The Screech-In ceremonies are a quirky Newfoundland tradition that can leave even the most seasoned speaker scratching their head. These ceremonies blend humor, local culture, and good-natured fun in a unique way.
But don’t worry! Whether you’re a local looking to welcome newcomers or a visitor hoping to embrace the spirit of The Rock, we’ve got you covered. Grab your Sou’wester hat and cod fish, and let’s explore six sample speeches that’ll have your audience giggling, grimacing, and ultimately grinning from ear to ear.
Screech-In Ceremony Speech Samples
Here are six speech samples to inspire your next Screech-In ceremony.
Short and Sweet Screech
Ladies and gentlemen, gather ’round! Tonight, we’ve got some brave mainlanders ready to become honorary Newfoundlanders. Are you ready to kiss the cod and take a shot of Screech? Well, hold onto your hats, because it’s time to get screeched in!
First things first, repeat after me: “Indeed I is, me old cock! And long may your big jib draw!” Don’t worry if you don’t understand it – half the time, we don’t either! Now, pucker up buttercup, because it’s time to kiss the cod. Yeah, you heard me right – plant one right on those fishy lips!
Last but not least, it’s time for a shot of Screech. This rum’s got a kick like a moose, so brace yourself! Down the hatch, and congratulations! You’re now honorary Newfoundlanders. Welcome to the family, ye old screechers!
— END OF SPEECH —
Commentary: This speech sets a lively, humorous tone perfect for breaking the ice at casual gatherings or tourist events. It’s ideal for engaging a crowd quickly and getting them excited about the ceremony.
The Newfoundland Welcome Wagon
Good evening, folks! Welcome to Newfoundland, the place where the people are friendly, the scenery is breathtaking, and the weather… well, let’s just say it keeps you on your toes!
Tonight, we’re gathered here for a time-honored tradition: the Screech-In ceremony. For those of you who don’t know, this is how we welcome outsiders into our little slice of paradise. Don’t worry, we won’t make you jump off any cliffs or wrestle a moose – though that might be fun to watch!
First up, we need you to don the official Newfoundlander uniform. Pop on this Sou’wester hat – yellow’s all the rage this season. Next, grab this rubber boot. No, you don’t wear it; you hold it up high and proud!
Now, repeat after me: “Is you a Screecher?” Good! The correct response is: “Deed I is, me old cock! And long may your big jib draw!” Don’t ask what it means – just know it’s the secret password to our hearts.
Alright, time for the main event. See this fine specimen of cod? Give it a smooch, right on the lips. Don’t be shy; it’s the best kiss you’ll get all night!
Last but not least, we’ve got a wee dram of Screech for you. This rum’s not for the faint of heart, so take a deep breath and bottoms up!
Congratulations! You’ve been screeched in. You’re now honorary Newfoundlanders, entitled to all the rights and privileges thereof – which mostly involves eating lobster and telling tall tales. Welcome to the family!
— END OF SPEECH —
Commentary: This speech blends humor with a warm welcome, making it suitable for tourism events or as an icebreaker for newcomers to Newfoundland. It’s particularly effective for groups unfamiliar with local customs.
The Full Newfoundland Experience
Good evening, ladies and gentlemen! Welcome to Newfoundland, the land of icebergs, whales, and some of the friendliest folks you’ll meet. Tonight, we’re gathered here for a very special reason – to initiate some brave souls into the Newfoundlander family through our time-honored Screech-In ceremony.
Now, for those of you who aren’t familiar with our little tradition, let me give you a quick rundown. The Screech-In is our way of welcoming “come from aways” – that’s you mainlanders – into our tight-knit community. It’s a bit quirky, a tad silly, and absolutely unforgettable.
Let’s take a moment to appreciate the beauty of this place we call home. Newfoundland isn’t just a dot on the map; it’s a land of rugged coastlines, pristine forests, and skies so vast you’ll feel like you can touch the stars. It’s a place where the air is crisp, the fish is fresh, and the stories are tall.
Our history runs as deep as the Atlantic that surrounds us. From the first Indigenous peoples who called this land home, to the Vikings who touched our shores, to the hardy souls who built our fishing villages – we’re a mix of cultures and traditions. And tonight, you’ll become part of that rich history.
Now, let’s get down to business. Our Screech-In ceremony has four main components: the speech, the cod, the Screech, and the honorary Newfoundlander status. Are you ready to begin? Excellent!
First, you’ll need to look the part. Everyone, please don your Sou’wester hats. Yellow is the traditional color, but don’t worry if yours is a bit faded – we like to say it’s “sun-kissed.” Next, grab a rubber boot. No, no, you don’t wear it – just hold it up high. That’s it!
Now, repeat after me: “Is you a Screecher?” Good! The correct response is: “Deed I is, me old cock! And long may your big jib draw!” Don’t worry about understanding it – half the fun is in the mystery. Just know that you’ve now uttered the secret password of Newfoundlanders everywhere.
Alright, it’s time for the main event – the cod-kissing. Yes, you heard that right. See this beautiful specimen of Gadus morhua? It’s time to pucker up and plant one right on its lips. Don’t be shy – this cod’s been waiting all day for this moment!
Last but certainly not least, we have the Screech. This dark rum is as much a part of Newfoundland as the fog and the fiddles. It’s got a kick like a moose and a warmth that’ll chase away the Atlantic chill. Raise your glass, and let’s have a toast: “To Newfoundland!”
Congratulations, my friends! You’ve been officially screeched in. You’re now honorary Newfoundlanders, entitled to all the rights and privileges thereof. You can now use “b’y” in everyday conversation, complain about the weather with the best of us, and most importantly, call this beautiful rock your second home.
Being a Newfoundlander isn’t just about where you’re born – it’s a state of mind. It’s about embracing the joy of life, the love of community, and the skill of a good story. So go forth, spread the warmth of Newfoundland wherever you roam, and don’t forget to come back and visit us soon.
Welcome to the family, ye old screechers!
— END OF SPEECH —
Commentary: This comprehensive speech weaves together elements of Newfoundland’s history, culture, and the Screech-In tradition. It’s well-suited for more formal events or situations where a deeper cultural context is appreciated.
The Salty Dog Special
Ahoy there, me hearties! Gather ’round, because tonight we’re about to embark on a adventure of epic proportions. Aye, it’s time for the legendary Screech-In ceremony!
Now, you might be wondering what in the blue blazes a Screech-In is. Well, let me tell you, it’s how we Newfoundlanders separate the landlubbers from the true salty dogs. It’s a test of mettle, a rite of passage, and most importantly, a darn good excuse to have some fun!
First things first, we need to get you looking the part. Slap on these Sou’wester hats – they’re not just fashionable, they’ll keep your noggin dry in our famous Newfoundland mist. Next, grab a rubber boot. No, ye don’t wear it, just hold it up high and proud!
Now, repeat after me: “Is you a Screecher?” Good! The correct response is: “Deed I is, me old cock! And long may your big jib draw!” Don’t worry if it sounds like gibberish – half our local sayings do!
Alright, ye scurvy dogs, it’s time for the main event. See this fine specimen of cod? It’s time to give it a smooch. That’s right, pucker up and plant one right on its fishy lips. Don’t be shy – this cod’s been practicing its kissing face all day!
Last but not least, we’ve got a special treat for ye – a shot of Screech. This ain’t no ordinary rum, me friends. It’s got the kick of a mule and the warmth of a Newfoundland summer (all three days of it). Down the hatch!
Congratulations, ye salty sea dogs! You’ve been officially screeched in. You’re now honorary Newfoundlanders, free to use “b’y” in every sentence and complain about the weather with the best of us. Welcome to the family!
— END OF SPEECH —
Commentary: This speech adopts a playful, seafaring tone that’s perfect for livening up casual gatherings or tourist events. Its lighthearted approach makes it particularly suitable for breaking the ice with new groups.
The Newfoundland Heritage Homage
Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, and soon-to-be honorary Newfoundlanders, good evening! We’re gathered here tonight for a very special occasion – the time-honored tradition of the Screech-In ceremony.
Let’s take a moment to appreciate the rich mix of history and culture that makes Newfoundland so unique. This island, perched on the edge of the North Atlantic, has been shaped by centuries of hardy souls who braved wild seas and harsh winters to make a life here.
From the Indigenous peoples who first called this land home, to the Vikings who touched our shores over a thousand years ago, to the generations of fishermen and their families who built our coastal communities – each has left an indelible mark on who we are as Newfoundlanders.
Our Screech-In ceremony, while relatively new in the grand scheme of things, embodies the spirit of Newfoundland hospitality that has been our hallmark for centuries. It’s our way of saying, “Welcome, stranger. Come in from the cold and join our family.”
Now, let’s begin the ceremony. First, you’ll need to look the part. Please don your Sou’wester hats – a staple of our fishing heritage, designed to keep the rain and sea spray at bay. Next, take hold of a rubber boot. These boots have walked many a wharf and weathered many a storm.
With your Newfoundlander disguise in place, it’s time for the language lesson. Repeat after me: “Is you a Screecher?” Excellent! Now the response: “Deed I is, me old cock! And long may your big jib draw!” This phrase, like many in our dialect, has its roots in our seafaring past. A “jib” is a type of sail, and this saying is a wish for good fortune on your journey.
Next comes the most iconic part of our ceremony – the cod kiss. The humble cod has been the backbone of Newfoundland’s economy and culture for centuries. By kissing the cod, you’re not just puckering up to a fish – you’re embracing our heritage and the resilience of our people who weathered the collapse of the cod fishery.
We come to the Screech. This dark rum has a history as rich as its flavor. Originally, it was likely a cheap rum from Jamaica, traded for salt cod. Over time, it became synonymous with Newfoundland itself. As you take your shot, know that you’re partaking in a piece of living history.
By completing these tasks, you’ve proven yourselves worthy of being called Newfoundlanders. But being a Newfoundlander is more than just a title – it’s a way of life. It means embracing the joy of a kitchen party, the warmth of community spirit, and the skill of a well-told tale.
As you leave here tonight, take with you not just the memory of this ceremony, but the spirit of Newfoundland itself. May you always find warmth in a cup of tea, laughter in good company, and beauty in a stormy sea.
Congratulations, and welcome to the family!
— END OF SPEECH —
Commentary: This speech takes a more serious tone, emphasizing the historical and cultural significance of Newfoundland and the Screech-In ceremony. It’s well-suited for events where a deeper appreciation of local heritage is desired.
The Lighthearted Lobster’s Lament
Hey there, folks! Gather ’round, because it’s time for a good old-fashioned Newfoundland Screech-In! Now, you might be wondering, “What in the world is a Screech-In?” Well, let me tell you, it’s how we separate the tough cookies from the soggy bottoms here on The Rock.
First things first, we need to get you all gussied up like proper Newfoundlanders. Slap on these Sou’wester hats – they’re not just fashionable, they’ll keep your hair dry when you’re running from the rain to the pub. Next, grab a rubber boot. No, no, don’t put it on – just hold it up like you’re toasting the Queen herself!
Alright, now that you look the part, it’s time to sound like a local. Repeat after me: “Is you a Screecher?” Great! Now the response: “Deed I is, me old cock! And long may your big jib draw!” Don’t worry if it sounds like we’re speaking in code – half the time, we don’t know what we’re saying either!
Now, brace yourselves for the main event. See this fine specimen of cod? It’s time to give it a smooch. That’s right, pucker up buttercup! Don’t be shy – this cod’s been waiting all day for its big moment. Who knows, it might even turn into a prince… or at least a slightly larger cod.
Last but not least, we’ve got a special treat for you – a shot of Screech. This rum’s got a kick like a moose and a burn like the midday sun on a bald man’s head. But don’t worry, it’s all part of the experience. Think of it as Newfoundland mouthwash!
Congratulations, me dears! You’ve been officially screeched in. You’re now honorary Newfoundlanders, entitled to all the rights and privileges thereof – which mostly involves eating fish and chips, complaining about the weather, and telling stories that get taller with each pint.
Welcome to the family, ye old screechers! May your cod always be fresh, your Screech always strong, and your stories always entertaining. And keep in mind, what happens at a Screech-In, stays at a Screech-In… unless it’s a really good story, then you’re obligated to tell everyone you meet!
— END OF SPEECH —
Commentary: This speech uses humor and local color to create a fun, engaging atmosphere. It’s particularly well-suited for casual events or as an icebreaker for groups new to Newfoundland culture.
Wrapping Up
There you have it – six unique Screech-In ceremony speeches to inspire your next Newfoundland welcome. Whether you’re hosting tourists, new residents, or just looking to have a bit of fun with friends, these speeches offer a range of tones and styles to suit any occasion.
The key to a great Screech-In speech is to capture the warm, welcoming spirit of Newfoundland while adding your own personal touch. Feel free to adapt these samples, mix and match elements, or use them as a springboard for your own creative ideas.
Always keep in mind the most important part of any Screech-In ceremony: making sure everyone has a good time. After all, at the heart of this quirky tradition is the Newfoundland spirit of hospitality and good humor.
So go forth, raise a glass of Screech, kiss that cod with gusto, and welcome the next batch of honorary Newfoundlanders into the fold. You might just start a lifelong love affair with The Rock!