Scottish Esperanto Congress 2004

I have just returned from the 99th Scottish Esperanto Congress. There is much to be said about it; but here are my initial thoughts.

Peebles is a marvellous town, and its having 150 Listed Buildings is no surprise. The surrounding countryside is enchanting: a symphony in green!

The Congress programme was rich and varied with some outstanding lectures.

The Congress venue, St. Joseph's Neighbourhood Centre, was first class; it is an excellent community resource, and was perfect for our Congress.

The visit to Abbotsford, the house of Sir Walter Scott, was a revelation. Scott was one of the Congress themes, and his house reveals so much of the literary genius who loved Scotland.

The Congress Banquet at the Park Hotel was a most enjoyable occasion: good food and wine, animated conversation, a most thoughtful welcome from Tricia Purvis of Borders Council, and an apposite speech from Hugh Reid, the President of the Scottish Esperanto Association.

More comments will follow here and on the Scottish site; but one decision must be mentioned: the 100th Scottish Congress will take place next June in the Priory House Hotel in Largs; Jean Bisset will preside.

Mallonga raporto pri la Skota Kongreso de Esperanto, Peebles, 2004.