Ullans Centre Ballymoney

Book Launch

2012-02-25T05:03:00.000Z

21st February 2012 saw the Ullans Speakers Association holding their official book launch of their latest 4 publications at the Mayors Parlour in Ballymoney hosted by Mayor Cllr Ian Stevenson.

'Alice Carrants in Wonderlan' - This book is the first translation of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland into Ulster Scots. A good deal of effort has been put into ensuring that the orthography used in Alice’s Carrànts in Wunnerlan is as consistent as possible. The spelling conforms to traditional practices amongst most of those writing in Ulster Scots and should be easily read by native speakers of Ulster Scots, brought up in the Ulster Scots speaking areas.

'Furst Reading Book in Ulster Scots' - This first reader is aimed at early learners of Cornish, whether children or adults. It has a relatively small vocabulary of just over 200 words, and presents nine classic stories: The Little Red Hen, The Gingerbread Boy, The Old Woman and the Pig, The Boy and the Goat, The Pancake, Chicken Licken, The Three Billy Goats Gruff, Little Tuppens, and Little Spider’s First Web.

'The Saisons an the Wather' activity book - This is an activity book aimed to teach small children the diffrent types of seasons and weather and not only learn the Ulster Scots words by complete the activities to put them into practice.

'Heroes from the Heartland' - This is our most recent publication. This publication is dedicated to the heroes and heroines of the Ulster Scots people of north Antrim. They lived in Ulster yet their names, habits, customs and lineage all point to roots in the Scottish motherland.You may never have heard of some of those featured but that is all the more reason to read this book and learn more about incredible feats of courage, strength and resolve that made those whose stories you will read about here, heroes and heroines from the heartland.

Guest in attendance included Ulster Scot Agence CEO Ian Crozier, Dr Ian Adamson presedent of the Ullans Academy, Ulster Scot writer Liam Logan along with various local Ulster Scot enthuaists and Ullans Speakers Association members.

The Group plans to produce at least 3 original publications this year. For a copy of any of our new books contact the Ullans Centre.

Ullans Alive Newsletter March 2012

2012-02-24T03:19:00.001Z

Ullans Alive Newsletter Mar12

Kingdom of Dalriada Burns Supper 2012

2012-02-19T17:16:00.001Z

10 th February saw the annual KOD burns supper take place. Up to 100 guest both local and further a field were in attendance.

The evening kicked off with the traditional piping in of the haggis followed by Alan Wright delivering the toast to the haggis.

Jonnie Crawford delivered the Selkirk grace before the guests were seated to a lovely 3 course meal provided by the cooks at the Manor Hotel Ballymoney.

After the meal the very funny John Wallace compared the evening with included a speech by the other special guest John Blair, president of the Belfast Burns Association. The immortal memory and toast was provided by Ulster Scots Agency development officer Gary Blair.

Nigel Kinnard delivered the toast to the lassies with Anne Morrison Smyth giving the witty reply to the toast. Jenny Martin provided two music sets and Codie Murray concluded the evening with the Vote of Thanks.

The. Evenings entertainment was provided by group 'Rightly On'

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Ullans Speakers Association Membership 2012

2012-02-08T01:45:00.000Z

The Ullans Speakers Association was formed in 2008 by native Ulster Scots speakers in an attempt to address many issues which the language was facing. Other groups were content on making words up which had no resembles to native speakers and this had resulted in native speakers being alienated from their own language and also led to questions being asked about the language. We also wished to engage the community and promote the language to everyone in everything we did, so an easy access approach was taken to any questions asked and the group were very accessible for talks, courses etc… Since our formation, we have established a track record of language development and working in partnership with other groups which has helped to develop the language over the past three years to its best standings in the community, much more still needs to be completed as the language has such a stigma from community leaders that continually needs to be challenged and the need to educate people about the penetration of Ulster Scots into English, commonly used words are Ulster Scots but the general population don’t realize they are using Ulster Scots every day.

This is where you come in. In order to develop the Ulster Scots language we need people to become members of the Ullans Speakers Association. As a member you will be invited to the AGM where you get a vote on the new members of the board/committee for the year ahead and even get the opportunity to become a member of the board/committee. After that you can attend as many or a little meetings as you want throughout the year.

You will also receive a regular update on the work taking place within the centre, the latest Ulster Scots news and events and a free copy of any of our new publications as they become available.From time to time we may require help with projects and events and if you would like and are free your help would be very much appreciated.

All we ask in return is £1 membership for the following year. Attached is a membership form which we ask you print and fill in and return to the centre along with your membership fee if you would like to join the Ullans Speakers Association. If more than yourself would like to join, please write additional members details on the back of the membership form.

Why not save on posting and call into the centre and stay for a cuppa and a chat.

(If sending money by post, attach coins to a piece of card)
Yours Sincerely
Ullans Speakers Association

Ullans Speakers Association Membership 2012

Name: ___________________________________________

Address: ___________________________________________
               ___________________________________________
               ___________________________________________

Postcode: ___________________________________________

Telephone: __________________________________________

E-Mail: ___________________________________________

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Office Use:

Date Received: ____________________

Membership Fee: YES / NO

Entered into file: YES / NO

Village group learns more of Ulster Scots tourism potential - Community - Larne Times

2012-02-08T01:14:00.000Z

Village group learns more of Ulster Scots tourism potential - Community - Larne Times

February Newsletter

2012-01-27T17:56:00.001Z

Ullans Alive Newsletter Feb12

Alice Carrants in Wunnerlan

2012-01-18T14:13:00.000Z

The book Alice's Adventures in Wonderland is a treasure of English children's literature and was first published in 1865. It has been translated into many languages. This book contains the famous illustrations of Sir John Tenniel, which first appeared in the original English edition.

In association with Evertype, the Ullans Speakers Associations development officer Anne Morrison Smyth has translated this classic into Ulster Scots.

For your copy drop in or contact The Ullans Centre.

Classes & Tuitions

2012-01-13T21:23:00.001Z

*Piping and Drumming, Monday nights @ 7pm, Ullans Centre.

*Scottish Country Dance, Wednesday nights, Evergreen Centre.

*Fiddle and Tin Whistle tuition starting Tuesday evenings.

For more details contact The Ullans Centre.

Upcoming Events

2012-01-13T21:21:00.001Z

*Kingdom of Dalriada Ulster Scots Society ‘Burns Supper’

10 February @ 7.30pm
The Manor Hotel, Ballymoney

£15 includes 3 Course Supper and Entertainment.

Tickets available from The Ullans Centre.

Everyone Welcome.

*Glebe Concert

16 February @ 7.30pm
Ballymoney Town Hall

Artist includes Skullduggery, Dunloy Acc Band, Dunaghy Flute Band and Aaron McLean (solo drummer).

£5
Tickets available from The Ullans Centre.

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New ‘Heroes from the Heartland Book’ Publication

2012-01-13T21:10:00.001Z

When considering the definition of the word “hero”, it is worth consulting the dictionary to get a concise meaning for the word. Having done so, I offer you the following dictionary definition:

“a person who, in the opinion of others, has heroic qualities or has performed a heroic act and is regarded as a model or ideal”.

Contrary to common belief, a hero or heroine does not necessarily need to be famous and, as this publication will show, he or she is seldom rich. People from humble backgrounds have achieved worldwide renown whilst others have committed a remarkable feat only to disappear from the pages of history, if they had ever appeared there at all.

This publication is dedicated to the heroes and heroines of the Ulster Scots people of north Antrim. They lived in Ulster yet their names, habits, customs and lineage all point to roots in the Scottish motherland. Some of those mentioned in the book may only have a brief chapter but the quantity of written material should not be used as a gauge to determine the magnitude of their particular feat. It may simply be because history has all but forgotten them. You may never have heard of some of those featured but that is all the more reason to read on and learn more about incredible feats of courage, strength and resolve that made those whose stories you will read about here, heroes and heroines from the heartland.

For your copy once available please contact The Ullans Centrer

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KOD Burns Supper

2012-01-11T21:44:00.000Z

Kingdom of Dalriada Ulster Scots Society‘Burns Supper’

10 February @ 7.30pm

The Manor Hotel, Ballymoney

£15

Tickets available from The UllansCentre.

Everyone Welcome.

New Weather Activity Book

2011-12-23T05:52:00.001Z

Our new Children's Weather activity book is now available. Learn the different types of weather and seasons all with activities in Ulster Scots.

For your free copy contact the centre by phone or email or drop in Monday to Fridays 9am - 5pm.Blogpress for ipad2

fUSe fm Ballymoney Christmas Broadcast

2011-10-21T10:19:00.001+01:00

Well its almost that time again, the Christmas broadcast of fUSe fm Ballymoney.

This year we celebrate or 10th broadcast from the toon since 2007, making us the longest and most successful fUSe fm project to date.

So we hope that yet again, as you do every broadcast, get behind us and show your support for Ulster Scots and language.

Broadcast on 106.2fm.

Text Requests: 07936007888 or Email: fusefm@hotmail.co.uk

Live Stream: www.fusefmbalymoney.com

(IF YOU WOULD BE INTRESTED ON PRESENTING ON COMMUNITY RADIO THEN PLEASE CONTACT JONNIE ON THE E-MAIL ABOVE

Santer Series 2

2011-09-28T17:00:00.001+01:00

Anne Morrison-Smyth returns for the second series of the popular Ulster Scots show Santer. In the first episode we have a cookery demo from Cairncastle Folk Festival, we take a look at cars from years past and Mark Wilson begins his musical journey to discover the music and ballads of the Border Reivers.
And if that's not enough Ulster Scots for one night, straight after Santer on BBC2 at 7.30pm, relive the American Tourists Visit in 2010 in We're fur Hame'

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Santer series two starts filiming.

2011-05-23T13:23:00.000+01:00

Tomorrow will start the filming of series two of Santer for BBC Northern Ireland. Due to popular demand the 1st Series was repeated just months after the original airing and has now been comissioned for a 2nd Series with 12 episodes..

When asked about filming for the 2nd series presenter Anne Morrison Smyth said, "Great but hope the weather picks up or i'll get curly hair"

If you want more information on Santer then visit the facebook page or contack Anne directly at the Ullans Centre.

SANTER FACEBOOK

Easter Ullans Alive Magazine

2011-04-19T20:52:00.000+01:00

The Easter edition of the Ullans Alive Magazine is now available. Find out what the Ullans Speakers Association have been us to the last few months.

If you would like a copy please feel free to call into the Ullans Centre, 4-6 Victoria Street Ballymoney or e-mail ullans@live.co.uk for your copy

'A Word in Ulster Scots'

2011-03-28T19:02:00.000+01:00

By Liam Logan
(From the foreward)

'This collection began life as a series of columns in the Belfast News Letter’s Ulster Scots supplement. There is no narrative thread, each piece stands alone but there is a link nonetheless. My aim was to try and show that many Ulster Scots words and phrases are a part of everyday speech for many people in Northern Ireland or if you prefer the northern parts of Ireland.

Perhaps you have never met a slabber or a gansh, never footered with something, never had a wee toaty drap o milk in your tay. Many people have and I am grateful for all the kind words from readers who got enjoyment from the columns.

Most of us are only one or two generations from the land and while many Ulster Scots words are incorporated into everyday urban speech, there is a rich linguistic tradition associated with rural life which lives on in the minds and the mouths of country dwellers and in the memories of their friends and relatives.'

(Liam Logan at recent book launch at Ullans Centre)

Books are availiable at the Ullans Centre, Ballymoney.
Paperback £9.95

Hardback £14.95

The Boat Factory

2011-03-10T18:25:00.001Z

With DAN GORDON and MICHAEL CONDRON.
Directed by PHILIP CRAWFORD



	26th March @8pm Ballymoney Town Hall

(Suitable for 12 years & above)

2nd of July 1945.
The sun shines down on a post-war world. A 16 year-old boy walks through the gates of Belfast’s Harland & Wolff Titanic Shipyard. 1700 ships built between here and the Clyde, 67 different Trades, 300 acres of land and 35,000 men employed at its height. Regarded as the biggest and best there is, if you can dream it – they can build it. This is history - this is his story -this is The Boat Factory.

Tickets available from the Town Hall box office or at The Ullans Centre, 4-6 Victoria Street. Email:ullans@live.co.uk/Tel:028 2766 8897

Tickets £8

Santer returns to BBC2

2011-02-24T19:44:00.000Z

The first series of Santer is to be repeated starting 27th Feb on BBC2 at 6.25pm.

So tune in even if you have or haven't watched the series before and remember to join and leave your comments on the Santer facebook page.

Santer Facebook Page

EPISODE 1

Anne Morrison-Smyth presents an Ulster Scots series with stories about an Olympic champion from Dervock and a collection of World War I letters from Fermanagh. Mark Wilson takes a musical journey down the Old Wagon Road in America. Closer to home there's poetry from Charlie Gillen, and music from Emily Smith and Broken Strings.

EPISODE 2

Anne Morrison-Smyth experiences the Mid-Antrim motorbike races.

Mark Wilson continues his musical journey down the Old Wagon Road in America.

Also included are Clydesdale horses in Castlerock, hidden history from Comber and music from Stonewall and The Grousebeaters.

EPISODE 3

This episode features a kilt-making granny from Strabane, a ghost story from Dervock and the origins of bluegrass music from Staunton in America. Plus, Wilson Burgess chats with the family of WF Marshall in Castlerock.

EPISODE 4

Anne Morrison-Smyth meets an 11-year-old girl who races stock cars, Mark Wilson visits the Carter Fold in Tennessee and Geordie McAdam gets a chance to play a Hugh Gordon fiddle.

EPISODE 5

Anne Morrison-Smyth helps Paula McIntyre prepare an Ulster Scots feast; Mark Wilson reaches Dandridge, Tennessee on his musical journey down the Old Wagon Road and Alice Cartmill from Rathfriland talks about her love for cricket and singing.

EPISODE 6

Anne Morrison-Smyth takes a tour of Plantation castles in Fermanagh, Helen Mark visits a lowland distillery in Scotland and Mark Wilson completes his journey down the Old Wagon Road in Charlotte North Carolina.

ENJOY THE NEXT 6 WEEKS

Ullans Alive Magazine

2011-01-30T21:05:00.000Z

The 1st 2011 edition of The Ullans Alive is now available from the Ullans Centre Ballymoney.

Features include:

fUSe fm Christmas 2010
The Ullans Christmas Carol Book
Belgium Trip
'Santer' and 'We'r fur hame' TV programs

To get your copy, call into the Ullans Centre 4-6 Victoria Street, call 02827668897 or e-mail ullans@live.co.uk

Kingdom of Dalriads Burns Supper

2011-01-30T19:41:00.000Z

Friday 28th January saw the annual Kingdom of Dalriads Burns Supper take place in the Royal British Legion in Ballymoney.

WELCOME

Gary Blair

PRESENTATION OF THE HAGGIS

Alan Wright

Fair fa' your honest, sonsie face,
Great chieftain o' the puddin-race!
Aboon them a' ye tak your place,
Painch, tripe, or thairm:
Weel are ye wordy of a grace
As lang's my arm.

SELKIRK GRACE

Jonnie Crawford

Some hae meat and canna eat,
And some wad eat that want it,

But we hae meat and we can eat,

And sae the Lord be thankit.

IMMORTAL MEMORY SPEECH & TOAST

Gary Blair

TOAST TO THE LASSIES

Nigel Kinnaird

Dale Wright

SPECIAL GUESTS

Evergreen & Bluebells Scottish Country Dancers

Maiden City Dancers

Special thanks to Paul & Staff from 'The Petite Baguette' for providing us with a wonderfull meal.

Celebration of Robert Burns at Ullans Centre

2011-01-30T19:19:00.000Z

As part of the Robert Burns week of celebration the Ulster Scots Agency held a celebration Burns Lunch in the Ullans Centre on Wednesday 26th January at 12.30pm.

The event started with piping outside the centre by Alan McCormick and music inside the centre by Iain Carlisle and Matthew Warwick (Risin Stour).

The music seemed to draw more and more people into the the centre and before long the centre was packed out to the door with up to 70 people.

Anne Morrison, the development office at the Ullans Centre welcomed everyone to the event and invited them to taste the Haggis pie, whiskey fudge and homemade shortbread along with a cup of tea or coffee.Charlie Reynolds read out a poem that he had just wroten that day in the 'Hamely Tongue' followed by a highland dance demo by Kerry Jordan with music by piper Alan McCormick and harp player Susan Bates.

Gary Blair, the regional development officer from the Ulster Scots Agency, gave a brief history of Robert Burns followed by one of his poems. This was followed by one of Robert Burns most famous poems 'My love is like a red red rose' sang by Kerry Jordan with Susan Bates on harp.

The event concluded with Anne Morrison thanking everyone for attending and invited the crowd to stay and chat over a cup of tea. The event was very successful and not one haggis pie went to waste out of the 100 cooked.

Special thanks to Gillian Gilmore from the Ulster Scots Agency for organising the event and serving the haggis pie, Yvonne White who helped set up the Ullans Centre and serve the tea & coffee and Paul from the Petite Baguette for heating the haggis pies.

Ullans Christmas Carols

2010-11-16T20:30:00.000Z

A new book is soon to be released by The Ullans Speakers Association containing a selection of our favourite Christmas Carols which have be translated into Ulster Scots just in time for Christmas.

You can obtain a copy of this book by contacting Anne or Victoria in the Ullans Centre 4-6 Victoria Street, Ballymoney or via e-mail ullans@live.co.uk

Oor Ain Poem

2010-08-06T20:01:00.001+01:00

OOR AIN

Noo am no yin tae taak aboot naeboady,

but there's yins aroon here an things needin sed.

Thur tryin thur best to protect oor ain leid,

before it's forgotten an oot o wur heid.

They work in the Ullans in oul Bellmoney,

houlin classes an taaks on things lang thocht gan.

Oor music, traditions oor culture an heritage,

what is pairt o us aal ivery wumman an man.

So the next tim yer passin and wunnerin whaats heppenin,

jest open the dorr an waak richt on in.

They'll gie yae a smile an a Ulster Scots welcome

Fur bein proud o oor culture is nae langer a SIN.

A. Campbell

Ullans Centre Visits & Talks

2010-08-06T19:59:00.001+01:00

During the summer of this year there has been several visits and talks at the Ullans Centre. These were taken by the Ullans Centre Language Development Officer Anne Morrison Smyth and the Ulster Scots Agency Regional Development Officer Gary Blair.

Scarva-Saturday 26^th June 2010

A small group of people travelled up from Scarva with the Ulster Scots Agency Chief Executive George Patton, to visit the centre and listen to several talks on the Ulster Scots language, culture and heritage. The visit began with a talk given by Liam Logan on the use of the Ulster Scots language, followed by Gary Blair on the history aspect of Ulster Scots and finally Anne Morrison Smyth gave her talk on the language and conducted a short interview with George Patton on fUSe fm.

The Scarva group concluded their visit with tea and coffee and a short tour of the Ullans Centre and fUSe fm radio station

American Ulster Scots Society

The centre was also pleased to welcome a group of Americans who travelled to Northern Ireland as part of the Ulster Scots Heritage tour via the Ulster Scots Society of American (USSA). The group were accompanied by the president of the USSA, Glen Pratt and a film crew who were recording their journey to be broadcast on BBC America.

The group were given a talk on the history of Ulster Scots by Gary Blair followed by a talk on the language given by Anne Morrison Smyth. John Murray of the Ulster Scots Community Network concluded the talks.

The group had tea and coffee before a short tour of the centre before leaving to visit the Bushmills Distillery, however the Glen Pratt stayed behind along with the film crew to do an interview on fUSe fm with Gary ‘Boss’ Blair and Anne ‘Pan’ Morrison Smyth.

For more information on USSA visit the website at www.ulsterscotssociety.com or email Glen Pratt on gpratt@ulsterscotssociety.com

Cairncastle-Friday 30^th July 2010

Due to the large numbers of visitors from Cairncastle, the presentations had to be held in the local Manor Hotel. During the week, Cairncastle had been holding their folk festival and on the Thursday Anne Morrison Smyth had taken an language workshop at Larne Museum and Arts Centre, but the group decided they also wanted to visit Ballymoney.

Gary Blair began with a brief talk on the history of the Ulster Scots and Anne Morrison Smyth gave another short talk on the language. The event concluded with a bite to eat and music by a band consisting of different ethnic groups called ‘Beyond Skin’

Before returning to Cairncastle, some of the group made a visit to the Ullans Centre and fUSe fm studio.

KINGDOM OF DALRIADA ULSTER SCOTS GAMES

2010-08-06T19:55:00.000+01:00

The annual Ulster Scots Games hosted by the Kingdom of Dalriada Ulster Scots Society was held in Ballymoney Show grounds on Saturday 3^rd July. The sun shone for the best part of the day with only a slight shower during the Games.

At the outset, the Kingdom of Dalriada USS members would like to thank Frank McLernon from Dervock for hiring them a spacious marquee and also for coming to the Show Grounds first thing on Saturday morning to help the volunteers erect it. Thanks must also go to Mervyn Forsythe and Charlie McClelland who worked tirelessly in the run up to the event and also on the day.

The music at the Games was supplied by Vow Accordion Band, Glenkeen Fife & Drum Band and Ballinrees Pipe Band and Ballymaconnelly Flute Band. The crowds at the Games were also delighted with a demonstration in lambeg playing by the local Ballymoney Fife & Lambeg Drum Association.

Spectators were also treated to quality performances from the Bluebelle and Evergreen Scottish Country Dancers under the tutelage of instructor, Elizabeth Brown-Kerr. During the breaks in the performances, fUSe FM was played through the PA system with the crowd regularly texting in requests to the various shows throughout the day.

The Winners of the different events are as follows.

Horse Shoe competition 1st: Mervyn ‘Tubes’ McIntyre

2^nd: Billy Kyle

Welly Throwing competition 1st: Paul ‘Copper’ Donnelly

2^nd: Badger Laverty

Tossing the Sheaf 1st: Billy Hickinson

2^nd: Badger Laverty

The Caber 1^st: Stephen Barkley

2^nd: Adam Park

Tug O War 1^st: Bendooragh

2^nd: Ballymaconnelly SOC

The day ended with the presentation of trophies and the Kingdom of Dalriada USS would like to thank everyone who participated in the event with a special thank you for our sponsors, Ballymoney Borough Council, the Ulster Scots Agency and Cultural Fusions.

The 'Aul Han' Book Launch

2010-08-06T19:39:00.001+01:00

The Ullans Speakers Association has produced a new book written entirely in the Ullans (Ulster Scots) language. The book, Chronicles of the Aul Han, is a tribute to John McFall, former headmaster of Armoy Primary School. Given the career and background of the author of the original works, the group decided to launch the publication in Armoy Primary School with the consent and co-operation of the Principal and staff.

The launch was held on Tuesday 30 June and the setting was ideal for the content given that the Ulster Scots language is arguably the first language spoken by the people of Armoy. The proceedings were opened by a welcome and address by Mervyn Forsythe, chairman of the Ullans Speakers Association. Amongst those in attendance were pupils from Armoy Primary School along with their teachers who listened attentively as Mervyn introduced Anne Morrison Smyth, Development Officer from the Ullans Speakers Association. Anne told the children and invited guests about her work and a short history of the Aul Han. Next to speak was local poet and author, Charlie Reynolds, a member of the Ullans group and the principal researcher of the publication.

Gary Blair, Regional Development Officer from the Ulster Scots Agency, then addressed the meeting, congratulating the group on their publication and exhorting the children of Armoy to follow in the footsteps of John McFall by being attentive in school and, whilst using English in class, using Ulster Scots at all other times with pride as it is part of who they are.

The meeting was then addressed by local author, historian, former FEC Principal and past pupil of Armoy, Mr Alistair McReynolds. Alistair told the children and guests about some of the famous Armoy natives who had contributed to life in America, in particular the Fighting McCooks. Some of the pupils present shared this surname which is synonymous with the village and has been for centuries.

The final speaker was Mr Steven Shimon from DCAL who spoke on behalf of the Minister, Nelson McCausland MLA who was unable to attend the event.

School principal, Julie Neill brought the proceedings to an end by thanking the Ullans group for launching the book at Armoy and spoke favourably and positively about the Ulster Scots After Schools Clubs that had been held in the school. Those present then enjoyed a light tea provided by the school.

The Chronicles of the Aul Han was published by the Ullans Speakers Association and funded by the Ulster Scots Agency. Copies of the book are available at the Ullans Centre, 4 Victoria Street, Ballymoney, price £3.00.

Ullans Alive 4

2010-06-18T21:06:00.000+01:00

The 4th Ullans Alive Mag is not available from the Centre.

This edition will include the upcoming Ulster-Scots events, a writeup about our new book release 'The Aul Han' which is a followup to the 'Burnside Letters, and an update on the recent work carried out by the centre.

You can find out more about the Ullans Centre or get a copy of the Ullan Alive mag by calling into the centre in Ballymoney or send us your details by post or e-mail.

Ullans Centre

4-6 Victoria Street

Ballymoney

ullans@live.co.uk

The 'Aul Han

2010-06-02T17:04:00.000+01:00

The 'Aul Han is the first publication by the Ullans Speakers Association, researched by Charlie Reynolds and Supported by the Ulster Scots Agency. This book is due for launch and release in the coming weeks so look out for it and we will keep you informed on the details here in the Ullans C|entre Blog.

"The Aul Han was born John McFall in 1868 in the vicinity of Stranocum, Co. Antrim. His parents were John McFall (snr) and Mary McFall (nee Getty). John and Mary are listed in the 1911 census as living at Drumcrottagh, Dervock in North Antrim. Also residents there were a daughter, Maggie Jane and a grandson , Alexander. A further entry in the 1911 census shows Aul Han living with his wife Nellie and their children Samuel (9), Bessie (7) and John A. (4) at Moyaur Lower, Ballycregagh, Co. Antrim.

John McFall showed an early and keen interest in learning and his pursuit of knowledge was rewarded when he graduated as a teacher. At the time of the 1911 census, John was master of Armoy National School.

Although educated and one who taught English to his pupils, the Aul Han had a great love for his Ulster Scots roots. His love of the language of his birth led him to write a regular column in the two local newspapers of the time,The Constitution and the North Antrim Standard.

This publication features a selection of those writings, entitled the Bushside Letters. They are unabridged and unedited thus they are the authentic Ullans texts written by an educated man whose love of his native language is evident and a shining example of the Ulster Scots Language written as it should be.

The Ullans speakers association hopes you will enjoy this publication and that it will show you, the reader, how beautiful the Ullans leid is when written by one who had pride in the hamely tongue."

(introduction taken from 'The Aul Han book')

Ullans Speakers Association AGM

2010-06-02T16:45:00.000+01:00

On Tuesday 1st June the Ullans Speakers Association held our AGM (Annual General Meeting) to update our members on the work the Ullans Centre had carried out within the past year and the plans for the year ahead.

The meeting opened with the Chairperson Mr Alan Wright welcoming the group members to the meeting and thanking them for the previous years work for the group. Mr Wright also made known his intention to step down as Chairperson after two years in the position. Mr Codie Murray (group secretary) then ran though a brief summary of the years business followed by the account summary of the year.

To date the group have achieved all their key targets for the previous year and passed all their audits set in front of the group to test their success.

Funding was secured back in June 2009 by the Ulster Scots Agency for the year ahead and it looks as if the group is on target to securing funding for the immediate year ahead.

The election of new officers was also made at this AGM by the Ulster Scots Agency's representative taking charge of the proceedings.

Chairperson: Mervyn Forsythe
Vice-Chairperson: Jonnie Crawford
Secretary: Codie Murray
Treasuary: Elizabeth McClelland
Committee Member: Charlie Reynolds

As we come close to the 1st year since the opening of the Ullans centre, we look forward to the future and to new members joining the group to help its success in the forthcoming year in achieving this year targets.

It was discussed that an increase in the years membership fee's would be appropriate and therefore the fee would now be £5 per year which includes our quarterly 'Ullans Alive' magazine either posted or sent by e-mail to you and the right to attend any of the meetings of the Ullans Speakers Association which take place the last Tuesday of the month at 8pm in the Ullans Centre Ballymoney.

We would love more support by new members so if you are interested in joining the group or renewing your membership then call into the Ullans Centre, 4-6 Victoria Street, Ballymoney and take a couple of minute giving us your details or e-mail us on ullans@live.co.uk.

Remember we need to protect our language, culture and heritage and we can only do that with your support.

Ullans Alive Mag 4

2010-06-01T02:19:00.000+01:00

Well as we enter the summer months the staff at the Ullans Centre prepare to print the 4th issue of the Ullans Alive mag.

At present work is being done to get the issue finished and printed in the next few weeks. This issue will include 8 more fUSe fm presenter profiles, whats Ulster-Scots events are due to take place in the coming months and a wee Ullans poem about aliens in Ballyclare!

If you would like to recieve the latest issue then call into the Ullans centre on Victoria Street, Ballymoney or send your e-mail address to ullans@live.co.uk and join our mailing list.

North Antrim Ulster Scots Blog

2010-05-11T18:33:00.001+01:00

If you enjoy reading Ulster-Scots and enjoy humour then check out this funny blog.

http://northantrimulsterscots.blogspot.com

POLITICS!!

2010-05-11T18:32:00.001+01:00

Whit aboot a wee juke at the candidates fur north antrim in the elecshun?

ALLISTER, JIM: Plenty o talent an a brain too big fur his heid but aye in a snore aboot yin thing ir anither. Voters mebbe pit aff bae haes naw bein able tae smile iver.

DUNLOP, JANE: Who? Oh aye the wee doll frae Bellamena. Naw much o a vote puller but maks a nice fry they tell me.

CUBBIT, LYLE: Wile scary boadie an even haes poster feared me a bit. A think yins wur feart tae vote fur him fur fear hae wud get in.

O'LOAN, DECLAN: Lakely naw a bad boadie but need a han wie haes image. He luks lake a bank manager or the Provident man - nane o is lake them yins.

PAISLEY IAN: A heared him caa'd a gomey an a gype an yin boadie even saed at least hae's gled he's awa ower in thon Englan oot o the road.

McKAY, DAITHI: Harly a cinner voted fur the shinner - in the toon onywye. Hae jest run in the elecshun tae wine up yins wha cannae pronounce haes name.

UCUNF: Cannae even mine haes name - nither cud voters fur naeboadie even v oted fur him- hae wus the yin in Four Weddins AN A Funeral wha merried the bridesmaid.

Quote o the elecshun frae a random oul boy as the DUP van went by is - A'll bae votin fur nane o them fur thaur's naw yin o them worth tuppence!

Ullans St Patrick's Day Concert a success

2010-04-19T16:12:00.000+01:00

Friday niche (19th Mairch) at Edward Street Scoial Centre a St Patrick's day concert wuz organised bae tha Ullans Speakers Association based oot o tha Ullans Centre on Victoria Street, Bellymoney.

Tha Event wuz held tae raise much needed finance tae meet tha bills which are associated wae running tha centre an tha popular fUSe fm radio broadcast. Tha Social Centre wuz packed tae capacity an tha event wuz a resounding success.

Tha niche kicked o wie tha TOPP star o tha north pipers and drummers followed bae a outstanding rendition o 'Donald whur's yer trousers'. During tha course o tha evening, Culcrow P.S. junior and senior dancers showed examples aff Scottish Country Dancing.

Twa fiddlers called Ellie Collins an Jack Wright who had baen taking lessons weekly at tha Ullans Centre played a set wie tutor Keith Lyttle.

Culcrow P.S. also provided other acts fra tha niche's entertainment. These included fiddlers & tin whistlers and choral speakes who recited 'yin ta a hunner', 'Dan Dan', 'tha Proota Gaitherin', 'Tha Tax Man' and 'Livin in Drumlister'.

Twa scenes fra tha Ulster Scots play written bae Dan Gordan and Tha Ulster linen industry wur preformed bae some pupils of Culcrow P.S.

Singing tha skye boat song wuz Megan McBurney from Aghadowey School followed bae Bellymoney girl Rachel Fallows preforming a highland dancing demonstration

Bellymoney drumming club preformed wie their lambegs complemented bae 3 fifers wie a special mention gan ta Gary McAllister who didnae miss a beat!

Gary Blair an Anne Morrison Smyth delivered an impressive rendition o Charlie Gillen’s rhyme, “Dinnae put it aff”. The evening wuz then brought ta a close bae a set o 4 tunes fra local Rasharkin band, Ballymaconnelly Sons of Conquerors.

At tha close o tha evening, Anne Morrison Smyth thanked al tha participents, everyone who came ta tha event, paying particular tribute tae tha staff an pupils o Culcrow Primary School. After tha performances, attendees wur al treated ta pancakes an stew supplied bae Jean Thompson an Paul McClelland (La Petite Baguette).

Tha Ullans Speakers Association wud like ta thank everyone who contributed tae making tha event a success. Yer support wuz very much appreciated.

Ullans Centre language development

2010-04-19T14:34:00.000+01:00

Tha Ullans Centre leid development officer Anne Morrison Smyth wull be visiting tha following schools tae hold classes learning pupils tae speak Ullans

Armoy
Ballykeel
Bushvally
Cullycapple

7th Broadcast of fUSe FM in Ballymoney

2010-04-16T14:07:00.001+01:00

The committee of fUSe FM Ballymoney have submitted a date for the next broadcast of the Ulster Scots radio station to OFCOM. The broadcast will take place over 4 weeks during the summer.

When we get conformation we will let you all know. :)

'Old Ballymoney Technical College' Possible new Ulster Scots Centre

2010-04-15T20:12:00.000+01:00

A number of Ulster Scots enthusiasts have met in the last few months to discuss a possible bid to raise the money to buy the old technical college in Ballymoney. This building would be an ideal place where Ulster Scots language, culture and heritage could be premoted though learning. It could hold different classes along with the Ullans Centre and a purpose build studio for the fUSe FM radio broadcasts all at what could be called 'The Heartland of the Ulster Scots movement'.

The building has been vacant for many years and is not listed which means that if sold to another developer, they would be able pull the building down for flats or houses.

The current owners are the NEELB (North Eastern Education & Libary Board) and at present a business plan is being devised with the hope of raising enough funds to buy the building.

One of the major supporters id the DUP's MLA Mervyn Storey who that, "it is essential that the building is bought and safegarded for future generations". Dr Ian Pasley also commented on the plan during his visit to the Ullans Centre.

The plan is to know meet the Minister for Culture, Arts and Leisure to discuss the propasal further. We hope to bring you more on this proposal as soon as we get it.

Ulster Scots Evening in Ballymoney Town Hall

2010-04-15T19:30:00.000+01:00

An Ulster Scots evening has been organised in Ballymoney Town Hall with the Alexander Bros Scotland on Saturday 17th April at 8pm.

Tickets are priced at £10 and are available at Ballymoney Town Hall.

Doors will open at 7.30pm. Event organised by Dunloy LOL 496.

Tributes paid to Ulster-Scots stalwart

2010-04-08T16:41:00.000+01:00

Tributes have been paid to George Holmes, the former deputy chief executive and director of culture at the Ulster-Scots Agency, who died suddenly at his home in Donaghadee on Tuesday.

He was 63 and had taken ill after returning from an Easter break in Co Donegal.
Last year, he was awarded the OBE for public service to the community.

fUSe FM Ballymoney

2010-04-02T19:44:00.000+01:00

fUSe Fm Ballymoney was started in 2007 and its first broadcast took place in December of the same year from the local orange hall in the town.

Over the next few runs of fUSe FM we moved from building to building that were able to facilitate the need of a radio station. Since then fUSe Fm Ballymoney has went from strength to strength with the station now based out of the Ullans Centre in the town with a purpose built studio with our own equipment recently purchased with means we no longer have to hire it out for the four weeks we are on air.

We recently completed out 6th run of fUSe FM at Christmas 2009 with two successful charity drives and a record number of texts received over the four weeks on air. A special thanks to all the presenters that give up their spare time, the local sponsors and of course the listeners who without fUSe FM wouldn’t be possible.

We hope that our 7th run of fUSe FM will take place this coming summer and will be as successful as the last six if not even better.

New Ullans Centre Blog

2010-04-01T20:05:00.000+01:00

Welcome to the new blog page for the Ullans Centre Ballymoney. Here we will details the local events and activities that are all a part of the Ullans Centre. The blog will soon be updated but if you would like find out more information about the Ullans Centre and what we do then contact us.

4-6 Victoria Street,
Ballymoney
Tel: 028 276 68897
Email: ullans@live.co.uk