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CSA Contents
EVERY MONTH
9
CSA Community Center
11 CSA Information and
Referral Desk
13 CSA Partner Vendors
14 Village Gift Shop
15 La Boutique
The Community Services Association (CSA) is
dedicated to providing the international expatriate
community with support to ease the transition and
adaptation to Egypt.
This month: Never Say Goodbye
18
28
16 CSA Library
23 CSA Events
25 CSA Showroom
27 Fundamentals of
Living in Egypt
33 Arts and Lifestyle, Cooking,
Trips and Tours
67
35 CSA Fitness Training Center
38 News from the CSA Fitness
Training Center
39 CSA Fitness Training Center
Schedule
41 BodyFit Cairo Program
46 CSA Activities Calendar
88 Community Announcements
50
FEATURES
The articles and views expressed in this publication are entirely
those of the authors and are not endorsed by CSA.
18 Stages of Leaving Egypt
67 Relocating Young Expats
28 A Walking Tour of
Islamic Cairo
69 Life After Death in
Ancient Egypt
37 Nutrition 101
71 La Vela Review
50 Drive By Feedings
72 New Land, New Ways
55 Talk Like An Egyptian
74Trivia
58 Your BioNovel Life
75 Family Time
61 A Woman in Cairo
77 Salmon Teriyaki Recipe
63 A Cognitive Adventure
78 Flying with Young Children
65 My Egypt
90 The Class Monitor
May 15 CSA 3
CSA to the Readers
Fitness Training Center:
The place to be.
Executive Director:
Flavia Makram-Ebeid
General Manager:
Fitness Center Manager
Sherif El Deib
Fitness Center Reception Administrator
Tanya Allahham
Fitness Center Coordinators
Krishanthi Ekanayake, Tanya Allahham,
Ahmed Hazem, Olwing Martin
Fitness Training Expert
Ahmed Agamy
Denden Alcantara
Fundraising Department:
On-Site Services:
Events Manager
Lama Al Hammuri
Business Development Manager
Riham R.El-Mograby
On-Site Service Manager
Heba Azzam
Information Referral Supervisor
Renate Shehab El Din
Information Referral Specialist
Maria Moustafa
Gift Shop Supervisor
Michaela Nemethova
Gift Shop Coordinator
Cecil Reyes
La Boutique Supervisor
Lisa Gonzales
La Boutique Coordinators
Natalia Zadaionia, Shaymaa Gouda
Librarian
Renate Shehab El Din
Operations Department:
Operations Manager
Sherif Hamdy
Program Department:
Communication Department:
Media and Communications Coordinator
Marcus O’Neill
Magazine/Digital Coordinator
Perihan Ahmed
Information Designer
Claudia Dencker
Website and Social Media Coordinator
Marcus O’Neill
Finance Department:
Finance Manager
Verna Pinto
Finance Administrators
Svetlana Kirnasova
Volunteers:
Carmen Urquiaga; Cecilia Alleyne-Budge;
Chandrika Naidu; Cristina Wheish;
Dominique Krayenbuhl; Jayne Kimmet;
Johanna Boessenkool; Mayssa Hourani;
Mona ElEmary; Nisha Patwari; Pat
Canfield; Radia Belaidi; Robert Moss;
Samia Wadman; Sylvia Jennette; Tina
Cleverton; Unnati Shah; Urvashi Mohan;
Violetta Salama
Program Supervisor
Tracey Allard
Program Development Coordinator
Deliah Adham
Language School Supervisor
Jehan Al Ashry
Printing by Interpress
BLISS Spa:
IT Services:
Bliss Coordinator
Hala Metwally
Oasis Magazine:
Integrated Technology Services (Karim
Abdel Raouf ) www.its-egy.com
ADVERTISING
Oasis is a premier magazine for the international expatriate community living and working
in Greater Cairo. With a distribution of 5000 free copies throughout Cairo, we offer exciting
opportunities to advertisers wishing to reach a large segment of the expat community.
¼ page 9cm x 12,5cm: $70
½ page horizontal 19cm x 12,5cm: $130
½ page vertical 9cm x 26cm: $130
Full page (A4)
21cm x 29,7cm + 3mm bleed: $250
Full page Advertorial (A4)
21cm x 29,7cm + 3mm bleed: $310
Acceptance of Advertorials is entirely the
discretion of the Magazine and Website
Advertising Coordinator.
Prices are quoted in USD, however payment can be
made in Egyptian currency based on the CSA rate.
Ads must be presented by email or on CD
with all fonts and pictures included; resolution
300dpi; tiff format.
For placement of advertisements and more
information please contact Perihan Ahmed at CSA:
Tel.: 2358 5284
Mobile: 010 688 28 537
e-mail: [email protected]
Deadline: The deadline for booking the Ads is
first Tuesday of the month prior to publication;
artwork is accepted till the 10th. Please book
early as space is limited.
EDITOR’S NOTE
May is upon us. Springtime, flowers,
Mother’s Day (at least in the West)
and the school year beginning
to wind down all come to mind
during this time of year. However,
in the life of the foreigner, May
often brings another familiar sight
– the beginning of the exodus of
friends, colleagues and co-workers
from Egypt to new exciting and
sometimes daunting destinations.
Whether you yourself are leaving
us or not, it’s difficult not to get
emotional about the prospect of
saying goodbye to those you’ve
made close bonds with. With that
in mind, perhaps it’s better to
“Never Say Goodbye” – at least in
the metaphorical sense. While you
may be leaving that doesn’t mean
you have to forget. Your memories
of Egypt will always hold a special
place in your heart and even
though you may not physically be
here they will forever leave a lasting
impression.
This month we’ve collected several
features that we hope will be of
some help if you find yourself in the
position of relocating from Egypt.
If you’re having a difficult time
with the whole process you’ll want
to read Stages of Leaving Egypt,
which should offer some context
to the rollercoaster of emotions
that you’re likely experiencing.
And if you have young children
be sure to check out Relocating
Young Expats and Flying with
Children for some invaluable tips
to make the situation a little easier.
Finally, in Your BioNovel Life
read about how one man is able to
take a person’s life experiences and
transcribe them onto a page in an
incredibly unique way.
“Remember that wherever your
heart is, there you will find your
treasure.” – Paulo Coelho
Marcus O’Neill
Editor, Oasis Magazine
May 15 CSA 5
CSA Sponsors
CSA offers a heartfelt “Thank you” all our sponsors. Your continued assistance allows us to offer services, workshops
and lectures for expats living and working in Egypt. As an independent, non-profit organization, we could not exist
without the support of the business community. It is through partnerships and the efforts of companies like yours
that CSA is able to offer our services.
CSA Sponsors
CSA needs your financial support to continue providing services to the international community working and
living in Egypt. If you care to help and would like to become involved, please contact Denden Alcantara at
[email protected]
May 15 CSA 7
CSA Community Center
Welcome to your local CSA Community Center
The place to be for information and support, to learn and connect
with your local community, and to relax and meet friends
The CSA Center provides the expatriate community with a wide range of services.
Our well-trained staff and volunteers are here to help you find your way around the
confusing but exciting city of Cairo. Whether you are in need of a cup of coffee, a
chance to read a good book, looking for that perfect gift, fitness classes or wanting
information about Cairo, the CSA is here to provide the expatriate community with
all these services. Visit our center and read our magazine to find out how you can
utilize all our services to help make your day easy, relaxing and enjoyable.
Community Marketplace
CSA’s Community Marketplace is the fun
and easy way to find and talk about great
(and not so great) local businesses! It’s
about real people giving their honest and
personal opinions on everything from restaurants and spas
to coffee shops and medical services. Both Community
Marketplace together with the CSA online Classifieds
and much more are available at: www.livinginegypt.org.
CSA wants to be a family friendly place that
is safe and enjoyable for all members of your
family! Please remember:
• Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
• Pets in the garden must be on best behavior at all times.
• Please don’t double or triple park.
• Please take care of your personal belongings at all times.
For more information visit our front desk or
download our membership application at
http://membership.livinginegypt.org
Stay up to date with all happenings
at CSA by having our e-newsletter
delivered to your inbox every week.
For more information or to sign up, go
to the CSA website www.livinginegypt.org
CSA Opening Hours:
Sunday-Thursday 8.45am-7.00pm
Saturday 9.00am-2.00pm
CSA, 4 Road 21, Maadi , Cairo
Tel: 23585284 / 23580754, Mob: 01068828540, Fax: 23802838
www.livinginegypt.org Facebook: livinginegypt Twitter: @livinginegypt
Directions to CSA in arabic from the autostrade, the corniche:
May 15 CSA 9
CSA Community Center
CSA Information and Referral Desk
The Information and Referral Desk is often the first place
people visit when they come to CSA.
We answer calls and transfer customers to the relevant
departments throughout CSA (Library, La Boutique,
Programs, Gift Shop, Fitness Training Center, Bliss and our
other partner vendors).
We respond to emails and face-to-face enquiries to try
and give customers as much information as possible.
New to Egypt, New to Maadi?
Come and see us to buy our Welcome Pack,
collect the latest Oasis magazine and answers
to your questions!
Available at Information and Referral
Community Announcements. Next to our three bulletin boards we also
have a Community Announcements board. If you have information you
think might be relevant to the wider community such as dog poisoning
in the area or a charity related event please notify us and we will add the
information to this board. Drop us an email or bring your A5 (1/2 page)
flyer to the Information and Referral Desk.
Flyers and Brochures. Flyers and brochures are a great way to promote
your business or service. CSA offers three box sizes where you can place
your flyers (maximum size A4/a full page) for 1 month, 3 months
or 6 months. Visit the Information and Referral Desk for pricing
information. Maximum of 50 flyers per month.
Answers to your Questions. Our friendly and helpful Information
and Referral staff will do their best to answer any and all questions you
might have. Drawing on their own personal knowledge or utilizing our
information packed website they will assist you in any way they can.
Bulletin Board
Did you know…
…that Bodyworx Physiotherapy
has moved back to the CSA main
building? Book your appointment
today by calling 0100 310 3414
…that the CSA Language School
regularly plans outings for its
students to explore local customs
and culture?
If you would like to place an advert on the CSA
Bulletin Board bring a copy of your advert (maximum
size A5 or ½ a page) with payment to the Information
and Referral Desk. Types of advert include apartments
for rent, cars for sale, animals, services, items for sale,
household staff, drivers, jobs.
For private adverts we will add them to our online
Classifieds Section (check Online Resources,
Classifieds) of our website and for businesses we will
make sure you are included as a basic listing in our
Community Marketplace (check Online Resources,
Community Marketplace).
…that Dr. Heba Hussein is available at CSA
for consultations regarding plastic surgery
and other cosmetic procedures every Tuesday?
Call 0122 310 3480 for more information.
Give us a call! If you have any questions for us don’t hesitate to give us a call
or drop us an email and we will do our best to help you. Tel: 02 2358 5284 /
02 2358 0754, Mobile:0106 882 8540, Email: [email protected]
Opening Hours:
Sunday-Thursday 8.45am-7.00pm
Saturday 9.00am-2.00pm
May 15 CSA 11
CSA Community Center
CSA Partner Vendors. We’ve partnered with various vendors in the community to bring our members top
notch products and services; all available onsite at CSA. Stop by, do some shopping, grab a coffee and get your nails
done. Make sure you experience all that CSA has to offer.
Nagada
Sunday-Thursday 9.00am-6.00pm
Saturday 9.00am-2.00pm.
Surrounded by Egypt…
Inspired by the World
Daily 9.00am-5.00pm.
Experience the wonders of Egypt and the world.
ASTI can arrange your flights, car rentals, hotels,
tours and much more.
www.americanstartravel.com
L’avenue
Sunday-Wednesday
9.00am-7.00pm
Thursday 9.00am-6.00pm
Saturday 9.00am-2.00pm
L’avenue offers a variety of
luxury gifts and homeware,
including hollowware, flatware,
luxury home linens, crystal,
porcelain, handmade artistic
glass, indoor and outdoor
candles and much more.
http://lavenue33.com
Antwerpen Fine Jewelry
Sunday-Thursday
9.00am-7.00pm
Pamper yourself and enjoy
Antwerpen’s beautiful
selection of gold, diamond
and colored stone
pieces and its new
stunning and
affordable
silver line.
Zen Nail Salon
New at
Ultrasound Cavitation
• Removes fat non-invasively
• Tightens the skin and improves body contour
• Removes wrinkles
• Shrinks and tightens pores
• Rejuvenates skin
Appointments available 7 days a week.
Tel. 0100 310 3414
Daily
9.00am-7.00pm
Reconnect with nature and free
your body and mind. Experience
complete relaxation with the
numerous services we provide
you. Nails, manicure, pedicure,
gelish, acrylic, wax, facial hair removal.
For the Best Coffee in Cairo, look no
further. Aside from freshly brewed coffee
and specialty drinks, we carry a selection
of pastries, sandwiches and salads.
Sunday-Thursday 7.00am-7.00pm
Friday and Saturdays: 9.00am-5.00pm
Khan Touloun
Sunday-Wednesday 9.00am-7.00pm
Thursday 9.00am-6.00pm
Saturday 9.00am-2.00pm
High quality Egyptian handmade crafts, including
beautiful recycled glass items, hand-woven shawls and
textiles, pottery, tea boxes, trays and coasters. They also
have a collection of embroidered leather bags, purses,
dolls and shawls by Nevin Altman and angels and
nativity sets available year round.
The Place
Sunday-Thursday 9.00am-5.00pm
Saturday 9.00am-2.00pm
Heba Arteen
Heba is a Cairo based jewelry
designer whose pieces are
reminiscent of the old times, yet
contemporary and stylish.
May 15 CSA 13
CSA Village Gift Shop
CSA La Boutique
The Village Gift Shop is a unique store that offers a range of handcrafted items, Egyptian souvenirs, artwork
and guidebooks. What truly makes it unique is our commitment to reach out to charities and NGOs, women
entrepreneurs and local artisans; you’re one-stop away from a perfect and unique gift.
The celebrations of the year have come to an end with summer soon upon us. Some will be going to their home countries for
holidays but others will be leaving Egypt for good. We know saying goodbye is not easy, so take a little Egypt back home with
you. The Village Gift Shop is your one-stop shop away from home where you can get unique souvenirs from all over Egypt hassle free! In our vast collection we have candleholders, beautifully embroidered galabeyas, trays and coasters with mother of
pearl designs as well as beautiful hand-painted tiles, mirrors decorated with folkloric village scenes or lotus flowers. Show your
family and friends the unique items that you can find here in Egypt.
Get hand embroidered outfits for you and your children made by
skilled women from Bahareya Oasis. Their beautiful garments are
sewn using a machine and completed with embroidery, a technique
passed down from generation to generation. When you buy you
help these ladies create an income for their family.
Don’t let those Arabic lessons go to waste.
Purchase an Arabic pocket-sized phrasebook
or some flashcards to keep your skills up over
the summer. If you enjoy Egyptian food, My
Grandmother’s Kitchen is a fun and visual
cookbook with plenty of recipes for you to
enjoy with your friends and family back home.
La Boutique - The CSA Consignment Shop is an expatriate “members only” shop where you can buy and sell preowned clothing, household items and other decorative accessories. Contribute to the community and make some
money for yourself by recycling your items. If you choose, we can forward items as donations to charity. New stock
daily, do not miss out on these great buys!
OUR SERVICES
Reminders: All items must be laundered, ironed and in good
to excellent condition to be eligible for sale. Mechanical
items must be in good working order. La Boutique reserves
the right to return items deemed unfit for sale. We must be
selective in the merchandise we accept for consignments, so
please do not feel offended if your items are not accepted.
We only want the best for our members.
Adult Section: You will find apparel in various styles and
sizes ranging from formal, business, casual, and athletic. It
is your one stop to find great buys.
Kids & Teens: Our kids grow out of their clothes so fast they
don’t have time to wear them out before they need to get new
ones. La Boutique offers fun and playful outfits for the little
citizens of the world.
Miscellaneous Items: We also accept home decorative items,
curtains, bedding, children’s toys, and electronics. All items
must be clean and in working condition. It you are not sure of
an item give us a call.
Volunteers: Need something to do? Why don’t you try our
volunteering at La Boutique? Great place to meet fun and
animated staff as well as interact with lots of new people in
the shop. Stop by and fill out a volunteer form at reception
and we will get those free hands working.
Cleaning out your home
So you decided to do some major cleaning/organizing at home. This can be
overwhelming but the following tips should help you conquer the task. Make the task
of sifting through your wardrobe less onerous by dividing the chore into several days.
Take a day to go through shoes, the next day pants and blouses and so on. Do the same
for the rest of your home. If you’ve got some items that you’d like to consign keep make
note of the following tips before you pack your car up and head down to La Boutique.
1. Make sure your clothing is washed or dry cleaned. Accessories, shoes and household
items must be clean.
Kids Corner
2. You want your stuff looking as new and fresh as possible. Iron your clothing wrinkles are a turn off!
Our children’s corner is
full of different goodies
such as camel t-shirts,
camel embroidered totes,
dragon flies, dervish
spinning tops, notebooks
and sketch books with
modern designs, and
stuffed camels, which are
always a great gift for kids.
The Village Gift Shop is run with
the help of a team of volunteers who
are always ready to help you with a
cheerful and friendly smile.
If you want to become part of our team fill out an application at the
CSA Front Desk and we’ll make sure to find you a position that suits
you.
14 May 15 CSA
3. Bust out the lint roller for any stubborn pet hairs. Also trim or mend any stray
threads and make sure buttons are properly affixed. Invest in a sweater shaver to
deal with pilling.
4. Ensure items are not outdated. Most shoppers are looking for items that are newer
styles.
Consignment items needn’t be 100% flawless, but they definitely need to be free of
substantial damage.
We are always looking for new and
unique items, please ask our Gift Shop
Supervisor for more information.
Gift Shop Opening Hours:
Sunday-Wednesday 9.00am-7.00pm
Thursday 9.00am-4.00pm
Saturday 9.00am-2.00pm
www.livinginegypt.org
Opening Hours
Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 9.00am-2.00pm
Wednesday Evening 4.00pm-7.00pm
Saturdays 9.00am-2.00pm
Drop Offs:
Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 10.00am-1.00pm
Wednesday 4.30pm-6.30pm
Saturday no drop offs
May 15 CSA 15
CSA Library
The CSA Library is the only leisure-reading library of its kind in Maadi. A muchvalued resource for newcomers and veteran expatriates alike, it is stocked through
community participation via donations to the library.
Book Sale:
Join us in the CSA garden on Tuesday, May 19 and Wednesday, May 20 from
9.00am-2.00pm for our Library Book Sale.
Books
Moving on is never
easy
@ CSA Library
• Award-winning authors
• Health and wellbeing section
• Reference books on Egypt,
Middle East and other
worldwide destinations
• Biographies and nonfiction books
• Children’s section (preschool to young adult)
• Science fiction, fantasy,
romance and more
• Magazines, periodicals and
newspapers
Membership
Where Rainbows End by Cecilia Ahern
From naughty children to rebellious teenagers, Rosie and Alex have stuck by each other
through thick and thin. But just as they’re discovering the joys of teenage nights on the
town and dating disasters, they’re separated. But destiny, Alex and Rosie discover, is a
funny thing and fate isn’t quite done with them yet.
The Kite Runner by Khaled Husseini
A sweeping story of family, love, and friendship told against the devastating backdrop of
the history of Afghanistan over the last thirty years, The Kite Runner is an unusual and
powerful novel that has become a beloved, one-of-a-kind classic.
Before I Say Goodbye by Mary Higgins Clark.
When Nell MacDermott begins probing into the mysterious circumstances of her
husband’s death she receives a message from a medium claiming to be his channel that
turns her whole world upside down.
DVDs
Check out these
classic movies
about having
to learn to say
goodbye.
E.T. This timeless story follows the unforgettable journey of a lost alien and the 10-yearold boy he befriends. Join Elliot, Gertie and Michael as they come together to help E.T.
find his way back home.
Terms and Conditions:
• Annual Membership:
350 LE per year for books,
magazines and DVDs.
• Any family member can take
out 5 books for a period of
three weeks.
• Members are entitled to
borrow 3 magazines and 2
DVDs per family in addition
to 5 book limit.
• Please note that children
must be accompanied by an
adult when using the CSA
Library.
Donation
The CSA Library donates all
their old glossy magazines to
A.P.E (Association for Protection of the Environment) an
Egyptian NGO whose mission
is to promote environmentally
safe solid waste management
in Egypt. A.P.E will use these
magazines to produce beautifully crafted products that
can then be sold. You can view
some of A.P.E’s products in the
CSA Village Gift Shop.
Forrest Gump Forrest Gump, who despite being mentally challenged, tried hard, is honest
and places his trust in luck. He tells his life story to anyone who sits next to him at a bus
stop, and the flashbacks follow Forrest and his good heart through some of the highlights
of modern American history.
Bye Bye Birdie When rock star and teenage heart-throb Conrad Birdie gets drafted into
the army, his manager, Albert, organizes a nationwide contest where the lucky winner gets
a farewell kiss on the Ed Sullivan show. The result is chaos and a series of hilarious romantic
complications.
We feature a new movie (or two) every week - check the posters in the library for the
current week’s movie.
16 May 15 CSA
Library Opening Hours:
Sunday-Thursday
9.00am-7.00pm
Saturday 9.00am-2.00pm
www.livinginegypt.org
Lifestyle
of Leaving Egypt
By Heather Ramsey
And so it is that your time here comes to
an end. Although there were many ups
and downs here I wonder if you would
change the experience if you could.
Moving on is much like the stages of
grief, each stage is necessary, yet not
necessarily easy. No matter how many
times I have to move on I still seem to
be surprised at the impact each has on
me. Below you will find the stages of
leaving as I have experienced them.
Shock
“NO, Really?” We all are waiting for
that time when, due to our job or our
spouse’s, it is time to move on. Even
though in my mind I mentally prepare
for this it always seems to come out
of left field. For me, whenever I start
really knowing the back roads, how to
avoid traffic or start feeling a true sense
of community we are off again to start
anew. Often when this hits my thoughts
are “No, No No …”
mostly because I don’t think the day
will come. Often I will think that it is
so far away so why go there right now?
Everything is Irritating
Part of coming out of denial is shifting to
a mindset that makes it is okay to leave. I
found myself to be frustrated more often.
The self talk started to run through all of
the things that were irritating me about
life in Egypt. The list seemed incredibly
long, so much so that I couldn’t even see
why I wanted to be there in the first place.
Why were all of these things driving me
crazy when I was leaving? Is this how I
wanted to leave Egypt: bitter, irritated
and angry? I remember back to other
friends who were leaving and how I was
frustrated with their negativity towards
Egypt too. Now I realize it wasn’t them
either, it was merely a part of the moving
process. In order to leave our mind has
to justify the reasons why it was okay to
go. It is a natural defense and part of the
stages of grieving.
Denial
Celebrating Those Who Touched My
Life
With only months until the move my
head is often in the here and now. I am
focused on the work, the volunteering,
the friends or the school. I try to keep
both feet solidly planted where I am,
not where I am going. I dig a big hole
and pretend for as long as I can that I
don’t have to go and that everything
will somehow remain the same.
It is so important to remember those
that have been there with you in this
journey. I appreciated my Egyptian
and my expat friends alike. Much of
my time was not just leaving
people but choosing
how I wanted
to leave
them. For some groups it was a
dinner, a Felucca ride or coffee. My
big celebration was having all of my
girlfriends come for a belly dancing
party. I remember scanning the room
and thinking how fabulous all of the
woman were there. They were strong,
resourceful, positive and wise ladies
who had all come to say goodbye. I
went around the room letting each
woman know how much I appreciated
her. Even if I never saw them again I
knew how much I had learned from
each one: their calmness, parenting
style, carefree attitude, authenticity,
home remedies, attention to detail, and
support for others. I was sad but at the
same time happy that they were there
in that moment. I hope that if those
ladies learned anything from me it is
“do what you love”. We all danced and
I was joyful inside to see them going
outside of their comfort zone. Oh how
I miss them!
My son was working on his balancing
skills on the curb. He used my hand
to balance as I had to go from one side
to the other avoiding cars and debris.
We were on the way to his last day of
school. I started to think of how he
didn’t understand that he would never
see his friends again. The tears came to
my eyes.
Across the street my friend waved me
over. We connected for a bit. I knew
then that I would miss her very much.
We both started to cry, said an awkward
goodbye and quickly walked away in
different directions. Little did I know
that 6 years later I would see her again.
She and another friend from Egypt
moved nearby and came to support a
fundraiser I was sponsoring. That night,
honored by their presence, I realized
that we never really say goodbye to our
expat friends. It is really “See you later”.
With Facebook, email, and yes the
phone, we can all still stay connected.
We will likely see each other at another
post. Not that it will be the same but it
can still be a solid friendship that lasts
forever.
of leaving Egypt and coming back to the
cold, freshness of winter in the States. I
felt complete in our new home with the
fire burning and it was cold outside, we
were warm and cozy. Our level of moving
anxiety had passed and we appreciated
the winter view from the windows in our
living room. Home for us has always been
wherever we are as a family. This would
be home although it would take a while
to feel like it was truly like it. I am forever
changed by the experience I had in Egypt.
No matter where I live I will take a piece
of my expat/Egyptian life and mindset
with me.
She and her team work with individuals
and teams all over the world to strengthen
their leadership skills by working
together to set a clear vision, enhance
communications, manage conflict and
increase negotiation skills through
coaching and team development.
As you move on, I am curious
what stages of grief or
appreciation you go
through. I look forward
to hearing how it goes.
Heather Ramsey is from Sojourn
Partners
(www.sojournpartners.
com) an executive coaching and
leadership development firm.
At Peace with Moving On
Each time we move I create a list of
what I will and won’t miss about
the place we’re leaving. It is
my way of emotionally
moving on. I have
this image
It’s Really Not Goodbye
My last day in Egypt I walked
down the muddied street
with cars crammed
on either side.
With friends I try not to talk too
much about the move,
18 May 15 CSA
www.livinginegypt.org
May 15 CSA 19
CSA Events
CSA Events May 2015
art Exhibition
Cook’s Day Off
Sundays and Thursdays
9.00am-2.00pm
Featuring the works of Fatima El Shiati
April 24-June 25
Cairo based artist Fatima El Shiati is a graduate of
McMaster University in Hamilton, studied art at the
Dundas Valley School of Art, the Montreal Museum
of Fine Art and the Galerie d’Art Contemporain in
Montreal. Fatima blends aspects of her life, interests and
passions into decorative works of art.
Garden Bazaar
For those days when you just don’t have the energy
to cook, we can provide a reprieve with homemade,
authentic cuisine from Egypt, India, Italy, Lebanon,
Pakistan and Thailand. These specialties are cooked with
care and love for you and your family.
Sunday, May 3 & Monday, May 4
AND
Sunday, May 24 & Monday, May 25
9.00am-2.00pm
Calling all ladies! Shop ‘till you drop! Lots of vendors
await you with a great selection of items to choose from
including clothes, accessories, arts and crafts.
Farmer’s Market
9.00am-2.00pm
Wednesdays
Get your fresh herbs and vegetables
from Makar Farms.
Thursdays
Stop by for Tabi3y’s organic
vegetables and herbs.
Thai Buffet
Wednesday, May 13
12.00pm
Looking for a friendly place to
stop in for lunch? Drop by with
your friends for a traditional
Thai meal. With harmony as its
base, dishes in the Thai buffet are prepared with fragrant
Asian spices and herbs that will tantalize your taste buds.
Don’t forget to mark your calendar because it’s only once
a month and the menus are always different.
For any queries or questions on events, please contact [email protected]
May 15 CSA 23
CSA Showroom... a concept corner
This space is utilized by various artists and vendors to introduce you to new and exciting trends within fashion,
culinary arts, furniture design and more.
May 3-May 9
African Store –Amr Gabr
May 17- May 23
Fadia Mabrouk –Boshret Kheir Shop
We believe that the world is a grove of art and beauty.
We are interested in choosing the best flowers of art,
history and heritage to give a magic touch to your home
office or company. Keep your space up-to-date with the
best modern handicrafts. Achieving your dreams is our
priority.
Boshret Kheir has a wide selection of home interior
accessories and silver antiques. Fadia also carries beautiful
handcrafted gifts, including shawls (silk and pashmina),
pottery (Iranian ceramic), cushion covers, tablecloths and
various other crafted textiles made from Egyptian cotton
and old fabric.
May 24-May 30
Gina Khattab’s Jewelry
May 10-May 16
Amina K.
Amina K. was started by Amina
Khalil in 2009. It is a fashion line
dedicated to and inspired by Egypt.
After studying fashion design and
marketing in London and interning
in different fields in the fashion
industry, Amina decided to go back
to her roots to create a new concept.
By combining traditional Egyptian
silhouettes and giving them a
modern western twist, she aims to
introduce a new style.
Ethnic silver jewelry designed in a modern way, yet easy
to wear. Choose the perfect piece of jewelry from Gina’s
large selection to pamper yourself or your loved ones.
May 31-June 6
Delonghi-Kenwood
Acti is an Egyptian company who are sole agents
for many International Brands of home appliances,
including Delonghi Kenwood. On display in the CSA
Showroom will be a full range of small appliances that
make life so much more convenient.
May 15 CSA 25
CSA Newcomers
New to Egypt?
Help us help you
At CSA, we understand the importance of positive adjustment and ongoing
in-country support
Fundamentals of Living in Egypt Seminar
Fundamentals of Living in Egypt is a one day orientation
seminar for the international expatriate community living
and working in Egypt. It is a unique opportunity for those
who have recently arrived in Egypt.
Next Seminar:
Sunday, May 10, 2015
8.00am-4.00pm
Cost $160
(It includes an authentic Egyptian Lunch)
Fundamentals of Living in Egypt will help you to
Some of the topics covered are
•understand the importance of cultural self-awareness and the
influences of culture in everyday life and in the workplace
•Cross-Cultural Adaptation
•improve and adapt communication with the local community,
colleagues and family members
•Staying Healthy
•adopt new activities and be ready to enjoy an enriching
experience living and working in Egypt
•Customs and Tradition
•Daily Life in Cairo
•Egypt Past and Present
Newcomer Tips
What options exist for boarding pets during vacation?
The best option is to keep your pet at home, and have someone you trust
to look after them there – perhaps a maid, bawab, or driver (yours
or someone else’s), or a friend. They
could either stay in the house or
visit once or twice a day. If you
do not know anyone who would
be willing to do this, CSA may be
able to refer you to someone who
pet-sits, either visiting your house or
taking the pet into their own home.
The other option is to board your pet in a kennel or at a veterinarian. It is strongly
recommended that you go and look at any kennel before putting your pet in there. They vary
tremendously in price and standards. It is best to get references from people who have boarded
their pets before. Also, talk to the kennel about food, exercise, and any other concerns you
have. It’s important to make sure all your pet’s vaccinations are up to date – both for their
own protection and for the other animals. When you take your pet, try to make it as relaxed
as possible, take something familiar from home (like their own bed, toys or an article of your
clothing), and make sure you have time to settle them in.
Arriving in a new
country is exciting and
stressful at the same
time.
Since 1980, CSA has
played an integral part
in the lives of expatriates
by providing practical
support in what can
be a challenging, yet
exciting time. Improve
your chances of a
successful transition by
joining us at our next
Fundamentals of Living
in Egypt Seminar or any
of our other numerous
programs.
May 15 CSA 27
Culture
A Walking Tour
of Islamic Cairo
By Supriya Chawla
Islamic Cairo is an area of the city roughly
bounded by the Moqattam Hills, the
Citadel and the Ibn Tulun mosque and
contains excellent examples of Islamic
architecture. It is best explored on foot
so that the treasures hidden down the
winding, narrow streets can be enjoyed.
Go early to avoid the heat of the day
and wear good, easily-removed-walking
shoes. Mosques require the removal
of shoes and conservative clothing.
Visitors with bare arms or wearing
shorts are prevented from entering most
Islamic sites.
On the opposite side of the Khan el
Khalilli Bazaar is the oldest university
of the Islamic world, Al Azhar. It was
founded by the Fatimid conqueror
Gawkar in 970. It plays an important
role in the religious and political life in
Egypt and the surrounding Arab states.
It has a teaching staff of over 3000 and
a student body of over 90,000.
Leading from behind Al Azhar is a
street passing between the School and
Tomb of Al Ghory.
It leads to the mosque of Al Muyyad
(1420 AD) and Bab Zuwaila (1092 AD).
28 May 15 CSA
The mosque of Al Muyyad has an arcade
courtyard and fine wooden ceilings.
Emir Al Muyyad was imprisoned at this
site and he vowed if released he would
build a mosque to replace the prison.
The minarets can be climbed for an
additional fee and is worth climbing
for a superb view. The fortified gate Bab
Zuweila marks the southern limits of Al
Qahira and is an excellent example of
Islamic military architecture. Opposite
the gate is the Salah Talayi mosque
(1160 AD). This beautiful mosque
has an arcade courtyard and has been
extensively restored recently. From here
there are two options and both of them
rewarding:
Option 1:
Standing with the back to Bab Zuweila,
going straight down the street, you pass
through a 17th century bazaar. This
bazaar is colloquially known as the
Tent-Maker Street. To the right is the
place of Radwan Bay (1650 AD) and
on the left the mosques of Kare (1395)
and Ismail Atabacki (1392). Passing
several other minor Islamic sites, one is
led to the Mosques of Sultan Hussein
and Rifai, eventually ending up at the
Mosque of Ibn Tulun and the Gayer
Anderson House.
Gayer Anderson House, located at 4
Midan Ahmed Ibn Tulun adjoining the
Ibn Tulun Mosque, there are a couple of
16th and 18th century Islamic houses
restored and occupied for many years
by British Major Gayer Anderson. He
furnished them with his own collection
of fine authentic pieces representing
various periods.
The Mosque of Ibn Tulun has a central
courtyard that spans four acres and
offers a view of the mosque’s embellished
architecture as well as being a peaceful
refuge in the heart of the busy city.
Option 2:
Again standing with the back to Bab
Zuweila, turn left and follow the street
(Darb El Ahmar), past Mosque of Salah
Talai. The mosque a few yards down
the road is Qijmas Ishaquy (1481 AD)
and is built at an intersection of two
streets. This mosque is a good example
of Mameluk architecture.
The next mosque Mihmadar (1334 AD)
is not open to the public. The following is
the mosque Maridani (1339 AD), which
is a very fine building featuring all the
decorative techniques used at that time.
A few yards down the street is a large
www.livinginegypt.org
complex, the Madrassa and mosque/
Tomb of Sultan Sha’ban’s mother and
the 15th century place of Bait Al Razzaz.
The outer door to the right of the mosque
gives access to a flight of stairs, leading
to an attractive room with stained glass/
mashrabya windows.
On the opposite side of the street further
on is the mosque of Aqsumqur, or the
“Blue Mosque” (1347 AD). A Turkish
Governor restored it in 1652 and he
added the blue tiles, hence its name. The
mosque is connected to various other
minor Islamic buildings; named after
Emir Khaybeck (1502). The dome has a
carved multi-level arabesque pattern and
represents the peak of Mameluk artistry
in stone work. This street will now lead
directly to the Citadel’s entrance.
The Citadel is one of the most prominent
features of the city’s skyline. The mosque
of Mohammed Ali, the Jewel Museum,
the Cairo Carriage Museum and the
Military Museum are all housed on the
grounds of the Citadel.
The City of The Dead, lies on a dust
plain bounded by Old Cairo on the
west, the Moqattam Hills on the east,
and the bustling metropolis of modern
Cairo on the north. Near the Citadel is
the main entrance at the point of Bab
el Qarafah, or The Gate to the Tombs.
From this high narrow gateway in
the fortified wall, a road runs straight
between the low stone buildings of
the southern cemetery, or Necropolis
of Imam Shafi’i. The Shafi’i is a good
starting point for a visit. Most taxi
drivers know the mosque, and it can
even be found on some maps.
From the Mosque of Imam Shafi’i, it is
not necessary to walk far before feeling
the atmosphere of Qarafah. Even so,
there are many surprises. The streets
are wide and quiet and are laid out in
grid fashion like a Roman town. The
buildings are unique, generally square,
and consist of only a ground floor
with neat stone fronts, sturdy wooden
doors, and a couple of small barred and
shuttered windows. With people about,
as in any other city street, the buildings
give the impression of being small
chalets. In fact, they are the tombs of
political and religious dignitaries of the
Abbasid and later periods. There are also
several mosques and mausoleums, some
of which are outstanding examples of
Islamic art and architecture.
CSA is running a modified
version of this walking tour on
Tuesday, May 19 from 9.00am2.00pm. For more information
or to register email programs@
livinginegypt.org.
May 15 CSA 29
CSA Activities
Welcome to Programs!
We have prepared a wonderful month for you! Join us in many of our diverse events!
There is a new team on board at Programs that have put together creative and exciting new adventures for you,
your children, and the entire family. Keep a look out for details in our Oasis magazine, website, newsletter, or
pop in at the CSA. Come for a coffee and chat, bring your ideas, share your skill in a lecture or workshop…
we love seeing you all!
TRIPS AND TOURS
To guarantee your place on a trip,
please book your trip well in advance.
Please note that all trips have to be
paid at least 5 days in advance either
in dollars or equivalent in EGP.
Zamalek Tour by
Horse-Drawn Carriage
Tuesday, May 5
9.00am-2.00pm
Cost: $35
Join us for this unique excursion. Tour
Gezira by horse drawn carriage and then
enjoy a delicious lunch at Zooba. Sakkara and Imhotep Museum
Tuesday, May 12
9.00am-2.00pm
Cost: $40
Saqqara was Ancient Egypt’s most important
necropolis, being used for the burial of
kings and their high officials since the dawn
of Egyptian civilization. In this tour we visit
some of these tombs, the complex of King
Zoser and the newly opened museum for
the genius architect, Imhotep to whom the
complex is attributed.
Wine Tasting at Gianaclis
Saturday, May 16
8.00am-6.00pm
Cost: $30
Wine making in
Egypt existed in
ancient Pharaonic
times. Continuing
with this tradition
of wine making,
Nestor
Gianaclis
set up a worldclass winery, which
won international
recognition
from
connoisseurs all over
the globe. In 2002, Heineken acquired it and
a number of other brands were introduced.
Gianaclis and CSA invite members to tour
the winery. Transport and lunch will be
provided. Please note that this trip is only
available for those aged 18 and over.
Islamic Cairo Walking Tour
Tuesday, May 19
9:00am-2:00pm
Cost: $35
Join us on this fascinating tour in the core
of old Islamic Cairo. The bus will take you
to the oldest university of the Islamic world,
Al Azhar, where you will start this walking
tour. You will pass by the street between the
school and Tomb of Al Ghory and continue
to the mosque of Al Muyyad and Bab
Zuwaila the Salah Talayi mosque. Please
bring a head scarf for entry into mosques.
Crystal Factory Showroom
Monday, May 25
10.00am-2.00pm
Cost: $30
Join this wonderful trip to the Asfour
Crystal Factory and see the beautiful
prisms dancing in the light while you view
chandeliers, figurines, jewelry, and much
more. Be sure to bring some money as the
fabulous prices will make it hard for you to
resist buying something.
CSA Gives Back to the Community
Visit to Egyptian Society for Mercy to
Animals (ESMA)
Sunday, May 10
9.00am-1.00pm
Cost: $25
Join the CSA organized visit to ESMA animal shelter. Hear about the initiatives
in Egypt to help animals in need and learn more about volunteer opportunities.
Donations are always appreciated. A portion of the trip’s fees will be donated to ESMA.
note: We provide transportation and guides for all our tours to historical sites and
landmarks. For other tours, please check with Programs.
All activities are subject to
changes and cancellation.
Terms and Conditions: All trips are subject to cancellation if required
minimum number of bookings is not obtained. Cancellation by the CSA: If a trip is
cancelled the CSA will refund the cost of that trip. Cancellation by the customer: A
minimum of 3 business days notice is required in order to obtain a full refund. The
original receipt must be presented when claiming a refund.
For the most up-to-date information on all CSA’s trips, tours and classes please visit our website at www.livinginegypt.org
May 15 CSA 31
CSA Activities
Trip of the Month
The Marriot and
the Old Palace
Sunday, May 31
9.00am-2.00pm
Cost: $40
The Marriot Hotel was originally
a grand palace, built during the
Napoleonic period. This will be a
rare opportunity for a guided tour
of the grand and historical areas in
the Marriot hotel. This tour has been
organized exclusively for CSA clients
and refreshments will be served in the
beautiful Saraya Gallery.
What people are saying about CSA’s Trips and Tours
“My friend, who was visiting from the US,
and I loved the tour. Ahmed was punctual,
helpful, and made sure we saw everything we
wanted to…. He is very knowledgeable, and
was a pleasure to be with all day. My special
thanks go to Deliah for helping us set up the
tour! Thank you for such a perfect day!”
- Ashley (private tour to Coptic Cairo
and the Khan el Khalili)
“I was so happy to go to the Cairo museum
with the CSA. It was my first trip to the
museum and I learned so much from our
guide Ahmed. I also enjoyed meeting the three
new ladies who just moved to Egypt! Thank
you for the trip. It was really enjoyable.”
- Sylvia (group tour to Cairo Museum)
To book your group or private tour contact the Programs Department
today by [email protected] or call 02 2358-5284
Book your private tour with CSA
If you have guests visiting or just want a special trip for yourself and a few friends, we can still book a private tour for you. Choose
between half and full day tours and we will provide you with the needed transportation and a professional tour guide. All of our
guides are very reliable, highly informative and carefully selected. For further information please contact the Programs Department.
Nile, Azhar Park and Wadi Degla. The
other session will be spent in the classroom.
Practice what you have learned and end the
course with a fun competition. Bring your
camera -whatever type or model, a pen and
paper and you are good to go! Check out his
FB page: “Bahaa Mansour Photography “.
This workshop is suited for all levels.
Make Up Course
Saturdays & Wednesdays,
May 23-June 17
Option 1: Early session 11.00-1.00pm
OR
Option 2: Late session 7.00pm-9.00pm
Cost: $250
This is an 8 session full make-up course
with instructor Rania Serag. It will start
with the basics of caring for your skin and
move on to makeup application, makeup
correction, party makeup and more. Please
visit the programs for full details of the
course outline. Note that 5 day advance
registration is required.
Clay Pottery
May 25-June 15
Mondays
Option 1: Early Session 11.00am1.00pm
OR
Option 2: Late Session 7.00pm-9.00pm
Cost: $66
In
this
interesting
4-session course instructor
Mohamed Shaaban will
teach you how to make a set
of tableware comprised of
1 large plate, 1 small plate,
1 serving dish and 1 mug.
In doing this you will be
provided special moulds to
place the clay in and learn
how to sculpture handles
and other plate designs. The last class will
be dedicated to painting on the items you‘ve
made with a special glazing paint that allows
you to eat and drink from your Tableware.
Please be aware that you will be receiving
your finished items a week after the class is
over due to the firing the kiln procedure.
Mum & Baby Group
Mondays
10.30am-12.30pm
Cost: $5
Come join other mums and their infants/
toddlers for play dates, coffee breaks and
information exchange. Mum & Baby is
friendly group of new mothers who meet
at CSA every Wednesday for the purpose
of providing mums and caregivers fun
and information in a supportive and nonjudgmental environment.
Private Cooking Classes
Private Cooking Classes: If you would
like one of our regular cooking classes set
up just for you, your friends or visiting
family then contact CSA program
department to discuss availability.
Coming in June
Arts And LIFESTYLE
Please note that all courses have to be
paid at least 5 days in advance either in
dollars or equivalent in EGP.
Papyrus and Cartouche
Sunday, May 3 and Monday, May 4
9.00am-2.00pm
Join us in the CSA garden for two of
Egypt’s greatest traditions. Hear about
the history of papyrus paper and watch a
demonstration. You can also watch while
personalized Cartouche jewelry items
are handmade on site. Art and jewelry will
be available for purchase.
32 May 15 CSA
Naturopathy and Meditation
Workshops
Introduction and History – Part 1
Sunday, May 17
10.00am-1.00pm
Cost: $30
Theory and Methods - Part 2
Monday, May 18
10.00am-1.00pm
Cost: $30
Dr. Sumita is from India he has been
teaching meditation in Southeast Asia and
South Africa for last 40 years spreading
the therapeutic value of meditation and
naturopathy. Currently, he is the Director
of International Meditation Association
in Middle East overlooking humanitarian
projects. He is coming to Cairo to promote
his lifelong work of teaching meditation
and naturopathy and will be available for a
2-day workshop at CSA.
Horseback Riding
Wednesday, May 20
9.00am-2.00pm
Cost: $30
This CSA excursion will take you to a
beautiful equestrian stable located on
Mansurea Canal in Sakkara. Enjoy a relaxed
day of riding in the garden and surrounding
area, where you will first have a small lesson
to check your level of comfort. Book now as
there will be limited space available.
Magical Egypt Summer Camps
Sundays-Wednesdays
Session 1: June 21 to June 24
Session 2: June 28 to July 1
Session 3: July 5 to July 8
Session 4: July 12 to July 15
Session 5: July 26 to July 29
9.00am-1.00pm
Cost: $130 per session (discounts if enrolling more than 1 child and for CSA members)
Looking for a fun and educational camp for your child this summer? This year the
CSA Language School is running weekly camps for children aged 5-14 throughout the
summer. In these unique camps your child will experience fun activities that highlight
Egyptian culture and customs. Session content will vary week-to-week. Snacks and
lunch are included.
Giza group (5–7 yrs) Activities may include crafts, jewelry making, painting,
sewing, cooking, karate, storytelling, dancing, singing, basic Arabic lessons and
math/science lessons.
Nature Photography
Sundays, May 10 to May 31
10.00am-2.00pm
Cost: $100
Join professional photographer Bahaa
Mansour in this nature photography
workshop. Learn to master your camera
and the basic rules of shooting objects in
motion, landscape and much more. This
is a 4 sessions workshop which includes
both theory and practice. Bahaa will take
you on 3 field trips which will include the
www.livinginegypt.org
Aswan group (8-11 yrs) Activities may include crafts, sewing, embroidery, cake decorating,
cooking, animal training, karate, group fitness, yoga, guitar lessons, lessons on ancient and
present day Egypt, language lessons (French/Arabic) and creative writing.
Ain Sokhna group (12-14 yrs) Activities may include crafts, jewelry making, painting,
photography, cake decorating, karate, group fitness, yoga, dancing, language lessons
(Spanish, French & Arabic) and lessons about Egyptian culture.
Do you have a small group and would like a custom class or
trip organized just for you? Let CSA do the planning for you.
Contact: [email protected]
Please note: Cancellations should be made at least 3 working
days prior to class in order to receive a refund. To avoid
cancellation of classes please sign up 3 working days in advance.
For the most up-to-date information on all CSA’s trips, tours and classes please visit our website at www.livinginegypt.org
May 15 CSA 33
CSA Fitness Training Center
Welcome to the CSA Fitness Training Center!
CSA Fitness Training Center offers an array of activities designed to help
you and your family to achieve your personal health and fitness goals:
• Fat loss • Increased Flexibility • Muscle Tone • Rehabilitation • General Fitness
• Conditioning • Gym Orientation and Assessment • Certified Personal Trainers
NEW TO CAIRO? FIRST-TIME VISITOR?
The Free Trial Pass (Please bring your foreign passport to avail this offer) allows you
to enjoy three consecutive days of free membership and fitness at the CSA Fitness
Training Center! Gym only, eligibility includes a foreign passport.
Points to Note
Signing In. You must sign in at the FTC front
desk and present your membership card (or pay
the walk-in fee) before you will be granted access
to the facility.
Attire. You must bring a clean pair of training
shoes to wear in the gym; no outdoor shoes will
be allowed. Please demonstrate good hygiene
when in the gym area. Refrain from wearing
strong perfumes and do not wear dangling
jewelry or key chains.
Group Fitness Classes. Group Fitness Classes
are available to all FTC members as part of
their membership. Group Fitness Pass Cards are
available for $100 for 12 sessions. You can also
pay the walk-in fee.
Pre-Paid Classes: Adults and Kids. Payments
for these classes must be received in advance of
the class starting and paid in blocks of sessions.
Please contact the FTC front desk for more
information on individual classes and pricing.
Weights/Equipment. Members are requested to
re-rack their weights and put their equipment
away after finishing each exercise. Please do not
place any weights directly on any bench. If you
are unsure how to use any equipment, please see
the FTC staff.
MEMBERSHIP PACKAGES
Prices in USD
Single*
Family (Couple)*
Senior (65+)*
1 Year**
$555.00
$960.00
$445.00
6 Month
$380.00
$660.00
$305.00
3 Months
$275.00
$480.00
$220.00
1 Month
$140.00
$220.00
$115.00
Walk in
$12.00
$24.00
$12.00
incl. 60 day freeze option
incl. 30 day freeze option
* Current members receive a 5% discount when renewing their membership.
** Those purchasing a 1 year FTC membership also receive an annual CSA
membership for FREE.
The above memberships give you full access to all the gym’s facilities
AND to all the Group Fitness Classes. See FTC front desk for more
details.
CSA Group Exercise - PASS CARD
For Group Exercise Classes we also offer a Pass Card for the cost of $100,
which allows you to access 12 Group Fitness Classes over a period of 3
months. See FTC front desk for more details.
Cardio Machines. At peak hours, usage on the
cardio equipment is limited to 30 minutes per
machine. This is to ensure that all members
are able to participate in their cardiovascular
workouts.
Visitors. At no time may members have visitors
inside of the FTC workout areas. Visitors may
wait for members in the garden area. Front desk
staff will inform the member if he/she has a
visitor.
For a full list of FTC rules see the FTC front desk
staff or the CSA website www.livinginegypt.org
For more information drop by the CSA Fitness Training Center front desk 2nd Floor,
#4, Road 21, Maadi - or call 010 0382 9368
Opening Hours - FTC opens early!
Sunday-Thursday 7.00am-9.00pm
Friday & Saturday: 8.00am-9.00pm
May 15 CSA 35
Health and Wellness
breaking down the complex into
more manageable bites
By Marcus O’Neill MSc RD
The Skinny on BMI
Most people with even a passing interest
in health and nutrition are familiar with
the term Body Mass Index or BMI.
BMI is commonly cited in news reports
and used by health care practitioners
as a measurement for assessing health.
The take away message by the general
public? The higher someone’s BMI, the
fatter, and subsequently less healthy,
one is. But is it all really that simple?
What is BMI?
For any of you that have plugged
your particulars into an online BMI
calculator, you’re already aware that
you only need two measurements to
calculate your BMI – your height and
weight. The formula is actually quite
simple: weight in kilograms divided by
height in meters squared (or kg/m2).
The current classification system is
commonly used:
BMI
Weight Status
Below 18.5
Underweight
18.5 - 24.9
Normal
25.0 - 29.9
Overweight
30.0 and Above
Obese
From what we know, health problems
can arise when people fall outside the
normal BMI range. By extension for
optimal health it stands to reason that
everyone should be trying to attain a
normal BMI, right? Not so fast! What
would you say if I told you that BMI
was never intended to be used to as a
tool for assessing an individual’s health?
Let me explain.
BMI’s origins
The BMI measurement was developed
in 1832 by Adolphe Quetelet in his
attempt to classify the “normal man”
and had nothing to do with weightrelated disease. It wasn’t until 1972 that
BMI’s use in the health care industry
really began to take off. This was when
an obesity researcher named Ancel Keys
published a study demonstrating that of
all the health indices of the time BMI
correlated most closely with body fat
percentage, which itself was a challenge
to measure and a strong predictor of
mortality. Cut-offs were eventually
created and in 1998 the National
Institute of Health in the US adopted
the table on the left for use by health
practitioners.
Limitations and Alternatives
The biggest problem with BMI comes
when translating the results of a
population onto an individual. It may
be true that at a population level people
with a BMI of 30 or higher have a much
higher risk for developing diabetes or
cardiovascular disease but you can’t say
that this is also true for any one person
because an individual’s health status
is dependent on many factors. In fact
Dr. Keys himself counselled against
using BMI in this manner. There is also
mounting evidence that the existing BMI
categories don’t translate particularly
well to many different populations. For
example, BMI overestimates obesity
in African Americans and people with
high muscle mass.
A much better indicator of health status
is body fat percentage. This is now easier
to measure than ever before. Many
gyms today have equipment that can
measure someone’s percent body fat by
simply standing on machine that looks
like a fancy scale. If measuring your
percent body fat isn’t available another
simple measure has been shown to be
better than BMI - waist circumference.
It’s easy, cheap and correlates better
with abdominal fat levels, which is
an important factor for determining
someone’s health.
The Bottom Line
So is BMI something that should be
completely done away with? I wouldn’t
go quite that far. BMI is a fine tool for
tracking the health of a population. As
a society we should be trying to create
policies that shift more people into a
healthy BMI range, whatever that range
may be. However, the practice of using
BMI as the primary justification for
counselling someone to lose (or for that
matter gain) weight needs to be retired.
Marcus O’Neill is a
Registered Dietitian
from Canada and
Editor of Oasis
Magazine. You can
reach him by email at
[email protected] or follow
him via Twitter (@marcusoneillrd) or
his blog (www.dietitianabroad.com).
May 15 CSA 37
CSA Fitness Training Center
May News
FTC Schedule May 2015
Personal Training
Belly Dance
Belly dancing is famous for its graciousness
and appealing fluidity in movement,
however it is also extremely beneficial as
it tones the abdominals, pelvis, thorax,
and back without being too strenuous.
Come join Belly Dance with Souhair and
experience this artful dance while toning
your body to perfection.
Belly Dance is on Sundays & Tuesdays at 10.30am and
Saturdays at 12.00pm.
Teddy Tennis
Teddy Tennis is a fantastic FUN way
to encourage children aged 2 ½ to 6
years to get active and learn to play
tennis. It works by combining music,
pictures and ‘Teddy Bear’ stories
into a totally interactive learning
adventure that young children love.
To find out more about Teddy
Tennis contact Christopher at christopher@teddytennis.
com or call 01001112205. Teddy Tennis is on Fridays at
10.00am & 11.00am.
Personal Trainers are experts on what fitness regime is the
best and safest option for YOU, allowing you to save time
and get the most out of your workout. They will push
you to your limit, transforming and reshaping your body
according to your goals. They will make you stronger, whilst
preventing injuries. If you are struggling to motivate yourself
or not seeing the results you think you should be, why not
sign up for a free orientation with Ahmad Agami. You are
also welcome to book full sessions with Agami or our other
personal trainer, Kim Hampton.
Our Personal Trainers:
Ahmad Agami is a specialist in strength
and conditioning with over 15 years
of experience. He has certifications by
AFAA in kickboxing and by ISSA and
ACE in Personal Training. You can find
him most days in the gym for help and
assistance with your fitness training.
He is also available for orientations and
fitness assessments.
Kim Hampton is an ISSA certified
fitness trainer & specialist in sports
nutrition. She has been training for 9
years and enjoys making a difference in
people’s lives.
Gymnastics
Dance Off
Gymnastics is a sport that builds physical strength,
flexibility, power, agility, coordination, grace and balance.
The bonus is how much the children love it as they get to
play and make new friends. It’s a great way to finish the week
and get all that extra energy out for a well-rested weekend!
Our gymnastics classes are for children
between ages 3 and 12. Gymnastics is
on Thursdays at 3.30pm
and 4.30pm.
If you love to dance, then don’t miss this month’s FREE
Dance Off! We have combined two of our most enjoyable
dance fitness classes, Zumba and Bollywood, and created
the ultimate dance off! Kick start your metabolism with this
1.5 hour, non-stop calorie scorching workout. If you’re into
toning your body while having fun, make sure to sign up
before there is no space left! Dance Off will be on Tuesday,
May 5 from 9.00am-10.30am.
SUNDAY
7.45am-8.30am
Step Aerobics
Carey
8.30am-9.30am
Equilibrium
Kim
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
8.15am-9.15am
Body Action
Kim
8.15am-9.15am
Zumba
Jun
8.15am-9.15am
Barre Fitness
Sabrina
8.15am-9.15am
Circuit Training
Agamy
Saturday
9.00am-10.00am
Tai Chi Exercises
Kim Prabhakar
9.30am-10.30am 9.30am-10.30am 9.30am-10.30am
9.30am-10.30am 9.30am-10.30am
Circuit
Training
Power Pump
Zumba
Power Pump
Bollywood
Agamy
Carey
Jun
Carey
Madhu
10.00am-11.00am 10.00am-10.45am
Pre Ballet
Tennis
(4 years)
Teddy Tennis
Mye
10.30am-11.30am 10.30am-11.30am 10.30am-11.30am 10.30am-11.30am 10.30am-11.30am
Belly Dance
Belly
Dance
Cardio-Mix
Barre Fitness
Barre Fitness
Souhair
Souhair
Hisham Gohar
10.45am-11.30am
Sabrina
Sabrina
Ballet LV 1
11.00am-12.00pm
(6-7 years)
Tennis
Mye
11.30am-12.30pm
11.30am-12.30pm
Teddy Tennis
Tae Bo
Tae Bo
Hisham Gohar
Hisham Gohar
12.00pm-1.00pm
Barre Fitness
Sabrina
12.00pm-1.00pm
Barre Fitness
Sabrina
3.30pm-4.30pm
Gymnastics
(3-5 years )
Dr. Khaled
Alpha Academy
4.15pm-5.00pm
Dance & Fitness
(3-5 years)
Mye
5.00pm-5.45pm 5.00pm-6.00pm
Little Ninja’s
Ballet & Modern
(Beginner)
Dance (6-8 years)
Mye
Moyasser
5.45pm-6.45pm
Jazz/
Contemporary
(Pre-Teens/Teens)
6.00pm-7.00pm
Nicole
Tigers/Dragons
Moyasser
Registration for all classes at the FTC front desk.
For more information drop by the CSA Fitness Center front desk or call 010 0382 9368
Friday
4.30pm-5.30pm 4.30pm-5.30pm
Ballet & Creative
Gymnastics
Movement
(7-12 years )
(6-9 years)
Dr. Khaled
Nicole
Alpha Academy
5.30pm-6.15pm
Ballet LV 1
(6-9 years)
Mye
6.30pm-7.30pm
Barre Fitness
Sabrina
12.00pm-1.00pm
Belly Dance
Souhair
4.00pm-5.00pm
Little Ninja’s
(Beginner)
Moyasser
5.00pm-6.00pm
Tigers
(Intermediate)
Moyasser
6.00pm-7.00pm
Dragons
(Advanced Class)
Moyasser
7.00pm-8.00pm
Mamma BootCamp
Therese
Please note that for all Pre-Paid Classes (Adults and Children), if we do not have any paid bookings before the class then we cannot guarantee
that the class shall take place. Schedule Information - Important notice: Please check all information for the classes as there may be changes.
Group Fitness - Free to Fitness+ Members
Group Fitness Pass Card available at Fitness Center Reception,
$12 Walk In Fee. All Welcome
38 May 15 CSA
Pre-Paid Kids
Bookings and Payments to
Fitness Center Reception
Pre-Paid Adults
Bookings and Payments to
Fitness Center Reception
www.livinginegypt.org
PLEASE NOTE: This schedule is subject to change. Always check notice boards and/or Fitness Center Reception for more information.
For more information please do not hesitate to ask Fitness Center Staff for more details.
May 15 CSA 39
Precision, Control, Balance & Strength ......
STOTT PILATES® Mat & Reformer
Spinning®
Yoga
TRX®
Tel: 0100 343 3111
www.pilatesegypt.com
BODYFITCAIRO
The Serenity Centre
at CSA
4 Road 21
Maadi, Cairo
May 15 CSA 41
May 15 CSA 43
CSA Calendar May 2015
SUNDAY
More information on www.livinginegypt.org
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
Friday / Saturday
1
Garden Bazaar 9.00am-2.00pm
Zamalek Tour by Horse-Drawn Carriage
9.00am-2.00pm
Papyrus and Cartouche
9.00am-2.00pm
Papyrus and Cartouche 9.00am-2.00pm
Showroom African Store - Amr Gabr
8
Garden Bazaar
9.00am-2.00pm
Cook’s Day Off 9.00am-2.00pm
3
Mum & Baby Group
10.30am-12.30pm
4
Cook’s Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
Farmers Market
9.00-2.00pm
Farmers Market
9.00-2.00pm
5
6
Cook’s Day Off 9.00am-2.00pm
Visit to ESMA 9.00am-1.00pm
Showroom Amina. K
Sakkara and Imhotep Museum
9.00am-2.00pm
Mum & Baby Group
10.30am-12.30pm
Nature Photography 10.00am-2.00pm
10
Cook’s Day Off 9.00am-2.00pm
Naturopathy and Meditation Workshop
– Part 1, 10.00am-1.00pm
Nature Photography 10.00am-2.00pm
Showroom Gina Khattab Jewelry
11
7
Farmers Market
9.00-2.00pm
Cook’s Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
Thai Buffet
12.00pm
Farmers Market
9.00-2.00pm
12
13
Library Book Sale
9.00am-2.00pm
Farmers Market
9.00-2.00pm
Cook’s Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
Mum & Baby Group
10.30am-12.30pm
Islamic Cairo Walking Tour
9.00am-2.00pm
Library Book Sale 9.00am-2.00pm
Farmers Market
9.00-2.00pm
18
Horseback Riding 9.00am-2.00pm
19
20
Farmers Market 9.00-2.00pm
Crystal Factory Showroom
10.00am-2.00pm
Garden Bazaar 9.00am-2.00pm
Nature Photography 10.00am-2.00pm
Make Up Course - Early 11.00am-1.00pm
Mum & Baby Group 10.30am-12.30pm
Showroom
Fadia Mabrouk – Boshret Kheir Shop
Clay Pottery - Early 11.00am-1.00pm
24
Clay Pottery – Late 7.00am-9.00pm
Make Up Course - Late 7.00pm-9.00pm
25
26
27
15
Wine Tasting
at Gianaclis
8.00am-6.00pm
16
22
Make Up
Course - Early
11.00am-1.00pm
Make Up Course - Late
7.00pm-9.00pm
21
Garden Bazaar 9.00am-2.00pm
Cook’s Day Off 9.00am-2.00pm
9
Garage Sale
9.00am-1.00pm
14
Naturopathy and Meditation Workshop
– Part 2 10.00am-1.00pm
17
2
Cook’s Day Off
9.00am-2.00pm
23
29
Make Up
Course - Early
11.00am-1.00pm
Garage Sale
9.00am-1.00pm
Farmers Market
9.00-2.00pm
Make Up Course - Late
7.00pm-9.00pm
28
30
Cook’s Day Off 9.00am-2.00pm
The Marriot and the Old Palace
9.00am-2.00pm
Nature Photography 10.00am-2.00pm
Showroom Delonghi-Kenwood
31
Trips/Tours
Safety &
Security
Kid’s Corner
Arts/Lifestyle
Cooking
CSA Events
Health & Wellness
Drive-by
Feedings:
Toxic Food
Landscape
and Obesity
from the American
arsenal of fast-food
chains?
Obesity has doubled in
the last several decades
in the majority of highincome countries. And
sadly, most other countries
including the poorest have
followed close behind.
By Clare Fleishman
Something’s happening in Egypt that
has nothing to do with overthrowing a
government and everything to do with
revolting new trends in fast food.
Pizza Hut, Kentucky Fried Chicken
and McDonald’s have long had a place
on the Cairo menu. Moving in on them
are waffle houses, pretzel parlors and
cupcake stores. America exports more
than computers and smart phones.
Now it is spreading obesity.
It is no secret that Egyptians are putting
on pounds. In 2010, 76 percent of
women were overweight and 48 percent
were obese. It comes as no surprise then
that diabetes is skyrocketing in Egypt
and all across the region; seven of the ten
countries with the highest prevalence
for diabetes are in the Middle East. Do
they really need another loaded gun
50 May 15 CSA
How did this happen? Human biology
has not changed in the last twenty
years. Our environment, however, has
changed dramatically. We now have an
obesogenic environment.
“Obesity is the result of people
responding normally to the obesogenic
environments they find themselves in.”
This conclusion is from global obesity
researchers who authored a seminal
paper published in an August 2011
issue of the journal Lancet. It is a radical
reversal: it is not just lack of willpower
making people obese.
New York University nutrition professor
Marion Nestle writes in her important
book Food Politics: “Also ironic is that
once people become better off, they are
observed to enter a ’nutrition transition’
in which they abandon traditional
plant-based diets and begin eating more
meat, fat and processed foods. The
result is a sharp increase in obesity and
related chronic diseases.”
“When food is plentiful and people
can afford to buy it, basic biological
needs become less compelling and the
principal determinant of food choice is
personal preference,” writes Nestle.
And what do humans prefer? Three
words: tasty, cheap, and easy.
Tasty: humans favor sugar and fat;
seeking calorie-dense foods is hardwired
into our taste buds. An early hominid
who preferred weeds to a fresh carcass
most likely did not survive.
Cheap: Ingredients in items such as
potato chips and soda cost little, giving
manufacturers huge incentives to flood
the market with processed junk foods.
The competition drives down prices in
the snack aisle, where a mega-size bag
of chips can be more affordable than a
sack of potatoes. And thanks to highfructose corn syrup (HFCS), sodas are
always cheaper than milk and juices.
Easy: Societies have changed. Women in
many countries work outside the home.
Women are no longer able to spend
time shopping, cooking or cleaning up.
The microwave alone spawned entire
supermarket aisles and deep freezers of
convenience foods, ensuring that people
exert fewer calories preparing food.
Tasty, cheap, and easy is the winning
trifecta that has been perfected by the
fast-food industry. Since Ray Croc
opened his first McDonald’s franchise
www.livinginegypt.org
in the United States in 1954, the fastfood phenomenon has spread from
sea to shining sea and on to every
other continent. Fast-food chains are
a familiar sight in most corners of the
world. McDonald’s golden arches greet
visitors at the Pyramids, the Eiffel
Tower, the Brandenburg Gate, and
the Great Wall of China. Hamburger
diplomacy fields over 32,000 stores in
more than 100 countries.
Street food - or indie fast-food - can
be healthy. Fruit juice stands are too
plentiful to count in Cairo. Stroll
over and order a tall glass of fresh,
unsweetened pomegranate, grapefruit,
or mango juice. Then grab a bag of hot
peanuts from an outdoor roaster or a
charred sweet potato from a donkey
cart rigged with an oven no bigger than
an Easy-Bake. Other offerings from
street stalls, such as deep-fried chickpea
fritters called falafels or plastic baggies
filled with sugar water are less attractive
to a nutrition-minded customer. This
choice between healthy and junk is seen
around the world: currywurst in Berlin,
hot dogs in Manhattan, and deep-fried
bread called bedmi in India are not far
from the fruit stand, popcorn machine
or pistachio wagon. But all street foods
have one healthy advantage over the
newer fast-food franchises: you walk up
to buy. You expend calories getting there.
Fast-food franchises also run the gamut
on the nutrition spectrum. McDonald’s
offers salads with low-calorie dressings
and skim milk. Subway’s better options
include whole wheat bread, tomatoes
and lean turkey slices. Subway, which
has surpassed McDonald’s in number of
shops around the world, enjoyed a public
relations coup when a young man named
Jared Fogle lost 245 pounds on what
was dubbed the Subway Diet. Morgan
Spurlock proved the opposite in his book
Don’t Eat This Book: Fast Food and the
Supersizing of America:
eating breakfast, lunch
and dinner - supersizing
when
asked
- at McDonald’s for
one month spurred a
24.5-pound
weight
gain and spikes in his
cholesterol and liver
enzymes.
Publicity
stunts? Sure. A person
can lose weight eating a
McDonald’s salad and a
hamburger every day or
gain weight on double meat and cheese
hoagies on wheat buns. The truth as
usual lies somewhere in the middle.
Fast foods in general are loaded with
calories, fats and sugars. Fast food is
associated with higher body mass index
(BMI), weight gain, and less successful
weight-loss maintenance. People who
eat regularly at fast-food places are more
likely to be obese: they have odds of being
obese that are 60 to 80 percent higher
compared with those for people who eat
fast food less than once per week.
Many things enter into a person’s
choosing healthy food: taste, price,
and education, among others. In
Cairo, fresh grapefruits and oranges are
squeezed into a glass for about 40 cents,
while a stalk of sugar cane becomes a
refreshing drink that costs less than half
that. Which one do you think sells best
in a poor country such as Egypt?
Supermarkets are across the world
now, with huge growth in Latin
America, Southeast Asia, China, and
South Africa. But what is more super
than a supermarket? A big-box store,
a wholesale club or what the retail
industry calls a supercenter.
Carrefour is such a place, a French
supercenter rising out of the desert
outside Cairo. During the 2011
revolution, vandals swept in and stole
everything: laptops, televisions, house
wares, clothes, and food. But Carrefour
returned. It is busier than ever. A
growing middle class throngs the aisles,
filling fat cells and shopping carts with
varieties of food never seen before. Of
course, poor people come too, either by
foot or a four-cent bus ride to stare and
dream of pleasures of imported cheese
and premium ice creams. Supercenters
like Carrefour and its clones may be
part of the obesity problem. Big boxes
lead to big consumption. Supercenters
have been accused of causing 10 percent
of the rise in obesity since the 1980s. In
a 2010 paper, two economists suggested
that each additional supercenter per
100,000 people increases the obesity
rate by 2.3 percentage points.
And in Cairo, there is a kiosk outside
the Cairo American College that sells
soda, candy, chips, gum, cigarettes—
the usual junk. Ten feet away are two
teenaged military police armed with
rifles, protecting the perimeter walls
of the campus. Security is always a
concern in Cairo these days, but school
administrators should know this: junk
food kills too; it just takes longer. These
kiosks are the equivalent of 7-Elevens and
other convenience stores in the United
States. In fact, they may cause more
obesity in teens than fast food according
to new research from California.
In Cairo, three out of four people eat
subsidized foods. These commodities
include flour, oil, sugar, and beans. Cheap
sacks of sugar, gallons of clarified butter
or palm oil called ghee, and daily bread
called aaysh make certain the masses are
fed. While the beans or fuul are healthful,
except when drenched in oil, letting them
eat cake is not. And apparently not a
recipe for preventing revolutions.
This article was based on research in
Globesity: 10 Things You Didn’t Know
Were Making You Fat, written by Clare
Fleishman when she lived in Egypt.
May 15 CSA 51
CSA Community Center
Talk Like An
Egyptian
My name is Jeje (Jehan) Ashry and I am the CSA
Language School Supervisor.
I have spent 13 years teaching Arabic to English
speakers. I love learning and have discovered
that it is contagious. I have been privileged to
meet people from all over the world who have
broadened my thinking and in turn, I do my best
to educate them, not only about my language, but
also about my country, its culture and its people.
The Weather in Egypt (Il gaw fi masr)
The country of Egypt experiences many different types of weather. From
the intense heat of Aswan, to the more moderate maritime-like climate of
Alexandria to the odd snowfall during the winter in the mountains of the
Sinai Peninsula, Egypt has much more variety in its weather than many
foreigners first think.
The months of June, July and August are the hottest. During this time it is
not uncommon for thermometers to pass 40C. December and January are
the coldest months and considered the winter season. While by no means
is rain common, unlike in the summer, during winter it will rain from time
to time.
A defining feature of the weather
in Egypt is the khamaseen. The
khamaseen is a hot, dry and dusty
wind that blows from the south
and west, usually between March
and May. The khamaseen can last
several days and cause dust to
block out the sun and leave a trail
of fine sand everywhere!
For more information about Arabic (or other) Language Classes at
the CSA Language School please contact our front desk or email
[email protected]
Vocabulary
Weather
Nice
Hot
Cold
Rain
Wind
Sand
Dust
Humidity
Ice – Snow
Storm
Sun
Winter
Spring
Summer
Fall
I feel hot
I feel cold
Fan
Air Conditioning
Umbrella
Coat
Winter scarf
Shorts
Sunglasses
Sun block
Holiday
Trip
gaw
lateef
sokhn
bared
matara
reyaH
ramlla
torab
rotoba
Talg
3aseffa
Shams
sheta
Rabee3
Seef
khareef
Ana harran
Ana bardaan
marwaHa
Takeyif
Shamseya
balto
kofeyya
short
naddara shams
Kream ded il
shams
agaza
reHla
When you see a ‘3’ written, this symbolizes the a
strong “A” sound, where you compress your throat
and exhale strongly.
May 15 CSA 55
May 15 CSA 57
Lifestyle
about my dad. I wondered what he
would’ve thought. Not just about
this, but about everything. I saw an
opportunity to combine my skills as a
screenwriter and an author. That’s when
I started BioNovel. Your BioNovel Life
EUB: What is a BioNovel?
By Eden Unger Bowditch
Did you ever think that your own
life- maybe these years living abroad
or evacuation during the revolution or
odd coincidences of finding friends on
the opposite ends of the planet- might
look good on the big screen? What
about taking that film and putting it
in a book? Steven Weiss-Smith is a
filmmaker-turned-author. Seeing life
in moving pictures is what he brought
with him to his new obsession. Now,
instead of the screen, he has turned to
the page.
stop her. I remember this great moment
when a crewmember was complaining
to me how tired he was. I simply turned
to him and pointed to April who was on
her feet for 12 straight hours that day.
He looked back at me and said, ‘I’m not
that tired anymore.’ I later shifted gears and worked on an
incredibly inspiring documentary about
elephant landmine survivors called
“The Eyes of Thailand”. It’s the story
about one woman’s struggle to create
the first elephant sized prosthetics for
these beautiful, gentle giants.
EUB: How did you get involved in
“The Eyes of Thailand” production?
SW-S: A producer friend of mine
told me about a documentary he was
working on about an extraordinarily
brave woman in Thailand fighting to
save elephant landmine survivors. She
had discovered a way to create the first
elephant sized prosthetics to help them
walk again. I burst into tears when he
showed me some early footage. Her
story reminded me of why I wanted
to make movies. Once the word got
out, the movie was finished at George
Lucas’s sound studio, Skywalker Ranch.
Ashley Judd even came on to narrate.
I am very proud to have been part of
something so important.
EUB: What was the first novel you
wrote?
EUB: Can you tell us about your work
in film?”
SW-S: I grew up writing short stories
and making movies with my friends.
I always thought one day I could be a
filmmaker. I backpacked around the
Middle East – Egypt, Israel, Jordan,
Greece. I was fascinated by the rich
history and people’s stories. I worked at
Warner Bros Television for many years,
then left to write and produce movies
independently. Lucky for me, my wife,
April, was also a producer. So, we
produced my first film together - “Dear
Me, A Blogger’s Tale”. It was a comedy
about an aspiring young copywriter
who cures her anxiety by writing in
an anonymous blog. Oh, and did I
mention that my wife was seven months
pregnant at the time! But that didn’t
58 May 15 CSA
When my film career took off, many
approached me and said, “My life
would make for a great movie!” But I
couldn’t make a movie for every person
I met. It was a natural transition to start
writing novels.
I was adapting an autobiographical
book for the big screen when a children’s
book publisher approached me. He
wanted to see if a screenwriter could
write a children’s entry-level reading
book. I jumped right in. I realized
that the best research was right smack
in front of me – my 5 year old son. I
listened to the way he and his friends
spoke. They had their own vernacular.
That’s when I really started thinking
EUB: Tell us more about working
with your wife, April.
SW-S: I’ll admit that I was petrified.
We were newlyweds. I felt like either the
movie would fall apart or our marriage
would fall apart. But we actually started
reading each other’s minds. Plus, I got
the awesome pleasure of going to work
everyday with my wife! So, now when
people ask what’s the best way to make
a movie on time and on budget, I say,
“Make sure your producer partner is 7
months pregnant!” www.livinginegypt.org
SW-S: A BioNovel is your life story
transformed into what reads like an
entertaining novel. It’s not fiction,
it’s your life written the way you
experienced it. I lost my father when I
was only 13 years old. I was too young
to know who my father truly was when
he died. Then, I became a father. I
wished I had my father around to ask
how he would’ve answered a question
or handled a situation. I searched
throughout the memoir and biography
world. I didn’t want to read a timeline
of events. I wanted to be entertained. I
created BioNovel to fill a void that I felt
existed.
EUB: Do you feel your history as a
screenwriter has helped you create a
living story?
SW-S: Absolutely. My experience as
a screenwriter taught me what makes
a story come alive. Screenwriters need
to know their characters inside out. We
have to hear their voices in our heads
as we write. This lends itself perfectly to
writing other people’s lives.
EUB: What are some particularly
exciting or emotionally charged
moments you can share?
SW-S: Well, all interviews are
confidential, so I can’t be too specific.
But this story stands out:
I had a set of retired brothers whose
family history goes back five generations
in the jewelry business. Hunting for rare
jewels was their everyday life, so they
didn’t see the excitement of this one story
about discovering a diamond market
beneath the streets of communist East
Berlin. I mean, back in the late 60’s,
anyone found performing
capitalist transactions was
dealt with violently. They
never really told that story to
anyone, “No big deal. It was
just business,” one brother
told me. The more I asked
about that story, the more
extraordinary it became.
Soon I learned that they had
a gun pointed at their heads
by a dirty cop and street
thugs! I raced back to my
office and wrote. Because
BioNovels are written in 3rd
person, meaning it’s from
another person’s perspective;
they were suddenly able
to understand how others
would see the danger, the
James Bond-esque aspect
of their story. They were
so proud to share their life
stories. These guys were
no longer just Grandpa
or Great Uncle. Everyone
was shocked to learn who they really
were and it really pulled the family
closer together. It was such a rewarding
experience for me too.
EUB: For an expat, in particular, who
has led a rather unusual life, can you
envision a novel that can embrace a
personal narrative?
SW-S: Very much so. Expats have
experienced things that their families
in the UK, the US, Sweden, Tangiers,
France, Italy or wherever else they call
home, would never know about or be
able to relate to. I’ve experienced the
frustration in expat’s eyes when they
repeatedly say, “It’s nothing like what
you see on TV”. Even though an expat’s
family might be far away, when they read
these stories it’s like they’re experiencing
their life. They suddenly understand so
much better how different and similar it
is to back home.
EUB Do you feel that everybody has a
novel-worthy life to share?
SW-S Absolutely. That’s why I do this.
We are natural storytellers. Where
would we be without our history? I hear
far too often how people wished they
had captured a loved one’s stories before
they passed away. Many of my clients
that think they don’t have interesting
stories to tell soon discover they have
lots to share.
Eden teaches at The American University
in Cairo and is an author herself (www.
younginventorsguild.com). She has lived
in Cairo with her family since 2006. For
more information about BioNovel visit
www.bionovel.com.
May 15 CSA 59
Lifestyle
A Woman in Cairo
The Growing Polo
Scene in Egypt
By Krystal Kelly
As a woman working in the equestrian
profession for the past decade, I have
seen countless developments and growth
in the sport. Working Internationally in
more than nine countries spanning Asia,
Africa, Europe, and the Americas, I’ve
had the good fortune to witness many
exciting changes occur in regards to
promoting women athletes in countries
that are otherwise considered “a man’s
world.”
I myself have oftentimes been tried
and tested, thrown into the mix of
Calvary Men and untrained horses and
asked to perform tasks that can only be
described as a mix of bravery, stupidity,
blind discipline and a “yes sir!” attitude.
I’ve had to dust the dirt from my back,
hide the limp in my leg and keep a
strong face in the eyes of the men,
but more important, in the eyes of the
women and young girls who believed
more than anything that women could
ride just as good as men (if not better)
and would fight for the opportunity to
prove themselves despite the cultural
restrictions.
One of such events occurred here in
Egypt last March, when history was
made. For the first time ever, and
its 2015 mind you, Egypt was able
to organize a team of women polo
players. The team of players included a
professional player from South Africa,
one American expat and her twelve year
old daughter - born and raised here in
Cairo - as well as a fellow Egyptian. But
these women weren’t just there for their
good looks… they meant business. They
also WON the tournament against the
opposing team, consisting of Egyptian
male players. They proved at last that
women in Egypt, both expatriates and
locals alike, are about to revamp the
sport of kings right here in Cairo.
Polo tournaments take place nearly
every weekend at one of the most
amazing fields I’ve ever had the good
fortune to witness, just outside the city
in Saqqara. The polo field is overlooking
the Abu Seir pyramids and although it is
a private field, teams from across Egypt
travel to compete in matches overseen
by the Polo Federation of Egypt. The
polo season is in its peak time in these
months due to the perfect weather and
playing conditions. Many
professional players from
Argentina, South Africa,
Netherlands and abroad
have come to this amazing
field to participate in these
exciting tournaments.
Polo is a sport based
on camaraderie. The
teamwork and effort
shown by the women’s
team was inevitably what
lead to their victory. Their
smiling faces before and
after the match proves
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that polo really is the Sport of Kings
(or in this case Queens!). Each team of
polo has four players and one match is
divided up into 4-6 periods known as
“Chukkas.” One game can last roughly
two hours and in such time one player
can use anywhere between 4-8 horses.
But the sport is developing at a fast
pace here in Cairo thanks to the men
with vision and love of the game and
horses. The polo stables are located in
Saqqara, a short desert ride away from
the polo field and has students both
male, female, Egyptian and expatriate
with ages ranging anywhere from 6 to
56 years old.
There is a good mix of new and upcoming
riders, polo players and imported
Argentinean horses for the students.
Lessons, and practice matches take place
with our professional instructors and
coaches from abroad. This ladies match
might have been a first for Egypt, but it
is certainly not the last.
For more information or if you or
your child would like to come learn
horse riding or play polo then please
contact Noah Rashad, Kings Athletic
City, [email protected],
+20101 0503734
Krystal Kelly is
a California girl
determined to see the
world on the back of a
horse. She has worked
internationally
in
9 countries and
currently resides in
Giza where she works
as a professional horse
trainer and coach
for show jumping,
dressage and polo.
May 15 CSA 61
Culture
A Cognitive
Adventure…
Ancient Greece
Hello. Hola.
Marhaba.
I am Amirah
Ahmed.
I was born in the Sunshine State
(Florida, USA) to a Cuban mother
and Egyptian father and lived
for over 4 years in Egypt. This
multicultural mix has provided me
with a great interest in international
affairs, culture, and people.
Therefore, I am very curious about
the world and curiosity undoubtedly
leads to questions. In the process of
nourishing my curiosity, I hope to
offer you with some insight into
your own lives… Let’s go on a
cognitive adventure together!
Some say that Greece is the birthplace
of Western Civilization. After all, it was
the Greeks who introduced the concept
of demokratia, or “rule by the people”
(democracy). Ancient Greece had two
distinct city-states: Athens and Sparta.
Although they were both different - Athens
being very intellectualistic and Sparta
being very militaristic - they were both
equally powerful. Let’s explore Ancient
Greece as we delve into the culture and
people of both Athens and Sparta.
What was Athens like?
During the Classical period, Athens was
one of Greece’s most powerful cities with
a democratic system that many people
wanted to be a part of. While many
Athenian citizens may have wanted
to play an active role in the Greek
government only men were allowed to
vote on issues and serve on juries. Women
and children, slaves, and foreigners were
not allowed.
Athens was also a great center for art,
architecture, and literature. Academia
played a huge role in the ancient city. It
was home to many artists, writers, and
philosophers including great thinkers
like Aristotle, Euphrates, Plutarch, and
Socrates.
In Ancient Greek society there were two
distinct categories: citizens and metics.
Citizens were born from Athenian
parents and were allowed to take part
in the government which naturally gave
them an upper hand within the society.
A metic was a foreigner that had travelled
to Athens, to either trade or work. Metics
were required to pay taxes and sometimes
had to serve in the army. Unlike in
many places today where a foreigner can
eventually become a citizen, in Athens
foreigners could never become citizens.
Metics could neither own a house nor
land and were not even allowed to speak
in the courts. Most male citizens were
expected to become government officials
and take part in jury service after serving
in the army. Women, on the other hand,
were expected to tend to the home, be
pretty, and take care of their children.
What was Sparta like?
Sparta was a very different city-state from
Athens. Sparta encouraged a tougher life
filled with ferocity and combat. It should
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come as no surprise that the very word
“spartan” means self-restrained, simple,
frugal and austere. The Spartan people
were exactly that.
The military was a huge aspect of life in
Sparta. They took war very seriously and
each soldier was motivated by the desire
to win or die. The Spartan armies were
usually small but highly disciplined and
very good in combat.
Sparta’s population consisted of three
chief groups: the Spartans or Spartiates
(who were full citizens), the Helots (or
serfs/slaves), and the Perioeci (neither
citizens nor slaves). In addition to
working as craftsmen and traders, it was
the Perioeci who built weapons for the
Spartans.
Education in Sparta was not in the arts or
literature but instead focused on all things
related to the military or warrior culture.
Spartan males were taught characteristics
such as self-discipline, endurance,
courage, obedience, and loyalty to the
state. All male Spartan citizens were
only allowed to become a soldier in the
society. Spartan women were different
than the delicate Athenian women as
they tended to be bold and competed
in athletics. Nevertheless, like Athenian
women, their main purpose was to bear
children, particularly sons that would
become future Spartan soldiers.
May 15 CSA 63
Culture
My Egypt
My Egypt features a different person every month giving you their personal tips and recommendations about life
here as an expat.
Name: Hengameh Murphy
Nationality: Persian American
Age: 29 Forever!
Living in: Maadi
About: My family and I arrived in Egypt in August 2014 because of my husband’s job. Except for last year when we were back in the
US, we have lived overseas for the entire lives of our children, now 13 & 17. We lived in Mexico, Kuwait, Chile, Cuba and El Salvador.
We were very excited to be assigned to Egypt and to have the opportunity to explore Egypt and this region’s rich history and culture.
My typical week
I am a trailing spouse and a pediatrician.
To be able to maintain my career in
the US, for the past 8 years I have been
working part time at the University
Medical Center in our home town of
Tucson, Arizona. I spend about a third
of my time working in the US and the
rest with my family, wherever we might
be living. My commute from Cairo is
the longest yet, it takes over 20 hours
of travel time each way. But I do enjoy
my job as a Pediatric Hospitalist, and
as a bonus I get to see my parents and
brother in Tucson every time I go back
for work.
When in Cairo, I play tennis 2-3 times
a week with some wonderful ladies and
I resume my Arabic lessons with Jiji,
who is by far the best language teacher
I have ever had! I also enjoy socializing
and exploring the city with friends.
Now that I am more settled, I plan to
get back to painting and photography,
my favorite hobbies and hope to start
doing some medical volunteer work
locally.
Loves
We love to travel! Aside from all the
amazing places to visit in Egypt, it is
also great because of its proximity to so
many places in Africa, Europe and the
Middle East. In our short time here
we’ve already done a Nile Cruise and
traveled to Tanzania for an amazing
safari. Last month, I visited Poland
and Austria and both our children
have had multiple school trips in the
region. My husband and I just had a
wonderful trip celebrating our 20th
wedding anniversary in Istanbul and
we both loved it. I am looking forward
to checking more places off my bucket
list over our three year assignment in
Egypt.
Shopping
My absolute favorite place to shop
here is the Khan el Khalili. I can’t get
enough! Every time I go there I find
a wonderful new little shop and all
kinds of treasures!
FAVORITES
There is so much to see and do in
Egypt! My family and I very much
enjoyed all the attractions in Aswan
and Luxor. It is mind boggling to
think how advanced Egyptians were
during the Pharonic times. I love going
on different tours of Cairo, and going
to the beaches near the city, but I also
very much enjoy going off the beaten
path to see the real life of Egyptians
and to learn about their culture and
traditions. I look forward to the day
that I can communicate with the locals
without a translator!
I hope that the security situation
in Egypt improves and the tourists
from all over the world come back to
visit this incredible country and its
wonderful people. I am very grateful
to be here!
If you are interested in contributing to the My Egypt page contact Marcus O’Neill: [email protected]
May 15 CSA 65
Family
Relocating
Young
Expats
By Emilie Udell
You have packed your family’s
belongings, said your good byes,
learned “hello,” “thank you,”, and
“where is the restroom?” in your new
country’s language, made arrangements
at your destination, and now your new
job and life are just a 12-hour plane ride
away. Your family has stepped up to the
challenge of an overseas move.
be as simple as being receptive to their
concerns and keeping communication
lines open. The more you talk about what
to expect when you move, the more they
will be able to mentally and emotionally
prepare for their new surroundings.
Introduce Your Destination
You are all set to go, but there are
still nagging questions; will there be
playgrounds, cheerleading practice, and
your child’s favorite activities in your
new host country?
Under all the other stresses of moving, it’s
easy to overlook the amount of anxiety
your children may be experiencing now
that they are faced with the idea of
starting an entirely new life. Expatica.
com, an online resource for expatriates,
estimates 45% of expatriates have
children aged 5-12. Just like parents,
young expats face numerous tribulations
when moving, from emotionally
draining circumstances such as having
to give up the family dog or saying
goodbye to friends to challenges that
are mentally draining like learning an
entirely new language and cultural
mindset. All of these factors on top of
the usual developmental changes kids
go through can make moving even
more traumatic.
The good thing is you can help your
children prepare for the move, and it can
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and the ability to share new experiences
with them through emails and letters.
Express through Art
Encourage your kids to explore their new
surroundings through photography,
video, or creative writing. Creative
outlets are a great way for them to express
their feelings, and see the beauty in a
new situation. Many organizations have
contests for writing and artwork. For
children of Foreign Service members,
there are organizations such as the
Foreign Service Youth Foundation that
holds regular contests, in addition to
workshops on topics including college
preparation. For more information,
visit www.fsyf.org.
Try to familiarize him/her with the
country by reading books related to the
country in which you will be living.
If your child will be required to speak
another language, look into getting a
tutor to teach him/her basic phrases.
You can also try online or video courses
to aide in learning the language.
Keep in Touch
Make sure your child has an address
book to record their friends’ contact
information, and even a camera to get
pictures. Create scrapbooks and photo
albums to preserve memories. When
they start to feel homesick, your kids
will be happy they have connections to
their old friends through photo albums,
May 15 CSA 67
Culture
Life After Death in Ancient Egypt
By SHisham El Meniawy
Ancient Egyptians had a wealth of
natural riches around them - water from
the Nile, the sun, fertile land near the
banks of the river and favorable weather.
All of these factors helped them develop
agriculture and begin building their
great civilization.
However, there was one major question
that remained unanswered; “If we have
all these gifts in life, what happens after
death?” As with many cultures around
the world Ancient Egyptians believed in
a life after death.
In Ancient Egypt it was very important
to believe in the afterlife. People believed
that the second life (or the eternal
life) would be spent in their version
of heaven or hell. Like more modern
beliefs, if a person was good in their first
life, they would be accommodated in
heaven eternally, while if they were bad,
they would be thrown into hell forever.
The Ancient Egyptians looked at the
second life as a journey that everyone
would have to take. They believed that
to go on this journey one must be ready
for it, meaning that they had to prepare
themselves. Much like we do when
we go on our own travels they took
everything they thought they’d need
with them for an enjoyable life.
As we can imagine, in addition to ensuring
their wealth followed them to their second
life, the Ancient Egyptians believed that
they would need to have their bodies in
good condition to secure their journey.
As a result they perfected the preservation
of their bodies through the embalming
process known as mummification.
For the Ancient Egyptians mummification
was the first step to having a successful
journey in the afterlife, yet a problem still
remained. How to protect the mummy
from different animals when it was
buried in the desert? To accomplish this
they built tombs, or what they referred
to as a “House of Eternity”. The building
of the tombs started very primitively but
developed into a very complex process,
particularly for the most elite of their
society.
It’s important to note that not only
were tombs built to protect their bodies
but also to protect their treasures.
Unfortunately, despite their best
safeguards many of these tombs were
robbed and have since been found
empty. It really is a shame because one
can only imagine what we could have
found inside them.
That said, some were found not
completely empty, and from those
that have yielded treasures we can see a
glimpse into the level of wealth of the
royal families of Ancient Egypt. The
best example is the beautiful tomb of
the “Golden Pharos Tutankhamun”.
Tutankhamun’s tomb was discovered
in the Valley of the Kings in the Westbank of Luxor. The incredible collection
that was found inside this small tomb
belonged to a young king who ruled
during a time of instability for only
about 10 years. The treasures found
inside give us an idea about what we
could have found in the other tombs of
more important kings.
Hisham is an avid traveler who has a
deep passion for discovering links between
Ancient Egypt and other civilizations. He
has completed studies in history with an
emphasis in Egyptology/Archaeology.
May 15 CSA 69
Entertainment & Recreation
Review
By Lyric Unger Bowditch and
Eden Unger Bowditch
Want to go to Italy but you just don’t
have the time? La Vela offers the
atmosphere and taste of Italia. Of
course, when you walk into an Italian
restaurant and the staff and customers
are all speaking Italian, you know you’ve
come to the right place.
Nasser Ahmed, owner and executive
chef, lived and worked in Italy for 35
years. He returned to Egypt to bring his
expertise back to his homeland with the
desire to share what he learned about
food. He wanted to offer the best of
Italy. And he did. His various culinary
adventures include il Fornaio and
Bottega, Italian markets both formerly
on road 231 (for those who have fond
memories of authentic Italian market
offerings). After 35 years away, Nasser
is as much Italian as he is Egyptian. La
Vela manager Mohamed admits that
Nasser’s Arabic is even tinged with a bit
of an Italian accent.
LaVela has been open for eight years here
in Maadi. Not only is Nasser the owner
and executive chef, but he painstakingly
attends to every detail from training
his assistant and sous chefs to picking
the menu items and herbs for every
dish. He bakes the crusty Italian bread
in house, and offers a variety of daily
homemade pasta (including tagliatelle,
pappardelle, lasagna, ravioli) with a
variety sauces. While Nasser uses mostly
local herbs, he insists on importing the
olive oil, balsamic vinegar and flour
(for the bread and pasta) from Italy.
His buffalo mozzarella and ricotta are
Italian-made locally from a farm near
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Cairo. The secret to his fabulous bread?
No sugar in the dough, “only olive oil
and salt.” He contends that no salt and
the use of sugar is the problem with
Egyptian-made bread.
While the homemade pastas are a
delight and the bread delicious, the
pizza and focaccia are also well-loved
fare. Other specialties include their
daily assortment of facacce, mozzerella
de buffalo, and authentic fungi
porcini. Starters include beef carpaccio,
bruschetta on homemade bread, and
their selection of focacce. Of the fresh
soups, recommended is the piping hot
pumpkin soup with artichoke, served
with shredded parmesan. The belle of
the ball, however, is their lasagna ‘al
pesto’. If you are looking for a rich,
creamy, unique lasagna experience,
this is the dish to try. Served in a hot
dish, the lasagna is tender, but perfectly
done, and topped with green beans
and a crust of potatoes (a very Italian
pasta offering) and cheese. The pesto is
not overpowering, nor is it bland, and
you can taste every herb contributing
to the overall harmony of flavors.
Included among their authentic Italian
desserts is the cassata Siciliano. This is a
remarkably unique chilled cake made of
cream, chocolate, candied orange peel,
nuts, and a variety of dried fruit, with
a biscuit crust on the bottom. They
also offer Italian ice cream, cakes, and
tiramisu. La Vela serves wine and beer.
For those of us who mourn the loss of the
great Italian markets in Maadi, Nasser
offers bread, ravioli, gnocchi, pasta
fresca, mozzerella de buffala, ricotta
cheese, and a variety of his sauces for
purchase. Since it is his belief that food
is at its best fresh from the kitchen to
the table, the delivery offering includes
only selected pasta dishes and pizza.
La Vela
6 El Borg Bldgs., Rd. 262 El Gazaer Sq.
phone: 02 2753 7004
Lyric is in 11th grade (year 12) at Cairo
American College. She is an avid writer
and eater. Eden is also an avid eater, as well
as an author (www.younginventorsguild.
com). She teaches at The American
University in Cairo. They have lived with
their family in Cairo since 2006.
May 15 CSA 71
Culture
five thousand people in a rural area of
Missouri, USA. The largest town I ever
lived in before coming to Cairo was a
population of fifty thousand. You can
imagine the shock and horror on the
face of my native Egyptian friends when
I told them this! I knew it would be a
challenge to adjust to, and it was at first,
but after a while you get used to having
so many people around you. Cairo has
a unique feeling about it. There is a
rhythm to the heartbeat of this urban
jungle. I never would have guessed
this rural country girl would suddenly
survive (and fall in love with) one of the
biggest cities in all of Africa.
New
Land,
New
Ways
By Sarah Durrett
Egypt has been a passion
of mine ever since I was a little girl.
Spending years with books on historical
artifacts, watching videos, and
delighting in looking at photographs
of modern Egypt gave me a lot of
preconceived notions of how life would
be like to live here. I came to Cairo
a little over eight months ago, and
despite all of my research, it wasn’t
possible to fully prepare for what I have
experienced.
The People
Smiles, laughter, hugs, and side cheek
kisses are endless here. If you are having
a hard day, and want to relax, talk to an
72 May 15 CSA
Egyptian. Even in the worst of
times, they will make a joke about
their situation. As some of my best
friends here have told me, Egyptians
will joke at a funeral to lighten up
the mood. A single person can hold a
bottomless well of strength but also have
the sweetest heart you have ever seen. I
am still in awe of the extreme contrasts.
Friendships
Sites and Places
Everyone knows of the Pyramids of
Giza, the Sphinx, and the temples of
Luxor but no one can explain how small
In Egypt, if you are someone’s friend,
you are their family and an extension
of their very being. Although, we
have deep, meaningful friendships in
America, the way we approach it is
much different. The American style
tends to be independent, with more
space between individuals. In Egypt,
it is natural to find your friend being
aware of every detail about your life.
I never expected to find some of the
closest friendships of my life here but I
did. It is such a rewarding and fulfilling
experience, and every day they teach me
how to become a better person.
The Crowds
For seven years of my life I lived outside
(not even within city limits) a town of
My expectations told me that I would
find kind people here, but never did I
think that it would be possible to make
instant friends while riding the metro,
eating at the food court in a mall, or
even the workers at my nearby kiosk.
Everywhere you go, you will find people
inviting you to experience a homecooked Egyptian meal, or to travel with
them to their city or neighborhood so
they can give you a tour.
you really feel until you stand up next
to them. Despite studying these various
places, I was not prepared for the vastness
of these architectural masterpieces.
Each strike of the chisel, block of stone,
and brush of paint has a story behind
it. This feeling is impossible to describe
through photographs, videos, or stories.
You must experience it yourself to
understand.
The wonderful thing about Egypt is
that there are a million different places
to explore. It could take a person ages
to experience the whole country! So far,
my favorite area of Cairo is the “Coptic
Cairo” district. It is called Coptic Cairo
because of the numerous churches you
www.livinginegypt.org
Grocery Shopping
Shopping for groceries has been one of
the harder changes for me to adjust to.
I became used to being surrounded by
large grocery stores where you could get
all of your shopping done for a month
in one visit if you wanted to. Although,
there are such places in Cairo, they are
not as easily accessible for daily needs if
you are without a car.
can find there, but it is also home to the
Ben Ezra Synagogue and the Mosque
of Amr ibn al-As. Coptic Cairo is said
to be one of the areas that the holy
family of Joseph, Mary, and Jesus came
through during their time of escaping
the wrath of Herod.
One of the expectations I had coming
to Egypt is that people would have a
religious divide between each other
at their places of worship. It is not
common for us to intermix in this way
in America unless on a basic personal
level or through organizations that
specifically are for interfaith relations.
In Egypt, however, Christians often visit
and tour mosques and Muslims come to
see the historic Christian or Jewish sites
freely. There are boundaries here, but
compared to what I am used to, they are
very thin. I feel bad for those that are
only able to visit for a week or two. It is
not nearly enough time to truly get the
full experience of this beautiful land.
Thankfully, after beginning to
understand how to find the items I need
in the smaller grocery stores, I actually
found that I like the grocery shopping
here a lot. This is especially true with
the fresh fruit and vegetables! Where I
lived in America, we would only have a
farmer’s market available once a week.
That basically left you incapable of
buying produce directly sold from a
farm except for this certain day unless
you made arrangements with the farm
itself. But in Egypt I am able to go every
single day to get fresh, tasty fruits and
vegetables in the middle of the street
market. The prices are also unbelievably
low compared to what I used to pay!
Egypt is continuously teaching me about
love, friendship, improvising, and hope
through hard circumstances. I will always
be grateful for these qualities. I am also
learning not to assume so much, but to
experience more. We never know what
life lessons we might miss otherwise!
Sarah Durrett is a wanderer, lover of good
coffee, and Maadi resident.
May 15 CSA 73
Family
Family
Family Time
May Trivia
Test your knowledge this month with these May-themed trivia questions
1. The month of May is named after which Greek goddess?
6. What prestigious horse race takes place the first Saturday
of May each year?
2. In Mexico, Cinco de Mayo (May 5th) commemorates the
Battle of Puebla in 1862, where Mexican troops led by
General Ignacio Zaragoza defeated invading forces from
which European country?
7. On May 4, 1970 four students from which American
University were killed by National Guardsmen during
a protest against President Richard Nixon’s decision to
invade Cambodia?
3. On May 20, 325AD, the Catholic Church, led by
Constantine I, Emperor of the Roman Empire, called
a historic meeting. This meeting is often referred to by
what name?
8. What is the birthstone of people born in May?
9. What beverage was put on sale for the first time in May
1886?
4. This Sherlock Holmes creator was born on May 22, 1859
in Edinburgh, Scotland?
10. Great Britain was formed by the union of England and
Scotland on May 1st of what year?
5. This city, which would later be named Istanbul, was
conquered on May 29, 1453 by the invading Turks?
Dealing with of Perpetual Goodby es
Place numbers from 1-9 in each empty box so each column, row, and bold box contain numbers 1-9
Intermediate
Challenging
2
1
4
6
7
9
3
5
8
9
2
6
4
3
7
1
5
8
5
9
6
8
3
4
7
1
2
4
8
5
1
2
6
9
3
7
1
9
2
7
7
5
8
4
1
9
3
6
4
2
1
7
4
8
3
5
8
5
7
6
1
6
8
4
5
7
2
2
8
9
7
3
9
2
1
6
Answers from April
3
5
8
6
7
9
1
2
4
1
9
6
5
4
2
3
7
8
4
2
7
1
8
3
5
9
6
7
8
4
2
6
5
9
3
1
74 May 15 CSA
2
6
9
7
3
1
4
8
5
5
3
1
8
9
4
2
6
7
9
7
3
4
1
6
8
5
2
6
1
5
9
2
8
7
4
3
8
4
2
3
5
7
6
1
9
7
9
6
3
5
1
4
1
2
7
4
3
9
8
5
6
8
9
2
3
7
9
4
5
7
8
6
1
8
4
1
7
3
2
2
5
4
6
5
8
9
3
6
8
4
1
9
7
2
2
3
9
6
1
4
5
Answer to Trivia
3
6
8
4
5
7
9
1
2
7
4
9
8
1
2
3
5
6
1
5
2
9
6
3
7
8
4
6
2
3
7
8
5
4
9
1
8
9
7
1
4
6
5
2
3
4
1
5
3
2
9
6
7
8
2
7
4
6
9
8
1
3
5
9
8
6
5
3
1
2
4
7
5
3
1
2
7
4
8
6
9
8. Emerald
4
3
6
3
3
9. Coca Cola
6
1
9
5
4
1. Maia - the Goddess of
Spring
5
5
1
6
10. 1707
9
2
8
9
2. France
3
2
2
3. The Council of Nicaea
8
7
5
4. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
6
1
5. Constantinople
4
8
6. The Kentucky Derby
7
7. Kent State
3
www.livinginegypt.org
By Julie Herrick
Cairo is a transitory place for most
expats. With a few notable exceptions
(such as yours truly) people very
rarely stay here more than a few years.
Throughout my tenure here I’ve
noticed that the impermanence of this
place applies to many industries and
occupations - the corporate sector,
government, and academia. Factor in
the political instability over the last four
years and you’ve got a revolving door
of itinerant faculty, bureaucrats, and
businesspeople.
I’ll never forget the night one of my
husband’s colleagues, after hearing of
his promotion, told me that “we could
now be friends” as she could now put
forth effort considering she now knew
we would be here more than three
years. I was amused at the time but
I’ve thought of her comment every time
a friend has departed Cairo. For me
this dynamic hasn’t rendered any truly
negative consequences. I’ve amassed an
army of international friends, many of
whom I have maintained contact with,
and every year I’ve managed to forge
friendships with individuals new to
Cairo. However since the birth of our
son I’ve recently started to consider the
consequences of perpetual goodbyes.
The importance of community is
well established in developmental
psychology. A community that extends
beyond the immediate family helps
children in building various social skills
including civic engagement, reciprocity,
boundaries and expectations, and
resilience. In a place such as Cairo
where people come and go, establishing
a sense of community could potentially
prove challenging.
In considering this I spoke with numerous
experts including Kate S. Berger, MSc.
a Child Psychologist and Cultural
Consultant. Her website The Expat Kids
Club offers a variety of strategies, tools,
and therapeutic services that can help
expatriate children in acclimating and
adjusting to the expatriate lifestyle. Ms.
Berger specifically noted that identity
is an area of concern in raising expat
kids. As locale changes and people come
and go, children can often lose sight of
who they are and where they belong.
In this regard parents should know that
validation is important. Acknowledging
the challenges of being an expat kid is
important as it allows children to be heard
and vent their occasional frustrations.
Children also need to be allowed to
establish an appropriate sense of control.
Encouraging children to actively
participate in selecting a school or sports
club membership can go a long way in
establishing identity and an appropriate
degree of control amid change.
I also spoke with Hala Alhak, an
Educational Psychologist at the
American University in Cairo, about
the importance of community for
childhood development. She mentioned
that, for expatriate children, community
is especially important in learning to
positively embrace diversity by interacting
The Mum & Baby Group meets on Mondays at 10.30am at CSA. Please check
their Facebook group for updates and information: maadimumandbaby.
with individuals of different cultural,
racial, ethnic, and religious backgrounds.
Ms. Berger enthusiastically echoed this
sentiment noting that children are often
more adaptable than adults and noted that
expatriate children are often well suited to
leadership roles as a result of their varied
exposure to new places, languages, and
individuals from all walks of life.
As is often the case, parents often
relayed some of the most practical
advice. Overwhelmingly expat moms I
spoke with indicated the importance of
surrounding children with a community
of positive people who are happy in
Cairo and avoiding individuals that
dwell on those negative aspects of
Egypt. They also noted the importance
of truly enjoying friends even if they
are here for a short time. No need to
wait for more permanent placement of
acquaintances to decide they are now
“worth the effort”!
With a little mindfulness, validation,
and effort parents can therefore
establish and solid sense of community
in which their children can cope with
the challenges of the expatriate lifestyle
and thrive with all the positive elements
such a lifestyle has to offer both in the
immediate and longer terms.
Julie C. Herrick is a
freelance writer and
editor. She and her
husband have lived
in Cairo for ten years
and welcomed their
first son in July 2014.
She helps to run the
weekly Mum & Baby
Group at CSA.
May 15 CSA 75
Recipe
By Mona Ellabban
Ingredients
Japanese food is one of the healthiest
cuisines in the world and relies mainly
on fish/seafood and vegetables as well as
with Japanese sticky rice. Not only does
it taste great but it looks beautiful too.
Japanese people eat with their eyes first,
so color coordination, the presentation
on the plate, and the dish’s harmony
with the seasons are very important.
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp vinegar
• 1 tbsp sugar
• ¼ tsp grated ginger root
• ½ tsp olive oil
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper (or to taste)
• pinch paprika
• 2 salmon steaks or thick fillets
• 1 tbsp roasted sesame seeds for garnish
• Fresh sliced green onion for garnish
• ¼ cup fresh shredded green cabbage
• ¼ cup fresh shredded carrots
• 1 cup sushi rice or Egyptian rice (it
has the starch that makes it sticky as
Japanese rice)
Salmon is native to cold waters, so when
you buy it here in Egypt, it is imported.
You can find it in major super markets,
including Carrefour. My advice is not to
buy the thawed salmon. Instead, I prefer
to buy it frozen and ask the salesperson
to cut it the way I like.
I learned how to prepare salmon for this
recipe from an old Japanese friend. It’s to
be washed and rinsed under cold water
in a colander. Then sprinkle it with ½
tbsp of salt (for two salmon fillets) and
leave it for about 15 minutes. After,
rinse the fillets with cold water and
drain.
Salmon Teriyaki
Yield: 2 servings
Directions
1.Mix soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, olive
oil, salt, black pepper, paprika and
ginger in a small bowl.
2.Marinate the salmon in the above
mixture for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3.Roast the sesame seeds in a preheated non-stick frying pan for about
2-3 minutes while stirring. Set aside.
4.Grill on each side for 5 minutes or
until it is golden brown.
5.Sprinkle the roasted sesame seeds
over the grilled salmon.
6.Garnish with the thinly cut green
onion.
7.Meanwhile prepare the sushi rice
according to package instructions. If
you are using Egyptian rice, soak it
in cold water for about 30 minutes
and drain. To cook add 1¼ cup cold
water to 1 cup of rice, cover tightly
and bring to a boil. Lower the heat
and cook for about 30 minutes.
Don’t peek or uncover the lid while
cooking as we need the steam to cook
the rice. Allow it to stand 10 minutes
after turning the heat off, stir lightly
and serve.
8.In one plate serve the grilled salmon
on top of the sticky rice on one side.
On the other side arrange some
shredded cabbage and carrots. Enjoy!
Mona is an expert in Japanese language
and culture. She studied Ikebana and tea
ceremony in Japan for two years. She is
a Japanese speaking guide and has been
conducting sushi, Japanese cooking and
Ikebana classes at CSA since 2012.
May 15 CSA 77
Family
Flying with Young
headphones for each
member of your family is
a worthwhile investment
to help pass the time on board
a flight.
Every expat parent has to face the
eventuality that living abroad with
children means having to take them,
at some point, on a plane journey. For
some parents, this idea alone, can bring
out a nervous sweat! Imagine the stress
of containing your little ones for hours
at a time, often confined to the very
small space of your seat allocation,
with the company of hundreds of other
passengers who just want peace and
quiet to rest before they reach their
destination! Toddlers and babies are
not always the most cooperative of
travelers. However stressful this may
seem, there are a few things you can
do as a parent to help smooth out the
journey in the air.
Request your seat in advance
If you have a small child under the age
of two, many airlines have a limited
number of cot seats which they can
allocate to you if you request them. For
some airlines, you need to do this in
advance. For others, you need to show
up to the airport when check-in opens,
as it is often first come, first served. The
bonus of these seats are that a small cot
A flight can be a long journey if you are
bored. A great way to pass the time is to
stock up on your child’s favourite video
programs in advance of your flight.
The return journey to Cairo often has
a whole host of short popular children’s
television and animations from Peter
Rabbit to the Octonauts to keep your
child entertained!
Consider buying protective
bags for your car seat
Placing your car seat
inside a protective
bag is well worth
doing as often
the car seat
can get
damaged
in transit. If
you don’t have a
bag, sometimes you can plastic-wrap
the chair at the airport for a small fee.
This adds a layer of protection and
ensures that your car seat is still fit for
use when you arrive at your destination.
At the very least, when you check in
the car seat, ensure you have done up
the straps so there are no loose parts
that can get lost. There are even bags
specifically available to place an entire
pushchair/stroller inside which are also
worth investing in for the same reason.
Order child meal in advance
For some airlines, this is usually at
the point of booking or later in the
online check-in process. Don’t assume
that if you purchase a child seat that it
automatically comes with a child meal.
Another benefit of doing this is often
the special meals are handed out before
Check baggage allowances in advance
the rest of the meals are distributed,
allowing you to settle your child a little
bit sooner.
78 May 15 CSA
If possible, avoid stress at the airport by
checking your child’s baggage allowance
in advance. Normally, a car seat and/or
pushchair is permitted in addition to
checked in baggage. An infant generally
receives less allowance than a toddler
over the age of two who has their own
seat. It is worth checking in whatever
possible so you can keep your hands
free during the flight. Remember too
that most planes won’t let you take more
than 100ml of liquid on board in your
hand luggage and this includes nappy
creams and baby food/drinks, so decant
what you may need into smaller bottles.
Think carefully about hand luggage
Give yourself time
A great piece of advice is to use a small
backpack for your own hand luggage
as it can go on your back and free up
your arms whilst travelling through the
airport. For children’s hand luggage,
consider a Trunki. These are excellent as
they come with wheels and a long strap
which is easy to carry or pull alongside
with you. When your child is a little
bigger, they can even ride on the Trunki
itself or pull it along as if it were a pet!
Before you were a parent, you may have
been able to breeze into the airport
shortly before the flight, check in and
go shopping. With kids in tow, it can
be a whole other experience. Allow
yourself extra time to check in (juggling
multiple bags) and to get to the flight
gate allowing for a multitude of rest
stops, toddler tantrums and toilet visits!
Some parents advocate not keeping
children occupied on a plane with
electrical goods nor over relying on
them in case they run out of charge.
However, my personal experience is
that they are worth their weight in gold
in keeping your child in their seat and
entertained! When going on board, just
switch the setting to airplane mode.
Remember that when travelling with
electrical devices in your hand luggage,
recent airport security measures may
require you to switch them on, so make
sure you pack the charger.
If you follow just even one piece of
advice, make it this one! A childfriendly pair of headphones makes all
the difference in your child’s enjoyment
of the in-flight entertainment. Don’t
travel without them! A good pair of
www.livinginegypt.org
Make friends
attendant
with
your
flight
On board, they can be a life saver!
Don’t underestimate how they can help
improve your journey. From an extra
pair of hands or a go-getter for juice
or milk at the right moment, the flight
attendants can be a great support. Greet
them with a smile!
Prepare for takeoff
Fully charge your iPad
Invest in a good pair of child-friendly
headphones
like basket is attached to the wall in
front of your seat, which allows you to
place your sleeping baby inside, freeing
up your arms for the trip.
your arms whilst holding hand luggage
by taking your sling or child carrier
with you.
Toys with small parts are guaranteed to
fall on the floor or end up lost, and you
will spend half of your journey trying to
contain them! Keep it simple and easy.
It is worth packing an etch-a-sketchstyle drawing toy so they can draw over
and over without losing their crayons
underneath their seat.
Stock up on your child’s favourite
video programs
Children
By Jennifer Cole
Avoid taking toys with small parts or
noises on board
Pack a sling or child carrier into your
hand luggage
Many airlines allow you to take your
pushchair from check in right up to
when you board the plane. However,
when you arrive at your destination, you
may not be reunited with the stroller
until you get through to baggage claim.
Avoid having to carry your child in
If you have a baby
or small child, ask
the flight attendant
to prepare the milk
before the seatbelt
fastened sign goes
on. This means that
you will be able
to give the milk
during
take-off,
avoiding the ear
pain that can be
caused. If you are
breastfeeding, feed
during
take-off
for the same reason. For slightly older
children it is worth taking some sweets
to suck to help their ears. Make sure
you have some snacks on hand as well
as anything else you may need with you
at the seat so that your child does not
have to wait for the seat belt sign to be
removed for you to access your luggage
in the overhead lockers.
If your child is an independent sort, who
likes to run off without you, consider
writing your mobile number on their
arm so that you can be easily reunited!
Above all, try to relax and instill in
your children an excitement about
being on board a plane. Flying can be
an adventure and by telling stories and
letting the children know in advance
that they will be going to the airport,
it can be a great experience. However,
if the worst case scenario comes to pass,
perhaps pack some ear plugs to hand
out to other passengers and don’t forget
to pack the baby wipes!
Jennifer is a teacher at a leading
international school in Cairo and has
lived in Egypt since August 2012. Prior
to this, she has worked, lived, studied or
travelled in over 40 countries and 400
cities, including the Middle East, Asia,
Europe, North and South America,
Africa and Russia. She lives in Cairo with
her husband Sam and their two young
daughters.
May 15 CSA 79
80 May 15 CSA
www.livinginegypt.org
May 15 CSA 81
May 15 CSA 83
May 15 CSA 87
Community Announcements
SPORTS
CAIRO AMERICAN SOFT BALL LEAGUE
We have both Men’s and Women’s teams to join or bring your own! We have a
children’s playground as well as food and beverages available. Games are in the
evenings and on Fridays. For more information please contact: Ways and Means
Mgr Suzy Werner at [email protected] or Chairmen Monte Davis at
[email protected] or Rodney Stephens at [email protected].
CAIRO CYCLISTS CLUB (CCC)
Organized road rides occur every Friday at 6:30 AM leaving from the front gate
of CAC. A typical road ride will consist of 5 to 15 riders and cover distances of
40 to more than 100 km. Skill level is divided to three groups CCC1, CCC2
and CCC3, each of them teaming up for the ride, and all groups meeting
together at the finish line in CSA for refreshments. Extraordinary rides are
organized a few times a year. Visit us in http://cairocyclists.wordpress.com.
CAIRO HASH HOUSE HARRIERS (CH3)
We meet every Friday afternoons for fun interesting runs and walks in the
desert areas around the city. A typical run is 9 kilometers in length with a 4
kilometer walk for the more sensible. Physical fitness is not essential but a
sense of humor is mandatory. CH3 is family oriented club, leashed dogs and
even children are welcome. You can catch a ride from our meeting point is in
front of the ACE club in Midan Victoria. For more information call Lurpak
on 01092442570, email [email protected] or visit www.cairohash.com.
CAIRO RUGBY
Men’s and Ladies training, Tuesdays 7.00pm-9.00pm, Maadi Olympic Sports
Village. Juniors training, Thursdays 6.00pm-7.00pm, Victory College playing
fields. Beginners and experienced players welcome. Contact Juniors rep: Paul
01223794779 or Seniors rep: Mathias 01274930208. Visit: www.cairorugby.com
MAADI RUNNERS
Maadi Runners meet for long runs early Friday mornings in front of the CAC
main gate. Runners of all abilities are welcome. For more details contact
Mohsen Alashmoni at [email protected]
RADIO AUTO CLUB OF EGYPT
Race is a club which promotes the building and racing of radio controlled
cars. Races are held twice a month at Victory Field on an outdoor track. For
more information call John Klingler at 01001690402 or send him an email at
[email protected] or check the website, www.racegypt.org
SOCIAL AND INTERNATIONAL GROUPS
6TH OCTOBER INTERNATIONAL GROUP FOR WOMEN, MEN AND FAMILIES
Coffee mornings, cocktail evenings, special events and day tours. For more
information please contact Sarah at [email protected]
AFRO-ASIAN WOMEN’S GROUP
Ours is a socio-cultural, non-profit organization of ladies representing Asia,
Africa and Egypt. It is also a socio-civic association aimed at giving aid and is
involved in charity. For more information please contact Sarra 01001267671,
Mahsit 0111104659.
AUTISM
Autism rates have been rising throughout the world in recent years. In the
US, the current Autism ratio is 1:91 in children. Many Egyptian societies
are there to offer support to autistic children and their families. If you have
an autistic child and would like to talk about it contact Reem Samy 01006369473 or email [email protected]
Caire Accueil (FRENCH SPEAKING GROUP)
Our monthly coffees are held every 3rd Sunday morning of each month at
the following address: 33 road 15 in Maadi. We also have coffees morning
in Katameya. For any information, you can contact Caire Accueil president:
Carole Brena, mobile: 01095049061, email: [email protected] or
visit our website www.caireaccueil.com
Cairo Chinese Speaking Women’s Association
Cairo Chinese Speaking Women’s Association is an energetic and dynamic
group committed to promoting Chinese cultural awareness and appreciation
through community services, charities and cultural activities such as Chinese
language courses, Chinese cooking class, martial arts, mahjong, business
networking and organize cultural exchange tour to China. For more
information Tel: 01206202999, Email:[email protected]
CINECLUB: FILMS AT THE NVIC
Cineclub of Egyptian films with English subtitles at the Netherlands-Flemish
Institute of Cairo (NVIC), Zamalek. Weekly lectures on Thursdays at
6.00pm and film evenings on Sundays at 7.00pm. Free Entrance. Visit:
http://institutes.leiden.edu/nvic/
of each month in the garden of the house. Multiple cultural activities and
entertainments (body workout, English conversation) proposed to all
nationalities speaking French. Please contact UFE secretariat: 01062104334 /
[email protected] or website: www.ufe.org
HELIOPOLIS WOMEN’S COFFEE MORNING
Meets every Wednesday. Contact Ans ‘Noordermeer’ [email protected]
or call 01061492247
INDONESIAN WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION (IWA)
invites all Indonesian speaking ladies to attend our monthly meeting on
the second Monday of each month. For more information, contact Kum
01003388976.
ITALIANS IN EGYPT GROUP
Italians in Egypt host a monthly coffee morning every Sunday. For more
information please contact: Faiza Frigido 01222163463 or email info@
giegypt.net or visit www.giegypt.net
MAADI COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA
Attention all current and one-time string players! Dust down that violin,
polish up your cello, dig out your viola and come and join us in musicmaking. We are a group of adult and student players who meet weekly at
CAC and are keen to welcome new members. We have a varied repertoire
from classical to modern. For more information, please contact Jenny Jeong at
[email protected] or Judy Tansca at [email protected]
MBA INTERNATIONAL LADIES
We meet every second Tuesday of the month, please join us for Coffee and
Refreshments and learn about our Activities and Special Events. For more
information please email [email protected]
MUM & BABY GROUP
Wednesdays 10.00am-12.00pm (0-11 months) Cost: $5 at the door. Mum &
Baby Group is a great way to meet other mothers who are going, or have been
through, the same experiences as you. Use this time to chat, ask questions,
play with your baby and interact with others. This is not a childcare facility, so
babies must be accompanied by a parent at all times. Expectant mothers are
welcome to join. Join our Facebook group maadimumandbaby.
OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS IN CAIRO
Do you have a problem with food? Are your problems with eating too much (or
too little) affecting your life? Maybe Overeaters Anonymous can help. For more
information, contact OA Cairo at [email protected] or go to www.oa.org. Meetings occur most Fridays from 12pm to 1pm in Room 204 at the CSA
(above reception and below the gym - through the door labeled Accounting).
ourselves. Our purpose in gathering is for our own spiritual growth but we
come together to assist each other in our journey. For more information
contact Leslie at [email protected]
WOW - WOMEN OF THE WORLD
WOW are a diverse group of women with one thing in common ... A strong
interest in new people and unique experiences! Join us at our Coffee Morning
Meetings. We usually meet on the 4th Wednesday at the Maadi House
(September-April). For more information, email us at [email protected].
Join The Fun! Expand Your World!
CHARITIES, VOLUNTEERING AND SUPPORT GROUPS
AA IN CAIRO
AA & AI Anon meeting schedule: Saturday & Sunday, 8.00pm at St. Joseph’s
Church in Zamalek in between St. Hassan Sabry and Shagaret El Zor, near
Pub 28. Monday, Wednesday & Thursday 8.00pm, Tuesday 7.30pm at Kasr
El Maadi Hospital, Corniche El Maadi (near Alfa Market beside Radio Shack
on 3rd Floor). For more information, contact Magdi at 01222133926, email
[email protected]. Or Mo Tycoon at 01004884902, email safinamohamed@
hotmail.com, www.aaegypt.com
African Hope Learning Centre
An English Speaking school for Refugees in Maadi needs help with
volunteers. All sorts of possibilities from tutoring to running special programs
to mentoring teachers or fundraising. No previous experience necessary- just
a willingness to help. Please contact Alessandra on 01068745272 or Jonathan
on 01007582391. More information on our website- www.africanhopelc.com
BETTER WORLD FOUNDATION
We are a local NGO that helps empower Egyptian youth to impact their
communities through inter-cultural exchange and education. We are in need
of native foreign language speakers volunteers. For further information please
visit the website http://www.bwngo.org/ or email [email protected]
CARITAS - EGYPT THE “OASIS OF HOPE” CENTER
Our center provides free counseling and rehabilitative services to drug
addicts through the assistance of a dedicated professional team. If anyone is
interested in volunteering or is qualified professionally in drug addiction/
rehabilitation issues and would like to offer their services, visit our website
www.caritasegypt.org or email us at [email protected]
SPANISH SPEAKING LADIES GROUP
Meetings take place on the first Tuesday of the month. For details please
contact Cecibel Elshaer on 01227483993 or Rosa America on 0100- 1071181
or visit our Facebook page www.facebook.com/ CDHHCairo2011Y2012
Egyptian Advance Society for Persons with Autism
and Other Disabilities
The Egyptian Advance Society for Persons with Autism and Other Disabilities,
is looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help in the daily program, the Saturday
Recreational Club, and a variety of areas for our Autism Awareness Month
activities and events. We also need volunteers who enjoy being creative and
working with the public. Maadi Address: 329 Road 262 cross with 277, New
Maadi Cairo, Egypt. New Cairo Address: Ahmed Ismail St, 14 Avenue, 5th
District, El Narges, New Cairo. Tel & Fax: (+202) 25177471 or 2 or 3, email:
[email protected], www.advance-society.org
THE INDIAN WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION, ANNAPOORNA
It has been functioning in Cairo since 1976. The monthly meetings take place
on the second Wednesday of every month. All women who are Indians/Indian
origin/married to Indians are invited to join this very special organization. To
get in touch with us please send an email to our group site annapoorna-club@
googlegroups.com or call our President Urvashi Mehta at 01225413434 or
our treasurer Renuka at 01003309229
EMRO
The Egyptian Mau Rescue Organization - This is a non profit, charitable,
animal organization rescuing indigenous native spotted Mau cats, and
offering these for local and international adoptions. Please help through
adoption, donations, sponsorship or volunteering of time. EMRO Office &
Veterinary Clinic - Villa 11, El Togarayeen City, El Mokattam, Cairo. Tel:
25076946 or 01507157525 www.emaurescue.org - [email protected]
THE TREE LOVERS ASSOCIATION (TLA)
The Tree Lovers Association is an environmental NGO focusing on nature
conservation and propagation. Founded by Mustapha and Saffiya Moyine El
Arab in May 1973 with a group of dedicated residents from the green suburb
of Maadi, they initiated several programmes and projects, and developed
guidelines and codes of conduct on how to interact with the environment.
For more information about the group or to join one of their walks email
Samia Zeitoun: [email protected]
FRIENDS OF CHILDREN WITH CANCER
The wards for the poorest of the poor have beds for 80 children from all
over Egypt who look forward to our visits. We offer them time, comfort,
encouragement, and gifts we can provide. Items needed for donations are
coloring books, crayons, notebooks & pens, flight bags, playing cards,
baseball caps, stuffed animals, bubbles, small trucks or cars, dolls, or anything
that is appropriate for children from 1-18 years of age. Please contact Susie
01222105835 or 2358-5627.
TOASTMASTERS
Toastmasters can help you improve your public speaking and leadership skills.
You can work on anything from the fear of speaking in public to using a more
interesting vocabulary and smiling at the audience. For more information
about the Cairo Toastmasters Club visit www.cairotoastmasters.com or call
Abdelrahman Magdi on 0114-1322003 or Mohamed Zamzam on 01005249195 / [email protected]
HADARET SAKKARA
Our organization helps the numerous child rubbish collectors we often
see sifting through Cairo’s streets. There is an economic pressure on these
children to work rather than to attend school regularly. We are looking for
volunteers to teach or to prepare food and also for donations of any kind. For
more information please contact Dr Luciano Verdoscia 01227782305, email
[email protected]
SOUTH AFRICANS IN EGYPT
email: [email protected], tel: Tania: 01277701756
TURKISH SPEAKING LADIES COFFEE MORNING
Meets every month, open to all Nationalities (Turkish Speaking). For more
information please contact Nidal El Beheiry at [email protected]
FINNS IN EGYPT ASSOCIATION (SEFE)
Open to all Finnish-speaking expatriates in Egypt. For more information,
please go to www.finnsinegypt.org
WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION OF CAIRO
Welcome all English speaking women. For information a schedule of events
please contact the WA Center at 11 Yehia Ibrahim St., Zamalek, Cairo Tele:
27364187, mobile 01006319888. Or email [email protected]
I.A.F.
Information for partners of foreign nationality. I.A.F. supplies information
for women who wish to marry or are married to Egyptian men. I.A.F. answers
questions on family rights, visas, working permits, marriage contracts and
marriage, safety for children and immigration, hate and racism, women and
sexual discrimination etc. Address: 2-4 Ludolfusstrasse 60487 Frankfurt a.M.
Germany Telphone: 0497075087/7075088
French Abroad Network (UFE)
Nonprofit organization supporting childwood associations in Cairo (orphans
and young people). Meeting held permanently in the UFE’s house (every
morning, road 14 in Maadi). Coffee and networking, every first Thursday
WOMEN’S GROUP FOR HEALTH AND WELL-BEING, CAIRO
The Women’s Group now meets on the full moon each month. We use the
energy of the full moon for illumination. We discuss the astrological trends
of the day, and do a group meditation as well as setting an intention for
RESALET NOUR ALA NOUR NGO
We are a non profitable organization that helps the underprivileged all over
Egypt and our work is based fully on donations. For more information about
what we do visit www.rn3n.org or call 0122106102.
88 May 15 CSA
www.livinginegypt.org
S.P.A.R.E
“Society for the Protection of Animal Rights in Egypt” Ours is a charitable
organization dedicated to protect animal lives. Our shelter can house up to
forty dogs, complete with food, grooming, exercise and medical attention.
Part of our shelter is a kennel where you may board your dogs while traveling.
We accept donations for food, medicine, vet care and neutering programs. We
need volunteers to socialize the animals and assist with grooming. We have
wonderful animals waiting for adoption. Please call 33813855, 38190575,
01223162912, www.sparelives.org
VISIT CHILDREN WITH CANCER
If anyone would like to join a group of ladies and bring a smile to those
children in hospital for cancer treatment, then please join us on Thursday
mornings leaving Maadi at 9.00am returning around 12.30pm. There are
25 children in the ward aged from babies to 18. We need 25 juices, some
small gifts, soft toys, cards, puzzles, caps and toiletries for boys and girls.
Transport from Maadi provided. For further details please contact Jane on
01002760003.
MISCELLANEOUS
Buddhist Meditation
Are there any other Buddhists out there who would like to meditate together
regularly? If so, please contact Maureen on 012753-36442.
HELIOPOLIS COMMUNITY CHURCH
Meeting just off Baghdad St. in Korba, the heart of Heliopolis, HCC is
where “new things come to life.” Worship service is Fridays at 9.00am (with
children’s classes). An interdenominational and international church with
people from over 25 countries, worship is in English in the chapel of St.
Michael’s located at 10 Seti St. For more information please call 24142409,
email [email protected] or visit our website www.hccCairo.com
Holy Family Roman Catholic Church in Maadi
55 Road 15, Maadi, Egypt. Tel.: 2358-2004. Weekend Masses: Friday: 9 am
(English with Tagalog hymns), 7 pm (English/Korean). Saturday: 10:30am
(Italian in chapel), 5:30pm (English), 6:45pm (French). Sunday: 8:00 am
(French), 11:00 am (Sudanese), 5:00 pm (Spanish), 6:15 pm (English).
MAADI COMMUNITY CHURCH
An oasis for refuge and renewal.....where the nations gather for worship.
Over 40 different countries and many denominations come to together on
the weekend at the corner of Port Said & Rd 17 on the grounds of St. John
the Baptist Church. Come join us Fridays from 2:30-4:00pm (Africa Live)
and from 5:00-6:15pm Visit our website (www.maadichurch.com) for more
information. You can also contact us by phone at 23592755 or by email at
[email protected].
ST. ANDREW’S UNITED CHURCH OF CAIRO
St. Andrew’s is an international, interdenominational congregation in the
heart of Cairo. We invite you to join us for worship and fellowship on Fridays
at 10:00 AM (year-round) and Sundays at 7:00 PM (September-May). If
interested in volunteering with refugees and displaced persons at StARS,
please call (02)25759451. For more information, please call 01276666843,
email [email protected], or visit www.standrewschurchcairo.
com. St. Andrew’s is located above the Nasser Metro station at 38, 26 July
Street.
SAINT MARY’S COPTIC ORTHODOX CHURCH
Our church carries out lots of charity work please come and give us a hand
Coptic Orthodox Holy Mass in English. Saint Mary’s Coptic Orthodox
Church (Ard El Golf, Heliopolis, Shams Iddeen Il Zahabi Street), 8.00 am
to 9.30 am (Communion served to Orthodox). Followed by Bible Study
in English, third Saturday of Each Month. All are Welcome! Please bring
others!Snacks and Drinks served. For more information contact Father
Youssef (Phone & Text: 01223476343, Email: [email protected]
ST. JOHN’S CHURCH, MAADI
“A spiritual home away from home.” We are an English-speaking
international and multi-denominational congregation following an Anglican/
Episcopal tradition. Worship Services: Family Holy Communion: Fridays 10
AM (with Nursery and Church School for Children & Youth), and Night
Service with Communion: Thursdays at 6:30 PM. Rector/Minister: Rev.
Paul-Gordon Chandler / Assoc. Minister for Youth, Education & Young
Adults, Rev. Ben Robinson. For details please call 23583085 or email to
[email protected], website: www.maadichurch.org. It is located at the
corner of Road 17 and Port Said Rd in Maadi.”
THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS
(LDS) hold services on Friday at 9:00 am in Maadi-#21 Road 17. Contact:
David Risley 01274857932 / 23783395.
THE JOINT RELIEF MINISTRY (JRM)
We offer cleaner, baby sitter, domestic helper, a program striving to assist
refugees and displaced people in Cairo to meet the challenges of life here. We
have a basic skill training program equipping people for domestic help. Please
call Amira- 27364836 or 27364837
Please note: The above is for informational purposes only. CSA accepts no liability
for any of the services advertised throughout the magazine. For changes or additions
to Community Announcements please contact [email protected]
May 15 CSA 89
Lifestyle
The Class
monitor
By Riju Shrimali
They were the days of blackboards
and white chalks. It was the first day
of high school and he was elected the
class monitor for the year. He was the
only one to submit his nomination. I
surmised this was because most of the
students were new. I almost raised my
hand when the teacher, Mr. Hedley,
asked us to volunteer for the position.
It would be a challenge. Normally
I veer towards competition but this
time something stopped me. So here
we were, a set of 26 students with
Manish Sharma, a shaggy haired boy
with awkwardly long limbs, as our
uncontested monitor.
A few days into school and I was glad
that I hadn’t submitted my nomination.
It was an onerous position.
No crown would cause greater unease.
Manish Sharma bailed out the bullies of
our class, paying with his house points.
But it wasn’t enough.
One morning, as Mr. Ray, our
mathematics teacher approached our
class, he was shelled. It so happened that
with the sound of first bell, a group of
students broke into chalk fight. Within
seconds it turned into a fist battle. Soon,
with precise deliberation, a boy was
hurled out of our classroom. Like an
obedient cannonball he fell right into
Mr. Ray’s broad chest. Bull’s eye! The
perfect climax to a seat-gripping battle!
Fortunately, Mr. Ray’s investment in a
personal trainer paid off. He staggered,
almost fell, but didn’t die. Instead he
rose like a phoenix, bellowing “M-ON-I-T-O-R!” The cannonball got to his
feet with a suppressed grin decorating
his flaming cheeks. Mr. Ray took his
place in the front of the room
with an air of selfrighteousness.
Girls moved to their places, rearranging
fallen furniture on their way. The army
of boys who had valiantly staged the
battle, returned to their camps, their
ears illuminated with a reddish glow of
fulfillment.
Manish, scampering around on all fours
gathering the pieces of broken chalks,
answered the call of the attacked teacher.
He now stood next to him, head hung
low with shame, as the class snaked
back to decorum. Mr. Ray waited for
the re-establishment
of order and
silence before
he roared.
“Who made
you
the
monitor? I
mean, look
at this guy.
Does he look
remotely like
a monitor?”
Silence from the class.
“You can’t control your classmates!
Who made you the monitor?”
Silence again.
“Leave. Just get out of the class”
“Excuse me, Mr. Ray!” I was surprised
by my own voice. “Manish is not to be
blamed. He did try to…”
“Thank you young lady. Much as you
may wish, I am not wasting the next
45 minutes of my class, holding a court
here. Mr. Monitor, please exit and let
us resume where we left our discussion
yesterday on probability theories”.
After the class was over, Manish strolled
in with a yogic calm.
“Thank you”, he said to me.
“Why didn’t you tell him the whole
story”, I asked, not without anger. “Are
you scared of him?”
“Probably”, he said and moved on to
prepare the blackboard for the next
class.
It was only after a year or
so at school that I figured
out that Manish was not
scared of Mr. Ray, rather
it was the teacher who
was scared of the high
school boys. There was
an army of boys with
whom neither teachers
nor students desired
a head-on collision.
That morning, Mr.
Ray had only pretended
to highlight his flimsy
authority by punishing
Manish. The teacher
knew it, Manish knew
it, the army
knew
it
and many others understood it. In
the same vein, on several occasions,
Manish took insults, missed classes and
sacrificed his house points to maintain
this delicate balance of co-existence
within the school.
The next year too, Manish was the class
monitor and he retained the position
until we graduated several years later.
There was an episode with Mr. Burley,
the Physical Education teacher, who
slapped a janitor for accidentally
splashing water on his shoes. Everyone
knew that Mr. Burley was a favorite
of the head teacher but Manish went
ahead and got a petition signed by
the students. It resulted in Mr. Burley
apologizing to the janitor and quitting
within the next few months.
All the while Manish continued to
dispel my unvoiced allegations. He was
not a coward, not in it to curry favour
and not just a “try-hard-appreciation
seeker”. He was a great boy.
Finally the time came to part. Our
autograph books were in circulation
among classmates, teachers and friends
from junior years. We let our sentiments
flow in these books - confessions of
love, admiration, suspicion and of
course, reconciliation. We expressed
our wishes, hope and dreams. Among
all the beautiful sentences in my book,
the most flattering was from Manish –
“I would like my daughter to be as brave
as you”. There was something else too.
His signature read “Never Say Goodbye
- Manish Sharma”. Not original but
memorable.
We parted and for the next 22 years life
offered its various ups and downs. I got
rejected for medical school, received a
scholarship for post-graduate studies in
the college of my choice, fell in love, had
heartbreaks, got married, had kids, started
a consulting firm and bought a house.
Through all these years however I never
encountered Manish, though both of us
had our parents living in the same city.
Not even a chance encounter at a grocery
store or a movie theater. Nothing.
I think about all this as I lie anxious on
my bed. The hospital window overlooks
the sea. The new bridge with royal arches
looks mighty. Tomorrow is my surgery
but I try not to think about it. I try not to
think about the future and what may or
may not be. Instead I look at the arches
and try to be rooted in the present.
The doctors would not call it cancer.
Just a lump, benign and curable. Yet my
husband - my dear, dear husband - has
asked for the head of the department
to perform the surgery. I don’t know
his name yet. I have tried to ignore the
details, only picking up bits and pieces
of information through his hushed
telephone calls and conversations with
friends. After the surgery tomorrow I
plan to watch Lord of the Rings with
my kids and husband for the umpteenth
time, and forget all about my fear of the
future. Just then the door opens.
“Hi… well I’m your
doctor”, the shaggy haired, Manish
Sharma says, extending his card to me
with his awkwardly long arms. He is
now Doctor Manish Sharma and I
know I am in safe hands. He will keep
me alive. This is the master at striking
balance! Contentedness washes over me
for the first time since the diagnosis. It’s
still not yet time to say goodbye.
Riju was a consumer research director in
Indian Market Research Bureau, Delhi.
After moving to Egypt, she has been a
homemaker and devotes her spare time
to freelance writing and learning about
cognitive sciences and child development.
90 May 15 CSA
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May 15 CSA 91