNDING LATEST NEWS.

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND 2009 FUNDING LATEST NEWS.

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND 2009
Funding for Homecoming Highland

The Scottish Government is making £60,000 available to boost a key event in next year's Highland Year of Homecoming tourism initiative.

The conference, featuring speakers from around the world, will be part of the wider Homecoming Scotland 2009 project.

The 10-month festival of all things Scottish coincides with the 250th anniversary of poet Robert Burns.

Fiona Hampton, of Highland Homecoming, said the conference speakers would be of a high calibre.

Whisky month

It is hoped Homecoming will attract thousands of expats from across the world when it launches next year.

Nationally, the festival kicks off on Burns Night, on 25 January, and will run until St Andrew's Day on 30 November.

The programme of events has been organised around five main themes - Robert Burns, whisky, golf, great Scottish minds and innovations and Scotland's culture and heritage.

Among the events will be a show at the Clyde Auditorium to celebrate the songs of Burns and a whole whisky month in May, with distillers across the country opening up their doors.

The biggest clan gathering in 200 years will also be staged in Edinburgh in July, and a flotilla of boats will travel the length of the Caledonian Canal, from Fort William to Inverness.

The Edinburgh International Science Festival will be showcasing the contributions made to innovation by Scots, and an exhibition of contemporary art inspired by Burns will be hosted at Glasgow's Mitchell Library.

source: BBC Scotland.

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND PRECEDENCE IN SCOTLAND.

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND PRECEDENCE IN SCOTLAND since 1905.

PRECEDENCE IN SCOTLAND is the order of importance recognised in Scotland by Royal Warrant since 1905. The Order of Precedence is as follows;
The Sovereign - Queen Elizabeth ||
The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.
The Lord High Commissioner to the General Assembly (while that Assembly is sitting).
The Duke of Rothesay.
The Duke of York.
The Earl of Wessex.
Prince William of Wales.
Prince Henry of Wales.
Viscount Severn.
Peter Phillips.
The Duke of Gloucester.
The Duke of Kent.
Prince Michael of Kent.
Lords Lieutenants of Counties, Lord Provosts of Counties of Cities, and Sheriffs Principal (successively - within their own localities and during holding of office).
Lord Chancellor of Great Britain.
Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland.
The Prime Minister.
Keepers of the Great Seal and of the Privy Seal (successively - if Peers).
Hereditary Lord High Constable of Scotland. Hereditary Master of the Household.
Dukes (successively) of England, Scotland, Great Britain and United Kingdom (including Ireland since date of Union).
Eldest sons of Royal Dukes.
Marquesses, in same order as Dukes.
Dukes eldest sons.
Earls, in order as Dukes.
Younger sons of Dukes of Blood Royal.
Marquesses' eldest sons.
Dukes' younger sons.
Keepers of the Great Seal and of the Privy Seal (successively - if not Peers).
Lord Justice General.
Lord Clerk Register.
Lord Advocate.
Lord Justice Clerk.
Viscounts, in order as Dukes.
Earls' eldest sons.
Marquesses' younger sons.
Lord-Barons, in order as Dukes.
Viscounts' eldest sons.
Earls' younger sons.
Lord-Barons' eldest sons.
Knights of the Garter.
Privy Councilors not included in above ranks.
Senators of Coll. of Justice (Lords of Session).
Viscounts' younger sons.
Lord-Barons' younger sons.
Sons of Life Peers.
Baronets.
Knights of the Thistle.
Knights of other Orders.
Solicitor-General for Scotland.
Lord Lyon King of Arms.
Sheriffs Principal.
Knights Bachelor.
Sheriffs Substitute.
Companions of Order.
Commanders of Royal Victorian and British Empire Orders.
Eldest sons of younger sons of Peers.
Companions of Distinguished Service Order.
Members (Class 4) Royal Victorian Order.
Officers of British Empire Order.
Baronets' eldest sons.
Knights' eldest sons successively (from Garter to Bachelor).
Members of Class 5 of Royal Victorian Order.
Members of British Empire Order.
Baronets' younger sons.
Knights' younger sons.
Queen's Counsel.
Barons-feudal.
Esquires.
Gentlemen.
Order of Precedence is the recognised hierarchy of important people. The Order of Precedence does not necessarily point to the importance of that person but an indication of time honoured traditions with respect to historical relevance.
The Order of Precedence in Scotland was recognized and established in 1905 by Royal Warrant - Royal Warrant amendments have been made three times since 1905 to keep pace with changing times such as the Scottish Parliament.
The list above is very close to the original Order of Precedence and does not take into account the amendment positions since the 1999 amendments.
This thread answers Mary and John's question from the U.S.

ROBERT BURNS LETTER TO MR THOMSON HIS PUBLISHER.

ROBERT BURNS LETTER TO MR THOMSON HIS PUBLISHER.

ROBERT BURNS LETTER TO MR THOMSON dated 16th September 1792 Dumfries.
Sir,
I have just this moment got your letter. As the request you make to me will positively add to my enjoyments in complying with it, I shall enter into your undertaking with all the small portion of abilities I have, strained to their utmost exertion by the impulse of enthusiasm.
Only, don't hurry me:"Deil tak the hindmost," is by no means the cri de guerre of my muse. Will you, as I am inferior to none of you in enthusiastic attachment to the poetry and music of old Caledonia, and, since you request it, have cheerfully promised my mite of assistance - will you let me have a list of your airs, with the first line of the printed verses you intend for them, that I may have the opportunity of suggesting any alteration that may occur to me. You know 'tis in the way of my trade; still leaving you, gentlemen, the undoubted right of publishers, to approve, or reject, at your pleasure, for your own publication. A propos! if you are for English verses, there is, on my part, an end to the matter. Whether in the simplicity of the ballad, or the pathos of the song, I can only hope to please myself in being allowed at least a sprinkling of our native tongue. English verses, particularly the works of Scotsmen, that have merit, are certainly very eligible. "Tweedside;" Ah! the poor shepherd's mournful fate!" Ah! Chloris could I now but sit," &c. you cannot mend; but such insipid stuff as, "To Fanny fair could I impart," &c. usually set to "The Mill, Mill O," is a disgrace to the collections in which it has already appeared, and would doubly dusgrace a collection that will have the very superior merit of yours. But more of this in the farther prosecution of the business, if I am called on for my strictures and amendments - I say, amendments; for I will not alter except where I myself at least think that I amend.
As to any remunerations, you may think my songs either above or below price; for they shall absolutely be the one or the other. In the honest enthusiasm with which I embark in your undertaking, to talk of money, wages, fee, hire, &c. would be downright prostitution of soul! A proof of each of the songs that I compose or amend, I shall receive as a favour. In the rustic phrase of the season, "Gude speed the wark!"
I am sir, your very humble servant,
Robert Burns.
***************
Robert Burns letter to his publisher shows very clearly he only wished his work to be kept in his native tongue.
I wonder what Robert Burns would think of this venture...

ROBERT BURNS ADDRESS TO THE CALEDONIAN HUNT.

ROBERT BURNS ADDRESS TO THE CALEDONIAN HUNT.

ROBERT BURNS OTHER LITERATURE is literature which is not so well known but allows those deeply interested in Robert Burns work to get a proper glimpse of the type of man Scotlands greatest poet really was. Here is an address made by Robert Burns on April 4th 1787 to the Noblemen and Gentlemen of the Caledonian Hunt.
***
My Lords and Gentlemen,
A Scottish Bard, proud of the name, and whose highest ambition is to sing in his country's service - where shall he so properly look for patronage as to the illustrious names of his native land; those who bear the honours and inherit the virtues of their ancestors? The Poetic Genius of my country found me; as the prophetic bard Elijah did Elisha - at the plough; and threw her inspiring mantle over me. She bade me sing the loves, the joys, the rural scenes and rural pleasures of my native soil, in my native tongue: I tuned my wild, artless notes, as she inspired. She whispered me to come to this ancient Metropolis of Caledonia, and lay my Songs under your honoured protection: I now obey her dictates.
Though much indebted to your goodness, I do not approach you, my Lords and Gentlemen, in the usual style of dedication, to thank you for past favours; that path is so hackneyed by prostituted learning, that honest rusticity is ashamed of it. Nor do I present this address with the venal soul of a servile Author, looking for continuation of those favours: I was bred to the plough, and am independent. I come to claim the common Scottish name with you, my illustrious countrymen; and to tell the world that I glory in the title. I come to congratulate my country, that the blood of her ancient heroes still runs uncontaminated; and that from your courage, knowledge, and public spirit, she may expect protection, wealth, and liberty. In the last place, I come to proffer my warmest wishes to the Great Fountain of Honour, the Monarch of the Universe, for your welfare and happiness.
When you go forth to waken the Echoes, in the ancient and favourite amusement of your forefathers, may Pleasure ever be of your party; and may Social Joy await your return. When harassed in courts or camps with the jostlings of bad men and bad measures, may the honest consciousness of injured worth attend your return to your native seats; and may domestic happiness, with a smiling welcome, meet you at your gates! May corruption shrink at your kindling indignant glance; and may tyranny in the Ruler, and licentiousness in the People, equally find you an inexorable foe!
I have the honour to be,
With the sincerest gratitude,
and highest respect,
My Lords and Gentlemen,
Your most devoted humble servant,
ROBERT BURNS.

SCOTLANDS FIRST MINISTER ALEX SALMOND OPENS THE "CLACKMANNANSHIRE BRIDGE". 19th NOVEMBER 2008.

SCOTLANDS FIRST MINISTER ALEX SALMOND OPENS THE "CLACKMANNANSHIRE BRIDGE". 19th NOVEMBER 2008.

SCOTLANDS FIRST MINISTER ALEX SALMOND OPENS THE "CLACKMANNANSHIRE BRIDGE". 19th NOVEMBER 2008. The £120 million pound bridge is between Fife and Falkirk and is in addition to the existing Kincardine Bridge. Kincardine village itself gets thousands of cars every day heading for the Kincardine Bridge and with the new Clackmannanshire Bridge the traffic will be very much lighter.
The new Clackmannanshire Bridge will also benefit those wishing access to the motorway network.
The petitions and requests for the new Clackmannanshire Bridge span back more than twenty (20) years and can do nothing but good for the local areas concerned. Obvious benefits include safer roads and less localised pollution.
The new Clackmannanshire Bridge will allow high sided vehicles to move freely even under strong winds, unlike the Forth Road Bridge which sometimes is forced to close for high sided vehicles because of extreme weather conditions.
The map shows the old route advised from Fife to Falkirk and although this can and will be used the new bridge is expected to take the bulk of the heavy traffic.

SIR SEAN CONNERY TO OFFICIALLY OPEN TRUMP GOLF RESORT.

SIR SEAN CONNERY TO OFFICIALLY OPEN TRUMP GOLF RESORT.


Former 007 JAMES BOND star SIR SEAN CONNERY is overjoyed at the prospect that he will officially open DONALD TRUMP's $1.5 billion Golf Course Resort in Scotland because he thinks as we do that it will boost the country's image around the world.
Real Estate Tycoon and Scottish Ambassador Mr Trump has been given the go ahead by the Scottish government to build 500 new houses, 950 holiday homes and timeshares, a hotel and a world class Golf Course at the Menie Estate in Aberdeen shire.
It has just been reported that the Scottish actor "Connery" has been lined up for the official launch, he will be given the membership number 007 and will be the first person to tee off on the course.
Sir Sean is quoted as saying, "During tough economic times, this is a major vote of confidence in Scotland's tourist industry and our ability to rise to the challenge. "I look forward to seeing a new gem in the north-east that is good for Aberdeenshire and good for Scotland."
Mr Trump's proposal faced tough time at the hands of local planners but went to an appeal and has since been approved by the Scottish national government.
Connery is delighted with the planning reversal, adding: "It's exactly this kind of swift decision making and focus on boosting the economy and local job opportunities which shows that Scotland is an excellent place to do business."



And we can all agree with Sean on that statement!

PR: wait... I: wait... L: wait... LD: wait... I: wait... wait... C: wait... SD: wait...

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND 2009 ROBERT BURNS INFORMATION.

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND 2009 ROBERT BURNS INFORMATION.

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND 2009 ROBERT BURNS INFORMATION about the local area where Robert Burns was born in 1759 in a little thatched cottage at Doonfoot Alloway in Ayrshire.
Doonfoot Alloway today is a quiet and peaceful little hamlet on the outskirts of the busy and picturesque town of Ayr. Ayr is a seaside town which attracts many tourists to the beautiful beach and to the well known Ayr Racecourse. Many local towns and villages look on Ayr as the ideal "day out".
Mauchline is about twelve miles from Ayr and Mauchline is where Robert Burns spent much of his poetic life. The farm Mossgiel at Mauchline where Burns farmed is in lush pastureland about one mile from Mauchline and Burns Monument.
Followers of Robert Burns poems can still visit the original pub in Mauchline called "Poosie Nancy's" and at this time it is painted in character in black and white.
As the crow flies directly West of Mauchline is the little hamlet of Tarbolton where Robert Burns frequented "The Batchelors Club", where Robert Burns took his first step into Freemasonry.
Travelling West takes you to the photographers dream coastline which stretches from Greenock in the North to Stranraer in the South. On this coastline you can visit the outstanding National Trust, Culzean Castle, and at the right time of year you can also visit the Maidens for excellent Ayrshire Tatties (potatoes).
The graphic of Robert Burns Monument in Mauchline is from my own private collection.

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND 2009 COURT OF THE LORD LYON INFORMATION.

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND 2009 COURT OF THE LORD LYON INFORMATION.

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND 2009 COURT OF THE LORD LYON INFORMATION is the Scottish Court of Chivalry, including the genealogical jurisdiction of the Ri-Sennachie of Scotland's Celtic Kings, adjudicates rights to arms and administration of The Scottish Public Register of All Arms and Bearings and Public Register of All Genealogies. The Lord Lyon presides and judicially establishes rights to existing arms or succession to Chiefship, or for cadets with with scientific "differences" showing position in Clans or family. Pedigrees are also established by decrees of Lyon Court, and by Letters Patent. As Royal Commissioner in Armory, he grants Patents of Arms (which constitute the grantee and heirs noble in the Nobless of Scotland) to "virtuous and well-deserving" Scotsmen, and petitioners (personal or corporate) in Her Majesty's overseas realms of Scottish connection, and issues birthbrieves. In Scots Law, Arms are protected by statute; their usurpation is punishable, and the Registration Fees of Honour on patents and matriculations are payable to H.M. Exchequer.
More information...

SCOTLANDS PATRON SAINT.

SCOTLANDS PATRON SAINT.

SCOTLANDS PATRON SAINT is ST.ANDREW.
St. Andrew, Patron Saint of Scotland. - St. Andrew, one of the Christian Apostles and brother of Simon Peter, was born at Bethsaida on the Lake of Galilee and lived in Capernaum. He preached the Gospel in Asia Minor and in Scythia along the shores of the Black Sea and became the patron saint of Russia. It is believed that he suffered crucifixion at Patras in Achaea, on a crux decussata (now known as St. Andrew's cross) and that his relics were removed from Patras to Constantinople and then to St. Andrews, probably in the 8th century, since which time he has been the patron saint of Scotland. The festival of St. Andrew is held on November 30th, a church festival indicated in the calendar by Red Letters.
Red Letter days are very important in keeping our heritage alive;
This is when Scarlet Robes are worn by the Judges of the Queen's Bench Division at the sittings of a Criminal Court and on all State Occasions.
For example here are a few well known Red Letter Days;
Queen's Birthday
Ascension Day
Coronation Day
All Saints
Lord Mayors Day
St.Andrew
St.Mark
St. Peter

WHEN IS BURNS NIGHT 2009?

WHEN IS BURNS NIGHT 2009?

WHEN IS BURNS NIGHT 2009?

We have been getting many requests from our readers and visitors on this Homecoming Scotland Blog and our other Homecoming Scotland 2009 festival websites to clarify the exact date that Scotland celebrates it's Burns Night 2009.

25Th of January is the official date and to mark this occasion there will be many many events planned right across Scotland details of with will be published on this Blog soon!

This date has been somewhat extended for the purpose of the Homecoming Scotland celebrations with events planned across Scotland on the 24-25th January 2009.

For all our overseas visitors who wish to join the Burns night Celebrations then the special event in Scotland that night may well be in any town or city where thousands of people are set to celebrate their usual Burns Supper. As visitors from overseas you are likely to be mistaken for a long lost sister or brother as there is always a place at the table for that special meal and a dram or two (refreshment).

More information on Burns Night 2009 will be released on this blog soon!

THE GATHERING OF THE CLANS 2009.

THE GATHERING OF THE CLANS 2009.

THE GATHERING OF THE CLANS 2009 in the year of Homecoming Scotland is one very special occasion. (officially called: THE GATHERING 2009)
The last such gathering was reminiscent of some earlier pageants in the years 1822, 1977 and 1989 which brought many Clans together.
Clans of many famous names have already booked their Clan Tent. This event will be the greatest international gathering, with around 140 different clans in the parade, and 120 clans represented in the tented village at the Highland Games.The massive parade which will march with pride along the Royal Mile in Edinburgh will be viewed by the World's media.
There will be Clan members and their families from all over the world and our feedback is more than positive from all over the World.
HRH The Prince Charles is also titled the Duke of Rothesay, which is the official title to the heir apparent to the throne of the Kingdom of Scotland. A separate Scottish throne has not existed since the Treaty of Union in 1707, which saw the joining of the Kingdom of Scotland with the Kingdom of England to form the Kingdom of Great Britain under Queen Anne.
HRH Prince Charles is the Royal Patron for the Clan Gathering in the year of Homecoming Scotland 2009.
detailed information; http://www.thegathering2009.com
***********
Graphic donated by kind permission of Buckingham Palace to;
http://homecomingscotlandblog.blogspot.com/ 11thNov.2008.
Please note;
The graphic is copyright of Clarence House and must not be
copied without permission of Buckingham Palace.

VISIT SCOTLAND OFFICIAL HELP LINES.

VISIT SCOTLAND OFFICIAL HELP LINES.

VISIT SCOTLAND OFFICAL HELP LINES for Homecoming Scotland 2009 and beyond.
Visit Scotland have set up these numbers for ALL visitors to Scotland at any time including Homecoming Scotland 2009
Visitors to Scotland from either overseas or U.K. have their own number for accommodation advice, transport advice, and any advice on Scotland for visitors.
Overseas visitors can call;
0044 1506 832121
U.K. visitors can call;
0845 2255121
The Visit Scotland website is at;
http://www.visitscotland.com

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND, SCOTLANDS EARLY HISTORY AS RECORDED PART 2.

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND, SCOTLANDS EARLY HISTORY AS RECORDED PART 2.

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND, SCOTLANDS EARLY HISTORY as recorded Part 2.

The Scots;
During the later years of the Roman occupation the garrison was continually harassed by Pictish tribes north of the Wall, aided by Scots (the Gaelic tribe then dominant in Ireland) and when the garrison was withdrawn these Picts and Scots were the principal enemies of the Celtic Brythons, who are believed to have called in the Saxons to protect them from the invasions of their neighbours. A relic of the struggle between Pict and Brython is stillo to be seen in the Catrail, or Picts' Work Dyke of Roxburgh (from Torwoodlee, near Galashiels, to Peel Fell in the Cheviots). Christianity was introduced into Southern Caladonia about 380 by Missionaries from Romanized Britain, who penetrated to the northern districts and islands. After the withdrawal (or absorption) of the Roman garrison of Britain there were many years of tribal warfare between the Picts and Scots, the Brythonic Waelisc (Welsh) of Strathclyde (South west Scotland and Cumberland) and the Anglo-Saxons of the Lothians. The Waelisc were isolated from their kinsman in Wales by the victory of the West Saxons at Chester (613), and towards the close of the 9th century the Scots under Kenneth Macalpine became the dominant power in Caladonia. In the reign of Malcolm the first (943 - 954) the Brythons of Waelisc (Welsh) of Strathclyde were brought into subjection, the lowland kingdom of the English (Lothian) being conquered by Malcolm the second (1005 - 1034). From the close of the 11th century until the middle of the 16th there were constant wars between Scotland and England, the outstanding figures in the struggle being William Wallace, who defeated the English at Stirling Bridge (1297) and Robert Bruce, who won the victory of Bannockburn (1314). James the fourth and many of his nobles fell at the disastrous battle of Flodden (1513) and in 1603 James the sixth, the Stuart King of Scotland and the heir to the Tudor line of England (his mother, Mary Queen of Scots, was the great-grandaughter of Henry the seventh) succeeded Queen Elizabeth the first on the throne, his successors reigning as Sovereigns of Great Britain. After the abdication (by flight) of James the seventh, the crown devolved upon William the third (grandson of Charles the first) and Mary (daughter of James the seventh) and, their issue failing, upon Anne (second daughter of James the seventh). Anne's children died young, and the throne devolved upon George the first (great grandson of James the sixth). In 1689 Graham of Claverhouse "roused the Highlands" on behalf of James the seventh, but died after a military success at Killiecrankie. In 1715 armed risings led to the indecisive battle of Sheriffmuir, but the movement died down until 1745, when Prince Charles Edward defeated the Royalist troops under Sir John Cope at Prestonpans and advanced to Derby in England (1746). From Derby, the adherents of "James the eighth", fell back on the defensive and the Jacobite movement was finally crushed by the Royalist troops under the Duke of Cumberland at Culloden (April 16th 1746).

SCOTTISH DIALECT TRANSLATION PART 2.

SCOTTISH DIALECT TRANSLATION PART 2.

SCOTTISH DIALECT TRANSLATION PART 2 is covering the letter "B".
Like most countries Scotland has many different dialects depending on which part of Scotland you live. For example;
In Aberdeenshire the word beets has the same meaning in Ayrshire as bits, which in English reads as boots. The translations listed do not apply to all of Scotland but in some parts of Scotland;
B;
Bairn - a child
Baith - both
Bane - bone
Bannock - a pancake or round flat cake.
Barley bree - whisky
Bauk en - beam end
Bauks - rafters
Bauld - bold
Bear - barley
Beastie - beast
Beck - to curtsey
Beet - boot, fan, feed, warm
Befa - befall
Behin - behind
Beldams - old woman
Belyve - by and by
Ben - in
Ben end - inner end, parlour
Beuk - book
Bicker - wooden dish, short quick race
Bickerin - argue, hurrying
Bield - shelter
Biggin - house
Billies - male companions
Birkie - smart
Bizz - bustle
Black bonnet - elder
Blastet - worthless
Blate - shy
Blaw - boast
Blawn - blown
Bleeze - blaze
Bleezin - blazing, flaming
Blellum - babbler
Blether - talk, idle chatter
Blink - a moment
Bluid - blood
Bock - to vomit
Boddle - small coin
Bogle - hobgoblin
Bonnie - beautiful
Boord - board
Botch - angry tumour
Bousing or boozing - drinking
Bow kail - cabbage
Bowse - to drink
Brachen - fern
Brae - small hill
Braid claith - broad cloth
Brak - break
Branks - bridle
Brash - short illness
Brattle - short quick race
Braw - handsome
Brawly - very well
Brawny - brawn and muscle
Braws - fine cloth
Breastie - breast
Breeks - breeches, trousers
Brent - polished
Brig - bridge
Brither - brother
Brock - badger
Brunstane - brimstone
Brunt - burnt
Buirdly - broad made
Burn - stream, rivulet
Busk - dress smart
Buskit - tastefully dressed
But and Ben - kitchen and parlour, small cottage
By - past, beside
Byke - wild bees nest

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND, SCOTLAND'S EARLY HISTORY.

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND, SCOTLAND'S EARLY HISTORY.

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND, SCOTLAND'S EARLY HISTORY as recorded. Part 1.

Prehistoric Man;
The Picts, believed to be of non-Aryan origin, and stated to have been named Picti by the Romans on account of the tribal habit of painting the body, seem to have inhabited the whole of North Britian and to have spread over the North of Ireland. Picts Houses are most frequent in the northern counties of Caithness and Sutherland and in the Orkney Islands. Celtic Goidels, Brythons and Belgae arrived from Belgic Gaul during the latter part of the Bronze Age and in the early Iron Age, and except in the extreme north of the mainland and in the islands, the civilisation and speech of the people were definitely Celtic at the time of the Roman Invasion of Britain.
The Roman Invasion;
In A.D. 80 Julius Agricola extended the Roman conquests in Britain by advancing into Caladonia as far as the "Grampian" Hills, but after a victory at Mons Graupius (since corrupted to Grampius) he was recalled and no further advance was made for about sixty (60) years, when the Roman frontier was carried to the isthmus between the Forth and Clyde and marked by the Wall of Pius, towards which ran military roads from the cheviots. The Roman occupation of Southern Caledonia was not so effective as that of South Britain, and before the close of the second century the northern limit of Roman Britain had receded to Hadrian's Wall.

LEST WE FORGET.

British Forces forum link;
http://britsforces.s2.bizhat.com/index.php?mforum=britsforces

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND 2009 MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY PLANNER.

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND 2009 MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY PLANNER.

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND 2009 MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY PLANNER for those visiting Scotland during the Homecoming Scotland celebrations and to answer a request from the U.S.
GLASGOW;
PEOPLE'S PALACE MUSEUM.
MUSEUM OF TRANSPORT.
HUNTERIAN ART GALLERY AND MUSEUM.
GALLERY OF MODERN ART.
THE BURRELL COLLECTION.
KELVINGROVE ART GALLERY AND MUSEUM.
Plus many smaller museums which Glasgow's friendly Scots will tell you about.
***
EDINBURGH;
SCOTTISH NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY.
SCOTTISH NATIONAL GALLERY OF MODERN ART.
QUEEN'S GALLERY, PALACE OF HOLLYROODHOUSE.
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF SCOTLAND.
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF FLIGHT.
NATIONAL GALLERY OF SCOTLAND.
MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD.
DEAN GALLERY.
CITY ART CENTRE.
Plus many smaller museums which Edinburgh's friendly Scots will tell you about.
***
ABERDEEN;
ABERDEEN ART GALLERY.
Plus much more which Aberdeen's friendly Scots will tell you about.
***
Please note these are only the well known art galleries and museums, there are many smaller museums throughout Scotland in different towns and cities, touching on most subjects. An excellent example is housed in Alford (pronounced; AH-FORD), Aberdeenshire who get thousands of visitors each year to their "Alford Transport Museum". Ancient vehicles such as Penny Farthing bikes, buses, cars, motorcycles with some dating back to the originals and imported from other countries, there is even an ex-James Bond movie vehicle. Great family day out!
Wherever you visit in Scotland there is always something to entertain you or your family, from art galleries to museums.

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND 2009 GORDON HIGHLANDERS MUSEUM.

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND 2009 GORDON HIGHLANDERS MUSEUM.

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND 2009 GORDON HIGHLANDERS MUSEUM is not to be missed while visiting during the Homecoming Scotland celebrations.
The Regiment as described by Winston Churchill as; "The Finest Regiment in The World".
From the Napoleonic wars to the modern day, you can re-live the compelling and dramatic story of The Gordon Highlanders through the spectacular and interactive displays.
Following in the footsteps of serving soldiers, the museum takes you on an eye-opening journey through the history of one of the most famous regiments in the British Army.
IT IS A STORY SPANNING 200 YEARS OF WORLD HISTORY AND NINETEEN (19) VICTORIA CROSSES AND IS PACKED WITH TALES OF COURAGE AND TENACITY ON THE BATTLEFIELD.
Facilities include;
Duchess Jean Tea Room - Gift Shop - Gardens - Guided Tours - Film Theatre - Corporate & Private Hire - Interactive Displays - Armoury & Medal Store - School Workshops - Family Activities - Full Disability Access.
For more information please visit;
http://www.gordonhighlanders.com

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND SCOTTISH TRADITIONAL BOAT FESTIVAL.

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND SCOTTISH TRADITIONAL BOAT FESTIVAL.

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND SCOTTISH TRADITIONAL BOAT FESTIVAL will be from the 2nd of July until the 5th of July 2009.
Portsoy boat festival is an annual festival each year celebrating fishing and boating in the North East of Scotland.
The usual two day celebration has been extended to four days especially for Homecoming Scotland 2009.
Portsoy visitors to the festival could not be faulted for thinking they had travelled back in time as Portsoy harbour was originally built in 1693 and very little has changed.
Portsoy's Scottish Traditional Boat Festival has many visitors each year and Portsoy has built up very good relations with our Scandanavian neighbours who always visit the Porsoy Boat Festival.
Portsoy is set in wild rugged scenery with one of the most beautiful coastlines in Scotland.
Homecoming Scotland visitors will be delighted they took in part of their visit to attend the Scottish Traditional Boat Festival at Portsoy.
Anyone is welcome to use my photograph here, it comes from my private collection.
Remember your camera for some memorable photographs along this stunning coastline.
Is it news to you ? then you read it here first! So please share it!

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND 2009, SCOTLAND'S YEAR OF CELEBRATIONS.

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND 2009, SCOTLAND'S YEAR OF CELEBRATIONS.
BURNS LIGHT OPEN INVITATION.

BURNS LIGHT OPEN INVITATION to one and all is part of the 250th Burns Anniversary weekend celebrations, you are invited to join a warm and vibrant mid winter festival in Dumfries.
Burns Light promises to be an amazing spectacle, with lantern processions through the old town.
Lanterns large and small, will be inspired by the works of Robert Burns, who spent much of his life in Dumfries and nearby Ellisland. The lanterns will wind through the historic heart of Dumfries, past Burns' house and onto his final resting place at St Michael's Church. The procession ends at the River Nith for live music, a traditional ceilidh and a spectacular fire show, featuring huge Burns-inspired withy sculptures and fireworks.
Homecoming Scotland 2009, Scotland's year of celebrations!

SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT APPROVE A £115 MILLION GOLF COURSE PLAN.

SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT APPROVE A £115 MILLION GOLF COURSE PLAN.

SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT APPROVE A £115 MILLION GOLF COURSE PLAN two months before the start of Homecoming Scotland 2009 celebrations and in the shadow of Mr. Trumps massive golf complex plans for the Menie Estate.
The latest Scottish Government approval has been granted for an hotel, housing and leasure and brings back to life the old Roman Catholic priesthood college in Blairs, Aberdeen.
We would suggest that this golf course along with Mr. Trumps will add to the reputation of "The Home Of Golf", but especially in the "North East of Scotland", where we already have ten (10) golf courses within Aberdeen City limits, and each with their own little idiosyncrasy.
The new plan is designed by Scotlands own Paul Lawrie, a past Open Champion who is no stranger on any of the north East of Scotland golf courses, what better credentials for a top notch course.
Once again huge investment and jobs for the people of Scotland and smart thinking by our elected Scottish government. Once again Scotland is proving to be the place to invest.
Visitors to Scotland can at present, visit and play a completely different golf course each day for a month without ever going beyond one hours drive from Aberdeen.
Is it news to you ? then you read it here first!

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND 2009 INVITE TO BARACK OBAMA.

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND 2009 INVITE TO BARACK OBAMA.

Obama receives Scots invitation

Leading politicians have invited president-elect Barack Obama to visit Scotland following his victory in the US elections.

First Minister Alex Salmond has sent his congratulations after what he described as "a victory for optimism over pessimism, for hope over fear".

He invited him to come to Scotland during the 2009 Year of Homecoming.

Scottish Secretary Jim Murphy also invited him north of the border when he makes his first visit to the UK.

He described Mr Obama's victory as an "inspiration".

"Only one generation after the civil rights movement an African-American is in the White House," he said.

"This is truly history in the making.

"This is a day that our great grandchildren will learn of and talk about."

Mr Salmond said Americans had chosen another president of Scottish descent.

Mr Obama's maternal ancestor, Edward FitzRandolph, is said to have emigrated to America in the 17th Century.

According to genealogists, his ancestry can also be traced to William the Lion, who ruled Scotland from 1165 to 1214.

The first minister said 12 US presidents had been of Scottish descent.

He told BBC Scotland Mr Obama would lead America in the right direction.

read the full story...

MR. DONALD TRUMP INVESTS IN SCOTLAND.

MR. DONALD TRUMP INVESTS IN SCOTLAND.

MR. DONALD TRUMPS CONFIDENCE AND LOVE OF SCOTLAND to build two (2) golf courses, a Victorian style hotel and a golf academy have today been given the official green light by Scotland.
Mr. Trump an ambassador for Scotland has bought the Menie Estate in Aberdeenshire. The Menie Estate comes complete with it's own built in sand dunes all ideal for links courses.
Mr. Trump's plans are to make golf courses like no other and in "The Home Of Golf", we look forward to something very special which has already been forecast.
As a younger man growing up my grandfathers saying was;
"To be truly noble, is to try to be better than you are.
Mr. Trump - you fill that slot for investment for Scotland like no one has ever done before.
Mr. Trump made a comment a few years ago which many Scots found encouraging when he said;

"For a long time I've been aware that Scottish people are fiercely proud of Scotland and that they like to help their fellow countrymen."

We hope he feels the same way today and we all must play our part in encouraging business large or small to invest in Scotland.
Homecoming Scotland 2009 is shining brighter every day if we get Scottish blood like Mr. Trumps coming home to Scotland.

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND 2009 BBC'S SCOTLAND'S HISTORY.

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND 2009 BBC'S SCOTLAND'S HISTORY.

HOMECOMING SCOTLAND 2009 BBC'S SCOTLAND'S HISTORY is set to be an award winner.
BBC Scotland are starting our Homecoming Scotland theme nice and early with warts and all documentary series of 10 parts split into two sets of five, called SCOTLAND'S HISTORY.
SCOTLAND'S HISTORY will dig into our past and be covered by BBC RADIO, THE INTERNET, and T.V. starting next Sunday on BBC 1 Scotland.
The Scotland's History series is set to run for five (5) weeks which will take it nicely up to Homecoming Scotland 2009 year.
The second part of the 10 series Scotland's History will be shown in late Homecoming Scotland 2009 year.