Archive – AGBU Egypt

1 January

HMEM Nubar Cairo bids farewell to 2007 in style

Close to 350 HMEM Nubar Cairo club members, fans and guests were gathered at the Goganian club in Heliopolis on Monday, 31st December to celebrate the New Year in a lively and festive atmosphere.

The club garden was completely covered for this special occasion and the interior was tastefully decorated with lights, Christmas ornaments, balloons and candles. Each table was also stylishly set with candles and Christmas mishmash.

To celebrate the New Year, guests were treated with a nice variety of music, good food and raffle prizes. D.J. Lyon with his nice pick of old and new music allowed the gathering to spend a cheerful time, dancing the night away on the packed dance floor until the early hours of the morning, celebrating the arrival of the 1st day of the New Year.

5 February

AGBU Cairo’s 5-day youth camp: An exceptional Armenian youth jamboree

The 5-day camp organized by AGBU Cairo at the “Beit El Wadi” was by all means a successful and exceptional Egyptian Armenian youth gathering of Cairo’s and Alexandria’s 13 to 17 year old youngsters.

42 boys and girls, 32 from Cairo and 10 from Alexandria, took part in this camp, which gathered youngsters from all Egyptian Armenian clubs in a spirit of friendship and amity.

The recreational part of the camp’s program included sports games such as Baseball, Dodge ball, American football, as well as Volley ball, Soccer, Basketball and Handball. It included also adventure games and competitions such as Archery, Low and High ropes’ courses, Treasure Hunt, Zip Line Tower jumping, arial football, Stratego and Flag Capture as well as different mind games which were organized around the camp fire every night just before party time.. .

Apart from the recreational and sports side of the camping, different values and subjects were communicated to the young participants, these were either general, such as friendship, team work, love & respect of others, or specific to us Armenians, such as the importance of keeping our Armenian identity and unity.

Power point and video presentations were also made (by Dr. Viken Djizmedjian) about the Armenian Genocide, the Armenian question nowadays and Egyptian Armenians. Armenian language and Armenian music had their share in the 5-day program through videos and lectures (presented by Mr.Berdj Terzian & Maestro Mihran Ghazelian respectively). A quiz on Armenian matters was also organized with prizes for winners.

The volunteers of the “Beit El Wadi” camping site, in coordination with the volunteers of AGBU Cairo: Rubina Aslanian, Ani Boghossian, Ani Ohanessian, Hrastan Kalinian, Kegham Terzibashian, Gary Kehyaian and AGBU Cairo chairman, Dr. Viken Djizmedjian, have all contributed in the exceptional success of this Armenian youth jamboree.

25 January

A pleasant trip to Fayoum’s Lake Karun organised by HMEM Nubar Cairo

HMEM Nubar Cairo’s organized trip on Friday to Lake Karun’s Auberge du Lac was definitely a gratifying outing to all those who took part.

After a quick stop at Ein Sellin, the beautiful sunny day was spent on the shores of Lake Karun at the newly renovated Helnan Auberge du Lac. Some of the participants took boat rides on the lake, while others just relaxed around the swimming pool. The children played billiards, football and the younger ones enjoyed the games of the nice playground of the hotel.

It was a real pleasant and gratifying excursion… More trips should be organized… This was the common consensus of the day…

8 February

HMEM Nubar Cairo’s Car Rally Paper: Lots of fun and no accidents…

48 participants in 10 cars participated in HMEM Nubar Cairo’s Car Rally Paper, which was organized by the club’s youth on Friday. The 3-hour car game was full of fun, adventure and of course … speed… The winning team was that of car #4 formed of Arsho Varjabedian, Nora Zakarian, Sylvia Peladian, Sylvia & Vartan Terzibashian.

The 13 riddles’ answers were names of shops, clubs, cinemas and restaurants within the district of Heliopolis. The solution of each riddle guided the contestants to the next stop where they were handed the following riddle and so on until the 13th and final riddle.

After the end of the game the participants gathered in the club’s garden to exchange their answer finding stories, amid big laughs and amusement. Each team had more than its share of funny, exciting & hilarious situations, which will be remembered with lots of pleasure by the participants and the organizers who had also great fun in preparing this entertaining event.

17 February

Hagop Karagozian leaves basketball in a memorable farewell match

Several generations of Egyptian Armenian basketball players were gathered at HMEM Nubar Cairo club on Sunday for Hagop Karagozian’s farewell match. Former and current teammates, opponents, coaches and referees had all insisted to be part of this goodbye-match of Hagop who leaves the game as a player after 25 years of loyal services to the club.

Hagop’s first official match with the seniors’ team was in the club’s October tournament of 1982 when coach Fathy Shehata fielded him to replace the injured Hrayr Djeghalian in the final match against HMEM Ararat to win his career’s first cup.

HMEM Gamk, HMEM Ararat, HMEM Nubar Alex and St. Therese players had all responded with enthusiasm to HMEM Nubar Cairo’s invitation to participate in this farewell gathering which comes as a recognition and appreciation of Hagop’s long time commitment and contribution to the club.

Throughout his 25-year career spent at HMEM Nubar Cairo, Hagop’s devotion, commitment, fighting spirit, fair play and team leading has been an example to all young players who aspire to become stars to be remembered in HMEM Nubar Cairo’s basketball chronicles and records.

“It is hard for me, of course, to leave the game and my teammates of the club”, Said Hagop, “But everything must come to an end. I am pleased with my career. I had excellent moments of glory and joy, and above all, I made some fantastic friends. I’m no longer a player, but I surely will remain associated to my favorite club as team manager. ”

On this special day, two matches were organized. The first was between two mixed selections of current Egyptian Armenian players representing the community’s five clubs, and the second and most interesting match was between the veterans of HMEM Nubar Cairo against a selection of veterans from the 5 Egyptian Armenian clubs. The crowds cheered with enthusiasm the players of the two teams with each classy gesture or point scored. It was a real fun match played by some big names of past Egyptian Armenian basketball tournaments.

HMEM Nubar Cairo board’s initiative in honoring Hagop is to be praised and commended. Any player of such caliber deserves this kind of farewell. A lot of the likes of Hagop who have left the game in silence deserve such a recognition. And they are many.

24 February

Impressive presentations on Tigranagert in Cairo and Alexandria

Upon an invitation from AGBU Cairo, Dr. Hamlet Petrosyan, Doctor of Archaeology and Senior research fellow of the Institute of Archaeology and Ethnography of the National Academy of Sciences of Armenia gave 2 presentations in Cairo and Alexandria on the archeological findings and excavations of the historical city of Tigranagert in Artsakh.

The first lecture, DVD and photo presentation was held in Cairo on Friday 22nd February at the Belekdanian Hall, while the second was held in Alexandria on Sunday 24th at the Boghossian school. The captivating presentations gave the audiences a clear idea about the immense excavation works which are being conducted by a group of archeologists and scientists to uncover the historical city of Tigranagert in Artsakh built under the reign of Tigran the Great.

The archeological findings revealed the ruins of the fortifying walls of the ancient city, a cemetery, church and housing compounds.

The immensity and the importance of the discovery was shared by all those present at the presentations thanks to the detailed photo & video supported lectures of Dr. Petrosyan, whose absolute dedication and enthusiasm for the completion and success of this long term project, along with his fellow scientists, in spite of the encountered practical and financial difficulties, are to be hailed and applauded by all Armenians. V.D.

3 March

HMEM Nubar Cairo’s 50th anniversary celebrations’ preparations underway

HMEM Nubar Cairo’s 50th anniversary Organizing committee announced on Sunday the detailed program of the club’s celebrations to be held in Cairo from 1 to 6 October 2008. Former & current fans and members of the club will be re-uniting to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the club’s Heliopolis headquarters in a reunion that promises to be an unprecedented exceptional event, gathering past and present famous names, personalities and fans of HMEM Nubar Cairo.

HMEM and NUBAR clubs used to exist as two separate entities before they joined forces and united in one single club moving to the current HMEM NUBAR Club’s premises in Heliopolis in 1958. The HMEM Club was founded in Cairo by Hayg Djizmedjian in 1927 (after Alexandria in 1924) and held its activities at the Nubarian School in Heliopolis, while AGBU’s NUBAR Club in Shoubra El Balad was founded in 1933 and served the Armenian community of the Shoubra neighborhood. (Click here for a brief history of the club).

The day-by-day program of the event can be downloaded from the Documents section (Under bookstore – documentation) of our website as well as the participation form. The event will include an opening cocktail reception and a photo exhibition, a basketball tournament of veteran and regular players from Friday 3 to Sunday 5 October as well as a special event to honor ex-HMEM NUBAR board members, officials, scout leaders, players & members who have served the club or played in one of its sports teams. There will also be a grand gala night, a Nile cruise dinner, a day trip to Alexandria and after the end of the official program: an optional 4-day trip to the Red Sea.

The organizing committee will be announcing soon the names and rates of the hotels chosen for the event as well the different options of participation.

13 March

Dziadzan choir teams up with Dzaghgastan to celebrate Gharapagh

On the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the Gharapagh liberation movement, the Dziadzan and Dzaghgastan choirs teamed up to sing on Thursday 13th March at the Belekdanian in Cairo.

The event which was organized by three Egyptian Armenian traditional political parties, consisted of a rich cultural program. It included a lecture on the history of the conflict by Dr. Ashod Melkonian, director of the Armenian Institute of history at the Armenian National Academy of Sciences, flute and piano recital by Maestro Zakar Keshishian and Mrs. Gamila Keshishian, an Armenian dance performed by the Zankezour troupe as well as a poem recited by Nora Koehnelian.

30 March 2008

The DVD of AGBU Cairo’s camp screened

The DVD of the 5-day youth camp organized by AGBU Cairo at the “Beit El Wadi” was screened on Sunday 30th March in a gathering of youth and parents at the Belekdanian Hall in Cairo.

The promo of the camp can be viewed by clicking here:

42 boys and girls, 32 from Cairo and 10 from Alexandria, had taken part in this camp, which gathered youngsters from all Egyptian Armenian clubs in a spirit of friendship and amity.

1 April

AGBU’s summer programs’ presentations in Cairo and Alexandria

AGBU’s Armenia Youth Programs Coordinator, Hermine Duzian, presented to the Cairene and Alexandrian Armenian youth and their parents, the programs organized by AGBU in Armenia next summer. These include the Yerevan Summer Intern Program (YSIP), the Youth Trip to Armenia and the Scout Camp in the Dilijan-Vanadzor region.

The DVD of the successful mid-year vacation camp organized by AGBU Cairo was also screened on these two occasions. The 5 minute promo version can be viewed on Youtube while the 25 minute version is available on DVD at the AGBU Cairo offices.

The presentation was held in Cairo last Sunday 30th March and in Alexandria on Monday 31st March.

A explained by Mrs. Duzian, the Intern Program was an instant success amongst participants during its first-ever season last year. College students eager to learn about their heritage, while developing hands-on professional experience in their field of interest, are highly encouraged to apply. Students last summer interned at leading companies and organizations in the capital city, including the Cafesjian Museum Foundation, World Health Organization, and several leading medical institutions.

In addition to eye-opening professional experience, YSIP participants will have the chance to engross themselves in language instruction, dance classes, history lectures, service projects and meetings with government officials. A full educational, cultural and social schedule also includes weekend trips to other parts of Armenia and Karabakh and mixers with other intern groups from the Diaspora.

A very successful addition to the established AGBU internship programs in New York and Paris, YSIP proved to be both professionally and personally fulfilling for participants who connected with peers throughout the world in the land where all Armenians share a common bond. This year’s five-week program will begin on June 28 and continue until August 2.

Now in its fifth year, AGBU is welcoming participants for its annual Youth Trip to Armenia and Karabakh. Youths between the ages of 15 and 18 are encouraged to join their Armenian peers from around the world to explore the sights and sounds of our ancient culture and heritage under the supervised care of certified tour guides and chaperones. The program’s goal is that participants will experience the true Armenian spirit and develop a love and understanding for our shared culture of not only the past, but the present and the future.

Activities include a climb to the top of Armenia’s highest peak, Mount Aragats, unearthing part of an archeological site, and side trips to Gyumri, Garni, Geghard, Lake Sevan, Khor Virap and neighboring Karabakh. The youth will also have the chance to make a difference by reaching out to fellow Armenians through service projects and will see firsthand the ongoing work of the AGBU, the largest Armenian philanthropic organization in the world. This year’s trip will be held from August 9 to 29.

From July 25 until August 30, AGBU is also offering a trip to Armenia for its Scout troops. Since 1936, AGBU Scouts have been active in Egypt, Lebanon and Syria, and more recently in other parts of the world, proving to be one of the most popular activities for boys and girls eager to connect with their Armenian heritage and the great outdoors.

Today, many of these troops are affiliated with local chapters of the AGBU Armenian Youth Association (AYA) and thrive in Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Cyprus, Uruguay and the United States. Scouts between the ages of 13 and 18 from all over the world will now have the chance to come together in Armenia and attend scout camp in the historic and picturesque forests of Dilijan-Vanadzor. For the first year only, the new Scout Camp will welcome scouts from across southwest Asia and Egypt. By its second season in 2009, the camp will be hosting AGBU scouts from around the world and exposing youth to the picturesque Armenian countryside.

16 April

The General Assembly of AGBU Cairo

The General Assembly of AGBU Cairo was held last Wednesday 16th April, at the headquarters of the Union in Cairo. After the usual statutory points of approving the previous General Assembly minutes, the 2007 financial report and 2007 activities report, the budget of 2008 was presented by Mr. Mardig Balayan, the general secretary of the board, and was approved by the audience.

A detailed account of the expenditures of the Chaker fund on the different services provided to the Egyptian Armenian community throughout a period of 10 years was also presented. The graphs showed that while in 1997 the total amount spent on Social, cultural, educational & medical services to individuals and unions was 493,916 LE, this amount has increased in 2007 to 1,667,848 LE and this, in spite of the decrease in interest rates and general increase of costs.

23 April

AGBU Cairo signs design and supervision contract of its new building

AGBU Cairo signed on Wednesday 23rd April the contract for the design and supervision of the construction works of its new cultural and social center. The building is planned to be erected at the left of the main entrance of the HMEM Nubar Heliopolis club on Soraya street.

The contract was signed with the Wassef Design office which will be designing the preliminary & final schematic plans of the building and supervising the construction works at a later stage.

The 2 floor building is planned to include offices, meeting rooms, storage areas, restrooms & kitchen facilities, recreational halls, an exhibition area and a hall to accommodate around 200-250 persons for special performances and events. The construction works are expected to start early next year.

29 April

International Forum “Armenian – Arab World: Past and Present” held in Cairo

An unprecedented international forum “Armenia – Arab World: Past and Present” took place at the Faculty of Arts of the Cairo University on Tuesday, April 29th.

The Forum, gathered around 20 prominent lecturers from Egypt, Armenia, Syria and Lebanon, specialized in Armeno-Arab relations in various domains such as politics, history, culture and literature. It was a distinctive gathering of the Arab World’s top historians, researchers and experts of Armeno-Arab relations & studies.

The event, which can be described as unique of its kind in a middle-eastern country, and which was made possible mainly thanks to the efforts of the Armenian Embassy in Cairo and its charismatic Ambassador Dr. Rouben Karapetian, discussed various important topics such as the history of the Armenian communities in each of Egypt, Syria and Lebanon, presented respectively by Doctors. Mohamed Refaat Al Imam, Nora Arisian and Arda Arsenian, The Armenians during the Ottoman period (by Dr. Gamal Mohamed, Egypt), the Armenians & Islam (by Dr. Hana El Haj, Lebanon), Armenians & Arabs through translation (Dr. Nezar Khalili, Syria), The position of Arabs in welcoming Armenian refugees in various Arab countries (1915-1923 (Dr. Adonis El Ekra, Lebanon), the role of Armenian intellectuals in the Arab renaissance (Dr. Saad El Din Kolayeb, Syria), Armenia as center of Arab studies (by Dr. Nicolai Hohanessian, Armenia) and many more topics presented by eminent specialists such as Dr. Shawkat Youssef (Syria), Dr. Varoujan Kazandjian, Fayez Iskandar, Mohamed El Beyaly, Abou El Yosr Farah and Fouad Raslan (Egypt), Venera Markarian & Hayk Kotcharian (Armenia), Fouad El Marei, Shawkat Youssef & Samir Arbash (Syria).

The organizers of the forum were: the Center for Armenian Studies of Cairo University, the Embassy of Armenia in Egypt, as well as civic & cultural organizations of the Armenian community in Egypt. AGBU Cairo contributed in the event by inviting three lecturers from Syria.

The forum was held under the auspices of Egypt’s Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Dr. Hani Hilal.

An exhibition of books on Armenian Studies was also held on this occasion.

28 May

New auxiliary members of the AGBU Cairo board

With the increasing number of AGBU Cairo’s and following the Union’s last General Assembly held on 16th April 2008, new auxiliary members have joined the Executive board of our Union: Drs Ani Ohanessian and Arpi Khatcherian who are both contributors of AGBU Cairos activities long before they joined the board as auxiliary members.

We wish the newcomers success and optimum contribution to AGBU Cairo

5 June

Community news: Sardarabad’s 90th anniversary celebrated in Cairo

The Armenian community of Cairo celebrated the 90th anniversary of the Sardarabad war on Thursday 5th July 2008 at the Belekdanian Hall in Heliopolis. The event was held under the auspices of Arch. Ashod Menatsaganian, Primate of the Armenian Apostolic church of Egypt and Dr. Rouben Karapetian the Ambassador of Armenia to Egypt. In the first part of the program, Dr. Karapetian, speaker of the evening, gave a historical account on the Sardarabad war, independance and the 1st Republic of Armenia.

In the second part of the program, the Arax choir, led by Maestro Mihran Ghazelian, performed, presenting a repertoire of delightful enchanting Armenian songs, accompanied by piano (Ekaterina Trofimovic) and Dehol (Roupen Terzibashian).

12 June

More basketball teams in HMEM Nubar Cairo

A boys’ mini-basket team, a veteran men’s team and a veteran women’s team: These are the latest additions to HMEM Nubar Cairo club’s basketball teams.

Due to the increasing number of the clubs’ 5 to 9 year old boys who are longing to play the game, it was decided to form this team and appoint club’s former basketball player Armen Baltayan as coach. So far, for the younger generations, there was just a girls’ mini basket team trained by Sevan Dertadian and two youth teams for boys and girls aged 9 to 14 years trained by coach Essam. Some real promising talents were revealed in the club’s first training session last Wednesday.

The newly formed mini-basket team trains on Wednesdays at 8:00 pm on the mini-basket court, while their veteran “mum”s train at 7:00 pm on the main court. The veteran “husbands and dads” preferred to choose a separate day to train: Sundays at 9:00 pm…

The future of the club’s basketball teams (..excluding the veterans of course..) looks bright.

Young veteran ladies in action…

21 June

HMEM Nubar Cairo club’s opening of the summer season

The traditional opening of the summer season announcing the “official” opening of the club’s doors on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays was held on Saturday 21st June at the club’s garden.

The nicely decorated garden of the club was full of club members, friends and children who enjoyed every bit of the evening in a pleasant family atmosphere.

This year, the main dish was catered by the well known Armando restaurant, while the salad & pastry bars were tastefully prepared by the club’s ladies’ committee.

The event was entertained by Romanian singer Nicole along with her Egyptian partner Ramy who both sang a variety of Western and Oriental songs. The night continued until way past midnight with football fans gathered around the big screen TV to watch the Euro 2008 quarter final clash match Holland/Russia, only to leave after 1:00 am after the end of the traditional raffle prizes.

The club’s board is keen to keep this biannual tradition of celebrating both summer and winter season openings, a tradition which dates back since the early sixties.

22 June

Great Performance by AGBU Cairo’s Dziadzan children’s choir’s

AGBU Cairo’s Dziadzan Children’s choir latest performance “My friends and I” was held at the Belekdanian hall on Sunday 22nd June at 8:00 pm.

The joyful recital included 15 songs, all in Armenian, about friendship, our motherland Armenia, family bonds, children’s dreams and aspiration. “Friendship starts with a smile” was the theme of the evening and each of the 15 songs took up a message or an important value of our everyday life.

The children enjoyed singing as much as we enjoyed listening. They looked really cute in their colorful Dziadzan T-shirts surrounded by the tasteful colorful decoration.

On stage, the children were very sure of themselves, they interacted very well with the songs, demonstrating their full grasp of the words’ meanings and significance. They also surprised us with three nice solo dances and several poems.

Maestro Mihran and Mrs. Kohar Ghazelian did a great job with the children. Besides teaching songs, they were able to teach values through simple words and cheerful songs. On the Piano, Mrs. Nanor Apikian performed with ease and joy, continuing her benevolent support & contribution since the creation of the choir 5 years ago. Thanks also to all those who contributede in the performance: Ani Ohanessian as the narrator, Aline Djizmedjian, Caroline Arslanian & Saad Naguib for the beautiful decoration & Suzan Karkour for the dances.

The songs were the following: My friends & I, With my friends, When smile shines, Dziadzan, Gabig, Khaghig Maghig, Menk Zinvor yenk, Yerk Hairigi, Hayasdan, Karoun Yerevan, Anoush Khaghogh, Dziler, Diezerk & Yerazank.

9 July

HMEM Nubar 50th anniversary: The Riff Band to perform at the Grand Ball Dinner

In the framework of the club’s 50th anniversary celebrations, HMEM Nubar Cairo, for its Grand Ball dinner of Saturday 4th October has agreed with the renowned “The Riff Band” to animate the evening along with DJ Armen.

The Riff Band is Cairo’s most famous Jazz Band and is formed of 8 Egyptian and non-Egyptian vocalists and musicians. Their repertoire consists of a variety of Jazz, pop and oldies favorites. They have been branded as Egypt’s number 1 Jazz band and have been talk of the town since their start in 2002.

The evening will also be animated by lots of Armenian dance and music thanks to DJ Armen.

The Grand Ball Dinner of the 50th anniversary celebrations will be held at the newly inaugurated lavish Fairmont Tower Hotel in Heliopolis.

10 July

HMEM Nubar 50th: Participation of locals – Selective participation

The HMEM Nubar Cairo club board has fixed in its meeting of Tuesday 8th July, the rates of participation of local club members and fans in the activities and events of the 50th anniversary celebrations of October 2008. Reservations will be possible starting from August through the AGBU Cairo office in Heliopolis.

It was also decided to give the possibility to non-local participants to select each event separately in case none of the three package types suits the applicant’s personal preferences or sojourn program. In this case however, not all events will be available for participation. The packages and rates as well as the reservation forms are available in the documents section of the AGBU Egypt website.

The deadline of hotel reservations is 31st July 2008. After this date all reservations will be subject to availability and change of offered rates.

21 July

HMEM Nubar Alex tournament: Withdrawal of HMEM Ararat and HMEM Gamk

HMEM Nubar Alex club’s basketball tournament will be held from 25 to 27 July amid an unexpected development: HMEM Ararat withdrew from the tournament along with HMEM Gamk.

Confronted with this situation, the organizers have announced the fixtures of the tournament, still hoping from the withdrawing teams to reconsider their decision.

The tournament will be held under the auspices of Arch. Ashod Menatsaganian and presidency of Mr. & Mrs. Onnig Belekdanian. The men’s cup will be offered by Mr. & Mrs. Hratch Simonian, while the ladies’ cup will be offered by Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Djerdjerian. The medals are offered as usual by Mr. & Mrs. Vart Alexanian.

26 July

HMEM Nubar Alex basketball tournament: Home team defeats St. Therese in the opening match

HMEM Nubar Alex defeated St. Therese 55-42in the opening match of the 2008 season’s first tournament which is marked by the absence of HMEM Ararat and that of HMEM Gamk.

Ararat withdrew from the tournament after that their last week’s demand from HMEM Nubar Cairo for a written apology for not participating in Ararat’s 90th anniversary tournament 3 years ago was turned down by HMEM Nubar Cairo.

Following HMEM Ararat’s steps, HMEM Gamk withdrew from the tournament of HMEM Nubar Alex, which confronted with this situation in which they had no involvement, rescheduled the matches between the 3 remaining teams.

On Saturday HMEM Nubar Cairo will play against St. Therese and on Sunday HMEM Nubar Alex will play its counterpart of Cairo.

Players and fans are all hopeful that decision makers put aside their differences and do their utmost for the normalization of the situation for the good of our diminishing community.

27 July

HMEM Nubar Cairo’s wins the HMEM Nubar Alex basketball tournament

HMEM Nubar Cairo men’s and ladies’ teams won the trophies of the basketball tournament of HMEM Nubar Alex which was able to stage a successful tournament in spite of the marked absence of HMEM Ararat & HMEM Gamk.

HMEM Nubar Cairo defeated St. Therese on Saturday 65-25 and HMEM Nubar Alex 57-41 in the final on Sunday to win the men’s cup. The ladies’ team of HMEM Nubar Cairo defeated the young team of HMEM Nubar Alex 37-13 to also win the trophy.

A buffet dinner was organized on Saturday evening after the matches of the second day, gathering fans & players of HMEM Nubar Alex & Cairo, St. Therese as well as those of HMEM Gamk who have also attended all the matches of the tournament in support of HMEM Nubar Alex.

A one minute silence was observed before the start of the final match for late Varoujan Kazandjian, who passed away unexpectedly early Friday morning. A great loss indeed for the whole of the local Egyptian Armenian community…

A one minute silence was also observed for late Noubar Tavitian, the oldest member of HMEM Nubar Alex, who passed away last month after a life full of dedication to HMEM Nubar Alex and to the Alexandrian Armenian community. Our sincere condolences..

11 August

HMEM Nubar Cairo’s trip to Ras Sidr on the Red Sea

HMEM Nubar Cairo club’s excursion to “Hacienda” Ras Sidr from 8 to 10 August was a pleasant 3-day escapade from Cairo for the 50 participants who spent some real enjoyable time on the shores of the Red Sea.

The families present at this cheery relaxing excursion were the ones of Garo Apkarian, Khetcho Hagopian, Onnig Belekdanian, Roupen Terzibashian, Viken Djizmedjian, Vahe Varjabedian, Norair Simonian, Nabil Morsy, Sarkis Antranigian, Jirair Shoushanian, Suzy Karkour (Hagopian) as well as Krikor Markarian, Diana Mesrobian, Elsi Beylerian, Chake Ayrandjian, Sissi Tchaterdjian, Anais & Seta Djizmedjian.

The organizers of the trip spared no effort to make this trip such an enjoyable one for all participants.

15 September

The program of matches of HMEM Nubar Cairo’s 50th anniversary basketball tournament announced

The program of matches of HMEM Nubar Cairo’s 50th anniversary basketball tournament was announced last Tuesday.

For the men’s tournament the 6 participating teams will be divided into two groups of 3. In Group 1: HMEM Nubar Cairo, St. Therese, HMEM Nubar Alex, while in Group 2: HMEM Nubar Cairo B, AYA Aleppo, US Nubar UGAB Paris.

For the ladies matches the four participating teams of AYA Aleppo, St. Therese, HMEM Nubar Cairo and Alex will be playing with a knock-out system.

As for the veterans, in spite of the many participants announced to attend the festivities and play matches, it was decided to play a one single veterans match between HMEM Nubar Cairo and HMEM Nubar World on |Sunday 5th October in a much awaited gathering of a constellation of former stars of the club..

7:00: Final Ladies

8:00: Final Veterans: HMEM Nubar Cairo – HMEM Nubar World

9:00: Final Men

12 September

AGBU Cairo’s Dziadzan children’s choir performs in Alexandria with brilliance

“My Friends and I” was the name of the spectacle/show presented by AGBU Cairo’s Dziadzan children’s choir in Alexandria on Friday 12 September, upon an invitation from AGBU Alex.

The recital was held at Boghossian school’s Melkonian Hall and was attended by many Alexandrians who very much enjoyed and loudly cheered the colorful performance of AGBU Cairo’s children. The joyful recital included 15 songs, all in Armenian, about friendship, our motherland Armenia, family bonds, children’s dreams and aspiration. “Friendship starts with a smile” was the theme of the evening and each of the 15 songs took up a message or an important value of our everyday life.

On stage, the children were sure of themselves, interacting very well with the songs, demonstrating their full grasp of the words’ meanings and significance. They also entertained us with many dances and several poems.

Maestros Mihran and Mrs. Kohar Ghazelian did a great job with the children. Besides teaching songs, they were able to teach values through simple words and cheerful songs. On the Piano, Mrs. Nanor Apikian performed with ease and joy. Many cheers also to all those who contributed in the performance: Ani Ohanessian as the narrator, Aline Djizmedjian, Caroline Arslanian & Saad Naguib for the beautiful decoration & Suzan Karkour for the dances.

After the end of recital, AGBU Cairo’s Chairman Dr. Viken Djizmedjian and board member Gary Kehyayan, upon an invitation from AGBU Alexandria chairman Mr. Sarkis Vartsbedian, came on stage to distribute the cheques & prizes provided by AGBU Cairo’s Chaker fund to Alexandria’s brilliant students who had obtained distinctive marks in the 2007 school year.

1 October

HMEM Nubar Cairo’s 50th anniversary: A festive cocktail reception opening

More than 250 HMEM Nubar Cairo fans and members from Egypt and around the World gathered at the club on Wednesday for the first opening event of the 50th anniversary celebrations, and what a gathering it was… Screams of joy as friends see each other for the first time after many long years of separation, cameras flashing everywhere to grasp moments of joy and reunion, former and current club players and fans looking for their pictures among the more than 300 scanned photos neatly displayed on 3 large posters stretched on 25 meters..

The cocktail reception was held at the main garden of the club in front of the club house. Spotlights and T-lights decorated the trees and the large photo posters. High tables and chairs were tastefully arranged in the middle, light music entertained guests but changing inevitably into dance music after 11 pm upon youth’s demand… Waiters served drinks and food while guests were busy recalling old stories of their younger days..

After a short welcome speech, a slide show of 20 minutes was projected, narrating the story of the club, putting in pictures its history since 1927 before the union of HMEM & Nubar clubs until nowadays. The 50th anniversary commemorative book was then distributed to the guests who continued their story telling accounts until the late hours of the night…

The program continues today with a sightseeing tour of the Pyramids and Saqqara with lunch at Andrea, continuing at 6:00pm with basketball matches at the club followed by the late evening Nile Cruise on the Scarabée.

2 October

The Nile cruise on the Scarabée: Fun and belling dancing on the go

After the day trip at the Pyramids and Saqqara and the day one matches of the basketball tournament, time for some chill out, fun and entertainment on the Nile..

Buses took the close to 100 guests from their hotels and the club to the Nile Scarabée docked in front of the Intercontinental Hotel in down town Cairo. The 2.5 hour tour included a buffet food service, some oldies music, Dervish dance and of course some belly dancing in which several guests participated, loosening up to the tunes of the “tabla”..

After the end of the show, it was time to unwind on the upper deck, to mingle and enjoy the nice scenery of the Nile by night.

2 October

Opening matches of the Basketball tournament of the 50th anniversary celebrations

The basketball tournament of the 50th anniversary celebrations kicked off on Thursday with HMEM Nubar Cairo’s both A & B teams playing their first matches. The seniors A team of HMEM Nubar Cairo defeated St. Therese, while the strong AYA Aleppo men’s team defeated the juniors team of HMEM Nubar Cairo. The winning teams of Thursday’s matches displayed a show of force to impress spectators ahead of their expected clash in the final of Sunday.

The two games had to be scheduled ahead of the grand opening of Friday due to the heavy program of matches. Ten matches will be played in total.

On Friday after the opening ceremony, HMEM Nubar Cairo’s seniors’ & ladies’ teams will play against HMEM Nubar Alex and AYA Aleppo will play against a selection of HMEM Nubar Cairo veterans in a much awaited spectacle..

On Thursday, earlier in the day, guests from abroad and members of the Syrian delegation spent the day at the Pyramids and Saqqara, and had their lunch at the famous Andrea restaurant.

3 October

An impressive opening ceremony of HMEM Nubar Cairo’s 50th anniversary basketball tournament

The opening ceremony of the basketball tournament of HMEM Nubar Cairo’s 50th anniversary celebrations was a wonderful festival of colors. HMEM Nubar Cairo’s basketball stands were packed with spectators who had come in to watch this eagerly anticipated opening of the 50th anniversary festivities. Additional temporary stands had to be built on this occasion to accommodate the crowds, players and officials.

The ceremony started with an opening march with the participation of more than 150 athletes representing the players of the different participating basketball teams. This was followed by a welcome speech from club chairman Dr. Garo Apkarian who thanked all past and present club leaders who have contributed throughout the years in keeping high the club’s name and repute. Special commemorative plates were then given to the heads of the participating delegations and prominent club officials among whom Mr. Hratch Simonian who was awarded the status of Honorary chairman of the club for faithfully serving the club throughout its many years of existence. Commemorative certificates were then distributed to all of the 150 participating players of the 50th anniversary basketball tournament. The ceremony concluded with some colorful Armenian dance performed by the youth and children of the club.

The games of the tournament then followed with the home team’s ladies defeating HMEM Nubar Alex 46/11, the seniors team of HMEM Nubar Cairo defeating that of Alex 84/45 and that of AYA Aleppo defeating the veterans of HMEM Nubar Montreal who in a gesture of solidarity offered to replace the last minute withdrawing team of Nubar Paris.

Earlier in the day, a lunch service was held at the club. The good food & service, the beautiful weather and specially the friendly atmosphere, all of these contributed in making it a real pleasant and joyful day.

The program continues today with a visit to the Egyptian museum and lunch on the Pasha boat, followed in the afternoon with the continuation of the basketball tournament, and later at night; the Grand Ball at the Fairmont Tower Hotel.

4 October

A real “Grand” Grand Ball

Around 300 guests were present at the Gala night at the Fairmont Tower Hotel on Saturday to dance the night away on the tunes of Egypt’s number one Jazz group: The Riff Band and DJ Armen until the early hours of the morning.

The famous Riff Band performed first with some oldies’ favorites and had the dance flour filled in not time thanks to their expertise and excellent refined famous jazz tunes and songs. After the buffet dinner, DJ Armen, with his excellent choice of music and hits, kept the attendance on their feet boogying all night long, only giving way around 2:00 am to the commemorative cake cutting ceremonial in which the 24 “Genkahayr”s were invited to receive each, the commemorative medal of HMEM Nubar Cairo’s 50th anniversary.

The tombola prizes followed later in which around 65 valuable prizes were given out among which flight tickets on Austrian Airlines, Middle East Airlines & Egypt Air. The attendance continued partying until 4:00 am in the morning on a packed dance floor.

It was a night to remember. The presence of so many guests and former HMEM Nubartsi’s coming from abroad, jazzed up the ball and enhanced its value, significance and enjoyment levels.

5 October

HMEM Nubar Cairo men’s team champions of the 50th anniversary basketball tournament

The final day of the 50th anniversary basketball tournament was by all means an extraordinary unforgettable day in the history of the HMEM Nubar. Around 1000 people attended the final matches of the tournament, the honoring ceremony of former & current important club figures as well and the medals & cups distribution of the winning teams and players.

The day started with the Sunday Mass at the St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Church, followed by a reception at the Patriarchate by His Grace Bishop Ashod Menatsaganian in honor of the guests who then visited the Armenian cemetery in Heliopolis before heading to the HMEM Nubar Club for lunch. The buffet lunch service which was catered by the Swiss restaurant “Le Chantilly” was a first-class banquet of high quality food.

The finals of the basketball tournament started at 7:00 pm with the Ladies final in which AYA Aleppo defeated HMEM Nubar Cairo 61-54, followed by the much anticipated veteran game HMEM Nubar Cairo vs. HMEM Nubar World which ended in a 40-40 draw. A plethora of former stars and famous names of the club participated in this competitive match in which spectators enjoyed glimpses of past glories…

In between these matches cheerleading girls and dances were performed as well as a remarkable skipping routine carried out by Stephanie and Sandra Khandjian from Australia.

The peak of the day was the final of the men’s basketball tournament between HMEM Nubar Cairo and AYA Aleppo. The match ended with the deserved victory of HMEM Nubar Cairo which won the match 79 – 67 and the cup in the midst of the cheers of the close to 1000 spectators who were present on this unforgettable day of our club.

11 October

HMEM Nubar Cairo’s trip to Hurghada

After the event packed 6 days of HMEM Nubar Cairo’s 50th anniversary celebrations in Cairo, it was time for some relaxation for the trip’s 49 participants who left Cairo on Tuesday 7th February, by bus, early in the morning, heading to Hurghada where they had a most pleasant and relaxing 5 days’ stay at the 4 Star Safir Hotel located at one of the prime spots of Hurghada.

Besides the sun and the beautiful sea of Hurghada, the participants had also the chance to take part in other day trips and excursions such as the one on Wednesday 8th October to the lavish “El Gouna” village situated 25 km. north of Hurghada, and the boat trip of Thursday 9th to “Giftoun”, an island of untouched natural beauty and white sands. Taking advantage of the closeness of Hurghada from the Luxor, some of the participants took the 300 km trip on Friday to the historical city where they visited the Luxor & Karnak temples and the Valley of the kings before heading back to Hurghada.

Apart from the beauty of the scenery and the clear seas, it was the friendly and easygoing atmosphere, which was mostly enjoyed by the participants.

14 October

After a festive 50th anniversary celebration week, HMEM Nubar fans are still partying in town

With the end of the official program of the 50th anniversary celebrations and the 5 day trip to Hurghada, the “unofficial” celebrations and partying are still on for those who are in town. Whether at the Amphitrion, Felfela, Tres Bon, or at the Grand Café, every night is a reunion night with the locals trying to make the most out of the presence of their childhood pals in Cairo. A real delight for all..

Sadly, these numbers are lessening every day with the return of the visitors to their home countries. Organizers, locals and guests have all enjoyed these celebrations and gatherings which were reminiscent of the good old days when our community was much more abounding and affluent. These gatherings and each of the organized events of the 50th anniversary celebrations will surely remain in the hearts and souls of all those who witnessed these lively events which showed that the Egyptian Armenian community continues to be as dynamic and active as ever and will continue to be so thanks to its faithful and energetic club fans and affiliates whether in Egypt or around the World.

We are grateful and thankful to all the incoming visitors who took the trouble and effort to travel all the way to come to Cairo to be present at this important milestone of our club. Their presence was really appreciated. Thanks to them all of us, whether organizers, club members or just fans, we all had a real ball..

31 October

Marlo Simonian’s Thank You farewell match

Several generations of HMEM Nubar Cairo basketball players were gathered at the club on Friday for a significant get-together & match: Marlo Simonian’s farewell game. Former and current players of the club, Heliopolis SC former team mates, coaches and fans were all there to be part of this goodbye-match of Marlo who leaves the game after more than 25 years of continuous devotion and dedication to her team and club. She has played with several generations of players, her name has always been associated with the ladies team of HMEM Nubar Cairo since the early eighties. But the Good-Bye day had come.

Throughout her career spent at HMEM Nubar Cairo, Marlo’s loyalty, commitment, fighting spirit, fair play and team leading ways have been an example to all young players who aspire to become stars and long lasting leading figures of HMEM Nubar Cairo teams.

On this special day, more than seventy players of different generations participated in Marlo’s farewell. Ten mixed teams were formed, each composed of several generations of players. The final was won, unsurprisingly, by the Simonian family team which was formed of Marlo, George, Sylvig, Roupig, Noubarig, Nairi, Marina and Simon Depoyan, who, because of his pseudo name, was sneaked discretely into the Simonian team.. They beat the B team formed of Aram Apigian, Armen Varjabedian, Kato Iradian, Vartan Terzibashian, Mane Djizmedjian and Raffi Soutanian. A match between HMEM Nubar Cairo’s veteran ladies team, and Marlo’s former Heliopolis SC team mates was also organized. A large Thank You poster was hung with pictures of Marlo in action from 1980 to 2008..

After the matches, a cocktail reception was organized at the club house, in which Marlo’s team mates offered her a silver plate engraved with the names of HMEM Nubar ladies’ team members. Commemorative cards were also distributed to all the participating players of this special day.

It was a memorable day of tribute and gratitude, organized by HMEM Nubar Cairo, through the dynamic duo: Jirayr & Sossi Hagopian, the charismatic managers of the ladies team.

Thank you Marlo…

6 November

A successful opening of the Egyptian Armenian artists’ exhibition in Alexandria

On the occasion of the birth centenary of Armeno-Egyptian artist Hampar Hampartsoumian, AGBU Cairo, with the cooperation of AGBU Alexandria, is organizing an exhibition of his finest works and also those of many other Egyptian Armenian artists of different generations. The exhibition is being held at the “Atelier d’Alexandrie” from Thursday 6th to Wednesday 12th November.

The opening ceremony was held with the presence of many important personalities such as Mohsen Shaalan, head of the Ministry of Culture’s Fine Arts sector, Mostafa Abdel Wahab, president of Alexandria’s Fine Arts museum, Dr. Mohamed Rafik Khalil, president of the “Atelier d’Alexendrie”, the Chairmen of AGBU Cairo and AGBU Alexandria as well as many Art fans and critics.

The works on display have been collected by AGBU Cairo from private collections and different organizations. Throughout the past few months, AGBU Cairo, through the coordinator of the exhibition, Hrant Keshishian, has been archiving, indexing and photographing Armeno-Egyptian artists’ works in Cairo.

The same work has also been done in Alexandria through Sarkis Tossounian, who thanks to his artistic taste and connections has formed along with Hrant, an excellent duo which ensured the excellent quality and organization of this exhibition.

Hampar Hampartsoumian was born in Alexandria in 1908. He was one of the famous 3rd generation Egyptian Armenian artists. The first exhibition of his works was held at the “Salon d’Alexandrie” in 1939. Since then he was invited to exhibit his works in Florence, Venise, Paris and Lausanne. His paintings are still exhibited nowadays in the art galleries of Cairo, Alexandria, Lausanne and Vienna and in private collections throughout the World.. He passed away in 1982.

Apart from Hampartsoumian’s works, the exhibition is also featuring the works of other prominent Armeno-Egyptian painters and sculptors. The list includes well-established names like Yervand Demirdjian, Vahram Manavian, Alexandre Saroukhan, Ashod Zorian, Vahan Hovivian, Arte Topalian, Puzant Godjamanaian, Simon Shahrikian, Jirayr Palamoudian, John Papazian, Simon Samsonian and Elise Partam. The exhibition will aslo include contemporary artists like Hovhannes Denkdjian, Armenouhi Jamgotchian, Nora Ipekian, Hrant Keshishian, Shant Avedissian, Vahe Varjabedian, Sarkis Tossounian, Aline Djizmedjian, Marie Artinian, Vahan Telpian, Armen Agop and Kegham Djeghalian.

The exhibition will close its doors on Wednesday 12th November at 5:00 pm.

8 November

A Votchkharaseghan at HMEM Nubar Cairo

After of the brilliant success of the different events which were organized by HMEM Nubar Cairo on the occasion of the club’s 50th anniversary celebrations and the victory of the club’s seniors team of the basketball tournament held from 2 to 5 October, a Votchkharaseghan was offered last Saturday by Hratch Simonian, HMEM Nubar Cairo’s Honorary Chairman.

The club house of HMEM Nubar was nicely decorated for the occasion with picture posters, colorful lights and tastefully arranged tables. Invited to this celebration were members of the HMEM Nubar Cairo board with their spouses, the club’s men’s and women’s basketball team players as well as close friends and family members of the hosts Mr. and Mrs. Hratch Simonian.

This gathering was the occasion to celebrate the success of the club’s 50th anniversary events. It was also the occasion to honor the seniors’ basketball team which won the tournament’s trophy by beating the strong AYA Aleppo in the final.

Hratch Simonian, through a short sentimental speech, congratulated all those who worked hard for the brilliant success of the 50th anniversary celebrations, he congratulated also the men’s basketball team players for their superb win of tournament. He also expressed his wish to see the coming generations continue on the same path of their elderlies who have, and continue to work for the prominence and eminence of HMEM Nubar Cairo.

Later in the evening, a commemorative crystal shield was given by HMEM Nubar Cairo’s board to Marlo Simonian, who retired from the basketball team after more than 25 years of loyal services to the club…

4 December

AGBU Cairo awards Armeno-Egyptian bright students

For the 8th consecutive year, AGBU Cairo awarded certificates of excellence and cash prizes to our community’s Egyptian Armenian students who have accomplished good results in the 2007-2008 school year. The award proceedings were held at the HMEM Nubar Cairo club on Wednesday 3rd December.

The ceremony, which is being organized since 2001 thanks to the Union’s Chaker fund, comes in appreciation to our community’s bright students’ educational achievements. It is also the occasion to encourage them to broaden their personal successes to wider communal accomplishments.

After a light cocktail meal, AGBU Cairo chairman, Dr. Viken Djizmedjian, congratulated the students for their personal accomplishments and encouraged them to continue their efforts to seek more successes on both personal and communal levels. He also stressed on the importance of investing such personal distinction; in the future, for the service of others whether at the level of their families, community or even more for their country.

AGBU Cairo Honorary chairman, Mr. Berdj Terzian also addressed the students explaining to them the principles and aims of AGBU and its impartial status in serving all Armenians, he also stressed on the importance of using one’s personal success in serving others.

After the speeches, a 30 minute DVD was shown about Charles Aznavour’s visit to Armenia.

The cash prizes and the certificates of recognition were then distributed to our bright Armenian students. This year 22 students were awarded: 10 primary stage graduates, 1 preparatory stage graduate, 3 secondary stage graduates and 8 university graduates.

The awarded prizes are for primary, preparatory and secondary stage students who obtained a 90% mark or more, as well as for university graduates who have obtained “very good” or “excellent” grades. The cash prizes awarded were as follows: Primary final year graduates: 100 LE, preparatory final year graduates: 200 LE, secondary final year graduates: 500 LE, university graduates with Very Good marks: 800 LE and those with Excellent marks: 1000 LE

The primary stage students were: Roza Asbed Artinian, Antouan Assal, Vatche Sebouh Gabeyan, Artin Viken Terayan, Catherine Vasken Iradian, Talar Armen Mazloumian, Roupen Berdj Avedissian, Nathalie Arto Serabian, Sandra Mounir Shokry and Mario Megerditch Tchertigian.

The preparatory stage student was Vartan Berdj Avedissian, while the secondary stage students were Lyida Nasri Habib, Rita Puzant Zakarian and Norma Ohannes Vartoukian (IGSC).

The university graduates with Excellent grades were Anais Christapor Mikhaelian, Dertad Sahag Zohrabian, Hovhannes Khatchig Kulhandjian and Lora Ohannes Vartougian. University graduates with Very Good grades were: Garabed Herayr Shahrozian, Ani Arek Ohanessian, Arpi Sarkis Khatcherian and Sylvia Hagop Boyadjian.

A special ceremony for the brilliant students of Alexandria will be held at a date yet to be fixed.

17 December

Presentation on Armenian villages’ improvement project

A presentation of a project concerning the improvement and reformation of Armenia`s borderline villages was held at the HMEM Nubar Heliopolis SC on Wednesday 17th December. The presentation was made by AGBU Egypt chairman Mr. Berdj Terzian, who acquainted the gathering with the important project contributed by AGBU in Armenia to improve infrastructure and living standards of borderline Armenian villages.

The contributions in this project will be coming from the Diaspora, Individuals (Around 40 donators), groups and families, international unions and states. AGBU will be contributing with the sum of 400 000 US$ for the development of the North Eastern Lousahovid village of Davoush province’s Khashdarag region, through the collaboration of its worldwide chapters, which will be contributing in this project through their local community members` donations.

25 December

Gaghant Baba visits AGBU Cairo’s Dziadzan children’s choir

AGBU Cairo’s Dziadzan children’s choir members were surprised by an unexpected visit during their rehearsal of Thursday 25th December, when “Gaghant Baba” (or was it a Gahghant Mama?) paid them a visit to sing with them and to distribute some Christmas gifts to the choir members and leaders.

Maestro Mihran Ghazelian and his wife Mrs. Kohar as well as pianist Mrs. Nanor Apikian accompanied the children one by one to sing some of the choir’s old and new songs with the cheerful encouragement of event organizers Sona Markarian, Rubina Aslanian, Aline Djizmedjian and Caroline Arslanian.

26 December

The Christmas Bazaar of HMEM Nubar Cairo

HMEM Nubar Cairo club held its annual Christmas bazaar on Friday 26th December in the club’s garden with the presence of a big number of club members, fans, guests and children who came to spend the day in a cheerful and festive atmosphere.

The club was packed with people who came to enjoy the sunny Cairo weather and to buy some Christmas gifts and some Armenian food like Mante and Toppik. The Christmas bazaar was held this year under the auspices of Mrs. Vivianne Simonian.

Christmas carols were sung by children and adults as well under the supervision of Arpy Djanikian who had been preparing the “performers” since several weeks for this occasion…

Home-made delicatessen, confectionaries and Armenian specialties were put on display in the clubhouse, which was beautifully decorated with Christmas ornaments and a big Christmas Tree.

Soon after lunch, Santa Clause arrived. The kids who were waiting for his arrival, surrounded him, and took him by surprise (or was it her?). Santa had his back pack emptied in just few minutes. His efforts to have the kids sing or dance before getting the presents were useless.… Once the kids had their share of the prey, poor Santa was left alone with his empty bag to find his way back..