Reunion...

On Friday the 19^th of December 2003 the Old Victorians, at the invitation of George Hebeish, spent the day at his Mansouriah farm. A great number of the Old Boys attended, most of whom were accompanied by their wives. A sunny morning prevailed throughout the afternoon, despite a few scattered clouds. On the lawn, the men sat forming half a circle, with the ladies opposite completing the other half.

While the men were involved in general topics, the ladies indulged in discussing the current situation in Iraq, encouraged by the presence of Dr. Nadia El Shazly, widow of Old Victorian the late Admiral Fouad Abou Zikry, Navy Commander-In-Chief. Dr. El Shazly is a specialist on Iraq, having obtained her PhD degree on the Iran-Iraq war from the U.K.

Among those who were present was life time Honorary Chairman Mansour Hassan, who attended both the Alex and Cairo schools. Armand Kahil, who was long time Secretary-General of the OVA (Alex), would not miss the occasion. Chairman Ismail Osman said a few words to welcome the gathering. Mahmoud Osman was also there, as always in support. Vice-Chairman Suhad Zaher, Treasurer Aly Saleh and board member Mounir Doss mingled with the crowd, briefing them on current developments within the association. A pleasant surprise was the presence of Ibrahim El Alfy and Medhat El Mofty. Adel Hammam, Sherif Sukar and Aly Badawy were having a good time with their friends. Abdel Salam (Billy) Ragab came for the day. During the centenary celebration of October 2002, Billy hosted Old Victorians from Egypt and overseas at his famous "Ragab Papyrus Village". Perhaps a visit by those who have not been, and a second helping to those who have, may be a good idea. Also Ali and Amr Ibrahim brightened the gathering.

The Akil brothers, Adnan and Nabil, came along with their families. Never being part of the noisy crowd, their presence is always felt. They come and go like a pleasant breeze, making it always a pleasure to have them.

Also present was Mohamed Awad, Chairman of the Old Victorian association (Alexandria), who gave a few words and handed a fourteen month overdue awards to George Hebeish and Mohamed El Alfy for their services to the Old Victorian cause. George and Mohamed were not present at the Centenary celebration when the trophies were given. Another gesture by the Alex Chairman was the contribution to the OVA (Egypt) of books on the history of Victoria College, as well as some smart looking T-shirts and mugs displaying the "VC" sign. Many hurried to the purchase. When one wife bought just a single mug, and was asked why, she replied, "it's for my husband I've had my 'VC mug' for more than thirty years".

At about mid afternoon lunch was served from an open buffet. Seated at several tables, everyone seemed to enjoy the food and conversations. A sudden noise and rumpus could be heard from one of the tables. It was Samir Zaher, late as usual, being greeted by his friends. Samir has always been a popular figure throughout his school years and after. His light sense of humour and cheerful personality would more than makeup for his late arrival.

Late in the afternoon with a chill in air, warm goodbyes were exchanged, while Mr. and Mrs. George Hebeish escorted their guests, seeing them off to their cars.

Finally, the board of directors on behalf of the Association and themselves wish to thank George Hebeish for his kind hospitality, generosity and continued support.

During the dinner on Wednesday the 3^rd of December, which was attended by many members, two surprise appearances took place. The first was by Mostafa Abou El Fotouh, Chairman of the Egyptian Arab Land Banks. He was warmly greeted by a large number of colleagues, whom he had not seen for a long time. On request, Mostafa gladly agreed to be the speaker during one of the forth coming dinners.

The second surprise was when Samir Hammam showed up. The delight and joy on most of the faces described his welcome. To many he was a reminder of the good old days.

It was decided by the board that we would have a speaker during dinner, mainly an Old Victorian or a guest. Also decided, that on every third dinner, starting March 2004, wives would attend while a public speaker would be invited for the occasion.

A schedule for events during the year 2004 will be reaching you in due course. At the same time a questionnaire is being prepared, in order that we share your views, ideas and suggestions, hopefully enabling us to serve you as best as we can.